Wildcat PRIDE
Don’t miss inside...
January 2014
What’s Inside LIFE
Hello Beautiful New Babies Personal Wellness Coaching Live Well, Work Well Blue Cross Healthy You All About Anemia Women’s Health
CULTURE Mad Hatter Tea Party Ed Foundation Consignment Sale Post Prom Fashion Show Tri County Art Show Read Across America Girls on the Run Volunteers Needed
SUCCESS AND INSPIRATIONS Noteworthy Staff Accomplishments
2014 Post Prom Fashion Show
Decades of Fabulous Fashion An entertaining evening of music, fashion, and fun starring OJRHS Junior and Senior students.
Friday February 21st, 2014 7:00 pm (doors open at 6:30 pm) Owen J. Roberts High School Auditorium (snow date February 22nd)
Sponsored by OJR HS PTSA Tickets $7 in advance $10 at the door proceeds benefit the OJRHS POST PROM PARTY Roberts A Fun and Safe Night withOwen FriendsJafter the Prom
High School To Reserve Will Call Tickets Auditorium mail check payable to OJRHS7:0 PTSApm 981 -Ridge Road Pottstown, PA 19465 Doors open 6:30 pm
Making the Mark
Back row from left; John Fisher, Joel McMillan, Pennya Comtois, Barry Boettlin, Randy Richter, Douglass Keim, Chuck Schukraft, North Coventry Township Supervisor Rebecca Elliot and state Sen. John Rafferty. Front row from left: North Coventry Township Supervisors Chairman Jim Marks, Terry Baker and state Rep. Tim Hennessey.
Congratulations to Barry Boettlin, who was recently honored for 41 years of service in Emergency Management! Barry has been a fireman since he was 14 years of age. His grandfather and father were fire chiefs and Barry always knew he wanted to serve as a fire responder. At a North Coventry Township dinner in honor of volunteers, Barry received a Certificate of Commendation from North Coventry Township and Official Citations of Service from Senator John Rafferty Jr. and Pennsylvania State Representative Tim Hennessey. Barry was Fire Company President in 1996, 1997 and is currently vicepresident elect. Additionally, he served for many years in the fire police and is a past fire police lieutenant. Barry has also served as the company’s delegate to the Pennsylvania State Fire Convention for many years.
TRACEY SCHIAVELLO Tracey-Art.com
Energetic Mark Making & Explosive Color Play ARTIST/EDUCATOR “I will always be grateful for the many people and opportunities that have inspired the artist and teacher I am today.”
Tracey Schiavello has been selected as a juried artists and a featured abstract artist at the Malvern Retreat House art show. Tracey received her BFA in Communication Design from Kutztown University and her Masters of Science in Instructional Media. Her work history includes Rodale Press, NFL Films and Merrill Lynch Realty. Tracey co-chaired the Chadds Ford Elementary Art Show’s 50th Anniversary Celebration where she worked with such artists as Jamie Wyeth and Richard Bollinger. If you talk to Tracey about her decision to become an art teacher, her eyes will sparkle, she will laugh and shake her head. “It was the most unusual set of circumstances,” she will say. “I thought I was heading for elementary ed.! I was offered a 7-week substitute ART teacher position and I was hooked! From the very first day I walked into that classroom, I knew I was going to love being an art teacher.” Tracey completed her Art Ed certification at Moore College of Art and Design. “It was one of the most educationally enriching times in my life.” Tracey also taught at Moore’s YAW and Special Needs Workshops. The Malvern Retreat House Art Show January 29 — February 2
http://malvernretreat.com/artshow/
OJR Middle School
March 29 8:00 am—12:30 pm
Pre-loved Merchandise to Love Again Children’s Apparel
Costumes
Toys
www.ojref.org
Profits benefit educational programs for all Owen J. Roberts students Questions? Please contact: Kathleen Hocker KHocker@ojref.org
Baby Gear
The Owen J Roberts School District Education Foundation Spring Consignment Sale is planned for Saturday, March 29 (public sale) and presale (sellers and friends) on Friday, March 28, 2014. This is a great way to turn pre-loved children’s merchandise into cash. Contact Dr. Soeder for details at KSoeder@ojrsd.com
New information for Spring 2014:
Sellers who refer another seller will have their registration fee waived. Just make sure both people register by March 14, 2014. Also, drop off times have been adjusted to accommodate the necessary cleaning time to adhere to the Bedding and Upholstery Law. All items must be brought to the Middle School on Thursday evening (4:00-7:00) or Friday morning (8:00-10:00). This is earlier than our previous sales. Please plan accordingly.
