HHC vs. THC: Making the Right Choice for Your Preferences
Explore the world of cannabinoids with a comparison of HHC vs. THC! This guide covers their unique properties and includes a roundup of the top brands of 2024.
HHC and THC may seem alike, but they have distinct differences.
HHC offers psychoactive outcomes akin to THC, but due to its unique chemical structure, it might result in varying experiences.
THC, well-known for its “high” and perceptual changes, impacts memory, coordination, and mood regulation.
So, how do you make your best pick? Dive into this guide to explore their unique characteristics and discover the best brands to suit your preferences. Your journey to understanding these two fascinating compounds starts here.
Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a novel cannabinoid extracted from hemp and represents a hydrogenated form of THC. The hydrogenation process reduces the number of double bonds, which leads to changes in the molecular shape and behavior of the compound. This makes HHC more stable and less psychoactive than THC, but it is still capable of binding to cannabinoid receptors in the body. Lastly, HHC’s distinct structure sets it apart from other cannabinoids, contributing to its specific effects and interactions.
HHC Benefits
Enhanced Stability: The hydrogenation process makes HHC more stable, resulting in longer shelf life.
Lower Psychoactivity: Due to its unique structure, HHC is often reported to have less intense psychoactive effects than THC.
Potential Neuroprotective Effects: Some research suggests that HHC might protect the nervous system.
Different Binding Affinity: HHC may have varied affinities for cannabinoid receptors, leading to diverse therapeutic possibilities.
Increased Legal Availability: In some jurisdictions, the legal status of HHC differs from that of THC, making it more accessible.
HHC Side Effects
Unknown Long-Term Impact: As a relatively new compound, the long-term health effects of HHC are not well understood.
Potential for Overconsumption: Due to its reduced psychoactivity, users may inadvertently consume excessive amounts, leading to undesirable effects.
Possible Drug Interactions: HHC can interact with certain medications, leading to unexpected side effects or reduced efficacy.
What is THC?
THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It consists of 30 hydrogen atoms, 21 carbon atoms, and two oxygen atoms. Structurally, THC includes a five-ring molecular setup with a unique aromatic ring. THC binds to the CB1 receptor in the brain, stimulating dopamine release and resulting in feelings of euphoria. Its molecular configuration allows it to engage with receptors, creating its psychoactive characteristics.
Extracted from cannabis plants or synthesized in a lab, THC is available in multiple forms, like oils, edibles, and vapors. The potency depends on the strain and the consumption method. Further, THC’s medicinal applications include treating specific ailments and offering neuroprotective effects. Recreational usage focuses on its relaxation properties. Its legal status varies worldwide. Its complex chemical structure, diverse applications, and legal landscape are vital knowledge areas for different stakeholders.
THC Benefits
Neuroprotective Properties: THC can protect neurons from damage and has shown promise in treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Glaucoma Treatment: It may help reduce pressure inside the eye for glaucoma patients.
Asthma Relief: Some studies suggest THC’s bronchodilatory effect may help sufferers.
Support for PTSD: It can relieve PTSD symptoms by improving trauma-related sleep quality and reducing nightmares.
Antioxidant Properties: THC’s antioxidant capabilities may help fight oxidative stress, promoting general wellness.
THC Side Effects
Impaired Cognitive Function: THC may impair memory, judgment, and coordination.
Addiction Risk: Long-term usage may cause addiction or dependence.
Increased Heart Rate: This compound can likely raise heart rate and blood pressure, putting those with heart issues at risk.
THC vs HHC: The Difference
Both THC and HHC are cannabinoids, but they have distinct differences. So, while they share similarities, differences in production, concentration, and use set these two cannabinoids apart.
THC leads to the ‘high’ sensation. Its production is relatively well known; it is often synthesized from THCA. However, HHC, conversely, is hydrogenated THC and is less understood. The hydrogenation process in HHC reduces psychoactivity, but the exact procedure may vary.
