Flash!
There is a recent study that tattoos may be a risk factor for lymphoma, which is basically cancer of the lymph nodes, ie Hodgkins.
Having a tattoo was associated with a 21% increased risk for lymphoma, but more research is needed to understand the possible connection. Lymphoma is the result of mutations in the DNA that instruct the cells how to grow, and the cells often live longer than they should. The diseased cells then continue to multiply at a rapid rate, producing more diseased cells which are stored in the lymph nodes.
This information is the result of a study from Lund University in Sweden.
It is known that tattoo ink often contains chemicals that are established carcinogens. We know that ink is transported away from the skin by the immune system because the body is working hard to remove the ink.
They found that recent tattoos, received within 2 years, and older tattoos, 11 years of more, were associated with the largest risk increase. More studies are needed to determine exactly "why".
Reference: Nielsen C, et al, EClinical Medicine. 2024:doi:1016/jeclinm.2024.102649
Chronic Loneliness Is Linked To Stroke Risk In Middle Aged People
Participants who were considered lonely at baseline in this study had a 25% increased risk for stroke in a recent Harvard study.
The risk increased to 56% among people who consistently had loneliness over 4 years.
Loneliness has been identified as a modifiable risk factor for stroke, a leading cause of death and disability.
Loneliness has now been classified as a public health issue.
https://www.hsphharvard.edu/news/pressrelease
I would like to comment on this brief posting. I think most of us are of the age that we can remember a time when when we knew our neighbors, checked on them, brought them cookies, mowed lawns for seniors, etc. Something happened. I would really like to spark a revolution. Why don't we take time to care? I beg you to check on people you know need help. I can give two examples of families that do this, they take cookies to neighbors in Idaho and St Helena. I do it also. I was trained by a mom and dad who taught me the importance of thinking outside of yourself. Maybe when you go to a store, buy a little dessert for a neighbor. I promise the gratitude you will receive far outweighs any inconvenience on your part. Please teach your children this small gift to a world gone awry.
Again, let's start a revolution!
New RSV Immunization Info
New studies from Lancet show that there is a 78 % efficacy of immunity from RSV after only one injection lasting three seasons in older adults. Good news. Talk to your Health Care Provider.
What Is a SAGE Test?
A Sage test is an at home screening test for early signs of cognitive changes.
When we go to our providers annually they ask us 3 questions. It can sometimes depend on how stressed you are, how much sleep you had, but it is fast and easy and can alert them to early changes. As much as we don't like to think about it, we are all faced with the possibility. There is now a blood test, the Precivity test, intended for use in patients 55 and older with signs or symptoms of mild cognitive impairment or dementia.
But the Sage test takes about 5 minutes and you can do in your home when you are rested, have eaten, and feel refreshed. There are many sites which offer the test, here is one out of Ohio State university.
https://wexnermedical.osu.edu
Take a minute and check it out. It doesn't link so just put the address in or look Sage test.
It is always better to be aware of your health and if you have concerns, talk to your doctor. It at least opens up the conversation.