d-mars.com Health & Wellness 29 by d-mars.com

November 2013 INSIDE

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Being Thankful for Your Health Stop the Spread of Cold and Flu Viruses this School Year By d-mars.com News Provider A new school year has started and as many parents know, kids are likely to bring home more than their homework at some point. Many catch cold and flu viruses from ... PAGE 24

Making Wellness Programs Work for your Wallet and Lifestyle

By d-mars.com News Provider By now you’ve probably heard the message loud and clear: Staying well through preventive steps... PAGE 26

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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas Aims to Get Houstonians Insured One Size Does Not Fit All When it Comes to Health Care By d-mars.com News Provider With impending health care changes, employers and employees are looking for ways to offset some of the rising costs of health care with the goal of getting healthy at the same time... PAGE 30

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Youth Hosts Event to Raise Money for Diabetes Research Join our e-mail list for the latest updates @ d-mars.com

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Finding Strength Along the Caregiver Journey

“I made a commitment to completely cut out drinking and anything that might hamper me from getting my mind and body together. And the floodgates of goodness have opened upon me – spiritually and financially.” – Denzel Washington

November 2013

Journal Behind The

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Valerie Jones

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

Administrative Assistant Angelle Gillum

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Good health is something many take for granted, but as minorities we need to be especially careful because we are more prone to certain illnesses – such as heart disease and stroke – than the general population. But many have dedicated themselves to becoming healthier individuals and educating themselves about how to be healthier. This issue celebrates those who have taken control of their health as well as those who have overcome disease and illness. A testimony is wonderful, especially when it’s shared with others to inspire, encourage and educate. As always again, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support d-mars.com, 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.

Contents

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas Aims to Get Houstonians Insured............................................................................................ 4

Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine

Reaching to Empower Women Daily (R2EWD) Foundation Partners with “Let’s Move!” to Curb Childhood Obesity........................................................................................... 8

PHOTOGRAPHY

Obesity: More Good Reasons to Avoid the Epidemic......................................................................................................................10

L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

The Ins and Outs of Toenail Fungus................................................................................................................................................... 12

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kevin Wright

DISTRIBUTION

Malocclusion and Oral Health................................................................................................................................................................ 9

Overcoming Cancer...Three-Time Cancer Vixen................................................................................................................................ 13 Youth Hosts Event to Raise Money for Diabetes Research.......................................................................................................... 14 Healthy and Tasty Dessert Recipes....................................................................................................................................................15 Finding Strength Along the Caregiver Journey................................................................................................................................16 Risk of Concussion Increases with Back-to-School Sports.........................................................................................................18 Four Steps to Outsmarting Diabetes.................................................................................................................................................20

Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

Sweeteners: An Easy Way to Live and Eat Healthier....................................................................................................................20

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Patients with Chronic Illness Share Their Animated, Inspiring Stories................................................................................... 22

Valerie Jones Mena Freeman Sterling Carter, DPT, MS, CSCS Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade Stephanie Allen-Gobert Judy Blake Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Dr. Julie Lester d-mars.com News Provider Dr. Wendy Johnson

Stop the Spread of Cold and Flu Viruses this School Year.......................................................................................................... 24

Taking Control of Your Cancer Journey: New Resources Provide Patients and Caregivers Support............................... 22

Learn More About Lupus and the Search for Answers................................................................................................................. 24 Making Wellness Programs Work for your Wallet and Lifestyle................................................................................................26 Clarifying Common Misperceptions of Depression........................................................................................................................28 Healthy, Decadent Reduced-Guilt Holiday Desserts......................................................................................................................28 One Size Does Not Fit All When it Comes to Health Care.............................................................................................................30

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month “We all need to start making some changes to how our families eat. Now, everyone loves a good Sunday dinner – me included. And there’s nothing wrong with that. The problem is when we eat Sunday dinner Monday through Saturday.” – Michelle Obama

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November 2013

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas Aims to Get Houstonians Insured

By: Valerie Jones Contribuiting Writer

roper health and wellness is vital to living a well-balanced life, which reduces the chance for disease and illness. Recognizing that more than 6 million Texans are uninsured, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) is aiming to inform the population by focusing efforts on education and outreach. BCBSTX has sponsored Be Covered Texas, a grassroots initiative introducing uninsured Texans to the new health insurance options available under the Afford-

able Care Act and educating Texans about the intricacies of health care reform. Providing Resources to the Public Several Care Fairs have been held across the state as part of the Be Covered Texas campaign. The Houston Care Fair, held at Reliant Park, allowed an opportunity to educate Houston’s 600,000 uninsured residents. The event, which was targeted for both English-speaking and Spanishspeaking residents, provided an array of educational information and health-related screenings and activities, including access to a wide range of free services – information about the new health care law, flu shots, health screenings, healthy food

giveaways, and direct access to local community resources through Be Covered Texas partners. “The Be Covered Texas effort works to provide educational resources and information to established community groups to help their members understand the new health care law,” said Michelle Riddell, Chair of the Be Covered Texas Campaign and Vice President of Community Investment for BCBSTX. “We’re working with more than 150 communitybased organizations and partners large and small to reach people where they live, work, learn, worship, text, and tweet.” More than 15,000 Texans attended

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Be Covered Texas Care Fairs in Houston and Dallas in October. Attendees were interested in information about how the health care law impacts them and sought assistance in determining what steps they need to take to gain access to individual health insurance and to the subsidies that can help reduce the cost. The campaign, which is fully funded by BCBSTX, is working with 57 partners in Houston. “The NAACP Houston Branch is proud to partner with the Be Covered Texas campaign,” said Yolanda Smith, executive director of the Houston NAACP. “The NAACP believes strongly that Health Advocacy is a 21st Century civil

November 2013

rights issue and through this important educational initiative, we hope to help educate and empower our members about the choices they have for health insurance in 2014.” Educating Millennials About Health Care With the passing of the Obama administration’s Affordable Care Act, also known as “Obamacare,” many of Houston’s thriving population of young adults will be able to get insurance coverage. Unfortunately, many of these young adults go about their daily lives without insurance or preventive care and are extremely uninformed. BCBSTX is striving to keep the youth educated in regard to health care coverage options. BCBSTX partnered with The Texas Tribune to spark the conversation on how to engage young adults by sponsoring a health care forum at the Baker Institute on the campus of Rice University. The forum included three panelists: Erin Hemlin, state outreach and policy coordinator for Young Invincibles; Vivian Ho, economics professor at Rice University and professor in the department of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine; and Jenny Gold, correspondent for Kaiser Health News. The key to keeping the Affordable Care Act affordable, Ho explained, is getting young, healthy people into the system. “If we have a very low enrollment of young people in the Affordable Care Act, we will have a problem,” she said. “There will be new people in the system who are extremely ill; we will need young healthy people to enroll in order to offset those who are ill and keep insurance premiums lower.” Of the 7 million people the government hopes will sign up for the program, they need 3 million of those people to be healthy young people. Gold said she’s found that young people do want health insurance and think it’s important, but they find it too expensive or have a lack of knowledge of health insurance plans. A poll by Young Invincibles, a national organization that focuses on issues pertaining to people ages 18 to 34, found that 71% polled said they either didn’t have access to health insurance, weren’t presented with an affordable option for

health insurance, or had a pre-existing condition that wouldn’t be covered by their health insurance. T h e panelists agreed that there are several obstacles that need to be overcome in order to make the Affordable Care Act successful, including fixing the problems with the website (currently malfunctions when too many are trying to sign up at one time), providing accurate, in-depth information about the program, and focusing educational/marketing efforts to the younger population. “Young people don’t have as much money, they’re not as far in their careers, and many don’t have health insurance,” Gold said. Hemlin shared that Texas is the most uninsured state in the U.S., all the more reason why it’s important to get the correct message out to Texas residents. It’s the assumption that once issues like the website are fixed, the next phase in informing the public about the Affordable Care Act will be anticipating questions such as “Are these plans affordable?” and “Will people actually sign up?” Hemlin explained that sometimes people can be fooled by low monthly premiums.

erage. It Starts W i t h the Children… B C B STX also recognizes that great health starts with the children, and the proper preventive measures can set the stage for a healthy adulthood. For that reason, BCBSTX, in partnership with KaBOOM!, will be building its 13th playground. This is part of the “Healthy Kids, Healthy Families” initiative, designed to improve the health and wellness of children through community invest-

“For many young people, a higher deductible is a risk they are willing to take,” she said. “They’ll see the cheaper monthly plans, pick those plans, and then become frustrated when they learn of the deductibles and how much they have to pay in the case of an emergency or something catastrophic.” However, Hemlin did note that with a growing population of young entrepreneurs who aren’t working a typical nineto-five, the Affordable Care Act would be appealing because it would distance insurance coverage from employment – meaning they will no longer feel locked into a job in order to have insurance cov-

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ments. “Healthy Kids, Healthy Families” supports nonprofit organizations that encourage health education, promote physical activity, prevent and manage disease, and support safe environments for children. The new playground, Francis Elementary School, will replace the current one, which has been deemed unsafe and will service more than 750 children in the neighborhood. BCBSTX remains steadfast in educating and informing the community of available options regarding health care and their options under the new Affordable Care Act. Their continued efforts – such as health care forums that allow an opportunity to foster relevant and thoughtful conversations, participation in Be Covered Texas, and volunteering to make sure the community’s children are safe and healthy helps to spread the word.

