d-mars.com Health & Wellness 61

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August 2016

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The Power of Effective Communication

Effectiveness of New AntiHIV Medication to Protect Women and Infants Demonstrated

By d-mars.com News Provider When it comes to the latest in biotechnology, ScienceDaily is a great source for information.

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PAGES 12-13

From left to right CleRenda McGrady, Tiffany Davis, First Lady Sheretta West, Pastor Mia Wright, Dr. Saundra Montgomery, Gwen Howard (for First Lady Torsha Johnson), First Lady Desiree Eastland, and Wanda Adams.

Tiffany Davis Educates Women on a Silent Killer Call Me!

By Rhonda Dallas Communication is the act of transferring information from one place to another.

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PAGE 20 PAGE 16

Brain Foods: Eating for Academic Success By d-mars.com News Provider What do the foods your children eat have to do with the grades they bring home?

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Are Your Medication Serial Numbers Authentic?

A Minute of Secondhand Marijuana Smoke May Damage Blood Vessels: Study in Rats

I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in —George Washington Carver

August 2016 3

Journal Behind The

Message from the Publisher

MR. D-MARS

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

CO-PUBLISHER

Tiffany Davis, RN-BSN, MSN, CNE

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dawn Paul

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

“The Power of Effective Communication” is the theme for this issue of the d-mars.com Health & Wellness Journal. Communication is important, especially when it comes to health information that is vital for our community. A healthy community makes for a more prosperous community. At d-mars.com, we inspire, inform, and educate. I want to encourage you to lead your family and community to a healthier lifestyle. If you are a healthcare professional, I charge you with sharing information received that will help make for a healthier community. Working together, we can have a healthier Houston.

This month’s cover story highlights Tiffany Davis’ efforts to raise awareness in our community about a silent killer impacting women. Through her company, E-PIC Training Center, Inc., she recently hosted an event revealing the truth on a health issue important to women. Davis suffered for over 20 years with fibroids. As a healthcare professional who has experienced fibroids, she finds it one of her missions to empower, inspire, and encourage women who are dealing with uterine fibroid disease.

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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

PHOTOGRAPHY

Contents

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

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Angel Rosa

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Charlette Washington

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Tashara Callaway

DISTRIBUTION

Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

The Truth About Hormones and the Body................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Effectiveness of New Anti-HIV Medication.................................................................................................................................................................................. 4 3 Simple Ways Men Can Improve Their Health...........................................................................................................................................................................6 Alcohol Sales and Public Health......................................................................................................................................................................................................6 Call Me!..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Are You in One of the Best Healthcare Jobs?............................................................................................................................................................................. 8 Great Chicken Recipes.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................9 Black History: Science Makers.......................................................................................................................................................................................................10 Psychiatric Diagnostic Tools...........................................................................................................................................................................................................10 Tiffany Davis Educates Women on a Silent Killer...............................................................................................................................................................12-13 Brain Foods...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................14 Breaking the Weight-Loss Cycle....................................................................................................................................................................................................14 Are Your Medication Serial Numbers Authentic?.....................................................................................................................................................................16 Seniors Commit Suicide Twice as Often as Teens................................................................................................................................................................... 17 For Alzheimer Caregivers, Knowledge Is Power.......................................................................................................................................................................18 A Minute of Secondhand Marijuana Smoke..............................................................................................................................................................................20

Dr. LaTronica Fisher Rhonda Dallas, B.S., C.L.C., N.C. d-mars.com News Provider

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month “The true worth of a race must be measured by the character of its womanhood.”

— Mary McLeod Bethune

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August 2016

The Truth About Hormones and the Body Don’t suffer in silence. Below are the most effective ways to get tested.

SALIVA

By Dr. LaTronica Fisher

E

Contributing Writer

very day I speak to patients about issues that include depression, low sex drive, no sex drive, weight gain, painful menstrual cycle, fibroids, breast cancer, and many other issues. What they all have in common are hormonal imbalances.

• Saliva reflects the unbound bioactive hormone level to which living cells are subjected.

• Can be collected under real life situations, at work, at home, etc.

• Hormone values reflect real life physiological conditions and responses.

URINE • Urine hormones reflect production and catabolism and do not reflect tissue level hormone concentrations that living cells are exposed to.

• 24-hour urine has metabolism of the hormones and is not time specific and does not reflect time sensitive hormonal and stress responses.

• 24 hour urine is absolutely time non-specific and does not reflect circadian rhythm variation at all.

SERUM • Hormone values and treatment options are limited and not always synchronized and harmonious with the natural circadian cycle of the patient.

• Routine serum hormone testing reflects total hormone level, not the bioactive fraction.

• Total levels are crude estimates of unbound bioactive hormone.

Steroid Hormones Hormones are messengers that your body uses to regulate its function. Steroid hormones include estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, pregnenolone, and DHEA.

The 8 Major Causes of Hormone Imbalance: • Stress

• Diet • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) or Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) • Medicines • Dental Issues • Scar Tissues • Environment • Autonomic Nervous System

Dr. Fisher has a proven system that has already helped thousands to remove the restrictions to healing. Dr. Fisher assists in helping prepare the body to heal. In addition, she helps re-educate the body to heal, produce its own hormones, and restore optimal wellness. For more information on how to get tested, please contact

Dr. Fisher at 281-299-3499 or drfisherroad2wellness@gmail.com.

Source “Stop Replacing Hormones, Rejuvenate Them: Five Element Healing Your Hormone Choices” by Theresa Dale, Ph.D, C.C.N., N.P.

Effectiveness of New Anti-HIV Medication to Protect Women and Infants Demonstrated

By d-mars.com News Provider

oping countries with limited resources.

The availability of an anti-HIV drug that is potent enough to be used as a preventative agent in both women and infants has the potential to make a significant impact on the global HIV epidemic,” said Angela Wahl, PhD, senior author of the study and Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at UNC’s School of Medicine.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the National Institutes of Health funded this study.

W

hen it comes to the latest in biotechnology, ScienceDaily is a great source for information.

HIV remains a major health concern for women and children globally. Worldwide, the majority of new HIV infections occur in young women. Each year, 1.5 million women living with HIV become pregnant. Without effective treatment, up to 45 percent of HIV-infected mothers will transmit the virus to their child, usually through breastfeeding. In an effort to prevent HIV transmission to women and their children, researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill demonstrated the effectiveness of a new anti-HIV medication, 4’-Ethynyl-2-fluoro-2’deoxyadenosine or EFdA, in pre-clinical animal models.

They found that EFdA can prevent vaginal and oral transmission of HIV. These results were published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapyon Monday, August 1.

“Women and children are vulnerable to HIV infection,” said Martina Kovarova, PhD, the study’s lead author and Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at UNC’s School of Medicine. “We discovered that EFdA can prevent vaginal transmission of HIV, which would prevent new infections in women. In ad-

Journal Reference: Martina Kovarova, Uma Shanmugasundaram, Caroline E. Baker, Rae Ann Spagnuolo, Chandrav De, Christopher C. Nixon, Angela Wahl, J. Victor Garcia. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis for women and infants prevents vaginal and oral HIV transmission in a preclinical model of HIV infection. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 2016; dkw283 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkw283 dition, we were also able to show that EFdA can prevent oral transmission of HIV which would prevent infants who are born to mothers already living with HIV from acquiring the virus during breastfeeding.”

