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Thyroid cancer – Causes and silent warning signs

Thyroid cancer – Causes and silent warning signs
In the country, around 1% of all new cancer diagnoses yearly are that of the thyroid. This butterfly-shaped gland near the base of one’s neck regulates hormones, blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and body temperature. Any abnormal cell growth in this gland leads to cancer. While such a condition can strike at any age, those more vulnerable are between 25 and 65. Herein, we discuss the subtle warning signs of thyroid cancer and its causes. Silent warning signs of thyroid cancer Thyroid cancer does not exhibit any symptoms or indicators in its early stages. More often than not, it is found during a routine neck exam or during a scan used to identify other conditions. But if left untreated, it may form a lump that develops as a tumor. Below are some of the silent warning signs of thyroid cancer that should prompt one to seek medical help: Neck pain that begins at the front and seems to extend to the ears An unusual lump or nodule that one can feel through the skin of one’s neck A sudden change in one’s voice, including hoarseness Trouble breathing normally; one may feel like one’s breathing through a straw Inability to swallow with ease due to a nodule growing on the thyroid gland A feeling that tight-fitting shirt collars are becoming increasingly restrictive A persistent cough not caused due to cold Inexplicable throat pain Swollen lymph nodes Causes of thyroid cancer According to the American Cancer Society, the risk of thyroid cancer in women is three times higher than in men.

7 facts everyone must know about gout

7 facts everyone must know about gout
Affecting an incredible eight million-plus people in the United States, Gout is a serious form of arthritis that causes insurmountable pain in the joints. The condition, which is one of the oldest prevailing medical illness in society, develops due to the accumulation of uric acid in the joints, mostly troubling overweight adults and men. Delving further, here are seven must-know facts about this condition. In women, it is more common after menopause Gout basically occurs due to the accumulation of uric acid, which then forms needle-shaped structures in the joints and leads to pain, inflammation, and redness. Estrogen, a hormone found in women, naturally leads to uric acid being released through urine. However, after menopause, their estrogen levels start to drop, which makes the uric acid content in their blood rise. Gout can take birth even with normal levels of uric acid While most patients suffering from gout have a high concentration of uric acid in their bloodstream, some gout attacks can even occur with normal uric acid levels — a rare condition termed as asymptomatic hyperuricemia. Alcohol increases its risk Along with meat, fish, and poultry, alcohol consumption drastically increases the chances of developing gout. This is because alcohol has a high content of purine, a chemical compound that breaks down into urea in the body.

Here’s what you need to know to understand multiple sclerosis

Here’s what you need to know to understand multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune and potentially disabling disease. The signs and symptoms of the disease are severe in some cases. Most people experience a much milder form of MS with long periods of remission. MS also has no cure, hence it is important to stay informed. Read on to find out more about MS- it’s symptoms, types and treatment methods. What is multiple sclerosis? Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the central nervous system that is made up of the brain and the spinal cord. In this condition, the body’s immune system affects the protective covering (myelin) of the nerve fibers, causing problems between the brain and the rest of the body. As the disease progresses, it can lead to complete debilitation and disability. Considering that MS is actually an autoimmune disease, the cause of the disease is still a mystery. But, scientists believe that multiple sclerosis can be triggered by a bunch of different environmental and genetic factors. Types of multiple sclerosis There are two types of MS: Relapsing-remitting MS Relapsing-remitting MS is a condition wherein the person will experience episodes of worsening symptoms. These episodes are followed by a period of remission which can last for years at a time.

9 tips to vet a charity before making a donation

9 tips to vet a charity before making a donation
Charity is a noble contribution a person makes, often to nonprofit organizations, to help them further a social cause. In addition to bringing fulfillment and joy, the act can provide extensive tax benefits to the donor. However, not all social organizations are legitimate. So, diligent research is critical to ensure your monetary contribution is put to good use. Here are nine simple tips for vetting a charity before making a donation. Identify the organization’s mission To begin with, identify the cause you intend to support. It could be animal protection, racial equality, nature conservation, child welfare, or another noble cause. Then, depending on your preference, look for a suitable organization or group that pursues the same mission. Seeking suggestions from family and friends can help. Finally, after shortlisting the names of preferred organizations, research them thoroughly. Verify their registered information A legitimate charity must register itself with a regulatory body. So, visit the websites of organizations like the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for information about them. The IRS can help verify if the charity is authorized to accept donations. Check Form 990 Form 990 can give you a better understanding of the nonprofit’s financial standing. Each year, nonprofit organizations submit this form to the IRS, which includes information related to their governance, finances, and mission.

