DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I recently found out that my aunt was diagnosed with cancer and may need chemotherapy. When I think of chemotherapy, I picture hair loss, nausea and being too sick to maintain anything resembling a normal quality of life. However, friends have told me that chemotherapy isn't what it used to be. What's changed, and what should someone know about today’s chemotherapy before going into it?  

ANSWER: Hearing the word "chemotherapy" can be frightening. Many people picture difficult side effects based on stories from decades ago or what they've seen portrayed in movies. While chemotherapy is still an important cancer treatment, cancer care today has changed dramatically just within the past 10 years.

One of the most common misconceptions is that everyone diagnosed with cancer will need chemotherapy. In reality, cancer treatment is built on several pillars, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. More recently, targeted therapies and immunotherapies have expanded treatment options even further.

Depending on the type and stage of cancer, some people may only need surgery or radiation. Others may benefit from newer treatments that don’t involve traditional chemotherapy at all. Treatment plans are often customized, using one or more approaches based on what is best for the individual.

Chemotherapy drugs have evolved, but some of the biggest improvements have come from advances in supportive care. Today, doctors are much better at preventing and managing side effects that once made treatment especially difficult.

Medications to prevent nausea and vomiting are far more effective than they were in the past. Preventive antibiotics and injections that help boost white blood cell production can reduce the risk of infection. These advances mean many people tolerate treatment better and recover more quickly between treatment cycles than patients did years ago.

Beyond chemotherapy

Beyond chemotherapy, newer treatments such as immunotherapy, targeted therapies and cellular therapies are reshaping cancer care. These treatments work differently than traditional chemotherapy by focusing on specific cancer targets or by helping the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.

For example, CAR T-cell therapy uses a patient's own immune cells, which are modified to better identify and destroy cancer cells. These therapies can be highly effective for certain cancers, though they also come with their own unique side effects and require careful monitoring by specialized care teams.

There’s no single chemotherapy experience. Side effects depend on the specific drugs used, the cancer being treated and the person receiving care. Not all chemotherapy causes hair loss, and many newer treatments don’t cause it at all. For those at risk of hair loss, there are therapies that protect the hair follicles to minimize the amount of hair lost.

When nausea occurs, it is often limited to a few days rather than an entire treatment cycle. Many people can continue parts of their normal routines, including work and family activities, with adjustments as needed. Your cancer care team can also provide tips for reducing nausea and other side effects such as constipation and weight loss or gain. 

Modern cancer care takes a team approach. In addition to oncologists and nurses, patients often have access to social workers, nutrition specialists, behavioral health providers, palliative care teams and integrative medicine services. These resources can help manage symptoms, support emotional well-being and address the practical challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis.

Palliative care is sometimes misunderstood. It’s not limited to end-of-life care and can be helpful at any stage of cancer treatment, including when care is given with cure being the goal.

Cancer care today is collaborative. Doctors present options, explain benefits and risks and work with patients to choose a plan that aligns with their goals and values. Seeking a second opinion is encouraged and can provide reassurance when making important decisions.

Chemotherapy and cancer treatment are far more personalized than in the past. Advances in science, supportive care and patient-centered decision-making have given patients more options, more support and greater control over their care.

Javier Munoz, M.D., hematologist-oncologist, director, Lymphoma/CLL Program, Mayo Clinic in Arizona

Related posts:

• Mayo Clinic study finds chemotherapy before surgery improves survival in early-stage pancreatic cancer
• Mayo Clinic leads 4 decades of advances in breast cancer care
• Transforming cancer care with treatments at home

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DEAR MAYO CLINIC: As a nonsmoker lung cancer hasn't been a concern of mine, but I recently heard it can affect people who have never smoked. If someone is concerned about lung cancer, what symptoms should they watch for, how is it diagnosed, and what treatment options are available today? 

ANSWER: It can be surprising to learn that lung cancer can develop in people who have never smoked. In fact, up to 20% of lung cancers occur in people without a history of smoking. While smoking remains the leading risk factor, other contributors include secondhand smoke, air pollution, exposure to radon and a family history of lung cancer. 

Possible lung cancer warning signs  

One of the challenges with lung cancer is that it often doesn't cause symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, the disease is often more advanced, which is why early detection is so important. Currently, people between the ages of 50 and 80 with a significant smoking history may qualify for lung cancer screening, but you should pay attention to symptoms regardless of smoking status. 

