Homeowners in <a href="https://www.bricktownship.net/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Brick Township</a> rely on their water heaters year-round, but problems can become more noticeable after colder months or periods of heavy use. As temperatures fluctuate, plumbing systems&mdash;<a href="https://proficientplumbingheating.com/heating/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">including water heaters</a>&mdash;may begin to show signs of wear that require attention.

Hot water is an essential part of daily life, yet many issues develop gradually and go unnoticed until performance is affected. One of the most common warning signs is inconsistent water temperature, which may indicate a failing heating element or thermostat malfunction.

Unusual sounds, such as rumbling or popping coming from the tank, are also important to monitor. These noises are often caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank, a technical issue that can reduce efficiency and increase <a href="https://proficientplumbingheating.com/efficiency-matters-upgrading-your-hot-water-heater-in-brick-nj/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">energy consumption</a> over time. In some cases, homeowners may also notice rusty or discolored water, which can point to internal corrosion or a deteriorating anode rod.

Leaks around the base of the unit or from connected pipes may signal pressure-related problems or worn-out components, including the pressure relief valve. If left unaddressed, even minor leaks can lead to more significant water damage.

Routine maintenance can help extend the lifespan of a water heater. Flushing the tank, inspecting key components, and ensuring proper pressure levels are all recommended steps to keep the system functioning efficiently.

Local professionals, including <a href="https://proficientplumbingheating.com/plumbing/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Proficient Plumbing and Heating</a>, note that early detection of these issues can help prevent costly repairs or complete system failure, especially during periods of increased demand.

Staying aware of early warning signs can help homeowners address water heater issues before they become more serious. Regular maintenance and <a href="https://proficientplumbingheating.com/plumbing/inspections/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">timely inspections</a> play an important role in keeping systems efficient and reliable throughout the year.
Proficient Plumbing &amp; Heating
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps?cid=4139939981013444750" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">482 Jackson Ave, Brick Township, NJ 08723</a>
<a href="tel:848-448-3539" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">(848) 448-3539</a>

Ocean County

Karen Wall

New York City Metropolitan Area

Brick

New Jersey

Water Heater Repair: What Every Homeowner...

Homeowners in Brick Township rely on their water heaters year-round, but problems can become more noticeable after colder months or periods of...

Water Heater Repair: What Every Homeowner Should Know

A Hackensack Meridian Health expert shares more

While an uncomfortable topic for many men, testicular cancer is a common cancer in American men between the ages of 15 and 35. While a highly curable disease if caught early, the reluctance to talk about it can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/mina-m-fam/1497224" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Mina Fam, M.D.</a>, director of uro-oncology at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center and director of robotic surgery at Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center, notes early detection is crucial &ndash; not only for successful treatment but also for managing the long-term effects that can surface decades later. He shares more during this Testicular Cancer Awareness Month.

Understanding the Numbers
While testicular cancer is relatively rare, accounting for about 1 in every 250 male cancer diagnoses, its incidence has been on the rise in the United States and many other countries for several decades. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2026, there will be about 9,810 new cases of testicular cancer diagnosed and about 630 deaths from the disease. The good news is that the lifetime risk of dying from testicular cancer is very low, about 1 in 5,000, largely because it is so treatable. The 5-year relative survival rate for localized testicular cancer is 99 percent.

The Power of Early Detection: Know Your Body
One of the most critical messages of Testicular Cancer Awareness Month is the importance of self-examination. Being familiar with your own body is the first line of defense. The most common sign of testicular cancer is a painless lump or swelling in a testicle. Other symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin, or a change in the size or feel of a testicle. It's important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, but it's always best to get checked by a doctor. Delaying a visit to the doctor can allow the cancer to spread, making it more difficult to treat.

