Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States and one of the most preventable and treatable when caught early. Sometimes referred to as colorectal cancer when it includes both the colon and rectum, colon cancer begins when abnormal cells grow in the lining of the large intestine and form tumors. According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, but screening and lifestyle changes have helped reduce overall mortality in recent decades. Understanding the signs of colon cancer and knowing how to lower your risk can empower you to take meaningful steps toward protecting your health.
Most colon cancer starts as small, noncancerous clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inner lining of the colon. Over time, some polyps can develop into cancer. Because this process often happens slowly and without noticeable symptoms at first, screening plays a crucial role in prevention. Early detection and removal of precancerous polyps during routine screening can prevent colon cancer from developing altogether.
Colon cancer risk increases with age, particularly after 45, but it can occur in younger adults as well. Other risk factors include a family history of colorectal cancer, inherited genetic conditions, inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, type 2 diabetes, obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and diets high in processed or red meats. While some of these factors cannot be changed, many are modifiable, offering real opportunities for prevention.
In its early stages, colon cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As it progresses, changes can become more apparent. Common symptoms of colon cancer include persistent changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, a feeling that the bowel does not empty completely, rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, ongoing abdominal discomfort like cramps or gas, unexplained fatigue, weakness, and unintended weight loss.
These symptoms can overlap with less serious digestive issues, which sometimes leads people to delay seeking care. However, if symptoms last more than a couple of weeks or feel different from your usual pattern, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider. Trusting your instincts about your body is not overreacting; it is an act of self-care. Early evaluation can lead to earlier diagnosis, when colon cancer is most treatable.
Although overall rates of colon cancer in older adults have declined due to screening, cases among younger adults have been increasing. Research shows that colorectal cancer has risen in people under age 50 over the past several decades. This trend has prompted updated screening guidelines and increased awareness among clinicians.
The exact reasons for the rise in colon cancer among young adults are still being studied. Researchers suspect that multiple factors may be involved, including changes in diet, increased consumption of ultra-processed foods, sedentary lifestyles, rising obesity rates, and alterations in the gut microbiome. A Western-style diet that is low in fiber and high in red and processed meats has been associated with increased colorectal cancer risk, according to the World Health Organization, which has also classified processed meat as a carcinogen based on evidence linking it to colorectal cancer.
Shifts in gut bacteria due to diet, antibiotic exposure, and other environmental factors may also influence inflammation and cancer risk. While no single explanation accounts for the increase, these overlapping influences highlight the importance of healthy lifestyle habits across the lifespan, not just later in adulthood.
Prevention of colon cancer centers on both screening and everyday habits It’s recommended that adults at average risk begin regular colorectal cancer screening at age 45. Screening options vary and may include stool-based tests or colonoscopy. For individuals with a family history or other risk factors, earlier or more frequent screening may be appropriate. A conversation with your healthcare provider can help determine what is right for you.
Lifestyle choices also play a powerful role. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fiber supports digestive health and may reduce colon cancer risk. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and improves metabolic health. Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol intake are additional steps that can prevent cancer of all kinds.
These changes do not need to happen all at once. Small, sustainable shifts over time can meaningfully reduce risk and improve overall well-being. Progress and partnership with your healthcare team is the key to prevention.
If you notice persistent digestive changes, blood in your stool, unexplained fatigue, or weight loss, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider. Even if you are under 45 and consider yourself healthy, symptoms of any severity should not be ignored. The recent rise in colon cancer among younger adults underscores the importance of listening to your body and advocating for yourself.
Colon cancer can feel like a frightening topic, but knowledge is empowering. With appropriate screening, early recognition of symptoms, and thoughtful lifestyle choices, many cases of colon cancer can be prevented or treated successfully. If you have questions about your risk or when to begin screening, a KindlyMD provider can help guide you with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based care. Your health deserves attention at every stage of life. Schedule today.
