Health

Summertime is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and soak up the sun. However, the sun’s harsh ultraviolet rays can make spending excessive amounts of time outdoors risky, making it important to take precautions against skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Australia, with over 1,600 new cases of melanoma diagnosed each year. Excessive exposure to UV radiation can damage the DNA in your skin cells, leading to skin cancer. If you’re worried about your risk of developing skin cancer, it’s best to visit your local skin cancer doctor. This article will go over some strategies you can use to arm yourself against skin cancer this summer.

Wear Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or Higher

Selecting a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is one of the best ways you can arm yourself against skin cancer. Sunscreen protects against skin cancer by absorbing, reflecting or scattering the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, not all sunscreens are made equally. It’s important to choose a water-resistant sunscreen and opt for a sunscreen that provides both UVA and UVB protection.

You should never underestimate the weather, either. Even on cloudy days, the UV index can still be high, so it’s important to apply sunscreen even when it’s overcast. You will also need to take your skin type and tone into account, as the most effective sunscreen for combating skin cancer may vary depending on a person’s individual skin type and needs. If you’re not sure which sunscreen is best for your skin, consult with your local skin cancer doctor.

Seek Shade

When outdoors, it’s important to seek shade even if you’re wearing sunscreen. Between the hours of 10am and 4pm, the sun’s rays are at their strongest. So while you may be tempted to spend time out in the sun during these active times, it’s important you do so mindfully and with access to some kind of shaded area. Seeking shade is a preventative measure against skin cancer because it minimises exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Combining the use of sunscreen with seeking shade can go a long way to minimising your risk of developing skin cancer.

Wear Protective Clothing

Wearing protective clothing during summer is also important. While it may seem counterintuitive to wear long sleeves or pants when the temperature is high, covering up can greatly reduce your risk of skin cancer.

Protective clothing can help protect you from skin cancer in two ways:

• Covering up your skin reduces your exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
• Some types of protective clothing, such as shirts and hats with built-in UPF (ultraviolet protection factor), can actually block out UV rays, providing an extra layer of protection.

Clothes such as long-sleeved shirts, pants and wide-brimmed hats are all great protective clothing options for arming yourself against skin cancer.

Get Regular Skin Checks

If you notice anything abnormal on your skin, such as a new mole or a noticeable change in an existing mole, you should make an appointment to see a skin cancer doctor as soon as possible. Early detection is key to the successful treatment of skin cancer. Regular skin cancer checks can help protect you against skin cancer by allowing your doctor to monitor your skin for changes and to catch any potential problems early.

You may need a computed tomography (CT) scan to help diagnose or monitor treatment for various conditions. CT scans show detailed images of your bones, muscles, fat, and blood vessels. They’re often used to examine the brain, spine, chest, abdomen, and pelvis.

After a CT scan, there could be chances that the doctor might suggest surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. In case that happens, do not panic. Some ways can aid in lowering the cost of surgery; all you need is the right medical insurance.

CT scans can be used to detect both cancerous and noncancerous conditions. They’re often used in addition to X-rays and other imaging tests. There are different ways to prepare for a CT scan, including;

1-You May Need to Fast:

You may be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours before your scan. Fasting ensures a clear stomach, which is important for some CT scans, such as those of the abdomen.

2-You May Need to Drink Contrast Material:

You may be asked to drink contrast material if you have a CT scan of your abdomen or pelvis. Contrast material is a liquid that helps the structures in your abdomen or pelvis show up more clearly on the CT images. This helps opacify, or make more visible, the intestines so that they can be more easily viewed on the scan.

3-You May Need to Take a Laxative:

If you’re having a CT scan of your abdomen or pelvis, you may be asked to take a laxative. This ensures that your intestines are empty so they can be more easily viewed on the scan.

4-You May Need an IV:

If you’re having a CT scan with contrast material, you may need an IV. The contrast material is injected into your body through the IV. This helps the structures in your body show up more clearly on the CT images.

You may need a CT scan if you have the following:

Cancer

Most people do not know that CT scans can help diagnose cancer. CT scans can help find tumors in the body. They can also help with stage cancer. This is the process of finding out how far cancer has spread. CT scans can also be used to check if cancer treatment is working.

