As kids begin to play sports, parents should be aware of potential red flags—whether their child is a varsity athlete or simply enjoys a round of recreational tennis. It is important to recognize injuries involving the shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles. In their rush and excitement to play, kids sometimes downplay minor injuries that can lead to more serious problems such as stress fractures, tendinitis, and muscle strains.

If you have any vision problem, no matter how minor – especially if it involves eye pain – get it checked out by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. It could be optic neuritis, the inflammation of the optic nerve that can affect your vision. Optic neuritis is common in people with multiple sclerosis, says Christopher Langston, MD, a neuroimmunologist and the medical director of The Madlyn Borelli Multiple Sclerosis Center at Montefiore Nyack Hospital in Nyack, NY.

Screening can prevent cancer or detect it at highly treatable early stages.

Colorectal cancer is among the most common cancers in both men and women, according to the American Cancer Society. In recent decades, the overall rate at which people are diagnosed with this potentially deadly disease has dropped partly due to increased screening. Yet, colorectal cancer is also becoming more common among younger adults. 

Daily healthy habits and preventative care help people avoid heart disease.

According to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States with one person dying every 33 seconds from cardiovascular disease. 

This Heart Health Month, Dianna Gaballa, MD, FACC, board-certified cardiologist and clinical lipidologist with Highland Medical, Advanced Cardiovascular Care in West Nyack, NY, shares tips on staying heart healthy with a focus on exercise and nutrition.