The proper terminology is “epistemic injustice,” whereby a person’s concerns are dismissed by someone else, causing that person to question their own perception of reality, or to make them feel “crazy.”

The article was describing the experiences of patients who were referred to a specialized clinic for vulvovaginal disorders. When I read the article and the term “medical gaslighting,” I reached out to the primary author, Dr. Chailee Moss, to have her come on my podcast (the link the episode is at the end of this article) to discuss her article and the “medical gaslighting” itself.

The findings of the article were eye-opening: less than half of patients said that past practitioners were supportive; a little more than a quarter were actually belittling, and one fifth were described as not believing the patient. What shocked me was that 20.6% of patients were given a recommendation to drink alcohol to relieve their symptoms. Moreover, 16.8% of patients felt unsafe during a medical encounter and 39.4% said they were made to feel crazy.

The actual narrative responses were also instructive, and they are reproduced here:

The most important takeaway from the article and my conversation was that we must do all that we can to ensure patients feel heard. Even if we can’t find something specific to treat, we should do our utmost to ensure that patients’ concerns are not perceived as being dismissed. This applies to all specialties, including critical care. Also, “drink more alcohol” should NEVER be a medical recommendation, in my opinion. It was a very important lesson for me, and it is one I will do my best to remember every day of my practice.

Listen to the podcast episode: https://www.healthcaremusings.com/the-freedom-fighters-of-medicine/

The post Can Doctors “Gaslight” Their Patients? appeared first on Medika Life.

So, researchers at the University of Chicago set up experiments to see what happened if they totally sleep deprived rats. Here are the results (emphasis mine):

Ten rats were subjected to total sleep deprivation (TSD) by the disk apparatus. All TSD rats died or were sacrificed when death seemed imminent within 11-32 days. No anatomical cause of death was identified. All TSD rats showed a debilitated appearance, lesions on their tails and paws, and weight loss in spite of increased food intake. Their yoked control (TSC) rats remained healthy.

Then, they deprived them of REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, which was called “paradoxical sleep” at the time. Those rats also died, but it took them longer:

Twelve rats were subjected to paradoxical sleep deprivation (PSD) by the disk apparatus. All PSD rats died or were sacrificed when death seemed imminent within 16-54 days. No anatomical cause of death was identified. All PSD rats showed a debilitated appearance, lesions on their tails and paws, and weight loss in spite of increased food intake. Their yoked control (PSC) rats remained healthy.

Then, they deprived the rats of “high EEG amplitude sleep.” They also died, but it took those rats even longer (emphasis mine):

The disk apparatus was used to deprive six rats of the portion of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep with high electroencephalogram (EEG) amplitude (HS2). All HS2 deprived (HS2D) rats died or were sacrificed when death seemed imminent within 23 to 66 days. No anatomical cause of death was identified. All deprived rats showed a debilitated appearance, lesions on their tails and paws, and weight loss in spite of increased food intake. Energy expenditure (calculated from the caloric value of food, weight change, and wastes) increased to more than twice baseline values. With one exception, yoked control rats remained generally healthy.

All in all, this shows that sleep deprivation can be deadly. It is, in fact, a well-known torture technique. Thus, no one should skimp on their sleep.

Sleep is so essential to brain health, body health, and mental health. Even though we all have busy lives, and it seems that we need 30 hours in a day rather than 24, we should never sacrifice our sleep. Never. The research on the adverse effects of sleep deprivation is myriad.

Don’t skimp on your sleep. It can be, literally, a matter of life or death.

The post The Classic Sleep Deprivation Experiments appeared first on Medika Life.

Physical activity enhances the quality of sleep, strengthens the brain, and reduces the risk of developing certain types of cancer and heart disease. Your weekly “exercise” is the sum of all your physical activity, regardless of how long it lasts, and any movement is good for your health.

According to a study published in the open access journal BMJ Open, older persons who regularly clean up after themselves have superior memory, attention span, and leg strength. This, in turn, makes them less likely to fall.

The researchers in this study aimed to investigate whether performing home tasks among the elderly population of a developed nation would promote healthy aging and enhance cognitive and physical abilities, as this type of activity requires movement and is a measure of a person’s potential to live independently.

Cooking, dusting, making the bed, ironing, hanging laundry, and washing up were all examples of light chores. Tasks such as painting and decorating, as well as heavier chores like changing the bed, vacuuming, and washing the floor, were included.

Included in the sample were 489 adults (ranging in age from 21 to 90) who were selected at random and had no cognitive impairments and fewer than five underlying medical conditions. Everyone was able to take care of their own daily needs and live independently in a residential community.

