Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

“This Was Destroying My Life” Doctor Warns About Serious Health Consequences Of Waking Up At 2-3 AM

(Credit-Canva)

Waking up in the middle of the night happens to many people. According to StatPearls 2023 chronic insomnia can negatively affect an individual's health, quality of life, academic performance, increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents, decrease workplace productivity, induce irritability, and heighten daytime sleepiness. According to the <span>Center of Disease Control and Prevention</span> 2020 statistics, about 14.5% of adults in America had trouble falling asleep almost every day for 30 days. There are many reasons for it, you could be a light sleeper, have underlying health issues or be under a lot of stress. Dr. <span>Eric Berg</span>, popularly known as Dr. Berg on social media, who is a board-certified chiropractor, is a well-known YouTube personality who shared what was causing him to stay awake at night and ruining his sleep. He highlights that waking up regularly between 2-3 AM could signal a serious health issue. He explains that cortisol, a stress hormone, should be at its lowest point during this time. However, in some individuals, it peaks, disrupting sleep and impacting daily life. This disruption of the circadian rhythm can cause a person to feel very awake at 2 am, and very tired at 8 am.

Dr. Berg shares his own experience with insomnia, describing it as "torture." He explains that he tried many different solutions, including prescription medication, but found that they made his cortisol levels worse. He suggests that <span>magnesium</span> deficiency may be a culprit for disrupted sleep. He explains that magnesium can help lower cortisol levels. According to the <span>National Library of Medicine</span> study, ‘Magnesium in the Central Nervous System’, indicates that low magnesium can lead to elevated cortisol, potentially causing anxiety and irritability.

<h2>What Are Some Signs Of Magnesium Deficiency</h2>

Dr. Berg points out that signs of magnesium deficiency include muscle tightness and cramps. He advises that if you experience these symptoms, along with waking up at 2-3 AM, you should consult a doctor. He also indicates that people have the lowest amount of magnesium in their system around 6 am, which could be a reason for many health issues that occur in the morning. According to the <span>Cleveland Clinic</span> many people don't have enough magnesium in their bodies, but often they don't feel any different. That's because it's hard to know if you're low on magnesium. The first signs can be vague, like being tired, not hungry, having muscle cramps, feeling sick to your stomach, being stiff, or feeling weak. You might think these symptoms are from something else.

If you don't get enough magnesium for a long time, it can lead to more serious problems. You might have an irregular heartbeat, feel numb or tingly, have changes in your personality, or even have seizures.

<h2>What Supplements Should You Take?</h2>

If diagnosed with a magnesium deficiency, Dr. Berg recommends magnesium glycinate. He explains that this type of magnesium can help relax muscles and reduce cortisol levels. He suggests taking it at night before bed for optimal results. According to <span>WebMD Magnesium</span> glycinate mixes magnesium with glycine, an amino acid. Magnesium helps your nerves, muscles, blood sugar, and helps make bones and DNA. Glycine is good for your brain and protects your cells. While magnesium glycinate seems promising, we need more studies to know exactly how much it helps with things like constipation or tiredness. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

