Category Archives: Men's Health

How to Help Our Wounded Warriors

Posted on May 25, 2012 | Leave a comment

Support Our Wounded WarriorsOn this Memorial Day weekend, here’s a way to remember and honor the brave men and women who protect us and our freedom. Their special sacrifices and hardships enable us to do what we do everyday. The Fisher House program supports America’s military in their time of need.

Per their website… Because members of the military and their families are stationed worldwide and must often travel great distances for specialized medical care, Fisher House Foundation donates “comfort homes,” built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers. These homes enable family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful times – during the hospitalization for an unexpected illness, disease, or injury.

Currently, there are 56 Fisher Houses located on 21 military installations and 17 VA medical centers. Twelve more houses are under construction or in design.

To help our seriously wounded soldiers during their long road of recovery, click here to donate online or call 1-888-294-8560. Join them on Facebook.

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Posted in Men's Health, Women's Health

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Alzheimer’s Predictor

Posted on May 16, 2012 | Leave a comment

Researchers are optimistic that they found a new way to predict Alzheimer’s disease. Karen Owoc, The Health Reporter™, hosts a compact segment of TV health news in The Health Reporter Minute. Writer/Producer: Karen Owoc. [Segment #0015H

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Posted in Men's Health, Screening Tests, Women's Health

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Back-to-Basics Boomer Training

Posted on May 15, 2012 | Leave a comment

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of three ‘Beyond Boomers’ (seniors 65 years and older) fall each year. Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths among older adults. In 2010, direct medical costs of falls totaled over $28 billion. By urging Baby Boomers to get back to the basics of proper walking and posture, this problem can be prevented.

The Classic “Old Man’s Walk”

If you’ve ever noticed how many seniors walk, their heads are jetted forward, shoulders are rounded, eyes pointed down, and they’re bent forward at the waist. Walking this way shifts their center of gravity forward making them doubly prone to toppling over. Worse yet, they walk flat-footed (rather than walk heel to toe), so they never shift their weight from one leg to the other. ‘Shuffling’ the feet in this way diminishes balance and lower leg strength.   Continue reading →

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Posted in Aging, Fitness, Men's Health, Women's Health

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Managing Man-opause

Posted on December 14, 2011 | Leave a comment

As men age, they gradually lose androgen, or testosterone, the hormone that makes men ‘men’. Hormone changes are a natural part of aging, but men and women experience these changes differently.

For women, when ovulation ends, their hormone production plummets over a relatively short period of time. Unlike this dramatic reproductive hormone plunge that women experience during menopause, sex hormone changes in men occur gradually over many years.    Continue reading →

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Posted in Aging, Longevity, Men's Health

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Trimming Belly Fat | The Men’s Health Minute

Posted on November 25, 2011 | Leave a comment

Fat that settles around your middle is a serious health risk factor. Here’s what works (and doesn’t work) in your attempts to defat your belly. Karen Owoc, The Health Reporter, hosts this short-form segment of men’s health and fitness news in The Men’s Health Minute. Writer/Producer: Karen Owoc. [Segment #0014M

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Posted in Fitness, Heart Health, Men's Health, Weight Control

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Groundbreaking Brain Surgery

Posted on November 18, 2011 | Leave a comment

Two surgical specialists, a neurosurgeon and facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, at John Hopkins University teamed up and successfully removed a brain tumor through the eyelid of a 65-year-old woman.

This groundbreaking procedure provides a simpler direct route to the front and middle regions of the brain with minimal trauma to the skull. The surgeons entered her brain through the eyelid crease, then removed a small part of the skull above the eyebrow to reach the tumor.

This is in contrast to traditionally shaving the head, removing the top half of the skull, and moving aside sections of the brain. The patient is the 19th person to undergo this procedure.

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Posted in Men's Health, Technology, Women's Health

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Beer Belly Anatomy 101 | The Men’s Health Minute

Posted on November 11, 2011 | Leave a comment

Belly fat is biologically different from fat that’s on the buttocks, thigh and hips. It secretes hormones and has its own blood supply which can lead to several life-threatening diseases. Karen Owoc, The Health Reporter, hosts this compact segment of men’s health and fitness news in The Men’s Health Minute. Writer/Producer: Karen Owoc. [Segment #0015M

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Posted in Fitness, Men's Health, Weight Control

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Lifestyle and Hearing Loss – Part 2 | The Men’s Health Minute

Posted on October 26, 2011 | Leave a comment

Men far outnumber women when it comes to hearing loss. Find out why and how to prevent it. Karen Owoc, The Health Reporter, hosts this compact segment of men’s health and fitness news in The Men’s Health Minute.Writer/Producer: Karen Owoc. [Segment #0009M

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Posted in Fitness, Food, Healthy Fluids, Men's Health, Women's Health

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Fitness Forecast

Posted on October 19, 2011 | Leave a comment

Get the weather for where you work out.

