OK Health & Fitness Magazine

October/November 2012 N Ca atio nc na er l Aw Bre are ast ne ss

“Official� Health and Fitness Magazine of Oklahoma

SHOUT First Cowgirl Ann Hargis

A Visit with Linda Cavanaugh

CONTENTS

Volume 3, Issue 1

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012 Gov. Fallin: Oklahoma’s Health Programs For Those In Need 8 Lt. Gov: Breast Cancer Awareness: Key To Survival 9

Saving Money Can Be As Easy As Checking Your Insurance Coverage 10 Oklahoma Project Woman Prevention and Education 12 Acupuncture Helps Cancer Patients 13 The Advantages of Dental Implants 14 Tulsa Cancer Institute Advanced Treatment Close to Home 16 Healthy Legs For The Fall 18 American Cancer Society Fights To End Breast Cancer 20

Ben Coffman: Fighting Breast Cancer With Fitness 23 Stillwater Medical Center Making Mammograms Accessible 24 Reconstruction Aids In Healing 28 OncoVue Test Personalized Breast Cancer Assessments For Women 31

CASA Announces Child Advocate Of The Year 32 You Have a Choice When It Comes To Breast Imaging 34 An Intimate Visit With Linda Cavanaugh 36 OKC Barons Plan A Pink Out For Opening Night 39 A Visit With Ann Hargis 41

Domestic Violence Is Nothing To Be Silent About 46

IN EVERY ISSUE

A Visit With Linda Cavanaugh

Publisher/ Editor's Letter ............................................................... 6 Governor Mary Fallin .......................................................................8 Lt. Governor Todd Lamb ................................................................ 9 Fiscal Fitness ...................................................................................10 Ben Cofman Fitness Guru ........................................................... 23 Babies on Board ...................................................................... 32-34

COVER PHOTO AND CONTENTS BY DAVID HOLBROOK

Pg. 36

SURGEON GENERAL’S WARNING: Smoking by Pregnant Women may result in Fetal injury, Premature Birth and Low Birth Weight. Chewing or Dipping Tobacco is not a safe alternative to Cigarettes, it can cause Gum Disease and Tooth loss.

Join the Coversation!

If you would like to drop a line say hello or tell us how you feel, email: • Brad Smith at bradokhealth@gmail.com or • Brandy Morris at brandyokhealth@gmail.com

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October/November 2012

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October/November 2012 Vol 3 - Issue 1 Publisher/ Editorial Director Brandy Morris (405) 614-5373 brandyokhealth@gmail.com Editor-in-Chief/ Advertising Director Bradley Smith (405) 614-2615 bradokhealth@gmail.com

Hello to all OK Health and Fitness readers,

Hello Everyone!

This issue is special because we are covering several articles regarding Breast Cancer Awareness, and we want to do our part in the fight against this disease. The October/November 2012 issue will have articles from so many that are in this fight every day to save someone and to help in the education and better understanding of what an individual needs to know and do should they ever be told that they have Breast Cancer.

I hope you are enjoying the early weeks of fall. As you may know, October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We have worked closely with some of the best doctors, hospitals and clinics in our great state to bring you this exciting issue. I want to thank everyone involved for making this such a great and exciting issue. It was a pleasure to work with every one of you.

These articles are informative and extremely incisive because it is the professionals themselves that have written the articles for your reading pleasure. OK Health and Fitness believes an article is always worth so much more when you the reader educate yourself on something that you might not have known otherwise.

Educating ourselves about Breast Cancer and other form of Cancers is a very important task in our lives because too often we go through our daily lives and don't even think about it. The doctors and professionals that have written these articles have given us all great insight to what is now available for us and the technologies are so much more advanced than they were just a decade ago.

There are now tests that can determine whether you are a carrier of the gene that could give you Breast Cancer and with early detection your survival chances are so much better than ever before.

Please remember that it is always important to schedule appointments on a regular basis to see your Physician, so you know what is going on with your body. You know when there is something wrong, you know your body better than anyone else, so check yourself out in the mirror and by feeling around to see if there is something that does not belong such as a lump. Never assume that what you find will go away, let the professionals determine if it is something that needs immediate attention.

If just one of these great articles saves a life, then I know we have done our part to better educate you and the life that has been saved.

Thank you Linda Cavanaugh for sharing your story with us, you are truly a fantastic lady and we were so impressed with you and what you stand for. May God continue to bless you and your loved ones!

I want to personally thank Linda Cavanaugh for taking the time out of her busy schedule to share her story with us.

Breast Cancer unfortunately will touch everyone in some way whether it’s a relative or you personally. I hope that the information that you find in this issue will be comforting to know that there are great advances in technology and hope for the future.

We visited with “First Cowgirl” Ann Hargis and learned great things about the future of Oklahoma State University and its quest to be the Healthiest Campus in America.

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. Ironic it comes at a time when the ultimate tailgating parties occur, and families come together for Thanksgiving. Take special care when it comes to indulging in sweets and carbs and look out for one another.

To find our wonderful recipes for Halloween and Thanksgiving, be sure to visit www.okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com .

Have a safe and Happy Halloween and a wonderful Thanksgiving.

God Bless!

[Brandy Morris, Publisher]

October/November 2012

Brandy Morris Bradley Smith Governor Mary Fallin Lt. Governor Todd Lamb Monica Lamb Chris Petermann Amy Petermann Allison Radcliffe Mark Triplett Clint Metcalf, DDS David Hatfield Dominic M. Pedulla, MD, FACC Greg Cameron Tracy Cothran, BSRT, (R) (M) Sandi Troupe Molly Fritch Ben Coffman Jordan Ihrig Dr. Anureet K. Bajaj Eldon R. Jupe, PhD, HCLD/CC Jennifer Emfinger Karen deCordova Josh Evans Julie Cannedy Sara English Photographers Brandy Morris Bradley Smith David Holbrook Mike Conners Oklahoma Project Woman David Hatfield Dominic M. Pedulla, MD, FACC Greg Cameron Oklahoma Breast Care Center Shout Stillwater Medical Center Dr. Bajaj OncoVue Casa Karen deCordova Steven Christy Gary Lawson Integris Health Samantha Villgran COVER Linda Cavanaugh Photo taken by David Holbrook

Copyright 2012 Oklahoma Health and Fitness Magazine LLC and OK Health and Fitness Magazine.

All rights are reserved. Reproduction of Articles or Advertisements without the expressed written permission of the Publisher is prohibited.

For advertising information, please contact Bradley Smith at 405.614.2615 or e-mail at bradokhealth@gmail.com.

Contact Brandy at brandyokhealth @gmail.com

OK Health and Fitness magazine assumes no responsibility for the contents of articles or advertisements in that the views expressed therein may not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher or any magazine employee or contributor. All Editorial submissions should be sent to brandyokhealth@gmail.com. This publication and all its contents are Copyrighted.

Visit us on the web at www.OKHealthandFitnessMagazine.com Contact Bradley Smith at bradokhealth @gmail.com

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Contributing Writers

OK Health and Fitness is a bi-monthly magazine published 6 times a year. Subscription rates are $24.00 for one year. For subscription inquiries please send an email to: bradokhealth@gmail.com or mail check payable to OK Health and Fitness, 7790 North 39th Road, Tryon, Oklahoma 74875-7701

Think and be Healthy Oklahoma!

[Bradley Smith, Editor]

Creative Director Stacy L. Beal - Model Tee stacyokhealth@gmail.com

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Shaping a Healthier Future:

Breast Cancer in Oklahoma [from Governor Mary Fallin’s Office] A critical goal of my administration is to do all we can to improve the health outcomes of our citizens. Breast cancer is a devastating disease and a contributor to our state's poor health status. Many of us have been personally affected by breast cancer or know someone who has.

The risk factors for breast cancer include those factors we can't change, like getting older, having close family relatives with breast cancer, or having a genetic condition that predisposes us to acquiring the disease. There also are health habits we can practice that help reduce the risk for breast cancer such as staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol consumption. Regular screening for breast cancer is of the utmost importance. Women over the age of 50 should have routine screening. Women under the age of 50 should talk to their health care provider about how often and when they should be screened. A mammogram is the best test for early detection of breast cancer.

According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, slightly more than 50 percent of Oklahoma women reported having a mammogram in 2010. Yet for many women, access to mammograms and quality early detection services can be a struggle. That is why I am pleased to tell you Oklahoma has a program called “Take Charge!� that provides both breast and cervical cancer screening to eligible women all across the state. A combination of federal and state funds supports this program through contracts with private health care providers who offer services

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Special Message from Governor Mary Fallin statewide. Services available through the Take Charge! Program includes clinical breast exams, mammograms, limited diagnostic tests, and referrals for treatment. To be eligible for the program, women must be 50-65 years old, rarely or never screened, uninsured or underinsured, and at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty level.

Last year, the program provided 3,944 screenings for breast cancer. Of that number, 709 required further diagnostic testing.

If a woman is in need of diagnostic or treatment services and is unable to seek that care due to limited resources, she can apply for the Oklahoma Cares program provided through the Oklahoma Health Care Authority. Women who are eligible and enrolled in Oklahoma Cares receive full scope Medicaid coverage. If a woman screened through the Take Charge!

Program is ineligible for Oklahoma Cares, Take Charge! will provide funding for limited diagnostic services. Take Charge! is not able to pay for treatment services, but does provide patient navigation to community health care providers.

The Take Charge! Program has identified areas in Oklahoma where women reside who have low breast cancer screening rates, increased breast cancer diagnosis at late

stage, and higher breast cancer mortality rates.

Efforts are under way to contract with private providers to increase screening opportunities for women who live in those counties.

As governor, I am committed to shaping a healthier future for all Oklahomans.

We are fortunate that Oklahoma has health care providers who are doing all they can to assure all women have information about the importance of breast cancer screening. I am also pleased that programs like Take Charge! and Oklahoma Cares are available to help provide access to quality breast cancer screening resources for women who might not otherwise have access.

To learn more, visit http:takecharge.health.ok.gov or call 1-888-669-5934.

okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MONKEY BUSINESS VIA STOCKFRESH

In Oklahoma, about 3,038 women are diagnosed with breast cancer and 513 die of the disease each year. Breast cancer is the second-most common cause of cancer in women, and all women are at risk. Men are susceptible to breast cancer but it's rare for them to get the disease. While white women are more likely to develop breast cancer, black women are more likely to die of it. Among Hispanic women, breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer deaths.

Special Message from Lt. Governor Todd Lamb’s Office

For Your

Family...

Future

...For Your [by Monica Lamb, wife of Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb]

When I consider the blessings and freedoms we enjoy every day, and the wonderful families that make up this great state, I can't help but have a conviction and desire to help enrich the lives of the mothers, daughters, wives and sisters that make Oklahoma strong. These women are the stability of so many families and often make sacrifices for others before caring for themselves.

