Alternative Medicine
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
The increasing cost of health care in the United States and disappointment with conventional, or Western, medical practices has led people to seek different, more natural ways to maintain a healthy mind and body. These alternative treatments include herbal remedies, massage, acupuncture, meditation, yoga, and music therapy. USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, has reported that "nontraditional medicine is no fad...alternative medicine is in the mainstream." But the number and variety of available treatments collectively known as alternative medicine can be overwhelming. In this book you'll read about alternative medical treatments and how they can be used alone or together with conventional health care. Case studies describe situations in which these methods have helped people to lead healthier lives. Discussions of the pros and cons of alternative treatments will help you make informed decisions about all your health care options.
STDs
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, reports that in the United States "about 19 million new STD infections, other than AIDS occur each year, about half in young people between ages 15 and 24." Sexually transmitted diseases are bacterial or viral infections that can be passed from person to person. Understanding STDs-their prevalence, their symptoms, how they are passed, and how they can be treated-is an important first step in controlling the diseases. In this book, you'll read case studies and receive up-to-date information on the symptoms and treatments of major STDs, including Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, genital herpes, Hepatitis B, genital warts, and HIV/AIDS. You'll also learn how to avoid catching the diseases and how people manage STDs for which there is no cure. All of these facts can help you understand what can be done if you or someone close to you has an STD.
Depression
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
Depression is a mental health disorder that affects the lives of millions. Statistics from the World Health Organization show that about 121 million people worldwide are clinically depressed. The symptoms of depression go far beyond just feeling sad. It is a serious disorder that can make it difficult for sufferers to cope with daily life. At its worst, depression can lead to suicide. Major depression affects more than 5 percent of teens and is linked with suicide, substance abuse and other serious problems. Yet it often goes undiagnosed and untreated," explains USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper. The good news is that available treatments such as medication and psychotherapy can help most people with depression to lead normal, healthy lives. In this book, you'll follow the stories of five young people who suffer from depression. You'll learn about the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of depression and discover coping strategies and available treatments. All of these facts will give you the information you need to recognize and understand depression and its treatment. Identifying depression in yourself, a friend, or a family member is the first step toward recovery.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
by Cherlene Pedrick, Ph. D.
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
"Early intervention helps kids who need treatment," clarifies a headline in USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, in an article about obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This neurobehavioral disorder affects millions of people, who display ritual behaviors that they can't stop doing, such as washing their hands repeatedly, pulling their hair, or worrying obsessively about small things. Many people with OCD realize their behavior doesn't make sense, but they or their families may not know how or who to ask for help. In this book, you'll read case studies of people with OCD and learn about how they received help to manage their disorder through medications and cognitive-behavioral therapy. You'll also find basic information about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and support to help you understand how you, your friends, and your family can manage this disorder.
Diabetes
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
Heart disease, hypertension, nerve damage, vision problems, liver damage…These are some of the complications of diabetes―a chronic and growing disease in which the body cannot use sugar properly. Worldwide, health experts estimate that cases of the disease have rocketed from 30 million to 230 million in recent years. In the United States, more than 23 million children and adults-nearly 8% of the population-have diabetes. "Diabetes is this massive tidal wave hitting the country," reports USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 newspaper. In this book, you'll read case studies of people living with diabetes and follow the diagnoses, medical interventions, and lifestyle changes that help bring the disease under control. You'll learn about the history of the disease and factors driving its increased prevalence. And you'll discover what the risk factors and treatment options are so you and your friends and family can avoid contracting diabetes and support those who do have it.
Lupus
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
Between one and two million people in the United States are known to have lupus. But many more people may have it and not know it. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease, which means the body's immune system cannot tell the difference between healthy cells and invaders like viruses and bacteria. In lupus, the immune system attacks tissues throughout the body. In mild cases symptoms include joint pain and fatigue. The worst cases can end in kidney disease and even death. Lupus is difficult to diagnose and treatment is complicated. Medications can treat symptoms, but there is no cure. People who suffer from this disease need to rely on their families and friends to help them out when symptoms flare up. In 2011, USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, reported that for the first time in fifty-six years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a new drug to treat lupus. In this book you will follow the stories of people living with lupus and learn about causes and symptoms of this debilitating disease. You'll find out about available treatments and ongoing research into new medications and therapies. You'll also receive guidance on how to cope with lupus or help a loved one manage symptoms and find help.
Anorexia and Bulimia
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
"Anorexia, bulimia signal a troubled body and soul" cried a headline in USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper. These serious eating disorders plague people of all ages, but mostly adolescent girls. Untreated, anorexia and bulimia can be life-threatening. Even when the diseases are diagnosed and treated, the road to recovery is difficult and sometimes lasts a lifetime. In the United States, as many as eleven million people suffer from eating disorders. In this book, you'll investigate the complex causes and devastating effects of anorexia and bulimia. Case studies let you follow the progression of these disorders in individuals from their first purging episode, through the pain of hiding the affliction from loved ones, to the eventual realization that they are suffering from a disorder and need help. You'll also find detailed information on treatment options and support organizations. This book helps you better understand the severity of these disorders and gives you the tools necessary to help yourself or loved ones who need your support.