Symptoms that occur in or around the lungs include: 

• A new cough that doesn’t go away 
• Chest pain 
• Coughing up blood, even a small amount 
• Hoarseness 
• Shortness of breath 
• Wheezing  

If lung cancer spreads to other parts of the body, symptoms can include: 

• Bone pain 
• Headache
• Unplanned weight loss or loss of appetite 
• Swelling in the face or neck  

If you experience new, persistent or worsening symptoms, make an appointment with a healthcare professional and ask about appropriate screening or diagnostic options. 

Advanced diagnostics and staging 

Diagnosis often starts with imaging. If someone has symptoms, a clinician may begin with a chest X-ray and then move to more detailed imaging, such as a CT scan. Sometimes lung cancer is discovered incidentally, when a CT scan performed for another reason reveals a lung nodule.  

The next step is determining whether a nodule is cancerous or benign. Doctors often can use information from the CT scan to guide next steps. PET scans also may be used to diagnose lung cancer and determine whether it has spread. 

In some cases, a biopsy is needed to confirm the presence of cancer cells. Biopsies can be performed in several ways. A biopsy guided by CT scan uses a needle inserted through the chest wall to collect tissue, while a bronchoscopy involves guiding a scope through the mouth and airways to reach the suspicious spot in the lung.  

Advanced tools have improved accuracy. For example, robotic bronchoscopy allows physicians to reach nodules throughout the lungs through the airways and obtain tissue samples more precisely. This approach also can enable lymph node evaluation during the same procedure, which is critical fordetermining the stage of cancer and developing the best treatment plan.  

Treatment approaches and tissue-sparing options 

Treatment for lung cancer depends on several factors, including the cancer type, stage and the person's overall health. Options often include surgery, radiation therapy (like stereotactic radiation therapy), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy or a combination.  

Surgery is the mainstay for treating early-stage lung cancer. Increased screening has led to more cancer being detected earlier, allowing more patients to benefit from minimally invasive surgical techniques. These procedures often use video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) or robotic surgery approaches,and they may involve lung-sparing techniques, such as wedge resections and segmentectomies. Preserving as much healthy lung tissue as possible is important for long-term breathing function and lung health. 

Depending on the extent of the disease, surgeons may remove part of a lung, an entire lobe or, in some cases, the whole lung. During surgery, teams also can use rapid, real-time pathology to confirm complete tumor removal and better understand the extent of the disease.  

In certain situations, treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy or immunotherapy may be given before surgery to shrink the tumor. This approach, known as neoadjuvant therapy, can make surgery possible sometimes for patients who were not previously candidates.  

Lung cancer care often involves multiple specialties. Seeking care at an experienced center, where multidisciplinary teams collaborate closely, helps ensure treatments are tailored to each patient's specific cancer and overall needs.  

Stay in tune with your body 

Even if you've never smoked, awareness of lung cancer is important. Pay attention to symptoms that don't resolve, new or worsening breathing problems, or changes that feel unusual. Talk with a healthcare professional if something doesn't seem right.  

If a lung nodule or other concern is found, today's advanced diagnostic tools can help determine whether it is cancer and guide next steps. Treatment options continue to advance, with many people benefiting from minimally invasive surgery and newer drug therapies that are improving outcomes and quality of life. 

Luis Tapias Vargas, M.D., Thoracic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 

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DEAR MAYO CLINIC: My coworker had been telling me they were having pain in their lower back that extended down into their hips. They were diagnosed with a sacroiliac (SI) joint issue. I occasionally experience back pain myself and wonder whether surgical treatments are available for sacroiliac joint problems.

ANSWER: Yes, surgery can help relieve SI joint pain, but it’s usually considered only after the diagnosis has been confirmed and when nonsurgical treatments haven’t worked. Because back pain can come from many sources, finding the true cause is essential before considering surgery. When pain persists or affects daily life, evaluating the sacroiliac joint as a potential cause of the pain can help identify more effective treatment options.

Where is the sacroliac joint?

The sacroiliac joint sits between the base of the spine (the sacrum) and the pelvis. It is one of the body’s largest weight-bearing joints, helping transfer force from the upper body into the legs during activities such as standing, walking and lifting. Arthritis or excessive motion in the joint can lead to significant pain in the lower back, hips or buttocks, sometimes radiating into the legs.

SI joint pain can closely mimic conditions affecting the spine or hips, which makes diagnosis challenging. Research suggests that up to 15% to 30% of people with chronic low back pain may have pain originating from the SI joint. Some individuals live with symptoms for years or even undergo other procedures before the SI joint is correctly identified as the source.