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Aid for Age-Related Blindness | The Health Reporter Minute

Posted on October 12, 2011 | Leave a comment

There’s new hope for people with impaired vision from age-related macular degeneration. Karen Owoc, The Health Reporter, hosts a compact segment of health news in The Health Reporter Minute. Writer/Producer: Karen Owoc. [Segment #0009H

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Posted in Aging, ARMD, Longevity, Men's Health, Technology, Women's Health

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Fitness@Work | The Men’s Health Minute

Posted on September 30, 2011 | Leave a comment

Men often say they don’t have time to exercise, but here’s a new trend that combats the sedentary work. Karen Owoc, The Health Reporter, hosts this compact segment of men’s health and fitness news in The Men’s Health Minute. Writer/Producer: Karen Owoc. [Segment #0012M

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Posted in Cancer, Fitness, Heart Health, Longevity, Men's Health, Weight Control

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Supplement Safety – Part 2 | The Men’s Health Minute

Posted on September 25, 2011 | Leave a comment

[TV segment #0011M

Dietary supplements are popular, but you can’t assume they’re safe and effective because they’re on the market.

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Posted in Chemical Additives, Fitness, Food, Men's Health, Supplements, Women's Health

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Supplement Safety – Part 1 | The Men’s Health Minute

Posted on September 1, 2011 | Leave a comment

[TV segment #0010M

Nutritional supplements are intended to provide nutrients that you may be missing from your diet. Here’s why you need to be a savvy consumer.

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Posted in Chemical Additives, Fitness, Food, Men's Health, Supplements, Women's Health

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The Dark Side of Sunscreen | The Health Reporter Minute

Posted on August 22, 2011 | Leave a comment
[TV segment #0013H

The long-term benefits of wearing sunscreen are backed by solid scientific research, but there’s also evidence that a common compound in sunscreen may cause skin damage.

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Posted in Chemical Additives, Longevity, Men's Health, Skin Care, Women's Health

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Pre-Exercise Hydration | The Men’s Health Minute

Posted on July 28, 2011 | Leave a comment

[TV segment #0009M

When you exercise and work up a good sweat, you need additional fluids. Here are some quick fluid facts for when you’re getting fit.

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Lifestyle and Hearing Loss – Part 1 | The Men’s Health Minute

Posted on June 15, 2011 | Leave a comment

Your hearing can be affected by driving your car at high speeds. Learn more about noise-induced hearing loss. Karen Owoc, The Health Reporter, hosts a compact segment of men’s health and fitness news in The Men’s Health Minute. Writer/Producer: Karen Owoc. [Segment #0001M

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Beyond the Sneezing and Runny Nose

Posted on April 19, 2011 | 2 Comments
[TV segment #0001H

 

Allergies can affect mood and lead to depression

Spring strikes 40 million Americans with seasonal allergies each year bringing on the usual coughing, sneezing and red itchy eyes. But researchers report that allergies may also cause psychological harm. Studies show allergies worsen mood, cognition and quality of life and can double the likelihood of depression.

Allergy-Depression Link

On the surface, if you can’t sleep well and you’re rundown and miserable, it’s bound to worsen your mood and make you more vulnerable to depression. Moreover, when you’re congested and have to breathe through your mouth to get oxygen, it’s irritating and unattractive. Sufferers often avoid socializing and isolate themselves which further increases their risk of depression.

Biological Connection

There’s no evidence that allergies actually cause people to feel depressed, but emerging studies reveal allergies can be a risk factor for depression. Beyond the sleep problems that can lead to poor concentration and depression, research suggests that there’s a biological component to the “allergy blues” that afflict so many allergy sufferers.

Cytokines

Allergic ‘rhinitis’, or commonly known as a stuffy nose, causes specialized cells in the nose to release cytokines. These small protein molecules rev up the immune system response whereby proinflammatory cytokines “inflame” your cells and tissues.   Continue reading →

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Posted in Children's Health & Safety, Men's Health, Women's Health

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ER’s for Boomers

Posted on April 4, 2011 | Leave a comment

Senior emergency centers are more private and have a specially trained staff

There’s a new trend popping up in hospital emergency rooms — a special area zoned just for seniors. Unlike the chaotic environment of modern ER’s that are more equipped to handle gunshot wounds, car accidents and other crises, these senior emergency centers are calmer and more nurturing.

