Prostate cancer screening is a way to test for prostate cancer in men who do not have symptoms of the disease. The two main tests used for prostate cancer screening? These are the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and the digital rectal exam (DRE).
The PSA test measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland, in the blood. Elevated levels of PSA may be a sign of this disease. Other conditions such as an enlarged prostate or a prostate infection can also cause high PSA levels.
The DRE is a physical exam in which the doctor feels the prostate gland to check for any abnormalities.
There is ongoing debate about the effectiveness of getting screened. Some studies have suggested that prostate cancer screening can help reduce the risk of dying from this type of disease. However, other studies have found no benefit.
The American Cancer Society recommends that men discuss the potential benefits and risks of prostate cancer screening with their healthcare provider. They should start doing so beginning at age 50 for most men. Men at high risk of this malicious cancer (such as men with a family history of the disease) should get screened at age 45.
Decisions about whether to undergo screening should be based on a man’s individual risk factors and his preferences. Each individual should take into account the potential benefits and risks of the tests.
https://healthedly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Healthedly-Blog.png9001366Jamie Thomashttps://healthedly.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Healthedly.svgJamie Thomas2022-05-23 17:05:312023-01-09 11:53:40Everything You Need to Know About Prostate Cancer Screenings
Drug overdoses are a significant public health problem in the United States. have been on the rise in recent years. In 2019, there were over 70,000 drug overdose deaths in the United States, and the majority of these deaths were caused by opioids.
There are several reasons why drug overdoses are on the rise.
One reason is the availability of prescription opioids, which are often misused and can lead to addiction.
Prescription opioids are powerful painkillers that are often prescribed for chronic pain management. However, these drugs can be highly addictive and can lead to abuse and overdose.
Another factor contributing to the rise in drug overdoses is the illegal drug market.
The proliferation of illegal drugs, such as heroin and fentanyl, has led to an increase in overdose deaths. These drugs are often more potent and dangerous than prescription opioids. They can be difficult to detect, making them particularly dangerous.
Another reason for the increase in drug overdoses is the lack of access to substance abuse treatment and recovery services.
Many people struggling with addiction do not have access to the resources they need to get the help they need. This can lead to individuals turning to risky behaviors, such as using drugs alone. Some use- drugs that are more potent, which can increase the risk of overdose.
Poverty and social isolation can also play a role in the rise of drug overdoses.
People who struggle financially or who isolate from social networks are more likely to turn to drugs as a way to cope. This can lead to an increased risk of overdose, as well as other negative health outcomes.
There are also several societal factors that contribute to the rise in drug overdoses.
One of these is the stigma surrounding addiction and substance abuse.
Many people struggling with addiction may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their situation, which can prevent them from seeking help. This can lead to individuals continuing to use drugs, which increases the risk of overdose.
Another societal factor contributing to the rise in drug overdoses? The lack of education about the dangers of drug use.
Many people may not be aware of the risks associated with drug use, or they may underestimate these risks. This can lead to individuals using drugs more recklessly, which increases the risk of overdose.
Finally, the opioid epidemic has been fueled in part by the marketing and distribution of prescription opioids by pharmaceutical companies.
These companies have been accused of downplaying the risks of addiction and overdose associated with prescription opioids. They also promote the use of these drugs for conditions for which they may not be appropriate. This has contributed to the overprescribing of these drugs and the subsequent increase in drug overdoses.
It is important for there to be a comprehensive approach that addresses the various factors contributing to the problem. This may include increasing access to substance abuse treatment and recovery services. It also means improving education about the dangers of drug use, and addressing the stigma surrounding addiction. It may also involve regulating the pharmaceutical industry and cracking down on the illegal drug market.
In conclusion, drug overdoses are a significant public health problem in the United States. The rates for overdose continue to rise due to a variety of factors, including the availability of prescription opioids, the proliferation of illegal drugs, a lack of access to substance abuse treatment, poverty and social isolation, stigma surrounding addiction, a lack of education about the dangers of drug use, and the marketing and distribution of prescription opioids by pharmaceutical companies. To effectively address this issue, it will be necessary to take a comprehensive approach that addresses these various factors.