Diagnosis typically begins with imaging to rule out other causes, such as infection or tumors. However, imaging alone is not enough. A physical exam that stresses the joint, followed by a diagnostic injection into the SI joint, helps confirm whether it’s truly responsible for the pain. If an injection significantly reduces your pain, it confirms that the SI joint is the cause.

Surgery isn’t the first step for SI joint pain. Most people begin with conservative treatments, including anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy or therapeutic injections. These approaches aim to reduce inflammation, improve joint stability and relieve pain without surgery.

Physical therapy may help strengthen supporting muscles, while injections can provide temporary relief, sometimes lasting several weeks or months, although symptoms may return. Surgery is generally considered when pain has lasted longer than six months and hasn’t improved with nonsurgical care.

People with confirmed SI joint pain who don’t find relief through conservative treatments may be candidates for surgery. Certain conditions, such as widespread inflammatory arthritis or serious medical issues that make anesthesia unsafe, may rule out surgery. Smoking can also interfere with bone healing and affect surgical outcomes.

Modern SI joint surgery is typically minimally invasive. Through a small incision near the hip, surgeons place implants across the joint to stabilize it. The implants are relatively small and resemble screws, with specialized surfaces designed to encourage bone growth. Over time, bone grows across the joint, helping create lasting stability and reduce painful movement. The procedure often takes less than an hour, and some patients can return home the same day.

Most people have activity restrictions for about six weeks after surgery. Pain relief may be noticeable early, particularly when excessive joint motion was the cause, while arthritis-related pain may improve more gradually. By six months, about 80% of patients report improved quality of life and pain. Studies show these improvements can last for years.
 
If you’ve been told nothing can be done for chronic low back pain, don’t lose hope. For some people, SI joint pain may be the cause, and effective treatments, including surgery, are available. 

Grant W. Mallory, M.D., Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire and La Crosse, Wisconsin

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DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I have atrial fibrillation, and I've heard there's a new kind of ablation that could relieve my symptoms. Can you tell me about it?

ANSWER: If you have atrial fibrillation (AFib), you're not alone — it's the most common heart rhythm disorder, affecting millions around the world. AFib occurs when the heart's upper chambers beat in a fast, irregular way, which can cause symptoms such as palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness and/or reduced ability to exercise. 

For many people, medications can help control symptoms. But when drugs don't work well, cause side effects, or people opt out of that treatment, a procedure called catheter ablation may be another avenue for certain patients.

Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat abnormal heart rhythms such as AFib. During the procedure, doctors guide thin, flexible tubes, called catheters, through blood vessels in the groin up to and into your heart.  

For AFib ablation, patients are put under anesthesia, and depending on the complexity of the rhythms, the procedure can take several hours. The treatment usually focuses on ablation of muscle tissue that can generate electrical signals and trigger AFib. 

This muscle tissue is found inside the pulmonary veins, which drain blood from the lungs into the left upper chamber of the heart, called the left atrium. By destroying these small areas of the heart, the main electrical impulses that set off AFib are isolated from the rest of the heart.  

Using advanced imaging tools such as X-ray, ultrasound and catheters, doctors can reconstruct a 3D rendering of the heart while it's beating in real time and locate areas of heart tissue that are triggering AFib. This provides a roadmap for pinpointing the areas that are causing AFib. Energy is then delivered through the catheter to disrupt those problem areas, helping the heart maintain a normal rhythm.

For the past 20 years, most AFib ablations have used thermal energy to destroy targeted tissue using:

• Heat (radiofrequency ablation). 
• Extreme cold (cryoablation). 

These approaches can be effective, but they carry risks because heat or cold can unintentionally cause serious and even life-threatening damage to nearby structures, including:

• Injury to the esophagus.
• Narrowing of the pulmonary veins. 
• Damage to the phrenic nerve, which controls the diaphragm and breathing. 

In recent years, a newer form of ablation — called pulsed field ablation (PFA) — has emerged and is generating excitement among heart rhythm specialists and patients.

PFA works in a completely different way. Instead of heat or cold, it uses very brief, high-voltage electrical pulses that last only microseconds. Because PFA is relatively nonthermal, the risks of thermal ablation appear to be dramatically reduced.

The electrical pulses delivered by the catheter create tiny openings in the membranes of heart muscle cells — a process called electroporation. These openings cause targeted cells to stop functioning, eventually die and become scar tissue. 

