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Skin Pigment Disorders What are skin pigment disorders? Skin color is determined by a pigment (melanin) made by specialized cells in the skin (melanocytes). The amount and type of melanin determines a person's skin color. What is the function of melanin? Melanin's role is to

About the Heart and Blood Vessels The heart is the hardest working muscle in the human body. Located almost in the center of the chest, a healthy adult heart is the size of a clenched adult fist. By age 70, the human heart will beat more than 2.5 billion times. The heart is

Diet for Lactose Intolerance What is lactose intolerance? Lactose is the name of the sugar found in milk. Lactose intolerance occurs when your body can’t break down all the lactose in the foods you eat. Symptoms of lactose intolerance include: Diarrhea Gas Bloating Stomach pain

Dialysis in Children What is dialysis? Dialysis is a procedure that is done routinely on people who have acute or chronic kidney (renal) failure. It filters waste and extra fluid from the blood. That is something that would normally be done by the kidneys. Dialysis may also be

Frequently Asked Questions: Mammograms What are the benefits of screening mammography? Today's high-quality screening mammogram is the best tool available to detect breast cancer before lumps can be felt or symptoms appear. You have a better chance of surviving breast cancer if

When to Call for Help Anytime you're not comfortable with a medical situation, call 911 or your local emergency number, go to an emergency room, or call your doctor. When to get help right away The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) says that these conditions need

Evaluation Procedures for Orthopedic Problems What are standard evaluation procedures? Before a treatment or rehabilitation plan can be made, your orthopedist must first find what is causing your condition. This typically involves a physical exam and a review of your health

Endometrial Cancer: Diagnosis How is endometrial cancer diagnosed? If your healthcare provider thinks you might have endometrial cancer, usually because of abnormal vaginal bleeding, you'll need certain exams and tests to be sure. Endometrial cancer is cancer that starts in the

Handwashing What is the best way to wash my hands? At home or work, wash your hands often—and correctly: Use clean, running water. The water can be warm or cold; either works well. Wet your hands before applying soap. Rub your soapy hands together for at least 20 seconds. Wash

Hypothyroidism and Pregnancy Facts about hypothyroidism and pregnancy Hypothyroidism is a condition that is caused by an underactive thyroid gland. It may happen during pregnancy. Many symptoms of the condition are similar to pregnancy symptoms. For example, they can both cause