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Health Wellness
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June 2013
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State of the Art Surgical Options For Women Available in Johns Creek One of the most exciting advancements of modern medicine is the use of minimally invasive surgical techniques. Drs. John and Ingrid Reyes of Modern Ob/Gyn of North Atlanta have dedicated their practice to this philosophy. “Minimally invasive surgery allows us to perform complex procedures through either small incisions or no incisions at all. Patients benefit from having less pain, shorter recovery times, and few or no scars. In office procedures also allow patients to avoid general anesthesia, hospital costs, and a stay in the hospital, says Dr. John Reyes. The most advanced surgical technique with use of the daVinci robotic surgical system allows surgeons to perform hysterectomies and remove fibroids through a few small incisions and patients can expect to be home the next morning, and back to their usual activities within a couples of weeks. Recently, Dr. Ingrid and John Reyes were the first surgeons to perform robotic surgery at Emory Johns Creek Hospital, which has the most advanced
Drs. John and Ingrid Reyes daVinci system available. Drs. Reyes also perform robotic surgery at Northside Hospital- Forsyth and Gwinnett Medical Center –Duluth. Minimally invasive surgery also refers to in-office procedures which include treatment of heavy bleeding with endometrial ablation and incision-free permanent sterilization. “In office procedures are a safe and excellent option
for many patients. It’s great to be able to offer these procedures to women because they can get back to their lives so quickly, oftentimes even the same day. And typically, because these are seen as office visits, the cost to the patient is only their co-pay which makes such a big difference” says Dr. Ingrid Reyes. Drs. Reyes provide free monthly seminars to inform the community about these treatment options. “We both love to share this knowledge and experience with the community. It’s best for patients to understand their options”. Modern Ob/Gyn stands by its promise to bring the most advanced and sophisticated options to this community.“We are here to do our very best for the women of this community. This is why we went to school and trained for so long—we really value the work we do and how we can help our patients. It’s a blessing to be able to do minimally invasive and robotic surgeries on patients suffering from long-standing issues such as infertility
from endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic adhesive disease. Afterwards, we can help them become pregnant, and come full-circle to care for them during their pregnancy and delivery. It’s the full spectrum of caring for what’s so important to a woman’s life—her health and her family . . . . that’s the best part.” Modern Ob/Gyn’s husband and wife team of Dr. John and Ingrid Reyes provide comprehensive women’s care. Some of the many services provided include personalized prenatal care for pregnancy, annual well women exams, conception and infertility counseling, as well as management of abnormal pap smears, irregular cycles, ovarian cysts and many other women’s health care needs. Husband and wife team Dr. John Reyes and Dr. Ingrid Reyes of Modern Ob/Gyn are located at 6335 Hospital Parkway, Suite 204 in Johns Creek. To schedule an appointment or to register for an upcoming seminar, visit their website at www.reyesobgyn.com or call the office at 404-446-2496.
ADHD – not just in children anymore Adult ADHD is associated with multiple comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and other personality disorders. Adult ADHD is a valid psychiatric disorder of adulthood distinct from these other conditions. Adult attention deficit disorder differs from the childhood variant because the hyperactivity in adults may be replaced by other symptoms such as anxiety, impulsivity and inattentiveness. In fact, prior to 2002 there were no diagnostic guidelines, but there have been great advances since. Some of the symptoms that characterize Adult ADHD are:
ADHD is a relatively common psychiatric disorder among adults. The prevalence is thought to be 3.5%-5.3%, which accounts for more than 11 million cases in the United States alone. With increased public awareness, adult ADHD became a topic of great interest so clinicians should be able to diagnose, treat, and manage patients with this disorder. Etiology is still uncertain. Genetics however is believed to play a prominent role, followed in importance by acquired injuries to the brain. ADHD was widely thought to be strictly a disorder of childhood. Now there are numerous scientific papers and clinical trials that acknowledge the existence of an adult version of this disorder, which can be traced back to the younger years. Before this time ADHD in adults was known as Minimal Brain Damage or Dysfunction (MBD).
1. Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in school-work, work or other activities. 2. Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities. 3. Often does not seem to listen when spoke to directly. 4. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand directions) 5. Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities. 6. Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (eg. School assignments, pencils, keys) 7. Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli. PAID ADVERTORIAL
8. Is often forgetful in daily activities.
Some children with ADHD continue to have it as adults. And many adults who have the disorder don’t know it. They may feel that it is impossible to get organized, keep a job, or remember and keep appointments. Daily tasks such as getting up in the morning, preparing to leave the house for work, arriving at work on time, and being productive on the job can be especially challenging for adults with ADHD. These adults may have a history of failure at school, problems at work, failed relationships and traffic accidents. Like teens, adults with ADHD may seem restless and may try to complete several tasks as once, most of them unsuccessfully. They also tend to prefer “quick fixes,” rather than taking the steps needed to achieve greater rewards. Treatment is very rewarding. The first medications to be approved by the FDA belonged to a non-stimulant group of medications: Atomoxetine. The FDA later approved stimulants such as methylphenidate and mixed amphetamine salts. Group delivered cognitive behavioral therapy is recommended in some cases as a supportive treatment. If you or someone you know may have Adult ADHD, call Johns Creek Family Medicine at 770-771-6591 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Zack Charkawi.
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Assessing Your Risk for Hereditary Breast or Ovarian Cancer By Selvi Palaniappan, MS, CGC Coordinator, NSH Hereditary Cancer Angelina Jolie drew major attention to hereditary cancer awareness in mid-May when she revealed that she underwent a preventative double mastectomy. Jolie decided to have surgery after she tested positive for having a mutation in the BRCA-1 gene, a genetic mutation that sharply increases the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. Though risk varies between women who have mutations in the BRCA gene, Jolie, whose doctors said had an 87 percent chance of developing breast cancer and a 50 percent chance of developing ovarian cancer, decided her risk was significant enough to take action. BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 are genes thought to be involved in
DNA repair during cell division and regeneration and everybody has two copies of each of these genes (one from their mother and one from their father). Mutations in these genes strongly increase the risk for developing cancer and account for roughly 5% to 10% of all breast cancers and one in seven ovarian cancer cases. Men with a genetic mutation also have an increased risk of prostate and male breast cancer. Though not all people with a BRCA mutation will develop cancer, they have a much higher risk for cancer. In fact, someone with a mutation is five times more likely to develop breast cancer than someone who doesn’t have one. Thanks to genetic testing,
women (and men) who have a strong family history of cancer are able to assess their risk for cancer, and opt to take preventative measures just like Jolie. However, it is important to note that a genetic test does not test for cancer, only changes in genes that increase the risk of developing cancer. Genetic testing can also be done for a variety of other cancers including endometrial, melanoma, pancreatic, kidney, stomach
and thyroid cancer. Testing is not for everyone and typically only those with a strong family history or recent personal history of cancer should consider
testing. Genetic counseling is recommended before and after genetic testing and involves risk assessment based on the
See CANCER, Page 8
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The New Anti-Aging Dentistry: Your Smile May Make or Break You By DR. USHMA PATEL Center For Advanced Dentistry Psychologists used to say that the first feature people looked at were the eyes. Now they say it’s the mouth. According to a new nationwide survey, 92% of people perceive a great smile as a valuable asset. Men and women between the ages of 18-49 both chose a sexy smile as the most appealing gesture in a member of the opposite sex. Men and women are in agreement on what makes an appealing smile - having white teeth makes or breaks a smile, followed by straight teeth and full lips. In a recent survey conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), 74% of men and women agree that an unattractive smile can hurt a person’s chances for career success. Going to the dentist used to be about cavities and drills. Today, dentistry is giving people what they want: looking good.