Additionally, certain cognitive domains were linked to the level of housework intensity. Light housework was linked to 8% better short-term memory and 14% better long-term memory, whereas heavy housework was linked to a 14% higher attention score.

Almost two-thirds (61%, 152 younger, and 66%, 159 older) only used housework to reach the prescribed physical activity quota objective. Additionally, certain cognitive domains were linked to the level of housework intensity. After adjusting for other types of regular physical activity, the results showed a link between housework and improved physical and mental capacities. but only in the elderly population.

Researchers in Europe used a sizable database of health data of middle-aged British civil officials to conduct new investigations. The employees, initially between the ages of 35 and 55, were monitored for about ten years while completing numerous health surveys.

One of the things mentioned in the questions was doing household chores. Every task was categorized as “mild,” such as cooking or doing the dishes, to “moderate” (weeding and brisk walking). They discovered that any form of physical activity was linked to a longer lifespan.

What Is the Recommended Amount of Exercise?

Experts and our physicians have been telling us for years that we need to exercise, and now that we know housework can be exercise, you should feel a bit less stressed. Of course, housework may not be your total answer, but it contributes to your weekly exercise. The question remains: how much exercise should you be getting and whether you should do intense things or be a bit more casual about them.

Intensity has benefits for some, especially regarding the activity, but you should keep in mind that any exercise is good exercise. As long as you’re not spending the entire day sitting in a chair, watching television, playing a board game, or doing something else, you can count your exercise credits. Guidelines are available online for those of us who need a bit more help establishing the correct amount for ourselves.

Keep something else in mind, too. When you perceive an activity as more than a task or obligation, it can significantly impact your motivation. When we think of exercise in terms of housework, that’s one thing that you are required to do. But, if you think of housework and exercise together as something that is good for your mental health, cognition, and longevity, it becomes money in the bank for you.

Always remind yourself that you are doing this for yourself, even if required. The benefits are threefold: required work, exercise, and longevity. When did you ever think of housework as providing additional years of life for you? And it’s not only exercise or longevity because we can toss something else in there—fighting anxiety and depression and helping raise our mood level.

Housework has probably always been something you cringed at having to do, but there’s a new light shining on it, and you should allow it to shine brightly.

The post When Is Exercise Not Exercise, and Is That Good Enough? appeared first on Medika Life.

According to the report, global investment in Consumer Health Technology grew by 9% in 2024, totaling $4.5 billion. This increase reflects investor confidence in technology-driven health solutions and signals a shift toward consumer empowerment. However, despite the surge in funding, the report underscores persistent challenges, including a clinical validation gap that could hinder long-term adoption and trust.

“The Consumer HealthTech sector is at a pivotal moment,” said Julien de Salaberry, founder and CEO of Galen Growth. “We are witnessing the continued health-sector evolution where consumers seek to secure stronger ownership over their health and well-being. People who succeed in using their buying power to secure innovation with clinical validation will shape the future of health.”

Investment and Market Dynamics

Galen Growth’s report reveals a complex funding environment where record investment is contrasted by uneven access to capital. While total investment rose to $4.5 billion in 2024, the market remains heavily weighted toward early-stage ventures:

• 75% of Consumer HealthTech ventures are still in the seed stage, highlighting the challenge of securing Series A and beyond.
• Only 25% of ventures incorporated in the last seven years have progressed to Series A or beyond.
• 11 mega deals (valued at over $100 million) accounted for 37% of overall funding, reflecting investor appetite for mature ventures with proven models.

Regional Investment Trends

North America remains the dominant market, capturing 64% of total funding and securing 78% of global venture capital deals. The region’s leadership in funding reflects its mature digital health ecosystem and strong investor appetite for high-growth, technology-driven health solutions.

Europe attracted 24% of global funding, focusing on corporate health and wellness solutions. In contrast, the Asia-Pacific region secured 12% of international funding, driven by increased investment in preventive health marketplaces and telemedicine.

Notable Deals from 2024:

• Neko Health secured a $260M Series B for its AI-driven preventive health model, which is focused on early detection and personalized treatment recommendations.
• eGym, a global fitness technology leader, raised $201M in a Series H to expand its connected training platform and enhance its AI-powered coaching system.
• Spring Health, a mental health platform, raised $100M in a Series E to scale its personalized therapy and mental wellness offerings.
• Flo Health, a women’s health app focused on menstrual cycle and fertility tracking, raised $200M in a Series C to expand its product offerings and global reach.

Mental Health Takes the Lead

Mental health emerged as the dominant focus in Consumer HealthTech in 2024, attracting 29% of total funding—underscoring the growing recognition of mental well-being as a vital part of overall health.

