Category: Medicine Page 5 of 8
Of course there will be medicine. I am The Grumpy Doc.
Chronic Pain in Senior Citizens
Introduction
Chronic pain doesn’t just hurt—it reshapes lives. Among Americans over 65, nearly half report living with some form of persistent pain. And for many, it’s not merely a nuisance—it’s a barrier to independence, a source of depression, and a drain on their relationships.
Everyone’s pain is personal and requires a personal approach. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for pain management.
If you are suffering from chronic pain, this article may help you think about questions you need to ask your doctor to come up with your pain management plan. If you do not suffer from chronic pain, you may have friends or family who do. If so, this article may help you support them in their efforts to live with their pain and make the most of their lives.
Chronic pain is one of the most common and debilitating health issues among older adults. Defined as pain lasting longer than three to six months, it affects nearly 50% of people over 65 in the United States. For seniors, it is not just a physical burden—it impacts mental health, social engagement, and overall quality of life. Understanding the causes, diagnosis, and management of chronic pain in this population is essential for healthcare providers, caregivers, and patients alike.
I have had some personal experience with what chronic pain may be like. Following shoulder replacement surgery, I had persistent pain for about eight weeks. It was not severe, but it was always present. Never being pain free was more draining than having a short period of extremely severe pain. While I was fortunate in only having a short duration of consistent pain, I can only imagine what it must be like when this type of pain goes on for months or years.
Major Causes of Chronic Pain in Older Adults
Aging bodies are vulnerable to a range of degenerative and inflammatory conditions that contribute to chronic pain. The most common causes include:
- Osteoarthritis – Age-related wear and tear on joints leads to chronic joint pain, particularly in the knees, hips, and hands.
- Spinal Degeneration – Conditions like spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease can cause back pain, sciatica, and radiculopathy.
- Neuropathies – Diabetes and shingles (postherpetic neuralgia) are common sources of nerve pain in older adults.
- Osteoporosis and Fractures – Fragile bones can lead to vertebral compression fractures, causing persistent back pain.
- Cancer-related Pain – Both the disease itself and its treatments may cause ongoing pain in older populations.
- Inflammatory Conditions – Rheumatoid arthritis and polymyalgia rheumatica, though less common, also contribute to chronic pain in seniors.
Types of Pain
Pain is typically classified into five main types, based on its cause and characteristics:
- Acute Pain: Short-term pain that comes on suddenly and is usually the result of injury, surgery, or illness. It generally resolves once the underlying cause is treated. Example: A broken bone or surgical incision.
- Chronic Pain: Long-lasting pain that persists for more than 3 to 6 months, often continuing after the initial injury has healed. It may be constant or intermittent. Example: Osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, or chronic back pain.
- Nociceptive Pain: Caused by damage to body tissue. It’s usually described as sharp, aching, or throbbing and is typically well localized. Example: Somatic pain (skin, muscles, bones), Visceral pain (internal organs)
- Neuropathic Pain: Results from damage or dysfunction in the nervous system. Often described as burning, shooting, or electric shock-like. Example: Diabetic neuropathy, shingles pain.
- Psychogenic Pain: Pain influenced by emotional, psychological, or behavioral factors. While not caused by physical injury, the pain is still real and can be severe. Example: Headaches or back pain worsened by stress or depression.
Evaluating Chronic Pain in Seniors
Assessing chronic pain in older adults presents unique challenges. Some seniors underreport pain due to stoicism, fear of further testing, or concern about being a burden. Clinicians often use a mix of qualitative and quantitative tools:
- Pain Scales (e.g., Numeric Rating Scale, Faces Pain Scale) help gauge intensity.
- Pain Diaries facilitate tracking fluctuations of intensity and duration as well as pain triggers.
- Functional Assessments focus on how pain limits mobility and daily tasks.
- Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment evaluates medical, psychological, and functional factors as they relate to pain.
Because chronic pain often coexists with cognitive decline, clinicians must tailor evaluations accordingly, sometimes relying on behavioral cues that may require repeat observations.
Treating Chronic Pain in Older Adults
Effective treatment of chronic pain in seniors requires a balanced and individualized strategy. Over-reliance on medication can increase the risk of adverse effects, while under-treatment may lead to functional decline and depression. Treatment falls into three broad categories: pharmacologic, non-pharmacologic, and interventional.
Pharmacologic Treatments
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)– First-line for mild to moderate pain due to its safety profile lack of impact on cognitive function.
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.)– Effective for inflammation but with risks like stomach/intestinal bleeding and kidney injury.
- Topical Agents – Lidocaine patches and capsaicin creams are helpful for localized pain.
- Antidepressants – Duloxetine and amitriptyline are commonly used for neuropathic pain.
- Anticonvulsants – Gabapentin and pregabalin help with neuropathic related pain.
- Opioids – Reserved for severe pain with strict monitoring due to fall, sedation, and dependency risks.
Non-Pharmacologic Treatments
- Physical Therapy – Improves strength, flexibility, and function.
- Exercise – Walking, tai chi, and water aerobics reduce stiffness and elevate mood.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Reshapes the pain response and builds resilience.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation – Meditation and deep breathing techniques are increasingly popular.
- Complementary Therapies – Acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic care provide relief for many.
- Assistive Devices – Braces, walkers, and orthotics reduce mechanical stress on joints.
Interventional Pain Management: A Middle Ground
For many seniors, interventional approaches offer targeted, longer-lasting relief when other therapies fall short. These procedures are typically performed by pain specialists.
- Nerve Blocks: Injections of anesthetic and steroids near inflamed or compressed nerves can reduce pain for weeks or months. Common types include facet joint blocks, sciatic nerve blocks, and sympathetic nerve blocks.
- Epidural Steroid Injections: Used for spinal stenosis or disc herniation, these injections reduce nerve inflammation. They can delay or avoid the need for surgery but should be used sparingly due to potential side effects.
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): A minimally invasive technique that uses heat to deactivate small sensory nerves. Especially effective for chronic back or neck pain from arthritic joints.
- Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS): Implanted devices deliver mild electrical impulses to disrupt pain signaling. Best for neuropathic pain or post-surgical syndromes.
- Intrathecal Pain Pumps: Deliver medication directly into spinal fluid, useful for severe chronic pain or cancer pain. The lower systemic dose reduces side effects, though implantation requires surgery.
- Joint Injections: Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid injections in the knees or shoulders can reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
Psychological and Social Impact of Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is not just a physical affliction—it seeps into the emotional and social fabric of daily life:
- Mental Health: Pain is strongly associated with depression and anxiety, especially when it disrupts independence. The constant discomfort can lead to frustration, feelings of helplessness, and a reduced desire to engage in social or recreational activities.
