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Smoking and Respiratory Diseases Fast facts According to the CDC: More than 16 million Americans are living with a disease caused by smoking. Across the world, tobacco causes more than 7 million deaths per year. Smoking causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases

Components of Food If you are trying to make heart-healthy changes to your lifestyle and diet, it's helpful to know some basics about nutrition, starting with the components of food. Facts about calories You need enough calories to give you energy, but no more than you can burn

Scars What is a scar? A scar is the body's natural way of healing and replacing lost or damaged skin. A scar is often made of fibrous tissue. Scars may be formed for many different reasons. They may be due to infections, surgery, injuries, or inflammation of tissue. Scars may

Gastroesophageal Reflux in Children What is gastroesophageal reflux in children? Gastroesophageal refers to the stomach and esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Reflux means to flow back or return. Reflux happens because the lower

Sleeping Positions During Pregnancy As your pregnancy progresses and your uterus gets bigger, you may find it harder to get comfortable in bed. Early on in pregnancy, you can sleep on your stomach. Over time, that position can become uncomfortable. But it's OK to sleep on your

Calculating a Due Date A typical pregnancy lasts, on average, 280 days, or 40 weeks—starting with the first day of the last normal menstrual period as day 1. An estimated due date can be calculated by following steps 1 through 3: First, determine the first day of your last

Hormones During Pregnancy What is the role of hormones during pregnancy? Many hormone levels are affected in the body during pregnancy. Several hormones play major roles during pregnancy. These are: Human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (hCG). This hormone is made only during

Warning Signs During Pregnancy What are some warning signs of possible pregnancy complications? Talk with your healthcare provider about the possible warning signs of preterm labor and other pregnancy complications. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of

Recognizing Gynecologic Problems Gynecological symptoms that may need medical attention Vaginal bleeding and discharge are a normal part of your menstrual cycle before menopause. But, if you notice anything different or unusual, talk to your healthcare provider. Don't try to

Anatomy of Female Pelvic Area Endometrium. The lining of the uterus. Uterus. Also called the womb, the uterus is a hollow, pear-shaped organ located in a person's lower abdomen, between the bladder and the rectum. Ovaries. Two female reproductive organs located in the pelvis