Updated on Jun 30, 2022 | LGBT Health, Primary Care
LGBT health post by Barbara Warren and guest blogger Beth Monkarsh
A recent study out of University of Montreal and McGill University found that people who were open about their sexual orientation identity were less anxious, depressed and stressed than both heterosexuals and people in the “closet.” Persistent stress can cause the hormone cortisol to spike, creating inflammation in the body. Inflammation has been linked to increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and other chronic illnesses. (more…)
Updated on Jun 30, 2022 | Community Outreach, Family Medicine, LGBT Health, Primary Care, Sexual Health
The only thing to fear is fear itself. So please get tested. Of the approximately 1.2 million people in the United States who are HIV positive, 250,000 don’t know it.
There are two good reasons to know your HIV status. First, there are treatments available that let people live normal lives. The earlier they’re started in the course of the disease, the better they are at protecting people against complications. Second, people who are HIV positive and successfully suppress the virus with treatment are less likely to transmit the disease. (more…)
Updated on Jun 30, 2022 | Allergy, Exercise, Pulmonary Disease, Sports Medicine
In the summer, we are outdoors—and hopefully exercising—more often. About 10% of people who exercise will get exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB). Symptoms may include wheezing, excessive shortness of breath, chest tightness, or just coughing beginning 5 to 10 minutes after exercise. EIB occurs most frequently in persons with asthma, particularly those whose asthma is not well controlled. Various studies show that up to 90% of people with asthma have EIB. But it can also occur in isolation—in a person without asthma. (more…)
Updated on Jun 30, 2022 | Uncategorized
Imam Souleimane Konate entered, his robes billowing out behind him. He sat down and joined the others, some regulars and a few new to the group. It was the morning of the monthly community religious leaders involvement breakfast. Rabbi Rafael Goldstein, Director of the Department of Spiritual Care and Education introduced himself and we went around the table giving our names and congregations. The Imam then gave the opening blessing, in both Arabic and English.
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Updated on Jun 30, 2022 | Family Medicine, Primary Care
Communication includes listening, reading, writing and speaking, as well as nonverbal actions, such as body position, gestures and facial expression. All human interactions involve the use of one or more of these activities, and certainly our health is a vital topic worthy of our best communication efforts.
During an appointment with your health care provider, follow these tips for effective communication: (more…)