Owen J. Roberts Middle School
YOU ARE INVITED
WHERE
881 Ridge Rd. Pottstown PA, 19465
DATE
TIME
2PM - 4PM Sunday February 9, 2014
The Middle School Theatre Company is hosting a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party to spread the word about our upcoming production of Alice in Wonderland and raise funds to help support the Theatre Company and our annual productions. Look forward to Alice-Themed games, crafts, a moon-bounce, a fashion show, “sneak peak” previews, performances from the very talented siblings of Theatre Company members, photos with the cast, autograph signing, and, of course, TEA Admission Includes Admittance, Fashion Show, Scene Previews, Sibling Showcase, and Tea & Treats: $8.00 per family (5 members or less) in advance, $10.00 per family at the door. Additional Activities: $2.00 per activity
Save the dates for our performances of Alice and Wonderland: Saturday February 22 – 7PM Sunday February 23 – 2PM Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Ticket Request Slip To be received no later than Monday, February 4 th, 2014 Event on Sunday February 9, 2014 from 2PM - 4PM
TICKETS
Name _______________________ Email Address ____________________________ Number of “Family” Tickets (Groups of 5 or less) _____ @ $8.00 per ticket
= $___.___
Number of “Individual” Tickets (In addition to “Family Tickets”) ___ @ $2.00 per ticket = $___.___ Total Enclosed ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- = $ ___.___ Please enclose Cash or Check (Payable to OJRMS) for the total amount of your order. Send this order slip and payment to: Owen J. Roberts Middle School – Attn: Mattie Moran 881 Ridge Rd, Pottstown, PA 19465
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE Fun, life-changing after school programs for girls in grades 4 – 6. Programs combine training for successful completion of a 5K with lessons that develop and build self-esteem. Coaches DO NOT have to be elite runners. Program meets 2 times a week for the 10-week program starting March 10 through May 31. The Girls on the Run 5K will be held on Saturday, May 31 at Henderson High School. Coaches must attend coach training and head coach must be CPR certified (training provided free of charge). Coaches receive all necessary materials and support throughout the program. Teams of coaches encouraged. It’s fun to coach with a friend.
This is a rewarding volunteer activity If you are interested in learning more, contact Jo-an Rechtin at JRechtin@ojrsd.com or #5697 Program registration begins Feb. 10
i read you read
we read. 6th Annual District Read-in 2.28.14 9 am, K-6 and Pd. 3, 7-12
Owen J. Students Featured in MCCC Art Exhibition
Lexi Lyon, Owen J. Roberts High School student, will be exhibiting her watercolor painting, “Poppies” (above), which was selected for the exhibit’s promotional materials - poster and post card.
Owen J. Roberts High School art students will join other students from Montgomery, Chester and Berks counties in showcasing their artwork at Montgomery County Community College’s first Tri-County High School Art Exhibition and Competition at its Fine Arts Gallery, North Hall, 16 High Street, Pottstown. The exhibition opens Monday, Jan. 13, and will continue through Friday, Feb. 21. The artists’ reception will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 29, from 5-7 p.m. with the awards presentation at 6 p.m. Both the exhibit and the reception are free and open to the community. Students from approximately 20 public, parochial and private schools were invited to participate in the exhibition. The artwork features a variety of subjects and styles in an array of media. College art faculty members will be judging the artwork.
Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.-9:30 p.m., and Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Closed weekends. For more information about the exhibition, contact Gallery Director Holly Cairns at 215-619-7349 or hcairns@mc3.edu.