One of the biggest advantages of PFA is the ability to selectively disable cardiac cells. 

Another benefit is the efficiency of the procedure. PFA procedures are typically faster, meaning less time under general anesthesia, which may be especially important for older adults or people with other medical conditions.

So far, studies suggest that PFA is as effective as traditional ablation techniques. About 65% to 75% of patients remain free of AFib one year after a single procedure without antiarrhythmic medications. Success rates may improve with repeated procedures, continued medication use and other factors. 

Ablation isn't a cure for AFib, and sometimes more ablations aren't always better or the best option. Too much scar tissue in the heart can cause a different set of problems, which is why careful patient selection is essential when weighing the risks and benefits of ablation.

The goal is to relieve symptoms, reduce frequency and duration of episodes, and improve the patient's quality of life.

While promising, PFA is still relatively new. Rare complications include coronary artery spasm; small bubble formation, which can lead to a stroke; or kidney injury. These events aren't common, and their causes continue to be studied.

PFA may expand treatment options for many people with AFib, particularly those with certain conditions where prolonged anesthesia time poses more risk. Whether it's appropriate depends on your type of AFib, symptoms, overall health, prior treatments, modification of risk factors and the goal for AFib treatment.

Talk with a cardiologist or cardiac electrophysiologist to determine whether PFA fits into your personalized treatment plan.

Christopher DeSimone, M.D., Ph.D., Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

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DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I found out during my pregnancy that I have mitral valve stenosis. How common is valve disease, and what should I know about it?

ANSWER: Valve disease affects how blood moves through the heart, and pregnancy is often a time when symptoms first appear or become more noticeable. Learning about a heart valve condition during pregnancy can be unexpected and overwhelming. Understanding why this happens and exploring treatment options can bring clarity and calm fears.

Pregnancy is often described as the body's ultimate cardiovascular stress test. The heart works significantly harder to support both the mother and the developing baby. Blood volume expands, vascular resistance drops and heart rate increases. These normal physiological changes begin early in pregnancy and peak in the late second to early third trimester.

These changes can unmask symptoms of previously silent valve disease or intensify those of known valve conditions because the heart is being asked to move more blood through a valve that isn't functioning normally. Known valve conditions include:

• Narrowed valves (stenosis)
• Leaky valves (regurgitation)
• Congenital valve abnormalities

Other valve conditions may result from infections, such as rheumatic fever, or changes in the valve's structure over time.

Symptoms

Even women who felt well before pregnancy may begin to notice symptoms around 28 to 30 weeks, when the cardiovascular system reaches its peak workload.

Many common pregnancy symptoms overlap with those of valve disease. Fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling and a faster heart rate can all occur in a healthy pregnancy. It's especially important to evaluate symptoms that begin suddenly or noticeably worsen.

Shortness of breath with activity or when lying flat, unusual fatigue that affects daily routines, swelling in the legs or feet, racing heartbeat, reduced exercise tolerance, or chest pressure should prompt a conversation with a clinician.

Because pregnancy symptoms can mask underlying cardiac issues, clear communication between patients and their care teams is essential. Many patients assume new symptoms are simply part of pregnancy, especially if previous pregnancies were uncomplicated. But when something feels off, listening to that instinct is important.

An assessment of symptoms may include:

• Physical exam.
• Echocardiogram to look at the heart's structure and function.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check the heart's rhythm.
• Additional imaging or testing.

These evaluations help determine whether symptoms are pregnancy-related or caused by cardiac disease.

Treatment

Once valve disease is identified, coordinated care becomes especially important. Many patients benefit from a pregnancy heart team approach that includes specialists in cardiology and maternal-fetal medicine, with support from cardiac surgery or structural heart experts, if needed. Local obstetric teams may remain involved, particularly if delivery is expected to happen closer to home.

The pregnancy heart team approach helps align medical needs with a patient's goals for pregnancy and family planning. Shared decision-making plays a central role. Every situation is different, and treatment choices are shaped by personal values, risk considerations and long-term planning.

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and how well a patient tolerates the physiologic demands of pregnancy.

Many women with mild or moderate valve disease can continue pregnancy safely with close monitoring. Medications may be used to help manage fluid retention, control heart rate or reduce symptoms.

When valve disease is more severe or symptoms significantly affect daily life, procedures may be done before or during pregnancy. These include:

• Catheter-based procedures to widen a narrow valve or improve function.
• Valve repair to preserve a person's own valve when possible.
• Valve replacement when the disease is advanced or symptoms can't be controlled.