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These days, it seems like new anxiety or depression pills are emerging every day. Maybe you have no idea where to start, or what to try. Everyone has heard of meditation, an age-old practice most commonly associated with Buddhist monks and yoga. But recent neurological studies have shown that monks and yoga fanatics may be onto something. Meditation may have more benefits than we ever realized before. A team of Harvard researchers led by Sara Lazar stumbled across several fascinating phenomena in the brain evoked by meditation. Their studies only scratched the surface of the power of meditation and how it rewires the mind.
Here are five benefits of meditation that they discovered:
1) Decreases anxiety
There is no end to anxiety treatments and medications these days. But meditation may be one of the best tools out there to reduce anxiety and train the brain to handle stress more efficiently. It takes time to master, but the results on those who meditate on a frequent basis have lower amounts of stress and anxiety than those who have never tried it.
2) Improves empathy and compassion
Since meditation is a calming technique, naturally it helps in the social arena as well. Taking the time to meditate for a set time daily has been shown to increase empathy and connectedness with others. When stressed and anxious on a constant basis, it can be difficult to find common ground with those around us. Hence, meditation reduces stress and subsequently allows the brain to spend more time building empathic connections to those encountered in everyday life.
3) Rewires how you process trauma
In trauma cases, meditation has been groundbreaking as a potential means of alleviating trauma symptoms. By spending time meditating on a daily basis, the mind gets rewired to process traumatic events in a different, more constructive way.
4) Increases your focus
Meditation has been shown to increase focus as much as ADD medications do. Both improve focus by .03%, which shows how effective this often overlooked practice can be. If it has the same positive effect as medications such as Adderall or Ritalin, those who struggle with focus or hyperactivity can supplement prescriptions with regular meditation.
5) Enhances creativity
Are you a writer or artist who struggles to focus on a current project? Are you experiencing creative burnout? Meditation could be the missing puzzle piece you’ve been looking for to rediscover your creative side and increase productivity. Studies show that meditation opens up the right side of your brain and clears your neural pathways so the left and right sides of your brain can better communicate. Try spending five minutes a day meditating and seeing the difference it makes in your creative output.
Sometimes, the guidance of a medical professional can improve your quality of life. Finding a therapist in your network could make a world of difference. If you aren’t sure where to start looking, fill out the questionnaire to begin finding the right insurance for you and your needs.
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When it comes to injuries, it can be easy to confuse strains and sprains. Both can cause pain and discomfort, but understanding the difference between the two can help determine the best course of treatment.
A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon, which are the fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones.
Strains often occur when a muscle is stretched or torn, usually from overuse or improper use. Common symptoms of a strain include muscle pain, weakness, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area.
On the other hand, a sprain is an injury to a ligament. A ligament is a band of tissue that connects bones together at a joint. Sprains usually occur when a joint is forced out of its normal range of motion. This causes the ligament to stretch or tear. Common symptoms of a sprain include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected joint.
One of the main differences between strains and sprains is the location of the injury. Strains affect muscles and tendons, while sprains affect ligaments. Strains are typically found in the muscles of the arms, legs, and back. Meanwhile, sprains are commonly found in the joints of the ankles, wrists, and knees.
Treatment for strains and sprains varies depending on the severity of the injury.
In most cases, the best course of action is to rest the affected area. Make sure to apply ice to reduce swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain medication can also help manage discomfort. More severe injuries may require physical therapy or even surgery to fully heal.
It is important to accurately diagnose and treat strains and sprains as soon as possible to avoid further injury. This will ensure a full recovery.
Are you experiencing pain or discomfort in a muscle or joint? It is always a good idea to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
In summary, strains and sprains are common injuries that can cause pain and discomfort. Strains affect muscles and tendons, while sprains affect ligaments. Proper treatment is important for a full recovery and to avoid further injury. It is always a good idea to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
https://healthedly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Healthedly-Blog.png9001366healthedly23https://healthedly.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Healthedly.svghealthedly232022-03-11 17:17:002023-01-09 12:09:48How To Tell The Difference Between Sprains and Strains
As of January 2021, the number of deaths worldwide caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has surpassed 6 million. This is a devastating milestone that highlights the severity of the situation. It also highlights the need for continued efforts to slow the spread of the virus.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on every corner of the globe. It has disrupted economies, upended daily life, and claimed the lives of millions of people. The loss of 6 million lives is a somber reminder of the human cost of this pandemic.
