Skincare safety measures are not limited to sunny weather conditions. Conducting self-examinations, applying sunscreen, and having annual dermatological checkups are proactive steps to be taken throughout the year. Staying informed on skincare and performing monthly self-examinations are significant for healthy skin and cancer prevention. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation self-exams help identify potential skin cancers in the early stages when it can be cured. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) comments on the importance of early skin assessments noting, “It is estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. When caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable.” The AAD goes on to outline the ABCDE’s assessment guideline used in determining normal versus cancerous skin conditions. Get ready to learn the ABCDE’s for healthy skin and cancer prevention!

With the increasing cases on Zika virus it’s crucial to remain informed, as well as introduce safety precautions for disease control and prevention. What measures can be instituted to support the control of viral transmission? Let’s first discuss the virus. Zika is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of Aedes mosquitoes. It is in question if viral transmission can spread through bodily fluids like saliva, yet further testing is required. To date, there are no medications to treat Zika or vaccine currently available. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shares insights on Zika stating, “Once a person has been infected, he or she is likely to be protected from future infections.” Fortunately, safety precautions can be instituted to promote health and disease prevention.

Feeling energy zapped or in need of motivation? Exercise fosters wellness and wellbeing along with numerous health benefits. Maintaining physically active also improves quality of sleep, mood, and energy levels. The Mayo Clinic comments on the benefits of exercise noting, “Exercise and physical activity are a great way to feel better, gain health benefits and have fun.” The Mayo Clinic goes on to share how a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity should be introduced daily. Now that we know health benefits in keeping physically active, let’s get up and moving!

The cervix is a female anatomical structure located in the lower part of the uterus. Cervical cancer results from abnormal cell growth in the cervix. Early detection through Pap examinations and other tests are essential in cancer control and prevention. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes a high prevalence of cervical cancer in Western countries related to lack of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and absence of screening. Fortunately proactive measures can be implemented for health promotion and cancer prevention.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute defines sleep apnea as a chronic condition resulting in pauses or shallow breathing during sleep. If left untreated sleep apnea can result in other health concerns. Common therapies for sleep apnea included Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), oral appliances, anatomical surgeries, and lifestyle modifications. Adherence to CPAP can be challenging for most clients and often results in non-compliance. Fortunately, the FDA recently approved Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation (UAS) – An implantable nerve stimulator that detects breathing patterns and keeps the airway open during sleep.