Top 5 tax-deductible charity contributions

Top 5 tax-deductible charity contributions
Donating to charities is a meaningful way for individuals to contribute to society and gain personal benefits. Unbeknownst to many, charitable contributions made in the country make an individual eligible for tax advantages, creating a win-win scenario. Contributions like cash donations, non-cash donations like clothing or household items, stocks, etc., can lead to tax benefits. Explore some tax-deductible charitable gifts and donations below to understand how to make a positive impact while enjoying financial advantages. Cash donations Cash donations are one of the simplest ways to contribute to charitable causes and get tax benefits. Cash donations can be made in various ways, including checks, credit cards, or through payroll deductions made by one’s employer. If one is donating cash to qualified public charities, it allows them a tax deduction of up to 60% of their adjusted gross income (AGI) in a year. Furthermore, making cash donations to private foundations allows individuals a tax deduction of up to 30% of their AGI. To claim tax deductions, one must keep records of their donations, such as bank statements, canceled checks, or receipts and acknowledgment letters from the charity. Non-cash donations Besides cash, donating goods such as clothing, furniture, or household items can also yield tax benefits.

4 common online banking scams and how to avoid them

4 common online banking scams and how to avoid them
Technology allows one to manage finances and make transactions within seconds using one’s phone. But on the flip side, technology makes it easy for people to fall prey to online banking scams. Scammers typically exploit credit and debit card users or people having payment applications on their phones. So, those using online banking should be wary of such scams and tread with caution. Here are some common online banking scams and how to avoid them. Phishing scams Phishing is when scammers send text messages and emails to individuals, persuading them to share their personal details. Such details may include passwords, account numbers, one-time passwords, etc. With such information, they access one’s email accounts and bank accounts and take away their money. Sometimes, these messages or emails may also ask one to click on a link provided to complete a certain action. The person’s account is hacked the moment this link is opened. So, one should never disclose personal information over text message or email, even if the sender appears genuine. If it seems like a bank-generated message, it is best to call up or visit the nearest bank branch and check with them if they had actually sent such a message.

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Expected Black Friday deals on GMC Sierra models

The GMC Sierra is a popular pickup truck, with powerful towing capabilities, modern infotainment features, and a refined engine. It’s available at many dealerships across the country and can be bought at any time. However, it’s recommended to shop for this truck during Black Friday. While this year’s sale hasn’t begun yet, one can get a hint about what deals to expect on different Sierra models based on last year’s offers and current price trends. GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation RWD The rear-wheel-drive Sierra 1500 Elevation has a few useful features. Some of these include automatic climate control, a backup camera for parking assistance, Bluetooth connectivity, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, keyless entry, lane departure warning, fog lights, a customized tow package, and side-impact airbags. Right now, some dealerships in the country are offering cash discounts of $3,500 to $3,700, purchase allowances of $1,500 to $1,800, and bonus cash discounts of $1,700 to $1,800 on the Sierra 1500. During Black Friday, one can expect similar deals on the vehicle. GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation 4WD Like the RWD variant, the all-wheel-drive Sierra 1500 Elevation comes loaded with eye-catching features. It also has a powerful, efficient 2.7-liter engine that produces 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. The truck has a trailer capacity of 8,900 lbs. Currently, some dealerships are offering this model with attractive leasing options. One of the deals includes a 24-month lease for $620 per month. One has only to pay $3,223 at signing, and there’s no security deposit. This deal includes 12,000 miles of travel coverage per year. Anyone looking to get the Sierra 1500 Elevation 4WD can expect similar lease offers for Black Friday. Some dealerships may even offer lower down payments, more attractive installment payments, and steep discounts on this pickup truck.

Types of car rental deals to expect for Black Friday

With the festive season coming up, now’s the time to plan a quick getaway and take advantage of the upcoming holiday sales on bookings, including car rentals. By booking early, travelers can secure great deals and save more. In past years, customers enjoyed huge bargains during the sale period, and similar (or better) car rental deals and offers are expected this shopping season, making advance car rental bookings a smart move. Percentage discounts For many customers, percentage discounts are highly anticipated deals during the holiday shopping season. These car rental discounts typically range anywhere between 15% and 50% off the standard rental rates. However, the exact discount rates generally depend on factors such as the rental company, the time of booking, and the type of vehicle selected. In previous years, rental companies like Hertz and Sixt rolled out offers that had nearly 25% off on select vehicles. Meanwhile, companies like Fox, Dollar, and Avis typically provide discounts of around 20% to 25% during Black Friday events. To enhance the holiday experience for customers, many car rental providers also offer flexible booking options and free cancellation along with their discounted rates. Flat-rate or dollar-off coupons Flat-rate or dollar-off coupons can provide substantial savings on car rentals during the holiday season. Customers receive a fixed amount off their total bill, but these deals typically come with specific conditions. For instance, there may be a minimum spending requirement or a fixed rental duration needed to qualify. In previous years, brands offered discounts ranging from $10 to $25 off on reservations that exceeded a particular total amount. These offers are often available at airport locations by rental companies . Additionally, there may be minimum stay requirements associated with these flat-rate discounts. Customers can easily lower their travel costs during the Black Friday promotions by meeting these requirements.

