Latest news with #AmericanFamilyPhysician
eNCA
17-07-2025
- Health
- eNCA
US health experts reassess hormone replacement therapy risks
US health authorities on Thursday began a reassessment of the risks surrounding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), a treatment used by menopausal women around the world but long clouded by fear over its side effects. HRT is taken to replace estrogen the body stops producing after menopause -- when periods end permanently -- and helps relieve symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal discomfort, and pain during sex. But its use has plummeted in recent years amid concerns including a potential link to invasive breast cancer. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) chief Marty Makary, who convened Thursday's meeting of outside experts, has long advocated for HRT, saying its risks have been overstated. "For decades, hormone replacement therapy for women -- that is estrogen or estrogen plus progesterone -- has helped women alleviate the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, dryness, mood swings, weight gain and poor sleep quality, to name a few," he said in a video ahead of the meeting. He added that when initiated within a decade of the onset of the transitional period before menopause, HRT may even reduce cognitive decline, the risk of Alzheimer's, and prevent osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Makary blamed the drop in HRT use on a landmark clinical trial, the Women's Health Initiative, which was halted in the early 2000s after it flagged increased risks of breast cancer and stroke. But he said subsequent studies had not replicated the findings on breast cancer. "The many benefits of hormone therapy were ignored as it was seen as a carcinogen. Prescriptions for hormone replacement therapy plummeted in the United States, women flushed their pills down the toilet," he said Thursday. "Fifty million plus women have not been offered the incredible potential health benefits of hormone replacement therapy because of medical dogma," he added, including his own mother, who suffered multiple bone fractures in her older life. Critics of the trial argue it was flawed because the participants were too far from menopause, when risks are elevated and benefits limited, and that the formulations used are now outdated. - Label changes - Still, the issue remains divisive within the medical community. The FDA's own warning label for HRT -- which can be administered through various means including orally, through skin patches, or vaginally -- cites risks including endometrial cancer, breast cancer, and life-threatening blood clots. This week, the American Family Physician journal published an editorial that found limited benefits and significant harms associated with HRT. "Menopause is a positive life experience for many women and should not be medicalized," the authors concluded. The nature of the FDA expert meeting is also unusual. Unlike standard practice before the Trump administration, no agenda was publicly posted. Several of the named panelists have ties to companies offering menopause treatments or who belong to the advocacy group "Let's Talk Menopause," which receives funding from pharmaceutical companies and campaigns to revise the FDA warning label.
Time of India
10-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Is eating excess garlic on empty stomach safe for your health? Know its benefits and side effects
Raw garlic's strong flavour and numerous health benefits make it a valuable addition to a healthy diet. As seasonal health issues exacerbate chronic conditions, garlic's medicinal properties can provide relief. Its anti-inflammatory components have been shown to have remarkable benefits, making it an effective remedy for a range of health issues. Regular consumption can have a significant impact on overall health and well-being. Incorporating garlic into meals or taking garlic supplements can be a simple yet effective way to boost immunity and alleviate symptoms. By harnessing garlic's natural power, individuals can take a proactive approach to managing their health. What experts say about consuming excess garlic on empty stomach While raw garlic is generally considered safe and beneficial, there's debate about consuming it on an empty stomach. Some experts recommend it for its heart-healthy, diabetes-friendly, and immunity-boosting properties. While garlic has potential health benefits, eating it on an empty stomach can cause digestive discomfort in some people, according to study published in American Family Physician . Eating excess garlic on empty stomach can lead to: 1. Gastric Irritation: Garlic's potent compounds can irritate the stomach lining, especially on an empty stomach, leading to: Heartburn Nausea Indigestion 2. Increased Acid Production: Garlic may stimulate the stomach to produce more acid, worsening heartburn symptoms in individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Get ₹2Cr life cover@ ₹700 p.m. ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo 3. Diarrhea: Garlic's sulfur compounds can have a laxative effect, potentially causing diarrhea in sensitive individuals. The benefits of eating garlic Easy to add to your diet: Garlic is a great way to add flavor to your meals, and it pairs well with most savory dishes, especially soups and sauces. You can use it in various forms, from whole cloves to powders and supplements. May improve bone health: Studies suggest that garlic can reduce oxidative stress that leads to osteoporosis, particularly in postmenopausal women. It may also help reduce pain in women with knee osteoarthritis. Detoxifies heavy metals: Garlic's sulfur compounds can protect against organ damage from heavy metal toxicity, and allicin may help reduce lead levels in the blood and vital organs. Athletic performance: While more research is needed, garlic may help reduce exercise-related oxidative stress and muscle damage, potentially improving athletic performance. May promote longevity: Garlic's beneficial effects on blood pressure and its ability to defend against infectious diseases may help you live longer. Antioxidant properties: Garlic contains antioxidants that may help prevent oxidative damage, reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia. Improves cholesterol levels: Garlic may help lower total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease. Boosts immune system: Aged garlic extract can help prevent illness, including the common cold, by boosting your immune system and potentially preventing viruses from entering host cells. Side effects of eating garlic in excess Bad breath Heartburn Gas Diarrhea Increased risk of bleeding Allergic reactions Potential skin damage or irritation Some people may experience more severe reactions, so it's essential to be aware of these possible side effects. Also read | Understanding hypocalcemia: Causes and symptoms of low calcium levels
Los Angeles Times
01-05-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
How Celiac Disease Affects the Body, and How to Manage It
Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder that begins with something as small as a crumb of bread. Triggered by gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—it causes the immune system to attack the small intestine, leading to inflammation and long-term complications if left untreated. This condition only develops in people with specific genetic markers (HLA DQ2 or DQ8) [1]. Although celiac disease affects 0.5% to 2% of the global population, it often remains undiagnosed, especially outside of Western countries [2]. In celiac disease, the immune system mistakes gluten for a threat and mounts an attack that damages the small intestine. This response causes villus atrophy, where the tiny finger-like projections (villi) responsible for nutrient absorption shrink and flatten [5], [7]. The result? Poor absorption of nutrients, which can lead to fatigue, digestive distress, anemia, and more. The only treatment is a strict gluten-free diet. With careful planning and label-reading, people with celiac disease can manage their symptoms and prevent complications. You need to carry the HLA DQ2 or DQ8 genes to develop celiac disease [3], [13], but not everyone with these genes gets sick. Think of these genes as the 'key'—they open the door, but you still have to walk through it. These genetic markers are also linked to other autoimmune disorders, increasing the risk of overlapping conditions. When gluten is consumed, the immune system produces inflammatory cells and antibodies that attack the intestinal lining. This ongoing inflammation impairs digestion and can lead to widespread issues, including bone weakness and nutrient deficiencies. The World Journal of Gastrointestinal Pathophysiology notes, 'villous atrophy fundamentally disrupts normal digestion and absorption, resulting in multi-organ impacts' [7]. Celiac disease doesn't look the same for everyone. Symptoms can be obvious or silent: Digestive symptoms may include: Non-digestive symptoms might include: Some people have no gut issues at all, but still suffer internal damage. That's why antibody testing—like