“Consumer HealthTech has the power to democratize health by giving individuals greater control over their health,” added de Salaberry. “But for this potential to be realized, ventures need to address the division between the haves and have-nots and the clinical evidence gap to demonstrate measurable health outcomes.”

The rise in mental health investment reflects a shift toward more personalized, technology-driven care models. Consumers increasingly expect the same level of convenience and personalization in health that they experience in other industries, such as retail and finance. This demand has spurred innovation in teletherapy, mental health apps, and AI-driven cognitive behavioral therapy.

Key Therapeutic Areas:

• Women’s Health saw a surge in funding, capturing 20% of total investment. Startups like Flo Health are capitalizing on the growing demand for reproductive health and fertility tracking.
• Preventive Health attracted 17% of funding, driven by the rise of AI-powered diagnostics and real-time health monitoring.
• Sleep and Cognitive Health solutions are also gaining traction as consumers seek to improve overall well-being through better sleep quality and cognitive enhancement.

Strategic Partnerships and M&A Activity

Partnerships and consolidation play a critical role in the sector’s growth:

• More than 900 new partnerships were formed in 2024, signaling growing collaboration across the health ecosystem.
• Venture-to-venture acquisitions accounted for 79% of M&A activity, highlighting how companies are using consolidation to strengthen market presence.
• Notable partnerships included:
  • Pfizer partnered with GoodRx to improve medication management and strengthen direct-to-consumer outreach.
  • Amazon expanded its mental health footprint through a strategic partnership with Talkspace for teleconsultation services.
  • Mayo Clinic partnered with Prenetics to advance genomics-based health solutions and expand access to precision medicine.

This trend toward consolidation reflects increasing pressure to scale solutions and navigate complex regulatory and reimbursement landscapes. More prominent players are looking to leverage established consumer brands and data platforms to enhance their competitive positioning.

Issues and Prospects

Despite the rise in funding and market activity, the Consumer HealthTech sector faces critical challenges:

• Clinical Validation Gap: The report highlights that Consumer HealthTech ventures exhibit an 11% lower clinical evidence signal than the broader digital health ecosystem. This gap raises concerns about scientific rigor and long-term adoption.
• Funding Bottleneck: Early-stage ventures struggle to secure Series A funding, with most capital concentrated in late-stage deals.
• Accessibility and Equity: Unlike traditional health, which is often covered by insurance, Consumer HealthTech solutions rely heavily on out-of-pocket spending. This creates a divide between those who can afford premium health services and those who cannot.

“The health sector cannot afford to become a system of haves and have-nots,” said de Salaberry. “Consumer HealthTech ventures must work to close the accessibility gap by developing affordable solutions and proving their clinical value.”

Future Trends and Market Outlook

The Galen Growth report identifies several key trends shaping the future of Consumer HealthTech:

• AI-Driven Personalized Medicine: AI-powered diagnostics and health assistants enable hyper-personalized treatment plans based on genetic, biometric, and behavioral data.
• Hybrid Models: Successful Consumer HealthTech ventures increasingly integrate with traditional health systems to improve credibility and adoption.
• Regulatory Oversight: Governments and regulators will likely increase scrutiny over health claims and data privacy, creating startup opportunities and challenges.
• Equity and Affordability: To achieve long-term impact, Consumer HealthTech solutions must address disparities in technology access and affordability.
• Digital Therapeutics: Prescription-based digital interventions for managing chronic conditions are poised to bridge the gap between technology and evidence-based care.

A Defining Moment for Consumer HealthTech

Consumer HealthTech represents a seismic shift in health—moving from reactive to proactive care. As Galen Growth’s report reveals, the future of health lies in empowering individuals with technology-driven solutions that provide real-time insights and personalized care.

The rise of AI-driven diagnostics, wearable technology, and telemedicine enables consumers to monitor and manage their health in real time. This shift toward preventive care improves outcomes and reduces the burden on traditional health systems.

However, sustainable growth requires stronger clinical validation and deeper integration with established health frameworks. Consumer HealthTech ventures must navigate the complexities of reimbursement, regulation, and market competition to secure long-term success.

The Galen Growth report makes it clear: The future of health belongs to those who empower consumers—and prove it works.

The post Consumer HealthTech: A Data-Driven Evolution in Health Engagement appeared first on Medika Life.

However, even wellness proponents of goodwill face this challenge: The relationship between lifestyle and health is not a straight line.

Yes, I know I should consume more fruits and vegetables.

But it’s complex.

A 2024 study compiled by Harvard researchers emphasizes the complexity of diet and health and the need to communicate evidence-based principles.

I’ll start with an overview before turning to the three takeaways on healthy aging from this research investigation.

TL; DR

For those of you feeling in the “too long, didn’t read” kind of mood, I’ve got you.