While THC concentration is a significant factor in the potency of various cannabis products, HHC’s reduced psychoactivity makes its concentration less impactful on its effects. Regarding use, THC is commonly utilized for recreational and medicinal purposes. HHC’s services are still being explored, but its modified structure might offer therapeutic benefits without intense psychoactive effects.
How Do THC and HHC Work?
THC and HHC interact with the ECS, binding to CB1 receptors in the brain. THC’s binding creates psychoactive effects, inducing feelings of euphoria. HHC binds differently because it is hydrogenated, leading to diminished psychoactive effects. The unique critical patterns create varied sensations and potential therapeutic benefits for each compound.
HHC vs. THC: Which One Is Right For Me?
Both THC and HHC offer somewhat similar benefits, but THC is a bit stronger, so which one should you choose? Let’s check out the benefits of these compounds so you can easily decide on one.
What THC is Good For
Pain Management: THC is often used to manage pain. It interacts with brain and immune system receptors to alleviate chronic pain, offering an alternative to traditional painkillers.
Appetite Stimulation: Beneficial for those undergoing chemotherapy or struggling with eating disorders, THC can stimulate the appetite and promote weight gain.
Migraine Relief: Sufferers of frequent migraines may find relief through THC, as it’s been reported to lessen the occurrence and intensity of these painful headaches.
Muscle Spasm Reduction: Especially beneficial for individuals with multiple sclerosis, THC can reduce muscle spasms by relaxing muscles and easing tension.
Cancer Symptom Relief: THC is used to mitigate symptoms associated with cancer and chemotherapy, such as nausea and vomiting, improving the overall quality of life.
Anti–InflammatoryEffects: Those with inflammatory conditions like arthritis may benefit from THC’s anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling and discomfort.
Insomnia Treatment: By promoting relaxation and calming the mind, THC can be a helpful sleep aid for those with insomnia or other sleep disorders.
Skin Health: Certain topical THC products have been shown to treat conditions like eczema and psoriasis by reducing inflammation and promoting healthy skin.
Mood Enhancement: For those struggling with anxiety and depression, THC can uplift mood and provide a sense of balance and well-being.
What HHC is Good For
Relief from Anxiety: HHC provides anxiety relief without the strong psychoactive effects of THC, offering mental calm without intense high sensations.
Pain Alleviation: Like THC, HHC can be employed for pain relief, particularly for chronic conditions, with fewer psychoactive effects.
Promoting Alertness: While THC often leads to sedation, HHC can increase alertness and concentration, making it more suitable for daytime use.
Anti–NauseaEffects: HHC effectively combats nausea from various causes, including chemotherapy, without the psychoactive effects common in THC.
Enhancing Creativity: Some users report that HHC promotes creativity and focus, making it suitable for artistic pursuits and cognitive tasks.
Potential Weight Loss Aid: Unlike THC, HHC might suppress appetite and thus could be used as an aid in weight loss programs.
Combating Depression: HHC has been found to alleviate symptoms of depression, offering a potentially more balanced mental health treatment.
Reducing Seizures: Showing promise in the medical community, HHC can reduce seizures in epilepsy patients without significant psychoactive effects.
Boosting Immune Health: Some research indicates that HHC may aid in improving immune system function, offering increased infection resistance.
Antioxidant Properties: As an antioxidant, HHC may promote wellness by combating free radicals and supporting the body’s natural defense system.
Remember, this is all general information about benefits; you must not use THC or HHC for medical purposes. Consult your healthcare provider before using these products.
By understanding the distinct properties and benefits of THC and HHC, individuals can make informed choices based on their specific needs and preferences. Whether seeking relief from chronic pain or anxiety or seeking creativity enhancement, these compounds offer different experiences to cater to unique requirements. Always consult healthcare or cannabis professionals to determine the most suitable option.
Binoid is a leading hemp-derived CBD and Delta-8 THC industry pioneer. They offer an extensive range of premium products that have transformed the market. Binoid has committed to quality, innovation, and value, creating a broad portfolio of unique offerings. Some of their revolutionary products include THCA vape cartridges and HHC options. The brand stands out with its 100% Hemp-derived ingredients, a mark of authenticity and purity. Another characteristic feature of Binoid products is the vast array of flavors offered. This ensures that customers with varying tastes can find something that suits them.
