HealthyLife Articles

Category: Medical News

Questions About A1C Answered

MEDICAL NEWS

Your A1C number is one of the most common markers your doctor may use to check for or monitor your blood sugar. For someone with diabetes or prediabetes, A1C is a crucial tool to assess your blood sugar management over time.

Compared to blood glucose levels which measure how much sugar is in your blood at that exact moment, A1C gives a snapshot of your average blood glucose levels over about three months.

What does A1C measure?

A1C measures the percentage of red blood cells (or hemoglobin) in your blood that have glucose attached to them.

It is normal for hemoglobin to pick up some glucose from the bloodstream. However, someone who has prediabetes or diabetes has too much glucose in their bloodstream. As a result, a higher percentage of hemoglobin in the blood will end up holding sugar.

Because the lifespan of a hemoglobin cell is about 3-4 months, the A1C test can give a big picture look at your blood glucose control over time.

What is an ideal A1C?

In general, A1C levels fall into three categories:

* Normal: Under 5.7%

* Prediabetes: Between 5.7% and 6.4%

* Diabetes: Over 6.5%

When it comes to an “ideal” A1C, that depends on your individual situation and the goals you set with your doctor. For people with diabetes, a common goal is for A1C to be below 7%. Talk to your doctor to find out your ideal A1C.

Factors that influence A1C

Anything that affects your blood glucose levels will impact your A1C. The most common factors include:

* Body weight – overweight or obesity interferes with blood sugar control.

* Nutrition – a poor diet can impair blood sugar regulation.

* Movement – a sedentary lifestyle increases your risk of prediabetes and diabetes.

* Iron deficiency anemia – can result in a falsely high A1C due to low total hemoglobin.

* Illness or stress – glucose levels are naturally high when physically or mentally stressed.

Can I reduce my A1C?

Yes. If your doctor tells you your A1C is high, they may recommend lifestyle changes to improve your blood glucose control.

* Exercise: Getting a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity each week can improve your glycemic control.

* Weight loss: Studies have shown that losing 5% to 10% of body weight may modestly lower A1C.

* Eating a healthy diet: A mostly plant-based diet that is low in processed and junk foods is a good option for weight management and glycemic control.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
What Is Lymphoma?

MEDICAL NEWS

There are several different types of blood cancers. About half of all blood cancers are lymphomas. Lymphoma is cancer in the lymph system. The lymph system is part of the immune system that fights off illnesses and infections. It also helps control the flow of fluids in the body.

Lymphoma is not one type of cancer. It is a group of many types.

Hodgkin lymphoma is one type. It was named after the doctor who discovered it. All other lymphomas are called non-Hodgkin lymphomas. There are more than 60 types of non-Hodgkin lymphomas.

What’s the difference?

Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas affect lymphocytes, which are cells in the lymphatic system. Doctors can tell which type of lymphoma a person has by looking at their cells under a microscope.

Hodgkin lymphoma has a special cell with two centers, or nuclei. These are known as Reed-Sternberg cells, and they only occur in people with Hodgkin lymphoma.

Similar signs

Even though there are different types of lymphoma, the signs look alike. Some signs include:

* A painless lump in the neck, armpit or groin

* Excessive sweating

* Fever

* Trouble breathing

* Weight loss

* No appetite

* Feeling weak

* Itching

Know the risk

Lymphoma can attack almost any area of the body. Often its symptoms are hard to spot, or they may be blamed on other health issues. That’s why it’s good to know if you’re at a higher risk of getting lymphoma. Risk factors include:

* Having a close relative with lymphoma

* Previously being exposed to radiation or chemotherapy

* Long-term exposure to chemicals

* Having a weakened immune system

Talk to your doctor

There is no surefire way to prevent lymphoma. However, you can get regular checkups and talk to your doctor about your health. Ask them about your risk of cancer and ways you can lead the healthiest life possible. If you notice changes in your health or symptoms, tell them.

Sources: American Cancer Society, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Get To Know An Aed

MEDICAL NEWS

Automated external defibrillators help a person who is in cardiac arrest. They can deliver an electric shock to help get the heart beating normally again.

You may have seen AEDs at places like stores, malls, hotels or gyms. Many public places have them and they are usually mounted on a wall.

What is cardiac arrest?

