Blood Test for Colon Cancer Screening
A new blood test is approved for colon cancer screening. What are its pros and cons, and how does it compare to the GRAIL Galleri test?
Joe Breault MD, ScD
physician-scientist, author
Lp(a)
Primary care physicians don't usually check lipoprotein (a), but we should. Elevated levels (≥50 mg/dL) are a genetic condition (LPA gene) that affects about 20% of people and significantly increases atherosclerotic coronary vascular disease and aortic valve stenosis.
RSV Vaccine - New Rules
The June ACIP meeting brought new rules about which older people should get RSV vaccine. And a new mRNA RSV vaccine from Moderna that had no GBS signal.
Don't Check Vitamin D
The new Endocrine Society Guideline says don't test vitamin D levels in healthy people, and healthy adults between 18 and 75 years old mostly don't need vitamin D supplements.
Tirzepatide for Sleep Apnea 2
The SURMOUNT-OSA study showed tirzepatide (Zepbound from Eli Lilly) effectively treats sleep apnea.
DBP Too Low?
When the diastolic blood pressure goes below 70 and especially below 60, coronary artery perfusion can be compromised. This can result in worse cardiovascular outcomes.
Salt Sensitivity
The Yanomano tribe has a low salt intake (perhaps <100 mg/day) and a high potassium intake from fruits and vegetables. Blood pressure does not rise with aging!
Glucose Intolerance & Spikes
We need to reduce glucose and insulin spikes to continue in metabolic health or return to it. This will help us prevent or reduce insulin resistance and glucose intolerance.
Toxic Fructose
Fructose causes a host of problems, including fatty liver. We should avoid it as much as possible, except for whole fruits.
Vitamin D/Calcium for Bones
How much vitamin D and calcium should we take for bone health? Are supplements needed?
Colon Cancer Screening over 75
In the past, it was unclear if colon cancer screening was worth doing for people over 75. A new study shows that it is often life-saving.
Tirzepatide for Sleep Apnea
Tirzepatide reduced sleep apnea with and without CPAP use. We review sleep apnea, the new studies, drug side effects, and cost issues.