March 6th at 7pm Santander Arena (formerly Sovereign Center in Reading) Tickets are $33 Pre-game and Halftime performances by Re-Mix Dance Studio *Including several OJR students* Contact Kelly Loomis for tickets! KeLoomis@ojrsd.com
Now Serving Owen J. Roberts School District: Wellness, Nutrition, & Education, LLC
Wellness Coaching Meet your health and wellness goals with the support of an individual health coach. Watch for details at your location! • Weight Management • Exercise Motivation • Stress Management • Tobacco Cessation • Nutrition Education
Contact us for more information: WELLNESS, NUTRITION, & EDUCATION, LLC Phone: 610-644-5870 Nicole@workplacenutrition.net WWW.WELLNESSNUTRITIONANDEDUCATION.COM
Presented by The Reschini Group
Winterize Your Skin
Also when going outside, try to cover up as much skin as possible. Wear cotton garments underneath wool to prevent irritation. Always change out of wet clothes as soon as possible.
While many people think of summer as the prime season for skin damage thanks to the risk of overexposure in the hot sun, winter can also be brutal for skin. The dry winter air can cause flaking, cracking and itchy skin as well as chapped lips. Even worse, the problem is exacerbated once you step inside a heated area or hot shower, where furnace air or scalding water dries skin out even more. Dry skin can even lead to eczema.
In addition to topical skin products, there are other practical, economical steps that you can take to protect your skin. Modify your diet to include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants (nuts, beans, berries, apples, fish). And, as always, make sure you drink plenty of water (two to three liters a day).
It’s easy to take healthy skin for granted, but it doesn’t just happen. Make sure the products you use and the environment you live in are primed to help your skin stay healthy. To begin, choose a cleanser that will nourish the skin as it cleanses. This means avoiding foaming face washes and alcohol-based toners. Instead, look for antioxidant-rich products that contain ingredients like tocopherol (vitamin E), lipoic acid and CoQ enzymes.
The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus, also known as the womb.
Be sure to exfoliate as well; in the winter, dead skin cells build up more easily, resulting in a dull complexion and potential breakouts. Exfoliating can help remove the buildup. After cleansing, moisturize. Swap your waterbased moisturizer for one that is oil-based. As weather conditions change, your skin care routine should, too. Many lotions labeled as "night creams" are oil-based. Just be careful to choose non-clogging oils like avocado, mineral, primrose or almond. Be sure to wear sunscreen when going out, even in the dead of winter. Winter sun— combined with snow glare—can still damage skin. Try applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen to any exposed skin about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply frequently if you stay outside a long time. You may be able to double up by choosing a moisturizer that is fortified with sunscreen.
Keeping your thermostat down around 68° F will help keep moisture in the air (and save on utility bills). You may also want to consider running a humidifier when heating your home. Additionally, try to keep shower temperatures below 98.6° F to lessen the drying effect hot water can have on skin. Limit hot showers to five minutes or less to protect against dryness. If all else fails, seek professional assistance. Find an esthetician or dermatologist who can evaluate your regimen and skin type and offer advice on products or lifestyle changes needed to protect and improve your skin.
Get Screened for Cervical Cancer Cervical cancer is a cancer that starts in the cervix, which, early on, may not exhibit any signs or symptoms. In advanced stages, it may cause abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge. It is often caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Provided by:
Cervical cancer is highly preventable in the United States because of screening tests and an HPV vaccination. When cervical cancer is found early, it is highly treatable and has high survival rates. The two tests women can use to help prevent cervical cancer or catch it in its earliest and most treatable stages are the Pap test (or Pap smear) and the HPV test. Having these tests done at regular intervals beginning at age 21 is the most important thing you can do to prevent cervical cancer. Besides regular screenings, other steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer are not smoking, using condoms during sex and limiting your number of sexual partners.
Health Benefits of Yoga Yoga is a mind and body practice with origins in ancient Indian philosophy. Like other meditative movement practices used for health purposes, various styles of yoga typically combine physical postures, breathing techniques and meditation or relaxation. In the United States, yoga is the sixth-most commonly used complementary health practice, according to a 2007 National Health Interview Survey, and is generally considered safe for most healthy people when practiced under the guidance of a trained instructor. In addition to being a fun and relaxing pastime, yoga has been linked to the following: Stress reduction. A number of studies have shown that yoga can help reduce stress and anxiety, and people who practice yoga regularly frequently self-report they are sleeping better and experiencing lower levels of stress. Yoga practice has been demonstrated to reduce the levels of cortisol—the stress hormone. Most yoga classes end with a savasana, or relaxation pose.
