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Time for a Change

Health & Wellness Spotlight on Barbara Jordan Endeavors By d-mars.com News Provider Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation (BJEC) is a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships and services for students with emotional, mental and physical disabilities. PAGE 4

PAGES 14-15

Vaxxed: From Cover Up…To Catastrophe

Health & Wellness Spotlight on Karen Eubanks Jackson and Sister’s Network®, Inc. for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

By Dr. LaTronica Fisher In 2013, biologist Dr. Brian Hooker received a call from a Senior Scientist at the U.S... PAGE 6

PAGE 12 PAGE 18

Have You Thought of These Healthcare Occupations? By d-mars.com News Provider Employment of healthcare occupations is projected to grow 19 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations, adding about 2.3 million new jobs. PAGE 19

Houston Health Department HIV & AIDS Awareness What Is PrEP?

MD Anderson Moon Shots Program Study Finds All Respond to Talazoparib Before Chemo, Surgery

You’ve got to get to the stage in life where going for it is more important than winning or losing. — Arthur Ashe

October 2016 3

Journal Behind The

Message from the Publisher

MR. D-MARS

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

CO-PUBLISHER

Tiffany Davis, RN-BSN, MSN, CNE

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dawn Paul

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

“Time for a Change” is the theme for this issue of the d-mars.com Health & Wellness Journal. You may be doing well financially and professionally, but how are you doing in the area of health? You have to make your health a priority, making annual visits to the doctor. This issue will encourage you to make those changes necessary to make for a healthier you. This month for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, d-mars.com shines the spotlight on Karen Eubanks Jackson. She is the Founder and CEO of Sister’s Network®, Inc. (SNI). She has been recognized nationally as a true visionary and leader in the African American breast cancer movement. SNI is the nation’s only African American breast cancer survivorship organization. Under her leadership, SNI continues to raise awareness on this disease that is impacting so many women in our community.

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support us, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Contents

C.J. Johnson C.T. Foster Tiffany Black L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Angel Rosa

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Charlette Washington

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Tashara Callaway

DISTRIBUTION

Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rhonda Dallas, B.S., C.L.C., N.C. Dr. LaTronica Fisher Houston Health Department Ja’Kya Sheppard The National Eye Institute d-mars.com News Provider

Barbara Jordan Endeavors................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 4 The Film They Don’t Want You to See............................................................................................................................................................................................6 Life Makeover........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................6 Torch Lifestyle, LLC.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 8 Biotech Breakthrough.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................10 Entrepreneurs and Health Care.....................................................................................................................................................................................................10 Silent Stroke Is Not So Silent...........................................................................................................................................................................................................11 Managing Depression.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................11 Houston Health Department: What Is PrEP?.............................................................................................................................................................................12 Sister’s Network, Inc.................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 14-17 The Effects of Education on Health..............................................................................................................................................................................................16 Binge Eating.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................16 Research News: Breast Cancer......................................................................................................................................................................................................18 Healthcare Occupations...................................................................................................................................................................................................................19 Prescriptions More Affordable After U.S. Policy Changes......................................................................................................................................................19 Recipes..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................20 Sports Medicine News.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................22 Sparkles of Life, Inc...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................23 The Blueprint for Gym Junkies......................................................................................................................................................................................................24 Save on Your Healthcare in 2017...................................................................................................................................................................................................24 See Well for a Lifetime.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................26

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month “One man can be a crucial ingredient on a team, but one man cannot make a team.” —Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

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October 2016

Health & Wellness Spotlight on Barbara Jordan Endeavors By d-mars.com News Provider

arbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation (BJEC) is a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships and services for students with emotional, mental and physical disabilities. Under the leadership of Thelma Scott, who founded the organization, BJEC has been encouraging, empowering and equipping students to become self-sufficient, helping them discover their maximum potential and achieve their academic goals. BJEC continues to raise awareness, helping Houston and the surrounding areas. BJEC recently hosted the All Diverse 5K Walk, Run and Roll. This event is just one of the many initiatives throughout the year that BJEC hosts to raise funds. The group works tirelessly to reduce the drop-out and suicide rate and to support students with “unique abilities” who are in high school and finishing their education. Many students with these unique abilities are often forgotten, and that’s why BJEC is vital in the Houston community. BJEC nurtures and encourages these students to increase and fortify their capabilities in the areas of science, technology, engineering, arts and math.

mission to assist people with disabilities

national level. Some of her honors in-

Thelma Scott, Barbara Jordan Endeavors Founder Scott founded BJEC in December 2000. As an undergraduate student, she came to grips with her own hidden disabilities and personal challenges of living in a world that lacks understanding and compassion for people who have unique abilities. She is a survivor of breast cancer, memory loss, spinal injury and other illnesses after chemotherapy. Through her own personal journey to triumph and willingness to beat the odds, she was inspired to advocate for people with disabilities. It is her

to overcome barriers and enjoy the best quality of life. Scott is truly committed to serving the Houston community. She has received recognition on a local, state and

clude, but are not limited to: • 2016 Women of Now Rising Higher Award for Women’s History Month • 2016 d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs Community Hero Award

• First African American woman to receive the Texas Diversity First Leadership Award • 2015 WSN Community Outreach Advocate of the Year Award • 2015 TRA Justin Dart (ADA) Advocate of the Year Award (only one person in Texas honored with this award) • 2015 Texas GFSC Self-Advocate of the Year Award (only one person in Texas honored with this award) • 2014 d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Award • 2014 Super Lady Soiree Honoree • 2013 TWEF Woman of Worth Award presented by Stedman Graham • 2013 Parents, Teachers and Students Association Community Support Award • 2013 Rotary District 5890 Spotlight Award • 2012 White Cane Day Appreciation Award • 2011 & 2013 HISD VIP Community Partnership Award BJEC encourages and empowers students in the area of self-awareness to become advocates for people with disabilities. Scott is branded as a “giver” and always quotes Barbara Jordan as saying "It is clear to me. We as human beings, must be willing to accept people who are different from ourselves." Scott’s magnetic personality and unbridled determination has positioned her to impact more lives that can be counted. She fervently believes that when people with disabilities are given an opportunity, that a disability is the opportunity to demonstrate extraordinary unique abilities. BJEC is a vital organization in Houston, paying it forward and giving encouragement, compassion and opportunities to the disabled. Where some have forgotten the disabled, BJEC has not. Scott continues to create amazing initiatives that allow those students with disabilities to finish their high school education and to have a successful college career and life. For more information about Thelma Scott and the Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation, please visit www.barbarajordanambassadors.org.

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October 2016â&#x20AC;&#x192; 5

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October 2016

VAXXED: FROM COVER UP…TO CATASTROPHE The Film They Don’t Want You to See

By Dr. LaTronica Fisher Contributing Writer

n 2013, biologist Dr. Brian Hooker received a call from a Senior Scientist at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) who led the agency’s 2004 study on the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine and its link to autism. The scientist, Dr. William Thompson, confessed that the CDC had omitted crucial data in their final report that revealed a causal relationship between the MMR vaccine and autism. Over several months, Dr. Hooker records the phone calls made to him by Dr. Thompson, who provides the confidential data destroyed by his colleagues at the CDC. Dr. Hooker enlists the help of Dr. Andrew Wakefield, the British gastroenterologist falsely accused of starting the anti-vax movement when he first reported in 1998 that the MMR vaccine may cause autism. In his ongoing effort to advocate for children’s health,

Dr. Wakefield directs this documentary examining the evidence behind an appalling cover-up committed by the government agency charged with protecting the health of American citizens. Interviews with pharmaceutical insiders, doctors, politicians, and parents of vaccine-injured children reveal an alarming deception that has contributed to the skyrocketing increase of autism and potentially the most catastrophic epidemic of our lifetime.

Autism and Black boys “I’ve found the science that says that African Americans not only may be, but are more susceptible to vaccine injury and they also have an increased susceptibility to neurological disorders such as autism,” said Dr. Hooker, who said his son was vaccine-injured. The most reliable study shows autism incidents are higher in Blacks as compared to Caucasians, Dr. Hooker noted. He cited a 2010 paper published in PLOS ONE, a peer review journal, which studied autism incidents in Black and White communities nationwide. “It found that within the Black community, autism incidents were 25 percent higher than in Caucasians,” Dr. Hooker said. He wants populations vulnerable to vaccine injury to be identified and protected. “You don’t call somebody that advocates for safe automobiles anti-car. Similarly, it’s ridiculous to call somebody who advocates for safer vaccines, more

effective vaccines, and to protect children, to ever call them anti-vaccine,” Dr. Hooker said. “A remedy is to pull the safety net completely from the CDC and Health and Human Services, and place the responsibility for vaccine safety with an entity that is independent of government and pharmaceutical company influence,” said Dr. Wakefield. Many are not aware that they have the right to opt out from the vaccine program for the safety of their children by a simple click of a form. There are only 3 states that make vaccines mandatory and they are California, Mississippi, and West Virginia. Knowledge is power, but only if you use it. For more information, order the movie at vaxxedthemovie.com

and empower yourself as well as save the lives of our Black boys.