The HHC Vape Cartridge comprises 94% HHC Distillate and 6% Terpenes. This ratio ensures a 100% Hemp-derived experience, a testament to Binoid’s commitment to authenticity.
It offers a smooth mental and physical buzz akin to traditional Delta-9 THC. This makes it an excellent choice for a potent and enjoyable product.
The cartridge is available in various flavors, including Sunset Sherbert. This variety ensures that consumers find a flavor that resonates with their palate.
Priced at $31.99, it provides an accessible entry point for newcomers to hemp-derived products. It also remains a good option for regular users who want a reliable experience.
The THCA Diamonds, weighing in at 2.5 grams of pure crystal diamonds, are the first THCA wax dab available on the market.
The product includes 99% THCA Distillate with Live Rosin Terpenes, ensuring an intensely flavorful experience.
It’s available in exciting flavors like Sundae Driver. These flavors add a layer of enjoyment to the experience.
Priced at $43.99, it represents premium pricing that corresponds with potent flavor and high-quality manufacturing.
Binoid’s selection of products, which includes everything from vape cartridges to diamonds, caters to a diverse range of consumers. With its dedication to constant innovation and adherence to high quality and purity standards, the brand continues to contribute positively to the industry. Binoid delivers unparalleled customer experiences through its versatile product range, keeping them at the forefront of the hemp-derived products industry.
JustDelta is a specialized destination for quality Delta 8 products. With a user-centric approach, they cater to the diverse needs of individuals seeking alternative wellness solutions. JustDelta’s vision is to cultivate a life of balance and excellence by integrating nature’s best. They strive to bring high-quality Delta 8 products like gummies, vape oils, and other hemp items to the forefront of the wellness industry. The brand mission encompasses enhancing everyday living with uniqueness.
TreHouse is a leading brand in the cannabis industry, specializing in innovative and high-quality products. From potent syrups to unique chocolate bars, they cater to various preferences. Here’s a detailed look at three of their standout products:
MoonWlkr strives to explore new frontiers in the hemp industry by creatively combining cannabinoids with award-winning terpenes and natural flavors. Known for innovative blends, the brand aims to deliver euphoric experiences for users while keeping quality and balance in mind.
Galaxy Treats is focused on hemp-derived products, offering gummies and disposable live resin with intriguing and exciting names that are themed around space exploration. The brand emphasizes a sense of adventure and discovery while also being conscious of safety and responsible use.
Each pack contains ten gummies with 300mg D8 + D9 + HHC + THC-P.
The gummies are made with a combination of Sugar, Corn Syrup, Pectin, Sunflower Oil, Water, Flavoring, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Acid Sulfate, Citric Acid, Natural and Artificial Food Coloring. This combination ensures an enjoyable texture and taste.
The total strength of these gummies is 3000mg D8 + D9 + HHC + THC-P
The brand emphasizes responsible usage, warning against driving or operating machinery while using the product. Consultation with a physician is advised, and the product is unsuitable for those pregnant, nursing, or with health conditions.
Rating: With an impressive rating of 4.87 out of 5 based on 30 customer reviews, this product has resonated well with consumers, reflecting overall solid satisfaction.
Contents and Flavor: Each pack contains two gummies with 15 mg of HHC each, up to 30mg of Hemp-Derived HHC. The Fruit Punch flavor adds a delightful twist, promising an irresistible taste experience.
Ingredients: The gummies are made with a combination of Sugar, Corn Syrup, Pectin, Sunflower Oil, Water, Flavoring, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Acid Sulfate, Citric Acid, Natural and Artificial Food Coloring, 15mg HHC, and Plant-derived Terpenes. This combination ensures an enjoyable texture and taste.
Δ9THC Content: Complying with legal regulations, it contains a value of 0.3% or less Δ9THC.
Precautions: The brand emphasizes responsible usage, warning against driving or operating machinery while using the product. Consultation with a physician is advised, and the product is unsuitable for those pregnant, nursing, or with health conditions.
