Combined Effect of Vaping and Smoking May Worsen Vision

by

About 12 percent of Americans smoke cigarettes. We’ve known for decades that smoking can cause health problems and damage the eyes. However, we do not know as much about e-cigarettes. New research suggests the combination of smoking and vaping can pose a heightened threat to eye tissues.

What Is an E-Cigarette?

E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices that mimic traditional tobacco cigarettes. A pharmacist in Beijing created the modern e-cigarette in 2003 as an alternative to regular cigarettes.

E-cigarettes use an atomizer and a cartridge that contains nicotine or a non-nicotine solution. The battery heats the liquid, and the atomizer vaporizes it as a mist. This is why smoking e-cigarettes is often called “vaping.”

Vaping Is Increasing in Popularity Among Young Americans

While fewer Americans are smoking traditional cigarettes, vaping is increasing. According to a Gallup poll, eight percent of U.S. adults said they smoked e-cigarettes in the past week. Vaping is especially popular among young adults; people younger than 30 are twice as likely to vape than any other age group.

Vaping also seems to have more sticking power than cigarettes. In 2023, 50 percent of young people who tried e-cigarettes kept using them.

Study Links Smoking and Vaping to Increased Eye Problems

A recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that young adults and adolescents who used cigarettes and e-cigarettes had more significant eye problems than those who used only one product. Participants who smoked and vaped were more likely to experience pain, redness, dryness, blurred vision, headaches and sensitivity to light.

“In ophthalmology clinics, I’ve increasingly noticed patients, particularly adolescents and young adults, presenting with eye-related symptoms such as dryness, irritation, and even vision disturbances,” said Anne Xuan-Lan Nguyen, MDCM, an ophthalmology resident at the University of Toronto, Canada, who led the research.

The study examined more than 4,000 people aged 13-24 about their smoking habits in the last month, week or ever. About 900 participants said they smoked cigarettes and/or vaped in the last week. Many of the patients said they did not wear contact lenses or take medication for eye problems.

Among the respondents who vaped, 55.9 percent said they also used cigarettes. Dual users of cigarettes and e-cigarettes had more frequent and severe eye symptoms compared to users of only one type of product. Up to four percent of respondents who had ever used both products said they experienced severe or very severe eye symptoms.

“All these conditions we know are worse as you get older,” said Laura Enyedi, MD, pediatric ophthalmologist in Durham, North Carolina, who was not associated with the study. “So if young people are having symptoms, it doesn’t bode well for them as they age” (Medscape).

Why Are Cigarettes and E-Cigarettes Harmful to the Eyes?

Because the study was observational, the findings cannot prove that the combined effect of smoking and vaping damages vision. However, they suspect cigarettes and e-cigarettes cause oxidative damage. When combustion occurs in cigarettes and the e-cigarette solvent propylene glycol, the reaction creates free radicals, causing oxidative stress, which damages the eye surface.

Smokers are twice as likely to develop age-related macular degeneration and two to three times more likely to develop cataracts than non-smokers. Smoking can also cause uveitis, an inflammation that develops inside the eye. Uveitis can lead to redness, pain and vision problems.

How You Can Prevent Smoking-Related Vision Problems

If you are a smoker, the best way to preserve your vision is to stop smoking. If you are not a smoker, don’t begin smoking. You can also make healthy lifestyle choices, such as the following:

  • Exercising regularly
  • Eating a nutritious diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats, fatty fish and healthy omega-3s
  • Staying hydrated
  • Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels
  • Using sunscreen on a daily basis
  • Wearing sunglasses that offer 100 percent UVA and UVB protection

Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam

Make a commitment to clear vision and healthy eyes by calling your ophthalmologist to make an appointment for a comprehensive eye examination. Annual eye exams are essential because good eyesight can improve the quality of day-to-day life. Your eye doctor will check your visual acuity, evaluate your current eye prescription and screen you for eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Regular visits will help preserve your vision for years to come, so call today to make an appointment.

Daily Walks Can Improve Joint Health

by

Moving and staying active are important components for lifelong health.

“It is exercise alone that supports the spirits and keeps the mind in vigor,” said Roman statesman Marcus Cicero around 65 BC.

