Measles outbreaks in the U.S. and U.K. have sparked concern among health officials.

In Philadelphia, the state’s health department is currently tracking a measles outbreak, with nine cases confirmed as of Jan. 16.

Potential exposure dates ranged from Dec. 19 to Jan. 7.

The health department listed several addresses where people might have been exposed, including multiple hospitals and a day care.

MEASLES PROTECTION IS PARAMOUNT BEFORE TRAVELING OUTSIDE THE US, SAYS CDC

Other U.S. states have also reported positive cases, although they are not yet classified as outbreaks.

In New Jersey, the state health department reported a confirmed case of measles on Jan. 13 — the first in the state since March 2023 — but the source has not been confirmed. 

“No direct link has been identified to the ongoing measles outbreak in Philadelphia,” the statement said.

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Also on Jan. 13, Virginia’s health department warned of potential exposures at Dulles International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Jan. 3 and Jan. 4 after an infected person flew into the state from an overseas trip.

“Measles is extremely contagious and needs to be contained.”

On Jan. 11, the state of Delaware reported a potential measles exposure at the Nemours Children’s Hospital in Wilmington that occurred on Dec. 29, with up to 30 people exposed to an infected person.

On Jan. 10, two counties in Washington confirmed six cases of measles, all stemming from one family.

The CDC recommends that people get the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination to prevent infection. (iStock)

Outside the U.S., the U.K. is currently experiencing a measles outbreak, with more than 1,600 people in England and Wales contracting the highly contagious disease in 2023 — up from 735 in 2022 and 360 in 2021, according to reports.

In 2019, there were 1,274 cases of measles reported in the U.S., per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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That was the largest number of cases since 1992.

Most of those cases involved people who had not been vaccinated against the disease, the agency stated.

A 3D illustration. Measles is designated as a childhood infection that is caused by a virus, according to Mayo Clinic. (iStock)

In 2000, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared measles “eliminated” in the U.S., meaning there were no cases for at least 12 months. 

There is concern that WHO could rescind that designation if outbreaks continue for more than a year.

Tips for measles prevention 

Measles is designated as a childhood infection that is caused by a virus, according to Mayo Clinic.

The highly contagious disease can be serious and even fatal for young children.

The CDC recommends that people get the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination to prevent infection.

Symptoms include tiny white spots on the inner cheek lining, fever, dry cough, runny nose, sore throat, inflamed eyes, and large, flat blotches on the skin, per Mayo Clinic. (iStock )

“Children should get two doses of MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age,” the agency’s website states. “Teens and adults should also be up to date on their MMR vaccination. Two MMR vaccines are available for use in the United States, M-M-R II and PRIORIX.”

“It is important to monitor measles cases and be vigilant,” Renuga Vivekanandan, MD, assistant dean and professor at Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska, told Fox News Digital.

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The doctor blamed a decrease in vaccinations for the uptick.

“Overall, there has been vaccination hesitancy since the pandemic, with a decrease in vaccinations among children who can develop complications from measles, in addition to significant bad outcomes, such as meningitis,” she warned.

“Staying up to date on the MMR vaccine can boost immunity and help prevent outbreaks.”

A doctor warned that with global travel and a decrease in vaccinations, “measles can spread anywhere quickly.” (Getty)

As far as what’s causing measles outbreaks, Vivekanandan noted that with global travel and a decrease in vaccinations, “measles can spread anywhere quickly.”

“It’s important for medical providers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of measles, know how to test for it and isolate any patients who have tested positive, since measles is extremely contagious and needs to be contained,” she added.

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In addition to receiving an MMR vaccination, Vivekanandan said individuals should seek medical care if they believe they have developed measles.

Symptoms include tiny white spots on the inner cheek lining, fever, dry cough, runny nose, sore throat, inflamed eyes, and large, flat blotches on the skin, per Mayo Clinic.

The highest-risk groups include children, immunocompromised and non-immunized individuals, and pregnant women, the doctor warned.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health.

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There are hundreds of different types of cancer, and far more causes. Dr. John Oertle, chief medical director at Envita Medical Centers in Scottsdale, Arizona, shared a list of 10 carcinogens. (iStock)

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‘THIS IS WILD’ – A Florida man played the guitar while doctors removed his brain tumor. The doctor and patient describe the experience… Continue reading…

The neurological team from the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine asked Christian Nolen to play guitar during his surgery so that they could evaluate and protect his manual dexterity. (Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at U. of Miami Miller School of Medicine)

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An Alzheimer’s patient undergoes focused ultrasound treatment with the WVU RNI team. (Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) at West Virginia University (WVU))

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Many of cancer’s effects are visible — but the causes aren’t always so obvious.

There are hundreds of different types of cancer, and far more causes. 