Savory Squash Soup
Improved fitness. Practicing yoga can lead to improved balance, flexibility, range of motion and strength. These gains mean practitioners are less likely to injure themselves performing other physical tasks. Management of pain and chronic conditions. If you’re already injured or suffering from chronic illness, research shows that yoga postures, meditation or a combination of the two can reduce pain for people who have cancer, multiple sclerosis, auto-immune diseases, hypertension, arthritis, back and neck pain and other chronic conditions. Yoga can also help reduce risk factors for developing chronic diseases, such as heart disease and high blood pressure.
Start the new year off right with this nourishing soup made from fresh, cost-effective seasonal winter vegetables. This delicious dinner will taste extra savory when you know that healthy eating and bargain buys are among the best decisions you can make over the next 12 months.
Groceries on a Budget
It’s no secret that you can eat for less money by making your meals instead of dining out. But did you know you can also save money through smart shopping?
Purchase. Stick to your list and avoid impulse buys. Opt for the cheaper store brands for most items; in most cases you’re not sacrificing quality. Buy whole, in-season fruits and vegetables (not pre-cut or packaged) for maximum produce savings. Opt for dried beans over canned—they are among the cheapest, healthiest items you can purchase. Never go shopping on an empty stomach. Prepare. Make fewer trips to the grocery store by cooking large batches of food and freezing the extra portions.
1 tbsp. olive oil
•
2 chopped onions
•
2 chopped carrots
•
2 minced garlic cloves
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1 cup canned tomato puree
•
5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
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4 cups cooked winter squash (acorn, butternut, delicata, hubbard, pumpkin or spaghetti)
•
1½ tbsp. dried oregano
•
1½ tbsp. dried basil
In a large saucepan, warm oil over medium heat. Stir in onions, carrot and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, covered. Stir in the tomato puree, broth, squash and herbs. Bring soup to a simmer and cook, covered, for about 30 minutes. © 2013 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.
Plan. Set aside a certain amount of money each week or pay period and do go not over what you budget. Consider buying a gift card from the grocery store you go to most often as a way of reinforcing your limit. Make a grocery list before going to the store, using coupons and advertised sales.
•
Yield: 6 servings. Each serving provides 140 calories, 2.5g of fat, 0.5g saturated fat, 5mg of cholesterol, 140mg of sodium, 7g of sugar and 5g of fiber. Source: USDA
HEALTHYYou! “Your Source For A Happy and Healthy Lifestyle.”
THIS EDITION FEATURES
CrossFit Craze The
Why Folic Acid is Key When Expecting
How to Stick to your Weight Loss Goals The Importance of a Primary Care Provider Daily Affirmations for Well-being Brought to you by
January 2014
CrossFit Craze The
It’s not who you are that holds you back, it’s who you think you’re not. ~Attributed to Hanoch McCarty
CrossFit is a high-intensity workout that’s been embraced as the main strengthconditioning program at many police academies, elite athletic organizations, and by many members of the armed forces. This “training for the unknown and unknowable” has become a trendy exercise option with studios opening across the country. While the approach is intense, the philosophy welcomes all ages and fitness levels.
Why the CrossFit craze? • I t’s fun. Workouts, called WODs, or workouts of the day, are constantly varied to reduce boredom. • Y ou get fit faster. Interval training (higher efforts combined with active rest) is more effective than low- or moderate-intensity exercises. • Y ou build confidence. Participants are often surprised how quickly they gain strength, which allows them to do even more challenging routines they never thought they could. • T he welcoming feel. CrossFitters are all about community; they support each other and love helping new members reach their personal goals. Are you over your current exercise routine or tired of going nowhere on a treadmill? Mix it up with the diversity and results of CrossFit!
To learn more about CrossFit and view demo exercise videos, visit crossfit.com.
What is folic acid? Folic acid, also known as folate, is a B vitamin that helps the body make new cells. Rapid cell development is required for a developing baby. Women of childbearing age, even those who are not pregnant, should make an effort to get their daily dose of folic acid to prevent birth defects. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most birth defects occur very early after conception and nearly half of all pregnancies are unplanned. It is very important to take folic acid as a preemptive measure, even for women who aren’t currently planning on becoming pregnant.
Foods that are naturally high in folic acid are:
• green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, and lettuce • okra, asparagus, and mushrooms • fruits like bananas, melons, and lemons • beans and meats • orange and tomato juices Some enriched cereals and grains are also fortified with folic acids, but women will not get enough folic acid through fortified grains alone.
