Prostate Cancer + Original Articles

For every meal and even snacks, investigate the very best choices for the men in your life. Research shows the right diet can help men fight heart disease (the number one killer of men over 35) as well as other top killers including prostate and colon cancer which claim the lives of far too many brothers, fathers, sons, and husbands. Today, thanks to what we know about nutrition, it's possible to extend your life by adding more of the right foods to your diet and eating less of the wrong ones.

Almost any tumor can metastasize, although not all cancers do. When a cancer spreads, or metastasizes, it is often more aggressive than the primary tumor. The primary benefit of cancer screening is to catch cancers before they spread, or metastasize, and become more difficult to treat. Almost any tumor can metastasize, although not all cancers do. For example, according to the Metastatic Breast Cancer Network, in developed countries such as the U.

It's not really a knife, but this treatment tool is showing great promise with the most difficult-to-reach cancers. Some cancers are especially difficult to treat because of their proximity to critical body parts. Surgery and radiation, in particular, may damage healthy tissue close to the tumor. A few oncologists are treating these types of cancer with the NanoKnife, a new technology, which is not really a knife at all.

Many of the health risks that men face today can be successfully treated if caught early. Here's a look at men's health by the numbers. Life in the 21st century isn't easy. Among the stressors: a lack-luster economy, rising health care and college tuition costs, companies that are constantly downsizing and housing that isn't affordable. Emotionally and physically, men are uniquely impacted by the stress.

If detected early, many forms of cancer can be successfully treated. Here's a look at the disease by the numbers. The incidence of cancer is growing worldwide. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) predicts more than 1.6 million new cases of cancer in the U.S. in 2012. In addition to cancer's physical and emotional toll, it causes a significant financial burden on patients and society.

Men can prevent health risks by paying attention to changes in their body and seeing their doctor when something isn't right. When it comes to scheduling doctor visits, some men are notorious procrastinators. But this can be risky. Routine preventive care can find diseases in the early stages when there are more options for treatment and better chances of treating the issue.

It not only feels good, it’s good for you too! What if someone told you that there was a pleasurable "treatment" that would relieve stress, give you more energy, boost your mood, act as a sleep aid, and keep you free of sexually transmitted diseases? You might wonder what wondrous pill you'd have to pop in order to get all these life-enhancing benefits.

When it comes to a healthy body, the number on the scale may not be telling the whole story. What's your pefect body weight? 125 pounds? 150 pounds? Anything under 200? The truth is, a healthy body is defined by much more than what size jeans you wear, how you look in a bathing suit, or even what the scale says. For example, did you know that...

Thanks to TV ads erectile dysfunction is no longer under the covers. Still, misconceptions remain. Learn what causes impotence and ways to reduce your risk. Between 15 and 30 million men suffer from some form of impotence or erectile dysfunction. At first glance this range seems wide, but it's due to the fact that some health professionals use the term "impotence" to include a host of sexual problems in men—not just the total inability to have or maintain an erection.

According to the American Urological Association, there are effective, life-extending treatments available today for men with advanced prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men (only lung cancer claims more lives). In 2010, the American Cancer Society reported 217,730 new cases of prostate cancer with 32,050 men dying from it. Prostate cancer is a urologic disease that approximately one in six men over the age of 50 will be diagnosed with in his lifetime.

When it comes to prostate cancer, does taking vitamin E help or hurt your chances of dodging the disease? A new study provides some answers. One large federal study investigated the role of vitamin E on prostate cancer. Published in the journal of American Medical Association, it found that men who take vitamin E may be increasing their risk for prostate cancer by up to 17 percent. Lead researcher, Eric A.

This drug seems to offer relief from pain, nausea and vomiting, anxiety, and loss of appetite, which are common side effects of cancer and cancer treatments. And there are other possible benefits as well. Because cannabis is illegal, scientific research on the medical benefits for cancer and other serious illnesses is limited, and much of the evidence is anecdotal. However, there seems to be a growing body of data (and citizen demand) to support legalizing marijuana for medical purposes.

These simple tests can help detect common health conditions before they escalate. In today's busy world, medical exams often take a backseat to work, family, and other commitments. In fact, 28 percent of women don't go for their annual Pap tests, and only 32 percent know their cholesterol numbers. Could this behavior be compromising your health? Here's a list of five exams you can't afford to put off another day.