Every October, our nation and state observe breast cancer awareness month. The goal is to shed additional light on a very important issue relating to the health of these special women in our lives. Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in women throughout our state and nation and it has touched each of us in some way. Each year, about 2,375 Oklahoma women are afflicted with breast cancer, and each year breast cancer claims the life of about 437 women in Oklahoma. Breast cancer cuts too many lives short and has a ripple effect for generations to come. Despite its large impact, we can make a difference and curb the effects of this often-fatal disease through awareness and action.

One essential step in reducing breast cancer's impact is awareness.

Through increased awareness, better detection and earlier interventions, breast cancer deaths have been declining since 1990. Many organizations

okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

and entities have made it their mission to save lives by educating women of all ages about breast cancer. You too can be a part of such education and awareness, helping save countless lives each year. Find ways to be involved in local breast cancer causes whether it is by donating to research or educating and volunteering at various events. Each should do her part in defeating breast cancer. Among my friends and family, I always encourage routine exams and stress the importance of making the time to take care of oneself.

Although awareness is important, action is vital. In order to achieve our goal of defeating breast cancer, we must be proactive.

The American Cancer Society encourages women to begin self-examinations in their 20s, then yearly mammograms at 40. Family history can also play a role, requiring earlier examinations.

Yearly visits to your doctor, and having conversations about self-examination and detection can make a difference. Simple knowledge could one day save your life and save the life of someone you love. Be engaged in the learning process. Know the preventive steps to take.

We all have been given one life with the potential to make a difference. Take the time to learn and make others aware of the signs and effects of breast cancer. Don't let the years come and go without action. Your future and your family may very well depend on it.

If my office can answer any questions, please call 405-521-2161. You can also follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

For more travel information, please visit the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department’s website at www.travelok.com.

October/Nobember 2012

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PRIME

Fiscal Fitness

Reviewing Your Insurance Policies Can Help You

$ave Money

Health Insurance 1. Premiums- Make sure you know what you will pay for your policy and what your employer will pay.

2. Deductibles- Look at how much money you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance will start paying. You can save money on your premium if you have a higher deductible, but if you should need to use your insurance, you will have more out-of-pocket expenses at the time.

3. Co-Pays- The amount you must pay for a visit before the insurance pays. This co-payment will be paid each time you visit a doctor.

4. Co-insurance-Instead of, or in addition, you may have to pay a portion of a fixed amount of the total cost of services. An 80/20 split is typical.

This means the additional cost to you would be the total cost of the procedure minus the deductible multiplied by 20 percent. That amount would what you owed for your part of the insurance.

5. Exclusions- What the policy does not cover. You will be expected to pay 100 percent of the costs. Be aware, you can save money by opting out of maternity coverage, but make sure you change this if you will be planning a family within the year!

6. Out-of-pocket maximums- Your payment obligation ends when you reach this

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amount. At this point anything done would be covered 100 percent by your insurance.

7. Coverage limits- This is the maximum the insurance company will pay, if costs are above this, you are required to pay the remaining costs.

company will pay, the waiting period before the benefits start, how long the payments will continue, the frequency of the payments and what is covered.

Cancer Insurance

Vision Insurance

This is insurance to help gaps between what your health insurance will not pay.

Some will cover health care costs associated with cancer treatments, while others will cover non-medical costs- food, transportation, etc. Also, you may not be eligible for coverage. Tip: Do your research on these policies and make sure what you are buying will help you.

Like health insurance, you will need to review what the policy covers, co-pays, exclusions, your out-of-pocket costs and providers. Usually vision insurance covers yearly eye exams and partial or full coverage of eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses. Tip: research what a yearly eye exam will cost at your eye care professional. If you do not wear glasses, it may be cheaper to opt out of vision insurance and just pay for the exam yourself.

Flexible Savings Account (FSA), Medical Expense FSA or Health FSA- Allows you to set aside a portion of your salary to pay for medical expenses and is not subject to payroll taxes. If you did your research above, you can easily figure out how much you need to put in the account for your yearly health costs.

Again, make sure you understand the account rules and take advantage of the payroll tax savings!

Dental Insurance

Life is challenging and unexpected, so make sure your health does not cause financial stress on your family. Be prepared, be aware and be insured or have money saved for medical expenses.

8. In-Network Provider- Make sure your doctor is still on the in-network provider list!

9. Prescription Drugs Plan- Review this plan to see your costs, pharmacies you can use and any other plan details.

Again like the insurances above review what the policy covers, co-pays, exclusions and your out-of-pocket expenses and providers.

Disability Insurance Ok we will not do a duck commercial, but let us talk about insurance that will take care of your bills if you are ever injured, maternity leave, bed rest for pregnancy, sick for long period of time, psychological disorders etc.

Disability insurance will replace a portion of your wages while you are unable to work. You will need to look at how much the insurance

Payne County Bank, is a 100 percent employee-owner community bank located in Perkins, Oklahoma and Member, FDIC. Find us on the web at www.PayneCountyBank.com. Chris Petermann is a Vice President at Payne County Bank. Amy Petermann, an adjunct professor, taught Personal Finance at the University of Central Oklahoma.

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PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MIKE CONNORS

Most companies have open enrollment for Health Insurance from now until the end of the year. Now is the

By Chris time to recheck your insurance and Amy health to ensure you are properly Petermann insured.

Fighting Breast Cancer Through Prevention And Education For All In 1995, Sue Ford and Barbara Schwarz identified a need in Tulsa to help women pay for mammograms. As volunteers for the Reach to Recovery program of the American Cancer Society, Sue and Barbara received many phone calls from women seeking mammography screening who did not have insurance that covered mammography or the financial means to pay for it. They decided to do something about it.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, aside from skin cancer; about 1-in-8 (12 percent) women in the U.S. will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. The chance that breast cancer will be responsible for a woman's death is about one in 36.

Fortunately, death rates from breast cancer have been declining since 1990, with larger decreases in women younger than 50.

These decreases are believed to be the result of earlier detection through screening and increased awareness, as well as improved treatment.

These statistics are precisely why Ford and Schwarz decided to form a committee to investigate resources for meeting the breast health needs of indigent women in 1995.

Representatives were invited from every medical facility in Tulsa involved with breast health screening.

Contracts were signed with five existing hospitals in Tulsa and the program began serving patients in January 1998. The program operated under the American Cancer Society with services including mammography, ultrasound, biopsy, and an agreement by the hospitals to absorb the care for at least three breast cancer patients a year.

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As the program grew, the Tulsa Project Woman Committee was incorporated as a nonprofit in 2001. A Board of Directors was voted into office and in 2010, it was decided that the name of the organization would be changed to Oklahoma Project Woman (OPW), Inc. to more accurately reflect its mission to serve the entire state of Oklahoma.

Today, OPW is a comprehensive statewide program dedicated to providing breast health education and access to breast health care for Oklahomans who cannot afford preventive breast care. This includes clinical breast exams, screening and diagnostic mammograms, diagnostic procedures and surgical services that facilitate the early diagnosis of breast cancer for women.

Development Director Scarlet Henley says, “Working for Oklahoma Project Woman is fulfilling because we are able to relieve our patients of the financial worry during a time that is already stressful.”

Oklahoma Project Woman fills a unique niche in the state by integrating a breast health education program with a comprehensive clinical program.

An individual can attend a breast health education class to learn about proper breast health care, then move seamlessly to a clinical breast exam, free mammography, and if necessary, a diagnostic procedure and surgery.

OPW is also the only organization that brings together numerous health care facilities throughout the state to work together and provide comprehensive services to clients enrolled in the program. Board-certified physicians oversee every aspect of the program, which allows the organization to provide a complete range of services, a high level of care,

and a continuity of care.

For the past thirteen years, OPW has maintained contracts with hospitals, anesthesiologists, radiologists, pathologists and surgeons. By sharing the financial burden encountered in caring for the indigent or uninsured patient, the stress on any one institution is decreased.

Henley said, “We are excited that we are now able to serve all Oklahomans across the state thanks to the generosity of our supporters and communities.”

Since 1998, Oklahoma Project Woman has provided breast health care for more than 22,000 uninsured Oklahomans in Eastern Oklahoma, 470 clients have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Oklahoma Project Woman is a statewide comprehensive program providing breast health education, no cost mammography, diagnostic procedures and surgical services for women with no health insurance and limited financial resources.

For more information, contact Scarlet Henley at 877-550-7465 or visit http://www.oklahomaprojectwoman.org okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF OKLAHOMA PROJECT WOMAN

[by Allison Radcliffe]

Acupuncture Helps Cancer Patients Deal With Symptoms Acupuncture is a form of Oriental medicine with a documented history of use dating back more 3,500 years.

Its basic theory is that energy called “Qi Chee,� circulates through the body along

By Mark Triplett pathways called meridians.

Stimulation of this energy along different points can create a profound healthful response. This phenomenon has been successfully observed in hundreds of animal and human studies worldwide and is considered a cornerstone of health care for almost one-half the world's population.

For those going through cancer treatment, acupuncture has shown to reduce fatigue, alleviate nausea from chemotherapy, and stimulates appetite, sometimes better than normally prescribed medications. It can treat skin discomfort from radiation and promote wound healing. Recent studies confirm its ability to help with lymphedema, swelling in the arm or armpit area due to the removal of lymph glands.

Acupuncture also reduces hot flashes and night sweats in people experiencing treatment side effects and is effective for many types of pain including joint pain that may arise as a side effect of medication.

We're going to beat this. Let's do everything in our power to win!

Mark Triplett has a Masters of Science in Oriental Medicine and has been practicing Oriental Medicine for more than 8 years. Set an appointment with Mark today! He can be reached at405-514-0478 or 10966 N. May, OKC, OK 73120.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BRADLEY SMITH

As a complimentary medical modality, acupuncture has a lot to offer just about anyone who is affected by cancer. It doesn't treat cancer directly, but it can be a formidable ally when included in the treatment paradigm. Stress is a major consideration for everyone involved in dealing with cancer. From physician, nurse, patient, family and loved ones, acupuncture can be a useful preventive adjunct in dealing with this stress. It also treats

anxiety, calms the spirit and helps with depression. It has been proven to alleviate insomnia, and strengthens the immune system.

Due to its successful history, some hospitals that specialize in cancer treatment are beginning to include it as part of their core treatment regimens

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Are Dental Implants Right For You? With the tremendous advances in dentistry, the majority of people can keep most, if not all, of their teeth throughout their lifetime.

If a tooth is lost, however, it can now be easily and comfortably replaced. There are several options to replace missing teeth, including partial dentures, bridges, or dental implants.

The ideal replacement should not only function properly, but also look and feel like your teeth.

They should be long lasting and not damaging to other teeth. Often, the best solution for missing teeth involves dental implants.

