Demonstrating unwavering support and hope for the future, while showing intolerance for any behaviors associated with continued using of the addictive substance, can in effect increase the chances of the person returning to treatment and sobriety.  Full story »

Pregnant women are in a high-risk group who have to be extra careful to avoid food-borne illness. The immune system is weakened during pregnancy, making it harder for the body's natural defenses to protect both mother and fetus from microorganisms.  Full story »

When it is detected in its early stages, colorectal cancer is curable in over 90 percent of the patients. Colorectal polyps can be detected before they turn into cancer, and when removed the risk of cancer formation from that polyp is gone.  Full story »

Having high blood pressure over a long period of time can cause the muscle of the heart to thicken. When the muscle of the heart is too big, it can't pump as much blood, leading to a lot of health problems. Full story »

Cardiovascular disease kills more men and women each year than any other cause of death. To prevent heart disease and save many lives, prevention is key. The first step in prevention is knowing the modifiable and unmodifiable risk factors.  Full story »

Two different kinds of cholesterol are generally referred to as the "good" and the "bad." However, this isn't like a "50s Western. Even the cholesterol wearing the black hat isn't all bad.  Full story »

Recurrent urinary infections need to be evaluated in a urine culture. Then a urologic assessment could be done to determine if there is a definite cause for the infections. Full story »

A common concern when exercising to lose weight is whether to focus on aerobics or strength-training. Each type of exercise has its perks, but neither should be used exclusively.  Full story »

A pocketful of simple questions may be the best protection consumers can have to cope with the flood of health and medical news that makes headlines every day.  Full story »

In addition to the benefits of more energy and strength, keeping your weight at a healthy level can lower your risk of developing diseases such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and some forms of cancer. Full story »

It's important to have a good understanding of the serious symptoms in myasthenia gravis and how you should deal with them. Ask your doctor questions. Getting the best healthcare is a team -- you and your doctor -- effort. Full story »

Many people always have pork and sauerkraut for dinner on New Year's Day. Although most agree that it's for "good luck," it is difficult to determine where this custom started. The details of their nutrition are much easier to determine. Full story »

The holiday season can be a challenging time for anyone to follow a structured diet Full story »

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Partnership for Food Safety Information all have basic information readily available online. You also can get questions answered via food safety hotlines. Full story »

Lithium is a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of depression and bipolar disorders. Carefully-monitored use of lithium usually causes no damage to the kidneys. However, there are some risks to be on wary of. Full story »