Dr. Ushma Patel This is, of course, in addition to improving people’s dental health. Those cavities still have to be found and filled but cosmetic dentistry can make going to the dentist something we want to do, not just have to do. “Over the last 5 years dental technology has advanced to where it’s now possible to get dental care with no pain and in a comfortable way,” says Dr. Ushma Patel. “In our practice we provide blankets, hot towels after treatment, headphones for music and Satellite TV channels to relax
our patients. Many of our patients even bring their own DVD and choose to watch movie while they are getting treatment done. We want them to not only feel good while they are being treated but also to simply feel good when they leave.” We also use oral sedation (pills) for many of our phobic patients. We call it Twilight Dentistry where patients have their treatment performed while being sedated. For patients who want a Dazzling White Straight Smile instantly, we offer Porcelain Veneers. These veneers are very thin hard porcelain shells that are bonded on top of your existing teeth. Veneers can be used to reshape teeth and often are referred to as “instant orthodontics” because we can instantly straighten crooked, misshapen or excessively stained teeth without braces. This procedure typically takes two office visits. A generation ago, only people in the public eye had “movie star” smiles, but all that has changed. Today, Teeth Whitening has become the most common cosmetic procedure performed. There are typically 2 methods of teeth whitening. One procedure in done in
the dental office using a high concentration bleach which is applied to the teeth and in 1 hour you leave the office with a bright white smile. The other procedure is a home whitening system. This procedure requires you to have molds made and then a whitening gel will be given to you and you wear the custom fitted bleaching trays for 1 hour a day for up to two weeks. The results can be dazzling. A bright, gleaming smile can go a long way to improve your appearance and make you feel years younger. BRIDES and GROOMS, the same new advancements will improve your smile, help you feel younger and be more confident. Because the happy couple will be posing for a few hundred photos throughout the big day, you’ll want your smile to be the very best. For a complimentary consultation call Dr. Ushma Patel at 678-894-7926. Center for Advanced Dentistry is located at 6916 McGinnis Ferry Rd, Suite 500, Suwanee, GA 30024. For more information you can also visit their web site www.HiTechSmiles.com
Let the Sun Shine
Nine Tips for Summertime from Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth
Summer is a season begged to be spent outdoors. “But before you head out,” says Tim Simmons, MHA, ATC, LAT, director, Sports Medicine Program at GMC-Duluth, “remember that the South’s summer heat can be unforgiving. Preventing heat injury and illness should take priority whether you’re out for an afternoon at the beach or running a marathon.” These tips from the experts at GMC-Duluth can help keep your summertime fun safe: Avoid 10 to 4 Stay indoors during the peak hours of the sun. Its rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to schedule outdoor activities before or after those times. Slather on the Sunscreen Liberally apply sunscreen about 20 to 30 minutes before going outside. Because the sun emits two types of harmful rays-UVA and UVB-your sunscreen should provide broadspectrum protection against both, with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Reapply, Reapply, Reapply Reapplying sunscreen may be the most neglected step in the sun-safety regimen. Sunscreen should be reapplied about every two hours while you’re outdoors, and every 45 minutes if you’re swimming. Hat’s It! Head out with a hat that protects your face, neck and ears. Choose one with a wide brim at least three to four inches around for suitable coverage. The bucket and wide-brimmed farmer’s hats, in a lightweight straw or cotton twill, are two classic, stylish choices.
See SUN, Page 6
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NEED
A team of concussion experts.
WANT
Doctors who cared how much sports meant to her.
While Gwinnett Medical Center has long specialized in a variety of sports injuries, improving the standard of care for athletes who suffer concussions is one of our top priorities. Our team of sports medicine experts utilizes the latest technologies, like our Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) program. Our goal is to begin treating concussions as soon as possible and to reduce the chance of follow-up concussions, especially among students. This is one of the reasons why the Sports Medicine Program at Gwinnett Medical Center–Duluth has placed certified athletic trainers in numerous high schools across the area. This unique approach is one more reason we’re the only hospital system in the region committed to Transforming Healthcare.
See Rachel’s story and others at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/stories.