Nurses and doctors receive special training in geriatrics and are more aware of senior issues. They not only treat the acute problem, but are trained to uncover underlying problems — everything from depression or dementia to a home that’s full of tripping hazards.   Continue reading →

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Posted in Aging, Health Care, Men's Health, Women's Health

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Radiation Exposure “Antidote”

Posted on March 14, 2011 | 2 Comments
Radiation Exposure

Potassium iodide - an antidote for radiation exposure?

Nuclear plant explosions in Japan released massive columns of smoke into the air.  According to officials, 230,000 units of iodine have been distributed to evacuation centers near the nuclear power plants as a precaution. So, why is Japan distributing iodine tablets?

Thyroid Effects

After the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, thousands of cases of thyroid cancer were reported in children and adolescents exposed to radiation. Following a radiological or nuclear event, escaping radioactive particulates consisting of radioactive iodine-131 can enter your body via contaminated air, food, or water (referred to as “internal contamination”).   Continue reading →

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Posted in Cancer, Longevity, Men's Health, Women's Health

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Medical Write-off Rules Worth Knowing

Posted on March 5, 2011 | Leave a comment

It pays to know what expenses are deductible.

With tax season now here, accountants are saying that many people think they don’t have enough medical bills to get them over the 7.5% deduction hurdle. To enjoy the maximum write-off, these experts advise that you know exactly what qualifies as a medical expense deduction.

For example, did you know that your mileage, parking fees and tolls for trips to the doctor, dentist and pharmacy are deductible? As are TV and telephone adapters for the hearing impaired? And that the cost of meals at a hospital are deductible if you’re there to get medical care?   Continue reading →

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Posted in Aging, Health Care, Healthy Home, Men's Health, Women's Health

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New Guidelines for CPR

Posted on November 1, 2010 | 2 Comments

On October 18 the American Heart Association released new guidelines for CPR. The changes make it easier for people to perform CPR and save lives.  The AHA now recommends the CAB method, that is, Compressions first, then Airway, followed by Breathing.  The previous method recommended doing the compressions last - ABC (Airway, Breathing and Compressions).  For more information, go to:  www.heart.org.

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Posted in Heart Health, Longevity, Men's Health, Women's Health

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Sunscreen Additive and Skin Damage

Posted on June 27, 2010 | Leave a comment

An FDA study found a form of vitamin A, that’s used in sunscreens may actually speed up skin damage.  41% of over 500 sunscreens contain vitamin A, or retinyl palmitate, due to its popularity for preventing wrinkles in cosmetics.  However, preliminary data showed even low doses of this additive may be unsafe.

When applied to the skin, retinyl palmitate reacted with sunlight and increased the development of skin tumors and lesions.  This is disturbing since sunscreens are formulated and promoted as protection against sun damage. The Environmental Working Group researchers recommend only 39 (or eight percent) of the sunscreens on the market this summer.     Continue reading →

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Posted in Cancer, Chemical Additives, Men's Health, Women's Health

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Men’s Health Awareness Month

Posted on June 24, 2010 | Leave a comment

If you aren’t already aware, June is Men’s Health and Cancer Awareness Month.  It was designated in 1994 to encourage early detection and treatment of disease.  Routine health screenings and diagnostic tests can save the lives of both men and boys.  In the U.S., over five million men have been diagnosed with some form of cancer.  Prostate, colon, lung, and skin cancers most often affect men.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more men die from cancer, heart disease, injuries, stroke and diabetes than women.  However, they are half as likely to go to the doctor for annual exams and preventive care.   Recommended screening tests (previous blog entry):  How to Stay Healthy if You’re a Man.

Continue reading →

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Posted in Aging, Cancer, Health Care, Men's Health, Screening Tests

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Height and Heart Disease

Posted on June 15, 2010 | 1 Comment

A study by the European Society of Cardiology reported short people had a fifty percent higher risk of having heart disease.  Heart problems included angina (chest pain), heart attack, and angioplasty (the technique of mechanically widening a narrowed or obstructed blood vessel).   Continue reading →

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Posted in Heart Health, Longevity, Men's Health, Women's Health

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Are Carrots Good for Cataracts?

