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Showing posts from August 17, 2025

Ovarian cancer: modest overall increase with higher BMI; risk varies by histologic subtype (notably endometrioid

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Ovarian cancer: modest overall increase with higher BMI; risk varies by histologic subtype (notably endometriosis) Mechanisms include unopposed estrogen from adipose aromatization, hyperinsulinemia/IGF-1 signaling, chronic low-grade inflammation, adipokine imbalance (↑leptin/↓adiponectin), and overlap with anovulation/PCOS. 1) Endometrial cancer (uterine corpus) Magnitude of risk Dose–response: Each 5 kg/m² increase in BMI is associated with a ~1.5–1.6× higher risk of endometrial cancer. High BMI classes: Class II–III obesity confers multi-fold higher risk compared with normal BMI, with earlier age at diagnosis and higher all-cause mortality observed in cohorts. Mechanisms that matter clinically Estrogen excess without progesterone: Adipose aromatizes androgens → estrone; after menopause, this becomes the dominant estrogen source, promoting endometrial proliferation. ...

How to Read Blood Test Results Like a Doctor (Simplified Guide)

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How to Read Blood Test Results Like a Doctor (Simplified Guide) By Dr Humaira Latif | Updated August 2025 🔍 Why Understanding Your Blood Test Matters Blood tests provide critical insights into your health, revealing early signs of disease, nutritional deficiencies, or organ dysfunction. Doctors interpret values using normal reference ranges , but patients can also benefit from understanding the basics. 🧾 Common Blood Tests & Their Meanings Here’s a simplified breakdown of the most frequently ordered blood tests: Test Normal Range What It Indicates CBC (Complete Blood Count) Hemoglobin: M 13–17 g/dL, F 12–15 g/dL WBC: 4,000–11,000/µL Platelets: 150k–450k/µL Checks for anemia, infection, clotting issues Liver Function Tests (LFTs) ALT: 7–56 U/L AST: 10–40 U/L Bilirubin: 0.1–1.2 mg/dL Detects liver damage, hepatitis, fatty liver Kidney Function Tests (RFTs) Creatinine: 0.6–1.3 mg/dL Urea: 7–20 mg/dL Monitors kidney...

Rapid Relief for Postpartum Depression: How Novel Psychedelics like RE104 May Transform Recovery

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Rapid Relief for Postpartum Depression: How Novel Psychedelics like RE104 May Transform Recovery What Is Postpartum Depression (PPD)? Postpartum depression is a common, serious mood disorder that can emerge during pregnancy or within the first year after delivery. It typically involves persistent low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, sleep and appetite changes, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and difficulty bonding with the baby. Left untreated, PPD can affect parent–infant attachment and family well-being. Introducing RE104: A Novel, Fast-Acting Psychedelic RE104 (luve silocin) is an investigational psychedelic pro drug designed to convert into an active compound with a relatively short experiential window . It is being evaluated for single-session, supervised administration with psychotherapy support. Early clinical research in PPD suggests rapid symptom reductions , though larger trials are needed. ...

New Advances in Cervical Cancer Screening: HPV Self-Testing

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New Advances in Cervical Cancer Screening: HPV Self-Testing Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide, but innovations in screening,particularly HPV self-testing, are changing the landscape of early detection and prevention. 🔬 Why Cervical Cancer Screening Matters Cervical cancer is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV) . Early detection through screening reduces incidence and mortality. Traditional screening methods include the Pap smear and HPV DNA testing . According to the World Health Organization (WHO) , effective screening could eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem. 🌸 What is HPV Self-Testing? HPV self-testing allows women to collect a vaginal sample using a simple swab, which is then analyzed in a laboratory for the presence of high-risk HPV strains. This metho...

Gestational Diabetes: Diet & Lifestyle Hacks That Actually Work

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Gestational Diabetes: Diet & Lifestyle Hacks That Actually Work By Dr Humaira Latif | Updated August 2025 🔹 Understanding Gestational Diabetes Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition that develops during pregnancy when blood sugar levels become too high. It affects both the mother and the baby if not managed properly. The good news is that diet and lifestyle modifications can help keep blood sugar levels under control. 🍽️ Diet Hacks for Managing Gestational Diabetes Proper nutrition plays the most important role in maintaining healthy glucose levels. Here are evidence-based diet hacks: Follow the Plate Method: Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables, one-quarter with lean protein, and one-quarter with whole grains or starchy foods. Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Aim for 3 main meals and 2–3 snacks to avoid blood sugar spikes. Choose Low-GI Foods: Include foods...

PCOS & Heart Health: The Overlooked Link

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PCOS & Heart Health: The Overlooked Link Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects hormones, metabolism, and reproductive health. Less discussed,but equally important,is its connection to long-term cardiovascular health. This guide explains why the risk is often missed, what to screen, and practical steps to protect your heart at every age. Suggested hero image: “Stylised female silhouette with ovaries and a glowing heart connected by subtle metabolic pathways.” (Title: PCOS and Heart Health – The Overlooked Link; Alt: Illustration showing the connection between PCOS and cardiovascular health.) Contents Why the risk is overlooked How PCOS raises heart risk Who is most at risk? Heart screening—what & when Diet, exercise & daily habits Medications & supplements Pregnancy, fertility & postpartum How to talk to your doctor FAQs Resources & ...

Fertility Myths Debunked: What Science Actually Says

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Fertility Myths Debunked: What Science Actually Says Fertility advice is everywhere—family, friends, and social media. This doctor-written guide separates myths from science so you can make informed decisions while trying to conceive. Replace with your own royalty-free cover image. Contents Myth 1: Infertility is always a woman’s problem Myth 2: Age doesn’t matter if you’re healthy Myth 3: Birth control causes infertility Myth 4: Regular periods = guaranteed fertility Myth 5: Certain positions increase chances Myth 6: Stress alone causes permanent infertility Myth 7: Lifestyle doesn’t matter Myth 8: IVF guarantees a baby Myth–Fact Table & IVF Success by Age Quick, Science-Backed Fertility Tips FAQs Infertility is common and often involves factors from both partners . Understanding how age, timing, lifestyle, and ...

Beyond Menopause: How Hormonal Changes Impact Mental Health

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Beyond Menopause: How Hormonal Changes Impact Mental Health Updated August 2025: Menopause is often discussed in terms of physical symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and osteoporosis. However, the mental health implications of beyond menopause — the postmenopausal stage — are just as critical. Hormonal changes, especially the decline of estrogen and progesterone, play a significant role in shaping women’s psychological well-being. Recent studies suggest that these hormonal fluctuations influence risks of depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and even dementia. 🧬 Hormonal Shifts After Menopause Estrogen Decline: Estrogen has protective effects on the brain, influencing serotonin, dopamine, and GABA — neurotransmitters that regulate mood. Progesterone Reduction: Known for its calming effect, low progesterone can increase anxiety and irritability. Testosterone Changes: Declines in testosterone may contribute to fatigue, low mo...