AIDS
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
In the United States and around the world, AIDS remains a critical health issue. Statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that 1.1 million people in the United States are living with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, and an additional 56,000 are infected each year. In July 2010, President Barack Obama's administration launched a new U.S. government initiative to stop the spread of HIV. It was the first national strategy designed to cut new infections, boost the number of people who get tested and treated, and reduce disparities in access to care," explains USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper. According to the government's report, many people do not believe that HIV is an urgent health problem. Yet without action, the nation is likely to see an increase in the number of infections, a lack of services for people living with HIV, and a rise in health care costs. In this book, you'll learn more about the U.S. government initiative, read stories of people living with HIV and AIDS, and learn important information on how people cope with and live with this illness. You'll discover the causes, symptoms, treatment, and ways to stop the spread of HIV and get the facts you need to protect yourself, your friends, and your family from this serious disease.
ADHD
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
ADHD haunts children into adulthood," claimed a headline in USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper. The inability to focus, sit still, or complete tasks makes it very difficult for people with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to succeed in school and work. Their behavior can also be disruptive to those around them. Some of the symptoms of ADHD may disappear over time. But many people must cope with the effects of the disorder their entire lives. According to the Attention Deficit Disorder Association, ADHD affects 6 to 10 percent of children and 3 to 6 percent of adults in the United States. The good news is that people with ADHD who receive treatment and support are able to live normal, productive lives. In this book, you'll find valuable information about ADHD to help you or someone close to you. Case studies offer you a glimpse into the lives of people with ADHD and their families. You'll also learn about the causes and effects of ADHD, treatment options and alternatives, support groups and other organizations that can help, and more.
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
Every year, one out of every 100 children in the United States-or six out of every 1,000 young people worldwide-is diagnosed with autism. Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a neurologically based family of developmental disorders that can impact people's communication and social skills. ASD includes both autism and Asperger syndrome. Cutting-edge research and scientific studies are probing into the genetic foundation of ASD. Quoting researcher Stephen Scherer about a recent study, USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, notes that, most individuals with autism are probably genetically quite unique." In this book, you'll find out what it's like to have ASD through reading case studies of people living with the condition. You'll also learn about the impact of the disorders on families. In addition, you'll receive solid information about symptoms, treatment, and research and get the facts you need about how you, your friends, and your family can cope effectively with ASD.
Obesity
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
Two-thirds of adults and nearly one-third of children in the United States are overweight or obese. The rate of obesity in children and adolescents has reached epidemic proportions. USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, reports that "heavy teens are often destined for skyrocketing weight gain in their twenties." Over time, obesity causes illnesses, reduces life expectancy, and increases health care costs. The U.S. government, doctors, and scientists are working to educate citizens about good nutrition and the importance of daily exercise. In this book, you'll read about health issues caused by obesity and follow the medical interventions and lifestyle changes that address them. You'll learn about the biological and environmental causes for weight gain. And you'll receive guidance on how to attain and sustain a healthy body so you and your friends and family can make better choices and support those who struggle with weight issues.
Asthma
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
More than twenty million people in the United States suffer from asthma, a disease of the lungs. In fact, asthma is the most common serious chronic disease among American children. Any person at any age can be affected by asthma, but more cases have been linked to factors such as increased air pollution, exposure to tobacco smoke, and childhood obesity. Without preventive treatments and lifestyle adjustments, asthma . . . can be a serious, even deadly disease," reports USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper. Fortunately, if a person is diagnosed properly, asthma symptoms can be managed. In this book, you will read case studies of people with asthma and how they handle the disease. Also included is up-to-date information about the common symptoms of asthma, how it is diagnosed, risk factors associated with the disease, and different forms of treatment. All of these facts can help you learn about the disease and what can be done if you or someone close to you has asthma.
Tourette Syndrome
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
Thousands of young people are diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome (TS) each year. TS is a disorder of the neurological system, causing uncontrollable sounds or movements called tics. TS peaks "when young people are most vulnerable to the challenges of early adolescence," explains psychology professor Douglass Woods in USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper. Symptoms can make school and everyday life very difficult. The good news is that scientists are gaining understanding of how TS works in the brain. While TS still has no cure, research is leading to more effective treatments. In this book, you'll read the stories of teenagers who struggled with TS and find out how they and their families dealt with the symptoms. You'll learn what causes TS, what can trigger tics, and what treatments can help relieve symptoms. Learning about this disorder is the best way to help yourself, a friend, or a family member live and thrive with TS.