“Cancer-causing agents, known as carcinogens, can be of various types and forms, working toward triggering mutations in the human body that lead to the development of cancer,” said Dr. John Oertle, chief medical director at Envita Medical Centers in Scottsdale, Arizona.

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While some causes, such as tobacco use and UV radiation, are widely known for their harmful effects, there are many other hidden carcinogens in the environment that are equally harmful, the doctor told Fox News Digital.

“These hidden carcinogens are ubiquitous but often avoidable if people are aware of their inherent dangers,” Oertle said.

“Environmental carcinogens often involve synthetic derivatives of industrial byproducts in addition to solvents, heavy metals, pesticides, radioisotopes and even carcinogenic microbes.”

The doctor shared a list of some of these hidden carcinogens, their sources and the types of cancer they cause.

Dr. John Oertle, chief medical director at Envita Medical Centers in Scottsdale, Arizona, said hidden carcinogens are ubiquitous but often avoidable. (Dr. John Oertle – Envita Medical Centers)

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, described Oertle’s list as “important.”

“Even though we talk about potential carcinogens all the time, the ones mentioned in this list are the major players,” he told Fox News Digital. 

“Though we are very familiar with the carcinogenic risks of tobacco, and UV light to the skin, others, like radon, are too frequently underestimated.”

10 environmental carcinogens

1. Tobacco

This carcinogen comes from cigarettes, leading to about 20% of all cancers and approximately 30% of cancer-related deaths in the country, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).

FOODS TO EAT, AND NOT EAT, TO PREVENT CANCER, ACCORDING TO A DOCTOR AND NUTRITIONIST

Tobacco can cause cancer of the mouth, nose, throat, larynx, trachea, esophagus, lungs, stomach, pancreas, liver, kidneys, ureters, bladder, colon, rectum and cervix, as well as leukemia, noted Oertle.

2. Organochlorines

Organochlorines are pesticides that have been used in agriculture around the world since they were introduced in the 1940s, despite having high toxicity. 

While they’ve been largely banned in the U.S. due to health hazards, they are still used in other countries, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Tobacco leads to about 20% of all cancers and some 30% of cancer-related deaths in the country, according to the American Cancer Society. (iStock)

Organochlorines can potentially lead to breast, colorectal, pancreatic, prostate, lung, oral/nasopharyngeal, thyroid, adrenal and gallbladder cancer, as well as lymphoma, according to Oertle.

3. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are chemicals found in coal, crude oil and gasoline, according to the CDC. 

They are emitted into the environment with the burning of coal, oil, gas, wood, garbage and tobacco.

ANNUAL BREAST CANCER SCREENINGS LINKED TO LOWER RISK OF DEATH, STUDY FINDS

PAHs can come from cigarette smoke, vehicular exhaust, roofing tar, occupational settings and pharmaceuticals, Oertle said.

Breast, skin, lung, bladder and gastrointestinal cancers can stem from exposure to these chemicals.

4. Volatile organic compounds

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals emitted through the creation of paints, pharmaceuticals and refrigerants, among other products, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

They are also found in industrial solvents, petroleum fuels and dry cleaning agents.

VOCs are commonly found in the air, groundwater, cigarette smoke, automobile emissions and gasoline, the cancer doctor warned. (iStock)

VOCs are commonly found in the air, groundwater, cigarette smoke, automobile emissions and gasoline, Oertle warned.

The compounds can cause lung, nasopharyngeal, lymphohematopoietic and sinonasal cancers, as well as leukemia.

5. UV radiation

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the World Health Organization (WHO) both classify ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds as a human carcinogen.

UV rays can cause a variety of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.

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Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S., affecting one in five Americans in their lifetimes and resulting in 9,500 diagnoses each day.

6. Radon

A radioactive gas, radon is a byproduct of uranium, thorium or radium breaking down in rocks, soil and groundwater, according to the EPA.

Organochlorines are pesticides that have been used in agriculture around the world since they were introduced in the 1940s, despite having high toxicity.  (iStock)

When radon seeps into buildings and homes, people can breathe it in — increasing their risk of leukemia, lymphoma, skin cancer, thyroid cancer, various sarcomas, lung cancer and breast cancer, Oertle said.

7. Asbestos

A mineral fiber in rock and soil, asbestos has historically been used in construction materials. 

Although some uses have been banned, it can still be found in insulation, roofing and siding shingles, vinyl floor tiles, heat-resistant fabrics and some other materials, per the EPA.

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Oertle warned that asbestos exposure can increase the risk of lung, mesothelioma, gastrointestinal, colorectal, throat, kidney, esophagus and gallbladder cancers.

8. Cadmium

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration defines cadmium as “a soft, malleable, bluish white metal found in zinc ores, and to a much lesser extent, in the cadmium mineral greenockite.”

