Her story is remarkable not just for surviving such an aggressive cancer, but for how she transformed her lifestyle and mindset to support healing.
Kathy Mydlach Bero was first diagnosed with Stage 4 Inflammatory Breast Cancer in November 2005, at the age of 41. Her prognosis at the time was grim—just a 21-month survival expectation—but she chose to pursue an integrative healing approach that ultimately led to her full recovery.
A Wisconsin women’s health journey is garnering national attention after she beat cancer by simply eating organic fruits and vegetables.
Kathy Mydlach-Bero’s world was turned upside down in 2005 when she was diagnosed with two rare and late-stage cancers.
The first was inflammatory breast cancer. She was given 21 months to live.
“Eleven months after my first diagnosis, I was diagnosed with a high-grade tumor in my head and neck,” Bero told WISN-TV.
The then 41-year-old and mother of two immediately turned to surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation to fight the diseases.
But cancer and chemotherapy were taking a toll.
“My kidneys were failing; my liver was failing,” Bero said. “My lungs were damaged. My heart was damaged. I told my oncologist that I’m done with that protocol because one way or another, I’m going to die. And I don’t want to go that way.”
At that point, Bero decided to kick chemotherapy and take a more holistic approach suggested to her by a friend.
“My friend kept saying you have to learn about anti-angiogenic foods,” Bero said.
Anti-angiogenic foods stop the growth of cancerous blood vessels by basically halting the spread of the disease.
Some of this food includes organic vegetables such as purple potatoes, carrots, and leeks.
Bero said eating these foods is good medicine for your health.
“Leeks are at the top of the cancer-fighting list,” Bero said.
She adds that garlic is especially potent against cancerous cells.
“When a recipe calls for two cloves, I’m probably going to put in six because garlic is a really strong cancer fighter,” she adds.
It’s advice she is giving to her clients as an author, speaker, and a certified integrative health and cancer coach.
“She’s teaching me food is the best form of medicine,” one of her clients, Phil Baugh, said.
Baugh is a 43-year-old father of three, who is fighting brain cancer.
“It’s stopped growing now, so it’s wonderful,” Baugh said. “And a huge part of that is food.”
Successes like these have caught the attention of Harvard University researchers and they are now studying her case along with the cases of other cancer survivors.
“Our investigators are studying people who have had highly unusual/exceptional responses to cancer treatments,” Ekaterina Pesheva, director of science communications and media relations at the Harvard Medical School, tells CBN News.
“They’re looking at our genetics and the genetics of the tumor,” Bero said. “What the outliers did; their attitude, environment, faith, social support. What they’re trying to do is create a database of all these different things and look for the commonalities between these people.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this story inaccurately stated that Harvard is studying Bero’s diet. Harvard tells CBN News they are not specifically studying the diets of participants. Instead they state: “Our researchers are collecting a wealth of data from registered and approved participants, including medical history, genetic profiles, physical activity, lifestyle and nutrition, among a constellation of other variables.”
Shinrin-yoku or forest medicine has become an interdisciplinary science recognized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) under the categories of alternative medicine, environmental medicine and preventive medicine, for its human health benefits.
Soft tissue sarcoma begins in the soft – or connective – tissues of the body, such as muscle, fat and blood vessels. There are dozens of types of soft tissue sarcoma. One of the more common subtypes of sarcoma in adults is leiomyosarcoma. But with an estimated incidence of 1 in 100,000 people per year, it’s still quite rare compared to lung or colorectal cancer.
Leiomyosarcoma is believed to originate in the body’s smooth muscles, including the uterus, the intestines, stomach, bladder and blood vessels. Since smooth muscle is present throughout the body, leiomyosarcoma can occur anywhere in the body.
To learn more about this form of soft tissue sarcoma, we spoke with Patrick Lin, M.D., an orthopaedic surgeon who treats leiomyosarcoma patients in MD Anderson’s Sarcoma and Orthopaedic Center, the nation’s largest program for bone and soft tissue sarcomas.
What is leiomyosarcoma?
Leiomyosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that falls into the category of sarcomas, which generally arise from connective tissue. Leiomyosarcoma generally forms in the smooth muscles of the body.
What are the symptoms of leiomyosarcoma?
The symptoms depend on where the tumor occurs, which can be almost anywhere. Leiomyosarcoma often presents as a firm, painless lump in the soft tissues of the body. It sometimes causes cramping or pain when it arises in an internal organ, such as the uterus or in the digestive tract. Symptoms rarely involve the bones, except in late stages of the disease.
How is leiomyosarcoma diagnosed?
The gold standard for diagnosis is tissue biopsy of the primary tumor. This can be accomplished by needle biopsy. This is when a needle is used to obtain a sample of cells from the tumor for laboratory testing.
What is the prognosis for someone diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma?
Leiomyosarcoma is a rare and aggressive form of soft tissue sarcoma that originates in the smooth muscles of the body. Here are seven key facts about this cancer:
These facts provide a comprehensive overview of leiomyosarcoma, its characteristics, and the importance of early detection and treatment for improving outcomes.
I am a “THRIVER”, not a survivor. We don’t survive this cancer. But we can thrive!
LMS is a rare incurable type of cancer which affects less than 2 out of 150,000 people. But there are treatments and hope! Read the story of our friend Marge who is THRIVING while facing the challenges of this rare disease!
At 68 years young Marge Brauer is a retired teacher and business owner “enjoying life”. Spending time at home in Indiana or vacationing at her “happy place” in Florida, you may find her riding her bike, playing shuffleboard, or socializing at a community gathering. But keeping up this lifestyle isn’t as simple as it may look to the unknowing observer. Because for the last 5 years Marge Brauer has been living with leiomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
Marge describes that due to both her cancer and treatments, there are many days she wakes up fatigued or depressed, not wanting to leave the house, or even get out of bed. But over the past 5 years, Marge has pushed herself to get past the fatigue or depression by being active. As she has done this, she has been much happier falling asleep at night due to the “good exhaustion” her active life provides instead of being controlled by fatigue and depression brought on by the disease.
While Marge is reaping both physical and mental benefits of pushing herself, she also expresses the frustration that comes along with her efforts, “My husband and daughter in law are very supportive and see me when I am struggling.
Other friends, family, and neighbors see me out and say things like ‘You look great, you’re doing great, or you are so strong’. I know they mean well, but I just want to scream. I don’t feel like I’m looking great or doing great, and I definitely don’t feel strong … While I might be out now, I may barely have any energy in an hour. It’s important for me to stay positive and make the best of my life, but then because I appear positive, everyone thinks I’m fine. Meanwhile I struggle on a day to day basis”.
In order to help her cope with emotions brought on by those well-meaning, but misplaced comments, Marge has found comfort in support groups of fellow patients who have a shared life experience. “My advice to any cancer patient is to find a local support group where you’ll find other people who know exactly what you are going through. This will help you to not feel alone. They’ll understand your frustrations. Plus, you can learn so much more about your disease and treatment options”. For people like Marge who live with a rare cancer or in a small community, there may not be local support groups available. In those cases, Marge advocates for “online support groups” where people from around the world share, comfort, and educate each other.
As a former teacher, Marge’s quest for knowledge has never stopped. Through the support groups and her online research, she has educated herself on her diagnosis, treatment options, and provider options. She encourages her fellow survivors to do the same. “The more information you have the better you can advocate for your health”.
Research indicates that Former Teachers Have an Increase Cancer Rates due to various environmental and lifestyle factors. A study found that teachers share several factors that increase their cancer risk compared to non-teachers.
The California Teachers Study specifically highlighted higher rates of breast cancer among female teachers, attributing these disparities to various factors.
Additionally, a study examined the relationship between cancer incidence and the electrical environment in schools, suggesting that factors like high-frequency voltage transients may contribute to increased cancer rates among teachers.
These findings suggest a potential link between teaching and increased cancer risk, warranting further investigation. Marge describes the power she feels having gained this knowledge.
She recalls a visit in September 2023, “I always review my labs, scans, test results. I think everyone should. You need to understand so you can talk to your doctor and advocate for yourself. You must have a doctor who you know will listen. Dr. Kassar always takes the time when I need it. On this visit in September 2023, I reviewed a radiologist report and was concerned with the radiologist’s conclusions. I pointed this out to Dr. Kassar. He took the time to listen, review the report, evaluate it further, and we changed the course of action”. This change of course may have stopped Marge’s health from taking an unnecessary change for the worse.
With a smile Marge relayed “I am a “THRIVER”, not a survivor. We don’t survive this cancer. But we can thrive! At this moment, I am thriving!” “In fact”, Marge reports, “This week’s scans showed stability!”
She is grateful for advancements in medicine, the efforts & knowledge of her doctors, the support of family, and having a treatment team close to home. But as Marge’s story illustrates, having the determination to push yourself, the knowledge to advocate for yourself, and the emotional support of fellow “thrivers” are the key components to “enjoying life”.
Like most uLMS patients, it hides under the guise of uterine fibroids. I have undergone multiple chemo and radiation treatments that may not cure but hold this cancer at bay. Currently, I’m stable and grateful for that. I get through each and every day by finding something that puts a smile on my face – no matter how small it may be.
I have undergone multiple chemo and radiation treatments that may not cure but hold this cancer at bay. Currently, I’m stable and grateful for that. I get through each and every day by finding something that puts a smile on my face – no matter how small it may be.
Participating in Count Me In’s LMS Project gives me hope. Hope that it will help, maybe not me, but future individuals that are fighting this very rare cancer. Hope that this research will better help understand LMS and working treatments are found.” – Marge Brauer | Join the movement that can impact the future understanding of cancer at LMSProject.org – JoinCountMeIn.org#SarcomaAwarenessMonth#JoinCountMeIn
We offer support to patients, survivors and caregivers. Leiomyosarcoma is a subset type of Sarcoma, a rare cancer. Please share your experiences and journey with others and ask questions. We learn from each other and believe that knowledge is power. We have many members that may be going through a recent surgery or treatments, we are here for you and send everyone positive thoughts and healing energy.
Please note we are not medical professionals although we do share our medical experiences including links to online sites and info. It is key to ask your medical team any medical questions regarding your health or any type of treatments or suggestions that you read about in any online groups.We do not allow graphic photos of medical procedures or of the human body related to this disease.
Please post in a respectful courteous manner. All posts that are of a violent tone or argumentative will be removed. We do not sell products for profit and do not allow individual fundraising. We do not support any political party or religious groups. Lori Baylis McCourt is the Founder of our group and a caregiver for her husband who is a LMS survivor.
Lori is also an Admin along with Marge Hodgetts Brauer, Cheryl Watson Davis, Jennifer Jones & Karen Navitsky Brake. Marge & Cheryl are both ulms survivor’s. This is a closed group on Facebook and all new members will need to be approved. We ask you to answer a few questions as a vetting process & agree to our rules.
What you post can be seen by other members but will not show up on your FB page. Please do not share other members’ posts without their permission. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact Lori, Marge or Cheryl through messenger. Together we are Stronger!
Brauer has a long journey ahead of her, but she is strong, and she is fighting every day. Always remember to stop and smell the roses when times get rough.
Dr. Jonathan J. Rasouli, a board-certified spinal neurosurgeon in New York, is spilling the details of his go-to meal rich in brain-beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and phytonutrients and low in carbs, sugar and fat.
“It tastes great, and I never get tired of it,” Rasouli, director of complex and adult spinal deformity surgery in the Department of Neurological Surgery at Staten Island University Hospital, recently told Parade. “It is super easy to make and doesn’t require too many ingredients.”
Salmon is encouraged as part of the MIND diet because it boasts omega-3 fatty acids, which are believed to preserve the integrity of cell membranes in the brain, facilitate communication between neurons, enhance blood flow to the brain, support the creation of new brain cells and lower inflammation.
Nearly 7 million Americans have been diagnosed with dementia, which is characterized by a decline in memory, thinking and learning. piksel stock – stock.adobe.com
Turmeric’s main active ingredient is curcumin, which has shown potential in reducing inflammation, improving memory and slowing the development of amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia — it’s characterized by a decline in memory, thinking and learning. Nearly 7 million Americans have been diagnosed with dementia but researchers say millions more likely have dementia symptoms but no formal diagnosis.
For its part, broccoli contains glucosinolates, which transform into isothiocyanates when chewed. Isothiocyanates have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Broccoli also contains vitamins C, K and A as well as potassium, calcium and iron.
Rasouli warns against consuming sugary foods that can contribute to insulin resistance, a risk factor for dementia. Photographee.eu – stock.adobe.com
But Rasouli warns against adding too much salt to the salmon and subbing in a carb-heavy side for the broccoli. Excess salt and refined carbs can potentially contribute to brain inflammation.
“Any dinner that is low in processed ingredients, sugars and unhealthy fats would be a good dinner not only for Alzheimer’s prevention but also your general health,” Rasouli told Parade. “I like to stay away from red meats, processed meats like sausage and anything high in sugar. These have been shown to contribute to insulin resistance, which is a risk factor for dementia.”
For breakfast, Rasouli favors the “powerhouse” meal of grass-fed steak, pasture-raised eggs and leafy greens or avocado, which contain healthy fats.
Grass-fed steak boasts high-quality protein, iron and vitamin B12, Rasouli said, which support energy, focus and cognitive function.
“Additionally, grass-fed beef contains higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants like vitamin E compared to conventional beef, which can further benefit brain health,” Rasouli told The Post. “Pasture-raised eggs are rich in choline, an essential nutrient for memory and brain function, and they also offer a higher concentration of omega-3s compared to standard eggs.”
Another brain-healthy breakfast is avocado toast with whole-grain bread and a poached egg. For lunch, Rasouli is a fan of grilled chicken or salmon salad with leafy greens, olive oil and nuts, thanks to the antioxidants, omega-3s and healthy fats.
A second choice is a quinoa bowl with roasted vegetables, chickpeas and tahini dressing. “Quinoa is a complete protein and provides slow-releasing carbohydrates,” Rasouli explained. “Chickpeas add fiber and protein, while tahini offers brain-boosting fats.”
BREAKING NEWS: The FDA Just Banned Alzheimer’s Medications! [Discover How to Naturally Restore Memory Just By Doing This at Home]
Updated: March 4, 2025
This morning, a shocking FDA decision rocked the medical community: all medications for treating Alzheimer’s were suddenly pulled from the market.
Why?
Serious side effects and questionable efficacy.
But what the pharmaceutical industry doesn’t want you to know could completely change the way we treat memory loss. Until now, the standard approach to combating Alzheimer’s has been through medications that, at best, merely delay the symptoms.
Dr. Michael Carter, a renowned neuroscientist, has argued for years that not only are these treatments ineffective, they can also be dangerous. That’s because the root of the Alzheimer’s problem is not something that can simply be medicated.
According to his research, a toxic protein directly linked to the modern diet is the true culprit. That’s right, you probably ate something today that is silently destroying your neural synapses, causing memory lapses, and triggering Alzheimer’s.
This discovery calls into question decades of medical guidance and points to a pharmaceutical industry conspiracy to keep this information from the public. Despite all this sounding frightening, there is still hope…
During research in Okinawa, Japan—a place known for its high life expectancy and low incidence of Alzheimer’s—Dr. Carter discovered a simple practice that locals have been using to naturally prevent and reverse the effects of memory loss.
This technique, which can be done at home in less than one minute, is based on natural ingredients that combat the toxic protein responsible for brain deterioration.
“I thought my memory loss was just part of aging,” says Maria G., a follower of Dr. Carter’s recommendations. “But after applying the method he suggested, my mental clarity returned, and after just 16 days I threw my medications in the trash.”
Dr. Sanjay Gupta drinks a calming cup of Creamy Turmeric Tea every night to help calm his nerves, but the benefits of this colorful drink don’t end there: A recent study suggests that curcumin, a brain-boosting chemical in turmeric, could help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s by helping hippocampal brain cells grow.
