Can Vitamin D Reduce Your Risk for Colon Cancer?

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Colon cancer is declining overall in many countries, but incidence is increasing in younger adults. The National Cancer Institute reports that colon cancer rates have doubled among adults under 50 since the 1990s.

A new study published in Gastroenterology suggests increased levels of vitamin D could help prevent colon cancer in adults under 50.

New Research Regarding Vitamin D and Colorectal Cancer

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for building healthy bones, supporting immune health and maintaining muscle and brain cell function. But can vitamin D also impact colon cancer risk?

Scientists from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and other institutions, analyzed data from 94,205 women enrolled in the Nurses’ Health Study II. They were particularly interested in finding an association between total vitamin D intake and early-onset colon cancer, diagnosed prior to 50 years of age.

Kimmie Ng is the Director of the Young-Onset Colon Cancer Center at Dana-Farber. “Vitamin D has known activity against colorectal cancer in laboratory studies.” Ng said. “Because vitamin D deficiency has been steadily increasing over the past few years, we wondered whether this could be contributing to the rising rates of colorectal cancer in young individuals” (The Harvard Gazette).

Ng and colleagues found that higher total vitamin D intake had a significant association with reduced risk of young-onset colon cancer. Between 1991 to 2015, Ng and her team documented 111 cases of early-onset colon cancer and 3,317 colorectal polyps. The study showed women who took 300 IU or more of vitamin D per day had a 50 percent lower risk of colon cancer. That is the equivalent of three 8-ounce glasses of milk.

What are the Best Sources of Vitamin D?

Dietary vitamin D, especially dairy products, displayed more favorable results than vitamin D supplements. This finding suggests that vitamin D offers more protective benefits when ingested in food sources. Good sources of vitamin D include:

  • Fortified milk, yogurt and cheese
  • Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines and herring
  • Egg yolks
  • Red meat
  • Liver
  • Certain fortified breakfast cereals and orange juice
  • Mushrooms

How You Can Lower Your Risk for Colon Cancer

While a vitamin-rich diet and exercise are important for cancer prevention, the best way to lower your risk for colon cancer is a colon cancer screening. The gold standard is colonoscopy because it allows your doctor to examine the entire colon for precancerous growths called polyps and remove any suspicious lesions. Colonoscopy offers not only the ability to diagnose colon cancer, but to treat and prevent it, all in a single exam.

Schedule Your Colonoscopy Before Your Deductible Resets

Have you had a colonoscopy recently? The recommended age for colon cancer screening has been lowered to 45, so it may be time for you to schedule an appointment. The year is almost over, and your deductible will reset in January. If you have a family history of colon cancer, or are experiencing symptoms that may be due to colon cancer, you should consult your physician. Colonoscopy may be recommended regardless of age.

It’s hard to believe that we are approaching the end of the calendar year. Colonoscopy is considered preventive care, so your procedure could be very low-cost or even free. Time is running out, so call your insurance company today to take full advantage of your health benefits.

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Pandemic Quarantine May Have Worsened Children’s Vision

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A recent study suggests that pandemic lockdown may have increased myopia, or nearsightedness, in school-aged children.

What is Myopia?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness or shortsightedness, is a worldwide health issue. Insufficient time outside is a significant risk factor in developing myopia, as well as increased near-work activity.

The 2020 lockdown closed schools across the country and confined millions of children to their homes. While quarantine was essential to protect against the COVID-19 virus, too much time indoors may have negatively impacted children’s vision health.

Lockdown Affected Children Ages Six to Eight the Most

According to research published in JAMA Opthalmology, COVID quarantine may have increased myopia in children ages six to 13 in China, particularly children between six and eight. Researchers suggest higher levels of screentime due to online classes and more time spent on electronic devices negatively affect children’s vision.

Researchers analyzed data of over 123,000 children aged 6 to 13 years from 10 elementary schools in Feicheng, China. The prevalence of myopia in 2020 was higher than myopic rates among all age groups in the past five years.

Experts theorize that less time outdoors affects young children more significantly because their eyes are in an earlier stage of development, and myopia may be easier to control in younger children.