Life Makeover Are You in Desperate Need of Change?

can be automatically saying no to spending time in prayer with God, spending time with family and friends, and just having that necessary time alone.

By Rhonda Dallas Contributing Writer

cclesiastes 3:1-8 reminds us that there is a time for everything. Many times, we need to make changes for a better life, especially in the area of health and wellness.

Emotional Makeover Sometimes we just need to slow the pace down. We don’t take time out to stop and smell the roses. Where are you emotionally at today? This area of our lives tends to be neglected. Also, it’s all about habits. Start identifying the habits you want to change. Start replacing the bad habits with good habits. Identify what is taking all of your emotional energy and start working on changing that. Rather than doing more, we sometimes

need to do less so we can see God at work and truly hear His voice.

Health and Wellness Makeover This may require you simplifying your days. How often do you get out and exercise? Take time to exercise. Don’t just do any form of exercise, but really look at an exercise plan that you can stick to. Do you have quiet time? Take 15 minutes every morning to meditate or to have that relaxation you need. It will make a huge

difference in your day. What are you eating? What you put into your body can impact your mood. Cook lighter and make better food choices.

Spiritual Makeover It may be time for a spiritual makeover, as this is good for your mental health as well. We tend to say yes too much and without hesitation. We sometimes feel pressured to stay busy. What we fail to realize is that every time we say yes, we

Dr. Fisher has a proven system that has already helped thousands to remove the restrictions to healing. Dr. Fisher assists in helping prepare the body to heal. In addition, she helps re-educate the body to heal, produce its own hormones, and restore optimal wellness. For more information on how to get tested, please contact Dr. Fisher at (713) 520-8188 or drfisherroad2wellness@gmail.com. Sources www.naturalnews.com www.vactruth.com www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov www.vaxxedthemovie.com

Tips for a healthy change: 1. Pray for more direction. Ask God what you need more and less of in your life. 2. Change your way of thinking. Stop procrastinating and change your perspective and outlook on life. 3. Begin acting differently. We can control our own behavior. Though we may not be able to change the world’s behavior or the behavior of others around us, we can change the way we act and react. 4. Be honest. Hold yourself accountable when it comes to your health and wellness. If you need help in this area, seek assistance from a health and wellness coach. 5. Eat healthier, exercise more frequently and get rest more consistently. Regardless of what season you are in, I want to remind you that you are amazing. Let’s continue to keep each other lifted and remind each other of this daily. A certified health and wellness life coach can help you with a healthy lifestyle. Rhonda Dallas is a certified life coach and nutritional counselor. Contact Rhonda at www.rhondadallasenterprise.com or 832922-0567 for your coaching session. Get started today!

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October 2016

Excuses Don’t Work, But Torch Lifestyle, LLC Does! Combining Faith & Fitness By Dawn Paul

Associate Editor

et’s be honest. Food is just so good. With Houston being one of the largest cities in the nation, there are food places on every corner to satisfy that craving. However, the next time you stop to get that donut fix, you might want to pay attention to the latest statistics regarding obesity and Texas, as the obesity rate is up. When it comes to weight loss, excuses just don’t work, but Torch Lifestyle, LLC does. Alfred Nwagbo aka “Alfred the Trainer” is CEO and Founder of Torch Lifestyle, and with his team, this fitness phenom is helping those in Houston and the surrounding areas fight the battle of the bulge with faith and fitness. What are overweight and obesity? According to the World Health Organization, overweight and obesity are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health. What causes obesity and overweight? The fundamental cause of obesity and overweight is an energy imbalance between calories consumed and calories expended. Texas now has the 10th highest adult obesity rate in the nation, according to The State of Obesity: Better Policies for a Healthier America released September 2016. The adult obesity rate in Texas is currently 32.4 percent, up from 21.7 percent in 2000 and from 10.7 percent in 1990. As the numbers are going up in regards to obesity, Alfred has not only made this a successful business, but this is a strong passion. In 2012, He founded the Torch Boot Camp. In 2014, the Torch Lifestyle brand was born. This passion is producing results, helping people to work out, lose weight and change the mindset when it comes to the body and food. He puts the love of God in everything he does, and that includes Torch Lifestyle, even offering free workout classes for the community. But don’t be worried that you’ll be working out to old gospel hymns. The Torch family is multicultural and dispels the stereotype that you may have seen about Christians. “We are a unique blend of Indian, Arabian, Asian, Hispanic, and African American heritage. So, we listen to all types of music with respect to our beliefs. We make sure that we only play the clean versions of all songs to be sure that we don’t offend anyone. People tend to think that Christians can’t have fun or that we are closed-minded, but not the Torch Lifestyle family,” says Alfred. Alfred and the Torch Lifestyle team can take clients in any physical condition, no matter the age, and help them transform into their healthiest. Torch Lifestyle is a game changer for many

“I instill in my clients that it is best to invest in their health now, so they can enjoy life abundantly! If you don’t invest in your health now, later on down the line, you will be paying doctor bills and spending thousands on prescription drugs.” — Alfred the Trainer, CEO and Founder of Torch Lifestyle, LLC

and the health and wellness industry as a whole.

Get to know Alfred the Trainer and Torch Lifestyle, LLC Talk about Torch Lifestyle, LLC and the inclusion of God in this fitness business. At Torch Lifestyle, we stand firm in our faith and we never waiver or fear losing business. There was actually a client of mine that was an atheist. Although we viewed life and religion differently, I respected her as my client and she respected me as her trainer. Her schedule was hectic and she had to workout on

Sundays. It turned out that I would have to come directly from church to train her in my church attire. She began to ask me questions about my faith. I can’t take credit for changing her views, but I can say this was a pivotal point in her journey. Six years later, that client not only visited my church, but she gave her life to Christ. You can’t fear losing business by including God. The real fear should be in the loss of souls that could be saved. What is the biggest excuse you hear from people as to why they can’t work out? Time and money are running neck and neck as the biggest excuses. People will waste money on unhealthy eating

habits and shopping, but can’t find the money or time to invest in improving their health. I instill in my clients that it is best to invest in their health now, while they can enjoy life abundantly! What is Torch Lifestyle’s community involvement? We participate in youth events, educating young people about health and wellness. Torch Lifestyle also gives back through school drives, the Houston Food Bank, churches and other organizations. We also offer free fitness classes to the community. Talk about your approach to encourage clients to be their healthiest. I encourage them by allowing them to understand that their body is a temple, a true gift from God. Knowing that proper diet and exercise is not only ideal for staying in shape and improving health; it is also necessary to increasing their quality of life. I encouraged my better half on her fitness journey, which helped her lose almost 60 lbs. in a little under 9 months. Helping clients to see the small victories and celebrating those victories are my best modes of encouragement. For more on Torch Lifestyle, please visit www.torchlifestyle.org. Sources Used World Health Organization www.stateofobesity.org

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October 2016â&#x20AC;&#x192; 9

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October 2016

Biotech

Biotech Breakthrough: Sunlight Can Be Used to Produce Chemicals and Energy

is in nature, but there are many indications that fungi and bacteria use reverse photosynthesis as a "Thor's hammer" to access sugars and nutrients in plants. The breakthrough is the result of collaborative, multidisciplinary research at the Copenhagen Plant Science Centre that spans the disciplines of plant science, biotechnology and chemistry.

By d-mars.com News Provider

esearchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a natural process they describe as reverse photosynthesis. In the process, the energy in solar rays breaks down, rather than builds plant material, as is the case with photosynthesis. The sunlight is collected by chlorophyll, the same molecule as used in photosynthesis. Combined with a specific enzyme the energy of sunlight now breaks down plant biomass, with possible uses as chemicals, biofuels or other products, that might otherwise take a long time to produce. By increasing production speed while reducing pollution, the discovery has the potential to revolutionize industrial production. The research results have now been published in Nature Communications. The petrochemical industry is indispensible for the functioning of society. However, it remains problematic for both environment and climate. Danish researchers based at the University of Copenhagen have now made a breakthrough with the potential to transform the way we use our Earth's natural resources: "This is a game changer, one that could transform the industrial production of fuels and chemicals, thus serving to reduce pollution significantly," says University of Copenhagen Professor Claus Felby, who

The future heads the research.

Faster production, decreased energy consumption and less pollution "It has always been right beneath our noses, and yet no one has ever taken note: photosynthesis by way of the sun doesn't just allow things to grow, the same principles can be applied to break plant matter down, allowing the release of chemical substances. In other words, direct sunlight drives chemical processes. The immense energy in solar light can be used so that processes can take place without additional energy inputs," says Professor Claus Felby. Postdoc David Cannella, a fellow researcher and discoverer, explains that, "the discovery means that by using the Sun, we can produce biofuels and biochemicals for things like plastics -- faster, at lower temperatures and with enhanced

energy-efficiency. Some of the reactions, which currently take 24 hours, can be achieved in just 10 minutes by using the Sun."