The pandemic has disproportionately affected certain groups of people.
Older individuals and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19. The virus has also had a disproportionate impact on marginalized communities and those living in poverty.
The good news is that vaccines are now being distributed and administered around the world. These vaccines offer hope for a return to normalcy and a way to finally bring the pandemic to an end. However, it will take time for enough people to be vaccinated in order to achieve herd immunity and stop the spread of the virus.
In the meantime, it is important for everyone to continue following public health guidelines. This includes wearing a mask, washing hands frequently, and practicing social distancing. These measures can help slow the spread of the virus and protect those most at risk.
It is important for governments and health organizations to continue working together to address the pandemic and the rising number of deaths.
This includes providing resources and support to those most affected by the virus. The governments should also push for research and development to improve treatments. This way, we can find a way to stop the spread of the virus.
The loss of 6 million lives to the COVID-19 pandemic is a devastating reminder of the cost of this crisis. It is important for everyone to do their part to slow the spread of the virus. We must work towards a solution. With continued efforts, it is possible to eventually bring an end to this pandemic and honor the memory of those who have lost their lives.
Choose Healthedly! Our licensed agents are ready to help you find the right health insurance plan, whether you are an individual, a senior, or if you are trying to support your family. Give us a call at 855-522-2201
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Something you need to remember: no two journeys to quit smoking are the same. There are hundreds of tips and tricks out there to help you come up with a game plan to quit. But, we believe these ten tips will be fundamental in helping you start your new life without cigarettes.
1. Set Your Quit Date
Once you’ve decided that you want to quit smoking for good, it’s time to set your plan in stone. Identify the reasons you have for quitting smoking. Maybe it’s the health of your family members or loved ones – check out our blog on the devastating consequences that secondhand smoke can have on them. Then, set your quit date. If you’ve failed to quit in the past, think about whether you want to try to quit gradually or immediately. Remember, setting goals is useless unless they’re set in stone. Write your plan down and find an accountability partner!
2. Do Your Homework
Okay, so no-one likes homework – but quitting smoking is a lot easier when you know your stuff! Being aware of the facts is going to help you quit. You can find out more about nicotine addiction and its consequences at support groups, or on websites such as the American Lung Association and smokefree.gov. Reading about your own chance of contracting lung cancer or heart disease is likely to be a motivator! As well as health risks, you can learn about quit-smoking strategies, nicotine replacement products and how other peoples have managed to stop smoking.
3. Make Money a Motivator
You would be amazed by how much you can save from quitting! Set the background on your home screen to the holiday you’re saving for, or tell your partner that you’re going to treat them to dinner out this week with the money you save. It’s a great motivator because you’ll start feeling good about quitting within days!
4. Consider Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Nicotine cravings are your enemy. They are what causes withdrawal symptoms, which means they are sat directly between you and your goal of becoming a non-smoker. The chemical dependence that builds up when we smoke is the reason going cold turkey is so hard. However, there are ways to wean yourself away from nicotine which doesn’t involve smoking. We’re talking nicotine gum, nicotine patches or anything else which can help you tackle withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety and irritability. Nicotine dependence is a tough one to crack, so if a bit of chewing gum can help you out instead of a ciggie, we think it’s worth considering!
5. Identify Your Triggers
Nicotine addiction is a weird beast. It often takes the form of what we call an associative addiction, which is why you see a lot of “social smokers” trying to pinch a cigarette when they’re a few drinks down. You associate nicotine with another experience, meaning when you have that experience you crave a cigarette. Maybe that experience is nipping out for a quick cigarette break with your co-workers, or maybe it’s the first morning coffee of the day. Identify what your triggers are and incorporate them into the plan of action (which you’ve already created if you’ve read this far!)
6. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise!
We’re guessing that if you’re a smoker (particularly a heavy one) then exercise might not be your number one passion. However, it’s a rewarding habit to replace smoking cigarettes with – now that you’re on your journey towards quitting it’s time to rediscover the joys of getting out there again!