Infections

CT scans can help find infections in the body. They can also help guide a biopsy needle to the right spot. A biopsy is a procedure where a small tissue sample is taken from the body for testing.

Heart Disease

CT scans can be used to diagnose heart disease. They can also be used to see if you have had a heart attack. A CT scan of the coronary arteries can help find blockages. This is important because blockages can cause a heart attack.

Aortic Aneurysms

An aortic aneurysm is a ballooning of the aorta. The aorta is the large blood vessel that carries blood from your heart to the rest of your body. Aortic aneurysms can rupture and cause internal bleeding. This can be life-threatening. A CT scan can help find aortic aneurysms.

Conclusion

CT scans are a vital tool in diagnosing and treating many conditions. They can help find cancers, infections, and heart disease. CT scans can also help find blockages and aneurysms. You may need a CT scan if you have any of these conditions.

There are days when you don’t feel motivated to hit the gym, even if you are dedicated. You might not have enough energy, or your muscles could be aching from the previous workout. This is where pre-workout supplements come in. You can take the supplements some minutes before the training to boost your energy and enable you to endure the workout for more extended periods. However, you must confirm you are consuming the correct ones to maximize their benefits. Finding the right supplements as a woman can be confusing. Luckily, we are here to help. The following is a guide to essential things you need to know when choosing supplements.

Why is It Important to Take the Supplement?

Some women are unsure if it is worth taking the supplements before training. The truth is that pre-workout supplements are vital and beneficial to your body. Here are some benefits.

• Boost Energy

Many people take pre-workouts to boost their energy levels. Therefore, if you always have low energy before the training, supplements can help increase your power to exercise more.

• Delay Fatigue

Pre-workouts also helps in delaying fatigue. They hinder the production and effect of lactic acid, which causes fatigue. Therefore, you can endure more, especially in a high-intensity workout.

• Speed Up Recovery

Waking up after a high-intensity workout can feel crazy with all the pain. In fact, some people cannot go for training because of the pain. The great thing about supplements is they speed up muscle recovery so that you are good to go the next day.

• Improve Performance and Focus

Another primary reason people take supplements is to increase performance during the workout. They also help you stay focused, increasing the reaction time.

Essential Ingredients for Pre-workout Supplements

When shopping for pre-workout supplements, focus on the ingredients. Beta-alanine is one of the most vital ingredients you need to improve your exercise, increase energy and prevent fatigue. Many people ask, “Why does beta-alanine make you itch?” Itchiness is normal after taking beta-alanine, but it is harmless. Other ingredients to look for include creatine, caffeine, and nitrosigine.

How to Safely Use the Supplements

Even though taking pre-workouts is straightforward, it needs precision and a routine. Here things to do to include pre-workout in your diet.

• Start Small

The general rule of starting any supplement is to start small. It is recommendable to begin with small doses and increase them as you advance. The intention is to introduce it in the body and give your body enough time to respond and get used to it. This way, you will not feel over-stimulated.

• Consider Loading Time

Supplements that contain beta-alanine are a bit different from others since you need the loading phase. Therefore, take your supplements in different doses and maintain them after your body is used to them.

• Take 30 Minutes before the Workout

For the supplement to take effect, you should take it around 30 minutes before the workout. Don’t take it five minutes before you start the gym or in the morning if you plan to go to the gym in the evening.

To Sum It Up

Finding pre-workouts for women does not have to be daunting. All you need is to find something that will help you boost your energy and improve your performance. Look at the ingredients and pick supplements that contain beta-alanine, creatine, caffeine, and nitrosigne.

When you own a hot tub or spa, you want it to be as enjoyable and carefree as possible. That means taking good care of it so that it doesn’t break down on you unexpectedly and let down your friends when they come over to relax with you. Here are reasons you need to maintain your hot tub or spa properly so that it stays in tip-top shape and retains its value for many years.

1.   Help Protect Your Investment

Your hot tub or spa is a significant investment. It takes time, effort, and money. That’s why taking care of the crucial equipment necessary for relaxation and well-being with regular maintenance and the occasional service call is essential. Neglecting your hot tub or spa can lead to poor performance or failure, costing you more in repairs than what you originally spent on the product! If that sounds like something you want to avoid, then make sure you regularly and properly maintain your hot tub or spa so that it lasts longer and works better for years to come!