Send Children Outside and Limit Screen Time

Because children’s eyes are so sensitive to environmental factors, parents have an instrumental role in protecting their children’s vision. There are many ways parents can encourage healthy habits in their children during the critical period that can affect myopia:

  • Encourage children to play outside every day for at least 40 minutes.
  • Limit screen time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no screen time (except video-chatting) in children younger than 18 to 24 months, and only educational media for young children.
  • Establish a rule that that there is no screen time within an hour of bedtime. New research from The Sleep Foundation suggests blue light from electronic devices can impair children’s sleep. Artificial light disrupts the natural sleep-wake cycle by fooling the brain into not producing melatonin before bed.

Schedule an Eye Exam Before the End of the Year

Have you scheduled eye exams for your family? A comprehensive eye exam is one of the best decisions you can make for your eye health, and it only takes about an hour. Your eye doctor can assess your visual acuity and screen you for common eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration.

Most vision plans cover one eye exam per year per covered individual, so don’t let time get away from you. Call your eye doctor today to make a comprehensive eye exam appointment for the whole family.

Elite Athletes Should Visit Their Orthopedist Regularly

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If you are an elite athlete who performs at a competitive level, you should visit your orthopedist regularly to avoid injury.

Repetitive motions can cause overuse injuries in joints and lead to permanent damage. A new study on college baseball players finds that repetitive overhead throwing can cause shoulder overuse injuries and season-ending rotator cuff damage.

What Is the Rotator Cuff?

A rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that control the movement of the shoulder. Throwing overhead can cause the rotator cuff tendons to compress through the joint and eventually cause shoulder pain. This condition can advance to acute tendonitis.

Baseball Players Are Prone to Rotator Cuff Injuries

Baseball is a physically demanding sport and can cause muscle strains, shoulder instability, labral tears, thrower’s elbow and rotator cuff injuries.

Daniel A. Charen, MD, a resident in the department of orthopedic surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, examined shoulder injury data from male baseball players using the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program. Of the 138 shoulder injuries, 51.4% occurred during practice. Almost half of the injuries included damage to the rotator cuff.

The study also found:

  • 100% of players had rotator cuff tendonitis
  • 5% had SLAP (superior labrum from anterior to posterior) tears
  • 70% of players had biceps tendinitis
  • 67% of players with rotator cuff tears had a mechanism of injury of pitching or throwing

Physicians who treat baseball players and other throwing athletes must understand the role that throwing volume, adaptive changes and internal impingement play in overuse injuries.

Christopher S. Ahmad is the Head Team Physician for the New York Yankees and the Rockland Boulders and a member of the Major League Baseball Team Physicians Association. In an interview with Orthopedics Today, he said doctors and trainers must pay attention to core muscles and strength in the throwing athlete. Regular care and follow-up are the keys for safe play (Healio).

Schedule Your Orthopedic Surgery Before Deductible Resets

Are you experiencing chronic shoulder pain? Shoulder injuries are not limited to athletes. Make an appointment with your orthopedist to discuss your shoulder or joint pain. You may need treatment or even a surgical procedure to find relief.

The end of the year is approaching, so it would be best to schedule a procedure before the year-end. Now is a good time to contact your insurance company to ask if you have met your deductible. If you have already met your deductible, your procedure may be more affordable or even fully covered.

When Is Hemorrhoid Banding Recommended?

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Countless individuals will develop hemorrhoids during their life. Even though the precise reason for hemorrhoids may not be clear, some factors that increase their risk include chronic constipation or loose stools, pregnancy, obesity, and recurrent straining when emptying the bowels. Hemorrhoids, while highly uncomfortable, carry few serious complications and a number of effective treatment solutions are available to remove them.

Patients who are suffering from hemorrhoids can find professional hemorrhoid treatment at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. Our local New Orleans, LA digestive health specialists provide specialized care for hemorrhoids and additional conditions that affect the gastrointestinal (GI) system. The experienced gastroenterologists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates can provide education on the types of hemorrhoid treatments that may be used, including hemorrhoid banding.

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids (also called piles) are bulging or enlarged veins on the anus or in the rectum. Similar to varicose veins located in the legs, hemorrhoids are commonly uncomfortable but typically innocuous. Hemorrhoids can be internally or externally located. Internal hemorrhoids, or those found within the rectum, usually do not result in pain or discomfort, though they may bleed in some instances. External hemorrhoids, which are located beneath the tissue around the anus, often result in the most discomfort or pain. In the event that a blood clot arises in an external hemorrhoid, it is called a thrombosed hemorrhoid and may be even more uncomfortable or painful. Common signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

  • Discomfort or itch in the anus
  • Blood in the stool
  • Rectal bleeding

Who is a good candidate for hemorrhoid banding?