Kovarova and her colleagues tested the efficacy of EFdA in vivo using validated pre-clinical humanized mouse models of vaginal and oral HIV transmission.

In both studies, a once daily dose of EFdA was able to prevent HIV infec-

tion in mice that were exposed multiple times to high doses of HIV. “Our results are very encouraging,” Kovarova said. “We will now try to determine how low of a dose you can give while still providing protection against HIV, and how long the medication will last in your system to see if daily dosing is needed or if it can be administered significantly less frequently.”

“The majority of new HIV infections in women and children occur in devel-

University of North Carolina Health Care. (2016, August 1). Effectiveness of new anti-HIV medication to protect women and infants demonstrated: Drug prevents vaginal and oral transmission of HIV in pre-clinical models.

ScienceDaily. Retrieved August 2, 2016 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/08/160801163900.htm For more, please visit ScienceDaily at www.sciencedaily.com.

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August 2016  5

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August 2016

3 Simple Ways Men Can Improve Their Health By d-mars.com News Provider

While it’s nearly impossible to avoid screens in this day and age, men should be motivated to take on more physical and active hobbies that can reduce stress and improve their physical health.

M

en don’t have the best track record when it comes to taking care of themselves.

It’s safe to say we all know someone who is just plain stubborn about going to the doctor. Even if they exhibit clear symptoms that should be checked out, say wheezing, chronic fatigue or worse, it can be a challenge to get them to seek medical help.

Of course, not all men are like this. In fact, as a whole, men have been getting better about taking care of themselves, according to new data gathered by the American Academy of Family Physicians.

“Men have begun paying more attention to their health and acting to maintain good health,” says Wanda Filer, MD, MBA, president of the AAFP and a practicing family physician. “They are getting physical exams, increasing their exercise activity, and getting their health care from their regular doctor.”

With this encouraging news, it’s important to remember that men’s health is still a big concern. By keeping the following three points in mind, you can help yourself, or a loved one, lead a longer and healthier life.

Develop a relationship with a family physician.

Health care is preventive, too.

It’s a common misconception that you go to the doctor only when you’re sick or not feeling well.

So, what’s the most common barrier that prevents men from seeing a doctor?

Answer: themselves. According to a 2016 survey conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of the AAFP, 31 percent of men wait until they feel extremely sick before seeing a doctor, and 21 percent say they have no reason to go to a doctor when feeling healthy.

As Filer says, “Not feeling sick is not necessarily the same as being healthy.”

Early detection and preventive care are

two of the most important ways to maintain health and prevent potential health concerns from becoming major problems.

Step away from the screen.

Though more men exercise in 2016 than they did in the AAFP's 2007 survey (80 percent vs 74 percent), many men still spend a considerable amount of time looking at screens.

In the 2016 online survey of 916 men across the country, the AAFP found that men spend, on average, about 20 hours each week working at a computer and 19 hours in front of a television.

An important step men can take to ensure they receive regular checkups and preventive care is to regularly visit a family physician. Nearly eight in 10 men (79 percent) have a regular doctor or health care professional they see when they are sick or want medical advice, however, a family physician not only treats the whole person, but the whole family. This is because an individual’s health should be a concern for the entire family.

The value of a family physician is that they perform routine checkups, immunizations and screenings. They can also treat chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure, asthma, arthritis and depression.

“If more men develop ongoing relationships with their family physician, their perception of good health is more likely to become reality,” said Dr. Filer.

To learn more about men’s health, visit www.familydoctor.org.

To learn more about the 2007 & 2016 surveys, visit www.aafp.org/menshealth.

- BPT

Laws Limiting Alcohol Sales May Have Measurable Public Health Effects By d-mars.com News Provider

I

t is the largest study to focus on the relation between alcohol use and cardiovascular disease, and shows that laws restricting alcohol sales may have measurable public health effects that may be both beneficial and harmful.

The authors say the "results have health implications relevant to people with and at risk for various types of cardiovascular disease."

Alcohol is one of the most widely consumed drugs, and heart disease is the most common cause of death worldwide.

Previous studies suggest that alcohol consumption may be associated with both a greater risk for some cardiovascular disease and lower risk for others, but these have mostly relied on self reported alcohol use, which is not necessarily reliable, and have generated conflicting results.

So a team of researchers based at the University of California, San Francisco investigated the relation between alcohol consumption and cardiovascular disease by using differences in Texas

county level alcohol sales laws.

Texas is the most populous US state to enact laws restricting alcohol sales. A patchwork of counties exists where alcohol sales are allowed, known as 'wet counties', and some where such sales are restricted, known as 'dry counties.'

By analysing information from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, the researchers identified 29 counties as 'dry' (where alcohol sales are completely restricted), 47 counties as 'wet', and seven counties changed from 'dry' to 'wet' between 2005 and 2010.

During the same period, they found that 1,106,968 patients aged 21 or older were admitted to hospital in the state, using data from the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Results showed that the incidence and prevalence of alcohol misuse and alcoholic liver disease was significantly greater among hospitalised residents of wet counties than in dry counties, even after adjusting for factors, such as, age, race, ethnicity, and sex.

There was also a higher prevalence and incidence of atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat), but a lower preva-

lence and incidence of heart attacks and congestive heart failure.

Hospitalised residents in the seven counties going from 'dry' to 'wet' during the study period also had a significantly higher prevalence and incidence of alcohol abuse, liver disease, atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure, but there was no difference in heart attacks.

This is an observational study so no firm conclusions can be made about cause and effect, but the authors say the "results have health implications relevant to people with and at risk for various types of cardiovascular disease."

In a linked editorial, Kenneth Mukamal and Eric Ding from Harvard Medical School say this latest study provides fresh insights using a novel approach, but more certainty is needed.

They explain that the "possible health benefits of alcohol consumed within recommended limits continue to cause extraordinary controversy," and that only a randomized trial of alcohol consumption will be able to answer questions, because of limitations with observational studies.

"All interested parties should press for

such a trial quickly and wholeheartedly.

It is time to move forward," they conclude.

Journal References: 1. Jonathan W Dukes, Thomas A Dewland, Eric Vittinghoff, Jeffrey E Olgin, Mark J Pletcher, Judith A Hahn, Rachel A Gladstone, Gregory M Marcus.

Access to alcohol and heart disease among patients in hospital: observational cohort study using differences in alcohol sales laws. BMJ, 2016; i2714 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.i2714 2. Kenneth J Mukamal, Eric L Ding.

Pinpointing the health effects of alcohol. BMJ, 2016; i3043 DOI: 10.1136/ bmj.i3043 BMJ. (2016, June 14). Laws limiting alcohol sales may have measurable public health effects: First study to use differences in alcohol sales laws as a predictor of disease. ScienceDaily. Retrieved August 2, 2016 from www.sciencedaily. com/releases/2016/06/160614214402. htm

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August 2016  7

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August 2016

Call Me!

