Leading Medicine Fall 2023, Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital edition

LEADING MEDICINE

CANCER PREVENTION

Learn How to Reduce Your Risk

Get to Know Stroke Symptoms

Discover Simple Strength Training

The Truth About E-Cigarettes

The use of e-cigarettes has captivated our world as a trendy alternative to traditional smoking. E-cigarettes are electronic devices that heat a liquid to produce a vapor solution that is inhaled. The liquid usually contains nicotine and comes in a variety of flavors, such as fruit, candy and mint. E-cigarettes are often marketed as a tool to quit traditional smoking or a safer alternative, but according to the Food and Drug Administration, more research is needed to understand the potential risks and benefits of these products.

Dr. Ravikanth Papani, a pulmonologist at Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital, addresses common misconceptions about e-cigarettes.

ARE E-CIGARETTES SAFER THAN TRADITIONAL CIGARETTES?

It’s true that e-cigarettes expose you to fewer chemicals, but that doesn’t mean they are safe. They contain high concentrations of nicotine. Nicotine is highly addictive and has major harmful effects. E-cigarettes can also contain harmful chemicals known to cause respiratory problems and toxic effects.

ARE E-CIGARETTES AN EFFECTIVE WAY TO QUIT SMOKING?

There is no conclusive evidence that e-cigarettes are effective in helping people quit smoking. Some studies have found that e-cigarette use can make quitting traditional cigarettes harder. It can also lead to dual use, increasing your overall nicotine addiction.

ARE E-CIGARETTES LESS ADDICTIVE THAN TRADITIONAL CIGARETTES?

The nicotine content in some e-cigarettes can be higher than traditional cigarettes. Nicotine addiction can lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability, anxiety and difficulty concentrating.

RISKS OF VAPING

“Teenagers are at a higher risk for the harmful effects of e-cigarette use,” said Papani. “Nicotine can harm their developing brains and lead to long-term cognitive and behavioral problems.” E-cigarette

use can also increase the risk of addiction to other substances, such as alcohol and drugs.

Although adults may not be as vulnerable to the long-term effects of e-cigarette use as adolescents, they are still at risk for health issues. “Adults who use e-cigarettes are at risk for developing respiratory problems, heart disease and other health issues,” explained Papani.

While some people may view them as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, the facts show they are not without risks. Both adolescents and adults need to be aware of the risks to make informed decisions about their health. •

RISING RISKS

According to a recent study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, e-cigarette use in teens is on the rise. This trend has led to a surge in nicotine addiction. Here are some staggering numbers:

• In 2022, more than 2.5 million youth reported using e-cigarettes.

• 14% of high school students use tobacco products.

• 3% of middle school students use tobacco products.

• 10% of users vape within 5 minutes of waking up.

“If you’re concerned about your teen’s e-cigarette use or nicotine addiction, talk to their doctor,” Papani recommended. “They can provide information on the risks of vaping, assess the severity of addiction and recommend evidence-based treatments to help quit. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term health consequences.”

Quit the Habit

If you are worried about respiratory health, a pulmonologist can help. Visit houstonmethodist.org/ pulmonology or call 346.427.4131

Dr. Ravikanth Papani

What You Need to Know ABOUT A STROKE

You’re visiting with a friend and notice she’s having trouble speaking and her face is beginning to droop on one side. What should you do? Immediately call 911 because your friend is showing symptoms of a stroke.

Each year, about 800,000 people experience a new or recurrent stroke. “Stroke is a leading cause of serious, long-term disability and the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S.,” said Dr. Akhila Vijayakumar, a neurologist at Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital.

WHAT IS A STROKE?

There are two major types of stroke:

■ Ischemic — a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain.

■ Hemorrhagic — a blood vessel leaks or ruptures.

“Almost 87% of all strokes are ischemic,” Vijayakumar stated. “And uncontrolled high blood pressure is the most common cause of hemorrhagic strokes.” Often referred to as a ministroke, a transient ischemic attack (TIA), occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is briefly interrupted. “A TIA is a warning sign of a stroke, so emergency care is crucial,” said Vijayakumar. “Recognizing and treating TIAs can lower the risk of a major stroke.”

WHY IS IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE SO IMPORTANT?

Time is key. If you or someone else exhibits any stroke symptoms (see sidebar), immediate medical attention is critical. It may minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death.

“With every minute that passes after a large vessel stroke, about 2 million neurons die,” said Vijayakumar. “It is critical to call 911 and get to the emergency room as quickly as possible.”

“Early treatment with a clot-buster medication or, in selected cases, clot

retrieval using endovascular techniques can help significantly improve outcome and reduce the chance of disability related to stroke,” she continued.

HOW CAN I PREVENT A STROKE?

Identifying and getting treatment for modifiable risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation and sleep apnea can reduce risk of stroke.

“The risk of a stroke is three to four times higher in tobacco smokers,” explained Vijayakumar. “Avoiding smoking can greatly reduce your risk of stroke.”

