The Medical Arts Health Research Group

12/22/2025

The holiday season is often seen as a time for joy, laughter, and togetherness. But for those living with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), this time of year can feel overwhelming and isolating. While the world around you may be filled with festive cheer, you might feel like you’re moving through a fog. And that’s okay. Understanding this struggle is the first step toward finding a bit of light in the darkness.

10/01/2025

🎀 October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

At Medical Arts Health Research Group, we stand with the fighters, we honor the survivors, and we remember those we’ve lost. 💗

Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women in their lifetime — but together, through awareness, research, and early detection, we can change lives.

This month, let’s:
✨ Wear pink with purpose
✨ Share knowledge and encourage regular screenings
✨ Support ongoing research that brings us closer to a cure
💬 Your voice matters. Share this post to spread awareness and remind your loved ones to prioritize their health.

09/04/2025

💙 Diabetes and high blood pressure are two of the most common health conditions worldwide — and they’re often connected.

Together, they increase the risk of heart disease, kidney problems, and stroke.

The good news? Researchers around the world are working on new ways to better understand, prevent, and treat these conditions through ongoing clinical trials. Every study brings us one step closer to improving care and saving lives.

In the meantime, for those at risk, small lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and support from your healthcare team can make a big difference.

Knowledge, prevention, and research are key to a healthier future.

05/21/2025

🩺 Questions to Ask Your Doctor 💬
Being part of a medical trial can be an empowering step in managing your health — but it’s important to ask the right questions.

Whether you’re considering a new treatment or exploring clinical research, don’t hesitate to speak up during your appointment.

Here are a few smart questions to ask:
❓ What’s my diagnosis?
❓ Are there other options?
❓ What are the side effects?
❓ Why is this test being done?
❓ Do I qualify for any clinical studies?

At Medical Arts Health Research Group, we’re here to guide you through the process, every step of the way.

📍 Currently enrolling studies across BC
🔬 No-cost access to novel treatments
💸 Compensation may be available

✅ Be informed.
✅ Be involved.
✅ Be part of the future of medicine.

05/20/2025

🫀 Did you know?
Your blood isn’t just a river of life — it’s nearly one-tenth of your total body weight! That’s up to 1.5 gallons flowing through you at any given time.

From transporting oxygen and nutrients to fighting infections, your blood does more than you think — so give it the care it deserves.

05/13/2025

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is one of the most important cholesterol numbers you’ve probably never heard of.

It’s genetically inherited, not affected by lifestyle, and not measured in standard blood tests—yet high levels can quietly increase your risk of heart disease and stroke, even if your LDL is normal.

Many people have never been tested—and don’t know they should be.

At Medical Arts Health Research Group, we’re looking closely at the impact of Lp(a) on cardiovascular health.

If you’re 55 or older and interested in learning more, click the link in bio.

Confidential. No referral needed.

05/06/2025

May is Mental Health Awareness Month 💚

This month, we pause to reflect, to speak up, and to support those living with mental health challenges. The green ribbon is more than a symbol—it’s a reminder that healing begins with compassion, understanding, and breaking the silence.

Be kind to yourself. You are not alone.
Let’s lift each other up, listen without judgment, and normalize asking for help.

Together, we can .

04/08/2025

Happy World Health Day! 💙

Today we celebrate the heartbeat of humanity—healthcare.
From check-ups to life-saving care, every beat matters.

Here’s to our incredible medical professionals who keep our hearts ticking and our spirits high. And remember—prevention is the best prescription!

Take care of your heart, body, and mind—because health is true wealth.

04/05/2025

Do You Really Need 8 Glasses of Water a Day?

You’ve probably heard the rule: drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily. But here’s the truth — there’s no scientific basis for this exact number.

Our water needs depend on a variety of factors, including age, body size, activity level, diet, and environment. The “8x8 rule” likely originated as a general guideline, but it oversimplifies how hydration actually works.

Here’s what science says:

The Institute of Medicine recommends about 2.7 liters (91 oz) for women and 3.7 liters (125 oz) for men per day — but this includes all fluids, not just water.
That means coffee, tea, fruits, soups, and even vegetables contribute to your hydration.
Your body is smart — thirst is a reliable indicator. If you’re healthy, your body will prompt you to drink when needed.

Urine color is also a great gauge. Pale yellow? You’re likely well-hydrated.

So, while staying hydrated is essential, obsessively counting glasses isn’t necessary for most people. Listen to your body, and drink accordingly — especially during exercise, hot weather, or illness.

Bottom line: There’s no need to stress about “8 glasses.” Hydration should be intuitive, not rigid.

04/02/2025

🟣 Running for Memories: Pleun’s Race to End Alzheimer’s 🟣

This year, our incredible Operations Manager Pleun van Iersel is lacing up her running shoes for something bigger than a finish line—she’s running the Honolulu Half Marathon to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research through the DB Foundation for Health Research. 💜

For Pleun, this is deeply personal. From watching her grandfather’s decline from Parkinson’s, to working in memory clinics, to seeing her mother care for Alzheimer’s patients—she knows the heartbreak memory loss brings. But she also knows the power of hope.

Your donation will:
✅ Support cutting-edge Alzheimer’s research in Canada
✅ Fund programs our local Okanagan projects like Memory Cafés for those living with dementia
✅ Empower caregivers and reduce isolation

🎁 As a thank-you, every donation over $50 comes with a beautiful Forget-Me-Not pin, a meaningful symbol of remembrance and connection in the dementia community.
Let’s rally behind Pleun as she runs for those who can’t—and let’s build a world where we protect the memories that make us who we are.

💫 Donate now and be part of this mission: https://donorbox.org/running-for-memories

🏃‍♀️ Running for Memories: Pleun's Race to End Alzheimer’s Hi, I'm Pleun van Iersel, and this year I’m running the Honolulu Half Marathon for something far bigger than a medal—I'm running to protect memories.I’m raising funds for the DB Foundation...

03/28/2025

🧴 What is Atopic Dermatitis?
Also known as eczema, it’s more than just dry skin. It causes redness, irritation, flaking, and can be triggered by allergens or stress. It’s chronic, recurrent, and often requires daily moisturizers, steroid creams, or even biologics for more severe cases.

📍If you’re living with eczema, we want to hear from you!
We’re running an Atopic Dermatitis study in Kelowna — and you may be eligible to participate.

💬 Send us a message or comment below to learn more!