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2019 HEALTH MATTERS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019
THE SUMTER ITEM
2019
HEALTH
MATTERS e d i s In
n of o i t a c i d e d d by e v a s e f i l ’s Man 2 neurosurgery team rs e t n e c h t l a ity he n y u n a m m m o n c i y w t i o 3 Hbenefit your commun ways at h t e c n a r u th ins l a e h g n i s Choo 4 meets your needs er v e n y l l a e r are u o y e k i l l e Ever fe 5 disconnected? ut o b a r o t c o rd Talk to you te cancer risk 5 your prosta ed n e e r c s e b to and when
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Breast Cancer
Awareness 6 10
Pages 6 - 10
She fights for everyone 2-time cancer survivor with stage IV disease advocates for other patients
Breast cancer myths and the truths you need to know
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2019 HEALTH MATTERS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019
THE SUMTER ITEM
Man’s life saved by the dedication of the Prisma Health Richland Hospital Neurosurgery Team From Prisma Health— Midlands On June 5, Columbia native Robert Lentz noticed he had blurred vision, prompting him to see his family doctor. A CT scan revealed that Lentz had suffered a brain bleed, and his doctor ordered him to get
to the ER immediately. Lentz was checked in to the Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit (NSICU) at Prisma Health Richland Hospital, where a team led by Roham Moftakhar, M.D., chair of neurosurgery at Prisma Health– Midlands and medical director of Palmetto Health-USC
Neurosurgery, conducted a number of tests. “His case was extremely complex,” said Moftakhar. “His bleed was on one side of the brain, and then we discovered through testing that he had another aneurysm. It was close to the bleed but not the cause of
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the bleed. The aneurysm had to be repaired because of the size and location.” A cerebral aneurysm is a bulging or “ballooning” in the wall of a blood vessel in the brain. If an aneurysm grows, it can rupture and lead to bleeding in the brain. A burst aneurysm is an extremely dangerous condition and requires immediate medical attention. It can be fatal in about 40 percent of cases. Of those who survive, about 66 percent suffer some permanent neurological damage. Moftakhar determined the best way to treat Lentz was open brain surgery in order to clip and secure the aneurysm. “After being in the NSICU for two days, I really didn’t know whether I was going to come home or not,” recalled Lentz. “But I had faith in the Lord, and I knew we had the best team. They set my surgery for Aug. 6. On that day they clipped the brain aneurysm and – this is kind of amazing – I went home two days later.” Moftakhar thinks that others can be helped if they receive treatment quickly. That is one of the reasons Prisma Health and the neurosurgeons of Palmetto Health-USC Medical Group want the public to be aware of this potentially dangerous condition, to know its signs and symptoms and where to get immediate medical attention.
According to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, around 6 million people in the United States have an unruptured brain aneurysm. That is about 1 in 50 people. Conversely, about 30,000 people in the United States suffer a brain aneurysm rupture every year. Prisma Health Richland Hospital has a dedicated team of neurosurgeons, nueroendovascular surgeons, stroke neurologists, technologists and nurses who specialize in these conditions and provides 24/7 coverage for the intervention of surgical treatment of aneurysms. “Years ago we had to open up the brain, and the patient was in the hospital recovering for weeks,” said Moftakhar. “Now, except for extreme cases such as Robert Lentz, we no longer have to open up the skull. After surgery, patients are left with only a small dressing in the groin area. Most can go home the next day, and they can get back to work in just a few days in cases when the aneurysm has not ruptured. It’s amazing that our technology and expertise have progressed so much that we can offer such advanced technology to improve our patients’ lives.” For more information about Palmetto Health-USC Neurosurgery, call (803) 4348323 or visit PrismaHealth. org.
Support group
If you or someone you love has been affected by a brain aneurysm or arterioenous malformation (AVM), the Joe Niekro Foundation holds a support group 6-8 p.m., the third Thursday of every month, at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital, Derrick room, 7 Richland Medical Park Drive, Columbia. For more information, contact Mary Pat Baldauf at ColumbiaSC@JoeNiekroFoundation.org.
Know the signs of a brain aneurysm
There isn’t anything a person can do to prevent a brain aneurysm, but it’s important to know the signs. Some of the stroke-like symptoms include: • A sudden, severe headache • Nausea • Vomiting • Face or eyelids drooping • Numbness in the arms, legs or one side of the body • Loss of consciousness If any of these happen, surgeons recommend you call 911 and be taken to the nearest hospital.