Transforming Healthcare
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Comprehensive Dental Services for Adults of All Ages and Children
June 2013 6
Muccioli Dental Making a difference one tooth at a time
We offer state-of-the-art, premium quality dentistry with a warm relaxing feel. Our office features a warm and inviting decor to enhance the patient experience and advanced dental technology to improve patient care.
CLEANINGS AND EXAMS • COSMETIC DENTISTRY FULL MOUTH REHABILITATION IMPLANTS • PROSTHODONTICS
If you are looking for a Johns Creek dentist you can trust us to provide dental care for your entire family, please call Muccioli Dental Today!
678-389-9955
6300 Hospital Parkway, Suite 275 • John Creek Conveniently located across from Emory Johns Creek Hospital www.MDentalSmiles.com
• High Blood Pressure • Heart Disease • High Cholesterol
•Alergy/Asthma • Kidney Disease • Women’s Health
• Menopause • Thyroid Disease • Obesity
• Diabetes • Annual Physicals
Please Welcome Dr. Measha Dancy, M.D.
Graduated Cum Laude from Spelman College here in Atlanta and then went on to North Carolina to attend the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. She completed her residency at Wayne State Univeristy/Detriot Medical Center. She returned to Atlanta and joins Comprehensive Internal Medicine after spending 10 years as a Hospitalist working with both St. Joseph’s and Northside Hospitals. Dr. Dancy is a Board Certified Internist and her special interests include sickle cell disease, obesity/weight management, hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular risk reduction.
Muccioli Dental proudly serves the residents of Johns Creek and the surrounding areas with comprehensive dental services ranging from dental cleanings and exams to full mouth rehabilitation. Whether you are in need of general dental services or complex restorative care, we are the dental practice you can trust to care for the dental needs of your entire family! Our office is conveniently located in the Johns Creek Medical Pavilion directly across from the Emory Johns Creek Hospital. Our family-owned and operated dental practice features a general dentist, Dr. Lydia Muccioli, and a Prosthodontist, Dr. Randy Muccioli. This combination allows us to provide comprehensive dental services to adults of all ages as well as children. We are
Anju Bhushan, M.D.
Arezou Fatemi, M.D.
Kelly M. Day, M.D.
Ryan Bozof, M.D.
Shima Mansouri, P.A.-C
Disease states we treat:
Hepatitis A • Hepatitis B • Gardasil (HPV vaccine) • Tetanus Zostavax (Shingles vaccine) • Pneumovax (Pneumonia vaccine) Same Day Scheduling Available • Accepting Most Insurance Plans & Medicare
Now accepting patients at our new location: 960 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 543 • Atlanta, GA 30342
Johns Creek (770) 622-9002 3890 Johns Creek Pkwy, #360 Suwanee, GA 30024 South Forsyth County
Alpharetta (678) 205-9004
www.cimedicine.com
11975 Morris Rd, #140 Alpharetta, GA 30005 Off Old Milton Pkwy near GA 400
proud to be one of a handful of dental practices in Johns Creek and all of the Atlanta area that has a Prosthodontist on staff. Dr. Randy Muccioli is specially trained to provide complex restorative,
See DENTAL, Page 7
Why Weight? Know Your Healthy Weight Measurements Now! Obesity has been deemed a worldwide epidemic. Globally, one billion adults are overweight with 300 million of them being clinically obese. The best way to determine if you are overweight is by learning your BMI or body mass index. The BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. A BMI over 24 is considered overweight and greater than 29 is considered obese. Most people are concerned about the fat they see but the real problem is the fat they don’t see. It is actually the fat that surrounds the internal organs that is the culprit. Waist circumference, measured above the hip bone, is the best measure of this risk.
Sun:
Continued from Page 4 Seek Shade Seek shade, but do so with caution. While trees and umbrellas provide protection, you still need to protect yourself under them. The sun’s rays can scatter, penetrate and reflect to reach you.
