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Did you know that 1 in 133 Americans has celiac disease?

That’s roughly 1% of the population. And while that may not sound like much, it makes celiac disease one of the most common genetic diseases.

If we look beyond the US, that number increases even more. 1 in 100 people have celiac disease worldwide. And in recent years, those numbers are increasing rapidly.

According to beyondceliac.org,

“The rate of new diagnosis of celiac disease has increased 7.5 percent every year for the past few decades throughout the industrialized Western world, a new study by Lebwohl and colleagues from Canada, China and Sweden found.”

‍And because we’re always working to understand how well our community of Evidation Members represents the population as a whole, we wanted to know how many of them are currently living with this rapidly growing autoimmune disease.

We asked Evidation Members if they’d been diagnosed with celiac disease.

What did we discover?

Over 21,000 members responded to the question. And over 14 percent of those who responded answered yes.

That means, out of the 3 million Americans living with celiac disease, 3,000 of them are Evidation Members!

Of course that isn’t an accurate reflection of the population as a whole, but it is interesting to see the numbers and how our members align with the larger community.

What is celiac disease?

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIH),

“Celiac disease is a chronic digestive and immune disorder that damages the small intestine.”

It is a chronic, genetic, autoimmune disease that often leads to other diseases, and — if left untreated — results in increased hospitalizations and, in some cases, death.

Basically, in a person with celiac disease, the body sees gluten (a protein found in many common foods) as a threat. The immune system attacks the protein, and the small intestine is damaged in the process.

Over time, this leads to damage of other organs as well and numerous other serious health conditions.

This infographic from beyondceliac.org does a great job summarizing the condition.

When is celiac awareness month?

The entire month of May is Celiac Awareness Month. This is a time when people who have celiac and their friends and family get together to raise awareness about the disease.

Those who participate in the awareness month also work to raise money for more celiac research. The goal is twofold. First, advocates want to end the stigma and misinformation about it. Second, they’re working hard to help fund and find a cure.

Remember, knowing the current celiac definition is just the start. You also need to make sure people understand the disease’s impact and how to support those who have it within the local community.

What it’s like to live with celiac disease

For many, living with celiac requires nothing more than a change in diet. Technically.

But it’s not that simple in reality.

Today, it’s easier than ever to find gluten-free options, but it still means a total change in lifestyle. It means limited choices, embarrassment, and often isolation.

In fact, the social and psychological impacts of managing celiac disease are staggering. Often people with celiac choose to risk exposure rather than take on the burden of avoiding gluten. This leads to illness, hospitalization, increased medical expenses, and death.

Eating out is especially difficult. More often than not, individuals living with celiac disease have very limited options when dining out.

Like those with food allergies, even tiny traces of gluten can be enough to cause serious damage, so many restaurants are unable or unwilling to accommodate someone with celiac disease at all.

Those who can often have limited options, maybe a salad with no croutons or a burger with no bun. The risk of cross contamination is high though due to shared prep areas and cooking spaces.

Often individuals with celiac disease steer clear of social eating situations in order to avoid the weight of being a “burden.”

According to The Celiac Disease Foundation,

“The treatment burden of celiac disease is comparable to end-stage renal disease, and the partner burden is comparable to caring for a patient with cancer.”

Luckily, there are resources and advocates. More and more gluten-free options are available every day it seems. And, with education and acceptance, we can start to relieve some of the strain that comes with managing and living with this chronic condition.

Symptoms of celiac disease

One of the challenges doctors face when diagnosing celiac disease is the large list of symptoms. University Health News says there are 281 known symptoms of the condition. Due to this wide range of symptoms, 83% of people with celiac get misdiagnosed or remain undiagnosed.

While symptoms of the digestive system are common, the condition can affect nearly every bodily system. Here are some common symptoms.

Digestive symptoms

Problems with the digestive system are common for those with celiac. Celiac disease causes an immune system response that attacks the small intestine. Specifically, the disorder attacks the villi, which are small, finger-like projections that line the small intestines and absorb nutrients from the food. When someone with celiac disease eats gluten, the villi shrink and become blunted.

The damage to the villi can cause problems such as:

• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Bloating and gas
• Vomiting, sometimes severe
• Delayed emptying of the stomach
• Stomach cramping

If left untreated, celiac disease increases a person’s risk of developing more serious problems with the digestive system, including ulcers and stomach cancer.

