Awareness
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International Overdose Awareness Day 2024
Every year on August 31, communities around the world come together to observe International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), the largest annual campaign dedicated to ending overdose, remembering those who have lost their lives to this epidemic without stigma, and acknowledging the profound grief experienced by the family and friends left behind. The theme for IOAD 2024, “Together we can,” underscores the tremendous power of community when everyone stands united in the face of this ongoing public health crisis. The opioid overdose epidemic has had a devastating impact in Canada, with a staggering 5,975 lives lost in 2023 alone. Tragically, around 30 percent of these deaths occurred among individuals aged 30…
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Eating Disorders in Canadian Men
When we think of eating disorders, the common perception is that these are conditions that predominantly afflict women. However, this stereotype is not only inaccurate but also detrimental. Eating disorders can and do affect men. In fact, in Canada, an estimated 10-15% of individuals diagnosed with anorexia or bulimia are male, and around 40% of those with binge eating disorder are men. Unfortunately, due to societal expectations and stigmatization, many men do not seek treatment for these serious health issues. In this article, we will discuss the types of eating disorders most commonly experienced by Canadian men, contributing factors, the societal impact, challenges in diagnosis and treatment, and potential ways…
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The Lifesaving Power of Blood Donation
Blood donation is a fundamental cornerstone of healthcare, playing an integral role in saving lives and improving health outcomes. The act of giving blood is a selfless one, providing a lifeline to those in critical medical situations, individuals with life-threatening conditions, and numerous surgical procedures. The Process of Blood Donation During a typical blood donation, a donor provides approximately 450 mL of blood, which is slightly less than half a litre, or about two cups. Despite seeming substantial, this volume only represents a small fraction of an adult’s total blood volume, which is about 5 litres. The donation process itself is quick and straightforward, generally completed in just over an…
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Organ and Tissue Donation in Canada
Every year, thousands of Canadians face the critical need for an organ or tissue transplant. The National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Campaign is a crucial annual initiative that aims to raise public awareness about the importance of organ and tissue donation and encourages Canadians to register their decisions. The campaign also focuses on the significance of having conversations about organ donation with loved ones. The Scope of Need The importance of organ donation cannot be overstated. In Canada, as of 2022, over 4,300 individuals were on the waitlist for organ transplants. Unfortunately, on average, approximately 250 Canadians die each year waiting for a transplant that never comes. The statistics…