You do not have to have the skill of an ancient Olympian to be fit, and being in shape doesn’t need to be expensive. Walking is an ideal exercise for all ages because it improves your joint health and boosts your cardiovascular fitness.

Why Walking Is Such a Good Exercise

Anyone can begin a daily fitness routine of walking because all you need is a set of supportive athletic shoes. Brisk walking is probably the least expensive cardio activity because it doesn’t require equipment or a gym membership, and you don’t need any special training. The health benefits of walking include the following:

  • Increased heart and lung fitness
  • Better management of chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol
  • Improved balance and flexibility
  • Weight loss
  • Decreased muscle pain and joint stiffness

“Walking’s a great way to work out because we can integrate it into our daily lives,” said Amanda Paluch, an assistant professor at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. “And if you can just fit it around your house or within your neighborhood, it’s one of the most convenient options.”

Studies show walking also can reduce sweet cravings, relieve joint pain, improve the immune response, overcome obesity genetics and reduce breast cancer risk (Harvard Health).

Activity Trackers Can Motivate You in Your Walking Habits

Everyone needs some motivation when beginning a new habit. If you are just getting started with a walking routine, you may want to try an activity tracker to monitor your steps, heart rate, blood pressure and calories burned.

It is not necessary to purchase an expensive device. Even devices in the $20 range can offer the basic metrics. The reason why activity trackers are so effective is data access. Seeing progress toward your goal is a powerful motivator to meet your physical activity target. Some people like to set a goal of 10,000 steps per day. Your doctor will likely encourage you to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) recommendation of 150 minutes of moderately intense activity and strength training two times a week.

Get Moving during National Move More Month

April is a perfect time to begin a new walking goal because it is National Move More Month. If you have osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, walking may ease your joint pain. Walking makes your muscles stronger and transfers pressure from the joints. It also compresses and releases knee cartilage, which circulates synovial fluid that brings oxygen to the joints. When the joints aren’t nourished, they begin to deteriorate.

One study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine analyzed 1,564 adults older than 49 with lower-body arthritic pain. Patients who walked for 60 minutes each week were more likely to be disability-free four years later.

Here are four tips to get you started during National Move More Month:

  1. Invest in quality footwear. — You can’t meet your exercise goals if your feet hurt. Some athletic shoe stores will analyze your foot and gait to create customized recommendations for the best footwear for you.
  2. Find an exercise pal. — Walking with a friend or neighbor will make you feel safe and secure. A partner will also keep you accountable for meeting goals.
  3. Vary your route. — If you walk the same route every day, you will get bored. Take some time to map out new routes so you can enjoy new scenery.
  4. Track your progress. — Besides using a fitness tracker, keep a log of how far, long and often you walk. You will be encouraged to keep going in your fitness journey.

Talk to Your Orthopedist About a Walking Plan

Your health needs are unique to your age, body type, medical history and fitness level. If you are experiencing joint pain, make an appointment with your orthopedist to come up with an exercise plan. Your doctor may suggest specific strengthening exercises, physical therapy or even a procedure if pain persists.

In some cases, your doctor may suggest total knee or total hip replacement surgery to relieve pain and restore your mobility. Call today to make an appointment during National Move More Month and get moving toward better joint health.

Study Links Tumor-related Bacteria to Young-onset Colon Cancer

by

Researchers found distinct differences in tumor-related bacteria linked to young-onset colon cancer.

Colorectal Cancer Increasing Among Young People

Adults older than 50 have a higher risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), but the disease is rapidly increasing among young people. By 2030, young-onset colon cancer is expected to comprise 11 percent of colon cancers and 23 percent of rectal cancers.

Hereditary cancer syndromes only cause about 20 percent of young-onset CRC cases, which means most young people are not predisposed to colon cancer. However, young people are more likely to have advanced disease at the time of diagnosis, possibly due to low screening rates.

While it is still unclear why so many young people are developing CRC, some possible reasons may include the following:

  • Antibiotic use
  • Lack of exercise
  • Obesity

Study Shows Tissue Differences

A new study published in eBioMedicine suggests young-onset colon cancer patients may have specific tumor-related bacteria compared to average-age colon cancer patients. The purpose of the study was to explore factors that could contribute to the rise in young-onset colon cancer.