Other benefits of folic acid Folic acid is used to prevent birth defects of the spine and brain and to treat and prevent anemia, liver disease, and ulcerative colitis. A large study showed that women who consume more folate have a significantly reduced risk of developing high blood pressure, too. Folic acid supplements are inexpensive and readily available, but there is no substitute for eating vegetables.
Stick To Your Weight Loss Goals with Self-compassion Weight loss tops the list of New Year’s resolutions. After a season of too many holiday parties, cookies, and heavy meals, it’s only natural that many people will try to take off some extra weight in the New Year. Unfortunately, many of them will fail, and the success rate of New Year’s diet resolutions, in general, can be discouraging. Part of the problem is the impractical advice that’s often offered to overweight people. One team of researchers believes that placing the emphasis on weight-loss, as opposed to overall healthfulness, sets dieters up to fail. Failed attempts at weight-loss or regaining weight can also lead to feelings of shame, helplessness, blame, and guilt. Instead, attempt to balance your new self-discipline with a healthy dose of selfcompassion. Self-compassion is treating yourself with kindness. If you over indulge one weekend or have a week without a weight change, don’t beat yourself up, just use it as an incentive to try harder. Research shows that practicing self-compassion helps increase your chances of success at anything, including shedding extra pounds.
ore simple ways to help M keep the weight off: • Keep a food journal • Drink plenty of water • G et tempting foods out of your house • F ocus on fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins • A void sugar, starches, and fatty meats • Exercise daily
Want to know how self-compassionate you are?
Take the quiz at self-compassion.org/test-your-self-compassion-level.htm.
The Importance of a Primary Care Provider Do you have a primary care provider (PCP)? Even if your health insurance plan doesn’t require one, choosing and working with a PCP is an easy way to streamline and potentially improve your health care. Your PCP should be viewed as a trusted goto health advisor who can coordinate all the aspects of your health care. Your primary care doctor can treat temporary ailments, but even more importantly can help to keep you healthy or catch health issues before they become serious. Annual exams include everything from blood pressure and cholesterol to cancer and diabetes screenings. This is also a good time to discuss any changes in your health so your doctor can help you adjust. Take charge of your health by keeping up with well-care visits, screenings, and immunizations. Together with your PCP, you can lead a healthier, happier life. For tips on choosing a primary care provider that’s right for you, visit nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001939.htm.
“Man may be the captain of his fate, but is also the victim of his blood sugar. “ ~Wilfrid G. Oakley
Foods Fit for Game Day Football parties can easily become a feeding frenzy. Skip the super greasy foods and try these delicious, healthier alternatives while still enjoying game day.
High-Calorie Food Frenzy
Fit for Game Day
Chicken wings
Grilled chicken tenders coated in buffalo sauce with celery and carrots
Nachos
Black bean quesadillas
Potato chips
Air-popped popcorn
Cream-based or cheesy dips
Salsa, hummus, or bean dip
Potato skins
Baked sweet potato fries
Chili or sloppy joes
Use extra lean ground beef or swap out for ground turkey
Sub sandwiches
Opt for lean meats with whole grain bread and wraps
Cupcakes and cookies
Low-fat brownies, chopped fruit
Burgers and hot dogs
Fish tacos
Recipe: Quinoa Pizza Bites* 2 cups cooked quinoa 2 eggs 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1 small onion, chopped ½ cup chopped fresh basil 2 cloves of garlic 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp paprika 1 cup chopped turkey pepperoni Pizza sauce for dipping Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together all ingredients except the pizza sauce in a medium bowl. Lightly grease a mini-muffin pan, then fill each cup with 1 tablespoon of the mixture and press down gently. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Serve with pizza sauce for dipping. *Adapted from So Very Blessed
Daily Affirmations for Well-being Leading a healthy lifestyle, for most of us, is not an easy task and requires conscious effort. Changing the way you think through mental exercises such as daily affirmations can help you in your quest for health and longevity. The following are some healthier choices to make every day and some affirmations to get you started on writing or saying your own:
“If you don’t think every day is a good day, just try missing one.” ~Cavett Robert
-S tay active. A Harvard study showed that 75 minutes per week of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, could add almost 2 years to your life. “Every action I take moves me towards improved health.” -B e positive. Research suggests that optimism can fight cancer, as it is linked to the release of carotenoids, which are antioxidants. “My choices are intelligent and life-enhancing.” -C atch those zzzs. Sufficient sleep can help you get through the day without fatigue and fight off heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. “I listen to my body and heed its needs.” -E at healthy. Nutritious choices can protect you from a variety of diseases. Fill your plate with foods low in fat and calories and high in essential nutrients. “I love taking care of myself.”
