It used to be that women had a Pap smear virtually every year. A Pap smear tests for abnormal precancerous cells in the cervix. New guidelines say most women no longer need a Pap every year — but that doesn’t mean you can skip your annual “well woman” OB/GYN visit.Cornelia Poston, M.D., OB/GYN, with Norton Women’s Specialists,…
Many studies have surfaced on the health benefits of wine when consumed in moderation. For many of us, just hearing the words “health benefits” and “wine” in the same sentence are enough to shout for joy! But before buying stock in a vineyard, let’s get the facts. “There is extensive research on all types of…
Medical experts stress the importance of calling 911 if you think you are having a stroke. Unfortunately, research has found that about one-third of people experiencing symptoms do not arrive by ambulance or air ambulance. But did you know that the paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) are in constant communication with the emergency department…
Move more. Work out. Stay active. We hear every day that regular exercise is an important part of staying healthy. The idea of exercise as a powerful cancer-fighter is nothing new. A number of studies have looked at this topic over the years, focusing mostly on cancers of the breast, lung and colon. Now, a…
Did you know just one blistering sunburn as a child more than doubles the chance of getting skin cancer later in life? Learn how to use sunscreen correctly to protect your family’s health.
Yeah, yeah. We know, we know. Exercise is good for us. You don’t have to search very hard to find the scientific evidence to prove it. For postmenopausal women especially, exercise provides additional benefits. One study found that postmenopausal women who exercised 300 minutes per week versus those who exercised half that amount were far…
Go ahead. Be brave. Move beyond salt and pepper, and explore adding different spices to the foods you eat. Spices not only taste good, they enhance flavor without adding calories, salt, fat or sugar. They also have many added health benefits, including protection against cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Cinnamon, for example, has high levels…
Biking to work — or anywhere for that matter — has been made easier thanks to Louisville’s commitment to improving the rideability of our city. Recently ranked a Silver Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, Louisville has strengthened its focus on two-wheel commuters and pedestrians within the past several years. So what…
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for 15- to 20-year-olds nationwide. Per mile driven, teens are involved in three times as many fatal crashes as all other drivers. Kentucky teens aren’t helping this alarming trend. In 2014, drivers under age 21 were involved in nearly 24,000 crashes statewide. These accidents resulted in…
As HIV, antibiotic-resistant infections and other global health epidemics continue to mount fears, the demand grows for infectious disease physicians like Makhawadee Pongruangporn, M.D. However, amid local and international health concerns, Dr. Joy, as she prefers to be called, does what she always does — treats each patient as a person. Born and raised in…
“You’re never going to believe this. I guess we just tested too early.” Those were the words I said to my husband (through tears of joy) when I called to tell him we were pregnant. Who knew so much excitement could come from two blue lines! It came with shock and disbelief because just two…
When Sam Rickert looked in the mirror, he didn’t like what he saw: an unfit, overweight young man. He decided to make a change after noticing that fit people maintain healthy habits. “I started talking to others who looked fit and discovered that they didn’t drink soda,” Sam said. “So I stopped too.” After talking…