“This research is the first step in exploring factors that could play a role in the rise of young onset colorectal cancer,” Shimoli V. Barot, MD, medical oncologist at Cleveland Clinic Cancer Institute, told Healio. “Having identified the tumor bacteria, we can now explore utilizing this information to devise strategies to address this challenge.”

The research analyzed colon tissue samples from 136 people diagnosed with colon cancer before age 50, comparing them to samples from 140 older patients with colorectal cancer above age 60. The research team found young colon cancer patients had more bacterial diversity, and the bacteria interacted with the tumor in different ways. Young patients were also more likely to have left-sided, rectal and advanced stage tumors (such as stage IV cancer).

What Impact Could This Have on Colon Cancer Research?

Dr. Barot said she hopes the study results can help produce preventive treatments in the future. Perhaps probiotic or antibiotics could promote healthy gut bacteria and eliminate the tumor-causing bacteria.

“We will need to compare the bacteria to that of individuals who don’t have colorectal cancer,” she said. “Then we will try to figure out the role bacteria play in the pathogenesis of early-onset colorectal cancer. We want to determine what these bacteria are secreting, how they are interacting with the immune system around the tumor area and how the immune system could be primed to fight these bacteria.”

Naseer Sangwan, PhD, of the Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, added that “further research is needed into how lifestyle factors such as diet, medications and obesity may impact gut bacteria and contribute to young-onset colon cancers” (Medical Xpress).

Young-onset Colon Cancer Is Increasing

About 19,550 Americans younger than 50 develop colorectal cancer every year, and about 3,750 die from the disease. Colon cancer is the fourth-leading cause of death in this age group, following car accidents, homicide and suicide.

Since 2011, colorectal cancer incidence has been increasing by two percent a year in adults younger than 50, as well as adults between 50 and 54.

Get Your First Colon Cancer Screening at 45 or Before

Adults at average risk for colon cancer should begin screening at age 45. But if you have a family history of colon cancer or colon polyps, it is recommended to start screening earlier. People with hereditary cancer syndromes like familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome — also known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) — have a higher risk of colon cancer, and tumors usually develop at an earlier age.

Know the Warning Signs of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer may not cause symptoms right away. It is also possible for a separate condition, like hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease, to cause similar symptoms.

Common symptoms of colon cancer may include the following:

  • A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation or narrowing of the stool, that lasts for more than a few days
  • A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by having one
  • Blood in the stool, which might make it look red, dark brown or black
  • Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Unintentional weight loss

If you experience any of these symptoms, regardless of your age, make an appointment to see your doctor.

Colonoscopy Screening for Colon Cancer

There are two basic types of screenings:

  1. Stool-based tests — These tests are less invasive because they test the stool for signs of cancer.
  2. Colonoscopy — These tests examine the structure of the colon and rectum and look for abnormalities called polyps. They are done with a scope placed into the rectum.

Many people prefer stool-based tests because they are faster and less expensive, but abnormal test results require a colonoscopy.

Colonoscopy is the most effective because it allows your gastroenterologist to examine the entire colon and remove polyps before they become cancerous. A screening colonoscopy typically lasts less than an hour, and it is typically repeated every 10 years if no abnormalities are detected by your doctor and you are not at higher risk for colon cancer.

Call your gastroenterologist today to make an appointment.

Filed Under: News Tagged With:

Step Inside Livingston Surgery Center with Google 360 Virtual Tour!

by

Livingston, New Jersey – Navigating the world of healthcare just got easier! The Livingston Surgery Center in New Jersey proudly unveils its latest innovation: a cutting-edge Google 360 Virtual Tour. This immersive experience allows visitors to step inside the facility from the comfort of their own homes, unveiling the ease and convenience of accessing outpatient care.

Take the Google 360 Tour

Witness the Livingston Surgery Center through an immersive 360 virtual tour, meticulously captured by a certified Google 360 photographer. From the welcoming reception area to the tranquil recovery spaces, every detail is designed with your well-being in mind. Feel free to explore the recovery areas and throughout the building. Transparency is one of our core values, and we want you to see the quality patients receive every day. This virtual experience exemplifies our commitment to transparency, allowing you to explore our facility’s serene environment, reducing pre-visit anxiety, and fostering trust.