2019 HEALTH MATTERS
THE SUMTER ITEM
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How community health centers benefit your community in many ways BY Holly Chase
Director of Community Development Tandem Health
Community Health Centers (CHCs), or Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), are nonprofit, community-owned organizations serving medically underserved communities confronted with financial, geographic, language, cultural and other barriers. CHCs provide high-quality, affordable primary and preventive health care and often provide pharmaceutical and behavioral health services, as well. In doing so, health centers provide substantial benefits to the country and its health care system. CHCs are located in areas where care is needed, and they improve access to care for millions of Americans regardless of the patient’s insurance status or inability to pay. Currently more than 1,400 health centers deliver care at more than 11,000 sites in every state and territory. CHCs serve as the medical and health care home for more than 28 million people nationwide – including 13 million people in poverty, 8 million children, 1.4 million homeless and more than 350,000 veterans. In South Carolina, CHCs served more than 387,000 South Carolinians in 2017 at 188 healthcare sites. The cost of care for these patients ranks among the lowest and the inappropriate use of emergency rooms is reduced, which saves taxpayer dollars. National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) is celebrating over 50 years of success in health care delivery across the U.S. Health centers started 54 years ago as a pilot project during President Lyndon Johnson’s War on Poverty. Today, they have compiled a significant record of success.
Health centers:
• Provide highly efficient and cost-effective care, generating $24 billion in savings for the health care system annually. • Increase access to timely primary care, playing a role in reducing costly, avoidable emergency department (ED) visits and hospital stays. The average cost for a health center medical visit was less than one-sixth the average cost of an ED visit in 2012. • Treat patients for a fraction of the average cost of one emergency room visit. • Deliver a broad array of primary and preventive care services, including screening, diagnosis and management of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, heart and lung disease, depression, cancer and HIV/ AIDS. • Serve more than one in six Medicaid beneficiaries for less than two percent of the national Medicaid budget. • Lower the cost of children’s primary care by approximately 35 percent. • Reduce mortality, health disparities and risk of low birth weight with the care they deliver. Offer numerous enabling services such as transportation, translation, case management and health education in order to ensure their patients are receiving the care they need. Another key to health centers’ accomplishments is patient involvement in
CHASE service delivery. Governing boards – the majority of whose members must be patients according to grant requirements – manage health center operations. Board members serve as community representatives and make decisions on services provided. Active patient management of health centers assures responsiveness to local needs, and helps guarantee that health centers improve the quality of life for millions through improved access, cost-effective and high-quality care, reduction of health disparities, effective management of chronic illnesses and improved birth outcomes. Health centers not only deliver good quality care, but also serve as critical economic engines helping to power local economies.
Community owned and operated businesses, health centers employ hundreds of thousands of individuals at about 11,000 health care sites across the nation. Every $1 in federal investments generates $5.13 in economic activity across South Carolina. In total, health centers in South Carolina delivered $855 million in economic activity in 2017. In addition to primary care services, which contribute to a healthier local workforce, health centers provide a comprehensive range of services that promote economic and workforce development in the community and make a significant contribution to the economic viability and growth in the community. Local CHC Impact - Tandem Health, a local Community Health Center in Sumter County Tandem Health provides comprehensive primary and preventive health care and social services to medically underserved individuals and families regardless of their ability to pay. Its patients not only get the care they need, but they are also treated as individuals, with dignity and respect. This is what health care should be. The center’s mission is to make sure that
everyone in the Sumter community gets good, quality health care and it is dedicated to building a healthy community and improving the health, well-being and quality of life of each person served at the center. Tandem Health provides health care for patients of all ages and serves more than 17,000 patients in Sumter County and the surrounding communities. At the main site at 1278 N. Lafayette Drive, services offered include Adult Medicine, Behavioral Health & Counseling and Immunology. Tandem Health offers an on-site pharmacy with a convenient drive-thru window. In addition to primary care services, Tandem Health provides a comprehensive range of enabling services that promote access to care, well-being, and economic and workforce development in the community, such as case management, diabetes education, transportation, translators, medication assistance programs and more. The largest patient care site is located at 370 S. Pike West. Tandem Health Obstetrics & Gynecology and Tandem Health Pediatrics are available at this site, as well as a second pharmacy. This site offers full service
Obstetrics, Gynecology and Midwifery care for women in all stages of life. Pediatric care for babies, toddlers, children and adolescents is also available at this site. Tandem Health Family Medicine is located at 25 E. Clark Str. in the Pinewood community. This site offers primary and pediatric care and serves over 1,200 patients in Pinewood. Tandem Health Dental is located at 1105 N. Lafayette Drive, Suite C. The addition of dental services allows the center to expand the services offered to the patients and provide quality dental care for children and adults in a warm and friendly environment. Tandem Health Acute Care is located at 319 N. Main St. and offers same-day, walk-in appointments for sick patients. For more information on Tandem Health and the services provided locally, please call 803-774-4500 or visit www.tandemhealthsc.org. If you live outside of Sumter County and would like to find a CHC in your area visit www.scphca.org or www.nachc.org.
