What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic airway disease. It occurs when the airways in your lungs become inflamed and constricted, causing breathing problems. Signs and symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• A wheezing sound when breathing
• Feeling of tightness or pain on the chest
• Excessive mucus production
• Trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing

What Are “Asthma Attacks”?

Asthma attacks are episodes of increased asthma symptoms characterized by tightening of airways and difficulty breathing. An attack can start suddenly, and the level of severity varies each time and from person to person. Mild attacks are more common and usually go away in minutes after taking quick-relief medications. In more severe cases, the person may become breathless, and the situation can be life threatening. People with asthma should discuss with doctors how asthma attacks should be handled and are recommended to carry quick-relief medications (usually inhalers) at all ti

WHAT IS LEUKEMIA?

Leukemia is a cancer of the bone marrow and blood cells where an abnormally large amount of white blood cells are produced.  It is the most common cancer among children and adolescents, accounting for 1 out of 3 cancer cases.  

HOW DOES LEUKEMIA DEVELOP?

When healthy, the bone marrow makes three types of blood cells:

• Red Blood Cells – carry oxygen to all parts of the body
• White Blood Cells – help fight off infections
• Platelets – helps the blood clot when there is an open wound

The bone marrow of persons with leukemia makes many immature white blood cells called blasts. When a large number of blasts are produced, they crowd out the bone marrow from producing normal blood cells. This can lead to anemia, infection and easy bleeding.  

CAN LEUKEMIA BE PREVENTED?

Currently, there are no known ways to prevent childhood leukemia. Leukemia is NOT linked to lifestyle risk factors such as diet and exercise  

COMMON TYPES TYPE OF LEUKEMIA IN CHILDREN AND YOUNG ADULTS

There are several types of leukemia, depending on how rapidly it develops and which type of white blood cell is affected. Acute leukemia progresses rapidly if untreated, while chronic leukemia is very sl

Is someone you know a victim of dating violence? Are you in an abusive relationship?  What can you do to help yourself or your friends? What are your rights in a relationship? Let’s find out.  

What is Dating Violence?

Dating violence is a set of abusive behavior that a person shows towards another in a relationship. Violence does not have to be physical; it can be in the form of verbal, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse. Dating violence can happen to people of any race, culture, age, and religious background. It occurs in homosexual as well as heterosexual relationships.  

Quick statistics:

Dating violence may be more prevalent than you think:

• 1 in 3 teenagers reported knowing a friend who has been hit by their partner. (2005)
• 62% teenagers said they know friends who have been verbally abused by a boyfriend/girlfriend. (2008)
• 26% girls in a relationship reported experiencing repeated verbal abuse. (2008)
• Nearly 1 in 5 teenage girls who have

Understanding the Difference between Dating and Sex:

Dating is a time when two people get to know each other better. Too often teens think it is a hall pass to the other person’s body. Your date may say things like, “If you don’t want to have sex, why are we dating?” or “If you truly love me, you shouldn’t say no.”  Remember, in any relationship, you have the right to voice your opinion. It is important for you to assert yourself and not give in to things you do not want to do. Be prepared to give answers like, “We’re dating because I love you and I want to spend time with you. If you want to have sex, then you are dating the wrong person.”

Saying “No”:

In a healthy relationship, couples respect each other’s right to say no. And the best way to say no to sex or affection is by saying “No.” Anything else could be taken the wrong way or could give the other person “reasons” to persuade you. Don’t be afraid to express your opinions and feelings. Any strong, loving relationship is built on the basis of mutual respect. If you feel force

What is drug abuse?

Drug abuse is a negative pattern of using a substance that can lead to physical, psychological, and social problems. Most people do not start using drugs expecting to develop a substance abuse problem—they see their drug use as a casual way to have fun. Unfortunately, once they start, many find it difficult to stop, and the habit eventually takes control over their lives. Many teenagers tell themselves they will only try a drug once, but after the first try, they are usually under peer pressure to continue experimenting with drugs. Don’t take the risk—not even once. Say “No” to drugs!

Every year, more money is spent on advertising alcohol than any other consumer product. These images usually show well-built men surrounded by very attractive women all holding a particular alcoholic beverage. For men, the message is “If I drink this alcohol, I can get all kinds of beautiful ladies.” For women, the message is “If I drink this alcohol, I will look very sexy and good looking guys will be attracted to me.” These advertisements couldn’t be further from the truth. Alcohol is the most commonly used and widely abused drug in the world.  Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholism, an addiction to alcohol which is a chronic and sometimes deadly disease.