A dental implant is a titanium root that is placed where the previous tooth was removed and acts as an anchor for the new tooth. A custom-made porcelain tooth is attached to the titanium root (the implant).

Implants can be used for one missing tooth or several missing teeth. Even if all natural teeth are lost, implants can stabilize an existing denture or support a new, much more stable and cosmetically pleasing appliance.

The advantages of dental implants over bridges or partial dentures include: The prevention of bone loss. After a tooth is lost, the bone that usually supports teeth is lost due to lack of function (chewing).

Because an implant sits in the bone like natural teeth, the bone is maintained.

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October/November 2012

Maintains the natural positioning of other teeth. Replacing a lost tooth with an implant will keep other teeth from shifting and collapsing the bite.

companies claim that a bridge or partial denture should last 5-7 years, implants can last for decades. They do not decay and require a lower cost to maintain.

Implants are a conservative treatment option. With conventional bridges, your natural teeth are used to support the new teeth. Bridges require reducing your natural tooth so a crown can be made for at least two other teeth. This can lead to problems with the natural tooth, such as decay, abscess or periodontal problems.

Implants are versatile. Even if other teeth are lost, many times your existing implant can be used as part of a new treatment plan.

You do not need one implant for every missing tooth.

Implants have natural appearing results. Implants can look like a natural tooth coming out of your gums. There is no metal clasp or need for connection to another natural tooth with an implant.

Implants are easy to clean. Because they are just like teeth, no special instruments or techniques are needed to maintain oral health.

You simply brush and floss an implanted tooth like other natural teeth.

Implants improve the quality of your life. Because an implanted tooth is stable, you can eat and chew whatever foods you did before you lost the tooth. Nothing will come loose or move while chewing Implants last longer.

Insurance

Cheaper over time. Implants will often cost less over time than other tooth replacement options. Maintenance costs of implanted teeth are also much lower.

Once placed, a dental implant does require some time for healing and integration of the implant to the bone. If you have questions whether or not you might be a candidate for an implant, or any other questions about your mouth, ask your dental professional. If we can be of service to you, please contact us.

Metcalf & Sadler Dental 2212 W 12th Ave, Stillwater, OK 74074 (405) 624-0222. okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF KUHAN VIA STOCKFRESH

By Clint Metcalf, DDS

Tulsa Cancer Institute

Advanced Cancer Care

[by David Hatfield]

“I am sorry but it is cancer,� shatters the certainty that you had moments before the doctor entered the room. You and more than 200,000 other women in the United States will experience a scenario similar to this.

A breast cancer diagnosis is as unique as you are. Historically, breast cancers (like many other cancers) were diagnosed and classified with a simple TNM classification (Ttumor size, N-nodal status, and M- metastases present in other locations.) Perhaps your understanding of treatment options is limited to what a relative may have experienced years ago. Today there are many ways to characterize

allows doctors to gain information about the biology of the tumor cells and use this information for targeted therapies.

Mastectomy is no longer an only option.

Lumpectomy with or without chemotherapy and radiation therapy can provide as good or better results than mastectomy alone, and without the lifetime effects of losing your breast.

Improvements in surgical procedures have become common such as the sentinel lymph node biopsy procedure, which has greatly reduced the occurrence of lymphedema following surgery.

During the procedure, surgeons inject a radioactive substance or colored dye into or near the tumor before removal. They follow the tracer through the lymphatic drainage to the first or sentinel lymph node. The lymph node is removed and tested while in surgery. If the test is negative for cancer cells, there is no need for the surgeon to remove additional lymph nodes.

How aggressive is my type of cancer?

What is the likelihood that my cancer will spread?

What chemotherapy drugs would be more effective?

These questions are related to the biology of the cancer. They can be answered with tests such as the estrogen/progesterone receptor test, the HER2/neu, Human epidermal growth factor type 2 receptor, and multi-gene tests like Oncotype DX or MammaPrint. The test results can give your doctor insight to the biological make up of your cancer and assist in defining your treatment plan and to use targeted chemotherapy. It also gives the doctor and you information regarding whether you could be at a higher risk for recurrence.

breast cancer and new tools and techniques are available to target the cancer and provide treatment while minimizing acute and longterm side effects.

New technology and TNM staging,

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October/November 2012

If radiation therapy is recommended, technologies such as IMRT (Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy) may be used to reduce the likelihood of adverse skin reactions and acute side effects such as fibrosis. Various

types of IMRT are able to reduce the radiation dose to the heart and healthy lung tissues as well. Partial breast irradiation or interstitial brachytherapy may also be forms of radiation therapy that could be part of your personalized treatment plan.

With modern technology, early detection remains the best defense against breast cancer. The National Breast Cancer Foundation emphasizes an early detection plan that could significantly increase your chances of surviving breast cancer.

Also if you have questions about selfbreast examination, mammography, or additional testing be sure and ask your doctor.

You are not alone in this fight and the physicians and staff of the Tulsa Cancer Institute clinics in Tulsa, Stillwater, McAlester, and Bartlesville remains committed to providing the latest in the state-of-the art solutions designed specifically for you.

Tulsa Cancer Institute – Stillwater, OK 600 S. Adams Stillwater, Ok 74074 www.tciok.org - (405)372-1775 Tulsa Cancer Institute is formerly known as Cancer Care Associates.

The NBCF has information tailored specifically for you at www.national breast cancer.org and have interactive tools available to help you develop your own early detection plan. Yes, there is even an APP for that! okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID HATFIELD

Not too long ago you found a lump on the side of your breast. A couple of your friends and your mother have experienced this before and their results were benign. Now it is your turn, as you sit and read a magazine and wait in an examination room, you are certain that your results will be the same and everything will return to normal.

Fall In Love with Being Healthy Our Top 5 Fall Shape Up Tips

Try it sooner rather than later, by considering our Top 5 Fall Shape Up Tips: 1. Take advantage of the weather. Fall can be a treat for the senses: the crisp air, pumpkin carving, a gorgeous canopy of fall foliage, and the crunch of leaves underfoot. These months are a great time to exercise outdoors and enjoy cooler temperatures. Take the time to discover a new park trail or enjoy the scenery around our beautiful lakes, whether you're walking, biking, or skating. Pick up a Frisbee and give Frisbee golf a try. Skip the golf cart and walk the course for a change. And remember, it doesn't have to seem like exercise to be a great workout. Tackle that yard project and get your heart pumping while you rake leaves or trim up the bushes.

2. Try something new. Fall is the perfect time of year to take up a new hobby.

Always wanted to join a gym? Thinking you might like to learn how to row? Want to swim like Michael Phelps? Don't put off for tomorrow what you could fall in love with today! Taking the first step toward a new activity is the hardest part. So take a cue from Nike and “Just do it.”

You should plan this new activity into your life like you do everything else, meetings, dinners,

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and getting the children to lessons and practice.

Put it on the calendar, because later always turns into never.

3. Dress the part. We're not talking about expensive work out gear but dressing for the fall change in temperatures requires a little planning. Think layers and moisture wicking fabric.

Remember morning and late evening can feel chilly when you first step out the door, but you'll quickly warm up when your blood starts circulating. Think about keeping a cotton or “dry fit” fabric next to your skin to absorb moisture. Layer it with a light jacket or a rain repellent pullover that can easily be tied around your waist if you get too warm.

Consider your activity and the type of shoes you will want to wear. Uneven terrain calls for a sturdy athletic shoe, while walking on a track might require less support. Don't forget the sunglasses and sunscreen either. Cooler weather doesn't mean that you can forgo UVA and UVB protection.

4. Rejuvenate yourself. Fall is the time to rejuvenate body, mind and spirit. Get a massage after your run.

Learn to meditate. Look into a yoga group. Take an art class. Gather your friends for book club.

Join that Bible study that you've always thought you didn't have time to do. Treat yourself not just with exercise, but other activities that promote wellness, so you can feel good physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

5. Take your health cues from your body. Listen to those aches and pains.

Many of them shouldn't be dismissed as “aging.” For instance, it's common for my varicose vein patients to tell me that their first

symptoms occurred with discomfort in their legs while they exercised. Varicose veins are often accompanied by a distinct heavy feeling in the legs, before the veins begin to look abnormally unsightly. Listening to those health cues can often catch a health complication before it becomes a full-blown problem.

I encourage my varicose vein patients to get exercise before and after their procedures, but many of my patients ask about their legs swelling while they walk or exercise. I usually recommend compression hose to keep the blood flow actively circulating back to the heart. Although they are fitted, compression hose actually increase your circulation and may ease leg pain. If your legs are swelling, it's always a good idea to discuss your activity with an Endovascular Specialist. If compression hose are right for you, you'll need a physician to write you a prescription for them. They can be difficult to fit and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. So, in our office we do an individual fitting to make sure they are doing their job while being as comfortable as possible.

You'll want to watch for other health concerns as well. Many people think that a shortness of breath is just a general by-product of getting in shape, however, it could be signaling something else. Before you start an exercise program it always a wise idea to talk to your doctor.

Dominic Pedulla MD is a board certified cardiologist specializing in varicose veins. His office offers no obligation, free consultations for people interested in having their veins evaluated. Call his office today at (405) 947-2228 3300 NW 56th Street, OKC, OK. okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DR PEDULLA

We finally beat the heat, and fall brings the cooler temperatures that make us want to get healthy and active again. The children are back in school, the weather offers pleasant evenings, and we all seem to move at a slightly more relaxed speed. For many people, fall is a great time to rethink your overall health and fitness plan. So this year, don't wait for midnight New Year's Eve to make that healthy resolution.

One in Every Two Women Newly Diagnosed With Breast Cancer Reaches Out to the Society for Help and Support [by Greg Cameron]

“The American Cancer Society encourages women to put their health first. We want women to understand the benefits of eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and limiting alcohol intake,” said Gail Sams, health initiatives director for the Oklahoma region at the American Cancer Society. “More than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. will celebrate a birthday this year thanks to early detection and improved treatment.”

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in women, second only to lung cancer. The Society is reminding women 40 and older to have a yearly mammogram and clinical breast examination. Also, the Society recommends that women ages 20 to 39 receive a clinical breast examination at least once every three years. The five-year survival rate is 99 percent for breast cancer that is diagnosed in the earliest stages.

The American Cancer Society is the

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most effective breast cancer-fighting organization in the world, and is doing the most to help people with breast cancer today and works tirelessly to find cures to end the disease tomorrow. The Society has spent more on breast cancer research than on any other cancer, and has played an important part in many major breast cancer research breakthroughs in the past century, including demonstrating that mammography is an effective screening test for breast cancer, the development of Tamoxifen and Herceptin, and knowledge that genetics, poor diet, lack of exercise, and moderate drinking increase a person's cancer risk.

