Make a Comprehensive Eye Exam Top Priority as the Year Ends

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Even though an eye exam takes less than an hour, the most common excuse for not going to the eye doctor is being too busy. A yearly eye exam is one of the best things you can do for your health, but many Americans are not current with their preventive vision care.

The truth is that everyone can make time to get their eyes checked. In the time it takes to watch a sitcom or crime drama, you can visit a board-certified ophthalmologist who can help determine whether you have a degenerative eye disease.

Common eye diseases and conditions

In the time it takes for you to grocery shop or get your tires rotated, your ophthalmologist can screen for common eye diseases. Early detection of eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration can prevent eye damage and preserve vision.

Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in people 55 and older, and most people will develop a cataract sometime during adulthood. Glaucoma refers to a family of eye diseases that affect the optic nerve and can develop without warning signals. Age-related macular degeneration affects about 5 percent of adults 65 or older and affects central vision needed for driving and reading.

The cost of skipping an eye exam

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 93 million Americans are at risk for significant vision loss, but only half visited their eye doctor in the past year. You may think it’s not a problem if you skip your comprehensive eye exam, but you may want to think again. Here are some health concerns if you delay preventive eye care.

  1. You could be putting your safety at risk. Often, our eyes are our first line of defense and can keep us from falling or getting into a car accident.
  2. You could miss an important health diagnosis. Your eyes offer a window into your overall health. Sometimes ophthalmologists can detect chronic health conditions like hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and hormone imbalance.
  3. You may have undiagnosed allergies. Millions of Americans experience itchy, watery, scratchy eyes during allergy season. Your eye doctor can diagnose eye allergies and provide treatment so you can be more comfortable.

Meeting your deductible can decrease medical costs

Have you met your deductible? Studies show most patients meet their deductible by May, so you might have already met your annual deductible. If this is the case, don’t delay getting an eye exam or scheduling an eye procedure, like cataract surgery. Call your insurance company to verify whether you have met your deductible or are close to meeting it. You can also ask for an estimate of benefits to prepare financially.

Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs): quality procedures for less

The same procedure may cost much less if you are flexible with where you schedule it. If you need cataract surgery or an eye procedure, it is wise to ask your ophthalmologist about your options for the medical facility you will visit.

An ambulatory surgery center (ASC) is an outpatient facility that offers easy-access, high-quality medical procedures with financial transparency. ASCs can save money because they are usually a fraction of the cost of hospitals. You can also use a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) to use pre-tax money for your qualified medical expenses. Both of these decisions will result in more cash in your pocket.

Eye exams are worth the investment

Preventive eye care does not have to be time-consuming or expensive. Good vision is a priceless gift, but you need to schedule yearly exams to keep your eyes healthy. Annual comprehensive eye exams can prevent chronic conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration and cataracts before they impair your vision. If you need cataract surgery, schedule your procedure now and maximize your health benefits. Call today to make an appointment.

Busy Schedule? There’s Still Time to See an Orthopedist.

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You may think visiting an orthopedist is unnecessary unless you have a problem, but you might want to reconsider. Bone and joint health are essential to your overall wellness, just like a physical exam and preventive screenings. Here are three reasons to visit an orthopedist, regardless of your age.

Our bone tissue changes with age

Years of daily activity can take its toll on bones, joints and ligaments. Over time, bones lose minerals and density. They become more brittle, which increases the risk of falls and injury. Calcium, the mineral your body needs to build and maintain healthy bones, can decrease to low levels and affect bone strength.

Arthritis can develop at any time

Arthritis is a common condition that develops when joints get inflamed and swollen. According to the CDC, about 15 million Americans (one in four) have severe joint pain because of their arthritis. Also, about half say they experience persistent pain.

Anyone can develop arthritis, but older people are more susceptible. Daily wear and tear can erode the soft cartilage that cushions the joints, resulting in osteoarthritis. Athletes can develop arthritis by joint overuse or injury.

Osteoporosis affects everyone

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mass and bone mineral density decrease. It can also develop when the strength or structure of bone changes. Many people assume osteoporosis only affects females, but this is incorrect. While post-menopausal women are at increased risk for bone loss, all people lose bone density with age. About 25 percent of all bone fractures in adults older than 50 are men. Common fracture sites are the hip, spine and wrist.