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There are many ways to help blood circulation BY Dr. Gabor Winkler McLeod Vascular Associates The human body contains 60,000 miles of blood vessels. This massive mileage, along with the heart and other muscles, is the circulatory system. When circulation is poor, it slows or blocks the blood flow, preventing all the cells in the body from receiving the oxygen and nutrients they need. If this happens for an extended period, it could lead to limb loss. Signs of poor circulation Patients who frequently notice cold or numb hands or feet could have an issue with circulation. The most common symptoms of poor circulation include tingling, numbness, throbbing or stinging pain in the limbs and muscle cramps. Those who are fair-skinned might get a blue tinge to their legs. Poor circulation can also dry your skin, turn nails brittle and make hair fall out, especially on the feet and legs. Diabetics with poor circulation often have wounds and sores that are slow in healing. Improving circulation For those with poor circulation, or who simply want to keep their circulation healthy, there are things that can be done to help keep the blood flowing. The most important – if you smoke, quit. Nicotine harms the walls of the arteries and thickens the blood so much it can’t get through. Talk to your primary care physician if you need help with quitting. Maintain your blood pressure. A blood pressure that is too high causes a condition that hardens the arteries and chokes off blood flow. Aim for 120 over 80 or less, but talk to your primary care physician about the best numbers for your age and health. Stay hydrated. Blood is about half water, and it is important to remain hydrated to keep your blood moving. Make a goal of eight glasses a day but increase that number if exercising or when it is hot outside. Sitting for long periods of time is bad for circulation. It weakens leg muscles and slows blood flow in the legs which can cause a blood clot. Getting on your feet periodically works the valves in the leg veins, sending the blood up to the heart. If on a long road trip, make sure you stop to take breaks for everyone to get out and stretch their legs for a minute. Aerobic exercise means “with oxygen.” Run, bike, walk, swim - take in more oxygen and move your muscles. Set a goal to exercise 30 minutes, five to seven days a week. Break exercise time into smaller chunks if it is easier to fit into your schedule. Pressure compression stockings help the blood
2019 HEALTH MATTERS
Choosing health insurance that meets your needs BY Holly Chase
Director of Community Development Tandem Health
WINKLER vessels work better. They put a small amount of pressure on the legs so the blood doesn’t hang around too long. Instead, it will move back up to the heart. Compression stockings will keep the legs from getting tired and achy, ease swelling in the feet and ankles as well as help prevent and treat spider and varicose veins. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and watch out for too much salt. Stay clear of saturated fats found in red meat, chicken, cheese and other animal sources. This will help keep your weight in a healthy range, ensure cholesterol and blood pressure stay in check and your arteries clear. The outlook Anyone experiencing uncomfortable symptoms should discuss them with their primary care physician. Untreated conditions can lead to serious complications. Your physician will work to determine the cause of your poor circulation, treat the underlying issue, and if necessary refer you to a vascular surgeon. When caught early, diseases that lead to poor circulation are treatable. Left untreated, poor circulation may indicate a disease is in a progressive state. Life-threatening complications, such as loose blood clots, can also occur if the condition is not properly treated. Dr. Gabor A. Winkler is a board certified vascular surgeon with additional advanced interventional fellowship training. Dr. Winkler cares for patients at the office of McLeod Cardiology Associates, located at 540 Physicians Lane, Sumter. For information on scheduling appointments, call (843) 777-7043.