The Society also offers newly diagnosed women and those living with breast cancer a variety of programs and services to help them in their breast cancer experience. · The Reach To Recovery program helps newly diagnosed patients cope with their breast cancer experience. Volunteers offer the unique understanding, support, and hope from the perspective of someone who has survived breast cancer. ·

The Look Good Feel Better program

helps breast cancer patients manage the physical side effects of treatment. Patients gain beauty techniques to help improve their selfesteem and quality of life, but also a sense of support, confidence, courage and community with other cancer patients in the program. · The Society offers free information to help make treatment decisions and access to its programs 24/7 through its website and toll-free number.

The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end cancer for good. We are a global grassroots force of three million volunteers, that fights for every birthday threatened by cancer in every community. We save lives by helping you stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early, helping you get well by being there for you during and after a diagnosis, by finding cures through groundbreaking discovery and fighting back through public policy. As the nation's largest nongovernmental investor in cancer research, contributing more than $3.8 billion, we turn what we know about cancer into what we do. As a result, an estimated 13.7 million people in America who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will be celebrating birthdays this year.

To learn more about us or to get help, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Greg Cameron American Cancer Society Phone: 512.919.1916 Email: Greg.cameron@cancer.org okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GREG CAMERON

According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 2,630 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 500 deaths from breast cancer are expected to occur among women in Oklahoma in 2012. The American Cancer Society offers 24/7 support to those diagnosed with breast cancer and their loved ones. In fact, one out of every two women turn to the Society for help and support following their breast cancer diagnosis. This October, the Society will be using National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to remind women about the importance of breast health.

Breakthrough Breast Screening Technology Arrives in Oklahoma City – 3D Mammography

Early Detection . . . Even Earlier [by Tracy Cothran, BSRT (R) (M)]

PHOTO COURTESY OKLAHOMA BREAST CARE CENTER

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed annually in October with the mission to increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research, screening, diagnosis and treatment. The Oklahoma Breast Care Center would like to remind all women 40 and over to get an annual mammogram as recommended

by The American Cancer Society. It is also important for women to receive a breast exam by their health care provider every one to two years and all women should begin monthly breast self examination in their 20s.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer found in women and the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women.

Unfortunately, most women are unsure about the mammography screening guidelines. In fact, recent data shows that only 40 percent of American women are having an annual screening mammogram. The stage at which breast cancer is detected greatly influences a woman's chance of survival. When detected early, the survival rate is 97 percent and now new technology called Tomosynthesis allows the detection of breast cancer earlier than ever before. Based on this information, it is critical to take control of your own breast health.

The Oklahoma Breast Care Center was the first in Oklahoma City to offer Tomosynthesis – 3D mammography; the very latest in breast screening and diagnostic technology and the biggest advancement in breast cancer detection in 30 years.

Tomosynthesis has the ability to accurately detect smaller-sized cancers at an earlier stage.

“Since we opened our doors 27 years ago, we have been devoted to providing women with the absolute best care and offering breast Tomosynthesis is yet another example of that promise,” said Dr. Larry Killebrew, Oklahoma Breast Care Center founder and medical okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

Breast Tomosynthesis director. “We are pleased to be the first in Oklahoma City to offer this breakthrough technology. Recent studies have proved that Tomosynthesis has the ability to diagnose 20 percent more breast cancer during its earliest stage.”

During a breast Tomosynthesis exam, multiple images of the breast are acquired at different angles and used to produce a series of one millimeter images that can be stacked and viewed as a 3D reconstruction of the breast. Both 2D and 3D mammography are achieved with only a few extra seconds per image. In total, the exam takes about 30 additional seconds compared to a traditional 2D digital mammogram alone.

While 2D mammography is still the most common practice in breast screening, women may be better suited for the increased benefits of 3D mammography especially those with dense breast tissue. Most women in need of a mammogram are candidates for breast Tomosynthesis.

There are currently more than 8,000 breast cancer screening sites in the US. However, fewer than 100 have the newest generation of 3D digital mammography now available at the Oklahoma Breast Care Center.

Since 1985, the Oklahoma Breast Care Center has been an established leader in breast cancer screening and detection. The Oklahoma Breast Care Center's top priority is to provide the latest advancements in breast cancer screening and detection in the most convenient and comfortable manner to achieve the absolute best care possible.

Women can be in and out of the facility within 45 minutes while completing more than one service during an appointment.

Many women schedule their mammogram and

bone density test on the same day. The Oklahoma Breast Care Center also has two mobile mammography coaches that travel the state visiting corporations, hospitals, and clinics allowing women to get a digital mammogram “on the go.” A free breast cancer support group meets on the 2nd Thursday of every month for women and families affected by breast cancer. This passion for bringing the latest advancements to Oklahoma while providing a tranquil experience is what defines the Oklahoma Breast Care Center and brings women back for their annual mammogram year after year.

The Oklahoma Breast Care Center offers screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds, DEXA bone density testing, dedicated breast MRI, nonsurgical breast biopsies, high-risk assessments and genetic testing, monthly breast cancer support groups, and the convenience of Saturday appointments.

Their philosophy has always been to make the early detection of breast cancer the best promise for a cure while making all women feel at home.

To learn more about breast Tomosynthesis - 3D mammography and the Oklahoma Breast Care Center please call 405-755-CARE (2273) 13509 N. Meridian, OKC, OK or visit their website at www.okbreastcare.com.

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[by Sandi Troupe and Molly Fritch] Front Row: Sandi Troupe and Molly Fritch, Second row left to right: Aimee Salalati, Jacquelyn Snider, JT Hawk, Jill Emerson, Lisa Woods, Top left to right: Stephanie Anderson, Amy Watkins

Sandi Troup– 32 and mother of a toddler when she was diagnosed with breast cancer had a similar story. “In the waiting room of my first oncology appointment, they were playing big band music. I just sat there, still in shock, thinking 'I don't belong here!”

Heidi Long, another breast cancer survivor, described her first support group experience: “I was the youngest person there.

The next youngest person was my mom's age.”

Molly and Sandi were determined to help others who felt isolated and alone, and teamed up to form SHOUT, an organization to support young women with cancer. SHOUT stands for Strength, Healing, Optimism, Understanding, Together. Since its inception in 2006, SHOUT has grown to more than 150 members across the state of Oklahoma, representing breast, brain, thyroid, blood and gynecological cancers.

Besides age, one of the defining characteristics of SHOUT is the positive attitude of the members.

“We consider ourselves survivors from the moment of diagnosis” said Sandi. “We're not victims, we're victors!”

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“I think the positive attitude may have had the biggest impact on my treatment and how easy it seemed at the time” said Heidi.

“If I had a positive attitude during treatment, it was because I met about 20 other young women. None of them shed tears or talked negatively…I met someone who had a young child (close to my baby's age), and she told me where to shop for scarves. I met two survivors [with advanced cancer] who were living, rather than sitting around waiting to die.”

Jill Emerson was only 27 and was taking care of a 4-month old baby when she was diagnosed. "I felt alone and scared. SHOUT changed that for me giving me strength and friendship,” said Jill. “I am glad we found each other even if it took breast cancer, which we kicked like a bad habit!"

SHOUT typically meets in restaurants or at survivors' homes. The casual environment creates a positive forum to share and learn from each other. Just seeing other survivors laughing and enjoying life is encouraging to someone in the middle of the fight, and members rally around their “warriors” and give them helpful tips and a compassionate ear.

“Many of us have discovered blessings and opportunity through adversity,” Molly shared. “Cancer has redirected our lives, either through career changes or a desire to

make a difference in our communities. We have learned to celebrate life, slow down, and make the most of today, because truly that's all we have anyway!”

SHOUT also has a mission to increase awareness of cancer and other young women's health issues through community education. This includes encouragement to live a healthy life and tips for early detection. Their message is simple: “Know your body, what is normal for you, and take action when you feel a lump or something seems off. Many of our members were first told by our doctors 'It's nothing; you're too young for it to be cancer.'

Sometimes you have to be persistent and get a second opinion, for many of us it may have saved our lives!” said Molly.

“We have all grown through our cancer journey,” said Sandi. “'Live, Laugh, and Love' is a motto we live by. We learned not to take life for granted, and make the most of the time we have. Many of us were wrapped up in the hectic pace of busy lives, and were missing the most important things right in front of us.

Now we slow down and take time to smell the roses.”

For more information, visit the SHOUT website at www.shout-okc.org okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF SHOUT

Only 31, Molly Fritch went to her first chemotherapy treatment. Surrounded by people more than 20 years her senior, her nurse said, “Honey, what are you doing here? You're too young to have cancer!”

FITNESS

Exercises That May Help Fight Breast Cancer Breast Cancer! We've all heard of it...

We all have had someone in our family or friend circle with it or know of someone who has had someone close to them have this disease.

It is by no means a rarity among men and women of all ages.

One thing I can say is that none of us wants to develop cancer of any kind.

So, that means doing what we can to be physically fit, properly nourished with healthy foods and drinks, and make sure our bodies get enough rest to stay strong.

You may be wondering how working out can help you fight cancer.

When you are physically active, it strengthens your body in general to fight illness.

PHOTO COURTESY OF STOCK EXCHANGE

Being active metabolizes the toxins in your body, and burns calories. These extra units of kilocalories that your body doesn't use in a day are stored as fat in your body.

Many toxins are stored in fatty areas of your body. Fat stored on the body allows the body to store toxins that you want to get rid of.

Working out encourages you to eat and usually crave healthy food, because your body tends to undergo a transformation where you desire to maximize your efforts because you're putting so much work into being fit.

You start to see your body change, which is motivating. Then, you start to eat healthier meals. You may even be sparked to learn to cook healthy meals.

Working out causes you to drink more water and crave more water. It's a marvelous thing because 70 percent of your body is already made up of water and it's okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

important and necessary to keep that water balance in your body to breakdown and transport the waste and harmful toxins out of your body.

around behind your back and stretch by pushing the arms slightly backward and release.

This is usually found to be restricted movements so don't push too hard.

Almost every chemical reaction in your body requires at least one molecule of water. Your body can only function optimally when it's replenished with the water it needs.

3. Standing with feet wide apart.

Bend the Right knee and place your right hand on the right thigh for support. Take the straight left arm and swing in a circular fashion as far as is comfortable, first one way for 10 times and then circle in reverse. It is important to start gradually to test the freedom of movement to avoid any strain before increasing any speed of this exercise. Repeat on the other side, bending the left thigh etc. It should be practiced until you can swing the arm freely from the shoulder, in a windmill fashion, but with care and be sure to bend the leg to keep it out of the way!

When you're working out, you crave water because you sweat. That means an increase in intake of water is required when you're active.

Most people do not adequately hydrate themselves, which can cause a wide array of health issues, especially on a continuous basis.

Working out makes you tired. This means you are more apt to call it a day and hit the showers, then hit the hay, ensuring your body repairs and replenishes itself regularly.