For many men, turning 40 arrives quietly. There’s no switch that flips or clear moment where things suddenly feel different. Instead, changes tend to show up gradually — in energy levels, sleep quality, weight distribution, mood, or recovery after stress. These shifts are common and far more influenced by biology and lifestyle than personal willpower.
Men’s health after 40 is not about trying to reclaim youth. It’s about understanding what your body needs now and responding with care rather than frustration. Research consistently shows that proactive, preventive healthcare in midlife significantly improves quality of life and long-term outcomes, particularly for cardiovascular disease, metabolic health, and mental well-being.
One of the most discussed aspects of men’s health after 40 is testosterone. Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, typically beginning in the late 30s or early 40s, at an average rate of about 1 percent per year. For some men, this decline is barely noticeable. For others, it can contribute to fatigue, reduced muscle mass, changes in libido, brain fog, or mood shifts.
It’s important to separate normal aging from clinically significant low testosterone. Not every symptom is hormonal, and not every hormonal change requires treatment. The Endocrine Society emphasizes that diagnosis should be based on both symptoms and confirmed lab testing, not age alone. Thoughtful evaluation with a healthcare provider helps avoid unnecessary treatment while addressing real concerns with clarity and respect.
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, and risk increases significantly after 40. Blood pressure tends to rise, cholesterol patterns can shift, and insulin sensitivity may decrease, even in men who have previously felt “healthy.”
What’s encouraging is how responsive heart health is to early intervention. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, lipid levels, and blood glucose allows for small, manageable changes long before serious disease develops.
Many men notice that maintaining weight becomes harder after 40, even without major changes in diet or activity. This is not a personal failure. Age-related muscle loss, known as sarcopenia, naturally reduces resting metabolic rate over time. Lower testosterone levels and increased stress hormones can also influence fat distribution, often shifting weight toward the abdomen.
These changes matter not for appearance, but for health. Visceral fat is associated with higher risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and inflammation. Addressing metabolic health through medical guidance, realistic lifestyle adjustments, and ongoing monitoring is far more effective than short-term fixes or extreme interventions.
Mental health is a critical but often under-addressed part of men’s health after 40. This stage of life often brings increased responsibility, career pressure, caregiving roles, financial stress, or unprocessed grief. At the same time, men are statistically less likely to seek mental health care, even though rates of depression and suicide rise in midlife.
Chronic stress affects sleep, hormones, cardiovascular health, and immune function. And no, it’s not just in your head. The American Psychological Association has documented strong links between long-term stress and increased risk of chronic disease. Compassionate healthcare includes space to talk about mood, burnout, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion without stigma or dismissal.
Preventive care after 40 is less about reacting to symptoms and more about building a baseline understanding of your health. Regular check-ins allow providers to track trends over time rather than chasing problems once they escalate. Screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, colorectal cancer, and prostate health are supported by strong evidence for improving outcomes when done appropriately.
What often holds men back is not fear of results, but discomfort with the healthcare system itself. Feeling rushed, unheard, or judged can make even routine visits stressful. That experience matters. Healthcare works best when it feels collaborative and respectful, not transactional.
Men’s health after 40 is not about toughness or ignoring discomfort. It’s about paying attention early, asking questions, and recognizing that taking care of your health is an investment in your future relationships, work, and sense of self. Research shows that men who engage in regular primary care have lower mortality rates and better management of chronic conditions.
A supportive healthcare relationship can help connect the dots between physical symptoms, mental health, lifestyle, and long-term risk. When care feels accessible and human, it becomes easier to stay consistent.
If you’re over 40 and noticing changes in how you feel, you’re not behind, broken, or doing something wrong. You’re paying attention, and that matters. Regular check-ins with a trusted provider can help you understand what’s normal, what’s modifiable, and what deserves closer attention.
If one of your goals this year is simply to feel better informed and more supported in your health, a meaningful place to start would be with a visit with a KindlyMD Care Provider. Preventive care doesn’t have to be intimidating. It can be grounded, compassionate, and built around you.
