Shield, the first FDA-approved blood test for CRC screening, may offer convenient screening access for those who are at average risk for the disease. The FDA has approved ShieldTM, a noninvasive, blood-based test designed to screen for colorectal cancer (CRC) in individuals 45 years and older who are at average risk of developing the disease, according to a press release from the developer, Guardant Health, Inc.1.

FDA Approves Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colon Cancer Awareness Month is observed every March to raise awareness about colon cancer, its prevention, and the importance of early detection. Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. During this month, various organizations and communities come together to educate the public, promote screening, and support those affected by the disease. Early detection through regular screenings can significantly increase survival rates. Activities include educational events, fundraising walks, and social media campaigns. By participating, you can help spread vital information and potentially save lives. Let's dive into 20 essential facts about Colon Cancer Awareness Month.

20 Facts About Colon Cancer Awareness Month

Radiation therapy often sounds intimidating, but it's a common and effective treatment for many types of cancer. What is radiation therapy? It's a medical procedure that uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Unlike chemotherapy, which affects the entire body, radiation therapy targets specific areas. This precision helps minimize damage to healthy tissues. How does it work? Radiation damages the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. Over time, these damaged cells die off, and the body naturally eliminates them. Is it safe? Yes, modern technology ensures that radiation therapy is as safe as possible, with side effects managed by healthcare professionals. Understanding these basics can help demystify the process and reduce anxiety for patients and their families.

14 Facts About The Truth About Radiation Therapy

There are a ton of health tests available, but which medical tests do you really need? As you get older, that answer changes. Here are 12 to be aware of. Ladies, when it comes to your well-being, be proactive! Eat right, stay active, avoid tobacco, and have the following medical tests for women over 50 run to determine the state of your health. Doing so can help diagnose life-threatening diseases before damage or disabilities occur. If caught early, changes to your diet and lifestyle can often slow the progression and even reverse many of the chronic and age-related conditions that plague women in their prime.

12 Essential Medical Tests for Women Over 50

Stage 3 colorectal cancer means the cancer has spread to the nearby lymph nodes, but it has not spread to distant parts of the body. Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. Depending on where it begins, people may refer to it as colon cancer or rectal cancer.

What to know about stage 3 colorectal cancer

Diverticulitis and colon cancer share some similar symptoms, risk factors, and diagnostic tests. Research suggests there may be a link between the two conditions, and having diverticulitis may increase the risk of colon cancer. Diverticulitis and colon cancer both involve the colon, which forms part of the large intestine. Colon...

Is there a connection between diverticulitis and colon cancer?

What is the esophageal sphincter? The esophageal sphincter is a muscular ring located at the junction of the esophagus and stomach. It plays a crucial role in digestion by controlling the passage of food and liquids. When functioning properly, it opens to allow food to enter the stomach and closes to prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. This helps protect the esophagus from stomach acid and digestive enzymes. Problems with the esophageal sphincter can lead to conditions like acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Understanding its function and importance can help maintain digestive health.

30 Facts About Esophageal Sphincter

Cancer Health

People with type 2 diabetes who used glucagon-like peptide analogs such as Ozempic or Mounjaro had a lower risk for multiple types of cancer compared with those who used insulin, according to study results published in JAMA Network Open. Overweight and obesity have been linked to at least 13 types...

Weight-Loss Drugs May Prevent 10 Types of Cancer

A JAMA Network Open study finds that noninvasive at-home colorectal cancer screening can reduce death risk by 33%. Researchers from Ohio State University and Kaiser Permanente analyzed data from 11,000 patients, showing FIT’s annual effectiveness equals a ten-year colonoscopy. The study stresses improving accessibility and addressing racial disparities in cancer screening.

At-Home Colon Cancer Test Proves Just As Effective as a Colonoscopy

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It can progress slowly and may not cause many symptoms. Although it is treatable, it’s not considered to be curable. In the early stages, CLL often doesn't require treatment immediately, as studies have...