Courtesy Of: Dr Sanjay Gupta, MD – Search Videos is an Indian American neurosurgeon and an assistant professor of neurosurgery at Emory University School of Medicine and associate chief of the neurosurgery service at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Ga.
** 1/2 teaspoon of regular honey and 1/2 teaspoon of Mike’s Hot Honey (that really peppery sweet honey)
Instructions
Heat the almond milk in a microwave, or, on the stove top
Stir in all spices, and blend.
Drizzle honey on top of spiced milk.
Expect sediment from the cinnamon to occur — just stir now and then while enjoying.
Spa Index Kitchen Notes
If you do not have fresh ginger juice (available bottled from The Ginger People, or, reserved from crushed fresh ginger), substitute a piece of sliced ginger, or, 1/4 teaspoon of ginger powder. Do not use candied or crystallized ginger, which is mostly sugar.
“Creamy Mug of Warming Deliciousness” is more accurate. It just plain feels good to drink this slightly sweet, slightly spicy blend of heated almond (or coconut) milk, turmeric, ginger, cayenne and honey. Turmeric tea will perk you up in the morning, calm you down at night and soothe sniffles and sore throats. It’s also a really pleasant way to end a meal.” — Mark’s Daily Apple
Nutrition
Serving: 1 Serving | Calories: 162 kcal (8%) | Carbohydrates: 23 g (8%) | Protein: 8 g (16%) | Fat: 4.5 g (7%) | Sodium: 125 mg (5%) | Fiber: 2 g (8%) | Sugar: 0.6 g (1%)
An estimated 38% of adults will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes, according to the National Cancer Institute, making cancer a top medical priority. The National Center for Health Statistics reports that cancer is the most-researched disease in the United States.
According to the most recent data, the NIH dedicated over an estimated $7.1 billion to cancer research in 2023. This research has led to various new treatments that offer hope for those diagnosed with the disease. In April 2025, researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering reported that certain colorectal cancer patients may be able to make a full recovery via immunotherapy rather than surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.
More than 1.7 million people in America are diagnosed with cancer each year, and 1 in 4 deaths in the country is due to cancer. Recent research has also found worrying shifts in demographics among cancer patients. Data published in the Annals of Internal Medicine in June 2025 shows that compared to older generations, appendix cancers occur four times as often among millennials and three times as often among members of Gen X.
You see a lot of Baby Boomers and not too much Gen Z on this map.
But as the years go by, this map should get a lot of more light blue popping up. Gen X looks poised to overtake southern California soon, but, for now, the Boomers still reign supreme in most of the United States. Of all the states in the Union, it looks like Alaska might be the most diverse in terms of generational cohorts. All ages are welcome in the Last Frontier!
Additionally, colorectal cancer is on the rise among people as young as 20 for reasons still largely unknown to medical researchers. A May 2025 report from the National Cancer Institute notes that some theories place the blame on obesity, high alcohol consumption, or the presence of microplastics in the human body.
On the other end of the spectrum, new research has revealed lowered risks of cancer in elderly individuals. While cancer remains common in those between 65 and 70 years old, a December 2024 study from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center shows that rates decline among people between 80 and 85 years old. That doesn’t mean the risk disappears entirely, though. For example, in May 2025, former president Joe Biden was diagnosed with prostate cancer at the age of 82.
Suffice it to say, it’s difficult to generalize trends of how cancer spreads across different populations. The term “cancer” in fact refers to a collection of more than 100 related diseases, each of which involves a breakdown in normal body processes due to cells dividing uncontrollably and spreading into surrounding areas. Every one of these individual diseases has different potential causes, and scientists are still hard at work identifying links between possible carcinogens and actual disease rates.
Still, we can see a clear variation between groups of people on a geographic level, particularly when comparing cancer rates across all 50 U.S. states. What factors might cause some states to have more people diagnosed with cancer each year than others? The question is still being investigated, but hospitals and other research centers in every state are working to find answers.
The incidence rate refers to the number of people out of 100,000 who are diagnosed with cancer in a given year and is age-adjusted to the 2000 U.S. standard population. We’ve also included incidence rates for the three most prevalent types of cancer in the U.S.: lung and bronchus cancer, prostate cancer, and breast cancer, which is the most common. Incidence rates for breast cancer and prostate cancer are only available for women and men, respectively, even though both of these conditions may impact all genders.
Researchers embark on quest to find cause of cancer crisis plaguing US region: ‘It’s scary’
Iowa cancer rates are the second-highest in the nation and rising, and some think it could have to do with common agricultural chemicals.
What’s happening?
“People in rural communities are getting sick. Cancer is just everywhere,” Kerri Johannsen, senior director of policy at the Iowa Environmental Council, told the Guardian, which reported on this health crisis. “Every person I talk to knows somebody that has [recently] had a cancer diagnosis. It’s just a constant drumbeat. It’s scary.”
The Guardian added that Iowa is just one of two states where cancer rates are increasing, but the cause has been unclear. However, many residents are blaming herbicides, pesticides, and other chemicals used on farms. Then there is the state’s problem with hazardous nitrates — often coming from agricultural fertilizers and manure from large-scale livestock operations — that wash off farm fields and enter the water supply.
Now, a new study will look into these theories as well as cancer links to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and high radon levels, the Guardian reported.
“We really want to find out why these cancers are increasing,” Elise Pohl, a former community health consultant for the Iowa Department of Health who will be the study’s lead researcher, told the Guardian. “We’re homing in on the agriculture side of things.”
Why is this study important?
Agriculture is integral to Iowa’s economy, contributing $159.5 billion to the state each year, according to the Iowa Farm Bureau. And around one in five Iowa residents are employed in agriculture or by agriculture-related businesses, the organization added.
Meanwhile, a number of studies have found links between common agricultural chemicals and cancer. For instance, one recent investigation by Stanford University found that more than 20 types of pesticides may significantly increase the risk of prostate cancer.
These pesticides also endanger wildlife. One conservation group states that malathion endangers more than 1,500 species and recently brought a lawsuit against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for its alleged failure to rein in use of the substance.
This problem is global in scope — one study estimated that 3.85 million tons of pesticides were used on crops worldwide in 2020.
What’s being done about potentially dangerous agricultural chemicals?
Farm Bureau Financial Services recommends that farmers wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses and shoes, earplugs or muffs, hard hats, respirators, coveralls, vests, and full body suits when handling potentially dangerous chemicals.
However, some farmers are implementing more planet-friendly practices that reduce their need for conventional pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in the first place. Organic agriculture involves growing and processing food without using synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, and a number of studies have shown promise for organic fertilizers.
For instance, one study found that using microbial biofertilizers and algae-based biostimulants instead of synthetic fertilizers on tomato crops improved both yield and quality.
A recent study from Kansas State University has shown that soil treated with organic fertilizers stores more carbon than soil treated with chemical fertilizers or left unfertilized. The research, published in the Soil Science Society of America Journal, utilized advanced imaging techniques such as ultrabright synchrotron light to observe the carbon interactions within the soil.
The study focused on a cornfield in Kansas that had been farmed without tilling and using only manure and compost fertilizers for 22 years. The findings suggest that organic enhancements improve soil health, microbial diversity, and carbon sequestration, contributing to sustainable and regenerative agriculture practices.
by Rowan Hollinger
With carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere increasing in recent decades, there is a growing urgency to find strategies for capturing and holding carbon. Researchers from Kansas State University (K-State) are exploring how different farming practices can affect the amount of carbon that gets stored in soil.
Using the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and the Advanced Light Source in Berkeley, California, they analyzed soil from a cornfield in Kansas that had been farmed with no tilling for the past 22 years.
Signs of the Times
Soil treated with organic fertilizers stores more carbon, study finds … Researchers from Kansas State University (K-State) are exploring how different farming practices can affect the amount of carbon that gets stored in soil. Using the Canadian Light … https://phys.org › Search
Soil treated with organic fertilizers stores more carbon; study finds … Researchers from Kansas State University (K-State) are exploring how different farming practices can affect the amount of carbon that gets stored in soil. Using the Canadian Light … https://www.sott.net › Search
During that time, the farm used a variety of different soil nitrogen management practices, including no fertilizer, chemical fertilizer, and manure/compost fertilizer.
The results are published in the Soil Science Society of America Journal.
“We were trying to understand what the mechanisms are behind increasing soil carbon storage using certain management practices,” says Dr. Ganga Hettiarachchi, professor of soil and environmental chemistry at Kansas State University. “We were looking at not just soil carbon, but other soil minerals that are going to help store carbon.”
As has been shown in other studies, the K-state researchers found that the soil enhanced (treated) with manure or compost fertilizer stores more carbon than soil that received either chemical fertilizer or no fertilizer. More exciting though, says Hettiarachchi, the ultrabright synchrotron light enabled them to see how the carbon gets stored: they found that it was preserved in pores and some carbon had attached itself to minerals in the soil.
The team also found that the soil treated with manure or compost contained more microbial carbon, an indication that these enhancements support more microorganisms and their activities in the soil. In addition, they identified special minerals in the soil, evidence Hettiarachchi says, that the treatments contribute to active chemical and biological processes.
“To my knowledge, this is the first direct evidence of mechanisms through which organic enhancements improve soil health, microbial diversity, and carbon sequestration.”
Because synchrotron imaging is non-destructive, the K-state researchers were able to observe what was going on in soil aggregate (clumps) without having to break up the soil; essentially, they were looking at the carbon chemistry in its natural state.
“Collectively, studies like this are going to help us to move forward to more sustainable, more regenerative agriculture practices that will protect our soils and environment as well as help feed growing populations, says Hettiarachchi. “As well, understanding the role of the different minerals, chemicals, and microbes involved will help improve models for predicting how different farming practices affect soil carbon storage.”
More information: Pavithra S. Pitumpe Arachchige et al, Direct evidence on the impact of organic amendments on carbon stabilization in soil microaggregates, Soil Science Society of America Journal (2024). DOI: 10.1002/saj2.20701
Cancer, a disease that doesn’t play favorites, has become one of the top killers in the U.S., with over two million new cases reported just in 2024. While factors like genetic inheritance, lifestyle, and smoking are well-known, your zip code also plays a crucial role in your survival odds. According to the National Cancer Institute, cancer rates vary wildly across the country, and some states have significantly higher mortality rates.
Take Kentucky, for instance, leading the pack with the highest cancer mortality rate in the U.S. The high prevalence of smoking and obesity are key culprits, along with a lack of routine screenings. The healthcare infrastructure faces challenges, especially in rural areas where access to care is limited. Plus, exposure to carcinogens from the mining industry worsens the situation, boosting lung cancer rates.
In Iowa, lung, breast, skin, and prostate cancers are common. Exposure to chemicals and agricultural pesticides due to the state’s farming industry is a major factor. Obesity and alcohol consumption also contribute to the high incidence of breast cancer. Despite these challenges, education and prevention efforts are underway to cut down cancer death risks.
In Louisiana, cancer incidence is 40% higher than the national average. The “Cancer Alley,” a region with a high concentration of petrochemical plants, is linked to higher rates of lung and breast cancer. Inequalities especially affect Black and low-income residents, who face higher cancer risks and mortality due to proximity to industrial pollutants.
West Virginia faces high cancer risks due to smoking, poor diet, and lack of screenings. The state has one of the highest tobacco consumption rates, contributing to lung cancer. The lack of access to quality healthcare in rural areas is a persistent issue, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
Arkansas also faces high cancer mortality rates, with lung, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers on the rise. Smoking and obesity are significant risk factors. The lack of access to healthcare in rural areas hinders early detection and treatment, affecting survival rates.
Nebraska has higher mortality rates for certain cancers, like esophagus, blood, and kidney. Pediatric cancer rates are also concerning, with one of the highest incidences outside the Northeast. Exposure to chemicals in agricultural production and lack of exercise are identified risk factors.
In New Jersey, cancer is the second leading cause of death, with high rates of lung, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers. Historical inequalities and exposure to tobacco smoke and air pollution are contributing factors. The lack of early detection and inaccessibility to effective treatments especially affect the state’s Black population.
Maine faces high cancer mortality rates, especially for lung and bronchus. Smoking and the lack of cancer treatment centers are key factors. The lack of access to treatment in rural areas means some patients must travel long distances for care, affecting their survival.
In New York, certain urban areas experience a spike in cancer diagnoses, with rates higher than the national average. Pollution and the state’s industrial roots are linked to carcinogens in the air, soil, and water. The lack of access to vital cancer care in rural areas delays diagnosis and treatment.
Mississippi has the highest breast cancer mortality rate in the country. The lack of screenings and widespread poverty are contributing factors. Most of the population lives in rural areas, making access to healthcare difficult. The lack of awareness and inaccessibility to effective treatments are persistent challenges.
Lots of cancer deaths in Arkansas, Mississippi and Kentucky. I was a traveling nurse for 25 years before retiring and I saw the most Why is everything red or blue? It has more to do with the tobacco use not red and blue
In many states where Marijuana was legal there was almost a 20% less risk of cancer because of reduced use of tobacco among the population so health does have to do with politics
We are talking about the able bodied Americans that CHOOSE not to work… Or are we talking about the people that cut lines for handouts?
You have to take into account also, the political climate of the area too. In Red states, education is considered a big no-no, as they are anti-education. They also don’t believe in science, so often wouldn’t really view a cancer diagnosis as real either.
Fortunately, everyone in cities like New York and LA are perfectly healthy, because they love science! No problems in those areas!
Also Red states welcome polluting industries with open arms!
I’m sure it’s difficult to keep up but we’re talking about statistics for states here, and if you actually READ the article its pretty clear that the states with the most cancer are red states.
Statistics are easily manipulated by whatever point the author wants to portray. It has always been that way. Ask any statistician or teacher of statistics.
This statement in no way refutes the data. Red states have higher mortality from preventable diseases for numerous reasons. Boohooing that changes nothing.
Ranked: The Most & Least Educated US Cities | Watch Real education in Red states is a BIG yes!! It’s the DOGE that discovered Blue State waste and fraud That’s a BIG No No!!! That’s a common belief that is false, just ask any statistician or teacher of statistics, they know I speak the truth.
So the lessons are clear: Keep your weight down. Exercise. Avoid toxic air, water, and food. Don’t smoke. And get regular healthcare by a qualified physician. I would add GET ALL YOUR VACCINATIONS PER YOUR PHYSICIAN.
I would agree, with smoking and obesity by far the leading risks
Stay out of Blue states and you’ll be fine…
Did you also not read nor take into account that most of these areas lack the medical resources needed for a proper diagnosis there are others who do not follow up nor seek preventive healthcare, and then lastly there are those who have cancer already but have to travel well outside their area for treatment. So the lesson is, we need to invest in accessible, affordable healthcare for all. Chemicals, pesticides, pollution and other contributing polluting factors need to be addressed. Just because one lives in a less than popular area doesn’t mean they deserve to be treated inhumanely.
Oh, and don’t live in a rural area in a Red State – they don’t have good medical care facilities anywhere close to you.
A study published in the American Journal of Medicine found that unvaccinated people were 72% more likely to be involved in a severe traffic accident than those who were vaccinated. This study implies that folks who are unwilling to follow common-sense public health safety guidelines are also unwilling to follow simple stuff like traffic laws.
Blue states just manipulate the data…get real.
A vaccine for cancers, diabetes, smallpox, tuberculosis, immune diseases, and numerous other diseases needs to be developed from the CCR5 delta 32 gene inherited by fewer than 1% of the European population who survived “the Plague” of 1347 to 1358.
Lot of cancer deaths in California as well, I know, I worked as an RN for 20 years in the state before retiring. Depends on which part of the state you live in. California has very RED northern agricultural, religious, poorly educated pockets. California does not have the death rates from cancer the red states have.
Has nothing to do with the income disparity within the state that affects people’s health and well-being. Rates of cancer (or any other health issues) when one has a 40 million population becomes artificially lower because of the enormous population when compared with populations that are significantly lower, basic arithmetic.
