Today is Melanoma Monday—a well-timed reminder to stock up on sunblock and to look for the signs of skin damage and skin cancer. While it is highly treatable when caught early, skin cancer can still be dangerous. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer—there is almost one US fatality from it every hour. Most… Read more »
What do you know about HPV (human papillomavirus) and cervical cancer? Some cold, hard facts can help you stop the spread of this dangerous virus. HPV causes almost all cervical cancers—95 percent—and it is the most common sexually transmitted infection. The lifetime risk for HPV infection is almost 80 percent for sexually active adults; 14-… Read more »
As a physician who has helped teens in the Emergency Department because they took “the cinnamon challenge,” I have witnessed the dangers of this stunt. The consequences are not pretty. And yes–it can kill you. The so-called “challenge” involves trying to swallow a tablespoonful of cinnamon powder in under 60 seconds without drinking anything. Without… Read more »
With stroke, time is brain, which means that the sooner patients get to the nearest stroke-designated hospital, the better their outcome will be. To recognize the stroke symptoms and signs–Think FAST: Facial drooping: When one side of the face droops or is numb. Ask the person to smile to confirm whether there is facial drooping…
When a disaster hits, we often hear about heroic efforts to save lives during the emergency. Whether responding to an attack, an accident, a natural disaster—even a mishap that doesn’t make headlines—it’s inspiring when one person who’s in the right place at the right time makes all the difference. Preparation is key, because we never… Read more »
Are you a drug pusher without knowing it? Prescription pill abusers most frequently get their fix from family and friends–including the home medicine cabinet. Use a North Shore-LIJ Drug Take-Back station for safe disposal of expired, unused, and unwanted drugs this Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to keep family and friends… Read more »
Since most smokers began their tobacco addiction as teenagers, New York City officials recently proposed legislation to raise the smoking age to 21. The proposed law could prevent young people from picking up their first cigarette–and avoid smoking’s negative health consequences. Another policy has already decreased adolescent smoking initiation by restricting the point of sale… Read more »
This Earth Day, begin taking simple steps to line your pocket with a little more green. These resource-saving tips help give us a healthier environment, too: Save Energy Turn off the lights when you leave a room. Reduce energy bills by 30 percent with Energy Star appliances and equipment. They can also help to cut… Read more »
Occasionally, you may hear about high-risk pregnancy and it can sound intimidating–especially if you’re a new parent or plan to be. Knowing exactly what the term means helps a lot. If the mother’s circumstances or medical history present the potential for complications for herself, the baby or both during gestation or delivery, that is a… Read more »
When you file your taxes, don’t forget what you owe yourself—peace of mind. On April 16, National Healthcare Decision Day, designate a healthcare agent so your medical care follows your wishes, values and beliefs. Fill in a healthcare proxy form to allow anyone you choose–a relative or loved one–to act as your healthcare agent in… Read more »
