(NewsUSA) - As the cold of winter fades, spring brings a fresh sense of renewal—and for many, it’s the first time in months they’ll be showing off their legs again. But for some, the thought of revealing their legs can come with hesitation. This may be especially true for those with varicose veins.

Varicose veins are a common condition that affects more than 30 million Americans.¹ These enlarged veins, visible just beneath the skin, are not just a cosmetic issue – they can signal underlying vein disease that causes blood to flow backward and pool in lower leg veins, causing pain and discomfort.

Varicose Veins as More Than Just a Cosmetic Issue

While cosmetic concerns and wanting to feel comfortable in your skin can be reason enough for treatment, varicose veins may also be a potential sign of a more urgent health condition that requires early diagnosis and treatment.

“Varicose veins go beyond appearance—they can be a sign of underlying vein disease that can lead to swelling, skin discoloration, general discomfort in the legs, and in more advanced cases cause venous ulcers,” said Dr. John Laird, Chief Medical Officer for Peripheral Vascular Health at Medtronic. “If these symptoms are familiar, I would encourage you to reach out to a doctor who can do an evaluation and determine the best course of treatment to help you find relief from pain and other symptoms.”

Know If You’re at Risk and Learn How to Step Up Your Health

Varicose veins and vein disease don’t discriminate — anyone, regardless of age, gender, or race, can be affected. However, certain factors may increase your risk. A family history of vein disease, smoking, or obesity can make vein problems more likely.² Additionally, women who are pregnant, taking birth control, or going through menopause may experience a higher risk due to hormonal changes that can relax vein walls, making it easier for veins to swell.²

"Varicose veins can worsen over time if left untreated,” explained Dr. Laird. “But the good news is there are innovative treatments and simple self-care strategies that can help manage symptoms. Adopting a few healthy habits can make a significant difference."

Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, elevating your legs when possible, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing are all helpful steps.³ Dr. Laird also recommends wearing compression socks to support improved circulation and relieve discomfort.

Medtronic just marked the milestone of shipping over one million VenaSeal closure system units worldwide.

A Quick and Easy Option for Varicose Vein Treatment

While lifestyle changes can help manage varicose veins, they won’t cure them. For a more permanent solution, treatments like VenaSeal™ are gaining popularity. This medical adhesive is a quick and effective way to treat varicose veins with minimal recovery time— and may not require compression stockings following the procedure.^5-6  Following the procedure, your doctor can help you know when you are able get back to doing what you love— from outdoor activities to spending time with family.^4-7

Heather Anderson, a mom, avid runner, and boot camp enthusiast, opted for the VenaSeal procedure to treat her tired and achy legs. “The treatment was smooth. I was awake the whole time, felt no pain, and was incredibly comfortable,” Heather shared of her experience. “When it was done, I got up and walked right out. I’d recommend it to anyone.”

Minimally invasive treatments like VenaSeal are becoming the go-to choice for people dealing with varicose veins. “More patients are choosing minimally invasive options to treat varicose veins,” Dr. Laird said. “Medtronic recently celebrated a huge milestone — shipping over one million units of the VenaSeal system worldwide, showing just how popular and effective this treatment has become.”

VenaSeal is a procedure where a small tube is inserted into the affected vein, and a specially formulated medical adhesive is used to seal the vein walls together. This reroutes blood to healthier veins, providing long-term relief from pain and discomfort. The best part? While each patient experience is unique, pain is generally considered mild, and most are back to their daily activities with minimal downtime.^4-7

Break Free from Leg Pain this Spring

If you’re dealing with varicose veins, it might be time to take action. Life shouldn’t be limited by pain caused by vein disease. Relieve your leg pain and talk to your doctor about whether VenaSeal could be the right option for you – it’s a quick and effective treatment that can help you get back to enjoying the beach, the lake, the pool, or wherever your warm weather adventures take you.

For more details, including important safety information, on VenaSeal, visit: https://www.medtronic.com/breakfree.