Here’s a summary of everything I will share about nutrition and health.

Want to be healthy at 70? Individuals who embraced a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats in their 40s are far more likely to ahave a long heathspan.

The Study

A 30-year study involving over 100,000 participants has confirmed the link between healthy eating patterns and successful aging.

For the study, Harvard scientists specializing in nutrition and epidemiology assessed a database with health information on over 106,000 people going back three decades.

They evaluated eight dietary patterns:

• Alternative healthy eating (AHEI)
• Alternative Mediterranean diet (AMED)
• Dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH)
• Mediterranean-DASH intervention for neurodegenerative delay diet (MIND)
• A healthful plant-based diet (hPDI)
• Planetary health diet (PHD)
• Empirical dietary index for hyperinsulinemia (EDIH)
• Empirical dietary inflammatory pattern (EDIP)

Assessing Diet and Health

They assessed these diet patterns every four years (with a validated food frequency questionnaire.

The investigators defined healthy aging as surviving to age 70 or older while maintaining good self-reported cognitive and physical function, mental health, and being free of chronic diseases.

1. Yes, Mediterranean is Good, But…

I often tout the benefits of a so-called Mediterranean diet.

The Harvard study reminds me that, while the Mediterranean diet is the healthy diet most Americans know, there are other good options.

In typical Mediterranean foods, seven other diets that differ in particular food items share many components — including plant-based proteins and healthy carbohydrates.

2. Nutrition Matters (Even If I Exercise)

The Harvard study reminds me that what I eat is important, even though I exercise regularly and vigorously.

The association between diet and healthy aging appeared independent of how much people exercised.

In other words, after accounting for physical activity, the association between diet and healthy aging remained strong.

Of course, that is not to say diet is more important than exercise; rather, the study authors could not compare the association with diet to the association with exercise regarding how strongly they predict healthy aging.

3. Yes, Fruits and Vegetables (But How Much?)

Regarding fruits and vegetables, both the variety and quantity you consume are crucial for longevity and healthy aging.

While the popular saying suggests that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” studies indicate that aiming for two to three servings of fruit per day, along with five servings of vegetables, is more beneficial.

The study highlighted the importance of consuming various fruits and vegetables, emphasizing the benefits of antioxidant-rich berries.

Key Points

• Quantity: Aim for five servings of vegetables and two to three of fruit daily.
• Variety: Eat a diverse range of fruits and vegetables.
• Antioxidant-rich berries: These are especially beneficial for healthy aging.

In conclusion, consuming various fruits and vegetables in adequate quantities is essential for promoting longevity and healthy aging.

Am I a vegan? No. Vegetarian? No. Eat enough vegetables? Nope.

But research such as this reminds me to have those grapes nearby.

Or add a small salad to my dinner.

And you?

The post 3 Habits of Highly Healthy People appeared first on Medika Life.

You might expect I would share my experience running this Hawaii-based marathon as someone over 60.

However, here’s the thing: you can also participate in a 10K run at the event.

Did you know that walking is an option too?

Or that you could walk it?

If that hasn’t captured your attention yet, there’s more: high school students cheerfully offer scrumptious malasadas (Portuguese donuts) as a reward for completing the event.

While I didn’t formally train for my 10K walk, I seized the opportunity to experience the Honolulu Marathon in my way.

“With a little harder work, a more organized training plan, I could …”

That is true, but I did not formally prepare for my 10K walk; I embraced the chance to experience the Honolulu Marathon.

Today, I’ll share why I prize experiences over things.

(Or, you might think, use an essay to share some recent photos from my recent Oahu adventures.)

Borges on Life

First, a bit from Borges:

Nothing is built on stone; all is built on sand, but we must build as if the sand were stone. Any life is made up of a single moment, the moment in which a man finds out, once and for all, who he is. — Jorge Luis Borges.

Why Borges?

The Argentinian writer was a “literature man.”

But mathematicians, philosophers, and philologists all admire him.

Is it his perfect language?

Extraordinarily broad knowledge?

The universality of his ideas or originality of his fiction?

No matter. Just read him.

Consider exploring Ficciones, a collection of short stories exploring motifs such as dreams, chance, labyrinths, infinity, libraries, mirrors, fictional writers, and mythology.

Doing the Honolulu Marathon

Last week, I did the Honolulu marathon.

It’s the fourth largest even in the United States (after New York, Chicago, and Boston).

There is no time limit, and everyone is allowed to finish.

Fireworks preceded sunrise, and the race began at 5 a.m.

Diverse Experiences Promote Happiness

There is a link between new and diverse experiences, enhanced happiness, and increased brain activity.

Writing in Nature Neuroscience, researchers note this:

We feel happier when we have more variety in our daily routines.