Make your bone and joint health a priority

Life is busy, but your bone and joint health are worth the investment. A yearly appointment with an orthopedist can help ensure your joints function well and you maintain bone strength. Your doctor can recommend exercises, dietary changes, supplements or therapy.

Sometimes, your doctor may suggest a procedure like a total hip replacement, shoulder surgery or knee arthroscopy. Often, treatment plans combine an array of options. Your doctor will fully explain your choices and the pros and cons during your appointment.

Schedule your surgery at an ASC

If you have been considering an orthopedic procedure like a knee or hip replacement, scheduling your surgery in the second half of the year may make financial sense. Studies show most patients meet their deductible by May, so you might have already met your annual deductible.

If this is the case, don’t delay scheduling your procedure. Call your insurance company to verify whether you have met your deductible or are close to meeting it. You can also ask for an estimate of benefits to get a complete picture of out-of-pocket costs.

Another way to reduce costs is to choose an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) for your procedure. ASCs are accredited and certified by industry organizations for quality and safety, and they provide personalized care in a home-like setting. When deciding where to schedule your procedure, ask about facility and surgeon fees, and select an in-network surgery center.

A visit to your orthopedist does not have to be time-consuming or expensive. With some planning, you can prioritize your joint health, even when you’re pressed for time!

Many Patients Not Getting Follow-up Colonoscopy

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Statistics estimate about one in every 20 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lifetime.

CRC is a leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., but the disease may be prevented through timely screenings.

Healthcare agencies recommend that first screenings for people at average risk for developing CRC should begin at age 45. If you have certain risk factors, you may need to be screened earlier.

Several colorectal cancer screening options are available. Many individuals choose a noninvasive, stool-based test they can do at home. These tests are convenient, but they cannot diagnose polyps or tumors, and they cannot prevent CRC development.

Experts advise anyone who receives an abnormal stool-based test result to follow-up with a colonoscopy within six months.

Failing to get a follow-up colonoscopy or delaying the procedure is associated with an increased risk of colon cancer, as well as having the disease present at a more advanced stage.

CRC complications, mortality risk increases

Jeff T. Mohl, PhD, from the American Medical Group Association in Alexandria, Virginia, and colleagues conducted a mixed-methods cohort study, recently published in JAMA Network Open.

The study population included 32,769 Black, White, Asian and Hispanic patients aged 50 to 75 years who were considered at average risk for the disease. The data was collected between June 1, 2015, and June 30, 2021.

The study revealed 49 percent of patients who received abnormal stool-based test results did not follow up with a colonoscopy within six months. Only 56.1 percent of patients completed a follow-up colonoscopy within a year.

Researchers noted a significant decrease in follow-ups during the early COVID-19 pandemic. Patients who were Black or Asian, those on Medicare or Medicaid, and those who chose a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) (vs. mtDNA) had lower follow-up colonoscopy rates.

“At-home stool-based testing offers a useful tool to supplement routine colonoscopy and reach a wider patient population,” the researchers advised. “Nonetheless, it is important to emphasize that all positive stool-based tests must be followed by a timely colonoscopy to complete the screening paradigm.”

Get screened at age 45

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates 153,020 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and 52,550 people in the U.S. will die from the disease this year.

If you are 45 and at average risk for CRC, ask your doctor about getting screened for colorectal cancer. Earlier screening is advised for patients with a family history of CRC or polyps, as well as those with digestive symptoms that may be caused by CRC.

The five-year survival rate is about 90 percent when colorectal cancer is found at an early stage before it has spread to other organs.

Also, if CRC is found early, more treatment options may be possible, according to the ACS. Only about four out of 10 colorectal cancers are found at this early stage.

Although it is more invasive than other screenings, colonoscopy is the only screening method that can both detect and prevent CRC. Colorectal cancer often begins as a growth, called a polyp, inside the colon or rectum. Colonoscopy involves a complete examination of the colon where doctors can find and remove polyps before they become cancerous.

“Not completing a colonoscopy after a positive (stool-based test) is associated with a significantly higher risk of CRC complications and mortality,” authors of the study reported.

