Diabetic Foot Neuropathy

People with diabetes are at an increased risk for foot injury due to decreased sensation and increased blood sugar levels.  For people with diabetes, the risk of developing a diabetic foot ulcer ranges from 15- 25% (AMA).  Thirty percent of diabetics over 40 years of age develop lower extremity disease, which includes peripheral arterial disease, … Read more

Acute and Rapid HIV Testing

Most individuals who are infected with HIV develop antibodies within three months of being infected.  The two most common tests for HIV, the Western Blot (WB) and immunofluorescent assay (IFA), confirm HIV by testing for the presence of such antibodies. The rapid HIV tests, such as the Reveal HIV-1 Antibody Test and OraQuick Rapid HIV-1 … Read more

Methods for Treating Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a result of plaque buildup in the arteries supplying blood to the heart.  The buildup begins when a part of the artery is damaged, and a plaque forms to heal the site. Then, excess triglycerides and cholesterol attach to the plaque and form a blockage. Coronary artery disease is the … Read more

An Overview on Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) obtained from the diet or produced by the liver, and are a source of energy.  Whenever you eat, your body puts some calories into the bloodstream to use for energy immediately.  The excess calories are converted into triglycerides by the liver, and then travel to be stored as … Read more

Exercising your way to Heart Health

According to the American Heart Association, physical activity increases HDL levels (the “good” cholesterol) in some people.  A high HDL cholesterol level reduces risk for heart disease.  “Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for disease.” Age, sex, race, and genetics all play a role in a person’s metabolism.  The amount of exercise required varies … Read more