How to Perform a Testicular Self-Exam
Performing a monthly self-exam is a simple and effective way to detect any changes early. The best time to do this is during or after a warm shower or bath when the scrotal skin is relaxed. Stand in front of a mirror and check for any swelling on the skin of the scrotum. Check each testicle separately, using both hands to gently roll each testicle between your thumbs and fingers. Feel for any hard lumps, smooth rounded bumps, or any changes in the size, shape, or consistency of the testicles.
You will also feel a soft, cord-like structure on the top and back of each testicle called the epididymis, which is a normal part of the anatomy. It's normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower than the other.&nbsp;

Breaking Down Barriers: It's Okay to Talk
Embarrassment should never be a barrier to your health. Doctors are professionals who are there to help, and they have these conversations every day. If you notice any changes or have any concerns, schedule an appointment with your doctor.

Treatment and Survivorship
For those who are diagnosed with testicular cancer, a multidisciplinary team approach is essential. This means having a team of specialists, including urologists, oncologists, and fertility experts, working together to create a comprehensive treatment plan. A crucial part of this plan is addressing concerns about fertility. Treatments like chemotherapy can affect sperm production, so fertility preservation options, such as sperm banking, should be discussed before treatment begins.

The future of testicular cancer treatment is bright, with ongoing clinical trials and biomarker research exploring new approaches for advanced and recurrent disease. There is also a growing awareness of the importance of survivorship and addressing the long-term needs of patients, including fertility, sexual function, and the potential for late side effects of treatment.

This Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, take the time to get to know your body, and don't be afraid to speak up if something seems off. Early detection is key to a successful outcome and a long, healthy life. For additional information, visit: <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care</a>.

###(Photo: vecteezy.com)

Don't Be Shy: A Frank Conversation About...

A Hackensack Meridian Health expert shares more...

Don't Be Shy: A Frank Conversation About Testicular Cancer

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hackensack Meridian Health experts weigh in
Recent buzz on social media has raised concerns about a potential link between sparkling water and cancer. But is there any truth to these claims? 
The primary concern isn't the sparkling water itself, but what might be in its packaging. The spotlight is on a group of man-made chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. Known as "forever chemicals" because they don't easily break down, PFAS can be found in the environment and have been detected in some canned and bottled drinks.
Scientific evidence has linked high exposure to certain PFAS to an increased risk of some cancers, like kidney and testicular cancer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&ldquo;While the link between all types of cancer and PFAS is not definitively established, the widespread presence of these 'forever chemicals' in our environment is a valid concern,&rdquo; says <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/david-benjamin-greenberg/1319024" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">David Greenberg, MD</a>, chief of Hematology / Oncology, Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center and is affiliated with Ocean University Medical Center. &ldquo;Research has pointed to a significant association between PFAS exposure and an increased risk for certain malignancies, particularly kidney and testicular cancers. Beyond minimizing direct exposure where possible, it's essential to focus on living a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to help mitigate your overall cancer risk."&nbsp;
From a colorectal health perspective, the worry is that these chemicals could harm the gut.
According to Dr. Steven Lee-Kong, Chief of Colorectal Surgery at Hackensack Meridian Hackensack University Medical Center, the concern is how PFAS might interact with the digestive system. "Research suggests that when ingested, PFAS can disrupt the delicate intestinal barrier," he explains. "This can lead to gut inflammation, damage to the intestinal lining, and changes to the gut microbiome." Chronic inflammation is a known risk factor for colorectal cancer.
So, should you ditch your favorite sparkling water? Dr. Lee-Kong advises a measured approach. "My advice is to be a mindful consumer rather than to panic," he says. "The issue is not with sparkling water itself, but with potential contaminants."
Here's what you can do:
<ul><li>Don't Panic: The current science is still evolving, and some studies show that the levels of PFAS in popular sparkling water brands are below federal advisory limits.</li><li>Drink in Moderation: It's difficult for consumers to know the PFAS content of any given product. A sensible approach is to enjoy canned beverages as part of a varied diet.</li><li>Prioritize Filtered Water: Making filtered tap water your main source of hydration is a great strategy. Some water filters, like reverse osmosis or activated carbon systems, are certified to remove PFAS. The good news is that regulatory agencies are taking the concern seriously. In 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the first-ever national drinking water standard for several PFAS. This move highlights a growing awareness of the issue and will lead to reduced public exposure from public water systems.</li></ul>
For information about Hackensack Meridian Health's Cancer Care services, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care</a>. To make an appointment with Dr. Greenberg, call 844-HMH-WELL.
(Photo: vecteezy.com)

Is Your Bubbly Water a Cancer Risk?

