amanda's Page

Sometimes there is tangible dissonance when we have discussions about health or illness in our online communities. Because people are so different, they bring different experiences and often speak in slightly varied language. This is what often makes online dialogue so wonderful—everyone brings something unique to the table.

But for the sake of smooth, effective communication, I wonder, as a Health Activist, how exactly do you speak to encourage others to speak about symptoms and trea… Continue

Did you know that it patients with Alzheimer's are more likely to have depression? Experts estimate that clinically significant depression occurs in about 20 to 40 percent of people with Alzheimer’s disease. Unlike regular depression that tends to affect women more often than men, Alzheimer's depression affects both men and women equally. Unfortunately it is quite difficult to detect and identify depression in Alzheimer's patients as symptoms often overlap and fluctuate. Dementia o… Continue

Back in October, I wondered do cancer screenings help us or hurt us? This question came in response to the American Cancer Society's recent reports that "early detection of breast and prostate cancers has gone up, but there has been no decline in late-stage breast and prostate cancer." Since the ACS report came out warning against early detection and frequent mammograms, it seems everyone has bee… Continue

Often we wonder, "how can doctors and hospitals work together to provide patients faster and better care?" While we may have our own ideas as Health Activists, getting the ball rolling toward actual results is often difficult. Because of this fact, I wanted to share the recent story of what the Medical College of Georgia is doing with a grant they've received. Their initiative aims to provide more succinct care for… Continue

With new diagnoses come new discussions to have with people in your life. Whether you're explaining your own diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment or explaining a friend or relative's new diagnosis, there are certain ways to go about it in an inclusive, informative way. In the past we've discussed ways to do this and shared the difficulty that comes with… Continue