Sources

1. Gloviczki P, Comerota AJ, Dalsing MC, et al. The care of patients with varicose veins and associated chronic venous diseases: Clinical practice guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. J Vasc Surg. 2011;53(5 Suppl):2S–48S. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2011.01.079.
2. Mayo Clinic: Varicose Veinshttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643
3. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Varicose Veins https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/varicose-veins
4. Morrison N, Gibson K, McEnroe S, et al. Randomized trial comparing cyanoacrylate embolization and radiofrequency ablation for incompetent great saphenous veins (VeClose). J Vasc Surg. 2015;61(4):985–994. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2014.11.071.
5. Proebstle T, Alm J, Dimitri S, et al. Three-year follow-up results of the prospective European multicenter cohort study on cyanoacrylate embolization for treatment of refluxing great saphenous veins. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2021;9(2):329–334. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2020.05.019.
6. Almeida JI, Javier JJ, Mackay EG, Bautista C, Cher DJ, Proebstle TM. Thirty-sixth-month follow-up of first-in-human use of cyanoacrylate adhesive for treatment of saphenous vein incompetence. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017;5(5):658–666. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2017.03.016.
7. Morrison N, Gibson, Vasquez M, et al. VeClose trial 12-month outcomes of cyanoacrylate closure versus radiofrequency ablation for incompetent great saphenous veins. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017;5(3):321–330. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2016.12.005.

(NewsUSA) - Expanded Screening Coverage Can Reduce Needless Deaths

Colorectal cancer deaths are declining, but shocking regional, racial and ethnic disparities remain. According to the American Cancer Society, Latinos in the United States are more likely to die from colorectal cancer than those in many Central and South American countries, and death rates among Black men and women are 40% higher than their white counterparts. Rural residents are also far more likely to die from this often-preventable disease than those in urban areas. Much of this is due to lack of screening.

Colorectal cancer care groups, minority healthcare advocates and doctors have long held that virtual colonoscopy, or CT Colonography, can overcome cultural stigmas and anxiety associated with this screening. In January, Medicare began covering virtual colonoscopy – which uses a CT scanner to generate 3D, moving images of the colon that doctors examine for signs of cancer and for precancerous polyps, which can be removed before they become cancers.  

“Patients should have a choice in their screening options,” said Anjee Davis, MPPA, CEO of Fight Colorectal Cancer. “It’s important to consider the whole patient—their preferences, comfort, and what they feel is the best fit for them. For some, it might be a virtual colonoscopy or another less-invasive screening option.”

At least 53,000 people in the U.S. still die from colorectal cancer each year. Virtual colonoscopy use is growing most quickly among Black Americans and Latinos. Many experts think more covered exams can convince the 30% of US residents who should be screened, but choose not to, to get tested.

“Affordability and accessibility are critical factors in determining whether a person will get screened for colorectal cancer. Improving access and choice for more people can help save lives and bring us closer to ending the disease in our lifetime," said Michael Sapienza, CEO of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.

The Affordable Care Act requires private insurers to cover the exam. CIGNA, UnitedHealthcare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna and other large insurers have covered these tests for years.

Preparation for virtual and standard colonoscopies is the same, but the virtual test is far less invasive and does not require sedation. It is over in minutes. A person does not need to get a ride to or from the exam and can return to daily activities.

“Many in low-income communities, including single parents, can’t afford to take a day off work, and may not have reliable transportation or childcare,” said Cecelia Brewington, MD, Chair of Medical Imaging at Ochsner Health System, New Orleans. “Being able to go back to work afterward may determine whether that person gets tested – which can ultimately save their life.

Virtual colonoscopy is recommended by the American Cancer Society for those at average colorectal cancer risk, with no family history of the disease or other major gastrointestinal issues. President Obama had a virtual colonoscopy while in office.

“Medicare covering virtual colonoscopies enables more people to be screened, allows doctors to remove more polyps before they become cancers and helps people avoid getting this disease altogether. This will save lives,” said Judy Yee, MD, chair of the American College of Radiology Colon Cancer Committee, and Professor and Chair of Radiology at Montefiore Health System and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY.

Those ages 45 and older should talk to their doctor about which exam works best for them.

More information is available at RadiologyInfo.org/virtualct.

(NewsUSA) - Aunque las enfermedades del corazón se pueden prevenir en gran medida, aun así, siguen siendo la principal causa de muerte en los Estados Unidos. Las enfermedades cardíacas afectan a millones de personas y su impacto no es igual en todas las comunidades.

