Ovarian Cysts: A Hidden Threat Every Woman Should Know

Understanding the Causes of Blockage Many people believe that coronary artery disease develops only with age. However, coronary artery problems can begin much earlier in life. The risk starts in youth when fatty deposits (fatty streaks) begin to form in the coronary arteries. Over time, these deposits thicken, eventually leading to artery blockages. Dr. Anupong Parinayok, a cardiologist at Praram 9 Heart and Vascular Institute, explains that the problem begins when the inner lining of blood vessels becomes inflamed and dysfunctional, often due to chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, also play a significant role. These factors make the blood vessel walls more prone to inflammation, allowing oxidized LDL cholesterol to infiltrate and accumulate within them. Over time, this buildup forms plaques and calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. If these plaques rupture, they can trigger the formation of a blood clot, leading to an acute heart attack. At this stage, quick medical intervention is crucial to prevent life-threatening complications. Ideally, however, it is best to prevent reaching this stage.

When people thinking of Thailand, many picture the sun, and just imaging it can make you want to grab an umbrella. But did you know that sunlight is more important to Thais than you might think? The gentle sunlight of the early morning and late afternoon not only warms the body but also helps produce vitamin D, which is crucial for strengthening bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Many people view sunlight as harmful, causing skin damage, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, leading them to overlook its benefits. Studies show that sunlight is essential for preventing osteoporosis and vitamin D deficiency. Exercising under soft sunlight in the morning allows the body to absorb vitamin D, which strengthens bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. In Thailand, 2.5-3% of the population of all genders and ages suffer from osteoporosis. Dr. Peeraphong Sawatdipong, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee and hip replacements at Praram 9 Hospital, revealed that vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in Thailand, affecting 30-40% of patients. The primary cause is an excessive fear of sunlight, leading to fragile bones and a higher risk of fractures, particularly among the elderly and postmenopausal women. In reality, morning sunlight, when absorbed through the skin, significantly helps the body produce vitamin D, which strengthens bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis later in life.

Recently, we’ve often heard of athletes—seemingly healthy and young—suddenly passing away, raising concerns about the true cause of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in athletes and young adults. Is there a connection with exercise? And how can we handle such situations to prevent unforeseen tragedies for ourselves and our loved ones? The Real Causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest Dr. Phonpitchaya Boondee, a cardiologist at the Praram 9 Cardiovascular Institute, explains that the incidence of sudden cardiac arrest tends to increase with age. Among younger people, it occurs at a rate of 1:100,000, which rises to 50:100,000 in middle-aged adults and up to 200:100,000 in those over 80 years old. Additionally, men are more at risk of coronary artery disease than women. In young individuals with no underlying conditions, the primary cause of sudden cardiac arrest are usually electrical disturbances of the heart and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. These are often genetic heart conditions that may present no prior symptoms, leaving individuals unaware they have heart disease.