Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of inherited connective tissue disorders that affect the body’s collagen, the protein that gives strength and elasticity to skin, joints, and blood vessels. For those living with EDS, this means everyday challenges such as joint hypermobility, chronic pain, fatigue, and skin fragility.

While EDS is considered rare, its effects are deeply personal and far-reaching. Symptoms can vary widely, making diagnosis and management highly individualized. The most common types include hypermobile EDS (hEDS) and classical EDS (cEDS).

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects millions worldwide, yet it often remains misunderstood. Characterized by widespread pain in muscles and soft tissues, fatigue, and cognitive challenges, fibromyalgia can disrupt daily routines and emotional well-being for many individuals.

At Wave Health, we believe technology can provide data-driven insights to help empower patients to better manage their symptoms and create more open discussions of their health journey with their care teams.

Healthcare is no longer confined to the doctor’s office. With longer wait times for appointments, rising rates of chronic disease, and new technology entering the market, an increasing number of patients are taking control of their own health. A recent Wall Street Journal report highlights how “do-it-yourself” (DIY) healthcare, from at-home lab tests to wearable devices and even AI chatbots, is transforming the patient experience.

Every October, the world comes together for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor survivors, support patients, and raise awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, but thanks to research, innovation, and increased awareness, survival rates continue to improve.

Prostate cancer remains one of the most common cancers among older men with about 1 in 8 men diagnosed during their lifetime, usually after age 65. Today, a prostate cancer diagnosis isn’t the life sentence it once seemed. Thanks to medical advances and improved diagnostics, men now have more treatment options than ever before, many of which come with fewer side effects and better long-term outcomes.

Since the late 1980s, the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test has helped detect prostate cancer earlier and start treatment. As a result, nearly 98% of patients diagnosed today were still alive at least five years after their diagnosis.

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, where we are shining a spotlight on the importance of early detection, prevention, and support for those impacted by this disease. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with about every 13 in 100 men developing the disease during their lifetime. By raising awareness, we can encourage conversations about screening, lifestyle choices, and treatment options that save lives.

What Is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland, a small organ located below the bladder and in front of the bladder in men that produces seminal fluid. While some prostate cancer tumors grow slowly, others can be aggressive and spread quickly if not detected early.

Common Risk Factors

• Age: Risk progressively increases as you get older. You are more likely to get diagnosed after age 50

• Family history: If you have a close family member diagnosed with prostate cancer, you are two to three times more likely to get it

• Race: Risk is higher if you are Black or of African ancestry, especially for more aggressive cancers

• Lifestyle: Diet, exercise, and overall health (regular smoker, obesity, STIs, or prostatitis) can play a role
  

Why Screening Matters

Early detection is critical. The earlier prostate cancer is found, the more treatment options are available, and the better the outcomes. Common screening tests include:

• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test: Detection of high PSA levels may indicate cancer or benign conditions such as benign prostate hyperplasia or prostatis

• Digital rectal exam (DRE): Healthcare provider inserts gloved, lubricated finger into rectum to feel for bumps or hard areas on prostate gland

• Imaging: MRI or transrectal ultrasound displays images of prostate gland, including suspicious areas which helps to determine if it’s necessary to perform biopsy

Common Symptoms

While early prostate cancer may not show symptoms, more advanced cases can cause:

• Frequent urination or need to pee (especially at night)

• Weak urine stream

• Blood in urine or semen

• Pain in hips, lower back, or chest

• Pain or burning when you pee

• Loss of bladder and/or bowel control

• Painful ejaculation and erectile dysfunction
  

How to Reduce Your Risk

While not all cases can be prevented, healthy habits may help lower your risk:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

• Stay physically active

• Limit red and processed meats

• Reduce or eliminate smoking

• Regular checkups and screenings
  

This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, let’s break the silence around men’s health. By promoting early detection, healthier choices, and support for those affected, we can make a difference in the fight against prostate cancer.

Knowledge is power, but so is tracking your health. If you or a loved one are monitoring symptoms, medications, or screenings, Wave Health can help you stay organized and empowered.

📲 Download the Wave Health app today to track your health, manage appointments, and have more productive conversations with your care team.

Together, we can raise awareness, take control of men’s health, and make early detection a priority.

Source: Cleveland Clinic. “Prostate Cancer.” Health Library, Cleveland Clinic, last reviewed May 21, 2025. Available at: Cleveland Clinic website

A stage-four cancer diagnosis typically signals the end of the road for many patients. Survival measured in weeks or months at a time. Today, thanks to targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and precision medicine, patients with metastatic or terminal cancer are living years and even decades longer. This shift is redefining what it means to live with cancer: from a fatal sentence to a chronic condition that requires long-term management.