Las comunidades de afroamericanos, hispanos/latinos, asiáticos/isleños del Pacífico e indios americanos/nativos de Alaska presentan tasas más altas tanto de enfermedades del corazón como de factores de riesgo como presión arterial alta, colesterol alto, obesidad, diabetes y fumar. Las investigaciones respaldadas por el Instituto Nacional del Corazón, los Pulmones y la Sangre (NHLBI, por sus siglas en inglés) han demostrado que usted puede reducir su riesgo individual de padecer de enfermedades del corazón al tomar pasos preventivos: mantenerse activo físicamente, seguir una alimentación saludable, manejar el estrés, no fumar, dormir lo suficiente y controlar la presión arterial, el colesterol y la diabetes. Todo esto puede mejorar la salud de su corazón, pero el impacto puede ser aún mayor si une fuerzas con sus amigos y familiares para juntos llevar vidas más saludables. 

Los estudios han demostrado que tener relaciones positivas y cercanas y sentirse conectado con otras personas es beneficioso para su presión arterial, peso y salud en general, entre otras cosas. El programa The Heart Truth^® del NHLBI sugiere algunas maneras en las que puede conectarse con sus amigos, vecinos y compañeros de trabajo para promover la salud del corazón en su propia comunidad: 

1. Organice un grupo de apoyo en línea para motivarse unos a otros mientras trabajan para alcanzar sus objetivos de salud.  
2. Haga un tablero de anuncios virtual donde su comunidad pueda publicar mensajes de motivación y compartir recetas saludables para el corazón, junto con otros consejos.  
3. Coordine caminatas en la comunidad para mantenerse activos juntos.  
4. Pida a un proveedor de cuidados de salud de su área, a un trabajador de salud de la comunidad o a un educador de salud que organice sesiones educativas sobre la salud del corazón o para medir la presión arterial.

Compartir con otras personas en el lugar donde vive, trabaja y disfruta su tiempo libre puede ayudar a fomentar estilos de vida saludables para el corazón y a construir comunidades más saludables. Aprenda más sobre la salud del corazón y encuentre recursos para compartir en su comunidad en www.hearttruth.gov (en inglés). 

(NewsUSA) - Heart disease is largely preventable, yet it’s still the leading cause of death in the United States. It affects millions of people, and its impact is not shared equally among all communities.

African American, Hispanic/Latino, Asian/Pacific Islander, and American Indian/Alaska Native communities have higher rates of both heart disease and risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, and smoking. Research supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) has shown that you can lower your individual risk for heart disease by taking preventive steps: being physically active, eating a healthy diet, managing stress, not smoking, getting enough sleep, and controlling your blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. All this can give your heart health a big boost, but the impact is greater when you join forces with friends and family members to be healthier – together.   

Studies have shown that having positive, close relationships and feeling connected to others benefits your overall health, blood pressure, weight, and more. NHLBI’s The Heart Truth^® program suggests a few ways you can connect with friends, neighbors and colleagues to promote heart health in your own community: 

1. Set up an online support group to motivate each other as you work to meet your health goals.
2. Create a virtual bulletin board where your community can post encouraging comments and share heart-healthy recipes and other tips.
3. Schedule community walks to get your hearts pumping together.
4. Ask a local healthcare provider, community health worker, or health educator to host heart health education sessions or blood pressure screenings.

Connecting with others where you live, work, and play can help foster heart-healthy lifestyles and build healthier communities. Learn more about heart health and find resources to share in your community at www.hearttruth.gov. 

(Madison Roberts) - A Convenient New Approach to Metabolic Health

Eden is providing access to a new way for individuals to explore GLP-1 therapy: a compounded semaglutide gummy, available through independent licensed providers and compounding pharmacies. Compounded semaglutide is available in different forms, including injections and gummies. Some patients may prefer alternative formats, but efficacy and safety data are limited. While compounded semaglutide is commonly prescribed in injectable form, this tropical-flavored gummy offers an alternative format that some patients may prefer, which independent licensed providers can discuss as a potential option.

Meeting Patients Where They Are Many Americans face challenges related to metabolic health, including obesity and its associated conditions. Barriers such as needle anxiety or complex treatment regimens often prevent individuals from seeking care. Eden aims to make it easier for patients to connect with independent licensed doctors who can evaluate their health needs and discuss potential treatment options. 

"Adherence improves when treatment integrates easily into patients’ lives," explains Adam McBride, Eden’s CEO. Eden’s digital platform streamlines access to independent healthcare professionals who can assess patients and determine eligibility for treatments like GLP-1 receptor agonists, including compounded semaglutide. 

