Latest news with #CenterofDiseaseControl
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
People with colon cancer are 24 times more likely to die within five years if they had one habit before diagnosis
Colon cancer is very much on the radar of health experts right now, given the rise in cases among the younger generations. But there's one habit that could worsen the prognosis for those diagnosed with the illness, a new study has suggested. According to the National Cancer Institute, nearly 53,000 Americans are projected to die from bowel cancer in 2025 alone. While 65 percent of those who are diagnosed with survive the next five years, 35 percent will not, and there are many factors which can sway the outcome. This could be the stage of the cancer when it is diagnosed, where it is within the colon and how the treatment takes to the patient. But there is also one habit some people have that could actually make a patient up to 24 times more likely to die from the disease. The habit in question? Heavy cannabis use. According to the Center of Disease Control, 'cannabis is the most commonly used federally illegal drug in the United States' with 52.5 million people admitting to using it at least once in 2021. Over in the UK, around 2.5 million people confessed to using it in 2023, as per the Office for National Statistics. So, it's a pretty prominent drug. The CDC also states that three out of ten people would go on to develop cannabis misuse disorder, which is an addiction where users will be heavily reliant on smoking pot, sometimes in large quantities and at regular intervals. So, what does weed have to do with your chance of survival if you are diagnosed with colon cancer? Well, the study analysed the electronic health records of around 1,100 bowel cancer patients who received treatment from the University of California Health system between 2012 and 2024 to find out. The experts found that those who suffered from cannabis use disorder had a 55.88 percent mortality rate within five years of receiving a diagnosis than those who did not. Those who didn't smoke it had a 5.08 percent risk of death, which is a significant difference between the two groups. Also, those who were addicted to weed before they were found to have colon cancer were 24.4 times more likely to die within five years compared to others. Raphael Cuomo, an associate professor at the UC San Diego School of Medicine and lead study author, explained: 'This study adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that heavy cannabis use may have under-recognized impacts on the immune system, mental health and treatment behaviors.' Cuomo published his work in the Annals of Epidemiology, but wanted to let everyone know that this wasn't about turning weed into the enemy. He said: 'This isn't about vilifying cannabis. It's about understanding the full range of its impacts, especially for people facing serious illnesses. 'We hope these findings encourage more research — and more nuanced conversations — about how cannabis interacts with cancer biology and care.'
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Flu levels remain high in Tennessee. Talk to your doctor about the vaccine.
For many, this cold and flu season has brought fevers, aches, and fatigue. According to data from the Center of Disease Control, Tennessee is currently experiencing some of the highest levels of flu activity in the country. But what if you could significantly reduce your risk of getting sick? One simple conversation with your doctor about the flu vaccine could be the key to a healthier season for you and your loved ones. As the parent of five daughters, there's nothing more important to me than protecting my children's health and well-being. The flu shot is a crucial tool in keeping our kids safe during flu season. As I am sure you can imagine, five kids keep me busy! We are always running around from one activity to another, with a lot of opportunities for exposure to illnesses. Talking to your child's pediatrician about the flu vaccine is a simple, effective way to ensure our kids stay healthy and active, avoiding missed school days, doctor visits, and the discomfort of being sick. One of the easiest and most impactful decisions we can make is to prioritize our children's health. Every year, the flu claims thousands of lives and hospitalizes countless others. The very young, elderly, and people with underlying health issues are the most vulnerable and have the highest mortality rates. According to the Tennessee Department of Health, the number of Tennesseans at the doctor or urgent care with a flu-like illness is on the rise. And earlier this year, Tennessee was cited as having some of the highest flu-like activity in the country. The flu shot is an essential tool in the fight against seasonal influenza. Yet, many people remain hesitant to get vaccinated. This apprehension can often be fueled by myths, misconceptions, or a lack of understanding about the vaccine's benefits. That's where your doctor comes in. Your doctor is your best resource for accurate, personalized information about the flu shot. Unlike what you may find on the internet or advice you get from well-meaning friends, a healthcare provider can address your unique health concerns, dispel myths, and offer tailored recommendations. Opinion: Dolly Parton and Tennessee senators show why Trump must stop public health chaos Your doctor can help you better understand the risks and recommend the best time for you to get vaccinated based on your schedule and local flu activity. Beyond protecting yourself, getting vaccinated helps protect your community. By getting vaccinated, you help create a barrier that limits the spread of the virus, protecting the most vulnerable among us and those who cannot be vaccinated themselves. In accordance with its core mission of 'Caring for Our Kids' and 'Caring for the Community,' the National Football League Alumni Association (NFL Alumni) is partnering with the Tennessee Department of Health on a statewide vaccine awareness and education campaign, urging Tennesseans to 'GEAR UP!' to make sure their bodies and immune systems are game ready. In sports, preparation keeps you game ready. When I was playing football, I always made sure I ate right, hit the weight room, knew my playbook, and practiced so I was prepared on gameday. That's why I chose to get myself and my family vaccinated to ensure our immune systems are ready to stay healthy. Life comes with risks, and the flu is just another risk we must all deal with and be prepared to handle. Taking the time to talk to your doctor about the flu shot is a proactive step toward safeguarding your health and that of those around you. It's a small effort with a big payoff − one that can save lives and keep your days filled with joy rather than illness. Don't wait until the flu catches you off guard. Call your doctor's office today and start the conversation about getting your flu shot. It's a simple step that can make all the difference. GEAR UP! – stay healthy and game ready by preparing your body and immune system. For more information about the campaign and resources, visit Dexter McCluster is a former All-Pro, Pro Bowl running back and punt returner for the Tennessee Titans and the Kansas City Chiefs. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Flu vaccine keeps adults and safe. Time to gear up! | Opinion