Rating: A perfect 5-star rating from one review indicates positive initial reception, although more feedback might be needed for a comprehensive evaluation.
Contents and Strain/Flavor: This live resin offers 3 grams of hemp-derived cannabinoids with a Hybrid or Birthday Cake strain and flavor, adding to the product’s distinctiveness.
Ingredients: It contains hemp-derived THCA, THCP, HCP, Delta-8, and Terpenes, catering to those seeking a potent and flavorful experience.
D9 THC Content and Precautions: Like the gummies, it maintains a 0.3% or less D9 THC content, and similar precautions are stated, ensuring that the brand’s responsible stance is consistent across all products.
Premium Jane is a top-tier CBD company dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for its customers. What began as a small family endeavor quickly became a widespread brand known for its top-quality CBD oils, edibles, and topicals. With a commitment to sustainability and quality, Premium Jane offers an array of products sourced from organic, non-GMO USA hemp, all available online so that customers don’t need to search “CBD oil near me.”
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol) are generally considered safe for adult consumption in controlled amounts. While THC is well-known, HHC is relatively new, and its long-term effects may not be fully understood. Some individuals might experience adverse reactions, such as dizziness or anxiety. Careful consideration of dosage, individual health conditions, and consultation with healthcare professionals is recommended.
How Long Does HHC Stay in Your System?
HHC can stay in the system for various periods, depending on factors such as metabolism, frequency of usage, dosage, and body composition. Generally, it might be detectable in the blood for a few days and in the urine for a few weeks. Being mindful of these factors is essential, especially for those subject to drug testing.
Is HHC Legal?
HHC’s legal status varies by jurisdiction and often depends on its source, such as whether it’s derived from marijuana or hemp. While it is legal in some regions, others may have restrictions or outright bans. It is essential to research and comply with local laws.
Is THC Good For You?
THC has been found to have therapeutic benefits in treating conditions like chronic pain, nausea, and certain mental disorders. However, excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects like impaired cognition and potential addiction. Moderation and medical guidance are advised.
Is HHC Stronger Than THC?
Some reports suggest HHC can be more potent than THC, but individual experiences may vary. Factors like the specific product, dosage, and individual sensitivity can influence the perceived strength. Understanding these nuances can lead to a more pleasurable and safe experience.
How Long Does HHC Last?
HHC’s effects can last anywhere from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the consumption method (e.g., edibles might last longer than smoking), dosage, and individual factors like metabolism. Knowing one’s reaction can inform the timing and setting of consumption.
Do HHC and THC Show Up On Drug Tests?
HHC and THC might appear on drug tests as they could be detected as similar compounds. Since standard drug tests often look for general cannabinoids, false positives are possible. Being transparent with employers or other authorities about legal cannabinoid usage might be prudent.
What Is The Difference Between HHC, THC, and Delta 8, 9, and 10?
HHC, THC, Delta 8, 9, and 10 are all cannabinoids, but with distinct chemical structures and properties. THC (Delta 9) is the most famous psychoactive compound in cannabis. Delta-8 is similar but less potent. Delta 10 is also less understood. HHC is a novel compound with unique effects. Understanding these differences requires consideration of legality, usage, marks, and potential benefits.
Summing Up
HHC and THC are similar compounds but vary in factors like concentration and production. This guide will present the precise differences to you and how to pick the perfect product for you. We did a rigorous search to find the best HHC and THC products to help you save time and effort. Whether you’re seeking affordable HHC Vape Carts similar to those from Binoid, or HHC gummies like those from Premium Jane, there’s something for everyone.
Today’s seniors are more connected than ever, with a renewed focus on retirement as a time of discovery and enriching experiences. The ultimate reward for a retirement well-earned is the wisdom to appreciate it all, and what better place to enjoy that unique perspective than Vi at La Jolla Village, in the heart of San Diego.
All-access pass to good living.
As a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Vi provides access to a connected and fulfilling community while making it easy to plan for future care, should the need ever arise. With a care plan in place, residents enjoy greater financial predictability and long-term value, freeing them to focus on making the most out of retirement.