Using quality Natural hot tub and spa water treatment with pure enzymes helps extend the life of your equipment by protecting it from corrosion and calcium buildup, which are both significant causes of malfunctions in high-use spas. Proper hot tub or spa maintenance will help protect your investment, save you money in repair costs, and provide a healthier environment for yourself and your family.

2.   Your Hot Tub and Spa will Remain Functional

Regular maintenance of your hot tub and spa helps keep your hot tub functioning at its best. It will create a cleaner, more inviting environment and save you time and money in the long run. However, if you neglect the basics, such as regular cleaning and upkeep, your hot tub or spa can quickly become dirty and smelly and have its functionality compromised. You might end up with multiple problems that need repair, which can be costly and frustrating. If you want your hot tub or spa to remain functional, you must invest in some necessary supplies, so they do not go neglected.

Depending on your location, you may require chlorine granules for sanitizing, pure enzymes to prevent odors, and even an automatic pool cover. Whatever you choose to purchase, make sure that it is suited for use with your particular brand of hot tub or spa. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with any special instructions provided by manufacturers before applying anything directly onto or into your unit.

3.   Creates a Healthy and Safe Environment

Regular spa and hot tub maintenance can create a safe and healthy environment for you, your family, and your friends. A neglected hot tub or spa creates an environment where harmful bacteria, including algae, thrive —and that’s not something you want anywhere near your body or environment! That will lead to discoloration in your water and unpleasant odors that will make using your hot tub less enjoyable.

However, by performing routine maintenance on your hot tub, you’ll be able to keep it clean and in good working order. Maintaining proper water chemistry is also essential so that no one gets sick while enjoying a good time in your spa. Also, a poorly maintained spa or hot tub can be hazardous due to slippery surfaces, sharp edges, and electrical problems. Keeping your hot tub clean and adequately maintained will ensure that everyone using it is safe from harm.

4.   Extends the Lifespan of Your Equipment

Proper hot tub maintenance will ensure everything functions correctly, extending its lifespan. And if something breaks or malfunctions in your hot tub, regular maintenance can also keep costs down by identifying issues soon as they arise. When you take good care of your hot tub/spa, it will take good care of you!

Adequate maintenance helps keep repairs minimal and preventative so that you don’t have to shell out a lot of money for a repair job. That means less time spent fixing things and more time enjoying them! That way, you can take pride in your investment, knowing it’s functioning at its optimal level. Use quality hot tubs, spa care, and treatment products to get all these benefits.

5.   It Gives You Peace of Mind

Taking good care of your hot tub or spa can help you enjoy it for years and avoid costly repairs. If your hot tub is properly cared for, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that it won’t break down at you unexpectedly. Also, if you ever decide to sell your home, having a well-maintained hot tub will be a big plus for prospective buyers. Equipment in good condition will make you feel the worth of your property more than any other factor. So, take care of your hot tub and spa!

Conclusion

If you want to get the most from your hot tub or spa, it pays to keep up with the daily care and schedule regular maintenance services. Using quality and friendly spa care products such as enzymes instead of chemicals can help you take care of your hot tub or spa to enjoy its soothing effects for years to come. A well-maintained hot tub and spa would give you peace of mind knowing that it’s safe and secure for you, your family, and your friends. And don’t forget to take advantage of aromatherapy salts as you soak them in your hot tub or spa! They can be a great way to relax and rejuvenate after a long day at work.

Winter is just around the corner, and that weird dryness might be creeping back up your scalp. It’s a common problem that almost everyone across the world faces, unless you know the correct dry scalp remedies. And for that you need to understand the dry scalp reasons.

What causes dry scalp? 

Dry scalp happens when there is a disruption in your natural protective biome, made up of oil or sebum. Underproduction or a quick loss of sebum allows moisture to leave your head. This can be due to various reasons, but there are some which usually stand out:

• Washing too much – Overwashing is one of the most common dry scalp reasons, which can strip away the natural oils on your scalp.
• Allergic reactions – Contact dermatitis or a reaction to any product can cause breakouts and a disrupted oil production.
• Weather changes – Extreme fluctuations in the weather, going from cold to hot, can dry out your scalp.
• Hair colour – These contain chemicals that can cause a reaction and excessively dehydrate your scalp, along with the hair.
• Heat styling tools – Using extremely hot blow dryers, straighteners and curlers can lead to a sudden spike in temperature and dryness.
• Hormonal changes – This is often caused by excessive stress or ageing, leading to a change in oil production.

