Health
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Anxiety: The Fight or Flight Response
The human body is a marvel of biological engineering, equipped with systems and responses intricately designed to keep us alive and well in the face of danger. One such vital survival mechanism is the “fight or flight” response. This complex physiological reaction to perceived threats enables us to act quickly and decisively when our wellbeing is at stake. However, in the context of anxiety, this fundamental response can often lead to adverse physical and psychological outcomes. This article delves into the fight or flight response in detail, exploring its relevance to anxiety. The Origins of Fight or Flight The term “fight or flight” was first coined by American physiologist Walter…
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Top 5 Misconceptions About Men’s Health
Men’s health is a subject filled with myths and misconceptions. Stereotypes, misinformation, and outdated ideas can greatly impede the understanding of men’s health, leading to poor choices and negative health outcomes. Let’s shed light on some of the most common misconceptions about men’s health, aiming to help individuals make more informed decisions about their wellbeing. Misconception 1: Men Don’t Need Regular Checkups Many men tend to avoid regular health check-ups unless they are experiencing acute symptoms. This can be attributed to a societal stereotype that men are supposed to be tough and resilient, avoiding medical help unless absolutely necessary. This approach, however, is fundamentally flawed. Regular check-ups are critical for…
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June is Migraine Awareness Month
June is Migraine Awareness Month, a critical period of focus on a medical condition that impacts an enormous number of individuals and households. This is especially true in Canada, where migraines are a prevalent issue. According to recent studies, migraines affect 25% of Canadian households. While this number may seem high, the reality of migraines is even more daunting. Within this 25%, between 1% and 2% of these individuals suffer from chronic migraines, a condition that involves having a headache for 15 or more days per month for at least three months. Chronic migraine is a severe neurological disorder that can disrupt lives, strain relationships, and affect a person’s ability…
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What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)?
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), a debilitating, chronic inflammatory illness, has long been a source of discomfort and distress for those who experience it. Often misunderstood, HS is a complex condition characterized by recurrent, painful abscesses that can develop anywhere hair follicles are found, apart from the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and the red part of the lips. It is a condition that extends its impact well beyond physical pain, deeply affecting the mental and emotional wellbeing of those diagnosed. To date, no cure for HS exists, and treatment options remain limited. However, numerous off-label treatments and a growing number of HS clinical trials are being conducted, providing…
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Cataracts
The human eye, a highly intricate and delicate organ, plays a crucial role in our everyday experiences. It enables us to connect with our surroundings and perceive the world in the most vivid and colourful way possible. However, like any other part of the human body, it is susceptible to various ailments. One of these is cataracts, a prevalent eye condition that affects millions worldwide. A cataract is an ocular condition that clouds the lens of the eye, which can lead to a decrease in vision. This happens because the proteins in the eye’s lens start to clump together, distorting the light that hits the retina and leads to impaired…
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Navigating Prostate Cancer Conversations
Prostate cancer is a significant health issue affecting men worldwide. In Canada, it represents one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in men. However, despite its prevalence, discussing prostate cancer can prove to be a difficult subject for many men due to a combination of cultural, societal, and psychological factors. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, approximately one in eight men is expected to develop prostate cancer during his lifetime. By the end of 2023, an estimated 24,700 Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, and 4,700 will die from it. This makes it the most frequently diagnosed cancer among Canadian men and the third-leading cause of…
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Canadian Men’s Health Month
June marks Canadian Men’s Health Month, a dedicated period to spread awareness about the health issues commonly faced by men and to encourage proactive measures towards preventive care and early detection. This month-long initiative seeks to motivate men to live healthier lives, take care of their mental health, get regular check-ups, and understand their risk factors for various diseases. Health Issues Men Face Cardiovascular Disease: In Canada, cardiovascular disease is one of the most prominent health issues men face. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, men are more likely than women to suffer from heart disease, including heart attacks. Regular exercise, healthy eating, avoiding smoking, and managing stress are…
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A Practical Guide to Quitting Smoking
Smoking is a notoriously difficult habit to break, with both physical and psychological hurdles to overcome. However, with the right plan and resources, you can quit smoking and begin a healthier chapter in your life. This article provides an in-depth guide on how to quit smoking, including strategies, helpful tips, and resources. Understand Why You Want to Quit The first step in quitting smoking is understanding why you want to quit. For some, the motivation may come from health concerns like lung cancer, heart disease, or stroke. Others might be influenced by their desire to protect their family from secondhand smoke, or maybe they simply don’t want their clothes and…
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Choosing the Right SPF
The importance of protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays cannot be overstated. These rays are a major cause of skin cancer, including melanoma, and they also accelerate skin aging, leading to premature wrinkles, sunspots, and loss of elasticity. One crucial measure you can take to guard your skin is by using sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor, or SPF. This rating indicates how well a sunscreen can shield your skin from the damaging effects of UV rays. While it’s essential to wear sunscreen, the SPF value you need isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. It varies based on several factors such as skin type, geographic location, and the…
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Human Metapneumovirus
According to the US CDC, cases of human metapneumovirus – also known as hMPV – spiked this spring. In comparison to pre-pandemic figures, nearly 11% of tested specimens were positive for hMPV at its peak in mid-March – a number that is about 36% higher than the average pre-pandemic seasonal peak of 7% test positivity. This surge in cases has health professionals and researchers on keeping a close eye on the virus through continued surveillance and concerted research into this widespread respiratory pathogen. What is hMPV? First identified in the Netherlands in 2001, hMPV has since been recognized as a common and significant cause of respiratory illness. Belonging to the…