                  Hackensack Meridian Health experts weigh in...

Join me, sailing the beautiful Rhine River and let's raise a glass to the ultimate river cruise!If your idea of a perfect vacation involves SCENIC river views, historic CASTLES, and the finest European BEERS, this one is for you! Join the Enchanting Rhine &ndash; Celebration of Beer river cruise aboard the stunning AmaStella from August 1-8, 2027!
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What&rsquo;s on Tap?Expert-Led Tastings: Two onboard beer lectures and tastings led by a dedicated local Beer Expert.
Exclusive Excursions: Up to 4 beer-themed outings, including a visit to the Lahnsteiner Brauerei and an Altbier tasting in D&uuml;sseldorf.Cultural 
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Contact Cheryl Cassie at 732-966-6714 or email <a href="mailto:Cheryl.Cassie@cruiseplanners.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Cheryl.Cassie@cruiseplanners.com</a> to grab your stateroom before they&rsquo;re gone!

Sail with me down the Rhine River for a...

Join me, sailing the beautiful Rhine River and let's raise a glass to the ultimate river cruise!If your idea of a perfect vacation involves SCENIC...

Sail with me down the Rhine River for a Celebration of Beer Cruise! 

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;While a Blood Test is Being Studied, Solutions are Available Today
Brick, N.J. - April 6, 2026 - This past week Australian conservationist Bindi Irwin &ndash; who is the daughter of famed conservationist Steve Irwin &ndash; shared on social media that she had more than 50 lesions removed surgically in her continued painful battle with endometriosis. It&rsquo;s a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, grows outside of the uterus, on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the tissues holding the uterus in place, and sometimes on the bowels or bladder. In rare cases, it can grow on the lungs or other parts of the body.&nbsp;
With an average diagnostic delay of seven to nine years, something that Irwin has shared in her long journey to get a diagnosis, endometriosis remains a significant challenge for patients seeking answers and care. Most recently <a href="https://www.rgu.ac.uk/news/news-2025/7984-research-funding-awarded-to-heighten-understanding-of-endometriosis" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">researchers in Scotland</a> have been studying what would be a revolution in diagnosis &ndash; the creation of a rapid blood test for endometriosis that would be used in a doctor&rsquo;s office.&nbsp;
But &ldquo;gold standard&rdquo; care is available now, say experts at Hackensack Meridian Health&nbsp; &ndash;&nbsp; and recent updates to clinical guidelines in diagnosing the condition by considering symptoms and medical history &ndash; rather than requiring surgical confirmation are helping women much earlier in their journey. It was earlier this year that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists updated its <a href="https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/clinical-practice-guideline/articles/2026/03/diagnosis-of-endometriosis" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">clinical guidance</a> to support a &ldquo;treat first&rdquo; approach for suspected disease.&nbsp;&nbsp;
The most common symptoms of endometriosis are pain and infertility. The pain can manifest as painful menstrual cramps that may radiate to the abdomen or lower back; pain during or after sex, chronic pelvic pain lasting six months or more and pain with bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation. Other symptoms can include heavy or irregular periods, fatigue, diarrhea or constipation, and spotting between periods.&nbsp;
&ldquo;For many patients with endometriosis, symptoms have been minimized or normalized for years before they receive a diagnosis and treatment,&rdquo; says <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/jocelyn-ann-carlo/1314264?shuffle_seed=de3cfee9-f0e9-41ff-b917-8da089345fdf&amp;sort=name&amp;specialties=Gynecology&amp;search_alerts=false&amp;provider_fields=-clinical_keywords&amp;location=40.26254%2C-74.023691&amp;distance=10&amp;display_location=Oakhurst%2C%20NJ&amp;from=search-list" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Jocelyn Carlo, MD, OBGYN, F.A.C.O.G.</a>, director of gynecology, Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center. &ldquo;When a major organization like ACOG issues updated clinical guidance, it signals that endometriosis deserves a serious, structured, and evidence-based approach. Increased awareness on the national level helps shift both patient and physician perspectives towards this&nbsp; complex and challenging disease. These updates recognize the long diagnostic journey many women face and provide clinicians with tools to act sooner, so we can treat the disease earlier, prevent complications, and improve their quality of life.&rdquo;&nbsp;
While a blood test is in development, laparoscopy remains the definitive method for diagnosing and treating endometriosis. Robotic-assisted laparoscopic excision surgery is a minimally invasive approach that removes growths and scar tissue while preserving healthy tissue. This technique is crucial for complex cases and for patients seeking to preserve fertility. As endometriosis is a multifaceted condition, Dr. Carlo recommends receiving care with a multi-disciplinary team of specialists, including gynecologic surgeons, pain management experts, and fertility specialists, to provide comprehensive and individualized care.
For additional information on endometriosis and women&rsquo;s health, visit <a href="http://hackensackmeridianhealth.org/services/womens-health" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">hackensackmeridianhealth.org/services/womens-health</a>.&nbsp;
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(photo: vecteezy.com)

