Understanding the Toll on Adults Diagnosed with NEW SURVEY FINDINGS
By d-mars.com News Provider
very year, tens of thousands of Americans are newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease characterized by the immune system attacking insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
For many, that diagnosis comes unexpectedly - and even more so because research has shown approximately 90% of people diagnosed do not have type 1 diabetes in their family history. Suddenly, routines are permanently altered as individuals and families rush to learn how to best manage the condition - all while coping with the underlying impacts a type 1 diabetes diagnosis has on emotional, social, and financial health and well-being.
Survey findings from Beyond Type 1 titled “The Cost of Not Knowing” highlight the costs of a diagnosis among adults with type 1 diabetes and caregivers of children under the age of 18 with type 1 diabetes. Here’s a look at “The Cost of Not Knowing,” told through the eyes of adults who live with this condition. Their perspectives underscore the importance and urgency of early screening for type 1 diabetes.
Not knowing has “costs”
The impact of a type 1 diabetes diagnosis can extend far beyond just physical health. Indeed, the survey findings illustrate that not knowing your risk for developing type 1 diabetes carries significant emotional, social, and financial burdens. Consider:
Emotional: 64% of adults with type 1 diabetes said their emotional health declined when they first learned about their diagnosis, as they struggled with feeling sad (39%), afraid (38%), angry (30%), and uncertain for the future (25%).
Social: 71% of adults with type 1 diabetes gave up some of their interests or future plans when they learned of their diagnosis.
Financial: Half (50%) of adults with T1D spent at least $5,000 on emergency care for their T1D symptoms before or during their diagnosis, with nearly 1 in 4 (24%) spending at least $10,000.
These findings quantify the very real impacts - some of them intangible - of a type 1 diabetes diagnosis, and how it can carry potentially life-changing implications for adults as they learn how to cope with a disease that has no known cure and ultimately requires lifelong dependence on insulin replacement injections for survival. Now, imagine if you had more time to brace yourself for a potential new reality.
Knowing sooner can have an impact
Early knowledge about a potential type 1 diabetes diagnosis, which is possible through an autoantibody test, can provide people with time to learn about the condition and prepare for constant, 24/7 disease management. Advanced information can be particularly valuable, considering that 79% of adults with type 1 diabetes changed how they lived their life when they first learned of their diagnosis, specifically because they felt overwhelmed and underprepared. A diagnosis can be a life-altering event, but early detection can help people feel more in control of their health, avoid the stress that comes with not knowing, and, importantly, potentially reduce the risk of serious health complications at the time of diagnosis. With these benefits in mind, it’s not surprising that the majority of adults (85%) with type 1 diabetes who became aware of their diagnosis after symptoms began wished they had known about their risk of developing the disease before their diagnosis. The1Pledge. com has a useful screening guide on how to talk to your doctor about getting screened early for type 1 diabetes
and what to do before, during, and after screening. Adults with type 1 diabetes recommend early screening
Although the benefits of early detection are clear, autoantibody screening is still uncommon today, largely due to a lack of awareness. Just consider that only 14% of adults with type 1 diabetes say they were screened with an autoantibody test prior to their diagnosis to see if they were at risk of developing the disease - and among those who did not screen, 72% of adults with type 1 diabetes said they were not even aware that an autoantibody test was available, demonstrating an awareness gap that must be closed.
What’s more, among those who were not screened, 68% regret not taking an autoantibody test to better understand their risk of developing type 1 diabetes - and nearly all adults with type 1 diabetes (92%) today would recommend friends and family members get an early autoantibody test for type 1 diabetes. There’s no need to wait to get screened and start to prepare for the future. “The Cost of Not Knowing” sends a message that it’s time to take charge of your health and talk to your doctor about your screening options. This research was conducted by Wakefield Research via two survey instruments - one among 1,000 US adults with type 1 diabetes and a second among 1,000 US caregivers to those under the age of 18 years with type 1 diabetes. Learn more about the survey findings and methodology at https://beyondtype1.org/ unexpected-type-1-diabetes-diagnoses/.
Your doctor is the best source of health information. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about your health or treatment.
Source: Brandpoint
WHY MEN SHOULD Talk About Their Health
By d-mars.com News Provider
merican men may be neglecting their health and wellness, particularly when it comes to their urological health. But an open line of communication between men and their healthcare providers, and among family members, can lead to better care.
A Cleveland Clinic survey found that only three out of five men get annual physicals and 55% do not get regular health screenings. What’s more, many men shy away from the subject of their health, with 77% reporting that they don’t know their complete family history when it comes to urological issues.