November 2013

BCBSTX partnered with The Texas Tribune to spark the conversation on how to engage young adults by sponsoring a health care forum at the Baker Institute on the campus of Rice University.

Health Care and the Millennials Forum at Rice Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Baker Institute

The forum included three panelists: Erin Hemlin, state outreach and policy coordinator for Young Invincibles; Vivian Ho, economics professor at Rice University and professor in the department of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine; and Jenny Gold, correspondent for Kaiser Health News.

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November 2013

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November 2013

Reaching To Empower Women Daily (R2EWD)

Foundation Partners with ‘Let’s Move!’ to Curb Childhood Obesity

By Rhonda Dallas Contributing Writer

he threat of childhood obesity to the health of our children and the health of our nation has never been greater. First Lady Michelle Obama recognizes this threat, and has taken up the cause with her ‘Let’s Move!’ initiative, encouraging families across the country to commit to living healthier lives. The Partnership for a Healthier America supports the First Lady’s cause by encouraging, tracking and communicating commitments to healthier lifestyles from partner organizations – commitments that align with the priorities of the Partnership for a Healthier America.

Obesity by the numbers Over the past three decades, childhood obesity rates in America have tripled. Today, almost one in every three children in our nation is obese or overweight. The numbers are even higher in African American and Hispanic communities, in which nearly 40% of the children are overweight or obese. If we don’t solve this problem, one-third of all children born in 2000 or later will suffer from diabetes at some point in their lives. Many others may face chronic obesity-related health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer and asthma.

How Did We Get Here? Thirty years ago, most people led lives that kept them at a healthy weight. Kids walked to and from school every day, ran around at recess, participated in gym class, and played for hours after school before dinner. Meals were home-cooked with reasonable portion sizes and there was always a vegetable on the plate. Eating fast food was rare and snacking between meals was an occasional treat. Today, children experience a very different lifestyle. Walks to and from school have been replaced by car and bus rides. Gym class and after-school sports have been cut; afternoons are now spent with

television, video games, and the internet. Parents are busier than ever and families eat fewer home-cooked meals. Snacking between meals is now commonplace. Thirty years ago, kids ate just one snack a day, whereas now they are trending toward three snacks, resulting in an additional 200 calories a day. And one in five school-age children has up to six snacks a day. Portion sizes have also exploded – they are now two to five times bigger than they were in years past. Beverage portions have grown as well. In the mid-1970s, the average sugar-sweetened beverage was 13.6 ounces. Today, kids think nothing of drinking 20 ounces of sugar-sweetened beverages at a time. In total, we are now eating 31 percent more calories than we were 40 years ago– including 56 percent more fats and oils and 14 percent more sugars and sweeteners. The average American now eats 15 more pounds of sugar a year than in 1970. Eight to 18-year-old adolescents spend an average of 7.5 hours a day using entertainment media, including, television, computers, video games, cell phones and movies, and only one-third of high school students get the recommended levels of physical activity. Now that’s the bad news. The good news is that by making just a few lifestyle changes, we can help our children lead healthier lives—and we already have the tools we need to do it. We just need the will. “BMI (Body Mass Index) 2014” is a program that was designed by founder Rhonda Dallas to teach awareness, promote a healthier lifestyle, offer personalized health and wellness coaching sessions, offer healthy lifestyle cooking demonstrations, and educate about the upcoming changes to your health record. Please sign up your medical office, congregation, organization, or yourself to host or offer a seminar to take a pledge to become a healthier American. Call 832922-0567 or email dallasjrus@yahoo.com to book your seminar or learn more information.

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Malocclusion and Oral Health

By Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade Contributing Writer What is malocclusion? alocclusion means having crooked teeth or a “poor bite.” Orthodontic treatment can correct the way teeth and jaws line up. Dentists who are specially trained to correct malocclusion are called orthodontists. They use a variety of treatment tools and techniques (including braces) to move teeth, and sometimes the jaw, into the right places. What causes malocclusion? If children have a small jaw, their teeth may grow into a space that is too small. Malocclusion (poor bite) is usually caused by problems in the shape or size of the jaw or teeth. A common cause of malocclusion is teeth that have too much or too little room in the jaw. If children have a small jaw, their teeth may grow into a space that is too small. Under these crowded conditions, teeth will push each other out of proper position. As a result, teeth may grow or drift out of place. Other causes include thumb-sucking, pacifier use, and tooth loss. What are the symptoms? The most obvious sign of malocclusion is crooked, stuck out or protruding teeth. Physical symptoms of malocclusion are uncommon but can range from mild to severe. Most of the time, having crooked teeth is only a cosmetic problem, meaning people don’t like the way their teeth look. But in severe cases, it can cause problems with eating or speaking. Have your general or pediatric dentist evaluate whether a poor bite is causing: • Problems chewing food • Problems with biting the cheek or roof of the mouth • Slurring speech, trouble saying certain words, or other speech problems

• Pain in the facial muscles or jaw • Permanent teeth coming in (erupting) at the wrong position Adult malocclusion symptoms will typically remain the same or get worse over the years. Symptoms in a child who has mild malocclusion may improve over time. Through the teen years, the jaw grows dramatically. This growth period may correct mild crowding of teeth or teeth shifting as a result of thumb-sucking. How is malocclusion diagnosed? A dentist usually checks for malocclusion in children during regular dental visits. Teeth that are naturally perfectly aligned are rare. A poor fit and alignment of the teeth (malocclusion) can range from mild to severe. Mild malocclusion causes no medical or functional problems and little cosmetic concern, while severe malocclusion may cause difficulty with eating and speaking. Some people are embarrassed or self-conscious about crooked or protruding teeth. Crowding is the most common type of malocclusion. In children, early crowding of permanent teeth can prevent new teeth from coming in properly or from erupting at all (impaction). Some mild types of malocclusion may improve as a child’s jaw grows and changes. But there are many conditions that don’t improve without treatment. These usually involve the size or position of the jaw (such as an underbite or an unusually narrow lower jaw). With or without orthodontic treatment, the teeth have a normal tendency to slowly drift toward the front of the jaw. This may lead to crowded lower front teeth (incisors). A poor bite doesn’t usually cause tooth decay, gum (periodontal) disease, or temporomandibular (TM) disorder. But teeth that are aligned properly are easier to keep clean. If the jaw or teeth are out of line, the dentist may suggest a visit to an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children

get a checkup with an orthodontist by age 7. An orthodontist will: • Ask questions about your or your child’s past health problems • Check the mouth and teeth • Take X-rays of the face and teeth • Take photographs of the face and teeth • Make a plaster model of the teeth Start your child’s trips to the dentist when the child is 12 months. This will help your child get used to seeing a dentist. It will also catch any early problems. Keep up with regular dental checkups two times a year. What Increases Your Risk? Things that increase the risk of developing malocclusion include: • A family history of malocclusion • Jaw and tooth size are inherited traits that can cause too much or too little room for the teeth. • Oral habits, such as thumb-sucking and possibly mouth breathing. • Tooth loss, due to trauma or tooth decay. After a tooth is knocked out or removed (extracted), the bordering teeth drift out of place. Major causes of childhood tooth loss include: 1. Playing sports without a mouth guard 2. Using poor dental hygiene

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November 2013

3. Stumbling or falling accidents 4. Sucking on a baby bottle during sleep – sugars in juice, milk, and formula can cause tooth decay How is it treated? In children and teens, the first step in treatment may be to take out certain teeth to make room for teeth that may still grow in. The next step is to attach braces to teeth to straighten out the bite. In addition to straightening teeth, braces can help move a child’s jaw into the right position. Teeth tend to move forward as you age, even after treatment with braces. Retainers are devices you wear in your mouth to keep your teeth from moving. Some people need to use retainers for many years after treatment. Adults can successfully straighten their teeth with braces. But the only way to straighten an adult’s jaw is with surgery. Braces and other types of orthodontic treatment cost a lot. Most insurance plans don’t pay for them. Before you start treatment, make sure you know how much it will cost and how you will pay for it. For breakthrough dental technology,

GIVE US A CALL TODAY! For More Information, call us at 713.654.7756 or visit our website at www.cosmeticdt.com