For your health, ask your doctor about getting screened for colorectal cancer. Whether you need to schedule your first CRC screening or a follow-up colonoscopy, don’t delay this life-saving procedure.

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Incidence of CRC Increasing in Younger Patients

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A rise in early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC) in patients younger than 50 prompted leading health organizations to recommend CRC screening starting at age 45 for all average-risk individuals.

A study published in “Gastroenterology” supports the lowered CRC screening age. The study was conducted by AMSURG and researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

“We have known for many years that rates of colorectal cancer are rising in individuals younger than 50, prompting several medical organizations to recommend lowering the screening age from 50 to 45. What has been missing until now is confirmatory data of the prevalence of precancerous polyps in younger individuals,” said lead author Steven H. Itzkowitz, MD, FACP, FACG, AGAF, Professor of Medicine (Gastroenterology), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, in Medical Xpress. “Our study provides an important piece of the puzzle and supports the recommendation changing the screening age to 45.”

Study Finds ‘45 is the New 50’

According to statistics, the number of colorectal cases has been increasing since the mid-1990s in adults ages 40-54. These cases are often misdiagnosed or diagnosed later in the course of the disease — a younger individual’s CRC risk factors and symptoms can be easily overlooked.

In this first large-scale study to look at precancerous polyps in this age group, researchers analyzed data collected between Jan. 1, 2014, and Feb. 5, 2021. The study focused on approximately 131,000 patients aged 40-49 from 123 AMSURG (a division of Envision Healthcare) ambulatory endoscopy centers across 29 states that report their results to the GI Quality Improvement Consortium (GIQuIC) Registry.

Several factors were associated with higher odds of finding advanced premalignant lesions (APLs) and colorectal cancer, including age, family history of CRC, sex (male), race (white) and examinations performed for evaluation of rectal bleeding or screening.

In this study, entitled “Prevalence and Predictors of Young-Onset Colorectal Neoplasia: Insights from a Nationally Representative Colonoscopy Registry,” results were reported among patients aged 45-49. Some of the study’s findings regarding this age group are listed below:

  • 32 percent had neoplasia (precancerous or cancerous lesions considered precursors of colorectal cancer)
  • Nearly 8 percent had APLs
  • 0.58 percent had CRC
  • Prevalence of neoplasia and APLs were almost as high as those of 50-54 year olds, and the rates of CRC were even higher.

Additionally, among 40-44 year olds, rates of APLs were almost as high as for those aged 45-49, and colorectal cancer rates were comparably high, according to the study.

Dr. Itzkowitz told Healio that the data confirmed that “45 is now the new 50” for CRC.

“Colon cancer used to be considered a disease of old age and that is no longer true,” Dr. Itzkowitz told Healio. “Our data also suggest that clinically important lesions occur about five years earlier in individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer compared to those without a family history. That is why it is very important to take a good family history.”

Study co-author, Jay Popp, MD, Medical Director for AMSURG, told Medical Xpress that “the team’s findings reiterate the importance of colorectal cancer awareness — both among patients and clinicians.”

“Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, but it is one of the most preventable cancers,” Dr. Popp said. “The more patients know about their bodies and risk for colorectal cancer and the more clinicians can do to help patients receive routine and timely screenings, the more lives we can save. Everyone can play a role in helping a loved one or neighbor prevent colorectal cancer.”

New Law Changes Follow-up Screening Cost

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month. According to the ACS, about 60 percent of all colon cancer fatalities in the United States could be prevented if every man and woman 45 years or older would choose to be screened for colon cancer.

If you have a positive stool-based test, a follow-up colonoscopy is critical. In fact, if you delay a colonoscopy for nine months or more after a positive stool-based test, you are much more likely to have an advanced cancer.

In the past, most patients were required to pay the deductible for a follow-up colonoscopy to evaluate a positive stool-based test. Stool-based tests include the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and stool-DNA test (Cologuard). A new law changes the requirement for patients to share in the cost. Health insurance plans within the Affordable Care Act will be required to provide no-cost coverage of this follow-up procedure. This coverage is for plan or policy years beginning on or after May 31, 2022.

To avoid confusion, contact your healthcare provider first and then schedule an appointment.

Colonoscopy Is Gold Standard for CRC Screening

If you are 45 or older, get screened for colorectal cancer.