Why Livingston Surgery Center?

  1. Modern Facilities: Experience healthcare in a facility where advanced technology and comfort converge.
  2. Personalized Care: Our skilled professionals are dedicated to your unique health needs, ensuring a patient-centered approach.
  3. Informed Decisions: The virtual tour and detailed photography gallery offer insights into our center, promoting transparency and confidence in your healthcare choices.

At Livingston Surgery Center, we blend unparalleled medical care with an environment that prioritizes your comfort and peace of mind. We invite you to discover the difference at our state-of-the-art facility.

Knoxville WATE Anchor Undergoes Colonoscopy by Dr. Tejal Mistry

by

In recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we’re proud to spotlight the impactful work of our own Dr. Tejal Mistry, a distinguished gastroenterologist at The Endoscopy Center and Gastrointestinal Associates. Dr. Mistry expertly performed a life-saving colonoscopy for WATE anchor Tearsa Smith this past year, highlighting the critical role of early detection and prevention in the battle against colorectal cancer.

This procedure, conducted amid a crucial awareness campaign, led to the discovery and removal of precancerous polyps. Dr. Mistry’s dedication to patient care and his expertise in the field not only potentially saved a life but also serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of regular screenings.

Join us in celebrating Dr. Mistry’s contributions to health and wellness in our community. To dive deeper into this inspiring story and learn more about the importance of colorectal cancer screening, click here.

In Your 20s and 30s? Pay Attention to These 8 Tips NOW to Prevent Colon Cancer

by

Colon cancer used to be something “older” people had to think about – but now there is an increasing number of people younger than 50 who are diagnosed with colon cancer. During Colon Cancer Awareness Month in March, we’re asking you to arm yourself with knowledge and spread the word – so we can turn these numbers back around.

Because there’s good news: COLON CANCER IS PREVENTABLE.

By being aware of your body, knowing the possibilities and risk factors of colon cancer, and going to the doctor, you can turn the statistics around and prevent colon cancer.

Use these crucial tips for young people to help prevent colon cancer:

1. Understand the Risk Factors

Do you know if you’re at risk for colon cancer? Risk factors include:

  • Family history
  • Certain genetic conditions
  • Unhealthy lifestyle habits
  • Underlying medical conditions (like inflammatory bowel disease)

Ask relatives for your family history of colon cancer and other disorders, and listen if someone mentions in passing anything about digestive concerns, polyps, colonoscopies, or colon cancer.

Learn more about Colon Cancer Facts and Risk Factors, and schedule an appointment to talk to your doctor if you have any of these risk factors to determine proactive measures you can take.

2. Pay Attention to Symptoms

Be vigilant about any unusual symptoms you experience, such as:

  • Changes in bowel habits
  • Persistent abdominal pain
  • Blood in the stool
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • ANY other digestive symptoms

Even beyond that, pay attention to ANY symptoms you have – because you may have adjusted to something that’s been going on for a while and accepted it.

Those symptoms may be a warning sign, and the earlier symptoms are looked into, the easier it is to prevent and stop colon cancer in its tracks.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

What you eat fuels your body…and can also fuel disease. Your healthy diet should consist of:

  • Plenty of fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains instead of white flour
  • Fiber to promote digestive health
  • Lean proteins instead of red meat
  • Limiting processed foods, red meat, and food high in saturated fats

Learn more about Why Ultra-Processed Foods Affect Your Gut and Can Possibly Increase Risk of Colon Cancer, and talk to your doctor about taking steps to alter your diet where needed.

4. Stay Active

Physically moving helps keep everything in your digestive system moving, and helps to keep you healthy overall. Engage in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and help reduce your risk of colon cancer.

Aim to walk every day, and incorporate more physical activity as often as you can. Talk to your doctor about how much exercise is right for you – including moderate and vigorous exercise.

5. Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption

Among its other detriments, smoking has also been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.

Additionally, Alcohol Increases Your Risk of Colon Cancer, so be sure to eliminate excessive drinking and limit alcohol consumption as much as possible.

