Research studies can be quite informing but confusing! Ever wonder what a “blinded study” is? It is a study done in such a way that the participants do not know what treatment they are receiving to ensure that the results are not affected by their hopes, expectations, previous knowledge, etc. in order to reduce experimental…
National Primary Immunodeficiency Awareness Month
Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PIDD) are chronic illnesses causes by hereditary or genetic defects in the immune system that make the immune system not function properly. Throughout their lives, people with PIDDs are more susceptible to infections, endure recurrent health problems, and may develop serious long-term illness. Signs and symptoms of a PIDD can include: delayed…
Understanding Anal Health
There tends to be a lack of understanding of anal health care, which can lead to misdiagnoses and stigma. This also usually prevents people from getting the information and care they need to maintain good health. Anal sex is a common practice amongst Americans, but we must know risks, signs, and symptoms of health issues…
Get to Know Your Words: Molluscum Contagiosum
The anus is one of the most common points of infection, but these pimples can also be found frequently on the inner thighs, groin, genitals, and lower abdomen. People living with HIV may also be at risk for the infection to spread all over the body. Sometimes the infection goes away on its own, but…
April 10th is National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
The day was created to educate the public about the impact of HIV/AIDS on young people and to highlight the work going on across the country to respond to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Find out more about who’s most at risk and the treatment and prevention strategies that are most effective. See more information about FIGHT’s…
HPV and Anal Cancer
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection. It is passed from one person to another during skin-to-skin contact with an infected area of the body. Did you know that HPV can cause more than just cervical cancer? HPV infections can spread to other parts of the body, like the anus. The principal…
Get to Know Your Words: Proctoscopy
Proctoscopy Proctoscopy is a common medical procedure of the rectum used to look for signs of colorectal cancer. An instrument called a proctoscope is used to examine the anal cavity, rectum, or sigmoid colon. Make your bottom a top priority and join us at Philadelphia’s 2nd Annual Anal Health Symposium on April 19th to discuss the best…
Walk this Way
Walking is the simplest yet is the most underrated form of exercise. Walking can be a good workout depending on how long and often you walk, and may be a better choice for some people. It has both physical and mental benefits, such as improvements in blood pressure, reduces risk of heart disease and stroke…
Get to Know Your Words: Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy Your colon helps your body absorb water and nutrients from the food you eat. It’s also where your stool is formed. The last third of your descending colon is called the sigmoid colon. It’s connected to your anus by your rectum. A sigmoidoscopy, also called a flexible sigmoidoscopy, is a procedure that lets your…
Be Mindful
Mindfulness is a practice that brings a variety of physical, social, and psychological benefits. It is the practice that allows us to bring attention to what is happening in the present moment rather than dwelling on the past or anticipating the future. Training your brain to be mindful has been said to increase the matter…
Get to Know Your Words: Anoscopy
Anoscopy An anoscopy is an examination using a small, rigid, tubular instrument called an anoscope. This is inserted a few inches into the anus in order to evaluate problems of the anal canal. Anoscopy is used to diagnose hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and some cancers Make your bottom a top priority and RSVP to our 2nd…
Save Your Vision Month
March has been designated as “National Save Your Vision Month”. The American Optometric Association aims to raise awareness concerning the need for comprehensive annual eye exams. More people are using electronic devices for both work and pleasure than ever before. Be aware of developing dry eyes, blurred vision, or eye strain from using electronics all…
Dr. Cruz is a board certified pediatrician who joins Philadelphia FIGHT as the Medical Director for our Pediatrics and Adolescent Health Center. He completed his undergraduate training in Biology and Psychology from Union College, his medical school training at Albany Medical College, his residency training at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, and his Chief Residency at the Albert Einstein Medical Center.