Commonly called rubber band ligation, hemorrhoid banding is a minimally invasive treatment where a small rubber band is arranged around the base of a hemorrhoid. This band stops blood flow to the hemorrhoid and over the course of about 7 days or so, the hemorrhoid usually dries up and falls off. Patients who are good candidates for rubber band ligation have internal hemorrhoids that regularly bleed or cause major discomfort and who have been unable to soothe their discomfort with other remedies, such as nonprescription medicine or lifestyle improvements. Rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids might not be advised for adults having inflammatory bowel disease, rectal cancer, a latex allergy, or bleeding disorders.

What is the hemorrhoid ligation process?

The experienced specialists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates routinely provide rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids in New Orleans, LA individuals. The gastrointestinal doctor places a scope into the anus and utilizes an instrument to secure the hemorrhoid before positioning a small rubber band around its base. Typically, the procedure is only conducted for one hemorrhoid at a time except for when general anesthesia is used. Cutting-edge approaches enable this process to be nearly painless even in the absence of numbing agents, though the majority of individuals will report a sensation of fullness in the rectum for about 24 hours following the procedure. Once the hemorrhoid is banded, it typically requires a few days for it and the ligature to detach, often during a trip to the bathroom. Oftentimes, patients do not even realize when this takes place.

How successful is hemorrhoid ligation treatment?

Rubber band ligation is regarded to be much more successful than many other treatments for hemorrhoids. The procedure itself is substantially less invasive as opposed to surgical options and only requires around ten minutes to complete when performed by the doctors at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. Around eight out of every ten patients who undergo rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids will not require further treatment. Hemorrhoids treated with rubber banding are a lot less likely to return.

Learn more about hemorrhoid banding in New Orleans, LA

It is common for adults who suffer from hemorrhoids to feel uncomfortable about getting professional care. Hemorrhoid banding at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates is a minimally invasive and simple procedure that has provided increased comfort to many patients. Contact our caring team today to set up an appointment with a digestive health specialist in New Orleans, LA and to learn more about hemorrhoid banding or other treatment options.

When Should You Get Your First Colonoscopy?

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Getting regular colon screenings is among the most effective ways to protect against or identify colorectal cancer in the early stages. But unfortunately, only 54% of all adults who are eligible have not had an initial colonoscopy screening. The American Cancer Society (ACS) suggests that people with average odds of developing colorectal cancer should start getting regular screenings when they are 45 years of age.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that millions of people in the U.S. are not receiving colon and rectal cancer screenings as recommended, reducing the chance for early identification. To learn whether you are eligible for an initial colonoscopy, reach out to the team at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates to set up an appointment. Our experienced gastroenterologists regularly provide colonoscopy screenings for New Orleans, LA patients.

What happens during a colonoscopy procedure?

A colonoscopy is a type of colon and rectal cancer screening that is conducted with a small, flexible device fitted housing a tiny camera. It is placed through the rectum and into the colon by a Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates physician to screen for polyps (growths) or other suspicious areas that may be present. If abnormalities or other concerns are found, they can be taken off during the procedure for further testing. Individuals are administered a quick-acting and safe sedative prior to the screening procedure to help them to sleep through the process comfortably.

What can you expect after having a colonoscopy?

Once your first colonoscopy procedure is complete and you wake up from the anesthesia, our New Orleans, LA gastroenterology team will explain any findings with you. Should we identify a condition that calls for a more extensive investigation, our GI doctors will devise a comprehensive treatment plan customized to your medical needs. We strongly suggest that you have a family member or friend drive you home following your colonoscopy. After all impacts from the sedative have subsided, you should be able to resume your regular routine and diet within a 24-hour period. Some patients have minor symptoms after the fact, like abdominal discomfort, gassiness, and bloating for the first few days. If you experience severe pain, fever, or bleeding, please seek immediate medical attention.

How often are colonoscopy exams recommended?

It is recommended that patients who have an average chance of developing colon or rectal cancer begin to undergo screenings at age 45. Regular colon cancer screenings should take place at ten-year intervals until age 75. Following age 75, every individual should consult with their digestive health specialist regarding screening protocols that best meet their medical needs.