Other good habits include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a well-balanced diet and being physically active. And remember, don’t delay if you or someone else exhibits any stroke symptoms. Call 911 immediately. •

Dr. Akhila Vijayakumar

HEALTHY SOLUTIONS For Cancer Prevention

We’ve all been impacted in some shape or form by cancer. It is one of the most prevalent health concerns in the U.S. According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that in 2023 alone, there will be over 1.9 million new cancer cases diagnosed in the country. While these numbers are overwhelming, there are ways you and your loved ones can fight back.

The most common cancer types include:

■ Breast

■ Colorectal

■ Lung

■ Prostate

■ Skin

“Cancer prevention starts with knowledge, personal awareness and early action,” said Dr. Natasha B. Hirani, a hematologist in medical oncology at Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Clear Lake. “Make sure you are on schedule with your screenings by seeing your primary care provider (PCP) annually.”

REDUCE YOUR RISK

Between 30-50% of cancers are preventable by eliminating your risk factors and adding a healthy routine.

It’s never too late to get proactive in your health. Reduce your risk with these simple lifestyle changes and promote your overall well-being.

YOUR BEST DEFENSE AGAINST CANCER

Detecting cancer in its earliest stages increases the chances of successful treatment and improves overall outcomes. It allows for a broader range of treatment options that often are less invasive and more effective. Plus, early detection improves the chances of complete recovery and long-term survival. Regular screenings with your doctor and staying attuned to your body’s signals are vital to catching cancer at its earliest stages when it’s most treatable.

Know Your Body

One of the most important steps you can take is to be familiar with your body’s normal patterns. Hirani advises paying attention to any changes or unusual symptoms that continue for an extended period. “Being in tune with your body is a powerful tool in preventing cancer. By understanding your normal baseline, you become more likely to notice any subtle changes that may indicate a problem,” she said.

Limit Alcohol

Fewer drinks per week can lower a woman’s risk for breast cancer.

Exercise

Not just for your lungs but stop smoking for your overall health.

Add movement by taking the stairs, parking farther away or gardening.

Stay Connected With Your Doctor

Establishing a close relationship with a doctor who understands your medical history, and can guide you through screenings and exams, is invaluable. Regular checkups and open communication allow your doctor to monitor your health, address any concerns and recommend appropriate screenings based on your risk factors.

Get Regular Screenings

Routine screenings are crucial in detecting cancer early. Houston Methodist offers state-of-the-art screenings for various types of cancers — breast, cervical, colon and rectal, lung, ovarian, prostate, skin and uterine. When and what screenings you need vary depending on your age, gender, family history and other risk factors.

“In cases where cancer is suspected or diagnosed, PCPs work closely with oncologists and other specialists to ensure seamless coordination of care,” explained Hirani. “We work together throughout a patient’s cancer journey.”

Be Your Advocate

Take an active role in your health care by asking questions, sharing any changes or concerns, and discussing your family’s medical history with your doctor. Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion. It’s important to gather different perspectives when facing a potential cancer diagnosis. •

Protect

Most health insurance plans cover lung cancer screenings, provided you meet the following criteria:

■ Between the ages 50-77

■ A current smoker or have quit within the last 15 years

■ 20 pack years (multiply the number of packs per day by the number of years smoked) The screening costs $225 for noninsured or those not wishing to use insurance. Your doctor will need to order the screening.

First Stop: Your Primary Care Provider

When it comes to discussing cancer prevention and which screenings may be right for you, your PCP is a good place to start. Your doctor can help guide you to cancer screening tests appropriate for your age and risk level. To find a PCP near you or schedule an appointment, visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg/clear-lake or call 832.536.5456

Sche

dule

the chips or fries with fruit or vegetables.

Visit Your PCP

your doctor regularly.

sure you get screened regularly.

STRENGTH TRAINING: BUILDING A STRONGER YOU

It’s age-old advice: To maintain optimal health and mobility as we age, we need to exercise regularly. One of the best activities you can do to improve your health is strength training. But most people get overwhelmed and don’t know how to start.

Why You Need to Add Strength Training to Your Routine

We naturally lose muscle as we age. This process can start as early as age 30. Strength training helps combat muscle loss by stimulating muscle growth. Adding strength training to your routine provides many benefits for both your physical and mental health.

“Building your muscles can make everyday tasks easier like carrying the groceries, cleaning your house and even getting up and down from a chair or the floor,” said Dr. Kenneth Brooks, an orthopedic surgeon at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Clear Lake. “And in the long run, you’re less likely to have to come to see me for an operation.”

HOW TO GET STARTED

If you’re new to strength training, it’s essential to start slowly. You don’t have to have a gym membership to start strength training. “Your body is a great piece of equipment to start with,” Brooks encouraged.

ALWAYS start with aerobic activity to warm up for five to 10 minutes.

“Your workouts should target all the major muscle groups, including the arms, back, chest, core and legs,” Brooks recommended. “These are the muscles used in your daily life.”