Going to novel places and having many activities in my daily routine facilitates joy.

The reverse is also true: I am much more likely to seek out rewarding experiences when I am positive.

Study Details

This study examined whether having various experiences in your day-to-day life makes you feel more positive.

Researchers tracked people’s locations in New York and Miami for a few months and asked them about their feelings.

They found that people who visited more places and spent time in different locations reported feeling happier and more positive overall.

Then, they imaged (with MRI) the brains of some participants and found something interesting.

The people who seemed to benefit from this variety had more activity in certain brain areas (the hippocampus and striatum) linked to experiencing new things and feeling rewarded.

Final Thoughts

I finished my 10K, received a participation medal, and joined my fellow runners and walkers in the festival area in Kapiolani Park.

Not everyone can travel to Hawaii, but we can stretch to do diverse activities.

The post Why Your Comfort Zone is Killing Your Happiness (and What to Do About It) appeared first on Medika Life.

On one hand, these pots, pans, and air fryers have become indispensable in our kitchens, offering convenience that makes cooking and cleaning a breeze.

The idea of perfectly cooked eggs gliding seamlessly onto my plate, all thanks to that slick coating, is undeniably appealing.

But then there’s that nagging voice whispering about potential health risks and the dreaded “Teflon flu.”

We’ve all heard the rumors: nonstick coatings degrade over time, releasing harmful chemicals into our food.

Is there any truth to these claims?

Like many of you, I’ve found myself caught in this culinary conundrum, weighing the convenience of nonstick against the potential health concerns.

In this essay, I’ll discuss the latest scientific research on nonstick coatings, their benefits, and their drawbacks.

I’ll also share practical tips for safely using nonstick cookware and offer compelling alternatives for those looking to avoid it altogether.

Nonstick Coatings

I recently read about how nonstick coatings can increase my plastic consumption.

While this raises concerns, I do not know how it will affect my health.

Researchers used a special imaging approach (Raman spectroscopy) to see what occurs in nonstick coatings during cooking.

They used wooden and metal utensils with old or new nonstick cookware. Here are the findings:

All approaches resulted in tiny abrasions to the nonstick coating, releasing micro- and nanoplastics.

Microplastics, Nanoplastics, and Health

The problem? Some studies hint that swallowing these plastic particles may damage our breathing tracts, causing problems such as bronchitis, asthma, and scarring (fibrosis).

Scientists described an incident in northern Italy where small plastic particles contaminated the water between 1980 and 2019.

This pollution affected about 150,000 individuals.

There was higher mortality from cardiovascular disease and certain cancers (including kidney and testicular malignancies) in the population affected by plastic particles.

Micro- and nanoplastics affect health.

What About Your Nonstick Teflon Pans?

My clinical literature review leads me to believe that most nonstick pans are safe.

Here are some tactics I employ:

• Avoid using metal utensils, turning to silicone or wooden ones.
• Avoid using nonstick cookware at temperatures above 250°C (482°F) or longer than 45 minutes.
• Replace pans if the coating starts to flake or is scratched.
• Don’t clean with abrasive tools, such as steel wool, as they can damage the utensil surface coating.

Alternatives to Nonstick Pans

I find nonstick cookware to be quite convenient, but I know there are alternatives, including the following:

• Cast iron
• Stainless steel
• Ceramic-coated cookware

While I still have some concerns, my clinical literature review suggests that nonstick coatings are relatively safe.

Provided you use the utensils properly, nonstick cookware can be a safe and reliable option for your kitchen.

The post Nonstick Pans: The Truth About Safety and How to Use Them Right appeared first on Medika Life.

I recall one man who put a sign on his lawn and in his office that he was “Dr.” when, in fact, he had a master’s degree. This fraud was included on his letterhead, where he put a number that appeared to any unaware person to be a licensed number. It was not his license at all but a number for some other activity in which he engaged.

The licensing board had repeatedly warned him to rectify the situation, but he didn’t because he knew that there wasn’t enough staff to go out and check on his actions. Everyone thought he was a medical doctor or a psychiatrist in the town where he practiced.

Another large practice had secretaries administering psychological test materials for which they neither had experience nor degrees. Ethically, they should not have had access to these materials.

Everyone who came to the practice was put through a series of computerized tests, and their insurance was charged for all of this unnecessary testing. The practice reaped millions of dollars a year, and nothing was ever done to the man who owned it. He even charged insurance for missed therapy sessions, which is outright insurance fraud.

The secretary administered a basic IQ test at another office, not a therapy office, but offering a different service. The testing material was kept on her desk. Nothing was ever done about this, either because the man in charge was not a licensed healthcare professional, and he was never investigated for this practice.