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November 2013

Obesity: More Good Reasons to Avoid the Epidemic

By Sterling Carter, DPT, MS, CSCS Contributing Writer

ccording to a survey sponsored by ABC News, USA Today, and Stanford University Medical Center, more than 50 percent of Americans are spending their lives dealing with reoccurring and chronic pain. If you’re one of those people, you just might want to check your waistline. The survey showed that while about half the participants could pinpoint a condition or injury as a cause of the pain, just as many couldn’t come up with a specific cause. Other research suggests that pain may be the result of excess pounds. Among the most common areas that those surveyed indicated as a source of pain is the knee. A study reported in the Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery looked at how a person’s weight affected how well they responded to treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee. The study specifically looked at how women between the ages of 30 and 55 responded to knee surgery since the condition is more common in women than in men. The study showed that women who were

overweight were much more likely to report less satisfaction with the results of the surgery than women of normal weight. This was especially true in relation to their ability to perform everyday physical activities, like walking and climbing stairs, and in their general attitude toward life. Sadly, it’s not just adults who are suffering the ill effects of excess weight. More and more children are being classified as overweight and even obese. In fact, another study published in Pediatric Physical Therapy states that the number of children and teens who are overweight increased three-fold between 1980 and 2000, and that number just continues to rise. While childhood obesity serves as a pretty accurate predictor of health problems that could be encountered during the adult years, it also poses many risks during childhood. Among the many problems that may occur in obese children are: • Spinal Issues: Overweight children don’t develop enough spinal bone mineral content to support the extra weight they carry. This may lead to a weakening of the spine and increased incidence of back pain. • Hip Problems: Children who are overweight are at greater risk for a condition called Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis, or SCFE, which occurs when the growing end of the femur (the thigh bone) slips from the hip socket. Over-

•

weight children may experience the condition more frequently because of the excess pressure placed on the hip joint. Blount Disease: Blount disease is a disorder of the skeleton that causes the legs to bow. There are two types of Blount disease – infantile and adolescent. Studies have shown that obese infants (between one and three years of age) are much more likely to have Blount disease than are infants of normal weight. Adolescent Blount disease is also most prevalent in those who are overweight. In fact, approximately 90 percent of all reported cases occur in black males who are classified as morbidly obese. Increase in Broken Bones: Obesity has also been linked to a higher rate of broken bones in children. Fractures are most common in children during growth spurts. Children who are overweight may not have sufficient bone development to withstand blows that wouldn’t cause breaks in children of nor-

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mal weight. This may be because of a lack of physical activity, which helps increase bone density, or it may simply be because an overweight child falls harder than one who is not overweight. Although we know that obesity is caused by overeating, it’s impossible to reduce weight in a healthy manner without following a proper exercise routine. Therefore, if you or someone you care about is experiencing reoccurring or chronic pain – especially when the source is unidentified – it’s a good idea to discuss an exercise routine with your healthcare professional. Your physical therapist will be able to suggest exercises that you can safely perform to help strengthen your body while reducing your weight. Until Next Month, Thanks from Sterling Carter, PT, MS, CSCS Sterling Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation www.sterlingtherapy.com 281-240-3140

November 2013

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November 2013

The Ins and Outs of Toenail Fungus

By Dr. Julie Lester Contributing Writer

nychomycosis (on-ee-komy-ko-sis) describes an infection of the fingernails or toenails, causing the nails to split, thicken, discolor, and disfigure. It is one of the most commonly diagnosed foot problems that podiatrists encounter. If left untreated, onychomycosis can progress rapidly, becoming painful and unmanageable. In addition, the condition can lead to psychosocial problems due to the embarrassment from nail fungus. Onychomycosis is most commonly caused by fungi called dermatophytes. It can also be caused by yeast called Candida, or least often by molds. In each case, the organism can infect the nail bed, the root of the nail, and/or the cuticle, causing changes in the appearance of the nail plate itself. There are some predisposing factors that can lead to the development of onychomycosis. Increased warmth and humidity can be a breeding ground for fungus. Individuals who work with their hands or feet constantly submerged in water,

such as dishwashers or car wash attendants, are at risk of developing fingernail or toenail fungus infections. Recurrent or untreated athleteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foot infections can also progress and lead to toenail involvement. In addition, repeated trauma such as that seen with frequent exercise or tight-fitting shoes, can allow naturally occurring dermatophytes to invade the nail and infect the nail bed. Use of communal showers can also cause rapid spread of fungus. Finally, certain disease processes that affect immunity, such as peripheral vascular disease, diabetes, and HIV can also lead to onychomycosis. Some cases of onychomycosis can be diagnosed based on clinical appearance alone. However, because there are so many conditions that mimic nail fungus, more specific testing is most often needed to make a definitive diagnosis. Your podiatrist can obtain a small nail sample to be sent to a laboratory for staining or culturing. Results are usually obtained in one week, and your doctor will work with you to decide which treatment is best suited for you. Treatment of onychomycosis can often be difficult due to the slow-growing nature of nails, and their low blood supply. The most common treatment options include topical antifungal medications and oral pills. Topical medications are applied to the surface of the nail to treat the infection. If the nail plate is especially thick, it will not allow topical medications to penetrate, rendering them virtually ineffec-

tive. Your podiatrist can grind the surface of your toenails to thin them out, making it easier for medication to get to the infected nail bed. Oral medications have proven to be effective with little drug-to-drug interactions. However, significant side effects can occur if there is an underlying liver condition. As a result, doctors order blood tests prior to prescribing this medication to determine normal liver function. If oral medication is right for you, your doctor may choose to combine it with topical therapy for maximum effect. In severe onychomycosis, doctors and patients may decide upon surgical removal of the offending nails. In these cases, the nails are significantly thick and painful, making regular shoe wear difficult. Because the absence of a nail can be aesthetically displeasing, and the procedure can be painful, this procedure should be

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used as a last line of defense. Most recently, health advancements have led to the development of lasers in the treatment of toenail fungus. They are designed to emit infrared light, which inactivates the fungus within the nail. This quick, non-invasive, and pain-free procedure is growing in popularity, and studies have shown increased effectiveness with a lower rate of recurrence. Toenail fungus can leave nails thick, discolored and brittle, making them difficult, and sometimes impossible to manage. If you suffer from unsightly toenails, your podiatrist can evaluate your condition and help choose the right treatment option for you. About the Author: If you are interested in laser treatment, Foundation Foot & Ankle Centers can help. Please call and schedule an appointment today. 713-234-7057

November 2013

13.

Overcoming Cancer…Three-Time Cancer Vixen!

By Kandice “Glam Girl” Rose Contributing Writer

was overwhelmed with emotions as I waved goodbye to my team my sophomore year in high school. My basketball team threw me a party after we all found out my cancer came back for a second time. This time it was Leukemia, not Hodgkin’s lymphoma like I was diagnosed originally the year before. I remember running out of the gym and Lindsey came running behind me telling me “everything was going to be okay and the team was rooting for you.” Before I knew it, I had to leave school, start chemotherapy treatments and find a bone marrow donor. I did not have to look far because my middle sister Kacee was a perfect match! After chemotherapy and radiation treatments and a bone marrow transplant, I continued to go to Langham Creek High School and have a pretty much “normal” high school life filled with friends, parties and picking what college I wanted to attend after my senior year. After high school I attended HustonTillotson University in Austin. I wanted to leave my past behind and that included cancer. I rarely brought it up to my new friends and classmates. I just wanted to be treated normal and experience the college life. I was involved with student organizations, joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and played volleyball. My senior year, my brother lost his battle with sarcoma cancer. In 2009, (years after graduation) I was experiencing horrible back pains, anxiety, weight loss and night sweats. I went to the emergency room numerous times over the course of three months. I went to a doctor for my back pain and had some tests done. I received the results in the mail and did not read the results. One day I was having problems breathing and was referred to a lung doctor. The day before my visit he told me to bring every test I’ve taken within the last six months. I decided to take the test I received from the back doctor six months prior. Once I handed over the results, the doctor explained to me that the test showed I had abnormal cells related to cancer and the doctor I went to should have followed up on my results. The doctor sent me to an oncologist across town to get more testing done. I walked into a clinic in Katy at 6:30pm and I remember thinking “nothing is wrong with me, I wish they could hurry this up.” I did a few tests and he told me he would contact me in a couple of days. After a couple of days, the doctor asked

me to come to his office and discuss the test results. That day I went to the doctor’s office with my dad and friend. The doctor came and told us that he “highly suspects that it’s cancer.” But he could not give us a sure answer until I have a biopsy. I was in shock but I still did not cry or get upset. “So when can I go and do this thing?” I politely asked the doctor. He told me he would schedule the operation within a week. It took months to get results back because I had four biopsies before they found out that my cancer was officially back and it was stage four with Hodgkin Lymphoma. So one day I headed to the bookstore in search of a journal when I received a call. It was Lindsey, my old friend from high school. She told me that she was just diagnosed with cervical cancer and she wanted to talk to me. “You have to be kidding. I just found out I have cancer too. It’s come back 11 years later. Can you believe that?” We talked about everything the next two hours on the phone: wigs, treatment, side effects and doctors. In 2010, I became a patient at MD Anderson Cancer Hospital. My treatment consists of chemotherapy called ICE. I would go into the hospital and receive chemotherapy for 3-4 days and I would rest for two weeks before the next round. After having four rounds of chemotherapy I would get back with my doctors and see the status of my cancer. After chemotherapy, my doctors sent me to a specialist to discuss a marrow stem cell transplant (a procedure that replaces a person’s faulty stem cells with healthy ones). I spoke to the doctor and was very upset with the outcome and decided to go to another hospital to have my stem cell transplant. Due to my religious beliefs, I do not accept blood transfusions and researched where I could go to get this life-saving op-