Resort-style amenities at the epicenter of a cultural hub like San Diego offer a retirement experience unlike any other. Paired with exceptional dining, spacious accommodations and dedicated staff, the best of maintenance-free living is all around. And with the introduction of Vista 360 Well-Being, Vi’s panoramic approach to wellness, there are more ways than ever for residents to access it all.
The harmony of mind, body and community.
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
The key to longevity is striking the right balance in maintaining an active lifestyle with an active mind in a fulfilling community. With newly renovated community spaces and restaurants, Vista brings a variety of opportunities for residents to elevate their well-being through Vi-exclusive “Signature Experiences.”
Vista Enrich takes an evidence-based approach to brain vitality, keeping residents at the forefront of cognitive health through exergaming (exercising + gaming), nutritional plans and informative workshops. It is also home to The Brain Vitality Studio, an innovative facility dedicated to cognitive fitness that has garnered national recognition.
Vista Discover invites residents into stimulating educational experiences, from chef-led cooking demos and guided wine tastings to lectures at local universities and intimate lectures following cultural outings.
While Vista Enrich focuses on brain health and Vista Discover engages residents intellectually, Vista Explore cultivates a sense of adventure through curated travel and local excursions. But broadening one’s horizons doesn’t always require a plane ticket. One recent event brought a taste of the world right to the community: an onsite “jazz cruise” featuring live music and global cuisine served at a series of themed “ports” all within the community’s own ballroom.
“Location, location, location”
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
One of the biggest perks of life at Vi at La Jolla Village is its proximity to just about everything. With easy access to transportation and local attractions just steps away, residents can explore and engage with their community at their own pace.
“There are trolley and bus stops within a 5-minute walk that will get you to the beach, UCSD Campus, medical appointments, downtown La Jolla or San Diego, et cetera. We rarely use our car,” said resident Tom Yager.
With the best of San Diego just steps away, residents don’t just live in the city, they live within reach of everything that makes it special.
The best of all worlds.
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
At Vi at La Jolla Village, retirement isn’t a chapter to slow down; it’s an invitation to discover more. Tailored community experiences created by Vista, paired with the vibrant pulse of San Diego just outside the door, mean that residents don’t have to choose between security and adventure, connection and independence. They get all of it.
This is what an all-access pass to good living looks like: the comforts of an elevated lifestyle, a community built for growth and a city made for discovery – all in one place.
To learn more about Vi at La Jolla Village or for details on available floor plans, visit ViatLaJollaVillage.com/SDM.
Faces of Healthcare 2026: Advanced Pain and Regenerative Specialists
Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.
Dr. Navneet Boddu is San Diego’s leading specialist in regenerative medicine and pain medicine. With more than 28 years of experience and board certifications in both pain medicine and anesthesiology, Dr. Boddu uses image guidance and precision treatments to provide personalized, non-surgical care for spine and joint disorders.
At Advanced Pain and Regenerative Specialists, Dr. Boddu specializes in autologous stem cells and PRP treatments. Utilizing the latest medical technology and evidence-based cellular therapies, he uses patients’ own cells to repair and heal joints, tendons, ligaments, and spine disorders. He is also one of the few physicians in the country who conducted FDA-authorized Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell treatment for patients with severe COVID-19. It’s this commitment to innovation that has made him a seven-time Top Doctor in San Diego County and a national leader in regenerative medicine.
Dr. Boddu received the 2025 Manchikanti Excellence Award in Regenerative Medicine. He is faculty at several national and international conferences on regenerative medicine and is a member of the Editorial Board of Pain Physician, a medical journal.
Visit
2125 S El Camino Real, Suite 200, Oceanside, California 92054 760-429-7172 | advpainandregen.com
Faces of Healthcare 2026: AURAE MD Aesthetic & Regenerative Medicine
Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.
At AURAE MD, aesthetic medicine is not about disguising the aging process. For Dr. Margo Aura Emami, it is about understanding how to work with the body’s own capacity to repair and renew.