C

By Rhonda Dallas Contributing Writer

ommunication is the act of transferring information from one place to another. There are different categories of communication. Verbal communication includes face-toface, radio, and television. Non-Verbal communication includes body language, gestures, and your attire. Written communication includes letters, emails, books, magazines, the internet, and other social media devices. The last one is visualization, which includes graphs, charts, and maps.

If you are a people person, you like to communicate face-to-face, where you can touch and see the other person and

pick up on their vibes in regards to communicating. On the other hand, we see the millennials who prefer to communicate via texting and through social media. Have you ever called someone and they don’t answer, but you text them, and they text you right back? I have children, and this always makes me laugh. The only problem with always using social media and texting is that you don’t really know how the person is doing, because we cannot pick up on feelings through texting and messaging each other.

Cell Phones from a Health Standpoint From a health standpoint, it is not good to always use texting to communicate, because it can negatively affect emotions according to MedicalDaily. com. The presence of a cell phone while two or more people are talking faceto-face can generate negative feelings toward the person who has his or her device visible. In two studies conducted at the University of Essex in the United Kingdom, researchers studied the effects of a mobile device during a nose-tonose conversation. In the first study, 37 pairs of strangers were asked to spend 10 minutes talking to each other about an

interesting event that happened in their lives within the past month. Half of the participants were seated in a secluded area with a mobile device present on a desk nearby whereas the other half remained without a cellphone. The results of the study showed that those who had a mobile device nearby were perceived less positive by the stranger, compared to the other participants without a cell phone present.

In the second study, researchers included 34 different pairs of strangers who were asked to discuss trivial topics while others were asked to discuss significant events that occurred in their life.

Half of the participants chatted with a mobile device while with the stranger and the other half had a notebook. The results of the study showed that those

who spoke about significant events in their lives with a notebook present experienced a feeling of closeness and trust in the stranger, unlike those with a cell phone. “These results demonstrate that the presence of mobile phones can interfere with human relationships, an effect that is most clear when individuals are discussing personally meaningful topics,” said the researchers of the study.

We live in a world where communication is literally at our fingertips. The traditional way of communicating with each other face to face or telephone has been enhanced by social media and texting. So, how do you like to receive information? This is a question that we need to answer in order to establish effective communication. We need to know what type of person we are, and this will help us understand our way or ways of communicating with each other and the world.

A certified health and wellness life coach can help you with a healthy lifestyle. Rhonda Dallas is a certified life coach and nutritional counselor. Contact Rhonda at rhondadallascoaching@ gmail.com for your coaching session.

Get started today!

Source MedicalDaily.com

Are You in One of the Best Healthcare Jobs?

By d-mars.com News Provider

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any of the highest-paying jobs are in the healthcare field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment growth in this sector will be much quicker than the average for all jobs by 2024. Are you in one of the best healthcare jobs?

Orthodontist The BLS reports that this profession will grow by 18 percent from 2014 to 2024, resulting in about 1,500 new job openings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics suspects this growth will be driven by an increasing desire for this specialized dental care.

Quick Stats • $187,199 - MEDIAN SALARY • 0.2% - UNEMPLOYMENT R ATE • 1,500 - NUMBER OF JOBS Dentist The need for professionals to examine our teeth, fill and – gulp – refill our cavities isn’t fading. And because more people want cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening to attain pearly whites, the demand for dentists is growing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment growth of 18 percent between 2014 and 2024, with 23,300 new openings. A comfortable salary, low unemployment rate and agreeable work-life balance boost dentist to a top position.

Quick Stats • $149,540 - MEDIAN SALARY • 0.2% - UNEMPLOYMENT R ATE • 23,300 - NUMBER OF JOBS

Nurse Anesthetist The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the profession is poised to grow by about 19 percent by the year 2024, which translates into 7,400 new job openings.

Quick Stats • $153,780 - MEDIAN SALARY • 1.3% - UNEMPLOYMENT R ATE • 7,400 - NUMBER OF JOBS

Physician Assistant The U.S. is currently facing a shortage of health care professionals, and physician assistants – who are a costeffective alternative to general internists – are needed to fill the void. From 2012 to 2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that this field will grow at a rate of 38.4 percent, which will shake out into 33,300 new jobs for physician assistants.

Quick Stats • $95,820 - MEDIAN SALARY • 0.2% - UNEMPLOYMENT R ATE • 28,700 - NUMBER OF JOBS

Nurse Practitioner The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that by 2024, the field will grow by 35 percent, opening up a whopping

44,700 new positions. This growth rate is five times the national average for other occupations, making job security for nurse practitioners very good. They are also handsomely paid for their work, with the top 25 percent taking home six figures.

Quick Stats • $95,350 - MEDIAN SALARY • 1.3% - UNEMPLOYMENT R ATE • 44,700 - NUMBER OF JOBS

Psychiatrist The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects this profession to grow by 15 percent from 2014 to 2024, resulting in 4,200 new jobs. These healthy figures might be attributed to the growing number of patients with mental health issues, particularly as the population both increases and ages.

Quick Stats • $181,880 - MEDIAN SALARY • 1.8% - UNEMPLOYMENT R ATE • 4,200 - NUMBER OF JOBS

Pediatrician The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a surge in hiring for medical personnel who interact with the expansive baby boomer population. By 2024, the government projects there will be 3,600 new pediatrician positions that will crop up at a rate of 10 percent.

Quick Stats • $163,350 - MEDIAN SALARY

• 0.4% - UNEMPLOYMENT R ATE • 3,600 - NUMBER OF JOBS

Anesthesiologist Anesthesiologists still work in hospital operating rooms, but their expertise is also needed in other places, including invasive radiology, gastrointestinal endoscopy, electrophysiology and more. In fact, the profession is expected to grow by 21 percent through 2024, with 7,100 new jobs.

Quick Stats • $187,199 - MEDIAN SALARY • 0.4% - UNEMPLOYMENT R ATE • 7,100 - NUMBER OF JOBS

Other best healthcare jobs listed: • Obstetrician and Gynecologist • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon • Optometrist • Physical Therapist • Podiatrist • Surgeon • Physician • Registered Nurse • Occupational Therapist • Audiologist • Speech-Language Pathologist • Prosthodontist • Pharmacist • Radiation Therapist • Dietitian and Nutritionist • Chiropractor • Respiratory Therapist Source: money.usnews.com

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August 2016 9

Great Chicken Recipes Enjoy making these delicious chicken recipes.

For more recipes, please visit www.CookingLight.com.

Roast Chicken Salad with Peaches, Goat Cheese, and Pecans

Chicken Breasts with Tomatoes and Olives

Ingredients

Ingredients • • • • •

4 (6-ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves 1 cup multicolored cherry or grape tomatoes, halved 3 tablespoons oil and vinegar dressing, divided 20 olives, halved 1/2 cup (2 ounces) crumbled feta cheese

Potato, Chicken, and Fresh Pea Salad Ingredients

• 1 pound fingerling potatoes, cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces • 2 cups fresh sugar snap peas • 2 cups chopped skinless, boneless rotisserie chicken breast • 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard • 1 teaspoon minced fresh tarragon • 1 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 1 garlic clove, minced

• 2 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar • 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 1 1/2 tablespoons minced shallots • 2 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice • 2 1/2 teaspoons maple syrup • 3/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 2 cups shredded skinless, boneless rotisserie chicken breast • 2 cups sliced peeled peaches • 1/2 cup vertically sliced red onion • 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted • 1 (5-ounce) package gourmet salad greens • 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese

Preparation

Prepare grill to medium-high heat. Sprinkle chicken evenly with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Place chicken on grill rack coated with cooking spray, and grill for 6 minutes on each side or until chicken is done. Keep warm. Combine tomatoes, 1 1/2 tablespoons dressing, and olives in a medium skillet over medium heat, and cook for 2 minutes or until tomatoes soften slightly and mixture is thoroughly heated, stirring occasionally. Brush chicken with remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons dressing.

