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5 household items that may cause cancer

While daily tasks have become easier with the invention of products that help keep homes safe and increase efficiency, it is important to know the risks of such seemingly harmless everyday items. While some household products can pose physical harm due to their design, many have been linked with an increased risk of diseases like cancer. One should also lower the risk of being exposed to carcinogens found in daily objects and find safer alternatives.

Scented candles
Many scented candles available today are made with products like petroleum, paraffin, and perfumes. Because of these ingredients, when the candle is lit and the burning process starts, the fragrance one can smell is just harmful chemicals and smoke. These chemicals have carcinogenic properties that are harmful to the body. So, one should check the ingredients in such products and avoid using them too often. One can always choose candles made using soy wax, which is a healthier alternative.

Asbestos roofing and insulation
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals known to be resistant to heat and corrosion. Because of these unique properties, asbestos is used extensively, for example, in insulation, fireproofing materials, wallboards, and automotive brakes. The risk here rises when fibers break and can easily be breathed in and get lodged inside the lungs. The material is highly carcinogenic, according to studies. When using asbestos for construction projects, it is important to practice caution and always wear gloves and a face mask.

Browned food
One should avoid cooking foods on high flame, as they may get charred or too brown. Apart from the burnt taste, when cooking something to make it crispy and brown, the food releases a chemical called acrylamide, which is linked with a higher risk of cancer. So, instead of browning the foods completely, one can cook them till they are tan and not dark brown.

Leather chairs
Elegant and comfortable, leather chairs are common furniture pieces in homes. However, tanned leather chairs undergo a dying process that involves scorching the material. This process is carried out using ingredients like chromium salt and arsenic solvents, which are all linked to the increased risk of developing lung cancer. Even dyed wooden sofas go through the same process, so it is crucial to be mindful of such purchases that may be harmful to the body.

PVC shower curtains
Certain studies suggest that polyvinyl chloride is linked with an increased risk of cancer. When PVC reacts with heat or detergents, it releases chemicals that are harmful to the body and the environment. That is why a lot of shower curtains also come with their own cleaning instructions that one must follow to a tee. Nylon shower curtains are considered safer than those made out of PVC.

Besides these household items, one should be cautious while using non-stick cookware as they may contain potentially cancerous properties like PTFE, PFOA, and PFAS. One should pick ceramic pans free from these chemicals to reduce the risk. It is also advisable to avoid cleaning products with ingredients like phthalates.

Coping with urges that can trigger a relapse post treatment

Addictions when left untreated can turn into crippling conditions. One can be addicted to smoking, binge drinking, or even shopping. Once addicted, one willfully submits to urges, despite having satisfied them before. However, addictions can be managed and to a great extent treated to full recovery. But, the post-recovery phase is crucial where both the mind and body are put to test and can trigger a relapse. Continue reading to know more about the most common triggers for addictions and how to deal with them.Stress Stress is commonly the root cause of many problems and addictions, both physical and psychological. One can become an addict as a way to manage the stress that may stem from strained relationships or priorities. The best way to avoid a relapse during recovery is to make lifestyle changes that donât trigger a return to addictions amidst a stressful situation. One can practice mindfulness, engage in relaxation techniques, manage oneâs time to avoid stressful situations, and imbibe healthy eating habits and exercise in their daily routine. EmotionsThere is an umpteen number of triggers that invoke a positive or negative emotional response. However, the stress associated with dealing with emotions daily can trigger urges without one even realizing. Often, one turns to a glass of alcohol or relies on prescription medications to put the mind at ease. It is not a permanent solution and prolonged use of these substances can cause more harm in the long run. One must learn and explore productive ways of controlling emotions better to avoid a relapse during recovery. For example, writing and maintaining a journal that contains oneâs feelings and thoughts can act as a healthy outlet. Similarly, there are other healthy ways to channel oneâs energy and manage emotional responses.Positive conditioningPeople who have addictions such as smoking or drinking may often find themselves in situations where a lit cigarette or a glass of wine can trigger a relapse. This is understandable considering these substances were the primary source of comfort and relaxation. However, with positive reinforcement and reconditioning one can train the mind and curb such urges. Relaxation doesnât always mean techniques like yoga or meditation, it can also be pursuing your hobby. Counseling for group gatheringsBirthdays, parties, New Yearâs events, and any celebration in general call for alcohol consumption and smoking. At times, these could be the very addictions one is recovering from, and in a social gathering, such temptations can be strong. However, a recovering addict should refrain from indulging in any of these as even a taste can turn into a relapse. For instance, a recovering alcoholic must avoid having a single drink as that could put him/her on a slippery slope to relapse. Here, one-on-one counseling can help prepare the mind to resist the urge. It is never healthy for a recovering addict to simply avoid socializing fearing a relapse.