- Cognitive Burden: Chronic pain may worsen attention and memory, potentially accelerating cognitive decline. Pain-related inflammation and the impact of sleep deprivation may play roles in these declines.
- Social Withdrawal: Seniors with untreated pain often avoid social interaction, increasing loneliness. This can further contribute to mental health challenges, creating a negative feedback loop of worsening symptoms.
- Sleep Disruption: Pain commonly interferes with sleep, compounding fatigue and emotional distress. Over time, this lack of sleep can exacerbate pain and create a vicious cycle, further affecting both physical and mental health.
- Caregiver Strain: Family members may experience burnout, especially when pain limits the elder’s self-care abilities.
Conclusion
Chronic pain in senior citizens is a multifaceted issue that demands an equally comprehensive response. From acetaminophen to nerve blocks, from yoga to spinal cord stimulators, the treatment toolbox is broad and adaptable. But no single approach works for everyone.
By integrating physical, emotional, and interventional strategies—and involving the patient in decision-making—we can reduce suffering, improve mobility, and restore quality of life for older adults living with chronic pain.
What You Need to Know About This Silent Lung Disease
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease—better known as COPD—is one of the most common chronic illnesses affecting adults, particularly older adults, worldwide. And yet, it remains underrecognized until it’s well-advanced. In this post, we’ll break down what COPD is, how it develops, who’s at risk, what symptoms to watch for, how it’s treated, and what living with the disease may look like over time.
🚬 What Causes COPD?
At its core, COPD is an inflammatory condition that narrows the airways and damages the alveoli (the tiny air sacs in the lungs). The disease typically results from long-term exposure to lung irritants. Here are the main culprits:
- Smoking (cigarettes, cigars, pipes) – the #1 cause
- Occupational hazards – coal dust, fumes, silica, grain dust
- Indoor air pollution – wood-burning stoves, biomass fuel
- Outdoor pollution – especially in cities or industrial zones
- Genetics – especially a rare condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
Most people who develop COPD are over age 40 and have a history of smoking, but it’s not exclusive to smokers.
🧬 How COPD Develops
In people with COPD, years of exposure to irritants cause chronic inflammation in the airways. This leads to:
- Swelling and narrowing of the air passages
- Destruction of alveolar walls (especially in emphysema)
- Increased mucus production (as seen in chronic bronchitis)
- Air trapping in the lungs, reducing oxygen exchange
It’s a slow and irreversible process. By the time symptoms appear, significant lung damage may have already occurred.
😮💨 Symptoms: What to Watch For
COPD symptoms often sneak up gradually and are easy to ignore or misattribute to aging. Common signs include:
- Persistent cough (especially one that produces phlegm)
- Shortness of breath (especially on exertion)
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Chest tightness
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Fatigue or lack of stamina
- Bluish lips or fingertips in later stages (a sign of low oxygen)
Episodes where these symptoms suddenly worsen are called exacerbations—and they can be serious.
🔬 How COPD is Diagnosed
The gold standard for diagnosis is a spirometry test.
📊 What’s the FEV1/FVC Ratio?
This simple lung test measures how much air you can force out in one second (FEV1) and the total amount you can exhale after a deep breath (FVC). If your FEV1/FVC ratio is less than 0.70, that’s a strong sign of airflow obstruction—a hallmark of COPD.
✅ Normal: FEV1/FVC ≥ 0.75–0.80
❌ COPD: FEV1/FVC < 0.70
Doctors may also order chest X-rays, blood oxygen tests, or CT scans to rule out other conditions or assess lung damage.
💊 Treating COPD: What’s Possible?
There’s no cure—but treatment can help you feel better, breathe easier, and live longer. Here’s how it’s managed:
🚭 1. Stop Smoking
This is the most important intervention. Quitting smoking slows progression—no matter what your stage.
🌬️ 2. Inhalers (Bronchodilators)
These help open narrowed airways. There are short-acting types for quick relief and long-acting types for daily control.
🌡️ 3. Inhaled Steroids
Used to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups, especially for people who have frequent exacerbations.
🏃♂️ 4. Pulmonary Rehab
A supervised program that includes exercise training, nutrition advice, and education. Proven to improve quality of life.
🧪 5. Oxygen Therapy
Recommended if blood oxygen is low. Some people need it 24/7; others only during activity or sleep.
😷 6. Surgical Options
Rarely, procedures like lung volume reduction or lung transplants are used in severe cases.
📈 How COPD Progresses
The GOLD system stages COPD into four levels based on spirometry and symptom severity:
| Stage | FEV1 % Predicted | Description |
| I | ≥80% | Mild |
| II | 50–79% | Moderate |
| III | 30–49% | Severe |
| IV | <30% | Very Severe |
As COPD worsens, daily tasks like climbing stairs, shopping, or even talking can become exhausting. Exacerbations may increase in frequency and severity.
⏳ What’s the Outlook?
COPD is a chronic, lifelong condition. But the prognosis varies:
- If caught early and managed well, many people live long, active lives.
- If left untreated, it can lead to respiratory failure, heart problems, and frequent hospitalizations.
- Advanced cases can progress to Cor pulmonale (right-sided heart failure) which may develop due to chronic low oxygen levels and pulmonary hypertension.
- Respiratory failure can occur in advanced stages, requiring mechanical ventilation.
Doctors sometimes use a tool called the BODE Index to estimate risk. It includes:
- Body mass index (low BMI = worse outlook)
- Obstruction (how bad the lung damage is)
- Dyspnea (breathlessness level)
- Exercise tolerance (walking distance)
🛠️ The Bottom Line
COPD is common, serious, and often preventable. If you have a chronic cough, get winded easily, or have a history of smoking or exposure to lung irritants, talk to your doctor about spirometry testing.
Lifestyle changes, especially quitting smoking, make the biggest difference. Medications and rehabilitation programs can dramatically improve your quality of life.
Early action matters—and it’s never too late to start breathing better.
📚 References
- CDC COPD Facts https://www.cdc.gov/copd/index.html
- NIH – National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/copd
- GOLD COPD Guidelines https://goldcopd.org/
Prostate Cancer: An Introduction
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men; the American Cancer Society estimates that approximately one in eight men will be diagnosed with it at some point in their lives.
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men, after lung cancer. However, most men diagnosed with prostate cancer do not die from the disease.
The five-year survival rate for localized and regional prostate cancer is nearly 100%, thanks to advances in early detection and treatment. Even for men with more advanced disease, treatments such as hormone therapy, radiation, and newer systemic therapies have improved survival outcomes; still, in some cases, prostate cancer can be aggressive and life-threatening.
