All in the Family: Is Diabetes Genetic?

For better or for worse, there are many qualities you’ll continue to receive from your parents throughout your lifetime. Studies have found that your driving abilities, your pain tolerance and even your love of coffee can all be based on your genetics. Genetics can even play a role in determining the likelihood that you’ll develop certain diseases, including diabetes. Is diabetes genetic? “There’s a very strong family component to type 2 diabetes,” says Dr. Alberto O. Chavez, an endocrinologist at the University Health System Texas Diabetes Institute in San Antonio. “If you have one parent who has type 2 diabetes, ...Read More >

Teach kids to stop and go—to prevent urinary tract infections

If your child starts doing the not-so-discreet “gotta pee” dance, you might worry he’ll wet your carpet. But there’s something else you should know—your little one could end up with a urinary tract infection from waiting too long to go. “A lot of kids tend to hold it because they are having fun and don’t want to stop,” says Dr. Jessica Goetz, D.O., assistant professor in the UT Health San Antonio’s Division of Pediatric Urology. “It’s like a swamp in the bladder, and bacteria is going to grow.” She says kids should use the bathroom frequently, about every three to four ...Read More >

Hip replacement doesn’t put brakes on cross-country rider

For Katinka Howell, 54, bicycling and gardening are essential to who she is. She and her husband are used to cycling up to 65 miles at a stretch. The calisthenics of weeding and pruning her garden at her Alamo Heights home also help keep her active. Both activities were great stress relievers until hip dysplasia put the brakes on her physical activity.  Hip dysplasia increases the possibility of hip dislocation. With Howell’s family history, she knew it was hereditary. “I’m not one to get depressed,” she said, “but it was frustrating.” Dr. Jesse Delee, UT Health San Antonio clinical professor ...Read More >