Why should you receive routine colorectal screenings?

Although a colonoscopy can detect early stages of colorectal cancer, the evaluation can also help doctors find potential reasons for other digestive health conditions, including long-term fluctuation in bowel movements (constipation and/or loose stools), causes of abdominal/anorectal discomfort, hemorrhoids, abrupt or unexplained weight loss, and bleeding and anemia. The highly experienced gastroenterologists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates offer advanced techniques and procedures to diagnose and address many diseases of the digestive system.

How to schedule your initial colonoscopy in New Orleans, LA

Periodic colon and rectal cancer screenings are the recommended option for detecting this serious GI concern. If you are age 45 or older with an average risk of colon cancer, we encourage you to arrange for your initial colonoscopy screening at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates soon. To set up your colonoscopy consultation with one of our New Orleans, LA gastrointestinal doctors, reach out to our team now.

8 Natural Remedies for Stomach Ache

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If you get stomach aches periodically, you’re not alone. An upset stomach can result from all sorts of things from stress and diet to more serious matters such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Celiac Disease or colon cancer.

While there is no comparison to care from one of our board-certified gastroenterologists, many stomach aches can easily be treated at home. However, if you have persistent issues or pain, or a sudden onset of severe symptoms, medical treatment is always your best option.

8 Natural Remedies for Stomach ache

Peppermint

The menthol in peppermint leaves has been used as a natural pain reliever to aid stomach problems for centuries. Try drinking it in a tea, chewing on mint gum, or sucking on a peppermint candy.

Apple Cider Vinegar

While not delicious to taste on its own, this pantry staple can be taken by the tablespoon to neutralize an upset stomach. Try mixing it with a cup of water and a teaspoon of honey. The acids inside may help decrease starch digestion, and keep the bacteria in the gut healthy.

Ginger

Ginger has been used since ancient times to help treat stomach aches, and science proves it truly can help. Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and can be consumed in various forms – candy, capsules, or as tea – but fresh ginger root is best when looking to rid stomach pain.

Chamomile Tea

Long known as a sleepy time remedy, chamomile also can act as an anti-inflammatory, which can help stomach muscles relax and reduce the pain of cramping and spasms. Try it while sitting up before heading to bed.

Drink Water

When in doubt, drink fluids. Throughout the course of the day, we lose water through sweating, breathing, and digesting. It’s crucial to replace the water we lose to prevent dehydration and keep the GI tract running smoothly. Dehydration can cause bloating due to electrolyte imbalances and can halt digestion and cause constipation. Check out these 5 creative ways to increase water intake for some simple ways to up your H2O.

Exercise

Walking, cycling, and gentle stretching yoga with deep breathing can all be helpful when dealing with a stomach ache. Try gently twisting your back while sitting on your feet for starters as this can help relive gas pains.

Apply Heat

Try putting a heating pad or hot towel on your abdomen. The heat can help relax the muscles and relieve cramping. Taking a hot shower or bath with Epsom salts may also help.

Try the BRAT Diet

If the stomach pain is persistent, try sticking to the basics with the “BRAT” diet – that is, bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. These foods are low in fiber and high in binding, and none of them have salt or spices, which can aggravate the stomach more. It’s a great way to help combat nausea and diarrhea.

When to visit us

A stomach ache isn’t always a sign that you need to head to a doctor. But when it lasts for more than a few hours and it’s coupled with symptoms such as blood in your stool, rectal bleeding, paleness, weight loss, difficulty swallowing, yellowing of the eyes, or severe nausea or vomiting, then it’s best to visit us as soon as possible. Persistent stomach problems can indicate a more serious issue.

Have questions? Our team of doctors at Gastrointestinal Specialists, PC in Troy, Michigan have the knowledge and experience finding and treating diseases in the gastrointestinal tract to ease your stomach issues. Give us a call at (248) 273-9930 or request an appointment today.

Why Should Women Be Concerned About Colorectal Cancer?

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Comprising the longest section of the large bowel, the colon draws water, vitamins, and minerals from remnants of food that have migrated through the small intestine. The last segment of the large bowel is called the rectum. In some cases, polyps (small growths) arise in the innermost lining of the colon or rectum. The growths typically present very little to no symptoms, although intestinal growths can progress into cancer of the colon or rectum. Since they are very similar, colon and rectal cancer are commonly classified together.

Unfortunately, colorectal cancer is the second leading reason behind cancer-related deaths in women, following breast cancer. Regular colorectal cancer screenings can discover evidence of colon and rectal cancer early on and considerably enhance a patient’s health prognosis. You can set up a colonoscopy procedure and additional related colon cancer screenings at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. If you’re seeking a skilled gastrointestinal (GI) doctor in New Orleans, speak with our team to learn how we can help combat colorectal cancer and other GI problems.

What should I know about colon and rectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum. A large number of people with colon cancer will have no indications of the disease in the beginning stages. The people who do present signs or symptoms might have the following:

  • Ongoing abdominal cramping or pain
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
  • Changes in bowel habits

In the event that you or a family member is having one or more of these indications, get in touch with Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans right away to meet with a gastroenterologist.

In cases where a cancerous growth extends into the external wall of the colon or rectum, it can infiltrate the circulatory or lymph system and spread to additional regions of the body. Individuals whose colon cancer has metastasized outside of the colon and rectum have substantially smaller survival rates than people whose cancer remains confined, making early detection and treatment key.

What are risk factors for colon and rectal cancer?

Even though anyone can get colon or rectal cancer, certain factors can place some patients at an increased risk. A number of risk factors for colorectal cancer are listed below:

  • A genetic predisposition to colorectal cancer
  • Use of alcohol
  • A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease
  • Tobacco use
  • Being over 50
  • Being overweight

Those with a higher risk or who have any of the above factors should get periodic screenings for colon or rectal cancer, such as through routine colonoscopy procedures.

How is cancer of the colon detected?

A variety of forms of colon cancer screening may be used for people who are at risk of developing the condition. Such screening procedures include blood work, fecal analysis, and colonoscopy testing. To conduct a colonoscopy, a GI doctor inserts an elongated scope housing a mini camera through the colon and rectum to check for any concerns, such as polyps in the colon. When colon polyps are discovered during the conduction of a colonoscopy, they can often be removed at the time of the procedure and tested for evidence of cancer. Once colon cancer has been diagnosed, more involved assessments can be carried out to ascertain if the cancer has spread and to help determine the optimal treatment approach.

What are the treatment options for colon cancer?

The process of treating a patient’s colon or rectal cancer will be based on the location, size, and stage of the cancer and could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation treatment. Polyps in the colon might take up to 10 or 15 years to become malignant. This means that if a polyp is detected early, it can commonly be removed before it turns cancerous. For individuals who have localized colon or rectal cancer and undergo treatment, there is a five-year survival rate of approximately 90%. Receiving a periodic colonoscopy can be lifesaving, but nearly 30% of U.S. adults are not up to date on their screenings for colorectal cancer.

Protect your health with a colorectal cancer screening in New Orleans, LA

Colon or rectal cancer may be the second-highest cause of cancer death among women, but it is very treatable when detected early and simple to identify with a regular colonoscopy. Patients who are over the age of 50 or who have other medical concerns that elevate their chance of colon and rectal cancer should book a regular colonoscopy screening. Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates incorporates the most cutting-edge techniques to improve gastrointestinal health, and our team of skilled physicians operates on a patient-first mindset. To find out additional details about colon and rectal cancer or other gastrointestinal health conditions, get in touch with Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans today.

Raising Breast Cancer Awareness During the Month of October

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Breast cancer is a serious health condition that affects many patients yearly in the United States. Given that October is dedicated as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, there’s no better time than now to discover more about the risk factors surrounding this medical concern, as well as methods of prevention and the importance of scheduling routine screenings.

Breast cancer, like all forms of cancer, results when aggregates of cells begin dividing irregularly and at an accelerated rate, rather than progressing through their normal life cycles and biological course. Many times, breast cancer initiates in the milk-generating structures (lobules) when DNA in these cells begins to transmute. In situations where mutated cells develop more rapidly than the body can expel them, the mass of cells aggregate to form a tumor.

Growths or tumors in the breast can form in many parts of milk-secreting tissues, or even in the adipose (fat) tissue that surrounds and shields the milk-producing structures of the breast. In rare instances, cancer of the breast can even spread to further regions around the body, including the digestive tract. Under such circumstances, the physicians at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA collaborate with other practitioners to provide care for any metastatic concerns involving the gastrointestinal tract. Ensuring an early breast cancer diagnosis is key to preserving your overall health and wellness.

What are breast cancer risk factors?

One out of every eight women will have breast cancer at some point in their lives, making it one of the most common forms of cancer impacting women. Medical experts estimate that more than 280,000 women will receive a breast cancer diagnosis throughout 2021, and almost 50,000 will receive a noninvasive carcinoma in situ breast cancer diagnosis.

Most women diagnosed with breast cancer are over 55 years of age, although breast cancer is still among the chief fatalities among women between the ages of 35 and 55. Non-Hispanic African American women and non-Hispanic white women are the most likely to get cancer of the breast, although Latina women and African American women have a higher probability of dying due to the condition.

Genetic factors also pose an elevated risk of developing the condition. Individuals with relatives who have had cancer of the breast are more likely to develop the condition. Though hereditary factors, being female, and being of older age cannot be changed, there are several things that an individual can do to prevent or lessen the chance of developing breast cancer.

Other breast cancer risk factors include:

  • Poor diet
  • Radiation treatment before age 30
  • Becoming pregnant after age 30
  • Being overweight
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  • Breastfeeding for under a year
  • Inadequate amounts of vitamin D
  • Tobacco use
  • Taking hormones, such as chemical contraceptives
  • Lack of exercise

Improving your lifestyle while receiving regular screenings can help lower your risk of breast cancer, particularly if any of the above factors apply to your life.

What are the various types of breast cancer?

Cancer of the breast is diagnosed as either invasive (also called malignant) or noninvasive carcinoma in situ. Cancers that are noninvasive are groups of cells that generally grow in one location, splitting haphazardly but not becoming modified in excess of their basic functions in further ways. These cells can be removed through a surgical procedure and are less likely to reform.

Invasive types of tumors are more concerning since they expand branches of cells into the neighboring area, in some cases even disconnecting pieces of themselves and propagating throughout the body. Malignant cancers could also produce and give off harmful hormones and other factors that negatively impact bodily tissues.

The general classifications of breast cancer include:

  • Angiosarcoma: Angiosarcoma is a rare variation of cancer that starts in the blood vessels, lymph vessels, or skin.
  • Lobular carcinoma: Lobular carcinoma begins in the glands that produce milk, or lobules. When this type of carcinoma is in situ, it is regarded as the least threatening type of breast cancer and is less likely to grow. However, it should still be treated as specified by a doctor, as its existence might indicate the likelihood of more tumors developing as time goes on. In cases where lobular carcinomas are diagnosed as invasive, they are generally more detrimental and are particularly hard to detect.
  • Phyllodes tumors: Phyllodes tumors are non-malignant and begin in connective tissue fibers.
  • Paget disease of the nipple: This type of breast cancer originates in the nipple or the areola.
  • Ductal carcinoma: Originating in the milk ducts, this type of cancer can be invasive, meaning it spreads out of the milk duct into other parts of the breast. It can also be in situ, which means it remains in the milk ducts. If detected in the very early stage, in situ cancers are generally simple to address; however, they are at risk of becoming malignant without treatment. Nearly 80% of breast carcinomas are diagnosed as invasive ductal carcinomas.

About breast cancer screenings

The most effective way to prevent breast cancer, in addition to maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle, is to schedule screenings for breast cancer routinely. These screenings often include a clinical assessment along with a mammogram, or x-ray imaging of the breast tissue designed to discover areas of dense tissue within the breast. Regular breast exams are particularly essential for detecting breast cancer in the early stages and enabling the greatest possible treatment results. You can also carry out breast cancer self-exams and should do so on a regular basis. A doctor can demonstrate how to do this correctly.

Arrange for a breast cancer screening

The experts at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates are honored to celebrate National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and urge residents in New Orleans, LA to help protect their overall health by having regular examinations for breast cancer. It is vital to have routine breast cancer screenings with a qualified physician to determine the most effective options for diagnosing breast cancer and the best way to protect your health.

Schedule Your Elective Knee or Hip Procedure Before Your Deductible Resets

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Many hospitals and healthcare facilities are delaying elective surgeries and procedures due to COVID-19. It’s important to remember that while your joint surgery may be considered elective, it may also be essential for your mobility and health. Now is the time to schedule your procedure because health insurance deductibles reset in January.