THE SUMTER ITEM
Do you need to choose health coverage, but you’re not sure how to pick what’s right for you or your family? The Health Insurance Marketplace is a way to help you find health care coverage that meets your needs. Not only can you view and compare health coverage options online, but with one application, you can have those options tailored to your personal situation and find out if you might be eligible for help paying for coverage. When you apply, you’ll find out if you qualify for private health insurance, lower costs based on your household size and income, coverage through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) or if you can get savings to use right away to lower your health insurance premiums. No matter where you live, you may be able to buy insurance from private health plans that cover a comprehensive set of benefits and plans. The Marketplace must treat you fairly— it can’t deny you coverage because of a pre - existing condition. As a Federally Qualified Community Health Center,
Tandem Health has certified application counselors available full time to help you with your Marketplace application. Sonya Del Rio, the Tandem Health Outreach and Enrollment coordinator for the Health Insurance Marketplace, and her staff, are available to assist individuals at the center. Comparing private health plans You can compare plans based on price, benefits, quality and other features important to you before you make a choice. As you compare plans in the Marketplace, you’ll see what benefits each plan covers. This will be helpful if you have specific health care needs. Every health plan in the Marketplace offers the same set of essential health benefits, including doctor visits, preventive care, hospitalization, prescriptions and more. Plans can offer other benefits like vision, dental or medical management programs for a specific disease or condition. However, specific benefits may be different in each state. Compare plans based on what’s important to you and choose the combination of price and coverage that fits your needs and budget. Think about your
health care needs when choosing a plan. If you expect to have a lot of doctor visits or need regular prescriptions, you might want to select a plan that has higher monthly premiums, but pays more of the costs when you need care. You could pay lower out-of-pocket costs for each visit, prescription or other medical service. Want help or need more information? The certified application counselors at Tandem Health are available for walk-ins at the main office at 1278 N. Lafayette Drive and at 370 S. Pike West. You do not have to be a patient of the center. The Open Enrollment period of time, during which eligible individuals can enroll in a qualified health plan, is Nov. 1, 2019, through Dec. 15, 2019. This year’s open enrollment is shorter than most so the Tandem Health staff encourages patients to act soon. Assistance is also available at Tandem Health’s other facilities by appointment. For more information, call Sonya DelRio at (803) 774-4632 at Lafayette Drive or Marta Trantham at (803) 774-6463.
Ever feel like you are really never
disconnected?
From PrismaHealth’s Flourish
The constant emails, calls, texts and alerts we receive from our various electronics keep us constantly distracted, accessible to everyone, and repeatedly interrupted while we are in the flow. Also, hand, thumb and neck ailments come from continually using our electronics. We are at a higher risk for automobile and pedestrian accidents and our sleep is disrupted due to the blue light that electronics emit. Researchers have found that checking our phones and messages is highly addictive thanks to a jolt of the happy hormone, dopamine, that is released each time we look at our electronics. How do we beat the urge? Consider these tips from Rachel Brown, MD, Prisma Health– Midlands‘ medical director of Health and Wellness, to help find a healthy balance in electronics use. 1. Say goodbye. When you go on vacation, leave an out-of-office message for your emails and stick to it! Enjoy your vacation and do not check or answer emails during that time. 2. Do not disturb. If you know colleagues are on vacation, do not email
them even if you do not expect a response right away. When possible, wait until one day after they return to reach out to them to save them the distraction during their break and a full inbox when they return. 3. TGIF! Try not to email new business to someone at the end of the day on a Friday. It is nice to start the weekend without a last minute request hanging over your head. 4. Sit up straight. Try to keep electronic devices at eye level as often as possible. 5. Block the blues. Wear blue blocker eyeglasses if you must look at electronics before bed. 6. Take a holiday from your device. Do not keep your phone by your bedside at night and find one 24-hour period each week when you can keep away from your electronics.