eration done. Philadelphia was the place I decided on and I chose to get my operation at Pennsylvania Hospital. I was going through many emotions after realizing that my cancer would not be cured if I did not receive this operation. I started a small bucket list of things I wanted to do before I left and one of them was spending more time with my niece and nephews. I remember taking them to Chuck E. Cheese and thinking “I hope they remember me if something happens.” I also made sure that I attended my sorority sister’s wedding for which I was a bridesmaid. I wanted to be around my friends before I left so I pushed back my procedure date in order to attend the wedding. The Sunday after the wedding we drove back to Houston, packed for Philadelphia, and left that night with my sister Kacee. It was extremely scary to be in a place where you do not know anyone and nothing is familiar. It was our first time being in Philly. I was immediately sent to my hotel room and started getting ready for my operation. It took about a week and I was admitted into the hospital for my marrow stem cell. I received an autologous transplant; I used my own stem cells and they were collected and stored for use later on. (This works best when you still have enough healthy stem cells, even though you’re sick. If you have cancer, the cancer cells are removed or destroyed from the collected cells). I stayed in the hospital a month and a half. I saw people give up. I went through side effects, congestive heart failure and stayed in ICU for two weeks. Coming back to Houston was a new beginning. I was ready to get back to “normal” but I had a long road ahead of me. Lindsey was still having difficult times with different treatments. We

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spoke about our hardships and one night I said “look at us; we’re just two PRETTY GIRLS WITH CANCER. Let’s start a group.” After that day we stayed in touch and kept each other updated on a weekly basis. There were days we would set up lunch or dinner dates and either she would be sick or I would be sick. Lindsey had a great sense of humor and was always uplifting even when she was in pain. Our last conversation was on a Sunday afternoon and she had just started her hospice care at home. I was so happy that she called me back. Our conversation will stick in my head for the rest of my life. She spoke about her wishes, her beloved blender she wanted from her apartment and Pretty Girls with Cancer and her thoughts. The last thing she said to me was “okay, someone just came so I have to go, but I will let you know if you can come visit me next week... stay glamorous.” And I said “I love you and you know I will!” That was the last time I spoke to her. A month after returning from Philadelphia, my doctors told me that I was “officially in remission and the transplant worked.” Today, I continue to go to MD Anderson and do tests and deal with side effects. My fight still continues every day, but the support and love makes it a little easier. Pretty Girls with Cancer was just an idea between two high school friends and now it’s a reality. It is so important to see the doctor, know your body and get regular checkups. I lost loved ones including my brother, grandmother and friends to cancer. Enough is enough; it’s time to stand up against cancer. Stay Pretty, Positive and Powerful Against Cancer. For more information visit:

www.prettygirlswithcancer.com

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November 2013

Youth Hosts Event to Raise Money for Diabetes Research By: Valerie Jones Contributing Writer

hen Lundyn Davis was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age six, she didn’t experience the feeling of “my life will never be the same;” rather, she knew she would have to make some adjustments in her life – for the rest of her life until a cure was found. “At the time of my diagnosis I was very shy, not knowing that I eventually would become an advocate for both the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the Juvenile Diabetic Research Foundation (JDRF),” Lundyn said. “I later moved on to be the Youth Ambassador for the ADA’s Tour de Cure Houston for its first two years, as well as the Youth Ambassador for JDRF’s Walk to Cure Type 1 Diabetes.” Lundyn was sitting around one day when she realized December 2013 would make 10 years since she was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. She knew she wanted to celebrate. “I initially thought ‘okay I will do a party,’ but then I looked on the JDRF website and saw how a young man turned his Bar Mitzvah into a fundraiser and he sent all the money to JDRF,” Lundyn said. “That is when I knew I wanted to do a fundraiser. I called my mom and dad and they were both on board. However, daddy reminded me that it costs money

to raise money. So I got a committee together and starting planning the event “A Sweet Cure.” A Sweet Cure is a nonprofit third-party event which is purposed to raise funds for the JDRF to aid in their research of finding a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. Lundyn is trying to raise $10,000 for the JDRF so that another child will not have to be diagnosed with the incurable disease. “I find great joy and pleasure in telling my story and getting the word out about Type 1 Diabetes,” Lundy said. “This is a disease that most Americans know very little about, although the disease will affect one in three people born after the year 2000. That number increases to one in two for minorities. This is why I want to make a difference.” Lundyn has had to show incredible strength while dealing with her disease. “Staying strong and positive comes from having a strong and positive support system – from family to friends and everybody in between – they are all key to me keeping my head up,” she said. “Staying positive starts with myself and knowing that I have Type 1 Diabetes and am a part of the T1D family so that I can make a difference. It is my job to help find a cure and get others to help as well.” Lundyn said her mother and father are the most supportive – she describes them as the perfect parents for a child with T1D; and she then credits the support of her friends – who never thought Lundyn

to be any different than them; and finally the support of her extended family – who made her feel comfortable and beyond loved, especially at first diagnosis. “Ms. Y. Smith was my fourth grade teacher, National Junior Beta Club sponsor, and still to this day a mentor in my life,” she said. “She not only made the shy little girl I was feel comfortable with being Type 1, but she began my transformation into using me being a Type 1 Diabetic to build myself and help find a cure. She is the main reason I understood that being a part of the T1D family was meant for me to use to advocate and educate people about this disease to help find a cure.” Lundyn plans to one day become an endocrinologist, write books, and do motivational and public speaking. She also wants to spread the word about T1D in as many ways as possible. “Everyone immediately thinks Type 2 when they think of diabetes because of the obesity issues in America,” Lundyn said. “Very few know that there are those of us out here who had no control over

onset of this disease. They do not know that our beta cells are just not effective, and there is nothing we can do about it. That is why a cure needs to be found, but you can’t find a cure if not enough people are educated about the disease.” For more information about A Sweet Cure, email Mel Davis at mel@thebreakfastklub.com.

Houston Preps for Nzuri Natural Hair Health Festival By: Valerie Jones Contributing Writer

eola Anifowoshe is the co-founder of the Nzuri Natural Hair Health and Beauty Festival, which is in its fifth year of exist-

ence. An entrepreneur from a young age, Anifowoshe founded several programs to help give back to her community. She did not want to depend on government grants, so Anifowoshe created her own events to raise funds. That is how the first natural hair show was created. “Nzuri is a Swahili word that means both ‘beautiful’ and ‘very good.’ It was perfect for what we wanted to do,” Anifowoshe said. “I’ve been in nutrition for almost 20 years and it was just natural for me to transition into creating products that make people feel better.” After outgrowing two facilities, the Nzuri Natural Hair Health and Beauty Festival found a home at the Reliant Center. Last year, the fes-

tival boasted more than 6,000 attendees and 10,000 attendees are expected this year plus more than 150 exhibitors. This year’s event will be Dec. 7 and 8 and will benefit Fish and Bread Ministries, a nonprofit organization that feeds the hungry in Houston. “The Nzuri Natural Hair Health and Beauty Festival is important for several reasons. Primarily, it is a platform for African Americans to showcase their goods and services to a highly targeted market through the vending experience,” Anifowoshe said. “It is our goal by 2017 when the Super Bowl does arrive in Houston that we will be the size of an Essence Festival-like event right here in the City of Houston.” This year’s theme is “Embrace Your Natural Beauty” with a mission intended to educate, motivate, and empower all natural, transitioning or just otherwise healthy hair enthusiasts as well as health and beauty conscious consumers with a wide array of things to do, see and learn. “Embrace means to hold close. When we say ‘embrace your natural beauty’ we mean to hold it close – to cherish it,” she said. “We live in a society that consistently undermines black women’s beauty and contributions to beauty. Therefore,

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it is up to us as a people to embrace and validate ourselves. It also has to do with self-acceptance.” The festival will feature two full days of entertainment including Miss Top Model competitions, children’s pageant, Little Miss Happy Head pageant and Little Mr. Handsome Man Runway Variety Show. The festival will also be featuring national brands that will be offering special discounts as well as information on how to properly care for natural hair, how to grow all hair longer and stronger, as well as makeup and fashion workshops. Anifowoshe is also the creator of Nzuri hair care and wellness products, which consist of holistic products designed to nourish the hair and feed the hair and body from inside-out technology. “I am committed to natural hair, but more importantly, to healthy lifestyle choices. The Nzuri festival welcomes all people. We are multicultural because there are so many cultures of black people. Our fashion show has women with all hair textures. For more information on the 5th Annual Nzuri Natural Hair Festival, visit www.naturalhairfestival.com.

