Health & Wellness

One of the recommended ways to reduce the risk of colon cancer (and other cancers), is eating a diet that supports colon health.

Colon cancer screenings may not be a favorite topic, but they’re a game-changer for health.

Once eliminated in 2000, measles is resurgent in the U.S. due to declining vaccination rates. Measles symptoms include fever, coughing, and a distinctive rash, with transmission primarily airborne. The MMR vaccine provides up to 97 percent effectiveness. Individuals with specific health conditions should consult their health care team before vaccination. Vaccination is crucial to prevent severe complications and hospitalizations, particularly in vulnerable populations.

The medical understanding of obesity is shifting, recognizing it as a complex disease rather than a lack of willpower. GLP-1 medications, initially developed for diabetes, are now being prescribed for weight loss due to their ability to regulate appetite and provide additional health benefits. They are most effective with proper nutrition, exercise, and medical supervision. Bariatric surgery remains a highly effective long-term option, especially for individuals with higher BMIs or those who do not tolerate medication. Sentara Comprehensive Weight Loss Solutions offers surgical and medical weight loss approaches in a supportive, judgment-free environment to help patients achieve sustainable health improvements.

Your diet always impacts your health, but it’s even more important when you’re pregnant and eating for two (or more!).

Colon cancer is now the leading cause of cancer in men under 50 and the second leading cause in women of the same age, with many young patients diagnosed at advanced stages due to delayed detection. Screening guidelines have been updated to recommend colonoscopies starting at age 45. While the exact cause of rising early-onset cases is unclear, factors like diet, obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption play a significant role. Early detection through colonoscopies remains the most effective way to diagnose colon cancer.

For Johanna Joe, being a registered nurse in the mother-baby unit at Sentara Princess Anne Hospital has been the best kind of nursing role - challenging but also deeply rewarding. But this fall, Johanna got a chance to see the mother-baby unit from an entirely different perspective: as a patient.

High blood pressure is a serious health concern in the Black community and contributes to heart disease being the leading cause of death. Socioeconomic and environmental factors, healthcare disparities and genetic predispositions exacerbate the issue. Lifestyle adjustments like a healthy diet, exercise, stress management and regular check-ups are important strategies to lower blood pressure. Sentara is committed to improving healthcare access through community programs and initiatives like Sentara Mobile Care.

The structural heart program at Sentara RMH Medical Center offers advanced, minimally invasive cardiac care for complex heart conditions. It provides treatments like transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER), enabling faster recovery and reduced patient risks. The program eliminates the need for patients to travel as far by offering high-level care close to home. A multidisciplinary team ensures personalized treatment plans and excellent outcomes through a collaborative approach.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., but lifestyle changes can significantly lower the risk. Key steps include quitting smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, staying physically active, managing weight and monitoring key health numbers like blood pressure and cholesterol. Practical tips such as starting slow, setting realistic goals and seeking support from healthcare providers make these changes more manageable. Additionally, cardiac rehabilitation can aid recovery and reduce future risks for those recovering from a heart attack.

The 3D tomography machine saved my life, Robyn says. If I'd waited until I could feel the tumor, it could have been much worse.

The joy of having a child can't help but motivate many parents to re-evaluate their lifestyles and goals. Hampton resident Sara Waters is no exception.

Inspired by friends who had undergone weight loss surgery, Pam Sumner embarked on a new path that has led to losing more than 150 pounds.

Not too long ago, nagging back pain from excess weight kept Erin McGlamery from being able to take a walk to burn calories. At 275 pounds, exercising had become increasingly difficult.

Pregnant people can get a jump start on preparing for breastfeeding through education, discussions with OB-GYNs, and connecting with lactation support services before giving birth. Breastfeeding support before and after giving birth helps new moms overcome common breastfeeding challenges. Sentara hospitals offer lactation consultations, postpartum support groups and guidance on techniques like hand expression to boost milk supply.