Healthy Living is a special supplement published monthly by Anton Media Group by Anton Community Newspapers

Healthy Living AN ANTON MEDIA GROUP SPECIAL

MARCH 9 - 15, 2022

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HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 9 - 15, 2022

COVER STORY

For National Kidney Month, Take Five For Your Kidneys BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF

Control Blood Pressure and Diabetes

specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

arch is National Kidney Month and the National Kidney Foundation is calling on all Americans to take five healthy steps for their kidneys. The kidneys are the body’s chemical factories, filtering waste and performing vital functions that control things like red blood cell production and blood pressure. But over time, the kidneys can become damaged with little or no physical symptoms to warn you that your kidneys are in trouble. “Of the 26 million American adults estimated to have kidney disease, most don’t know they have it. That’s why taking care of your kidneys, especially if you are at risk for kidney disease, is vital,” said Joseph Vassalotti, MD, National Kidney Foundation chief medical officer. “There are a few simple things people can do to keep their kidneys healthy and strong.”

Take Five for Your Kidneys

All Americans can do five simple things to protect their kidneys:

Get Tested

Ask your doctor for an ACR urine test or a GFR blood test annually if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, are over age 60, or have a family history of kidney failure. Get screened for free through the National Kidney Foundation’s KEEP Healthy program by visiting www.kidney.org/ KEEPHealthy.

Reduce NSAIDs

Over-the-counter pain medicines, such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), may alleviate your aches and pains, but they can harm the kidneys, especially if you already have kidney disease. Reduce your regular use of NSAIDs and never go over the recommended dosage. Cut the Processed Foods. Processed foods can be significant sources of sodium, nitrates and phosphates, and have been linked to cancer, heart disease and kidney disease. Try adopting the DASH diet to guide your healthy eating habits.

High blood pressure and diabetes are the leading causes of kidney disease and kidney failure. Managing high blood pressure and strict control of blood sugar levels can slow the progression of kidney disease. Speak with your doctor if you are having trouble managing diabetes or high blood pressure. Throughout National Kidney Month, the National Kidney Foundation is offering free kidney health screenings through the KEEP Healthy program. To locate a KEEP Healthy screening near you, or to learn more about the kidneys and risk factors for kidney disease, visit www.kidney.org/KEEPHealthy.

Kidney Facts:

• 1-in-3 American adults is at high risk for developing kidney disease today. • High blood pressure, diabetes, a family history of kidney failure and being over 60 are major risk factors for developing kidney disease. • 1-in-9 American adults has kidney disease and most don’t know it. • Early detection and treatment can slow or prevent the progression of kidney disease. • Kidney disease risk can be reduced by controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, quitting Exercise Regularly smoking, regular exercise, maintaining a Your kidneys like it when you exercise. Regular healthy weight and avoiding excessive use of exercise will keep your bones, muscles, blood pain medications. vessels, heart and kidneys healthy. Getting The National Kidney Foundation is the leading active for at least 30 minutes a day can also help organization in the U.S. dedicated to the awareyou control blood pressure and lower blood ness, prevention and treatment of kidney disease. sugar, which is vital to kidney health. For more information, visit www.kidney.org.