What reverse photosynthesis is all about Researchers have discovered that monooxygenases, a natural enzymes also used in industrial biofuel production, multiply their effectiveness when exposed to sunlight: "We use the term "reverse photosynthesis" because the enzymes use atmospheric oxygen and the Sun's rays to break down and transform carbon bonds, in plants among other things, instead of building plants and producing oxygen as is typically understood with photosynthesis," says Postdoc Klaus Benedikt Møllers Researchers do not yet know how widespread "reverse photosynthesis," using light, chlorophyll and monooxygenases,

"Reverse photosynthesis" has the potential to break down chemical bonds between carbon and hydrogen, a quality that may be developed to convert biogasplant sourced methane into methanol, a liquid fuel, under ambient conditions. As a raw material, methanol is very attractive, because it can be used by the petrochemicals industry and processed into fuels, materials and chemicals. Additional research and development is required before the discovery can directly benefit society, but its potential is, "one of the greatest we have seen in years," according to Professor Claus Felby. Source www.sciencedaily.com Reference Faculty of Science - University of Copenhagen. (2016, April 4). Biotech breakthrough: Sunlight can be used to produce chemicals and energy. ScienceDaily. Retrieved October 6, 2016 from www.sciencedaily.com/ releases/2016/04/160404090545.htm

Business

Entrepreneurs and Health Care By d-mars.com News Provider

ou can enroll in the Marketplace or change plans if you have certain life changes, or qualify for Medicaid or CHIP. Visit HealthCare. gov to learn more.

Additional Key Provisions Under the Affordable Care Act for SelfEmployed Individuals Some of the provisions that may impact self-employed individuals include: • Individual Shared Responsibility (Also Known as Individual Mandate) Effective January 1, 2014, the Individual Shared Responsibility provision of the Affordable Care Act means that each individual must have basic health insurance coverage (known as minimum essential coverage), qualify for an exemption, or pay a fee when filing a federal income tax return. Individuals will not have to pay the fee (also known as an individual shared responsibility payment) if coverage is unaffordable, if they spend less than three consecutive months without coverage, or if they qualify for an exemption for several other reasons, including hardship and religious be-

liefs. The fee in 2014 is calculated one of two ways. You’ll pay whichever of these amounts is higher: *1% of your yearly household income. (Only the amount of income above the tax filing threshold, $10,150 for an individual, is used to calculate the payment.) The maximum payment is the national average yearly premium for a bronze plan. *$95 per person for the year ($47.50 per child under 18). The maximum payment per family using this method is $285. For more information about the Individual Shared Responsibility requirements and exemptions that may apply, refer to the Fact Sheet from the U.S. Department of Treasury as well as these Q&As from IRS. • Coverage through Medicaid Expansion Each state operates a Medicaid program that provides health coverage for lower-income people, families and children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. The eligibility rules for Medicaid are different for each state, but most states currently offer coverage for adults with children at some income level. In addition, under the Affordable Care Act, states have the option to

expand Medicaid eligibility to include adults ages 19 – 64 with incomes up to 133% of the Federal Poverty Level (about $15,000 per year for an individual, $31,000/year for a family of four). To learn more about your state Medicaid program and other options available to you, visit Healthcare.gov. • Additional Medicare Assessment An Additional Medicare Tax of .9 % went into effect in 2013 and applies to wages, compensation, and self-employment income above a threshold amount received in taxable years beginning after Dec. 31, 2012. An individual is liable for Additional Medicare Tax if the individual’s wages, compensation, or selfemployment income (together with that of his or her spouse if filing a joint return) exceed the threshold amount for the individual’s filing status - $200,000 for single filers and $250,000 for mar-

ried joint filers. For more information, refer to these FAQs from IRS. • Net Investment Income Assessment Beginning January 1, 2013, a 3.8% tax will be assessed on net investment income such as taxable capital gains, dividends, rents, royalties, and interest for taxpayers with Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) over $200,000 for single filers and $250,000 for married joint filers. Common types of income that are not investment income are wages, unemployment compensation, operating income from a non-passive business, Social Security Benefits, alimony, tax-exempt interest, and self-employment income.

Find Plan Information In Your Area Find and compare Marketplace health plans in your area by using this interactive tool at Healthcare.gov.

Timeline of Provisions The Affordable Care Act timeline provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services includes the next steps you can take to implement the provisions. Source www.sba.gov

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October 2016 11

Healthy Lifestyles

Silent Stroke Is Not So Silent

A Silent Health Risk Every Woman Should Know About By d-mars.com News Provider

To set up a screening appointment in your community that is affordable and convenient, visit www.LifeLineScreening.com. To cut your risk of stroke, treating hypertension with medication and lifestyle changes can help, Manganaro said. Control your weight, reduce your consumption of red meat, eat more plant foods and talk to your doctor about starting an exercise program. If you smoke, make it a priority to quit. Smokers have double the risk of stroke than non-smokers, because smoking can lead to excessive blood clotting. If you or your family members have noticed recent changes to your memory facility or mobility, consult with your doctor. In some patients, these have been symptoms of a silent stroke, but in any case it will benefit you to find the root cause and begin treatment.

ilent strokes, ones that happen in your brain without you even knowing, can lead to full-blown strokes as well as cognitive impairment and dementia. The most common depiction of a stroke is a person unable to move on one side of their body with slurred speech, but studies show that many stroke victims had silent strokes previously, that, as the name indicates, went unnoticed. The damage caused by the silent stroke, however, can be seen through advanced imaging techniques. Since no one is suggesting that everyone get an annual brain scan, the next best thing is to understand the risk factors for silent stroke and control those. Two of those risk factors, high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation and blockages in the carotid arteries are simple to screen for and have effective treatments. "The upside to all this is that there are steps one can take to prevent silent stroke," says Dr. Andrew Manganaro, a vascular surgeon and chief medical officer for Life Line Screening. "What it takes is a measure of awareness, routine screening and, if needed, treatment to prevent the blood clots that can lead to this long-term damage to the brain." Silent strokes are 30 to 40 percent more prevalent in women than men

and the results can be serious. Impaired movement, muscle weakness, depression, memory problems and cognitive problems are all associated with silent stroke. "So when atrial fibrillation, high blood pressure or carotid blockage is present in a patient, that should be an indicator to her physician that she's at risk of a silent stroke," Manganaro says. The key to preventing stroke is to get a full picture of your vascular health, so

you can begin treatment and monitoring. Manganaro recommends routine screenings for the damaged arteries that indicate vascular problems. Testing for high blood pressure, carotid blockages and the presence of atrial fibrillation, along with peripheral arterial disease screening and abdominal aortic aneurysm testing are safe and accurate. "These screenings can help you and your doctor get a full picture of your vascular health," says Manganaro.

Does silent stroke lurk in your future? The first step in preventing stroke is knowing which conditions can enhance your risk. If you have any of these conditions, talk to your doctor. • Do you have a history of high blood pressure? • Do you smoke? • Do you have an irregular heartbeat? • Do you have hypertension? - BPT

Mental Health

Managing Depression: Advancements That Are Making Waves By d-mars.com News Provider

hances are, if you haven't been personally affected by depression, you know someone who has. Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States, affecting millions of people every year. In fact, an estimated one in 15 adults (6.7 percent) experiences at least one major depressive episode in any given year. As common as it is, struggling with depression can feel isolating, overwhelming and affect all areas of a person's life. While there are many available approaches to helping treat depression - including talk therapy, medication, support from peers and lifestyle changes - because of the nature of the condition, patients often find it challenging to follow through on their treatment. In today's digital world, advances in technology are opening up new approaches to helping patients manage their health, including their mental health. Interestingly, a 2014 survey found that 70 percent of patients being treated for a

mental health disorder say they want to use a mobile application to monitor their mental health on a daily basis. Using a smart phone to track things like mood and behavior, even medication, in realtime is convenient and can make it easier for patients to identify long-term patterns in partnership with their care team. The Moodivator app (currently available for free download to iPhones from the Apple App Store) is an example of one mobile app that helps to address this need for people living with depression. Developed by Pfizer, the app is designed to motivate people living with depression and help complement the therapy they receive by allowing patients to track their mood, set goals and establish routines that can help support them in their daily life. "Goal setting in particular is important for people with depression, as even small tasks can feel overwhelmingly difficult. The Moodivator app ties into cognitive behavioral therapy techniques that I use frequently with my patients, since it encourages users to set, track and achieve personal goals in a simple and encouraging way across categories like work, home and family or social activities," says Susan