In 2020, about 12 percent of all cases of CRC occurred in individuals under 50, according to the American Cancer Society. Patients diagnosed prior to age 50 were more likely to have advanced disease at diagnosis.

When colorectal cancer is found at an early stage before it has spread, the five-year survival rate is about 90 percent.

Many screening methods are available, but colonoscopy is the gold standard procedure because it allows your doctor to see the entire length of the colon to examine for polyps, lesions and abnormalities. A quality colonoscopy is the only screening that can both detect and prevent colon cancer.

Call Your Gastroenterologist to Schedule a Colonoscopy

Our fellowship-trained gastroenterologists perform colonoscopy screenings at ambulatory surgery centers around the country. Click here to request an appointment at our surgery center.

Men’s Colon Health Matters: 4 Reasons a Colonoscopy is Vital

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Men often prioritize various aspects of their lives like career, family, and hobbies, but tend to overlook a crucial component: Their health (particularly when it comes to colon health). While conversations about colon health may seem uncomfortable or taboo, it is essential for men to be aware of the importance of regular colon health screenings – especially having a colonoscopy by age 45 or sooner if they have risk factors.

Understanding Colon Health

The colon (also referred to as the large intestine) plays a significant role in the digestive process by absorbing water and nutrients, while also eliminating waste products from the body. It regulates everything going through your body, sending signals everywhere based on how the gut itself is feeling and what nutrients it’s taking in and filtering.

That’s why it’s vital to take care of your gut – and a colonoscopy is the best way to see what’s really going on in your gut…and prevent colon cancer.

Why Men Need a Colonoscopy

  • Early Detection – and PREVENTION – of Colon Cancer
    • Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among men, and a colonoscopy allows your gastrointestinal doctor to examine the colon lining, identify precancerous growths (polyps), and remove them before they become cancerous. Regular screenings significantly reduce the risk of developing advanced-stage colon (or colorectal) cancer, increasing the chances of successful treatment and improved outcomes.
  • Detection of Other Colon Conditions
    • Colonoscopies enable the diagnosis of other colon-related conditions, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Early diagnosis enables timely intervention and management of these conditions, improving the quality of life for men and minimizing potential complications.
  • Personalized Screening Recommendations
    • Your first colonoscopy sets the stage for taking care of your gut health for years to come. Based on the findings of an initial colonoscopy, your team of doctors will determine the appropriate screening intervals for subsequent examinations by factoring in your family history, personal health history, and the presence of any abnormalities. Regular colonoscopies help create a tailored screening plan, ensuring you receive appropriate follow-up care specific to your individual needs.
  • Reduction of Colon Cancer-related Deaths
    • Colon cancer is PREVENTABLE! However, many men (and women) put off their routine colonoscopies and then precancerous polyps can’t be located and removed at their earliest stages, before they grow into cancerous polyps.

Schedule your Colonoscopy Today!

Break the stigma surrounding colon health: Encourage men everywhere to prioritize colonoscopies and get a colonoscopy by age 45 (or sooner, with risk factors). Contact Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan today to schedule your appointment.

‘Get Your Rear in Gear-Raleigh’ Raises $43K to Fight Colorectal Cancer

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Raleigh, NC – The Colon Cancer Coalition’s annual event, “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh,” rallied over 500 participants and raised an impressive $43,000 (and counting!) in support of colorectal cancer research and prevention. The event, held at WakeMed, showcased the dedication and generosity of Raleigh Endoscopy Centers and other sponsors, reinforcing the collective commitment to fighting this prevalent disease.

Under the banner of the Colon Cancer Coalition, the community came together to combat colorectal cancer and create a lasting impact. With the participation of enthusiastic individuals and the unwavering support of sponsors, “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh” proved to be a remarkable success. Raleigh Endoscopy Centers, a vital sponsor of the event, demonstrated their dedication to the cause and highlighted the importance of screenings in the fight against colorectal cancer.

A Call for Action: Screening at 45

Colorectal cancer ranks as the second most leading cause of death among both men and women in the U.S. Alarming statistics reveal that approximately 150,000 Americans receive a colorectal cancer diagnosis annually, while approximately 53,000 lose their lives to this disease. Recognizing the urgency to address this issue, Raleigh Endoscopy Centers emphasized the significance of scheduling a cancer screening appointment starting at the age of 45. Timely screenings enable early detection and intervention, significantly improving treatment outcomes.