Neurological and emotional symptoms

For some people, celiac affects the nervous system, not the digestive system. This often causes headaches, including severe migraines. It can also cause:

• Brain fog
• Numbness and neuropathy
• Nerve pain
• ADHD symptoms
• Dementia
• Motor tics
• Autism-like symptoms
• Depression
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Fatigue

In addition, some people will develop a serious condition known as ataxia. Ataxia occurs when the immune system attacks the nervous system after eating gluten. This can lead to slurred speech, coordination problems, gait problems, and trouble controlling the eyes or limbs.

Bone and muscle problems

Celiac disease can cause problems with thinning bones. People may deal with joint or muscle pain with no clear cause. Discoloration of the teeth, especially if someone develops celiac before their adult teeth emerge, can occur. Others may notice problems with tooth enamel.

Growth and development concerns

Some parents notice the first symptoms of celiac when their child fails to grow as expected. Failure to thrive, an otherwise unexplained lack of development and growth, is common. Children may have developmental delays, not meeting expected milestones on time or experiencing delayed puberty.

Historically, doctors watched for children to be losing weight before considering celiac. However, new research has found that nearly 75% of children with the condition are actually overweight, so weight loss or low body weight isn’t the only condition to look for.

Nutrient deficits

The damaged villi caused by celiac disease make it difficult for people to absorb nutrients from their food. This can lead to nutrient deficits, including anemia and vitamin D deficiency. Malnutrition due to celiac can cause a number of other health concerns.

Skin conditions

Celiac disease can also affect the skin. Some people develop small, non-itchy bumps called follicular hyperkeratosis. Sores in the mouth are also common. An extremely itchy rash known as dermatitis herpetiformis is another rare but highly problematic symptom.

Other common symptoms

Some additional symptoms of celiac disease include:

• Infertility
• Liver disease
• Spleen disorders
• Loss of appetite
• Seizures

Sometimes, celiac disease causes no symptoms at all. This phenomenon is sometimes called silent celiac. However, if the patient has the disease, the damage to the intestines is still occurring, even if they have no clear external symptoms.

Treatments for celiac disease

The only current treatment for celiac disease is following a strict gluten-free diet. Sometimes, the symptoms and secondary conditions, such as anemia, need additional treatment, but treating the celiac requires a lifetime of gluten-free living.

Avoiding gluten means avoiding wheat, barley, rye, and most oats. Sometimes, wheat is hidden in other ingredient names, such as:

• Spelt
• Triticale
• Durum
• Couscous
• Semolina
• Modified food starch

Working with a nutritionist who has celiac knowledge can help people with celiac find healthy substitutes for their favorite foods while ensuring that they’re eating a balanced diet in spite of the strict nature of the treatment.

While a lifetime of gluten-free living is challenging, today’s food companies have added many gluten-free products to their lineups. Even major snack food brands, like Oreo, are dipping into the gluten-free market. Eating gluten-free isn’t always easy, but it’s easier now than it was even a decade ago.

Once someone with celiac starts eating gluten-free, the intestines usually start to heal. Once the villi grow back, many of the symptoms will dissipate. However, this isn’t a cure. If the person accidentally eats some gluten, they’ll usually experience symptoms for a few days or weeks afterward.

Raising awareness for celiac disease in May

May is Celiac Awareness Month, and with it comes the opportunity to raise awareness of this common condition.

Whether you’re diagnosed with celiac or someone you know is affected, helping people around you understand celiac is a key factor in accepting the disease and learning to live with it. Here are some ways you can raise awareness during this important month.

• Post educational content to social media – If you’re on social media, find memes from the Celiac Disease Foundation or Beyond Celiac websites, and post them to your social media pages.
• Spread video content – Go on YouTube or another video streaming platform, and find videos from people who have celiac. Share these videos to show what living with the condition is like.
• Reach out to government officials – The celiac disease community is constantly advocating for clearer labeling of gluten-containing ingredients on food packaging. Use May as a chance to send a letter to your government leaders to advocate for this concern. 
• Leave brochures about celiac at school or work – Help people learn the facts about celiac by leaving reading material at your school or workplace, if allowed.
• Change your profile picture – Add a green ribbon to your social media profile pages to advocate for celiac disease awareness.
• Wear green – Green is the official color of celiac disease awareness. Find a t-shirt or bracelet you can wear multiple times in the month to advocate for more education and awareness of the disease and its treatment.
• Make a gluten-free treat – Bring a gluten-free treat  to work or school. Let people taste how good gluten-free food can be.
• Get tested - If you're dealing with any of the symptoms above, talk to your doctor about getting tested for celiac disease.
• Run for celiac - During Celiac Awareness Month, you'll find virtual and in-person races to raise funds and money for celiac disease and its research. Consider taking part in one. You'll get more steps in your day while advocating for celiac disease treatments.

