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Sexually Transmitted Infections in Teens What are sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infectious diseases spread through sexual contact. About 50 out of 100 new STIs happen in people ages 15 to 24. Protecting your teen from STIs The

Multiple Sclerosis and Pregnancy What is multiple sclerosis? Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain and spinal cord. MS is unpredictable. The symptoms of MS can range from mild to disabling, such as losing the

Conjunctivitis in Children What is conjunctivitis in children? Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye. The conjunctiva is the membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the eye. Conjunctivitis is also known as “pink eye” because the eye

Common Cold in Children What is the common cold in children? The common cold (upper respiratory infection) is one of the most common illnesses in children. Each year it leads to more healthcare provider visits and missed days from school and work than any other illness. Millions

Varicose Veins What are varicose veins? Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins. They can happen anywhere in the body. But they are more common in the legs. Varicose veins are not considered a serious health problem. But they can be uncomfortable and can lead to more serious

Cardiomyopathy and Your Child What is cardiomyopathy? Cardiomyopathy is disease of the heart muscle. It makes it harder for the heart to pump blood. There are different types of the disease. Each of these can cause the heart muscle to get larger, thicken, or become stiff

Salmonella Infections What are salmonella infections? Salmonella infection is caused by the bacteria salmonella. Salmonella is a group of bacteria that can cause diarrhea in humans. There are many different kinds of salmonella bacteria. What causes salmonella infections

Spina Bifida in Children What is spina bifida in children? Spina bifida is a condition present at birth (birth defect) when there are problems with the spine, spinal cord, and the surrounding nerves. It can cause part of the spinal cord and areas around it to form outside of the

Coronary Heart Disease What is coronary heart disease? Coronary heart disease happens when the innermost layer of the coronary arteries becomes inflamed and narrowed. This is caused by a buildup of fatty deposits called plaque. These deposits may start in childhood and continue

Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease in Children What is Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease in children? Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (or Perthes disease) is a rare hip condition that affects children. Over a number of years, the ball-shaped top of a child’s thighbone (femoral head) breaks down and