2019 HEALTH MATTERS
THE SUMTER ITEM
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Talk with your doctor about your prostate cancer risk and when to be screened From PrismaHealth’s Flourish When it comes to men’s health, prostate cancer is a top concern. And it should be. Timothy Averch, MD, Palmetto Health-USC Urology, said, “Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men, with about 30,000 men dying each year. One in nine Caucasian men and one in six African-American men will be diagnosed. But if detected early it’s very treatable.” Dr. Averch said there are several factors that increase a person’s risk for prostate cancer. They include: • Being a man. • Age – older men are more at risk. • Race – African-American men are twice as likely to develop prosta-
AVERCH
te cancer. • Family history – having a sibling, father, uncle or grandparent with prostate cancer increases your risk. • Exposure to agent orange – from being in the military. “The tricky part is prostate cancer really doesn‘t have any symptoms, so we rely on screening. If you’re 55-69
years old, you want to be screened for prostate cancer or at least have that discussion with your doctor.” A screening involves a simple blood test and a digital rectal exam. “A finger in the bottom, if you will.” Dr. Averch acknowledged that many men see the screening recommendations as a moving target. “Even with a prostate cancer diagnosis, most men will live with the cancer and not die from it. It’s a very slow-growing cancer in general, so we want to make sure we‘re picking out the right patients who will benefit from screening – again, those are men 55-69 years old. If you have any higher risk, such as if you’re an AfricanAmerican man or you have a direct relative who has prostate cancer, you should definitely have a discussion
with your doctor about screening while you’re in your forties.” The good news is if prostate cancer is caught early, it‘s very treatable and there are several treatment options available. “The most common treatment option these days is active surveillance, where we keep an eye on it and recheck it periodically. Most don’t progress. But if treatment is necessary, robotic surgery and radiation therapy are options, as well as new specific cancer-targeting therapies that are coming to our area,” Dr. Averch said. The most important thing men should do is talk to a
primary care doctor. “Just have that conversation with your provider and ask if a screening is something you should do,” he said.
What can you do about varicose veins? From PrismaHealth’s Flourish Varicose veins – they’re those dark blue or purple cord-like lines that show up on your legs, and they are frustratingly common. But, how much do you really know about the condition or how to address it? According to the Society for Vascular Surgery, varicose veins are veins that stop functioning properly and become twisted, enlarged and visible on the skin’s surface. Samantha R. Cox, DO, a surgeon with Palmetto Health-USC Vascular Surgery, said women are more likely to develop varicose veins, but both men and women are affected. Other risk factors include: • Having a family history of varicose veins; • Being pregnant; • Standing for long periods of time; and • Having had varicose veins in the past; varicose
veins can recur. And while many cases of varicose veins have no symptoms, Dr. Cox said they can result in painful symptoms, such as: • Aching, tiredness or heaviness in the legs; • Burning, stinging or itching on the area over the veins; and • Some also develop wounds such as ulcers on the ankle. Dr. Cox encourages women and men to talk to their doctor if they’re concerned about varicose veins. “Whether it is for pain, cosmetic reasons or both, it is never wrong to address your varicose veins with your doctor. Your doctor is there to help find the best solution for you.” She said there are actions that can be taken to help improve varicose vein symptoms. These include: • Exercising regularly; • Avoiding sitting or standing for long periods;
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• Elevating your legs; and • Using graduated compression stockings. “If you choose to seek help from a physician, they may suggest over-the-counter or prescription compres-
sion stockings,” said Dr. Cox. “Surgery options also are available when conservative measures do not improve symptoms, including minimally invasive surgery.”
Varicose Veins
Risk Genetic
Long periods of standing
1 out of 2 women and 1 out of 3 men have vein problems
Long periods of sitting Normal vein
Pregnancy
Age
If you need a vascular surgeon in Sumter, contact Michael Naylor, M.D., with Sumter Surgical, a USC-Palmetto Health Medical Group practice.