Cut each chicken breast half into 3/4-inch slices. Top each chicken breast half with 1/4 cup tomato mixture. Sprinkle each serving with 2 tablespoons cheese and torn basil leaves, if desired.

Preparation Preparation

• Place potatoes in a large saucepan; cover with cold water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 10 minutes or until almost tender. Add peas; cook 2 minutes or until peas are crisp-tender. Drain; place vegetables in a large bowl. Add chicken, bell pepper, and onion.

• Combine oil and remaining ingredients, stirring with a whisk. Drizzle over salad; toss gently to combine.

• Combine first 8 ingredients; stir with a whisk.

• Combine chicken and remaining ingredients except cheese in a large bowl. Add vinegar mixture; toss gently.

Sprinkle with cheese.

Herbed bread: Unroll the dough from a (13.8-ounce) can refrigerated pizza crust. Fold dough in half; pat into a 9-inch square. Let rest 15 minutes. Brush dough with 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Bake at 350° for 11 minutes or until golden.

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August 2016

Black History: Science Makers By d-mars.com News Provider

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t’s important that we know our history. d-mars.com inspires, informs, and educates in all areas, and it’s especially important to highlight African Americans who have helped make advances in scientific research. Our people have made great strides as chemists, engineers, and physicists, as well as science education administrators. It’s our history, and we take pride in celebrating African Americans who have achieved great success in the area of health.

Sharon Barnes Chemist Biologist, chemist, and inventor Sharon J. Barnes was born on November 28, 1955 to Selena and William Jefferson McDonald in Beaumont, Texas. She attended Sisblee High School, where she received three scholarships to attend college. In 1978, Barnes received her B.S. degree in biology-chemistry and clinical laboratory science. During her time in college she interned at clinical laboratory science program for the Baptist Hospital of Southeast Texas.

After college, Barnes began working as a technologist in Clinical Laboratory Science at Veterans Administration Medical Center. During this same year, she received her certification as clinical laboratory scientist from the Veterans Administration at Baylor University. In 1981, Barnes obtained a new position at Brazosport Regional Health Center where she worked as an assistant lab director. Five years later, she pursued her

interest as a chemist at the Dow Chemical Company serving as a special chemistry lab supervisor. In 1991, Barnes obtained a U.S. Patent for a new application in Infrared Thermography Technology. She was a member of a team of five, including one other African American, who invented the process and apparatus for con-tactless measurements of sample temperature. A year later, she received her certification as clinical laboratory director from the National Certification Agency at Baylor University and became laboratory director at Dow Chemical Company and clinical lab director in the Clinical Health Department. Barnes has also worked as a QA/QC chemist in Research & Development in the Texas Analytical and Environmental Lab. In 1996, Barnes became Dow Chemical Company’s training specialist as well as manager for Site Training and Development. She eventually assumed the role as human resource partner and consultant. In 2005, she received her MBA in human resources management from the University of Phoenix and promptly became human resources associate director for the Performance Plastics Division for manufacturing and engineering, finance, assets and supply chain, licensing and catalysts.

In 1991, Barnes was named Dow Texas Inventor, she has also received the Outstanding Scouter Award twice from Dow Chemical Company and was selected as one of the 50 Most Influential Blacks in Research by Engineer.com.

Barnes was named Most Distinguished Alumnae for 2003 by Baylor University, Waco Texas. That same year she was elected to serve as National Secretary for

the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemist and Chemical Engineers (NOBCCHE).

She has also serves two terms as Gubernational Appointee – District One Review Committee for Harris, Galveston and Brazoria countries (appointed by Governor George W. Bush and re-appointed by Governor Rick Perry).

Winston Anderson Biomedical Scientist Biomedical scientist Winston A. Anderson was born on July 26, 1940 in Kingston, Jamaica. In 1959, Anderson graduated from Calabar High School in Kingston and received his Higher Schools Certificate. At the age of seventeen, he immigrated to the United States and enrolled at Howard University in Washington, D.C. Anderson went on to earn his B.S. degree in zoology and his M.S. degree in zoology from Howard University in 1962 and 1963, respectively. In 1966, he graduated from Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island with his Ph.D.

degree in biomedical sciences.

Anderson was appointed as chair of the Howard University Department of Zoology in 1975. He served in that position until 1983 and remained on the faculty as a professor of biomedical science.

In 2006, with a $1 million grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Anderson started the Howard Hughes Medical Research Scholars program.

This program has been supported by the National Science Foundation’s Research Careers for Minority Scholars program and the National Institute of Health Biomedical Research Support program for minority students at Howard University. In addition to research and mentoring, Anderson co-founded the Sandy Spring Museum and African Art Gallery in1988 and serves as the curator.

Anderson is a founding member of the American Society for Cell Biology (ASCB) and was the first African American scientist elected to serve on the ASCB Council. While at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Anderson received the Anne Langer Award for Cancer Research and the Distinguished Teacher Award at the Pritzker School of Medicine. In 1992, Brown University bestowed on Anderson its Outstanding Graduate Alumnus Award, and Howard University’s Division of Academic Affairs honored him for establishing the distinguished lecture series, “Brilliant Encounters in Science.” In 2011, Anderson received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring.

Source: www.thehistorymakers.com

Psychiatric Diagnostic Tools May Not Be Valid for African Americans By d-mars.com News Provider

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epression in African Americans, according to Sirry Alang, assistant professor of sociology and anthropology at Lehigh University, is expressed in ways that are inconsistent with symptoms of depression laid out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V).

The DSM-V is the primary source of diagnostic information, relied upon by not only clinicians and researchers, but also psychiatric drug regulation agencies, health insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies, the legal system, and policy makers.

After spending twelve months in a disadvantaged predominantly Black neighborhood in the Midwest to understand how African Americans perceive depression, Alang suggests that clinicians and researchers should be asking if the instruments they use to diagnose and assess depression are really valid among African Americans. She details her findings in a study called “’Black folk don’t

get no severe d e p r e s s i o n ’: Meanings and expressions of depression in a predominantly black urban neighborhood in Midwestern United States” published in Social Science & Medicine Journal.

In the study, Alang suggests that African Americans perceive depression as a weakness inconsistent with notions of strength in the community, rather than as a health condition. The study results have significant implications for the clinical assessment of depression and for the measurement of depression in community surveys.

“It is impossible to effectively diagnose and treat depression among African Americans if their perspectives about depression are not taken into account,” she explains.

