What is cat allergy? Allergies occur when the immune system mistakes a normally harmless substance, called an allergen, for a harmful one. When the immune system detects an allergen, it triggers an immune reaction in an attempt to protect the body. In the case of cat allergy, the immune system reacts to certain proteins found… Continue reading Cat Allergy
Saturated Fat and Weight
How can dietary fat impact our health? Fats are an important part of a healthy diet: they give you energy, help build your cells, and help you absorb certain vitamins. There are three main types of fats, but not all types are equally healthy. Saturated fats are found primarily in red meat and full-fat dairy… Continue reading Saturated Fat and Weight
Dog Allergy
What is dog allergy? Allergies occur when the immune system mistakes a normally harmless substance, called an allergen, for a harmful one. When the immune system detects an allergen, it triggers an immune reaction in an attempt to protect the body. In the case of dog allergy, the immune system reacts to certain proteins found… Continue reading Dog Allergy
Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers
What are basal and squamous cell skin cancers? Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are the two most common types of skin cancer. They begin in basal cells and squamous cells, which are found in the outer layer of the skin. The most common cause of basal and squamous cell skin cancers… Continue reading Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers
Melanoma
What is melanoma? Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It begins in melanocytes, which are cells that make melanin — the pigment that gives the skin its color. The most common cause of melanoma is too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun (including through clouds and glass windows). In… Continue reading Melanoma
Nearsightedness
What is nearsightedness? Nearsightedness, also called myopia, is a common eye condition that affects distance vision. Most cases of nearsightedness develop in childhood and stabilize in severity by early adulthood. People with nearsightedness tend to see nearby objects clearly, but objects farther away are blurry or unfocused. This occurs when the shape of the eye… Continue reading Nearsightedness
A Family Tree
What is a family tree? A family tree is a genealogy chart that illustrates the descent of individuals, their family members and the structure of how they are related. The chart is arranged from oldest generations moving down to younger generations. How is a family tree used? There are many ways people might use family… Continue reading A Family Tree
Diverticulitis
What is diverticulitis? Especially as people age, weak spots in the intestinal tract give way to form small pouches or sacs. These pouches are called “diverticula.” (One pouch is called a “diverticulum.”) Scientists don’t know exactly why these pouches form, but it is likely due to a combination of factors including weakening of the intestinal… Continue reading Diverticulitis
SLCO1B1 Drug Transport
What is pharmacogenetics (farm-uh-ko-genetics)? Pharmacogenetics is a big word for a simple idea — your genetics can influence how you process certain medications. Pharmacogenetics can help your healthcare provider when choosing an appropriate course of treatment. How does the SLCO1B1 gene impact drug transport in the body? The SLCO1B1 gene contains instructions for making the… Continue reading SLCO1B1 Drug Transport
DPYD Drug Metabolism
What is pharmacogenetics (farm-uh-ko-genetics)? Pharmacogenetics is a big word for a simple idea — your genetics can influence how you process certain medications. Pharmacogenetics can help your healthcare provider when choosing an appropriate course of treatment. How does the DPYD gene impact drug metabolism? The DPYD gene contains instructions for making an enzyme called DPD.… Continue reading DPYD Drug Metabolism