When we think about New Year’s resolutions, we often jump straight to big, dramatic changes like strict diets, intense workout plans, or completely reinventing our lives overnight. But true lasting health improvements usually come from small, realistic habits done consistently.
If you’re looking for resolutions that are actually doable and backed by science, here are a few simple ones that can make a surprisingly big difference in how you feel this year.
Sleep is one of the most powerful and most overlooked pillars of health. Keeping a consistent sleep schedule helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which impacts everything from mood and energy to metabolism and immune function.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults who don’t get enough quality sleep are at higher risk for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, depression, and obesity.
Simple New Year's Resolution: Pick a bedtime and wake-up time you can stick to at least 5 days a week. Perfection isn’t required, but consistency is.
You don’t need an extreme fitness plan to benefit from movement. Regular, moderate activity like walking, stretching, or light strength training can dramatically improve cardiovascular health, joint function, and mental well-being.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, noting it reduces the risk of chronic diseases and improves overall quality of life.
Simple New Year's Resolution: Commit to 10–20 minutes of movement daily. A walk counts. Gentle yoga counts. It all adds up.
Hydration affects energy levels, digestion, cognitive function, and even mood. Mild dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, and trouble concentrating often without us realizing what’s wrong. Adequate fluid intake is crucial for nearly every system in the body.
Simple New Year's Resolution: Add one extra glass of water in the morning and one in the afternoon. Easy!
Rather than focusing on restriction, one of the most impactful nutrition changes you can make is simply eating more fiber. Fiber supports gut health, helps regulate blood sugar, lowers cholesterol, and promotes fullness.
Simple New Year's Resolution: Add one fiber-rich food per day—like berries, beans, vegetables, or whole grains.
Mental health is health. Stress, anxiety, and burnout don’t just affect how you feel emotionally—they impact sleep, immune function, digestion, and heart health.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) emphasizes that early and regular mental health care improves long-term outcomes and overall well-being.
Simple New Year's Resolution: Build in a daily pause by journaling, breathing exercises, or even just a few mindful minutes without your phone.
Many people fell out of the habit of regular healthcare visits over the last few years. But routine check-ins can help catch issues early, manage chronic conditions, and keep small concerns from becoming big ones.
Preventive care, including annual exams, labs, and honest conversations with a provider, is one of the most effective ways to protect your long-term health.
Simple New Year's Resolution: Make one appointment. That’s it.
If your New Year’s resolution is simply to start taking care of your health again, you don’t have to do it alone.
Scheduling regular visits with a medical provider can help you stay accountable, get personalized guidance, and address both physical and mental health concerns before they become overwhelming.
Schedule an appointment with a KindlyMD provider today and make this the year you prioritize your health, one simple step at a time.
Small changes. Real impact. Sustainable health.
At KindlyMD, we believe in practical, evidence-based approaches to health — especially when it comes to something as familiar and frustrating as the common cold. While this ailment is rarely serious, it certainly can be uncomfortable. Here’s a breakdown of what happens, how it’s treated, and how you can support yourself (or a loved one) through those sniffles and coughs.
The common cold is a mild viral infection of the upper respiratory tract — a collection of viruses (most commonly rhinoviruses) that invade the nose and throat, causing symptoms like runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, mild fatigue and sometimes low-grade fever.
Most people will recover from a cold within 7-10 days. But because there are hundreds of different cold-causing viruses, there is no single “cure” yet. Your body’s immune system ultimately clears the infection; our role is to help navigate the discomfort and avoid complications.
Usually, the common cold will resolve on its own and you can soothe the symptoms at home. Medical attention is rarely needed unless symptoms worsen or persist.
However, there are warning signs to watch for: if you develop a high fever, symptoms last more than about 10 days, you have underlying health conditions (like asthma or a weakened immune system), or you experience difficulty breathing or dehydration — then it’s time to reach out to a healthcare provider.