When radon seeps into buildings and homes, people can breathe it in, increasing their risk of leukemia, lymphoma, skin cancer, thyroid cancer, various sarcomas, lung cancer and breast cancer. (iStock)

Cadmium can be found in paints, batteries and plastics, Oertle said.

The metal can be a factor in lung, prostate, pancreatic and renal cancers.

9. Chromium

There are two types of this trace mineral, as noted on WebMD’s website.

One is trivalent chromium, which is not harmful to humans. The other type, hexavalent chromium, is considered toxic.

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Sources of the harmful chromium include chrome plating, welding, leather tanning and ferrochrome metals.

Inhalation of chromium, a known human carcinogen, has been shown to cause lung cancer in steel workers, per the CDC.

10. Nickel

A heavy metal that is a known carcinogen, nickel is found in electroplating, circuitry, electroforming and batteries, noted Oertle.

Nickel has been linked to an increased risk of lung and nasal cancers, per the National Cancer Institute.

Overall, more than 1.9 million new cancer cases were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2023, and around 609,820 cancer-related deaths were reported, according to the ACS.

Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurologist and owner of Senolytix, a longevity-based health consultancy, pointed out that in addition to being aware of the various carcinogens and limiting exposure to them, it’s also important to take steps to prevent inflammation. (Dr. Brett Osborn)

Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurologist and owner of Senolytix, a longevity-based health consultancy, pointed out that in addition to being aware of the various carcinogens and limiting exposure to them, it’s also important to take measures to quell inflammation.

“Cancer, aside from those associated with a specific gene mutation, is an environmental disease.”

“Nearly all age-related diseases, of which cancer is one, are underpinned by low levels of inflammation,” Osborn told Fox News Digital.

To reduce inflammation, the doctor recommends eating a low glycemic index diet rich in olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flax, strength training regularly, getting adequate sleep and using a probiotic supplement.

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“Show your body the right signals, and it will respond in kind – you’ll have your health,” Osborn said. “Expose it to the wrong signals and you’ll turn on the ‘oncogenes’ that cause cancer.”

The doctor added, “Cancer, aside from those associated with a specific gene mutation (typically pediatric cancer), is an ‘environmental’ disease, period.”

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

The need to shed unwanted pounds affects not only humans, but also dogs, according to veterinary experts. 

Pet obesity rates have been on the rise over the past two decades in the U.S., with 59% of dogs classified as overweight or obese in 2022, according to a report from the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.

Obesity can shorten a dog’s life expectancy, contribute to pain and increase the risk of diseases such as diabetes, skin conditions, respiratory disorders, renal dysfunction, osteoarthritis and cancer, according to the report.  

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So how to help your furry friend battle the bulge? 

Fox News Digital spoke with several experts who offered advice for helping your pup shed some pounds.

Dr. Jeffrey Krasnoff, a veterinarian at Brookville Animal Hospital on Long Island, New York, told Fox News Digital that if your dog is gaining weight, it is important to start by seeing your veterinarian.

“Overweight dogs should be checked for underlying medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing disease (an excess of the hormone cortisol),” Krasnoff said.

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For Linda Fiordiliso — an American Kennel Club (AKC) judge who also shows bulldogs in national competitions and owns a dog grooming business in West Islip, New York — keeping her dogs in shape and healthy is a priority. 

“The dog should look toned. I don’t need an Arnold Schwarzenegger, but I need a dog that looks healthy,” she said, noting that this requires monitoring the animal’s diet and exercise.

Even for dogs who aren’t on the competitive circuit, it’s important for them to remain at a healthy weight, the AKC judge told Fox News Digital.

Advice for monitoring intake

Overweight issues in dogs are usually caused by overfeeding, Krasnoff said — noting that pet owners need to be disciplined when it comes to feeding dogs the appropriate food and portions.

“Dogs can’t open refrigerators, so it must be the owners who are giving the food to their beloved dogs.”

“A lot of people give too many treats — and that’s how the dog gains weight, just like a person who eats too many snacks and then sits on the couch all day.”

Krasnoff said he’s had success with certain prescription diet foods — as long as the owner strictly adheres to the diet plan.

To reduce calorie intake, Fiordiliso said she adds frozen peas or string beans to her bulldogs’ food to help them feel fuller with fewer calories.

If your dog is gaining weight, it is important to see your veterinarian, experts agree. (iStock)

There are a variety of tactics to help dogs lose weight — starting with identifying the source of the extra calories, said Lori Asprea, a licensed veterinary technician and assistant professor at Long Island University Post Veterinary Technology School. 

“Perhaps the pet is being overfed at meals or is being given too many treats, or kids or other family members might be handing out extra goodies or parts of their dinner,” Asprea told Fox News Digital.

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The next step is to determine the pet’s caloric needs. 