Be aware that if you do partake in either of these, you have risk factors for colon cancer.

6. Get a Colonoscopy

While regular colonoscopy screening for colon cancer typically begins at age 50, younger individuals with certain risk factors may need to have a colonoscopy sooner.

Talk to your doctor about your colon cancer risk factors – and any digestive discomforts you may have, no matter how seemingly minor – and discuss when you should begin colon cancer screenings.

7. Prioritize Regular Check-Ups

Even if you feel healthy, it’s crucial to schedule regular check-ups with your doctor – keeping digestive concerns, risk factors, and colon cancer in the regular discussion.

These appointments allow for early detection of any potential health issues, including colon cancer, which makes it easier to treat.

Visit Your Gastrointestinal Doctor

During and beyong Colon Cancer Awareness Month, be sure that If you have ANY symptoms or risk factors, no matter your age, you schedule an appointment with your doctor. At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., our team of knowledgeable doctors will assess your symptoms and develop the best course of treatment and prevention for you. Schedule your appointment today!

Fitness Trackers May Improve Joint Health

by

When the temperature drops and the weather is gloomy, it’s hard to find the motivation to exercise. Although it sounds appealing to stay inside, you need to exercise for your physical and mental health. Working out releases endorphins, increases immunity and combats seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression common in winter.

Most people need a little help and motivation to get moving. A good way to monitor your active lifestyle is by using activity trackers and fitness apps.

What Is a Fitness Tracker?

According to a poll, half of Americans use at least one kind of technology to track their health and fitness goals. Many people wear heart rate monitors and smart watches in the gym. Experts report wearable technology is the Top Fitness Trend for 2024 (ACSM).

A fitness monitoring device is a wearable gadget or mobile app that tracks physical movements. These movements include heart rate, calories expended and steps taken.

Physical activity is one of the most important components of health, but daily tasks often push exercise to the bottom of the list. Fitness trackers help because they give reminders and praise, two things to which humans respond positively.

Fitness trackers can remind you to “get moving” if you’ve been inactive for a period of time, or congratulate you, “You met your goal of 10,000 steps!” Accountability is essential when trying to cultivate any lifelong habit, and fitness trackers provide accurate, unbiased records about movement and activity in the day.

“Fitness trackers are a great tool for heart health,” says Johns Hopkins cardiologist Seth Martin, MD, MHS. “Being more active and changing your habits is important, but it can be difficult. Tracking likely helps a lot of people when combined with a clear goal to shoot for.”

What Are Some Benefits of Wearable Fitness Technology?

Many people say their fitness tracker makes all the difference in their day. Some favorite features of wearable fitness technology include the following:

  • Staying motivated
  • Activity awareness
  • Heart health monitoring
  • Sleep analysis
  • Goal setting and the feeling of achievement

What Features Should You Seek in an Activity Tracker?

What you need in a fitness tracker depends upon your goals. If you are just tracking your steps and minutes of activity, you might need nothing more than a Fitbit. If you want to delve deeper into fitness and aerobic exercise, you may want a smartwatch or more sophisticated fitness tracker.

Here are some features of fitness trackers that may interest you.

Resting heart rate

Most people’s resting heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. Exercise helps to lower your resting heart rate, which improves overall cardiac function and helps to reduce mortality rate. Therefore, resting heart rate is an important metric to monitor.

Heart rate during exercise

Heart rate zones, or HR zones, help you know how hard you’re training. There are five heart rate zones based on the intensity of your training with regard to your maximum heart rate (MHR). For moderate-intensity physical activity, your target heart rate (THR) should be 50 to 70 percent of your MHR.

If you’re not sure what your maximum heart rate is, it is based on your age. Your maximum heart rate can be calculated as 220 beats per minute (bpm) minus your age. This is just an estimate, and your doctor should help you determine your MHR.

VO2 Max

Your VO2 max is the volume of oxygen (O2) you can breathe maximally during a 60-second interval. VO2 max is a metric of fitness that correlates with your mortality risk. The higher your VO2 max, the healthier your heart.

