The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates 60,300 new leukemia diagnosis in the U.S. this year. Sadly, roughly 24,370 will succumb to the disease.
Leukemia originates in the blood stem cells as either immature myeloid stem cells (monocytes, platelets, or granulocytes, which form clots or fight bacteria and infection) or immature lymphoid stem cells (or lymphocyte B, T or NK cells, which are white blood cells that battle infection and bodily threats). These immature cells, known as blast cells, produce abnormally and excessively, forcing out protective healthy cells.
Leukemia occurs in four main types, which are grouped dependant upon if they develop from lymphoid stem cells (known as lymphoblastic leukemias) or myeloid stem cells (known as myelogenous leukemias):
1. Acute lymphocytic leukemia
ACS research reports approximately 5,960 new cases of acute lymphocytic leukemia (or ALL) yearly in the U.S., and roughly 1,470 annual deaths. ALL largely affects child patients (3 in 4 children with leukemia) before the age of 5-years old. However, the majority of ALL deaths occur in patients older than 50-years old due to the fact that younger patients better respond to aggressive ALL treatment, which usually includes a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, and sometimes immunology.
2. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (or CLL) is considered a leukemia that occurs in mainly older adult patients, with a 70-year old average age of diagnosis. ALL is very rare in child patients and any patient under 40-years old. Accounting for approximately 20,940 diagnosis yearly and roughly 4,510 fatalities, CLL progresses slow yet metastasis (spreads) rather aggressively to nearby organs (i.e., liver or spleen) if not treated with a usual course of radiation, chemo, stem cell transplant, and in rarer cases, immunology.
3. Acute myeloid leukemia
Acute myeloid leukemia (or AML) is considered the most common form of the disease, accounting for approximately 19,520 leukemia diagnosis and 10,670 leukemia deaths yearly. AML mainly strikes older patients, with an average age of diagnosis at 68-years old. AML is not only the most prevalent leukemia, it’s rate of progression is considered rather aggressively compared to other types of leukemia. However, with a combined treatment plan of targeted therapies, radiation, chemotherapy, and in rarer cases, stem cell transplant, healthy younger patients have a 70% to 80% rate of remission and a 5-year survival rate of about 26%.
4. Chronic myeloid leukemia
The ACS reports roughly 8,430 cases of chronic myeloid leukemia (or CML) and 1,090 associated deaths, yearly in the U.S. Another type of leukemia that mainly strikes older adults, the average age of CML patients is 65-years old and older. CML is seen very rarely in child patients. Cancer researchers claim that CML develops genetically due to an abnormal Ph (or Philadelphia) chromosome, which triggers the cause the mass growth of abnormal white blood cells. CML is typically treated by radiation, oral chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, and/or immunotherapy.
Generally speaking, feeding human foods to dogs is ill-advised. Certain foods can be toxic for dogs and cause a severe reaction, while also making it hard to maintain a healthy weight. However, there are certain human foods that are safe for dogs depending on their preparation and absence of spices. Veterinarians agree that dogs can safely eat the following human foods:
1. Green beans
This is a food you don’t have to be concerned about when your kids “accidentally” drop them on the floor during dinner. Try to keep them plain rather than any added salt or spices, as the additives can be harmful, but green beans can be a nice healthy snack if your dog likes them. If you’re adventurous you can blend them along with some of our later mentioned vegetables to make a nice addition to your dog’s dry food meal
2. Cucumber
Cucumbers offer a wide range of nutrition while being a low-calorie snack, which makes them great for dogs who could stand to lose a bit of weight. Being such a benign food cucumbers are a great inclusion in creating a diet with dog food for dogs with allergies and sensitive skin. They can also be good for added hydration and soft enough to hide medication if you have a stubborn dog who needs to take his pill
3. Carrots
Carrots make a nice, healthy add-in to meals or just a quick snack. They make a good option for dogs’ natural chewing instinct. Given the prevalence of vitamins and nutrients, they are a key ingredient in several well-regarded wet dog foods. You’ll want to be careful of them as a choking hazard so it’s best to cut them into smaller pieces or boil them to soften them up
4. Peanut butter
This is an absolute favorite among dogs. Most dogs will take peanut butter like it is one of their favorite snacks (maybe not quite as rapidly as they react to a meat snack, but you’ll get a lot of enthusiasm). So feel secure in letting your dog eat a bit off a spoon or with one of our aforementioned vegetables for a tasty crunch. You can even make your dog peamutt butter biscuits for some of the most healthy dog treats your pup will ever eat. Be advised to use natural peanut butter or peanut butter without added salt or sugar for pups.