magnesium

Serious Health Consequnces Of Waking Up At 2-3 AM

eric berg

cleveland clinic

national library of medicine

center of disease control and prevention

webmd magnesium

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Waking up in the middle of the night happens to many people. According to StatPearls 2023 chronic insomnia can negatively affect an individual's health, quality of life, academic performance, increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents, decrease workplace productivity, induce irritability, and heighten daytime sleepiness. According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention 2020 statistics, about 14.5% of adults in America had trouble falling asleep almost every day for 30 days. There are many reasons for it, you could be a light sleeper, have underlying health issues or be under a lot of stress. Dr. Eric Berg, popularly known as Dr. Berg on social media, who is a board-certified chiropractor, is a well-known YouTube personality who shared what was causing him to stay awake at night and ruining his sleep. He highlights that waking up regularly between 2-3 AM could signal a serious health issue. He explains that cortisol, a stress hormone, should be at its lowest point during this time. However, in some individuals, it peaks, disrupting sleep and impacting daily life. This disruption of the circadian rhythm can cause a person to feel very awake at 2 am, and very tired at 8 am.What Was Causing His Insomnia?Dr. Berg shares his own experience with insomnia, describing it as "torture." He explains that he tried many different solutions, including prescription medication, but found that they made his cortisol levels worse. He suggests that magnesium deficiency may be a culprit for disrupted sleep. He explains that magnesium can help lower cortisol levels. According to the National Library of Medicine study, ‘Magnesium in the Central Nervous System’, indicates that low magnesium can lead to elevated cortisol, potentially causing anxiety and irritability.What Are Some Signs Of Magnesium DeficiencyDr. Berg points out that signs of magnesium deficiency include muscle tightness and cramps. He advises that if you experience these symptoms, along with waking up at 2-3 AM, you should consult a doctor. He also indicates that people have the lowest amount of magnesium in their system around 6 am, which could be a reason for many health issues that occur in the morning. According to the Cleveland Clinic many people don't have enough magnesium in their bodies, but often they don't feel any different. That's because it's hard to know if you're low on magnesium. The first signs can be vague, like being tired, not hungry, having muscle cramps, feeling sick to your stomach, being stiff, or feeling weak. You might think these symptoms are from something else.If you don't get enough magnesium for a long time, it can lead to more serious problems. You might have an irregular heartbeat, feel numb or tingly, have changes in your personality, or even have seizures.What Supplements Should You Take?If diagnosed with a magnesium deficiency, Dr. Berg recommends magnesium glycinate. He explains that this type of magnesium can help relax muscles and reduce cortisol levels. He suggests taking it at night before bed for optimal results. According to WebMD Magnesium glycinate mixes magnesium with glycine, an amino acid. Magnesium helps your nerves, muscles, blood sugar, and helps make bones and DNA. Glycine is good for your brain and protects your cells. While magnesium glycinate seems promising, we need more studies to know exactly how much it helps with things like constipation or tiredness. 

“this was destroying my life” doctor warns about serious health consequences of waking up at 2-3 am

Ishita Roy

Warning Letter Sent To Companies Selling Illegal Opioid Compound

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In a significant move to safeguard public health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (<span>FDA</span>) has issued warning letters to seven companies accused of illegally marketing products containing a powerful compound found in kratom, known as 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). These companies have been selling concentrated versions of the substance in forms like tablets, gummies, drink mixes, and energy shots—many of which are available online and in everyday retail outlets such as smoke shops, gas stations, and convenience stores.

<h4>What Is 7-OH and Why Is It a Concern?</h4>

7-hydroxymitragynine is a chemical compound that naturally occurs in very small quantities in the kratom plant. However, in these commercial products, it is either added in high concentrations or manipulated to raise the levels well beyond natural amounts. The problem? 7-OH is not approved by the FDA for use in any dietary supplement, conventional food, or pharmaceutical drug.

According to the agency, not only does this make these products illegal, but it also raises serious health and safety concerns. The FDA emphasized that the compound has not been proven safe or effective for treating any health condition and warned that consumers using these products are putting themselves at risk.

<h4>Illegal and Unsubstantiated Claims</h4>

The companies receiving the warning letters were accused of marketing their 7-OH products with unproven claims about treating pain, anxiety, and other medical conditions. Some of these products are being sold as dietary supplements or even regular food items, despite not meeting the legal or scientific safety standards required for such classifications.

The FDA’s main concern lies in how these products are being presented to the public—as safe, natural remedies—when in fact they may be both unsafe and illegal. “People using these products are exposing themselves to substances that have not been proven safe or effective for any use,” the FDA warned in a statement.