That said, prostate cancer remains a significant public health concern. The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 34,000 men in the U.S. died from prostate cancer in 2024. The risk of death increases with more aggressive cancer types, higher Gleason scores, and cancer that has spread to distant organs such as the bones.
In this article we will explore key aspects of prostate cancer, including diagnostic tools such as PSA and the Gleason score, the various treatment options available, and the debate surrounding prostate cancer screening, particularly for men over 70.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A Controversial Screening Tool
One of the primary tools used to screen for prostate cancer is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. PSA is a protein produced by both normal and cancerous prostate cells, and elevated levels of PSA in the blood can indicate the presence of prostate cancer. However, an elevated PSA level does not always mean cancer is present, as benign conditions like prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, an enlarged prostate) can also cause high PSA levels.
The PSA test has been at the center of much debate over the past few decades. On the one hand, it has undoubtedly led to earlier detection of prostate cancer, sometimes before any symptoms appear. On the other hand, the PSA test is not a perfect screening tool. It can lead to overdiagnosis and overtreatment of cancers that may never have become clinically significant. Many prostate cancers grow so slowly that they would not have caused harm during a man’s natural lifespan, yet once detected, patients may undergo unnecessary treatments with side effects such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
Because of these limitations, the decision to undergo PSA screening should be made after a thorough discussion between the patient and his healthcare provider, considering individual risk factors such as age, family history, and race. Additionally, prostate cancer tends to develop at a younger age in African American men and it is generally recommended that consideration be given to initiate screening beginning around age 45, or even earlier if there’s a strong family history. Additionally, African American men are more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive forms of prostate cancer, leading to poorer outcomes.
In a prior post on medical guidelines, I discussed my personal experience with PSA screening and my diagnosis with prostate cancer.
The Gleason Score: A Key Factor in Diagnosis
Once a prostate cancer diagnosis is confirmed, typically via biopsy, one of the most important prognostic tools is the Gleason score. The Gleason score is a grading system that assesses the aggressiveness of prostate cancer cells under a microscope. Pathologists examine the prostate tissue samples and assign two numbers based on the appearance of the cancer cells. The appearance of cancer cells is evaluated, and each area of abnormal cells is assigned a number on a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the most abnormal. (In clinical practice today, grades 1 and 2 are almost never used.) The first number is the most common area, and the second number is the next most common. These two numbers are then added together to give a composite Gleason score between 6 and 10. There is one caveat; not all scores are equal. For example, while 4 + 3 and 3 + 4 both produce a score of 7, the former is more significant because its most common area is of a higher grade.
- A Gleason score of 6 typically indicates low-grade cancer that is less likely to spread and may grow slowly.
- Scores of 7 suggest an intermediate risk, with some potential for more aggressive growth.
- Scores of 8 to 10 represent high-grade cancer that is more likely to grow quickly and spread to other parts of the body.
The Gleason score plays a crucial role in determining treatment options. For instance, low-grade cancers may be candidates for active surveillance, where the patient is closely monitored without immediate treatment. In contrast, high-grade cancers may require more aggressive intervention, such as surgery or radiation therapy. It is also important to recognize that a biopsy may miss an area of high-grade tumor giving an artificially low Gleason score, although with modern use of MRI this is less likely.
Treatment Options
Prostate cancer treatment decisions depend on several factors, including the Gleason score, PSA level, the stage of the cancer (whether it has spread beyond the prostate), the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences.
1. Active Surveillance
Active surveillance is often recommended for men with low-risk prostate cancer, especially those who are older or have other significant health problems. Instead of immediate treatment, the patient is closely monitored with periodic PSA tests, digital rectal exams (DRE), and biopsies to detect any signs of progression. The goal is to avoid over-treatment while keeping a close eye on the cancer in case it becomes more aggressive.
2. Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy)
For men with localized prostate cancer, especially those with higher Gleason scores or younger patients, surgery may be recommended. A radical prostatectomy involves removing the entire prostate gland and some surrounding tissues. While surgery offers the potential for a cure, it comes with risks of side effects such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction, depending on factors such as nerve preservation during the procedure. The newer robotic surgical techniques have fewer side effects than the older open technique.
3. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is another option for treating localized or locally advanced prostate cancer. External beam radiation or brachytherapy (internal radiation) can target the cancerous cells while sparing healthy tissue. Radiation therapy is often used as an alternative to surgery or in combination with other treatments. The side effects are similar to those of surgery, including urinary and sexual dysfunction, though the timing and severity of these side effects may differ.
4. Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy, or ADT)
Prostate cancer growth is often fueled by androgens, the male hormones such as testosterone. Hormone therapy aims to lower androgen levels or block their effects on prostate cancer cells, which can slow the growth of the cancer. Hormone therapy is typically used in cases where the cancer has spread beyond the prostate or recurred after previous treatment. It may also be used in combination with radiation for high-risk cancers.
5. Chemotherapy and Other Systemic Treatments
For men with advanced prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic cancer), chemotherapy may be an option. Other newer treatments, such as immunotherapy and targeted therapies, are being developed to improve outcomes for patients with advanced disease.
The Age 70 Screening Debate
One of the most debated topics in prostate cancer screening is when to stop PSA testing. Many organizations, including the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), recommend that routine PSA screening should generally stop at age 70. The rationale behind this recommendation is that prostate cancer often grows very slowly, and older men are more likely to die from other causes before prostate cancer becomes life-threatening. Moreover, the risks of treatment often outweigh the benefits for older men with low-risk cancers.
However, this recommendation is not without controversy. Some experts argue that healthy older men, particularly those with a life expectancy of 10 years or more, should continue to be screened because they may still benefit from early detection and treatment. Discontinuing screening might result in missing aggressive cancers that could benefit from early intervention. Some studies suggest that older men who continue screening are less likely to be diagnosed with high-risk disease.
As with other aspects of prostate cancer care, the decision should be individualized based on the patient’s health, preferences, and overall risk profile.
Conclusion
Prostate cancer is a complex disease with a wide range of outcomes, from slow-growing tumors that may never cause harm to aggressive cancers that can be fatal. Screening and diagnostic tools such as the PSA test and Gleason score are valuable, but they must be used carefully to avoid over-diagnosis and over-treatment. Treatment options range from active surveillance to surgery and radiation, and the choice depends on the individual patient’s cancer characteristics and overall health. Finally, the decision to stop PSA screening at age 70 should be made on a case-by-case basis, with the goal of balancing the benefits of early detection against the potential harms of treatment.
Prostate cancer is a serious diagnosis, but with appropriate screening and treatment, many men can live long and healthy lives.