Arm Exercises to Help Prevent Breast Cancer The goal is to increase movement and improve circulation to the breasts. If you are suffering from breast cancer, check with your doctor before attempting these exercises.

1. Standing: feet slightly apart.

Interlock your fingers and your raise arms above your head, stretching and limbering the arms gently backward with the hands place palms upward. Repeat movement, pushing your interlocked hands back and then forward, relaxing with the forward release. Do these exercises 10 times. You will feel the stretch in the underarm and breast area. This helps circulation to the breast tissue. Relax.

2. Standing with feet a little apart.

Interlock your fingers after taking both arms

4. Lying flat on your back in a relaxed position with arms placed straight out horizontally, wide to the side. Bend both arms to make vertical right angles from the floor and then in gentle repetitive movements limber the hands back to try to touch the floor while maintaining the right angled position. Work on this until it becomes easy to get your hands to touch the floor and you will feel a stretch in the chest and breast area.

These are basic exercises for prevention of breast problems and can be safely done at home. However better results can be expected by complementing your exercise program with other exercises under the supervision and direction of a Health & Fitness Professional.

Ben Coffman is an ACE Certified Fitness Trainer. OKC Fitbody Bootcamp is located at 2424 N. Moore Ave, Moore, OK 73160. 405.205.6001 www.okcfitbodybootcamp.com October/November 2012

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Stillwater Medical Center Eliminates Barriers to Mammograms [by Jordan Ihrig]

Stillwater Medical Center (SMC) and Women First know many barriers can prevent women from their annual mammogram.

Because mammograms provide the early detection that saves lives, SMC and Women First strive each day to eliminate these barriers.

“The biggest barriers usually are fear, discomfort, lack of insurance coverage, inconvenience and misinformation,” Dava Judd, lead technologist for mammography services, said. “One by one, our team takes down those obstacles, helping ensure the best possible care for our patients.”

Convenient As a partnership between SMC and Stillwater Women's Clinic physicians, Women First offers a convenient location where women receive their annual screening mammogram in a warm, home-like atmosphere. All screening mammograms are performed at Women First while all diagnostic or problem solving exams are performed at SMC. Judd says, “Women First is located in the Stillwater Women's Clinic building, so patients can schedule their mammogram and annual OBGYN appointments for the same day.

Our appointment times are 15 minutes long, and patients can typically be in and out in less than 20 minutes.”

Compassionate “Our mammography team is incredibly talented, not just in their field but also in patient care and compassion,” Shyla Eggers, SMC public relations director, said.

“Too many women put off annual screening mammograms because of fear of discomfort, uncertainty of the procedure or concern of cancer detection. It's a major health risk.”

Judd says she loves to talk to patients, get to know them and explain each step of their exam completely.

“If I can get an anxious patient who

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walks in with a frown to leave with a smile, then I have really accomplished something. I've had women who put off getting their mammogram for many years, but after coming to us once, they are back on a yearly schedule.”

financial counselor through SMC when needed,” Judd said. “Many women without health insurance coverage qualify for mammograms at a very reduced cost.”

Advanced

According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), free mammograms through state programs are available to patients at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty level. Information about free mammogram qualifications is available at most health departments.

“Another way we ease patient concerns is by utilizing highly advanced technology and some of the most talented, expertly qualified technologists in the area,” Eggers said.

For those with coverage, as of 2011 under the Affordable Care Act, Medicare and new health insurance plans are required to fully cover screening mammograms without any outof-pocket patient expense.

Women First and SMC each operate with a 2000D GE digital mammography unit.

Digital mammography offers numerous benefits including better visibility through dense breast tissue, the ability to manipulate and enlarge the image and easier transfer of images to consulting physicians. The facilities are accredited by the American College of Radiology and MQSA (Mammography Quality Standards Act and Program) certified.

Informed

Eggers says, “Even if nerves and anxieties run high before an appointment, women quickly feel at ease after meeting their mammographer who is calm and cares about their comfort.”

Each mammographer at SMC and Women First completed a two-year radiologic technology program and then specialized in mammography through further training. They are all certified through The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Radiologic Technology programs focus on radiography equipment, pathology, anatomy, physiology and medical terminology. Mammographers are required to complete a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education every two years.

Judd says, ”Shelly Krehbiel and Lindsay Fielding work with me daily to ensure that every woman has as pleasant an experience as possible and the best chance at early detection. I couldn't do this without them.”

Affordable According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), a mere 17 percent of women over 40 without health insurance received their screening mammogram in 2010.

“Women First helps patients make a payment plan if necessary and provides a

With increased information from the media and Internet, it is easy to become misinformed. New recommendations, supplements and research can muddle together in a confusing mess, which becomes dangerous when your health depends on the truth.

“I encourage women to ask questions of their healthcare providers, voice any concerns and let us help dispel any fears or misgivings.” Judd said.

Eggers says, “There is no substitute for speaking directly with your personal physician. Your physician knows your body's condition and is the most qualified to make any recommendation for your health.”

When the statistics are staggering, there's no sense in playing the odds. According to ACS, the 5-year survival rate of breast cancer found in stage I is 88 percent. Stage IV 5-year survival rate is 15 percent. Annual screening mammograms remain the medical standard in early breast cancer detection.

Judd says, “Any time I see one of our breast cancer survivors out and about, I know that our services are worthwhile.”

For more information about Stillwater Medical Center and Women First mammography or other breast imaging procedures, please call 405-372-1480 or visit www.StillwaterMedical.com. okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF STILLWATER MEDICAL CENTER

Stillwater, Okla. The numbers don't add up. Twelve percent of all women in the United States will battle invasive breast cancer.

Three percent of all women in the United States lose that battle. So why are only half of U.S. women over the age of 40 receiving their recommended annual screening mammogram?

Breast Reconstruction After Cancer Heals More Than Just the Body

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DR. BAJAJ

I chose to become a plastic surgeon because of my passion for reconstructive surgery; so, breast reconstruction forms a significant portion of my

By Dr. Anureet practice. Every day, I hear stories from women about how K. Bajaj breast reconstruction has changed their lives – patients will say, “I didn't feel like a woman before because breasts are what make you a woman,” or “I feel whole now.”

I have had patients tell me they have never allowed their husbands to see them naked after their mastectomies, and others who are brought to tears after seeing the results of their reconstruction.

But I am also aware that the vast majority of American women who undergo mastectomy will not have a breast reconstruction. Breast reconstruction may not be the right option for every woman, but for many, it is a life-changing procedure. This year 227,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Seventy percent of those women will be unaware of their reconstructive options. In other words, the focus will be on cutting out the cancer, not surviving it, not healing from it and certainly not rebuilding. This reality comes in spite of a federal law requiring health insurers (including Medicaid and Medicare) to cover breast reconstruction procedures. This 1998 law also mandates that insurers cover

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procedures on the opposite breast to achieve symmetry.

One of my patients, breast cancer survivor Ida Huntz, remembers the day she was diagnosed with triple negative breast. “I remember opening my web page and typing in the words 'Triple Negative' in the search engine and opening every hit,” says Huntz.

A lump was found in Huntz's breast during a routine exam; the lump was then biopsied, and she was told it was “probably nothing.” A week later Huntz found herself sitting in a patient consultation room being told she had Grade 3 (aggressive), Stage 1 Cancer, and needed to begin therapy right away. She immediately began chemotherapy then had surgery followed by radiation therapy.

Huntz was overjoyed once she went into remission. At that time, she was ready to begin on the next phase of her therapy - she wanted to feel whole again after surviving cancer. Huntz wanted to be comfortable with her body and her mind. Prior to consulting with me, she visited several plastic surgeons in search of renewing her physical self.

Ultimately, she chose me to be her reconstructive surgeon.

While techniques using implants are the most commonly performed procedures for breast reconstruction, there are many other

options for breast reconstruction including techniques using a woman's own tissue.

Generally, many women can choose either option; however, there is a high complication rate if you have an implant-based reconstruction and will have or have had radiation therapy. Therefore, if a woman has had radiation therapy, I usually recommend reconstruction using her own tissue because of the high complication rate with implants in this situation. The other advantages of using your tissue is that it will look and feel more natural, and it will last you a lifetime because it is a part of you. Implants will never last a lifetime and may need to be removed and replaced several times and for different reasons.

Huntz and her husband reviewed the options carefully and she moved forward with Continued on pg. 35 Bajaj Plastic Surgery is located at 6205 N. Santa Fe, Suite 105, OKC, OK 405-810-8448. www.bajajplasticsurgery.com okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

Personalized Breast Cancer Risk Assessment a Reality for More Women

For many years the application of genetics in medicine has been confined to diseases like cystic fibrosis where mutations in one gene cause clinical symptoms.

For common diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes the genetic influences are proving to be much more complex. Two genes for hereditary breast cancer (BRCA1 and BRCA2) were discovered in 1994 and 1995. This was a very important advancement and at the time the hope was that further study of these genes would unlock the secrets of all breast cancers.

However, it has become increasingly clear that the BRCA genes play a role in fewer than 10 percent of all diagnosed breast cancers.

Thus, the genetic factors contributing to the other 90 percent of breast cancers, commonly called “sporadic,” remained an active area of research.

During the early 90s, our research at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation was focused on studying genes involved in controlling cell growth. We found inherited variation in a gene that compromised control of

cell growth especially in breast cancer cells. This discovery led us to studying gene variation in women with breast cancer compared to women who had never been diagnosed with any cancer.

The research expanded to studying many genes involved in breast cancer development.

InterGenetics Incorporated ® was formed with the goal of developing and bringing to market a widely applicable test for personalized breast cancer risk assessment.

OncoVue® was developed and validated from extensive studies involving the analysis of genetic and clinical factors from more than 8,000 women with and without breast cancer.

A systematic research and development process that initially considered thousands of candidate gene markers subsequently identified the 22 gene variants and 5 clinical factors in the OncoVue test.

Validity of OncoVue risk estimates has been confirmed in multiple studies including an independent study done by researchers at the University of California San Francisco.

OncoVue is significantly more accurate in determination of risk compared to clinical factors alone. The testing process is simple. DNA is analyzed from cells collected in a patient’s mouthwash sample and combined with clinical information from a brief questionnaire.

Personalized medicine is now a reality with tests like OncoVue at the forefront of risk assessment. OncoVue is the first DNAbased risk assessment test using common genetic variation to accurately estimate a woman’s age-specific risk of developing sporadic breast cancer.

Dr. Noel Williams of The Menopause Center of Oklahoma finds that “OncoVue is a wonderful new tool to evaluate breast cancer risk. Breast cancer is a major concern for all women and OncoVue allows us to better find those women at high risk and recommend preventive measures. Most women are at or below average risk and this knowledge eases their concerns.”

Testing is available only by physician order in clinics across the United States, Europe and Latin America.