Misleading comment there, and totally out of context. If you correlate the entire population of California to those cancer deaths, you would see we’re one of the lower states with cancer deaths. The highest states are ALWAYS the Red states! FACT.
We have one of the lowest cancer rates in the country FOR OUR POPULATION!
No, basic arithmetic states you DO take population into consideration for this particular equation. For example, if we had 100 people and 50 of those had cancer, you could rightfully say we have a very HIGH cancer rate, however, if we had 50 people with cancer and 20,000 people you could say we have a low cancer rate. The population is critical when discussing percentages in this context.
Again, I would state that its important to use entire populations of states when comparing cancer deaths. We don’t want to be comparing apples to oranges do we? So if a state has a MUCH lower population rate we have to take that into consideration while looking at their cancer rates to come up with a correct PERCENTAGE. This is why her statement regarding California is off.
The rates per 100,000 are being diluted because of the 39+ million population. I would be more interested in the rates per 100 or 1,000, even 10,000 would be an improvement when comparing such a large population with states that are magnitudes smaller in population than California.
That is a loaded political statement, not any kind of scientific statistical statement.
For example Texas is regarded as a RED state. Here are the stats on party affiliation: Party Registration Statistics Total Registered Voters: 17,323,617 Democrats: 8,054,976 (46.50%) Republicans: 6,574,201 (37.95%) Third Party/Other: 0 (0.00%) Unaffiliated: 2,694,440 (15.55%)
As one can see Democrats outnumber Republicans as far as registered voters in the state yet at the state level more people vote Republican, but in the large metropolitan areas more people vote Democrat. So, the whole RED state BLUE state belief isn’t true, its’ always a mixture.
Or, it raises issues that should cause suspicion, such as WHY do republicans seem to fare so well despite being outnumbered?
So it sounds as though UR suspicious of the republicans in Texas the same way I’m suspicious of the democrats in California.
These are all red states except for NY and NJ….yet tax dollars from the blue states pay for much of the treatments….although now that Medicaid is being stripped from all of us….it will be the cancer states that will feel it most.
Well, the cost of healthcare is out of reach for a lot of Americans
Nothing is understood there
i live on the eastern ohio border of the west Virginia panhandle and Pennsylvania 35 minutes from pittsburgh, we have many cardinal plants, plus shipping Port smoke stacks everywhere, and the people around here all die of cancer and we didn’t even make the list
And the East Palestine derailment and fire will ensure the rates climb there.
But there are facilities close that can diagnose and treat…. which a lot of the listed states do not have.
Gonna get a lot worse with the cuts to Medicaid and subsequent closure of rural medical care facilities.
yeah because cancer just started affecting people Jan 20th 2025
Never mind this nonsense, just keep enjoying your low taxes along with low life expectancy.
Nothing funny about cancer.
I read and researched after reading that since 2022 lung cancer in non smoking people has risen quite dramatically. Things that make you go hmmmm.
You are most likely to be murdered if you live in Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, New Mexico, or Missouri.
Most metro areas and their counties are Democrat Blue, throughout the entire nation, except maybe Wyoming the only blue is Teton county.
Lawrence Welk (1903-1992) was an American bandleader and television personality known for his “champagne music” and the long-running television show, The Lawrence Welk Show, which aired from 1951 to 1982.
Lawrence Welk was born to German-Russian immigrant parents in Strasburg, North Dakota, where he developed a strong work ethic and love for music growing up on the family farmstead. Strasburg is a historically German-speaking city in Emmons County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 379 at the 2020 census. Strasburg was founded in 1902.
After touring the Midwest in his 20s, he was scouted by ABC in 1955 to create the now-iconic “The Lawrence Welk Show,” which still runs on public television stations today. In this biographical documentary, explore the life and legacy of North Dakota’s music man, Lawrence Welk: A North Dakota Farm Boy | PBS
Lawrence Welk’s life story is a testament to his dedication to music and family-friendly entertainment. From humble beginnings to becoming a television icon, his journey reflects the American dream and the enduring appeal of wholesome entertainment.
Lawrence Welk was a self-made music icon whose journey from a humble farm in North Dakota to national television stardom is a classic American success story.
Early Life
Born March 11, 1903, in Strasburg, North Dakota, to German-Russian immigrant parents.
Grew up speaking German and didn’t learn English until age 21.
Left school in fourth grade to work on the family farm, later persuading his father to buy him an accordion for $400—a huge sum at the time.
Promised to work on the farm until age 21 to repay the cost of the accordion.
Musical Beginnings
Started performing at local dances and events as a teenager.
Formed bands like The Hotsy-Totsy Boys and The Honolulu Fruit Gum Orchestra.
Gained regional fame through radio performances in the Midwest, especially on WNAX in South Dakota.
Rise to Fame
Moved to Los Angeles in 1951 and launched The Lawrence Welk Show on KTLA.
The show went national on ABC in 1955, featuring his signature “champagne music”—light, melodic, and danceable tunes.
Known for his catchphrases like “Wunnerful, wunnerful!” and “Ah-one, ah-two!”, and for the iconic bubble machine on set.
Show Legacy
The show ran for 27 years, ending in 1982, and was syndicated across hundreds of stations.
Welk was a strict producer, maintaining a wholesome image and refusing sponsorships from alcohol or tobacco companies.
Featured a “musical family” of performers including the Lennon Sisters, Myron Floren, and the “Champagne Lady”.
Business Ventures & Later Life
Built a real estate empire including the Welk Resort in California.
Acquired rights to over 20,000 songs, including the works of Jerome Kern.
Authored two autobiographies: Wunnerful, Wunnerful! and Ah-One, Ah-Two!.
Passed away on May 17, 1992, in Santa Monica, California, at age 89.
Lawrence Welk’s legacy lives on through reruns of his show, his music catalog, and the resort community he founded. He turned a modest accordion into a cultural phenomenon—and kept a song in his heart the whole way. Want to hear more about his musical style or famous guests from the show?
How did The Lawrence Welk Show influence American culture?
The Lawrence Welk Show had a surprisingly deep impact on American culture, especially in how it reflected and shaped values for a particular generation.
Preserving Traditional Entertainment
Welk’s show championed big band and easy-listening music during a time when rock and roll and counterculture were rising.
It offered a safe, wholesome alternative to edgier programming, appealing to older viewers and families who felt alienated by modern trends.
His “champagne music” became synonymous with nostalgia and comfort, reinforcing a sense of continuity in a rapidly changing world.
Promoting Family Values
Welk curated a “Musical Family” of performers, emphasizing teamwork, respect, and moral decency.
The show’s tone and content reflected Midwestern ideals—clean fun, modesty, and patriotism—which resonated with millions across the country.
Cultural Counterbalance
During the 1960s and ’70s, when TV was embracing youth culture, Welk’s show stood as a cultural counterweight, preserving older traditions.
It was one of the few programs that targeted mature audiences, proving that entertainment didn’t have to chase trends to be successful.
Syndication & Longevity
After being dropped by ABC in 1971, Welk launched his own production company and thrived in syndication, often outperforming network shows.
Reruns continue to air on PBS, keeping his legacy alive and introducing new generations to his style of entertainment.
Academic & Cultural Legacy
Scholars have studied Welk’s show as a cultural artifact, representing the values, anxieties, and aspirations of mid-20th-century America.
His influence is still referenced in parodies, documentaries, and retrospectives, showing how deeply embedded he is in American pop culture.
Lawrence Welk didn’t just host a show—he built a cultural sanctuary for millions who wanted music, manners, and memories. Want to explore how his musical style evolved over the decades?
What is the legacy of The Lawrence Welk Show today?
The Lawrence Welk Show continues to ripple through American culture like a gentle waltz—its legacy is both enduring and surprisingly vibrant.
Ongoing Broadcasts
Reruns of the show still air on PBS stations across the U.S., especially on weekends, drawing loyal viewers who cherish its nostalgic charm2.
These broadcasts introduce Welk’s “champagne music” to new generations, keeping his signature style alive.
Living Cast Members
Several original cast members are still alive and occasionally participate in reunion specials or fan events, such as Mary Lou Metzger, Bob Ralston, Ralna English, and Bobby Burgess.
Their continued presence helps maintain a personal connection to the show’s golden era.
Cultural & Academic Interest
Scholars and fans alike view the show as a cultural time capsule, reflecting mid-20th-century values like modesty, patriotism, and family unity.
It’s often referenced in documentaries, retrospectives, and even parodied in pop culture—proof of its lasting imprint.
Welk Homestead & Museum
Welk’s childhood home in Strasburg, North Dakota has been preserved as a museum, thanks to fan donations after Congress declined funding.
It serves as a tribute to his humble beginnings and the American dream he embodied.
Influence on Music & Media
Welk’s emphasis on wholesome entertainment paved the way for other family-friendly programming.
His production model—syndicating the show after network cancellation—became a blueprint for independent media success.
In short, The Lawrence Welk Show isn’t just a relic—it’s a living legacy of music, manners, and mid-century Americana. Want to explore how his influence shows up in modern entertainment or music trends?
What are the current activities of the original cast members?
Many original cast members of The Lawrence Welk Show have gracefully transitioned into retirement, but a number of them remain active in ways that keep the spirit of the show alive.
Still Active in Entertainment
Kathie Sullivan continues to perform at retirement communities and senior centers, sharing music and memories with longtime fans.
Bobby Burgess, the beloved dancer, occasionally appears at reunion events and special performances.
Gail Farrell also participates in fan gatherings and musical retrospectives.
Ralna English lives in Scottsdale, Arizona, and has been involved in gospel and country music performances.
Living Quiet Lives
Bob Havens (trombone) and Bob Ralston (piano) are retired but still celebrated for their contributions. Ralston occasionally hosts concerts at his residence.
Richard Maloof (bass/tuba) and Mary Lou Metzger (singer/dancer) are living privately but have appeared in reunion specials.
Anacani, The Aldridge Sisters, and Ava Barber are alive and living in various parts of the U.S., occasionally engaging with fans.
Occasional Appearances
Many cast members reunited for the 2001 PBS special Lawrence Welk: Milestones & Memories, and some have participated in similar events since.
Jo Ann Castle, Guy Hovis, Cissy King, and Johnny Zell are among those who’ve made public appearances or shared updates through fan channels.
The Welk cast may no longer be on weekly television, but their music, charm, and legacy continue to sparkle through fan events, PBS reruns, and heartfelt performances. Want to dive into one of their solo careers or see how fans celebrate them today?
How is *The Lawrence Welk Show* celebrated by fans today?
Fans of The Lawrence Welk Show continue to celebrate its legacy with enthusiasm, nostalgia, and community spirit—even decades after its final broadcast.
Weekly PBS Broadcasts
The show still airs on over 200 PBS stations nationwide, often on Saturday evenings.
It draws over 3 million viewers weekly, outperforming some cable networks on weekends.
Episodes are often themed and hosted by surviving cast members who share behind-the-scenes stories.
Welk Homestead Celebrations
The Welk Homestead in Strasburg, North Dakota hosts annual events honoring Welk’s life and heritage.
In 2025, fans gathered for the 10th anniversary of the site’s state ownership, featuring:
A statue dedication
Live musical tributes
A PBS documentary premiere
Activities like rope-making and antique printing demos
Fan Reunions & Guest Appearances
Cast members like Bobby Burgess, Gail Farrell, and Mary Lou Metzger still appear at reunion specials and fan events.
These gatherings often include performances, meet-and-greets, and tributes to departed cast members.
Books & Documentaries
New biographies, such as Lawrence Welk: A North Dakota Legacy, continue to be published.
Documentaries and retrospectives air on public television, keeping Welk’s story fresh for new audiences.
Online Communities
Fans connect through Facebook groups, fan forums, and local PBS station websites, sharing memories, trivia, and favorite performances.
Some even organize viewing parties or themed events around classic episodes.
Lawrence Welk’s fans aren’t just reminiscing—they’re actively preserving a slice of Americana.
Want to explore how his influence shows up in today’s music or variety shows?
The accident was rated seven (the maximum severity) on the International Nuclear Event Scale by Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency, following a report by the JNES (Japan Nuclear Energy Safety Organization).[9][10] It is regarded as the worst nuclear accident since the Chernobyl disaster in 1986,[11] which was also rated a seven on the International Nuclear Event Scale.[12]
Growing up in Japan, I fell in love with food at a young age. One of my favorite things to do is to cook for friends and family. Japanese people are very intentional about their diet — and it shows: Japan is home to some of the world’s longest-living people. My mom, a cancer survivor, is 86 years old, and my aunt is still going strong at 98.
When I moved to the U.S., I tried a variety of popular American diets and food trends. But my body didn’t respond well to a lot of it. Now, as a nutritionist, my approach centers mostly around Japanese eating habits,
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I recommend foods that have medicinal properties & promote longevity.
Growing up in Nara, Japan…, it’s a New YearI always loved eating “wagashi,” or traditional Japanese sweets. My favorite was pudding and cakes made with “anko,” which is sweet red bean paste.
But when I moved to the U.S. and became a nutritionist, I couldn’t believe the dessert selections at the grocery stores. They were too rich and sugary for me. So I started making recipes inspired by my childhood.
In Japan, there is a popular concept called “ikigai,” which translates to your reason for getting out of bed each morning.
Ever since my mom was diagnosed with cancer in 2018, her ikigai has been to preserve her health and wake up feeling a little happier and more grateful than the day before.
As a nutritionist, I’ve always been inspired by my mom’s intentional diet and positive outlook on life. Today, at 85 years old, she’s a cancer survivor.
Michiko Tomioka’s mother, Mikiyo Kakutani, was diagnosed with cancer in 2018, but the specific cause of her cancer hasn’t been publicly disclosed. What we do know is that after her diagnosis, she embraced a deeply intentional lifestyle focused on healing and longevity. Her daughter, Michiko—a nutritionist and longevity expert—shared that her mother prioritized an anti-inflammatory diet, spiritual practices, and community connection during her recovery
How did Michiko Tomioka mother get cancer
Michiko Tomioka’s mother, Mikiyo Kakutani, was diagnosed with cancer in 2018, but the specific cause of her cancer hasn’t been publicly disclosed. What we do know is that after her diagnosis, she embraced a deeply intentional lifestyle focused on healing and longevity. Her daughter, Michiko—a nutritionist and longevity expert—shared that her mother prioritized anti-inflammatory foods, spiritual practices, and community connection throughout her recovery1.
Rather than dwelling on the “why,” Mikiyo focused on the “how” of living well. She adopted traditional Japanese foods like miso, seaweed, and omega-3-rich seafood, eliminated processed items, and leaned into laughter, gratitude, and spiritual rituals to support her healing.
It’s a powerful reminder that while we can’t always control what happens to us, we can shape how we respond. Would you like to explore the kinds of foods or habits that support cancer recovery or prevention?
What holistic practices can help in cancer recovery?
Holistic practices can play a powerful role in supporting cancer recovery—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. While they don’t replace conventional treatments, they can complement them beautifully and improve overall well-being.
Mind-Body Therapies
Meditation & Mindfulness: Reduces stress, anxiety, and improves sleep quality.
Yoga & Tai Chi: Enhances flexibility, balance, and emotional resilience.
Would you like help building a personalized recovery plan or exploring specific therapies in more depth?
How can I create a holistic recovery plan for myself?
Creating a holistic recovery plan is like designing a blueprint for your healing—one that honors your body, mind, and spirit. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build a personalized and empowering path forward:
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Clarify your vision: What does recovery mean to you—physical strength, emotional peace, spiritual growth?
Set SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.
Visualize success: Use affirmations or vision boards to stay inspired.
Step 2: Mind-Body Practices
Daily meditation or breathwork: Reduces stress and enhances clarity.
Gentle movement: Yoga, tai chi, or walking to support circulation and mood.
Sleep hygiene: Create a calming bedtime routine to improve rest and recovery.
Step 3: Nourish with Purpose
Anti-inflammatory diet: Focus on leafy greens, berries, turmeric, and omega-3s.
Hydration: Drink mineral-rich or alkaline water to support detoxification.