Jacqueline Pearson, M.D. M.S.
General dentist Dr. Lydia Muccioli and prosthodontist Dr. Randy Muccioli
Dress for the Occasion Covering up in dark, tight-knit fabric is the best way to protect your skin, but it’s no fun in the summer heat. Fortunately, some companies now make lightweight clothing with effective sun protection. These items bear an ultraviolet protection factor or UPF (think of it as an SPF for fabric) of 15 to 50 on their labels. Play Movie Star Forget paparazzi cameras; you’ve got a better reason to shield your eyes. The eye area is incredibly vulnerable. Prolonged sun exposure can damage your eyes and increase your risk of developing eye disease. Wear sunglasses that
The goal is to have a waist circumference of less than 40 inches for a man and less than 35 inches for a woman. Knowing these measurements is so important because obesity related illnesses, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke, are some of the leading causes of preventable death. At Comprehensive Internal Medicine we are committed to promoting the health and wellness of our patients using evidence-based medicine while emphasizing a preventative and healthy lifestyle. We use an integrative approach to prevent, diagnose and treat various medical conditions, from common illnesses to chronic diseases.
block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation. Stay Hydrated Start out hydrated each day, especially when you’re planning to be outdoors. While sports drinks can be helpful, be sure water is your main beverage. Add It All Up “Though each of these tips is important,” says Simmons, “following one or two isn’t enough.“ Doing just one thing won’t adequately protect you against the heat and sun exposure you get in the summer months. Drink water, wear the hat, the clothing, the sunglasses and the sunscreen. They’re all essential...for everyone. When summer activity revs up, so do the sports injuries. Learn the symptoms and treatments for a variety of common sports-related injuries. Download your own copy of the Sports Injury Toolkit from Gwinnett Medical Center’s Sports Medicine Program at gwinnettsportsmed.com/toolkit.
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Testosterone Replacement and the Domino Effect Dental: Each week I see patients who describe a sense of frustration over low energy levels, a lack of motivation to exercise, irritability and moodiness. Many spouses I have met with also disclose that their husbands lack patience and become easily upset over minor issues. Within a few weeks of testosterone therapy, many of these same patients have commented on feeling stronger and having better and longer workout sessions. Many have become motivated to change their eating habits, limiting alcohol consumption, fried foods and sugary deserts. Belly weight loss has become easier and many patients see the visual results of their efforts, inspiring them to continue on the pathway to a healthier lifestyle. After six weeks of Testosterone Replacement Therapy, progress is evaluated by measuring the percentage of body fat and muscle mass and comparing the results to the baseline measurements taken
It’s a feeling that is noticeable by both our patients and their spouses and is one of the main benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy…a happier mental outlook.
Caroline Sparks, FNP-BC, RN, MSN EVP Clinical Operations at AgeWell Men’s Institute. on the first visit. Typical results show a 5-8% decrease in body fat with a corresponding increase in muscle mass. Ecstatic about their results, many patients declare that they feel great and experience a sense of well-being or calmness. At AgeWell, we describe this phenomenon as the domino effect; the combination of testosterone supplementation, a clean diet with regular physical activity, enhances positive attitude and overall contentment.
Glenda B. Brown, O.D. Joins Thomas Eye Group Glenda B. Brown, O.D., has returned to Thomas Eye Group, a leading metro Atlanta eye care provider that offers comprehensive services including LASIK and medical, surgical and cosmetic eye care. She began her affiliation with Thomas Eye Group in 1982 when she practiced with Pediatric Eye Care of Atlanta, a division of Thomas Eye Group and later worked with an Alpharetta eye care practice before returning to Thomas Eye Group. “We welcome Dr. Brown back to our team,” said Rod Roeser, CEO for Thomas Eye Group. “Her skill set and leadership is evidenced by her role as president of the Georgia Optometric Association, and she is widely known in the eye care community as a dedicated professional for the past 30 years.” Dr. Brown graduated from the University of Alabama in Birmingham with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1977 and a Doctorate of Optometry in 1981. In addition to her current leadership role with the Georgia Optometric Association, she has served as secretary and treasurer of the organization, and she is a member of the American Optometric Association and the Greater Atlanta Optometric Association.