The use of tobacco products among teenagers in the United States has long been a concern for public health officials and the government. Despite numerous efforts to limit the use of tobacco among teens, the prevalence of this substance use remains alarmingly high. In this blog post, we will explore some of the ways in which the US government has failed in its attempts to limit teen tobacco use and what can be done to address this issue.
One major factor contributing to the failure of government efforts to limit teen nicotine use is the presence of marketing and advertising from cigarette companies.
While the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has implemented regulations on nicotine advertising, including a ban on television and radio advertising, these regulations have not completely eliminated the influence of tobacco marketing on teens.
Tobacco companies have found ways to bypass these restrictions.
For example, they use social media and the placement of advertisements in retail stores. Both of these marketing strategies can be easily seen by teenagers. In addition, the use of flavored nicotine products, such as e-cigarettes and flavored cigarillos, has been heavily marketed to teens. It has contributed to the increase in teen tobacco use in recent years.
Another factor contributes to the failure of government efforts to limit teen nicotine use.
Tobacco products remain highly available to minors. True, laws exist prohibiting the sale of nicotine products to individuals under the age of 18. Regardless, teens still have access to these products through various channels. This includes the purchase of these addictive products by older peers or the theft of tobacco products from retail stores.
In addition, the lack of enforcement of these laws has also contributed to the problem.
Studies have found that retailers often fail to check IDs when selling tobacco products to minors. Thus, there often exists a lack of penalties for retailers who violate these laws.
Another issue is the lack of comprehensive and effective prevention and education programs.
Of course, the government has implemented programs such as the Truth Initiative. This initiative aims to educate teens about the dangers of nicotine use. Unfortunately, these programs have had limited success in reducing nicotine use among teens.
One potential reason for this failure? These programs do not address the underlying social and cultural factors that contribute to teen tobacco use.
For example, teens may feel pressure to use nicotine products in order to fit in with their peers. These teens may hope to appear more mature. Without addressing these underlying issues, it is difficult to effectively reduce nicotine use among teens.
One solution to these issues is to implement more stringent regulations on tobacco marketing and advertising.
This includes a complete ban on advertising targeted at teens. This could involve measures such as stricter penalties for retailers who sell tobacco products to minors. It could also involve increased funding for prevention and education programs. These programs would focus on the underlying social and cultural factors that contribute to teen nicotine use.
In addition, the government could consider implementing higher taxes on nicotine products.
These have been shown to be effective in reducing tobacco use among all age groups. This could include increasing the federal excise tax on nicotine products, which has not been raised in over a decade.
Finally, there needs to be a greater focus on enforcement of laws and regulations related to tobacco sales to minors.
This could include increased penalties for retailers who violate these laws. It could also involve more frequent compliance checks to ensure that retailers are following the rules.
Overall, it is clear that the US government has failed in its attempts to limit teen nicotine use. While there have been some efforts to address this issue, they have been insufficient in reducing the prevalence of tobacco use among teens. To truly address this problem, there needs to be a comprehensive approach that includes stricter regulations on tobacco marketing and advertising, increased taxes on tobacco products, and better enforcement of laws related to the sale of tobacco products to minors.
Looking for a health insurance provider who fits your needs or your family’s financial constraints? Look no further than Healthedly! Call us at 855-522-2201!
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Physical activity is essential for maintaining good health, and one aspect of health that is often overlooked is balance. Balance is the ability to maintain your body’s center of gravity over your feet, and it is crucial for everyday tasks such as walking, climbing stairs, and even sitting in a chair. Poor balance can lead to falls, which can result in serious injuries, particularly in older adults.
Fortunately, regular physical activity can help improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. Here’s how:
Physical Activity…
Strengthens the muscles that help maintain balance:
Physical activity can strengthen the muscles in the legs, ankles, and core, which are essential for balance. Strong leg muscles, for example, can help you maintain your balance when you are walking on uneven surfaces or when you need to quickly adjust your stance. Strong ankle muscles can help you maintain your balance when you are standing on one foot, and a strong core can help you maintain your balance when you are sitting or standing upright.
Improves coordination:
Physical activity that involves moving different parts of the body at the same time can improve coordination and balance. For example, activities such as dancing, tai chi, and yoga require you to coordinate your movements with your breath and focus on your body’s alignment.