Tackling an Endometriosis Diagnosis: A...

       While a Blood Test is Being Studied, Solutions are Available Today...

Tackling an Endometriosis Diagnosis: A Hackensack Meridian Health Expert Sheds Light

Looking for a water aerobics instructor for summer classes at our outdoor pool in Sutton Village .&nbsp; Maybe 3x's per week?&nbsp; Please contact me via email at <a href="mailto:lilliayne57@gmail.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">lilliayne57@gmail.com</a>.

water aerobics instructor wanted

Looking for a water aerobics instructor for summer classes at our outdoor pool in Sutton Village .  Maybe 3x's per week?  Please contact me via...

April is Autism Awareness Month

Edison, N.J. - March 27, 2026 &ndash; Approximately<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/autism/articles/prevalence-varies-across-us-communities.html#:~:text=Boys%20were%20more%20than%203%20times%20as,not%20related%20to%20higher%20identification%20of%20ASD." rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> 1 in 31 children</a> in the U.S. and 1 in 29 in New Jersey are diagnosed with <a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">autism spectrum disorder</a> &ndash; a developmental disorder that impacts how a person learns, communicates, and engages with others.&nbsp;
With <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/healthier-you/2023/04/24/autism-what-it-looks-like-6-ways-to-help" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">symptoms</a> generally appearing during the first two years of life, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends developmental screening for all children at 9, 18, and 30 months, with specific <a href="https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/autism/?srsltid=AfmBOooyeQCh4mXAucil_PYh4gyIrQRYPEa1_tR9PGg_EHH_P6yCxyH3" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">autism screening</a> at 18 and 24 months, underscoring the importance of early identification, specialized care and tailored health care services for this population.
Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jersey's largest and most comprehensive health network, has developed a suite of innovative programs to provide families living with autism access to a sensory-friendly and supportive health care environment with services available across its hospitals and outpatient facilities.
"The services we've implemented across our network are a testament to our commitment to treat, understand, and accommodate the individual challenges that children with autism and their families face in a healthcare setting,&rdquo; said <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/cristina-e-farrell/3015809" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Cristina Farrell, M.D.</a>, division chief, developmental-behavioral pediatrics at K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune. "Our goal is to ensure that all children, including those with autism, receive compassionate and effective care that is attuned to their individual needs."
In addition to an e-learning initiative that has trained more than 10,000 team members &#8203;- including mandatory participation for pediatric nurses&#8203; - to better understand autism&#8203; and learn how to provide a sensory friendly medical environment&#8203;, Hackensack Meridian Health has implemented key initiatives including:&nbsp;
<ul><li>Sensory Carts: Sensory carts are available across the network in pediatric spaces and are equipped with items such as noise-canceling headphones and other support items to help manage sensory challenges, particularly during stressful procedures like blood draws.&nbsp;</li><li>Patient Passport - a Journey to "Sensory Friendly Care": The Patient Passport is a document completed by caregivers that provides specific information about a patient's triggers and sensory issues, allowing providers to deliver individualized, sensory-friendly care</li><li>Autism Sprint:&nbsp;By expanding diagnostic capacity, reducing bottlenecks, and prioritizing young patients who demonstrate possible behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorders, the Autism Sprint aims to significantly decrease wait times for families seeking a diagnosis in order to begin treatment as early as possible.</li><li>&ldquo;While you Wait:&rdquo;&nbsp; The &ldquo;While you Wait&rdquo; workshop provides families with valuable resources and guidance from the moment they request a developmental evaluation. The workshop explains the evaluation process, fosters shared understanding and helps families determine what services are the right fit.&nbsp;</li></ul>
"Navigating the healthcare system can be incredibly stressful for any family, but for those with a child on the autism spectrum, it presents a unique set of obstacles," said <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/eileen-a-dolan/1497182" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Eileen Dolan, M.D.</a>, division chief, developmental-behavioral pediatrics at Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack. "Our approach is designed to empower families, streamline our processes, and ensure the most vulnerable children receive care sooner. These initiatives, born from successful pilots within our children's hospitals, demonstrate our network's ability to innovate and scale solutions that have a real-world impact on patient care and family well-being." More information is available at <a href="http://hackensackmeridianhealth.org/Kids" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Kids</a>.
###(photo: Hackensack Meridian Health)

