Banner Health

College students who are concerned about any physical or mental health issues can connect with medical and mental health support through their school's student health care services. Student health care services and providers specialize in students and understand their unique challenges. And care is usually affordable. They enable students to stay as healthy as possible and keep their focus on academic goals and the college experience.

Students: Connecting with Health Care on Campus | Banner If you’re a college student, you can connect with a lot of services through your student health center. Here’s how to connect with care before you need it.

Actinic keratoses are precancerous areas or lesions on the skin that usually appear in places where a person has experienced a lot of sun exposure over time. AKs are common, and dermatologists can usually diagnose them with a physical exam. Untreated, these skin growths can become squamous cell carcinoma, which is a type of skin cancer.

How Actinic Keratosis Could Become Skin Cancer | Banner Health Actinic keratosis is a precancerous skin condition that causes small scaly or crusty spots on your skin. Left untreated, it can become skin cancer.

The benefits of a sauna session extend beyond the comfort it provides. Sauna use, or sauna bathing, can promote a sense of well-being, enhance post-workout recovery, and may benefit overall health. Explore the health benefits of saunas and how to safely and effectively incorporate sauna sessions into a post-workout routine to reap additional benefits. (via Verywell Health)

5 Health Benefits of a Sauna After Your Workout The health benefits of using a sauna after your workout are wide-ranging, from a reduced risk of stroke to weight loss. Here's everything you need to know.

People with a change (mutation) in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene might not be able to process folate properly. Folate is an important nutrient, especially for pregnant people because it helps reduce the risk of some serious brain and spine defects in babies. Newer research has found that folic acid supplements should provide enough folate even in people with the mutation.

Understanding MTHFR in Pregnancy | Banner Health The MTHFR gene affects your levels of folic acid, which is an important nutrient during pregnancy. Learn why testing recommendations have recently changed.

Whether canned, fresh or frozen, with the variety of fish in the sea, fish provides a great shelf-stable, nutrient-dense, tasty protein option for our healthy meals. Just be sure to limit fish that are high in mercury and prepare fish without adding too much fat.

Top Seafood Choices to Include in Your Diet | Banner Health Seafood is loaded with heart-healthy fats and other nutrients. But some types have high levels of dangerous mercury. Here’s how to choose the best fish.

Many times back or neck problems can be successfully treated with medication, heat, ice or physical therapy. But sometimes, if these treatments don’t work, surgery might be the best way to reduce pain and improve mobility. Having a thorough conversation and opportunity for questions to be answered by the health care team can help those considering spinal surgery understand the recovery process.

What Happens After You Have Spine Surgery | Banner Health If you need to have spine surgery, you probably have a lot of questions about what to expect afterward. Ask your surgeon and care team these questions.

Emerging blood tests have begun to revolutionize the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. A recent story in USA Today, “How a new blood test technology could change Alzheimer’s treatment forever,” includes insight from Dr. Nicholas Ashton, senior director of the new Banner Research Blood-Based Biomarker Program.

Dr. Ashton is developing and overseeing a research laboratory dedicated to discovering new spinal fluid and blood tests, including pinprick blood tests for easier Alzheimer’s testing and blood tests for other age-related cognitive and movement disorders. He is also developing and overseeing a lab dedicated to the high-quality assessment of different spinal fluid and blood tests from national and international research studies and trials, characterizing and comparing their performance, and using them to help transform the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of these diseases.

The Banner Research Biomarker Program is located at Banner Sun Health Research Institute and involves researchers and clinicians from there and Banner Alzheimer’s Institute.

How a new blood test technology could change Alzheimer's treatment forever A new generation of blood tests could accelerate Alzheimer's diagnosis and improve treatment for millions of older Americans.

Most people associate lung cancer with smokers. But, living or working near someone who smokes, and breathing in their to***co smoke, can also cause lung cancer in nonsmokers. Nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke are also more likely to experience heart disease, stroke, and chronic lung disease including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Secondhand Smoke and Your Risk for Lung Cancer | Banner Is secondhand smoke putting you and your loved ones at risk of lung cancer, heart disease and many other diseases? Learn the facts and how to lower the risk.

There are lots of good reasons we may need some time alone. Disconnecting from other people and responsibilities can be good for our mental and emotional health. Learn about the signs when we may need alone time: bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/advise-me/ways-to-tell-your-partner-you-need-some-time-to-yourself

Today, screens are a big part of how teens and tweens learn and have fun, but we can help look out for their long-term eye health and avoid digital eye strain. Following tips like the 20-20-20 rule, regular physical activity and regular eye exams are helpful in reducing vision-related symptoms caused by prolonged use of digital devices.

Tips to Protect Your Child From Digital Eye Strain | Banner Digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome is an increasing problem in teens and tweens. Discover tips to protect your child’s eyes and overall health.

