Newsroom

When we think of cancer prevention, we typically think of those we hear the most about, such as breast cancer or lung cancer. One of the most common cancers is actually colon cancer: cancer of the large intestine and lower part of the digestive system. It is the fourth most common cancer diagnosed and the second-leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. – and early detection dramatically increases the survival rate. An estimated 106,590 new cases of colon cancer are expected in 2024, according to the Am... ... Read More

A board certified surgeon specializing in both general surgery and hand surgery has joined Merit Health Medical Group. Robert B. Harris M.D., FACS, originally from Montgomery, Alabama, is a distinguished surgeon with 30 years of experience. Dr. Harris earned his bachelor of science in physical science from Auburn University Montgomery and his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine. He completed his internship and residency in general surgery and hand surgery fellowship at the U... ... Read More

The midpoint of the year is a good time to review health insurance policies to ensure you will get the most out of plan benefits, especially if you have already met the annual deductible. Many insurance plans will cover most, if not all, costs for eligible medical procedures and treatments once an individual meets the deductible and out of pocket maximum, making the second half of the year an opportune time to schedule any necessary or elective medical procedures that may have been postponed to reduce o... ... Read More

The midpoint of the year is a good time to review health insurance policies to ensure you will get the most out of plan benefits, especially if you have already met the annual deductible. Many insurance plans will cover most, if not all, costs for eligible medical procedures and treatments once an individual meets the deductible and out of pocket maximum, making the second half of the year an opportune time to schedule any necessary or elective medical procedures that may have been postponed to reduce o... ... Read More

By Dr. Keith Goodfellow Expecting a baby? Ensuring that your baby boy or girl has a healthy start to life begins with good prenatal care. Prenatal care refers to the care you receive for yourself and your baby during your entire pregnancy. Following a prenatal care plan can positively impact both you and your baby’s health by minimizing pregnancy complications, decreasing the likelihood of birth defects and easing postpartum recovery. It’s important to begin prenatal care early – and see your doctor reg... ... Read More

Summer 2024 is predicted to bring on the heat which can put extra stress on your heart. For every degree body temperature rises, the heart beats approximately 10 beats per minute faster, according to the National Institute of Health. That’s why in hot temperatures it becomes harder for the body to cool off, especially for those with chronic health conditions like heart disease, high cholesterol or atrial fibrillation (AFib). Our bodies get rid of excess heat through sweat. Hot, humid weather forces the ... ... Read More

Merit Health Biloxi encourages Mississippi Gulf Coast to prioritize safety during holiday celebrations As Independence Day approaches, Merit Health Biloxi emphasizes the importance of fireworks safety to prevent injuries and avoid a trip to the emergency department. While fireworks have been an integral part of Fourth of July festivities since 1777, it has not been without risk and should be handled only by experienced pyrotechnicians. “Leave the fireworks to the professionals,” said Frank Duke, R.N., d... ... Read More

Reduced risk for some future health issues as compared to non-childbearing women Beyond the many joys delivering a child can bring, a healthy pregnancy can also bring long-term benefits to mom’s health. A woman’s body undergoes significant transformations during pregnancy and some of those ultimately become protections over time. Benefits following a healthy delivery include a reduction in risks for cancers of the reproductive system, including ovarian and uterine cancers. Hormonal balance changes durin... ... Read More

Research backs up the long-standing stereotype that men avoid going to the doctor. Recent surveys show that approximately 44 percent of men don’t get an annual physical, and 60 percent of men won’t see a doctor if they suspect something is wrong. Men shouldn’t wait until the ‘check engine’ light flashes to take care of their health. Just like cars, bodies need routine and preventive maintenance, too. As fathers, as husbands, as coworkers, as friends, they owe it to the people who care about them to take... ... Read More

An estimated 6.9 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s dementia – and the numbers are growing. While there is no known cure, research is revealing that a healthy lifestyle and early treatment can possibly delay the onset of major symptoms. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of all cases, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Typically, Alzheimer’s develops after age 65 – 1 in 8 senior adults have Alzheimer’s disease – with an average age of 75 fo... ... Read More