Health Quarterly January 2024
A Special Supplement to the
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HEALTH QUARTERLY
January 2024
CHAMPIONING YOUR HEALTH The importance of cervical cancer screenings
Article Submitted By:
SIU Medicine’s Women’s Health Center in Jacksonville The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that each year approximately 11,500 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in the United States, and almost 4,000 will die of this cancer. However, like many other cancers, cervical cancer is treatable, and early detection can help save your life.
Why do I need to be screened for cervical cancer? Two main screenings, the HPV (human papillomavirus) test and the Pap test, can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early. The HPV test looks for the HPV virus while the Pap test looks for precancerous cells that could result in cancer. Thanks to these screenings, the incidence of cervical cancer has dramatically decreased in recent years. “Having a regular pap
smear or HPV test can help determine if you have cancerous or pre-cancerous cells. Early detection results in easier and more successful treatments,” said Dr. Erica Nelson, an SIU Medicine obstetrician and gynecologist. Both tests can be done at your doctor’s office and while some women find them slightly uncomfortable, they should not be painful. When do I need to be screened? The United States Preventative Services Task
Force recommends one of the following general screening guidelines for women starting at age 25 and continuing through age 65: • A primary HPV test every 5 years • Primary HPV/Pap smear co-test every 5 years • Pap smear alone every 3 years These guidelines apply to those who have received the HPV vaccine as well. Women over 65 who have
had regular screenings for the past 10 years with no precancerous or cancerous results for 20 years do not need to continue to be screened. Exceptions to the screening guidelines apply to those who are HIV positive, have a weakened immune system, had a recent abnormal cervical screening or biopsy or have had cervical cancer.
it may cause abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding. If you notice any unusual symptoms, it’s important to contact your doctor.
Schedule an appointment with your OB-GYN to discuss your options for cervical cancer screenings. If you’re looking for a women’s health care provider to partner with What are the symptoms you in your health care of cervical cancer? journey, visit siumed.org or call SIU Medicine’s Cervical cancer typically Women’s Health Center in starts with no obvious signs Jacksonville at 217-243or symptoms. Eventually, 8455
January 2024
HEALTH QUARTERLY
Common Medications that can cause hearing loss and/or Tinnitus.
Article Submitted By:
Central Illinois Hearing
disease has not been found linked to hearing related side effects.
• Aminoglycoside antibiotics Over 3 out of every 4 While this class of medpersons over the age of 65 ication is good at treating will experience some hear- life threatening, serious ing or balance problems infections, it also carries due to aging. Other factors significant side effects such that can contribute include as hearing loss. Before you noise exposure, medical begin medication therapy, conditions such as bacyour doctor should order terial infections, viruses, a baseline hearing test so tumors or other diseases of your hearing may be monithe ear and balance system. tored for any change. Some medications you take to treat pain, heart problems, cancer and infections have also been linked to hearing loss, tinnitus, (ringing in the ear) and balance problems. Some of these medications are considered “ototoxic” meaning that they are toxic to the ear and balance system and can cause permanent damage. Here are some common medications linked to hearing loss, tinnitus and balance issues and what you need to know about their potential side effects.
• Loop Diuretics Loop diuretics are medications that help treat high blood pressure/hypertension. Edema, often due to congestive heart failure or chronic kidney disease. Diuretics also help reduce fluid buildup and are commonly called water pills. Using the lowest possible dose that will effectively treat the condition helps prevent ototoxicity.
• Chemotherapy drugs Chemotherapy drugs like cisplatin and carboplatin are used to treat many of • Over the counter pain cancers. However, they can cause permanent hearing relievers loss, tinnitus and balance The most common pain issues. Again, if the dosage killers are available over the counter such as aspirin, can be controlled it will mitigate the risk. acetaminophen, (Tylenol) and non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs like • Other common drugs Hormone replacement Advil and Motrin are available without a prescription therapy, ED drugs, antidepressants, including and if taken in excess, Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, more than twice a week, Viibryd, Luvox and Zelmid can cause tinnitus or an mostly cause tinnitus Quiincrease in tinnitus if you nine used to treat malaria. already have it. Low dose baby aspirin, (100 mg or Chloroquine and hydroxyless) commonly prescribed chloroquine used to treat to prevent cardiovascular autoimmune disease have
been shown to cause temporary hearing loss. There are over 600 medications that can affect the hearing and balance system. Mostly causing tinnitus primarily caused by hearing loss, noise exposure or medications for which there is no cure because it is a symptom and not a disease in and of itself. Just because a medication has been linked to hearing problems doesn’t mean you need to worry. Many medications that are lifesaving carry significant risks. The severity and extent of the damage includes many factors such as the dosage, how long or often you have been taking the medication, kidney function and even genetic susceptibility. Do not stop taking any medications listed above without contacting your healthcare provider or pharmacist if a medication could affect your hearing.