Racing to Make a Difference

Amid the vibrant atmosphere at WakeMed, participants reveled in the spirit of competition while supporting a noble cause. Noteworthy race results included John Smith claiming first place in the 5K race and Sarah Adams emerging victorious in the 10K race. Their achievements symbolize the resilience and determination displayed by all participants as they raced to make a difference in the fight against colorectal cancer.

The success of “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh” would not have been possible without the generous support of Raleigh Endoscopy Centers and other sponsors. The Colon Cancer Coalition expressed their heartfelt appreciation to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers who contributed to the event’s success. In their quest to improve future events, organizers welcomed feedback from attendees, ensuring an even more impactful gathering in the years to come. They look forward to future collaborations with Raleigh Endoscopy Centers and the community to raise awareness and funds for colorectal cancer research and prevention.

Schedule Your Colonoscopy Today!

It’s time to prioritize your health and take a stand against colorectal cancer. If you’re 45 or older, scheduling your colonoscopy is a crucial step in early detection and prevention. The success of “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh,” demonstrated the power of community in the fight against this deadly disease.

By scheduling your colonoscopy today, you not only protect your own well-being but also contribute to a greater cause. Early detection saves lives, and your action can have a significant impact. Join us in the ongoing battle against colorectal cancer, because together, we can make a lasting difference. Don’t wait any longer—take charge of your health and schedule your colonoscopy now. Your appointment can be the turning point in the fight against this prevalent disease, offering hope and saving lives.

Celebrate Men’s Health Month by Scheduling a Colonoscopy

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Are you current with your preventive screenings? June is Men’s Health Month, which encourages men and their families to get regular checkups and increase awareness of health risks for their age, ethnicity and family health history.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 13 percent of men older than 18 are in fair or poor health. Less than one-third of adult men meet federal standards for muscle-strengthening activity. About 40 percent of adult men are obese and almost 52 percent have hypertension.

Men’s Health Week is June 12-18

Men’s Health Week is June 12-18. This initiative reminds men to maintain healthy bodies by eating a nutritious diet, getting regular exercise and getting screened to prevent disease. One of the most important preventive screenings is for colorectal cancer, including colonoscopy, which can detect and prevent colon cancer. Men should prioritize a colon cancer screening like they do other preventive screenings such as a prostate exam.

How common is colon cancer in men?

The risk of a male developing colon cancer is 1 in 23, which is slightly higher than a female (1 in 26). It is estimated there will be more than 106,000 new cases of colon cancer in 2023, as well as 46,000 cases of rectal cancer.

Because more people are getting screened, colon cancer incidence has been decreasing by about 1 percent every year. However, colon cancer rates have been increasing by 1 to 2 percent in adults younger than 50.

Warning signs of colon cancer and risk factors

Although colon cancer risk increases with age, you are never too young to develop the disease. Colon cancer is highly treatable when it is detected in the early stages. Because anyone can develop colon cancer, it is important to know the symptoms and warning signs of colon cancer.

  • Abdominal pain
  • Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
  • Blood in the stool

If you experience any of these warning signs, you should contact your doctor right away.

Colonoscopy: gold standard of colon screenings

Although there are many types of colon cancer screenings, colonoscopy is the most comprehensive test. Colonoscopy is the only screening that allows a doctor to inspect the entire colon for polyps, which can become cancerous. Your doctor can remove any suspicious polyps during your exam and have them analyzed.

The American Cancer Society recommends that men and women who are at average risk for colon cancer should start regular colon cancer screenings beginning at age 45. Those who are in good health should continue screening until 75.

Take a step toward colon health

This month, take the steps to support your health and wellness:

  1. Eat more fruits and vegetables while limiting added sugar, saturated fat and sodium.
  2. Stop smoking or do not begin smoking.
  3. Stay active by getting 2.5 hours of exercise per week.
  4. Schedule annual health screenings.

Many cases of colon cancer are preventable with routine screenings, so check with your doctor to get advice on which tests are best for you. Encourage family members to schedule colon, prostate and breast cancer screenings for their health.