The most basic, functional strength training exercises you should focus on are push-ups, planks and squats. There are many variations to each, and they can be made easier or harder based on your fitness level. (See sidebar.)

As your body gets stronger, your exercises will need to become more challenging, too. Once you’re comfortable with bodyweight exercises, you can slowly begin adding weights into the mix. Increase your workout intensity — weight or reps — by no more than 10% each week.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I PERFORM STRENGTH TRAINING?

Brooks recommends doing strength training two to three times per week. To give your muscles time to recover, rest at least one full day between exercising each specific muscle group. It’s important to note that you don’t need to spend hours at the gym to see results. Thirty minutes, a few times a week, can make a significant difference in your fitness level and overall health. •

SIMPLE STRENGTH TRAINING AT HOME

• Start in a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart.

• Lower your body until your chest touches the ground, then push yourself back up to the starting position.

To make push-ups easier, you can perform them on your knees or against a wall. To make them more challenging, elevate your feet on a bench or add weight.

• Stand with your feet shoulderwidth apart, then lower your body by bending your knees and pushing your hips back.

• Keep your chest up and your weight on your heels.

• Return to the starting position by pushing through your heels.

To make squats easier, you can perform them with a chair for support. To make them more challenging, add weight or perform jump squats.

• Start in a plank position, then lower your forearms to the ground.

• Engage your core muscles and hold your body in a straight line from head to heels.

• Hold the position for 30 seconds to one minute.

To make planks easier, you can perform them on your knees. To make them more challenging, lift one leg or arm off the ground.

Let’s Get You Stronger

If you have unanswered questions about bone health and sports medicine, visit houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics/ clearlake or call 713.363.9090 to make an appointment with an orthopedics and sports medicine specialist.

Dr. Kenneth Brooks

PUSH-UPS

SQUATS

PLANK

Guard Your Heart: Tips on Maintaining Good Heart Health

Your heart is the engine that keeps your body running. Keeping it healthy is essential for living a long, active life. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for people in the U.S. Prevention is the best form of reducing your risk of future heart issues.

Dr. Ahmed Elsherbiny, an interventional cardiologist at Houston Methodist DeBakey Cardiology Associates at Clear Lake, recommends following these four essential habits to prevent heart disease:

1. Stop smoking. Smoking is a proven risk factor for heart attack, stroke and high blood pressure. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

2. Adopt a heart-healthy diet. Making nutritious foods a part of your diet can go a long way when it comes to preventing heart disease and managing cholesterol levels. Fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, lean proteins and healthy fats.

3. Get active. Exercise can improve blood flow, help maintain healthy blood pressure, cholesterol wlevels and reduce stress. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five days a week.

4. Manage conditions. Monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol levels to ensure they are within a healthy range is key. Also, there is also a strong correlation between cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

“Making small changes in your lifestyle can have a big impact on your heart health,” Elsherbiny emphasized. “It’s not about making drastic changes overnight, but rather making small, sustainable changes that you can stick with in the long run.”

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Some signs and symptoms are more serious and may require the expertise of a cardiologist, a physician that specializes in diseases of the heart. These include:

■ Chest pain

■ Swelling in your legs

■ High blood pressure

■ Shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting

■ Abnormally fast or slow heart rate

Elsherbiny advises that if you experience these symptoms suddenly, seek medical attention or call 911 immediately.

“Family history, age and obesity can also impact your risk level for heart disease,” Elsherbiny said. “If you have any of those, your doctor should know about it.” •

TEST YOUR HEART HEALTH KNOWLEDGE

1. What is a major risk factor for heart disease?

a) Exercise

b) Smoking

c) Watching TV

2. What are some common signs and symptoms of heart disease?

a) Chest pain or discomfort

b) Shortness of breath

c) Fatigue

d) All of the above

Keep Your Heart Strong

3. What is the best thing you can do for your heart health if you smoke?

a) Quit smoking

b) Keep smoking

c) Smoke only on weekends

Answers: 1) b 2) d 3) a

The interventional cardiologists at Houston Methodist DeBakey Cardiology Associates at Clear Lake can help you treat and manage your heart health. Visit houstonmethodist.org/debakey-clearlake or call 281.523.3240 to schedule an appointment with a cardiologist today.

Dr. Ahmed Elsherbiny

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LEADING

Early Detection Starts With Your ANNUAL

Early Detection Starts With Your ANNUAL

MAMMOGRAM

MAMMOGRAM

The recommended age to start your annual mammogram is 40. Schedule yours today.

At Houston Methodist Breast Care Centers, our board-certified experts use the latest imaging technology to provide you with cutting-edge breast screenings — such as 3D mammograms — to detect even the smallest lumps and abnormalities with accuracy. We offer:

• 10+ convenient locations across Houston

• Online scheduling with readily available appointments

• Expanded hours available at most locations

• Access to medical records and test results through MyChart

to schedule your mammogram today.

We do not require a doctor’s order for your annual screening mammogram.