Kornstein, MD, professor of psychiatry at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, who consulted on the content and design of the app. "Goals are broken down into clear action steps, which are like smaller goals that can help patients eventually achieve their bigger ones. They can be adjusted over time and turned into helpful habits as part of an ongoing routine." Kornstein adds, "Mood tracking, another component of the app, is an important tool for improving patients' emotional self-awareness. The ease and convenience of tracking mood through a mobile app like Moodivator can lead to patients tracking their moods more often and more accurately." Beyond goal and mood tracking, pa-

tients also receive encouraging and inspirational messages in the app to help motivate them along the way as they manage their depression. The benefits of using the Moodivator app may extend beyond the person living with depression, and actually help their care team as well. "Importantly, the app includes the opportunity for patients to export and share their progress with their care team if they choose, showcasing their goal progress and mood patterns through easy-to-read charts," continues Kornstein. "This can help doctors inform care decisions, and ultimately impact the patient's overall treatment plan." The Moodivator app is not a treatment for depression. All patients should work with their doctor to determine which course of treatment is right for them, and even when patients start to feel better, they should continue their therapy and work closely with their doctor until they reach an agreement to conclude the treatment plan. This app includes information about a prescription treatment option for depression. This content is provided by Pfizer Inc. – BPT

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October 2016

Houston Health Department HIV & AIDS Awareness What Is PrEP? By d-mars.com News Provider

he Houston Health Department (HIV-STD Viral Hepatitis Prevention) is a vital component to the prevention of HIV/AIDS in this city. They are selfless in their efforts to eliminate HIV, viral Hepatitis and sexually transmitted diseases through the adoption of health promoting behaviors among the residents of Houston.

Houston Health Department’s HIV Epidemiologic Profile Houston/Harris County had 1,288 newly reported diagnosed cases of HIV in 2014 in adults and adolescents aged 15 years of age and older. This corresponds to a rate of new HIV diagnoses of 29 cases per 100,000 people in the population. However, the disease has affected sections of the population disproportionately. Men had a rate of new diagnoses 3.5 times the rate in women. Black males had a 4.6 times higher rate of new HIV diagnoses than white males, and Hispanic males had a rate 1.6 times the rate in whites. Black women were newly diagnosed with HIV at a rate 21.0 times that of white women, and Hispanic women were diagnosed at a rate 3.6 times that of white women. Male-to-male sexual activity accounted for 67% of the new diagnoses. Heterosexual sexual activity accounted for 25% of the cases and injection drug use 5%. At the end of 2013, there were 22,551 reported cases of people living with HIV in Houston/Harris County, corresponding to a rate of 520 cases per 100,000 persons in the population. The rate of new infections has remained fairly constant over the past 12 years. However, the number of new diagnoses occurring in young men who have sex with men (13-24 years old) has been increasing since 2003. This department is being proactive, not reactive in the fight of HIV/AIDS in our community. The department’s mission is to work in partnership with the community to assess, plan, and implement effective public health strategies to reduce the spread of HIV, viral Hepatitis and other sexually transmitted diseases in the City of Houston. Also, it’s all about educating our community. In addition to their other outreach efforts, the department is raising awareness on PrEP, a daily pill for HIV prevention. PrEP (short for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a new way to prevent HIV. It’s a prescription medicine that, when taken every day, greatly reduces your risk of

getting HIV by blocking the virus. If you are HIV-negative and think you might be at risk of getting HIV, taking PrEP can give you protection and peace of mind. PrEP does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea or syphilis, so you should continue using condoms to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. One PrEP pill a day is 92% effective at preventing HIV.

IS PrEP FOR ME? You might be at risk of getting HIV if: • You have more than one sex partner. • You do not regularly use condoms. • You’re in an ongoing relationship with someone who has HIV. • You’re not sure if your sex partner is HIV-positive. • You or your sex partner have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection in the past six months. • You have injected drugs in the past six months and have shared needles. If you have a sex partner who is HIVpositive and are considering getting pregnant, talk to your doctor about PrEP. It may be an option to protect you and your baby.

HOW DOES PrEP WORK? PrEP works to prevent HIV by interfering with HIVs ability to copy itself in your body after exposure. This prevents the virus from establishing an infection and making you sick. When taken every day, PrEP has shown to reduce the risk of HIV infection in people who are at high risk by more than 90%. PrEP is much less effective if not taken every day. PrEP can be more effective if combined with other ways to prevent HIV infection, like using condoms and drug abuse treatment.

HOW CAN I GET PrEP? If you think you may be at risk for HIV, talk to your healthcare provider about whether PrEP is right for you. If your healthcare provider is unfamiliar with PrEP, AIDS Foundation Houston and the Houston Health Department can connect you to PrEP services while your primary care doctor maintains your primary health needs. Once PrEP is prescribed to you, you’ll need to return for blood work every three months. Your doctor will keep close track of any side effects, which are typically minor and not experienced by the majority of PrEP users. PrEP is covered by Medicaid and most insurance programs. If you do not have insurance, AIDS Foundation Houston can help you

find programs that cover the cost of your appointments and blood tests, as well as co-pay assistance programs for the cost of your prescription. PrEP should be taken daily. Remember, PrEP does not protect against STDs like gonorrhea or syphilis. You should continue using condoms to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. For more information on PrEP, please contact the Houston Health Depart-

ment at 832-393-5010, AIDS Foundation Houston, Inc. or visit www.preptopreventhiv.org. One pill. Once a day. PrEP now. Prevent HIV. Sources Houston Health Department AIDS Foundation Houston, Inc. www.preptopreventhiv.org

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October 2016

A Visionary and Leader in the African American Breast Cancer Movement By d-mars.com News Provider

aren Eubanks Jackson is the Founder and CEO of Sister’s Network®, Inc. (SNI). She has been recognized nationally as a true visionary and leader in the African American breast cancer movement. SNI is the nation’s only African American breast cancer survivorship organization. Jackson continues to lead SNI’s nationwide effort to focus the spotlight on increasing breast cancer awareness in the African American community. The organization provides standardized national educational outreach programs, survivor and family support, empowerment, hope and financial assistance to thousands of women annually through its national network of more than 40 survivor-run affiliate chapters located in more than 20 states. In 1994, Jackson founded SNI during her personal fight to survive breast cancer. Jackson recognized a lack of “sisterhood” in traditional organizations, and there was a staggering breast cancer mortality rate for African American women and limited culturally sensitive material. Often referred to as a breast cancer champion, Jackson’s primary motivation was to break through the si-

lence and shame of breast cancer that immobilizes African American women, restricts their ability to receive support services, interferes with early detection and ultimately affects their survival rates. Under her leadership and vision, the organization has developed numerous national breast health outreach initiatives including, but not limited to, hosting the Stop the Silence Walk and Teens4Pink. Since the organization’s inception, SNI has provided over $1 million in conference scholarships to help train African American breast cancer survivors to be advocate leaders in their communities. Understanding the historical difficulty in the African American community to discuss cancer and other health concerns, Jackson created a national slogan and branding campaign: STOP

THE SILENCE, to encourage African Americans to discuss their family health and history. A recognized and highly sought after breast cancer expert, Jackson is frequently invited to speak on the international and national stage and share her perspective on the state of breast cancer in the African American community. She has been a featured speaker at the U.S. Army’s Comprehensive Breast Cancer Center in Germany, the National Congressional Black Caucus and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as well as other organizations. Jackson has been featured in numerous national newspapers, magazines, television, radio programs and Internet media outlets, inclusive of the Huffington Report, Essence, New York Times, Washington Post, U.S. News & World Report, Ebony, Web MD, Black Enterprise, Breast Cancer Wellness, Tom Joyner Morning

Show and numerous local media outlets. Jackson is a published co-author of several works. Additionally, Jackson’s breast health advocacy work has garnered numerous awards and recognitions.

BlackWomen Women&&Breast BreastCancer Cancer Black Breast cancer tends to appear in Black women at a younger age and in more advanced forms. In fact, Black women are two times more likely to develop triple negative breast cancer, an aggressive form of the disease which has fewer effective treatment options. Triple-negative breast cancers tend to grow and spread more quickly than most other types of breast cancer. We also are known to have denser breast, one of the strongest predictors of risk for breast cancer and also is a known factor limiting the sensitivity

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October 2016 15

of a screening mammogram. Mammograms of breasts with higher density have been described as harder to read and interpret than those of less dense breasts. A small cancer can be concealed by dense breast tissue or by the overlap of normal breast structures. Many women with early breast cancer have no symptoms. That is why it is so crucial to get screened before symptoms have a chance to appear. However, the most common sign of breast cancer is a new lump or mass. A painless, hard mass that has irregular edges is more likely to be cancerous, but breast cancers can be tender, soft, or rounded. For this reason, it is important that you have any new breast mass or lump checked by a health care professional experienced in diagnosing breast diseases.