For anyone who has scrolled through their FYP on TikTok, it’s hard not to miss advertisements or videos hyping electrolyte products. From electrolyte powders to sports drinks, these essential minerals have been packaged in various creative forms. Now, electrolytes come in chewing gum form. Learn more about what it is and if it actually contains electrolytes. (via Verywell Health)

Does Electrolyte Gum Work? Trendy electrolyte gums may contain some electrolytes, but experts say they won't keep you hydrated.

Managing asthma takes careful planning, especially during wildfires and dust storms. By preparing ahead of time, staying informed and following these tips, people with asthma can reduce the risk of asthma flare-ups and stay healthy.

Tips for Handling Asthma in Dust Storms and Wildfires | Banner Learn how to manage asthma during wildfires and dust storms. Poor air quality can affect your lungs. Read our tips to maintain your health and well-being.

Ashwagandha is a powerful herb traditionally used in Indian medicine. It’s gaining popularity among athletes and fitness enthusiasts for its potential to enhance endurance, strength and recovery. With its long history of use and a growing body of research, ashwagandha is becoming a popular choice among athletes seeking a natural edge.

The Pros and Cons of Ashwagandha for Athletes | Banner Health Unlock the benefits of ashwagandha for athletes. Learn how this ancient herb can enhance athletic performance, boost recovery and support overall health.

Lab tests can give us a broad overview of our health and provide baseline readings to compare against in the future. Depending on a person's age, risk factors and overall health, a doctor may order routine tests to watch for different health conditions. In addition, when people who have signs or symptoms that might point to a specific health problem, a health care provider can request lab tests that can help with diagnosis.

What Doctors Want You to Know About Your Lab Results | Banner Your lab results give you essential insights into your health. It’s important to ask your health care provider any questions you have about them.

The external skin isn’t the only area of our body that can be burned. A bite into a hot piece of pizza can burn our hard palate, also known as the roof of our mouth, and a sip of piping hot coffee or a bite into oven-fresh food can burn our tongue. Learn more about how to treat burns in the mouth. (via Healthline)

How to Treat a Burn on the Roof of Your Mouth The tissue on the roof of your mouth is delicate and easily susceptible to burns. Some burns can be treated at home, but others require medical attention.

Apixaban (Eliquis) belongs to a class of drugs known as anticoagulants (blood thinners). Apixaban works differently than most traditional blood thinners. It reduces the blood’s ability to form dangerous clots by blocking a protein called Factor Xa. It’s generally prescribed for people with a risk of blood clots from atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and to prevent clots after surgery.

What You Should Know About Apixaban (Eliquis) | Banner Health If you need to take medication to reduce blood clots, your health care provider may suggest apixaban (Eliquis). Talk to them about the benefits and risks.

Breastfeeding for the first time can bring up lots of questions and worries for new moms, like how to nurse the baby, how to keep milk supply up and how to prevent mastitis. Symptoms of mastitis, the inflammation in breast tissue caused by backed-up milk ducts, can appear quickly, but often the first symptom of mastitis is a breast lump or thickening of the breast tissue. The good news is there are plenty of easy things to do to prevent mastitis.

What Nursing Moms Need to Know About Mastitis | Banner Health Mastitis, also called lactation mastitis, is an inflammation or swelling in your breast tissue that is caused by backed-up milk ducts.

Banner Desert Medical Center is pleased to announce the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for its Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) clinic. This expansion marks an important milestone in providing comprehensive healthcare services under one roof for patients in the Mesa community.

The newly opened clinic is designed to cater specifically to the needs of expectant mothers and their unborn babies, offering a wide range of specialized medical services to ensure the health and well-being of both mother and child. The addition of this clinic further solidifies Banner Desert's commitment to delivering exceptional care and support to families in the Mesa and surrounding areas.

“Today marks a significant step forward in our mission to provide exceptional healthcare to our community in Mesa,” said Laura Robertson, Chief Executive Officer at Banner Desert. “The Maternal-Fetal Medicine clinic exemplifies our commitment to innovation and patient-centered care, ensuring mothers and their children receive the highest level of support and expertise throughout their journey.”

This sweet baby was all the sweeter because her parents are part of the Banner family! Congratulations to Landon & Kayla Wood on welcoming their fourth child, Hazel Maree. "The staff made this day very special, they went above and beyond!"

Hazel was born July 26 and weighed in at 8 pounds, 7 ounces. She is welcomed home by her parents and sisters, Violet, Claire and Olivia.

Before heading off to college, check what specific immunizations are needed. Necessary vaccinations protect each student's health and contribute to a safer and healthier campus environment. Add immunizations to the college prep checklist and ensure a healthy start to the college journey.

The Importance of Vaccinations for College-Bound Teens | Banner Ensure your college-bound student is protected by keeping their vaccinations current. Discover important health tips for a safe college experience.

Comprehensive care is becoming a widely accepted standard for modern medicine and not just because patient outcomes are better. The approach has also shown an ability to save money for both providers and patients.