Fortunately, innovations in the healthcare industry that are expanding access to tailored care are helping fill these gaps and helping healthcare providers support their patients’ needs more effectively.
Men can use these tips for a happy, healthier life:
• Don’t wait until you have a serious medical condition to see your doctor. Schedule annual physicals and all recommended health care screenings.
• Destigmatize men’s health issues by talking to male family members about prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for men in the United States and a man is two to three times more likely to get prostate
cancer if his father, brother or son had it. You should also talk to your primary care doctor or urologist about having a blood test and examination, particularly if you have a family history of the disease.
• Erectile dysfunction affects nearly 30 million men of all ages across the United States, according to the Indiana University School of Medicine, which notes that it could be the sign of another underlying health issue. Your urologist can help rule out causes, like heart disease and high blood pressure.
• When dealing with men’s health issues, talk to your healthcare provider about all available treatment options, including the potential benefits of using a compounding pharmacy. Compounded medicine
enables healthcare providers to prescribe treatments that are specifically tailored to individual biomarkers (biological molecules found in body fluids or tissues that are a sign of a condition or disease) by dosage and formulation. By analyzing biomarker data, compounded medications can be formulated with precise dosages and combinations of more than one active pharmaceutical ingredient, optimizing therapeutic outcomes for a wide range of health conditions.
For the best care possible, men should be proactive about their health, and providers should explore with their patients all available treatment options, including personalized solutions.
Source: StatePoint
Sisters Network® Inc. to Celebrate 30th Anniversary During 2024 National Black Breast Cancer Summit
By d-mars.com News Provider
n celebration of 30 years as the leading Black-led national organization dedicated to the Black breast cancer crisis movement, Sisters Network® Inc. will host the 2024 National Black Breast Cancer Summit.
The event is on Oct. 4-6, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency-Galleria at 2626 Sage Rd., Houston, Texas 77056. The summit is free and open to the public.
The two-day summit features leading breast health medical experts from major medical institutions who will present the latest information on breast health and survivorship.
Black women are 42% more likely to die of breast cancer, as compared to white women. Black women under age 35 are diagnosed at two times the rate as white women and are more likely to die at three times the rate.
“Our National Black Breast Cancer Summit is needed now more than ever,” said Karen E. Jackson, the founder/CEO
of Sisters Network Inc. “Our sisters are facing alarming breast cancer challenges. It’s imperative that we amplify the Black breast cancer crisis, educate the community to help save our sisters’ lives.”
“Sisters Network is committed to empowering and educating Black women about the importance of early detection, advocating for health equity, eliminating barriers, and increasing access to quality care for all women,” Jackson added.
During the summit on Saturday, October 5 at 12 p.m., Sisters Network® Inc. will also host the 30th Anniversary Pretty In Pink Luncheon & Style Show featuring fashions presented by Saks Fifth Avenue. A portion of the funds raised support the Karen E. Jackson Breast Cancer Assistance Program (BCAP).
“As Sisters Network® Inc. celebrates 30 years of being at the forefront of the Black breast cancer movement, I’m inspired by the courage and resilience of the countless
Black women our organization has provided emotional support and a sisterhood to during their breast cancer journey, the lives we have saved by educating Black women about breast health and the over $1.6 million in financial assistance and mammogram support we have offered to the Black community,” Jackson said.
The National Black Breast Cancer Summit is sponsored by Merck, Lilly, Novartis, Pfizer, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Eisai, and Genentech.
EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES TO AND CONQUER
Across the globe, countless lives are impacted by a disease that remains the most common cancer among women: breast cancer. While the challenges it presents are significant, so too are the advances in treatment, early detection, and support. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than a campaign—it’s a collective call to action, inviting us all to raise awareness, share knowledge, and empower one another in the fight against this illness. However, despite its prevalence, it remains one of the most treatable forms of cancer when detected early. This fact makes it a vital movement for encouraging women to take proactive control of their health. This month also serves as a time for pushing forward life-saving conversations, honoring those who have fought the battle against breast cancer, and promoting early detection, advocacy, and education.
Breast cancer is a disease characterized by the growth of malignant cells in the tissues of the breast. Malignant tumors have the ability to invade nearby tissues, spread to other parts of the body (a process called metastasis), and cause significant damage. Though it can affect both women and men, it disproportionately affects women. Because breast cancer in men is less common, it often goes unnoticed until later stages, making awareness and early detection just as critical for men as for women. Although rare, men should be aware of their risk, especially if there is a family history of breast cancer.
Statistics reveal that one in eight women (one in 833 in men) in the U.S. will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. Despite this alarming figure, advances in treatment and early detection have dramatically improved survival rates over the past few decades.
These advancements serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us that breast cancer is no longer the insurmountable battle it once was. However, we still have work to do. We must continue to push for accessible health care, improved early detection methods, and support systems for every woman, regardless of her background or circumstances. It is through this kind of relentless advocacy and action that we will continue to increase survival rates, and one day, conquer this disease once and for all.
The importance of continuous education, regular screenings, and ensuring access to affordable health care cannot be overstated. Many women, particularly those in underserved communities, are significantly challenged with the cost and accessibility of preventive care, mammograms, and treatments. This is where advocacy groups and support networks step in, working to create avenues for women to access the care they need, regardless of their economic or social circumstances, and even their age.
The cornerstone of breast cancer survival lies in early detection. Mammograms, self-exams, and routine doctor visits are crucial tools that can help catch the disease in its early stages. However, the age limits and recommendations for mammograms can, at times, create barriers for women who fall outside the standard guidelines but may still be at risk.
This makes personalized risk assessments, discussions with healthcare providers, and increasing awareness of individual risk factors even more important in breast cancer prevention.
Women must be encouraged to perform regular self-breast exams, know their bodies, and consult their healthcare providers about their risk factors and family history. Breast cancer can manifest in ways, including lumps, changes in breast or skin discoloration. By understanding signs, women can advocate for themselves when something feels wrong. The earlier diagnosis, the better the prognosis. Breast cancer is not just a physical battle— it’s an emotional and psychological one well. From the moment of diagnosis through treatment, women often face intense tional challenges, such as fear, anxiety, depression. The availability of mental health sources and support systems are just as important as the medical treatment women receive. friends, or online communities play a helping women navigate their breast cancer
For some women, the risks associated more complex. While certain groups may develop the disease, they are often diagnosed forms and at younger ages. These disparities efforts must be tailored to reach every woman is left without access to early detection, es. It’s essential that all women—regardless empowered with knowledge about genetic advanced treatment options, which can improved outcomes.
If you’re reading this, whether as a survivor, eager to learn more, I encourage you taking action today. Get screened, educate of early detection, and support ongoing
Let us remind ourselves, our sisters, that prioritizing our health is not just empowerment. We honor those who we have lost, and continue to fight for Every conversation, every action, every and every donation made helps to move cancer no longer poses a threat to women
By Frenetta Tate Contributing Writer
EMPOWERING TO BREAST CANCER
healthcare family various breast tissue, understanding these themselves earlier the battle— one as through emoanxiety, and health reimportant receive. Family, critical role in cancer journeys.
associated with breast cancer can be may be slightly less likely to diagnosed with more aggressive disparities remind us that awareness every community, ensuring that no detection, education, and resourcwomen—regardless of their background—are genetic testing, clinical trials, and can open doors to better care and
survivor, a supporter, or someone you and thank you in advance for educate others about the importance ongoing breast cancer research efforts. mothers, daughters, and friends just a responsibility but an act of have survived, remember those for a future free from breast cancer. every step forward, every voice raised, move us closer to a world where breast women and men worldwide.
Frenetta Tate is the CEO of Frenetta Tate Global LLC, a women’s empowerment coaching company. She is available on social media @frenettatate.
Empowering Affirmations for BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
1. “I am strong, resilient, and capable of overcoming any challenge.”
• Embrace your inner strength and remember that you are more powerful than you know.
2. “My health and well-being are priorities in my life. I take charge of my body and my future.”
• Prioritizing your health is an act of self-love. Take time to listen to your body and care for it with compassion.
3. “I honor the journeys of all the brave women who have come before me, and I walk this path with courage and hope.”
• Draw strength from the women who have battled before you, and know that you are not alone in this fight.
4. “I trust my body, my instincts, and my ability to heal.”
• Your body has incredible wisdom, and when combined with medical care and self-awareness, you can overcome.
5. “I choose hope every day, and I know that hope fuels healing.”
• Hope is a powerful force. Let it guide your thoughts and actions on the journey to recovery and wellness.
6. “I am worthy of love, support, and the best care available. I advocate for my health and my life.”
•Never forget your worth. You deserve the best care, and you have the strength to advocate for yourself and others.
A Call to Action
Let these affirmations remind you of your strength, your power, and your worth. Whether you are facing breast cancer, supporting someone who is, or simply standing in solidarity, your voice matters. Together, we will continue to uplift, support, and empower one another in this journey.
You are not defined by this disease; you are defined by your spirit, your courage, and your ability to rise every day and choose hope. Stay empowered. Stay hopeful. Stay strong.
New Study Reveals Racial Disparities in Breast Cancer Mortality Rates Across All Tumor Subtypes
By Stacy M. Brown Contributing Writer
espite advancements in early detection and innovative treatments, Black women in the United States face higher mortality rates from breast cancer compared to white women. A systematic review and meta-analysis led by Mass General Brigham Integrated Health Care System sheds light on the extent of these disparities across different breast cancer subtypes.
DThe study, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, aimed to determine the disparities in breast cancer survival between Black and white women according to tumor subtype. Researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of 18 studies published between 2000 and 2022, including data on 228,885 breast cancer cases—34,262 of which were in Black women. The different types were determined by the presence of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and hormone receptor status. HER2 is a protein that is linked to more aggressive cancer. The results revealed that Black women have a significantly higher risk of breast cancer mortality across all tumor subtypes. Specifically, the risk of death was 50% higher for hormone receptor-positive, HER2negative tumors, 34% higher for hormone receptor-positive, HER2-positive tumors, 20% higher for hormone receptor-negative, HER2-positive tumors, and 17% higher for hormone receptor-negative, HER2-negative tumors. The findings indicate that disparities are present even in the most treatable forms of breast cancer.
“Our findings demonstrate that multiple, interacting factors contribute to disparities in breast cancer survival between Black and White women,” said senior author Erica Warner, ScD, MPH, a cancer epidemiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital. “To achieve equity, intervention is necessary at multiple levels—from community to healthcare systems and individual healthcare providers to patients themselves learning about their disease and what their expectations should be for their care.”
Along with Warner and Chandler, the study’s co-authors were Juliana M. Torres, Michelle O. Sodipo, and Margaret F. Hopkins. The study calls for concerted efforts at all levels of the healthcare system to ensure that Black women receive the quality of care necessary to reduce breast cancer mortality rates.
Breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer
among U.S. women and is the second leading cause of cancer death. Reportedly, Black women are around 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women. Until this study, researchers said it was unclear if this disparity existed across all breast cancer subtypes.
The study contends that several factors, including systemic racism, socioeconomic inequality, delays in cancer diagnosis, and inadequate access to high-quality cancer treatment, contribute to these disparities. These factors can affect the timeliness and effectiveness of treatment, regardless of the biological nature of the tumor.
“There had been an anecdotal sense in the research community that differences in survival between Black and White women were greater for the most treatable forms of the disease—tumors that carry hormone receptors—and smaller for the historically less-treatable, hormone-negative tumors,” Warner explained. The study confirms that disparities are indeed present across all subtypes, though they vary in magnitude.
“These findings underscore a stark reality in our healthcare system (that) Black women are facing higher risks of death from breast cancer compared to their white counterparts, across all types of the disease,” co-author Dr. Paulette Chandler emphasized. “This disparity isn’t just about biology. It’s a call to action for healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities alike to confront these inequities head-on and strive for meaningful change in breast cancer outcomes.”
The researchers highlight the need for multilevel interventions to achieve health equity. Programs that have successfully reduced disparities in cancer survival include those that help patients navigate the healthcare system, proactively identify social needs, and connect patients with necessary resources. Additionally, the study points to the potential impact of the underrepresentation of Black women in clinical trials, which may result in therapies not being adequately tailored to specific tumor subtypes. However, researchers concluded that the disparities are not inevitable. With targeted, multilevel interventions, the authors said it is possible to close the gap in breast cancer outcomes and achieve health equity.
Source: NNPA Newswire
How To Exercise During Each Stage of Your Menstrual Cycle
By Letrice Mason, MSN, APRN, FNP-C Contributing Writer
nlike men, women don’t “restart” their bodies after 24 hours but rather after 28 days, approximately. During this time, your motivation, energy levels, strength, and more can change. Leatn how each phase of your menstrual cycle can change the way you work out and what you can do to still make the most out of it.
Exercising During Menstruation
The menstrual cycle is divided into four different stages: menstruation, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase. Each one has a different effect on your body due to the hormone levels experienced during said periods. When you have your period, you shed the lining of your uterus which lasts around three to seven days (on average). This part of the cycle is often known as the “worst” but many studies have presented impressive proof that exercising during your period can actually help relieve cramps and result in a slightly less painful menstrual cycle.
According to the phase of your cycle, you can experience more or less motivation, energy, and strength to go through a workout session, which is why learning more about how your menstrual cycle can affect your performance is essential to keep your body moving without hurting it or making your mind feel like you’re not being productive.
Exercising During Your Follicular Phase
The follicular phase begins the same day your period comes and it extends until you start ovulating. During this time, your hormone levels increase and so does your energy.
Because of the number of hormones that are stimulated during this time, it is recommended that you do high-intensity workouts to take advantage of such an increase. HIIT workouts, as well as heavy weights for strength training, are great recommendations as well as running and dancing.
Exercising During Ovulation
Ovulation lasts around three to five days when a mature egg is released from the surface of the ovary and travels through the fallopian tube until it arrives in the uterus. If the egg is not fertilized within 24 hours, it disintegrates.
During this phase, you’ll still have some high energy levels since its proximity to the follicular phase, therefore doing the same activities should be fine. If you experience extreme pain or cramps you should modify your workout routine to a lighter intensity.
Exercising During the Luteal Phase
The luteal phase lasts around two weeks and it is the part of your period where your energy levels will start to decrease due to the amount of work your body is doing to prepare for menstruation.
It is recommended to use this time to recover and try to cut back on the physical activities that you’ve been doing to allow yourself to properly rest. After reading this article, we hope you gained a bit more knowledge about your period and how you can use each stage of your cycle to your advantage.
If you’re looking for a specialized healthcare center with top-class services and friendly personnel, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with us. Her Down There is here to help you clear all doubts you might be having about your body.
Boost Your Health This Fall with 5 Expert Tips
By d-mars.com News Provider
o you find that your health and fitness take a back seat during the fall and winter months? As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, it can be difficult to motivate yourself to make healthy choices that support your well-being.
Instead of throwing in the towel, get ahead of the sluggishness of the colder months by taking proactive steps to prioritize wellness. Check out these five expert tips that can help you thrive this fall and winter with ease.
Set a smart routine
One of the best ways to set yourself up for health and fitness success during fall and winter is by establishing and maintaining a routine. For example, waking up and going to sleep at the same time each day can help ensure you’re getting enough rest every day.
That said, new routines can be hard to get into at the beginning. To help you toward your goal, set alarms and reminders on your phone or other devices to remind you when to go to bed and wake up. You can do the same to remind you to get some exercise and any other health and fitness goals you may have.
Caffeinate (wisely)
Caffeine can provide a needed boost of energy to start your morning on the right foot or help you stay focused during the
afternoon. However, be careful how much caffeine you ingest. Too much caffeine can make you jittery and can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to tiredness, stress and anxiety.
Instead of reaching for a cup of Joe or an energy drink, consider an exact or more controlled delivery and vitamin-packed option, like a powdered energy supplement.
Get moving
Even during the colder months, it’s important to move your body every day. The weather may prevent you from going on a walk or jogging outside, but you can still engage in an indoor workout for daily exercise.
Any activity will do. If you’re a social butterfly, a dance or group fitness class can
make working out more fun, which may make it easier to do more consistently. If you want to pair exercise with mindfulness and meditation, yoga may be more your speed. Don’t worry if you can’t fit in an hour of exercise every day. Any amount of physical activity is better than none and help you feel better.
Double down on nutrition and immune support
Eating a balanced diet with a variety of nutrient-rich foods is key to maintaining your health and wellness. A well-rounded diet is especially important during fall and winter to boost your immunity during flu season. However, even the most balanced diets have nutritional gaps, so consider adding a nutritional supplement to your
daily routine.
You could take pill supplements, but a convenient and tasty way to support your nutrition and immune system is with Spark. In addition to a moderate dose of caffeine, each dose contains vitamins A, B, C and E, zinc, copper, chromium and other vitamins that support a healthy immune system.
Manage stress
Stress is an inevitable part of life. Some stress can even be positive when managed properly to help motivate you to achieve your goals or meet a deadline. However, prolonged periods of stress can negatively affect your physical and mental health. For example, you may find that when you’re stressed you adopt poor eating and sleeping habits.
Try out different stress management strategies to keep your stress in check. Mindfulness techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises or journaling can help ground you after a long day at work or before a big event. Incorporating self-care moments throughout the day, like taking a bath or reading in a quiet and cozy space, can also help you manage your stress. Good health and fitness don’t happen by accident. Using these five tips, and with the support of your healthcare provider, you can invest in well-being and stay healthy and active all fall and winter long.
Source: Brandpoint
PRIMARY CARE QUALITY CARE FOR EVERY STAGE OF LIFE
The University
of Houston
continues to grow not just in student population but also in the construction of new buildings such as the John M. O’ Quinn Law Building and Tilman J Fertitta Family College of Medicine.
UH’s facilities growth includes the continuous need to procure a variety of non-construction goods and services, all of which undergirds UH’s recognition as an institutional “Powerhouse.”