It’s also worth noting that antibiotics do not treat the common cold (since it’s viral, not bacterial), and misuse of antibiotics leads to resistance and other harms.
While you can’t “cure” the cold (the virus still needs to run its course), you can support your comfort and recovery in several meaningful ways:
If you find yourself with a cold, take a mindful approach. Start by acknowledging that your body is working to clear a virus. Provide rest, hydration, and comfort. If your symptoms include a sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, mild cough and possibly some fatigue, use safe symptom-relief measures (see above) and monitor your progress. Avoid over-the-counter or herbal treatments that lack evidence unless you’ve discussed them with a healthcare provider.
Keep prevention in mind for the next round — commit to good hand hygiene, healthy sleep and nutrition, and minimize exposure when possible. And finally, if you notice red-flags (very high fever, breathing trouble, symptoms lasting too long), seek professional care.
Remember: the common cold comes for us all. But you don’t have to face it unprepared. With the right balance of rest, care and awareness, you can ride it out — and be ready to move on with your life.
In our digital age, the internet often feels like the first stop when something feels off with our health. A quick search can provide countless explanations for a headache, fatigue, or stomach discomfort. This habit, colloquially termed cyberchondria, is the compulsive use of online health information to interpret personal symptoms. While it may seem harmless, self-diagnosis like this can be far more dangerous than most realize.
Cyberchondria often amplifies anxiety rather than easing it. People with heightened concern about their health can find themselves spiraling into unnecessary worry after browsing online symptom checkers or health forums. Research shows that extended online searches for medical information are associated with increased stress and functional impairment, particularly in those already prone to health anxiety.
The risk of self-diagnosis lies in the ease of misinterpreting symptoms. A simple headache could indicate dehydration, stress, or something far more serious. Without medical training, distinguishing between these possibilities is extremely difficult, and assuming you know the answer can lead to inappropriate treatment or delayed care. Misdiagnosis can allow a condition to worsen, and relying on the internet instead of professional guidance may even result in dangerous outcomes. For example, chest discomfort might be dismissed as indigestion when it could signal a heart condition — delays in proper care can be life-threatening. Beyond physical health, the psychological toll of misdiagnosis can be severe, increasing stress, panic, and feelings of helplessness.
Only a healthcare professional can accurately interpret symptoms in the context of a person’s medical history and overall health. Doctors have the training, experience, and access to diagnostic tools needed to distinguish between conditions that might appear similar online but require very different treatments. Consulting a professional ensures that you receive the right care at the right time, avoiding unnecessary complications or anxiety.
The internet can be a useful tool for understanding potential health issues, but it should never replace professional medical evaluation. Reading about conditions online can inform and educate, but assuming a diagnosis based on internet research alone is risky.
Ultimately, while curiosity about our own bodies is natural, self-diagnosis through online searches can do more harm than good. When concerns arise, seeking professional care is the safest and most effective way to protect your health and peace of mind. Your wellbeing deserves more than guesswork from a search engine — it deserves expert attention. True clarity about your health comes from a conversation with a qualified healthcare provider who can provide guidance tailored to you. Schedule an appointment today.
When people talk about gut health, it often sounds like a buzzword. But it’s not just about avoiding stomachaches or feeling comfortable after meals. The gut — and the trillions of microbes that call it home — plays a role in immunity, metabolism, even mood. Taking care of your gut is one of the most powerful ways you can support your overall well-being.
At its core, gut health refers to the balance and function of the microorganisms in your digestive system. This community, known as the gut microbiome, works with your body in ways we’re only beginning to understand. Research shows that a healthy gut is diverse, stable, and protective — it helps maintain the gut barrier, regulate inflammation, and produce beneficial compounds that affect everything from nutrient absorption to brain chemistry.
When the microbiome is disrupted, however, it can contribute to health issues. Scientists have linked gut imbalance, or dysbiosis, with autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, mood changes, and more. That’s why keeping your gut in good shape matters for much more than digestion.