Keeping up with all your health screenings may seem daunting, but this list can get you started on a year of healthy living. In a perfect world, we'd all know exactly when we need to get our important health screenings. In reality, however, these checkups and exams often take a backseat to work, family, and other obligations. Fortunately, you can get on the right track by making a simple phone call to your doctor.

Prostate problems are common, especially in older men. Fortunately, many of these issues can be prevented through simple lifestyle changes. Here's a rundown of five practical tips for prostate health. This small gland can be a source of big medical problems, especially in older men. Most, like inflammation and infection, are benign conditions, but all men are at risk of developing prostate cancer, and the risk increases with age. Here are some prostate-protective tips to share with the men in your life.

Screening is the process of looking for cancer in people who have no symptoms. Although it could potentially catch the disease in its early stages, it could also bring on unnecessary worry and angst. Learn more about the pros and cons of this controversial topic. Should you be tested for cancer? Maybe not, says H. Gilbert Welch, M.D., author of the same titled book. Welch is one of a growing group of health professionals urging individuals to make thoughtful decisions about cancer screenings. He says one way to become sick is to start looking for something to be wrong.

Understanding terms like "disease-free survival rate," "progression-free survival rate," and "5-year survival rate" can help you evaluate treatment options and assess the reliability of the information you obtain. Trying to make sense of cancer statistics can be overwhelming. Adding to the confusion, many media reports lack context, and even reputable journals can promote misleading and overblown claims about cancer treatment. Understanding statistics, however, can help you evaluate treatment options and assess the reliability of the information you obtain.

Sorry grill-lovers, there's some bad news: New research supports the connection between consuming grilled, well-done red meat and an aggressive type of prostate cancer. In the study, lead author John Witte, PhD, professor at UCSF medical school and his colleagues compared about 500 men who recently had been diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer to a cancer-free group. "Each participant filled out detailed questionnaires about their diets over the previous year, including the amount of meat they ate and how it was prepared," Witte wrote in an email.

If you and your partner don't have the same sexual appetite, worry not. We'll provide the insight to diagnose the issue and 9 exciting ways to get you seeing eye-to-eye. Getting older can take a toll on your sexual appetite. And if you're in a relationship where you and your partner have different sexual needs, frustration and tension can result. Often, it's the woman who experiences a diminished sexual appetite, experts say.

When it comes to getting regular checkups, men have a poor track record. But many health conditions can be better treated if detected early. Here's a list of the four deadliest cancers that affect men, plus useful tips on how to recognize the early signs. Men are notoriously bad guardians of their health. A survey of more than 2,000 men conducted by the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) in 2007 revealed that 55 percent of all men have not seen their primary care physician for a physical exam within the past year.

While cancer is one of the leading causes of death in both men and women, there are particular factors unique to men that make them more susceptible of ending the battle against cancer sooner than in women. Cancer—especially late in life—can be deadly, but a new report from the U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI) reveals that the often precarious disease prefers men. Lead researcher Michael B. Cook, an epidemiologist with NCI explains that differences in "carcinogenic exposures, metabolism, and susceptibility," seem to be the cause.

While the quickest way to a man's heart may be through his stomach, the easiest way to prevent chronic conditions and improve longevity is through his diet. These 10 foods are particularly beneficial for those with the Y-chromosome. While the quickest way to a man's heart may be through his stomach, the easiest way to prevent chronic conditions and improve longevity is through his diet. Following a balanced diet that is low in fat and simple carbohydrates and high in lean protein and whole grains is beneficial for both sexes; however, these 10 foods are particularly beneficial for those with the Y-chromosome.

You've heard of the digestive and nutritional benefits of flaxseed, now learn how you can incorporate this potent grain into your daily menu. Flaxseed is a grain that is rich in soluble fiber. It's also a plant source of phytochemicals called lignans and omega-3 fatty acids—a powerful antioxidant. Flaxseed has been commonly used as a laxative to improve constipation and promote digestive health.