MARCH 9 - 15, 2022 • HEALTHY LIVING

Northwell Cardiothoracic Programs Recognized For Top Performance

our Northwell Health hospitals with cardiothoracic surgery programs—Sandra Atlas Bass Heart Hospital at North Shore University Hospital (NSUH), Lenox Hill Hospital (LHH) in Manhattan, Staten Island University Hospital (SIUH) and South Shore University Hospital (SSUH) in Bay Shore—earned prestigious threestar quality overall ratings in the several cardiac surgical categories analyzed by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS). The latest report included data from 906 cardiothoracic surgical programs across the United States and Canada. The Sandra Atlas Bass Heart Hospital (SABHH) at NSUH has achieved threestar overall quality ratings – the highest possible performance rating – in all five cardiac surgical categories analyzed by the STS. In addition, North Shore University Hospital was nationally recognized in eight specialties on U.S. News and World Report’s 2021-2022 best hospital ranking including cardiology and heart surgery at the SABHH. “I applaud all our colleagues at North Shore, Lenox Hill, South Shore and Staten Island for achieving the highest quality ratings by the STS in their respective cardiac surgical categories,” said Alan R. Hartman, MD, senior vice president and executive director of cardiovascular and thoracic surgery at Northwell Health. “The superior ratings reflect the expertise and excellent quality cardiac surgical outcomes we provide to patients in the region. “Achieving top performance in every cardiac surgery category, which the Sandra Atlas Bass Heart Hospital did, is truly a significant accomplishment. The data demonstrates we are delivering the superior quality cardiac surgical care to our patients and provides critical information for people in our region to make informed decisions about their health care,” Hartman added. The STS star rating system is one of the most sophisticated and highly regarded overall measures of quality in health care, rating the benchmarked outcomes of cardiothoracic surgery programs in isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery, isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR) surgery, CABG + AVR surgery, isolated mitral valve replacement/repair (MVRR), and CABG + MVRR surgery. LHH, SIUH and SSUH earned prestigious three-star quality overall ratings for the isolated CABG. Lenox Hill and Staten Island earned a top rating for isolated MV replacement/repair and

Northwell Health’s Sandra Atlas Bass Heart Hospital cardiac surgery team South Shore achieved a three-star rating for CABG+AVR. “I am proud to work alongside our surgeons and entire team whose tireless work and dedication have earned the department another three-star rating,” said S. Jacob Scheinerman, MD, chairman of the Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery at Lenox Hill Hospital. “These fantastic results exemplify why patients should

be confident that, under our surgeons’ care, they will return to their normal lifestyle quickly.” The STS Adult Cardiac Surgery Report analyzed data from participants for five cardiac surgical categories over a three-year period, from July 2018 to June 2021, the most recent reporting data period available. The ratings are calculated using a combination of quality measures

for specific procedures. NSUH, which also earned the highest marks across all five categories in 2019, one of only three in the nation to do so, scored highest in isolated AVR, which places them in the top four percent of all hospitals scored. NSUH and SSUH also placed in the top five percent of all hospitals for CABG+AVR. A nonprofit organization representing more than 7,600 surgeons, researchers and other health professionals worldwide, STS strives to ensure the best possible outcomes for surgeries of the heart, lungs, esophagus and other procedures within the chest by enhancing the ability of cardiothoracic surgeons to provide the highest quality of care through education, research and advocacy. Participation in the STS adult cardiac surgery database is voluntary, highlighting the importance of Northwell’s commitment to quality improvement and transparency of outcomes. See the Society of Thoracic Surgeons’ website www.publicreporting.sts.org for information about the STS Adult Cardiac Surgery Public Reporting. —Northwell Health

Public Policy Call: Mental Health Crisis In Higher Ed The Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc. (MHANYS) has released a white paper calling for a public policy response to the mental health crisis in higher education. The study reveals the prevalence of mental illness at colleges and universities in the U.S., outlines the impact of this crisis and considers the exacerbating role of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the release of its white paper, MHANYS has launched its push to advance necessary public policy remedies on behalf of all college students in New York. “The mental health crisis on college campuses has long been a pervasive issue, and it has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said MHANYS CEO Glenn Liebman. “Our study makes clear that more needs to be done at the state level to address this mounting problem affecting both public and private colleges and universities. We’re urging New York State to take action and begin to develop a public policy

response to provide the support and resources our college students need. We’re grateful to the state lawmakers who have already expressed an eagerness to address this issue and collaborate with us.” The newly released white paper studied the history of mental health in higher education and examined the crisis on today’s campuses. It reviewed research to determine the state of the crisis and its impact on students and the growing demand for mental health services. In addition to assessing the response on college campuses, the study evaluated the broader public response, focusing on actions taken by the media, courts, advocates and legislatures. These findings were then analyzed against the exacerbating impact of COVID-19 on mental health. “The college experience should be one of opportunity, academic pursuit and personal growth, not an overwhelming strain on the mental wellness of young people,” said John

Richter, MHANYS director of public policy and the lead author of the white paper. “We have worked hard at the elementary and secondary level to ensure resources are available and whole health parity is being considered, and we hope to continue our efforts as young people enter the next phase of their life. We look forward to working with lawmakers, students and other higher education stakeholders to determine the right path for New York to address this very real crisis.” Several state lawmakers, especially Senator Anna Kaplan, have already shared commitments with MHANYS to help address higher education’s mental health crisis. Kaplan is sponsoring legislation focused on the mental wellness of SUNY and CUNY students. Visit www.mhanys.org to read MHANYS’ white paper on mental health and education. —Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc.

HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 9 - 15, 2022

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MARCH 9 - 15, 2022 • HEALTHY LIVING

Study Finds Public Libraries Essential To Health And Wellness

ong Islanders’ health concerns related to mental health and substance misuse, heart disease, diabetes and cancer were consistent themes uncovered during a two-year study that examined health and social support issues encountered by public library staff and the patrons they serve. Stony Brook University and Adelphi University public health researchers interviewed library staff at randomly-selected libraries throughout Long Island during December 2017 and February 2020. The Long Island Health Collaborative (LIHC), a coalition of more than 300 organizations all involved in improving the health of Long Islanders, helped coordinate and partially fund the research. The research followed the same protocol used by the University of Pennsylvania when it previously conducted similar research among librarians and staff at the public library system in Philadelphia. Researchers found that there was a difference between the needs and program offerings based on the socioeconomic status of the neighborhood in which the library is located. Libraries in lower-resourced communities generally ran more basic social assistance programs and those in higher-resourced communities offered more enrichment and leisure-type programming. Researchers said they were not surprised at the results, as social determinants of health—those factors outside of medicine that influence an individual’s health—account for nearly 80 percent of health outcomes. These factors include education, poverty, access to transportation, safe and affordable housing, health insurance coverage and access to nutritious and affordable foods, among others. The results also coincide with findings from the LIHC’s Community Health Assessment Survey (English version) and (Spanish version), which is administered by the LIHC and analyzed bi-annually. It assesses individual and community perceptions about health needs and barriers, as well as social support concerns. Starting with a list of 113 public libraries, 18 libraries in Suffolk County (from 26 randomly selected) and 14 libraries in Nassau County (from 27 randomly selected)

consented to participate in the “Long Island Libraries Qualitative Research Project.” Ninety-six interviews were completed, recorded and transcribed. Approximately three staff members at each library were interviewed. The transcribed interviews were coded based on themes that emerged from the interviews across sites. This resulted in a coding schema with 11 categories and many subthemes within each category. “Public libraries are hidden gems in our communities,” said Janine Logan, director of the LIHC. “They are a trusted resource. Increasingly, public libraries play a key role in delivering some of the health and social support services an individual requires to live his/her best life.” The findings from the Long Island Libraries Qualitative Research Project can be used to inform future health and social support service programming offered by libraries, including resource and staff allocation. This is also true of the partnering organizations with which many libraries work, such as the local hospital and health department and the many community-based organizations that bring health and social support service programming to libraries. —Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council

LIJ Valley Stream Hospital Names Executive Director

Long Island Jewish (LIJ) Valley Stream Hospital has appointed Jason Tan, RN, as its new executive director. He succeeds David Seligman, who had led the hospital since 2019 and is taking on the role of deputy regional executive director for Northwell Health’s western region. Northwell Health

HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 9 - 15, 2022

A breath of fresh air shouldn’t include

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Exposure to secondhand smoke in outdoor areas including parks, playgrounds and places of employment can be hazardous. Tobacco-free policies create healthier, safer and cleaner outdoor spaces for everyone.

Tobacco-free outdoor spaces Protect us all from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke Keep poisonous tobacco and e-cigarette litter away from children, pets and wildlife Support smokers who want to quit

Let’s work together to make Long Island a place to live tobacco-free.

