Health

Health Alert: Cancer Survival Rates Have Improved Since the 1990s, But…

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Health Alert: Cancer Survival Rates Have Improved Since the 1990s, But…

A new study finds that while survival rates have increased for individuals with breast, prostate, lung, liver, and colon cancers over the past 20 years, the improvements have been less remarkable among elderly cancer patients. Lead researcher Dr. Wei Zheng advises that further research is needed to identify reasons for the slower improvement in cancer survival among older adults in hopes of further reducing cancer mortality rates in the senior population. JAMA Oncology, February 2015

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Wellness/Prevention: Eat More Carrots to Reduce Diabetes Risk!

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Wellness/Prevention: Eat More Carrots to Reduce Diabetes Risk!

A diet rich in alpha-carotene and beta-carotene can reduce a person’s risk for developing type 2 diabetes by as much as 22%. The most common source of carotenes in the American diet is carrots; however, pumpkin, winter squash, sweet potato, spinach, and broccoli are also great food sources of alpha-carotene and/or beta-carotene. Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases, December 2014

Quote: “And in the end it is not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

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Exercise: Improves Cognitive Function in Women!

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Exercise: Improves Cognitive Function in Women!

Regardless of age, females who are highly physically fit have faster neural reaction times than their less fit peers. Near infrared spectroscopy scans showed that physical fitness is associated with greater cerebral oxygenation, which may be the underlying mechanism for the observed elevations in brain function. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, February 2015

Health Alert: Frequent Sauna Use Linked to Reduced Risk of CVD.

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Health Alert: Frequent Sauna Use Linked to Reduced Risk of CVD.

After reviewing twenty years of data concerning 2,315 Finnish men, researchers found that those who used a sauna at least two to three times per week were 22% less likely to experience sudden cardiac death, 23% less likely to experience fatal coronary heart disease (CHD), had a 27% lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) death, and had a 24% lower risk of all-cause mortality during the course of the two-decade study. The authors write, “This study provides prospective evidence that sauna bathing is a protective factor against the risk of sudden cardiac death, fatal CHD, fatal CVD, and all-cause mortality events in the general male population. Our results suggest that sauna bathing is a recommendable health habit, although further studies are needed to confirm our results in different population settings.” JAMA Internal Medicine, February 2015

Diet: Fiber Helps People Lose Weight.

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Diet: Fiber Helps People Lose Weight.

A new study indicates that a simple high-fiber diet can help lower blood pressure, reduce blood sugar, and aid in weight loss. Researchers found that increasing dietary fiber led to a host of other healthy dietary changes, likely because consuming more high-fiber foods can lead to a decrease in consumption of unhealthy foods that are high in fat and sugar. Study author Dr. Yunsheng Ma writes, “For people who find it difficult to follow complex dietary recommendations, a simpleto-follow diet with just one message — increase your fiber intake — may be the way to go.” Annals of Internal Medicine, February 2015

Mental Attitude: Kids Can Suffer from Migraines Too.

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Mental Attitude: Kids Can Suffer from Migraines Too.

According to the American Migraine Foundation, about 6% of children and more than 25% of teens ages 15-17 suffer from migraines. Many factors can contribute to childhood migraines, including too little or too much sleep and abnormal stress. Children with migraines should be evaluated by a healthcare professional for potential treatment options. American Migraine Foundation, February 2015

Promoting Physical Activity Among American Youth: Evidence-Based Strategies

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The 2014 study underscores a concerning trend among American youth, revealing that the majority fail to meet the federally recommended guideline of 60 minutes of daily physical activity. In response to this pressing public health concern, the study offers a range of actionable strategies aimed at facilitating children’s attainment of the recommended activity goals.

One proposed intervention is the implementation of mandatory daily physical education classes in schools, ensuring that children have regular opportunities to engage in structured physical activity throughout the school day. Additionally, integrating classroom-based physical activity breaks into academic curriculum can inject bursts of movement into sedentary periods, fostering an active learning environment.

Encouraging alternative modes of transportation, such as walking or biking to school, not only promotes physical activity but also reduces reliance on motor vehicles, contributing to environmental sustainability. Moreover, renovating community parks to include a diverse array of equipment and activity opportunities can transform outdoor spaces into vibrant hubs of recreational activity, enticing children to engage in active play.

The study also advocates for the expansion of after-school physical activity programs, providing children with structured opportunities for exercise and socialization beyond the school day. Furthermore, modifying school playgrounds to incorporate features that facilitate active play can empower children to engage in spontaneous physical activity during recess and leisure time.

Lead author Dr. David Bassett emphasizes the importance of leveraging these evidence-based strategies to inform policy decisions and initiatives aimed at promoting physical activity among youth. By adopting a multifaceted approach that addresses environmental, educational, and recreational factors, stakeholders can collaboratively work towards creating a culture of active living that empowers children to lead healthy, physically active lifestyles.

American Journal of Preventive Medicine, March 2015

Saturday’s Health Update!

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Mental Attitude: Stress Affects Women’s Recovery After a Heart Attack. Researchers analyzed data collected from 2,397 women and 1,175 men and found that women had more difficulty recovering from a heart attack than men, possibly due to the significantly higher levels of mental stress measured among the females in the study. The findings emphasize the need to consider how stress and other psychosocial factors can affect the recovery of patients following heart attack. American Heart Association, February 2015

Health Alert: Mercury Exposure May Be a Risk Factor for Autoimmune Diseases. Exposure to high levels of methylmercury is known to cause damage to the nervous system, and it can be particularly harmful to a developing fetus. Researchers now claim that even at levels considered to be safe, mercury exposure may be a risk factor for autoimmune disorders in women of childbearing age. They found that the higher the levels of mercury detected in women, the higher the levels of autoantibodies, proteins that are a characteristic of autoimmune diseases. Lead researcher Dr. Emily Somers explains, “The presence of autoantibodies doesn’t necessarily mean they will lead to an autoimmune disease. However, we know that autoantibodies are significant predictors of future autoimmune disease, and may predate the symptoms and diagnosis of an autoimmune disease by years.”

