Freelancing since 2007, writing on a variety of topics and specializing in health content. Author of "No More Secs!" and "Catch That Look"
Proton Therapy for Breast Cancer
Many people with breast cancer will have radiation therapy as part of their treatment. A benefit of radiation therapy is that it can destroy cancer cells within a specific area. But in the process, it can affect nearby healthy tissue. Proton therapy is a type of external beam radiation therapy that can lower the risk of damage to surrounding tissue. If you have breast cancer, this can help prevent radiation damage to your heart and lungs.
Does the APOL1 gene increase the risk of kidney disease in African Americans with diabetes?
Everyone carries the apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) gene. However, only people with African ancestry inherit certain genetic variants. These variants can increase the risk of several health conditions, including certain kidney diseases. There is no evidence that they add to the risk of kidney disease in African American people with diabetes, known as diabetic kidney disease. However, they can speed up kidney disease progression.
BPH vs. Prostate Cancer: What’s the Difference?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer are two of the most common conditions that affect the prostate, a gland that’s part of the male reproductive system. Positioned below the bladder, your prostate helps with the production of semen. In a young man, it’s generally about the size of a walnut, though it tends to get bigger as you get older. Your risk of developing a prostate problem also increases with age.
Pompe Disease and Nutrition: A Starter Guide
Pompe disease is a rare metabolic disorder. It’s marked by a deficiency in lysosomal alpha-glucosidase.
The First Vaccine for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Researchers are working on a first-of-its-kind vaccine to prevent triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) from developing.
3 Ways to Mentally Cope with Chronic Constipation
Living with chronic constipation comes with a lot of uncertainty. It interferes with your usual routine and can keep you from enjoying your favorite activities. Let’s face it: Constipation is stressful. Related factors, such as poor sleep, can make matters worse. Not only that, but stress can affect your gastrointestinal system. That’s how chronic constipation can morph into a troublesome cycle of physical and mental symptoms. And it can spill over into several areas of your life.
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5 Health Conditions Related to Chronic Constipation
Almost everyone experiences constipation at some point. But chronic constipation can have a significant impact on quality of life. If you’re living with chronic constipation, you’re not alone. It can be a difficult topic to discuss. So, it may surprise you to know that chronic constipation has a worldwide prevalence of 15 percent.
What Causes Stomach Pain That Comes and Goes in Intervals?
Everyone experiences stomach or abdominal discomfort or pain at some point. It can be as harmless as the need to pass gas. It can also be a symptom of an illness. And sometimes it’s difficult to know whether the pain is coming from your stomach or somewhere else in the abdomen.
Targeted Treatments for Eczema: Everything You Need to Know
The FDA has approved two biologics for eczema, but many others are under development. Biologics are derived from living organisms rather than chemicals.
8 Ways Parents Can Help Teens Manage Their Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic disease that often starts in childhood. While some kids outgrow it, around 1 in 5 children will continue to experience eczema in their teen years.
Is There a Cure for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an umbrella term for several conditions that affect the intestinal tract. IBD happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the intestines.
7 Signs It May Be Time to Change Your Ulcerative Colitis Treatment Plan
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine. Most people with UC have periods of disease activity and remission throughout their lives. Early treatment can help reduce inflammation and prevent disease progression.
Ulcerative Colitis and Diarrhea: What You Need to Know
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation in the colon and rectum. Diarrhea, bloody stools, and abdominal discomfort are common symptoms. Living with a long-term condition like UC can feel overwhelming at times, and frequent diarrhea can impact all areas of your life.
Research Update: New Treatments and Studies on Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It happens when an immune system response causes inflammation in the inner lining of the large intestine.
Antibiotic Use Midlife May Lead to Cognitive Decline in Women
Women who use a significant amount of antibiotics in midlife are more likely to have a cognitive decli...