Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not produce enough insulin or does not use the insulin produced properly. There are three types of diabetes: type 1 (formerly called juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes), type 2 (formerly called adult-onset or non-insulin dependent diabetes) and gestational diabetes (diabetes that only occurs during pregnancy). All three involve problems with insulin, a hormone that removes glucose from the blood and allows it to enter the body's cells. Glucose is used to create energy for the body functions. If your body is unable to make or use insulin properly, you have a high blood glucose level.

Quitting Smoking

Also called: Smoking cessation

Tobacco use is the most common preventable cause of death. About half of the people who don't quit smoking will die of smoking-related problems. Quitting smoking is important for your health and provides many benefits. Soon after you quit, your circulation begins to improve, and your blood pressure starts to return to normal. Your sense of smell and taste return and breathing starts to become easier. In the long term, giving up tobacco can help you live longer. Your risk of getting cancer decreases with each year you stay smoke-free.

Quitting is not easy. You may have short-term effects such as weight gain, irritability and anxiety. Some people try several times before succeeding. There are many ways to quit smoking. Some people stop "cold turkey." Others benefit from step-by-step manuals, counseling or medicines or products that help reduce nicotine addiction. Your health care provider can help you find the best way for you to quit.

Tobacco use is the most common preventable cause of death. About half of the people who don't quit

The term "cancer" refers to a group of diseases in which cells grow and spread unrestrained throughout the body. It is difficult to imagine anyone who has not heard about this disease. Most people have been affected because either a loved one, a friend, or even they themselves are cancer survivors.

Interactive Health Tutorials

The tutorials listed below are interactive health education resources from the Patient Education Institute. Using animated graphics each tutorial explains a procedure or condition in easy-to-read language. You can also listen to the tutorial.

NOTE: These tutorials require a special Flash plug-in, version 6 or above. If you do not have Flash, you will be prompted to obtain a free download of the software before you start the tutorial.

What Is Peripheral Arterial Disease ?

Peripheral arterial disease (P.A.D.) occurs when plaque (plak) builds up in the arteries that carry blood to your head, organs, and limbs. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, fibrous tissue, and other substances in the blood.

How to Control Your Medical Costs

The health care decisions you make have a big impact on your life and your wallet. To get the best value for your health care dollar, the first step is to understand your plan.

Making healthier choices in your diet comes down to three main points: Eat less fat, eat less salt and eat more fiber.

Exercise can help you prevent or limit many health problems, as well as minimize the effects of aging.