COVID-19 Delays Elective Procedures

The Delta variant has caused millions of medical procedures to be canceled or delayed. Now, with the acute resurgence of COVID-19, hospitals are reallocating resources and delaying elective procedures.

Some common elective orthopedic procedures are:

  • Knee replacement
  • Hip replacement
  • Shoulder replacement
  • Arthroscopy
  • Joint fusion
  • Joint surgery
  • Soft tissue repair

The term “elective” does not refer to the importance of the procedure. Instead, it simply distinguishes between surgeries that are for emergencies and those that can be scheduled in advance.

Most joint surgeries are considered elective procedures because you can schedule them for a future date. However, although elective, each of the procedures above is essential for health.

Importance of Prompt Orthopedic Procedures

Joint pain can prevent you from living an active lifestyle and doing the things you love. A canceled or delayed orthopedic procedure means you may experience:

  • Stiff and swollen joints
  • Sleeplessness at night
  • Inability to use stairs
  • Limp or change in your gait
  • Increased risk of falls or fractures

Consider an Ambulatory Surgery Center for Orthopedic Procedures

Although hospitals have pushed back procedures like total joint replacement and orthopedic surgeries, there is another option. Scheduling your procedure at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) may be a good choice for several reasons:

  • Outpatient surgery centers dedicate themselves to specific procedures rather than emergency or trauma surgeries, so your appointment may be less likely to be affected.
  • Because ASCs are small, they are easily navigable and usually have convenient parking.
  • Your procedure may be more cost-effective at an ASC.
  • Some patients say that ASCs feel more home-like and comfortable than hospitals.

Schedule Your Orthopedic Surgery Before Deductible Resets

Have you met your deductible already? Schedule your procedure before the end of the calendar year to take full advantage of your health plan benefits. Your deductible will reset in January, so contact your insurance company to verify your status. Joint surgery may be less costly than you may think.

Elective but Essential: Colonoscopy and Preventive Screenings Are Important for Your Health

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Many hospitals and healthcare facilities are delaying elective surgeries and procedures, but it’s important to remember that colonoscopy screenings are essential for good health.

COVID-19 Delays Elective Procedures

The Delta variant has caused millions of medical procedures to be canceled or delayed. Now, with the acute resurgence of COVID-19, many hospitals are reallocating resources and delaying elective procedures like colonoscopy.

The term “elective” does not refer to the importance of the procedure or whether or not you should elect to have it. Instead, it simply distinguishes between surgeries for emergencies and those that can be scheduled in advance.

For example, knee replacements and non-emergency hernia repairs are considered elective procedures because patients can schedule these surgeries for a future date. Colonoscopy screenings are also elective procedures. However, it’s important to note that although the medical community classifies these procedures as “elective,” it doesn’t mean you should elect not to have them when you can.

Colonoscopies Are Essential Preventive Care

Colonoscopies are essential because they allow for early detection and removal of potentially cancerous polyps. According to the new guidelines of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, adults who are at average risk for colon cancer should begin screening at age 45.

Young-onset colon cancer is on the rise in the United States, and younger people tend to have more aggressive tumors that are more difficult to treat. Regular colonoscopies at recommended intervals help ensure your physician can detect and treat any developing polyp before it becomes cancerous.

Consider an Ambulatory Surgery Center for Colonoscopy

Even though some hospitals have pushed back colonoscopy screenings and other elective procedures and surgeries, you may have another option. Scheduling your colonoscopy at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) may be a good choice for several reasons:

  • Outpatient surgery centers are dedicated to specific procedures, not emergency or trauma, so your procedure may be less likely to be affected.
  • ASCs are smaller than hospitals and have more convenient parking.
  • Procedures may be more cost-effective at ASCs.
  • Many patients say that ASCs feel comfortable and more like home.

Schedule Your Colonoscopy Before Your Deductible Resets

Have you met your deductible already? Schedule your colonoscopy before the end of the calendar year to take full advantage of your health plan’s benefits. Your deductible will reset in January, so contact your insurance company to verify your status.

Call a board-certified gastroenterologist and get on the schedule for your preventive colonoscopy screening before the year runs out.

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