WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 9-2-2024

Health Alert: Nearly Half of Counties in United States Have No Cardiologists. Due to factors including
being largely rural or economically disadvantaged, 46% of counties in the United States lack a practicing
cardiologist, which can place residents at a 31% higher risk for heart disease.
Journal of the American College of Cardiology, July 2024
Diet: Food Insecure Individuals Experience Health Benefits from Food Bank Access. For individuals
facing food insecurity, Northeastern University researchers report that taking advantage of a food bank can be
important for improving overall health, including reducing the risk for metabolic disease.
Northeastern University, July 2024
Exercise: Before Taking Up Weightlifting in Older Age… Resistance training later in life can help preserve
muscle mass, reducing the risk for frailty and poor health. However, due to the increased likelihood of
conditions like cardiovascular disease and joint pain among seniors, it’s important for older adults to consult
with their healthcare provider before starting any exercise routine.
Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, July 2024
Chiropractic: Back Muscle Stiffness and Low Back Pain. A systematic review that included nine studies
found that stiffness in the multifidus and erector spinae muscles is associated with low back pain. Doctors of
chiropractic often utilize manual therapies and exercises to address core muscle stiffness in low back pain
patients. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, February 2024
Mental Attitude: Women More Likely to Receive Mental Health Treatment Following Cardiac Arrest.
An analysis of long-term data concerning nearly 1,300 heart attack survivors revealed that women are 50%
more likely than men to receive treatment for depression and anxiety in the year following cardiac arrest.
However, it’s unclear if female patients are at greater risk for post-heart attack mental health issues or if they
are more likely to share these concerns with their healthcare provider.
Circulation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, July 2024
Wellness/Prevention: Men’s Cancer Screening Trends Highlight Urgent Need for Health Advocacy. In a
recent survey conducted by The Prevent Cancer Foundation, 60% of men admitted to being overdue for at least
one routine cancer screening. The group reminds everyone that in the absence of screenings, many cancers may
not be detected until they have sufficiently advanced and treatment will be more difficult and less likely to
produce a satisfactory outcome. Prevent Cancer Foundation, June 2024
Quote: “Remember, tomorrow is promised to no one.” ~ Walter Payton

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