Othersigns signsmay mayinclude: include: Other • Swelling of all or part of the breast • Skin irritation or dimpling • Pain in the breast or nipple • Thickening of the nipple or breast • Discharge other than breast milk

What can I do to reduce my risk What can Icancer? do to reduce my risk of breast of breast cancer? Lifestyle changes have been shown in studies to decrease breast cancer risk even in high-risk women. The following are steps you can take to lower your risk: Limit alcohol. The more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk of developing breast cancer. The general recommendation — based on research on the effect of alcohol on breast cancer risk — is to limit yourself to less than 1 drink per day as even small amounts increase risk. Don't smoke. Accumulating evidence suggests a link between smoking and breast cancer risk, particularly in premenopausal women. In addition, not smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. Control your weight. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of breast cancer. This is especially true if obesity occurs later in life, particularly after menopause. Be physically active. Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight, which, in turn, helps prevent breast cancer. For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human

Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training at least twice a week. Breast-feed. Breast-feeding might play a role in breast cancer prevention. The longer you breast-feed, the greater the protective effect. Limit dose and duration of hormone therapy. Combination hormone therapy for more than three to five years increases the risk of breast cancer. If you're taking hormone therapy for menopausal symptoms, ask your doctor about other options. You might be able to manage your symptoms with nonhormonal therapies and medications. If you decide that the benefits of short-term hormone therapy outweigh the risks, use the lowest dose that works for you and continue to have your doctor monitor the length of time you are taking hormones. Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution. Medical-

imaging methods, such as computerized tomography, use high doses of radiation. While more studies are needed, some research suggests a link between breast cancer and radiation exposure. Reduce your exposure by having such tests only when absolutely necessary. Being that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, if you have been putting off that yearly mammogram and yearly health screening, this is the perfect time to take charge of your health. It is especially important that women in our community get checked. A leader, visionary and most importantly, a breast cancer survivor, Jackson continues to make a difference and raise awareness on this disease impacting African American women. For more on Sister’s Network®, Inc. and their 2017 Stop the Silence® Walk, please visit www. sistersnetworkinc.org. Sources www.mayoclinic.org www.bwhi.org

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October 2016

Education

The Effects of Education on Health

By d-mars.com News Provider

n Education and Health: Evaluating Theories and Evidence (NBER Working Paper No. 12352), authors David Cutler and Adriana Lleras-Muney review what we know about the relationship between education and health, in particular about the possible causal relationships between education and health and the mechanisms behind them. At the outset they note that this is a controversial topic, with previous studies offering contradictory conclusions. People value health highly. As a result, the health returns to education can outweigh even the financial returns. Many estimates suggest that a year of education raises earnings by about 10 percent, or perhaps $80,000 in present value over the course of a lifetime. Using data from the National Longitudinal Mortality Study (NLMS), the authors find that one more year of education increases life expectancy by 0.18 years, using a 3 percent discount rate, or by 0.6 years without any discounting. Assuming that a year of health is worth $75,000 - a relatively conservative value - this translates into about $13,500 to $44,000 in present value. These rough calculations suggest that the health returns to education increase the total returns to education by at least 15 percent, and perhaps by as much as 55 percent. The causal effects of education on health would call for education subsidies only to the extent that there is a market failure and that individuals are investing at sub-optimal levels; otherwise, individuals would be basing their education decisions on health benefits along with financial benefits. The possible rationales for education subsidies include the

idea that individuals may be unaware of the health benefits of education when they make their education decisions, that they may be credit constrained, that some groups do not know about or are excluded from higher education, or that there are externalities to education and health beyond the individual affected. Understanding the mechanism by which education affects health is therefore important for policy. It may be more cost effective to tap that mechanism than to increase educational at-

tainment. For example, if all of the education effect operated through income, and income improved health, then it might be cheaper to transfer income directly rather than to subsidize schooling. But, increasing educational attainment might be the correct policy response if, for example, there were no alternative (or cheaper) method for acquiring the skills that ultimately affect health. In spite of these caveats, the authors point out that education policies have the potential to have a substantial effect on health. Assuming that the observed correlations between education and health are long-term causal effects from education to health, and that the relationship is linear and identical across gender, race, and other groups, the authors can do a rough calculation of the health returns of education policies. Prior research has found that offering $1,000 (in 1998 dollars) in grant aid results in an increase in education of 0.16 years, which translates into 0.03-0.10 years of additional life (depending on discounting). This is roughly $2,250$7,200 in present value. This is a very large rate of return. The data that the authors present show that the more educated report having lower morbidity from the most common acute and chronic diseases (heart condition, stroke hypertension, cholesterol, emphysema, diabetes, asthma attacks, ulcer). More educated people are less likely to be hypertensive, or to suffer from emphysema or diabetes. Physical and mental functioning is also better for the better educated. The better educated are substantially less likely to report that they are in poor health, and less likely to report anxiety or depression. Finally, better educated people report spending fewer days in bed or not at work because

of disease, and they have fewer functional limitations. The magnitude of the relationship between education and health varies across conditions, but is generally large. An additional four years of education lowers five-year mortality by 1.8 percentage points; it also reduces the risk of heart disease by 2.16 percentage points, and the risk of diabetes by 1.3 percentage points. Four more years of schooling lowers the probability of reporting oneself in fair or poor health by 6 percentage points and reduces lost days of work to sickness by 2.3 each year. Although the effects of gender and race are not shown, the magnitude of four years of schooling is roughly comparable in size to being female or being African American. These are not trivial effects. There are multiple reasons for these associations, although it is likely that these health differences are in part the result of differences in behavior across education groups. In terms of the relation between education and various health risk factors - smoking, drinking, diet/ exercise, use of illegal drugs, household safety, use of preventive medical care, and care for hypertension and diabetes - overall the results suggest very strong gradients where the better educated have healthier behaviors along virtually every margin, although some of these behaviors may also reflect differential access to care. Those with more years of schooling are less likely to smoke, to drink heavily, to be overweight or obese, or to use illegal drugs. Interestingly, the better educated report having tried illegal drugs more frequently, but they gave them up more readily. Source www.nber.org

Medical

A New Therapeutic Target for the Treatment of Compulsive Binge Eating Has Been Identified by Researchers By d-mars.com News Provider

he study, which is published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology, reports the beneficial effects of the activation of a class of receptors, Trace Amine-Associated Receptor 1 (TAAR1), on compulsive, binge eating. TAAR1 discovered in 2001, is a receptor that binds molecules in the brain called trace amines. Compulsive, binge eating is estimated to affect approximately 15 million people suffering from forms of obesity and eating disorders in the United States. It is characterized by episodes of eating large quantities of food, often very quickly and to the point of discomfort. Binge eaters often experience a loss of control during the binge as well as shame, dis-

tress or guilt afterwards. This study has important implications for the treatment of all the disorders which are characterized by compulsive, binge eating. "Effective therapeutic treatments currently available are very elusive. The results of this study provide a new window toward the development of a new class of drugs with a novel target unexplored until now," said corresponding author Pietro Cottone, PhD, co-director of the Laboratory of Addictive Disorders (LAD) and associate professor of pharmacology and psychiatry at BUSM. Researchers created an experimental model that developed an addiction-like binge eating behavior to sugary, chocolate-flavored food intake as compared to the controls. The experimental model was also more prone to cues associated with the food and exhibited risky behav-

ior to obtain it, while the control group did not. They then tested whether administering a TAAR1 agonist, RO5256390, could reduce the maladaptive feeding behaviors. "Our data show that RO5256390 was able to block binge eating of the sugary diet, blocked the strength of cues associated with junk food and blocked compulsive eating in a potentially unsafe environment," explained co-first author

of the study Antonio Ferragud, PhD, postdoctoral fellow in the LAD. The researchers observed that TAAR1 was decreased in the region of the brain important for the process of decisionmaking and executive function (infralimbic cortex) of the experimental models as compared to controls. "TAAR1 seems to be working as a "brake" in the areas of the brain involved in decision making and executive function. Subjects exposed to junk food lose this "brake" and show aberrant addiction-like behavior over food. We are able to restore the function by activating this receptor," added Adam Howell, MS, co-first author of the study and master fellow in the LAD. Sources Science Daily Boston University Medical Center

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October 2016

Research

Frontline PARP Inhibitor Shrinks Tumors in BRCA-Positive Breast Patients

MD Anderson Moon Shots Program Study Finds All Respond to Talazoparib Before Chemo, Surgery

By d-mars.com News Provider

ll 13 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with BRCA mutations had their tumors shrink significantly when treated with a PARP inhibitor ahead of frontline presurgical chemotherapy in a pilot study at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Results of the study (abstract 153PD) will be presented Saturday at a breast cancer poster discussion session of the 2016 European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress in Copenhagen. Tumor shrinkage after two months of treatment with the PARP inhibitor talazoparib, measured by ultrasound, ranged from 30 to 98 percent with an average reduction in tumor volume of 78 percent among the 13 patients. “Acknowledging that this is a small study, I can’t think of any systemic therapy that gives results this consistently strong in only two months,” said Jennifer Litton, M.D., associate professor of Breast Medical Oncology and leader of the study. An extension of the trial is under way. Previously untreated patients agreed to undergo the targeted therapy treatment before proceeding to standard-ofcare chemotherapy and then surgery. Patients with HER2-positive disease were excluded from the study because approved targeted agents exist for those breast cancers. PARP inhibitors block a DNA repair pathway that tumors can use to survive DNA damage, both intrinsic and caused by therapy. BRCA1 and BRCA2

are tumor-suppressing genes that, when mutated, account for 5 to 10 percent of all breast cancers. BRCA-related cancers are thought to be vulnerable to PARP inhibitors. Litton is principal investigator of an international phase III clinical trial of talazoparib for patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer. Talazoparib and other PARP inhibitors already have been through phase I safety and phase II/III efficacy clinical trials.