The Importance of Comprehensive Care | Banner Health How can a team of experts improve your treatment while also saving you money? Learn more about comprehensive care and why it’s so important.

Last week, Banner Estrella Medical Center successfully delivered triplets via a C-section. This marks the second time that the hospital has welcomed triplets since its opening in 2005.

The healthy triplets were born premature at 34 weeks gestation on Monday, July 29. Two identical girls made their debut at 7:24 a.m., followed by a boy at 7:25 a.m. Mother and the babies will remain at the hospital for a couple of days.

“We are thankful to the medical team at Banner Estrella for their exceptional care and support throughout this journey. Their dedication made all the difference for our family during this unforgettable time,” said Bryan Vandermoere, father of the triplets.

"We are thrilled to have safely welcomed these precious babies into the world," said Hannah Fox, director of nursing for women and infant services at Banner Estrella Medical Center. "Our dedicated team, including neonatology, anesthesia providers, maternal fetal medicine specialists, respiratory therapy, pharmacy, and all of our women and infant services personnel, worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth coordination of this complex delivery. We are honored this family trusted us to be the hospital to welcome their babies into the world.”

Banner Estrella Medical Center, which delivered a total of 5,554 babies in 2023, stands as the second busiest hospital for baby deliveries within the Banner health system and the leading facility in the west valley region. The hospital is equipped to handle most high-risk deliveries past 28 weeks gestation, with maternal fetal medicine readily available.

The hospital extends its gratitude to all involved in the successful delivery of the triplets, emphasizing the collaborative effort and expertise that contributed to this joyful outcome.

We’re incredibly proud to highlight Leah Brown, MD, FAAOS, who is currently representing Banner Health at the 2024 Paris summer games by providing expert care to our gymnastics team! Dr. Brown is a valued member of our Banner Sports Medicine team, committed to the health and well-being of athletes – both in Arizona and around the world. Thanks for all you do, Dr. Brown!

When a person is experiencing grief before a loss occurs, it’s called anticipatory grief. When someone has a terminal illness or dementia, they and their caregivers, family members, friends and loved ones can experience anticipatory grief. With anticipatory grief, people could experience any and all of the emotions of grief — sadness, denial, anger, emotional distress, irritability, anxiety, guilt, physical symptoms and more.

What You Should Know About Anticipatory Grief | Banner Health Anticipatory grief is the grief you may feel for a loved one with a terminal illness. Here are some ways to cope when you’re in this uncertain state.

Avocados have become a staple in many people’s kitchens, but slicing up the fruit could be riskier than we might think—“avocado hand” injuries are fairly common, emergency room doctors warned. (via Health)

What Is ‘Avocado Hand’? Experts Explain the Common Kitchen Knife Injury "Avocado hand" injuries are most common in the spring and summer—here's how to slice your produce safely.

While it might seem like an odd inconvenience, a runny nose when eating is just one of many ways our bodies react to the world around us. Understanding why it happens can help people who experience gustatory rhinitis to take steps to manage their symptoms and enjoy meals without the constant need for tissues.

The Surprising Reason Your Nose Runs When You Eat | Banner Does your nose run every time you eat? You might have gustatory rhinitis. Learn the reasons behind this phenomenon and ways to stop it from happening.

Blood oxygen level, also known as oxygen saturation (SpO2), measures how much oxygen our red blood cells are carrying. Maintaining healthy levels of blood oxygen also helps with brain function, heart health and a healthy immune system. By taking steps to improve our oxygen levels and monitoring any changes, we can ensure our body gets the oxygen it needs to function at its best.

How to Monitor and Improve Your Blood Oxygen Levels | Banner Learn what blood oxygen levels mean, what causes low blood oxygen levels and how to monitor and improve your oxygen levels to stay informed and healthy.

Breastfeeding may come naturally for some women, but it’s not always a piece of cake. For some breastfeeding mothers, it can be downright challenging (and yes, even painful). One of the biggest reasons that women struggle with breastfeeding when they leave the hospital is they lack access to information and support in that critical first week.

Common Breastfeeding Challenges and How to Fix Them | Banner It is true breastfeeding is not always easy for moms and babies. Here are seven breastfeeding problem-solving tips from a lactation consultant. 

Naloxone is a safe medication used to reverse opioid overdose. When it is used correctly, this drug can reverse the effects of opioids and quickly reestablish breathing to someone who is overdosing—even before first responders arrive.

Narcan: What to Know About This Lifesaving Drug | Banner Anyone taking or abusing opioids is at risk for an overdose. Naloxone is a safe medication used to reverse an opioid overdose. Here are 5 things to know.

How tweens use their electronic devices before bedtime can have a major impact on how well — and how long — they sleep, according to a new study. Learn about several best practices for parents. (via NPR)

Tweens, screens and sleep: How parents can help kids get their zzzzz's A large new study confirms what parents probably already suspect: Phones can keep tweens from getting a good night's sleep.