The more people who participate in Celiac Awareness Month, the more people will find themselves accepting those with celiac disease. The more people accept celiac, the greater number of options people will find for food and support within the community.

Start reaching your health goals today with Evidation

Celiac Awareness Month is a great time to explore additional ways you can support your overall health. Evidation makes tracking your health simple and rewarding. Whether you’re working to avoid gluten due to a new diagnosis or simply want to track your health or daily step count to reach your full potential, our app can help. Simply track your eating and exercise, by synching your favorite tracking app to Evidation, and start earning money for making better choices.

Reach your health goals with help from Evidation. Download the app today.

February is recognized as Low Vision Awareness Month to spread the word about resources available for people living with low vision.

The National Eye Institute predicts that by 2050 the number of people living with vision impairment or blindness will double. Another 16.4 million Americans are predicted to live with corrective eye problems like short or far-sightedness, which can be corrected using glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. 

Yet statistics show that more than half of Americans don’t seek eye care, citing lack of awareness and cost of services as the main reasons for not seeking help. 

This highlights the importance of initiatives like Low Vision Awareness Month, where we can all do our part to share information with those who can benefit from it.

What is low vision?

Low vision is a degenerative condition where a person’s eyesight fades until they find it difficult to cope with everyday activities like reading price labels when shopping, recognizing people’s faces, and seeing television or computer screens clearly. There is no cure for low vision, but people can keep their sight for longer by using corrective devices like magnifying glasses, specialized computer software, and sometimes surgery if a reversible eye disease like glaucoma or cataract is the cause of low vision.

Whether you develop a low vision problem depends on many factors. One of them is genetics. If your parents wore glasses and experienced vision loss during their twilight years, chances are that you might also need glasses one day.

National Health Institute has identified four types of low vision resulting from various eye diseases or conditions.

1. Peripheral vision loss. When you cannot see out of the corners of your eyes.
2. Central vision loss. When you cannot see things in the center of your eye, objects and people’s faces seem like blurry blobs in the middle with clearer details on the outside.
3. Night blindness. When you cannot see well in twilight or low-light conditions, driving a car at night can be difficult or impossible because you cannot see the lane markings.
4. Blurry or hazy vision. When you cannot distinguish details of objects or read print, the words appear blurry or hazy, and you cannot make out letters (especially small print).

Causes of low vision

People of any age can be diagnosed with low vision because it can arise from various conditions and injuries. Low vision may result from eye or brain injury during an accident, but it’s more common in adults over the age of 45 and most common in adults over the age of 75.

The main causes of low vision are age-related conditions like:

• Diabetes-related retinopathy
• Macular degeneration
• Cataracts
• Acute and Chronic Glaucoma

Risk factors for developing eye disease

Risk factors for developing problems with vision increase with age. If you’re already over 75, you may be at increased risk. But age isn’t the only risk factor for developing low vision. 

‍Other factors that can put you at higher risk for developing vision impairments are:

• Weight
• Family history of eye health issues
• Chronic condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure
• African American, Hispanic, or Native American descent

Even if none of the above factors apply to you, it’s still a good idea to get your eyes examined, especially if you’re over 45. That way you can be on the lookout for any deterioration that may be happening unnoticed.

Keep your eyes healthy and protect your vision

It’s important to get your eyes examined by a qualified medical professional at least once every two years. Keeping tabs on your eye health will help you get better, more effective treatment in case any eye problems are discovered during the exam. It’s especially important to have your eyes checked out because many eye diseases don’t have any warning signs until it’s too late and the eye structure has been damaged. Starting treatment early in the disease process has a far greater success rate.

Schedule a full dilated eye examination

Just like you go to a doctor for a yearly physical, you can book an appointment for an eye examination with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The exam is painless, and it’s the only sure way to discover if there are any problems with your eyes or vision. Early diagnosis equals better treatment outcomes. So make a routine eye exam part of your yearly checkup.

Simple tips to protect your eye heath

Even though you may not be able to prevent developing a low vision condition, according to the National Health Institute, taking care of your eyes every day will preserve your sight for as long as possible.