Hackensack Meridian Health Provides Sensory...

Hackensack Meridian Health Provides Sensory Friendly Care for Children with Autism

The following community events are offered through Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center in April (locations vary):

LAVALLETTE - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is hosting a FREE lecture on Listening for Change: Understanding Hearing Loss on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 2 - 3 p.m. Ocean County Library - Upper Shores/Lavallette Branch, 112 Jersey City Avenue, Lavallette. Join us as our Hackensack Meridian Health Audiologist discusses options to improve hearing and quality of life. Register with the library at (732) 477-4513. Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information.
LAKEWOOD&nbsp; - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is hosting FREE Wellness Screenings on our Your Health On the Move on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Wellpoint, 100 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood.&nbsp; Join us on our Your Health on the Move Van as medical staff perform wellness screenings, which include blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol, and stroke assessments. Registration is encouraged but not required!&nbsp; Walk-ins welcome! *Fasting not required. Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information.&nbsp;&nbsp;
BEACHWOOD - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is hosting a Caregiver Support Group on Monday, April 13, 2026 from Noon to 1 p.m. at the Mayo Park Center, 501 Beacon Avenue, Beachwood.&nbsp; Join us for an open discussion centered on the unique challenges and rewards of caregiving. This group provides a safe, welcoming space to share personal experiences, exchange practical advice, and find emotional support among peers who truly understand the journey. No registration required.&nbsp; Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information.&nbsp;
BRICK - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is offering a FREE lecture on Living with Pelvic Floor Dysfunction on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 2 - 3 p.m. at the Ocean County Library - Brick Branch, 301 Chambersbridge Road, Brick. Join Dr. Stephanie Sansone, Urogynecologist, as she discusses pelvic floor dysfunctions such as bladder leaks, overactive bladder, and pelvic floor weakness&nbsp; and prolapse. Also, learn when and why you should see a urogynecologist. Register through the library.&nbsp; Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information.
BRICK - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is offering Angioscreen&reg; Vascular Screenings on Thursday, April 28, 2026, from 1 - 7:30 p.m. at the Community Outreach Conference Center, 1686 Route 88, Brick. Participants will learn their risk for heart attack and stroke, receive an instant color report, and have a private consultation with a registered nurse. Fee is $49.95. Registration is required. Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 to register.
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(photo by shadowkill at freeimages.com)

Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical...