Increases proprioception:
Proprioception is the ability to sense the position of your body in space. Physical activity that involves moving through different planes of motion, such as side-to-side or rotational movements, can improve proprioception and balance. For example, activities such as Pilates, martial arts, and sport-specific training can all help improve proprioception.
Increases the range of motion in the joints:
As we age, the range of motion in our joints can decrease, which can affect balance. Physical activity that involves stretching and moving through a full range of motion can help increase the range of motion in the joints and improve balance.
Increases blood flow to the brain:
Regular physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which can improve brain function, including balance.
It’s important to choose physical activities that challenge your balance and that are appropriate for your fitness level.
Some examples of balance-improving activities include:
Standing on one foot
Walking heel to toe
Walking on a line or beam
Standing on an unstable surface, such as a balance board or Bosu ball
Doing balance exercises with a resistance band
Doing balance exercises with your eyes closed
It’s also important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, particularly if you have any pre-existing health conditions.
In conclusion, physical activity is essential for maintaining good balance and reducing the risk of falls. By strengthening the muscles that help maintain balance, improving coordination, increasing proprioception, increasing the range of motion in the joints, and increasing blood flow to the brain, physical activity can help you maintain good balance and improve your overall health.
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cells lining the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. It is a cancer that is preventable and treatable if caught early enough. One way to catch it early is through preventative exams. These testsare done to look for cancer before any symptoms appear.
Preventative exams for cervical cancer include the Pap test and the HPV test.
The Pap test is a test that looks for abnormal cells on the cervix. Meanwhile, the HPV test looks for the human papillomavirus (HPV). This is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause this type of cancer.
It is important for women to get these preventative exams regularly, especially if they are sexually active. The American Cancer Society recommends that women start getting Pap tests at age 21. They should continue getting them every three years until age 65. After age 65, women who have had normal Pap test results for the past 10 years and no history of this cancer can stop getting Pap tests.
HPV testing is recommended for women over age 30, as this is when the risk for cervical cancer increases. Women who have had abnormal Pap test results should receive testing. Moreover, those who have a history of cervical cancer should also consider getting HPV testing.
Getting preventative exams is crucial for catching cervical cancer early, as it is often asymptomatic in its early stages.
When caught early, this type of cancer is highly treatable and can often be cured with surgery or radiation therapy.
There are also ways to prevent cervical cancer, such as getting vaccinated against HPV. You can use condoms during sexual activity, and not smoking. It is important for women to be proactive about their health. If you are a woman, get regular preventative exams to ensure the early detection and treatment of this cancer.
Overall, preventative exams are crucial for testing for cervical cancer. They can catch the cancer in its early stages, when it is most treatable. This can help prevent the spread of this deadly disease. Women must make sure they are getting regular preventative exams and taking steps to prevent this cancer.
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Preventative healthcare is an underused approach to medicine, and more and more doctors and patients alike clamor for the need to prioritize preventative measures.
Keep reading to find out why we need to prioritize preemptive healthcare:
Prevention can help to reduce the burden of illness:
Preventative healthcare measures, such as vaccines, screenings, and lifestyle interventions, can help to reduce the burden of illness in the population. This can lead to improved health outcomes and a lower overall cost of healthcare.
Prevention can help to reduce healthcare costs:
By preventing illness and disease, preventive healthcare can help to reduce healthcare costs. This is because the cost of treating an illness or disease is often much higher than the cost of preventing it.
Prevention can help to improve quality of life:
Prioritizing preventative healthcare can help to improve quality of life by allowing individuals to live healthier and more productive lives.
Preventative measures can help to reduce health inequities:
Preemptive healthcare measures can also help to reduce health inequities by ensuring that all individuals have access to the care they need to maintain good health.
Preventative care can help to address emerging health threats:
Prioritizing preventative healthcare can also help to address emerging health threats, such as pandemics, by providing the necessary resources and infrastructure to prevent the spread of disease.
Looking for the right health insurance coverage but don’t know where to even start? Healthedly has got your back! Give us a call at 855-522-2201 to get started and find the best plan for your personal needs.
