American Academy of Family Physicians.
American Academy of Family Physicians.
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Effects of Early Sun Exposure
There is a direct link between sun exposure and most skin cancers. The ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight are invisible… a spot on my skin could be cancerous? What is the treatment process for skin cancer? Resources American Academy of Dermatology: Skin Cancer: Everyone’s At…
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Methotrexate
Methotrexate is a strong medicine that is used to treat some types of cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and several other… system. This makes your immune system less active. Methotrexate is used to treat: Certain types of cancer. These include breast cancer, lung cancer, some cancers…
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Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a screening test that will help your doctor check for colorectal cancer. It may be used for… There are many reasons your doctor may order a colonoscopy for you. Most commonly, the procedure is used to look for colorectal cancer. The American…
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Pap Smear (Pap Test)
A Pap smear is a medical exam used to determine if a woman has cervical cancer. It’s performed by a… called a biopsy. The tissue will be examined in a lab to determine if cancerous cells are present. If your doctor finds cancer, they will…
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Pituitary Tumors
The pituitary gland is located in your brain and produces hormones. Most pituitary tumors are non-cancerous… metabolism, and response to stress. A tumor can form in your pituitary gland. Typically, it is benign and will not lead to cancer. This is known as a pituitary…
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Smokeless Tobacco: Tips on how to stop
Smokeless tobacco products are just as bad for you as smoking. They can lead to health problems including cancer. Resources… Bad breath Teeth staining Tooth decay Receding gums Mouth sores Over time, use can cause cancer. Smokeless tobacco contains 28 carcinogens, or cancer-causing agents. The…
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HPV Vaccine is for Boys, Too
Girls—and boys—can both benefit from getting the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. The vaccine reduces chances of developing some cancers later… reduce their chances of developing some cancers if they get the vaccine. The HPV vaccine was first developed to help prevent cervical cancer in women…
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Lipomas
Lipomas are slow-growing tumors that come from fat cells. They are usually round, moveable lumps under the skin… What are lipomas? Lipomas are benign (not cancerous), slow-growing tumors that come from fat cells. They are usually round, moveable lumps under the skin. They feel…
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Atypical Moles
Atypical moles are generally benign, but those who have a lot of them have a higher risk of developing melanoma… Atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) are skin growths. They are benign (not cancerous). However, they look like a type of skin cancer called melanoma. Atypical…
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Family Doctors Are a Consistent Presence in Challenging Times
Working as a palliative care doctor has shown me how important a trusted family doctor is when patients face a… I sat trembling, clasping my patient’s frail hand as I held back tears. Patricia (not her real name) told me about being diagnosed with…
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Palliative Care
Palliative care is designed to improve the quality of care for a person who has a serious or life-threatening… Palliative care is designed to help people who have a serious illness. The illness may chronic (ongoing) or life-threatening. This includes a form of cancer that…
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Obesity
Obesity is a complex, and increasingly common disease that is associated with many health risks such as high blood pressure,… What is obesity? Obesity is a complex and increasingly common disease that is associated with many health risks such as high blood pressure, diabetes,…
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Fitness Habits to Make
The best way to work exercise into your life is to make it a habit. If you’re not exercising regularly… Getting movement each day is essential. Not only will it help you keep up with your family, but keeping physically active also can help prevent:…
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Nicotine Patch
A nicotine patch adheres to your skin and can help you stop smoking… Congratulations on your decision to quit smoking! This is called smoking cessation. Quitting is the best thing you can do to improve your heath. It lowers your risk of cancer and heart…
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Sports and Exercise at Every Age
Maintaining an exercise program is important at any age. It can help you build a foundation when you’re young and… We all know that exercise is good for us. But it does more than just improve our physical fitness. It also reduces our risk of…
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What You Can Do to Maintain Your Health
Good health can decrease your risk of developing certain conditions. Learn what you can do to maintain your health… A lot of factors play a role in staying healthy. In turn, good health can decrease your risk of developing certain diseases or conditions. These include…
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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the medical term for an enlarged prostate. This condition is associated with aging and mimics… What is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)? Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the medical term for an enlarged prostate. The condition affects the prostate gland…
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Caregiver Health and Wellness
Caregivers are at increased risk for a number of health problems. Learn about these conditions and what you can do… A caregiver is someone who gives basic care to a person who has a chronic medical condition. A chronic condition is an illness that lasts…