The following community events are offered through Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center in April (locations vary):...

Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center April Events

Hackensack Meridian Children&rsquo;s Health is holding a Safe Sitter&reg; course for participants between the ages of 11 and 14. The babysitting course will be held April 7 between 9:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.&nbsp; in the Community Outreach Conference Room at Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center in Brick. The fee is $40.&nbsp;

During the course, Safe Sitters will learn:

&#9679; How to keep the children and themselves safe
&#9679; How to entertain children and prevent danger
&#9679; How to call for emergency help
&#9679; How to prevent injuries and basic first aid
&#9679; What to do when a child is choking or stops breathing

Space is limited for this event, thus registration is required via phone (800-560-9990) or online: <a href="https://events.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/event/43fdc98f-3f32-4ef9-9541-f44d70954c02/regProcessStep1" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://events.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/event/43fdc98f-3f32-4ef9-9541-f44d70954c02/regProcessStep1</a>

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(Photo: Vecteezy.com)

Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health Holds...

Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health is holding a Safe Sitter® course for participants between the ages of 11 and 14. The babysitting course will...

Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health Holds Safe Sitter® Course

Brick, N.J. - March 17, 2026 - In the wake of actress Lupita Nyong'o's recent, candid<a href="https://www.facebook.com/LupitaNyongo/posts/what-i-ordered-%EF%B8%8F-what-i-got-today-is-my-birthday-and-its-got-me-feeling-reflecti/1468557701292262/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> social media post</a> about her ongoing battle with 77 uterine fibroids, the conversation around this common but often silently endured condition is more relevant than ever. Her story highlights a critical health issue that affects millions of women, many of whom suffer from debilitating symptoms without knowing their options.
Uterine fibroids (also known as myomas or leiomyomas) range in size from as small as a pinhead to as large as a grapefruit. They affect an estimated 26 million women in the U.S., with more than 15 million experiencing significant symptoms like<a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/healthier-you/2025/08/28/my-period-is-super-heavy-what-is-going-on" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> heavy menstrual bleeding</a>, pelvic pain and bladder and bowel dysfunction.<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6247381/#:~:text=10%E2%80%9314,work%20time%20and%20preterm%20delivery)." rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> Research shows</a> a staggering prevalence: by age 50, more than 80% of Black women and approximately 70% of white women will develop fibroids. Despite this, women often wait years before seeking a diagnosis and treatment.
"Lupita Nyong'o's story resonates with so many of my patients who have suffered in silence for years with heavy bleeding, pain, and pressure, thinking it was just a normal part of being a woman," says<a href="https://doctors.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/jocelyn-a-carlo/1314264" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> Jocelyn Carlo, M.D., FACOG</a>, director of gynecologic surgery at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, N.J. "Fibroids are treatable with more than a hysterectomy. It is vital that women feel empowered to speak up about their symptoms and seek expert care. A diagnosis is the first step toward reclaiming your quality of life, and today, there are more uterus-preserving and minimally invasive options than ever before."
Hackensack Meridian Health is a leader in offering such advanced procedures. A number of HMH sites recently incorporated the Sonata&reg; Transcervical Fibroid Ablation system, a targeted, incision-free procedure, that uses heat to address fibroids. This adds to existing, similar approaches like the Acessa&reg; Laparoscopic Fibroid Ablation system, uterine artery embolization and robotic myomectomies &ndash; offering women a range of minimally invasive options tailored to their specific needs.
"Hackensack Meridian Health is at the forefront of gynecological innovation, and our leadership in advanced fibroid treatment demonstrates this. By integrating cutting-edge technologies like the Sonata&reg; Transcervical Fibroid Ablation system, we are fundamentally changing how we manage fibroids,&rdquo; said<a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/michele-ellen-isaacs/1318643" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> Michele Isaacs, M.D</a>, an obstetrician and gynecologist who also specializes in fibroid treatment options. &ldquo;Treatments such as Acessa&reg; , which we utilize at Hackensack University Medical Center, allow us to offer a full spectrum of minimally invasive solutions that preserve the uterus, significantly shorten recovery time, and tailor treatments that are most effective and least disruptive to each patient's unique needs."
Learn more about<a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/womens-health" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> women&rsquo;s health</a> at Hackensack Meridian Health.
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Photo: <a href="http://vecteezy.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Vecteezy.com</a>

Silently Endured: Fibroids - Hackensack...