“The OncoVue test provides a critical new way to risk stratify patients beyond the family history and single gene tests,” notes Dr. Ora Gordon, director and clinical geneticist with the Adult Genetics Program at Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles.

“The overwhelming majority of women at risk for breast cancer do not carry a single gene mutation such as BRCA1/2. Identifying those at risk and those who perceive being at an elevated risk, but who are in fact at average risk, allows for appropriate screening and prevention on an

okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

individualized basis.”

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ONCOVUE

Almost daily, the media reports on emergence of personalized medicine based

By Eldon R. on genetic individuality.

Jupe, PhD, HCLD/CC(ABB) Rapid advances in genetic technology over the last decade are unlocking secrets of disease susceptibility only previously imagined. Going beyond traditional clinical risk factors and using personal genetic information to guide both treatment and prevention decisions is becoming more common in medicine.

InterGenetics Incorporated, a personalized medicine company focused on applying gene technology to cancer risk testing, is located in Oklahoma City.

For more information on OncoVue® testing, call InterGenetics toll free at 1866-ONCOVUE (662-6883) or e-mail info@intergenetics.com. Dr. Jupe is cofounder of InterGenetics and serves as Vice President and Clinical Laboratory Director. He holds certifications as a High-Complexity Clinical Laboratory Director and Clinical Consultant from the American Board of Bioanalysis.

October/November 2012

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BABIES

ON BOARD

CASA Advocate Youngberg is Making Difference in the Lives of Many Oklahoma Children

[by Jennifer Emfinger]

More than a mentor or a special buddy, a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a volunteer specially trained to make recommendations in the child's best interest, and how to get those interests met by the system. They are appointed by a judge and will fight for a child; against all odds, against power, against bureaucracy and shortsighted agendas.

Jalynn Youngberg of Clinton, Oklahoma, was the recipient of the Oklahoma CASA Association's 2012 Child Advocate of the Year. Even though Youngberg has only been a 2nd District CASA volunteer since February of 2011, she has already made a huge impact in the lives of the children she has worked with.

her raise her three younger siblings.

And a 10-year-old boy, who was lost in the system that had cast him off as an unwanted child, has found a potential home.

“Essentially CASA is a hands on way you can make a difference in the life of a child in the foster system,” Youngberg said. “To me the most rewarding thing is knowing that you made a tangible difference in the life of a child.”

Youngberg is one of more than 1,000 CASA volunteers that speak up for the rights of children in Oklahoma. With the help of CASA, children can find a way to a safe, permanent home but more volunteers are needed.

A 6-year-old girl is no longer medicated to the point of non-responsiveness on medication that was prescribed in error.

According to the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, more than 8,000 children in Oklahoma were substantiated to be victims of child abuse and neglect in 2011 (in addition to those who were already in the system). This intense need can strain the system to the point where it is difficult to protect the rights of each child. That is where a CASA volunteer can help; by being there with children as they progress through the system so that they are not alone and they have another person to help make sure that their needs are met.

A 16-year-old boy went from AWOL status to a detention facility, to a group home and thoughts of college (no one told him he was smart enough to attend college before Youngberg).

“It's very rewarding. Holding a child's hand, both figuratively and literally, as they go through the system,” Youngberg said.

“Having a CASA lets the child know that they won't get lost in the shuffle.”

A 13-year-old girl received the counseling she needed and was finally able to admit that she was mad at her mom for making

Youngberg's story is proof of the impact a CASA volunteer can have on a child.

But today only 45 percent of Oklahoman

As a direct result of Youngberg's diligence, thoroughness and fight to represent her children's best interests, three children were removed from a foster home where they were physically and verbally abused.

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Jalynn Youngberg receives award from Cherokee Ballard children in need are appointed a CASA. Oklahoma CASA and the 25 local CASA programs are dedicated to ensuring that every child in foster care and the child welfare system has a qualified CASA volunteer looking out for his or her best interests. Every child has a right to thrive and to be treated with dignity and respect.

You can be the person who stands up for them. You can make a difference in a child's life. Volunteer today.

Oklahoma CASA Association PO Box 54946, Oklahoma City, OK 73154 405-524-8999 or toll free 1-800-742-2272 www.oklahomacasa.org okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CASA

Every year, thousands of children in Oklahoma are removed from their homes because of evidence of abuse and neglect. They are uprooted from the only family they've known, taken out of schools and away from friends. In short, their worlds are turned upside down. Going through the child welfare system is a scary process and no child should do it alone.

Mammography Saves Lives Where Will You Go For Yours? [by Karen deCordova] Experience Matters To get an accurate mammogram reading, you need a high-quality image and a good interpretation of that image. Some factors that may affect accuracy are the experience of the radiologist reading your mammogram, the training of the technologist who performs your exam and whether the facility you choose has the latest technology in breast imaging.

An Extraordinary Patient Experience

Board Certified Radiologists The cornerstone of a dedicated breast imaging center are the radiologists who practice there. This foundation begins with an impressive staff of board-certified physicians and technologists who specialize in mammography and have all the latest technologies at their disposal.

Board-

certification ensures that the doctor has special training in mammography and other radiological techniques. At Breast Imaging of Oklahoma we also have fellowship-trained radiologists. A fellowship allows the radiologist to have intense experience training with an established radiologist for several months.

Center of Excellence Breast Imaging of Oklahoma is accredited by the American College of Radiology. We are proud to be among an elite group of facilities to achieve the Breast Imaging Center of Excellence designation. The Center of Excellence designation reflects the importance we place on providing the highest quality of care to our patients.

Annual Screening Mammograms At Breast Imaging of Oklahoma, we believe annual, quality mammograms are essential to good breast health. Despite controversial reports in recent years that may have given the impression that a screening mammogram was not necessary, Breast Imaging of Oklahoma is joined with other health care groups including the American Medical Association, American Cancer Society and American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology in recommending a screening mammogram on an annual basis for every woman starting at age 40 and continuing each year as long as the woman is in otherwise good health. By continuously offering compassionate care combined with the most advanced equipment available – such as digital mammography, breast MRI and computeraided detection - we are the first choice for thousands of women each year.

Women Serving Women Our board certified mammography staff consists of female doctors and technologists, who, as women themselves, understand the anxieties, fears and emotions

Dr. Mitchell with patient

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Dr. Debra Mitchell that may be experienced by our patients. If something is required beyond the annual screening mammogram, our physicians work with the referring physician to develop individualized treatment plans for each patient, ensuring complete care from start to finish.

Their expertise and skill are crucial in the accurate detection and successful treatment of breast cancer.

Breast Imaging of Oklahoma (405)844-2601 2601 Kelley Pointe Parkway Edmond, OK 73013 www.breastimagingofoklahoma okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY KAREN DECORDOVA

From the first phone call to schedule your appointment to the detailed results report available online within days, Breast Imaging of Oklahoma is focused on providing an extraordinary patient experience. Each step of the patient process has been examined and refined to make it easier for the patient while providing the highest level of care. We welcome suggestions and act on them promptly to keep improving our patient's visits while maintaining the highest professional standards.

Continued from pg. 28 breast reconstruction using her tissue. “I like knowing it is a part of me,” says Huntz. Women like to have options, and after surviving cancer, it is nice to have a say in what treatment or procedure they will triumph next. The more a patient knows the better they can assess the issue and receive the care they need.

In 2011, Canada launched the first BRA Day (Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day). This year, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The Plastic Surgery Foundation have joined forces with the Canadians to initiate BRA Day USA. BRA Day will occur annually on the third Wednesday of October (October 17, 2012) to raise awareness about breast reconstruction. The mission of BRA Day is to “develop and advance an internationally recognized day that promotes awareness and access to postcancer breast reconstruction surgery.” Thus far, twenty countries are participating.

Grammy award-winning artist Jewel will lead the charge here in the United States as our national spokesperson; her voice to this issue will help fuel excitement and build attention in the 20 other countries that will also celebrate women's ability to persevere and rebuild. Jewel will release a song in honor of breast reconstruction and will perform a charitable concert.

All proceeds will be donated to The Plastic Surgery Foundation and be used to support national and local breast reconstruction organizations. Proceeds from support and fund-raising will be dedicated to the Breast Reconstruction Awareness Fund and will fund charity care in communities nationwide, support breast reconstruction research, and raise public awareness.

I encourage everyone to discuss breast reconstruction, because it can be an integral part of the recovery process after cancer. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there will be many activities during the month aiming to fund-raise for breast cancer research and raise awareness about detection and prevention. BRA Day, and breast reconstruction, is unique because breast reconstruction closes this loop on breast cancer.

Linda Speaks About

Breast Cancer [by Brandy Morris] KFOR News Channel 4's Linda Cavanaugh is a familiar face to many Oklahomans. She has been on the Oklahoma television airways for more than 35 years, and has garnered 15 Emmys and many accolades in journalism. What you may not know is she is not a stranger to breast cancer.

When she was a small child, she lost her grandmother on her father's side to breast cancer; her grandmother was in her early 50s.

Years later, Linda's mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. At that time of her mother's diagnosis, the protocol called for radical mastectomies and that was what she did, she never had a recurrence and it did not take her life.

Then 20 years ago, Linda went for a regular exam. Her breast cancer specialist told her that her mammograms were too dense to read. Because of the density, tumors could have been hidden in her breasts.

“She said, 'I can't tell you as you leave this office that you don't have breast cancer and in my career, I have told only two women to have prophylactic mastectomies. She said I think you need to be the third,” Linda recalled her doctor telling her.

“I had 3-4 biopsies done and back then they didn't do needle aspirations, so it meant going under general anesthesia. It was not pleasant,” Linda said. “I didn't react well to the general anesthesia and it would take a day or two before I would get over it.”

So she had both breasts removed and underwent reconstruction and she says she has never regretted it.

“I was 40, I had my children, and it didn't seem like really that hard of a decision, Linda said. My breasts had served their practical purpose as I had breast fed my children. I wasn't going to have any more children, and if losing my breasts gave me a better chance of being with my children, that was a no-brainer.

You know if it's dangerous then get rid of it. So, we did.”

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Linda says her family understood the logic, and there was no apprehension about having the procedure.

“I have never understood a woman's attraction to her breasts to the extent that she would keep them and put her life in danger. But it happens all the time. Yet my family has really never had that attitude,” Linda said.

Likely now, it wouldn't be necessary for a prophylactic mastectomy, because the technology has changed.

Linda says, “They didn't have MRI's or the technology that probably would make it

unnecessary today. But at the time that was the option and I took it.”

Since then, one of her three sisters has been diagnosed with breast cancer; she has had the same surgery as well.

“The odd thing is that we don't carry the two main genes for breast cancer, BRCA 1 and 2,” Linda said.

Linda and her sister are not the only ones to fall into this category.