A Harvard-educated physician with more than 30 years of advanced procedural experience, Dr. Emami has built AURAE MD around a distinctly medical approach: one that begins with biology, anatomy, and long-term tissue health rather than trends or minimally effective corrections.
Her philosophy is rooted in regenerative medicine. Rather than relying on temporary injections, she evaluates how aging affects collagen production, cellular function, skin quality, facial structure, and healing—and designs treatment plans that support the body’s intrinsic regenerative processes.
That may mean combining growth factors, peptides, collagen-stimulating technologies, precision injectables, energy-based therapies, and medical-grade skincare in a deliberately sequenced approach. Because every procedure at AURAE MD is physician-administered, Dr. Emami can continuously evaluate tissue response and determine what should come next—or whether anything more is needed at all.
Her distinction lies in judgment: knowing when to intervene, how aggressively to treat, and when a more measured approach will create the better outcome.
The goal is not to mask age or manufacture a different face. It is to preserve vitality, support the skin’s natural ability to function more youthfully, and help patients look unmistakably like themselves.
As we’re getting closer to closing out 2026, it’s an ideal time to turn the focus back to health and wellness and really think about what you need to feel your best. You can’t give your best self to other people unless you’re taking care of yourself.
But what health and wellness means is totally up to you. Sometimes, self-care looks like addressing stress, anxiety, or burnout. Or, it can mean taking the time to realign your body spirit. And some other times still, it involves trading your 9 to 5 responsibilities for a sweat session on the court. Only you can decide what you truly need. We’re just here to help you find the best ways to get it.
Healcove Chiropractic
Maybe you’ve been feeling a bit tense or stressed out—totally understandable in today’s hustle and bustle world. Or it could be that you’re not quite moving the way you want to. Sometimes, it’s just that the accumulation of days, weeks, or even years of daily strain is starting to take a toll. If your body’s out of sync, everything else tends to be, too. Low-grade chronic pain and reduced mobility can take a lot out of a person.
The board-certified chiropractors and wellness professionals at Healcove Chiropractic are experts at addressing that stage where you’re not injured, exactly, but you’re not at 100%, either. Named San Diego Magazine’s “Best Chiropractor in San Diego” in 2025 and 2026, Healcove Chiropractic aims to provide integrated, preventative care centered on long-term, science-backed approaches that ensure each patient can stay as active as possible and live life with less pain. The secret is individualized care. Every patient can expect a thorough 60-minute consultation session that includes a posture and movement screening, which allows the team to develop a personalized plan.
Courtesy of Healcove Chiropractic
Depending on the results, that may include any combination of chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, physical therapy, or functional fitness training. Whatever the team recommends, you can be sure that it’s tailored to meeting your body’s needs today and the future.
Healcove also uses unconventional therapies to treat common conditions, like Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization, a clinical rehabilitation method that retrains the body’s stabilization systems and helps active adults and former athletes improve core strength, mobility, and movement efficiency. Then there’s vibration and sound therapy. Healcove’s Vibe Table uses precise sound frequencies and gentle vibration to relax and recalibrate the body.
Everwell Acupuncture
Research shows that by stimulating specific points on the body with tiny, painless needles, a natural healing response is activated, helping to restore balance, regulate the nervous system, and improve overall wellbeing.
The practice of acupuncture has been used for centuries to address an expansive range of conditions, from chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, and digestive issues to stress and burnout, migraines, fertility and postpartum struggles, hormonal imbalances, sleep concerns, and more. Everwell, a holistic acupuncture practice based in Solana Beach, works to heal body, mind, and spirit with a blend of modern, evidence-based acupuncture, classical Chinese medicine, and personalized care. Its highly trained, doctorate-level practitioners don’t subscribe to a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, they aim to transform what care can look like. No more feeling rushed, misunderstood, or like the answers you were seeking are still out of reach.
Patients at Everwell are invited to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and experience care rooted in intentional listening and radical empathy that leaves patients feeling seen, heard, and genuinely cared for. Providers at Everwell focus on uncovering the underlying imbalances that drive physical symptoms. For example, its General Vitality regimen—a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle guidance—is designed for women on the go.