Varicose vein
Prevention
Obesity
Signs & Symptoms
Diet
Bulging Veins Aching & throbbing Sores
Exercise Itchiness Swelling Compression Endovenous Endovenous Phlebectomy stockings foam treatment laser treatment
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019
Breast Cancer Awareness
THE SUMTER ITEM
She fights
for everyone’ 2-time cancer survivor with stage IV disease advocates for other patients
Story by Shelbie Goulding I Photos by Micah Green
THE SUMTER ITEM
Breast Cancer Awareness
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019
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After growing up in Southside and joining show other women it’s oky. Get them removed who can’t travel or look to other options in their the Army, 44-year-old Sumter native Latonya because it’s not worth your life.” area. Wilson seems like a fearless, strong woman. But some years later, at age 40, Wilson was Wilson said not many breast cancer patients However, she’s even more God-fearing and pulled away from her job overseas as her canand families can afford to go to conferences, so stronger after battling breast cancer twice, cer came back as stage four metastatic breast she goes and learns treatment plans and brings removing her breasts and currently living with cancer. them back to Sumter to educate the communistage four metastatic breast cancer. “Once you get stage four, that’s it,” Wilson ty on other options. Wilson isn’t one to slow down though. said. “You have to stay around your facility “I fight for everybody trying to learn on their Instead of taking own and get educatdefeat from this ed on breast cancer lifelong disease, she and get educated on keeps on living, takclinical trials,” Wilson ing treatments and said. “I look at this in fighting for those a spiritual way. We all like her. have a mission. I have “I’ve been livto be a voice. You have ing with metastatic to be some type of breast cancer now motivation for other for three years,” people, and I have a Wilson said. platform now. God, In 2016, she was he didn’t let me go diagnosed a third through with this three time with stage four times for nothing. He metastatic breast did it for a reason, and cancer, which spread I got to stick with my to her liver and mission.” lungs. Wilson said her mis“The first time sion is being a voice I was 32. I was in and fighting for those Afghanistan as a who have metastatic contractor,” Wilson breast cancer like her said. and bringing awareAt age 17, Wilson ness to their diagnosis. knew she wanted to She travels nationwide serve her country, to speak at many so she went into the conferences, churches, U.S. Army right after colleges, organizahigh school and later tions and panels as an worked overseas as advocate for all types a contractor. But Wilof stage four cancer son was pulled away patients in South Carfrom her job after olina, not just breast her first diagnosis. cancer. Wilson went Currently, she, along back to the U.S. for with many other stage treatments and chefour cancer advocates, motherapy in 2007. is fighting for a bill to After eight months, be passed that allows she went right back stage four cancer to Afghanistan to patients to not have keep working for the to wait two years to U.S. Army. However, receive Medicare. she did more than Wilson said she and just work as a conother stage four cancer tractor. patients have to take While overseas treatment the rest of again, Wilson started their lives because the a breast cancer foundisease is terminal, and dation, Cherished some of them can’t afHearts Breast Cancer ford treatments, which Foundation. She felt means they can’t wait the need to do more two years. Latonya Wilson poses for a portrait at her mother’s home in Sumter. Wilson is a two-time cancer for her community Wilson is the kind survivor, veteran and army contractor. and fellow breast of person who cares cancer patients back at home, and her dedicabecause you need treatment the rest of your about others’ lives before her own. She joined tion to helping others has the foundation still life. Me working overseas, I couldn’t do it anythe military with this mindset, she became a going strong today. more.” breast cancer advocate with this mindset, and As years went by, Wilson’s breast cancer After being in the military for more than she plans to fight until this bill is passed with came back a second time. 20 years, Wilson returned home and now this mindset. “Five years later, I was in Kuwait at the age resides in Columbia. She didn’t sit back and Wilson is fearless and not afraid of a chalof 37, it came back and I had my breasts relet the cancer take over her life though. Willenge, even with her own life on the line living moved in Kuwait,” Wilson said. “I didn’t under- son became an advocate for her fellow stage with metastatic breast cancer. go any treatments because I eliminated everyfour breast cancer survivors, and she started a “I do get nervous sometimes, but I look at thing when I had my breasts removed.” support group in Sumter for the community she it like we all are born, and we all have to die,” Wilson chose her health over her breasts, grew up with. Wilson said. “It all depends on what you do in and she never looked back. She didn’t want to “I travel nationwide, and I bring back inforthe middle, live. I can’t spend all my time being leave her job a second time, and she chose to mation to educate my community on different depressed because it’s not going to change stay breast-less to show women that they can treatment plans,” Wilson said. Some communi- nothing, so I just live. I live for me, I live for my still be feminine without breasts. ties, like Sumter, are limited on treatment plans, family, I enjoy life and I enjoy doing the things “The breasts don’t make us a woman, and so Wilson travels around the country to share that I do for advocates. That’s what we should I’m very confident,” Wilson said. “I have to the different treatment plans available to those all do. Live right.”
Fight like a Girl!
We Support Breast Cancer Awareness
We Will See You Today!
www.colonialhealthcare.com (803) 773-5227
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Breast Cancer Awareness
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019
THE SUMTER ITEM
Breast
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Open: Mon-Fri: 9:30am-7pm
773-73
Sat: 9:30am-5pm | Closed Sunday
Your Community Pharmacist
Mayo’s Suit Cit
Dedicated to Serving you & the Community.
Brunson’s Pharmacy
12 N. Brooks Street • Manning, SC 29102
850 Broad St., Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 418-0448 Please call for an appointment and store hours.
