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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight one of the most common cancers affecting Canadians. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. While it is far less common in men, it can still occur Understanding Risk Factors Breast cancer doesn’t have a single cause. Instead, it develops from a combination of factors: Age – Risk increases as you get older. Family history – Having a close relative with breast cancer may increase risk. Genetics – Inherited mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 play a role. Lifestyle factors – Lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol, and poor diet can add to risk. Hormonal factors – Starting periods early, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy may increase risk. It’s important to remember that having risk factors doesn’t mean you’ll develop breast cancer, but awareness helps you take steps to lower risk. Why Early Detection Matters When breast cancer is found early, treatment is often more effective, and survival rates are higher. Ways to stay proactive: Screening mammograms – Recommended for women aged 50 to 74 every two years in Ontario (or earlier if you’re high risk). Breast self-awareness – Know what’s normal for your body and report any unusual changes (lumps, skin changes, nipple discharge) to your doctor. Regular check-ups – Health professionals can identify concerns you might overlook. Pharmacists’ Role in Breast Cancer Care Pharmacists are often the most accessible healthcare professionals, and at Dundas West Pharmacy, we support patients at every stage of their journey. We can help by: Medication management – Explaining how to take prescriptions properly, including chemotherapy pills or hormone therapies. Side effect support – Recommending remedies for nausea, fatigue, or hot flashes caused by treatments. Counselling on supplements and interactions – Ensuring vitamins or natural products don’t interfere with prescribed medications. Providing emotional support – Sometimes, a simple conversation at the pharmacy counter can make a difference. How You Can Take Action This October Book your mammogram if you’re due for screening. Encourage a loved one to check in on their breast health. Support awareness campaigns and local organizations funding research. Talk to your pharmacist about medications, side effects, or prevention strategies. Breast cancer awareness is more than wearing pink in October; it’s about education, prevention, and community support. At Dundas West Pharmacy, we are committed to helping our community stay informed and empowered about their health.This month, take time to learn, share, and check in. Your actions today can make a difference tomorrow. Latest Articles October 30, 2025 Blog: Breast Cancer Awareness Month: What Canadians Should Know October 21, 2025 Thanksgiving & Healthy Eating: Balancing Indulgence with Wellness September 29, 2025 Your Guide to Managing Ragweed and Fall Allergies 2025 September 19, 2025 Ozempic’s New Approval in Canada: Ozempic Now Protects More Than Blood Sugar August 30, 2025 Why You Should Check Your Blood Pressure This Month Categories Health (47) Seniors (12)

Thanksgiving in Canada is a time to gather with loved ones, enjoy comforting meals, and celebrate the season. But along with turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie often comes something less welcome: heartburn, sluggishness, and sometimes even food-related illness. The good news is that with a few mindful choices, you can enjoy the holiday feast without sacrificing your health. Portion Balance Without the Guilt Thanksgiving is known for large servings and second helpings. Overeating, however, can put extra stress on digestion, often leading to bloating, acid reflux, or indigestion. Try starting with a smaller plate. Research shows that people naturally eat less when their plate size is smaller. Fill half your plate with vegetables before adding heavier dishes like stuffing or gravy. Eat slowly. It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to recognize fullness. This way, you can enjoy everything without feeling weighed down afterward. Managing Blood Sugar During the Feast For people living with diabetes or prediabetes, holiday meals can feel tricky. Large portions of starchy foods and sugary desserts can spike blood sugar. Pair carbs with protein (turkey with mashed potatoes, for example) to slow absorption. Don’t skip meals earlier in the day. This can lead to overeating at dinner. Swap sweetened drinks for water or sparkling water with lemon. Checking your blood sugar before and after the meal can also help you stay on track. Heartburn Prevention Tips Thanksgiving dinners are rich in butter, oils, and spices, which can trigger acid reflux. If you’re prone to heartburn: Avoid lying down right after eating; wait at least two hours. Limit carbonated drinks and alcohol, which can worsen symptoms. Keep over-the-counter antacids or acid reducers on hand if needed. Your pharmacist can also recommend medications that help manage recurring symptoms. Leftovers: Safety First Thanksgiving leftovers are almost as beloved as the dinner itself. But foodborne illness is more common when large meals are left sitting out too long. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of serving. Store food in shallow containers so it cools evenly. Use leftovers within three to four days, or freeze them for longer storage. When reheating, make sure food reaches at least 74°C (165°F). A Word From Dundas West Pharmacy At Dundas West Pharmacy, we know holidays are about more than food. They’re about feeling good and making memories. If you need advice on managing heartburn, blood sugar, or other health concerns this Thanksgiving, our pharmacists are here to help. We can also recommend over-the-counter options or review your medications to ensure they fit your lifestyle. This Thanksgiving, enjoy the flavours of the season with a little balance and a lot of wellness. Call us at (416) 368 9143. Latest Articles October 28, 2025 Thanksgiving & Healthy Eating: Balancing Indulgence with Wellness September 29, 2025 Your Guide to Managing Ragweed and Fall Allergies 2025 September 19, 2025 Ozempic’s New Approval in Canada: Ozempic Now Protects More Than Blood Sugar August 30, 2025 Why You Should Check Your Blood Pressure This Month August 14, 2025 Camping Health Kit Checklist: What to Pack Before You Pitch the Tent Categories Health (46) Seniors (12)

If you’ve noticed more sneezing, itchy eyes, or a stuffy nose lately, you’re not alone. Fall in Etobicoke brings cooler air, but it also brings a surge in seasonal allergens like ragweed pollen, mold spores, and indoor dust. These triggers can make daily life uncomfortable, but with the right prevention steps, you can stay ahead of symptoms and enjoy the season. What’s Causing Allergies This Fall? Ragweed pollen: A single ragweed plant can release up to a billion pollen grains that travel long distances through the air. In Ontario, ragweed season usually lasts until the first frost. Mold spores: Damp leaves, grass piles, and cooler fall weather encourage mold growth both outside and inside homes. Dust and dander: As we spend more time indoors with windows closed, allergens like pet dander and dust mites become stronger triggers. Signs of Fall Allergies Runny or congested nose Sneezing fits Itchy, watery eyes Scratchy throat Fatigue or poor sleep caused by congestion and blocked airways Prevention and Relief Tips for 2025 Track pollen and AQHI levels: Use the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) from Environment Canada. When pollen counts or AQHI reach “high” or “very high,” limit outdoor activity, especially in the morning when pollen is most concentrated. Seal your indoor air: Keep windows shut during high pollen days and use HEPA or MERV-13 filters in your HVAC system. Replace filters every 2–3 months for best results. Decontaminate after exposure: Pollen sticks to skin, hair, and clothing. Showering and washing hair after spending time outside reduces indoor transfer significantly. Manage outdoor chores smartly: If you must rake leaves or garden, wear a fitted N95 mask and gloves. Mold spores from damp leaves are a major fall trigger. Control indoor humidity: Keep humidity between 40–50%. This reduces dust mite activity and slows mold growth. A hygrometer is inexpensive and helps you monitor levels. Stay hydrated and use saline rinses: Hydration thins mucus, and saline rinses flush allergens directly from nasal passages, improving comfort and reducing dependence on medication. Use evidence-based pharmacy solutions: Antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine) for daily symptom control. Nasal corticosteroid sprays (fluticasone, mometasone) as first-line therapy for persistent symptoms. Lubricating eye drops for itchy, watery eyes. Ask your pharmacist which option best suits your needs and other medications. How Dundas West Pharmacy Supports You Stocking antihistamines, saline sprays, and eye drops for quick relief. Guidance on choosing the right medication—non-drowsy options for daytime, stronger ones for severe symptoms. Advice on proper