Make your 2024 New Year’s resolution a healthy one by getting your hearing evaluated. Many studies have shown that untreated hearing loss can advance dementia and cognitive decline.
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HEALTH QUARTERLY
January 2024
3 questions to ask before beginning a new fitness regimen even if they have not exhibited symptoms of heart problems in the past. However, it’s best to discuss heart health in greater detail prior to beginning a new fitness regimen. In an interview with Penn Medicine, Neel Chokshi, MD, MBA, medical director of Penn Sports Cardiology and Fitness Program, noted the risk of heart attack or cardiac complications slightly increases when individuals begin to participate in a moderate or intense activity. So a physician might want to conduct a heart checkup in order to determine if a patient has an underlying heart condition. 2. Which types of activities should I look to?
Exercise is widely recognized as a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. Despite that, a recent analysis of data from the 2020 National Health Interview Survey found that more than twothirds of individuals are not getting enough exercise. Though the survey was conducted amid the onset
of the COVID-19 pandemic, which suggests the overall figures might be somewhat lower than they might have been had the data been collected in a more typical year, just 28 percent of respondents were meeting the physical activity guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Routine exercise is beneficial for people of all ages, and seniors are no exception. Aging adults who want to be more physically active but think they are among the 72 percent of individuals who aren’t meeting CDC exercise guidelines can speak with their
physicians and ask these three questions to ensure the transition to a less sedentary lifestyle goes smoothly. 1. Should I get a heart checkup? Doctors may already be monitoring aging individuals’ hearts
A physician also can recommend certain activities depending on a person’s age and medical background. Though exercise is beneficial for everyone, certain activities may not be. For example, AdventHealth notes that high-impact activities like jogging and jump rope may not be suited for individuals with arthritis. In addition, aging individuals with physical limitations that require them to use a wheelchair should not write off their ability to exercise, as physicians can recommend
exercises for patients with mobility issues as well. 3. Should I take extra caution while on medication? Prescription medication use is another variable that must be taken into consideration before beginning a new exercise regimen. The CDC notes that roughly 84 percent of adults between the ages of 60 and 79 use one or more prescription medications. Each medication produces different effects, and a 2016 study published in the Methodist DeBakey Cardiovascular Journal noted that certain medications evoke an acute drop in blood pressure, which can disturb balance and increase fall risk, while others actually facilitate greater improvements in health outcomes. That means the dynamic between medications and exercise is unique to each medication, which underscores the importance of speaking with a physician whenever a fitness regimen is started or tweaked and/or a new medication is prescribed. These are just three of the questions seniors can ask when discussing exercise with their physicians. Seniors are urged to ask any additional questions they might have during such discussions.
January 2024
HEALTH QUARTERLY
6 Ways To Kick Bad Breath To The Curb Halitosis, which is characterized primarily by bad breath, can be an embarrassing condition. For some people, it is an occasional occurrence after eating a particular food. But for others, bad breath can be a persistent problem. Getting to the root of bad breath can help people have a fresher mouth and avoid feelings of embarrassment. According to the Cleveland Clinic, halitosis affects one in four people across the globe. It may occur due to poor oral hygiene, but it also may be linked to dry mouth, heartburn, diseases elsewhere in the body, or eating foods like
garlic and onions. While some cases of bad breath may require specialized treatment, these six strategies may help people with more mild cases of the condition. 1. Get routine dental cleanings at the dentist’s office. Brushing and flossing alone may not be enough to clear bacteria or properly clean plaque and tartar from teeth. 2. Saliva helps to wash o ut the mouth, and if the body isn’t making enough, it can lead to bad breath. Rewetting mouthwashes and drops may help.
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3. Quit smoking, which can cause dry mouth and increase risk for gum disease.
even surgical wounds. Getting infections under control will have a positive impact on breath.
4. Avoid certain foods, notably garlic and onions, and spices that may contribute to halitosis. After such foods are digested, they enter the bloodstream and are carried to the lungs, ultimately affecting breath, says the Mayo Clinic. Consuming these foods in moderation may alleviate bad breath.
6. Use decongestants and saline rinses when necessary. Upper respiratory conditions like allergies and colds could lead to post-nasal drip or infections in the throat that can contribute to bad breath.