What are the different dry scalp treatments?

Dry scalp is not a problem that you need to worry about. It is often seasonal or temporary, and can disappear on its own. Try out the following dry scalp remedies, but always visit a dermatologist if it persists.

• Oils – These are your best friends and can bring back hydration to your scalp. It can lock in the moisture and restore the natural biome. Use oils like tea tree oil, coconut, argan, almond, or even jojoba.
• Hair care routine – Overwashing is bad, but underwashing isn’t any better. Use a shampoo and conditioner based on your hair type, so as to maintain a healthy hygiene level. You can also use products like the Head and Shoulders 2 in 1 Smooth and Silky, which packages the benefits of a shampoo and conditioner in one.
• Aloe Vera – One of the most effective dry scalp dandruff home remedies, aloe vera can instantly soothe your dry scalp. It has strong moisturising properties and is effective in infusing moisture back into the scalp.
• Heat Styling – Drop the curler and the straightener, allowing your hair to be natural for a change. Reducing heat-based equipment can be a successful dry scalp solution.
• Type of products – Be careful with the type of products that you use. Alcohol-based products can break the sebum layer and lead to excessive moisture loss. Other products might cause a reaction as well. Reducing the use of these products can be an effective dry scalp treatment.
• Hair masks – People have been managing dry scalp for centuries through homemade hair masks. Using ingredients found in your pantry, you can create an effective dry flaky scalp treatment. Avocados, bananas, yoghurt, eggs, honey, aloe vera, or apple cider vinegar can be used to create your own hair mask.
• Cover your head – A simple yet effective dry scalp treatment, covering your head when you’re in the sun can protect it from harmful sunlight. These are known to increase the temperature on your skin and cause excessive moisture loss.

Beyond this, eating healthy and reducing your stress levels can also help in treating flaky scalp. If you manage your hair care correctly, it shouldn’t be a cause for worry and you might even get to enjoy those winter months.

This article will review a few of the most common instruments used in surgery. These include the Weitlaner retractor, Adson Cerebellar Retractor, Hoke Osteotome, and Davis Mouth Gag. You will also learn about the various types of instruments available in the market today. In addition to learning about these instruments, you’ll be better prepared for your surgical procedure.

Weitlaner retractor

The Weitlaner retractor is a self-retaining surgical instrument that is commonly used for incising and dissecting incisions. Among its uses are herniotomy and femoropopliteal bypass. It is also useful for plastic surgery and orthopedic procedures such as femoropopliteal bypass. Its unidirectional locking mechanism ensures that it does not budge from its position during surgery.

The Weitlaner retractor is a self-retaining instrument that has downward-pointing prongs on the blades. The retractor blades will stay in place once the handles are locked. Available in two-, three-, and four-prong configurations, the retractor blades vary in length. The Weitlaner retractor has a satin finish and is made from premium stainless steel. It is also sterile.

The Weitlaner retractor is a popular instrument in orthopedic and plastic surgery. It is a self-retaining retractor that holds the incised tissues or viscera while giving the surgeon a clear shot. The Weitlaner retractor has two blades with different lengths. One retractor is used to grasp a vascular strip while another is used to grasp the wound edges.

Adson Cerebellar Retractor

The Adson Cerebellar Retractor is one of the most commonly used instruments during neurosurgical procedures. It enables surgeons to reposition the cerebellum, a part of the brain at the back of the skull that controls muscular activity. The retractor is self-retaining and features four prongs on either side of its shanks. The retracting forceps are ergonomically designed, with finger ring handles.

The Adson Cerebellar Retractor is a hand-held instrument that allows surgeons to access the brain, cerebellum, and cranial nerve. It features angled and blunt ends and is ideal for entering and exposing the brain. It is also a part of the retractor family, and may have two ends, one of which is self-retaining.

Another commonly used surgical instrument is the Davis Mouth Gag. Similar to the Balfour retractor, the Davis Mouth Gag is used to hold the muscles and tissues open while performing an operation. Its slim design allows surgeons to operate in tight spaces. The Adson Cerebellar Retractor is a common tool used during orthopedic surgery and is used to move tissues and organs.