“I suggest that anyone interested in weight loss for their pet consult with their veterinarian to help them calculate the furry family member’s caloric needs,” Asprea said. “There is a base formula, but we tailor this based on pet activity, breed, health status and goals.”

For best results, reduce a pet’s daily intake gradually, veterinary experts suggest. “We never want the pet to be underfed or to have behavior and health changes from a drastic reduction in food,” an expert said. (iStock)

In households with multiple people, it can be difficult to keep track of how often the dog is fed.

Asprea recommends coming up with a plan to track what the pet gets daily — the amount of food and treats, including the calorie counts — and then comparing the actual intake with the recommended intake.

“Some of the treats out there have a lot of calories and can really pack on the pounds for our pets,” Jacqueline Geary, a licensed veterinary technician specializing in emergency and critical care on Long Island, told Fox News Digital.

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“Substituting treats with something such as a baby carrot can make a difference,” said Geary, who’s also a faculty instructor at Long Island University Post Veterinary Technology Program in Brookville, New York.

She recommends breaking treats into smaller pieces rather than giving an entire milk bone for one reward.

For best results, veterinary experts suggest reducing daily intake gradually.

“With overweight pets, just like people, we start small and make gradual changes to daily activities.”

“We never want the pet to be underfed or have behavior and health changes from a drastic reduction in food,” Asprea said.

“You can speak with your veterinarian about low-calorie snack options and certain prescription diets that are low-calorie but high in fiber, which allow pets to eat a higher quantity and feel satisfied while reducing calories,” she added.

One expert recommends breaking treats into smaller pieces rather than giving an entire milk bone for one reward. (iStock)

It’s never a good idea to try a human diet trend on your pet, experts emphasized.

For example, animal experts said there is not much research to show that intermittent fasting is effective in dogs.

“It is not a tactic we use, since the studies were fairly inconclusive and more research will be needed to better understand how something like intermittent fasting would affect our pets,” Asprea said. 

“For now, we do not recommend fasting your pet unless it is medically necessary.”

Tips for keeping dogs active

Increasing activity levels not only helps pups shed pounds, it also boosts the animal’s mental and physical health, experts agree.

“The time spent being active depends on the pet’s health, age, disposition and breed,” Asprea said.

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“We always say ‘a tired pet is a good pet,’ so it’s important for owners to tune into their individual pets’ needs.”

Each animal, even within the same breed, can be different, she pointed out. 

Increasing activity levels not only helps pups shed pounds, it boosts the animal’s mental and physical health, experts agree. (iStock)

“It’s worth taking note of how much they want to engage or if they have destructive behaviors because they are bored,” Asprea said.

Consult with your veterinarian before starting your furry friend on a new exercise regimen, she also said.

“As a general rule, with overweight pets, just like people, we start small and make gradual changes to daily activities so as not to overwhelm or stress them physically,” Asprea told Fox News Digital.  

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There are ways to encourage lower-impact activity while being mindful of the extra stress the added pounds put on your dog’s joints.

“In my house, we play hide and seek with dinner,” Asprea said. “I take half the meal of kibbles and hide them all over and give the command to find. This is physically and mentally stimulating, all while getting dinner done.”

It’s never a good idea to try a human diet trend on your pet, veterinary experts emphasized. (iStock)

Fiordiliso suggested increasing the animal’s activity level by going on more walks and playing with a ball to get the dog moving to help burn calories for both the pet and the owner.

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If at-home tactics do not seem to work, veterinary experts recommend using other services, such as physical therapy for pets. 

There are also veterinarians who specialize in sports medicine and rehabilitation, using special tools like underwater treadmills to help get pets moving safely.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

A family of five was hospitalized with carbon monoxide poisoning in Portland, Oregon, on Sunday, according to local reports.

Investigators said the poisoning was the result of the family’s use of a generator and cooking with propane inside an apartment.

“Someone called 911 because a child approximately 8 years old was found lying in the snow outside,” Lt. Terry Foster, a fire inspector for Portland Fire & Rescue, told Fox News Digital on Tuesday.

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“When crews arrived, they did a search of the apartment and found four people lying on the floor of the apartment and began removing them. They were all transported by American Medical Response.”

The investigators found high volumes of carbon monoxide in the apartment, where a generator and camp stove were being used, Foster said.

“These devices were what led to this emergency.” 

The occupants were conscious when transported, but were exhibiting symptoms consistent with carbon monoxide poisoning, Foster said.

The adjacent apartments were checked and evacuated.

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“Crews were able to ventilate the structure and residents were able to move back in quickly,” Foster noted.

A severe winter storm hit Portland on Saturday, leaving thousands of people without power. 

The apartment complex had not had access to heat since a tree fell on a powerline across the street the previous day.

The investigators (not shown) found high volumes of carbon monoxide in the apartment, where a generator and camp stove were being used. (iStock)

“DO NOT use generators indoors because carbon monoxide is a silent, colorless, odorless, tasteless killer,” Portland Fire & Rescue advised in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Isabela Royer, a woman who lives across the hall from the family that was poisoned, called 911 after one of the family members knocked on her door, she told a local news outlet.

“He’s right there and he says, ‘Help me, please,'” Royer said. 

“I walk out into the hallway, and I look down the stairs at the bay window seating area and his child is throwing up, heaving, obviously sick.”

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“I dragged the kid outside to get some fresh air and some other guy from their family pulled up and started pulling the rest of the people out of the house,” Royer continued.

“The door to their apartment was open and I saw the generator and I knew right away,” she added.

The patients were all conscious when they were transported to the hospital, officials said. (iStock)

Foster said he reached out to the investigator on Tuesday, who reported that they had no further information about the patients. 

The lieutenant also reminded residents that if they’re unable to warm themselves safely, Multnomah County offers warming shelters throughout the county.

“You can call 2-1-1 to help get you there,” he said.

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The most dangerous outcomes of carbon monoxide poisoning can include death, permanent organ damage and long-term neurological effects, according to Dr. Dung Trinh, a brain health expert and owner of The Healthy Brain Clinic in Long Beach, California.

“Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that can bind to hemoglobin in the blood, reducing its ability to carry oxygen, leading to tissue hypoxia and damage to vital organs,” he previously told Fox News Digital.

The most dangerous outcomes of carbon monoxide poisoning can include death, permanent organ damage and long-term neurological effects. (iStock)

The effects of carbon monoxide poisoning can vary depending on the severity of the exposure and individual factors.

Those at highest risk include infants, elderly individuals, pregnant women and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiac conditions, Trinh said.

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Each year, carbon monoxide poisoning claims at least 420 lives, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

Health officials in the nation’s capital are warning of a possible measles exposure Tuesday after a person with a “confirmed case” traveled through two of the busiest airports in the region while returning home from an international trip.

DC Health says the potential exposure occurred in the international arrivals area of the main terminal at Dulles International Airport between 4 and 8 p.m. on Jan. 3, then at terminal A at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport the following day from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. 

“DC Health has been notified of a confirmed case of measles in a person who traveled through DC area airports when returning from international travel,” the agency said in a statement. “While the threat of transmission is low, DC Health is notifying District residents who were at these locations about their possible exposure.” 

THESE 8 HEALTH SCREENINGS SHOULD BE ON YOUR CALENDAR FOR 2024, ACCORDING TO DOCTORS 

The Virginia Department of Health issued a similar warning days earlier. 

Hundreds of flights involving thousands of travelers arrive and depart at both airports daily. 

“Measles is a highly contagious illness that can spread easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles symptoms usually appear in two stages. In the first stage, most people have a fever of greater than 101 degrees, runny nose, watery red eyes, and a cough. These symptoms usually start 7 to 14 days after being exposed,” the Virginia Department of Health said in a statement.

“The second stage starts 3 to 5 days after symptoms start, when a rash begins to appear on the face and spread to the rest of the body.”

COLORADO MEASLES CASE CONFIRMED DAYS AFTER INTERNATIONAL TRAVELER FLEW INTO DENVER AIRPORT 

“People with measles are contagious from 4 days before the rash appears through 4 days after the rash appeared,” it added. 

A measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (iStock)

It is unclear on which airline the person with measles was traveling.

Both health agencies say anyone who was exposed and is at risk of developing measles should be on alert for symptoms until Jan. 25.

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“If you notice symptoms of measles, immediately isolate yourself by staying home and away from others. Contact your healthcare provider right away,” they both add.

“Call ahead before going to your health care provider’s office or the emergency room to notify them that you may have been exposed to measles and ask them to call the health department. This will help protect other patients and staff.”

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

The idea of having brain surgery while awake might seem amazing enough — but one Florida man took it a step further and played the guitar while doctors removed his tumor.

The neurological team from the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine wanted the patient, Christian Nolen, to play notes on the instrument so they could evaluate and protect his manual dexterity while being as aggressive as possible in removing the tumor.

The surgeon and patient both spoke with Fox News Digital about the experience.

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Nolen, who is an avid guitar player, had a tumor on the right frontal lobe of his brain that was starting to cause symptoms.

“Christian was having issues with the left side of his body, particularly his left hand,” Ricardo Komotar, M.D., director of the brain tumor program at Sylvester, told Fox News Digital via Zoom. 

“He was noticing issues with his dexterity that affected his ability to play the guitar.”

Nolen needed surgery to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of tumor — as every tumor has different treatment options, Komotar noted — and also to remove as much of it as possible.

TEENAGE BRAIN CANCER PATIENT MISSES HOMECOMING, SO THE HOSPITAL THROWS A SURPRISE DANCE FOR HER

The surgery was scheduled for 10 days after the tumor was discovered — and Nolen was surprised when the doctors asked if he’d be willing to remain awake and play the guitar for the procedure.

“When a tumor is involving or near a critical part of the brain — something that controls the ability to speak or understand language or move — we want to do the surgery awake to continually monitor the patient, so you know if you start to violate normal brain functions,” Komotar said.

Dr. Ricardo Komotar of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is director of the brain tumor program at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. (Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine)

When the patient is asleep, the doctor said, the surgery team doesn’t have the ability to get feedback.

“The surgeries actually become much more dangerous because you can take out a tumor that involves normal brain function and cause real harm without knowing it,” he said.

Given the importance of guitar-playing in Nolen’s quality of life, Komotar said there was “no better way” to monitor his manual dexterity and the effect of the tumor than to have him take up the instrument in the operating room. 

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When the doctors posed the option to Nolen, he said that at first it “didn’t seem real.”

“I’d only really heard of procedures of that nature being done in shows and movies,” he told Fox News Digital in an email. “I felt like it was such a unique experience that I couldn’t pass up — especially with my motor skills being on the line.”

He added, “The risk of being sedated for the entire procedure outweighed any fear or anxieties around the procedure itself.”

Given the importance of guitar-playing in Nolen’s quality of life, his surgeon said there was “no better way” to monitor his manual dexterity and the effect of the tumor than to have him take up the instrument in the operating room.  (Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine)

Prior to the procedure, Nolen said he was introduced to members of the surgical team and was told in-depth about what to expect. 

The anesthesiology team put Nolen to sleep for the beginning of the open craniotomy, but he was awakened during a delicate part of the two-hour procedure. Once he was oriented on what was happening, the care team gave Nolen a guitar and asked him to play.

“Upon awakening, it was quite overwhelming to see everything around me and to fight the natural reaction to sit up,” Nolen recalled. 

“I felt like it was such a unique experience that I couldn’t pass up — especially with my motor skills being on the line.”

After one of the members of the care team placed a “reassuring hand” to prevent Nolen from sitting up, he said it took only a second for him to remember what was happening.

“I just had to breathe and stay calm,” he said.

During surgery, he tried his best to play through some of the songs he had been practicing, including tunes by artists like the Deftones and System of a Down.

Nolen had a tumor on the right frontal lobe of his brain that was starting to cause symptoms. (Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine)

As the surgeons removed the tumor, they continuously monitored Nolen’s hand function while he played the guitar.

“As we were finishing the case at the very back of the tumor, we noticed that his hand function started to decline,” said Komotar. “The tumor was touching and interfacing with the part of the brain that controls hand movement. Fortunately, we were able to remove the entire tumor and not injure his hand.”

“This is wild,” Nolen said during the surgery.

What to know about awake procedures

While a patient playing guitar during surgery is not an everyday occurrence, Komotar told Fox News Digital that he and the rest of the specialized neurosurgical team perform awake surgeries several times a week, for a total of a couple of hundred times a year. 

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“Most patients are intrigued by the process,” he said. “We tell them that they’re going to be able to speak and move their hands or limbs so we can constantly examine them.”

The doctors also reassure the patients that they won’t feel any pain, likely won’t remember the entire procedure, and will remain very comfortable — “which is the result of our world-class neuroanesthesia team,” added Komotar.

Research has proven the benefits of doing procedures with awake anesthesia instead of deep general anesthesia, the doctor noted.

Prior to the procedure, Nolen was introduced to members of the surgical team and was told in-depth about what to expect. (Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine)

“Surgery with continuous neurological exam leads to better functional outcomes and fewer neurological deficits,” he said. 

There are also improvements in discharge and recovery.

“The less anesthesia you use during your procedure, the better the patient wakes up,” he said. “The faster they wake up, the sooner they are up and walking around, and the sooner they go home.”

Komotar added, “And inherently, the longer you’re in the hospital, the more complications you have.”

“Surgery with continuous neurological exam leads to better functional outcomes and fewer neurological deficits.”

Guitar-playing isn’t the only activity that patients can do during an awake craniotomy. 

Anything that doesn’t increase pressure in the head, such as playing the violin, is fair game, Komotar said. 

Some patients sing during brain surgery, which allows the surgeon to monitor their ability to form and understand words as they remove tumors in areas that involve language.

Before awake surgeries, the doctors reassure patients that they won’t feel any pain, likely won’t remember the entire procedure, and will remain very comfortable. Nolen is shown at left; Dr. Ricardo Komotar is at right.  (Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine)

There are some risks involved with awake cranial surgery, Komotar acknowledged.

“Seizures can definitely be worsened by doing awake surgery,” he told Fox News Digital. “If someone has a history of seizures, we try to avoid electric brain stimulation, which is part of the technique.”

The biggest risk of doing awake brain tumor removal is that about 5% to 10% of patients don’t “tolerate” being awakened, Komotar said. 

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“Even with world-class anesthesia, they might wake up either too startled or too in pain to be examined,” he said. “They might be confused, agitated or unable to follow commands.”

If that happens, the care team puts the patient back to sleep and proceeds with a more conservative tumor removal. 

“He went home the day after surgery. He says his quality of life is better than it’s ever been, so I think his recovery has been remarkable.”

Without having continuous feedback from the patient, the surgical team can’t be as aggressive with the tumor removal, Komotar noted. “We only take out what we know is definitely safe, and we leave anything that’s questionable.”

The road to recovery

Nolen’s surgery went smoothly and the entire tumor was removed.

“Christian did terrific,” Komotar said. “He went home the day after surgery. He says his quality of life is better than it’s ever been, so I think his recovery has been remarkable.”

“The team at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Miami has been very informative and has not left much to the imagination in the best way possible,” the patient said. (Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine)

The first couple of weeks after surgery were a little tough for Nolen, the patient said, mainly due to post-surgery restrictions. 

“The days were really dragging,” Nolen told Fox News Digital. “However, with a strong support system, I’ve been able to focus on the positives.”

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He is now back to working out at the gym and playing the guitar, with significant improvement in his left hand.

“A case like this spotlights the value of multidisciplinary care.”

He’s awaiting the final pathology results, with follow-up treatment likely consisting of six weeks of radiation and chemotherapy.

Both Komotar and Nolen emphasized that the success of the surgery hinged on the collaboration of the entire care team.

“The team at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Miami has been very informative and has not left much to the imagination in the best way possible,” said Nolen. “They have also provided me with quite a few programs for emotional support.”

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“A case like this spotlights the value of multidisciplinary care,” added Komotar. 

“It’s not possible to remove a tumor like this and get the patient home so quickly and in such good health without an entire comprehensive team — neuro anesthesiologists, great intensive care specialists, nurses, techs, great oncologists — all working together.”

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Beyond the common resolutions involving diet and exercise, the New Year is a great time to take stock of recommended health screenings and get them on the calendar, experts say.

Each person’s screening decisions will depend on individual factors such as gender, medical conditions, family history and other factors.

“Even if you’re feeling great, early detection is your best weapon against cancer,” Eric D. Whitman, M.D., system medical director of Atlantic Health System Cancer Care in New Jersey, told Fox News Digital. 

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“When it comes to any type of cancer, the earlier you catch it, the better your survival rate and ability to treat the cancer becomes.”

In addition to cancer, preventive monitoring is also important for other diseases. 

Below are eight of the most important health screenings that doctors shared with Fox News Digital.

1. Mammography for breast cancer

The current guidelines from the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend that women ages 40 to 49 discuss the risks and benefits of biennial mammograms with their doctor.

For women 50 and older, regular mammograms are recommended every two years. 

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“With that said, women with a family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations like BRCA1/2 may need earlier or more frequent screening,” Eric D. Whitman, M.D., system medical director of Atlantic Health System Cancer Care in New Jersey, told Fox News Digital.

2. Colonoscopy for colorectal cancer

Average-risk adults aged 50 to 75 should undergo regular colonoscopies every 10 years, Whitman said.

“Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease or certain genetic syndromes may need earlier or more frequent colonoscopies,” he said. 

Average-risk adults aged 50 to 75 should undergo regular colonoscopies every 10 years, a cancer doctor said. (iStock)

Stool tests like FIT (fecal immunochemical test) or Cologuard can be alternative options for some patients, he added. 

“It’s important to discuss your options with a physician to create a screening strategy that works best for you,” Whitman said.

3. Skin cancer screenings

Adults of all ages should perform regular self-skin exams and report any suspicious changes to their doctor, Whitman advised. 

He also recommends seeing a dermatologist annually for a screening. 

“Adults at higher risk due to fair skin, sun exposure or family history may need professional skin exams more frequently,” he said. 

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“Early detection of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, is crucial,” the doctor added. 

“Be aware of the ABCDEs of melanoma (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter and Evolution) and promptly consult your doctor if you notice any concerning changes.”

4. Heart health screenings

Although heart disease remains a leading cause of death, in many cases it can be prevented or managed with proactive screening and lifestyle modifications.

Dr. Anjali Dutta, a cardiovascular specialist with Atlantic Health System in New Jersey, recommends that people get annual check-ups and screenings starting as early as age 21. 

A cardiovascular specialist recommends that people get annual check-ups and screenings starting as early as age 21.  (iStock)

“These visits should include basic assessments of blood pressure, heart rate, weight and general blood work, including complete blood count (CBC), comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) and Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c),” she told Fox News Digital. 

“This baseline can reveal potential issues like high cholesterol, diabetes or early signs of heart disease.”

For patients whose results are normal, this screening can be repeated every two to three years, according to Dutta.

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For those who have risk factors like hypertension or a family history of heart disease, she said that annual screenings are crucial.

The doctor also recommends a baseline EKG at around age 40, but younger individuals with a family history of heart disease, arrhythmias or concerning symptoms — like palpitations or shortness of breath — may consider getting one earlier. 

A cardiologist recommends a baseline EKG at around age 40, but younger individuals with a family history of heart disease, arrhythmias or concerning symptoms — like palpitations or shortness of breath — may consider getting one earlier.  (iStock)

“This simple test can detect electrical abnormalities in your heart, potentially revealing hidden risks before symptoms arise,” she said.

For people 50 and older, Dutta suggests considering a stress test, which assesses the heart’s function under exertion, or an echocardiogram, which provides detailed images of the heart’s chambers and valves. 

“These tests can identify blockages or weaknesses before they cause major problems,” she said.

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For individuals aged 40 to 70, Dutta said a coronary calcium score can also be beneficial. 

“This painless screening tool is revealed via a CT scan to show the amount of plaque buildup in your coronary arteries, offering a glimpse into your future heart disease risk,” she said. 

“It’s essential to have open communication with your doctor, even about seemingly minor concerns.”

“This information can empower you to adopt preventative measures like a healthy diet, exercise and stress management, even if you currently have no symptoms.”

“It’s important to remember that a healthy heart thrives on more than just screenings,” Dutta added. “That’s why it’s essential to have open communication with your doctor, even about seemingly minor concerns.”

5. Sleep health screenings

An estimated 39 million U.S. adults are living with sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that causes long pauses in breathing and drops in blood oxygen levels. 

Beyond disrupting sleep, the condition can increase the risk for many chronic and deadly health conditions.

These include disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and early or sudden death, according to Dr. Chelsie Rohrscheib, the head sleep expert at Wesper, a New York-based company that makes sleep disorder diagnostics technology.

An estimated 39 million U.S. adults are living with sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that causes long pauses in breathing and drops in blood oxygen levels.  (iStock)

“Testing for sleep apnea is recommended for people who have some or all of the following symptoms: chronically poor sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness, snoring, cognitive dysfunction, morning headache, waking up gasping or choking for air, chronic insomnia, high blood pressure or a heart rhythm disorder, frequent nighttime urination, and poor mood or mental health,” Rohrscheib told Fox News Digital.

Sleep apnea is easier to screen due to the availability of home sleep testing, which can detect sleep apnea while the patient sleeps in their own bed, the expert noted.

6. Cervical cancer screenings

Each year, about 11,500 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed and about 4,000 women die of the disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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Dr. Jeff Gordon, medical director of hematology-oncology at UMass Memorial Health-Harrington, recommends that women get cervical cancer screenings at age 25 and undergo primary human papillomavirus (HPV) testing every five years through age 65.

After that point, no screening is necessary if there is no history of disease within the past 25 years and if there has been “adequate negative prior screening” in the prior 10 years, Gordon told Fox News Digital. 

Each year, about 11,500 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed and about 4,000 women die of the disease. (iStock)

If a primary HPV test is not available, the doctor — who also serves as a Connecticut state senator and sits on the Public Health Committee — recommends a pap smear combined with an HPV test every five years or a pap smear alone every three years.

7. Prostate cancer screenings

Some 288,300 new cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2023, with around 34,700 men dying from the disease, according to the American Cancer Society.

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“Men should make informed decisions with their doctors about the possible benefits of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) tests starting at 50 years old for average risk, or earlier if higher risk,” Gordon told Fox News Digital. 

“A digital rectal exam of the prostate is also considered.”

8. Retinal exams

Cases of diabetic retinopathy, a diabetes complication that affects the eyes, are expected to increase 72% by 2050, according to the CDC. 

“Eye testing and early detection can help improve the quality of life for people with diabetes,” said Dr. Michael D. Abramoff, an Iowa-based retina specialist and the founder and executive chairman of Digital Diagnostics, an artificial intelligence health tech company.

Cases of diabetic retinopathy, a diabetes complication that affects the eyes, are expected to increase 72% by 2050, according to the CDC.  (iStock)

While eye screenings are important at any age, roughly one-third of patients older than 40 have signs of diabetic retinopathy, he told Fox News Digital.

“A screening can detect complications ranging from floaters to blindness,” Abramoff said.

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These are just some of the preventive health screenings that are available to patients.

“I encourage everyone to have an open and informed conversation with their doctor to develop a personalized screening plan that best suits their unique needs and risk factors,” said Whitman.

“Ultimately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach — it’s important to work with your doctor to craft a personalized screening plan based on your personal medical history, family history, risk factors and lifestyle.”

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.