Fasting protocols: Consider intermittent fasting or supervised short-term fasts to promote cellular renewal.
Step 4: Integrative Therapies
Acupuncture & massage: Ease pain and improve energy flow.
IV nutrient therapy: Boosts immunity and cellular repair (consult a practitioner).
Infrared sauna & cold plunge: Enhances detox and resilience.
Step 5: Natural Remedies & Supplements
Medicinal mushrooms: Support immune function.
Herbs like ginger & turmeric: Reduce inflammation and nausea.
Supplements: Vitamin D, probiotics, glutathione, and antioxidants—always under medical guidance.
Step 6: Emotional & Social Support
Therapy or counseling: Process emotions and build coping strategies.
Support groups: Connect with others on similar journeys.
Creative outlets: Art, music, journaling to express and release.
Step 7: Track Progress & Adapt
Keep a recovery journal: Note physical changes, emotional shifts, and insights.
Celebrate small wins: Every step forward matters.
Stay flexible: Adjust your plan as your needs evolve.
Would you like help building a weekly schedule or choosing specific foods and therapies that match your lifestyle? I’d love to help you personalize it even further.
She’s now a cancer survivor at age 85, and her story is often cited as a powerful example of resilience and holistic healing. If you’re curious, I can share the five rules she lives by that helped her through treatment. They’re pretty inspiring.
Michiko Tomioka’s mother, Mikiyo Kakutani, followed five deeply intentional rules during her cancer recovery that helped her heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually:
Here are her five rules for a long, happy life filled with joy and purpose:
She embraced traditional Japanese ingredients like seaweed, ginger, kudzu, and matcha.
Her diet included omega-3-rich seafood (salmon, mackerel), fermented foods (miso, nukazuke, umeboshi), and natural sweeteners like goji berries and cinnamon.
She eliminated processed meats, fried foods, sugary snacks, dairy, and alcohol.
Philosophy behind it: Chronic inflammation has been linked to cancer and other diseases. Her approach was about creating an internal environment that discourages disease from thriving.
What it looked like daily: Meals were packed with antioxidants, minerals, and fiber. She used miso as a base for soups, topped rice with fermented pickles, and added seaweed to stews.
Why it matters: These foods nourish gut health, regulate blood sugar, and support immune resilience—all key to post-treatment recovery.
Example: Swap processed snacks for homemade miso soup with wakame and tofu.
Simple Tip: Add turmeric, ginger, or garlic to stir-fries—these have natural anti-inflammatory properties.
Small Shift: Choose brown rice over white, or toss flax seeds into morning oatmeal for added omega-3s.
2. Find reasons to laugh
She believed that “complaining only leads to more complaints,” while laughter and gratitude bring happiness.
Watching comedy shows and reading cartoons helped lift her spirits during treatment.
Philosophy behind it: Emotional wellness plays a huge role in physical healing. Laughter boosts serotonin, improves circulation, and lightens stress.
What it looked like daily: She watched comedy reruns, listened to funny radio segments, and even followed an Instagram account that posted dog memes. Sometimes her daughter would just tell a goofy story to make her laugh.
Why it matters: Maintaining a sense of humor helped her find joy and gratitude in the small moments, which gave her strength during tough times.
Example: Watch a favorite comedians stand-up special once a week.
Simple Tip: Schedule a 5-minute “silly break” during your workday—scroll memes, call a funny friend, or read humorous short stories.
Small Shift: Keep a “laughter log”—jot down one thing that made you giggle each day.
3. Have a dependable community
She learned to ask for help and leaned on small interactions with neighbors and friends.
Being part of a community gave her strength and a sense of belonging.
Philosophy behind it: Illness can feel isolating—but community brings back connection, routine, and normalcy.
What it looked like daily: A neighbor dropped off groceries. Friends stopped by for tea. Her local temple group checked in on her weekly.
Why it matters: Feeling supported, seen, and cared for helps counteract fear and loneliness—which are heavy emotions during recovery.
Example: Join a local yoga class or book club where you regularly connect with others.
Simple Tip: Send a “thinking of you” message to someone once a week—it builds connection, even if you haven’t talked in ages.
Small Shift: Let a friend know you’re available to listen, not solve. That kind of support often means the most.
4. Plan things to look forward to
Whether it was grocery shopping or attending worship services, she always had something on the calendar.
Looking forward to her grandson’s visit gave her a sense of purpose and joy.
Philosophy behind it: Anticipation activates parts of the brain that lift mood and energy. Having something to look forward to can spark motivation to keep healing.
What it looked like daily: She’d get dressed to go for short walks, schedule phone calls, and plan mini celebrations like “tea party Tuesday.”
Why it matters: These moments weren’t grand, but they gave her life rhythm and purpose beyond treatment.
Example: Schedule a mini outing like trying a new café, going to a farmer’s market, or a scenic drive every Sunday.
Simple Tip: Hang a calendar and mark fun future plans—can be as simple as “movie night” or “garden walk.”
Small Shift: Plan an end-of-week treat. Doesn’t need to be expensive—maybe just your favorite pastry from the bakery.
5. Connect with something bigger than yourself
Her spiritual practices included lighting incense, chanting Buddhist scripture, and visiting a Shinto shrine three times a month.
These rituals grounded her and gave her peace.
Philosophy behind it: Whether religious or spiritual, finding meaning beyond oneself can offer peace and acceptance.
What it looked like daily: Lighting incense became a form of meditation. Reading scripture gave her hope. Shinto shrine visits helped her feel connected to her ancestors.
Why it matters: These practices brought her calm in uncertainty and made her feel part of something timeless.
Example: Set aside time weekly to meditate, pray, or read from a spiritual or philosophical text that grounds you.
Simple Tip: Practice “forest bathing”—go into nature with no agenda but to feel connected.
Small Shift: Light a candle each evening and set an intention or express gratitude for something that day.
Her story is a beautiful reminder that healing isn’t just about medicine—it’s about mindset, connection, and meaning. Want help building your own version of these five rules? I’d love to help you craft something personal.
Her approach is a beautiful reminder that healing is holistic. If you’d like, I could help you turn these into your own set of personal wellness principles. Something truly tailored to your life and values.
Each one starts with awareness—but the real magic is when these small actions become habits. Would you like help designing a personalized daily ritual from these principles? I’d love to collaborate with you on that.
What studies support these healing rules?
Absolutely—there’s a growing body of research that supports each of Michiko’s mother’s healing principles. Here’s a breakdown of the science behind them:
1. Eat foods that reduce inflammation
Scientific Support: Numerous studies link anti-inflammatory diets to reduced cancer risk and improved recovery outcomes.
Key Findings:
Diets rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and omega-3s are associated with lower levels of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress2.
The Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) shows that each unit increase in inflammatory foods correlates with an 8.3% increase in overall cancer risk.
Anti-inflammatory diets may also support gut health, regulate blood sugar, and reduce recurrence risk3.
2. Find reasons to laugh
Scientific Support: Laughter therapy has been shown to improve emotional resilience, reduce anxiety, and even enhance immune function.
Key Findings:
Laughter activates dopamine and serotonin pathways, improving mood and reducing stress hormones.
A 2025 meta-analysis found that laughter therapy significantly reduced anxiety and increased life satisfaction in adults.
Laughter also improves cardiovascular health and pain tolerance, and may boost recovery in cancer patients.
Scientific Support: Social support is a well-established factor in recovery from illness, especially mental health conditions.
Key Findings:
Community and cultural engagement improves coping, reduces isolation, and enhances emotional well-being
Peer support and social connection are linked to better outcomes in chronic illness and mental health recovery
Studies show that social support reduces inflammation, improves resilience, and promotes healing.
4. Plan things to look forward to
Scientific Support: Anticipation of positive events activates reward centers in the brain and boosts emotional health.
Key Findings:
Anticipating future joy releases dopamine, which enhances motivation and reduces anxiety
MRI studies show that anticipation of positive events correlates with higher well-being scores and improved brain function.
Even small daily anticipations—like a treat or a walk—can improve mood and help people cope with stress.
5. Connect with something bigger than yourself
Scientific Support: Spirituality and meaning-making are linked to better health outcomes, especially in serious illness.
Key Findings:
A 2022 Harvard-led study found that spirituality improves quality of life and medical decision-making in patients with serious illness.
Spiritual practices like prayer, meditation, and nature connection reduce stress and promote healing18.
The NIH developed a tool (NIH-HEALS) to measure psycho-social-spiritual healing, showing that trust, acceptance, and reflection are key healing factors.
If you’d like, I can help you explore one of these areas more deeply—like designing a laughter ritual or building a personalized anti-inflammatory meal plan. Just say the word.
When my mom was going through her cancer treatment, she emphasized traditional Japanese foods in her diet. This meant plenty of inflammation-fighting and immune system-boosting options in her kitchen:
Goji berries and cinnamon as sweeteners
Seaweed, ginger, kudzu and green teas like matcha
Seafood high in omega-3 like salmon and mackerel
Miso (fermented soybeans), nukazuke (vegetables in fermented in rice bran) and umeboshi (Japanese pickled plum)
She eliminated most processed and packaged foods, including meats and animal fats, oily and fried foods, sugary snacks, dairy and alcohol.
She still maintains this mindful diet today.
2. Find reasons to laugh.
My mom always says, “Complaining only leads to more complaints, but gratitude and laughter lead to happiness.”
Studies show the benefits of laughter therapy during cancer treatments, such as improving mental health and immune function.
Even something as simple as watching a comedy show or reading a funny cartoon lifted my mom’s spirits and helped her get through tough times.
3. Have a dependable community.
During her rehabilitation period, being a contributing member of her community was crucial to my mom’s healing process.
She’s always been the independent type who likes doing things on her own. But as she’s gotten older, she has learned the importance of asking for help, even if it’s something as simple as slicing a watermelon.
The smallest interactions can be the foundation of an enduring connection.
4. Plan things to look forward to, and include your loved ones.
This can be anything from going to the grocery store to attending worship services to going to a concert with friends and family.
This year, my mom is most excited about visiting her grandson after he graduates in December.
When you have something to look forward to or work towards, then you have an ikigai and purpose to keep you happy and motivated each day.
5. Connect with something bigger than yourself.
My mom takes a lot of comfort and joy in her spiritual life and traditions. Her day starts with lighting incense and chanting Buddhist scripture.
Three times a month, she goes to her local Shinto shrine for a ritual worship that has been maintained by the temple for over 1,300 years.
She prays for her family’s health and safety, sees the priests, and has lunch with friends and members of the community. This relationship with something that’s larger than herself is incredibly healing, and she never takes it for granted.
This Cheap, Delicious Food Could Help You Live Longer by Adam Eckert Benzinga Editor
Michiko Tomioka grew up in Nara, Japan, eating countless tofu-based dishes throughout her childhood. Studies have shown tofu can help reduce risks of heart disease, bone loss, and cancer.
Tofu — a staple of Japanese cuisine — is versatile, inexpensive, tasty and may even lead to a longer life.
What To Know: CNBC contributor Michiko Tomioka grew up in Nara, Japan, eating countless tofu-based dishes throughout her childhood. She carried on the culinary tradition with her own children when she moved to the U.S.
Instead of giving her kids ultra-processed baby foods, Tomioka opted for tofu recipes that helped save time and money
“I often call tofu my best friend for happy living,” Tomioka said. Tofu is widely believed to have significant health benefits. It’s consumed by people of all ages across Japan, which has one of the highest life expectancy rates in the world.
Tomioka’s in-laws are 95 and 88 years of age and eat tofu, along with natto and miso soup every day. According to CNBC, Tomioka’s in-laws attribute much of their longevity and immunity to their diet.
Why Tofu: Tofu is traditionally made using soybeans and nigari, the solution that remains after removing salt from ocean water. Tofu is often made in the U.S. with calcium sulfate. Regardless of how it’s made, tofu contains all of the essential amino acids one normally gets from meat, poultry, eggs, fish and dairy, but without cholesterol.
The report cites studies that claim tofu can help reduce risks of heart disease, bone loss, and cancer.
Tofu is also economically and environmentally friendly. Tomioka noted that it takes more than 70 kilograms of greenhouse emissions to produce one kilogram of beef, but it takes only 3.2 kilograms of emissions to produce one kilogram of tofu.
“To me, it is simple math. In the course of the week, if you were to swap out one or two beef burgers for tofu burgers, you would feel better, pay less for groceries and do something small to help the environment,” Tomioka said.
You don’t have to sacrifice taste for health and cost benefits. Tofu actually has a subtle, natural taste that can be paired with just about any dish. Tomioka serves tofu pan-fried, in soups and salads, dumplings, burgers, cabbage rolls, ice cream and more.
Japanese native and nutritionist, Michiko Tomioka will guide us through Yakuzen cooking to build skills in preparation and presentation of this food as a medicine art form. She will also honor guests by sharing Chanoyu (the way of tea) traditional matcha tea ceremony to welcome the New Year. This authentic Japanese experience filled with Michiko’s joy and passion for mindful eating and health is not to be missed.
Michiko is a Japanese native nutritionist from Nara, Japan.
She has been cooking and caring for family and friends since the age of three. Since she grew up in Nara, Japan and fully embraces all the traditional foods and mindful practices. After years of corporate life, she decided to pursue a career in nutrition. She is a registered dietitian, certified and licensed dietitian, and integrative functional nutrition certified practitioner ( IFNCP).
As a IFNCP, she is focusing on total long-term lifestyle health with science based individualized whole body approach to find out the root cause and individualized care plan. She especially optimises the authentic Japanese whole plant based cooking, meal planning, and mindfulness. She loves sharing and cooking her original Yakuzen (薬膳ー medicine meals) in simple cooking methods which everyone can incorporate into daily meals.
She has since built a career in nutrition consultation, authentic cooking, and mindful eating in the underserved school system in NY/NJ, WIC ( special supplemental program for women, Infact, and Child), numerous clinical care facilities, and substance recovery center, as well as community service.
She is a founder of Michi Nutrition, LLC. Michi. “Michi “ represents meaning of 道（way）未知(limitless ) 満(fulfillment )、美智( beautiful wisdom), in Japanese…, the way of limitless unknown powder of nutrition with beautiful authentic wisdom. She is currently offering in divisional and group nutrition and consultation, education, authentic plant-based Japanese cooking, mindful eating and tea ceremony ( 茶道ー the way of tea and live)
Michiko Tomioka, MBA, RDN is a certified nutritionist and longevity expert. Born and raised in Nara, Japan, her approach focuses on a plant-based diet. She has worked in nutritional roles at substance recovery centers, charter schools and food banks. Her passion lies in delivering and educating her messages, Cook Well, Eat Well, Love Yourself to love your loved one.
You can find her articles and interviews in CNBC, NPR, MBG, and Substuck.
Hummingbirds are the smallest birds in the world and have been the subject of fascination since ancient times.
Hummingbird Symbolism and Meaning
(1) The hummingbird’s interesting characteristics have always attracted people’s attention and have earned this bird its position as a powerful symbol.
(2) To understand what a hummingbird symbolizes, we first must learn about the hummingbird’s traits.
Hummingbirds are the only birds with the ability to fly upside down and backwards. Their wings can beat up to 80 times per second, and create a distinctive insect-like sound. This buzzing is a familiar sound wherever flowers are near, and can act as a reminder of the beauty and importance of appreciating the small things in life.
Hummingbirds are potent reminders to stop and smell the flowers, and that the greatest gifts in life are usually the ones freely given to us by nature.
Like the tiny hummingbird which darts from flower to flower in search of nectar, we should spend our energy looking for the beauty in life. The hummingbird is capable of flying long distances to reach its destination, so it can also remind us to persevere.
According to the hummingbird’s wisdom, the journey is just as important as the destination.
This is why the hummingbird symbol is associated with endurance and grit.
The flight of the hummingbird reminds us to be resilient, and adaptable, and to take changes into stride.