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MARCH 9 - 15, 2022 • HEALTHY LIVING

Long Island Health Coach Launches App To Lift The Spirit BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF

made me a better Mom.” Miller, who grew up in Oyster Bay, n 2010, Port Washington resident has since devoted her professional Lorraine Miller found herself work to inspiring others to practice struggling to be happy. She and gratitude daily as a tool for self-care. her husband wanted desperately to Earlier this year she re-launched become parents, but after five years of her app, Gratitude To Bliss, which now failed fertility treatments and adopincludes 365 days of tips and inspiration disappointments, their dream tion for bringing gratitude into your remained on hold. life in a powerful way. “I knew I had so much to be grateful “The holidays can be rough for for,” said Miller, “but the stress and some people, especially if they’ve lost uncertainty of my situation made it someone, are struggling financially, or difficult to move on. I began praying are unable to see their families due to for a tool to help me feel better.” the pandemic,” said Miller. At the advice of her health coach, “Gratitude can help. It lifts the Miller began keeping a gratitude spirit and helps you spiral up to journal and within weeks started to a brighter outlook in a matter of feel happier. weeks.” “It was an unexpected miracle “Research shows that focusing during a very difficult time.” on what we are grateful for Three years later another miracle increases happiness by 20 to arrived when she gave birth to her son 25 percent, and I am living who is now eight. proof of that. It is also proven “My gratitude practice not only to reduce stress and and increase helped me get through a rough time in immunity.” my life, it has allowed me to appreciMiller said she created the app ate every part of motherhood and has because she wanted others to

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Lorraine Miller Milo Miller

experience what she experienced. “It’s such a simple tool that we often take it for granted. My app helps people remember to practice every day because there is a built-in reminder that you can set for whatever time works for you. I give you coaching tips and inspiration along the way so you stick with it.” “The world is in transition right now,” said Miller. “My hope for the Gratitude To Bliss App is that it helps people look to gratitude within themselves to help them get through this time and to create a ripple effect for others to follow.” The Gratitude To Bliss App is available through iTunes and Google Play. Lorraine Miller is a Spiritual Health Coach, author and speaker. She has written several books including A Year of Daily Gratitude (National Geographic Books) and the award-winning journal, From Gratitude To Bliss: A Journey In Health And Happiness, available at gratitudetobliss.com.

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MARCH 9 - 15, 2022 • HEALTHY LIVING

Five Ideas For Addressing Job Burnout BY DR. DON STANGLER

negative feelings you might be having at work.

specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

t’s normal to feel checked out or to struggle with your job from time to time, but when it turns into a daily issue, it may be something more. Burnout is a specific type of work-related stress, and an increasing number of people say they’re feeling it. The World Health Organization defines burnout as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed, characterized by three dimensions: 1. Feelings of exhaustion 2. Increased mental distance from one’s job 3. Reduced professional efficacy To help you apply this definition to your personal situation, consider whether these statements are true: • Your performance at work is declining • Your efficiency at work is dropping • You’re losing confidence that you can achieve your goals • You avoid work-related tasks or struggle to find the motivation to complete them • You feel exhausted • You’ve lost interest in your work If some or all of these statements ring true for you, you may be

Take advantage of your health benefits Work-related risk factors for burnout may also be predictors of depression. Consider talking to your doctor or accessing other resources available through your health plan, such as virtual behavioral therapy or on-demand emotional support via an app like Sanvello.

experiencing burnout, and various factors may have contributed, including lack of control, unclear expectations, workplace dysfunction or lack of social support. The COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to our work stress, including in transitioning to a work-from-home environment, adjusting to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic and missing the camaraderie of day-to-day interactions with colleagues at the office. Addressing burnout is important, because left unresolved, it may lead to physical and mental health issues.

Here are a few ideas for dealing with burnout: Communicate with your boss Discussing your concerns with a supervisor may help you find solutions to things that are causing ongoing stress. Reach out to your social circle Co-workers, friends and family may be able to offer the encouragement or ideas you need to help overcome feelings of burnout. Spending time with people you care about may help boost your mood and counteract the

Stick to healthy routines Well-balanced meals, regular exercise and quality sleep all help to reduce stress and can improve how you feel and perform at work. Find ways to calm your mind Consider trying yoga, meditation or breathing techniques to improve your mental health. Check out some ideas at newsroom.uhc.com It may be helpful to think of burnout as a wake-up call. It’s a strong sign that something in your life is not working, so it’s important to take it seriously. Use it as an opportunity to reflect, rest and, perhaps, create a new plan for professional happiness. —Dr. Don Stangler is the chief medical officer of UnitedHealthcare of New York.