nasal spray technique to maximize results. Seasonal reminders for flu shots and overall fall wellness. How Dundas West Pharmacy Can Help Medication reviews to assess if Ozempic could benefit you Support through initiation, training on injection technique, and monitoring side effects Collaboration with your healthcare team to track kidney function (eGFR, urine albumin) and cardiovascular markers Lifestyle advice to complement treatment—diet, exercise, hydration, smoking cessation Don’t let the pollen ruin your fall Don’t let ragweed and fall allergens slow you down this season. With prevention steps and pharmacy support, you can breathe easier and enjoy everything autumn in Etobicoke has to offer. Visit Dundas West Pharmacy or Call (416) 368 9143 for personalized advice and your allergy relief essentials. Latest Articles September 29, 2025 Your Guide to Managing Ragweed and Fall Allergies 2025 September 19, 2025 Ozempic’s New Approval in Canada: Ozempic Now Protects More Than Blood Sugar August 30, 2025 Why You Should Check Your Blood Pressure This Month August 14, 2025 Camping Health Kit Checklist: What to Pack Before You Pitch the Tent July 28, 2025 Four Natural Ways to Manage Stress This Summer Without the Crash Categories Health (45) Seniors (12)

Health Canada has just expanded the approval of Ozempic, a medication already widely used for type 2 diabetes. Beyond lowering blood sugar, Ozempic is now recognized for protecting the kidneys and the heart in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. This is a major step forward in diabetes care. What’s New? Ozempic is now the first-in-class GLP-1 drug approved in Canada to manage blood sugar, slow kidney decline, and reduce cardiovascular mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. (MedPath, Life Sciences Voice) This approval equips healthcare providers with a powerful multi-target therapy for high-risk patients. (MedPath) Why Does It Matter For Canadians? Kidney and heart complications are major threats for people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Around 40 % of Canadians with type 2 diabetes also have chronic kidney disease. (Reuters, Life Sciences Voice) For Canadians managing type 2 diabetes, especially those with early signs of kidney stress or cardiovascular vulnerability, this approval offers new hope. It may help delay dialysis or transplants while also addressing heart risk. (kidney.ca, MedPath) The international FLOW trial, involving over 3,500 patients across 28 countries (including Canada), showed Ozempic reduced the risk of kidney failure or major kidney deterioration by 24 %, and lowered cardiovascular death and cardiac events when added to standard care. (kidney.ca, MedPathLife Sciences Voice) How It Works? Ozempic mimics GLP-1, a gut-derived hormone that: Stimulates insulin release Regulates appetite and slows digestion Demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects and improves kidney and cardiovascular outcomes (Sinai HealthNews-Medical) Safety and Considerations Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. Serious though rare effects may include pancreatitis or gallbladder issues. (MedPath, Wikipedia) Emerging data suggests possible risks of eye conditions (like macular degeneration) or joint issues, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring. (Wikipedia+1) Always consult your healthcare provider before starting Ozempic, especially if you have existing eye or stomach conditions. How Dundas West Pharmacy Can Help Medication reviews to assess if Ozempic could benefit you Support through initiation, training on injection technique, and monitoring side effects Collaboration with your healthcare team to track kidney function (eGFR, urine albumin) and cardiovascular markers Lifestyle advice to complement treatment—diet, exercise, hydration, smoking cessation Visit Us Today! This is a meaningful leap forward in diabetes care. Ozempic is now more than just a glucose-lowering tool. If you or a loved one have type 2 diabetes with kidney concerns or heart risk, Visit Dundas West Pharmacy or Call (416) 368 9143 about whether Ozempic fits your treatment plan. Latest Articles September 21, 2025 Ozempic’s New Approval in Canada: Ozempic Now Protects More Than Blood Sugar August 30, 2025 Why You Should Check Your Blood Pressure This Month August 14, 2025 Camping Health Kit Checklist: What to Pack Before You Pitch the Tent July 28, 2025 Four Natural Ways to Manage Stress This Summer Without the Crash July 15, 2025 Hot Weather, Cold Meds: How to Store Your Medication Safely in Summer Categories Health (44) Seniors (15)