-H ang out with friends. Strong, healthy relationships can keep disease and stress away. Positive relationships have also been shown to prevent dementia. “I am loved.” -G ive up your bad vices. This step can increase your lifespan. For example, stopping smoking can add 10 years, and giving up tanning can lower your risk of skin cancer. “I drop habits that no longer serve me.” -H andle stress. Stress can affect cardiovascular health, digestion, insulin regulation, and immunity. Healthy methods to manage stress include spending time with positive people, writing in a journal, or taking a brisk walk. “I see each part of my life as a lesson.”
Test Your Knowledge!
Did you pay attention this issue? Let’s find out. 1. Which of the following are NOT true about CrossFit? a. It is a strength conditioning workout for many military groups, police academies, and athletes. b. It’s fun because workouts are constantly varied. c. You won’t feel good about yourself if you do this workout.
2. Which of these statements about folic acid are true? a. It’s only important if you are pregnant. b. It can’t be found naturally in foods. c. It helps the body make new cells.
3. Which of the below best finishes this statement? I overate cookies after promising myself I would eat better. a. I feel like I’ve failed. b. It’s because I have no self-control. c. I messed up, but will get back on track now.
ANSWERS 1.) C. You won’t feel good about yourself if you do this workout. 2.) C. It helps the body make new cells. 3.) C. I messed up, but will get back on track now.
Brought to you by
Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The information in this publication is meant to complement the advice of your health care providers, not replace it. Before making any major changes in your medications, diet or exercise, talk to your doctor.
Health and wellness tips for your work, home and life—brought to you by the insurance specialists at The Reschini Group
All About Anemia Anemia is a blood disorder that occurs when the blood has less than normal levels of red blood cells, or when there is a lack of hemoglobin, a form of protein, in the blood. Hemoglobin gives blood its red color and carries oxygen from the lungs to the other parts of the body. Anemia sufferers do not get enough oxygen to all the parts of their body, which limits how well organs and tissues can function. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) estimates that more than three million people in the United States suffer from anemia, making it a significant concern for many people. Causes There are three main causes of anemia. One or more of these problems may occur at the same time: 1. The body loses too much blood through heavy menstrual periods, disease or trauma. 2. The body has trouble making red blood cells.
3. The red blood cells break down or die faster than the body can replace them with new ones. Types of Anemia There are several types of anemia that individuals suffer from: Iron Deficiency Anemia
(IDA): o The body is iron-deficient, which harms its ability to make hemoglobin. o Causes: heavy menstrual cycles, child birth, ulcers, colon polyps, colon cancer, regular use of pain relievers (aspirin), infection, severe injury and surgery. Also caused by not eating enough iron-fortified foods such as meat, poultry, eggs and fish. o Those with Crohn’s disease and celiac disease also cannot absorb iron well. Vitamin Deficiency Anemia
(Megaloblastic Anemia): o The body is deficient in B12, or folate. B12 is needed to make red blood cells and keeps the nervous system functioning.
o Causes: having an autoimmune disease, a diet does not have a significant amount of B12 (found in meat products), and diets without a significant amount of folate (folic acid) found in leafy greens and fruits Anemia Resulting from
Disease o Some underlying diseases affect the body’s ability to make red blood cells. Anemia Resulting from
Inherited Blood Diseases o Inherited blood diseases such as sickle cell anemia or thalassemia pose greater risks of developing anemia.