Anyone wishing to check on a licensed mental health counselor can go to the state–by–state listing on the Internet. For licensed psychologists there is also a similar listing. Psychiatrists are listed as medical doctors.

Then, there are those who call themselves doctors who may have degrees in things other than healthcare-related specialties, such as administration or even history. The term is not carefully regulated and may be used by so many people that it is, and can be, intended to deceive.

There are also those who catfish on the Internet and present themselves as something other than who they truly are. I am speaking about authors who delve into the intimate, personal lives of young people and then use this material to write books. Is it ethical? Do these people really respond to anything regarding ethics? I find it absolutely untenable.

What about those who “graduated” from schools that have been shut down because they were nothing but diploma mills? Yes, they are out there, and when they write their website profiles, they carefully exclude any mention of the school and say they have “studied” topics such as neurobiology or science.

Taking one course could be seen as “studying.” Are they expert in any area? Deceit and deception are their watchwords, and you are their intended victims. Bestseller means nothing. Please do not be misled by this term.

Defrauding Patients and Insurance

I’ve written about this before, but the material requires updating because these practices continue to emerge and must be dealt with legally.

Today, we are still confronted by those who would deceive us and by doing so, become extremely wealthy, but the consequences for the people who come to them can be fatal. These individuals sought help after they believed there was no help from traditional sources of medicine or therapy, and they came wanting to believe that these “healers” offered the only hope for these patients.

Now, the curtain is being pulled back, and lawsuits and legal battles are being fought as some people have died. One man has now been charged with more than one incident of manslaughter when he advised someone to stop taking their insulin and instead use his “slapping” therapy. The man died.

Federal charges say a woman from Minnesota sold a fake “microcurrent therapy” device across the country that she said could fix almost any illness or condition but actually burned or hurt people who tried to use it

Not only are these fake healers being uncovered, but those who promote unprofessional therapies that any professional organizations do not recognize are being outed, too. Unfortunately, once their papers were published, too many people readily picked them up and used them as references in their papers.

Can you imagine that up to 10,000 professionally published papers had to be retracted for various forms of data manipulation or outright fraud? This form of publication pollution takes time to discover, but once it is discovered, we know that the damage has been done to too many people.

One form of alleged therapy is conversion therapy, which claims to change people’s sexual orientation from homosexual to heterosexual. Every professional organization has debunked this, and it is no longer viewed as valid by anyone but the practitioners who make money from it. How many people have been psychologically damaged by this therapy that perpetuates feelings of shame?

There are no magic healers out there, but they will continue presenting themselves as such, and it is up to consumers to check everyone’s background carefully. Criminals are always looking for new ways to make money and unfortunate, hopeless people on whom to prey.

The post Psychotherapy Shouldn’t Be Fatal, But Lethal Fraud Still Exists appeared first on Medika Life.

My patients often describe a sense of isolation and lack of support during this transformative phase.

Many of you may have felt the impact on your well-being and the prolonged suffering caused by symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.

For instance, I had a patient last week who reported experiencing severe hot flashes at an important work meeting.

Moreover, she woke up every hour at night sweating.

Given estrogen and progesterone feed her cancer, she could not take hormonal replacement therapy.

I offered a non-hormonal option, which is this essay’s main topic.

The Statistics

I’ll begin with this disturbing statistic:

Vasomotor symptoms of menopause — such as hot flashes or night sweats — are common, affecting more than four out of five menopausal women.

Moreover, some women experience moderate-to-severe hot flashes and night sweats for an average of 7.4 years or more.

Today, I’ll explain why I write about menopause.

I will also discuss hot flashes, with a focus on a new non-hormonal drug aimed at alleviating suffering.

Why I Write About Menopause

Menopause is a universal experience for half of humanity, but its effects are far from uniform.

While some women navigate this transition with minimal disruption, others grapple with debilitating symptoms that significantly impact their well-being and can linger for extended periods.

Many women feel isolated and unsupported during this transformative phase.

The Emotional Roller Coaster of Menopause

www.webmd.com.

We Need A Comprehensive Approach

A comprehensive approach is necessary to improve the experience for all women.

This strategy means:

• providing women with accurate information
• decision-making tools
• compassionate medical care
• workplace accommodations when required.

We should give special attention to women experiencing early or medically induced menopause, as well as those vulnerable to mental health challenges.

I acknowledge that societal biases against aging women can exacerbate negative menopause experiences.

Therefore, efforts to destigmatize menopause and celebrate the value and contributions of older women are crucial.

What Are Hot Flashes?

Hot H.F.sshes (H.F.s) are sudden sensations of heat, sweating, flushing, anxiety, and chills lasting one to five minutes.

