Human Health Guide

  Introduction Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and can gradually impact speech, balance, and cognitive function. While it often begins with mild symptoms like tremors, Parkinson’s disease can significantly affect quality of life if not managed properly. With growing awareness and advancements in treatment, people with Parkinson’s can live long, meaningful lives. Mental health support is vital for Parkinson’s patients — read Mental Health Awareness . What is Parkinson’s Disease? Parkinson’s disease occurs when nerve cells in the brain, particularly in a region called the substantia nigra , become damaged or die. These cells produce dopamine , a chemical messenger that helps regulate movement. When dopamine levels drop, movement becomes slow, stiff, and uncoordinated. Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms develop gradually and vary among individuals. Physical activity improves symptoms — see Role of Exercise . Motor Symptoms ...

  Introduction Your kidneys are small but mighty organs that play an essential role in keeping your body healthy. Located on either side of your spine, these bean-shaped organs filter blood, remove waste, balance fluids, and help regulate blood pressure. Unfortunately, kidney diseases are becoming increasingly common worldwide — often going unnoticed until the damage is advanced. Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney issues — explore our Diabetes Awareness article. Protecting your kidneys is vital for a long, healthy life. Functions of the Kidneys The kidneys perform several critical functions: Filtering Waste: Removing toxins and excess fluids from the blood, which are excreted as urine. Balancing Fluids and Electrolytes: Regulating sodium, potassium, and pH balance. Blood Pressure Control: Producing hormones (renin) that regulate blood pressure. Red Blood Cell Production: Releasing erythropoietin, which signals bone marrow to make red blood cells. Bone Health: ...

  Introduction Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, but greater awareness has helped save millions of lives through prevention, early detection, and better treatments. Unlike infections that strike quickly, cancer develops silently, often over years. By the time many people discover it, the disease may have advanced. This is why awareness and regular health checkups are so important. Regular checkups help in early cancer detection — read our guide on Health Screenings . What is Cancer? Cancer occurs when normal body cells begin to grow uncontrollably, forming abnormal masses known as tumors . These cancer cells can invade surrounding tissues and, in some cases, spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymphatic system — a process called metastasis . Not all tumors are cancerous. Benign tumors are usually harmless and don’t spread, while malignant tumors are cancerous and potentially life-threatening. Types of Cancer There are over 100 types of ca...

  Introduction Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the world’s oldest and deadliest infectious diseases. Despite medical advances, TB remains a major global health threat, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Each year, millions are infected, and over a million die from TB-related complications. The good news? TB is preventable, treatable, and curable with the right approach. HIV weakens immunity and increases TB risk — read our HIV Awareness article.This article explores everything you need to know about tuberculosis — from its causes to treatment and prevention. What is Tuberculosis? Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis . It primarily affects the lungs ( pulmonary TB ) but can spread to other organs ( extrapulmonary TB ) such as the kidneys, brain, spine, and lymph nodes. TB spreads when a person with active TB in their lungs coughs, sneezes, or speaks, releasing tiny infectious droplets into the air. Infections like malaria also affect v...

  Introduction HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus , remains one of the most significant global health challenges. Since the early 1980s, when the first cases were identified, HIV has claimed millions of lives worldwide. However, with advances in medicine, awareness, and prevention, HIV is now a manageable chronic condition rather than a death sentence. TB is a major opportunistic infection for HIV patients — learn more in Tuberculosis Awareness . Understanding how HIV works, how it spreads, and how it can be managed is key to prevention and better health outcomes. What is HIV? HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system , specifically targeting CD4 cells (T cells), which are responsible for fighting infections. Over time, HIV weakens the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections and diseases. If untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) — the final and most severe stage of HIV infection. With proper treatment, ...

Introduction Malaria is one of the world’s most serious infectious diseases, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite decades of global efforts, malaria continues to affect millions of people every year. It is preventable and treatable, yet it remains life-threatening if not properly managed. Understanding the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of malaria is crucial for both individuals and communities. Malaria prevention is part of general wellness — see Preventive Healthcare . What is Malaria? Malaria is a disease caused by parasites called Plasmodium , transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Once inside the human body, the parasites travel to the liver, where they multiply before infecting red blood cells. Types of Malaria Parasites There are several species of Plasmodium that infect humans: Plasmodium falciparum – The most dangerous; causes severe malaria and most deaths. Plasmodium vivax – Common in A...

  Introduction Diabetes has become one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide, affecting millions of people across all ages. It is no longer a condition associated only with older adults; younger people, including children, are increasingly being diagnosed. The rise in diabetes cases is strongly linked to modern lifestyles — including poor diets, physical inactivity, and obesity. High blood pressure often coexists with diabetes — see our article on Foods that Lower Blood Pressure . But with proper awareness, early detection, and healthy lifestyle choices, diabetes can be prevented or effectively managed. What is Diabetes? Diabetes is a long-term condition that occurs when the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is the body’s main energy source, but it needs insulin — a hormone made by the pancreas — to move into cells. When insulin is not produced in enough amounts or the body becomes resistant to it, glucose stays in the blood, leading to high blood...