This much is true for Gwen Orilio, who was 31 when she was first diagnosed with stage-four lung cancer. She’s now 41 and still has metastatic cancer. She did not expect to live long enough to think about retirement. A decade later, she’s still teaching, still planning for the future, and proof that cancer treatments are extending survival in ways once thought impossible.

Her journey reflects a growing trend: cancer is no longer always about immediate life-or-death outcomes. Instead, it’s often about adapting to the challenges of long-term survival. Orilio is part of this growing population of cancer patients who are living longer lives due to new advancements in cancer treatment. 

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and progressive damage. Beyond joint discomfort, RA can impact the cardiovascular system, lungs, and overall quality of life, making consistent management essential.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex and often misunderstood condition that leaves millions worldwide struggling with extreme fatigue that doesn't improve with rest.

Many people living with lupus often find that certain triggers can make their symptoms worse. Identifying these triggers can help manage the condition and improve daily life. Factors such as stress, sun exposure, infections, and certain medications may cause flare-ups.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) significantly impacts men over 40. It's a condition where the prostate enlarges, causing urinary issues. Many men experience difficulty urinating, frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom, and sometimes sudden urges.

Recognizing symptoms early and seeking medical advice can greatly improve quality of life. Awareness and timely intervention can help manage BPH effectively, allowing men to maintain daily routines without constant discomfort.

Cervical cancer is the 4th most common cancer amongst women. However, rates of cervical cancer have significantly declined nearly 50% over the past few decades due to a greater availability of screening and an emphasis on education and prevention. Early detection plays an essential role in preventing abnormalities in the cervix from developing into cancer. Today, we will discuss the importance of early screening for cervical cancer and what you can expect if cervical abnormalities are detected.

Thyroid disease affects nearly 20 million adults in the United States. The thyroid is an endocrine gland that serves an essential function of regulating numerous bodily functions. Located in the lower front of the neck, the thyroid produces hormones that are released into the bloodstream and carried throughout the body. Furthering your knowledge on the symptoms of thyroid disorders can help you optimize your treatment and avoid negative health consequences. In honor of Thyroid Awareness Month, we will be discussing key signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders.

An estimated 25 percent of adults in the United States have some form of chronic pain. Chronic pain differentiates itself from regular or acute pain because it is persistent and long-lasting. When it comes to a chronic condition, it is essential to find ways to cope and move forward. Today, we will discuss how you can manage chronic pain and make the most of the holiday season.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects an estimated 37 million people in the United States alone. This number has been steadily increasing, and it is more important than ever that we engage in conversation and educate ourselves on the current diabetes epidemic. Diabetes is a disease that occurs when there is too much sugar in the blood. In honor of World Diabetes Day, we will be promoting a better understanding of the disease by discussing the key differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

When you think of the month of November, you may be excitedly anticipating your Thanksgiving dinner, making the most of the fall season, or gearing up for the holidays and New Year. However, the start of November also signals an important movement to raise awareness for male health issues.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is essential for us to acknowledge how surviving breast cancer can take a toll on one’s mental state. A breast cancer diagnosis leads to an inevitable shift in both your physical and psychological health. Even long after the cancer has gone into remission, many still report symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and have trouble returning to everyday life. In this post, we will honor those who have fought breast cancer and acknowledge the psychological side of this disease that often goes unspoken.

A new study published in the Lancet looked at all 2019 cancer deaths worldwide, and found that 44.4% — or nearly half — were attributable to modifiable, behavioral risk factors. The leading risk factors were smoking, alcohol consumption, and high BMI. In this blog post, we’re taking a deeper look into the findings of this first-of-its-kind study and what they mean for the future of cancer prevention.

The COVID-19 pandemic had many implications on the ability to receive health care, one of them being the widespread cancelling and postponing of annual physical exams. What once may have been routine was derailed due to mass closures and reduced availability. Missing a few physicals may seem negligible, but these wellness visits actually have a major impact on you and your future health. In this blog post, we’re discussing why it’s so important to get back on track and a few ways to get the most out of your next physical.

You’ve probably heard people with cancer refer to “chemo brain,” a cognitive change people experience when facing cancer and undergoing certain treatments. While the exact mechanism that causes these mental changes remains unclear, the phenomenon is nonetheless very real. In this blog post, we define chemo brain and discuss possible treatments and coping mechanisms that can make day-to-day living a little easier.