Understanding GLP-1 Therapy GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, are FDA-approved for managing type 2 diabetes and  weight management when combined with diet and exercise. Some studies suggest these medications may influence appetite and blood sugar levels. 

Affordable and Accessible Care Eden connects patients with independent licensed healthcare providers for digital consultations, personalized care plans, and resources such as on-demand workout videos—all for $246 per month. This model aims to eliminate barriers to care by meeting patients’ needs through a convenient, fully digital platform.

Reframing the Conversation Around Metabolic Health Eden’s goal is to support individuals on their journey toward sustainable health improvements by connecting them with personalized care options. Rather than focusing on quick fixes, Eden emphasizes long-term, personalized care that empowers patients to feel their best.

"We’re shifting the conversation to focus on sustainable and manageable health goals," says Eden President Josh Khan. "By making care more accessible, we hope to break down barriers and make a real impact on patients’ lives."

The Future of GLP-1 Treatments Emerging research suggests that GLP-1 therapies may play a role in broader aspects of metabolic health. While studies explore potential applications in areas such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and inflammatory conditions. Patients are encouraged to consult with an Eden network provider to discuss potential benefits and determine what therapies are appropriate for their individual needs.

A Healthier Future, One Step at a Time Eden’s mission is simple: to make access to care seamless and empowering. Through their digital platform, Eden connects patients with licensed medical professionals who provide guidance informed by the latest scientific evidence. 

Important Note: Compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved for safety or efficacy. All treatment plans and prescriptions are determined solely by the independent licensed healthcare providers patients consult through the Eden platform. While Eden does not manufacture or compound medications, it serves as a trusted resource connecting patients with qualified providers to explore treatment options. By simplifying access to care, Eden helps patients connect with providers as they take the first step toward addressing their metabolic health needs. 

(NewsUSA) - Today, millions of Americans live with undetected hypertension, unaware that it can impact even the healthiest of individuals — a lesson that Naomi Saucer^* would come to learn firsthand. ^1-2

In college, Naomi began experiencing migraines, and despite being busy as a full-time student and athlete, she made time to see her doctor. Like many healthy 20-somethings, she didn’t think her headaches were connected to something more serious, and with the help of her doctor, she started taking migraine medications, thinking it would help manage her pain.

But after enduring years of intense discomfort from these terrible headaches, she finally got to the root cause. At age 28, Naomi was diagnosed with high blood pressure. Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure occurs when the force of the blood pushing against the artery wall is too high. Left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health complications like heart disease and stroke.^3-4

The news was shocking, as Naomi thought high blood pressure was only something that impacted older adults with an unhealthy lifestyle. Naomi was young and healthy. She was raised as a vegetarian and was active her whole life— having high blood pressure wasn’t even on her radar of possibilities. What many people don’t know is that high blood pressure can be hereditary and sometimes completely out of their control. Naomi’s grandmother had high blood pressure at an early age, so it was entirely possible that she was going down the same path.

After her diagnosis, Naomi and her doctors tried different medications to lower her blood pressure. While the migraines subsided, she suffered from various side effects from these medications, including nausea and ringing in her ears – and still couldn’t get her blood pressure under control.

“At one point, my pharmacist said my blood pressure medication regimen was something a 60-year-old would take— I’m in my 40’s, so I was nowhere near that age,” said Naomi. “I had an advanced state of hypertension, with some scary moments when I was truly in a hypertension crisis.”

Despite this, the value of perseverance was instilled in her as an athlete. She knew that to maintain her health and ultimate happiness, she needed to find a way to get her blood pressure down. Through her professional experience with medical devices, she proactively researched different treatment options and decided to find and connect with a local physician who performed high blood pressure procedures, also known as renal denervation (RDN). After meeting with her doctor and making sure she was eligible, Naomi was excited for the next step.

The Symplicity blood pressure procedure, which uses the Symplicity Spyral^(TM) RDN system, is a minimally invasive way that can help reduce patients’ blood pressure numbers when other options – like lifestyle changes and medications - haven’t worked.⁵ It utilizes radiofrequency energy to target and calm nerves near the kidneys that can become overactive and cause high blood pressure.⁶ The Symplicity procedure leaves an 'always on' effect and there is no permanent device left behind.⁵

“The Symplicity procedure was one of the best things I could have done for myself,” said Naomi. “The recovery wasn’t bad— honestly, the hardest part was having to take it easy for eight hours afterward, since I’m always on the go!”