November 2013

15.

Healthy and Tasty Dessert Recipes

Chocolate Mint Bars

Lemon Scented Blueberry Cupcakes

You’ll love these if you’re a big fan of the thin chocolate mint Girl Scout cookies. The dense base layer is like a rich, fudgy brownie, so don’t overcook it or the dessert bars will be dry. Refrigerating the mint bars allows the chocolaty top layer to set properly. You can make the dessert up to one day ahead. For a more grown-up taste, you can also use dark chocolate chips for some or all of the semisweet chocolate chips in the glaze.

Lemon and blueberry flavors give these cupcakes a great taste. Blueberries or fresh, edible flowers make an easy, pretty decoration.

Ingredients Bottom layer: 4 1/2 ounces all-purpose flour (about 1 cup) 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup egg substitute 1/4 cup butter, melted 2 tablespoons water 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 large eggs, beaten 1 (16-ounce) can chocolate syrup Cooking spray Mint layer: 2 cups powdered sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 2 tablespoons fat-free milk 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract 2 drops green food coloring Glaze: 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips 3 tablespoons butter

Ingredients Cupcakes: 1 1/2 cups (about 6 3/4 ounces) plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided 10 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 cup butter, melted 1 large egg 1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk 1/2 cup 2% reduced-fat milk 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind 3/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, thawed Frosting: 1/4 cup (2 ounces) 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened 2 tablespoons butter, softened 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice Fresh blueberries (optional)

Carrot Cake This lightened carrot cake recipe features a tender cake packed with grated carrot, flaked coconut, and chopped pecans. Just like a traditional carrot cake, this cake is topped with a thick cream cheese frosting.

Ingredients Cake: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (about 6 3/4 ounces) 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar 1/2 cup sweetened flaked coconut 1/3 cup chopped pecans 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 3 tablespoons canola oil 2 large eggs 2 cups grated carrot 1 1/2 cups canned crushed pineapple, drained Cooking spray Frosting: 2 tablespoons butter, softened 1 (8-ounce) block 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened 3 cups powdered sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Additional grated carrot (optional)

Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350°.

Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350°. 2. To prepare bottom layer, weigh or lightly spoon flour into a measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine flour and salt; stir with a whisk. Combine granulated sugar, egg substitute, ¼ cup melted butter, 2 tablespoons water, vanilla, eggs, and chocolate syrup in a medium bowl; stir until smooth. Add flour mixture to chocolate mixture, stirring until blended. Pour batter into a 13 x 9 inch metal baking pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 23 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out almost clean. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack. 3. To prepare mint layer, combine powdered sugar, ¼ cup melted butter, and next 3 ingredients (through food coloring) in a medium bowl; beat with a mixer until smooth. Spread mint mixture over cooled cake. 4. To prepare glaze, combine chocolate chips and 3 tablespoons butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at HIGH 1 minute or until melted, stirring after 30 seconds. Let stand 2 minutes. Spread chocolate mixture evenly over top. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Cut into 20 pieces.

2 Place 12 decorative paper muffin cup liners into muffin cups. 3. To prepare cupcakes, lightly spoon 1 1/2 cups flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Measure 1 tablespoon flour; level with a knife. Sift together 1 1/2 cups flour plus 1 tablespoon flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and baking soda in a large bowl. Combine melted butter and egg in another large bowl; stir with a whisk. Add buttermilk, milk, and 1 teaspoon rind to butter mixture; stir with a whisk. Add buttermilk mixture to flour mixture, stirring just until moist. Toss blueberries with remaining 1 tablespoon flour. Fold blueberries into batter. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups. Bake at 350° for 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 5 minutes on a wire rack; remove from pan. Cool completely on wire rack.

Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350°. 2. To prepare cake, lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flour, sugar, coconut, pecans, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl; stir well with a whisk. Combine oil and eggs; stir well. Stir egg mixture, grated carrot, and pineapple into flour mixture. Spoon batter into a 13 x 9-inch baking pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 35 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack. 3. To prepare frosting, combine butter and cream cheese in a large bowl. Beat with a mixer at medium speed until smooth. Beat in powdered sugar and vanilla just until smooth. Spread frosting over top of cake. Garnish each serving with grated carrot, if desired.

4. To prepare frosting, place cream cheese, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 teaspoon rind, vanilla, and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a bowl; beat with a mixer at medium speed just until blended. Gradually add powdered sugar (do not overbeat). Stir in juice. Spread frosting evenly over cupcakes; garnish with blueberries, if desired. Store, covered in refrigerator.

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Recipes and Photos Courtesy of www.MyRecipes.com

16.

November 2013

Finding Strength Along the Caregiver Journey d-mars.com News Provider

aring for a loved one with an ongoing health condition can be a time-intensive and emotional journey. And while small successes and tiny triumphs can be treasured moments, daily tasks can take time away from sources of support, such as interactions with colleagues, spouses, children, friends and groups or clubs, resulting in a sense of isolation. Taking time to maintain friendships, connect with community and take care of oneself can help caregivers find strength to enjoy the milestone moments. For family members caring for a loved one affected by Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), a rare and severe form of epilepsy, daily responsibilities can prevent parents from addressing their own physical and emotional needs. The most common features of LGS are multiple types of seizures, delays in mental and/or physical motor skills and an abnormal electroencephalography (EEG) or brain wave pattern. LGS is typically diagnosed in childhood, but the symptoms often persist into adulthood. As families help their loved one manage seizures and other symptoms, they should also prioritize their own care. Here are some steps you can take to find strength while caring for someone else: • Accept help from others: Make a list of responsibilities and specific tasks that you can delegate to friends and family members who are willing to help. • Set personal wellness goals: Set a specific, attainable wellness goal and block off time throughout the week to take a walk, get extra sleep or meditate. • Benefit from support organizations: Connect with organizations that provide services and support

for others caring for somebody impacted by challenging epilepsy. These organizations may provide educational classes and training sessions that empower you in your caregiver role, or they may put you in touch with trained professionals who can help you find resources and support. •

Stay connected with friends: Don’t forget to socialize with friends and make plans that get you out of the house, whether it’s for a walk around the block, a coffee break, or a quick visit. Friends can help celebrate good times and be a sounding board during rough times. Through sites like Facebook, you can expand your circle of friends to include others who will already understand the realities of providing daily care for somebody with challenging seizures. “I work with families every day who have kids with special needs, and I run support groups for them, but I found I was missing that support in my own life,” said Jennifer Griffin, whose son was diagnosed with LGS. “It is so important to be able to connect with other families who really understand what you’re talking about and ex-

periencing.” A new online community aims to support caregivers by providing a place where they can find people who understand the experience of caring for someone with a challenging seizure disorder. LGS Together is a result of collaboration among people with LGS, their families and friends, leading epilepsy and LGS patient organizations and Lundbeck. The website, LGSTogether.com, features stories, advice and knowledge from members of the community, as well as resources and information parents can use in their daily lives. On the LGS Together Facebook page, parents and families can get regular updates about the program, discover epilepsy community events and activities, share personal experiences and encourage each other. Providing care for a loved one with epilepsy does not have to be a lonely journey. Taking time to develop a personalized support system that meets your specific needs and involving friends and family can revitalize your relationships and help you find new ways to gain personal strength. - (BPT)

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November 2013

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November 2013

Risk of Concussion Increases with Back-to-School Sports d-mars.com News Provider

Anyone working with children (as well as adult athletes) can use the free Concussion Quick Check mobile app to help determine: • When a more thorough medical evaluation is needed • Common signs and symptoms of a concussion, which include: 1. Headache and sensitivity to light or sound 2. Changes to balance, coordination and reaction time 3. Changes in memory, judgment, speech and sleep 4. Loss of consciousness or a “blackout” (this happens in less than 10 percent of cases) • Things the student or athlete may tell you that are red flags • What actions to take if the student receives a head injury - either during a game or while on the school grounds • When an athlete should return to play The mobile app also provides help in finding a nearby neurologist using the smartphone’s GPS capability, as well as information about state laws regarding concussions. Children should be encouraged to wear helmets whenever riding bikes or scooters, or using skateboards. Anyone connected with a school setting should be aware of the dangers of concussion, because a head injury can occur anywhere, not just on the sporting field or in gym class. (BPT)

ince school season has begun, more students are riding bikes and participating in sports such as football, hockey and soccer. Incidents such as a bike accident, quick fall or collision with another student during athletic practice resulting in a concussion could cause serious consequences both during the school year and later on in life. Often a person who has a concussion is not aware of having one; concussions can occur even if the person doesn’t lose consciousness. If the individual is on a sports team and returns to play too soon after suffering a concussion, the injury can lead to ongoing health problems. The American Academy of Neurology (AAN), the world’s trusted authority on sports concussion, is encouraging athletes, coaches, athletic trainers, parents and school staff to pay attention to the signs of concussion as students head back to school and onto the sporting fields. The AAN recently updated its guidelines on evaluating and managing concussion at www.aan.com/concussion, and also created a free downloadable Concussion Quick Check mobile app as a useful tool for parents, coaches/ trainers and players. “One of our goals is to raise awareness about sports concussion in school-age children. Parents, coaches and trainers need to take any head injury seriously,” said Dr. Christopher Giza, co-author of the AAN guidelines and member of the AAN. “Students often will claim to be fine following a head injury so they can return to the game more quickly or avoid embarrassment. Being evaluated by a licensed health care professional trained in diagnosing and managing concussions before returning to play is of the utmost importance to help prevent youths from suffering additional health problems.”