The seven companies that have been sent official warning letters include:

<ul><li>Shaman Botanicals LLC</li><li>My Smoke Wholesale</li><li>Relax Relief Rejuvenate Trading LLC (also known as RRR Trading or EDP Kratom)</li><li>Thang Botanicals Inc. (doing business as 7ΩHMZ, 7-OHMZ, or 7OHMZ)</li><li>Royal Diamond Imports Inc. (operating Roxytabs.com)</li><li>Hydroxie LLC</li><li>7Tabz Retail LLC</li></ul>

All seven companies have been given 15 business days to respond to the FDA’s concerns. They are required to outline what actions they will take to correct the violations. Failure to respond or take corrective measures could lead to further enforcement actions, including product seizures or legal injunctions.

This latest crackdown reflects the FDA’s ongoing concerns around kratom and its derivatives, particularly products containing high concentrations of 7-OH. Consumers are urged to avoid such products and consult healthcare professionals before using any substance marketed as a pain or anxiety remedy.

The agency continues to monitor the market and has signaled it will take further steps if necessary to protect the public from unsafe, misbranded, or illegally marketed products.

FDA sent warning letter

health and wellness

opioid

FDA warning

In a significant move to safeguard public health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warning letters to seven companies accused of illegally marketing products containing a powerful compound found in kratom, known as 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). These companies have been selling concentrated versions of the substance in forms like tablets, gummies, drink mixes, and energy shots—many of which are available online and in everyday retail outlets such as smoke shops, gas stations, and convenience stores.What Is 7-OH and Why Is It a Concern?7-hydroxymitragynine is a chemical compound that naturally occurs in very small quantities in the kratom plant. However, in these commercial products, it is either added in high concentrations or manipulated to raise the levels well beyond natural amounts. The problem? 7-OH is not approved by the FDA for use in any dietary supplement, conventional food, or pharmaceutical drug.According to the agency, not only does this make these products illegal, but it also raises serious health and safety concerns. The FDA emphasized that the compound has not been proven safe or effective for treating any health condition and warned that consumers using these products are putting themselves at risk.Illegal and Unsubstantiated ClaimsThe companies receiving the warning letters were accused of marketing their 7-OH products with unproven claims about treating pain, anxiety, and other medical conditions. Some of these products are being sold as dietary supplements or even regular food items, despite not meeting the legal or scientific safety standards required for such classifications.The FDA’s main concern lies in how these products are being presented to the public—as safe, natural remedies—when in fact they may be both unsafe and illegal. “People using these products are exposing themselves to substances that have not been proven safe or effective for any use,” the FDA warned in a statement.The Companies NamedThe seven companies that have been sent official warning letters include:Shaman Botanicals LLCMy Smoke WholesaleRelax Relief Rejuvenate Trading LLC (also known as RRR Trading or EDP Kratom)Thang Botanicals Inc. (doing business as 7ΩHMZ, 7-OHMZ, or 7OHMZ)Royal Diamond Imports Inc. (operating Roxytabs.com)Hydroxie LLC7Tabz Retail LLCAll seven companies have been given 15 business days to respond to the FDA’s concerns. They are required to outline what actions they will take to correct the violations. Failure to respond or take corrective measures could lead to further enforcement actions, including product seizures or legal injunctions.FDA Urges CautionThis latest crackdown reflects the FDA’s ongoing concerns around kratom and its derivatives, particularly products containing high concentrations of 7-OH. Consumers are urged to avoid such products and consult healthcare professionals before using any substance marketed as a pain or anxiety remedy.The agency continues to monitor the market and has signaled it will take further steps if necessary to protect the public from unsafe, misbranded, or illegally marketed products.

warning letter sent to companies selling illegal opioid compound

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Ozempic, Wegovy Aren't Magic, These 5 Body Traits Predict If You’ll Actually Lose Weight

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For anyone who's been following the meteoric rise of weight-loss injections like Ozempic and Wegovy, one thing is certain: these medications are effective but not for everyone. Now, a new, in-depth study might know why.