Now, Naomi is back to doing the things she loves without fearing how it will affect her blood pressure - it’s now more under control. She also feels more freedom and less worry about always having to take her blood pressure medications. She takes regular five-mile walks or hikes, tends to her garden, and has continued her beekeeping passion. Post-procedure, her life is more vibrant in so many ways.

Naomi’s story not only brings attention to alternative treatment options for hypertension— it also raises awareness about the condition among Black women, like Naomi. High blood pressure is a critical issue for Black women. In fact, it’s estimated that 58% of Black women in the United States have high blood pressure. More alarmingly, Black Americans experience five times the mortality from hypertension related disease compared with White Americans.⁷

No matter how young and healthy you appear to be, if something feels wrong, don’t brush it off. Always see your doctor if you have any health concerns, learn about your family’s health history, and investigate all available treatment options for your diagnosis. Everyone deserves a life that isn’t controlled by their health conditions.

To learn more about clinical trial sites performing renal denervation, visit https://www.hbpstudy.com/

View benefits and risks of the Symplicity™ procedure here. 

Not every person will experience the same results. The Symplicity™ blood pressure procedure does have known risks. These risks should be considered in relation to the potential benefits of the procedure. Adverse events include, but are not limited to, bruising and pain. Results may vary. 

UC202505661 EN ©2025 Medtronic. Medtronic, Medtronic logo, and Engineering the extraordinary are trademarks of Medtronic. All other brands are trademarks of a Medtronic company. For distribution in the USA only. 

* Naomi has received compensation in the past from Medtronic for sharing her experience with the Symplicity blood pressure procedure.

¹ U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Control Hypertension. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Surgeon General; 2020.

² High Blood Pressure Facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/high-blood-pressure/data-research/facts-stats/index.html. Accessed Oct 16, 2024.

³ Whelton P, et al. J AM Coll Cardiol. May 15, 2018;71(19):2199-2269.

⁴ High blood pressure dangers. Mayoclinic.org. Oct 16, 2024.

⁵ Böhm M, Kario K, Kandzari DE, et al. Efficacy of catheter-based renal denervation in the absence of antihypertensive medications (SPYRAL HTN-OFF MED  Pivotal): a multicentre, randomised, sham controlled trial. Lancet. May 2, 2020;395(10234):1444-1451.

⁶ Coates P, Tunev S, Trudel J, Hettrick DA. Time, Temperature, Power, and Impedance Considerations for Radiofrequency Catheter Renal Denervation. Cardiovasc Revasc Med. September 2022;42:171–177.

⁷ Aggarwal R, Chiu N, Wadhera RK, et al. Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Hypertension Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, and Control in the United States, 2013 to 2018. Hypertension. December 2021;78(6):1719-1726.

(NewsUSA) - Those who suffer from eye infections that threaten a person’s vision have a new treatment option that is noninvasive and counters the problem of antibiotic resistance, based on recent research and clinical work.

Many eye infections are caused by multi-drug-resistant strains of bacteria and other pathogens, and standard treatments are limited, according to investigators at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Florida.

VisiRose, a newly launched, privately-held clinical-stage biotechnology company affiliated with Provectus Biopharmaceuticals (OTCQB: PVCT), is collaborating with Bascom Palmer to commercialize a novel, noninvasive therapy for severe eye infections. The treatment, known as Rose Bengal Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy (RB-PDAT), combines a bioactive synthetic small molecule known as Rose Bengal Sodium with a light-based medical device to help manage eye infections caused by bacteria, fungi, and parasites.

“RB-PDAT represents a consequential solution for patients at risk of vision loss from severe infectious keratitis,” said Dominic Rodrigues, acting CEO of VisiRose. RB-PDAT treatment has been associated with rapid resolution of severe eye infections and improved vision outcomes for patients in clinical studies in the U.S., India, Brazil, and Mexico, according to the company.

“We believe Bascom Palmer’s innovative therapy combines infection-fighting capabilities with vision-preserving benefits, paving the way for a brighter future for those struggling with this challenging condition,” said Rodrigues, who also serves as vice chairman of the board of directors and president of Provectus.