The symbolism of the hummingbird is also linked to the idea of eternity and infinity. The hummingbird’s unique ability to hover, fly backwards, and even fly upside down, is due to the unusual anatomy of the hummingbird’s wings. Hummingbird wings rotate both forwards and backwards in a “figure eight” pattern which is unique among birds and gives the hummingbird incredible agility in the air.
So what is the overall meaning of the hummingbird?
Symbolically, the hummingbird is a beacon of positivity.
Hummingbirds instruct us to expect love, joy, and good luck.
Country singer Carly Pearce has been diagnosed with pericarditis:
A heart condition involving inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart. She first shared the news in May 2024, explaining that she’d been experiencing debilitating chest pain and shortness of breath, which led to the diagnosis
Pearce revealed that her condition is recurrent, meaning she’s had multiple flare-ups since 2020. Despite being young, active, and health-conscious, she emphasized how important it is to listen to your body and take symptoms seriously
While she continues to tour—including her “Hummingbird” album release and performances with Tim McGraw—she’s made adjustments to her shows to keep her heart rate under control during recovery
She’s asked fans for a little grace as she navigates this new normal.
If you want to know more about pericarditis or how it affects performers like Pearce, I can break it down further. Or we can explore how other artists have handled health challenges on tour.
The suffix “-itis” is used in medical terminology to indicate inflammation of a specific organ or tissue.
The suffix “-itis” is used in hundreds of medical terms to indicate inflammation of a specific organ, tissue, or body part.
Here’s a broader sampling across different systems to give you a sense of the variety:
Nervous System
Encephalitis – brain inflammation
Meningitis – inflammation of brain/spinal cord membranes
Neuritis – nerve inflammation
Myelitis – spinal cord inflammation
Eyes & Ears
Conjunctivitis – inflammation of the eye’s conjunctiva
Uveitis – inflammation of the uvea
Otitis media – middle ear inflammation
Labyrinthitis – inner ear inflammation
Cardiovascular System
Myocarditis – heart muscle inflammation
Pericarditis – inflammation of the heart’s outer lining
Vasculitis – inflammation of blood vessels
Respiratory System
Rhinitis – nasal inflammation
Laryngitis – voice box inflammation
Pleuritis – inflammation of the lung’s lining
Bronchiolitis – small airway inflammation
Digestive System
Gastritis – stomach lining inflammation
Colitis – colon inflammation
Pancreatitis – pancreas inflammation
Appendicitis – appendix inflammation
Skin & Musculoskeletal
Dermatitis – skin inflammation
Bursitis – inflammation of fluid-filled sacs near joints
Tendinitis – tendon inflammation
Arthritis – joint inflammation
Urogenital & Reproductive
Cystitis – bladder inflammation
Urethritis – urethra inflammation
Endometritis – uterine lining inflammation
Orchitis – testicle inflammation
Rare or Unusual “-itis” Terms
Choroidal Iritis – inflammation of the choroid and iris
Sialadenitis – salivary gland inflammation
Pulpitis – dental pulp inflammation
Thyroiditis – thyroid gland inflammation
If you’re up for it, I can pull from a database of over 750 “-itis” terms—or we can explore the quirkiest ones like “arachnoiditis” (spinal membrane inflammation) or “dacryoadenitis” (tear gland inflammation). Want to go deeper into a specific system or the weirdest ones?
Great question! Most “-itis” conditions stem from inflammation, which is the body’s natural response to injury, infection, or irritation. But the underlying causes can vary widely depending on the organ or tissue affected.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common triggers:
Infections
Bacterial: e.g. strep throat → pharyngitis, tonsillitis
Viral: e.g. hepatitis viruses → hepatitis, flu virus → bronchitis
Fungal or parasitic: less common, but can cause dermatitis, meningitis, etc.
Injury or Trauma
Physical damage to tissues can trigger inflammation:
Tendonitis from repetitive strain
Arthritis from joint wear or injury
Myositis from muscle overuse
Autoimmune Reactions
The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue:
Rheumatoid arthritis
Thyroiditis
Uveitis
Irritants & Allergens
Exposure to chemicals, allergens, or pollutants:
Dermatitis from contact with irritants
Rhinitis from pollen or dust
Gastritis from alcohol or spicy foods
Lifestyle Factors
Poor diet, smoking, or lack of exercise can contribute to chronic inflammation:
Pancreatitis from alcohol abuse
Colitis linked to processed foods or stress
Endometritis from infections or hormonal imbalance
Chronic Diseases
Conditions like obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome can lead to low-grade, persistent inflammation:
Sinusitis, bronchitis, vasculitis may flare repeatedly
If you want, I can dive into specific “-itis” conditions and explain what causes each one—or explore how inflammation affects different body systems.
Can you explain what pericarditis is and its symptoms?
Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, two-layered sac that surrounds and protects your heart. This sac normally contains a small amount of fluid to reduce friction as the heart beats. When inflamed, the layers can rub against each other, causing pain and other symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Pericarditis
Sharp, stabbing chest pain—usually behind the breastbone or on the left side of the chest
May spread to the shoulders, neck, or back
Often worsens when lying down, coughing, or taking deep breaths
Typically improves when sitting up or leaning forward
Shortness of breath, especially when reclining
Heart palpitations—a racing or pounding heartbeat
Low-grade fever
Fatigue or general weakness
Swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen in more severe cases
Dry cough
Types of Pericarditis
Acute: Sudden onset, lasting less than 4 weeks
Recurrent: Returns after a symptom-free period
Incessant: Lasts 4–6 weeks continuously
Chronic constrictive: Long-term inflammation that can lead to scarring and impaired heart function
If untreated, complications like pericardial effusion (fluid buildup) or cardiac tamponade (pressure on the heart) can occur, which may be life-threatening.
Would you like to explore what causes pericarditis or how it’s treated?
Treating pericarditis without medication is possible in mild cases, but it’s important to proceed cautiously and under medical supervision—especially since pericarditis can sometimes lead to serious complications like cardiac tamponade. That said, here are some natural and lifestyle-based approaches that may help ease symptoms and support recovery
Lifestyle & Home Remedies
Rest and reduce stress: Physical exertion can worsen inflammation. Prioritize sleep, avoid strenuous activity, and incorporate calming practices like meditation or gentle yoga.
Adjust your posture: Sitting upright or leaning forward may relieve chest pain caused by the inflamed pericardium.
Stay hydrated: Proper hydration supports overall heart health and helps reduce fluid retention.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods: Include leafy greens, berries, fatty fish (like salmon), nuts, and seeds.
Avoid processed foods, sugar, seed oils, and anything high in preservatives or additives.
Consider adding anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric, ginger, and garlic.
Natural Healing Boosters
Sunlight exposure: Helps boost vitamin D levels, which may reduce inflammation.
Quality sleep: Poor sleep is linked to increased inflammatory markers. Aim for 7–9 hours nightly.
Supplements (with doctor’s approval)
Vitamin C and N-acetylcysteine (NAC): Both support immune function and reduce oxidative stress.
Curcumin (from turmeric): A powerful anti-inflammatory compound.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil, they help modulate inflammation.
Important Note
Even if symptoms seem manageable, you should still consult a healthcare provider to rule out complications and monitor progress. Pericarditis can sometimes be triggered by infections, autoimmune conditions, or other underlying issues that require targeted treatment.
Would you like help building a sample anti-inflammatory meal plan or exploring calming routines to support recovery?
What lifestyle adjustments can help someone with pericarditis?
Managing pericarditis—whether acute or chronic—requires thoughtful lifestyle changes to reduce inflammation, support heart health, and prevent flare-ups. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help someone live better with this condition:
Physical Activity
Avoid strenuous exercise during active inflammation; it can worsen symptoms or lead to complications like myocarditis.
Opt for gentle movement like walking or restorative yoga once cleared by a doctor.
Gradually return to activity after inflammation subsides, with close monitoring of heart rate and symptoms.
Limit saturated fats (red meat, full-fat dairy) and processed foods.
Reduce sodium intake to prevent fluid retention—avoid canned soups, salty snacks, and fast food.
Cut back on sugar, caffeine, and alcohol, which can trigger inflammation or stress the heart.
Stress Management
Practice mindfulness, meditation, or breathing exercises to reduce emotional stress, which can exacerbate symptoms.
Avoid overworking or high-stress environments when possible.
Other Lifestyle Tips
Quit smoking—it increases inflammation and cardiovascular risk.
Stay hydrated with water and herbal teas.
Avoid extreme temperatures and high-altitude activities until cleared by a physician.
Schedule regular follow-ups with a cardiologist to monitor progress and adjust treatment.
These changes aren’t just about symptom relief—they’re about protecting your heart long-term. Want help building a personalized daily routine around these tips?
What other holistic methods can support my healing?
You’re already thinking in the right direction—healing pericarditis holistically means supporting your body’s natural ability to reduce inflammation, restore balance, and protect the heart. Here are some additional holistic methods that can complement your recovery:
Mind-Body Practices
Meditation & Breathwork: Helps regulate the nervous system and reduce stress-induced inflammation.
Gentle yoga or tai chi: Promotes circulation and relaxation without straining the heart.
Biofeedback or HeartMath techniques: Can improve heart rate variability and emotional regulation.
Herbal & Natural Therapies
Oregano oil & black walnut: Known for antiviral properties that may help if infection is a trigger.
Wormwood & garlic: Support immune function and reduce inflammation.
Rhodiola: An adaptogen that helps the body cope with physical and emotional stress.
Detox & Environmental Support
Bentonite clay or activated charcoal: May help bind toxins and reduce systemic inflammation.
Air purification: Reduce exposure to indoor pollutants that can trigger inflammatory responses.
Avoid synthetic fragrances & harsh chemicals: These can contribute to immune dysregulation.
Energetic & Traditional Healing
Acupuncture: May regulate immune responses and reduce inflammation via the brain-gut axis and HPA axis.
Ayurveda: Focuses on balancing doshas—especially calming excess pitta (fire)—through diet, herbs, and lifestyle.
Traditional Chinese Medicine: Emphasizes emotional balance and heart-mind harmony to support healing.
Fasting & Nutritional Reset
Intermittent fasting: Some people report reduced inflammation and improved symptoms through controlled fasting.
Gut healing protocols: Bone broth, fermented foods, and probiotics may help regulate immune responses via the gut-heart axis.
Emotional & Spiritual Healing
Journaling or expressive writing: Helps process emotional stress that may manifest physically.
Counseling or somatic therapy: Especially helpful if trauma or chronic stress is a factor.
Spiritual practices: Prayer, mindfulness, or connecting with nature can foster peace and resilience.
Would you like help designing a personalized healing routine that blends these approaches? I can tailor it to your lifestyle and preferences.
How can I create a personalized holistic healing routine?
Creating a personalized holistic healing routine is all about designing a rhythm that nourishes your body, mind, and spirit—uniquely attuned to your lifestyle, needs, and beliefs. Here’s how to shape one that genuinely supports your pericarditis recovery and long-term well-being:
Step 1: Set Your Intentions
Define your healing goals: Is it symptom relief, reducing inflammation, emotional balance, or spiritual alignment?
Decide how much time and energy you can commit daily or weekly—consistency is more powerful than intensity.
Step 2: Build Core Pillars of Wellness
Pick one or two actions from each category to begin:
Physical Healing
Gentle movement: Like restorative yoga or walking.
Nutrition: Anti-inflammatory diet rich in greens, wild fish, and healthy fats.
Hydration: Infuse water with lemon, ginger, or cucumber.
Emotional & Mental Support
Journaling or expressive writing: Explore worries and gratitude.
Meditation or breathwork: 10 minutes a day can calm the nervous system.
Therapy or counseling: Explore somatic or trauma-informed modalities.
Energetic & Spiritual Alignment
Prayer, nature walks, or spiritual reading.
Sound healing or breath-focused visualization.
Connection rituals: Lighting a candle at night, giving thanks, reading affirmations.
What are the benefits of sound healing or meditation?
Sound healing and meditation are like tuning forks for your body and mind—each helps restore harmony, but in slightly different ways. Let’s break down their benefits so you can see how they complement each other beautifully:
Benefits of Sound Healing
Sound healing uses vibrations from instruments like singing bowls, gongs, or tuning forks to influence your physical and emotional state.
Physical & Emotional Benefits
Reduces stress and anxiety by calming the nervous system
Improves sleep quality and helps with insomnia
Relieves chronic pain through vibrational stimulation
Boosts immune function by promoting relaxation and reducing cortisol
Enhances heart rate variability (HRV), supporting cardiovascular health
Improves focus and mental clarity by slowing brain waves
Supports emotional healing and trauma release
Encourages spiritual growth and self-awareness
Benefits of Meditation
Meditation is the practice of focused awareness, often involving breathwork, visualization, or mantra repetition.
Meditation is like a gym for your mind — and the benefits go far beyond just feeling relaxed. Here’s a breakdown of what regular practice can do for you:
Mental & Emotional Benefits
Reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels and calming the nervous system
Improves focus and attention span, even with just 13 minutes a day
Boosts emotional health, helping with anxiety, depression, and mood regulation2
Enhances self-awareness, allowing you to better understand your thoughts and behaviors
Promotes kindness and compassion, especially through loving-kindness meditation
Cognitive & Brain Health
Strengthens memory and may slow age-related cognitive decline2
Increases gray matter in areas of the brain responsible for learning and emotional regulation
Improves problem-solving and decision-making skills through better mental clarity
Physical Health Benefits
Improves sleep quality and helps manage insomnia2
Lowers blood pressure, reducing strain on the heart2
Helps manage chronic pain by altering pain perception and increasing pain tolerance2
Supports immune function by reducing stress-related inflammation
Everyday Perks
Accessible anywhere — no equipment needed, just a quiet moment
Helps break bad habits by increasing self-control and awareness of triggers
Improves relationships by fostering empathy and emotional resilience
If you’re just starting out, try a few minutes of mindfulness or guided meditation each day. Want help picking a style or building a routine? I’ve got you covered.
Reduces stress and anxiety, lowering cortisol and heart rate
Improves attention span and memory through regular practice
Supports emotional regulation and resilience
Enhances self-awareness and introspection
Physical Health Benefits
Improves sleep by calming racing thoughts and relaxing the body
Lowers blood pressure and supports heart health
Helps manage chronic pain by altering pain perception
Spiritual & Relational Benefits
Promotes compassion and kindness through practices like loving-kindness meditation
Improves relationships by fostering empathy and emotional balance
Supports addiction recovery by increasing self-control and awareness
Why They Work Well Together
Sound healing can be a gateway into meditation—especially for those who struggle with sitting still. The vibrations help quiet the mind, making it easier to enter a meditative state. Together, they offer a full-spectrum approach to healing: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual.
Would you like help designing a combined sound-meditation routine or exploring specific instruments or techniques?
How soon will I see improvements from these changes?
The timeline for seeing improvements from lifestyle changes with pericarditis can vary depending on whether the condition is acute or chronic, and how consistently the changes are followed.
General Recovery Timeline
Acute pericarditis: Symptoms often improve within a few days to a few weeks with rest and anti-inflammatory treatment.
Chronic or recurrent pericarditis: Improvements may take several weeks to months, and flare-ups can still occur intermittently2.
When Lifestyle Changes Start Helping
Dietary adjustments: Anti-inflammatory foods and reduced sodium may begin easing symptoms in 1–2 weeks, especially if paired with medication.
Stress reduction: Techniques like meditation or breathing exercises can offer immediate relief from anxiety and chest discomfort.
Physical activity: Gentle movement can help circulation and mood, but avoid strenuous exercise until cleared by a doctor.
Sleep and hydration: Better sleep and hydration can improve energy and reduce fatigue within days to a week.
Important Notes
Consistency is key—sporadic changes won’t yield lasting results.
Track symptoms and share updates with your cardiologist to adjust your care plan.
Avoid triggers like caffeine, alcohol, and high-stress environments to prevent setbacks
If you’re making these changes now, you’re already on the path to healing. Want help building a daily routine that supports recovery?
What tips can help me stick to these lifestyle changes?