Environmental Health Perspectives, February 2015

Diet: Low Vitamin D Levels During Childhood Linked to Heart Risks. A multi-decade study found that low vitamin D levels during childhood are associated with a significantly higher risk for artery hardening in adulthood. The findings highlight the need to ensure children get adequate levels of vitamin D in their diet or through sun exposure.
Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, February 2015

Exercise: Why Should We Exercise? The Mayo Clinic lists seven benefits of exercise, which include the following: helps controls weight, helps combat chronic health conditions and diseases, improves mood, boosts energy levels, promotes better sleep, reduces stress, and it can even be fun! As a general rule, strive for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day.
Mayo Clinic, February 2015

Chiropractic: Resolution of Plantar Fasciitis Following Adjustments. In this case study, a 23-year-old woman with plantar fasciitis presented for chiropractic care. Her previous medical care included prescription orthotics, stretching, and Ibuprofen, all which failed
to resolve her heel pain and related symptoms. Her chiropractic treatment regimen consisted of adjustment to the spine and lower extremities, ultrasound therapy, taping of the foot, and neuromuscular re-education. Over the course of ten treatments, the patient noted improvements in both pain and function, supporting the benefits of multi-modal chiropractic management of plantar fasciitis. Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, October 2014

Wellness/Prevention: Naps Improve Your Health. A new report claims that brief daytime naps can protect against the harmful health effects of a poor night’s sleep. The study included eleven healthy men and revealed that naps appear to return the hormones and proteins involved in stress response and immune function to more normal levels. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lack of sleep can increase the risk of health problems such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and depression, and decreased sleep is also linked to reduced work productivity, as well as an increased risk of traffic and industrial accidents. Study author Dr. Brice Faraut adds, “Napping may offer a way to counter the damaging effects of sleep restriction by helping the immune and neuroendocrine systems to recover. The findings support the development of practical strategies for addressing chronically sleep- deprived populations, such as night and shift workers.” Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, February 2015

Quote: “You should never be surprised when someone treats you with respect, you should expect it.” ~ Sarah Dessen

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Alcohol Consumption and Weight Management: Key Factors in Liver Cancer Prevention

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Recent research underscores the critical role of lifestyle factors, particularly alcohol consumption and weight management, in mitigating the risk of liver cancer. While the link between excessive alcohol intake and liver cancer risk is well-established, a comprehensive analysis of data from 8.2 million individuals has shed light on the additional risk posed by overweight or obesity.

Indeed, the findings reveal that individuals who consume three or more alcoholic drinks per day face elevated odds of developing liver cancer, highlighting the importance of moderation in alcohol consumption to safeguard liver health. Moreover, the study unveils a concerning association between excess body weight and heightened liver cancer risk, underscoring the imperative of weight management in cancer prevention efforts.

Excess adiposity, particularly visceral fat accumulation, is known to contribute to chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and fatty liver disease, all of which predispose individuals to liver cancer development. By maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise, individuals can mitigate these risk factors and fortify their defenses against liver cancer.

These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of liver cancer prevention, emphasizing the need for comprehensive lifestyle modifications to safeguard liver health. From limiting alcohol consumption to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, individuals can proactively reduce their risk of liver cancer and promote overall well-being. Through informed decision-making and proactive health management, individuals can empower themselves to take charge of their liver health and mitigate the impact of modifiable risk factors on cancer risk.

World Cancer Research Fund International, March 2015

Reducing Heart Failure Risk: Limiting Fried Food Consumption

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Diet: Fried Food Intake Associated with Heart Failure Risk.

Recent research has illuminated a concerning correlation between fried food consumption and the risk of developing heart failure, particularly among men. According to the findings, men who indulge in fried food one to three times per week face an 18% elevated risk of heart failure compared to their counterparts who abstain from such dietary habits. This risk escalates significantly with higher frequency of fried food intake, with those consuming fried fare four to six times weekly experiencing a 25% increased risk, and those indulging seven or more times per week confronting a staggering 68% heightened risk of heart failure.

Samantha Heller, a senior clinical nutritionist at New York University, underscores the gravity of these findings, advocating for moderation in fried food consumption to mitigate cardiovascular risk. While occasional indulgence may be permissible, Heller cautions against the routine or excessive consumption of fried foods, emphasizing the need for a balanced and health-conscious dietary approach.

The detrimental effects of frequent fried food consumption on heart health can be attributed to several factors, including the high levels of unhealthy fats, refined carbohydrates, and sodium typically present in such fare. These dietary components contribute to elevated cholesterol levels, increased blood pressure, and inflammation, all of which are key risk factors for cardiovascular disease and heart failure.

In light of these findings, individuals are urged to exercise prudence and mindfulness in their dietary choices, opting for healthier cooking methods such as baking, grilling, or steaming over frying. By prioritizing whole, nutrient-dense foods and minimizing the intake of fried and processed fare, individuals can safeguard their cardiovascular health and promote longevity and well-being.

American Heart Association, March 2015