Rose Bengal Sodium, the company’s flagship molecule, has demonstrated effectiveness against multi-drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, among other strains, in a laboratory setting. At the Ocular Microbiology and Immunology Group conference in 2023, Bascom Palmer researchers reported that 76% of the first 100 patients treated with RB-PDAT at Bascom Palmer, who had severe eye infections unresponsive to standard treatment,achieved successful vision outcomes, with an average time to resolution of just over 6 months.

In a case series published last year in the medical journal JAMA Ophthalmology of nine adults who experienced severe eye infections caused by contaminated artificial tears, RB-PDAT was effective as an addition to antibiotics and helped improve vision outcomes in two patients who received this new therapy, according to Bascom Palmer researchers: a man in his 40s who came to the emergency department with severe pain and decreased vision in his left eye; and a woman in her 80s with worsening redness and visual loss in her right eye.

“This innovative therapy leverages the power of the versatile rose bengal small molecule to fight infection and offers new hope for preserving vision," Rodrigues said.

RB-PDAT has shown promising results in treating severe eye infections in more than 500 individuals worldwide where standard therapies have failed, according to the company press release. Notably, patients in India and Brazil were treated much earlier with RB-PDAT, receiving the oculat treatment as first-line therapy. “VisiRose has the potential to help fill a critical treatment gap in global eye care, particularly in regions and populations severely impacted by antimicrobial resistance with limited access to medical solutions,” Ed Pershing added, who is chairman of VisiRose’s board of directors and also serves as CEO and chairman of Provectus’s board.

Visit www.visirose.com to learn more.

Image caption: Juan Carlos Navia, M.D. at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, delivering the VisiRose RB PDAT treatment in the clinic.

(NewsUSA) - Every 2 seconds, someone in the United States needs blood, and a single donation can save lives. Shortages in the nation’s blood supply can happen any time. Donors, especially those who donate regularly, keep our blood supply stable.

Blood transfusions are essential for some patients undergoing surgery, or who’ve had serious injuries or are dealing with certain medical conditions. While everyone is impacted when there are shortages of blood and blood products, people living in communities with higher numbers of patients with rare blood types or diseases are disproportionately affected.      

Take those with sickle cell disease (SCD), a condition that affects more than 100,000 people in the U.S., the majority of who are Black or of African ancestry. Many people with SCD need blood transfusions throughout their lives but often find it difficult to get the type they need. That’s why Black or African American blood donors are so vital, as 1 in 3 are a match for people with SCD.

While it may seem outdated to think of blood in terms of race – the practice of segregating donated blood by race was discontinued shortly after World War II – scientific studies have found that, to reduce the risk of transfusion complications, some people do require blood or blood products from donors with the same racial or ethnic background.

Most people can give blood, but only 3% of Americans donate each year. If you are in good health, at least 16 or 17 years old (depending on the state), and weigh at least 110 pounds, consider donating. A diverse blood supply ensures that every American has equitable access to blood and blood products. You can make a difference in your community by donating blood and by encouraging others to do the same.

Learn more by visiting the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s Blood Diseases & Disorders Education Program.

Callout:

Diversity in Blood Types

Most blood types fall into one of the four major groups: A, B, AB, O. Blood donations from all types are always needed. However, some people have rare blood types. Some of the rare blood types for African Americans include U- and Fy (a-b-). For these patients, the U.S. blood supply must be more diverse. The best blood type match for patients with rare blood types often comes from donors of the same race or similar ethnicity.

(NewsUSA) - Cada 2 segundos, alguna persona en los Estados Unidos necesita sangre.  Una sola donación puede salvar vidas. En cualquier momento se puede presentar escasez en el suministro de sangre del país.

Los donantes, especialmente aquellos que donan regularmente, mantienen estable nuestro suministro de sangre. Las transfusiones de sangre son fundamentales para algunos pacientes que se someten a cirugías, han sufrido lesiones graves o padecen ciertas afecciones médicas. Si bien todos nos vemos afectados cuando hay escasez de sangre y productos sanguíneos, las personas que viven en comunidades con una mayor cantidad de pacientes con enfermedades o tipos de sangre poco comunes se ven afectadas de una manera desproporcionada.