4 common mistakes made when measuring blood pressure

Blood pressure measures the force or pressure of the blood in the arteries. These readings are given in systolic and diastolic numbers. The systolic pressure (top number) is the maximum heartbeat pressure, and the diastolic pressure (bottom number) is the amount of pressure in the arteries between beats. A typical healthy average reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg. When measuring blood pressure, one must be careful and avoid making common mistakes, such as: Using the wrong-sized cuff One of the most frequently occurring mistakes is using the wrong cuff size. A large cuff will give falsely low readings, while a smaller cuff will give falsely high readings. According to the American Heart Associationâs blood pressure measuring guidelines, the length and width of the cuff should be 80 and 40 percent of the arm circumference, respectively. Generally, doctors carry three cuff sizes - large adult, regular adult, and pediatric - that fit a majority of the population. However, doctors working with younger patients may require multiple smaller-sized cuffs. Incorrect patient positioning Getting accurate blood pressure measurement also requires the patient to be seated properly. For instance, a poorly supported back or feet may increase a reading by six to ten points, an unsupported arm may raise it by ten points or more, and sitting with oneâs legs crossed may raise it by two to eight points. Lying on the side can also impact measurement. Ideally, itâs best to sit up in a chair, with oneâs legs uncrossed and planted firmly on the ground or a footstool. Position the arm on a chair or a counter to level the BP cuff with the heart. Additionally, it is important to prepare the patient for the measurement. Ask the patient to empty their bladder before running a blood pressure check, as measuring blood pressure on a full bladder may increase the reading by 10 to 15 points. Incorrect cuff placement Where the cuff is placed also impacts the blood pressure measurement. It must always be placed over the bare arm. Placing the BP cuff over clothes can increase readings by five to fifty points. The cuff must also be snugly wrapped over the brachial artery such that two fingers may fit between the patientâs arm and the cuff. Talking during the measurement Itâs best to avoid talking during a blood pressure measurement. Whether itâs to someone in the room or over the phone, talking, and even active listening can increase the measurement by 10 points. Remaining still and silent during a measurement can help one receive a more accurate result. Inaccurate results can skew treatment plans and put oneâs health and safety at risk. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines carefully when administering or receiving a blood pressure measurement for reliable and accurate results every time.

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4 tips that can help you pick the right investment advisor

An investment advisor can be a game-changer. A capable advisor can help solve most of your financial issues and give you the best investment advice so that you can turn market situations to your favor. But, finding the right investment advisor is not easy. Here are a few things you need to keep in mind while looking for the best investment advisor. Know what type of service you need First, you need to decide what kind of financial assistance you need. Do you need help picking investments? Or are you seeking advice on real estate, retirement, or insurance needs? Asking yourself these questions will help determine the type of investment advisor you are looking for. Nowadays, many people use a robo-advisor, which is as competent as a human investment advisor. A robo-advisor is great for investment management and other basic investments. But if you want substantial transformation in your money-situation, a human advisor is the viable option. Choose a fee-only advisor If you’ve decided to pick a human advisor, the next step is to choose the type of advisor: commission-based, fee-based, or fee-only. If you’re planning something big financially, you must pick a fee-only advisor. Such advisors work for and get paid by other clients like you, so they always act in their clients’ best interest.

Handy tips for retirement-focused investments

With pension plans becoming more and more obsolete, retirement-focused investments have come to the fore in the past few years. Besides helping you fund your future, these valuable assets also provide incredible gains, and in some cases, constant income till the end of life. Since investing for retirement—and planning it—can prove to be challenging, we have put together a list of tips that may be helpful in the process. Assess your options Multiple investment vehicles are ideal for long-term gains and can return a sizable amount by the time you retire. Mutual funds, stocks, bonds, exchange-traded funds, cash investments, annuities, and dividend reinvestment plans (DRIPs) are also good sources of high returns, although they depend on investor characteristics and risk aptitude. Saving money in certain tax-advantaged accounts such as 401(k), individual retirement accounts (IRA), and brokerage accounts is also an option. Start early and young No one is ever too young to invest. It’s a healthy habit that can earn serious money in the long term, with even the smallest of investments capable of making a difference a few years down the line. Starting early gives your money time to grow and lets you accumulate more compound interest over a period of time.