5 Early Bird Black Friday Deals One Can Get Right Now

Entrepreneurs who want to turn their ideas into full-blown, successful ventures often look for grants to make that happen. As rewarding as applying for a grant can be, many applicants face pitfalls that can diminish their chances of securing funding. Additionally , with many individuals applying for grants , the process has become highly competitive. This also means that aspiring entrepreneurs cannot afford to make mistakes during the application process that could jeopardize their chances of success. Poor research When applying for a grant, one needs to do thorough research on potential lenders, including their priorities and requirements. Applying for grants that are not aligned with the organizational goals, needs, and values should be avoided. As an aspiring entrepreneur, it’s important to steer clear of funding partners with unrealistic or incompatible expectations. Doing adequate research will help increase one’s chances of securing funding. Failing to include supporting documents When one applies for a grant it is important to include supporting evidence to back any business idea. If one is unable to provide the documentation necessary to confirm and validate the proposal, grant reviewers may not consider the application. Not introducing oneself and the venture It is a common mistake to assume that the funder has read about the venture before speaking to the potential entrepreneur. It is essential to introduce oneself and state the organization’s objectives so that the lender is clear about this information. The document should also cover minute details about the organization, how the program promotes the funder’s missions, and the requirements that will be served in the process. Too much-written content An introduction is important, but it is equally vital to stick to the point. Most foundations conduct the proposal process online, which gives one a limitation on how much they can include in the written document.

5 Cyber Monday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season

5 Cyber Monday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season Cyber Monday is when many sales are happening all over the country, and most purchases occur in the electronic market. Every store that sells anything with an electronic gadget or even its accessory is up a sale. Such a time also becomes a time when many buyers end up at a loss for various other reasons. It is a great time of the year for consumers to make the best of the deals offered. Here are tips to help you make the best of the Cyber Monday sales this year: Getting Scammed Cyber Monday is undoubtedly a great time to shop; unfortunately, it is also when many cyber criminals put out their bait. So in these times, paying attention to the websites you visit before placing an order is essential. Make sure that when you click any URL links, any links you click on are from reputable sites, and don’t ask for personal information via email or phone call. If something seems way too good to be true, it probably is! It can be easy to get fooled by images that look like they came from Google or Amazon. Sending funds through the internet can be risky if you don’t know what kind of company or individual you are sending to. Checking out the company’s or individual’s profile on social media and other related websites can prove to be a money saver. Sometimes, this can mean accepting an offer without doing your research, which could lead to fraud. Shopping for the sake of Cyber Monday Cyber Monday is a also a perfect time to get deals on products you know you will love. But before you make any purchases, consider whether or not the item is something that will benefit your life and make it easier for you to accomplish what matters most.

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Volvo XC90 – Features to note before the Black Friday sale

Volvo XC90 – Features to note before the Black Friday sale

The Volvo XC90 is a midsize hybrid SUV that combines everyday practicality with a touch of refinement. This model has a premium feel, thanks to its updated exterior styling and a thoughtfully upgraded cabin. Additionally, the car comes equipped with all-wheel drive across all variants, and its powertrain lineup includes turbocharged engines and a plug-in hybrid option. Those interested in the Volvo XC90 should consider its features to make an informed decision during the Black Friday sale. Pricing The starting price for the 2025 XC90 is set at over $58,000. Going up the trim level means buyers can expect to spend up to $83,000. The lineup has different starting prices for each trim level, with the T8 Ultra Bright Theme, T8 Plus Bright Theme, and T8 Core Bright Theme as the highest-cost models. At the lower end of the lineup’s price spectrum are B5 Core Bright Theme, B5 Plus Bright Theme, and B6 Core Bright Theme. Fuel economy The Volvo XC90 comes with all-wheel drive as standard, regardless of the powertrain. The entry-level models have a 2L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 247 horsepower. The mid-level B6 variants deliver 295 horsepower. The higher T8 models are paired with a plug-in hybrid system, providing an electric range of up to 33 miles and a combined fuel economy of 58 mpg.
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5 Black Friday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season

5 Black Friday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season

5 Black Friday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season Black Friday is upon us once again. It’s the day we all try to save a little money, get the best deals, and spend our entire day in stores trying to find one last bargain before the end of November. But many people end up overspending. If a Black Friday bargain has ever ripped you off, these tips will hopefully prevent anyone from becoming a victim too! Spending more than you can afford The foremost thing to do when planning for Black Friday is to set a limit on what you can afford to spend. Anything beyond this should be considered an impulse buy and avoided at all costs. Once you’ve decided how much money you want to spend on Black Friday, it’s crucial to stick with that number and avoid impulse buying. It means avoiding debt and spending more than what’s in your bank account — even if it seems like there isn’t enough left over after paying bills or other expenses such as rent or utilities! Saving all your shopping for Black Friday If you have not allotted a lot of money, this holiday season can be overwhelming. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s easy to do something that will make things even more complicated:
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