Appearing in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, this new research has identified key determinants of who is most likely to thrive on GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), a drug class that includes semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy). Ranging from use duration to body composition, and from metabolic rate to diabetic status, the results yield a finer set of directions for individualized obesity treatment—and may potentially minimize the guesswork that too often vexes patients and clinicians alike.

GLP-1RAs are drugs initially made to treat type 2 diabetes but have produced miraculous outcomes for the treatment of obesity. They function by duplicating a hormone that occurs naturally in the body, which suppresses hunger and controls the blood sugar levels. Semaglutide, the drug behind Ozempic and Wegovy, has assisted individuals in losing an average of 15–21% of their body weight when combined with diet and lifestyle modifications.

Even with all the news-grabbing changes and social media hype, results are all over the place. Some patients lose weight rapidly, others plateau, and some develop side effects such as nausea that cause them to quit cold turkey. The new research, performed at Peking University People's Hospital, sheds some light on why.

Scientists monitored 679 overweight or obese patients who initiated GLP-1RA treatment between November 2022 and October 2024 at an obesity clinic in Beijing. For 12 months, they monitored a range of physical and metabolic factors to determine what characteristics were associated with improved outcomes.

Patients taking GLP-1RAs for extended periods, particularly semaglutide, had higher odds of significant <span>weight loss</span>. But more than how long the patient was on the drug, study authors determined that individual traits mattered substantially in effectiveness.

In particular, individuals who did not have diabetes, had a higher percentage of body fat, larger amounts of skeletal muscle, and a higher rate of basal metabolism were found to be more likely to succeed. Also, higher serum creatinine levels (a marker for muscle mass and kidney function) were associated with improved success.

<h2>Role of Muscle Mass and Metabolism</h2>

GLP-1s are effective devices, but they need to be combined with muscle-sparing measures. Most patients inadvertently lose lean muscle mass, which can lower metabolism and undermine long-term weight control.

That is, the scale may fall, but what you lose is important. Retaining muscle mass is essential to long-term health and success. Because of this, experts suggest a two-prong approach: savvy, high-protein eating and regular strength training to help maintain lean tissue throughout treatment.

<h2>5 Body Traits That Predict If You'll Actually Lose Weight on GLP-1 Drugs</h2>

New research is showing that not everyone responds the same way to GLP-1 receptor agonists—and your body’s makeup may be the key to understanding why. Here are five physical traits that strongly predict whether you’ll shed pounds successfully while on these weight-loss medications:

Individuals with excess body fat at the beginning of treatment respond to GLP-1 drugs more favorably. Why? They attack hunger and fat storage, so people with more to lose are more likely to see faster and more dramatic results.

<h4>2. Increased Skeletal Muscle Mass</h4>

Muscle is not only for power—it burns calories even at rest. Individuals with greater skeletal muscle mass (particularly in the arms, legs, and abdomen) tend to have a quicker metabolism, which can strengthen the actions of weight-loss drugs.

<h4>3. Increased Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)</h4>

A greater BMR indicates that your body expends more energy on a daily basis. Individuals with naturally quicker metabolisms are more apt to experience efficient and long-lasting weight loss when taking GLP-1RAs such as semaglutide.

<h4>4. Greater Serum Creatinine Levels</h4>

This marker is most commonly associated with muscle mass and kidney function. Individuals with slightly elevated (but normal) levels of creatinine—usually an indicator of greater lean body mass—tended to respond more favorably to these drugs.

Against expectation, individuals with no diabetes experienced more success than those with diabetes. This could be explained by improved insulin sensitivity, reduced metabolic resistance, or fewer pre-existing complications that would interfere with weight reduction.

<h2>How Your Diabetes Status Is Important?</h2>

The research demonstrated that those without diabetes had considerably higher chances of being successful with weight loss compared to those with prediabetes or diabetes. This could be because of deep-rooted metabolic distinctions or that GLP-1RAs react differently in states of insulin resistance.

