LEADING MEDICINE FA LL 2018
Your Journey for
CANCER
CARE Don’t Skip Your Flu Shot Help for Lower Back Pain
YOUR LINK TO HEALTH INNOVATIONS, NEWS AND TIPS IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES
ARE YOU AT A HIGHER RISK?
Knowledge is power when it comes to these four unchangeable risk factors in developing breast cancer.
Y
ou might think you’re safe from breast cancer if no one in your family has had it. But family history is just one of the factors that determine your risk for the disease. One in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. “It is important for women to be aware of their personal risk of breast cancer,” said Dr. Sandra Dr. Sandra Templeton, board-certified surgeon Templeton with Houston Methodist Breast Surgery Partners at Sugar Land. Here, we spotlight four of the greatest risk factors for breast cancer.
YOUR AGE
Unfortunately, the number of candles on your birthday cake affects your risk level most. The majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer are older than 50, and the risk increases as you age. What’s more, 2 out of every 3 invasive breast cancers found are in women ages 55 and up.
YOUR ETHNIC BACKGROUND
Asian, Native American and Hispanic women have lower odds of developing breast cancer and dying from the disease. On the other hand, Caucasian women are more likely to be diagnosed, and African-American women are at a greater risk of dying from breast cancer. Having an Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry also poses a higher risk. These are factors that may be important to consider if another risk factor exists.
YOUR FAMILY TREE
If your mother, sister or daughter has had breast cancer, your risk is doubled. But if that’s not the case, you’re not
Your Breast Cancer Options
necessarily in the clear. Less than 15 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of the disease, which means it’s important to schedule the screenings that are right for you.
YOUR GENES
Thanks to celebrities like Angelina Jolie, you might know that a woman who has the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation is at higher risk for breast cancer — by 55 percent to 87 percent — and for ovarian cancer, as well. “The goal is to find the mutation in women before they develop cancer,” Templeton said. “A simple blood or saliva test is meant to tell a woman whether she’s at high risk.” If your personal and family history warrants it, your physician may recommend genetic testing, which looks for altered BRCA genes and other mutations. The results can help your doctor determine whether you would benefit from preventive surgery, additional screenings or medications to reduce the risk of a cancer diagnosis. Talk with your doctor if you have a family history of the following: Breast cancer at age 50 or younger Ovarian cancer at any age Male breast cancer at any age Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry and a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer Two breast cancers in the same person or on the same side of the family Triple-negative breast cancer at age 60 or younger A previously identified BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation in the family
When it comes to breast cancer, early detection is key. The Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land offers screenings, prevention resources and more. To schedule your mammogram, please visit houstonmethodist.org/imaging or call 281.242.PINK (7465). To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sandra Templeton at Houston Methodist Breast Surgery Partners, call 281.724.4276.
2 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES
SCREENING SENSE BREAST SELF-EXAM: Check yourself to become familiar with your breast tissue. Report changes to your doctor immediately. AGE: 20-40+ . . . . . . . . . . . . Monthly CLINICAL BREAST EXAM: Your health care provider examines the breasts, collarbone and underarm area for lumps. AGE: 20-39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Every three years AGE: 40+ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Annually MAMMOGRAM: This X-ray exam looks for early signs of breast cancer. AGE: 20-39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P hysician discretion for high-risk individuals AGE: 40+ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Annually* * Please talk to your doctor to determine at what age you should begin receiving an annual mammogram.
WHAT EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BREAST HEALTH Recognize your risk factors Genetic predisposition: BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
Childbirth: first full-term pregnancy after age 30
Family or personal history of endometrial, ovarian or breast cancer
Menstrual history: early onset or late menopause
CHECK OUT OUR DIGITAL MAGAZINE AT HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/NEWSROOM/NEWSLETTERS   3
Don’t Skip Your
FLU SHOT Protect yourself and your loved ones
H
ere’s what you need to know about this flu season: Who is at risk? Anyone can become ill from the flu. Even healthy people can get sick and spread it to others who are more vulnerable. Most people recover completely in one to two weeks, but some develop serious and potentially life-threatening complications. Those Dr. Jewel at high risk include young children, elderly Lincoln people, pregnant women and those with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and lung disease. What can I do to prevent flu? Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from flu. Everyone ages 6 months and older should get a yearly flu shot. “People with a history of reaction to a past flu vaccination should discuss the risks and benefits with a doctor before receiving the shot,” said Dr. Jewel Lincoln, boardcertified family medicine physician with Houston Methodist Primary Care Group in Sienna Plantation. When should I get a flu shot? Flu viruses change from year to year, so it’s important to get vaccinated each fall. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting a flu shot when the vaccine becomes available, if possible by October. “It takes about two weeks after the shot for antibodies to develop and provide protection,” Lincoln said. Where can I get a flu shot? Flu vaccines are available in many locations, including doctor’s offices, clinics and pharmacies.