COVID-19 Showed We Need A More Diverse Doctor Workforce BY ROBERT GRANT

Deaths related to COVID-19 were more than twice as high among black, Latino and Native American people as among whites in 2020, according to new research out from the National Cancer Institute. It is only the latest reminder of the glaring inequity that plagues the U.S. healthcare system. Addressing that inequity will require boosting access to care among people from marginalized groups. That’s partially a supply problem— the United States needs more doctors, especially doctors who hail from historically underserved communities. Research shows that doctors from these communities are not only more likely to return there to practice but more likely to deliver better outcomes for their patients. More than 83.7 million Americans live in places with limited access to primary care doctors, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. They are disproportionately people of color.

That figure will likely increase. A June 2021 report from the Association of American Medical Colleges estimates that the United States could be short 124,000 physicians by 2034. Research has consistently shown a link between access to physicians and health outcomes. Life expectancies in areas with fewer doctors are, on average, lower than those in areas that have more. About 7,000 U.S. lives could be saved every year simply by narrowing care gaps in the country’s most underserved communities. To sustainably address the doctor shortage, we must recruit from the communities that are most acutely experiencing it. Numerous studies have found that a doctor’s race or ethnicity is a strong indicator of where they eventually return to practice. The same goes for language, family income and whether the doctor comes from a rural or urban area. Patients also fare better when they can relate with the physician treating them. A 2018 National Bureau of

Economic Research study found that black men had significantly better health outcomes when treated by black doctors. This was also true for preventative care. Black men treated by black doctors were 10 percent more likely to receive a flu shot and nearly 30 percent more likely to submit to cholesterol tests. It is on medical schools to produce the doctors that historically marginalized communities need. Sadly, they haven’t done a very good job of that. Black and Hispanic people make up more than 31 percent of the U.S. population—but only a smidge over 20 percent of the student population at U.S. medical schools. Incoming medical students hail from disproportionately wealthy families, too. Last year, the median income of parents of medical school matriculants was $140,000—double the overall median household income in this country. International medical schools

(IMG), by contrast, have made addressing inequity a priority. Onequarter of America’s doctors attended medical school outside the country. In low-income communities, international medical graduates are one-third of the doctor workforce. And in areas where the population is majority nonwhite, IMGs are even more prevalent. Graduates of international medical schools are also more likely to go into primary care, where the need, especially in underserved communities, is greatest. Of the U.S.-born international medical graduates who matched into residency programs last year, roughly 70 percent entered into primary care specialties. The disparate racial impact of COVID-19 is a tragic example of those inequities. Developing a more diverse doctor workforce is one small way to work toward ending them. Robert Grant, MD, is the senior associate dean for clinical studies at St. George’s University School of Medicine (www.sgu.edu).

HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 9 - 15, 2022

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MARCH 9 - 15, 2022 • HEALTHY LIVING

New Hyde Park Medical Student Matches Into Military Residency J

acqueline Hausner, of New Hyde Park, is one of several medical students from New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine’s (NYITCOM) Class of 2022 who matched into U.S. military residencies. After graduating from NYITCOM this spring, Hausner will complete a general surgery residency with the U.S. Navy at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego. After medical school, physicians must complete a residency training program and obtain a medical license to practice in the United States and become board certified in a specialty. Medical residencies last three to five years for primary care physicians, with other specialties requiring additional years. While the “civilian” match takes place in March, medical students who have committed to military service for their residency are matched a few months earlier. These future physicians will take the military oath of office at NYITCOM’s hooding ceremonies this spring and begin their

graduate medical education in conjunction with service to their country. Physicians enlisted in the military deliver healthcare services to military personnel and their families and work in a variety of settings, including hospital ships and international medical centers, among others. Much like civilian doctors, their daily responsibilities include treating patients, diagnosing illness and prescribing medicine. Military physicians may also participate in international relief and humanitarian efforts, helping to care for the victims of natural disasters and other events requiring medical stability assistance. New York Institute of Technology’s six schools and colleges offer undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in in-demand disciplines including computer science, data science, and cybersecurity; biology, health professions, and medicine; architecture and design; engineering; IT and digital technologies; management; and energy and sustainability. A nonprofit, independent, private, and