A first step testing drug as initial treatment Given these early results for PARP inhibitors, Litton designed a stepwise approach to more quickly move talazoparib into the presurgical treatment setting for patients newly diagnosed with BRCA-positive breast cancer. She proposed an investigator-initiated pilot study to the drug company, to be supported by MD Anderson’s Moon Shots Program, an ambitious effort to reduce cancer deaths by more rapidly developing and implementing advances in prevention, early detection and treatment based on scientific discoveries. Litton originally expected the study to take two years to sign up 20 patients. Instead, 13 enrolled in eight months, and the results were striking enough that the study was stopped. Complete results, including pathological response after the full course of treatment through surgery, are being prepared for publication. None of the 13 patients had to withdraw from the talazoparib treatment due to side effects, which were limited mainly to fatigue and low blood counts.

There were no grade 4 toxicities. Eight of the 13 had triple-negative disease, breast cancer that does not have HER2 or hormonal targets for treatment. “After we saw the extensive clinical response, confirmed by ultrasound, and with a favorable toxicity profile, we really wanted to move forward into an extension to evaluate pathological response for this drug as a single treatment,” Litton said.

Next study, presurgical talazoparib alone An extension of the pilot study opened in August for 20 more patients who will take only talazoparib for six months before proceeding to surgery. Six patients have enrolled. Patients whose disease progresses will proceed to chemotherapy and then surgery. “If this study produces similarly strong results, the next step would be to directly compare talazoparib to chemotherapy in the presurgical, curative setting,” Litton said. “We might be able to delay or replace chemotherapy if we can get similar efficacy with less toxicity from treatment.” Litton noted that institutional support through the Moon Shots Program helped convince the company to provide the drug for Litton’s investigator-initiated trials.

Extensive, unique biomarker research In addition to evaluating the feasibility of enrolling patients before standard neoadjuvant therapy and the drug’s tox-

icity profile, as well as a first estimate of clinical response, the pilot study also tapped Moon Shots Program resources for extensive biomarker evaluation. Biopsies taken before and after PARP inhibition are evaluated for DNA and RNA changes, proteomics and immune response by Gordon Mills, M.D., Ph.D., chair and professor of Systems Biology. Patient-derived xenografts of tumors are developed by Helen Piwnica-Worms, Ph.D., vice provost for research and professor of Experimental Radiation Oncology, and colleagues, for use in mouse models to further study tumor response to treatment. “We will be able to learn a great deal, and not only from the tissue,” Litton said. “We also have paired PDXes before and after treatment in previously untreated breast cancer. I don’t know anywhere else in the world that has these types of exciting reagents.” The drug’s owner, Medivation, recently acquired by Pfizer, provided talazoparib for the study, which was otherwise supported by the Moon Shots Program Breast Cancer Moon Shot and the Toomim Breast Cancer Research Fund. Co-investigators with Litton, Mills and Piwnica-Worms are David Ramirez, M.D., Rashmi Murthy, M.D., Stacy Moulder, M.D., Carlos Barcenas, M.D., Vicente Valero, Daniel Booser, M.D., Jill Schwartz Gomez and Banu Arun, M.D., all of Breast Medical Oncology; Marion Scoggins, M.D., Gary Whitman, M.D., and Beatriz Adrada, M.D., of Diagnostic Radiology; Kenneth Hess, Ph.D., of Biostatistics. Source: MD Anderson Cancer Center

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October 2016 19

Career

Have You Thought of These Healthcare Occupations? By d-mars.com News Provider

mployment of healthcare occupations is projected to grow 19 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations, adding about 2.3 million new jobs. Healthcare occupations will add more jobs than any other group of occupations. This growth is expected due to an aging population and because federal health insurance reform should increase the number of individuals who have access to health insurance. The median annual wage for healthcare practitioners and technical occupations (such as registered nurses, physicians and surgeons, and dental hygienists) was $62,610 in May 2015, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations in the economy of $36,200. Healthcare support occupations (such as home health aides, occupational therapy assistants, and medical transcriptionists) had a median annual wage of $27,040 in May 2015, lower than the median annual wage for all occupations in the economy. Do you want to work in the healthcare profession, but haven’t quite made a decision as to which occupation? Below see some healthcare occupations that you may not have thought of:

Audiologists What Audiologists Do Audiologists diagnose, manage, and treat a patient’s hearing, balance, or ear problems. Work Environment

Most audiologists work in healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, physicians’ offices, and audiology clinics. Some work in schools or for school districts and travel between facilities. Others work in health and personal care stores. How to Become an Audiologist Audiologists need a doctoral degree and must be licensed in all states. Requirements for licensure vary by state. Pay The median annual wage for audiologists was $74,890 in May 2015. Job Outlook Employment of audiologists is projected to grow 29 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. Hearing loss increases as people age, so the aging population is likely to increase demand for audiologists.

Genetic Counselors

What Genetic Counselors Do Genetic counselors assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects. They provide information and support to other healthcare providers, or to individuals and families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions. Work Environment Genetic counselors work in university medical centers, private and public hospitals, and physicians’ offices. They work with families, patients, and other medical professionals. Most genetic counselors work full time. How to Become a Genetic Counselor Genetic counselors typically need a master’s degree in genetic counseling or genetics, and board certification. Pay The median annual wage for genetic counselors was $72,090 in May 2015. Job Outlook Employment of genetic counselors is projected to grow 29 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. Ongoing technological innovations, including improvements in lab tests and developments in genomics, which is the study of the whole genome, are giving counselors the opportunities to conduct more types of analyses.

Nuclear Medicine Technologists What Nuclear Medicine Technologists Do Nuclear medicine technologists operate equipment that creates images of areas of a patient’s body. They prepare radioactive drugs and administer them to patients. The radioactive drugs cause

abnormal areas of the body to appear different from normal areas in the images. Work Environment Most nuclear medicine technologists work in hospitals. Some work in physicians’ offices, diagnostic laboratories, or imaging clinics. Most nuclear medicine technologists work full time. How to Become a Nuclear Medicine Technologist Nuclear medicine technologists typically need an associate’s degree from an accredited nuclear medicine technology program. Formal education programs in nuclear medicine technology or a related healthcare field lead to a certificate, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree. Technologists must be licensed in about one half of the states; requirements vary by state. Pay The median annual wage for nuclear medicine technologists was $73,360 in May 2015. Job Outlook Employment of nuclear medicine technologists is projected to grow 2 percent from 2014 to 2024, slower than the average for all occupations. An aging population may lead to the need for nuclear medicine technologists who can provide imaging to patients with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease. However, employment growth may be tempered as many medical facilities and third-party payers encourage the use of less costly, noninvasive imaging technologies, such as ultrasound. Source www.bls.gov

Policy

Prescriptions More Affordable After U.S. Policy Changes By d-mars.com News Provider

ashington State University researchers have seen significant increases in the number of Americans who can afford to fill prescriptions following implementation of the 2003 Medicare Modernization Act and the 2010 Affordable Care Act (also called Obamacare). Still, more than 20 million adults say they have a hard time paying for their medications. The study demonstrates that an important health measure like getting prescriptions filled can respond "to changes in the health policy environment," the researchers write in the most recent issue of the American Journal of Public Health. Jae Kennedy, professor and chair of the Department of Health Policy and Administration at WSU's College of

Nursing, led the analysis of National Health Interview Surveys 1999-2015. He and co-author Elizabeth Geneva Wood, a WSU research scientist, found that at the height of the Great Recession in 2009, 25.1 million Americans did not fill a prescription in the previous 12 months because they could not afford it. That's nearly one out of every 10 Americans. The researchers then broke out the trend lines by age group. With the exception of seniors, almost all groups reported increasing difficulty paying for prescriptions from 1999 to 2009. Reported medication cost problems for Americans over age 65 peaked at 5.4 percent in 2004, and dropped to 3.6 percent by 2006, when the new Medicare Part D program was fully implemented. As the economy improved, most age groups reported improvements in their ability to pay for prescriptions. However, the percentage of adults aged 19-25 who said they could not afford to fill a

prescription dropped steeply, from 10.8 percent in 2010 to 8.2 percent in 2011, as the Affordable Care Act let young adults stay on their parents' health insurance plans. Another drop occurred among working-age adults aged 26-64 after full implementation of the Affordable Care Act in 2014. With establishment of health insurance marketplaces in each

state and expanded Medicaid eligibility in 27 states, rates of prescription affordability problems among adults aged 2664 fell from 9.1 percent in 2013 to 7.9 percent in 2014. "The takeaway is that health policy matters," said Kennedy. "In both Republican and Democratic administrations, program changes in health care financing were associated with improved prescription affordability." However, the authors noted that about 16.4 million Americans still report difficulty in paying for prescriptions. The researchers suggest that additional improvements might follow if more states opt to participate in the Medicaid expansion.

