Health
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Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a genetic disorder marked by the loss of nerve cells called motor neurons in the spinal cord. This results in muscle wasting (atrophy), leading to progressive muscle weakness and paralysis. Recognizing its impact on Canadians, the month of August is designated as Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month, offering an opportunity for education, advocacy, and support for those affected. Understanding Spinal Muscular Atrophy Spinal Muscular Atrophy is an autosomal recessive disease. This means that a child must inherit two copies of the defective gene, one from each parent, to have the condition. The responsible gene, Survival Motor Neuron 1 (SMN1), is instrumental in maintaining motor neurons.…
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Postpartum Depression in Canada
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant public health concern, affecting women and families across the globe. PPD is a mood disorder that affects women after childbirth, with symptoms ranging from feelings of extreme sadness and anxiety, to difficulty bonding with the newborn. Despite its commonality, postpartum depression often remains under-discussed and under-treated due to a combination of social stigma, lack of awareness, and healthcare gaps. This article aims to delve into the topic of PPD in Canada, shedding light on the prevalence, potential causes, effects, treatment options, and the resources available for women experiencing this condition. Prevalence of Postpartum Depression in Canada In Canada, approximately 23% of women who have…
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Nicotine Addiction
To understand the addictive nature of cigarette smoking, we must first delve into the main ingredient responsible for it: Nicotine. Nicotine is a naturally occurring, highly addictive compound found in tobacco plants. When smoked or ingested, it triggers the release of various neurotransmitters, including dopamine, which promotes a sense of pleasure and reward in the brain. The intensity and rapidity of this effect, coupled with its immediate wear-off, create a powerful cycle of reward and withdrawal, inducing a craving for repeated exposure. The physical dependency on nicotine develops as the body becomes accustomed to functioning with regular nicotine influx. Over time, the brain changes, adjusting to the new norm, and…
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The Role of Fruits in Aging and Longevity
The fascinating and intricate relationship between fruits and human health has been a subject of keen scientific interest for several decades. One specific area that has garnered considerable attention in recent years is the link between fruit consumption, aging, and longevity. This topic is not only significant from a nutritional standpoint, but it also carries profound implications for public health, particularly in our increasingly aging societies. Aging, in its most fundamental sense, is the physiological process of getting older, a sequence that involves a variety of biological changes. Over time, these changes can culminate in a gradual decline in physical and mental capacity, leading to an increased vulnerability to diseases…
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Bolstering Health Through Self-Care
In an increasingly complex and fast-paced world, self-care has evolved from being an indulgence to an essential aspect of maintaining and improving our overall health and well-being. This article will delve into the importance of self-care and its multifaceted benefits, focusing on physical, emotional, and mental health. Throughout, we will underscore self-care’s vital role and give examples to demonstrate its efficacy. All in an effort to emphasise how self-care is not only a necessity but an integral component of a holistic healthcare approach. Self-Care: An Overview Self-care involves activities undertaken by individuals to maintain, enhance or restore their health. These can range from basics like maintaining a balanced diet and…
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The Broader Impact of Gum Disease
Gum disease, more formally known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent oral health issue that extends far beyond the confines of the mouth. It is an insidious malady that is often overlooked in its early stages but can have significant systemic implications if not managed promptly and effectively. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the intricacies of gum disease, shed light on its connections to other health conditions, and emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment. An Overview of Gum Disease Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition. It begins as gingivitis, a milder form characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can…
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The Depression-Dementia Link
For many years, researchers have been seeking to understand the complexities of mental health, particularly the nature of illnesses such as depression and dementia. With a growing body of evidence, it’s becoming increasingly clear that there’s an intricate, interwoven relationship between these two conditions. A mounting number of studies suggest that adults who experience depression are more likely to develop dementia later in life. However, it is important to remember that not everyone who has depression will develop dementia, and vice versa. Depression is a prevalent mental health issue in Canada, affecting approximately 7% of the adult population every year. It’s characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a…
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Morning Fatigue
Imagine this – you are managing to follow the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night, yet you constantly wake up feeling tired and sluggish, as if you haven’t slept at all. This experience, referred to as morning fatigue or non-restorative sleep, is a common issue that many individuals grapple with. Understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon can lead to better sleep quality and overall improved health and productivity. Causes of Morning Fatigue Sleep Disorders Perhaps the most prevalent reason for morning fatigue is sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia. Sleep apnea causes a person to briefly stop breathing during sleep, leading to frequent awakenings throughout…
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Swimmer’s Ear
Swimming is a favorite summer pastime for many, providing relief from the summer heat and offering a great form of exercise. However, it can sometimes lead to an uncomfortable and often painful condition known as swimmer’s ear or otitis externa. This condition is more common in the summer months due to the increased frequency of swimming activities. What is Swimmer’s Ear? Swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the ear canal—the tubular opening that carries sounds from the outside of the body to the eardrum. This infection typically occurs when water gets trapped in the ear after swimming, creating a damp environment that aids in the…
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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…