Grandma’s Attic New & Used Items Daily Tues. - Sat. 10:00 til 5:30 2600 Peach Orchard Rd. Sumter, SC
(Next to Sumter County Tire, Auto & Lift)
803-607-6251
803-435-2511
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 - 6:00 • Sat. 8:30 - Noon • Sun. Closed Additional parking available behind the pharmacy Tommy Benton, RPh
Hallie M. DuBose, Pharm D RPh Jamie Mathis, Pharm D RPh
Brown’s
Wesmark Plaza • 773-2262 • Mon-Sat 10-7 • www.MayosDiscountSu
Championing the cause Championing the cause
“Where Quality Matters”
Better Breast Cancer Awareness together.
Donald S Corry
DonaldFinancial S CorryAdvisor Furniture & Bedding ..
Financial 678Advisor Bultman Drive Drive 678 Bultman
803-774-2100 Sumter, SC SC 29150 Sumter, 678 Bultman Drive29150 .
Member Member
31 West Wesmark Blvd., 803-775-2911 803-775-2911 Sumter, SC Sumter, SC 29150
Member
www.edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com
803-775-2911
Gary’s Florist, LLC 803-775-7768 / 803-775-7769
In honor and memory of friends and loved ones. Gary & Ann Duby, Owners
Mon-Fri 8:30-6:00 Sat 8:30-11:00
+ www.edwardjones.com Robert E. Gamble III, LUTCF Agency Manager
Clark Farley Agency Nationwide Insurance 561 Bultman Dr., Suite 6A Sumter, SC 29150 W: 803.469.8011 F: 803.883.5011 gambler2@nationwide.com
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Fighting Breast Cancer.
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315 W. Wesmark Blvd., Sumter
JAMES THORNE 803-905-1911
315 W WESMARK BLVD SUMTER jamesthorne@allstate.com
Breast Cancer Awareness
THE SUMTER ITEM
t Cancer affects mothers, daughters, and friends from all walks of life. in the ongoing fight against Breast cer by scheduling a mammogram for urself today! Also, encourage others you know to do the same.
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9-9086
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M&M Carpets, Inc. SALES • INSTALLATION • REPAIRS & CLEANING
1285 Peach Orchard Rd. • Sumter, SC 29154 (Behind Shaw AFB) Cell: 803-972-3758 Work: 803-494-2100 Fax: 803-494-2434 E-mail: mrazor@ftc-i.net
Michael L. Razor President Notary Public
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803-968-5057
m i d c a r o l i n a e x t @ f r o n t i e r. c o m
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773-2737
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803.774.4040
53 W. Wesmark Blvd., Sumter, SC
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671 W. Liberty St. Sumter, SC 29150
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019
Inhonor
Loved ones during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
|
C9
of
Shauna Padgett
5 months
Cancer Free
Naomi Trapp-Price
3 yrs. 7 mos. Cancer Free
Shawnna Sluss
1 yr.
Cancer Free
Sheri Cockerill
12 yr.
Cancer Free
Coleen Graham
9.5 yrs.
Cancer Free
Lisa Oxendine
10 yrs.
Cancer Free
Denise Christmas Robinson
11 yrs.
Cancer Free
Rosalind Blackmon
3 yrs.
Cancer Free
Susan Heimbigner
9 yrs.
Cancer Free
Leavy Dow Allen
4.5 yrs.
Cancer Free
Sylvia D. Andrews
8 yrs.
Cancer Free
Claudia Robinson
25 yrs.
Cancer Free
Mozell S. Thompson
12 yrs.
Cancer Free
Patsy Morris
12 yrs.
Cancer Free
Tawana Deschamps
7 yrs.
Cancer Free
Thelma Brown
13 yrs.
Cancer Free
Julie Ardis
15 yrs.
Cancer Free
Kathy J. Allen
7 yrs.
Cancer Free
Paula Beacham
4 yrs.
Cancer Free
Doris Sinklers
8 yrs.
Cancer Free
Elizabeth White
17 yrs.
Cancer Free
Judy Wesloskie
10 yrs.
Cancer Free
Carol Ellis
11 yrs.
Cancer Free
Catherine E. Williams
21.5 yrs.
Cancer Free
James A. Johnson
2 yrs.
Cancer Free
Deborah Newman
8 yrs.