Lead researcher Dr. Linong Ji described, "This study highlights the value of metabolic state-matched strategies. Individuals with diabetes can benefit from a different or more combined regimen." 

Consistency is key, patients who remained on the drug for a longer period were more likely to lose weight. Those who dropped out early because of side effects, lack of response, or lifestyle interference were far less successful.

This accords with demands from doctors for improved support for adherence. Greater follow-up frequencies, tailored coaching, and symptom control can avert early dropouts.

"Adherence to medication is neglected but equally important as the medicine itself," the authors stated. "Physicians must assist patients in staying on track, especially for the first months or so."

Side effects, particularly gastrointestinal such as nausea, constipation, or vomiting, are still the number one reasons individuals drop out of GLP-1RAs. That's where tailoring treatment comes into play even more so.

Take, for instance, individuals who have less skeletal muscle mass. These individuals are likely to be more susceptible to fatigue and muscle wasting, enhancing dropout risk. Tweaking dose schedules, incorporating physical therapy, or emphasizing diet quality can all help mitigate these problems.

The global rise of drugs like Wegovy isn’t just hype. These medications are proving to be some of the most effective tools we’ve ever had in the fight against obesity, a condition affecting over 650 million people worldwide but what this new study makes clear is that weight loss is not one-size-fits-all, even with powerful drugs. Body composition, muscle mass, metabolic health, and individual biology all play a role.

For doctors, that equates to taking a precision medicine approach—tailoring treatments based on an individual's profile, instead of simply dosing all patients the same.

And for patients? It's a reminder that medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy can be remarkably powerful but only as part of an integrated, personalized plan that values the complexity of your body.

GLP-1 medications are revolutionizing weight control, but as this study reveals, success is not arbitrary success is individual. Understanding what influences results can enable more individuals to achieve potential through progress.

