Do you know the warning signs for suicide? Suicide is death caused by self-inflicted injury with the intent to die, and it is the eleventh leading cause of death in the United States, according to the American Foundation for Suicide…
For such small organs, our kidneys tackle big important jobs within the body. Our kidneys make urine, remove toxins and excess water from our blood, help control blood pressure, produce red blood cells, control blood stream levels of minerals like…
Colorectal cancer screening for precancerous polyps is important to prevent cancer and is recommended every 10 years after age 45. Each year, thousands of Illinoisans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and early detection through screening is key. Colorectal cancer is…
Educator Rich Bowen was driving to Western Illinois University for a conference in 1992 when he heard a radio interview about the importance of prostate screening. Bored with the drive, he listened to the entire program and decided to schedule…
Students return to school this month, and COVID-19 may top parent’s concern list right up there with stomach bugs, influenza and common colds. Anna Richie, MD, clinical director for urgent care at Memorial Health, encourages parents to talk with their…
Experts say that practicing social distancing and wearing a mask are the best ways to prevent COVID-19. Memorial Health System has taken important steps to make sure both of these practices are easy to follow within their facilities. At Memorial…
Ever really wonder what happens when you eat? Your digestive system is complex and has an impact on your overall health. Every time you eat, food takes a trip through your digestive system, and bacteria in your digestive tract helps…
Depression can affect more than just mental health—it can have physical consequences as well. Memorial Care Primary Care (previously known as Memorial Physician Services) is working to address the overall well-being of their patients through a multi-faceted effort to identify…
Annual screening mammograms are the most effective way to diagnose breast cancer. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said only 65 percent of women age 40 and older had a mammogram in the last two years. Screening mammograms…
Jennifer Anderson had a strong support network as she battled breast cancer—friends, family and an unexpected new companion that she calls her “cancer kitty.” In October 2016, she heard faint noises coming from outside her house. Kneeling in her yard…