Research shows that the most popular activity trackers are quite reliable when recording activity minutes and daily steps. Activity trackers can help adults meet the physical activity guidelines. Experts recommend 150 minutes of moderately intense activity per week and strength training two times a week.

Recent Research on Fitness Trackers

A study with 1,000 American adults found that wearable fitness devices greatly impact our health and overall happiness.

  • 80 percent of the study participants said they felt better physically and mentally after using a fitness tracker.
  • 50 percent said they increased their physical activity when they began wearing a health tracker.
  • 25 percent said they use fitness trackers to increase accountability and motivation for meeting activity goals.

How Exercise Affects Arthritis and Joint Pain

Strong muscles can support and protect arthritic joints. Research shows exercise can improve symptoms of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Exercise strengthens muscles around the joints and helps maintain bone strength.

“Exercise is good. But exercise intelligently,” says Bashir Zikria, MD, an assistant professor of sports medicine in Baltimore. “Low-impact exercises, like walking, cycling or using an elliptical machine are smart choices. If you run, play basketball or do other high-impact activities, avoid hard surfaces and don’t do it every day” (Arthritis.org).

An Orthopedist Can Help You Exercise Safely

Consistency is the key to making progress. We all need realistic goals, motivation to follow through and a way to track our progress. Fitness trackers and apps can provide all those things, but they can’t replace the expertise of a physician. Before you begin a new workout routine, talk to your doctor and create a customized plan.

If you are living with chronic pain, call your orthopedist to make an appointment. You may need physical therapy, medication or a procedure. Your doctor can also discuss options regarding procedures like total knee or total hip replacement, if necessary.

A Mission of Prevention: Colon Cancer Survivor Promotes Screening

by

A wife, mother and career woman, Karen Fisher lives a busy life in Inverness, Florida.

Fisher’s life turned upside down when she was diagnosed in 2020 with Stage 2A colon cancer. She was 54.

“Colon cancer wasn’t really even on the radar,” she said. “So, it was kind of a shock.”

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates about 106,590 people will be diagnosed with colon cancer and about 46,220 with rectal cancer in 2024.

Now the 57-year-old colon cancer survivor helps newly diagnosed colorectal cancer (CRC) patients find support resources and encourages adults to get timely screenings.

“I have been able to help friends, coworkers and neighbors get screened for colon cancer,” Fisher said. “It makes me feel good to be able to help other people prevent going through what I went through.”

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. This monthlong campaign promotes the research, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and, ultimately, cure for this disease. CRC is an umbrella term for cancer in the colon or rectum.

Don’t Make Excuses About CRC Screening

In 2016, experts recommended colorectal cancer screenings begin at 50 for people at average risk for the disease. Fisher turned 50 that year but made excuses to postpone her screening.

“I was busy with work and teenagers and after-school activities, and you know, moms take care of everybody else but themselves,” she said. “I had even driven my husband to his colonoscopy when he turned 50. He’s five months younger than me.”

In 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the screening age to 45 because of an increase in cancer in younger people. Now, CRC is the number one cause of cancer death in men and the second in women younger than 50.

Fisher had no family history of CRC and did not think she had any symptoms.

“I had blood in the stool, but at the time I was perimenopausal, and I thought I was spotting between periods,” she said. “Looking back, I can recognize that yes, I had a symptom.”

Fisher’s health insurance required her to get a colonoscopy at the hospital where she works as a pharmacist. She did not feel comfortable getting screened there.

“That was one thing that prevented me from getting screened in a timely manner. I didn’t want to get naked in front of my coworkers,” she said. “I knew everyone in the endoscopy department. I didn’t want them to see me, so I put it off.”

Karen Fisher and son at Get Your Rear in Gear event

Colonoscopy Reveals Cancer Diagnosis

Four years later, in May 2020, Fisher tried to donate blood but was turned away because her hemoglobin level was low.

“I thought that was kind of weird because I was otherwise healthy. I’d been running for two years just for exercise and didn’t really notice anything,” she said.

Blood tests revealed Fisher had iron deficiency anemia. To determine the cause, her family doctor ordered a colonoscopy, a procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to examine the entire length of the colon for polyps or other abnormalities.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, a backlog of cases at the hospital and the urgent nature of her anemia, she got a medical exception to have the procedure at an ambulatory surgery center nearby.