• Wear sunglasses. When going outside, wear sunglasses. Even if the weather is cloudy, the sun still penetrates the clouds, and the UV rays can cause damage to your eyes.
• Wear protective eyewear. Use protective eyewear if you’re doing activities that may cause injury to your eyes—especially during welding, construction work, or home repairs. Pleasure activities like skiing, motorbiking, or diving can easily result in eye damage if you don’t use protective eyewear. Also, don’t forget to protect children’s eyes during sporting activities. Protect their eyes while they’re young so they can keep their vision for longer as they age.
• Prevent eye strain. When you’re working at a computer screen for long hours, remember to take breaks and let your eyes rest throughout the day. Also, you may want to invest in protective glasses that reduce screen glare.
• Keep contact lenses clean. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how long a contact lens should be worn. Make sure your hands are clean before removing or inserting contact lenses, and use the prescribed contact lens solution to make sure you don’t introduce any germs into your eyes. Repeated infections may cause damage to your vision.

Best place to find help when your eyesight is fading

If you notice changes in your vision, visit an eye specialist to be examined and, if need be, directed to a vision rehabilitation service. 

‍Vision rehabilitation can be a lifesaver for those living with vision loss. These services help you keep your independence despite deteriorating eyesight and help you choose the correct assistive devices so you can keep the vision you have left for longer.

Living with low vision

Millions of people in the US live with a visual impairment which can make it hard to do everyday activities like driving, reading, or cooking. Unlike some visual disturbances like near or far-sightedness, visual impairments can’t be corrected with glasses, contacts, or surgery.

The good news is there are resources available, like vision rehabilitation services, that can help people with a visual impairment make the most of the vision they have so they can keep doing the things they love. 

Take some time this Low Vision Awareness Month to spread the word about vision rehabilitation and be sure to sign up for Evidation today to get more health tips and resources. 

Reach your health goals. Download the app today.

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Let's shine the light on privacy in celebration of International Data Privacy Day!

‍Data Privacy Day has been celebrated in Europe on January 28th since 2006, when it was established to commemorate the January 28, 1981 signing of Convention 108, the first legally binding international treaty dealing with individual privacy and data protection. The U.S. and Canada started celebrating the day in 2008. 

More recently, and given the prevalence of data in our increasingly digital world, Privacy Day has been extended to a full week. The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) has set the theme for Data Privacy Week 2023 to be part of its global online safety, security, and privacy campaign called ‘STOP. THINK. CONNECT.’ You can learn more about the NCSA's Data Privacy Week initiative here. 

Evidation's commitment to data privacy is a cornerstone of our business and reputation. As part of that commitment, we will not share your health information without your permission. We also make sure you have the tools you need to exercise control over your data. Our Privacy Notice can give you more insight into our privacy principles and how we collect, handle, and protect your personal information and data. 

Recently, a number of states have enacted new consumer privacy laws intended to ensure that individuals are able to protect their privacy and the data they share with companies. These laws require companies to (among other things) inform individuals about the personal data they collect, why they collect it, how and with whom they share the data, and to enable certain rights for individuals with respect to their own information. 

While these laws can help to ensure that individuals have control over their data, the protection and privacy of your information is actually a partnership between you and the companies to which you entrust your personal information.

What you can do to keep your data and identity safe

We’re honored to be a partner on your health and wellness journey and are committed to protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your information.  But it's important to recognize that, as individuals, we owe ourselves a similar commitment to our own privacy and personal information. Just like the new year is an opportunity for many folks to make changes to improve their lifestyle and health choices, Data Privacy Day can be the inspiration we each need to prioritize understanding (and exercising control over) who has our data and why, and ensuring our personal information is secure. So, be sure to take some time for yourself on this year's Data Privacy Day.

4 tips to protect your identity and data:

1. Know. You are likely giving your personal data to every app, online account, platform, etc. that you join, even if it's not needed. Know what data you're allowing to be accessed, by who, and why, and consider either limiting the access or not using the app. Does your recipe app really need your geolocation? Does your music app really need access to your contacts? Likely not. If you're not sure what data you've permissioned, try looking in your settings or, if you're able, submit an access request  to the company. 
2. Get cleaning. Get rid of apps and accounts that you're not using or no longer need. This can include reward programs (like at grocery or retail stores). As part of this clean up, (if you're able) submit a deletion request. 
3. Control. Check and update your privacy and security settings. Most apps and accounts allow you to do this in “settings” either in the app or on your device. And be sure to check your internet browser and "cookie" settings as well. You can find additional information about managing cookies here. 
4. Secure it. Here's how you can better secure your information:

• Use strong, unique passwords and consider a password manager.
• Turn on multi-factor / two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Don't be hooked - be able to spot and avoid phishing attempts (including via text or phone).
• Freeze or put blocks on your credit (as well as those of your dependents), and  consider credit monitoring services.
• Manage your "cookies" on your internet browsers and on webpages.
• Know what other tools your mobile devices or other services offer that can provide additional privacy or security options (e.g., on iOS, gmail and others you can "hide" your name and email address)

And remember to celebrate your favorite privacy professionals and enthusiasts on January 28th. ‍

This holiday season, Americans will consume around 87 million turkeys. 

And after they gobble down their turkey dinners, they might experience post-meal sleepiness. Often, people blame turkey as the cause.

• But does turkey actually make you tired? 
• Why?
• What's in it?
• And what other factors are at play?

In today’s article, we’ll break down the health myth of whether eating turkey really makes you tired. 

Why does turkey make you sleepy?

‍Theories say the sleepiness that comes after eating turkey is caused by an essential amino acid called L-tryptophan—or just tryptophan. 

Turkey has tryptophan—but many other foods do too, including: 

• Milk
• Chicken
• Egg whites 

So do these meals cause drowsiness? It’s possible—but unlikely.

When tryptophan is consumed, the amino acid travels from the digestive system to the brain. There, the brain turns tryptophan into a chemical known as serotonin. 

‍Serotonin plays many roles in the healthy function of our body. One of those roles is regulating sleep. 

‍So does tryptophan in turkey cause drowsiness?

It can—but scientists learned that tryptophan can only make us tired if it’s ingested on its own. And just like the protein found in milk, chicken, and egg whites—the protein in turkey contains several amino acids. 

For tryptophan to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and produce serotonin (the hormone that regulates sleep), it first has to compete with the other amino acids in turkey. The BBB helps keep our brains safe by tightly regulating what can cross into the brain—acting like the security checkpoint at an airport. Even molecules that aren’t harmful, like tryptophan, have to compete with each other to gain access. This slows the process down and means not everything gets through.

‍So what does this all mean?

‍Turkey itself may not cause sleepiness. ‍

Other factors that may cause fatigue

If tryptophan isn’t what’s making you sleepy after a turkey dinner, what is?

‍Researchers believe this drowsiness may be a result of increased blood flow to the stomach to help digest a big meal. When more blood is sent to your stomach, there’s less blood left for the brain and the rest of the body—which may lead to tiredness. 

When we overeat, the digestive process takes up even more of our energy.

‍Research also suggests, high-fat and high-carb meals—like a turkey dinner—may produce sleepiness after eating. 

High-glycemic-index (HGI) meals may also make us fall asleep faster. HGI foods, like potatoes, baked goods, and sugar-containing beverages, create a quick spike in blood sugar (blood glucose) and insulin. 

When eating high-glycemic foods, it’s normal to feel a surge of energy as glucose pours into the blood. The body will then produce insulin to metabolize—or break down—the glucose. This insulin rush can deplete blood glucose within a few hours, and if it drops too suddenly, it can create feelings of exhaustion. 

Another thing that can make you sleepy after consuming it? Alcohol, which is often served on festive holidays. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, which slows down brain activity, and can make you fall asleep faster than usual.

In short, a turkey dinner serves up plenty of ways to make you sleepy—turkey shouldn’t get all the blame.

How to avoid drowsiness after your turkey dinner

Despite all these forces working to make you sleepy this holiday, there are steps you can take to avoid feeling drowsy:

• Control your portion sizes. If you fill your plate to the brim, it’s easy to overeat. Overeating can cause your digestion system to require extra energy as it increases blood flow to the stomach—leading to feelings of drowsiness. 
• Get enough sleep. If you’re already tired, it’s going to be even harder to stay awake after a big meal. Research also suggests that poor sleep increases unhealthy food choices and overeating.
• Limit your alcohol intake. By limiting or completely avoiding alcohol you can keep your brain activity in a normal state, which will help you stay awake longer after your holiday meal.
• Exercise regularly. By exercising regularly you can boost your overall energy. Exercise can help your cardiovascular system work more efficiently—improving the health of your lungs and heart. 
• Create a better sleep environment.  Your sleep environment plays a huge role in how rested you feel. Try reducing the light and sound in your bedroom, and keep your room temperature at a comfortable range—usually around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Take your time and stop eating once you’re full. This helps the digestive process keep up—and avoid going into overdrive. This means you’ll avoid using all your energy to break down your food.  