Posted on August 23, 2009 | 1 Comment

Q:  Do carrots really help your eyesight?  Both my wife and I have had cataract surgery.  Is there anything that we can eat to help protect our vision? ~ V.O., Bath, OH

Carrots contain eye-healthy compounds

Carrots contain eye-healthy compounds

A: Carrots contain lutein (LOO-teen) and zeaxanthin (zee-uh-ZAN-thin) which are nutrients that may protect the eyes.  Lutein and zeaxanthin are xanthophylls that belong to the carotenoid family of organic pigments.  Xanthophylls are found naturally in plants and give fruits and vegetables their pretty colors.  They are found in the flesh of the fruit and vegetable as well as in the leaves.

Cataracts and ARMD

Lutein and zeaxanthin are yellow-orange-red pigments that accumulate in the lens of the human eye and the central part of the retina (macula) and filter harmful components of sunlight. In ongoing research studies, both lutein and zeaxanthin have been found to help protect against eye diseases, such as cataracts (caused by oxidative stress and solar damage to the lens of the eye).  Some studies have shown these nutrients actually lowered the need for cataract surgery by up to 20% with up to a 40% reduction in the risk for age-related macular degeneration (ARMD).   ARMD is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly.   Continue reading →

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Posted in Aging, Antioxidants, ARMD, Food, Men's Health, Supplements, Women's Health

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How to Prevent Aging: Part 2 (Skin Changes)

Posted on August 7, 2009 | Leave a comment

To continue with how the body system changes, the following is an overview on what happens to your skin as you age.

“Normal Aging”

Skin

Skin loses its 'snug' fit and wrinkles with age

Skin loses its 'snug fit' and wrinkles with age

The skin is the largest organ of the body and one of the most revealing places where aging occurs.  Over time, your skin may lose its original ‘snug fit’ and begin to wrinkle and sag due to the following age-related changes:

  • Collagen cells break down.  Collagen is the main protein of connective tissue that provides strength to the skin – as well as to blood vessels, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and bone.
  • Muscles beneath the skin atrophy (diminish and shrink).
  • Bones shrink away from the skin due to bone loss.
  • Subcutaneous cushion of fat diminishes.  As a result:

Continue reading →

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How to Prevent Aging: Part 1 (Body Changes)

Posted on August 2, 2009 | Leave a comment

“How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you were?” ~ Leroy “Satchel” Paige

Today’s post is the first of a series on “How to Prevent Aging”.  By having an understanding of the physiological changes, the causes, and effects on the rate of aging, you can adjust the way you live, work, and play and prevent or delay the onset of diseases that are disproportionately associated with aging.

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Chronic diseases and disability were once synonymous with old age, but after over fifty years of research by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), you can prevent or at least control certain diseases, often through the way you live.

Individuals age overall at immensely different rates, and age-related changes in cells, organs, and tissues differ greatly as well.  Organs in one individual may age faster than those in another.  For example, your bone strength may diminish more rapidly as compared to your spouse whose heart function may decline faster.  This suggests that the rate of aging is affected by:

  • Genes
  • Lifestyle
  • Disease

“Normal aging” varies considerably and its rate can be affected by behavioral factors in your control, such as healthy eating and physical activity.  Age in years does not necessarily correlate with physiological age.   Continue reading →

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How to Stay Healthy If You’re a Man

Posted on June 12, 2009 | Leave a comment

Male signOne of the most important ways for men at any age to stay healthy and live longer is to get recommended screening tests.  These tests can detect diseases early (i.e. cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and more) when they are easier to treat.

NOTE: If you have risk factors, a diagnosed condition, or a family history of certain diseases, talk to your physician.  The types of tests, when you start testing, and how often you test may differ from the standard recommendations below.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for the following diseases:

Scale1.  Obesity: Have your Body Mass Index (BMI) calculated to screen for obesity.  BMI is a tool that is used to measure body fat by the weight (in kilograms) to height (in meters) ration of an individual.  A BMI of 25 – 29.9 kg/m indicates overweight and a BMI greater than 30 kg/m indicates obesity.

You can use the BMI calculator from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to find your own BMI.

2.  High Cholesterol (age 45+): Starting at age 35, have your blood checked regularly for cholesterol levels (fasting blood test).  Talk to your provider about testing earlier if you are younger than 35 and if:

  • You have diabetes.
  • You have high blood pressure.
  • You have a family history of heart disease.
  • You smoke.

Sphygmomanometer BloodPressure3.  High Blood Pressure (age 18+): Starting at age 18, have your blood pressure checked at least every two years.  A blood pressure reading of 140/90 and above is high.

4.  Colorectal Cancer (age 50+): Starting at age 50, your physician can decide which test is right for you.   Continue reading →

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Posted in Cancer, Longevity, Men's Health, Screening Tests

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