Source: Science Daily Journal Reference: Jae Kennedy, Elizabeth Geneva Wood. Medication Costs and Adherence of Treatment Before and After the Affordable Care Act: 1999–2015. American Journal of Public Health, 2016; e1 DOI: 10.2105/AJPH.2016.303269

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October 2016

Health & Wellness Recipes Enjoy making these delicious healthy recipes. For more recipes, please visit www.CookingLight.com.

Workout Recovery Drink

Chicken and Arugula Pasta Salad

You will be amazed at how delectably creamy the sweet potato becomes in the juicer, plus it’s a bit higher in calories and loaded with potassium to balance and replenish your electrolytes after exercise.

Chocolate-Cherry Heart Smart Cookies You will love this dessert with combined chocolate and cherry flavors. Not only does it have less sugar, but it also has a deeper flavor. This heart smart cookie recipe is a great way to enjoy cookies without all of the guilt.

Ingredients

• 1.5 ounces all-purpose flour (about 1/3 cup) • 1.5 ounces whole-wheat flour (about 1/3 cup) • 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar • 1 cup dried cherries • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 large egg, lightly beaten • 3 ounces bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped • Cooking spray Just a bit of a rich and pungent cheese can go quite a long way. Tossing hot pasta with a few ounces of creamy Brie makes for a light, luscious, and flavorful sauce to coat this abundant bowl of chicken, fresh veggies, and whole-grain noodles.

Ingredients • • • • •

Ingredients

• 8 ounces chopped peeled sweet potato (2 cups) • 4 ounces peeled orange • 3 ounces coarsely chopped carrot (2 small carrots)

Preparation

1. Juice in an electric juicer. Serve immediately for the best quality, or within 24 hours. Pulp Fix: Stir this bright, citrusy mix into zucchini or banana bread batter for a sunny, fiber-filled twist.

• • • • • •

6 ounces uncooked whole-wheat fusilli pasta 1 medium shallot, thinly sliced 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced 3 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and finely chopped 8 ounces shredded skinless, boneless rotisserie chicken breast (2 cups) 2 teaspoons cider vinegar 3/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided 3/8 teaspoon kosher salt 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil 5 ounces fresh baby arugula 1 large heirloom tomato, chopped

Preparation

1. Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain pasta, reserving 1/4 cup cooking liquid. 2. Place shallot and garlic in a small bowl. Pour 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking liquid over shallot mixture; steep 5 minutes. 3. Place pasta and cheese in a large bowl; toss to combine. Stir in chicken, vinegar, shallot mixture, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and salt. 4. Combine oil and arugula. Add arugula mixture to pasta mixture; toss to combine. Sprinkle with remaining 1/8 teaspoon pepper and tomato.

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°. 2. Weigh or lightly spoon flours into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flours and next 3 ingredients (through salt) in a large bowl; stir with a whisk. 3. Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat; add brown sugar, stirring until smooth. Add sugar mixture to flour mixture; beat with a mixer at medium speed until well blended. Add cherries, vanilla, and egg; beat until combined. Fold in chocolate. Drop dough by tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart onto baking sheets coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 12 minutes. Cool on pans 3 minutes or until almost firm.

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October 2016 21

LEARN MORE ABOUT GALEN COLLEGE OF NURSING’S

Online RN to BSN Program

Program Details •

12 - 16 months (based on credit transfer)

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October 2016

Sports Medicine

Don’t Let Sports Injuries Sideline Young Athletes:

Physician Anesthesiologists Specializing in Pain Medicine Can Help By d-mars.com News Provider

hether a child chooses baseball, swimming, soccer or gymnastics, playing sports is as American as apple pie. More than 60 million American kids age 6 to 18 participate in organized athletics. But along with playing sports often come injuries - and pain. From pulled muscles to concussions, sports-related injuries are common in young athletes, sending more than 2.6 million children to the emergency room every year. Don't let your child become a statistic. "Now that kids are back in school and fall sports are well underway, there are many things parents can do to help their children avoid getting hurt while still enjoying sports," says Anita Gupta, D.O., Pharm.D., a member of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Committee on Pain Medicine. "And if they do get injured, it's also important to address the pain effectively." Common injuries in young athletes include knee pain from football or soccer, and shoulder problems from swimming and pitching in baseball and softball. Physician anesthesiologists who specialize in pain medicine note help is available if your child sustains a sports-related injury and also recommend things to do to prevent future injuries.

Treating the pain If your child complains of pain after playing sports, don't shrug it off. If the problem seems relatively minor, such as a sore muscle, icing and resting for a day or two makes sense. If the pain doesn't get better or is more serious, see a physician who specializes in pain medicine, such as a physician anesthesiologist. Here are some things to keep in mind: Avoid use of opioids when possible. Opioids should rarely be prescribed for young athletes and if they are, they should be taken for no more than three days. Opioids should only be used to treat severe pain under the close supervision of a physician. Instead, start with RICE therapy rest, ice, compression and elevation - and nonsteroidal anti-inf lammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen. When it comes to opioids, there are

real risks to use, including: • Addiction: Opioids can cause a feeling of euphoria, making them highly addictive. Teens often become addicted to drugs by starting with prescription medications such as opioids. • Other negative effects: Opioids can make your child feel tired, lethargic and not alert, which can be espe-

cially dangerous for teenagers who drive. It can slow down your child's breathing, too. Combination therapy is best. The most effective way to treat pain is by combining various methods, called multi-modal therapy. Physician anesthesiologists who specialize in pain medicine often prescribe several methods to ease pain, including:

• Physical therapy to increase range of motion and strengthen muscles. • Compression braces can support the injured joint (ankle, knee or elbow) and reduce swelling. • Interventional procedures such as nerve blocks. • Medications such as anti-inf lammatories can reduce swelling. • Alternative therapies such as biofeedback, medication, massage and acupuncture. Try an ounce of prevention. Before your child puts on a uniform or takes the field, there are things you can do to head off injuries. The best defense is a good offense. Many injuries can be avoided by ensuring your child is properly prepared to play the sport. • Stretching is vital to ensuring muscles are warmed up. • Using the right equipment can also reduce injuries. For example, it's important to wear the right shoes for the sport. • Seeking expertise from an athletic trainer ensures your child is using the right technique, and doesn't overdo it. • Encouraging your child to drink plenty of f luids to stay hydrated and rest before exhaustion sets in - which can increase the risk of injury. • Look down. Paying attention to the surface your child is playing on can make a big difference when it comes to injuries. • Playing fields should be wellmaintained, not full of holes or ruts. • High impact sports should be performed on f looring made of special material that has some give or wood (example: basketball courts), not concrete. • Mix it up. Many kids often focus on one sport beginning at a young age. That means your child may use the same motion repeatedly (example: kicking a soccer ball with the same foot), increasing the risk for overuse injuries. Even if your child prefers that sport, suggest he or she mix it up with other activities so a variety of muscles are used. "Pain medicine specialists such as physician anesthesiologists can fully assess the cause of the pain and recommend the most effective treatment to ease pain and get young athletes back in the game," Dr. Gupta says. For more information about pain treatment and the importance of a pain medicine specialist, visit ASA's pain management page. - BPT

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October 2016 23

Sparkles of Life, Inc. Stepping up for Families to Be By d-mars.com News Provider

ecently, at Quail Valley City Centre in Missouri City, TX, Dr. K. Nuredeen (Houston Fertility Institute), Dr. Sherry Simpson Bradford (Atlanta, GA), Dr. Sadhna Singh (Eastern Harmony Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic), and event chairs Michael Robinson (Robinson Construction) and his wife Yvonne, helped Sparkles of Life, Inc. raise much needed funds to support individuals desiring to create families through in vitro fertilization or adoption. Guests enjoyed a night filled with music provided by the Time Less Band, while bidding on donated items from vendors: Eastern Harmony Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic, Stages, Taste of Texas, Main Street Theatre, A.D. Players, Shoe Fetage’, and House of Couture. Gifts included books by Pastor Joel Osteen. Priscilla Graham Photography and the Houston Texans donated gifts. Hollis Robinson also provided a grand door prize for a

Dynamo soccer package that included team accessories and game tickets. The funds raised will assist Sparkles of Life in sponsorship of IVF grants and after birth services that can include psychological, domestic, and respite care.