Does eating turkey really make you tired?

It’s not entirely clear if turkey itself is the main reason we experience drowsiness after a meal—or if it mistakenly gets the blame.

The amino acid tryptophan plays a role in activating brain chemicals that regulate sleep. But it may have to compete with the other amino acids in turkey that are also trying to break through the blood-brain barrier. And because it’s hard to isolate this amino acid from the other amino acids in turkey, it’s not clear how much of a role tryptophan plays on its own in post-holiday meal sleepiness.

Other factors like overeating, alcohol, and high-fat and high-carb meals may be the reason for feelings of drowsiness after a turkey meal. 

In any case, there are steps you can take to avoid feeling tired. 

By focusing on lifestyle and eating habits, you can avoid the unnecessary drowsiness that comes from a big turkey dinner. 

If you learned anything new, be sure to stay tuned for more mythbusting articles—we still have many more to cover!

You may have heard of Movember, the month when men grow their facial hair in solidarity with men’s health issues, like testicular and prostate cancer. The trend has taken hold across the world and even generated its own spinoffs, like “No-Shave November.”

‍Movember started in Australia as a grassroots movement and began to become widespread in the early 2000s. Since then, the campaign has only grown, so you’re sure to see plenty of men rocking facial hair this November. 

Let’s take a moment to discuss what you can do to take care of your health, raise awareness, and show your support for men’s health issues. 

What Movember Is All About 

Movember is all about men’s health. Rather than focusing on one specific medical concern, Movember encourages us to spread awareness of the many health risks specific to men. Mental health is a huge focus during the month, as studies have shown that men are statistically far less likely to seek help for things like anxiety and depression. 

Men seek treatment less frequently for a variety of medical conditions, largely due to a culture that encourages men to be stoic and deal with things themselves. Regular checkups and cancer screenings are more likely to be put off or skipped entirely by men. We’re here to encourage guys to take charge of their health and break the cycle of stigmas that prevent so many men from properly taking care of themselves. 

Mental Health 

Mental health is a major issue for men, not just in the US but across the world. In the United States, men are 3.6x more likely to die by suicide than women. There are many reasons for this, but a lot of it comes down to a lack of comfort in discussing emotions. While we’ve made great progress, some men still feel ashamed of talking about their emotions, especially with a medical professional like a therapist or psychiatrist.  

 As a society, it’s important to treat mental health conditions, like anxiety and depression, with the same care and empathy we treat physical ailments. 

‍Here are some common signs of depression that men should look out for: 

• Anger and irritability—especially if it’s atypical behavior
• Insomnia and trouble sleeping 
• Increased intake/abuse of alcohol and drugs 
• Withdrawing from friends and loved ones 

It’s important to remember that many of these signs can appear before the person is consciously aware that they’re suffering from depression. While these symptoms aren’t unique to men, it’s important to remember that men are less likely to openly talk about what they’re experiencing. That’s why it’s important to be an active listener and to try and pick up on nonverbal cues from the people you care about. If you think someone is struggling, encourage them to talk to a professional, and offer a safe and non-judgemental ear. 

If you or someone you know is in in crisis, reach out to the suicide & crisis lifeline by calling or texting 988 for help.

Sexual Functioning 

One area where men feel a lot of stigma is in their sexual function. As men age, their levels of testosterone naturally tend to drop. This decrease can result in lower libido, delayed orgasm, and even erectile dysfunction (ED).

Though it’s completely normal for your interest in sex to decrease a little as you age, major changes or difficulties are often a source of great anxiety and embarrassment. For example, even though erectile dysfunction is very common and usually highly treatable, available data indicates about 39% of men with ED never discuss it with their doctor. Fortunately, medical professionals can offer various solutions. Whether you try simple lifestyle changes or medication, or look into a more advanced treatment like hormone therapy, it’s likely there’s a solution to fit the need. Lack of communication is often the biggest hurdle, so talk to your doctor if you’re struggling and encourage others to break the stigmas also. 

Physical Health 

It isn’t just mental health that men are less likely to seek help for. Physical ailments are also reported by men at a lower rate than women. The reasons are essentially the same. With a culture that celebrates physical strength and ‘working through the pain,’ men are more likely to feel like they need to simply push through it. The statistics bear this out, as a recent survey showed that less than half (46%) of men had a routine checkup in 2022. 

