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Cologuard is the registered trademark for a non-invasive, at-home test for colon cancer produced by the Exact Sciences Corporation in the United States. Anyone can take this test at home, but it’s mainly intended for adults over 45 who have an average risk for colorectal cancer.  Cologuard works by detecting specific DNA markers and blood in a stool sample you take at home, and then send by mail to a lab. Medical professionals advise that Cologuard shouldn’t take the place of a colonoscopy for those…

According to statistics collected by the CDC last year, there were approximately 2.4 million reported cases of the three most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States: chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.   It’s important to note the difference between a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and an STD. STIs occur when a person becomes infected with bacteria, parasites, or viruses. If the infections aren’t treated, they can progress to STDs. When STIs or STDs aren’t treated, they can cause serious health issues. Fortunately, STDs and STIs…

With an uptick of measles cases in 2023, it’s important to understand what vaccines and treatments are available for the disease. The measles virus (rubeola) is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can affect people of all ages. Signs and symptoms of infection include the virus’ trademark skin sores, coughing, fever and muscle pain. Although most people can overcome a measles infection on their own, the disease can be dangerous for young children, seniors and people with compromised immune systems. How is measles treated? Treatment…

Being able to drive a car during your senior years can help you maintain your independence, but depending on your health, you might need to make certain modifications to your car. Today, many people with disabilities, injuries, and illnesses can stay behind the wheel by adding readily available adaptive equipment to their cars.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that the most common types of adaptive equipment for vehicle modifications include the following: Hand controls Wheelchair seatbelts  Devices for steering control Automatic door…

In the United States, reports show that adults who are obese spend close to $2000 more for their medical care than those who have a healthier weight. Even with a financial motivation to lose weight, it can be challenging to start your weight loss journey. If you qualify for Medicare, you may have access to programs and services that may help you.  It’s common knowledge that being overweight or obese reduces the quality of life, but it also increases the risk of disease and other health…

Everyone has a third set of molars known as wisdom teeth. For most people, these special molars push through the gums at the age of 17 to 25, but for others, they either never develop, or they can cause health issues at a later age. If a wisdom tooth doesn’t have enough room to push through the gum it can become impacted causing it to erupt partially or remain below the gum. If you have impacted wisdom teeth, your health care provider might suggest you…

Medicare is the federally run national health insurance system that provides health care coverage for over 65 million beneficiaries in the United States. Most people start getting Medicare when they turn 65, but others get coverage earlier if they have a qualifying disability. If you’re eligible for Medicare, you can enroll in Original Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and, or Part B (medical insurance). Or you can choose to purchase a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, a bundled alternative form of Original Medicare Parts A and…

Medicare and Medicaid are government programs that provide health care coverage for eligible recipients who live in the United States.  Medicaid follows federal government guidelines, but each U.S. state runs its own Medicaid program with different eligibility requirements and coverage allowances. Today in this country there are around 87 million people enrolled in Medicaid, and it’s the largest health care program for people of all ages who are living on a limited income.   Medicare, on the other hand, is a federally run program that covers…

Advancements in medical technology have provided seniors and retirees with greater life expectancy and improved quality of life. Among the most intriguing advances within this industry has been the creation of monoclonal antibodies. These antibodies are made by cloning white blood cells and hold a lot of promise for alternative therapies for treating diseases like cancer. Creating monoclonal antibodies is complex, but the result can bolster the immune system in ways that would not have occurred naturally. This is a form of biotechnology since monoclonal…

Today in the United States, there are over 65 million people who depend on Medicare insurance to help cover health care expenses. Unlike Medicaid, your eligibility for Medicare enrollment isn’t dependent on your income.  You can enroll in Medicare at age 65 if you’re a U.S. citizen, or a permanent legal resident living in the country for at least five years. You may also qualify if you’re younger than 65 and have a disability or end-stage renal disease. Medicare covers a large percentage of many…