For those who need valve replacement, care teams will discuss the choice between a mechanical or tissue valve, especially for women planning future pregnancies.

• Mechanical valves are durable but require lifelong anticoagulation, which can add complexity during pregnancy.
• Tissue valves typically avoid long-term blood thinners but have a shorter lifespan.

Treatment choices can shape both personal health and a family's future. Clear, collaborative discussions about risks and benefits support confident decision-making.

Expert teams across cardiology, maternal-fetal medicine, imaging and surgery help form a comprehensive plan tailored to each patient's needs.

Any expectant mother should reach out to a clinician if symptoms such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing when lying flat, chest discomfort, palpitations, swelling that increases rapidly or new fatigue begin to interfere with daily life.

When something doesn't feel right, speaking up is one of the most important steps a patient can take. A strong care team is ready to help navigate each stage of pregnancy to safely support the health of both the patient and the baby.

Katie Young, M.D., Cardio-Obstetrics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

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DEAR MAYO CLINIC: My husband has been diagnosed with cancer. I know his treatment will be hard on him, and I want to help in any way with his diet. What do you recommend for us?

ANSWER: Cancer treatments can take a toll on a person's body. Your husband's treatment may cause nausea, changes in appetite, taste and smell, diarrhea, or constipation, making it harder to meet his nutritional needs. Fortunately, there are strategies you can use to cope with these side effects.

Supporting nutrition during cancer treatment

Weight changes. Weight changes are common. Weight loss without trying can reduce muscle mass, stamina and quality of life. Weight gain can lead to the development of other diseases, like diabetes or heart disease. Try to maintain your weight during treatment, even if it's outside a normal range.  

Appetite changes. Cancer and cancer treatment may make you lose your appetite or eat more than usual.

• If you lose your appetite: 
  • Eat smaller snacks that are high in calories, including yogurt, nuts, peanut butter and avocado.  
  • Eat more when your appetite is better.  
  • Food may sound unappealing even when you're hungry, making it difficult to eat. Try to find something that's appetizing.  
  • Keep snacks on hand.
• If you eat more when stressed:
  • Choose snacks such as fruits, vegetables and popcorn.    
  • Find ways to manage stress without food, such as going for a walk or calling a friend. 

Nausea. Feeling sick or throwing up due to your treatments makes it hard to eat. Small changes to what and how you eat may help you feel better. 

• Eat foods that are easy on your stomach, such as crackers, toast, broth or broth-based soups, ice pops, hard candies, plain pasta and rice. 
• Eat five or six small meals a day. Smaller meals are often easier to keep down. 
• Don't skip meals or snacks. Even when you're not hungry, try to eat; an empty stomach can make nausea worse.  
• Sip small amounts of fluid during meals and throughout the day.    
• Try pretzels or crackers with your medicines if your care team says it's OK.  

Taste and smell changes. Cancer treatment can alter the taste or smell of food. Some people say food tastes bland. Others say it tastes metallic or too sweet or salty. You may need to try different foods to find what works for you.  

To help with taste changes: 

• Brighten the flavor. Add a little lemon, lime or vinegar unless your mouth is sore.
• Try strong flavors. Use spices such as cinnamon, ginger, basil or rosemary.  
• Make foods sweeter. Add sugar or another sweetener if food tastes bitter or sour.
• Use marinades before cooking.  
• Choose other proteins. If meat doesn't taste good, try beans, nuts or fish. 
• Use plastic or bamboo utensils. These may help if food tastes metallic. 
• Try new foods. You won't have expectations about the taste.  

To help with strong smells: 

• Cook food in the microwave or use a crockpot or instant cooker in the garage.
• Eat foods cold or at room temperature.
• Cover food while it cooks.
• Use a window or fan to help remove unpleasant odors.  
• Drink from a covered cup.
• Ask a friend to cook for you.  

Sore throat, mouth or trouble swallowing. When your throat is sore or it's hard to swallow, eating may be painful or tiring. These tips can help:

• Soften the texture. Opt for smooth foods, such as cooked cereal, mashed potatoes or scrambled eggs.
• Cool things down. Choose smoothies, ice pops or a bowl of ice cream. 
• Take smaller bites and cut food into tiny pieces.
• Avoid what bothers you. Spicy, sour, crunchy or vinegar-based foods, citrus fruits, tomato sauce or carbonated beverages can cause discomfort. 
• Suck on ice chips or ice pops.