FLU SHOT CLINIC & COMMUNITY TOY DRIVE Saturday, Oct. 20, 8 a.m. – noon
Main Pavilion Conference Center Bring a new, unwrapped toy or children’s clothing item in exchange for a free flu shot. Toys and clothing will benefit local children in the Fort Bend area. Flu shots for people ages 18 and older only. If you are pregnant, please talk with your obstetrician-gynecologist about your flu shot. No appointments necessary. Visit events.houstonmethodist.org/flushot-sl for more info or call 281.274.7910 with questions.
HOW EARLY CAN INFANTS GET FLU SHOTS? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that all children ages 6 months and older, as well as family members and those who care for children, get a flu shot every year. “Infants and children up to age 8, who are being vaccinated for the first time, may need two shots of smaller dosages — four weeks apart,” Lincoln explained. The vaccine is especially important for children at high risk, including those who: Are 6 months old (including infants who were born prematurely) to age 5 Have a weakened immune system Have asthma, diabetes, heart disease or kidney disease Take certain medications, such as steroids
4 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES
“Ask your child’s doctor about which one is best for them,” Lincoln said. How do you know if your child has the flu? Your child’s symptoms may come on without warning. He or she may have the following symptoms: Muscle or body aches Cough Runny or stuffy nose Fatigue (tiredness) Sore throat Fever or chills Vomiting and diarrhea Headaches Speak with your doctor if your child’s fever or cough doesn’t go away after a week or two, or if your child complains about new symptoms, such as an earache. o schedule an appointment with Dr. Jewel T Lincoln, who sees newborns and up, visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 832.416.1678.
Ready to Quit Smoking?
WE CAN HELP I f you smoke, chances are you’ve lost count of the number of times someone has told you that smoking is bad for your health. And you may know firsthand that quitting smoking Dr. Sindhu Nair isn’t easy. Fortunately, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has the tools to make your journey a little smoother.
GETTING STARTED
“Whether it’s your first, second or third time, the first step is deciding to quit. Take time to focus on why you want to quit. Even better, write it down and be specific,” said Dr. Sindhu Nair, board-certified hematologist oncologist with Houston Methodist Oncology Partners at Sugar Land. These are all good reasons to quit: Improving your health, being able to breathe better, reducing your long-term health risks (lung disease, heart disease, cancer, etc.) Reducing exposure of secondhand smoke, nicotine and chemical residue on furniture and other indoor surfaces left by tobacco smoke to your family, friends and pets Saving money and using your savings for something valuable Saying goodbye to smelly clothes, breath, car and home Seeing a possible reduction in your insurance rates
TALK WITH US
“We can help you figure out which strategies you can use to quit for life,” Nair explained. Be honest about why you smoke, what triggers you to light up and what challenges you anticipate during the process. Your health care provider may recommend one therapy over another or a combination of therapies based on your personal medical history. Some of these options may include:
SAY GOODBYE TO TOBACCO WITH BEAT THE PACK® Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is offering a unique program to help people quit smoking. The program, called Beat the Pack®, was developed by Pfizer Inc. and is sponsored by Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land and the Respiratory Therapy Department. Participants meet once a week for four weeks with a trained facilitator who provides tools, tips and support to help smokers create and follow through with their personalized “quit plan.” The program is offered from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on a quarterly basis at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit houstonmethodist.org/events and search for Beat the Pack, or call 281.205.4514.