weight loss

glp 1 weight loss

ozempic results

wegovy success factors

semaglutide weight loss study

personalized obesity treatment

weight loss and muscle mass

diabetes and weight loss drugs

For anyone who's been following the meteoric rise of weight-loss injections like Ozempic and Wegovy, one thing is certain: these medications are effective but not for everyone. Now, a new, in-depth study might know why.Appearing in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, this new research has identified key determinants of who is most likely to thrive on GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), a drug class that includes semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy). Ranging from use duration to body composition, and from metabolic rate to diabetic status, the results yield a finer set of directions for individualized obesity treatment—and may potentially minimize the guesswork that too often vexes patients and clinicians alike.GLP-1RAs are drugs initially made to treat type 2 diabetes but have produced miraculous outcomes for the treatment of obesity. They function by duplicating a hormone that occurs naturally in the body, which suppresses hunger and controls the blood sugar levels. Semaglutide, the drug behind Ozempic and Wegovy, has assisted individuals in losing an average of 15–21% of their body weight when combined with diet and lifestyle modifications.Even with all the news-grabbing changes and social media hype, results are all over the place. Some patients lose weight rapidly, others plateau, and some develop side effects such as nausea that cause them to quit cold turkey. The new research, performed at Peking University People's Hospital, sheds some light on why.Scientists monitored 679 overweight or obese patients who initiated GLP-1RA treatment between November 2022 and October 2024 at an obesity clinic in Beijing. For 12 months, they monitored a range of physical and metabolic factors to determine what characteristics were associated with improved outcomes.Patients taking GLP-1RAs for extended periods, particularly semaglutide, had higher odds of significant weight loss. But more than how long the patient was on the drug, study authors determined that individual traits mattered substantially in effectiveness.In particular, individuals who did not have diabetes, had a higher percentage of body fat, larger amounts of skeletal muscle, and a higher rate of basal metabolism were found to be more likely to succeed. Also, higher serum creatinine levels (a marker for muscle mass and kidney function) were associated with improved success.Role of Muscle Mass and MetabolismGLP-1s are effective devices, but they need to be combined with muscle-sparing measures. Most patients inadvertently lose lean muscle mass, which can lower metabolism and undermine long-term weight control.That is, the scale may fall, but what you lose is important. Retaining muscle mass is essential to long-term health and success. Because of this, experts suggest a two-prong approach: savvy, high-protein eating and regular strength training to help maintain lean tissue throughout treatment.5 Body Traits That Predict If You'll Actually Lose Weight on GLP-1 DrugsNew research is showing that not everyone responds the same way to GLP-1 receptor agonists—and your body’s makeup may be the key to understanding why. Here are five physical traits that strongly predict whether you’ll shed pounds successfully while on these weight-loss medications:1. Higher Body Fat PercentageIndividuals with excess body fat at the beginning of treatment respond to GLP-1 drugs more favorably. Why? They attack hunger and fat storage, so people with more to lose are more likely to see faster and more dramatic results.2. Increased Skeletal Muscle MassMuscle is not only for power—it burns calories even at rest. Individuals with greater skeletal muscle mass (particularly in the arms, legs, and abdomen) tend to have a quicker metabolism, which can strengthen the actions of weight-loss drugs.3. Increased Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)A greater BMR indicates that your body expends more energy on a daily basis. Individuals with naturally quicker metabolisms are more apt to experience efficient and long-lasting weight loss when taking GLP-1RAs such as semaglutide.4. Greater Serum Creatinine LevelsThis marker is most commonly associated with muscle mass and kidney function. Individuals with slightly elevated (but normal) levels of creatinine—usually an indicator of greater lean body mass—tended to respond more favorably to these drugs.5. No Diagnosis of DiabetesAgainst expectation, individuals with no diabetes experienced more success than those with diabetes. This could be explained by improved insulin sensitivity, reduced metabolic resistance, or fewer pre-existing complications that would interfere with weight reduction.How Your Diabetes Status Is Important?The research demonstrated that those without diabetes had considerably higher chances of being successful with weight loss compared to those with prediabetes or diabetes. This could be because of deep-rooted metabolic distinctions or that GLP-1RAs react differently in states of insulin resistance.Lead researcher Dr. Linong Ji described, "This study highlights the value of metabolic state-matched strategies. Individuals with diabetes can benefit from a different or more combined regimen." Consistency is key, patients who remained on the drug for a longer period were more likely to lose weight. Those who dropped out early because of side effects, lack of response, or lifestyle interference were far less successful.This accords with demands from doctors for improved support for adherence. Greater follow-up frequencies, tailored coaching, and symptom control can avert early dropouts."Adherence to medication is neglected but equally important as the medicine itself," the authors stated. "Physicians must assist patients in staying on track, especially for the first months or so."Side Effects of GLP-1 DrugsSide effects, particularly gastrointestinal such as nausea, constipation, or vomiting, are still the number one reasons individuals drop out of GLP-1RAs. That's where tailoring treatment comes into play even more so.Take, for instance, individuals who have less skeletal muscle mass. These individuals are likely to be more susceptible to fatigue and muscle wasting, enhancing dropout risk. Tweaking dose schedules, incorporating physical therapy, or emphasizing diet quality can all help mitigate these problems.The global rise of drugs like Wegovy isn’t just hype. These medications are proving to be some of the most effective tools we’ve ever had in the fight against obesity, a condition affecting over 650 million people worldwide but what this new study makes clear is that weight loss is not one-size-fits-all, even with powerful drugs. Body composition, muscle mass, metabolic health, and individual biology all play a role.For doctors, that equates to taking a precision medicine approach—tailoring treatments based on an individual's profile, instead of simply dosing all patients the same.And for patients? It's a reminder that medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy can be remarkably powerful but only as part of an integrated, personalized plan that values the complexity of your body.GLP-1 medications are revolutionizing weight control, but as this study reveals, success is not arbitrary success is individual. Understanding what influences results can enable more individuals to achieve potential through progress.

ozempic, wegovy aren't magic, these 5 body traits predict if you’ll actually lose weight

What's The Confusion! Why Most Women Don’t Know When To Start Mammogram Screenings?