It’s imperative for men to get routine checkups, especially as they age. Prostate cancer is the third leading cause of death in men, and testicular cancer can be life-threatening and incredibly life-altering, if not caught early. The good news is that both of these cancers are generally fairly treatable when caught in time. Help the men in your life by encouraging them to get routine physicals, learn to perform a self-exam for signs of testicular cancer, and if you have a loved one that isn’t taking care of their health the way they should—talk to them. 

Movember is all about men’s health. From mental health to cancer, it’s time for men to break the cycle of silence. Talking about health concerns, be it anxiety, physical health, or sexual function, is crucial to living a long, healthy, and happy life. Whether you’re a man hoping to improve your overall health or you want to encourage a loved one to do the same, we hope this article has provided you with some helpful facts and resources. Happy Movember, and good health to all! 

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Mesothelioma Awareness Day is September 26th - a time dedicated to spreading knowledge, education, and support to those diagnosed or at-risk for asbestos-related cancer.

For decades, products containing asbestos were used across the U.S. military for its low cost and fire-resistant qualities. Once its harmful health effects became known, asbestos use decreased, but it’s still found in many products and materials in use today. Studies show that asbestos exposure is still a problem, even after the widespread ban enacted over 40 years ago. 

To support our military community, in today’s article we’re breaking down everything you need to know about this service-related condition and the steps you can take to help spread awareness about veterans and mesothelioma.

What is mesothelioma? 

Who is at risk? 

What symptoms should you look out for? And what type of support options are available? 

Keep reading to learn more.

What is Mesothelioma? What causes it?

Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer found in the lining of the organs - often in the lungs or abdomen, but can also be found around the heart or testicular area. Unfortunately, people with this form of cancer will not show symptoms until the cancer has progressed.

Because this cancer has a period of up to 50 years before the first onset of symptoms, the average life expectancy after prognosis dwindles to between 18 – 31 months.

Mesothelioma develops after being exposed to a small, fibrous mineral called asbestos. When inhaled or swallowed, these tiny fibers attach to the lining of the body’s organs called the mesothelium. Depending on where the mesothelioma develops, will determine the type of mesothelioma that’s diagnosed.

Who is at risk?

Anybody who has ever been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Large quantities of asbestos products and materials were used in every branch of the military. Today, 30% of people diagnosed with mesothelioma are veterans.

Women in the military community are particularly at risk. As our recent highlight shows, women tend to delay their own healthcare due to childcare issues, distance, and scheduling conflicts.

But veterans aren’t the only ones at risk of mesothelioma - family members of veterans could also have been exposed to asbestos through the clothing, body, and hair of a person close to them. Even the simple act of washing a contaminated uniform could have put a person at risk.

Alongside the military community, industrial workers in construction or shipbuilding, firefighters, miners, and mechanics are equally at risk of asbestos exposure and developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms and diagnoses

General symptoms of mesothelioma cancer can include:

• Chest pain or abdominal pain
• Dry cough
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Weight loss

Symptoms of mesothelioma appear once the cancer forms tumors and starts to spread. However, symptoms are commonly misinterpreted as other diseases - making it harder to determine the correct prognosis.

Tracking your health and being aware of the risks and symptoms of asbestos-related mesothelioma is the key to early detection and positive health outcomes.

Treatment & support options

One of the best ways to improve your health outcome is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet, when able. A combination of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, or surgery are common treatment plan options.

Experimental therapies are available to qualifying patients through clinical trials. Alternative medicines are another path to consider.

Alternative medicines include:

• Chiropractic cancer treatment
• Medical marijuana
• Mind-body therapies
• Nutritional and herbal supplements

If you, or a loved one, are a veteran with mesothelioma or have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, there are several resources available.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers resources for veterans with mesothelioma such as disability, pension, and healthcare benefits. Veteran dependents can also seek special compensation benefits if a veteran passes away from a disease related to asbestos exposure.

Conclusion

For veterans, every day should be mesothelioma awareness day. Being proactive, knowing the risks, and tracking your health is the best way to help prevent mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Do your part and tell your friends, colleagues, and loved ones about mesothelioma to keep others safe from asbestos cancers and disease.

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Flu Trends from Down Under

Flu season is picking up in Australia, with an earlier uptick in infections than previous years. In the graph below, we can see that flu cases in Australia typically peak in June, July, and August. The solid red line for 2022 shows that cases actually started peaking in late April—two months earlier than usual.