A Brief History of the U.S. Navy Medical Corps
The U.S. Navy Medical Corps has a history that evolves from a humble beginning during the Revolutionary War to its current role as a vital component of modern military medicine. The Medical Corps ensures the health and well-being of sailors, Marines, and their families, while contributing to public health and advancements in medical science.
Origins in the Revolutionary War
The roots of Navy medicine trace back to the Revolutionary War, when medical care aboard ships was primitive at best. Shipboard surgeons, often lacking formal medical training, treated injuries and disease with the limited tools and knowledge available to them. In the early days of the U.S. Navy, physicians served without formal commissions, often receiving temporary appointments for specific cruises. Their primary tasks included amputations, treating infections, and caring for diseases like scurvy and dysentery.
In 1798, Congress formally established the Department of the Navy, creating the foundation for organized medical care within the naval service. Surgeon Edward Cutbush published the first American text on naval medicine in 1808. The Naval Hospital Act of 1811 marked another milestone, authorizing the construction of naval hospitals to support the growing fleet.
Establishment of the Navy Medical Corps (1871)
The U.S. Navy Medical Corps was officially established on March 3, 1871, by an act of Congress. This legislation created a formal medical staff to support the Navy, setting standards for the recruiting and training naval physicians. These physicians were initially known as “Surgeons” and “Assistant Surgeons,” tasked with providing care on ships and at naval hospitals. The act granted Navy physicians rank relative to their line counterparts, acknowledged their role as a staff corps, and established the title of “Surgeon General” for the Navy’s senior medical officer.
During this period, the Navy Medical Corps began to expand its scope. It embraced emerging medical technologies and scientific discoveries, setting the stage for its later contributions to public health and medical innovation.
The Navy Hospital Corps
The U.S. Navy Hospital Corps was established on June 17, 1898. Its creation was prompted by the increased medical needs during the Spanish-American War. Since then, the enlisted corpsmen have served in every conflict involving the United States, providing critical medical care on battlefields, aboard ships, and in hospitals worldwide.
Corpsmen are trained to perform a wide range of medical tasks, including emergency battlefield triage and treatment, surgery assistance, and disease prevention. They are often embedded directly with Marine Corps units, making them indispensable on the battlefield.
The Hospital Corps is the most decorated group in the U.S. Navy. To date, its members have earned numerous high-level awards for valor, including: 22 Medals of Honor, 182 Navy Crosses, 946 Silver Stars, and 1,582 Bronze Stars.
World Wars and the Expansion of Military Medicine
Both World War I and World War II were transformative for the Navy Medical Corps. During World War I, Navy medical personnel treated injuries and illnesses both aboard ships and in field hospitals. Their efforts were instrumental in managing wartime epidemics, including the devastating 1918 influenza pandemic.
World War II brought further advancements. The Navy Medical Corps played a pivotal role in addressing the challenges of warfare in diverse climates, including tropical diseases in the Pacific Theater. It also pioneered methods for treating trauma, burns, and psychiatric conditions.
Cold War Era and Modernization
The Cold War era marked a time of significant innovation for the Navy Medical Corps. The establishment of the Navy Medical Research Institutes advanced studies in areas such as tropical medicine, submarine medicine, and aerospace medicine. These efforts supported the Navy’s global missions and contributed to broader medical advancements.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Navy medical personnel became key players in humanitarian missions, responding to natural disasters and providing aid in conflict zones. Their expertise in public health, infectious disease control, and trauma care enhanced the Navy’s ability to spread goodwill worldwide.
Modern Contributions and Future Challenges
Today, the Navy Medical Corps supports both military readiness and global health. Its personnel provide care on ships, submarines, aircraft carriers, and for Marine Corps forces, and at shore-based facilities. They also participate in humanitarian missions and disaster response, reflecting the Navy’s commitment to a broader vision of security and well-being.
In recent years, Navy medicine has faced challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing mental health issues among service members, and adapting to emerging threats like climate change and cyber warfare defense. These challenges underscore the evolving role of the Navy Medical Corps in a complex world.
From its early days of rudimentary care to its modern role in global health and innovation, the U.S. Navy Medical Corps has been a cornerstone of military medicine. Its contributions extend beyond the battlefield, shaping public health, medical research, and humanitarian efforts worldwide.
As the Navy Medical Corps continues to adapt to new challenges, it remains a testament to the enduring value of medical service in the defense of the nation and the promotion of global health.
Most of us don’t consider getting an eye exam until we think we need new glasses or maybe when we think we need glasses for the first time. But that’s not the only reason we should be visiting the eye doctor. For adults, maintaining eye health becomes increasingly important as we get older. Vision changes are a natural part of aging and many serious eye conditions can be managed or even prevented with regular care. Conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy can be discovered during routine exams. Additionally, there are rarer eye conditions that can be detected, such as ocular cancers, that may not be symptomatic initially but can lead to vision loss and can even be fatal.
Timely diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases are crucial to preserving sight and overall quality of life. Your eye exam is about far more than just a new pair of glasses.
This issue will cover major eye diseases affecting adults, the symptoms, available treatments, and complications of late diagnoses.
Cataracts
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurry or diminished vision. Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss in older adults.
Symptoms:
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Seeing halos around lights
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Double vision in one eye
Treatment:
In the early stages, stronger lighting and prescription glasses may help. However, the only definitive treatment is cataract surgery, where the cloudy lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective procedures available.
Complications of Late Diagnosis:
Delaying treatment can lead to significant vision impairment, increasing the risk of falls, depression, and loss of independence. In advanced cases, cataracts can cause complete blindness.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to high intraocular pressure. Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form. It typically develops slowly without noticeable symptoms. Angle-closure glaucoma appears more suddenly and generally involves severe eye pain. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide and often develops without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs.
Symptoms:
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision (in open-angle glaucoma)
- Sudden, severe eye pain (in angle-closure glaucoma)
- Blurred vision
- Halos around lights
- Nausea and vomiting (in acute cases)
Treatment:
Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be managed with:
- Prescription eye drops to reduce intraocular pressure
- Laser therapy to improve fluid drainage
- Surgery in severe cases
Complications of Late Diagnosis:
Glaucoma-related vision loss is irreversible. Without timely intervention, glaucoma can lead to tunnel vision and complete blindness.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), primarily affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. There are two main forms of AMD: dry (non-neovascular) and wet (neovascular). Dry AMD is more common and progresses slowly, while wet AMD is less common but more severe and leads to rapid vision loss.
Symptoms:
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
- Straight lines appearing wavy
- Need for brighter light when reading
- Dark or empty areas in the center of vision
Treatment:
There is no cure for AMD, but treatment options include:
- Injections to slow the progression of wet AMD
- Laser therapy in some cases
- Lifestyle changes, including a diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidant supplements
Complications of Late Diagnosis:
Without early treatment, AMD can progress to severe vision loss, making everyday activities like reading and driving difficult.