Gastroenterologist Trupti Shinde, MD, performed the colonoscopy and found a 5 cm mass in Fisher’s colon. Dr. Shinde referred Fisher to Parth Patel, MD, general surgeon, to remove the tumor and scheduled surgery in July 2020. Pathology revealed Stage 2A colon cancer.

“It was just such a whirlwind of activity with me. You know, me still trying to work full time, too, and trying to process all of this in my head,” Fisher said. “I did a lot of research online and found a lot of good resources. I wanted to share them with other colon cancer patients.”

A Foundation to Help CRC Patients

About six months post-surgery, Fisher scheduled a follow-up appointment with Dr. Shinde. They discussed the need for a support group and resources for colon cancer patients.

“I always felt there is no support system for them,” Dr. Shinde said of CRC patients. “We are doing a good professional job, but I felt there was a lack of connection if they needed emotional support. I was always unhappy about that situation.”

The duo began offering support groups at the local library without much success. Undeterred, they compiled a list of patient resources and produced a pamphlet designed by Fisher’s son. Then they shared the pamphlets with local surgery centers and healthcare facilities for distribution to CRC patients.

Karen Fisher with her son, Dr. Shinde and Dr. Patel

From this outreach, Fisher worked with Dr. Shinde and Dr. Patel to create the nonprofit Citrus Colorectal Cancer Foundation in June 2021, Fisher’s one-year “cancerversary.”

The foundation offers direction for educational, financial and emotional support for CRC patients, caregivers and the community. The foundation is planning ColonFest ‘24 on March 23 and the second annual Charity Casino Night in April.

In the future, Dr. Shinde wants to expand the foundation’s mission.

“My dreams are very big,” she said. “I want to have a foundation presence globally because (colorectal cancer) is not only a problem for the United States.”

From Pain to Purpose

As a colon cancer survivor, Fisher’s pain has emerged into purpose.

“I feel like maybe this was God’s plan for me that I went through this,” Fisher said. “And now He’s guiding me to help others go through it and prevent what I went through.”

To raise awareness, Fisher often shares her story at luncheons, healthcare fairs and community events. To describe CRC and the importance of screening, she often uses a gardening metaphor.

“I talk about weeding your intestinal garden,” she said. “Think of polyps as weeds that could take over your body and kill you — just like weeds can rob your garden of nutrients and kill your plants.”

Colorectal cancer begins as a polyp, a small cluster of cells in the lining of the colon (large intestine) or rectum.

“There are many types of colon cancer screenings available these days, but I always recommend a colonoscopy,” Fisher said.

Colonoscopy is the only screening method that can detect and prevent colorectal cancer. During this procedure, a doctor can find and remove any polyps — often before they become cancerous.

If you choose to take a stool test and you receive a positive result, you will need a follow-up colonoscopy to determine the cause.

Schedule Your Colonoscopy at Age 45

Colorectal cancer diagnosis in adults 40-49 has increased by nearly 15 percent in the past decade. Experts recommend that colorectal cancer screening begin at age 45 for adults who are at average risk.

“There are a lot of messages that I like to spread for the younger people,” Fisher said. “Number one is it might not be hemorrhoids or gluten intolerance or IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). The only way to know for sure is to get scoped. You’ve got to find out for sure.”

Early detection is key in CRC because it is more treatable in the early stages.

“Prevention is a cure, and we have to prevent bad things,” Dr. Shinde said. “I tell my patients, if you’re healthy and you want to do all these things in your life, then you are the perfect candidate to get the colonoscopy because it’s the best preventive tool.”

Coverage of colonoscopy differs with health insurance policies. In most cases, there should be no out-of-pocket costs (such as copays or deductibles) for CRC screening tests. You should contact your health insurance provider to verify any charges and to approve a colonoscopy before age 45.

Getting screened if you are 45 or older is critical to detecting and even preventing colorectal cancer. Call today to make an appointment.

This article is designed for educational purposes only. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health concern or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health concern, you should consult your healthcare provider.