Sticking to lifestyle changes—especially for heart health—can be tough, but totally doable with the right mindset and strategies. Here’s a toolkit to help you stay on track:
Mindset & Motivation
Set realistic goals: Start small—like walking 10 minutes a day or swapping soda for water.
Know your “why”: Whether it’s avoiding flare-ups, staying active for your kids, or feeling more energized, keep your reason front and center.
Celebrate progress: Track wins (even tiny ones!) and reward yourself with something healthy or fun.
Routine & Planning
Create a schedule: Block time for meals, movement, and rest like you would for meetings.
Meal prep: Plan heart-friendly meals ahead to avoid last-minute unhealthy choices.
Use reminders: Set phone alerts or sticky notes to stay consistent with hydration, meds, or mindfulness.
Support & Accountability
Tell someone: Share your goals with a friend or family member—they can cheer you on or join you.
Join a community: Online forums or local support groups can offer encouragement and tips.
Work with a pro: A dietitian, therapist, or trainer can personalize your plan and keep you motivated.
Tools & Tricks
Track your habits: Use apps or journals to log food, exercise, sleep, and symptoms.
Make it fun: Try new recipes, playlists for walks, or relaxing hobbies like gardening or painting.
Visual cues: Keep healthy snacks visible, leave walking shoes by the door, or post affirmations on your mirror.
Consistency beats perfection. If you slip up, don’t beat yourself up—just reset and keep going. Want help building a personalized habit tracker or daily routine?
How can I stay motivated throughout my lifestyle changes?
Staying motivated during lifestyle changes—especially ones tied to health—can feel like a rollercoaster. But with the right mindset and tools, you can turn that uphill climb into a steady stride. Here’s how to keep your fire lit:
Shift Your Mindset
Focus on progress, not perfection: Small wins matter. Celebrate every step forward.
Reframe setbacks: Instead of “I failed,” try “I learned something.”
Visualize success: Picture how you’ll feel once your changes become second nature.
Build a Routine That Works for You
Start small: Tiny habits (like a 5-minute walk or swapping one snack) build momentum.
Be flexible: Life happens—adjust your plan without guilt.
Track your wins: Keep a “done” list to remind yourself how far you’ve come.
Lean on Support
Find an accountability buddy: Someone who checks in and cheers you on.
Join a community: Online forums, local groups, or even a supportive social media circle.
Talk about your goals: Sharing them makes them feel more real—and harder to abandon.
Stay Connected to Your “Why”
Write down your reasons for change and keep them visible.
Use affirmations like “I’m building a stronger, healthier me.”
Reflect weekly on how your changes are improving your life.
Make It Enjoyable
Gamify your goals: Turn tasks into challenges or reward systems.
Try new things: Rotate recipes, workouts, or mindfulness techniques to keep it fresh.
Celebrate milestones: Treat yourself when you hit a goal—just make it a healthy reward!
Motivation isn’t a constant—it’s something you cultivate.
Want help creating a personalized motivation board or daily affirmation list? I’ve got ideas!
“I would love to be the person I was before I was a travel writer,” Steves said on the Dec. 14 episode of ‘The Interview’, Rick Steves got deeply personal on the December 14, 2024, episode of The Interview podcast from The New York Times, reflecting on his life, career, and recent prostate cancer diagnosis.
That quote you mentioned came during a moment of vulnerability, where he shared regrets about the toll his travel-focused career has taken on his personal life. He spoke about longing for a simpler existence—perhaps as a piano teacher with a steady home life—rather than the whirlwind of global exploration and public life he chose1.
Despite the challenges, Steves emphasized that his path has been a mission, helping people travel thoughtfully and meaningfully. He’s approaching his cancer journey with what he calls a “traveler’s mindset,” embracing the unknown with curiosity rather than fear.
It’s a powerful conversation about purpose, sacrifice, and staying open-hearted in the face of adversity.
Travel guru Rick Steves is getting candid about his experience with prostate cancer. Rick Steves was diagnosed with prostate cancer in August 2024. He shared the news publicly and spoke candidly about his experience, describing it as a journey he approached with a traveler’s mindset.
Steves, 69, reflected on the disease, sharing that it has imbued him with “an awareness of what you might regret when you’re wrapping up your life,” during the Dec. 14 episode of The New York Times’ podcastThe Interview, hosted by David Marchese and Lulu Garcia-Navarro.
“[A career in travel] has not been good for my family. I got divorced. It’s not been great for relationships with loved ones.”
“I would love to be the person I was before I was a travel writer,” he continued. “I would have had a very, very beautiful life being a piano teacher, coming home every night for dinner and mowing the lawn, and joining clubs, and, you know, being regular and reliable. But I’ve chosen a different path, and this is a path that is — it’s a mission for me.”
“I’ve calculated it,” he explained. “And I’ve got an opportunity to be what I consider extremely productive … helping people travel in a constructive way. And I choose that knowing it’s not gonna be without a cost. Yeah, I’m aware of that. And I’m in a way sad about it. But, again, you have to make a choice.”
Rick Steves in October 2024. Derek Davis/Portland Portland Press Herald via Getty
He’s since settled into his image as one of the“lovable nerds on public television,” he jokes. “Like Mr. Rogers, Bob Ross and the Muppets.” He’s also written 110 books and built a travel empire with 100 employees who work on the show, tours and his weekly radio program, which began in 2005 and airs on about 500 stations.
But in August, all of that was put on pause. On his doctor’s urging, Steves had taken a prostate-specific antigen blood test (PSA) for the first time ever. “That probably saved my life,” he says. “Now I’m a crusader for people to get tested.” He’d been showing symptoms, like frequent urination, but didn’t think much of it. His doctor told him his PSA number was “through the roof.”
I look at things with a traveler’s mindset—with curiosity, joy and positivity
— RICK STEVES
Learning he had cancer was a shock. “When you’ve found your niche and you love what you do, it’s like oxygen. You can’t imagine living without it,” says Steves, who spends more than 100 days traveling each year filming and researching. “But when you get that news, you realize work is not primary. I’ve got to be healthy. I’ve got loved ones I want to be with.”
Those include his children from his previous marriage, Andy, 37, also a travel writer, and Jackie, 34, a teacher, and his girlfriend of five years, Shelley Bryan Wee, a Lutheran bishop. Steves, who is active in the Lutheran Church himself, says Wee, a breast cancer survivor, has been by his side throughout. “She’s an inspiration and is wise and comforting.”
Rick Steves and girlfriend Shelley Bryan Wee in the Swiss Alps in 2022. Courtesy Rick Steves
Because of his high PSA numbers, Steves opted to have his prostate removed. The surgery was successful, he says, and doctors don’t think the cancer has spread, but he’s still coping with after-effects, including incontinence. “I didn’t know what the word was and now it’s a big part of my life,” he says with a laugh.
He is determined to be open about his journey, even the potentially embarrassing parts. “When I was a teenager, my mother had depression and it was a secret in the family,” he says. “That bothered me. I don’t like needless secrets. We need each other. We need to share. We need support. We need to learn from each other’s experiences.”
The outpouring of good wishes he’s received from fans and friends since his diagnosis has “filled my sails with a loving wind,” he says. “It’s good medicine.”
Later this month, Steves is expecting lab results to learn if he is cancer free. In the meantime, he’s back to work, and the people he loves.
“I’m on the road to recovery and it’s a beautiful feeling,” he says. “You can’t control where the road takes you in life. Sometimes there’s a bend and you gotta take it. You can be positive or negative about it. I’m very positive about my prognosis.”
Steves also admitted that while his diagnosis is “scary” at times, he’s attempting to approach it with a “traveler’s mindset.”
“You know, a month ago, I said goodbye to my prostate, and I see it as a journey. I don’t speak the language. I don’t know exactly where it’s going. I’m not in control of the itinerary,” he said.
“And it’s interesting to me. It hasn’t gotten me down. I’m kind of having — not fun — but I’m having a learning experience,” he added. “I didn’t really wanna be an expert on incontinence, but I’m gonna get through it.”
The travel writer shared that he strives to stay open and honest about what he’s going through, revealing that his August social media post in which he revealed his diagnoses was the “most commented on and shared posts I’ve ever had on Facebook.”
“And it was a very, very positive thing,” he added.
“I’ve always thought it’s important not to keep these things secret, to be embarrassed about anything.” Steves also revealed that growing up with a mother who had depression motivated him to share personal health updates with fans.
“When I was … a teenager — that was a long time ago — my mom had some kind of depression, and [the doctors] were fiddling around trying to find the right kind of antidepressant medicine for her and so on. And I know that there’s a lot of depression in our society, and even as a teenager, I felt like I can’t keep this a secret. We’ve gotta share it with people so that when they have depression in their family, they will be more open about it … and not be alone and afraid, but be in community.”
He also noted that the outpouring of support he has received since announcing his diagnosis has “almost has a tangible value. It fills the sails that motor me through this journey, and I’m really thankful for it.” In terms of a prognosis, Steves said he’s optimistic and is “doing as well as you can be,” adding, “My my prognosis is very good. If you’re gonna get cancer, prostate is a good kind of cancer to get.”
It was supposed to be a routine doctor’s appointment.
Well-known travel writer and TV host Rick Steves, 69, was sitting across from his new primary care doctor at UW Medicine, who suggested a wellness checkup, a few dietary tweaks, maybe tai chi? And how about a blood test?
Steves agreed and didn’t think more about it. He went back to work planning a TV shoot about barge trips in Burgundy.
“A few days later, my doctor called me and asked if there is a quiet place to sit down,” Steves remembered. “He then told me my PSAs were off the charts.”
Cells in the prostate gland make a protein called prostate-specific antigen, or PSA. A blood test can measure the PSA circulating in the blood, with a high count sometimes indicating prostate cancer.
The normal PSA for someone Steves’ age is less than 4 nanograms per milliliter, according to his urologic oncologist and surgeon, Daniel W. Lin, MD, a Fred Hutch Cancer Center physician and chief of UW Medicine’s urologic oncology program and holder of the Pritt Family Endowed Chair in Prostate Cancer Research.
Steves’ PSA level was 55.
“It was like I’d been thrown into a new land fraught with mystery and uncertainty,” he wrote in an Oct. 8 post on Facebook. “Suddenly swept away from my general practitioner and into the world of oncology, I needed to make important decisions about things I knew nothing of, and I barely spoke the language.”What insights did Rick Steves share during his recovery ?
Rick Steves approached his recovery from prostate cancer with the same spirit he brings to travel—curious, candid, and deeply reflective. Here are some of the most meaningful insights he shared:
Framing Cancer as a Journey
He described cancer as “the latest adventure in a lifetime of travels,” likening his diagnosis to entering a foreign land without a map or language skills.
His mindset turned the experience into a kind of “trip report,” helping others see illness not just as a setback, but as a transformative passage.
Advocating for Open Conversations
Rick emphasized that cancer is “nothing to be ashamed of or to hide,” encouraging people to speak openly about their diagnoses and treatments.
He reflected on how cancer used to be whispered about, and how transparency can empower others to seek help and feel less alone.
Importance of Early Detection
His diagnosis came after a routine PSA test revealed a score of 55, far above the normal threshold of 4 for his age.
He urged older men to be proactive about screenings, especially if there’s a family history of prostate cancer.
Gratitude and Perspective
Rick expressed deep appreciation for access to quality healthcare, supportive loved ones, and the privilege of living in a peaceful part of the world4.
He made a point to celebrate “everything that works well in my body” and the communities that make healing possible.
Embracing Recovery with Intention
Post-surgery, he tackled recovery with gusto: physical therapy, Kegel exercises, walking, and even training for a hiking trip in Italy’s Dolomites.
He acknowledged challenges like incontinence and sexual dysfunction, but remained optimistic and proactive.
Looking Ahead
Rick declared himself “essentially cancer-free” in early 2025 and returned to travel planning, writing, and filming with renewed energy.
He’s now more committed than ever to living vibrantly and sharing meaningful experiences with others.
His reflections are a masterclass in turning adversity into wisdom. Want to hear how he’s weaving these insights into his travel work now?
How is Rick incorporating these insights into his travel work?
Rick Steves has been weaving his cancer recovery insights into his travel work with remarkable depth and authenticity. Here’s how his recent projects reflect that transformation:
Embracing Nature and Wellness
His latest travel specials spotlight alpine adventures across Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and France—celebrating physical vitality and the healing power of nature.
He’s been promoting active travel: hiking, scenic train rides, and rustic cultural experiences that encourage movement and mindfulness.
Speaking with Purpose
Rick’s upcoming talk, Travel as a Political Act, emphasizes how thoughtful travel can foster empathy, global understanding, and personal growth.
He’s using his platform to encourage travelers to engage with the world intentionally, not just as tourists but as learners and bridge-builders.
Prioritizing Meaningful Experiences
His blog and interviews reflect a shift toward slower, more reflective travel, urging people to savor moments and connect deeply with local cultures
He’s championing travel that’s not just about sights, but about insight—especially into health, resilience, and gratitude.
He’s highlighting how travel can be a tool for social awareness, especially in places where rights and freedoms are still evolving.
Rick’s post-recovery work feels more personal, more intentional, and more urgent—in the best way. Want to hear about his upcoming book or how he’s mentoring the next generation of travel storytellers?
How does travel contribute to personal wellness and health?
Travel isn’t just about snapping photos and checking off bucket lists—it’s a full-body, mind-expanding wellness experience.
Here’s how it contributes to personal health:
Mental & Emotional Well-Being
Reduces stress by breaking routine and offering a mental reset.
Boosts happiness and mood—even the anticipation of a trip can lift spirits.
Encourages mindfulness and presence, especially in nature-rich or culturally immersive destinations.
Helps combat depression and anxiety, with studies showing lower rates among frequent travelers.
Physical Health Benefits
Promotes movement and exercise—walking tours, hiking, swimming, and exploring cities all get you moving.
Can lower risk of heart disease: people who vacation regularly have significantly reduced cardiac risks.
Supports better sleep and blood pressure, especially after wellness-focused trips like spa retreats or yoga getaways.
Immune & Cognitive Boosts
Exposure to new environments may strengthen immunity by introducing your body to diverse microbes.
Enhances brain health and creativity—navigating unfamiliar places stimulates cognitive flexibility.
Encourages lifelong learning, which supports mental sharpness and emotional resilience.
Nature & Wellness Tourism
Activities like forest bathing, hot springs, and guided hikes can reduce cortisol and improve mood.
Wellness travel often includes healthy eating, meditation, and digital detoxes that support holistic health.
Travel is like a multivitamin for your soul—with side effects that include joy, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose. Want help planning a wellness-focused getaway or exploring destinations that specialize in healing experiences?
Can you recommend some wellness retreats or programs?
Absolutely! Whether you’re looking to recharge your body, clear your mind, or just escape the daily grind, here are some standout wellness retreats across the U.S. that offer transformative experiences:
Castle Hot Springs – Arizona
Nestled in the Bradshaw Mountains, this historic resort features geothermal hot springs, farm-to-table dining, and sound bath sessions.
Activities include e-bike tours, yoga, and slot canyon hikes.
Ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking serenity and adventure.
Golden Door – California
A Japanese-inspired sanctuary with 80+ weekly classes, bamboo forests, and private hiking trails.
Includes daily massages, skin treatments, and personalized wellness plans.
Focuses on mindfulness, movement, and nutrition.
Carillon Miami Wellness Resort – Florida
Located on North Beach, this resort boasts one of the largest spas on the East Coast.
Offers cryotherapy, hydrotherapy, sensory deprivation tanks, and fitness classes.
Perfect for those who want luxury with a cutting-edge wellness twist.
YO1 Longevity & Health Resorts – New York
Set on 1,300 acres in the Catskills, this retreat blends Ayurveda, naturopathy, and yoga.
Programs address stress, insomnia, infertility, and more.
Features personalized health plans and expansive therapy areas.
The Ranch Malibu – California
A weeklong immersive retreat with plant-based meals, daily hikes, and low-impact fitness.