According to the National Cancer Association, it is estimated that only 5-10 percent of breast cancer cases result from

inherited mutations, including those carrying the breast cancer susceptibility genes BRCA 1 and BRCA 2. Those who have the BRCA 1 mutation are estimated to have a 44-78 percent risk for developing breast cancer by age 70.

Those with the BRCA 2 gene fair slightly better with a 31-56 percent risk for developing breast cancer by age 70.

Are you at risk?

Figures from the Centers for Disease Control estimate that 8-12 percent of Oklahomans will be diagnosed with breast cancer over the next year.

For a woman, there are risk factors that she can't change, such as her age, family history, the age she begins puberty, and the age she begins menopause.

But there are risk factors that can be changed such as postmenopausal obesity, use of combined estrogen and progestin menopausal hormones, alcohol consumption and lack of physical activity.

Obesity increases the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer, but appears to protect against breast cancer before menopause. In postmenopausal women, circulating estrogen is primarily produced in fat tissue. Thus, having more fat tissue increases estrogen levels and the likelihood of developing breast cancer.* Weight gain during adulthood also increases the risk of breast cancer, but appears to protect against breast cancer before menopause. In postmenopausal women, circulating estrogen is primarily produced in fat tissue. Thus having more fat tissue increases estrogen levels and the likelihood of developing breast cancer.

Weight gain during adulthood also increases the risk of breast cancer. Results from a study of more than 80,000 registered nurses found that women who gained 55 pounds or more after age 18 had almost a 50 percent greater risk of breast cancer; a gain of 22 pounds or more after menopause was associated with an increased risk of 18 percent.*

Ashley's

and Alcohol use Tips for SellingSmoking Your Home: Many studies have confirmed that

okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

alcohol consumption increases the risk of breast cancer in women. Studies suggest that the equivalent of 2 drinks a day (24g of alcohol) increases breast cancer risk by 21 percent.*

Clean your carpets

v

Paint

v

Mow the grass

v

Remove clutter

v

Women and technology has made Clean and organize many advancesclosets to fight the disease. Women

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DAVID HOLBROOK

v

US study of nearly 80,000 women found current smokers had a 16 percent higher risk of breast cancer compared to women who never smoked. Studies have also suggested that risk may be greater for women who begin smoking during their teenage years.*

have made advancements in gaining positions to make legislation and changing policies to make healthcare, testing and programs available for women of all ages, whether they are insured or not. Technology has made advances in discovery and treatment. The BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes are now key factors in detection. New genetic tests such as OncoVue and others have isolated other genes that place October/November 2012

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the patient at high risk for breast cancer as well.

MRI's and imaging technology have made a difference in detection and lumps now can be tested before invasive surgery with the aid of needle aspirations to determine cell content.

New cancer drugs and targeted therapies are reducing the need for radical mastectomies.

“I have a mammogram every other year, alternating with an MRI, because I had radical mastectomies, Linda said. “There was some residual tissue left, so it can always pop up there, but they told me at the time of my surgery, that my chances had decreased by 98 percent so there is probably 2 percent of the tissue left, so I watch it.”

something has changed.

If you do find something that is not normal, call your doctor and schedule an appointment. If you do not have a physician, there are various hospitals and clinics that can help with free screenings. * Information found at www.cancer.org

Linda hasn't let her close-call with cancer slow her down. Three years ago, Linda had hip replacement surgery and was back at work within a week of the operation.

“That's the wonderful thing about breast cancer or hip surgery, or whatever the case maybe,” Linda said. “Technology is changing so much, that women and men--- no matter what the case may be---, just need to educate themselves. Sometimes it involves going outside the boundaries of your city to find what you need to have done, but it's your health, and that's what you have to look out for.”

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DAVID HOLBROOK

Education and self-awareness is the key. Monthly self-breast exams make you familiar with your breasts. Only you know when

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Opening Night for Barons Plans to be a Fight for Cancer and so Much More! [by Josh Evans]

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY STEVEN CHRISTY - OKC BARONS

While playing a rough-and-tumble sport on the ice, the Oklahoma City Barons continue to show their benevolence and character in servicing the communities in and around the metro area.

An underlying theme to their productivity in the community is a focus on health and wellness. Many of the programs that are in place focus on that subject. For the youth, the Barons operate a Floor Hockey Caravan.

The mobile unit not only exposes school-aged children to the sport of hockey, but allows the players and staff to extol the virtues of eating well and making healthy choices in life.

An extension of the wellness theme is the Barons partnership with Integris Men's Health University. Last November, the Barons players, coaches and staff participated in growing mustaches in November.

The Movember Movement as it is known started in 2003 in Australia. The goal of Movember is to okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

raise awareness and funds for issues related to men's health. The Barons players raised nearly $3,000 for the Movember Movement simply by adding facial hair to their upper lip for a month.

Expect a similar look from the Barons this November.

Not to be left out is awareness of breast cancer. For the Barons 2011-12 Season Opener, the team partnered with Mercy Health Center to raise awareness for breast cancer and its impact on individuals. For the team's first game, the Barons guaranteed a "Pink Out" at the Cox Convention Center.

Each person in attendance received a pink T-shirt with the Barons logo. The players also were involved and wore pink ribbons on their helmets for the game.

The season opener for the 2012-13 season promises to be just as special. Teaming again with Mercy Health Center, the Barons are expanding their focus on the night from a particular form of the disease to a broad view.

In addition to discussing the benefits of early detection and ways to prevent the disease, the Barons and Mercy will also focus on survivors of all forms of cancers. The night will again feature T-shirts for everyone. Purple is the universal color of cancer survivors and along with Mercy Health Center, the Barons are going to celebrate that with a FREE T-shirt for all in attendance.

The fun doesn't stop there though.

The Barons are changing the game in Oklahoma City and offering a unique promotion. Each Saturday night home game, plus the home opener on Friday, October 19, the Barons are giving away a car. Not a junker car, not a toy, a real car will be driven off the ice that night. With a total of 11 home games on Saturday nights plus the home opener on October 19, the Barons are giving away 12 cars during the 2012-13 season.

Don't miss the opportunity to get a FREE T-shirt honoring cancer survivors and an opportunity to drive away in a new car at the Barons home opener October 19. Faceoff against the San Antonio Rampage at the Cox Convention Center is 7 p.m. A variety of ticket packages are available to meet every individual or group need. Ticket packages ranging from 7game and 11-game packs to season tickets are available.

Call the Barons' front office at 405-232-4625 for information on groups, season tickets and other ticket packages.

October/November 2012

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ROCK LEGEND BRETT MICHAELS FOR MORE OF BRETT’S STORY, GO TO

BRETTMICHAELS.COM/STOPDIABETES

OSU's First Cowgirl Leads The Charge For Healthiest Campus Initiative [by Brandy Morris] When Burns Hargis took his place as the president of Oklahoma State University in March of 2008, OSU gained a champion for the students with his wife, Ann.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GARY LAWSON, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

It is not unusual to find the “First Cowgirl” smiling, laughing and interacting with the students, faculty and staff. In fact the first day of the fall semester she was busy giving rides around the Stillwater campus in her golf cart, Clementine, getting new students to class on time.

For parents worried about sending their children off to college, they can worry a little less about if they are eating right and taking care of themselves, because there are classes and programs in place to help meet those needs.

This year during Welcome Week, the week before classes began, a series of events took place on the campus and one class students could elect to take called “Choose Orange” In this nutrition module, the students were taught how to read nutritional facts, information was shared about whole grains, lowering sodium intake and the consequences of eating empty calories.

There were also special cooking classes on how to cook in the dorm room, simplified cooking with a Crock Pot or with a microwave, or whatever the student has available to cook with in the dorm room.

“Director of University Dining Services, Terry Baker and Registered Dietitian Elizabeth Lohrman have worked together and created new programs and concepts to meet the needs of the students, faculty and staff,” Ann said.

Students, faculty and staff have access to nutritionists, exercise rooms, boot camps, massage therapists, assistance programs and yoga classes through the Department of Wellness.

“Numerous yoga classes are offered and designed for people who may feel more okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

Ann Hargis IPTC - Copyright Notice: Copyright © 2010 Oklahoma State University IPTC -Creator: Gary Lawson August/September 2012

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Twister on the Lawn IPTC - Copyright Notice: Copyright © 2010 Oklahoma State University IPTC -Creator: Gary Lawson

Student-driven initiatives that have come to fruition include a smoke-free and tobacco-free campus. Real Cowboys recycle started after a football game. Students went around and helped clean up after tailgating to help people recycle some of their items. The program soon grew to include the stadium and now has spread to campus where various recycle bins have been placed . Real Cowboys Pass it On is a program where at the end of the semester students can leave unwanted items that are picked up free of charge. At the beginning of the fall semester, the items are then made available for purchase by students in need of those items.

As for the “First Cowgirl” and her work out routine she does yoga, exercises when she can, and walks everywhere on campus. She also takes part in the various programs and competitions that go on between the faculty and students. One such program called “Cowboys on the Move,” was a competition measuring the time spent moving and exercising. Faculty and

comfortable in a smaller environment and for those who may not care for giant classes or a giant workout facility,” Ann said. “We have a monthly wellness education series called Wellness Wednesdays that accommodates larger audiences in an auditorium.”

Wellness Wednesdays offer lectures on various health and wellness subjects and a healthy lunch is offered at the same time. The Dave Ramsey financial responsibility course is also offered and has turned many people around.

“We are constantly evolving, that's why we consider ourselves striving, we want to always be growing, trying new things and utilizing the creativity of our students to help us think outside the box,” Ann said.

Twister on the Lawn interacting with students IPTC - Copyright Notice: Copyright © 2010 Oklahoma State University IPTC -Creator: Gary Lawson

Pushups with ROTC at BEDLAM game 2010.

In celebration of Cowboys on the Move.

IPTC - Copyright Notice: Copyright © 2010 Oklahoma State University IPTC -Creator: Gary Lawson

staff took on the students. The registered participant's time was calculated and the winner was announced prior to the BEDLAM game. In celebration of the faculty/staff winning the competition Ann did the first set of push-ups with ROTC when OSU scored.

She has also been a part of other activities such as “Twister on the Lawn,” an event that took place last year. She has also rappelled down a building on campus as part of an activity offered by the ROTC. “ROTC asked, 'Would you care to do it?' I am usually up for something new, different and challenging and so I did it,” Ann said.

“Luckily, a wife of one of the ROTC members rappelled, so she went ahead of me and showed me how to do it. It was really a lot of fun .”

The next time you are on the OSU campus, don't be surprised if you are greeted by Ann, she loves the students and she has pride for “America's Brightest Orange.

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PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GARY LAWSON, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

A new program was launched this fall. Created for students, The ReBoot Center is touted as a mental spa. It is designed to help with stress management and anxiety through the use of video games.

