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The Child's Immune System What is the immune system? The immune system protects your child's body from outside invaders. This includes germs, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and toxins (chemicals made by microbes). The immune system is made up of different organs, cells

Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes You've probably heard that people with diabetes are at risk for multiple health complications. These include cardiovascular disease. As it turns out, cardiovascular disease is especially common among people with diabetes. Most people with type

Metabolic Syndrome What is metabolic syndrome? Metabolic syndrome is when you have 3 or more health problems that put you at higher risk for diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. It is also known as insulin resistance syndrome. It’s also called syndrome X. If you have metabolic

Inguinal Hernia What is an inguinal hernia? An inguinal hernia is when part of your intestine pushes through a weak spot in your lower belly (abdominal) wall. This area is called the groin. The hernia creates a lump in your groin. Over time, the hernia may get bigger. Most

Imperforate Anus in Children What is imperforate anus in children? Imperforate anus is a problem that your child is born with. It happens when your child has a blocked or missing anus. The final part of the digestive tract is the rectum. The rectum collects and compacts the solid

Heart Failure in Children What is heart failure in children? The heart is a muscle that pumps oxygen-rich blood to all parts of the body. When you have heart failure, the heart is not able to pump as well as it should. Blood and fluid may back up into the lungs (congestive heart

Mammograms and Breast Health What is a mammogram? A mammogram is an X-ray image of your breast. It's used to find and diagnose breast disease. A mammogram may be done if you have breast problems such as a lump, pain, or nipple discharge. A mammogram is also done as a screening

Arthritis Diagnosis Diagnosing arthritis may be difficult. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis. Many symptoms are similar among the different conditions affecting the joints. Arthritis may be generally categorized into the following groups: degenerative arthritis

Prematurity What is prematurity? A baby born before 37 weeks of pregnancy is considered premature or born too early. Other terms used for prematurity are preterm and the nicknames "preemie" or "premie". About 1 in every 10 infants are born prematurely. Twins and other multiples

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