• Common Opportunistic Infections and How to Prevent Them
    Blog - Prevention & Wellness

    Common Opportunistic Infections and How to Prevent Them

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction When the immune system is weakened—such as by HIV, certain cancers, or immunosuppressive medications—the body becomes more vulnerable to infections that a healthy immune system would typically fight off. These are referred to as opportunistic infections (OIs). For people living with HIV, especially those with a low CD4 count, OIs can lead to serious illness or even death if not prevented or treated early. The good news is that most OIs are preventable through medication, routine screenings, and healthy habits. This article explores the most common OIs, who is at risk, and practical strategies to prevent them. What Are…

  • PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis): Emergency Prevention After Exposure
    Blog - Prevention & Wellness

    PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis): Emergency Prevention After Exposure

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction HIV prevention has come a long way, and one of the most powerful emergency tools available is PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis). If you’ve been recently exposed—or think you may have been exposed—to HIV, PEP can help stop the virus from taking hold in your body. But timing is everything. PEP must be started within 72 hours (3 days) after potential exposure, and the sooner, the better. In this article, we’ll explain how PEP works, who should take it, how to get it, and what to expect during treatment. What is PEP? PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a short-term course of antiretroviral…

  • PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis): Who Should Take It & How It Works
    Blog - Prevention & Wellness

    PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis): Who Should Take It & How It Works

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction In the ongoing fight against HIV, one of the most powerful tools in prevention is PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. When taken correctly, PrEP can reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by over 99% and from injection drug use by at least 74%. Despite its proven effectiveness, PrEP is still underused—largely due to lack of awareness, misconceptions, and stigma. This article breaks down everything you need to know about PrEP: how it works, who should consider taking it, and how to access it safely. What is PrEP? PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a preventive medication for people who do…

  • Preventing Diabetic Complications: Foot, Eye, Kidney, and Nerve Care
    Blog - Prevention & Wellness

    Preventing Diabetic Complications: Foot, Eye, Kidney, and Nerve Care

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Diabetes affects more than just blood sugar; it can have serious long-term impacts on the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and feet. However, with consistent management, early screening, and healthy lifestyle habits, many of these complications can be delayed or even prevented. This guide explores the most common diabetic complications and offers practical steps for protecting your health. Diabetic Neuropathy (Nerve Damage) What Is It? Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels. It commonly affects the hands and feet, leading to numbness, tingling, burning, or pain. Types of Neuropathy: Prevention & Care: Diabetic Retinopathy (Eye Damage)…

  • Preventing Heart Disease: Assessing Your Risk Factors Early
    Blog - Prevention & Wellness

    Preventing Heart Disease: Assessing Your Risk Factors Early

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, but the majority of cases are preventable. The key to prevention lies in early identification and management of risk factors—many of which begin silently, long before symptoms appear. By understanding and assessing your personal risk profile early in life, you can make informed lifestyle and medical choices to protect your heart for years to come. 1. Why Early Risk Assessment Matters Heart disease often develops gradually over decades, without obvious symptoms. By the time a heart attack or stroke occurs, damage may already be significant. Early assessment helps to: The…

  • Common Heart Medications: How They Work (Statins, Beta-Blockers, etc.)
    Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Prevention & Wellness

    Common Heart Medications: How They Work (Statins, Beta-Blockers, etc.)

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Heart disease is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions worldwide. While lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and stress management are essential for prevention and management, medications often play a critical role in controlling symptoms, preventing complications, and prolonging life. Understanding how common heart medications work can help patients become more engaged in their care, manage side effects effectively, and adhere to treatment plans. This article breaks down the most frequently prescribed cardiovascular drugs, what they do, how they work, and why they’re important. 1. Statins (Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs) What They Do: Statins reduce LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol), lower triglycerides,…

  • Cardiac Rehabilitation: A Crucial Step After a Heart Event
    Blog - Prevention & Wellness

    Cardiac Rehabilitation: A Crucial Step After a Heart Event

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Recovering from a heart event—whether it’s a heart attack, heart surgery, or a diagnosis of heart failure—is a pivotal moment in a patient’s life. It marks not just a medical emergency, but a wake-up call and a chance to reset one’s physical and emotional health. Yet many patients underestimate the importance of structured recovery. That’s where cardiac rehabilitation (CR) comes in—a medically supervised, multi-disciplinary program designed to restore heart health, prevent future complications, and empower patients with the knowledge and tools to live a healthier, longer life. Despite its proven benefits, cardiac rehabilitation remains underutilized. This article explores why…

  • Finding Emotional Support: Resources for Cancer Patients and Families
    Blog - Prevention & Wellness

    Finding Emotional Support: Resources for Cancer Patients and Families

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction A cancer diagnosis impacts not only the physical body but also the emotional and psychological well-being of patients and their families. The journey through cancer treatment can be overwhelming, marked by fear, uncertainty, stress, and sometimes isolation. Emotional support is essential to help patients and loved ones cope, build resilience, and maintain quality of life. This article explores the importance of emotional support, common emotional challenges faced during cancer, and a variety of resources available to patients and families. Why Emotional Support Matters in Cancer Care Common Emotional Challenges in Cancer Types of Emotional Support 1. Professional Counseling and…

  • Reducing Cancer Risk: Lifestyle Factors Within Your Control
    Blog - Nutrition & Diet - Prevention & Wellness

    Reducing Cancer Risk: Lifestyle Factors Within Your Control

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Cancer is a complex disease influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. While some risk factors, like age and genetics, cannot be changed, many lifestyle choices can significantly impact your risk of developing certain cancers. Adopting healthy habits empowers you to take control of your well-being and lower your cancer risk. This article explores key lifestyle factors that can reduce cancer risk, backed by scientific evidence, and offers practical tips to incorporate into daily life. Understanding Cancer Risk Cancer develops when cells grow uncontrollably due to genetic mutations. These mutations can be caused by: While genetic predisposition is unmodifiable,…

  • Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk: Who Should Consider It?
    Blog - Prevention & Wellness

    Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk: Who Should Consider It?

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Advances in genetics have revolutionized the understanding and management of cancer risk. Genetic testing can identify inherited mutations that increase the likelihood of developing certain types of cancer. This knowledge empowers individuals to take preventive measures, undergo tailored screening, and make informed decisions about their health. This article explains what genetic testing for cancer risk entails, who should consider it, the benefits and limitations, and how to prepare for and interpret test results. What is Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk? Genetic testing involves analyzing DNA to detect inherited mutations in specific genes that increase cancer susceptibility. These mutations can…