One In Eight Women Will Develop Breast Cancer In Her Lifetime ‌ Will You be the One Who Develops Breast Cancer This Year? [by Julie Cannedy] However, 90 percent of breast cancer cases can be treated successfully if the cancer is detected early. Mammograms are the key to early detection. A tumor can keep growing for as long as seven years before you or your physician can feel it, but mammograms can pinpoint these abnormalities well before they reach the dangerous stage. Despite the importance of early detection, however, a large percentage of women older than 40 (who physicians recommend have mammograms annually) have never had a mammogram in their life. Not one.

A mammogram takes a low dose Xray of a woman's breasts that can detect very small cancers, yet, for many women, making time for a mammogram can be a bother, and mammograms can be uncomfortable. But a mammogram can save your mother's life, your sister's, your best friend's or your own.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF INTEGRIS

The INTEGRIS Breast Health Services is working to reverse that trend. To increase screenings and early detection. To save lives. So that if the odds of getting cancer are against you, the odds of beating cancer will be with you. INTEGRIS Breast Health Services are patient-centered, all-inclusive breast care facilities with staff dedicated to offering the most up-to-date technology available. Their experience and expertise, combined with a sensitive environment for women, provide a comforting atmosphere. The centers offer some of the most advanced screening and diagnostic technology in the state, with short wait times and convenient parking.

INTEGRIS Breast Health Services staff members work closely with the health care professionals at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center, INTEGRIS Canadian Valley Hospital, INTEGRIS Health Edmond and INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center in addition to the INTEGRIS Cancer Institute to provide patients access to a complete range of support groups, individual and family counseling services, medical therapies and rehabilitation services.

Services include: clinical breast examinations; screening and diagnostic digital mammography, breast ultrasound, computerokhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

aided detection; breast MRI; minimally invasive, image-guided breast biopsy; on-site surgical consultation and access to genetic testing and counseling.

Taking care of your breast health should always be a top priority. Enjoy life, enjoy family and take care of yourself and schedule your next annual mammography screening.

Keep your breasts healthy with self-examination Starting at age 20, women should examine their breasts monthly. Breast selfexamination is a good routine health habit that can help you learn how your breasts feel normally. Any changes that you find should be reported to your health care professional.

Remember, most breast lumps are not cancer. If you are having monthly periods, examine your breasts seven days after the start of your period. If you are no longer having periods, pick a day of the month that is easy to remember and examine your breasts on that day each month. Follow these three steps when you examine your breasts: In front of the mirror, look at your breasts with your arms raised overhead. Look for any change in the shape of your breasts or in the skin. Then, rest your palms on your hips and press down firmly to flex your chest muscles. You should be looking for any change in shape, dimpling of the skin, changes in the nipples or redness of the skin. Gently squeeze each nipple, looking for any unusual discharge.

Lie down and put a pillow or folded towel under your right shoulder. Place your right arm behind your head. Use the pads on your middle three fingers on your left hand to feel your right breast. Press firmly enough to know how your breast feels. Move around the breast in a set pattern. You can choose either a circle, an up-and-down line or a wedge motion. Do it the same way every time. This will help you to make sure that you have gone over the entire breast area and to remember how your breast feels normally. Then examine your left breast the same way using your right hand. Remember to cover the entire breast area, including under your arm. A firm ridge in the lower curve of each breast is normal.

Use this same examination pattern when you are in an upright position while in the shower or tub. Your hands will move over your wet skin, making it easy to notice any abnormalities.

Call self-scheduling at 855-MY-MAMMO (855-696-2666) or visit online at integrisOK.com/mymammo.

INTEGRIS Comprehensive Breast Center of Oklahoma 3525 N.W. 56 Street, Oklahoma City INTEGRIS Canadian Valley Hospital ~ 1201 Health Center Parkway, Yukon INTEGRIS Health Edmond ~ 4801 INTEGRIS Parkway, Edmond INTEGRIS Southwest Breast Health & Imaging Center ~ 4221 South Western, OKC INTEGRIS Cancer Institute of Oklahoma ~ 5911 W Memorial Road, OKC October/November 2012

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Uncovering Facts About a Leading Cancer Treatment:

Radiotherapy

For many, radiotherapy will be an option. In fact, nearly two-thirds of all cancer patients will receive radiotherapy as some aspect of their treatment regimen. Thanks to decades of innovation, radiotherapy can now pinpoint a tumor while minimizing exposure of nearby tissues. In fact, when comparing earlier approaches with today’s more advanced radiotherapy technologies, studies have shown increased reductions in side effects and improved outcomes for many forms of cancer.

“I see the positive impact of radiotherapy, but I know that many patients still have outdated perceptions,” said John J. Kresl M.D., Ph.D., FACRO, managing partner, Radiation Oncologists of Central Arizona.

“Today’s radiotherapy is an effective treatment for many types of cancer. It was once used only to relieve pain, but is now used more often in the hopes of helping patients become survivors.”

Knowing the facts about radiotherapy is the first step in understanding whether it is an option for you or a loved one.

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Use the following information to talk to your doctor about radiotherapy.

What is radiotherapy? The most commonly used form of radiotherapy, called external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), utilizes targeted x-rays produced by a machine outside of the body. These high-energy beams are precisely controlled by a medical team guided by advanced imaging technologies.

Radiotherapy works by damaging cancer cell DNA. This stops tumors from growing further and can make them smaller. Radiotherapy is sometimes used in combination with a chemotherapy regimen to jointly target cancer cells. Radiotherapy is also sometimes used after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells, which may prevent the disease from returning.

Sophisticated technology: Radiotherapy machines are quite large, but the beam they deliver is actually small. Continually advancing hardware and software allows the beam to be precisely shaped to fit the contours of a patient’s tumor. This results in delivering the treatment where it is needed while minimizing impact on surrounding healthy tissue.

Radiotherapy and lifestyle: A radiotherapy treatment course often allows patients to go about their daily routine with limited interruption. A course of treatment can involve anywhere from one to 35 separate treatment sessions, delivered on an outpatient basis, with each session taking from 15 minutes

to an hour. Some types of radiotherapy use higher doses of radiation per session, resulting in fewer total appointments.

Possible side effects of radiotherapy: Serious side effects can occur and are usually caused by damage to normal cells during the course of treatment. Side effects are typically cumulative, which means they can develop over the course of treatment. They can be minor or severe, and depend on the size and location of the tumor, disease state, general medical condition, and the treatment technique that is used.

Two of the most common side effects associated with radiotherapy are irritation or damage to the skin near the treatment site, and fatigue. Skin irritation may include dryness, itching, peeling, or blistering. Fatigue, for some patients, may mean feeling slightly worn out, while other patients experience severe exhaustion.

Other side effects are usually specific to the type of cancer being treated, such as hair loss or a sore throat when the head and neck region is treated, or urinary problems when the lower abdomen is treated. For more details about the side effects of radiation therapy, patients should talk to their doctors about what may occur during a particular treatment.

Patients should talk to their doctors to learn the facts about radiotherapy. To learn more, they can also visit www.RTanswers.org.

okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

Forty years ago, President Nixon declared a “War on Cancer.” Since then, there have been impressive advances in cancer prevention, detection and treatment, and most importantly, improved survival rates for many types of cancer. People facing a cancer diagnosis today have more options than ever. Patients are now encouraged to talk with their physicians to get the facts about their treatment options in order to be true partners in their care.

TALK TALK

The Noise Next Door

Know the Truth About Domestic Violence

One in six women will experience major abuse this year. While it is scary to think abuse is happening in the home next door or to the woman who works in the next cubicle or to a close friend, ignoring domestic violence won't make it go away.

FACT: Domestic violence happens in all kinds of families, rich and poor, urban, suburban and rural, in every part of the country, in every racial, religious and age group.

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior used to establish power and control over another person through fear and intimidation; often including the threat or use of violence. It happens when one person believes they are entitled to maintain control over their partner.

FACT: Between 3.3 and 10 million children live in homes where domestic violence takes place Domestic violence may include emotional abuse, economic abuse, sexual abuse, using children, threats, using male privilege, intimidation, isolation and a variety of other behaviors used to maintain fear, intimidation, and power.

FACT: 50 percent of men who abuse their wives also abuse their children Chances are you know a woman who is in a violent relationship -a friend, co-worker or family member. Reach out to her. Letting her know that you are concerned can break through the stigma, isolation, shame and denial of domestic violence. Speaking up against

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domestic violence tells abusers and the rest of the community that domestic violence is totally unacceptable.

Warning Signs that someone you know is being abused: Her frequent unexplained bruises or injuries, or explanations just don't add up.

She is becoming unusually quiet or withdrawn especially when her partner is around.

She has frequent absences from work or quits work.

FACT: Domestic violence costs the U.S. economy an estimated $3 to $5 billion annually in job absenteeism and another $100 million annually in medical expenses.

She stops talking about her partner She wears concealing clothes even in warm weather.

She often cancels plans at the last minute without saying why.

She seems afraid of making her partner angry.

FACT: More than 30 percent of hospital emergency-room admissions are women who have been abused. Domestic violence is the single greatest cause of injury to women in the United States.

She casually mentions her partner's violent behavior but dismisses it as "no big deal.�

When she is with her partner, he gets controlling and puts her down in front of other people.

You see the partner violently lose his temper, striking or breaking objects.

FACT: Studies have found that 30 percent of male child witnesses choose to become abusers as adults. This means that 70 percent do not become abusers and are committed to ending the cycle of violence in their lives. The majority of children, male and female, who witness domestic violence become advocates for children when they grow up; committed to raising their children without the use of violence and going into professions where they work to end violence against all children.

Young men in our society must never feel they are destined to become violent. We send a dangerous message to young men and boys when we imply they are fated to become violent and we give abusers an excuse for their behavior.

How to help a family member, friend, co-worker or neighbor you think may be experiencing domestic violence: Talk in a safe, private place.

Take time to listen and believe what you hear.

Let her know there is no excuse for the violence - not stress, alcohol or drugs, or jealousy, not anything.

Don't judge or criticize her decisions.

Encourage her to make her own choices, but urge her to talk to a counselor or someone who knows about domestic violence.

Give her information in a safe format and discreetly.

Let her know that many other people are in abusive situations and tell her about agencies that can help.

If she remains in the relationship, continue to be her friend while firmly expressing your concern for her safety and the safety of any children involved. Remember that for many battered women leaving an abusive relationship can take time and be dangerous.

Whether the violence is happening in a current relationship or has happened in a past relationship, whether you need the safety of a shelter or you need a trusted advocate to listen and help — our counselors are here for you.

FACT: Domestic violence is Preventable.

Our couselors are here to help you.

Please contact Wings of Hope: Family Crisis Services, Stillwater, OK 405.372-9922 or the Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault 405.542.0700.

Brought to you by Cimarron Medical Supply, Stillwater, OK okhealthandfitnessmagazine.com

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SAMANTHA VILLGRAN

[by Sara English]