My patients often report that they first have sudden, intense warmth that typically begins in the chest, neck, or face.

The warm sensation then spreads throughout the body, often accompanied by sweating, flushing, and (for some) a rapid heartbeat.

While hot flashes are often the product of hormonal drops secondary to premenopause or menopause, some have the symptoms because of a medical condition or medications.

Are There Hot Flash Risk Factors?

Risk factors

Some women experiencing menopause do not have hot flashes.

We need to understand better why some have them.

Still, some factors that may increase hot flash risk:

• Smoking
• Obesity
• Race. Black women report more hot flashes than other races. Asian women report the least.

Hot Flash Triggers

I always discuss potential triggers with my patients who are experiencing hot flashes.

Here are some more potential hot flash triggers:

• Stress
• Heat
• Spicy foods
• Caffeine
• Tight clothing
• Alcohol
• Sedentary lifestyle

Mayo Clinic Minute: Why alcohol and menopause can be a dangerous mix – Mayo Clinic News Network

newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org.

Let’s get to the recently approved non-hormonal drug that alleviates hot flashes.

What is Veozah?

VEOZAH (generic name: fezolinetant) is a neurokinin 3 NK3 receptor antagnoist.

It is a non-hormonal prescribed medicine to manage hot flashes and night sweats.

Here’s what that means.

Your brain has receptors known as NK3.

These receptors respond to neurokinins (a brain chemical messenger) and estrogen.

As estrogen levels decline during the menopause transition, neurokinins show increased activity.

This neurokinin-increased activity makes them less likely to respond accurately to body temperature changes.

By binding to (and blocking) NK3 receptors, Veozah stops this activity, reducing hot flash severity.

Veozah Approved for Menopause-Related Vasomotor Symptoms

Veozah is approved (by the Food and Drug AdministrationU.S.in the U.S. for moderate to severe hot flashes and night sweats related to menopause.

What is VEOZAH® (fezolinetant) | VMS due to Menopause

Discover VEOZAH® (fezolinetant): a treatment option for moderate to severe hot flashes and night sweats caused by…

www.veozah.com

How is Veozah Taken?

Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage of Veozah, typically taken as one tablet once daily.

Women can take Veozah with or without food, ideally simultaneously each day, for optimal results.

It’s important to swallow the tablet whole with liquid and avoid cutting, crushing, or chewing it.

Does Veozah Work to Reduce Hot Flashes?

Veozah reduces the number and severity of hot flashes, day and night.

While individual results vary, many patients get relief within a week or so.

Here are the clinical trial results:

At 12 weeks, women taking Veozah experienced 63 percent fewer hot flashes than 42 percent taking a placebo.

Very good results, although the placebo results are pretty good, too.

Does Veozah Have Side Effects?

Veozah sometimes causes serious side effects, including increases in liver blood test values.

Your healthcare provider should perform a blood test to check your liver before you start Veozah. The test is repeated at months 3, 6, and 9 after you start the medicine.

Please call your healthcare provider immediately if you have symptoms suggestive of liver problems, including:

• nausea or vomiting
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• upper right abdominal pain.

Veozah — Common Side Effects

The most common toxicities of Veozah include:

• abdominal pain
• diarrhea
• insomnia
• back pain
• hot flashes

Of course, these are not all of the potential side effects.

Please notify your healthcare provider if you have any toxicity that bothers you or does not go away.

Who Should Not Use Veozah?

You should not use Veozah if:

• You have liver cirrhosis.

• You have severe kidney problems or kidney failure.
• You are taking certain medicines called CYP1A2 inhibitors. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure.

Cost

One of my patients recently informed me that Veozah not all health insurers in the U.S. pay for the drug.

The drug may be and may be prohibitively expensive for many people, as it costs about $550 per month.

I think U.S. insurers will eventually pay for the drug.

Summary

As someone involved in the care of scores of women with cancer, I know that vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats are very significant for some.

I love that these women who can’t — my patients with hormone-driven breast cancer are an example — or won’t use hormone therapy (the most common and effective treatment) have a new option.

Do you suffer from vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes or night sweats?

If yes, what strategies have been effective for you?

The post Hot Flash Hack: The Latest Breakthrough for Menopausal Relief appeared first on Medika Life.

A groundbreaking study led by the American Cancer Society (ACS) has unveiled a startling truth about the cancer epidemic in the United States:

Nearly half of all cancer cases and deaths in adults over 30 are linked to preventable causes.

This number translates to a staggering 713,340 cancer cases and 262,120 deaths in 2019 alone that could have potentially been avoided.

The Usual Suspects

The culprits? Everyday choices like the following:

• smoking
• excess weight
• alcohol consumption
• lack of exercise
• poor diet
• infections

This revelation underscores the urgent need for widespread lifestyle changes and offers a glimmer of hope.