Community Healthcare Advocates

Mission Statement

Vision Statement

The National Black Nurse Practitioner To take an active role in our communities as Association is an organization comprised healthcare advocates for health and wellness of advance practice nurses committed by fostering: to improve the health and welfare of all • Community awareness communities and to serve as a platform to • Health education outreach enhance the awareness of advance practice • Excellence in practice • Leadership nurses within the community. • Team work

or volunteer to assist in our community outreach programs.

“

“ Please join us at one of our monthly educational meetings Board Members Stephanie Brown-Elder DNP President

Lutrisha Harrison-DNPc, FNP Vice President

Sheila Webber-FNP Secretary

Tamara Welsh-FNP Treasurer

NBNPA is a 501 (c) 3, non-profit organization

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November 2013

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November 2013

Four Steps to Outsmarting Diabetes d-mars.com News Provider

early 26 million Americans have diabetes, and while many of those individuals manage their condition through a combination of treatment options, each year thousands still face one of the most devastating side effects of the disease: amputation. About half of those with diabetes will experience peripheral neuropathy – a loss of feeling in the lower extremities – making amputation a very real risk. In fact, people with diabetes account for more than 60 percent of all non-traumatic lower limb amputations, according to the American Diabetes Association. The good news is, with the right steps, it’s possible to outsmart diabetes and protect your feet and lower limbs. The American Podiatric Medical Association points to these four important steps: 1. Be vigilant. If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important to constantly monitor your foot health. Inspect your feet and toes daily, and alert your podiatrist of any wounds that don’t heal. Diabetes can cause a loss of sensation in the extremities, so a daily visual inspection can be the best way to spot problems before they become a health crisis. 2. Be proactive. You’ve probably already made lifestyle and dietary changes as part of your diabetes treatment. You should be equally proactive about foot health. Clear your closet of uncomfortable, unsupportive shoes that can contribute to foot irritation or injury. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to diabetic foot ulcers, small wounds or cuts that are slow to heal. If left untreated, these ulcers can worsen and may even lead to amputation. Visit www.apma.org/diabetes to learn the best steps for finding diabetes-friendly foot-

Sweeteners: An Easy Way to Live and Eat Healthier d-mars.com News Provider

wear and guidance on how to care for your feet. 3. Don’t go it alone. Seeing your general practitioner regularly to help keep an eye on your diabetes is critical, however, it’s also important to take a holistic approach to diabetes management. Podiatrists are specially trained to diagnose and treat ailments of the feet and lower limbs, including complications related to diabetes. Regular care from a podiatrist can help reduce amputation rates between 45 and 85 percent. Find a podiatrist in your area by visiting www.apma.org. 4. Get smart. Medical technology is getting smarter every day—so should you! From special socks equipped with fiber optic sensors, to thermal imaging devices, to sensors that can alert podiatrists via smartphone, today’s podiatrist is using cutting-edge technology to help their patients outsmart diabetes. Talk to a podiatrist about what you may be able to incorporate into your diabetes treatment plan. To learn more about foot health and diabetes, visit www.apma.org/diabetes. - (BPT)

(BPT) - With diabetes and obesity cases at alarmingly high levels in the U.S., people are starting to take small steps toward leading healthier lifestyles to try to prevent these issues. Eating healthy and incorporating regular exercise into your lifestyle are some commonly known good first steps, but another great step is “reducing sugar in your diet as a way of reducing glucose and caloric intake,” said Dr. Luis Pacheco, an Emmy award-winning family physician and professor of medicine at the University of Texas. For people with a sweet tooth, this may seem like a daunting task, but with today’s colorful sweetener aisle, it may be easier than expected. One favorite is the iconic pink packet Sweet’N Low, which is consumed daily by millions in more than 50 countries around the world. This zero-calorie sweetener is made with saccharin, which is 300 to 500 times sweeter than sugar. As one of the oldest sweeteners in the world, saccharin has roots dating back more than 100 years and its long-term effects have been exhaustively studied and tested. In fact, numerous reputable organizations such as the American Diabetes Association, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, World Health Organization, and National Cancer Institute have acknowledged its safety for human consumption and its benefit in helping to develop a healthy eating plan for long-term weight management and for maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle. “The zero-calorie sweetener, Sweet’N Low, is a proven alternative to sugar and for 56 years has helped millions of people safely manage their weight and sugar intake,” said Pacheco. Discovered in 1879, saccharin has the longest safefor-human-consumption record among non-nutritive sweeteners. There is confusion and miseducation in the marketplace, most likely trailing back to a controversy some 36 years ago when a study done on rats was released that reported health issues. In the study, rats were fed the excessive equivalent of thousands of packets of saccharin-based sweetener every single day starting from their mother’s womb until their expiration in adulthood. Even beyond this unrealistic daily consumption level, rats were discovered to be the only species affected due to a specific protein that exists only in rats, specifically male rats. Extensive research on humans and numerous species of animals by reputable sources in the scientific community since have proven the sweetener’s safety, and saccharin has been used for 125 years without any documented human ill effects. The National Cancer Institute has completed more than 30 human studies, involving more than 9,000 individuals and all support saccharin’s safety at human levels of consumption, according to a report titled Elcok and Morgan, 1993. Both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) have given saccharin a clean bill of health. Americans can be confident in the fact that saccharin-based Sweet’N Low, is safe to use, and is an excellent complement to healthy living and weight control. Most recently, Sweet’N Low launched a new campaign called “The Sweeter, The Better” focusing on a beverage platform with the aim of satisfying consumers with new ways to use this sweetener in their favorite drinks. In addition, they have introduced several new diabetic-friendly recipes that will help consumers with diabetes or those prone to the disease manage their diets. Visit sweetnlow. com for more information and recipes that can help effectively manage your weight and assist in the first steps to a healthy lifestyle.

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November 2013

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November 2013

Taking Control of your Cancer Journey: New Resources Provide Patients and Caregivers Support d-mars.com News Provider

ach year, an estimated 650,000 people in the United States undergo chemotherapy in their battle against cancer. This experience can be a lonely and isolating time for patients and their caregivers, and despite all the educational resources available today, many people continue to feel overwhelmed and uninformed. "As a nurse, I always tell my patients that the more information they have, the more prepared and empowered they will feel in the face of cancer," said Paula J. Anastasia, an oncology clinical nurse specialist in Los Angeles. To help address this critical need for disease and treatment information, Amgen has teamed up with the Cancer Hope Network to launch ChemoCoach.com. This newly-enhanced website provides helpful tips for patients, survivors and caregivers on all aspects of living with cancer, including chemotherapy and its side effects. The website offers customized information based on where a patient is in their cancer journey at any point in time. Useful tips such as talking with your doctor, scheduling chemotherapy sessions, understanding blood cell counts and advice for eating well are just some of the topics addressed.

In addition to information, families facing cancer may also need emotional support. Cancer Hope Network offers patients and caregivers the opportunity to talk directly to someone who has had similar experiences and challenges. Natalie Fox, director of Patient Outreach at the Cancer Hope Network said, "we want people dealing with cancer to feel that they are not alone on this journey." The professionals at ChemoCoach. com and the Cancer Hope Network offer some advice for caregivers caring for loved ones with cancer: • Ask for help. Often when caring for a loved one, caregivers can become overburdened. Be sure to reach out to family and friends for back-up help. • Accept help. Have you said "no" to someone who has offered to drop off a meal or pick up prescriptions? Next time, say "yes." Allow others to pitch in. • Take care. When scheduling medical appointments for someone else, it's easy to forget your own well-being. Keep up with your checkups and screenings. • Rest. Providing care can frequently mean long hours. Schedule daily breaks to help relieve your body of stress; make sure you're getting enough sleep. • Eat well. Snacking on the go and skipping meals can easily become routine

when your focus is on someone else. Eating healthy is the key to your own health, and gives you energy to care for others. • Plan recreation. When helping a loved one full-time, it's easy to stop doing the things you enjoy. Remember to engage in the activities you like, even if it's just a quick walk around the block. • Write it down. You don't have to commit everything to memory. Use calendars, online reminders and smartphone to-do lists to keep you organized. Having a list