According to Alang, although the population she studied expressed de-

pression through classic depressive symptoms--such as feeling hopeless, loss of sleep, and losing interests in activities-symptoms like anger, agitation, and the frantic need for human interaction were also considered by them to be indicative of depression. These symptoms are inconsistent with symptoms outlined in the DSM-V. “For example, clinicians might ‘miss’ symptoms like anger if they are focused on depression as defined by the DSMV,” says Alang. “But they won’t miss these symptoms altogether if they are open to the possibility that some African Americans have their own beliefs about depression, and that they might express symptoms consistent with those beliefs but inconsistent with how the DSM-V classifies depression.”

To collect data for the study, Alang participated in and shadowed activities with residents of the neighborhood. She conducted informal interviews with key contacts in their homes, at church, during community events and in other public places including streets, barber shops, hair salons, and bus stops.

She found that despite disproportion-

ate exposure to social and economic disadvantage, the African Americans she studied perceive themselves to be resilient.

“Depression does not exist in a vacuum, but is linked to racial discrimination that is insidious and persistent within the context in which African Americans live,” she says.

Alang concludes that improving Black mental health calls for meaningful engagement in analyzing the racial effects of policies, practices, and programs.

Journal Reference: Sirry M. Alang.

“Black folk don’t get no severe depression”: Meanings and expressions of depression in a predominantly black urban neighborhood in Midwestern United States. Social Science & Medicine, 2016; 157: 1 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2016.03.032 Lehigh University. (2016, June 22).

Psychiatric diagnostic tools may not be valid for African Americans. ScienceDaily. Retrieved August 2, 2016 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/06/160622105804.htm

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August 2016

E-PIC Training

Reveals the Truth on a Hea

By Dawn Paul

Associate Editor

F

ibroids or uterine fibroid disease has been called a silent killer. This disease is something many women suffer with, especially in silence. Tiffany Davis, BSN, MSN, CPAN, CNE, is the CEO of E-PIC Training Center, Inc. (E-PIC), and she knows this disease all too well, having lived with fibroids for over 20 years. Not only did she live with fibroids in silence, but she watched her mother and sisters suffer as well. Davis doesn’t just consider herself a healthcare professional, but a minister when it comes to health, sharing vital knowledge and information that contribute to a healthier Houston. Her recent free community event, Family, Friends and Fibroids: The Silent Killer, provided empowerment and education from keynote speaker and expert, Dr. Andrew Doe of Houston Vascular & Interventional Radiology (Houston VIR).

Being a women who has endured uterine fibroid disease, she wanted to give other women a safe haven to share their testimonies and seek credible information when it comes to the disease, treatment, and more. When it comes to successfully treating uterine fibroid disease and credible information, Dr. Andrew Doe aka “The Fibroid Doc” is at the top of the list.

“Dr. Doe saved my life. It was a no-brainer to have Dr. Doe as the keynote speaker of this event addressing this topic, as I was his patient and can testify about his effective fibroid treatment personally,” says Davis. In addition to Dr. Doe, the event also honored top women and provided information on health insurance, treatment options, infertility concerns, adoption options, and primary care.

AboutTiffany TiffanyDavis Davis About Davis is a native Houstonian and one of the most sought-after medical professionals in Houston and the surrounding areas when it comes to health education. Her passion has derived from more than 14 years of experience in Cardiovascular Research, Cardiac Catherization, Nursing Education, and Outpatient Surgery. Not only does Davis have extensive experience in the health profession but a genuine passion for the profession as well. EPIC is not only helping educate students and achieving success by meeting their needs, but through E-PIC, Davis is making a difference in a student’s learning experience. Davis and the E-PIC team are energetic, experienced, and they increase student skill level. Davis has established a Review Course for Medical

“I suffered for over 20 years with fibroids. I also watched my mother and both of my sisters suffer with fibroids, and it was a part of the normal pattern in the household. However, what we were dealing with was not normal. I want to let other women know that this is not normal, and you don’t have to deal with this alone. More importantly, you don’t have to get a hysterectomy to treat fibroids. This free community event broke the silence and brought awareness to uterine fibroid disease.”

— Tiffany Davis, E-PIC Training Center, Inc. CEO and Certified Instructor

Assistants in preparing for the American Association for Medical Assistants Certification Exam. In addition, E-PIC is establishing Continuing Education Units for Certified Nursing Assistants and seminars for educational advancement. Though Davis has countless awards for her selfless work in the health profession, she has true passion behind what she does. “This is not just a job for me, but this

is my mission and my purpose to educate the community in regards to health,” says Davis.

About Dr. Andrew Doe and Houston VIR About Dr. Andrew Doe Dr. Houston Andrew Doe and VIR is the founder of Houston

VIR. Houston VIR provides a safer, faster, and less painful experience for the patient. Houston

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Dr. Andrew Doe

VIR is the only Vascula ogy clinic of its kind in t Doe is a Vascular and In (VIR) trained to perform dures and treat a wide ra ine fibroids and vein dise tionate number of Afr and this is Dr. Doe’s pr The technique Houston fibroids is Uterine Fibro an FDA approved and non-surgical treatment t

August 2016 13

g Center, Inc.

alth Issue Impacting Women

or multiple ones. In extreme cases, multiple fibroids can expand the uterus so much that it reaches the rib cage. Many women have uterine fibroids sometime during their lives. But most women don’t know they have uterine fibroids because they often cause no symptoms. Your doctor may discover fibroids incidentally during a pelvic exam or prenatal ultrasound.

Symptoms • Heavy menstrual bleeding • Menstrual periods lasting more than a week • Pelvic pressure or pain • Frequent urination • Difficulty emptying the bladder • Constipation • Backache or leg pains

and Houston VIR

ar Interventional Radiolthe city of Houston. Dr. nterventional Radiologist m a wide range of proceange of conditions. Uterease impact a disproporrican-American women, rimary focus of interest.

VIR uses to treat uterine oid Embolization (UFE), minimally invasive and that was first recognized

by the American College of Obstetricians as an effective fibroid treatment in 2004. To read more about Dr. Doe and Houston VIR, please visit www.HoustonFibroidDoc.com.

Get Educated About Fibroids Uterine fibroidsAbout are noncancerous Get Educated Fibroids growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. Also called leiomyomas (lie-o-my-Omuhs) or myomas, uterine fibroids aren’t associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer and almost never develop into cancer. Fibroids range in size from seedlings, undetectable by the human eye, to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. You can have a single fibroid

Causes Doctors don’t know the cause of uterine fibroids, but research and clinical experience point to these factors: • Genetic changes. Many fibroids contain changes in genes that differ from those in normal uterine muscle cells.

• Hormones. Estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that stimulate development of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle in preparation for pregnancy, appear to promote the growth of fibroids. Fibroids contain more estrogen and progesterone receptors than normal uterine muscle cells do. Fibroids tend to shrink after menopause due to a decrease in hormone production.

• Other growth factors. Substances that help the body maintain tissues, such as insulinlike growth factor, may affect fibroid growth.

Risk Factors There are few known risk factors for uterine fibroids, other than being a woman of reproductive age. Other factors that can have an impact on fibroid development include: • Heredity. If your mother or sister had fibroids, you’re at increased risk of developing them.

• Race. Black women are more likely to have fibroids than women of other racial groups. In addition, black women have fibroids at younger ages, and they’re also likely to have more or larger fibroids.