The gut is home to a large portion of your immune system. Friendly bacteria “teach” immune cells to tell the difference between safe and harmful substances. When things are working smoothly, this training helps prevent unnecessary inflammation. But when the system is off balance, the immune response can go into overdrive.
Your gut also plays a role in metabolism and weight. The microbiome helps break down food, extract energy, and regulate fat storage. Studies have shown that certain microbial patterns are linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes. And then there’s the gut-brain axis — a two-way communication system where gut bacteria send signals to the brain through nerves, hormones, and metabolites. Some even produce compounds that influence mood and stress responses.
Even the gut lining itself depends on a thriving microbiome. The intestinal barrier prevents harmful substances from leaking into the bloodstream. When the barrier is weakened, inflammation can spread throughout the body.
Despite the gut’s resilience, modern life often challenges it. Diets heavy in ultra-processed foods and low in fiber are a big factor. Overuse of antibiotics can wipe out beneficial bacteria. Chronic stress, poor sleep, and lack of movement also play a role, gradually changing the balance of microbes in the intestines. And as we age, or as chronic conditions develop, the microbiome can become less diverse.
The good news is that gut health responds to care. You don’t need drastic overhauls; even small, consistent changes make a difference. Choosing meals rich in plants — colorful vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts, and seeds — nourishes beneficial microbes. These fibers act as “prebiotics,” feeding the bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids to support gut and immune function.
Adding fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, or kimchi introduces live cultures that may help maintain microbial balance. Gentle movement, restorative sleep, and mindful stress management all nurture your microbiome as well. And while probiotics and prebiotic supplements can be helpful in some cases, they’re not one-size-fits-all. It’s wise to talk with a healthcare provider before starting them, especially if you have health conditions.
Your gut is not a machine that needs fixing — it’s more like a garden that thrives when you tend to it with patience and consistency. Caring for gut health isn’t about perfection; it’s about curiosity, small acts of nourishment, and a willingness to listen to your body. With each thoughtful step, you support not just your digestion but your immunity, your mood, and your overall vitality.
Most gut issues improve with lifestyle support, but there are times when professional guidance matters. Persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight changes, blood in the stool, or ongoing fatigue are all reasons to connect with a doctor. A gastroenterologist or nutrition specialist can help with testing, diagnosis, and personalized strategies. Make an appointment with the KindlyMD Care Team today.
Back-to-school mornings. Work deadlines. Holiday shopping lists. This time of year can feel like one long race from task to task — and sometimes, physical activity is the first thing to fall off the schedule.
But here’s the good news: staying active doesn’t have to mean adding one more big “to-do” to your already packed day. With a little creativity and kindness toward yourself, you can weave movement into your routine in small, manageable ways that still make a big difference.
Even a little physical activity goes a long way:
The bottom line? You don’t need hours at the gym. A few intentional minutes sprinkled throughout your day can be powerful.
Here’s an easy, realistic way to keep physical activity in your day — even when life’s busy:
It doesn’t have to be complicated, it just has to be something.
The most important thing? Keep it compassionate. Movement isn’t about perfection — it’s about giving your body and mind a little love.
And remember, staying active is just one piece of your overall well-being. Things like managing chronic pain, improving sleep, and even nutrition support all work hand-in-hand with movement to help you feel your best.
During the busy season, physical activity doesn’t need to be another stressful obligation. Think of it as a way to recharge. Just a few minutes here and there to breathe, move, and reconnect with yourself.
Because at the end of the day, movement is a gift you give yourself. And you deserve it.
Ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more balanced you? At KindlyMD, our compassionate team is here to support your whole-person health. Whether you need guidance with pain management, wellness planning, or just want help creating a realistic routine, we’re here for you.
Book an appointment today and let’s create a plan that fits your busy life.
Managing your health shouldn’t feel overwhelming or mysterious. Thanks to wearable technology, patients now have a way to keep tabs on their well-being in real time — without needing to visit a doctor’s office every time something feels off. Whether you're navigating chronic pain, monitoring blood pressure, or trying to get more steps in, wearable devices are putting more control into your hands (or onto your wrist).
Wearable technology includes smart devices like fitness trackers, smartwatches, biosensors, and even patches or rings that monitor your health. These devices collect data such as heart rate, sleep patterns, physical activity, blood oxygen, and more — giving you (and your care team) a fuller picture of what’s going on inside your body.
And the best part? Many wearables sync directly with your smartphone or health apps, making it easy to track your progress over time or share insights with your provider.
For patients living with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease, wearable tech can be a game changer. Instead of guessing or waiting for symptoms to flare up, you can now catch warning signs early — and take action fast.
Here’s how:
Wearables don’t just track what’s happening now — they help you stay one step ahead. Researchers are studying how sensors can detect early signs of infection, dehydration, or inflammation. These tiny red flags might show up in your heart rate, temperature, or sleep cycles before you even feel sick.
For many users, wearable tech is just as valuable for supporting healthy habits:
A review in The Lancet Digital Health found that people using wearables tended to walk more, sleep better, and lose weight — especially when using them consistently over time.
Many wearable devices can now sync with your healthcare provider’s systems, making your appointments more productive and personalized. Instead of trying to remember how you’ve felt over the past month, you can show them your data.
Just keep in mind that some devices may share sensitive health info. If you're syncing with your provider, make sure the app or device follows HIPAA rules for privacy and protection. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers guidance on how HIPAA protections work.
Wearable technology isn’t just for techies or fitness fanatics. It’s a tool for anyone who wants to feel more informed, more in control, and more connected to their health. Whether you're managing a chronic condition or just trying to stay on top of your wellness goals, wearables offer real-time insights that support long-term healing and prevention.
And remember — you’re not in this alone. If you’re curious about using wearable technology to support your treatment plan, the KindlyMD team is here to help you find solutions that are tailored to you. Schedule an appointment today.
When the sun is shining and temperatures soar, it’s time to trade winter layers for sunscreen and beach towels. But before you head outdoors, it’s crucial to take a few precautions to protect your health. Whether you're planning a hike, a pool day, or a summer road trip, these summer safety tips will help you stay safe, hydrated, and sun-smart all season long.
The summer sun feels great, but too much UV exposure can lead to painful burns, premature aging, and increase your risk of skin cancer. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, daily sun protection is key, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when the rays are strongest.
Tips to protect your skin in the summer:
Pro Tip: Check the UV index each day using your phone’s weather app or EPA’s UV Index tool to help plan safer outdoor activities.
Dehydration is no joke in the summer heat. Whether you're working outdoors or just spending time under the sun, your body loses fluids faster. CDC guidelines recommend drinking water consistently throughout the day — don't wait until you're thirsty.
Hydration hacks:
Whether you're hitting the trails or running errands, it’s easy to overdo it in the summer heat. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious conditions that require immediate attention. Even healthy people are at risk of heat exhaustion — but especially children, older adults, and those with chronic conditions.
Activity safety tips in hot weather:
If someone exhibits these symptoms, get them out of the heat, offer cool water, and seek medical help if symptoms worsen.
Accidents happen, especially when outdoor fun is involved. Having some basic first aid knowledge can make a big difference in an emergency. Keep a stocked first aid kit in your car, backpack, or beach bag. The Red Cross has a helpful guide on what to include.
Top summer first aid tips:
Summer is all about enjoying life outdoors — but preparation is the key to making the most of it. With these summer safety tips, you’ll be ready to soak up the season while protecting and preserving your health and well-being.
Looking to really boost your wellness levels this season? Sign up for our newsletter to receive seasonal health updates, expert advice, and more. Or better yet, schedule an appointment with one of our compassionate Care Providers for a head-to-toe tune up. Stay safe out there!