Courtesy of Everwell
This offering can support low energy and burnout, brain fog and poor focus, disrupted sleep, stress resilience and nervous system regulation, and whole-body balance and stamina. If you’ve never tried acupuncture before or aren’t sure if the team will be a fit, Everwell’s complimentary 20-minute consultation is highly recommended. What follows is a two-hour initial in-take appointment to determine the best course of action. Every question and concern will be addressed by a dedicated practitioner who wants to find the specific solutions that work best for you.
Everwell isn’t just another healthcare provider; it’s a dedicated partner who will be there for each patient’s health journey.
USA Pickleball Association
Pickleball is one of the hottest hobbies in the health and wellness space right now. Its popularity has soared over the past few years, so much so that it’s become the fastest-growing sport in the country, with an estimated 24 million people (or more!) regularly picking up the pickleball paddle.
Courtesy of USA Pickleball National Championships
Pickleball has captivated players of all ages and fitness levels, and it’s easy to see why. It’s fairly easy to learn, it’s fun, and because the court is smaller than a traditional tennis court, it requires far less running, though it’s still a high-energy sport. It’s also a great form of stress relief that encourages social connection. Though pickleball is generally thought of as a newer sport, it’s likely a lot older than people may think. The novel racket sport’s history dates back to the mid-60s, when it was created as a combination of badminton and ping pong, and it started gaining traction among hobbyists in the decades that followed. The USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) formed as the national governing body for the sport more than 40 years ago. The nonprofit organization has grown over the years, and today, USA Pickleball plays a vital role in promoting its growth, maintaining official rules, supporting local tournaments, and fostering inclusive, vibrant pickleball communities.
Beyond its tournament sanctioning and officiating certification programs, the organization works to raise the sport’s national profile through flagship events. Most notably, USAPA will host the country’s top amateur and professional players at the 2026 Oceanview USA Pickleball National Championships from October 31 through November 8 at the Barnes Tennis Center here in San Diego.
This premier tournament highlights the evolution of pickleball into a major competitive sport while bringing thousands of athletes and enthusiasts together.
In May 2026, Dr. Noran Barry performed Southern California’s first robotic-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy since the procedure received FDA approval. The milestone brought a new option for patients facing breast cancer surgery. It also reflects the specialized care available through Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Group, where Dr. Barry works alongside other doctors and specialists as part of a coordinated care team.
Dr. Barry is a fellowship-trained breast cancer surgeon with Sharp Rees-Stealy and Sharp HealthCare’s medical director of breast health. She is affiliated with Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women & Newborns and Sharp Memorial Hospital. Sharp Mary Birch was the first hospital in Southern California and one of just 15 in the United States to offer the procedure.
For a patient considering a mastectomy, treating cancer is the first concern. Questions about appearance, sensation and recovery matter, too. Robotic-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy gives Dr. Barry another way to address those concerns while working with patients and their care teams on the treatment ahead.
What makes the procedure different
A nipple-sparing mastectomy removes breast tissue while preserving the nipple and surrounding tissue for reconstruction. Dr. Barry uses a single-port robotic system, guiding surgical instruments and a high-definition camera through one small incision. She can often place that incision in a less visible area, such as near the underarm.
That placement can leave a smaller, more hidden scar than a traditional mastectomy. Preserving tissue for reconstruction may also help create a more natural-looking breast. In some cases, the surgery may preserve nerves in the remaining tissue and help maintain breast sensation.
Compared with traditional methods, the robotic-assisted approach may offer less blood loss during surgery, less pain during recovery and a faster recovery. Early results also suggest a lower likelihood of nipple necrosis, a complication in which loss of blood flow damages the nipple and areola.
For Dr. Barry, the ability to place the incision strategically is especially meaningful. It allows her to treat the cancer while considering the scar a patient will see after surgery. Along with reconstruction, that detail can make a difference to someone adjusting to changes in their body.