Allergies
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
Allergens are all around us: in the air, on our pets, and in our food. According to USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, accidental exposure to food allergens leads to fifty thousand emergency room visits and causes at least 150 deaths in the United States each year. Some organizations estimate that allergies and asthma affect one in five Americans, and many people suffer from allergies their entire lives. There is no cure for allergies, but you can take steps to prevent a reaction and to control symptoms. This book provides case studies of people living with allergies and describes the causes, symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments of common allergies. You'll learn that, with the proper precautions, allergies and asthma do not have to slow you down.
Hepatitis
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
"The silent killer." That's how a headline in USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, described hepatitis. This life-threatening liver disease can go undetected for decades because it often causes no symptoms until serious liver damage has occurred. The good news is that new medications and research bring "hope, treatment, even cures." Millions of people around the world are diagnosed each year with viral hepatitis. In this book, you'll read case studies of people with various types of viral hepatitis and learn about the effects of this highly contagious yet preventable disease. You'll also find basic information about symptoms, transmission, prevention, and treatment to help you understand how to protect yourself, your friends, and your family from this serious disease.
Anxiety Disorders
by Cherlene Pedrick, Ph. D.
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
Millions of Americans-more than 16 percent of teens and adults-live with some type of anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are a group of disorders that include panic disorder, agoraphobia, general anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder, among others. Once viewed as "worrywarts," people with anxiety disorders are now taken seriously. According to recent studies quoted in USA TODAY, The Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, anxiety disorders can lead to "higher blood pressure and heart rates, less effective immune systems, surges of stress hormones that strain the heart, more depression, and perhaps even shorter life spans." In this book, you will read case studies of people living with anxiety disorders and how they handle their conditions. You'll learn about the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of anxiety disorders and will discover coping strategies and treatments. These facts will give you the information you need to recognize and understand anxiety disorders and to reach out for help. Identifying anxiety disorders in yourself, a friend, or a family member is the first step toward effectively managing your condition.
Food Poisoning and Foodborne Diseases
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
Tainted peanuts, deadly hamburgers, recalled tomatoes. Every year new problems erupt with the safety of the foods we eat and water we drink. Widespread recalls occur when food becomes infected by bacteria and viruses. Water supplies are turned off when parasites are detected. As USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper noted, "The increasing reports of illness, many of them caused by food-borne bugs, are in part a result of global food distribution, which allows unusual microbes to ride into the USA on fresh produce, and of better technology, which allows doctors to identify disease-causing organisms." Most people who eat or drink contaminated food or water end up with uncomfortable symptoms, such as diarrhea or vomiting. But sometimes, particularly in young and old people, the microbes can cause lifetime problems and even death. In this book, you'll read case studies involving many of the diseases that can be caused by ingesting unsafe foods. You'll also find out what happens when a problem is detected, how government agencies attempt to inspect and protect our food supplies, and what we can do to carefully prepare and handle foods to keep ourselves safe.
Influenza
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
With the 2009 outbreak of the deadly H1N1 flu, popularly known as "swine flu," people across the globe crowded emergency rooms and clinics for treatment. During outbreaks, schools shut down and parents stayed home from work as the flu spread across the United States. But the best prevention method touted over and over again was profoundly simple: "Hand washing is a cheap, easy and effective way to avoid catching...the flu" reports USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia, hand washing "has a huge positive health impact." H1N1 and other types of influenza (flu) affect millions of people around the world every year. Between 250,000 and 500,000 of them will die. The good news is that effective vaccines are available to prevent the flu in most people. In this book, you'll read cases studies of people with various types of influenza and learn about the effects of this highly contagious yet preventable and treatable disease. You'll also find basic information about symptoms, transmission, prevention, treatment, and research to help you understand how to protect yourself, your friends, and your family from this common disease.
Leukemia
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
An estimated 245,225 people in the United States are currently living with leukemia or are in remission. More than forty-three thousand Americans are diagnosed with the disease each year. But leukemia is no longer the almost-certain death sentence that it once was. Advanced treatment options have increased survival rates and even brought about complete cures in some cases. As USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, reports, "About 20,000 bone marrow transplants are performed annually in the USA to treat disorders such as leukemia." Success in methods such as bone marrow and stem cell transplants continue to push treatment forward for patients of all ages. In this book, you'll read case studies of people with various types of leukemia and learn about the effects of this frightening but often treatable cancer. You'll also discover the risk factors for developing leukemia, common symptoms, treatment methods, and advances in research that will surely lead to improved treatment and even more complete cures in the future.
Skin Cancer
Part of the USA TODAY Health Reports: Diseases and Disorders series
Each year, more than one million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer, and it affects people of all ages. Indeed, a headline from USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, says, "Milder skin cancers are becoming more common among young people; consequences could lie ahead." An estimated 8,650 people die each year from melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. The good news is that the vast majority of skin cancers can be completely cured if discovered early enough. In this book, you'll read case studies of people with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma and learn how these skin cancers develop. You'll also discover the risk factors for skin cancer and information on how to prevent it, giving the facts you need to know to protect yourself, your friends, and your family from this most common of all cancers.