1. Nicotine patches. The patches adhere to your skin to deliver regular doses of nicotine into your system. 2. Nicotine gum and lozenges. These offer a short-term nicotine “fix,” and can be taken when the craving strikes. 3. Nicotine inhalers. You puff on the inhaler and a nicotine vapor is released into your mouth and throat for another short-term craving buster. 4. Prescription medications. Certain drugs help reduce nicotine cravings in some patients but may come with side effects.
5. Cold turkey. This strategy works well for those who prefer to tough it out. “We’ve helped many people quit smoking. Take advantage of this experience to help you determine a plan that will work for you based on your individual health history,” Nair said.
Consult an Expert
o schedule an appointment for a lung T screening with Dr. Sindhu Nair or another oncologist with Houston Methodist Oncology Partners at Sugar Land, call 281.201.6669.
HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/SUGARLAND 5
Support for Your Survivorship Journey
from Diagnosis Through Treatment and Beyond Choosing a hospital for cancer care
H
1
START YOUR SEARCH
Choosing where to go for cancer treatment is a big decision, and you want to feel secure about your choice. Most of all, you’re focused on finding the best path to treatment — as quickly as possible. If you live in the Greater Houston area, you have choices about where to go for cancer care, with convenient access to top-ranked physicians and cancer specialists, advanced treatments and research, and comprehensive services and support. Within Houston Methodist Cancer Center, our specialists are renowned for their research and treatment of cancer, and we are dedicated to providing each patient with the most advanced and collaborative care, all in a compassionate environment. In 2017, more than 2,000 patients from all over the United States and 37 countries traveled from outside of the Greater Houston area to Houston Methodist for their cancer treatment. “Patients come from all over the world because we have leading cancer experts integrating the latest research and treatments on the forefront of the battle against cancer. Our commitment to providing high-quality and compassionate care comes through in everything we do,” said Dr. Jorge Darcourt, associate director for the Houston Methodist Community Cancer Centers and chair of the Department of Medicine at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.
6 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES
Darcourt is board certified in medical oncology and hematology, and sees patients at Houston Methodist Hospital in the Texas Medical Center® and at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.
2
STEP
STEP
earing the news that you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer can turn life upside down. A thousand questions, worries and what-ifs may come to mind. Knowing where to turn for support after a cancer diagnosis can help you move forward with confidence, which includes the following: M eet with your doctor to ask questions about Dr. Jorge your diagnosis and make sure you understand Darcourt his or her recommendations for treatment. C onsider getting a second opinion so you can feel well-informed and confident with your treatment decisions. T alk to family and friends about your diagnosis and how this may impact family life and work or school schedules. F ind support to help you navigate next steps. Before you even begin treatment, a support group can help you learn how to share the news with your loved ones or give you an idea of what to expect throughout treatment.
CONNECT WITH YOUR CARE TEAM
The doctor who diagnosed your cancer might refer you to a medical oncologist or surgeon who specializes in treating certain cancers. Before you visit a specialist, write out a list of questions and bring a support person or loved one who can help you take notes on the doctor’s advice. If there’s something you don’t understand, make sure to ask. It’s important that you feel comfortable communicating with the doctors and nurses involved in your care. There’s no question you want the best team on your side when fighting cancer. At Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land, top-ranked physicians and cancer specialists have a high level of expertise. Whether your cancer diagnosis is common, rare, or in an early or advanced stage, you can benefit from the leading-edge research, knowledge and experience of an academic medical center. “If you have multiple health complications or conditions, it is even more critical to have a team of specialists working together on a treatment plan for your unique needs,” Darcourt said.
IMMUNOTHERAPY: HELPING YOUR BODY DESTROY CANCER
Oncologists, surgeons, pulmonologists, pathologists, radiologists, internal medicine doctors and other specialists at Houston Methodist collaborate and consult on treatment plans for patients, and this team aspect is a powerful tool in the fight against cancer.
