Health Updates: Brief Snippets of Latest Health Developments Today
In this month's health news roundup, we cover a range of topics, from smoking cessation benefits to the latest updates on COVID-19 and men's health.
Men's Health Awareness Month kicks off with a survey revealing that 65% of men tend to avoid going to the doctor as long as possible. Furthermore, 20% of men are not always honest with their doctor, and 37% have withheld information. These findings underscore the importance of open and honest communication with healthcare professionals.
On a positive note, a recent study shows that quitting smoking at a younger age significantly reduces the risk of smoking-associated cancer death. For individuals aged 15-34, quitting smoking avoids 100% of the estimated smoking-associated cancer death risk. The benefits continue for older age groups, with those aged 35-44 and 45-54 avoiding 89% and 78% of the risk, respectively, and those aged 55-64 avoiding 56%.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has added mental health conditions, including depression and other mood disorders, to the list of conditions that put people at high risk of severe COVID-19. Booster shot eligibility has also been expanded to include those with mental health conditions.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has voted to recommend emergency use authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children ages 5 to 11. This move could help protect more children from the virus and its complications.
The 7-day average of daily COVID-19 case counts has decreased from approximately 160,000 at the start of September to about 60,000 as of November. However, some areas of the nation are experiencing increases in cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. It is crucial to remain vigilant and follow public health guidelines.
In health advice, it's important to note that garlic's benefits can be gained through consumption, such as in celery root soup. However, inserting garlic cloves or garlic oil into bodily orifices can irritate and damage mucus membranes or delicate tissue. This practice can also worsen an infection by trapping pathogens in a moist environment.
Unexplained and unresolved changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, gas, or abdominal pain, should be reported to a healthcare professional. Similarly, rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, and other unexplained symptoms should also be reported. Colorectal cancer screening should start at age 45, according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
The specific research or researcher behind the study of the most popular mythological animals discovered by internet users is not clearly identified in the search results. However, various mythological animals such as the jaguar, which has significant cultural and mythological importance in ancient American civilizations like the Maya and Aztecs, are discussed as part of mythological animal studies.
In conclusion, this month brings important updates on smoking cessation benefits, COVID-19, and men's health. It also serves as a reminder to prioritize open communication with healthcare professionals, maintain vigilance against COVID-19, and avoid dangerous practices such as inserting garlic cloves into bodily orifices. Stay healthy and informed!
