Health Alert: Cancers on the Rise among Young Adults. Researchers report that successive generations are
developing cancer earlier in life than their predecessors, such as cancer of the breast, colon, esophagus, kidney, liver,
and pancreas. Investigators attribute this change to trends over time associated with worsening diet quality, increased
sedentary time, increased obesity prevalence, environmental exposures, and alteration of the gut microbiome.
Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology, September 2022
Diet: You Can Reduce Your Hunger By Front-Loading Calories in the Morning. An experiment involving 16
men and 14 women found that participants felt more satiated throughout the day when they consumed a large
breakfast (reducing their risk for snacking) than when dinner was their most calorie-rich meal.
Cell Metabolism, September 2022
Exercise: More Physical Activity, Less Social Media. In a recent study that included 642 adults, researchers
observed that participants who replaced 30 minutes a day of social media use with physical activity of any intensity
for just two weeks had improved satisfaction with their life that was not observed in those who maintained their
usual physical activity levels and social media usage. Journal of Public Health, September 2022
Chiropractic: Keep the Wrist Neutral When Using Power Tools. According to a recent study, using power tools
with a non-neutral wrist position can increase pressure on the median nerve, elevating one’s risk for carpal tunnel
syndrome. The findings highlight the importance of avoiding prolonged flexed and extended wrist postures when
carrying out work and leisure activities.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, September 2022
Mental Attitude: Digital Self Harm? A survey of nearly 5,000 adolescents revealed that 9% had anonymously
posted negative comments about themselves on their social media posts. Further analysis show that such individuals
were five times more likely to have contemplated suicide. Researcher Dr. Robin Kowalski explains, “People who
commit suicide feel that the world would be better off without them, [and] that they are a burden to others… Putting
negative information about oneself online and potentially receiving validation for that is a way to confirm that one
doesn’t belong in this world.” Child and Adolescent Mental Health, July 2022
Wellness/Prevention: Feel Refreshed in the Morning. The National Sleep Foundation recommends the following
to help you feel alert in the morning without needing a caffeine boost: avoid alcohol before bedtime, which can
affect sleep; set a sleep schedule by waking and going to sleep at the same time every day; set your alarm for the
time you actually need to wake up; open your curtains to let in natural sunlight as soon as you wake; exercise on a
daily basis; and eat a nutritious and balanced breakfast. National Sleep Foundation, September 2022
Quote: “If you fell down yesterday, stand up today.” ~ H. G. Wells

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Napa region.

Health Alert: Air Pollution’s Effect on Blood Proteins. In a recent experiment, researchers observed that exposure
to diesel exhaust stimulated adverse changes in the concentration of 90 proteins in blood plasma that are associated
with inflammation, cellular repair, clotting, heart disease, and immune function.
European Respiratory Society, September 2022
Diet: Peanuts May Aid Weight Loss. Compared with participants on a low-fat diet, those who consumed a
reduced-calorie diet that included 35 grams of peanuts eaten before two meals each day experienced greater
improvements in blood pressure, weight loss, and fasting glucose levels. The researchers note that peanuts have a
high satiety value, which may have helped participants feel fuller for longer, keeping their calorie intake low.
Nutrients, August 2022
Exercise: Exercise Can Help Schoolchildren Perform Better in School. A recent study found that children who
exercised regularly for six months experienced improved academic performance, especially their verbal ability. Lead
researcher Dr. Francisco Ortega adds, “If your children do not perform well academically, do not punish them … or
withdraw them from an after-school sports activity, do just the opposite.” JAMA Network Open, August 2022
Chiropractic: Back Pain Risk Factors in Kids. Interviews with 401 fifth grade students revealed that 182
experienced back pain within the previous three months. Further analysis show that the following are risk factors
among students in this age group for developing back pain: watching television more than six hours a day; lifting
heavy objects with poor posture; using a non-standard, two strap backpack; and incorrectly wearing a two-strap
backpack. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, July 2022
Mental Attitude: Lifestyle Traits That Can Reduce Dementia Risk in Type 2 Diabetics. Individuals with type 2
diabetes are at an elevated risk for dementia; however, a recent study found that diabetics can substantially reduce
their risk for the condition by not smoking, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, getting regular exercise; eating
a healthy diet; getting adequate sleep; avoiding prolonged sedentary behavior; and maintaining a healthy social life.
Neurology, September 2022
Wellness/Prevention: Can You Slow Hair Loss? The American Academy of Dermatology offers the following tips
for slowing hair loss: use caution when washing, drying, and styling your hair; be aware that some medications can
trigger hair loss, so consult your healthcare provider for alternative choices; and keep in mind that hair loss can be
temporary due to factors such as just having given birth, illness, or stress.
American Academy of Dermatology, September 2022
Quote: “Time ripens all things; no man is born wise.” ~ Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Napa region.