5. Broccoli
Dogs can obtain a lot of vitamins from broccoli but preparation is important for how they are fed the vegetable. The stems contain a high concentration of isothiocyanate which can cause an upset stomach in dogs. So cut off the stems and feed your pup the heads and they’re on their way to happy and healthy. Check-in with your veterinarian if you have any uncertainty about modifying your dog’s diet, especially with a vegetable like this that can have an adverse effect on some dogs
Myelodysplastic syndromes, or MDS, are a group of disorders caused by poorly formed blood cells or ones that don’t work properly. The MDS life expectancy varies greatly from patient to patient, depending on several factors, including age, overall health, and how well the disease responds to treatment. One of the major complications of MDS is that it can cause anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of red blood cells. It’s important to recognize the warning signs of MDS to seek early treatment. Here are ten signs that may indicate the presence of this disease.
1. Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of MDS is fatigue. This is primarily due to anemia, which can make you feel tired and weak. If you’re feeling unusually fatigued, it might be worth discussing with your doctor.
2. Shortness of breath
Another sign of MDS can be shortness of breath, especially during physical activities. This symptom is also related to anemia, as your body isn’t getting enough oxygen due to a lack of red blood cells.
3. Frequent infections
MDS can cause your white blood cell count to drop, making you more susceptible to infections. If you find that you’re getting sick more often than usual, it could be a sign of MDS.
4. Easy bruising or bleeding
If you notice that you’re bruising easily or bleeding more than usual, it could be a sign of MDS. This is because MDS can affect your platelet count, which is responsible for blood clotting.
5. Skin paleness
Anemia, a common complication of MDS, can cause your skin to look paler than usual. This is due to the lack of red blood cells, which give your skin its color.
Now that we’ve covered the warning signs, let’s look at some FDA-approved treatments for MDS.
6. Blood transfusions
Blood transfusions are often used to treat anemia in people with MDS. This involves receiving healthy blood from a donor to increase your red blood cell count.
7. Medications
Several medications can be used to treat MDS, including growth factors to stimulate your body to make more blood cells, and immunosuppressive drugs to help your body accept these new cells.
8. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is often used to kill off abnormal cells in your bone marrow. This can help to slow the progression of MDS and alleviate some symptoms.
9. Stem cell transplant
A stem cell transplant involves replacing your diseased bone marrow with healthy marrow from a donor. This can potentially cure MDS, but it’s a complex procedure with significant risks.
10. Supportive care
Supportive care involves managing the symptoms of MDS, such as fatigue and shortness of breath. This can include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
In conclusion, it’s important to recognize the warning signs of MDS and seek treatment early. With the right care, it’s possible to manage this disease and maintain a good quality of life.
Life insurance is a critical safety net for many individuals, especially those over 50 or seniors who want to ensure their loved ones are financially secure after they’re gone. But it’s essential to understand that not all situations are covered by life insurance policies. Here are seven things that life insurance does not typically cover.
1. Fraudulent information
One of the key aspects insurance companies look at when underwriting a policy is the honesty of the information provided. If you have lied or omitted important information on your application, your insurer can deny your beneficiaries’ claim. Always be honest and thorough when applying for life insurance.
2. Suicide within the exclusion period
Most life insurance policies include a clause that excludes coverage for suicide within the first two years of the policy. This period may vary depending on the insurance company and the specific policy, but it’s a standard exclusion across the industry.
3. Death from risky activities
If you regularly engage in high-risk activities such as skydiving, mountain climbing, or extreme sports, your life insurance policy may not cover death resulting from these activities. It’s crucial to disclose these hobbies when applying for insurance, as failing to do so could result in a denied claim.