About Sparkles of Life, Inc. Sparkles of Life, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families on their path to parenthood. Sparkles of Life uses education, empowerment, and advocacy to support mothers-atheart and women whose journey consists

of infertility, miscarriage(s), or delayed parenting. For more on Sparkles of Life, Inc., please visit www.sparklesoflife.org. Photo Credit: Priscilla Graham Photography Submitted by Sparkles of Life, Inc.

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October 2016

The Blueprint for Gym Junkies arginine, and glutamine Agar-Agar: • Soluble fiber extracted from red marine algae Peanut Butter: • Rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which prevent heart disease and is less likely to store body fat In conclusion, healthy weight loss is mostly determined by what type of foods we eat. Protein is one of the healthy foods, and it also promotes quality muscle growth. A good way to start healthy eating habits is to understand the types of healthy proteins and the nutrients contained in them.

By Ja’ Kya Sheppard

Contributing Writer

any “gym junkies” thrive off of taking gym selfies and displaying their physical progress on various social media accounts, when in actuality, the true gains are made in the kitchen. The real test for transformation is nutrition; you need to know what and how much food to consume. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and recovery. Also, omega-3 is very important, working to protect the heart by lowering blood pressure, bad cholesterol, and inflammation. The blueprint for someone who desires more lean muscle definition is proper protein intake and variation. A mass variety of protein offers different benefits and can be integrated into a nutrition plan without carving out an excessive amount of time to cook and will increase your chance of successful

muscle growth and overall health.

Let's explore the top 5 proteins that are non-animal based. Ground Flax Seeds: • Excellent source of omega-3 essential fatty acids • 1 tbsp. contains 1.8g of omega-3

• Lignin ranks it #1 in the human diet Chia Seeds: • High in omega-3 • Chia seeds contain more omega-3 than salmon Soy Protein: • High amounts of amino acids,

References: Godino, J. G., Merchant, G., Norman, G. J., Donohue, M. C., Marshall, S. J., Fowler, J. H., ... & Gupta, A. (2016). Using social and mobile tools for weight loss in overweight and obese young adults (Project SMART): a 2 year, parallel-group, randomised, controlled trial. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 4(9), 747-755. Herman, A., Nelson, B. B., Teutsch, C., & Chung, P. J. (2012). “Eat healthy, stay active!”: a coordinated intervention to improve nutrition and physical activity among head start parents, staff, and children. American Journal of Health Promotion, 27(1), e27-e36.

An Easy Way to Save on Your Healthcare in 2017 By d-mars.com News Provider

f you're like most people, there are a few times a year when you sit down to review your expenses - your cable bill, entertainment expenses and grocery receipts, for example - and try to figure out where you and your family can save money. One item you should consider is your healthcare costs in 2017. Since the fall season marks the beginning of the annual open enrollment period for employees, now is the perfect time to sign up for a new health benefit plan or make changes to your current plan. Offered as part of those benefits, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) are two simple ways for people to save money in the New Year. An FSA, which is provided by your employer, allows you to save funds for eligible healthcare expenses. An HSA - which you can obtain on your own or through your employer is a tax-advantaged savings account that allows you to set aside money to cover medical expenses throughout your lifetime. A major advantage of both accounts is that individuals may use the full amount

of their pre-tax dollars toward the care you and your family may need; employees who enroll in an FSA can contribute a portion of their salary pre-tax to pay for qualified medical or dependent care expenses, while an HSA helps individuals with qualifying high-deductible health plans pay for current and future medical expenses. The number of HSA accounts has risen to 18.2 million in 2016, a 25 percent increase since 2015, according to Devenir Research. In addition, according to the 2016 Flexible Spending Account and Health Savings Account Consumer Research study commissioned by Visa and conducted by C+R Research, 90 percent of FSA users agree that saving money, since contributions are pre-tax, tops their list of reasons for having an FSA. In fact, 40 percent of FSA users claim they would cut back on their medical expenses if they didn't have an FSA. The study also finds that an FSA with no carryover option represents an important barrier to adoption amongst employees, who fear losing their unused dollars at the end of the plan year. 60 percent of non-FSA users noted they would sign up for this benefit if their employer offered the option to carryover up to $500 of their unused health FSA

• Medical equipment such as blood pressure monitors, thermometers • Smoking cessation programs

balances remaining at the end of the plan year. One of the most convenient ways to access funds in an HSA or FSA is with a Visa Healthcare Card, which allows employees to use funds in their HSA or FSA to pay for qualified medical expenses wherever Visa debit cards are accepted, making it easy to pay for expenses such as: • Copays and deductibles • Prescriptions • Dentist visits: Cleanings, orthodontia, dentures • Exams: Physicals, dermatologist • Vision care, including exams, new glasses, LASIK • Hearing exams and aids

For added convenience, most pharmacies, grocery stores and other retailers that sell healthcare products have the capability to distinguish between covered items and non-covered items when you pay for them, so you don't have to wonder whether something is covered or not. By using a Visa Healthcare Card at these locations, you no longer have to pay out-of-pocket and then submit receipts to be reimbursed for your medical expenses, saving you time and money! There's a reason why 78 percent of FSA users surveyed report having an FSA card and why 52 percent of HSA owners surveyed say they use a debit card linked to their HSA to pay for their medical expenses, as the 2016 Flexible Spending Account and Health Savings Account Consumer Research study commissioned by Visa and conducted by C+R Research found. As you review your options this open enrollment season, ask your employer if they offer an HSA or FSA with a Visa Healthcare Card to provide easy access to your funds. To learn more, visit www.visahealthcare.com. – BPT

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Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

October 2016

See Well for a Lifetime: Take Care of Your Eyes and Continue Looking Forward to the Future

By the National Eye Institute Contributing Writer

ging is a process that brings about many opportunities and changes, from major transformations such as becoming a grandparent or going back to school, to simple lifestyle changes like starting a new exercise program. Don’t miss out on any of these opportunities. Take stock of your eye health to make sure your eyes are healthy and you are seeing your best. While vision loss and blindness are not a normal part of aging, some vision changes such as losing focus, having trouble distinguishing between colors such as blue and black, and needing more light to see well are common. These changes can often be corrected with contact lenses or glasses and improved lighting.

People are also at higher risk for vision loss from certain eye diseases and conditions as they age, including the following: • Age-related macular degeneration, which gradually destroys the macula (the part of the eye that provides sharp, central vision) • Cataract, a clouding of the lens in the eye • Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that damages blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) • Glaucoma, a group of diseases that can cause fluid and pressure to build up in the eye and damage the optic nerve • Low vision, a visual impairment that can-

not be corrected by regular glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery that interferes with the ability to perform everyday activities • Dry eye, a condition that occurs when the eye does not produce tears properly or when tears evaporate too quickly There are many things you can do to reduce your risk of vision loss from eye disease and make sure your eyes are healthy. Follow these simple steps to continue to look forward to the future. HAVE A COMPREHENSIVE DILATED EYE EXAM. You might think your vision is fine or that your eyes are healthy, but getting a comprehensive dilated eye exam is the only way to really be sure. During this exam, your eye care professional places drops in your eyes to dilate, or widen, the pupil to allow more light to enter the eye the same way an open door lets more light

into a dark room. This enables your eye care professional to get a good look at the back of your eyes and examine them for any signs of damage or disease. Your eye care professional can also let you know if your vision can benefit from glasses or contact lenses. KNOW YOUR RISK FACTORS. As you get older, you are at higher risk of developing age-related eye diseases and conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataract, diabetic eye disease, dry eye, and glaucoma. Having a family history of eye disease also puts you at higher risk. And being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing diabetes and other systemic conditions that can lead to vision loss. If you are having trouble maintaining a healthy weight, talk to your doctor. EAT RIGHT TO PROTECT YOUR SIGHT. You’ve heard carrots are good for

your eyes, but eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables—particularly dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, or collard greens—is important for keeping your eyes healthy, too. Research has also shown that there are eye health benefits from eating fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, and halibut. A healthy diet can also help you maintain a healthy weight, which can help protect your vision. WEAR YOUR SHADES AND A BRIMMED HAT. Sunglasses and a brimmed hat are great fashion accessories, but their most important job is to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. When purchasing sunglasses, look for ones that block out 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B radiation. Prolonged sun exposure is associated with developing cataract and AMD. DON’T SMOKE. Smoking is as bad for your eyes as it is for the rest of your body. Research has linked smoking to an increased risk of developing AMD, cataract, and optic nerve damage, all of which can lead to vision loss and blindness. USE PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR. Wear protective eyewear such as goggles, safety glasses, face shields, and eye guards when playing sports or doing activities around the home and encourage your family and friends to do the same. Most protective eyewear lenses are made of polycarbonate, which is 10 times stronger than other plastics. Many eye care providers sell protective eyewear, as do some sporting goods stores.

The National Eye Institute, one of the National Institutes of Health and the federal government’s principal agency for vision research, offers additional eye health information and tips for people to protect their vision as they age. Visit http://www.nei.nih.gov/agingeye.

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Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication