Body & Mind

DID YOU KNOW?

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, if everyone aged 50 years and older had regular colorectal cancer screenings, at least 60 percent of the deaths from the disease could be avoided. That’s a signifi cant assertion, as colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States, while in Canada it is the second leading cancer killer among men and the third leading cancer killer among women. The CDC notes that the frequency of screening depends on the type of screening a person gets. Men and women should discuss the various screening options with their physicians. Colorectal cancer can begin with the formation of polyps on the colon or rectum. These polyps may eventually turn into cancer, but screening can detect the formation of polyps and doctors can then remove them before they become cancer. Some people who develop colorectal polyps may experience symptoms such as blood in or on their stool; persistent stomach pains, aches or cramps; or unexplained weight loss.

TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH

By Keith Roach, M.D. Does Oatmeal Contain Roundup Herbicide?

--DEAR DR. ROACH: Experts advised us to “throw out sugar-laden cereals” and eat a healthy breakfast, such as oatmeal. Now we are told that oatmeal contains a signifi cant amount of glyphosate, which they say is an ingredient in Roundup! Are we poisoning our children? -- A.D. ANSWER: There have been traces of glyphosate (an herbicide) found in oatmeal and other cereals. However, as always, the dose makes the poison. The Environmental Protection Agency has set a level of 30 parts per million, below which the exposure is considered safe. A 2018 study by the Environmental Working Group found levels of glyphosate in oatmeal breakfast cereals to be between 0.5 and 1 parts per million. It is unlikely that consumption of these cereals causes any signifi cant health risks. Nobody likes the idea of eating an herbicide, but these are very low amounts, and some experts have questioned the specifi city of the detection method used. The same EWG report found that organic cereals had less, but often still some, glyphosate in them. Although the levels in both conventional and organic cereals were safe, glyphosate itself is found at generally lower levels in organic products. Unfortunately, there have not been good studies on residual amounts of organic pesticides (some of which are substantially more toxic than glyphosate) that might be found in organically grown food. I agree with reducing the simple sugars found in many cereals, especially those marketed to children. However, I recommend more protein for breakfast than is found in oatmeal. You can add more with nuts, egg whites or seeds.

Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual questions, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.edu. © 2021 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

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Accepting New Patients. Sue DeBruyne, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology Lakeville

3513 Thomas Dr., Suite 2 Henrietta

20 Finn Road, Suite C 585.286.3664

SouthsideHearingCenter.com

Summer health and beauty guidelines Get a healthier glow. Many people equate health and vitality to tan skin. However, spending time outdoors in the sun or using indoor tanning beds that expose you to UV rays can increase your risk of skin cancer, including dangerous melanoma. The American Cancer Society says melanoma will account for more than 73,000 cases of invasive skin cancer in 2015. Melanoma accounts for more than 9,900 of the roughly 13,000 skin cancer deaths each year. Sunless tanners and bronzers can give skin that sun-kissed look without the downside of exposure to UV rays. Those who must go out in the sun should wear a wide-brimmed hat and limit their exposure between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.

We Care About Your Smiles

by Dr. Steve Sokolovskiy

SENSITIVE TEETH

Sweet treats and frozen desserts can be a delicious indulgence for many people, but for millions of others, the mere thought of biting into something cold or sugary can cause them to cringe. Even hot foods and beverages can cause major tooth pain in some people. This is due to tooth enamel that has been worn down or cracked, and there are some remedies to try to resolve the problem. First, make a dentist appointment to ensure the problem is not more serious. In addition, avoid or limit all acidic and sugary foods and beverages since they can aggravate the issue. Changing toothpaste to one designed for sensitive teeth is another option, as is using a softbristled toothbrush. Keeping up with regular dental checkups will give your dentist the opportunity to keep an eye on your health as well as any possible areas of developing dental problems. And if you conscientiously follow your dentist’s recommendations for at-home care, you will be more likely to have fewer potential problems. When was your last dental visit? Now would be a good time to schedule your next exam. If you don’t have a family dentist, we are accepting new patients at BATAVIA FAMILY DENTAL. Located at 6 Batavia City Centre, we welcome your call at 585.343.4246.

P.S. You may think that the harder you scrub your teeth the cleaner and healthier they will be, but aggressive brushing can wear away tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and even cavities. www.bataviafamilydental.com