Cardiac arrest and a heart attack are not the same thing.

In a heart attack, a blockage stops blood flow to the heart. But with cardiac arrest, the heart’s electrical rhythm isn’t working properly. The heart stops pumping, or is “arrested.” A heart attack can cause cardiac arrest.

Why should I learn to use an AED?

Sudden cardiac arrest is a major cause of death. An AED is the only way to restore a person’s heart rhythm during cardiac arrest. Knowing how to do cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is also helpful.

You still need to call 911 if someone is in cardiac arrest. But it takes a few minutes for an ambulance to arrive. In those minutes, an AED could be life-saving.

When to use one

If a person has cardiac arrest, they will be completely unresponsive. If the person cannot talk or wake up, check to see if they are breathing. If they aren’t breathing and don’t have a pulse, start CPR and ask someone else to get the AED, if possible.

What to do

Even if you’re not trained, you can use an AED on someone in cardiac arrest. The machine helps guide you along. Here’s what to do:

* Call 911 or have someone else call.

* If possible, have someone do chest compressions or CPR while someone else gets the AED ready.

* Turn on the AED.

* Remove clothes from the person’s chest. Dry their skin with a cloth if needed.

* Put the pads on the chest as pictured on the pads.

* Do not place AED pads on top of a pace maker.

* First, the AED will measure the person’s heart rhythm. Don’t touch the person while this happens.

* If the person needs a shock, the AED will tell you.

* The AED will tell you when it gives a shock and what to do next. Stand back while it gives a shock through the pads.

Together, CPR and an AED can save lives.

Sources: American Heart Association, American Red Cross

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Sepsis: Spot It, Save A Life

MEDICAL NEWS

Sepsis can happen when a person has an infection like pneumonia, an infected cut in the skin or a urinary tract infection. Then, the body’s immune system releases a strong response that can get out of control. This immune response is so powerful that it can damage the body’s organs and cause blood clots.

Sepsis can cause blood pressure to get extremely low and heart rate to get faster. This can trigger septic shock. With septic shock, the body becomes starved for blood and oxygen. It is a life-threatening emergency.

Most who get an infection will not get sepsis. But experts don’t know why some people get it and others don’t. It seems to affect older adults, babies and young children the most. People who have a weakened immune system or a long-term illness like diabetes, liver disease or cancer are also more likely to get it.

Spot sepsis signs

Sepsis can be hard to spot. At first, symptoms may look like a mild illness. Sometimes a person has an infection and doesn’t know it. Signs include:

* Fever or a low body temperature

* Chills

* Fast heartbeat

* Trouble breathing or fast breathing

* Blotchy skin or rash

* Being confused

* Feeling faint or lightheaded

Even if you don’t have an infection, or don’t think you have one, ask yourself:

* Was I recently around someone who was ill?

* Did I recently have surgery or a medical procedure?

* Do I have any cuts or breaks in the skin?

Getting treatment

If you think a person might have sepsis, it’s important to get them medical care right away. Doctors will look at symptoms and may order blood tests. Sometimes other tests, like an x-ray or CT scan, may be needed.

Sepsis is serious, so doctors often treat it in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a hospital. Treatment usually includes antibiotics and getting fluids.

Fortunately, most people who recover from sepsis often contine to have a normal, healthy life.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health, Sepsis Alliance

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
What You Need To Know About Measles

MEDICAL NEWS

In 2019, the U.S. has seen the biggest measles outbreak since 1994. Measles was declared eliminated in the year 2000, but in recent years measles has come back.

This outbreak is due to two main factors:

1. Many people travel abroad. They may travel to a place where measles is common. They catch measles there and bring it back to the U.S. with them. They may not even know they have measles until several days after they return.

2. Some people in the U.S. do not get the measles vaccine. If they are exposed, they get sick and can spread measles to others.

Dangerously easy to catch

Measles is highly contagious. It spreads through the air. An infected person can simply breathe and spread measles. It can also be spread through coughing and sneezing.

You don’t even have to be near a person with measles to catch it from them. Measles stays in the air for a long time. In fact, you could go into a room two hours after an infected person has left and still catch measles.

Many times, people spread measles before they even know they have it.

Almost everyone who hasn’t gotten the measles vaccine will catch measles if they are exposed.