Tomemos como ejemplo a las personas con enfermedad de células falciformes (SCD, por su sigla en inglés), una afección que afecta a más de 100,000 personas en los Estados Unidos, la mayoría de las cuales son de raza negra o de ascendencia Africana. Muchas personas con enfermedad de células falciformes necesitan transfusiones de sangre a lo largo de sus vidas, pero a menudo les resulta difícil obtener el tipo que necesitan. Es por eso que los donantes de sangre afroestadounidenses son tan importantes, ya que uno de cada tres es compatible con las personas con enfermedad de células falciformes.

Si bien puede parecer anticuado pensar en la sangre en términos de raza (la práctica de segregar la sangre donada por raza se suspendió poco después de la Segunda Guerra Mundial), los estudios científicos han descubierto que, para reducir el riesgo de complicaciones en las transfusiones, algunas personas requieren sangre o productos sanguíneos de donantes con el mismo origen racial o étnico.

La mayoría de las personas puede donar sangre, pero sólo el 3% de los estadounidenses dona cada año. Si tiene buena salud, al menos 16 o 17 años (dependiendo del estado) y pesa mínimo 110 libras, considere donar. Un suministro de sangre diverso garantiza que todas las personas en los Estados Unidos tengan acceso equitativo a la sangre y a los productos sanguíneos.

Usted puede marcar la diferencia en su comunidad donando sangre y animando a otros a hacer lo mismo.

Obtenga más información visitando el sitio web del Programa de educación sobre enfermedades y trastornos de la sangre (en inglés), del Instituto Nacional del Corazón, los Pulmones y la Sangre.

Callout:

Diversidad de tipos de sangre La mayoría de los tipos de sangre pertenecen a uno de los cuatro grupos principales: A, B, AB y O. Siempre se necesitan donaciones de sangre de todos los tipos. Sin embargo, algunas personas tienen tipos de sangre poco comunes. Algunos de los tipos de sangre poco comunes entre los afroestadounidenses incluyen U- y Fy (a-b-). Para estos pacientes, el suministro de sangre en los Estados Unidos debe ser más diverso. La mejor compatibilidad del tipo de sangre para los pacientes con tipos de sangre poco comunes suele venir de donantes de la misma raza o grupo ético similar.

(NewsUSA) - We take X-rays for granted, but they were unknown until German physicist Wilhelm Roentgen discovered them 130 years ago. Today, they’re associated with detecting problems with bones, teeth, and more, but one of their most important uses is curing common skin cancer.

More than 9,000 Americans each day are diagnosed with nonmelanoma skin cancer and, traditionally, they would be facing Mohs surgery to cure their disease. However, many cases are now successfully treated without surgery, thanks to research-backed, highly effective, noninvasive radiation therapies such as Image-Guided SRT, SRT, and Electronic Brachytherapy.

These nonsurgical treatments are available at select dermatology practices nationwide.

Highly skilled radiation therapists, in collaboration with dermatologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists, utilize the latest advancements in X-ray and high-definition ultrasound technology to precisely target and destroy cancer cells—without scalpel, pain, or surgical scarring. Image-Guided SRT boasts a cure rate of 99% or higher, comparable to Mohs surgery, while Electronic Brachytherapy achieves a 98.8% cure rate within two years. With each of these treatments, radiation therapists play critical roles in advancing patient care.

Dr. Jacob Scott, Chairman of the Dermatology Association of Radiation Therapy (DART), a nationwide association of medical practitioners in the field of skin cancer, says, “Radiation therapists are key medical team members in the fight against common skin cancer. They often have the most face time with patients and with their professional training, radiation therapists are well positioned to participate in treatment planning and execution. They are instrumental in assessing patient needs and progress, and in assuring patient compliance with the plan.”

DART member Kelsay Craig holds a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy and a Radiologic Technology Certificate from the University of Iowa and is a radiation therapist with DoctorsNow in West Des Moines, Iowa. Craig notes, "It is such a privilege and pleasure to work with patients knowing that with each treatment, they are on the path to being cancer-free. Radiation therapy has been a hidden gem in most dermatology communities, and I'm thrilled to be able to present Image-Guided SRT as a noninvasive treatment option for nonmelanoma skin cancers.”

The week of November 3 is National Radiologic Technology Week. If you know or have been treated by a radiation therapist, give them your thanks.

Photo Caption: Radiation Therapist Madeleine Appleseth uses high-tech system to cure common skin cancer painlessly