LAREDO, TX – In a promising yet modest shift, a national study reveals that the United States obesity rate decreased slightly from 46% to 45.6% in 2023, marking the first decline in more than a decade. While this decrease offers a glimmer of hope, obesity continues to pose a major public health challenge with far-reaching implications, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Tyler King, D.O., ABOM, a board-certified physician in family medicine and obesity medicine at Prim... ... Read More

LAREDO, Texas – Sleep is not a luxury – it's a critical component of maintaining our health. As we approach World Sleep Day on March 14, it's an important time to highlight the significant impact sleep has on a person’s mental and physical well-being. In the United States alone, more than 50 million people suffer from chronic sleep disorders, with an additional 20-30 million experiencing occasional sleeping problems, according to the National Institutes of Health. “Sleep is a cornerstone of overall heal... ... Read More

Designation validates hospital’s ability to provide necessary care, resources for heart attack patients LAREDO, Texas — The American College of Cardiology has recognized Laredo Medical Center for its demonstrated expertise and commitment in treating patients with chest pain. Laredo Medical Center was awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation with Primary PCI in December based on a site review of the staff’s ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients who may be experiencing a heart attack. According ... ... Read More

LAREDO, Texas – Many people often shudder when their doctor informs them it’s time for a screening colonoscopy. But regular screening, beginning at age 45 for people with average risk factors, is the key to preventing colorectal cancer, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among men and women combined in the United States, with an expected 107,320 new cases of colorectal cancer expected to be diagnosed this year. One in 24 men and ... ... Read More

LAREDO, Texas – News that Harrison Ford withdrew from the 2025 Oscars ceremony due to a diagnosis of shingles has brought attention to this common, often painful, condition. Usually thought of as a childhood disease, chickenpox can have lasting effects well into adulthood because the virus remains inactive in the body even after recovery. Years after you have had the chickenpox, the virus can reappear in the form of shingles. One in three Americans will experience shingles in their lifetime according to... ... Read More

LAREDO, Texas – In March, Laredo Medical Center kicks off its annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive benefitting the South Texas Food Bank and is inviting community members to participate in this effort to fight hunger in the local area. Peanut butter is a sought after item for food banks because of its high nutritional value and long shelf life. Yet, it is one of the least donated items. The third annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive will kick off on Monday, March 3 and will run through Monday, Mar... ... Read More

LAREDO, Texas — Patient care in Laredo has received a major boost, thanks to Luis Guevara, D.O., and Tyler King, D.O., who have earned specialized board certifications. Both are family medicine physicians at Laredo Medical Center affiliate, Primary Care Associates of Laredo. “Congratulations to Dr. Guevara and Dr. King for enhancing their knowledge and expanding the scope of their practice by earning additional national board certifications in high-demand specialties. These certifications provide physic... ... Read More

LAREDO, Texas – The prevalence of one of the most common cardiovascular conditions in the U.S. is significantly higher than previously estimated, underscoring the need for better prevention and treatment strategies. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a rapid, irregular heartbeat that can lead to stroke or sudden death if untreated. A 2024 study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology estimates the current national prevalence of AFib to be at least 10.5 million adults, compared to previous estima... ... Read More

LAREDO, Texas, JANUARY 24, 2025 – A popular Washington’s Birthday tradition that encourages Laredoans of all ages to step it up for healthier lifestyles will be held on February 1 at Laredo Medical Center. Originally known as the WBCA Founding Fathers’ 5K Run, last year the event was rebranded and reenergized as the Laredo Association of Realtors (LAR) Run George Run 5K Run and Walk. LAR is a Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association (WBCA) affiliate. Along with the race is a free Wellness Fair, cou... ... Read More

LAREDO, Texas, JANUARY 24, 2025 – James Vincent Cortez, M.D., has been elected chief of staff for Laredo Medical Center. He replaces Dr. Amando Garza IV, who served from January to December 2024. Dr. Cortez is a diagnostic radiologist specialist and has been part of the LMC medical staff since 2018. “Congratulations to Dr. Cortez on his new appointment with our medical staff leadership at Laredo Medical Center,” said CEO Jorge Leal, FACHE. “He has the skills and experience needed to help us expand the v... ... Read More