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<span>Breast cancer</span> is one of the most treatable cancers when caught early. Yet, a significant number of women remain unclear about one of the most crucial tools for early detection: the mammogram. A new survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center (APPC) reveals just how persistent and widespread the confusion is over when women should start getting screened. Despite updated national guidelines recommending mammograms beginning at age 40, nearly half of the adults surveyed in the US are either misinformed or confused.

The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued a revised recommendation in April 2024, advising that women at average risk of breast cancer begin screening mammograms every other year starting at age 40. This update rolled back an earlier guideline that suggested beginning at age 50, a shift that aligns more closely with what other medical bodies have long recommended.

The American Cancer Society, for instance, has consistently recommended that women aged 40 to 44 have the option to begin annual screening, with stronger guidance to start annually from age 45. By age 55, women can shift to screenings every other year.

But with a history of back-and-forth on these guidelines, public understanding hasn’t caught up.

"Confusion can arise when medical guidance about detection or treatment changes," said Kathleen Hall Jamieson, director of the APPC. “Our data suggest that the recommendation that such screening ordinarily start at 40 years old is not yet widely enough known.”

The APPC’s April 2024 survey sampled over 1,600 U.S. adults. The results were telling:

<ul><li>Only 49% correctly identified age 40 as the right age to begin biennial mammograms for women at average risk.</li><li>A notable 10% said screenings should begin at age 20, while 21% selected age 30. 8% said 50, and 11% admitted they were unsure.</li></ul>

Even more telling: this level of awareness remained unchanged from a previous survey conducted before the updated guidelines were published. So while the medical advice evolved, public understanding stood still.

<h2>Is Misinformation Creating Confusion?</h2>

Women aged 40–49 were the most informed demographic in the survey—72% of them knew screenings should begin at 40. But awareness dropped significantly among younger groups. Only 37% of women aged 18–29 knew the correct age to begin mammograms and a concerning 27% of that group mistakenly thought the correct age was 30, while 16% didn’t know at all.

This gap in understanding matters because younger women especially those with family history or genetic predisposition, may need to start even earlier.

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that captures detailed images of breast tissue, capable of identifying cancers before any physical symptoms appear.

In women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation who are referred to as "high risk" or with a history of radiation to the chest between ages 10 and 30, screening may start as early as age 30 and include annual breast MRIs alongside mammograms.

Modern technology has made the process quicker and less painful. Better compression paddles, 3D mammograms, and AI-assisted readings now reduce both discomfort and the chance of error.

Despite technological improvements, mammograms are not infallible. Their accuracy ranges between 85–90%, and performance can dip in women with dense breast tissue.

Contrast-enhanced digital mammography (CEDM) is another newer innovation helping radiologists identify tricky cases. The integration of artificial intelligence is also streamlining diagnostic accuracy.

<h2>Does 'Abnormal' Mammogram Mean Cancer?</h2>

An abnormal mammogram result doesn’t necessarily mean breast cancer. It simply means something unusual has been spotted and warrants further testing, which could include a breast ultrasound, MRI, or even a biopsy.

In the US, follow-up care is typically swift, with guidelines in place to ensure patients are informed and supported. However, disparities in healthcare access especially for uninsured or not populations still persist.

The APPC survey’s findings highlight a deeper issue, how public health communication is struggling to keep up with shifting medical guidelines. When official recommendations change, the burden of clarity shouldn’t fall solely on the individual. It requires coordinated messaging across healthcare providers, public health agencies, insurers, and the media.

While mammograms are widely available in the U.S., access isn’t always equitable. Low-income communities and communities of color often face hurdles ranging from cost and insurance barriers to logistical challenges like transportation or time off work.

Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer death among women. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, but only if women are aware and empowered to begin screening at the appropriate time.