4. Death in a war zone
Many life insurance policies exclude coverage for death occurring in a war zone. If you are a military personnel or a civilian working in a conflict area, you may need to seek a special policy or rider to cover this risk.
5. Illegal activities
If the policyholder dies while committing an illegal activity, the life insurance claim will likely be denied. This can include anything from driving under the influence to participating in criminal activities.
6. Certain health conditions
While life insurance for over 50 and life insurance for seniors are generally available, certain health conditions may not be covered. This is especially true for policies with a graded death benefit, which only pays out the full benefit if the policyholder lives a certain number of years after purchasing the policy.
7. Acts of God
Some life insurance policies may not cover deaths caused by acts of God, such as natural disasters. However, this exclusion is less common than others and can vary significantly between insurance companies and policies.
Now that you know what life insurance typically does not cover, it’s important to find a reliable provider. Some of the top companies that provide life insurance include New York Life, MetLife, Prudential Financial, and State Farm. These companies offer a variety of policies, including term life, whole life, and universal life insurance.
Remember, life insurance is a crucial part of financial planning, especially for those over 50 or seniors. Make sure to thoroughly read and understand your policy, and don’t hesitate to ask your insurance agent or company any questions you may have. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your loved ones’ financial future.
Embarking on home improvement projects is a rewarding journey that can elevate your living space and enhance its functionality. From addressing water damage with companies that clean up water in the basement to upgrading roofing and gutters, and even considering Anderson window replacement, these hacks are designed to transform your home seamlessly. In this article, we explore seven ingenious home improvement hacks that will breathe new life into your living space.
1. Water damage prevention and cleanup
Companies that specialize in cleaning up water in the basement play a crucial role in preventing and addressing water damage. Protect your home from potential disasters by addressing leaks, floods, or excess moisture promptly. Investing in professional services ensures a thorough cleanup and mitigation of water-related issues, preserving the structural integrity of your home.
2. Roofing and gutters upgrade
Upgrading your roofing and gutters is a fundamental home improvement hack that protects your property from the elements. Consider durable roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, metal, or architectural tiles. Additionally, ensure your gutters are clean and well-maintained to prevent water damage and potential leaks. Regular inspections and prompt repairs contribute to the longevity of your roof and the overall health of your home.
3. Anderson window replacement
Enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency with Anderson window replacement. Anderson windows are renowned for their quality and durability. Upgrading to energy-efficient windows not only improves insulation but also adds a timeless and elegant touch to your interior and exterior spaces. The investment in high-quality windows pays off in energy savings and increased home value.
4. Creative storage solutions
Maximize your living space by incorporating creative storage solutions. Utilize under-the-stair storage, built-in shelving, or multifunctional furniture to optimize every square foot. These solutions not only declutter your home but also add a touch of innovation to your decor, making your living space both functional and stylish.
5. Smart home technology integration
Embrace the future of home living by integrating smart home technology. From smart thermostats and lighting to security systems, these technologies enhance convenience, energy efficiency, and security. Smart home devices can be easily controlled through mobile apps, providing remote access and customization options to suit your lifestyle.
6. DIY painting projects
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most transformative and cost-effective home improvement hacks. Whether it’s an accent wall, a room makeover, or refreshing exterior surfaces, painting projects can instantly breathe new life into your home. Experiment with different colors and finishes to create a personalized and updated look.
7. Energy-efficient lighting upgrades
Switching to energy-efficient lighting options is not only environmentally conscious but also financially savvy. Replace outdated incandescent bulbs with LED or CFL alternatives to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. Additionally, consider installing motion sensor lights in outdoor areas for enhanced security and energy efficiency.
Embarking on home improvement projects is an exciting endeavor that allows you to tailor your living space to your preferences and needs. From addressing water damage with professional cleanup services to upgrading roofing and gutters, considering Anderson window replacement, and embracing creative storage solutions, these home improvement hacks offer practical and innovative ways to transform your home. Whether you’re looking to enhance aesthetics, increase energy efficiency, or optimize functionality, these hacks provide a roadmap for a more comfortable and stylish living environment.