• Environmental factors. Onset of menstruation at an early age; use of birth control; obesity; a vitamin D deficiency; having a diet higher in red meat and lower in green vegetables, fruit and dairy; and drinking alcohol, including beer, appear to increase your risk of developing fibroids.

Although uterine fibroids usually aren’t dangerous, they can cause discomfort and may lead to complications such as anemia from heavy blood loss. For more information and education about uterine fibroids, please visit www.mayoclinic.org.

Family, Friends and Fibroids: The Silent Killer honored First Lady Desiree Eastland, Pastor Mia Wright, First Lady Sheretta West, Dr. Saundra Montgomery, and First Lady Torsha Johnson as recipients of the 2016 Woman Who Cares Award. Wanda Adams, CleRenda McGrady, and Dr. Jonita Reynolds also received special recognition. Sponsors included, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (HB Chapter Fall ’95), Industrial Welding Academy, Houston VIR, d-mars.com, and LAMIK. This is just one of the health initiatives that Davis has hosted, helping to educate and empower Houstonians. “Through E-PIC, I am able to be a servant, helping Houston with the gift that God has given to me. This is a ministry and a service, and I’m glad I’m able to do my part to educate Houston and the surrounding areas about fibroids and health issues impacting our community,” says Davis. For more on Tiffany Davis and E-PIC Training Center, Inc., please visit www.epictc.com.

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August 2016

Brain Foods: Eating for Academic Success

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By d-mars.com News Provider

hat do the foods your children eat have to do with the grades they bring home? Surprisingly, more than many people think.

Research shows that certain vitamins and nutrients support brain health and development. That means the snacks, meals and supplements your child consumes can give them an academic edge, in the classroom and in life.

Lauren Zimet, director of the Early Insights Healthy Foundations Program and a mother herself, understands how food can empower the body and brain.

Here are Zimet's top picks for brain foods that can help support your child's learning and development.

Powerful proteins Protein for breakfast and lunch will not only curb hunger pangs throughout the school day, but will also help sustain mental energy and level moods.

Kid-friendly protein ideas include eggs, organic chicken/turkey/beef, non-GMO nitrate-free turkey bacon, and beans.

Have leftovers from last night? Din-

Breaking the Weight-Loss Cycle

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any Americans are living with excess weight and obesity, meaning they have a higher-than-normal body weight for their height. With more than a third of the U.S. adult population affected by obesity, the marketplace is saturated with “quick-fix” weight-loss tips and unhealthy and unsustainable diets. Indeed, at the beginning of every year, favorite snacks are left out of the grocery cart, gym memberships soar and healthy-cooking programs earn a second look as losing weight tops New Year’s resolution lists.

Yet for all the good intentions, weight loss is no easy task, and for some, it is an ongoing struggle. Why? In reality, obesity is a complex chronic disease that changes how the body uses food and the energy it produces, preventing some people from maintaining the weight loss they achieve.

The result is a lifetime of ups and downs, as well as emotional, psychological, physical and health implications.

The Weight-Loss Cycle According to a recent U.S. ethnographic study conducted by Novo Nor-

Super supplements

ners in the U.S. traditionally have more protein than other meals, so eating last night's leftovers in the morning is a fun brain-boosting breakfast option.

Incredible carbohydrates Some examples of healthy complex carbohydrates to incorporate into your child's diet are brown rice, quinoa and oats. These types of carbs elevate levels of serotonin in the brain, which has a calming effect. Need bread? Look for organic options so you can feel confident your child is consuming the nutrients they need and not the additional chemicals that are commonly found in conventional breads and grains.

Fantastic fats Did you know the brain is about 60 percent fat? That means when your kids eat healthy fats, it can support brain function. Pack snacks with nuts, seeds and avocado. When cooking, replace unhealthy hydrogenated oils with healthier options such as extra-virgin olive oil or coconut oil. Eat more meals with cold-water fish like salmon to get more omega-3 essential fats, which play an integral role in promoting cellular health and brain development. disk, many people affected by obesity often experience a cycle of weight loss and weight gain. The phases of this cycle include: 1. Defining Moment: Feeling energized and motivated. I’m ready to do something about my weight.

2. Consideration: Feeling hopeful and determined. I have many options. I will choose the one that will help me get to the goal I have set for myself.

3. Momentum: Feeling confident and excited. I’m seeing a difference in my weight, and so can others. I can do this.

4. Plateau: It’s getting harder. It’s easy to get off track. I’m not losing weight anymore. Life is getting in the way. Note: Missteps often occur here. It becomes challenging to maintain my plan. I’m becoming frustrated and anxious.

5. Collapse: I’m tired of this. I can’t keep this up, so I’m not going to. I’m actually relieved that the pressure is off of me.

6. Fatigue: Feeling exhausted and sad. I don’t even want to think about my weight right now.

According to the study, individuals commonly repeat this cycle frequently throughout their lifetime. Each time, they return to the Defining Moment, such as trying to find clothes that fit properly for a special event, or struggling to fit on a bus or plane seat, motivated again to restart the process with hope renewed. Along the way, many rely on family, friends or even the media for inspiration and support, often focusing on immediate, rapid weight-loss solutions rather than behavioral changes that can influence choices over the long term.

“The cycle of weight is often extremely

Mighty nuts and seeds These nutritional powerhouses provide generous amounts of calories, fats, complex carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, minerals and fiber. Kids can enjoy making their own healthy seed-nut snack mixes, then package in baggies or small containers. Also, try swapping traditional peanut butter for other nut butters like almond or cashew for a healthier take on PB&J. frustrating for individuals affected by the disease of obesity. For far too long, individuals have been met with the ‘eat less and move more’ response, which simply does not work. We know more about the science of obesity today than ever before, and we need to utilize this knowledge to help individuals effectively manage their weight and improve their health through safe and effective treatment options,” says Joe Nadglowski, Obesity Action Coalition president and CEO. As the medical community continues to evolve in its understanding of obesity, many healthcare professionals (HCPs) are prioritizing open dialogues with their patients about the value of a comprehensive weight-management approach. It is this collaboration, many physicians believe, that can play a vital role in helping patients break the cycle and shift the focus from exclusively weight loss to a more long-term view of health and weight maintenance.

“Obesity is a complex, chronic and multifaceted disease that is best managed through a partnership between patients and their healthcare providers” says Dr. Scott Kahan, MD, MPH, director of the National Center for Weight and Wellness. “Addressing weight is not easy, but finding a support network, which may include a doctor, nurse, registered dietician, mental health provider, or others, can provide resources that help with short- and long-term weight management. Patients are more likely to achieve progress when, in collaboration with their healthcare network, they have opportunities to discuss treatment options, establish plans, monitor results and evaluate responses to the plan.”

Omega-3 fish oil supplements are becoming more and more recognized as part of a healthy family diet. They are a convenient source of the omega3s - especially EPA and DHA - that are so crucial to optimal brain health and function. It's important to know where your fish oil comes from and how it is purified. Nordic Naturals specializes in purified, molecularly distilled oils that come in various formulations, including a variety of options for children. Learn more at www.nordicnaturals.com.