If you're approaching 40, talk to your doctor about when to begin screening especially if you have additional risk factors. Don’t wait for symptoms to show up.

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Breast cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when caught early. Yet, a significant number of women remain unclear about one of the most crucial tools for early detection: the mammogram. A new survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center (APPC) reveals just how persistent and widespread the confusion is over when women should start getting screened. Despite updated national guidelines recommending mammograms beginning at age 40, nearly half of the adults surveyed in the US are either misinformed or confused.The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued a revised recommendation in April 2024, advising that women at average risk of breast cancer begin screening mammograms every other year starting at age 40. This update rolled back an earlier guideline that suggested beginning at age 50, a shift that aligns more closely with what other medical bodies have long recommended.The American Cancer Society, for instance, has consistently recommended that women aged 40 to 44 have the option to begin annual screening, with stronger guidance to start annually from age 45. By age 55, women can shift to screenings every other year.But with a history of back-and-forth on these guidelines, public understanding hasn’t caught up."Confusion can arise when medical guidance about detection or treatment changes," said Kathleen Hall Jamieson, director of the APPC. “Our data suggest that the recommendation that such screening ordinarily start at 40 years old is not yet widely enough known.”The APPC’s April 2024 survey sampled over 1,600 U.S. adults. The results were telling:Only 49% correctly identified age 40 as the right age to begin biennial mammograms for women at average risk.A notable 10% said screenings should begin at age 20, while 21% selected age 30. 8% said 50, and 11% admitted they were unsure.Even more telling: this level of awareness remained unchanged from a previous survey conducted before the updated guidelines were published. So while the medical advice evolved, public understanding stood still.Is Misinformation Creating Confusion?Women aged 40–49 were the most informed demographic in the survey—72% of them knew screenings should begin at 40. But awareness dropped significantly among younger groups. Only 37% of women aged 18–29 knew the correct age to begin mammograms and a concerning 27% of that group mistakenly thought the correct age was 30, while 16% didn’t know at all.This gap in understanding matters because younger women especially those with family history or genetic predisposition, may need to start even earlier.What Are Mammograms?A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that captures detailed images of breast tissue, capable of identifying cancers before any physical symptoms appear.In women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation who are referred to as "high risk" or with a history of radiation to the chest between ages 10 and 30, screening may start as early as age 30 and include annual breast MRIs alongside mammograms.Modern technology has made the process quicker and less painful. Better compression paddles, 3D mammograms, and AI-assisted readings now reduce both discomfort and the chance of error.Despite technological improvements, mammograms are not infallible. Their accuracy ranges between 85–90%, and performance can dip in women with dense breast tissue.Contrast-enhanced digital mammography (CEDM) is another newer innovation helping radiologists identify tricky cases. The integration of artificial intelligence is also streamlining diagnostic accuracy.Does 'Abnormal' Mammogram Mean Cancer?An abnormal mammogram result doesn’t necessarily mean breast cancer. It simply means something unusual has been spotted and warrants further testing, which could include a breast ultrasound, MRI, or even a biopsy.In the US, follow-up care is typically swift, with guidelines in place to ensure patients are informed and supported. However, disparities in healthcare access especially for uninsured or not populations still persist.The APPC survey’s findings highlight a deeper issue, how public health communication is struggling to keep up with shifting medical guidelines. When official recommendations change, the burden of clarity shouldn’t fall solely on the individual. It requires coordinated messaging across healthcare providers, public health agencies, insurers, and the media.While mammograms are widely available in the U.S., access isn’t always equitable. Low-income communities and communities of color often face hurdles ranging from cost and insurance barriers to logistical challenges like transportation or time off work.Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer death among women. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, but only if women are aware and empowered to begin screening at the appropriate time.If you're approaching 40, talk to your doctor about when to begin screening especially if you have additional risk factors. Don’t wait for symptoms to show up.

what's the confusion! why most women don’t know when to start mammogram screenings?

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