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Celebrate Family Fitness Day With a Family Walk

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One of the best ways to stay healthy and spend time together as a family is to take a walk together. Daily walks can improve your cardiovascular fitness, reduce joint pain and support overall wellness.

On a practical level, walking is an inexpensive activity. It requires no equipment besides supportive, comfortable athletic shoes. Walking is a good social activity, providing opportunities for conversation with friends and family.

Benefits of a 30-minute walk

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, moderate to vigorous walking can reduce anxiety and increase memory, sleep and brain function. A recent study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found walking or jogging for 30 minutes five times per week helps blood flow in and out of the brain. It does not matter whether you walk on a treadmill or take a walk in your neighborhood — the benefits are the same.

“Both will provide similar benefits, so the best option between treadmill vs. track is the one you enjoy doing and have regular/easiest access to and will, therefore, be the best option to help you stick with your walking routine,” said Amanda Paluch, assistant professor in the department of kinesiology and Institute for Applied Life Sciences at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Walking is easy on your joints

If you have arthritis, walking is one of the best activities you can do. Consistent walking can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Staying within the recommended body mass index (BMI) reduces strain on joints and reduces symptoms of joint pain and arthritis.

How much should you walk? Remember the FIT Formula:

Frequency — Try to walk three to five times per week. Talk to your doctor if you are just beginning your routine.

Intensity — You may need to begin with a lower level of intensity and gradually increase over time. Try to work up to a moderate to vigorous level of intensity. Don’t overdo it; an injury will set you back and may take a long time to heal.

Time — Try to walk for 30 minutes per day. If you can’t walk for 30 minutes, just begin with five minutes. Every day, you will get stronger and have more endurance.

Parks as recreational options

Living close to parks, playgrounds and recreational facilities are related to increased levels of physical activity for adults and children. Parks also help people connect to nature, which can relieve stress and improve mental health and mood. According to NRPA Park Pulse, 86 percent of adults think it is important to spend time outside in nature when things get stressful.

Whether you are walking, jogging or playing with your family in the park, exercise can accomplish the following:

  • Relieve joint pain
  • Boost immunity
  • Fight obesity
  • Reduce breast cancer risk
  • Decrease sugar cravings
  • Help maintain body weight
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Reduce the risk of type II diabetes
  • Strengthen the musculoskeletal system

Family Fitness Day is June 10

You can celebrate your renewed commitment to health on June 10 — Family Health and Fitness Day. You and your family can participate in this initiative by participating in recreational programs and activities in your community. There are limitless possibilities, from a game of kickball to a family 5K. You can always begin with a leisurely outdoor walk at a park in your hometown.

Call your orthopedist to manage joint pain

Are you living with joint pain? Call your orthopedist to make an appointment to discuss your mobility and activity level. Your doctor can determine the cause of your joint pain and provide treatment options. Get active on Family Health and Fitness Day and have fun with your family!

Focus on Cataract Awareness to Improve Vision

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It is important as we age to protect our eyes from cataracts, the leading cause of vision loss in the U.S.

Observing Cataract Awareness Month in June promotes information about this common eye condition that affects more than 24 million Americans.

A cataract develops when proteins in the eye clump together and cloud the lens.

Symptoms of cataracts may not be visible at first, but eventually, you may notice your vision become cloudy or blurry. You may also have difficulty seeing at night, especially while driving. You may see halos around lights, faded or yellow colors or even experience double vision.

When cataracts start affecting your lifestyle, they are treatable with a simple surgical procedure, which has a 98 percent success rate.

Eye conditions share risk factors

Cataracts and glaucoma may occur at the same time in a patient’s eyes.

Like cataracts, glaucoma can lead to blindness. Glaucoma causes vision loss through damage to the optic nerve. About three million people in the U.S. have this disease.

According to an article in Medical News Today, having either cataracts or glaucoma “does not directly lead to the development of the other, [but] having one condition can increase the risk of developing the other.”

Learning facts about both conditions and seeking treatment early may prevent permanent vision loss.

According to the National Eye Institute, cataracts can increase the risk of elevated eye pressure, which may lead to glaucoma.