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nonsectarian institute of higher education founded in 1955, it welcomes nearly 8,000 students worldwide. The university has campuses in New York City and Long Island; Jonesboro, AR; and Vancouver, British Columbia, as well as programs around the world. Nearly 110,000 alumni are part of an engaged network of physicians,

architects, scientists, engineers, business leaders, digital artists and healthcare professionals. Together, the university’s community of doers, makers, healers and innovators empowers graduates to change the world, solve 21st-century challenges and reinvent the future. —New York Institute of Technology

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March Is Colorectal Cancer Awareness

olorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. Sometimes it is called colon cancer, for short. The colon is the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the passageway that connects the colon to the anus. Sometimes abnormal growths, called polyps, form in the colon or rectum. Over time, some polyps may turn into cancer. Screening tests can find polyps so they can be removed before turning into cancer. Screening also helps find colorectal cancer at an early stage, when treatment works best.

changes to your diet can reduce your colorectal cancer risk. Medical experts often recommend a diet low in animal fats and high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains to reduce the risk of other chronic diseases, such as coronary artery disease and diabetes. This diet also may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Aspirin Researchers are looking at the role of some medicines and supplements in preventing colorectal cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force found that taking low-dose aspirin can help prevent cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer in some adults, depending on age and risk factors. What Are the Risk Healthy Choices Factors for Some studies suggest that people Colorectal Cancer? may reduce their risk of developing Your risk of getting colorectal cancer colorectal cancer by increasing physical activity, keeping a healthy increases as you get older. Other risk weight, limiting alcohol consumption factors include having— • Inflammatory bowel disease such as and avoiding tobacco. Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. What Are the • A personal or family history of colSymptoms? orectal cancer or colorectal polyps. Colorectal polyps (abnormal • A genetic syndrome such as familial growths in the colon or rectum that adenomatous polyposis external can turn into cancer if not removed) icon or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome). and colorectal cancer don’t always Lifestyle factors that may contribute cause symptoms, especially at first. Someone could have polyps or colto an increased risk of colorectal orectal cancer and not know it. That cancer include: is why getting screened regularly for • Lack of regular physical activity colorectal cancer is so important. • A diet low in fruit and vegetables If you have symptoms, they may • A low-fiber and high-fat diet, or a include: diet high in processed meats • A change in bowel habits • Overweight and obesity • Blood in or on your stool (bowel • Alcohol consumption movement) • Tobacco use • Diarrhea, constipation or feeling that What Can I Do to the bowel does not empty all the way • Abdominal pain, aches or cramps Reduce My Risk? that don’t go away Overall, the most effective way to • Weight loss and you don’t know why reduce your risk of colorectal cancer If you have any of these symptoms, is to get screened for colorectal cancer talk to your doctor. They may be routinely, beginning at age 45. Almost all colorectal cancers begin caused by something other than cancer. The only way to know what is as precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Such causing them is to see your doctor. polyps can be present in the colon for What Is Colorectal years before invasive cancer develops. Cancer Screening? They may not cause any symptoms, A screening test is used to look especially early on. Colorectal cancer for a disease when a person doesn’t screening can find precancerous polyps so they can be removed before have symptoms. (When a person has they turn into cancer. In this way, colsymptoms, diagnostic tests are used to orectal cancer is prevented. Screening find out the cause of the symptoms.) Colorectal cancer almost always can also find colorectal cancer early, develops from precancerous polyps when treatment works best. (abnormal growths) in the colon Diet or rectum. Screening tests can find Research is underway to find out if

This diagram shows the location of the stomach, small intestine, cecum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon and rectum. (CDC) precancerous polyps, so that they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best. Screening Recommendations Regular screening, beginning at age 45, is the key to preventing colorectal cancer and finding it early. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (Task Force) recommends that adults age 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer. The Task Force recommends that adults age 76 to 85 talk to their doctor about screening. The Task Force recommends several colorectal cancer screening strategies, including stool tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy and CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy).

hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome). If you think you are at increased risk for colorectal cancer, speak with your doctor about: • When to begin screening • Which test is right for you • How often to get tested

Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests

The Task Force recommends that adults age 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer. The decision to be screened between ages 76 and 85 should be made on an individual basis. If you are older than 75, talk to your doctor about screening. People at an increased risk of getting colorectal cancer should talk to their doctor about when to begin screenWhen Should I Begin ing, which test is right for them, and how often to get tested. to Get Screened? Several screening tests can be used Most people should begin screening to find polyps or colorectal cancer. for colorectal cancer soon after turning 45, then continue getting screened It is important to know that if your at regular intervals. However, you may test result is positive or abnormal on some screening tests (stool tests, need to be tested earlier than 45, or flexible sigmoidoscopy and CT more often than other people, if you colonography), a colonoscopy test have: • Inflammatory bowel disease such as is needed to complete the screening Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. process. Talk to your doctor about which test is right for you. • A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps. —Centers for Disease Control • A genetic syndrome such as familial and Prevention (CDC) adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or

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MARCH 9 - 15, 2022 • HEALTHY LIVING

Hepatitis C Cases On The Rise The number of new cases of hepatitis C in the United States and our area is rising, predominantly due to the opioid epidemic which shows no sign of easing. This is no surprise as intravenous drug use is the most common risk factor for this infection. Sadly, most new cases of hepatitis C are reported in people in their twenties and thirties. The past several years of the COVID pandemic have made the hepatitis C situation worse. The pandemic has resulted in an increase in the incidence of hepatitis C cases, a decrease in the number of hepatitis C screenings being performed, a decrease in the number of hepatitis C patients started on curative treatment and a decrease in the resources available to care for hepatitis C patients due to budget cuts and provider burnout. This COVID effect surely means that the United States will not meet the World Health Organizations goal to eradicate hepatitis C by 2030. Just a few years ago, hepatitis C was the leading indication for liver transplantation in the United States. When well tolerated oral treatments became available, many of the patients known

to have treated and cured patients who had cirrhosis prior to hepatitis C treatment to develop liver cancer five to seven years after cure. THE Most patients who have been SPECIALIST identified with hepatitis C have been treated and cured. Routine screening David Bernstein, MD is needed to identify people with this condition as the majority of hepatitis C patients have no symptoms. All adults should undergo one-time screening. to have hepatitis C were brought in for Screening is a simple, inexpensive treatment and cured. These treatments blood test. If the screening test is are truly miraculous leading to three positive, infection is confirmed by a colleagues winning the Nobel Prize for viral test and then treatment is started. the work two years ago. These curative Current treatments for previously treatments slowed or halted disease untreated hepatitis C are oral therapies progression and the number of patients which are taken for either eight or requiring liver transplantation for twelve weeks and the cure rates are hepatitis C infection declined but has higher than 95 percent. In the five not been eliminated. Alcohol associpercent who are not cured by initial ated liver disease is now the leading therapy, salvage therapy, which is indication for liver transplantation in also oral for a total of twelve weeks, the United States. Even with treatment is readily available and results in a and cure, many patients with advanced 99 percent cure rate. So overall, cure liver fibrosis are still at risk for derates for hepatitis C infection approach veloping liver cancer and need to be 100 percent. These treatments have screened semi-annually with imaging minimal side effects and covered by all and blood tests. It is not uncommon insurance plans in New York State.

The identification and treatment of young people with recently acquired hepatitis C infection is more difficult. Society must figure out a method to bring these people into the health care system, counsel them to avoid opioid use and initiate curative hepatitis C therapies. This is important both for the patient and for the community as cure will prevent the transmission of hepatitis C to others through the sharing of contaminated needles. We have come a long way towards the elimination of hepatitis C in our communities. Unfortunately, the COVID pandemic has stymied our efforts to increase hepatitis C screening, diagnosis, and treatment. With the pandemic hopefully waning and entering the endemic phase, now is the time to get back on track and put steps in place to address the ever-present hepatitis C silent epidemic. David Bernstein, MD, FAASLD,FACG, AGAF, FACP is the vice chair of medicine for clinical trials and chief of hepatology at Sandra Atlas Bass Center for Liver Diseases. He is a professor of medicine and education.