Cancer free
C10
|
Breast Cancer Awareness
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019
THE SUMTER ITEM
6 breast cancer myths and 1 in 8 the truth you need to know
Breast Cancer by the Numbers
in the United States One woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every three minutes.
0 3:0 0
One woman will die from breast cancer every 13 minutes.
1 3:0 0
Breast cancer is
second only to lung cancer
in cancer deaths among women.
In 2011, an estimated new cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed among women, as well as an estimated additional cases of in situ breast cancer.
BY Dr. Monica Ploetzke McLeod Women’s Care Clarendon There are so many myths about breast cancer that it is difficult to narrow down the list,” says McLeod Women’s Care Clarendon Obstetrician/Gynecologist Monica Ploetzke, MD. “Plastic surgery, the BRCA1/BRCA2 gene, and underwire bras are just a few of the ‘issues’ people have misunderstandings about that we do NOT address here. Checking with the National Breast Cancer Foundation or the American Cancer Society are good reference sources for you.” Here are some of the most common myths:
1
Myth: I’m not going to breast feed because it can increase my risk of breast cancer. TRUTH: Just the opposite. Breastfeeding may actually decrease the risk of breast cancer. This benefit seems to increase with each month the mother has been able to breastfeed.
2
Myth: Only women with a family history of breast cancer need to worry. TRUTH: The majority of women diagnosed with this disease DO NOT have a family history of breast cancer. It is true that women have a significantly increased risk of breast cancer if their mother, sister or grandmother ever had it.
3
Myth: Since I had a normal mammogram, I don’t need to worry about breast cancer. TRUTH: Starting at age 40 women are urged to have an annual mammogram. Women under 40 should have a clinical breast exam at least every 3 years. Ongoing breast self-exams between mammogram screenings are also important for early detection.
230,480 57,650
The biggest risk factors for breast cancer are being a woman and growing older. The average age of diagnosis is 61.
Only 51.2% of women 40 and older in the U.S. reported having a mammogram in the last year.
4
Myth: If you find a lump during a self-exam, you have breast cancer. TRUTH: There may be a number of reasons for the lump you feel – none of which are cancer. Only a small percentage of lumps are breast cancer. However, it is important that you see your family physician if you detect a noticeable lump or any change in your breast that you haven’t noticed before.
5
Myth: Antiperspirants cause cancer. TRUTH: According to the National Cancer Institute, there is no conclusive evidence linking deodorants as a cause or contributing factor to breast cancer. Some deodorants contain aluminum, which may show up on mammograms as a false positive. So, when you are scheduled for a mammogram, it’s best to avoid wearing antiperspirants.
6
Myth: Needle biopsies can disturb cancer cells, spreading them throughout the body. TRUTH: No conclusive evidence supports this myth. A 2004 study found no increased spread of cancer among patients who had a needle biopsy, compared to women who did not undergo the procedure.
Sources include: McLeod Health, National Cancer Institute, BioMed Central, EverydayHealth.com, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Dr. Monica Ploetzke cares for patients at the office of McLeod Women’s Care Clarendon, located at 50 E. Hospital St., Manning. For information on scheduling appointments, call (803) 433-0797.
There are about
2.5 million breast cancer survivors alive in the U.S. today.
Risk Factors Gender more women are at risk.
Family History - 15% of women with breast cancer have family history. Gene Mutation - 5-10% of breast cancer cases are due to mutated genes. Obesity BMI over 25 and being overweight increase risk.
Reduce risks
4 in 10
MAMMOGRAMS.
YOUR BEST DEFENSE AGAINST BREAST CANCER. Breast cancer is the number one cancer treated at McLeod Health each year. Studies show that early detection can lead to survival rates of 90% or higher. Mammograms are the best tool for early detection and can identify abnormalities before they are felt. McLeod Health has a nationally accredited breast health program. From screening and diagnosis to recovery, we are leading the way in the fight against breast cancer.
Breast cancer cases can be prevented by lifestyle changes.
Mammograms are offered at each of our locations and our mobile mammography unit travels across the region to provide convenient access to this life-saving technology. To schedule a mammogram, call 843-777-2095 or visit McLeodCancer.org.
THE REGION’S ONLY
Early screening tests can help detect breast cancer.
NATIONALLY ACCREDITED COMPREHENSIVE CANCER PROGRAM
McLeod Regional
FLORENCE | CHERAW | CLARENDON | DILLON | DARLINGTON | LORIS | SEACOAST