Aplastic Anemia
o A blood disorder in which the body stops making enough new red blood cells o Causes: cancer treatments, exposure to toxic chemicals, some prescription drugs, autoimmune diseases and viral infections Signs of Anemia When first becoming anemic, the body does not necessarily show signs of a problem or the symptoms may be extremely mild. As the disease worsens, the following symptoms become prevalent as the heart works harder to pump more oxygen-rich blood through the body: Fatigue and weakness Dizziness Headache Numbness or coldness in the
hands and feet Low body temperature Pale skin Rapid or irregular heartbeat Shortness of breath Chest pain Irritability Jaundice (yellow-tinged skin) Yellowing of the whites of the
eyes Enlarged spleen Dark, tea-colored urine Developmental delays and
behavioral disturbances (in infants and preschool children)
Diagnosis To determine if you have anemia, your doctor will perform a CBC blood test, give you a physical exam, discuss your diet and the prescriptions you are taking, and listen to your family history. If you are diagnosed with anemia, your doctor will do further tests to determine the exact cause of the disease. Treatment Options Your doctor will most likely prescribe medication depending on the variation of anemia that you suffer from. He/she may also recommend that you take vitamin supplements if you suffer from IDA or vitamin deficiency anemia.
Take vitamin supplements
(talk with your doctor before doing so). For more information about anemia, visit these Web sites: The Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa, The American Dietetic Association www.eatright.org The Aplastic Anemia & MDS International Foundation, Inc. www.aamds.org The Iron Disorders Institute at www.irondisorders.org.
Prevention Though the disease is not preventable in all instances, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of becoming anemic: Eat iron-rich foods such as
cereal, bread, lentils, beans, tofu, leafy vegetables, lean red meat, fish and dried fruits. Eat and drink foods that help
your body absorb iron such as organic juice, strawberries and broccoli. Find alternative ways of
obtaining calcium into your diet, as too much can hurt your body’s ability to absorb iron. Eat a balanced diet and
avoid fad diets.
Did You Know...? Some forms of anemia are life-threatening if they go undiagnosed and untreated. By not getting enough oxygen, the organs can become damaged. Also, since the heart must work harder to pump red blood cells throughout the body, the extra work can eventually lead to heart failure. This brochure is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For further information, please consult a medical professional. © 2007-2010 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.
Health and wellness tips for your work, home and life— brought to you by the insurance specialists at The Reschini Group
Women’s Health: Preventive Screenings Part Two Meeting with your doctor regularly and establishing a relationship will not only make you feel more comfortable, but it will also help your doctor to get to know you and your body, making it easier to detect changes. You should talk to your doctor about preventive care and stay on track with the following preventive screenings. Mammograms Early detection is an important factor in the success of treating breast cancer. Screenings can lead to finding and treating lumps in your breasts one to three years before you would have felt or noticed them. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women start having mammogram screenings every year starting at age 40. Regardless of age, however, high-risk women should talk to their doctors about whether to have mammograms before age 40 and how often. Pap Smears A Pap smear looks for changes in the cells within the cervix. These changes can predict cervical cancer or conditions that could eventually develop into cancer. The ACS recommends that women have their first Pap smear at age 21, and after age 21, the
following screening schedule is suggested: • Age 21 to 29—at least every three years. • Age 30 to 65—every five years if combined with an HPV test, or every three years if done alone. • Age 65 and older—you may stop having Pap tests if you’ve had three normal Pap tests in a row and no abnormal Pap tests for the last 10 years. Pelvic Exams A pelvic exam allows doctors to look for signs of illness within the organs including the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder and rectum. Current guidelines recommend that pelvic exams be done at the same time as Pap smears, and also recommend that pelvic exams do not begin until age 21.
test can evaluate total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Colorectal Cancer Screening Colorectal cancer screening tests detect cancerous cells and growths (polyps) that may become cancerous on the inside wall of your colon. Not everyone needs to be tested for colon cancer; your need for screening depends on your risk level. Three major factors influence your risk for colon cancer: • You are age 50 or older. • You have a family or personal history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps. • You have a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease.
Cholesterol Screenings Undesirable levels of cholesterol raise your risk of heart attack and stroke. Women aged 20 or older should have their cholesterol tested every 5 years, though some women may need more frequent testing if doctor recommended. A simple blood
Did You Know...? Of every 1,000 women who have mammograms, five of them are diagnosed with breast cancer. Since mammograms show changes in breast tissue years earlier than regular breast exams do, they help doctors diagnose breast cancer earlier, while it is easier to treat.
This brochure is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For further information, please consult a medical professional. © 2007-2009, 2011-2012 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.