4 popular credit cards for college students

A good credit score is essential as it can be a criterion for lucrative job prospects or renting an apartment. Moreover, a good credit score is an uncompromisable necessity while applying for a loan that has terms and conditions that favor you. To ensure that you have a good credit score, it is better to start building it young and early. One of the easiest ways to do so is by applying for a student credit card from prominent credit cards companies. Now, there are several credit cards companies that offer lucrative credit cards, making choosing the right one confusing. To help you narrow down your choices, here are some of the best credit cards companies that offer student credit cards. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students: One of the biggest credit card companies in the country Bank of America offers a slew of benefits with its student credit card. With each dollar spent using this card, students can earn 1.5 points. This applies to purchases without any caps. The points can be redeemed as discounts on hotels, flights, rental cars, and vacation packages. There are no restrictions or blackout dates applicable for availing these discounts. With no foreign transaction fee or annual fee, the card allows one to earn nearly 25,000 points on spending about $1000 in the first 90 days.

What you must know about guaranteed business loans

If you’re looking for funding your small business with a loan, you’ll most likely come across the term “guaranteed business loans.” People often misunderstand this term as business loans that are guaranteed to be approved. But, this is not what guaranteed business loans means. To clarify the confusion, let’s understand what the term actually means, and discuss the most popular types of guaranteed business loans. What are guaranteed business loans? In simple terms, guaranteed business loans in the world of small business loans refer to loans that are secured or backed by a guarantee. The guarantee can be in the form of collateral, deposit, or an agreement. This essentially means that the lender is guaranteed to receive their money back even if the borrower fails to pay. When we talk about guaranteed business loans, we refer to loans with a personal guarantee or, more commonly, loans guaranteed by the small business administration (SBA). Let’s take a look at both these types. Personally guaranteed business loans As you understand from the term “personal,” when you make a personal guarantee on a business loan, you essentially agree to sell your assets to pay off the loan, if your business is unable to do so.

5 mistakes to avoid when investing in a high dividend ETF

Exchange-traded funds (ETF) have been gaining popularity in the investment sector for some time now. Along with mutual funds, they have been one of the most preferred investment options among investors. With investors having pumped in billions of dollars in ETFs by now, these funds sure seem like a lucrative investment avenue. However, financial experts suggest treading this path carefully so as to avoid unforeseeable losses. Here are a few mistakes that you can avoid while investing in high dividend ETFs: Overlooking long-term investment Looking at long-term goals is the golden rule when it comes to any type of investment. However, seasoned investors invest in ETFs on a short-term basis through a type of trading called intraday trade. This type of trading allows the investors to buy and sell stocks and other investments on the same day. However, if not thought out carefully, investing in high dividend ETFs through intraday trading can result in lower returns and higher trading costs. Buying an ETF simply based on its name This is one of the most common mistakes people make when investing in high dividend ETFs. Investors may think that an ETF’s name provides an insight into its investment reach, i.e., whether the ETF has local or/and global investors.

How to qualify for a reverse mortgage

A reverse mortgage provides the elderly access to equity in their homes and supplements their income. With its flexible repayment option, it gives homeowners more control over their money. However, the government has laid out strict rules and guidelines concerning reverse mortgage eligibility criteria. So, if you’re considering a reverse mortgage, read on to know the reverse mortgage eligibility criteria and the types of reverse mortgages. Reverse mortgage eligibility criteria The first criterion for a reverse mortgage is that the primary homeowner must be at least 62 years of age. If your spouse is under the age of 62, you might still be eligible if you meet other reverse mortgage eligibility criteria. If you’re not 62 or older than 62, then you won’t qualify for a reverse mortgage even if you satisfy the criteria mentioned below. You must be the primary resident of the home you’re seeking a reverse mortgage for. Note that vacation homes or rental properties do not qualify. You must either entirely own the house or have at least 50% equity in it. If you have any mortgage balance remaining while applying for a reverse mortgage, you must be in a financial position to pay off that balance.

5 household items that may cause cancer

Coping with urges that can trigger a relapse post treatment

4 common mistakes made when measuring blood pressure

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