the anti-tissue transglutaminase (anti-tTG) test—is vital for diagnosis [4], [6], [8]. American Family Physician explains that 'serologic testing has revolutionized early detection, even in minimally symptomatic patients' [8]. Diagnosis involves a multi-step process: The American Journal of Gastroenterology notes, 'genetic testing is particularly valuable when the diagnosis remains uncertain' [13]. Untreated celiac disease can lead to: Celiac disease is also linked with other autoimmune disorders like type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. Some patients may develop refractory celiac disease, where symptoms persist despite a gluten-free diet. Others may experience conditions like lactose intolerance or irritable bowel syndrome as coexisting issues. [9] There's no cure—just one proven treatment: a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet [6], [10], [11]. This means: Most people feel better within weeks, though full healing may take months or years depending on severity and age at diagnosis [5]. Regular check-ups and guidance from a dietitian can help ensure nutritional balance. American Family Physician states, 'patients benefit from ongoing nutritional counseling to optimize long-term outcomes' [6]. Gluten is found in: Reading labels is critical. Avoiding even trace amounts of gluten is essential to prevent symptoms and long-term damage. Dining out can be tricky, but not impossible. Many restaurants now offer gluten-free options. Ask about preparation methods and cross-contamination risks. Carry a gluten-free dining card to help explain your needs. With planning, eating out can still be safe and enjoyable. Having celiac disease raises the risk of developing other autoimmune disorders like autoimmune thyroid disease and type 1 diabetes. This is due to shared genetic and immune system triggers. Managing celiac disease with a gluten-free diet not only improves gut health but may help reduce systemic inflammation and lower the risk of additional autoimmune issues. Celiac disease is a genetic autoimmune condition that causes intestinal and systemic damage when gluten is consumed. Its symptoms vary widely—from digestive problems to silent nutrient deficiencies—but the path forward is clear: early diagnosis, followed by lifelong gluten avoidance. With commitment and proper medical guidance, people with celiac disease can lead healthy, vibrant lives. [1] Lindfors, K., Ciacci, C., Kurppa, K., Lundin, K. E. A., Makharia, G. K., Mearin, M. L., Murray, J. A., Verdu, E. F., & Kaukinen, K. (2019). Coeliac disease. Nature reviews. Disease primers, 5(1), 3. [2] Catassi, C., Verdu, E. F., Bai, J. C., & Lionetti, E. (2022). Coeliac disease. Lancet (London, England), 399(10344), 2413–2426. [3] D'Avino, P., Serena, G., Kenyon, V., & Fasano, A. (2021). An updated overview on celiac disease: from immuno-pathogenesis and immuno-genetics to therapeutic implications. Expert review of clinical immunology, 17(3), 269–284. [4] Green, P. H., Lebwohl, B., & Greywoode, R. (2015). Celiac disease. The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology, 135(5), 1099–1107. [5] Rubin, J. E., & Crowe, S. E. (2020). Celiac Disease. Annals of internal medicine, 172(1), ITC1–ITC16. [6] Pelkowski, T. D., & Viera, A. J. (2014). Celiac disease: diagnosis and management. American family physician, 89(2), 99–105. [7] Parzanese, I., Qehajaj, D., Patrinicola, F., Aralica, M., Chiriva-Internati, M., Stifter, S., Elli, L., & Grizzi, F. (2017). Celiac disease: From pathophysiology to treatment. World journal of gastrointestinal pathophysiology, 8(2), 27–38. [8] Williams, P. M., Harris, L. M., DO, & Odom, M. R. (2022). Celiac Disease: Common Questions and Answers. American family physician, 106(1), 36–43. [9] Lebwohl, B., Ludvigsson, J. F., & Green, P. H. (2015). Celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 351, h4347. [10] Selimoğlu, M. A., & Karabiber, H. (2010). Celiac disease: prevention and treatment. Journal of clinical gastroenterology, 44(1), 4–8. [11] Leonard, M. M., Sapone, A., Catassi, C., & Fasano, A. (2017). Celiac Disease and Nonceliac Gluten Sensitivity: A Review. JAMA, 318(7), 647–656. [12] Villanacci, V., Vanoli, A., Leoncini, G., Arpa, G., Salviato, T., Bonetti, L. R., Baronchelli, C., Saragoni, L., & Parente, P. (2020). Celiac disease: histology-differential diagnosis-complications. A practical approach. Pathologica, 112(3), 186–196. [13] Brown, N. K., Guandalini, S., Semrad, C., & Kupfer, S. S. (2019). A Clinician's Guide to Celiac Disease HLA Genetics. The American journal of gastroenterology, 114(10), 1587–1592.
Yahoo
23-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Donald Trump's anti-DEI madness erases Black service members, living and dead
Seven years ago, I wrote a column about an 11-year-old Black girl who was turned away from her Catholic elementary school near New Orleans because she showed up with her hair braided with extensions. About halfway through, I included what I believed to be an unobjectionable statement: 'As black people's hair is generally different from white people's, any hair policy needs to be carefully considered lest it make some students vulnerable to breaking a rule that others couldn't conceivably break.' A reader responded with a comment that was completely out of right field, but still illuminating: 'What if Donald Trump said this: 'As black people's hair is generally different from white people's,' would a column be forthcoming about [him] making racist divisive remarks?' But Black people's hair is generally different from white people's. That's a fact. The reader's comment has stayed with me because it reflects an opinion held by far too many conservative white people, including those in this second Trump administration: that mentioning race is inherently problematic and that acknowledging racial differences is racist. But when you don't acknowledge that people are different you get outrages such as the 'interim guidance' announced by the Marines this month: Marines who have pseudofolliculitis barbae (the fancy name for razor bumps) can now be 'separated' (that is, discharged) if it isn't resolved in a year's time. As much as I love the idea of shaving my face with a razor, I almost never do because the hair that grows back in invariably curls into my skin and causes painful bumps. And then you can't shave without slicing into those bumps. Anybody who shaves can get razor bumps, but the American College of Osteopathic Dermatology says that pseudofolliculitis barbae occurs in up to 60% of African American men. An article in American Family Physician says the incidence is as high as 85%. A military dermatologist who spoke to said Black service members are about 15% of active-duty military but '66% of shaving waiver holders are Black.' The Marines claims the interim guidance is about upholding 'standards of readiness, discipline and lethality,' but 'separating' men with razor bumps would seem guaranteed to make the Marines weaker, not stronger. In July 2021, the Journal of Military Medicine published a study that found 'a significant association between shaving waivers and delays in promotion.' In October 2021, two dermatologists on active duty in the Air Force, wrote a letter to the Air Force Times in response. 'Contrary to the belief of some, PFB is often not manageable with anything other than a shaving profile allowing for just a short amount of hair growth,' wrote Lt. Col. Simon Ritchie and Lt. Col. Thomas Beachkofsky. 'The notion that these members simply need to learn how to shave the right way is factually incorrect and contradicts what we, as dermatologists, know about this condition.' It's bad enough that Black service members have been denied promotions because close shaves are bad for them. It's infinitely worse that the Marines is considering kicking out people with razor bumps. But these are the types of policies you get when you hold the naïve and factually incorrect position that we are all the same and that one-size-fits-all policies are inherently fair. There's a framework that helps leaders of organizations think through policies that might seem fair and neutral on their face but result in some people in an organization having advantages or disadvantages that others don't. That framework is known as Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, which has been maligned and effectively outlawed by Trump's administration. Perhaps you've climbed aboard the anti-DEI train yourself, but if you think that it would be wrong and self-defeating for the military to kick out Marines who have faithfully served and protected our nation solely because their facial hair curls into their skin, then yours is a pro-DEI opinion. Like the person in the comments section of the 2018 column I wrote, the Trump administration is treating race (and sexual orientation and gender) as something not to be mentioned. I don't believe the people in the Trump administration are naïve; I believe that in the main, their motivations are quite sinister. But their anti-DEI positions appeal to people who hold the simplistic view that everybody's the same, believe that treating everybody the same is always right and believe that if we don't acknowledge our differences then we're bound to live happily ever after. Since Trump has taken office, we've seen the Air Force temporarily remove a training video about the heroic Tuskegee Airmen, we've seen the Department of Defense disparagingly add the letters DEI to the URL of a webpage celebrating Army Maj. Gen. Charles Gavin Rogers' Medal of Honor and temporarily remove the page celebrating Jackie Robinson's service as a second lieutenant in the Army. Three years before Robinson broke MLB's color line, he was wrongly court martialed — and ultimately acquitted — after refusing to sit in the back of a bus on an Army base. If you think that talking about race is bad on its face, or that acknowledging the racism that Black people have endured in the military is bad on its face, then attempts at erasure such as these are inevitable. And in a more literal sense, a policy that kicks out men with razor bumps will be an erasure. We're not all the same. And the Marine's "interim guidance" is racist because it suggests that we are. This article was originally published on