“In my new position I plan
Glenda B. Brown, O.D. to bring my extensive experience in fitting pediatric and adult patients with contact lenses and managing patients with medical eye care needs,” Dr. Brown said. “I enjoy helping patients obtain their optimal vision correction and look forward to working with the Thomas Eye Group team.” Dr. Brown will serve patients in the Suwanee office located at 1120 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Suite 101. A native of Alpharetta, Dr. Brown currently resides in Johns Creek and enjoys family time with her husband Dr. Alan Brown, also on staff with Thomas Eye Group, children and two grandsons. For additional information, please call 770-809-3366.
Caroline Sparks, is the EVP of Clinical Operations at AgeWell Men’s Institute in Milton. A board certified family nurse practitioner for 15 years, Caroline has developed patientcentric wellness and complex disease management programs for national companies. See their ad for more information or visit their website at www. agewellmensinstitute.com.
Continued from Page 6
esthetic and cosmetic dental services. A Prosthodontist trains three years longer than a general dentist and is skilled in the replacement of missing teeth and the restoration of natural teeth. There are only 3,200 prosthodontists in comparison to 170,000 general dentists in the United States. Our dentists and staff work hard to provide a tranquil and caring environment. Some of our amenities include an on-site dental laboratory, a beverage bar, and headphones for music or
TV viewing during treatment and low radiation x-rays. The doctors believe in quality and doing things right. They stand behind their work. We do not want to just serve you today….We want to be there to meet the dental needs for you and your family for many years to come. If you are looking for a dental practice that provides top quality dentistry in a warm and relaxed setting, then we invite you to come in and tour our office and meet our friendly dentists and staff. For more information please call 678-389-9955 or visit our website at www. MDentalSmiles.com.
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Comprehensive GI Care from Board Certified Specialists New AGA Office Now Open in Alpharetta As the premier gastroenterology practice in the southeast, Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates’ (AGA) physicians have the knowledge and experience valued by patients suffering from digestive problems and liver disease. At AGA’s offices in North Fulton – including our newest location in Alpharetta – Board Certified specialists evaluate and treat a wide range of disorders, including acid reflux, Barrett’s esophagus, constipation and diarrhea, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, liver disease and hepatitis, intestinal polyps, ulcers and IBS. In addition, our physicians are
Cancer: Continued from Page 3 individual’s personal and family medical history. Genetic counseling is also helpful in discussing the technical accuracy of testing, the medical
experts in performing colonoscopies and many are trained in the pain-free removal of hemorrhoids. As part of AGA’s mission to provide comprehensive care to patients, specialized services are offered through several distinct groups within the practice. These include the Advanced Center for GI Therapeutics, the Center for GI Imaging, the Southeastern Center for Functional GI & Motility Disorders, The Hemorrhoid Clinic and The Liver Center. For more than 35 years, Atlanta Gastroenterology As-
sociates has been committed to providing patients with the most appropriate and costeffective healthcare. Today, with convenient offices across metro Atlanta and North Georgia, every adult can get the kind of GI care they
need and deserve. Find out more by visiting www.atlantagastro.com. Our new location in Alpharetta: 3400 Old Milton Parkway, Building A, Suite 340. To schedule an appoint-
ment with one of these physicians, call 678.987.1485. David Atefi, M.D. William Bizzaro, M.D. E. Chris Cameron, M.D. Yasmin Karim, M.D. Kamil Obideen, M.D. Girish Poré, M.D.
implications of a positive or a negative test result, the psychological risks and benefits of genetic test results and the risk of passing a mutation to children. If it is recommended that you undergo genetic testing, your genetic counselor will take a saliva or blood sample to analyze your risk. If you
have been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer before or have had more than two family members with an early onset of any type of hereditary cancer, you may want to talk to your doctor about genetic testing. Knowledge is power, and genetic testing can be the first step to taking action against
your hereditary cancer.
creatic, melanoma and other rare cancers. For more information on Northside’s hereditary cancer services, genetic testing and genetic counseling, please go to www.northside.com/cancerinstitute.