5. See a dentist if you suspect you have an infection. Infections in the mouth may lead to bad breath. These can occur from tooth decay, gum disease, mouth sores, or
Bad breath affects people for a variety of reasons. But it is typically preventable and treatable. Speak with a doctor if bad breath does not clear up with at-home remedies.
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HEALTH QUARTERLY
January 2024
How nutritional needs change with age
Healthy eating is important at any age and can set the course for a life of vitality and wellness. Sufficient nutrition can help prevent chronic illnesses and make sure that growing bodies develop properly. As one ages, various changes take place in the body, making healthy eating even more essential. According to Healthline, nutritional deficiencies can effect aging individuals, which can decrease quality of life and lead to poor health outcomes. Individuals should pay attention to their vitamin and mineral intake at various ages so they do not miss out on important nutrients. As a person ages, here are some approaches to consider.
Dr. Senica General Orthopedics
• Consume fewer calories: According to Connie Bales, PhD, RD, associate director of the Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center at Durham VA Medical Center, people need fewer calories every decade. That’s because individuals are moving around less and have less muscle. This causes a decline in metabolic rate. • Include more nutrient-dense foods: Even though caloric needs go down with age, it’s important to pack as much nutrition into the calories a person does consume. That means finding nutrient-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, nuts, beans, vegetables, fish, and lean cuts of meat.
Dr. VanFleet Spine
• Consume more lean protein: Muscle loss and loss of strength can develop as a person ages. Healthline says the average adult loses 3 to 8 percent of their muscle mass each decade after age 30. Eating more protein could help aging bodies maintain muscle. • Eat fortified cereals and grains: The ability to absorb vitamin B12 can decrease as one gets older and with the use of certain medicines. Many health professionals recommend patients get more vitamin B12 by consuming foods enriched with this vitamin. Vitamin supplements may be needed in addition to food.
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• Drink more fluids: Health.com says sensation of thirst declines with age. Drinking water and other fluids becomes a priority to stay hydrated. It also helps with digestion. • Prioritize bone health: Osteoporosis is a concern for older adults,
particularly women who have reached menopause. Osteoporosis occurs when bones become brittle and can break from only the slightest bump or fall, says the Mayo Clinic. Vitamin D and calcium help strengthen bones, and older adults may need more of these nutrients.
Individuals should speak with their health care providers and nutritionists for further insight into their changing nutritional needs. Such professionals can help customize diets to address specific health concerns.
January 2024
HEALTH QUARTERLY
Activities To Strengthen The Heart
The heart is a vital component of the human body. Without a functional heart, life is simply not possible. As with other muscles in the body, it is important to give the heart a workout to improve its strength and vitality. Intermountain Health says an individual who dos not exercise is more than twice as likely to get heart disease as someone who does. UCI Health says heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death worldwide. Exercise is an ideal way to strengthen the heart and
reduce your risk for heart disease and other conditions. Certain activities are prime for boosting heart health. · Aerobic exercise: Aerobic exercise raises heart rate and gets the blood pumping throughout the body. Aerobic activity improves circulation, and over time it ensures the heart does not have to work as hard to pump blood, thus potentially lowering blood pressure. Also, aerobic exercise can reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes and can help those
with diabetes to control blood glucose more readily. Aerobic exercises include brisk walking, running, swimming, cycling, playing tennis, and other activities that get the heart pumping. Aim for 30 minutes each day, for at least five days a week. · Resistance/weight training: Building muscle can help the body burn fat and boost metabolism. This type of training can use weights or the body’s own resistance. Improving muscle mass while reducing body fat and excess
weight are heart-healthy steps to take. Strength training can be incorporated into a routine two to three days a week. · Balance and flexibility exercises: A person may wonder what flexibility and balance has to do with heart health. While there isn’t a direct correlation to how the heart works, these types of activities will help reduce the risk of falls or injuries to muscles and joints while working out. Inactivity is dangerous for the heart, so ensuring that physical
activity can continue is important. Flexibility and balance exercises keep the body limber, and can be incorporated into daily workouts. Stretching, tai chi, yoga, and pilates can be included two or three times a week. · Healthy eating: The foods people eat can affect heart health. Opt for lean protein sources and foods that include healthy fats. Salmon, avocados and olives are some options. Balance these foods with whole grains that are full of fiber, which can help a
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person feel fuller longer. Fiber also is essential for preventing atherosclerosis, a condition that causes hardening of the arteries. · Meditation: Slowing down, performing deep-breathing exercises and meditation can reduce stress. That, in turn, can help prevent damage to the heart. Strengthening the heart and maintaining its health involves various activities that can be incorporated into daily routines.