By understanding and addressing these modifiable risk factors, we can empower ourselves to take control of our health and significantly reduce the burden of cancer in our society.

After reviewing the new study findings, I look forward to providing some tips for reducing your risk of ever developing (or dying from) cancer.

The New Study

Researchers recently took a deep dive into cancer causes.

Researchers calculated the contribution of various risk factors.

In this groundbreaking analysis, a team of researchers led by Dr. Farhad Islami of the American Cancer Society delved deep into the connection between lifestyle choices and cancer risk.

By meticulously analyzing the prevalence of known risk factors and their impact on cancer development, the team estimated the proportion of cancer cases attributed to these modifiable factors.

Study Details

This innovative approach allowed them to paint a vivid picture of the cancer landscape in the United States, revealing this:

We could potentially avoid a staggering number of cancer-related cases and deaths through lifestyle changes.

The risk factors under scrutiny included smoking, secondhand smoke, excess weight, alcohol consumption, red and processed meat intake, low fruit and vegetable consumption, lack of fiber and calcium in the diet, physical inactivity, exposure to ultraviolet light, and several cancer-associated infections.

By shedding light on the profound impact of these modifiable risk factors, this study empowers individuals to take charge of their health and make informed decisions to reduce their cancer risk.

Here are some of my takeaway messages from the new research.

Not Surprisingly, Smoking Leads the Bad Habits List

As a cancer doctor, I am not surprised to see that the leading risk factor — cigarette smoking — contributed to nearly one in five cancer cases.

Let me repeat that disturbing figure:

Cigarette smoking is linked to nearly one in five cancers. Moreover, the habit is linked to nearly three in 10 cancer-related deaths.

Yes, smoking has declined over the last several decades.

In 1991, 70 percent of teens reported having tried smoking. This percentage dropped to 18 percent in 2021.

Still, I am alarmed.

Other Modifiable Cancer Risk Factors

Besides smoking, other everyday habits and lifestyle choices like carrying extra weight, drinking alcohol, not getting enough exercise, eating an unhealthy diet, and certain infections also played a significant role in causing cancer and cancer-related deaths.

Don’t get me wrong: I know about these cancer risk factors as an oncologist.

But what surprises me is this:

Four out of 10 cancers (and 44 percent of cancer deaths) among U.S. adults 30 or older could be attributable to lifestyle-related risk factors.

However, the study reminds me of good actions for my cancer patients and others.

The Biggest Contributants to Cancer Risk

Here is a graphic representation of the relative contributions of lifestyle elements to cancer risk:

Cigarette smoking is the leading cancer risk factor, contributing to 19 percent of cancer cases and 28.5 percent of cancer deaths.

Here are other top risk factors:

• Excess body weight — contributes to nearly eight percent of cancer cases and seven percent of cancer-related deaths.
• Alcohol — contributes to 5.4 percent of cancer cases and four percent of cancer deaths.
• The top five cancer risk factors are UV radiation exposure and physical inactivity.

Cancer Types

The cancer types with the greatest number of cases attributable to potentially changeable risk factors include the following:

• Lung cancer — 201,660 cases
• Breast cancer — 83,840 cases
• Melanoma — 82,710 cases
• Colorectal cancer — 78,440 cases

What You Can Do

There is nothing I can do that guarantees I will not get cancer.

On the other hand, I can pursue some potential risk-reducing maneuvers.

1. I have had a hepatitis B virus vaccine, reducing my liver cancer risk.
2. I don’t smoke; if I did, I would quit. If I had a significant smoking history, I would get lung cancer screening with CT imaging.
3. I don’t drink. There may be no safe dose (when it comes to cancer), but if I drank, I would cap it at seven standard drinks weekly.
4. I maintain a healthy weight.
5. I try to eat a balanced diet.
6. I get regular physical activity.
7. I get sufficient sleep, aiming for seven to nine hours daily.
8. I wear sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure. I would never go to a tanning salon.
9. I have gotten better at listening to my body. I check in with my primary care provider if I have a concern.
10. I get appropriate cancer screening, including for colorectal and prostate cancer. If I were a woman, I would get screened for cervix cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer.

Colorectal Cancer: Screening

www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org.

Prostate Cancer: Screening

www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org.

Breast Cancer: Screening

www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org.

Cervical Cancer: Screening

www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org.

One more thing: Young folks should consider vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV):

HPV Vaccination: What Everyone Should Know | CDC

www.cdc.gov

The post Cancer Epidemic? Study Reveals Alarming Link to Daily Habits (and How to Break Free) appeared first on Medika Life.