Alternatives to Hysterectomy Picture this scenario. You are having issues with heavy bleeding at menstruation. You go to your gynecologist and are told you need a hysterectomy. This will require a major surgery, a prolonged recovery time and inability to get back to work and your daily life for quite a while. Is this the only solution? The answer is probably no. We now have many more alternatives to hysterectomy than ever before. In the category of medical alternatives to hysterectomy there is the possibility of oral contraceptives and hormonal Depo-Provera infections. These medications are traditionally used for contraception but are safe for women to use until menopause if no medical health issues exist. They can decrease monthly bleeding substantially and even be manipulated so that there are fewer menstrual cycles. Oral contraceptives can also decrease acne and perimenopausal side effects as well. Another new alternative to hysterectomy is the Mirena IUD. This devise recently received FDA approval for use in managing heavy menses. It can easily be placed in an office visit without anesthesia. After the first few months most patients will have either no menses or very light menses. The device can be left in for 5 years and is very safe in all age groups. If you prefer not to use a medication or are reluctant to use an IUD another alternative would be an endo-
metrial ablation. This is a procedure that in some cases can be done in an office setting or as an outpatient at the hospital. The lining of the uterine cavity is treated so there is either no menses or very light menses each month. The nice feature with this procedure is that recovery time is very quick. Most people are back to work within a 24-hour time period and the results last for years. So the next time your doctor days you need a hysterectomy, be sure to discuss these options. While the need for hysterectomy still exists in some cases there are more alternatives than ever before. Laura Tsakiris, MD Chattahoochee Gynecology
Northside Hospital Hereditary Cancer Program
The hereditary cancer program at Northside helps you assess, understand and reduce your risk of developing certain inherited cancers, including breast, ovarian, endometrial, stomach, kidney, thyroid, pan-
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Has Dad wandered away from home? Are you worried about Mom’s safety? By Jeana Fortenberry, Community Relations Director, Roswell Senior Living Are you experiencing these dilemmas? Do you find yourself taking more and more care of your parent due to memory issues? At Roswell Senior Liv-
ing we can help you find peace of mind in knowing that your loved one is safe and engaged in life. We have learned that Alzheimer’s and other forms of
dementia do not discriminate. Our residents are engineers, nurses, teachers, homemakers, and business leaders. Our homelike surroundings create warmth and familiarity, with visual cues to help residents find their way in our secure building. Our staff is trained specifically to care for the unique needs of adults with memory impairment. We can meet the specific needs of your loved one in the area of dressing, grooming, bathing, dining, mobility, incontinence, and medication management. Life enrichment activities, led by our Certified Recreation Therapist, create events and social opportunities that
engage residents to meet their cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual needs. Roswell Senior Living offers semi-private, small private and large private apartments. Each comes with a kitchenette and lovely views. The common areas are spacious and inviting including a great activities area as well as private rooms for families to enjoy time together. Residents enjoy strolling through our indoor main street which offers a soda shop, beauty/barber shop, and entertainment area. They also enjoy the sounds of nature in our beautiful walking garden, and quiet breezes on our wrap around porch.
It is a wonderful backdrop where residents can spend pleasant hours with family and friends. At Roswell Senior Living we are exclusively dedicated to serving seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory care needs. Whether the need is for full time care, Day Care or Respite Care, Roswell Senior Living is the perfect place for adults with memory needs. We focus on care so families can focus on relationships. Please call for more information or better yet, come and experience Roswell Senior Living for yourself. Call 770-6094429 today.
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11725 Pointe Place • Roswell, GA 30076 • 770-609-4429 • www.pacificaroswell.com
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