Biopsies: A Slice of Life?

You bet! Whenever we see a suspicious lesion in the mouth, a biopsy helps determine if the cells are a cancer or are pre-cancerous. This is important because cancers of the mouth and throat constitute 3% of all cancer diagnosed annually. Here's an alarming fact that should cause every individual who has a suspicious lesion to seek treatment: survival rates have not changed significantly from this disease despite four decades of advances made in surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Half of all people who have oral cancer will die from it.

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Diet a Big Factor in Controlling High Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is the force of blood against artery walls. It is measured in millimeters of mercury and recorded as two numbers-systolic pressure (when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (when the heart relaxes between beats). Both numbers are important. Blood pressure rises and falls during the day. But when it stays elevated over time, then it's called high blood pressure.

High blood pressure is dangerous because it makes the heart work too hard, and the high force of the blood flow can harm arteries and organs such as the heart, kidneys, brain, and eyes. High blood pressure often has no warning signs or symptoms. Once it occurs, it usually lasts a lifetime. If uncontrolled, it can lead to heart and kidney disease, stroke, and blindness.

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