How can you protect yourself and others this fall?

It may not be flu season yet in the Northern Hemisphere, but it’s never too early to learn about flu prevention. According to the CDC, receiving a yearly flu vaccine is the most important step in protecting against flu viruses. Other preventive measures include avoiding close contact with people who are sick, covering coughs and sneezes, disinfecting surfaces that may be contaminated with viruses, and washing your hands with soap and water.

In the United States alone, over 300 million people have a smartphone. For many, that increase in connectivity through technology has led to becoming disconnected from the outdoors.

During National Great Outdoors Month, we look to celebrate and explore our surroundings and discover the many beautiful sights our world has to offer. 

‍What activities can you take part in to embrace the outdoors?

‍Where should you explore? 

‍How should you celebrate? 

Besides spending time outside, how else can we take part in helping our environment and the many communities that thrive outdoors?

In today’s article, we’ll be touching on the many activities and places you can visit to celebrate Great Outdoors Month. Keep reading to discover more!

What physical activities can we take part in?

There’s no shortage of activities to do outdoors.

From rock climbing to canoeing, with such a diverse landscape across the country, there’s bound to be some kind of activity to enjoy.

We know there are many benefits from exercise itself. It can help control weight, improve mood, and reduce the risk of heart diseases. But combining exercise with spending time outdoors could have a profound impact on your well-being.

But physical activity isn’t the only way to reap the benefits of spending time outside. Just being out in nature is good for us. 

In fact, spending time outdoors may actually reduce stress. 

‍While there are many different outdoor activities you can take part in, some ideas include:‍

• Cycling - this is a great cardio workout that puts minimal stress on our joints yet challenges core muscles and legs. 
• Hiking - explore your local area or a national park while improving your cardiovascular health and decreasing stress.
• Paddling - spending time on the water by kayaking or canoeing with others is a great way to enjoy the weather while working your muscles and cardiovascular system, and it may even help improve stability.
• Rock climbing - challenge your abilities and enjoy the natural landscapes by rock climbing.
• Walking - physical activity doesn’t have to be strenuous to be beneficial. Take a walk in your local park, or a stroll through a zoo or nature preserve.
• Garden - gardening is a great way to reap the benefits of being outside and get some mild exercise. 
• Have a picnic or BBQ - eating outside feels good. Have a picnic with friends or family or invite them over for a BBQ and share the benefits of being together and being outside. 

How to celebrate great outdoors month and where to explore

Getting out and active is a great way to celebrate this June, but there are other ways you can  celebrate Great Outdoors Month by contributing and helping the environment and local communities.

Here are a few ideas:

• Plan a trip - whether traveling solo or with friends and family, planning a trip is a great way to celebrate. 
• Spend some time outdoors - You don’t have to go on a big trip to celebrate this month. Go to the local park and throw the ball around or go on a small hiking trip to explore your local area.
• Visit national parks - with a total of 63 national parks in the United States there are lots of landscapes to explore. From the Grand Canyon in Arizona to Yosemite National Park in California, America has plenty of national parks to discover.
• Conserve the outdoors - Help celebrate this month by cleaning up. Participate with local groups hosting events or host your own. You can even go out and clean up the trails, parks, and other local spots in your area.
• Volunteer as a summer camp counselor - spend some time helping others as a counselor at a summer camp. ‍

Conclusion - Great Outdoors Month

Great Outdoors Month is a time to embrace the surrounding landscapes and nature. 

Whether you decide to take a day trip fishing or to explore a national park you’ve never been to, we encourage you to get outdoors and find some time to get active and enjoy all the beautiful landscapes our country has to offer.

Make sure to share this with a friend or family member who you’d like to take with you on a trip or adventure during Great Outdoors Month!

What Flu Season in the Southern Hemisphere Can Tell Us

Although flu season in the Northern Hemisphere won’t begin until fall, it’s already underway in the Southern Hemisphere.

In fact, seasonal flu activity is spiking earlier this year when compared to the previous five years! In the graph below, see how the spike in cases at the beginning of 2022 is higher than most spikes during peak flu season in previous years.

Summer Travel Tips for Flu Prevention

Planning to go to the southern hemisphere this summer? The CDC shares these tips to protect yourself and others: 

• Keep up to date on flu trends wherever you’re traveling 
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough
• Get a yearly flu vaccine 
• If you are sick with flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, and fatigue), consider staying home

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