Health Alert: Fine Particulate Air Pollution Linked to Gestational Diabetes. Fine particulate matter is a mixture
of dust, dirt, soot, smoke, and liquid droplets in the air, most commonly from gasoline combustion and the burning
of wood and coal. A recent study found that increased exposure to fine particulate matter air pollution during the
second trimester of pregnancy is associated with higher blood glucose levels and a greater risk for gestational
diabetes. Environmental Research, November 2022
Diet: Ultra-Processed Food Linked to Colorectal Cancer in Men. According to an analysis of data on over
200,000 adults, a high intake of pre-cooked and instant meals—particularly processed meat products—is associated
with an elevated risk for colorectal cancer in men, but not women. BMJ, August 2022
Exercise: Urban COPD Patients May Be at Fitness Disadvantage. A study that included 404 patients with mildto-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) identified an association between living in a more densely
populated areas and fewer steps taken per day, more time spent engaged in sedentary activities, and less exercise
capacity—all of which may lead to worse outcomes for COPD patients. Environmental Research, November 2022
Chiropractic: Posterior Shoulder Instability Management. Posterior shoulder instability is a shoulder injury
that’s more common among young men who engaged in high-contact sports. A comprehensive review concluded
that in most cases, patients with posterior shoulder instability should utilize non-surgical care options for at least six
months before considering a surgical procedure. The review notes that care should concentrate on proprioceptive and
strengthening exercises of the subscapularis muscle and other dynamic stabilizers of the shoulder, as well as
managing any co-occurring shoulder conditions, such as scapular dyskinesis. Doctors of chiropractic are trained in
the diagnosis and management of several musculoskeletal conditions, including posterior shoulder instability.
StatPearls, July 2022
Mental Attitude: Lifestyle Factors for Preserving Cognitive Function. The current research supports the
following lifestyle behaviors for preserving cognitive function as one ages: don’t smoke, avoid excessive alcohol
consumption, and get regular exercise. Applied Neuropsychology, Adult, November 2022
Wellness/Prevention: How to Floss Properly. The American Dental Association offers the following instructions
on how to floss: use a piece of floss about 18 inches long; wrapped at each end around a finger; hold the floss taut
between your fingers; gently and slowly slide the floss between each tooth; carefully shape the floss into a C at the
gum line, and slide it between the gum and tooth; be sure to press the floss firmly against the tooth, carefully sliding
the floss up and down against all sides of the tooth; repeat with the next tooth.
American Dental Association, September 2022
Quote: “All that counts in life is intention.” ~ Andrea Bocelli

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Napa region.