Similarly, some treatments for glaucoma may worsen cataracts and speed up their formation, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation.

Both conditions typically occur in adults over age 55 and often in people with a family history. Some medications, past eye injuries or certain medical conditions can increase the risk of developing both.

Lifestyle factors may increase your risk of cataracts. Factors include excessive exposure to sunlight, smoking tobacco, obesity, high blood pressure, prolonged use of corticosteroid medications and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.

Risk factors for glaucoma include African-American heritage, history of steroid use (either in eyedrops or systemically), being nearsighted (myopic), being farsighted (hyperopic) and history of elevated intraocular pressure.

Treatments vary for eye conditions

While cataracts and glaucoma both negatively affect one’s vision, the symptoms and treatments vary for each.

Living a healthy lifestyle goes a long way toward cataract prevention. To slow the development, make healthy lifestyle choices:

  • Wear sunglasses and a hat when outdoors.
  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Take antioxidant supplements like vitamins A, C and E.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Manage diabetes and heart disease.

Ultimately, surgery is the only treatment option to medically remove a cataract and treat the effect on your eyesight.

There is no cure for glaucoma, so early detection is critical. In its early stages, glaucoma usually has no symptoms. Increased eye pressure creates stress on the optic nerve, and if it is damaged, vision loss occurs. Once diagnosed, treatment options include medications, laser treatment and surgery.

New developments in Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) allow patients to have glaucoma and cataract surgery during one procedure. The surgery is safe and effective in treating primary open-angle glaucoma and a cataract.

Don’t delay your diagnosis

Preventive measures or treatment may lessen or cure about 75 percent of disease-related eyesight loss.

Doctors recommend regular eye exams beginning at age 40 or earlier if you have eye disease risk factors, including family history, diabetes and high blood pressure.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates about 39 million Americans will have cataracts by 2032.

Glaucoma is expected to affect more than four million Americans by 2030, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation.

If you are at risk for these eye conditions, don’t delay your diagnosis. Schedule a comprehensive exam offered by an ophthalmologist at your eye center.

River Oaks Endoscopy Center Implements AI-Powered Solution for Advanced Colon Cancer Screening

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River Oaks Endoscopy Center, a renowned provider of exceptional patient care, has integrated revolutionary AI technology that improves colon cancer screening efficiencies. This cutting-edge system underscores the center’s commitment to improving health outcomes and delivering superior care to patients.

By leveraging advanced AI technology, the endoscopy center enhances the precision and effectiveness of colonoscopies. The intelligent system collaborates with medical professionals, providing an additional layer of analysis during the procedure. It diligently analyzes real-time video feeds from the endoscope, assisting physicians in identifying potential abnormalities like polyps that can lead to colon cancer.

One of the significant benefits of this breakthrough AI technology is its ability to facilitate early detection of colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps. Detecting polyps at their nascent stages empowers patients to receive timely interventions, leading to more successful treatment outcomes and improved long-term survival rates. Additionally, the AI-assisted approach allows for the removal of precancerous polyps during the same procedure, reducing the risk of cancer development and minimizing the need for subsequent invasive interventions.

How Patients Benefit from AI

The integration of AI technology into colon cancer screenings at the endoscopy center offers several advantages to patients. By enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of the procedure, the technology reduces examination time, minimizing patient discomfort and promoting a more comfortable experience. Furthermore, the AI system acts as a second set of eyes, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of the colon, which contributes to improved detection rates and more effective preventive measures.

Alongside the integration of AI technology, the endoscopy center is dedicated to delivering compassionate care and exceptional support to patients throughout the screening process. The experienced staff strives to create a supportive environment, addressing patient concerns, and ensuring a positive experience at every step.

Through the utilization of this groundbreaking AI technology, the endoscopy center establishes itself as a leader in revolutionizing colon cancer screenings. By embracing innovative approaches and advancements in medical technology, the center remains at the forefront of the fight against colorectal cancer, emphasizing its commitment to patient well-being and improved health outcomes.

Schedule Your Colon Cancer Screening

Individuals aged 45 and above are strongly encouraged to schedule a colon cancer screening at the endoscopy center. By taking this proactive step, patients can benefit from the precision, efficiency, and enhanced detection capabilities provided by AI technology.