Care that continues beyond surgery
Breast cancer care extends beyond one surgical technique. At Sharp Rees-Stealy, doctors and specialists work together to support patients through decisions about their care. The medical group’s breast cancer navigation program also supports patients as they move through diagnosis, treatment and the steps that follow.
That team approach is evident in Dr. Barry’s work. After she performs the breast surgery, plastic surgeons complete the reconstruction. Together, their work addresses the cancer treatment and the patient’s appearance after surgery. Dr. Barry understands how difficult breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be, and how meaningful it is to offer an option that may help patients feel more like themselves.
For patients, the care surrounding the operation matters alongside the technology. They may want to understand how the surgery works, what reconstruction involves and what to expect during recovery. They can bring those questions to a team that works together, with navigation support through the course of their care.
Dr. Barry’s milestone expands the surgical options available to her patients. Her work within Sharp Rees-Stealy’s coordinated care brings the story back to what patients need: skilled specialists, clear conversations about their choices and support that extends beyond one procedure.
Sharp Community Medical Group connects patients with high-quality, coordinated health care close to home while supporting the communities its physicians serve.
Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Dr. Kaveh Bahmanpour, a family medicine physician and patient
When it comes to health care, convenience matters. Whether you need a routine checkup, a specialist appointment, diagnostic imaging, or hospital care, receiving services close to home can make a meaningful difference for you and your family. That is the philosophy behind Sharp Community Medical Group (SCMG), one of Southern California’s largest physician networks, built around a simple idea: exceptional health care should be available in the communities where people live, work, and raise their families.
SCMG’s local care delivery model begins with choosing a primary care physician in your neighborhood. When specialty care is needed, your doctor can refer you to local specialists who are part of the SCMG network. Those specialists can admit patients to nearby Sharp HealthCare or Palomar UC San Diego Health hospitals, helping ensure care remains coordinated and close to home.
Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Sharp Community Medical Group’s local care delivery model
The benefits extend far beyond physician visits. SCMG patients have access to community-based laboratories, MRI and radiology centers, urgent care locations, pharmacies, and other ancillary services throughout the region. Instead of traveling across the county for care, patients can often receive the services they need in the communities they know and trust. As a result, care becomes more convenient, more connected, and easier to navigate.
For many SCMG physicians, the word “Community” in the organization’s name is more than branding. It reflects a commitment to giving back to the people and neighborhoods they serve.
That commitment is evident in the work of Dr. Joseph Novencido, an SCMG-affiliated physician and President of the Filipino Medical Association of San Diego, who organized the inaugural 2025 Carabao 5K. The event was created to encourage healthy lifestyles and physical activity among Filipino Americans, a population that experiences cardiovascular disease at significantly higher rates than the general U.S. population.
“Community is extremely important to me,” said Dr. Novencido. “I grew up in a very diverse community, and working in this area, in the community I grew up in is so fulfilling. It is so nice to be in a position where I can make a difference in the lives of the people here.”
Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Dr. Joseph Novincido, a family medicine physician and his family
SCMG physician Dr. Leticia Polanco shares a similar passion for serving her community in Chula Vista.
“The reason I decided to go into medicine is because I felt there was an overwhelming need for people like me to take care of the community that I live in,” she said. “In our practice, we work as a team, we collaborate with our staff, and we really want to give that warm feeling to people who come here for care.”
Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Dr. Leticia Polanco, a family medicine physician and a staff member
Stories like these highlight what distinguishes SCMG: a network of physicians who are deeply invested in the health and well-being of the communities they serve, while providing patients with access to a coordinated local system of care. From preventive care and specialty services to imaging, urgent care, and hospital treatment, SCMG helps patients receive the right care, in the right place, close to home.
About Sharp Community Medical Group
Sharp Community Medical Group (SCMG) is one of Southern California’s largest physician networks, with more than 1,200 affiliated primary care and specialty physicians practicing throughout San Diego County. SCMG physicians can admit patients to local Sharp HealthCare and Palomar UC San Diego Health hospitals, providing convenient access to coordinated care throughout the community. For more information, visit scmg.org.