Diabetic Retinopathy
This condition occurs in people with diabetes when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina. In early stages it is not symptomatic, but it can lead to blindness if untreated.
Symptoms:
- Floaters or dark spots in vision
- Blurry vision
- Difficulty seeing colors
- Vision loss in advanced cases
Treatment:
- Better blood sugar control to slow progression
- Injections to prevent spread
- Laser treatment to seal leaking blood vessels
- Surgery for severe cases
Complications of Late Diagnosis:
Delaying treatment can result in retinal detachment, complete vision loss, and an increased risk of other eye diseases.
Cancers of the Eye
Although rare, cancers such as ocular melanoma can develop in the eye. This is a diverse group of malignancies that can affect different parts of the eye and its surrounding structures. They can originate within the eye or can spread to the eye from other parts of the body. They can be aggressive and vision threatening requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms vary depending on the type and location of the cancer and can include many of the same symptoms as other eye diseases. Prognosis and treatment depend on the type of cancer and stage at the time of diagnosis. Treatment can include surgery, radiation therapy, laser therapy, chemotherapy and targeted immunotherapy. Early diagnosis is critical.
The Importance of Regular Eye Examinations
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults over 65 have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year, even if they have no noticeable vision problems. Those with conditions like diabetes, glaucoma, or AMD may need more frequent exams.
Maintaining Good Eye Health
- Eat a Vision-Friendly Diet: Foods rich in vitamin A, C, E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids help protect eyesight.
- Control Chronic Conditions: Managing diabetes and high blood pressure reduces the risk of eye complications.
- Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses with UV protection and blue light filtering when using digital screens.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of AMD, cataracts, and other eye diseases.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise improves circulation and overall eye health.
- Use Proper Lighting: Ensure good lighting at home to prevent strain and falls.
- Follow Medication Instructions: Use prescribed eye drops and medications consistently to manage conditions like glaucoma.
Prioritizing Eye Health for a Better Quality of Life
Vision loss can significantly impact independence, mobility, and mental well-being. The key to maintaining good eye health is early detection and timely treatment. By scheduling regular eye exams and adopting healthy habits, you can preserve your vision and enjoy a higher quality of life.
If you’re haven’t had an eye exam in the past year, now is the time to schedule one. It’s about more than just a new pair of glasses. Protecting your eyesight today can ensure a clearer, brighter tomorrow.
Or Is It Simply a Band-Aid?
When I first started hearing about telemedicine in the 1990s, I was dubious at best. How can I treat a patient I can’t examine? Too many things ran through my mind. I couldn’t listen to their heart, I couldn’t listen to them breathe, I couldn’t even look in their throat or their ears. What if I needed an EKG? How could I check their blood pressure? I was worried that telemedicine might be “second rate medicine”.
I was worried about misdiagnosis and overprescribing antibiotics. If you couldn’t actually examine a patient, you might decide to play it safe and prescribe an antibiotic whether it was really needed or not. It might result in people being sent to the emergency room who might have been treated as an outpatient if you could have examined them in person.
As I looked into it, I discovered that the idea of telemedicine was not really new. As early as 1879, the British Medical Journal The Lancet discussed the possibility of using the telephone, then a revolutionary new technology, to reduce unnecessary doctors’ visits. It took the advent of the computer age and audio-video technology to make telemedicine a real possibility. But even then, I was still skeptical. I preferred to see my patients in person and did not get involved in telemedicine until the great societal upheaval of COVID.
I happened to retire from the emergency department three months before COVID hit. I was still doing primary care two days a week for an employee’s clinic. Like everyone else, we were shut down.
Reluctantly, we decided the only way to provide a service to our patients was to start using telehealth. Of course, we had none of the audio-video equipment we needed so we initially did it by telephone. That just confirmed most of my worries about providing poor care. We soon acquired the audio-video capabilities which gave us a little more insight into the patients we were dealing with. Over the next few months, I learned who was and was not a good candidate for telemedicine and how I could best care for patients that I could not physically examine. I’m going to share with you some of the things that I’ve learned over the past four years. Thankfully telehealth is now an exception rather than the rule as it was early in COVID. But it’s here to stay and we need to learn how to make it work.
Advantages of Telehealth
Convenience and Accessibility: Telehealth’s most immediate and tangible benefit is convenience. With the simple click of a button, patients can consult a physician from the comfort of their home. This is particularly helpful for those living in rural areas or those who are physically unable to travel to a clinic or hospital. According to a study by the American Medical Association, telehealth has increased access to care for patients who otherwise might not be able to receive it, whether due to geographical limitations, lack of transportation, or mobility issues.
For working professionals or parents who find it difficult to carve out time for in-person visits, telehealth allows consultations to occur from anywhere, drastically reducing travel time and missed work or family obligations. Patients also benefit from shorter wait times, as virtual queues tend to move more quickly than physical ones.
Cost Efficiency: Telehealth services can be more cost-effective for both patients and healthcare providers. For patients, the expenses associated with travel, parking, and time away from work are minimized. Healthcare providers, particularly in large hospital networks, can allocate resources more efficiently by integrating telemedicine into their workflow. Many telehealth services also offer more affordable consultation fees compared to in-office visits. A report from the National Bureau of Economic Research found that telemedicine visits are often less expensive for both insurers and healthcare systems.
Continuity of Care: Telehealth allows for more frequent follow-ups, which is critical for managing chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma. Instead of requiring patients to come to the clinic for every minor adjustment or medication change, telehealth allows for regular check-ins from home. This facilitates better long-term disease management and patient compliance. It can also enable quick intervention in cases where a patient’s symptoms escalate, potentially reducing the likelihood of emergency room visits.
Disadvantages of Telehealth
Limited Physical Examination: The inability to perform a comprehensive physical examination is a significant limitation of telehealth. While many aspects of healthcare can be effectively managed through conversation, video, and shared data, some conditions require a hands-on exam. For example, a doctor might not be able to detect subtle signs of a skin condition, a heart murmur, or abdominal tenderness through a video screen. This limitation can hinder accurate diagnoses and delay proper treatment.
Privacy and Data Security: Healthcare data is among the most sensitive forms of personal information. The shift to telehealth introduces significant concerns about data security, especially given the increase in cyberattacks on healthcare systems. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) mandates strict guidelines for protecting patient privacy, but not all telehealth platforms may be fully compliant. In some cases, platforms may use third-party applications that could compromise patient information. The risk of hacking, data breaches, or improper data handling adds another layer of complexity to the telehealth debate.
Connectivity Issues: High-speed internet is a luxury that is still not available in many rural and underserved areas. Telehealth relies heavily on stable and fast internet connections to facilitate real-time communication between patient and provider. In regions where broadband access is limited, telehealth appointments can be riddled with delays, interruptions, or complete disconnections. This not only disrupts the flow of the consultation but can also compromise the quality of care provided.
Lack of Universal Standards: Unlike in-person healthcare, where the processes are well-established and regulated, telehealth practices can vary significantly between providers and systems. The lack of universal standards for telehealth can lead to inconsistencies in the quality of care. Some platforms might not integrate well with electronic health records (EHRs), making it difficult for physicians to access a complete patient history during the virtual consultation. Platforms may not function seamlessly across different devices (i.e., Android vs. iOS) or different browsers. Technical support may not always be readily available to address these issues, leading to delays in care or missed appointments.
Medical Problems Not Appropriate for Telehealth
While telehealth has proven to be effective for certain conditions, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. There are specific medical problems that necessitate an in-person visit, where a physical examination and specialized equipment are crucial.
Acute Injuries and Trauma: Telehealth is not suitable for diagnosing or treating acute injuries such as fractures, deep cuts, burns, or other types of trauma. These conditions require immediate hands-on evaluation, imaging (e.g., X-rays or CT scans), and possibly surgical intervention. A telehealth consultation cannot provide the necessary tools to address these problems adequately, and any delays in care could worsen the patient’s condition.
Cardiovascular Emergencies: Conditions such as chest pain, heart attack symptoms, or strokes demand immediate in-person evaluation. The time-sensitive nature of these issues means that telehealth would not be appropriate for diagnosis or treatment. Patients experiencing these symptoms require rapid testing, monitoring, and possibly life-saving interventions that cannot be performed remotely.
Neurological Symptoms: Patients presenting with acute neurological symptoms such as sudden onset of weakness, slurred speech, confusion, or seizure activity require immediate in-person evaluation. These symptoms could indicate a stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), or another serious neurological condition that cannot be diagnosed or managed through a telehealth appointment.
Surgical Consultations: While telehealth can be a valuable tool for follow-up appointments post-surgery, the initial evaluation for surgical candidates should take place in person. Surgeons often rely on physical examinations and imaging results to determine whether surgery is necessary and to plan the procedure effectively.
Striking a Balance
Telehealth has transformed healthcare in a multitude of ways, providing unprecedented access to care for millions of patients. Its convenience, cost efficiency, and ability to promote continuity of care make it a powerful tool in the modern healthcare landscape. However, the limitations of telehealth, especially in cases requiring hands-on care or in emergencies, cannot be ignored. As healthcare systems continue to integrate telehealth into routine practice, it is essential to strike a balance between virtual and in-person care to ensure that all patients receive the level of medical attention they need. For now, I believe telehealth should be viewed as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, traditional healthcare.
Understanding the Types, Symptoms, and Management
Have you ever wondered why your family doc asks you to get a blood test when you make a routine office visit? Checking your A1c is one of the reasons why. At any age, but especially as you get older, you need to watch for symptoms of diabetes. Caring for ourselves and others in managing this disease is important. Something as simple as planning a dinner for family and friends may involve thinking about a person’s dietary restrictions, particularly if they have recently been diagnosed and are not yet comfortable with the diet. Even if you are not diabetic, please continue to read as I’ve included pertinent information about this disease to help you understands how it can affect your family and friends.
Diabetes is a group of chronic conditions affecting millions of people worldwide and not all cases of diabetes are the same. The two most common types, Type 1 and Type 2, involve elevated blood sugar levels but differ in their causes and management. At its simplest, Type 1 diabetics do not produce insulin and require supplementation. Type 2 diabetics produce insulin, but their bodies are resistant to its effects. According to the American Diabetes Association, as of 2021, approximately 11.6% of the U.S. population, or 38.4 million Americans had diabetes. Additionally, almost one-third of Americans have prediabetes. This includes both diagnosed and undiagnosed cases.
This guide will explain the key differences between the two types, highlight the role of the A1c test in diagnosis and care, and explore the consequences of poorly managed diabetes. Additionally, we will discuss a related condition, prediabetes, which serves as an early warning sign for Type 2 diabetes.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes you probably are familiar with most of what is in this article. If you have not been diagnosed with diabetes you may find it interesting as it describes the diagnosis, management and genetic properties of diabetes. It also discusses how you can support family and friends who are living with the disease.
Type 1 vs. Type 2: What’s the Difference?
Historically, terms like “insulin-dependent” and “non-insulin-dependent” diabetes, as well as “juvenile” and “adult-onset” diabetes, were used to describe these conditions. Modern terminology now reflects their underlying causes as Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, glucose cannot enter cells for energy, leading to its buildup in the bloodstream. Symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and unintentional weight loss often appear suddenly, typically in childhood or early adulthood.
Type 1 diabetes has a strong genetic component, with heritability estimates ranging from 40% to 50%. Having a first-degree relative—parents and siblings—with Type 1 diabetes increases the risk, but the inheritance pattern is complex. Identical twins have a 40-50% concordance rate for Type 1 diabetes
Management requires:
- Insulin Therapy: Administered through injections or an insulin pump.
- Dietary Management: Balanced meals to regulate blood sugar levels.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is often associated with lifestyle factors, including obesity, poor diet, and inactivity, though genetics also play a significant role. In this condition, the body becomes resistant to insulin, and over time, the pancreas may fail to produce enough insulin. Symptoms develop more gradually and may include fatigue, increased thirst, and slow-healing wounds.
Type 2 diabetes has an even stronger genetic component than Type 1, with heritability estimates ranging from 20% to 80%. First-degree relatives of individuals with Type 2 diabetes are about 3 times more likely to develop the disease. The lifetime risk is 40% for individuals with one parent with Type 2 diabetes and 70% if both parents are affected. Identical twins have a higher concordance rate (about 70%) compared to fraternal twins (20-30%).
Management strategies include:
- Lifestyle Modifications: Weight loss, improved diet, and regular exercise.
- Medications: Oral and injectable medications are the usual management choice, though insulin may be needed in advanced stages.
- Reversal Potential: Some individuals can manage or even reverse the condition through sustained lifestyle changes.
Prediabetes: An Early Warning Sign
Prediabetes—first recognized as a distinct medical condition in the late 1990s—occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. It is a significant risk factor for developing Type 2 diabetes and associated complications like heart disease. Risk factors include:
- Being overweight, especially with abdominal fat.
- Physical inactivity.
- Family history of Type 2 diabetes.
- Age over 45.
- Certain ethnic backgrounds (e.g., African American, Hispanic, Native American, or Asian American).
- Coexisting conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Early intervention—including weight management, improved diet, and regular physical activity—can often prevent or delay progression to diabetes.
Diet management: Keystone to Lifestyle Modification.
Managing diabetes involves maintaining stable blood sugar levels, and diet plays a crucial role in achieving this. While no food is entirely off-limits, certain restrictions help control blood sugar and prevent complications.
Carbohydrates are the primary focus in a diabetic diet, as they directly impact blood sugar. Foods like white bread, sugary drinks, pastries, and processed snacks should be limited due to their high glycemic index, which causes rapid blood sugar spikes. Instead, opt for complex carbs such as whole grains, legumes, and vegetables, which release glucose slowly.
Sugary foods, including desserts, candies, and sweetened beverages, should also be restricted. These items can cause unpredictable blood sugar fluctuations. If indulging occasionally, pair them with a protein or healthy fat to moderate the impact.
Saturated and trans fats, commonly found in fried foods, processed snacks, and fatty cuts of meat, should be minimized. These fats increase the risk of heart disease, which is already higher in people with diabetes.
The Role of A1c in Diagnosis and Management
The hemoglobin A1c test provides a snapshot of average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. It is a critical tool for diagnosing and managing diabetes.
Diagnosis
- Normal: Below 5.7%.
- Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%.
- Diabetes: 6.5% or higher on two separate tests.
Management
For most people with diabetes, the goal is to maintain an A1c level below 7%. Individual targets may vary based on age, health, and risk of hypoglycemia. Some studies have found that Type 2 diabetics can suffer adverse outcomes from consistently lowering the A1c below 5%. All management decisions should be made in consultation with your physician. Never start, stop or change dosage of diabetic medications on your own.
Key considerations include:
- Type 1 Diabetes: Insulin adjustments based on daily glucose checks and A1c trends.
- Type 2 Diabetes: A combination of lifestyle changes, oral or injectable medications, and insulin as needed.
- Prediabetes: Lifestyle modifications to lower A1c and reduce the risk of diabetes.
Consequences of Poorly Managed Diabetes
Failing to manage diabetes can lead to severe complications affecting nearly every organ system:
- Cardiovascular Disease: High blood sugar damages blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, hypertension and reduced circulation to the legs.
- Neuropathy (Nerve Damage): Tingling, pain, or numbness, particularly in the legs and feet, can contribute to infections and amputations.
- Kidney Disease (Nephropathy): Damaged kidney blood vessels can result in kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplant.
- Eye Damage (Retinopathy): Diabetes is a leading cause of blindness due to damage in the retina.
- Increased Infections: Impaired circulation and healing make infections harder to treat.
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): A life-threatening condition in Type 1 diabetes caused by acid buildup due to fat metabolism.
- Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS): Seen in Type 2 diabetes, this condition involves severe dehydration and confusion due to extremely high blood sugar levels.
What Can You Do to Help?
Supporting a loved one with diabetes requires understanding, encouragement, and teamwork. Family and friends can play a vital role in helping someone manage their condition effectively.
- Educate yourself: Learn about diabetes, its challenges, and treatment options. Understanding the basics of blood sugar levels, medication, and dietary needs enables you to provide informed support.
- Be supportive, not critical: Avoid judgmental comments about their food choices or habits. Instead, encourage them to make healthier decisions without pressure or guilt.
- Create a supportive environment: Keep healthy food options available at home and participate in physical activities together, like walking or cycling. This fosters a shared commitment to well-being.
- Offer emotional support: Diabetes management can be stressful. Be a good listener and offer reassurance during difficult times. Celebrate their successes, no matter how small.
- Attend appointments or classes: If invited, accompany them to medical appointments or diabetes education classes. This shows you’re invested in their health journey.
- Learn to respond to emergencies: Know the signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and how to act. This preparedness can be life-saving.
By being empathetic and proactive, family and friends can help a loved one with diabetes feel empowered, cared for, and less isolated.
Conclusion
Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, though different, are both serious conditions requiring proactive management. The A1c test plays a vital role in diagnosis and long-term care, offering insight into overall blood sugar control. Proper management, including lifestyle changes, medications, and regular monitoring, can prevent complications and significantly improve quality of life. Staying informed and working closely with healthcare providers are essential steps to living well with diabetes.
By taking action early and consistently, individuals can mitigate risks and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
On his first day in office, the new far right governor of West Virginia issued an executive order allowing for extensive exemptions from the school vaccination mandate. When taken with the nomination of a virulent anti vaxxer for Secretary of Health and Human Services, I am concerned that we are in a rush to allow our children to die of easily preventable diseases. With this in mind, I’m reposting my article The Triumph of Ignorance from last April. At that time—as you will see in the first paragraph—I had some hope. Those hopes have since been dashed.
“There are two ways to be fooled. One is to believe what is not true; the other is to refuse to believe what is true.”– Søren Kierkegaard
Saturday morning, I was reading in the newspaper about the resurgence of measles in West Virginia. I find it appalling that this disease should be returning, given that we have safe and effective vaccinations. What is next, polio, smallpox, or even plague? It is only through the unexpected veto by our governor that the ill-advised bill passed by our legislature to make all vaccinations virtually optional did not become law.
Some people may wonder why vaccinations are important. There are two principal reasons to ensure that a large portion of the population is vaccinated against communicable diseases. The first is that it reduces the individual vulnerability to disease. The person who is vaccinated is protected. But there is also a second, sometimes not well-understood, reason. That is herd immunity.
Communicable diseases require a large susceptible population to spread. When a significant portion of the population has been vaccinated the disease does not have the core of potential victims to allow spreading. This means that the vaccinated are protecting the non-vaccinated. However, it does require a large portion of the population to be vaccinated. The idea is that herd immunity will protect those who are unable to be vaccinated either due to age, allergies, or other medical conditions that would prohibit vaccination. It is never going to protect a large proportion of the population who just choose not to be vaccinated. For example, about 90-95% of the population needs to be vaccinated against measles to provide herd immunity.
So why do people who otherwise can be vaccinated choose not to be?
There are, of course, those who have true religious objections to vaccination. There are others who object to vaccination on the basis of personal autonomy. They believe their right to refuse vaccination outweighs any consideration of the health concerns of the frail members of our community.
There are many who mistrust the medical system. There were some cases in the past where unethical studies were conducted on unsuspecting populations. Given the rigorous oversight of medical research now, this no longer happens. Information about research into vaccinations and their safety and efficacy can be found on websites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization among others. (Website references are provided at the end of this post.)