Health Alert: Influenza, Atrial Fibrillation, and Worse Hospitalization Outcomes. Using data from the National
Inpatient Sample, researchers report that individuals who are hospitalized for influenza and who have a history of
atrial fibrillation have an elevated risk for acute respiratory failure, mechanical ventilation, acute kidney injury,
cardiogenic shock, and in-hospital mortality. International Journal of Cardiology, Heart & Vascular, August 2022
Diet: Fish Oil and Vitamin D During Pregnancy Lowers Risk of Croup in Children. Croup is a viral respiratory
condition that causes a cough, a hoarse voice, and difficulty breathing. A study that included 736 mother-child pairs
revealed an association between taking either a daily 2,800 IU vitamin D supplement or 2.4 g dose of fish oil during
pregnancy and a reduced risk for croup by age three in their offspring.
European Respiratory Society, September 2022
Exercise: People in Their 80s Should Walk 10 Minutes Each Day. Researchers report that those in a group of
7,047 octogenarians who walked for at least ten minutes each day were 40% less likely to die in the following five
years. European Society of Cardiology, August 2022
Chiropractic: Neck and Low Back Pain Are Common in Future Dentists. Among a group of 73 dental students
whom researchers monitored during their time in dental school, 61.6% developed neck pain and 49.3% experienced
low back pain. Interestingly, the risk for low back pain leveled off by their second year, while the risk for neck pain
increased throughout their time in dental school. Past research has attributed working for prolonged periods of time
in awkward postures as a significant risk factor for musculoskeletal pain in dental students and dentists.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, July 2022
Mental Attitude: Blood Type May Influence Stroke Risk. Following a review of health histories of nearly 17,000
people, researchers report that individuals with type A blood are 16% more likely suffer a stroke before age 60 than
those with other blood types. On the other hand, the risk is lowest for those with type O blood. The researchers
explain that type O blood contains fewer proteins that are known to contribute to clot formation, which is necessary
for a stroke to occur. Neurology, August 2022
Wellness/Prevention: Safe, Healthy Habits for Kids. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that
parents help their children adopt these habits to stay both safe and healthy as they grow up: put away their toys and
clean up their messes; allow parents to help them brush their teeth twice daily; wash their hands after using the
bathroom and before and after they eat; help parents clear the table after meals; be kind to animals, and always ask
permission before petting an unfamiliar pet; be kind to other kids; and to talk to parents or other adults they trust if
they feel scared or need help. American Academy of Pediatrics, September 2022
Quote: “Don’t think about your errors or failures; otherwise, you’ll never do a thing.” ~ Bill Murray

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Napa region.

Health Alert: Button Batteries Are an Increasing Hazard to Kids. Researchers report that two times more
children made a trip to the emergency room after accidentally eating a button battery between 2010 and 2019 than
during the preceding two decades. When swallowed, button batteries generate an electric current, which can trigger a
harmful reaction that can cause serious injury, even death. Pediatrics, August 2022
Diet: Breastfeeding Offers Heart Protection for Mom. The American Heart Association reports that women who
breastfeed at least one child have a 15% lower risk of heart disease and a 12% reduced risk for stroke later in life
than women who do not breastfeed. American Heart Association, August 2022
Exercise: Exercise and Heart Failure Risk. An analysis of health records on more than 94,000 adults revealed that
engaging in more than 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity (or 75 minutes of high-intensity physical
activity) a week can reduce the risk for heart failure by more than 60%. Study author Dr. Frederick explains, “There
are many potential ways that regular physical activity may reduce the risk of developing heart failure… For example,
physical activity helps prevent weight gain and related cardiometabolic conditions, such as high blood pressure and
Type 2 diabetes, all of which are risk factors for heart failure. Regular physical exercise may also strengthen the
heart muscle, which, in turn, may prevent heart failure from developing.” Circulation, August 2022
Chiropractic: Ankle Proprioception and Chronic Low Back Pain in the Elderly. Proprioception is the body’s
ability to sense where its various parts are in relation to one another for purposes of movement and balance.
Examinations of older adults with and without chronic low back pain revealed that those with chronic low back pain
were more likely to have impaired ankle proprioception. The findings suggest a possible link between abnormal
motion of the ankle and pain in the lower back. This highlights the importance of examining the whole patient—
something doctors of chiropractic are trained to do—to address all potential contributing causes for the patient’s
chief complaint. Neuroscience Letters, August 2022
Mental Attitude: Family History of Mental Illness Increases Risk for Postpartum Depression. Following a
review of data from 26 studies, researchers report that women with a family history of a psychiatric illness are at
twice the risk for developing postpartum depression. JAMA Psychiatry, August 2022
Wellness/Prevention: Know the Signs of Sport-Related Concussion. Each year, more than 173,000 children and
teens receive treatment for concussions or other traumatic brain injuries, often related to sports collisions. If a player
is suspected to have sustained a concussion, it’s imperative to remove them from play and other activities and to
have them evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Ochsner Health, August 2022
Quote: “You don’t stop laughing because you grow older. You grow older because you stop laughing.”
~ Maurice Chevalier

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Napa region.