October, 2020

What is COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD is a condition that makes it hard to breathe. Although there is no cure, treatment can improve quality of life. To understand COPD, it may help to break down its name. Chronic means long-lasting. COPD is progressive--it gets worse over time. Obstructive refers to the fact that airflow is obstructed--air can't move freely in and out of the lungs. Obstruction may be from chronic bronchitis swelling and excess phlegm in the airways , emphysema damage to lu...

Are You at Risk for Lung Cancer?

The sooner lung cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances for survival. Until recently, however, early detection has been difficult—which may be one reason why lung cancer remains the No. 1 cancer killer of both men and women in the U.S. But there is good news about the disease: Doctors now have a screening test that can catch lung cancer early. It's called low-dose computed tomography LDCT . LDCT produces cross-sectional images of the entire chest, including the lungs, using special x-r...

Understanding Pancreatic Cancer

The pancreas is a gland located between the stomach and spine. Its main function is to produce digestive juices that can break down food, and to make hormones that help us control our blood sugar levels. Most pancreatic cancers are not diagnosed at an early stage. Symptoms are hard to spot at its onset and can easily be confused with those associated with other disorders and diseases. As a result, the cancer has often spread before treatment can be rendered. For this reason, it is one of the dea...

Osteoporosis treatments reduce risk of fracture

Osteoporosis is a disease that makes bones dangerously fragile. While there is no cure for the condition, there are treatments that can slow its progress and reduce your risk for fractures or bone breaks. Diet and lifestyle changes may play a key role in these treatments. A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is essential. Your doctor may also advise supplements of other vitamins or minerals. Regular walking or muscle-strengthening workouts can also help protect your bones. Smoking speeds bone lo...