What concerns me most are those who refuse to believe reputable medical authorities, government agencies, and mainline news services. They prefer to get their information from anonymous websites or from conspiracy theory websites that still give credence to the now-discredited 1999 study linking the MMR vaccine to autism. They completely ignore the fact that 10 of the 11 reported co-authors disavowed any part in the conclusions of the study. They also ignore the fact that the principal author was found guilty of fraud for personal gain as he was employed by the manufacturer of rival drugs. They also ignore the fact that he lost his medical license over his falsifications in this study. Yet, he is still cited in anti-vaccine literature as an expert source.
Equally disturbing is the fact that vaccine resistance has become a part of political identification. Certain reactionary political groups have, for some unfathomable reason, decided that refusing vaccination is a badge of their political allegiance. They seem to care more about maintaining their political purity than they care about science, public health, or even the welfare of their family and friends. Politicizing public health is dangerous for all of us. I’m not sure how we overcome this. It is easy to find the truth and verify it through fact-based studies, yet people refuse to do it.
I encourage everyone to work hard to ensure that our political leaders do not remove vaccination mandates for school children. For those of us of my age, we already have immunity through vaccination or prior exposure to the disease. It is our grandchildren and their children and their children’s children who will suffer through the return of these deadly diseases.
SOURCES:
World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/health-topics/vaccines-and-immunization#tab=tab_1
CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/index.html https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/index.html
WV DHHR: https://oeps.wv.gov/immunizations/Pages/default.aspx
Immunise.org: https://www.vaccineinformation.org/
Hijacked Healthcare- A System In Crisis
By John Turley
On February 8, 2025
In Commentary, Medicine, Politics
For more than 30 years I have watched our health care system become increasingly more politicized. As a physician I have become concerned with the direction it has recently taken.
Until the early 20th century healthcare was mostly private, and medical expenses were out of pocket. Early calls for national health insurance began with labor organizations and were quickly joined by progressive politicians. President Franklin Roosevelt wanted to include health insurance in the Social Security Act of 1935 but was unable to get it passed. President Harry Truman also proposed a National Health Insurance program in 1945, but it was denounced as socialized medicine. All these efforts were opposed by business interests, conservative politicians — particularly southern— and surprisingly, the American Medical Association.
Finally in the 1960s as part of his “Great Society” programs President Lyndon Johnson pushed for the passage of both Medicare and Medicaid. Rising costs of health care under President Richard Nixon led to the introduction of Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) as an attempt to encourage cost efficiency. President Ronald Reagan reduced federal health care spending and pushed for more privatization. In the 1990s President Bill Clinton attempted to introduce universal health coverage but it was met by fierce opposition from the insurance industry, business, and the Republican Party who labeled it as government “overreach”. Finally in 2010 President Obama’s Affordable Care Act (ACA) also called “Obamacare” became the most significant health care reform since Medicare and Medicaid. It also faced legal challenges and political resistance with the Republicans consistently attempting to repeal it. During his first term, President Donald Trump reduced ACA funding and repealed the individual mandate penalty that had required people who did not maintain health insurance to pay a fee. The elimination of the penalty weakened the law and reduced the number of people who sought coverage. We can expect further efforts to weaken the provisions of the ACA but given that it is well entrenched in the US healthcare system now is unlikely that it will be completely repealed.
While early health care programs faced significant controversy and strong debate, progress in providing expanded coverage and improved care was continuous. I’m concerned that we’re about to enter an era where many of our gains in public health are going to be reversed. The United States remains unique among wealthy nations as the only one without universal health care and I fear that we will begin to lose what gains we have made over the past several decades.
I’ve written previously about my concerns with vaccine resistance and the elimination of vaccination requirements for school children. I believe that this is an impending public health disaster and I’m afraid there are even greater disasters on the horizon.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr has been nominated by President Trump to be the secretary of Health and Human Services and by the time you read this he may well have been confirmed. During his confirmation hearings Kennedy has made a few positive statements. He’s expressed an intent to increase focus on chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity. He has indicated support for rural hospitals. He would like to increase training for physicians in addiction care and increase access to treatment programs. He is also indicated plans to improve American diet by targeting ultra processed foods, contaminants in food, and placing restrictions on food additives. He also has proposed reforms to include stricter FDA oversight of the food supply.
However, there are several very troubling aspects to his nomination. He has a history as a vaccine denier although he is currently denying that denial. He said he is not anti vaccine but is pro safety. He has stated he will support polio and measles vaccines and that all his children have been vaccinated. (In 2020, while speaking on the podcast of his nonprofit organization Children’s Health Defense, Kennedy said that he would do anything, pay anything to be able to go back in time to avoid giving his children the vaccines that he gave them.) Given his history of anti vaccine statements and the fact that he profits from anti vaccine litigation it’s likely he will return to previous anti vaccine positions once confirmed.
He has proposed significant changes to both the CDC and the NIH including significant staff changes. He has proposed redirecting funding to preventative/alternative medicine.
Most troubling is his poor understanding of Medicare and Medicaid programs. During questioning he showed a lack of understanding of the funding sources and statutory requirements of the two programs.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) faces considerable threat. House Republicans have proposed a $1.8 billion cut (22%) to CDC’s budget. These budget cuts target programs that address opioid overdoses, firearm injuries and food safety monitoring. This budget conflicts with Kennedy’s statements about his priorities and it remains to be seen how this will be resolved. The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 has advocated splitting the CDC into two separate entities: one for data collection and another for limited public health guidance. The intent is to reduce its influence on social policies. The administration has already imposed communications restrictions, requiring that CDC announcements, social media posts and scientific reports undergo political review. There is currently a proposal to reduce the in-house reviews of medical research; there is even a proposal to “deputize the public” to challenge scientific findings used in regulations. This would leave medical research open to review by the least qualified. Unfortunately, he current nominee for CDC director, David Weldon, a physician and former republican congressman, has signaled his intent to narrow the agency’s scope and his support for administration policies.
Highly contentious issues such as gender affirming care and reproductive health have already been severely restricted. It is likely that these areas will come under continued attack by the current administration.
This administration also poses a threat to global health. By executive order the US was withdrawn from the World Health Organization. Additionally, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) has been significantly reduced with all major programs placed on hold. Not only does USAID support foreign aid programs, but it is also a major player in global health.
USAID sponsored programs identify and monitor disease outbreaks, provide treatment and preventive measures for local populations and provide global disease alerts that help protect United States citizens. We are already seeing the beginnings of a worldwide humanitarian healthcare emergency. Not only will this affect healthcare systems but eventually the economic systems in countries who have lost their access to modern medical assistance. We will lose the advanced notice about disease outbreak and spread. Without this remote surveillance, it is possible that we may be caught unaware by the next pandemic until it is ravaging our population.
This administration claims to support “the average American” yet it seems to be intent on destroying all our health.