March Is Endometriosis Awareness Month

ormal periods do not cause excruciating pain, but endometriosis does. There are a number of symptoms that should not be ignored. Endometriosis is a disorder where similar tissues inside the uterus start to grow outside the uterine cavity. This lining of the uterus is called endometrium. Its symptoms vary from woman to woman. The most common symptoms are: • Pain in lower abdomen before and during periods • Pain during or after sexual activity • Painful urination/bowel movements during periods • Fatigue • Infertility • Heavy bleeding • Other gastrointestinal upsets Many women with endometriosis suffer from allergies, chemical sensitivities and frequent yeast infections. Women with endometriosis also experience a range of immune disorders, including asthma, eczema and certain autoimmune diseases. Infertility affects about 30 percent of women with endometriosis.

Diagnosis

An endometriosis diagnosis is considered uncertain until proven

by laparoscopy, a surgical procedure done under anesthesia. A laparoscopy usually shows the location, size and extent of the growths. Laparoscopy is an invasive surgery to remove the endometrial tissues. This helps the doctor and patient make better treatment choices. Not diagnosing and helping adolescent girls and young women with the early symptoms of endometriosis is more likely to doom them to pain in later years.

Causes

The full picture of the causes of

endometriosis is still unknown. Endometriosis is a puzzling disease affecting girls and women from as young as eight years old through postmenopause. Research has shown that environmental toxins such as dioxin and PCBs, which act like hormones in the body and damage the immune system, can cause endometriosis. Dioxins are highly toxic chemicals which come from the production and use of pesticides and herbicides; municipal, medical and hazardous waste incineration; chemical and plastics

manufacturing; and pulp and paper production. Dioxins readily concentrate in the food chain, contaminating animals and fish; thus food is the primary source of dioxin exposure for humans. One theory suggests that endometrial tissue is distributed from the uterus to other parts of the body through the lymph or blood systems. A genetic theory suggests that certain people have predisposing factors. Surgical transplantation has also been cited in many cases where endometriosis is found in abdominal scars, although it has also been found in such scars when accidental implantation seems unlikely. Another theory suggests that remnants of tissue from when the woman was an embryo may later develop into endo or that some adult tissues retain the ability they had in the embryo stage to transform under certain circumstances. The retrograde menstruation theory suggests that during menstruation some of the menstrual tissue backs up through the fallopian tubes, implants in the abdomen and grows. Visit www.endometriosisassn.org to learn more. —Endometriosis Association

HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 9 - 15, 2022

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The Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County is so grateful to our friends in the community for their kindness towards our CP Bayville residents and staff.

• Bayville Market

• Mayor Robert DeNatale

• Glen Cove Moms Group –

• Bayville Deli

• The Taylor/Herlich Family

Lauren Themis, Heather

• Bayville Hardware

• Claire Gangi – Empire Tax

Hotine and Dana Palmieri

• Bayville Meat Market

• Reduction

• Tabitha Harry

• Bayville Beverage

• Talenti’s Deli

• Ed Curry

• Bayville Pharmacy

• The Gugerty Family

• Bayville Cares

• Greg Fricke and the Bayville

• Kerry Shreck

• Bayville Liquors

Rotary Club

• Bayville Chamber of Commerce

• Tim and Kim Charon

• Schultzie’s Seafood Restaurant

• Larry Guerra and Ev Mason

• Mill Creek Tavern

• Heidi Leuthner-Decker

• Ralph’s Pizza

• The Wonderful Michalski Family

• Anton News

• IGA

• Rising Tide Market

• La Cantina Bay

• Marty’s Party

• St. Gertrude’s Church

• Old Tappen Brewery

• Locust Valley High School

• The Ladies of the Bayville

• Russ Lundstrum –

• Girl Scout, Brownie and Daisy

Beautification Committee

Coach Meeting Place and

Troupes including ones in

• Donna Riso

Coopers Bluff

Bayville, Glen Cove, Plainedge

• Rothmann’s Restaurant • Councilwoman Michele Johnson • Zan Russo • Matt Creedon

www.cpnassau.org

CP NASSAU FP

Apologies to anyone not listed! We are extremely grateful to all for the kindness, caring and generosity our friends in the community have shown.

MARCH 9 - 15, 2022 • HEALTHY LIVING

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