Patients with Chronic Illness Share Their Animated, Inspiring Stories d-mars.com News Provider

It’s your moment.

hen faced with struggles, people often turn to others for support, comfort and guidance. There is great value in knowing you're not alone, especially for patients with chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is a chronic, inflammatory form of arthritis in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, causing fluid buildup in the joints and pain and inflammation throughout the body. Because many of its symptoms are also associated with various other illnesses, RA is a somewhat silent disease. As patients battle this sometimes misunderstood illness, they must face each day with courage and strength while experiencing fatigue, pain and sometimes disability. Finding support can be key to dealing with the complexity and unpredictability of RA, but despite the fact that approximately 1.3 million adults in the United States have RA, many patients are searching for a way to share their story and inspire others with the condition. To meet the need, RA health advocates have teamed up to create an animated video series, called "RAise Your Voice." The videos, found on RheumatoidArthritis. com, feature patients, physicians and advocacy partners sharing their own experiences to encourage others, inspire patients and shed light on the disease. The videos also inform those who know or care for

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can ease the burden of trying to remember everything. • Talk to someone. Whether you chat with a neighbor, call an old friend or get in touch with Cancer Hope Network – sharing your feelings can be a relief. Remember to always speak with you your doctor if you have any specific questions about chemotherapy or its side effects. To learn more, visit www.ChemoCoach.com. - (BPT)

RA patients, but may not understand the full impact of the disease. Tess DeMarco, a participant in one of the videos, has lived with RA for more than 35 years. Despite her doctor's predictions, DeMarco became a ballroom dancer at 21 and to this day, she refuses to let the disease control her. "Having people to lean on throughout this process makes all the difference," she said. "My family helped me every step of the way." DeMarco, now a mother of three and grandmother of two, feels strongly about using her own experience to help others cope with the disease. Seth Ginsberg, president and co-founder of CreakyJoints, an advocacy group and one of the most popular online arthritis communities in the world, also lends his voice to the video series. "In order to be able to manage this disease, you have to be educated about it and you must consult your doctor," he said. In the first video, Ginsberg and DeMarco team up with other "RA veterans" to speak out about the disease, share their stories and encourage others to do the same. To see Ginsberg, DeMarco and other "RA Veterans" in the first video as well as others in the series and to learn more about RA, visit RheumatoidArthritis. com. - (BPT) -

November 2013

Together, we will end cancer.

In 1962 President John F. Kennedy issued a challenge to put a man on the moon by the end of the decade. This courageous act inspired MD Anderson Cancer Center to implement its Moon Shots Program â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an initiative designed to work aggressively toward a cure for eight major cancers. By mobilizing unparalleled collaboration among leading minds in cancer, MD Anderson ensures breakthrough discoveries. Together, we will end cancer.

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Stop the Spread of Cold and Flu Viruses this School Year d-mars.com News Provider

new school year has started and as many parents know, kids are likely to bring home more than their homework at some point. Many catch cold and flu viruses from their classmates, which can then spread to other family members at home. When kids are sick, they miss out on valuable learning experiences and social interactions in the classroom. On average, elementary school children get eight to 12 colds or cases of the flu each school year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For the older kids, it is about half that. That's why it's important that parents, teachers and kids work together to stop the spread of germs in the classroom. Everyone can follow these simple steps to help prevent the spread of germs that can cause cold and flu viruses this school year: • Get vaccinated: Getting a yearly flu vaccine is the first and most important step in flu prevention. The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older get a flu vaccine each year to protect against the flu virus. • Stay home when sick: If possible, keep kids home from school when they are sick to help prevent teachers and classmates from catching their illness. • Sing and scrub: Make sure kids wash their hands the right way. They

should wash frequently with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing the "Happy Birthday" song twice). • Do the elbow cough: Teach kids to cough into elbows, not hands, since hands are more likely to spread bacteria and viruses through touch. • Disinfect germ hot spots: The CDC recommends disinfecting frequently touched surfaces or objects when someone is ill. In the classroom teachers can use a disinfectant approved to kill cold and flu viruses on desks, computer mice and doorknobs. "Creating a healthier learning environment starts with small actions that add up to a big impact," said Dr. Howell Wechsler, CEO of the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children thrive. "Parents play an important role and can lend a hand to teachers by reinforcing healthy lessons at home and donating useful items like tissues, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes." To provide teachers with the resources they need to help stop the spread of germs in the classroom, the Clorox Company is partnering with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation for "Canisters for Classrooms." For every parent that takes the "Canisters for Classrooms" pledge, Clorox will donate a canister of Clorox

Disinfecting Wipes to a school in need and $1 to the Alliance for a Healthier Generation's Healthy Schools Program, which creates healthier learning environments in more than 18,000 schools, reaching 11 million students across the country. To take the pledge and learn ways to help keep your family healthier

this school year, visit www.CloroxClassrooms.com. Parents that take the pledge will also receive a coupon, so that they can donate disinfecting wipes and make a difference in their child's classroom, too. - (BPT)

Learn More About Lupus and the Search for Answers d-mars.com News Provider

or those who are living with lupus, daily activities can be a struggle and life can become inconsistent. While many people are experiencing debilitating symptoms, from the outside, many of those with lupus don't "look sick." Lupus, "the great imitator" as it is often called, disguises itself to look like other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, diabetes, Lyme disease, various blood disorders, a thyroid problem or any number of other heart, lung, muscle or bone diseases. Because of this, lupus is commonly misdiagnosed. More than one million people in the United States have lupus and those who understand their condition know the daily struggles that come with having this disease. If you are unfamiliar with lupus, it's important to learn the specifics of this devastating disease as well as the research currently underway to develop options that are safe and effective for people with lupus. What is lupus? Lupus, otherwise • known as systemic lupus erythematosus, is a long-term, autoimmune disorder that affects the skin, joints, kidneys, brain and other organ systems. While every patient experiences symptoms differently, symptoms such as extreme fatigue, headaches, fever, painful joints, anemia, chest pain, hair loss, abnormal blood clotting or other symptoms are common. These symptoms may come and go and can change throughout the course of the disease. Who is at risk for lupus? Lupus • can affect any person at any age but it most often affects women between the ages of 15 and 45. Additionally, African American, Hispanic and Asian women

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have a higher risk of developing lupus. How is it diagnosed? There is no • single test to diagnose lupus. It may take many months or even years for a doctor to diagnose lupus. A variety of laboratory tests are used to detect and monitor physical changes or conditions that may appear as a result of lupus. Each test helps doctors determine whether a lupus diagnosis is right. How is lupus treated? There cur• rently is no cure for lupus. In fact, over the last 50 years only one medication has been approved to treat this disease. While many drugs exist that reduce the signs and symptoms of lupus, these drugs carry side effects of their own, many of them serious, including damage to the body's organs with prolonged use. Treatment plans are created to prevent and treat flares, the reoccurrence of symptoms, and also reduce organ damage. What is being done to find fu• ture treatment options? Physicians nationwide are participating in a clinical research study called the EMBODY Program to help advance lupus research. This global clinical research study is being conducted to assess the safety and effectiveness of an investigational medication called epratuzumab in people with lupus. Epratuzumab is being evaluated to see if it can help prevent the immune system from attacking healthy tissue, help reduce the level of inflammation and improve the symptoms associated with lupus. How can I learn more about this • study? To take part you must be 18 years of age or older, diagnosed with lupus and not pregnant or nursing. You can learn more at rethinklupus.com or by calling 855-60-LUPUS. - (BPT)

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Making Wellness Programs Work for your Wallet and Lifestyle d-mars.com News Provider

y now you've probably heard the message loud and clear: Staying well through preventive steps is cheaper, healthier and easier for everyone than waiting until a health condition becomes an issue. From the government to your own employer, many organizations spend millions of dollars every year on wellness programs aimed at supporting individuals' efforts to stay healthy. These programs can be a great tool if they are easy to use, engaging, and provide reliable, understandable information about wellness. Wellness programs aren't just for those with red flag factors for chronic diseases such as high blood pressure or tobacco use. Rather, wellness programs are beneficial to everyone including otherwise healthy people who may simply be trying to lead a healthier lifestyle by increased exercise, weight loss or managing stress. In fact, the concept of "wellness" goes far beyond merely keeping up with your annual physical and taking medications to manage chronic conditions. Wellness encompasses eating right, regularly exercising, avoiding unhealthy activities such as smoking, and being an active participant in your health decision-making progress. Wellness programs, often provided through employer-sponsored health insurance or through employers themselves,

provide participants with information and tools to help avoid illness and injury. But the path to good health is different for everyone and it is important that programs are not only designed to help the right people at the right time but also to engage people in a personalized, impactful way. For example, a wellness offering such as Health Dialog's WELLNESS Dialog program begins with an innovative WellBeing Assessment to better understand physical and emotional health, capacity for change, work-life satisfaction, and health risk. It then reports on personal strengths and opportunities, offers suggested goals and actions, provides people with the tools they need to realize their own personal lifestyle goals and incorporates fun group activities to engage par-