Know the signs

* Very high fever (this usually comes first)

* Cough, runny nose and red eyes

* Diarrhea

* Ear infection

* Rash of tiny red spots, usually starting at the head and spreading all over

Serious complications

Serious problems can happen to a person who catches measles, especially babies and young children. This includes:

* Pneumonia (a serious lung infection)

* Brain swelling (encephalitis)

* Permanent brain damage

* Deafness

* Death

Get the shot

The best way to avoid getting measles is to get the measles vaccine. This can also keep you from spreading it to babies who are too young to get the shot.

Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) shot are 97 percent effective in preventing measles. Children should get the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age. They get the second dose at 4 to 6 years of age.

Some adults have not received the MMR shot. Even adults who have received it may need a booster shot. Your doctor can perform a simple blood test to see if you are immune to measles.

Ask your doctor if you need the measles vaccine or if you should have the blood test done. The MMR vaccine is very safe and it works. Most health insurance covers the cost of the vaccine. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your doctor.

Sources: American Medical Association, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Get Up To Date On Vaccines

MEDICAL NEWS

Vaccinations aren’t just for kids. Adults need them too.

How they work

Vaccines stimulate your immune system to create antibodies against common diseases. Antibodies are specialized proteins that recognize and neutralize viruses or bacteria. If you are exposed to the disease, your body will be ready to fight it.

Why they matter

Some people are more vulnerable to diseases such as COVID-19 or the flu, even if they are vaccinated. When you get vaccinated, you protect your loved ones and vulnerable people in your community.

Vaccines you need

Your doctor is the best resource for information on the vaccines you need. Here are a few your doctor may recommend:

* Seasonal flu

* Tdap or Td (Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis)

* COVID-19

* Shingles

* HPV (Human papillomavirus)

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Smoking Triggers And How To Beat Them

MEDICAL NEWS

Many people have tried to quit smoking but couldn’t. There are many reasons for this, but one of them is because of triggers. A trigger is something that makes you want to smoke.

Emotional triggers

When you have certain emotions, you may get the urge to smoke. They may include feeling stressed, nervous, depressed or even bored.

You can help stop these triggers by dealing with your emotions in other healthy ways. Try meditation, deep breathing or exercise to help manage stress and anxiety. Exercise is also a great way to beat boredom and fight depression. Listen to calming music or talk to a friend who can encourage you to keep up your efforts to quit.

Pattern triggers

Sometimes you’re used to smoking when you do something else, such as drinking coffee or alcohol. This is known as a pattern trigger. You may also like to smoke after eating or during a work break.

Change your routine to help avoid these patterns. Chew your favorite gum, suck on a hard candy or mint or go for a walk. Try brushing your teeth after meals, coloring in an adult coloring book or squeezing a stress relief ball.

Social triggers

Many people want to smoke at bars, parties or when they’re with people who smoke. These can be powerful triggers for you to smoke.

It’s best to avoid these triggers if you’re trying to quit. Instead, surround yourself with people who don’t smoke or who want you to quit. Try taking a class or find a hobby, such as painting or cycling.

Withdrawal triggers

Your body will crave nicotine when you quit smoking. Nicotine is very addictive and you may go through withdrawal. Withdrawal triggers include:

* Cravings for cigarettes or e-cigarettes

* Feeling like you need to do something with your hands or mouth

* Feeling restless or uncomfortable

Withdrawal can be very difficult to manage. As with other triggers, spend time with people who don’t smoke and who want you to quit. Find things to do that have nothing to do with smoking. Avoid places or situations where you might see or smell cigarettes or vaping.

Quitting is hard. But if you have support from your doctor, family and friends, you can do it. Millions of people have quit and you can too!

Source: Smokefree.gov

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
What’s The Secret To A Long Life?

MEDICAL NEWS

Today many people are living longer than ever. Part of this is because of advances in medical care. But there are things you can do to live a long, healthy life too. Here are some tips that could help you live longer.

Exercise

Experts in aging and health say exercise may be the most important thing you can do to live longer. But why?

As we age, we lose some muscle. This can lead to less energy and achy joints, which may cause you to exercise less and sit more. This, in turn, raises the risk of disease as well as death.

People of any age can learn to get active. Not sure how to start? Talk to your doctor about options that are safe and healthy for you.

Shed extra pounds

Having a BMI higher than 30 raises the risk of all causes of mortality (death). It can lead to health problems like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some cancers.

You may not need to lose a lot to improve your health. Even losing 10-15 pounds can make a difference.

Losing weight isn’t easy. But there are safe and healthy ways to do it. Eating healthier foods and getting regular exercise will help, but ask your doctor for advice.

Quit smoking (or don’t smoke)

Smoking increases the risk of lung disease, cancers, heart disease and diabetes. The good news is that when you quit smoking, your risk of smoking-related death starts to decrease. It can add years to your life if you quit today!

Many people are able to quit smoking with help from a doctor or therapist. They may also use nicotine replacement products like patches, gum or an inhaler. Ask your doctor for help with your plan to quit.

Do I need good genes?

We may think a long life is all in our family history. But genes are only a piece of the health puzzle.

Experts in aging say that your own healthy behaviors mean much more than genes. In fact, many people could live to 90 with a healthy lifestyle, regardless of genes, according to experts at the National Institutes of Health.

Harness the power to live longer by starting healthy habits!

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Hepatitis: Causes & Types

MEDICAL NEWS

Hepatitis is a condition that affects the liver. If a person has hepatitis, their liver may be inflamed or damaged.

What causes hepatitis?

Many different things can cause hepatitis. They include:

* A virus

* Contaminated objects like needles or medical equipment

* Heavy alcohol use

* Certain medications

* Some medical conditions

Different types of hepatitis

Hepatitis A:

* Is spread through contaminated food, drinks or objects.

* Can make you sick for weeks or months, but most people recover.

* Can be prevented with a vaccine.

Hepatitis B:

* Is spread through blood, semen or other body fluids.

* Can spread through sex, sharing personal items or sharing needles.

* Can cause long-term liver problems like liver failure and cancer.

* Can be prevented with a vaccine.

Hepatitis C:

* Is spread through blood.

* Can spread when people share needles or other equipment.

* Causes long-term infection in about half of all cases.

* Can cause cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver.

* More than 90 percent of people can be cured with proper medical treatment – new treatment has very few side effects.

Ask your doctor about hepatitis

Many people may have hepatitis and don’t know it. You may not have any symptoms at first. That’s why it’s important to talk to your doctor. They can find out if you need a vaccine or if you should get tested for hepatitis. Proper medical care can help prevent, treat or cure this disease.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Stop The Spread Of Respiratory Infections

MEDICAL NEWS

The winter months are a peak time for the spread of infectious respiratory diseases. Cold weather often keeps people indoors, where it is easier for infections to spread.

Infectious respiratory diseases include the common cold, as well as other respiratory illnesses that can be more serious. Some people may be at increased risk of severe side effects from respiratory disease, including the elderly, children, and the immunocompromised.

Preventing the spread of respiratory disease helps keep everyone in your family and community safe. A few simple precautions can make all the difference. Once you know how these diseases are spread, you can take steps to contain them and make this winter a healthy one.

Airborne transmission

The most common way infectious respiratory diseases spread is by small aerosols that become airborne when an ill person coughs, laughs, talks, or sneezes. These tiny aerosols can hang in the air for hours and easily travel to the lungs when inhaled.

Surface transmission

Contact with a surface that is contaminated with droplets from an infected person is another route of transmission. If you touch something that has saliva or mucus on it and then later touch your mouth or face, you can become infected with the virus.

Close contact transmission

Being in close contact with someone infected with a virus can result in exposure to large virus-laden respiratory droplets. In contrast to the tiny aerosols that can hang in the air for an extended period, larger droplets fall quickly and most likely to spread when people are less than 3 feet apart.

Types of infectious respiratory viruses

* Chickenpox

* Coronavirus infections (including SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV)

* Diphtheria

* Influenza (flu)

* Legionnaires’ disease

* Measles

* Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

* Mumps

* Pneumonia

* Pneumococcal meningitis

* Rubella (German measles)

* Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)

* Tuberculosis

* Whooping cough

Prevent the spread

* Minimize close contact with ill people.

* Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.

* Don’t share personal items such as food and utensils.

* Ask your doctor which vaccines are recommended for you, including the flu and COVID vaccines.

* Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow and tissues (not your hands!).

* Stay home if you are ill.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026