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): When to Treat Cancer or Hold Off

The Healthy 

Throat cancer refers to a group of cancers that affect various parts of the throat. The Cleveland Clinic notes that the areas most commonly affected are the larynx, or voice box, and the oropharynx, the middle section of the throat. According to the American Cancer Society’s 2024 statistics, it is estimated that there will be approximately 58,450 new cases of oropharyngeal cancer and about 12,650 new cases of laryngeal cancer. Throat cancer treatment typically involves surgical removal of the cancerous growths.

“Here’s How I Knew I Had Throat Cancer”: One Patient’s Story After Symptoms Were Missed

SurvivorNet

It's important to understand that so much of your cancer risk is beyond your control, but it's interesting to see new research from the American Cancer Society (ACS) has found that 40 percent of cancer cases in the U.S. have been linked to modifiable risk factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, excess body fat, and UV radiation.

Stop The Guilt Trip For Patients: So Much of Cancer Risk Is Beyond Your Control Despite New Study Touting Modifiable Risk Factors For Prevention

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread rapidly to other areas. However, there are also slow-growing types that may develop over many years. Melanoma is not as common as other types of skin cancer. However, unlike other skin cancers, melanoma has a high risk of spreading to other areas, which makes it the most dangerous type.

How fast does melanoma spread?

Lymph nodules might sound like a complex term, but they play a crucial role in keeping our bodies healthy. These small, bean-shaped structures are part of the immune system, acting as filters for harmful substances. Found throughout the body, they help fight infections by trapping viruses, bacteria, and other invaders. But what exactly are lymph nodules, and why are they so important? Lymph nodules are clusters of lymphatic tissue that produce lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell essential for immune responses. They are different from lymph nodes, which are larger and more structured. Understanding these tiny defenders can give us a better appreciation of how our bodies stay protected from diseases. Ready to learn more? Here are 29 fascinating facts about lymph nodules that will help you understand their significance.

29 Facts About Lymph Nodules

Although colorectal cancer may not be entirely preventable, a person can take certain steps to reduce their risk of developing it. These include screenings, avoiding cigarettes and alcohol, and more. Colorectal cancer is a form of cancer that begins in a person’s colon or rectum. The colon is also...

Is it possible to prevent colorectal cancer?

A landmark study revealed that women with severe endometriosis are ten times more likely to get ovarian cancer, compared to women who do not suffer from the disease. The study was conducted by researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah, the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, and Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine.

Are Women With Severe Endometriosis More Likely To Get Cancer ?

USA TODAY

While health experts are encouraged by declining lung cancer rates, there's still more to be done to avoid causes of lung cancer. Here's what to know.

It's not just smoking — here's what causes lung cancer

A new study led by researchers at the American Cancer Society (ACS) finds four in 10 cancer cases and about one half of all cancer deaths in adults 30 years old and older in the United States (or 713,340 cancer cases and 262,120 cancer deaths in 2019) could be attributed to modifiable risk factors, including cigarette smoking, excess body weight, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, diet, and infections. Cigarette smoking was by far the leading risk factor, contributing to nearly 20% of all cancer cases and 30% of all cancer deaths.

40% of Cancer Cases and Almost Half of Deaths in U.S. Linked to Modifiable Risk Factors

LiveScience

Other types of surgery besides double mastectomies are equally good at lowering death rates in women with cancer in one breast.

Double mastectomies don't increase cancer survival, study suggests

Ever wondered how to keep track of your blood pressure effortlessly? The Aktiia Blood Pressure Monitor might be the game-changer you've been looking for. This sleek device promises to make monitoring your blood pressure as easy as checking the time. No more bulky cuffs or complicated setups. Just wear it like a bracelet, and you're good to go. But what makes this gadget stand out in a crowded market? From its continuous monitoring capabilities to its user-friendly app, there's a lot to unpack. Let's dive into 19 fascinating facts about the Aktiia Blood Pressure Monitor that could make it your next must-have health gadget.

19 Facts About Aktiia Blood Pressure Monitor

NewsBreak

20 Facts About Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer screening is a crucial health measure for women. It helps detect abnormal cells in the cervix that could develop into cancer. Regular screening can...

20 Facts About Cervical Cancer Screening

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