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men. In 2011, almost 241,000 men will be diagnosed with this disease. Before you make decisions about treatment, it's important to understand your options. Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men. In 2011, almost 241,000 men will be diagnosed with this disease. Before you make decisions about treatment, it's important to understand your options. Standard Treatment When deciding which treatment is best, oncologists consider several factors: your age, the stage of cancer at diagnosis, whether it's causing symptoms, your overall health, and your personal preferences.

You know it does, but do you know how and why smoking is one of the greatest health risks out there? Understanding what's behind the risk might help you or a loved one give them up for good. There's no question about it: smoking causes cancer. In fact, smoking is responsible for almost 90 percent of all lung cancer deaths, and lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. Roughly 22 percent of cancer deaths in women, and 45 percent in men, are directly attributable to personal smoking habits.

Many men may find this to be startling news, but breast cancer doesn't happen only in women. Although men don't have breasts in the sense that women do, they do have breast tissue and enough of it to make breast cancer possible. Many men may find this to be startling news, but breast cancer doesn't happen only in women. Although men don't have breasts in the sense that women do, they do have breast tissue and enough of it to make breast cancer possible. In men, breast tissue is primarily composed of tubular passages called ducts which are located under the nipple and in the areas surrounding it.

When you have prostate cancer, you want to get better as quickly as possible. Fortunately, you can improve your chances of a successful recovery. When you have prostate cancer, you want to get better as quickly as possible. Fortunately, you can improve your chances of a successful recovery. Here are some four areas of focus: 1. Healthy diet. Diet and cancer go hand in hand. For example, high-fat diets increase your risk for prostate cancer recurrence.

Over the last few years, some hair salons and barbers have been dispensing more than just trims. They've been giving out health advice, too. In some communities, particularly where many African-Americans live, the local salon or barber shop is a cultural institution. Men and women alike visit these social hubs on a regular basis not only to get their hair done but to connect with friends and neighbors in a familiar, comforting environment where they can talk, share, vent, and just be themselves.

Keeping safe from toxic chemicals is no easy task these days. Here are practical steps you can take to minimize exposure. Keeping children safe from toxic chemicals is no easy task these days. The current offender: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic chemical used to make plastic clear and hard. It also keeps bacteria from contaminating foods and prevents cans from rusting.

Numerous studies have linked the consumption of red meat (beef, pork, and lamb) and processed meats to an increased risk for a wide range of cancers. Backyard barbeques are the quintessential American summertime activity. They're a great way to spend time with family and friends and enjoy fresh, seasonal food cooked outdoors. However, it pays to be cautious when grilling meat. Scientists have linked barbequed meat to an increased risk of developing cancer.

Cancer scientists are slowly but surely making potentially promising discoveries in stem cell research and the breakthroughs could be significant. Cancer scientists are slowly but surely making potentially promising discoveries in stem cell research. Stem Cells 101 Stem cells are immature body cells. They make identical copies of themselves and mature into different tissue types to replace aging or damaged cells.

Although prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men (lung cancer being number one) it's not clear if the benefits of screening outweigh the risks of treating what is generally a slow-growing and treatable (in the early stages) cancer. Although prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men (lung cancer being number one) it's not clear if the benefits of screening outweigh the risks of treating what is generally a slow-growing and treatable (in the early stages) cancer.

The Web offers many options for staying connected and keeping loved ones updated on your or your family member's health issues. These methods are fast, easy, and efficient, and you'll know your support network is right there with you as a part of your journey. When Jennifer Wilson Cooper learned she had ovarian cancer, she launched a blog as a way to share her story with others and to make it easy for friends and family to keep up with her progress. Little did she know she'd quickly-and dramatically-expand her circle of friends (you can follow Cooper's journey on her blog, Four Seeds, which is featured in Quality Health's free cancer newsletter and on the QualityHealth.

Many people only discover they have cancer when something turns up on an x-ray, ultrasound, or other routine test. Unfortunately, the disease may then be in its later (and more difficult-to-treat) stages. See what people are saying about this article on our Facebook page! Many people only discover they have cancer when something turns up on an x-ray, ultrasound, or other routine test. Unfortunately, the disease may then be in its later (and more difficult-to-treat) stages.