ticipants for the long term. In order to truly make a difference, a wellness program needs to be relevant to the people using it. Participating in a wellness program can be useful, as long as the program supports not only those who are well and maintaining their current level of health or improving it, but also those who are ill and managing their care. If you would like the chance to make a wellness program work for you, here are a few steps and guidelines to help: Find out what your employer • offers. Many support wellness programs through their health insurers, but others supplement those plans with specialized programs. Perhaps your employer offers free exercise or stress reduction classes, or offers a stipend for health club member-

ship as part of your benefits. If your employer doesn't currently offer any kind of wellness program, ask for one - keeping employees healthy is in a company's best interest. Learn your program's tools. • Most programs offer help lines that you can call and discuss your specific needs and concerns, and receive information on available tools to help you. Your plan administrator may also be able to provide information. Or you can check the program provider's website to learn more. Discuss your wellness program • with your doctor and ask for his feedback on what tools might be of most use to you. Look for tools that address your specific needs, age and lifestyle. For example, if weight management is a concern, your wellness program's nutritional counseling might be helpful. If you're looking for ways to become more active, ask if your program offers advice on exercise. • Take advantage of incentives. Some programs offer incentives for successful participation in weight loss or smoking cessation programs. These incentives are a great tool for tracking your progress and keeping yourself motivated to achieve your goals. You can learn more about wellness programs like Health Dialog's at www. healthdialog.com or www.facebook.com/ healthdialog. - (BPT)

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Clarifying Common Misperceptions of Depression d-mars.com News Provider

ajor depressive disorder, more commonly known as depression, is a common medical condition that affects almost 16 million men and women in the United States. Despite the prevalence of depression, misperceptions still exist and often impact how people seek help and how they are treated for this condition. Whether you have depression or know someone with depression, it is important to be educated about this condition and to not let misperceptions dictate how you view others or – if you have depression – how you view yourself. In this article, Dr. Larry Culpepper, a primary care physician and professor in the Department of Family Medicine at Boston University, discusses three misperceptions of depression and shares the truth about the condition. Misperception 1: A depressed mood is the only symptom of depression. While having a depressed mood, such as feelings of sadness or emptiness, is a significant symptom of depression, there are several other symptoms that are signals of a depressive episode. For some, depression creates a change in appetite, weight or energy levels. Depression can also lead to difficulties with concentration or decision making. Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or hypersomnia (sleeping too much), can also be a symptom of depres-

sion. Healthcare providers are trained at evaluating the symptoms of their patients, and can provide clarity on what symptoms mean and what steps need to be taken for a patient to feel better. Misperception 2: Getting treated for depression is something for which you should be ashamed. The feeling that others may view treatment negatively has the potential to become an obstacle to seeking care. It’s important to know that if you have depression, you are not alone. Depression affects almost 16 million people in the U.S. Getting help is a key element in recovery for all individuals with depression. If you feel like you do not want to seek treatment or want to discontinue your treatment due to feelings of embarrassment, talk to your healthcare provider for guidance. Misperception 3: People with depression can “snap out of it.” Depression is a medical illness and people who are depressed cannot simply “get over it” and feel better. It is critical that people with depression know that seeking treatment does not constitute weakness, but rather is a key step toward recovery. There are a variety of therapies available, such as talk therapy and prescription treatments, including VIIBRYD (vilazodone HCI), approved to treat depression in adults. Engage in a conversation with your healthcare provider to discuss what treatment options are available to help you. - (BPT)

Misperceptions of depression can affect many areas of life for people living with depression and their loved ones, but they don’t have to. Through informed discussions, it is possible to eliminate mispercep-

tions and better understand the condition. If you feel like you or a loved one may have depression, take the first step by talking to your healthcare provider about your options. - (BPT)

Healthy, Decadent Reduced-Guilt Holiday Desserts d-mars.com News Provider

he holidays are right around the corner and so are the rich, indulgent foods that adorn many dessert tables. Sweets of the season tend to be rich in flavor but also calories and fat. Still, you don’t have to deny your cravings this holiday season. It is possible to create satisfying, sweet treats that are healthier options than traditional holiday fare. With these quick nutrition-savvy tips, enjoying decadent desserts has never tasted so good. Infuse fresh flavors Start your baking with all-natural ingredients and incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as apples, pears, sweet potatoes, pomegranates and pumpkins. These, along with super foods like walnuts and soy, are excellent choices to increase the nutritional benefits, and enhance the flavor, of baked goods. Try fresh variations to old classics to give your homemade desserts a gourmet twist. Add a dash of vitamin A-rich chili powder for a bold take on dark chocolate brownies or tarts. Experiment with exciting combinations like lavender and lemon for a bright, unique flavor and a healthy dose of iron, plus vitamin C. Mix antioxidant-rich basil and cinnamon to produce a powerful taste sensation with added health benefits. Make smart swaps When deciding on a recipe for your next holiday gathering, take a look at its nutritional value, as not all desserts are created equal. To create reduced-guilt baked goods use alternative ingredients, such as egg whites instead of whole eggs or whole wheat flour instead of white flour. Apple sauce is also a clever way to introduce moisture into cakes rather than using oil. A reduced-fat pumpkin pie – which can be made by blending pumpkin with healthier ingredients, like egg substitute and non-fat milk, in a Vitamix Professional Series 200 – may be significantly lower in calories and fat than pies made with full-fat ingredients.

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As an added bonus, the leftover pumpkin pie ingredients, plus a few extra items likely on hand in your kitchen, can easily yield a low-calorie, frosty Fall Freeze. This smooth, frozen treat is the perfect way to enjoy the fruits of your labor while baking for company. Add a smooth finish Don’t discount chocolate. In addition to being delicious, dark chocolate with at least 70 percent cacao contains heart-friendly antioxidants. Make a festive fondue platter with warm dark chocolate and sliced fruits like bananas, pineapple and strawberries. Similar to a traditional fondue table, by creating a variety of dips and glazes, you and your guests can indulge in a sinfully good concoction that is still light on calories. For dips, opt for a Greek yogurt base that is high in protein and sweeten with natural ingredients, such as agave nectar and honey. A cinnamon glaze made with soy milk and tofu will please your palate – even if you follow a vegan diet. Better yet, stick to smaller servings by getting creative with the end product. When baking a pie, lose the top crust. Or, instead of a pie, try a bite-size tartlet. Encourage sampling by making mini-muffins and cupcakes rather than their oversized counterparts. Making a few small changes to your ingredients and your intake will lower calories, provide some unexpected nutritional benefits and keep you satisfied all season long. - (BPT)

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One Size Does Not Fit All When it Comes to Health Care d-mars.com News Provider

ith impending health care changes, employers and employees are looking for ways to offset some of the rising costs of health care with the goal of getting healthy at the same time. MyHealthCheck, available from Life Time – The Healthy Way of Life Company, offers a revolutionary way to manage health care costs for both employers and employees. This includes providing employees with a comprehensive solution that identifies risk factors, promotes ongoing guidance with wellness coaches and a 12-month reassessment to measure progress. "We identified a need and are offering companies and their employees an innovative solution to a complicated and expensive issue – rising health care costs," said Holt Vaughn, senior director of myHealthCheck at Life Time. "Our goal is to transform an increasingly sedentary workforce into a healthy, productive population – while saving people money in the process." Incentives based on personal health outcomes are growing in popularity. Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop for insurance or if your workplace decides to employ such a program. Look for a program with measurable results Traditional wellness programs reward

employees just for signing up, but the health assessment offered through myHealthCheck links individual health risks to premium incentives and rewards employees for healthy results. "We are focused on results of actions taken," said Vaughan. "As opposed to simply relying on employee participation, we aim to help companies create a healthier, more productive workforce." One size does not fit all It is important to evaluate individual fitness levels, lifestyle and health. Through an industry-leading assessment that includes lab work, body analysis, metabolic testing and wellness coaching, myHealthCheck provides all participants

with a personalized health profile. This can be used to set goals and measure results. To keep tracking simple, employees are also offered a comprehensive view of their health via the myHealthDashboard and a health score of up to 100 designed to keep employees motivated throughout the measurable period. You are not alone Support plays a key role in the success of any health plan or incentive program. A myHealthAdvisor helps each employee create a plan to address their individual health risks. The advisor is there to motivate each employee along the way. That access to a real person, coupled with online resources such as workout videos and nutrition trackers, has been proven to

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help people meet their health goals. "These programs such as myHealthCheck are about changing habits, about changing behaviors and changing people's lives," said Vaughan. Beyond the videos and trackers, the program offers nutrition workshops, meal-planning guides and weight loss challenges aimed at building camaraderie among employees. With those New Year's resolutions looming and changes coming to the health care landscape, now is the perfect time to take control of your health. Visit myHealthCheck.com for more information and start saving money now. - (BPT)

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