Diarrhea and constipation. Bowel changes are unpleasant but common side effects of cancer treatment. 

To help with diarrhea:

• Eat small, frequent meals and snacks.
• Choose soft, low-fiber foods.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Limit lactose found in milk and yogurt.
• Avoid sugar substitutes such as sorbitol, xylitol or mannitol, which are often found in sugar-free candy or gum. 
• Drink plenty of fluids, including electrolyte-containing fluids, to stay hydrated.  

For constipation, aim to:

• Drink enough fluid to stay hydrated and keep stools soft. Try to drink eight to 10 cups of water each day. Warm coffee, tea or broth-based soup in the morning can help your bowels move. Use the bathroom when you feel the urge.
• Move your body. Even short walks help your digestive system work better.
• Keep regular mealtimes.
• Eat a high-fiber diet.
  
  

Your husband's care team is an excellent resource for what you can expect during treatment and for the symptoms that may affect his diet and weight.

Grace Fjeldberg, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Nutrition/Oncology, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, Minnesota

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DEAR MAYO CLINIC: Our neighbors were selling their home and had it tested for radon. The test was positive. Why should we be concerned about radon, and should we have our home tested too?

ANSWER: The positive test for radon in your neighbors' home has given you a heads-up that your home should be tested as well.

Radon is an odorless, invisible radioactive gas. It's naturally released from rocks, soil and water — and it can get trapped inside your home, office or school. There's no known safe level of radon. Unfortunately, there are no symptoms associated with radon exposure, unlike with carbon monoxide poisoning.

Why radon is so dangerous

Breathing high levels of radon over time can lead to lung cancer since this gas is a Class A carcinogen. It's the No. 1 cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers and the second-leading cause of lung cancer overall. Nationwide, 21,000 people die from radon-caused lung cancer each year.

Smoking and secondhand smoke, combined with exposure to high radon levels, increase your risk of lung cancer. If you or your family are experiencing breathing issues, consult with a pulmonologist.

Radon can be found in any home — old or new — and typically enters through cracks in the foundation caused by natural settling and windows. Radon levels often are higher in lower levels and basements. Across the U.S., 1 in 15 homes have elevated radon levels, and levels are higher in the Midwest. For example, radon levels range from 4.7 picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L) in Indiana to 9.6 pCi/L in North Dakota. The nationwide average is 1.3 pCi/L.

Testing for radon

There's a simple solution to this close-to-home health hazard: testing. That's what the Environmental Protection Agency urges all homeowners to do, especially those in high-radon areas. Testing is the only way to determine the radon level in your home.

You can find radon testing kits at hardware or other home maintenance stores and online. They cost around $20 or less and are easy to use. It typically takes two to seven days for results. Although there's no safe level of radon, look for test results of 4.0 pCi/L or less. 

If your home tests higher than 4.0 pCi/L, then you'll need to have a professional fix the radon issue, which includes installing venting equipment. The equipment looks like a big tube that reaches below the foundation of your home and vents radon up and out of the house. 

The cost of a radon mitigation system varies according to the size and design of your home, as well as the system being installed. Costs average $1,000-$2,000. Check with your local city and county housing agencies to see if they have funds available for low-interest loans or grants for radon mitigation, and learn if you're eligible for these funds.

Once the mitigation system has been installed, your home should be tested again to make sure the fix is effective. Even if your home passes the first test, you should retest every two years.

Also, radon testing isn't required when selling a home. However, if you're a buyer, you should insist on it. If levels are high, you may be able to negotiate the costs of the mitigation with the seller.

Radon testing and mitigation are investments in your home — and in your health.

Elizabeth Morton, Physician Assistant, Pulmonology, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, Minnesota

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DEAR MAYO CLINIC: Our daughter was recently diagnosed with cancer. She's interested in participating in a clinical trial but doesn't really know what that means or how to get involved. Can you help?

ANSWER: A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming and often comes with a long list of decisions to make. 

Many people are surprised to learn that clinical trials aren't just for people who have run out of standard treatment options, but are an important part of cancer care at every stage and most aspects of diagnosis and treatment. They help physicians study new and better ways to diagnose, treat and improve the quality of life for people. They also give patients access to promising treatments that they might not otherwise receive.

What happens in a cancer clinical trial?