Limited to 25 guests for a more intimate experience.
Great for detoxing and jumpstarting a healthier lifestyle.
Sensei Lanai – Hawaii
A Four Seasons adults-only retreat offering Thai aqua therapy, infrared saunas, and guided hikes.
Includes structured programs with personalized fitness and nutrition assessments.
Tranquil, luxurious, and ideal for solo reflection or romantic escapes.
Would you like recommendations tailored to a specific goal—like stress relief, fitness, or spiritual growth? Or maybe something closer to Ohio? I can help narrow it down!
Update: On Feb. 22, 2025, Steves posted on Facebook that he is “cancer free” according to his surgeon
In a groundbreaking discovery, Dutch researchers believe they’ve uncovered the elusive “ceiling” of the human lifespan. As modern life expectancy continues to rise due to advances in nutrition, improved living conditions, and progressive medical care, there’s been heightened interest in understanding just how old humans can potentially grow.
The new study offers a startling perspective.
Utilizing a comprehensive dataset that tracked the exact age at death for approximately 75,000 Dutch individuals, expert statisticians from Tilburg and Erasmus universities in Rotterdam have posited a maximum age limit for women at an astonishing 115.7 years.
The male counterpart, interestingly, nudges slightly below at 114.1 years. This invaluable data stretches over a remarkable three decades, providing a solid foundation for the researchers’ claims.
Professor John Einmahl, one of the leading scientists behind the study, shared some insight into the findings. “On average, people live longer, but the very oldest among us have not gotten older over the last thirty years,” he remarked.
These findings further highlight that the number of individuals in The Netherlands celebrating their 95th birthday has almost tripled in recent times. “Nevertheless, the maximum ceiling itself hasn’t changed,” Einmahl emphatically noted.
For clarity, it’s essential to differentiate between ‘lifespan’ and ‘life expectancy’. The former relates to the duration of life for an individual, while the latter represents the average expected life duration for individuals within a specific age group. Life expectancy typically serves as a metric indicating societal wellbeing.
This recent Dutch exploration resonates with findings from US-based researchers last year. While they too identified a similar age ceiling, they posited that those exceptionally aged weren’t living quite as long as their predecessors.
However, Einmahl and his team challenge this notion. Employing a unique statistical approach known as the “Extreme Value Theory“, they concluded that the maximum lifespan has exhibited almost negligible fluctuations.
For those unfamiliar, the Extreme Value Theory is a sophisticated statistical methodology primarily utilized to interpret data and address questions related to extreme events – think lifespans, natural disasters, and other outliers.
Still, like every rule, there are exceptions. Einmahl cites the case of Jeanne Calment, the French supercentenarian, who defied all odds by living to the remarkable age of 122 years and 164 days. To date, she remains the oldest verified woman.
As the scientific community awaits further validation, Einmahl announced that their pioneering findings are enroute for submission to a peer-reviewed journal. He anticipates its publication “within the next month or so”.
As we look to the future, studies such as these are more than mere statistics. They prompt profound questions about the human condition, the nature of our existence, and the interplay of biology and environment. The “ceiling” might be set, but the conversation about human potential is limitless.
Chromosome 2 artificially fused in the ancient past!!! A human cell can divide roughly 50 times before it dies out. It’s called the Hayflick limit, and it’s become a real headache for anti-aging science. As long as the limit holds, it suggests a maximum human lifespan of 120 years
He has a PHD in Biology and does give that process some credit, but with peer review in the state it’s in progress is painfully slow. That matches the information I received in college in biology classes.
Cells can only divide so many times, and there is no way to change that mechanism unless we start messing with cellular DNA, and we all know how well genetically engineered things have worked thus far.
Fairly well, I mean we’ve been using cold resistant potatoes for decades. Hell, if you count breeding as genetic engineering we’ve been eating genetically engineered grass since the stone age.
Once grown to an adult a lot of that dividing is due to damage triggering a healing response. This includes UV radiation, organ damage, or even a simple cut. Depending on how much of any of these occur for someone it can shorten or lengthen your potential life span. I wonder if this life span prediction is for an average amount of damage that may occur in someone’s life.
You can also expand telomeres using hyperbaric treatment.
Just about everything I was told in college turned out to be wrong or obsolete. Undergraduate universities are obsolete.
Thanks for the nice explanation. I apologize that my autism is forcing me to respond to this. I am VERY happy you wrote as you did. The Hayflick limit is treated as accepted fact, but as we all know, fact is only loosely applicable in this context. Scientifically, it’s a theory at best. Invitro appears to substantiate it, but we cannot prove it. For the moment, it seems more likely it’s just a fairly reliable guess.
For the rest of this, we’ll make the assumption that Hayflick is accurate since it seems to make the math work. Why I’m nitpicking is that you didn’t say “approximately 120 years” rather you said “120 years”.
It’s a pretty important qualifier.
I believe the Hayflick limit will disappear pretty quickly in modern science. Unlike in 1961, we should be able better understand telomerase and possibly replicate its effects on non-cancerous cells.
Alternatively, simply knowing it’s possible should allow us to synthesize an alternative to improve reliability of replicating telomeres. Limits like this are probably only the tip of the iceberg though. We would also need to accelerate cellular reproduction and even filter malignant or flawed cells.
Astragalus root extract may help in telomere repair and re-lengthening.
Another instance where scientists have “discovered” the truth of what God stated in the Bible thousands of years ago: “So the LORD said, ‘My Spirit will not contend with man forever, for he is mortal; his days shall be 120 years.’” Genesis 6:3.
So many contradictions and inconsistencies in the “good book” that it is hard to keep track. But there was some supposed “generation” that lived longer than 120 years, wasn’t there? I remember that being the “explanation” for how the “math” is supposed to work out…
Yes, the generations before the flood lived several hundreds of years. Methuselah lived to 969, Adam 930, Jared 962, etc. After the flood life expectancies started to decline due to the environmental changes caused by the flood.
The lifespans of humans changed after the flood not due to “environmental changes caused by the flood,” but due to genetic changes caused by God. God altered the genes responsible for the durability of telomeres and telomerase caps on human chromosomes. He caused them to become less robust, weaker, and shorter. As a result, cells do not replicate properly for as long as they did before the flood.
When cells do not replicate properly, they produce inferior copies, and the inferiority of such continues to worsen as those inferior copies replicate and produce even worse copies. The result is that the human experiences cellular degeneration at a more rapid rate than before the flood.
That cellular degeneration is what is colloquially referred to as “aging” and “getting older.” It is a result of tweaking the DNA genes responsible for telomeres and telomerase caps, so that humans age faster and do not live as long.
Importantly, scientists are working out how to genetically alter DNA genes in ways that improve telomeres and telomerase caps. If successful, the result of such could be humans living much longer and even for several hundreds of years, as before the flood.
However, God will not allow such to be brought to fruition or used in the world because of the disgraceful state of humanity and the violence, immorality, perversity, and evil that abounds in the world. People cannot even live righteously for 120 years, and virtually no decent person wants to extend the lifespans of criminals, perverts, and those who indulge in and practice evil. The 120 years God mentions in this verse specifically references the time it takes Noah to build the Ark.
It has nothing to do with mankind’s lifespan after the flood.
Although the Bible clearly states that Adam lived 930 years, and his son Seth 912 years. God reduced the human lifespan a few generations after Adam and Seth. Specifically, God reduced the human lifespan for people who lived after Noah and the flood. Noah lived several generations after Adam and Seth. God decided to reduce human lifespans because people were so evil and practiced evil (the specific things occurring were rape, abduction, theft, and murder, and these were very common). Because of the abundant evil being practiced by humanity, God shortened the human lifespan. It was good that God did so: just think how worse all of humanity would be if murderers, rapists, and other criminals lived several hundred years.
Jeanne Calment was a devout Christian all of her life.
God graced her with living longer than 120 years as a reward for her faith and as proof that humans can live much longer, to inspire others to be obedient to God. Again, she was a devout Christian all of her life and usually prayed every morning and read the Bible some every day. She is the only person in modern history millennia who has had a verified life of over 120 years. That she was a devout Christian is basically God saying that the only people who will live beyond the 120-year limit set for humanity will be Christians.
And since the Bible states the Israelites lived in Egypt for 430 years “to the very day.” Saul reigned as king of Israel for 42 years. The death of Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar in the Second Book of Kings used Ptolemy’s history of Babylonian kings, combined with Greek historical events of known dates, to pinpoint the death of Nebuchadnezzar in 562 B.C.
Adding together the generations of Old Testament begetting and the reigns of kings, it can be surmised that 3,442 years passed between the creation and Nebuchadnezzar’s death making the estimate for the Earth’s creation: 4,004 B.C. Or in the opinion of one widely accepted bible mythology interpreter: 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22, 4004 B.C.
The genealogy in the Bible omits several generations from Adam to Jesus. It cites only the most important figures. There were others. Human life on earth began over 500,000 years ago. Anyone in the Christian, Jewish, or any other community suggesting the earth and humans were made in the last roughly 6,000 years is mistaken and merely asserting such because they do not know or understand biblical history or ancient Hebrew accurately. The “days” referenced in the creation story are not literal days (especially since the sun and solar system, which establish the 24 hour day as we know it, were not formed until the third “day”).
Rather, the Hebrew word “yom” is used there and translated as “day,” and such means an undefined period, a period of time, some segment of time (such as an epoch). It can be used in reference to a 24-hour day, and also used in reference to a 1-hour soccer game, or a 2-billion year period.
When one reads the biblical creation story knowing this, it is clear that the earth and all life being created in six days does not refer to literal 24 hour days, but to undefined periods of creation which involved forming the universe and stars in the first 3 days/periods, then forming the solar system, and then giving rise to life on earth during the last 3 days/periods.
There are many creation mythologies going back to beginnings of what has become known as conscious thought. Most all built one upon the other with refinements to address the present societal requirements necessary for subjugation of the many by the few as for as long as more than a couple family groups gathered together creating a society. All those governing lores are likely based on kernels of events that occurred, and with some literary license, made for good parables.
OMG, I’ve got another 50 years of arthritis. I’ve often wondered what changed and how men could live to be hundreds of years old before the flood. Something physically changed in the world. I find it very strange that the change occurred at the time of the flood.
There are things known as telomeres and telomerase caps on chromosomes in each human chromosome. Such are responsible for what humans perceive as “aging” and “getting older.” In essence, they effectuate cellular replication, but in replicating cells they make the copies of lower and lower quality over time, so that people age and die usually within 120 years.
However, genetically tweaking human DNA in the right way can result in better and stronger telomeres and telomerase caps, and the result of such is that humans will live much longer because their cells are replicating perfectly or with better quality over time. When humans were first created, God made them with strong and very good telomeres and telomerase caps, so that such would result in perpetual perfect cellular replication and infinite life.
After Adam and Eve sinned, God changed their DNA so their telomeres and telomerase caps were weakened and such resulted in Adam and Eve and a few generations of their descendants only living for usually less than 1,000 years. During Noah’s time, God decided to further alter telomeres and telomerase caps so humans would typically not live beyond 120 years due to their sinfulness and wickedness.
In recent decades of genetic science, scientists have begun experimenting on how to tweak human DNA to get it back to how it was before God altered such, so that humans can live much longer again. The technology and ability to do this already exists, but for sociological, ethical, and other reasons such is not brought to market because the world would be much worse than it already is if all the corrupt and evil-doing people could live for hundreds or thousands of years.
It is not that everybody is committing sins every day, it is that some people commit very serious sins (murder, rape, robbery, etc.) and they have no problem committing such multiple times, and if they are allowed to live very long lifespans than it would result in them committing more and more crimes. Imagine a person who lives only 70-120 years getting a 50-year sentence for murder. That is roughly half of his life.
But a person who lives for 1,000 years getting the same 50-year sentence is punished for only 1/20 of his life. He could murder 10 other people, get the same 50-year sentence for each, and be released by the time he is 600 years old, then do more crime. It is not good to allow people to live for hundreds or thousands of years when they have no problem committing severe sins that are very harmful to others.
Read the whole Bible and you will find it explained. I cannot remember the exact passage numbers, but it is addressed and explained. Read the Bible there are no “inconsistencies” when the entire Bible is read.
Yes but , this was for us that came AFTER THE FLOOD.
Noah was before and The Lord acknowledged him and counted Noah as worthy.
The first paragraph is no longer true! Human lifespan, at least in America, is DEcreasing! And it’s due entirely to our food system and the toxins our government ALLOWS to be put in our food, water and environment generally.
FDA is not on the list. But it would be nice if the FDA started doing its job better.
The list includes:
1) Department of Education. It too has failed us. He wants to get rid of it.
The rest of these he wants to modify in various ways:
2) Department of Veterans Affairs 3) Internal Revenue Service 4) Department of Health and Human Services 5) State Department 6) Environmental Protection Agency 7) Department of Justice 8) Department of the Interior.
Special note: the federal government owns 28% of US lands. It should hardly own any. Federal parks in states should be owned and operated by the states if they so choose. The federal government should only own land under federal bases and buildings. The rest should be public land.
As far as decimating the departments, yes, Trump wants to trim the pork. A family member of mine works in procurement and another works in fraud and waste. The one in procurement told me stories like “One guy came into the office each day and read the newspaper for 2 hours.”. There are employees that get lousy reviews, but the government still cannot get rid of them.
If people think that the government is not filled with hundreds of thousands of people who mostly just slide at work, then they are naïve. There is deadwood in all industries, but the federal government has a higher percentage than most which can use accountability.
In a highly competitive market companies are unlikely to do anything that will impact their bottom line. They are short sighted, but business is often based on dollars.
I think this all depends on where you live.
Clean air, good unprocessed food, and exercise would lead to a longer life. We mostly live in cities with polluted air and eat fast food. This study was done in the Netherlands, and I would like to know how these people lived.
Even if a method to extend human life by two to three times its current length our governments would never allow this to happen. As it is they currently want a reduction in the human population, not a 300% increase. They state this reason as being because of a lack of resources which is bunk and there are billions of acres upon which it can be grown.
Not to mention that only the wealthiest among us would get any such treatment and just because you can live past 115 years doesn’t mean it’s going to be enjoyable. I’m 65 and my body is already rapidly declining and I certainly don’t want to live another 50 years if that continues now. If they could discover how to reverse the aging process that would be an altogether different matter.
Anyway, back to what you were saying. You’re completely right about the consequences of wealth inequality, but the solution to that is to develop cheap treatments and reduce inequality, not ban treatments altogether. You’re also right about the need to improve the human “healthspan”, not just the lifespan. Negligible Senescence is definitely the goal. The best determinant of an age ceiling in the USA currently is your income level and ability to purchase good health care and nutrition. If you are lower income your average life expectancy in the USA has been dropping for some time as the average life expectancy for higher income earners steadily rises to the 90’s and into 100+.
100 verified oldest women
The list includes supercentenarians validated by organisations specialising in extreme age verification such as the Gerontology Research Group (GRG),[5][7][8] with, in some cases, press coverage as a supplementary source.
The list includes supercentenarians validated by an organisation specialising in extreme age verification such as the Gerontology Research Group (GRG),[5][7][8] with, in some cases, press coverage as a supplementary source.
Sadly, it is believed that Jeanne Calment actually died in 1939 from pneumonia and complicated influenza and her daughter assumed her identity to avoid paying inheritance taxes. Since it was the middle of the war and much greater concerns were front & center this was never thoroughly investigated. Though an adjuster for a company paying her had suspicions, their investigations were hindered by the fact she had achieved “celebrity” status by that time.
Global Life Expectancy | Watching Living long is not all that you may think, everything, and everyone passes you by. I am not pleased with how you Humans are managing this planet, but it is interesting seeing how you scurry around like everything you do is important. Well it isn’t. Well in a little over four of your years everything will be changing, and no it has nothing to do with the creature that you Americans elected for your leader.
Groundbreaking discovery?