Filed Under: News Tagged With:

Four Ways to Boost Your Eye Health

by

Studies show that we value sight more than any other sense. This is not surprising, as we take in 80 percent of all impressions by our vision.

Our sense of sight is a precious gift, but we must care for our eyes throughout our lifetime. Protecting our eyes helps lower the chances of vision loss, blindness and the development of eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease.

Visit Your Eye Doctor

Eye exams are essential for preventive care and maintenance, even if you don’t wear glasses or contact lenses. Because many eye diseases can develop without symptoms, you should visit your eye doctor every year.

Annual comprehensive eye exams will allow your doctor to diagnose and treat eye conditions early to prevent vision loss. Having a dilated eye examination is crucial if there is a history of conditions such as glaucoma, diabetes or macular degeneration in your family. For example, early detection of vision issues due to diabetes will reduce the risk of blindness by 60 to 90 percent.

Protect Your Eyes Properly

Do you spend time outside or looking at digital screens? If so, you need to protect your eyes properly.

Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight can damage part of the retina called the macula, which is responsible for central vision. Wearing sunglasses that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays can help prevent macular damage.

Outdoor sports and activities can make you more prone to eye injury. Safety goggles can protect your eyes from foreign objects while gardening, woodworking or playing sports. When purchasing safety glasses, make sure they have side protection, shatter-proof lenses and impact-resistant frames.

Digital eye strain will not cause vision loss, but it can be irritating or painful. Staring at screens can cause many problems, such as the following:

  • Headaches
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Blurry vision
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Eye fatigue

Digital eye strain can also reduce your blink rate and cause dry eye. Making a conscious effort to blink more often will help lubricate your eyes and prevent dryness. You can also try some over-the-counter rewetting drops.

When using electronic devices, it is beneficial to keep in mind the 20-20-20 rule: after every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to focus on an object situated at least 20 feet away.

Incorporate Exercise into Your Daily Schedule

Physical activity and a balanced diet can make a significant impact on your vision. Unlike New Year’s Resolutions, long-term commitments to your health and wellness don’t wane after January. Healthy living is a lifetime habit, cultivated one day at a time.

Studies show people who exercise regularly have a lower risk of developing eye disease.

  • According to a study, individuals who engage in physical activity at least three times a week have a lower risk of developing age-related macular degeneration compared to those who do not exercise.
  • Another study discovered people who exercised moderately were 25 percent less likely to develop glaucoma (AAO).

Exercise also can help lower eye pressure in patients with glaucoma and help patients with diabetic retinopathy keep diabetes under control.

Adults should try to get 150 minutes of moderate-level exercise and two days of muscle strengthening activity each week. Cardiovascular exercises can include swimming, walking, cycling, playing tennis or even gardening. Muscle strengthening activities should incorporate all muscle groups: legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms (CDC).

Eat Nutritious Foods High in Antioxidants

Antioxidants are foods that protect tissues from the damage caused by oxidation, a process that causes cell death and aging. For example, oxidation can cause permanent changes in proteins located in the eye lens, leading to cataracts.

Foods that contain vitamins A, C and E, lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids and selenium protect eyes from oxidation. It is advisable to get vitamins and minerals from balanced meals rather than relying on supplements. Here are a few antioxidant-rich foods to consider (AAO):

  • Vitamin A — leafy greens, tomatoes, cantaloupe, mango, milk and eggs
  • Vitamin C — citrus fruits, kiwifruit, strawberries, red and green peppers and broccoli
  • Vitamin E — olive oil, sunflower seeds, almonds and avocadoes
  • Lutein and zeaxanthin — kale, spinach, broccoli, peas, lettuce, eggs, maize (corn) and orange peppers
  • Carotenoids — carrots, winter squash, watermelon, pink grapefruit, leafy greens, pumpkin
  • Selenium — seafood, organ meats, Brazil nuts, eggs, grains, cereals and dairy products

Call an Ophthalmologist for Your Comprehensive Eye Exam

When is the last time you visited your eye doctor? A comprehensive eye exam evaluates your eye health as well as your vision, and it takes only about an hour. You will have a visual acuity test, and you’ll likely receive a screening for eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration. If you need to receive any treatment, your eye doctor can explain your options and create a customized treatment plan.