During a clinical trial, participants may receive specific interventions or potentially the standard treatment. Researchers measure how safe and effective the interventions are and usually compare them to standard treatments. These may include:

• New cancer drugs or drug combinations.
• New medical procedures or devices.
• New surgical techniques.
• New ways to use existing treatments.
• Lifestyle or behavioral approaches.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that joining a trial means you might not receive treatment or be given a placebo. Most clinical trials compare a new treatment with the current standard of care.

Who's eligible for a trial?

Your daughter’s care team is the best starting point. Feel free to ask if she is a candidate for any trial. Physicians at Mayo Clinic routinely review whether patients qualify for available trials. If there's a study that's potentially right for your daughter, your team can connect her with research coordinators and help navigate eligibility, consent, scheduling and next steps.

How do people find and sign up for trials?

Patients can find out about trials in several ways:

• Direct referral from their care team (medical oncologist, surgical oncologist, radiation oncologist, radiologist to name a few).
• Search tools, such as the Mayo Clinic clinical trials website and ClinicalTrials.gov.
• Trial navigators or research coordinators who help determine eligibility and guide enrollment.
  

When a clinician identifies that a patient may be a good candidate for a study, they review the study purpose, what participation involves, potential risks and benefits, and available alternatives. Patients can take time to decide whether to participate and may bring family members or caregivers into these conversations.

Clinic Trials Beyond Walls: Expanding who can participate

Participating in a clinical trial typically has meant frequent trips to a major medical center, which is something that can be difficult for people balancing work, caregiving responsibilities, transportation needs or facing financial strain. 

Mayo Clinic's Cancer Trials Beyond Walls is an initiative that brings elements of cancer clinical trials closer to home, such as lab draws, remote patient monitoring and virtual visits. This brings the benefits of research directly to patients' doorsteps and makes trial participation more manageable for families.

Mayo Clinic's decentralized research initiative uses telehealth, remote monitoring, mobile phlebotomy and home-based services so patients can complete parts of a clinical trial without traveling. 

The care of these patients being managed at home, with the support of a dedicated clinical team, may include vital sign monitoring, symptom reporting, medication administration or follow-up assessments.

Why do clinical trials matter so much?

Every cancer therapy available today exists because patients such as your daughter volunteered to participate. Volunteering for trials is a crucial way to advance medical treatment.

Joining a trial may give your daughter access to cutting-edge care and contribute to future breakthroughs.

Judy Boughey, M.D., Surgical Oncology, Mayo Clinic in Rochester 

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DEAR MAYO CLINIC: Heart disease runs in my family, and I really want to avoid developing it myself if I can. What heart-health habits should I consider starting in the new year?

ANSWER: When it comes to heart health, prevention still delivers the greatest return. Taking steps now — no matter how small — provides far greater benefits than managing heart disease later. Fortunately, there are many practical, sustainable ways to lower your risk, even if heart disease is common in your family.

A good place to begin is with the simple, everyday choices that influence your long-term cardiovascular health. To build healthier habits, start gradually. Improving your diet one step at a time, moving your body throughout the day and avoiding long periods of sitting can make a measurable difference. Small changes add up, and consistency matters more than perfection.

Emotional well-being also plays a vital role in heart health. Activities that bring meaning or connection, such as walking with a friend or focusing on purpose in daily life, can lower stress and support healthier behaviors. Caring for your emotional health isn't separate from caring for your heart; both are deeply interconnected.

Taking medications as directed is another key factor in preventing heart attacks or stroke. If you have been prescribed treatment for high blood pressure, high cholesterol or other risk factors, following your clinician's guidance and monitoring your numbers ensures those risks stay under control.

Heart-healthy steps to consider

Here are eight additional steps that can strengthen your heart-health plan for the year ahead.

1. Avoid tobacco.
Smoking or using smokeless tobacco damages the heart and blood vessels, and it lowers the oxygen available to your body, forcing the heart to work harder. The benefits of quitting begin almost immediately, and the risk of heart disease decreases significantly within a year.

2. Get moving every day.
Aim for 30 minutes or more of physical activity most days of the week. Brisk walking, cycling, gardening, taking the stairs and even brief movement breaks throughout the day all contribute to better cardiovascular fitness. National guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate or intense activity weekly, but any amount of movement is better than none. If you've been inactive, increase your activity gradually.

3. Follow a heart-healthy eating plan.
Diet affects many major risk factors, including blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. Heart-healthy patterns such as the Mediterranean diet and DASH eating plan emphasize fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish, lean protein, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil and avocado. Limiting salt, added sugars, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, saturated fat and processed foods, including processed meat, further protects your heart.