Leonard Hayflick “discovered the limit of human cell division and estimated the limit of human lifespan to be 120 years. He published this finding back in 1961. It wasn’t new information then. The ancient book of Genesis reports a limit of 120 years as well. It’s been known for thousands of years and “scientific” research repeatedly confirms it.
No groundbreaking discovery here. read a little about the Hayflick limit.
It’s the average maximum number from research measuring telomeres 💀
The genetics angle states humans can no longer replicate their DNA after 120 years, but perhaps the rare person like Jeanne Calment could cost a couple extra years. They’ve done it in mice already.
Mice aren’t people and people aren’t mice, but the road from mice to people is a lot shorter than the road from worms to people (which is what they increased the longevity of before they managed it with mice).
How is the max 115 when we’ve had people live 120+?
I know it’s extremely rare to live to 120, but the “max” would and should be higher than that considering it’s happened multiple times. “Maximum age limit for women at an astonishing 115.7 years” has been surpassed a number of times, so… yeah. Well people didn’t get birth certificates, and the first real registries didn’t start until the 1900s. All these extra old people never have proof, they were born in 1800 it’s just say say, probably exaggerated and incorrect. It is also just a handful of people around the world out of the billions walking this planet.
Also read about the Kings List. – Search The Sumerian King List, also known as the Chronicle of the One Monarchy, is a pivotal ancient literary document that meticulously catalogs the kings of various Sumerian city-states, the durations of their reigns, and the succession of power among these urban centers. Composed and refined during the late third and early second millennium BC, the SKL was primarily designed to legitimize the authority of different rulers by presenting a structured lineage of kingship. This document not only provides insights into the political dynamics of ancient Mesopotamia but also reflects the intertwining of mythological and historical narratives in early human civilizations. The Sumerian King List remains a fascinating and complex document that offers valuable insights into the political, religious, and cultural dynamics of ancient Mesopotamia. These kings in the past lived for thousands of years. If true, what did they know we don’t know? Very interesting reading. People were living to be 900 in the Bible, so this study isn’t that accurate. Just more clueless “scientists” trying to get their name in the papers. Providing there are no external causes of death, getting run over, stabbed in the back, X’s nagging you to death, poor diet, cancer, you get the picture.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 He has made everything beautiful* in its time.+ He has even put eternity in their heart; yet mankind will never find out the work that the true God has made from start to finish. ******* How long can man live? Forever! Not in this system but coming so very soon in the New System of things! Imagine, living forever in a paradise earth, just as God had already planned! Our thoughts and actions should be such that we have that chance of surviving the Great Tribulation and Armageddon so that we can live as God had originally proposed, FOREVER! Revelation 7:9-17 After this I saw, and look! a great crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues,* standing before the throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes; and there were palm branches in their hands. 10 And they keep shouting with a loud voice, saying: “Salvation we owe to our God, who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb.” 11 All the angels were standing around the throne and the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell facedown before the throne and worshipped God, 12 saying: “Amen! Let the praise and the glory and the wisdom and the thanksgiving and the honor and the power and the strength be to our God forever and ever. Amen.” 13 In response one of the elders said to me: “These who are dressed in the white robes, who are they and where did they come from?” 14 So right away I said to him: “My lord, you are the one who knows.” And he said to me: “These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 That is why they are before the throne of God, and they are rendering him sacred service day and night in his temple; and the One seated on the throne will spread his tent over them. 16 They will hunger no more nor thirst anymore, neither will the sun beat down on them nor any scorching heat, 17 because the Lamb, who is in the midst* of the throne, will shepherd them and will guide them to springs* of waters of life. And God will wipe out every tear from their eyes.”
I don’t want to live to such an old age.
Living in the rat race with financial woes, no thank you. This is science not including ALL the information. Science CANNOT determine that accurately. Just like they can’t get space things right. To be safe, take 1/4 of what science says, then believe 1/4 of that… People with a lot of money would pay plenty to find out how a person that is 120 years old can still run a mile.
Billionaires have money but not time.
Billions would be spent to find out how to buy a little more time. At 76 I have 44 years to go before I collect my billions of dollars. If you are going to heaven, your lifespan increases to infinity… You can keep your old earthly bodies. Who in their right mind would want to live to be 120?
Who wants to live forever? I’m hoping that’s a reference to YouTube Music from the highlander soundtrack… If so, BRAVO!Americans will never come near that ceiling with our healthcare system as it is. Every atom, every cell in your body is replaced every seven years.
But by being a copy of me, I’m still who I am.
Modern Stem Cell Therapy is going to change these numbers. Then why did Jeanne Calment live to 122 years old. – Search the bigger question is why is my loaf of bread lasting for months and not molding?..Aliens..we are not alone I just love these people they call scientists. Just who determines who a scientist is anyway? Snoring….
The bible says the general age limit is 120. But God initially blessed people with longer life spans even after imposing this limit. Who lived past 120 after God said that. I know Moses didn’t have many signs of aging despite being over 80, but I don’t recall him ever making it past 120. So Can a human egg be fertilized without a male donor?
It’s because men only have 1 X chromosome while women have a spare copy in case the first one is damaged.
“So the LORD said, ‘My Spirit will not contend with man forever, for he is mortal; his days shall be 120 years.’” Genesis 6:3.
According to Social Security it could be 150- 300 years. Depends on your party affiliation! 🙈🙊🙉🐵
It’s meaningless for 99.99% of people. We should aim for a meaningful and interesting life, not worrying too much about the length. Once people reach retirement age, they should really just live in the present.
Income is a potent predictor of the time a person devotes to physical exercise. People on lower incomes can face greater challenges when trying to exercise consistently because adequate public spaces may not be available, gym membership and workout equipment are expensive, and they may have less flexible work schedules.
A 2018 research paper found that among adolescents and young adults, people in families with higher incomes, as well as men and white people, were more likely than others to engage in physical activity.
The Peter G. Peterson Foundation reported that, in 2021, households in Northeastern and Western states earned, on average, $7,000 to $15,000 more a year than households in the Midwest and South, respectively. People who live in those regions are more likely to report higher rates of physical activity.
In the United States as a whole, several county-clusters of relatively low life expectancy stand out. The most prominent is in eastern Kentucky, southern West Virginia, and southern Ohio, an area mostly inhabited by Euro-Americans.
Several areas demographically dominated by African Americans also post low longevity figures, including the southern Mississippi Valley and a few of the large cities that are visible on this county-level map, such as Baltimore and Saint Louis.
Almost all counties with large Native American populations also have relatively low figures. Counties with Hispanic majorities, in contrast, generally have average or high levels of longevity, as is clearly visible in southern Texas.
Although life expectancy tends to correlate with income, the correlation collapses in many of these areas. Hidalgo County, Texas is over 91 percent Hispanic and has a per capita income of only $12,130, making it “one of the poorest counties in the United States,” but it ranks in the highest longevity category on this map. In Camp County, in northeast Texas, the average life expectancy of white residents is only 74 years, whereas that of Hispanics is 92 years. In most Texas countries, Hispanics outlive whites. Presumably, diet and activity levels are major factors.
Life expectancy varies significantly across Montana, with some counties falling in the highest category and others in the lowest. In Montana, low figures are found in counties with large Native American populations and in the former mining and smelting counties of Silver Bow and Deer Lodge. The relatively wealthier counties of south-central Montana post high longevity figures.
The map of heart-disease deaths in the United States shows some stark geographically patterns.
Rates are highest in the south-central part of the country but are also elevated across most of the eastern Midwest. Heart disease death rates tend to be lower in major metropolitan counties as well as in rural countries across much of the West and western Midwest.
Many of the patterns seen on this map are difficult to interpret. Why, for example, would heart-disease death rates be much lower in western North Carolina than in eastern Tennessee? (Perhaps the obesity map, posted below, offers a partial explanation, although only by begging the question.)
And why would some counties that are demographically dominated by Native Americans have very high rates whereas others, especially those in New Mexico and Arizona, have very low rates? In Montana heart disease tends to be elevated in Native American counties – and in Silver Bow (Butte). South-central Montana has low rates.
Map Shows States With Higher Cancer Rates – Newsweek On the U.S. cancer death-rate map of 2020, high rates are clearly evident in areas demographically dominated by poor white people (central Appalachia) and poor Black people (the inland delta of the Mississippi in western Mississippi and eastern Arkansas).
Low rates tend to be found in the Rocky Mountains, south Florida, and parts of the northern Great Plains. No clear patterns are evident in Montana. Gallatin and Liberty counties fall in the lowest category found in the state yet have almost nothing in common. The small population of Liberty County, however, makes comparison difficult.
Finally, the patterns seen on the U.S. obesity map are similar to those seen on the preceding maps.
The low rates found in the Rocky Mountains, extending from northern New Mexico to northwest Montana, are notable. The northern Great Plains have a higher obesity rate than might be expected based on other health indicators.
Some odd juxtapositions are found on this map, with several neighboring counties of similar demographic characteristics posting very different figures. Why, for example, would Pecos County in West Texas have such higher rates than its neighbors? In Montana, it is not surprising that Gallatin County, with its youthful, outdoor focused population, has the lowest obesity rate.
📊 As of 2022, about 26.8% of adult New Yorkers were classified as obese, based on self-reported height and weight.
But that citywide average hides some striking neighborhood differences:
🏙️ Obesity Rates by Borough
Borough
Obesity Rate (%)
Bronx
37.4
Staten Island
33.0
Brooklyn
26.3
Queens
25.2
Manhattan
20.2
📍 Notable Neighborhoods
South Bronx: 39.4%
East New York (Brooklyn): 44.2%
East Harlem (Manhattan): 39.2%
Upper East Side (Manhattan): Just 9.0%
People also ask What does Filth mean? Staten Island Has A landfill in their backyard offensive or disgusting dirt or refuse; foul matter. the filth dumped into our rivers. foul condition. to live in filth. moral impurity, corruption, or obscenity. vulgar or obscene language or thought.
The Staten Island Advance/SILive.com analyzed data from the New York State Cancer Registry to see how the borough’s cancer rates stack up against the rest of New York City and the state at large. To account for varying population levels between the boroughs, the Advance/SILive.com used a rate per 100,000 population as opposed to average number of annual cases.
The cancer rate per 100,000 population on Staten Island is 517.4 cases, which is approximately 18.6% higher than the next closest borough, Manhattan. This rate includes all invasive malignant tumors, covering all types of cancer. Staten Island has the highest rate of any borough for 15 of the 25 cancers tracked by the state, with female breast cancer having the highest rate at 139.1 per 100,000 population.
Other cancers with high rates include prostate cancer, lung and bronchus cancers, and thyroid cancer. The borough’s high cancer rates are particularly perplexing when considering that the other four boroughs boast some of the lowest rates of all 62 counties in the state.
The borough’s rate of 517.4 cases per 100,000 population for all cancers was roughly 18.6% higher than the next closest borough, Manhattan, which had a rate of 436.2 cases per 100,000 population. Queens, the Bronx and Brooklyn had per 100,000 population rates of 415.5, 422.9 and 430.7, respectively.
Staten Island’s high cancer rates are particularly perplexing when considering that the other four boroughs boast some of the lowest rates of all 62 counties in the state. Queens, the Bronx, Brooklyn and Manhattan have the first, third, fourth and fifth lowest cancer rates of any county in New York, while Staten Island has the 17th-highest.
Here’s what the state found in a study of Staten Island cancer rates The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) conducted a study on Staten Island cancer rates, revealing that the borough had the highest rate of all cancers combined in New York City based on 2011-2015 data. The study found that the rate of all cancers combined on Staten Island was 16% higher than for New York City, as a whole, and 3% higher than New York State, excluding the rest of New York City.
However, when evaluating each type of cancer individually, thyroid cancer was the only cancer that stood out as unusually high compared to other areas of New York State. The study aimed to identify reasons for the cancer patterns present on Staten Island and to offer recommendations and policy proposals to enhance prevention and community screening efforts.
Here’s what the state found in a study of Staten Island cancer rates — Two years after Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office announced a study to evaluate high cancer rates on Staten Island, the NYS Department of Health (NYSDOH) is returning to the borough to… https://www.silive.com › news › heres-what-the-state-found-in-study-of-staten-island-cancer-rates.html
These disparities often reflect differences in access to healthy food, safe spaces for physical activity, and socioeconomic conditions. Want to explore how NYC is tackling these challenges or dive into youth obesity trends? I’ve got more data where that came from.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, sits within an 85-mile stretch known as “Cancer Alley”, which has some of the highest cancer risks from toxic air pollution in the United States. Here’s a snapshot of the cancer statistics for the area:
📊 East Baton Rouge Parish Cancer Rate
Age-adjusted incidence rate: 475.3 cases per 100,000 people (2017–2021 average)
Trend: Stable over the past five years
Average annual cancer cases: ~2,354
This rate is slightly below the Louisiana state average of 483.6 per 100,000, but still above the national average of 444.4.
🏭 Environmental Factors
Baton Rouge is part of Cancer Alley, home to over 200 petrochemical facilities
Air pollution-related cancer risk in the region is estimated to be up to 7 times higher than the national average
Studies show poverty and race play a role in cancer risk, with Black and low-income communities disproportionately affected4
Discover the Rhythm Paradox now and find out!
Well, the cost of healthcare is out of reach for a lot of Americans 
Lawrence Welk was a self-made music icon whose journey from a humble farm in North Dakota to national television stardom is a classic American success story.
Early Life
Musical Beginnings
Rise to Fame
Show Legacy
Business Ventures & Later Life
Promoting Family Values
Cultural Counterbalance
Syndication & Longevity
Academic & Cultural Legacy
Welk Homestead & Museum
Still Active in Entertainment
Fans of The Lawrence Welk Show continue to celebrate its legacy with enthusiasm, nostalgia, and community spirit—even decades after its final broadcast.
Books & Documentaries
Online Communities
Holistic practices can play a powerful role in supporting cancer recovery—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. While they don’t replace conventional treatments, they can complement them beautifully and improve overall well-being.
Mind-Body Therapies
Nutritional Support
Natural Therapies
Integrative Treatments
Emotional & Spiritual Wellness
Choosing the Right Environment
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Step 2: Mind-Body Practices
Step 3: Nourish with Purpose
Step 4: Integrative Therapies
2. Find reasons to laugh
3. Have a dependable community
5. Connect with something bigger than yourself
Country singer Carly Pearce has been diagnosed with pericarditis: 
Pearce revealed that her condition is recurrent, meaning she’s had multiple flare-ups since 2020. Despite being young, active, and health-conscious, she emphasized how important it is to listen to your body and take symptoms seriously
Eyes & Ears
Cardiovascular System
Respiratory System
Skin & Musculoskeletal
Urogenital & Reproductive
Great question! Most “-itis” conditions stem from inflammation, which is the body’s natural response to injury, infection, or irritation. But the underlying causes can vary widely depending on the organ or tissue affected.
Infections
Injury or Trauma
Lifestyle Factors
Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, two-layered sac that surrounds and protects your heart. This sac normally contains a small amount of fluid to reduce friction as the heart beats. When inflamed, the layers can rub against each other, causing pain and other symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Pericarditis
Natural Healing Boosters
Important Note
Physical Activity
Stress Management
Other Lifestyle Tips
Detox & Environmental Support
Fasting & Nutritional Reset
Energetic & Spiritual Alignment
Step 3: Customize Tools & Timing
Step 4: Track Your Journey
Bonus Tip: Honor Your Natural Rhythms
Benefits of Sound Healing
Physical Health Benefits
Physical Health Benefits
Spiritual & Relational Benefits
The timeline for seeing improvements from lifestyle changes with pericarditis can vary depending on whether the condition is acute or chronic, and how consistently the changes are followed.
When Lifestyle Changes Start Helping
Support & Accountability
Tools & Tricks
Stay Connected to Your “Why”
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Gratitude and Perspective
Looking Ahead
Embracing Nature and Wellness
Physical Health Benefits
Carillon Miami Wellness Resort – Florida
YO1 Longevity & Health Resorts – New York
Sensei Lanai – Hawaii