STEP
3
Your immune system continually works to help protect you from infection and disease. However, sometimes your immune system doesn’t recognize cancer cells as foreign, allowing these cells to grow out of control. Immunotherapy works to help your immune system recognize cancer cells as foreign threats and strengthen its response to cancer. According to Darcourt, immunotherapy has proven to be an effective treatment that can continue to get a positive response from the body for much longer than other types of cancer treatments. “Immunotherapy is changing the way we approach and treat cancer,” Darcourt said. Administered via intravenous infusion, it is becoming available for a growing list of cancers, such as bladder, head and neck, kidney, lung, prostate and melanoma. Researchers are continuing to see how immunotherapy can help with ongoing clinical trials for ovarian, colon and gastric cancers. Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land is one of a few cancer centers where you can find access to immunotherapy clinical trials. “Patients can receive the advantage of having leading-edge medicine and care close to home,” Darcourt said. Visit bit.ly/immunotherapy-sl to learn more about immunotherapy trials.
LEARN ABOUT TREATMENT OPTIONS
With an experienced team on your side, you’re ready to review your treatment options. “We treat common and complex cases of cancer that touch every organ of the body — and every aspect of your life. Our specialists customize treatment plans to fight your cancer so we can achieve the best outcomes possible; that’s part of being a top hospital in Texas,” Darcourt said. Treatment options may include: A dvanced treatments in I maging technology immunotherapy advancements Bone marrow transplantation Latest radiation techniques Chemotherapy Leading surgical techniques Clinical trials Targeted therapies
STEP
4
START YOUR TREATMENT PLAN
Moving into the treatment phase of your journey takes courage, stamina and patience. The various components of a treatment plan may be spread out over weeks or months — and timing is key. That’s why it helps to choose a hospital system with convenient access to appointments for radiation therapy, infusion therapy and other treatments you may need. “The specialists at all of our cancer center locations are connected with the same research, treatments and technology available throughout Houston Methodist,” Darcourt shared. “You keep the same physician throughout your journey and receive treatments at the location that’s most convenient for you.” “There are many benefits to receiving care locally including being close to work, home, family and friends so the interruption to your life is reduced. Our goal is for you to be able to get back to yourself so you can focus on your life. Your cancer should not be the center of your life. That’s what we’re trying to accomplish,” Darcourt said.
5
STEP
Choosing a research-focused hospital system opens the door to new therapies that are not available outside of a research setting. For example, you may decide that you want to participate in clinical trials that involve medications as well as gene and cell therapy. “We offer immunotherapy clinical trials to stimulate a stronger immune response to kill cancer cells in lung cancer, gastrointestinal cancers, breast cancer and brain tumors. We also have a triple-negative breast cancer clinic, sarcoma of the heart program and other programs designed for specific types of cancer,” Darcourt explained. “In addition to the research and clinical trials offered at our campus in the Texas Medical Center, we have research programs at all of our cancer center locations because we are dedicated to bringing research and clinical trials closer to home. Our researchers are actively working on every aspect of cancer treatment and bringing that integration to the communities across Houston,” Darcourt said.
BEYOND CANCER TREATMENT
Survivorship care commences from the moment you are diagnosed and continues throughout your cancer journey. At the end of treatment, you’ll have a survivorship care plan to help continue your ongoing care and help you follow your doctor’s recommendations. The Houston Methodist Cancer Survivorship Program addresses common quality-of-life issues related to cancer treatment so you can focus on surviving, thriving and living your best life.
Fighting for You o learn more about the innovative immunotherapy clinical T trials, other cancer treatments and survivorship programs offered at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit houstonmethodist.org/cancer-sl today.
o schedule an appointment with Dr. Jorge Darcourt or T another oncologist with Houston Methodist Oncology Partners at Sugar Land, call 281.201.6669. HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/SUGARLAND 7
DID YOU KNOW?
Approximately 80 percent of adults suffer from lower back pain at least once during their lifetime.* It’s also a leading cause of job-related disabilities and work absences.
WE OFFER HELP FOR LOWER BACK PAIN I
s lower back pain making it difficult for you to bend, sit or stand? Is it preventing you from being active? The good news is Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land offers a variety of treatments to help relieve your pain and get you back in action.
Dr. Larry Tran
WHAT CAUSES LOWER BACK PAIN?
“Lifting a heavy object or even a simple movement — like twisting the wrong way — can result in lower back pain,” said Dr. Larry Tran, board-certified neurologist and medical director of the Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land. “But certain factors increase a person’s risk.” These might include: A ge. Older adults may be more susceptible to osteoarthritis and disk deterioration. O ccupation. Employees in jobs requiring repetitive bending, heavy lifting or long periods of standing or sitting are more likely to suffer back pain. O verweight or obesity. Excess weight adds stress to the spine and back muscles. S edentary lifestyle. Weak back muscles and lack of core strength make it easier to injure the back. Smoking. Smokers tend to have a higher risk of back pain.