If you're wondering whether cancer rates are going up or down, here are a few highlights from the most recent update from the National Cancer Institute. In 2001, the National Cancer Institute began producing the NCI Cancer Trends Progress Report. Since then, it has updated it annually. The Report gives us an overall summary on the incidence and mortality of different types of cancer. So, if you're wondering whether cancer rates are going up or down, here are a few highlights from the most recent update (2009/2010)  Death rates for prostate, lung, breast, and colorectal cancers (the four most common types) continue to decline.

The numbers and letters that describe cancer can sound mysterious and scary. Understanding how they are determined can help. When your physician diagnoses you with cancer, she then needs to determine the stage of your cancer. For patients, the numbers and letters that describe cancer can sound mysterious and scary. Here is a brief overview of cancer staging. What is Cancer Staging? Staging describes how advanced your disease is and whether it has spread beyond the initial tumor site.

While cancer researchers have often come to conflicting conclusions in their studies, to date the results are encouraging. The humble and ubiquitous aspirin may play an important role in cancer prevention and treatment. In a review of 10 studies of aspirin and prostate cancer, aspirin reduced the risk of prostate cancer in eight studies; while two showed an increased risk.

Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a very scary condition that can be fatal. What do you need to know about DVT to ensure it doesn't happen to you? Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a very scary condition that can come on without warning. It involves the formation of a clot in the lower body, usually the legs. If this clot dislodges and becomes stuck in the heart or lungs, it can be fatal. Immediate treatment is crucial for survival.

Vitamins keep your body in top working order. And while everyone needs a variety of vitamins, there are a few nutrients that are particularly necessary for men. Not all nutritional needs are equal between women and men. To give the man in your life a healthy advantage, make sure he eats a colorful variety of healthy foods to get enough of these essential vitamins: Vitamin C Taking C in large doses can help men fight urinary-tract infections.

Despite what others may tell you, coffee has been found to have some serious health benefits. Despite what others may tell you, coffee has been found to have some serious health benefits. Your mother told you it would stunt your growth. Your dentist tells you it stains your teeth. With so many rumors surrounding coffee, it's hard to not feel guilty if you take part in more than your cup-a-day.

High blood pressure, diabetes, and low testosterone are just a few contributing factors of ED. If you've experienced a problem having an erection, you may have simply ignored it out of embarrassment. After all, it's not exactly the type of issue you want to bring up with your doctor, and even if you did, you may well wonder whether anything can be done about it.

The key to effective supplementation is to know what you're taking and why you're taking it. Whether you're trying to get fit or to enhance your sex life, taking supplements can be of great help. According to the Council for Responsible Nutrition, 53 percent of American adults take a multivitamin supplements, and 50 percent of adult men 18 and older take a multivitamin.

Steps you can take to help ensure your health well into your golden years. Any guy will tell you that once your car hits a certain mileage, it's wise to take it in for a tune-up. Well, the same goes for your body. Much like in your teens, your body goes through some significant changes when you hit your 40s and 50s. Here, we've outlined seven steps you can take to help ensure your health well into your golden years.

Produced naturally by our bodies, the hormone DHEA has been touted as the key to longevity. And some people have begun to supplement their bodies' own DHEA with a synthetic version of the hormone. But are they effective? You may have heard that a hormone called dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is the key to longevity. Produced naturally by our bodies, it facilities the production of other hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. But some people, looking for the secret to agelessness, are supplementing their bodies' own DHEA with a synthetic version of the hormone, sold in this country in pill form.

This supplement has a big reputation, but what do the studies show when it comes to cancer prevention? Fish oil is known for purported cancer prevention properties. One study showed that DHA (decosahexaenoic acid—one of the fatty acids in fish oil) stopped or reversed tumor growth of neuroblastoma, a deadly tumor that affects children. Six to nine percent of childhood cancers are neuroblastomas.

Most men are more likely to get a tune-up for their car than they are a checkup for themselves. Don't let health take a backseat. Here, six health tests every man should have. Most men are more likely to get a tune-up for their car than they are a checkup for themselves. While the stereotype may be true in many instances, those who go to the doctor for regular visits tend to have longer, healthier lives.  Here, six tests every male should undergo so you don't let your health take a backseat.

Although the recommended testing procedure for prostate cancer is controversial, the truth is that prostate health should be of top priority for men ages 45 and older. Although the recommended testing procedure for prostate cancer is controversial, the truth is that prostate health should be of top priority for men ages 45 and older.  In order to prevent the development of prostate cancer, it is recommended that men undergo one of two tests: the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test or the digital rectal exam (DRE).

Although it may seem to be a odd symptom, unusual sweating may be a sign of cancer. The act of sweating is our body's built-in cooling system. We normally sweat when we're in a warm environment or are exercising. When we have a fever due to the flu or other illness, it may also trigger sweating. And, as many women will attest, sweating and hot flashes are a frequent—and unwelcome—side effect of menopause.

Men who have asthma are less likely to be diagnosed with common forms of cancer than their healthier counterparts. Common asthmatic symptoms such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, and chest discomfort can play an important role to ward off cancer. If you're a male with asthma, did you know that this condition could actually be good for your health? Researchers now believe this is true—at least when it comes to reducing your risk of being diagnosed with some of the most common forms of cancers.

A positive result on a cancer screening test means you have cancer, right? Not necessarily. A positive result on a cancer screening test means you have cancer, right? Not necessarily. The incidence of inaccurate screening results is more prevalent than you might realize. Before your next cancer screening, here's what you need to know about one type of result: the false positive.

Studies suggest the mango may be effective in preventing the growth of colon cancer cells. An added benefit? It may ward off breast cancer, too. It may be time to add mangoes to the growing list of superfoods. This delicious tropical fruit has long been known for its high fiber, potassium, and vitamin C content. Now, a laboratory study is showing that it may also be effective in preventing or killing certain colon and breast cancer cells.

With all the emphasis on early cancer screening, it’s no surprise that at-home screening tests are becoming widely available. However, just because you can screen yourself for some cancers, does that mean you should? With all the emphasis on early cancer screening, it's no surprise that at-home screening tests are becoming widely available. However, just because you can screen yourself for some cancers, does that mean you should? Ways to Self-Screen Currently you can purchase screening tests for breast, prostate, colorectal, and urinary cancer at your local pharmacy or on the Internet.

Physicians routinely use the simple urine test to monitor patients’ health and diagnose disease. Recently, however, scientists have discovered that urine tests may be helpful in detecting cancer as well. Physicians routinely use the simple urine test to monitor patients' health and diagnose disease. Recently, however, scientists have discovered that urine tests may be helpful in detecting cancer as well. A urine test reveals physiological changes in the body that may indicate health problem and can serve as an early warning system in patients who don't have symptoms.

Researchers have found that milk thistle may prevent or reduce chemotherapy-induced liver damage. While chemotherapy is a critical component of cancer treatment for many patients, the medications are very powerful and often cause side effects, including liver damage. Currently there is no remedy for treating liver toxicity. However, researchers have found that the herb Milk Thistle may prevent or reduce chemotherapy-induced liver damage.

Sex has innumerable benefits, and growing evidence is proving that improved heart health is one of them. While evidence has been building about the overall health benefits of sexual activity, including easing depression and stress and relieving pain, a new study has found that men who have sex twice a week have a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. ...

If you're experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, you may unnecessarily jump to the conclusion that you have prostate cancer. That said, BPH could be a warning sign of things to come. Men who have an enlarged prostate gland or difficulty urinating may may jump to the conclusion they have prostate cancer. There are other conditions other than cancer, however, that may cause these symptoms. They also require medical attention. Normal prostate changes Two common changes in a man's prostate are part of the normal aging process: prostatis and BPH.

In an ideal world, we could prevent cancer instead of just treating it after the fact. For men, the possibility of one or more vaccines for preventing prostate cancer is looming large. Numerous prostate cancer vaccines are in development and in various stages of clinical trials. A clinical trial is a rigorous scientific study of a potential therapy using human subjects. Clinical trials begin after scientists have accumulated enough data in lab studies to believe the therapy will be effective and not cause undue harm.

If you're diagnosed with prostate cancer, there is a lot you'll need to consider. Read on for tips on how to cope with the most common complications. Prostate cancer treatment affects each man differently. Some sail through treatment with few, if any, side effects or complications. Others are may experience a litany of treatment related issues. The good news is that most problems caused by prostate cancer can be managed and often disappear following treatment.

Controversy is brewing about whether routine PSA testing for prostate cancer is beneficial and whether it saves lives. The unanswered question is, do the benefits of testing outweigh the risks of follow up diagnostic procedures and prostate cancer treatment? The PSA tests measures the level of Prostate-Specific Antigen in a man's body. An elevated PSA may indicate prostate cancer, but other conditions also increase PSA levels.

Find out how you can catch prostate cancer before it takes hold. Currently, there are two primary screening tools for prostate cancer: the PSA test and the Digital Rectal Exam. Doctors typically use both tests during an examination. A PSA test is a simple blood test that measures the level of PSA in a man's body.

This simple blood test measures the level of PSA, a protein produced in the prostate, present in a man’s body. The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is one of two primary screening tools for prostate cancer. This simple blood test measures the level of PSA, a protein produced in the prostate, present in a man's body. Men typically have an initial PSA screening at 50, or earlier if there's a family history of prostate cancer.

In some instances, refraining from sex may benefit your love life. Generally, the lack of sex in a relationship signals a problem. "People can rationalize it away, but when couples stop having sex it often means there is conflict," says Dr. Scott Wetzler, a psychologist at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City. "Our sexuality is part of who we are and it's healthy to have sex.

General health problems that put your sexual health at risk — and what you can do about it. Consider this: Thirty to 50 percent of men with diabetes suffer from erectile dysfunction. Men in their 40s who have erectile dysfunction (ED) are twice as likely to develop cardiovascular disease compared to men without ED. These are just a few examples of how your sexual health relates to overall health.

Younger men who are very active sexually seem more prone to prostate cancer. It may seem like a cruel joke, but various studies are finding that the amount of sex you have may influence your prostate cancer risk. Men in their 20s and 30s who have a very active sex life are more likely to get prostate cancer, while men in their 50s who keep up even small levels of sexual activity have lower rates of the cancer.

A few alternative prostate cancer treatments are proving effective in scientific studies, providing men seeking natural remedies for prostate cancer more hope. Prostate cancer is the second most common type of malignancy for men behind skin cancer in statistics held by the American Cancer Society. Researchers have set out to determine whether some alternative prostate cancer treatments, such as DHEA, lycopene and acupuncture, can be effective.

An overview of the most common causes of penis pain and treatment. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) describes penis pain or penile pain as any pain or discomfort in the penis. Pain can range from mild to severe and may affect different areas of the penis and be accompanied by other symptoms such as burning or lesions.

Prostate problems are quite common as you get older, but some problems are more serious than others. Learn about the warning signs of prostate problems and more. The American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that nearly 200,000 men will be diagnosed with cancer this year, and over 27,000 will die from the disease. The prostate changes as you grow older; however, not all prostate problems are malignant. What Is the Prostate? The prostate gland is about the size and shape of a walnut, according to the American Urological Association (AUA).

Numerous studies have confirmed that people who eat nuts several times a week enjoy better heart health and protection from some serious diseases. Nuts, those reliable old standbys for vegetarians and bar patrons, are much en vogue these days. And for good reason. Numerous studies have confirmed that people who eat nuts several times a week enjoy better heart health thanks to nuts' bountiful monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

The next time you’re in the produce aisle or the local farmers’ market, don’t pass the following fruits by. There's a world beyond the same old apples and oranges you've been buying forever. For starters, certain fruits have been shown to lower cholesterol levels and even ward off certain cancers. So, the next time you're in the produce aisle or the local farmers' market, don't pass the following fruits by.

See how far the benefits of this disease-fighting protein can go besides promoting bone health and rich nutrition. Soybeans are legumes, such as peas, beans and lentils. They are one of the world's most important crops. Soybeans are consumed many different ways including edamame (young green soybeans), soy milk, soy nuts, soy yogurt, soy cheese, tempeh, miso, tofu and in a variety of meat substitutes such as veggie burgers.

The word is out — sex can be great for your health in more ways than you can imagine. Looking for the secret to a better quality of life, or longer life? Some of us think the answer lies in a bottle of herbal pills, a better diet, or more aerobic exercise. Few of us would think sex could have the same benefits. But according to research, sex does much more than satisfy desire - it can have a significant impact on your health and increase your lifespan.

Don't cut corners when deciding on this permanent form of birth control. Here's what you need to know about the vasectomy procedure. Approximately 500,000 to 600,000 vasectomy procedures are performed annually in the America. Now sources such as the Cleveland Clinic and The New York Times report that the recession has sparked an increase in the number of vasectomies. The decision to have a vasectomy procedure shouldn't be taken lightly, even though vasectomy reversals are possible.

How are these most feared diseases related? Among the causes of death that threaten individuals 35 and older, heart disease ranks number one, killing about 900,000 American every year. Cancer, responsible for claiming the lives of 550,000 yearly in the U.S., comes in second place. But heart disease and cancer share yet another bond: Ironically, the quest to cure cancer has sometimes given the incidence of heart disease a boost.

Those who stand in the limelight also stand up to—and for—cancer. From First Ladies to top athletes to Hollywood's biggest entertainers-cancer has proven to be an equal-opportunity disease. Rather than retreating from the public eye, however, many have used their star power as a platform to raise awareness and money for cancer research.

Are you at higher risk for cancer because of your genes? Genetic screening determines your risk of developing certain cancers based on inherited genes that, when altered, are associated with cancer. The actual test is just a simple blood test. However, making the decision to be tested, and what to do with the results, is not simple at all.

Reducing your alcohol consumption reduces your risk of developing cancer. In our society, alcohol has taken center stage in so many of our social activities. Occasional alcohol consumption is relatively harmless. However, if you've been imbibing frequently, you may be putting yourself at higher risk for developing cancer. How Does Alcohol Affect Your Risk for Cancer? Researchers suspect alcohol increases cancer risk in several ways—the actual risks vary by type of cancer.

You exercise, eat right, get plenty of sleep, and avoid excess stress. Complete your health puzzle by learning your family's health history. Why is it important to know what maladies your relatives have suffered from? Certain diseases, such as sickle-cell anemia, are inherited, passed down from generation to generation in the form of DNA abnormalities. Others, such as cancer or heart disease, may strike seemingly at random.

While medical advancements are constantly being made, Americans continue to fall behind on some basic health measures. How healthy are you? No, really. Your health goes beyond having the sniffles, an upset stomach, or a strained muscle. What's the state of your overall health and well being? Well, if you're anything like most Americans, it's not great—and it's getting worse as more people are being diagnosed with diseases like diabetes and asthma, are exercising less, and are gaining more weight.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, it's important to know the facts. Read on as we separate fact from fiction. A diagnosis of cancer can be frightening for both patients and their loved ones. But according to experts, many of the fears surrounding the disease are caused by misconceptions about the condition and its treatment. By learning the facts, you can ease your fears, cope with your diagnosis, and manage the disease more effectively.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects up to 30 million American men. From causes and diagnosis to treatment and recovery, we have the facts on this common condition. For years, it was believed that erectile dysfunction (ED), the inability to achieve or maintain an erection during sexual intercourse, was the result of a psychological problem or simply an unfortunate part of the aging process. Men were reluctant to discuss the problem, despite the fact that it affects up to 30 million of them in the United States each year, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

When consumed in moderation, this age-old brew can impart a host of health benefits. One of the oldest and most consumed alcoholic beverages, beer has served many roles since it was first brewed nearly 7,000 years ago. It's been featured in religious ceremonies, praised in literature, and prized for its medicinal properties. What the ancients suspected about the health benefits of beer, modern-day science continues to prove.

Could your state be decreasing your life expectancy? Find out if it's time to move. On average, an American can expect to enjoy about 78 years of life on this planet, according to a report by the United Nations. Factors such as genetic predisposition and lifestyle choices can extend or abbreviate this amount of time, but did you know that the area in which you live can play a part as well? Here, the states with the shortest life expectancies, as determined by the U.

The outlook for people diagnosed with cancer has improved significantly, but when will we find a cure? Virtually everyone will be touched by cancer at some point in their lives, whether through a personal diagnosis or a loved one's struggle with the disease. So when we read magazine articles proclaiming earth-shattering discoveries that will lead to a single, reliable treatment, we want to believe them.

Follow these tips to minimize nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and hair loss. Any cancer patient knows that chemotherapy means two things: a potential cure for cancer and side effects. Thankfully, there are several strategies to help minimize these adverse effects and get you back on your feet. Chemotherapy works by stopping or slowing the growth of cancer cells, which grow and divide quickly.