UPMC: Helping you stay IN THE KNOW
From tips on healthy aging to stories about the latest clinical advances that can help you live your best life, In The Know is the go-to source for news from UPMC.
Check out articles from the latest issue below.
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Give the Gift of Life
April is just around the corner, and that means UPMC will be celebrating National Donate Life Month.
Did you know:
- More than 100,000 people are waiting for a transplant.
- A single organ, eye, and tissue donor has the potential to save eight lives and help more than 75 people.
- UPMC clinicians have performed more than 20,000 organ transplant procedures.
- Doctors make every effort to save a patient's life, and they perform tests to confirm the absence of brain activity before considering how the patient's tissues can help others. No matter your age or medical history, you may be able to donate and become an important part of another person's life.
Donation is an act of love, compassion, and generosity. Every major religion supports donation, and there is no cost to the donor's family or estate.
Learn more or register to become an organ donor.You're Invited ... to Join a Virtual Event!
UPMC offers webinars, interactive Tele-Town Halls, and other virtual events so you can get valuable health information without leaving home.
See what's on the Virtual Events schedule.
Colorectal Cancer Awareness
Approximately 145,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year. But the death rate has decreased thanks to early detection from cancer screenings.
More than 95% of colorectal cancer cases begin with precancerous growths called polyps. Doctors often can remove these polyps during a colonoscopy. Removing these growths before they become cancerous can reduce your risk.
Are you at risk?
Here are some factors that can increase your risk for colon cancer:
- Age over 50.
- Family history of colon cancer.
- Heavy drinking.
- A high-fat, high-protein, low-fiber diet.
- Skipping routine screening tests.
- Smoking.
Symptoms of colon cancer
Keep an eye on your health and talk to your doctor if you notice:
- A change in your bowel habits.
- Blood in your stool or black stools.
- Fatigue.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Weakness.
Get Boosted
If you're already vaccinated against COVID-19, you're helping to manage the effects of the pandemic.
Vaccine effectiveness can decrease over time. Some people, like those with compromised immune systems, may not have had a strong immune response to their initial doses. Additional doses can bolster your protection.
Are you eligible for an additional dose?
Talk to your doctor to find out if an additional or booster shot is a good idea. The timing and type of shot will depend on your initial dose (or doses), your immune status, and your general health.
To schedule an additional shot or vaccination:
Call 844-876-2822 or visit our website.
Find the latest information on vaccines, testing, and treatment.
World-Class Care at Every Age
Find a local primary care doctor today.
Your primary care doctor can keep an eye on your overall health, help you set wellness goals, and coordinate your advanced care.
For questions about health care or to schedule an appointment at UPMC today, call us at 800-533-8762 in the greater Pittsburgh area or at 814-877-5678 in Erie.
Insurance questions? Call our help line at 855-946-8762 (Pittsburgh) or 855-746-8762 (Erie).
UPMC accepts most major insurers, including Aetna, Cigna, Highmark, United Healthcare, and UPMC Health Plan.
Find a primary care doctor near you.