Schedule an Appointment
o schedule an appointment with Dr. Larry Tran T or another specialist at Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land, call 281.205.4662. We offer expedited appointments within five days.
8 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES
FINDING THE SOURCE OF CHRONIC PAIN
Chronic pain may be caused by an underlying condition, such as arthritis, degenerative disk disease, spinal abnormalities, or even cancer and infection. “With chronic pain, we need to do further investigation to try and find the underlying cause,” Tran said. “That helps us develop a treatment plan that may resolve the issue or at least improve the patient’s quality of life.” A thorough physical exam is done to eliminate any red flags. “If we do see a red flag — which could be progressive pain, leg weakness, urinary problems, numbness, fever, rash or a history of cancer — we will likely order imaging tests, such as X-ray, CT or MRI,” Tran said. “If there is a discrepancy between scans, or if a patient cannot have an MRI because of previous surgery, we may consider a myelogram.” A myelogram uses X-rays and a contrast dye to evaluate the spine. Another option is electromyography (EMG), a comprehensive test of muscles and nerves. EMG can detect muscle and nerve problems that may reveal superimposed disorders, such as diabetic neuropathy. In some cases, blood work may be ordered to make sure there is no inflammation or infection causing the problem.
ANSWERS FOR ACHY JOINTS
SOLUTIONS FOR PAIN
4. Get enough shut-eye. Waking up at the same time every day, exercising early in the day and avoiding caffeine or alcohol late in the day may improve sleep.
Lower back pain is often acute, lasting no more than six to eight weeks. It can be due to a sports injury, such as a pulled muscle or strained tendon or ligament, from twisting or lifting something heavy or working on the yard. “Generally, acute lower back pain will get better within a few weeks, perhaps benefiting from some over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) or naproxen (Aleve®),” Tran said. “In some cases, we may prescribe a muscle relaxer to help with spasms.”
YOU HAVE OPTIONS
“There are four main pillars of treatment: medications, injections, physical therapy and surgery,” Tran said. “Medications don’t fix the underlying problem, but may offer some relief. Another potential treatment is oral steroids to ease pain and reduce inflammation and targeted steroid injections into the lower back.” Physical therapy is often very effective for both acute and chronic lower back pain. “When you’re in pain, you may not want to move, but not moving is one of the worst things to do,” Tran said. “Physical therapy can help people learn better posture and strengthen their core and supporting muscles, offering both short- and long-term benefits.” Our doctors focus on the least invasive, but most effective treatments, first. However, in some cases surgery may be necessary. “For example, we saw a young woman in her 30s who said she picked up her child and heard a pop from something in her back followed by pain,” Tran explained. “Normally that would be an instance of acute pain that would resolve itself. However, we recognized weakness in her legs that shouldn’t have been there. We were able to perform an MRI right away and discovered a disk had extruded itself into the spinal cord and she had surgery to correct the problem.”
Try these eight tips to help soothe sore joints: 1. Get active. Stretching, strengthening and aerobic exercises can all help control arthritis symptoms, reduce fatigue and improve your overall health. Be sure to discuss exercise plans with your doctor first. 2. Eat healthy. There aren’t any “magic” foods that will make you feel better, but eating a healthy diet and controlling your weight will minimize stress on your joints. 3. Seek support. Surrounding yourself with people who know what it’s like to live with chronic pain can give you a more positive outlook. Ask your doctor about patient education programs and arthritis support groups.
5. Cool your aches. To reduce pain and swelling, apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas to your sore joints for 15 minutes. 6. Relax your mind and body. Try a relaxation technique, such as hypnosis, guided imagery, deep breathing or muscle relaxation to control your pain. 7. S oak in your tub. A warm, relaxing bath before bed can relieve muscle tension, ease aching joints and help you sleep better. 8. Go for a massage. A massage can help decrease pain, increase circulation, reduce stress and improve flexibility. Find a certified massage therapist who treats people with arthritis.