Brick, N.J. - March 17, 2026 - In the wake of actress Lupita Nyong'o's recent, candid social media post about her ongoing battle with 77 uterine...

Silently Endured: Fibroids - Hackensack Meridian Health Experts Weigh in

Point Pleasant

Lakewood

Toms River

Monmouth County

Sara Winick

Wall

Carly Baldwin

Manasquan-Belmar

Howell

Veronica Flesher

Berkeley

Asbury Park

Manchester

Freehold

Step into the enchanting world of "Wicked" at our Wicked-Themed Tea Time! Join us for a bewitching afternoon filled with...

Wicked Tea Party with Victorian Afternoon Tea

Temporary Grace is BACK at B2 this Friday! Get ready for a high-energy night of hits from the 60s to today—guaranteed to keep...

Temporary Grace LIVE at B2 Bayville

Join the Mathis House for our Spring Victorian Afternoon Tea this April.  Book your special tea-time experiences for birthdays,...

Spring Victorian Afternoon Tea at the Mathis House

This Interactive Beatles Experience is more than just a tribute show - it's a unique, interactive journey where the audience...

Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience

Turn it up! The Nerds are taking over B2 this Saturday, April 18th at 8pm! Get ready to rock out with one of the Jersey Shore’s...

The Nerds LIVE at B2 Bayville

Renegade Heating & Cooling

At Renegade Heating &amp; Cooling, we're more than an HVAC service provider — we're a family dedicated to ensuring your family’s comfort and safety, all year long. Founded by Fred &amp; Jared Worman, Renegade grew from a simple belief: that honest, reliable service delivered with a neighborly touch makes all the difference. As a family-owned and operated business based in Brick, New Jersey, with over 25 years of collective experience, we understand that when your heating or cooling system isn't working, it's more than an inconvenience — it affects your daily life. We didn’t start Renegade to fix HVAC systems; we started it to help our community. We’ve had the privilege of working with so many wonderful homeowners, businesses, and property managers who value clear communication, dependable service, and quality workmanship. That’s the foundation of everything we do. We’re hands-on, deeply invested in our community, and committed to forging lasting relationships built on honesty.

At Renegade Heating & Cooling, we're more than an HVAC service provider — we're a family dedicated to ensuring your family’s comfort and safety,...

Mathis House Victorian Tea Room and Bed & Breakfast

Spring is here, and it is a wonderful time to book your special birthdays and teatimes at the Mathis House. The Spring Victorian Afternoon Tea is available daily from Tuesday to Sunday. Mid-week seating starts at 11 AM, and teatimes are held by reservation every hour on the hour, with the last seating at 3 PM. Weekend seating times are 11 AM and 3 PM. The Spring Victorian Afternoon Tea includes a choice of soup, a seasonal salad, a warm scone with clotted cream, lemon curd, and preserves, a variety of five tea sandwiches, and a plate of petite desserts with a pot of gourmet tea per person. The cost is $50 (plus tax and gratuity) for adults, $20 for children 12 years old and under, and free for children 5 and under with an adult. The mid-week cost is $40 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Seniors and the military receive a 10% discount. Please book your overnight stays at the Mathis House and Huddy House, where your tea times and event tickets are buy -one -get- one -free. Call 732-818-7580 for reservations and more information. Located at 600 Main Street in Downtown Toms River. www.mathishouse600main.com

Mathis House Victorian Tea Room and Bed &...

Spring is here, and it is a wonderful time to book your special birthdays and teatimes at the Mathis House. The Spring Victorian Afternoon Tea is...

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