Vivacious veggies and fruit Real, whole foods like fresh fruits and vegetables support brain health while calming the nervous system during times of stress. Blueberries, raspberries and strawberries are full of antioxidants and vitamin C, which research shows helps regulate cortisol, a hormone responsible for stress. And don't forget bananas! Not only are they full of potassium, but they also help the body produce hormones that help reduce stress and promote better sleep.

By paying a little attention to the foods your child eats, you'll be set for a healthy start to a brain-smart school year! – BPT Specifically, treatment plans that are customized to patients’ personal considerations, realistic goals and changing needs over time have the best chance of success. By consulting a multidisciplinary team of health care professionals, including physicians, registered dieticians and mental health professionals, among others, individuals can receive tailored, comprehensive support based on their changing weight-loss needs.

Over time, this can result in long-lasting behavior change, which helps break the weight-loss cycle. Plans that include the necessary tools to help patients build skills for long-term behavior change stand to provide the most value.

Small Changes Make a Big Difference While the motivation to lose weight often comes from the desire to have more energy, reduced pain, better health or to take part in certain activities, many patients have unrealistic ideas as to how much weight they have to lose to achieve any level of success. Fortunately, even small improvements in weight loss can significantly impact overall health and wellness. Many studies indicate that a 5% to 10% reduction in weight may lower health risks related to obesity, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, bad cholesterol, hypertension and sleep apnea.

If you need help in losing or maintaining your weight, consider professional consultation. What once worked may no longer work, so it’s important to talk to your provider if the pounds are not coming off or are coming back on. – BPT

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August 2016  15

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August 2016

Are Your Medication Serial Numbers Authentic?

S

By d-mars.com News Provider

martphones can do just about anything these days - from tracking your sleep, to controlling your electricity and streaming television.

Now, thanks to an app developed by EMD Serono, Inc., the North America biopharmaceutical business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, smartphones can also give patients the ability to verify the authenticity of the serial number on all EMD Serono medications by scanning the two dimensional barcode on the package.

“Although our company’s exposure to counterfeiting in the U.S. has been limited, we are constantly evaluating all of the ways we can best serve patients, and our app is one tool that puts the power to help verify the serial numbers on the packages of EMD Serono medications in their hands,” says Kimberly Fleming, associate director, Product Security & Outbound Logistics. “We believe that EMD Serono is one of the first health care companies in the U.S. to serialize all products in advance of requirements set forth by the Drug Supply Chain Security Act.” People taking any of EMD Serono medications can download the free smartphone app, Check My Meds(TM), on Apple(R) or Android(TM) devices and scan the barcode on the product

packaging to authenticate the medicine’s serial number. The app will alert patients instantly to confirm the authenticity of the product serial number or refer the patient to an EMD Serono representative if they have any questions.

To address the issue of counterfeit medicines, which has been an increasing problem in industrialized countries such as the U.S., the FDA mandated that by

November 2017, all drug companies will need to include a unique serial number on each package of drugs dispensed.

EMD Serono develops and offers therapies for specialty-care conditions, like multiple sclerosis and infertility, and has been a long-standing leader in patient safety and product integrity. The company has a long history of integrating cutting-edge science and innovative

technology to develop products and drug delivery devices that meet the needs of patients living with difficult to treat diseases, as well as providing industry-leading educational and support programs.

For more information about product serialization or the Check My Meds(TM) app, visit www.emdserono.com/en/therapies/check_my_meds/check_my_meds. html. - BPT

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August 2016 17

Seniors Commit Suicide Twice as Often as Teens By d-mars.com News Provider

W

hile teenagers are the age group most associated with suicide risk, the terrible truth is that another group is killing themselves at even higher rates: seniors.

Adults aged 65 to 84 are nearly twice as likely to commit suicide as 15 to 24-year-olds, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Beyond age 85, the suicide risk is 70 percent higher.

What's even more concerning is older adults are six times more likely than teens to complete their suicide attempts.

Unlike younger people, seniors are more decisive and more likely to have access to lethal means.

Why are seniors attempting suicide at such astonishing rates? The Institute on Aging's Friendship Line provides insight. At the country's only free 24-hour crisis call center for seniors and disabled adults, trained volunteers speak with seniors for a variety of reasons.

"Considered a 'warm line' rather than a 'hot line,' the Friendship Line exists for seniors to call for any reason," says Patrick Arbore, director and founder of Elderly Suicide Prevention & Grief Related Services at Institute on Aging, who launched the crisis intervention program

in 1973. "While some call because they are having a crisis, the majority call due to chronic loneliness and undiagnosed depression. These two reasons are precursors to suicide."

“When I first started working here there was a man who started calling, and he had a traumatic brain injury. He would talk about how he wanted to die and how he didn’t have any purpose in life anymore," says Kathy Seligman, volunteer with the Friendship Line.

This man's feelings are not unusual for older generations. Many times seniors struggle to understand their purpose in life, and if they are disabled or have little human contact, the negative feelings can compound. However, the Friendship Line offers hope.

"The fact that he was calling every day, not just talking to me, but talking to a person at the Friendship Line every day, he started to realize he could have relationships with people," Seligman says. "It was really amazing to me to see this man regain his joy at living."

If you have a senior in your life, suicide risk can be difficult to spot. Common signs are often confused as normal parts of the aging process. Arbore says to pay attention for these signals: Subtle cries for help: Seniors are unlikely to say something as straightforward as "I want to die." They are more likely to say "I don't want to be a burden," "There's no place for me here," or

"I just don’t feel right."

Irritability: Seniors at risk for suicide are more likely to be irritable than sad.

They may complain often about physical ailments or inability to do things. These signal low quality of life.

Undiagnosed depression: Look for signs of depression such as lost interest in hobbies, loss of appetite or sleep, or giving away prized possessions. Pay close attention during times of change, such as when a spouse dies.

Lack of social interaction: Note seniors that are withdrawn and lack social contact with others. Loneliness and isolation cause seniors to feel their death wouldn't really effect anyone.

"Keep in mind, seniors are unlikely to ask for help because they don't want to be a burden to anyone," Arbore says. "It's up to you to take action if you notice any of these signs or feel something is off."

Here is a three-step action plan to help if you believe an elderly loved one is at risk of suicide: Step 1: Call or visit.

Simple yet profoundly effective, calling and visiting regularly helps give seniors purpose and allows them to feel connected. When you eliminate feelings of loneliness you help eliminate thoughts of suicide.

Step 2: Schedule a depression screening.

Many seniors don't believe in mental health; they believe in toughing it out. That means they may not speak to their doctor about their depression. Be an advocate and their voice during appointments. Ask the doctor to schedule a depression screening when you observe any red flags.

Step 3: Use the Friendship Line.

The Friendship Line phone number is 800-971-0016. Seniors can call it every day if they'd like for social interaction or to ask health questions. You can even request a volunteer to make an outgoing call directly to a loved one who might be reluctant to reach out. Every year, trained volunteers make and receive 100,000 calls with seniors who often have no other human contact they can count on.

Founded in 1985, Institute on Aging (IOA) is one of Northern California's largest community-based nonprofit organizations providing comprehensive health, social and psychological services for seniors and adults with disabilities.

IOA's Friendship Line relies largely on donations to stay free and open 24 hours a day. If you don't know a senior, but want to help other seniors struggling with depression and suicide, donate to the Friendship Line at http://bit.ly/IOAgingDonate. Learn more atwww.ioaging.org. – BPT

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August 2016

For Alzheimer’s Caregivers, Knowledge Is Power By d-mars.com News Provider

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ichael Snowden was just 12 and his sister 16 when their mother began to exhibit symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Although they didn’t receive a definitive diagnosis until seven years later, the need to assume caregiving roles while still in their teens profoundly affected their lives.

“Not many people understood the disease or how to take care of her,” Michael says. “We did not really understand the disease ourselves after the diagnosis.

Eventually, my sister and I had to take over the caregiving responsibilities. Our lives quickly changed.”

The number of Americans with Alzheimer’s is set to triple over the next 35 years.

“Unless something is done to change its course, the Alzheimer’s crisis will continue impacting not only the millions of Americans currently living with the disease, but their caregivers, friends and family,” says Ruth Drew, director of family and information services for the Alzheimer’s Association. “Caregiving can become anyone’s reality. As the prevalence of the disease increases, more people from all walks of life, economic strata and ages will find themselves helping to support someone with Alzheimer’s in the coming years.”

Approximately two-thirds of caregivers are adult women — typically wives or daughters of people with Alzheimer’s.

A growing number of teenagers and men, however, are finding themselves in a full-time caregiving role.

“Facing early-onset Alzheimer’s when my wife, Chris, was in her mid-40s was devastating,” recalls Mark Donham, whose wife passed away from Alzheimer’s in 2011 at the age of 54. “Since we did not have extended family nearby, I decided that I would quit my job and care for Chris full time. We had to live on savings, knowing our financial future would be difficult.”

In addition to financial burdens, Alzheimer’s caregivers can become so focused on their role that they neglect their own physical, mental, financial and emotional well-being. In fact, according to the Alzheimer’s Association 2016 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, 20 percent of care contributors sacrificed their own medical care by cutting back on doctor visits.

“My biggest challenge was trying to figure out ‘how to take care of yourself’ as your loved one declines,” Donham says. For caregivers, he advises, “Be sure to take active steps to take care of yourself so that you can be the best possible caregiver for your loved one.”

With more people becoming primary caregivers, the resources provided by the Alzheimer’s Association are more critical than ever. Across the country, Alzheimer’s Association chapters provide face-to-face services such as sup-

port groups and educational sessions within communities.

A professionally staffed 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) provides information and advice to more than 300,000 callers each year. Recognizing the growing diversity of Alzheimer’s caregivers, the Helpline also provides translation services in more than 200 languages. The Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiver Center, part of alz.org, offers a wealth of caregiving tips and resources at every stage of the disease. Online message boards and forums allow caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges to share information, resources and find support at any time of day or night.

Support and information can be empowering, the Snowdens and Donham say.

“Understand the disease,” Shanelle Snowden says. “Once you are able to educate yourself on the disease, you will be able to cope better and you will be able to take care of your loved one better.”

Donham learned from others in the same situation. “Early on in Chris’ disease, I developed coping strategies,” Donham says. “I came to accept the disease, got connected to a support group, and educated myself as to the course of the disease and what help I would need to make sure Chris had the best care possible.”

For people facing the task of becoming an Alzheimer’s caregiver, Donham and Snowden offer some advice: Act early, before symptoms become severe.

“Face the diagnosis, and use the earliest times to get legal and financial matters in order,” Donham says.

“Connect with a support group so that you are not alone on the journey.”

The Alzheimer’s Navigator helps those facing the disease to determine their needs and develop an action plan.

In addition to planning for the future, knowing the diagnosis early also enables the person with Alzheimer’s to get the maximum benefit from available treatments and participate in clinical studies that help advance research.

Alzheimer’s Association TrialMatch connects individuals with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, healthy volunteers and physicians with current studies.

“Cherish each and every moment with your loved one,” Michael Snowden says. “Create moments of joy by doing the small things like sitting and watching TV together, listening to their favorite song or even just dancing. It will be something you’ll always remember about that person, and not the negative things that come with the disease. Other people out there are going through the same thing. Remember, this was not a curse put upon you or your loved one; it is something that is making you a stronger person.”

To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and resources for caregivers, visit www.alz.org. – BPT

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August 2016

A Minute of Secondhand Marijuana Smoke May Damage Blood Vessels: Study in Rats By d-mars.com News Provider

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hen it comes to the latest in biotechnology, ScienceDaily is a great source for information.

Rats' blood vessels took at least three times longer to recover function after only a minute of breathing secondhand marijuana smoke, compared to recovery after a minute of breathing secondhand tobacco smoke, according to new research in Journal of the American Heart Association, the Open Access Journal of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.

When rats inhaled secondhand marijuana smoke for one minute, their arteries carried blood less efficiently for at least 90 minutes, whereas similar exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke caused blood vessel impairment that recovered within 30 minutes.

"While the effect is temporary for both cigarette and marijuana smoke, these temporary problems can turn into long-term problems if exposures occur often enough and may increase

the chances of developing hardened and clogged arteries," said Matthew Springer, Ph.D., study senior author and professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco's Division of Cardiology.

Blood vessel function was examined in rats before and after exposure to secondhand marijuana smoke at levels similar to real-world secondhand tobacco smoke.

"Arteries of rats and humans are similar in how they respond to secondhand tobacco smoke, so the response of rat arteries to secondhand marijuana smoke is likely to reflect how human arteries might respond," Springer said.

Researchers also found the mere burning of the plant material appears responsible for the impaired blood vessels, not chemicals like nicotine and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, nor rolling paper.

"There is widespread belief that, unlike tobacco smoke, marijuana smoke is benign," Springer said. "We in public health have been telling the public to avoid secondhand tobacco smoke for years, but we don't tell them to

avoid secondhand marijuana smoke, because until now we haven't had evidence that it can be harmful."

Springer also noted that the increasing number of states legalizing medicinal and recreational marijuana, along with increasing potential for corporate expansion within the cannabis industry, makes it important to understand

the health consequences of secondhand marijuana smoke exposure.

The inhalation of smoke should be avoided, regardless of whether it comes from tobacco, marijuana, or other sources. Inhaling smoke is bad for you -- period, researchers said.

Journal Reference: Xiaoyin Wang, Ronak Derakhshandeh, Jiangtao Liu, Shilpa Narayan, Pooneh Nabavizadeh, Stephenie Le, Olivia M. Danforth, Kranthi Pinnamaneni, Hilda J. Rodriguez, Emmy Luu, Richard E. Sievers, Suzaynn F. Schick, Stanton A. Glantz, and Matthew L. Springer.

One Minute of Marijuana Secondhand Smoke Exposure Substantially Impairs Vascular Endothelial Function. Journal of the American Heart Association, July 2016 DOI: 10.1161/ JAHA.116.003858 American Heart Association.

(2016, July 27). A minute of secondhand marijuana smoke may damage blood vessels: Study in rats. ScienceDaily. Retrieved August 2, 2016 www.sciencedaily.com/releasfrom es/2016/07/160727172005.htm For more, please visit ScienceDaily at www.sciencedaily.com.

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