Hoke Osteotome

A Hoke Osteotome is primarily used to prepare bone during neurosurgery procedures. Surgical professionals use this instrument to reshape bones and create cavities in bone for implants. Hoke Osteotomes are made of premium grade stainless steel and feature a curved or straight blade to make access easier during procedures. They are also available in different size ranges.

A high quality German stainless steel osteotome has a double-beveled blade and is used to appose bony fragments. The blades can be easily driven through the bone with a hand or air-powered instrument. The instrument’s striking surface is often covered with synthetic material to prevent injury. The instrument is made from two separate pieces: a shaft and a cutting edge.

Another common surgical instrument is the Kerrison rongeur. These instruments are forceps-like with a footplate at the tip and are used to remove bone fragments during orthopedic and neurosurgical procedures. They come in various sizes and can be double-action or single-action. The double-action configuration provides mechanical advantage over single-action designs and helps reduce force needed to cut bone.

Davis Mouth Gag

The Davis Mouth Gag is a versatile instrument used for oral and pharyngeal surgery. Unlike traditional gags, this device allows surgeons to see and operate inside the mouth. They may also be used to depress the tongue during a tonsillectomy. One model comes with five tongue blades and can be purchased with either a single or double frame. Users should note that images on websites may not accurately reflect the actual product. Users are encouraged to review the catalog item specifications before making a purchase.

A mouth gag has become an indispensable part of many surgical procedures. It is an important instrument because it allows the surgeon to properly position the Enoral ring and a surgeon to perform the procedure. Without it, the implant might not be secure and it could affect the patient’s comfort. In addition, it could interfere with the surgical procedure. If a mouth gag slips, it can embarrass a surgeon and negatively affect the results of the surgery.

There are several types of mouth gags. There are double-ended dissectors, pillar retractors, and Love and Lothrop tonsil retractors. Another type of gag has tongue blades that act as a nasopharyngeal stent. These instruments all are used for pharyngeal surgery. If you are considering a tonsillectomy, a Davis Mouth Gag might be the right choice for you.

Kelly clamps

Kelly forceps are scissors-like instruments used for manipulating and occluding blood vessels. Originally designed by Howard Atwood Kelly, MD, they have now become a common instrument for all types of surgical procedures. Unlike pliers, which are used for chopping, Kelly forceps are specifically made for human surgery. In addition to their basic functions, Kelly forceps are also available in curved and standard tips.

A locking forceps (also called a Kelly clamp) is used to grasp a specific object and to apply external compression to a tubular structure. Some examples of locking forceps are hemostats, needle holders, and Kelly clamps. These instruments can be used to guide a suturing needle through tissue. The handle has finger ridges for better grip. Another popular instrument is the Weitlaner retractor, which has a small blade and is used for superficial soft tissue dissections and incisions.

When choosing a surgical instrument, it is important to take the size and weight of the subject into consideration. If the subject is small and requires only a few stitches, a Kelly clamp is often the best option. Larger incisions are better managed with a large-size Kelly clamp, while small incisions can be handled by a smaller blade. Knives and scissors come in different sizes, so the surgeon can choose the right ones for the task. A surgical scissors is also important, as they come in different types of materials. If the surgeon is performing multiple surgeries, a titanium instrument with tungsten carbide inserts will last longer and remain sharper.

Alexander Periosteotome

Forceps and scalpels are common tools used during surgery. These are tools with sharp, double-sided teeth used for grabbing and cutting tissue. Forceps are most commonly used during neurosurgery. A snare is a surgical instrument with a looped wire around the pedicle, which cuts the tissue as it retracts. Forceps vary in size from 3.0 mm to 16.0 mm, and are used for many purposes, including removing tissue or bones. Other commonly used instruments are forceps and scissors.

The most commonly used surgery instruments include scalpels, scissors, rongeurs, periosteal elevators, and forceps. Cutting instruments are used for dissecting or dividing tissues and resecting organs. These instruments are very sharp and often require a high level of precision to work properly. Surgical instruments include scalpels, forceps, scissors, and osteotomes. Other instruments, such as hemostatic forceps and thumb forceps, are used to grasp and manipulate tissues.

The right type of instrument can significantly affect the result. Selecting the proper instrument can make all the difference in the world when performing a surgical procedure. The size of your subject is a factor in choosing the right instrument. For example, an instrument designed for a 200-300-gram rat would be 22-25 cm long and one to two cm long, whereas a surgical instrument for a neonatal mouse will only be one to two centimeters long. For frequent users, surgical scissors made of titanium or tungsten carbide inserts will be the best option. The blades of titanium and tungsten carbide are more durable and remain sharper for longer periods of time.

Balfour Retractor

Retractors are a staple of surgical instruments. A common retractor is the Balfour Retractor. Retractors are simple instruments that help surgeons hold abdominal tissue in place. They come in a variety of styles, each with their own functions. A few common types include the Balfour Retractor, Malleable Ribbon Retractor, Hohmann Retractor, and Baby Balfour Retractor.

A Balfour Retractor is a standard surgical instrument that has two sets of lateral blades and a single center blade. Surgical steel is used for these instruments, and they are constructed to withstand repeated use and autoclave sterilization. The instrument is sterilized before it is used, and the surgeon can re-use it as often as necessary. It is available for single or double-handed use.

The Balfour Retractor is an indispensable tool for abdominal wall surgery. It is available in different sizes and shapes. Some have a solid central blade while others have fenestrated side blades. Retractors are often used during gynecological and abdominal surgeries, and are also available as a table-mounted retractor with a Martin’s Arm. These retractors can be used together or separately to complete the procedure.

Impedance flow cytometry is a newer, more precise method for measuring the number of bacteria in a sample. It works by passing an electrical current through the sample and measuring the resistance to flow (impedance). The higher the resistance, the greater the number of bacteria present.

The benefits over other methods:

This method has several advantages over traditional methods, such as culture-based methods.

• First, it is much faster, giving results in minutes rather than days or weeks.
• Second, it can be used to measure a wider range of bacterial numbers, from a few hundred to several million.
• Finally, it is less likely to miss bacteria that are present at low levels.
• As a result, impedance flow cytometry is becoming increasingly popular for applications such as monitoring water quality and detecting foodborne pathogens.

How to get started with impedance flow cytometry:

Cell-based assays are powerful tools for investigating the interactions between cells and their environment. Impedance flow cytometry is a type of cell-based assay that measures cell-substrate interactions in real-time.

By measuring the electrical impedance of cells as they Flow over a substrate, impedance flow cytometry can be used to quantify cell adhesion, cell spreading, and other cellular responses. Impedance flow cytometry can be used to monitor cells in 3D scaffolds and on complex substrates such as extracellular matrix proteins.

• To get started with impedance flow cytometry, you will need a cell-based assay system that is equipped with an electrical impedance sensor.
• Once you have your system set up, you will need to choose a substrate and prepare your cells for analysis.
• Finally, you will need to run your assay and analyze your data.
• With a little practice, you will be able to use impedance flow cytometry to study a variety of cell-substrate interactions.

Applications of impedance flow cytometry:

• Impedance flow cytometry is a type of cytometry that uses an alternating current (AC) to measure cell size, granularity, and other physical properties.
• Impedance flow cytometry is used in a variety of scientific fields, including medical diagnoses, cell physiology research, and cancer treatment.

Endnote:

It has many advantages over traditional methods of cell analysis, including its high throughput, low sample volume requirements, and its ability to measure multiple parameters simultaneously. In addition, impedance flow cytometry is non-destructive and can be used on live cells. As a result, it is an important tool for scientists who study the function of cells and the nature of diseases.

Circumcision is a medical procedure that removes the foreskin from the penis. This may be done for several reasons. There are some medical benefits to circumcision, such as the prevention of certain sexually transmitted diseases. For some others, the removal of the foreskin is a religious choice. Anyways, it is always recommended to perform this procedure under the supervision of a Circumcision Urologist Brooklyn.

A baby boy is born with skin covering over the tip of his penis. This covering, known as the foreskin or prepuce, covers and protects the glans or head of his penis. Circumcision removes the foreskin. For most babies, this is done soon after birth, a few days after they are born, for religious reasons. During this procedure, an infant’s foreskin is removed and their glans are kept uncovered.

Here we are listing out some benefits of circumcision.

• Reduces the risk of urinary tract infection in children

Circumcision can help lower the risk of urinary tract infections in young boys. The foreskin, which is rich in nerves, is vulnerable to infection but circumcision eliminates this problem as it eliminates foreskin. Therefore, removal of the foreskin reduces the risks of infections like UTIs up to an extent.

• Prevention of penile cancer

Penile cancer is rare in developed countries. The chances of penile cancer are much higher in countries where circumcision is less common. Penile cancer most often develops in men whose foreskin remains intact. It is thought that this is because the inner surface of the foreskin traps human papillomavirus, which could cause cancer.

• Prevents the spread of STDs

Circumcision can protect men against sexually transmitted diseases such as herpes, syphilis, and genital warts, which are caused by viruses that can be transferred through sexual contact with a person already infected. STDs easily spread when the foreskin is left intact.

• Makes maintaining genital hygiene easier

Circumcision makes cleaning easier because of the absence of the foreskin. You don’t have to wash under the foreskin. Removal of the foreskin actually makes cleaning beneath it easier. In addition, there are fewer chances for germs to get trapped in the absence of the foreskin.

• Prevents balanoposthitis, phimosis, balanitis, and paraphimosis

Circumcision prevents phimosis, a condition where the foreskin is too tight to be pulled back. This problem can lead to balanoposthitis, an infection of the head of the penis. Circumcision also helps prevent balanitis and paraphimosis. Both are infections of the glans penis.

Neither the science nor the public opinion surrounding cannabis is close to being settled. Activists on both sides of the issue would have us believe otherwise, but just read the news. As a case in point, a brand-new study out of Canada shows a link between regular cannabis use and the need for emergency medical care and hospitalization.

Critics will cry foul and say that the epidemiological study only draws a correlation; that it doesn’t clearly establish cause and effect. They will be right in doing so. But likewise, researchers promoting cannabis for every malady under the sun are also guilty out producing epidemiological studies the do not actually prove anything. It is the way the debate works.

What the Research Found

Regardless of where you stand on the issue, it is worth delving into the details of this particular study. Researchers from the University of Toronto and ICES conducted a systematic analysis of the medical records of more than 30,000 Ontario patients over a 6-year period. The patients ranged in age from 12 to 65.

Their analysis demonstrated that regular cannabis users were 22% more likely to visit a hospital emergency department or be hospitalized. Not sure their data was accurate, the researchers adjusted for some thirty factors including alcohol consumption, tobacco consumption, and illicit drug use. Even with adjusting, the numbers turned out the same.

The two leading causes of hospitalization and emergency room visits among that cannabis consumers were:

• physical injuries
• respiratory problems.

Those findings intrigued the researchers enough to motivate them to look at previous studies. They found that regular cannabis smokers were more likely to suffer from all sorts of respiratory issues. Likewise, young people who routinely used cannabis were more likely to engage in behaviors resulting in physical injuries.

Not So Harmless

The Canadian research is certainly food for thought. It suggests that cannabis is not so harmless. If that is truly the case, how do so many cannabis proponents get away with claiming that it’s as harmless as can be? It boils down to a lack of credible scientific data.

Imagine a group of cannabis users who have been smoking marijuana for as long as they can remember. They sincerely believe that their behavior has not impacted their health in any meaningful way. Yet they might be forgetting individual trips to the emergency room for injuries sustained while doing stupid things under the influence. And even if they haven’t forgotten such incidents, perhaps they aren’t connecting the dots.

Anecdotal evidence does serve a valuable purpose in medical science. But it is not an adequate substitute for clinical data. As things currently stand, there is a surprising lack of clinical data regarding the harm regular cannabis use may cause. So when people say it is harmless, it’s because they don’t have clinical data to prove otherwise.

Treat It Like a Medicine

There are those who will latch on to the Canadian research and use it as evidence to say that we should pull out all the stops to make sure cannabis is only used as a medicine in this country. That would probably please more conservative states like Utah where, according to the people behind the Utahmarijuana.org website, lawmakers have insisted that their program remain medical only.

Time will tell how seriously the Canadian research is taken. Rest assured that competing studies will also be released down the road. Cannabis is an issue that is far from being settled. Like it or not, neither scientists nor the general public agree. They may be even farther apart than survey data would otherwise suggest.

Despite brushing their teeth at least twice daily, professional athletes have poorer oral health than the general population. A study of elite athletes in the UK found that almost three-quarters had cavities in their teeth, and more than half had tooth erosion. Apart from the apparent need for regular brushing and flossing, dentists must educate professional athletes about lesser-known risk factors for dental decay and erosion.

1.   Use of Energy Drinks

Experienced dentists from Chermside to Wavell Heights will tell you that most elite athletes have poor oral health, despite brushing their teeth daily. The study’s authors say that energy drinks may be to blame. Energy drinks are high in sugar and caffeine, leading to cavities and other dental problems. Most athletes consume drinks with as much as ten teaspoons of sugar in one can before or during games. Sugar is an accelerating factor for tooth decay. When bacteria mix with all this sugar, it produces acid, which destroys tooth enamel leading to tooth decay.

Therefore, avoiding consuming sugary foods and beverages before playing sports is best. Hence, despite brushing their teeth twice daily, most athletes have poor oral health because they drink sugary energy drinks during their routine workouts. To prevent tooth decay, experts recommend avoiding drinks with such high levels of sugar. Athletes can consider switching to healthier alternatives like smoothies, protein shakes, and water.

2.   High Consumption of Energy Gels

Energy gels are sticky and full of sugar, leading to tooth decay. The sugary, sticky gel creates an environment conducive to bacteria growth. The sugar sticks to teeth while providing a food source for the bacteria. Brushing immediately after consuming an energy gel may help prevent plaque buildup, but brushing will not remove the sticky residue left behind.

Reducing energy gels’ consumption or switching to non-sugar-based gels may help athletes maintain good oral health. If this does not work, other products on the market have a design specific for elite athletes with dental issues, such as chamois cloths or wipes containing xylitol or anti-microbial ingredients.

However, for a sustainable plan, they should research online and develop a strategy that best suits their needs (e.g., specific product, time frame, frequency). As dental problems due to increased energy gel consumption is a recent development, it is essential to continue monitoring the situation to develop guidelines and remedies if necessary.

3.   Regular Consumption of Energy Bars

Many elite athletes consume energy bars regularly as part of their training regimen. However, these bars are often high in sugar and other carbohydrates, leading to cavities and other oral health problems despite a healthy dental care routine. While daily brushing can help reduce the risk of these problems, it is not always enough to prevent tooth decay or gum disease when you increase your intake of sugary snacks or drinks.

A better alternative would be to limit the consumption of sugary foods or beverages while still maintaining a regular brushing schedule. It’s also crucial to visit an experienced dentist for professional teeth cleaning at least twice per year. During teeth cleaning appointments, plaque and tartar buildup that you cannot remove by brushing alone will require special tools like ultrasonic scaling devices or lasers.

4.   Due to Dry Mouth During Intensive Training

While it’s essential to brush your teeth at least twice a day, elite athletes often have poor oral health due to dry mouth during intensive training. That is because they are constantly sweating and losing fluids, which can lead to a decrease in saliva production. Saliva is crucial in protecting our teeth from bacteria by neutralizing acids that cause tooth decay. Dentine is prone to acids and becomes exposed as the saliva levels drop; this makes it easier for cavities to form.

To combat this issue, athletes should drink plenty of water throughout the day and eat salty foods such as nuts or salted pretzels to stimulate saliva production. If an athlete has been experiencing these symptoms for over three months, they should contact their dentist about possible treatments. Also, decreasing saliva production can increase the harmful bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. The lack of protection afforded by low saliva levels may be one reason many elite athletes have unhealthy mouths despite their best efforts with brushing and flossing daily.

Way Forward

It’s imperative to note that athletes may stand a higher chance of having poor oral health than the average person due to their high-intensity training and dietary habits. It’s therefore crucial for athletes to take proactive measures such as;

• Visiting a dentist every six months
• Receiving fluoride treatments
• Behavior change by reducing intake of sports drinks
• Working with professionals to develop an intervention program
• Undergoing scaling and root planning to maintain good oral hygiene

As age passes, gums recede, exposing more surface area where bacteria can grow in the mouth and cause decay – that’s why dentists recommend people to make regular trips to their offices.