JOINT PAIN SEMINAR Tuesday, Sept. 18, 6 p.m. Brazos Pavilion Conference Center Is chronic joint pain slowing you down? From diagnosis to rehabilitation, Dr. Nader Ayub and Dr. Nish Shah, primary care sports medicine doctors at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land, will discuss the latest medical advances to help you get back to the active life you enjoy. To register, visit events.houstonmethodist.org/jointpain-sl or call 281.205.4514.
* Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, ninds.nih.gov.
HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/SUGARLAND 9
7 Reasons to Exercise During Pregnancy
Y
ou may know that exercise is great for your overall health. But did you know it can help when you’re expecting? Most pregnant women Dr. Adrienne can and should engage LeGendre in moderate-intensity exercise. Aim for 30 minutes or more on most days of the week. “Even if you weren’t active before you conceived, being active during pregnancy has many benefits,” said Dr. Adrienne LeGendre, a boardcertified obstetrician-gynecologist at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Exercise during pregnancy can help in the following ways: Promotes healthy weight gain for you and baby Eases pregnancy-related discomforts, such as a backache, constipation, leg cramps and swelling Enhances your overall mood and energy level Lowers your risk of developing gestational diabetes Helps you get a good night’s sleep Increases your endurance for labor and delivery
Speeds your recovery and a return to a healthy weight
SAFETY FIRST
“It’s important to speak to your obstetrician-gynecologist or other health care provider before getting started,” LeGendre said. It’s especially important if you have conditions, such as: Anemia Diabetes Heart or lung disease High blood pressure
EASY DOES IT
“Drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise. Wear a supportive bra and comfortable clothing. Stop when you get tired, if you feel dizzy or have trouble breathing,” LeGendre added. Your body will be changing throughout the pregnancy, so choose activities that promote balance, encourage steady, rhythmic breathing and are easy on the joints, such as: Modified yoga or Pilates Riding a stationary bike Swimming or water workouts Walking
FEEL PREPARED FOR CHILDBIRTH Come take a tour of our Childbirth Center or sign up for one of our classes by visiting houstonmethodist.org/events or calling 281.205.4514. Visit bit.ly/childbirth-sl to request your copy of our e-guide that has everything you need to know about delivering at the Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land.
Childbirth Center Classes Breastfeeding Infant CPR
10 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES
Prepared childbirth (English and Spanish) Sibling
PREDIABETES: A HIDDEN THREAT
P
rediabetes is a silent condition that can take a toll on your body — even if you feel normal and healthy. Having prediabetes increases your risk for type 2 diabetes, but you still have the power to change course. “Prediabetes can be treated and reversed if you take steps now to protect your health,” said Dr. Sudha Nagaraj, a board-certified internist with Houston Methodist Primary Care Group at Sweetwater.
PREDIABETES = A stage when blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be called diabetes. TYPE 2 DIABETES = A chronic condition where the body doesn’t use insulin effectively to control blood sugar.
Dr. Sudha Nagaraj
84 MILLION
American adults have prediabetes.
9 OUT OF 10 people who have prediabetes don’t know they have it.
“Many people with prediabetes will develop TYPE 2 DIABETES within FIVE YEARS if they don’t make healthy lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and becoming more physically active,” Nagaraj said.
Focus on foods that are high in nutrition and low in fat, calories and sugar.
Grab a glass of water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages.
Add more movement to your day.
Talk to your doctor about healthy and
safe ways to lose weight.
DIABETES EDUCATION SEMINAR Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018, 6 p.m. Brazos Pavilion Conference Center If you think you might have or are at risk for developing diabetes, we encourage you to join us for an educational seminar to discuss: Identifying risks Methods of diagnosis Difference between prediabetes, type 1 and type 2 Living with diabetes Register online at events. houstonmethodist.org/ diabetes-sl or call 281.205.4514.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
FIND A PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN NEAR YOU TO FIND OUT IF YOU ARE AT RISK OF PREDIABETES
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KEEPING YOU AT THE TOP OF YOUR GAME When an injury has you sidelined, the world-class team of specialists at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine will help you get back out there faster, with: • Expertise to treat common to complex injuries
• Minimally invasive procedures • State-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy
• Latest imaging and technology • Advanced nonsurgical treatments
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