4. Maintain a healthy weight.
Excess weight, especially around your belly, raises the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea and heart disease. Even modest weight loss of 3% to 5% can improve blood sugar, triglycerides and overall metabolic health.

5. Prioritize quality sleep.
Adults typically need at least seven hours of sleep each night. Poor sleep is linked to obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and a restful environment. If you snore loudly, wake up gasping or feel excessively tired despite adequate sleep, talk to your clinician about screening for obstructive sleep apnea.

6. Manage stress in healthy ways.
Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure and affect lifestyle choices. Techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, relaxation exercises, mindful breathing, physical activity and seeking social support can lessen stress and improve overall well-being.

7. Stay up to date with screening tests.
High blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar often develop silently. Regular screenings allow early detection and treatment. Your clinician can recommend how often to check your numbers based on your age and risk profile.

8. Prevent infections.
Good dental care and staying up to date on vaccinations reduce risks associated with infections that can harm the heart or worsen existing conditions.

While you can't change your family history, you can adopt many habits that strengthen and protect your heart. Start with small, manageable steps, stay connected emotionally, take medications as prescribed, and partner with your care team to monitor your health. 

Prevention is a powerful investment and the new year offers a perfect opportunity to begin.

Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, M.D., Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

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DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I’m confused about prebiotics and probiotics. Could you help me understand what they are and how they could benefit my health?

ANSWER: You're not alone in wondering about the health benefits of prebiotics and probiotics. Even the names can be confusing.

The human gastrointestinal tract houses roughly 100 trillion microorganisms (good bacteria). These microorganisms make up what's called the gut microbiome.

These good bacteria fight off bad bacteria to help keep our intestinal tract healthy. 

Probiotics: Promoting digestion, benefiting health

Let's start with probiotics. Probiotics are living organisms, also known as microbes. They're primarily bacteria and yeast whose main role is to aid digestion and improve overall health. Probiotics help strengthen the gut barrier, aid in the absorption of nutrients, and replace less beneficial or harmful microbes. 

Research shows that probiotics can treat and even prevent conditions such as gastrointestinal (GI) tract infections, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lactose intolerance, allergies, cystic fibrosis, urogenital infections, diarrhea, high cholesterol, eczema and certain cancers. 

Probiotics also may support dental health by treating and preventing tooth decay, periodontal disease and bad breath. 

In addition to aiding digestion, another essential role of probiotics is promoting a healthy immune system and preventing chronic diseases. 

Some examples of probiotics include fermented foods, such as certain yogurts, many cheeses, pickled vegetables, apple cider vinegar, fermented teas and sauerkraut. Probiotic supplements also are available in pill or powder form. 

Prebiotics: Feeding probiotics

Prebiotics are the food for probiotics. They help feed the probiotics through fermentation and metabolization, which are beneficial to the gut. These microorganisms contribute to a variety of processes, including cell energy, immune function, hormone regulation, anti-inflammatory responses and bowel management. 

Research indicates that high prebiotic consumption may enhance our immune system, help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and increase calcium absorption. When good bacteria (probiotics) are fed an abundance of healthful food (prebiotics), our bodies will be healthier.

Prebiotics are found in foods that contain:

• Dietary fibers, which the body doesn't fully digest.
• Resistant starches, which are a form of carbohydrate that isn't digested in the small intestine. Instead, it ferments in the large intestine. 

The most common prebiotics are inulin, oligosaccharides and pectin, which are found in fibrous foods. Foods containing prebiotics include most fruits and vegetables — especially green bananas, asparagus and onions — as well as garlic, nuts, seeds, oats, barley, potatoes, and legumes such as soybeans, dried beans, peas and lentils.

Adding probiotics and prebiotics to your diet

Food composition changes with cooking, so to get the most benefit from prebiotics and probiotics, it's important to pay attention to cooking methods. For example, boiling potatoes is better than baking them. When potatoes are boiled and then chilled, they develop a white starchy film, which is the most beneficial part. Serving beans and legumes hot increases their starch content, which is good for your gut.

Eating most fruits and vegetables while they are fresh and raw will provide healthful prebiotics. 

Researchers suggest gradually introducing these foods into your diet. Adding a lot of new foods containing prebiotics and probiotics may produce gas, cause bloating and lead to gut discomfort.

Anne Harguth, Nutrition, Mayo Clinic Health System, Waseca, Minnesota

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