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Better Health
I HAVE A LUMP IN MY BREAST: Recommended steps to take, S3 RAYS OF HOPE: Virtual Challenge 2020, S4 BAYSTATE HEALTH: Achieves Fourth Magnet® Recognition, S5
“One of our
primary goals is to
educate women on
the many options they have for
treatment so that they can feel empowered as they make choices about their care.” Dr. Sarah J. McPartland, a surgeon at Mercy Medical Center.
By Cori Urban
SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN
The Mercy Breast Care Center has a new name and new services: It has upgraded its level of service to include gynecologic malignancies and has reoriented its vision to function as a full-service women’s health program. The name has been changed to the Center for Breast Health and Gynecologic Oncology, which seeks to meet the unique needs of female patients whose issues may be differentiated from those of men. The Center for Breast Health and Gynecologic Oncology offers a full complement of diagnostic and therapeutic options including genetics screening, advanced breast imaging, 3D mammography and MRI and surgical options including breast conservation using oncoplastic techniques as well as various mastectomy techniques such as nipple-sparing mastectomy and breast reconstruction. The center’s radiation oncologists participate in the planning, management and follow-up of breast cancer patients and offer them an array of advanced radiotherapeutic techniques as indicated by an individual patients’ needs. The medical oncologists are involved in all phases of patient management and direct the delivery of hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, innovative targeted therapies and, as needed, palliative care. The women’s cancer patient is further supported by a specially trained nurse navigator who provides emotional support and care coordination for the individual patient. “Most patients are prospectively discussed at multidisciplinary cancer conferences
attended by multiple cancer for hundreds of women each As an extension of the surgical procedures or cancer specialists and ancillary year with breast or gynecohigh-quality care delivered care,” Roose said. care providers,” explained logic conditions who want to by the Breast Care Center, All four breast surgeons are Dr. James L. Frank, medical receive care in a network close the Center for Breast Health members of the American director of the Center for to home at Mercy Medical and Gynecologic Oncology Society of Breast Surgery. The Breast Health and Gynecolog- Center. expanded its services to now program is fully integrated ic Oncology at Mercy Medical At the Center for Breast include the diagnosis and into the Cancer Center which Center. “All patients have ac- Health and Gynecologic treatment of all gynecologic provides additional ancilcess to second opinions which Oncology, breast surgical cancers, including cervical, lary support including social are encouraged, as needed, by oncologists focus on the ovarian, and endometrial can- services, psychosocial support our team.” evaluation and care of women cer, in an integrated fashion and financial counseling. As The mission of the center is experiencing the full range of with the Sister Caritas Cancer a consequence of its relationto provide each patient with diseases of the breast, includ- Center. The center opened in ship with Mercy Medical Cencompassionate and individing benign conditions (such as August with the hiring of Dr. ter and Trinity Health Of New ualized cancer care backed masses, breast pain and nipNada Kawar, an expert with England, the program offers by a broad-based, multidisple discharge), familial breast specialized training in both patients additional support ciplinary team of cancer spe- cancer syndromes and breast breast surgery and gynecolog- services including physical cialists and complimentary cancers. These surgeons ic oncology, and is supported therapy, nutritional services, support staff. The focus is on utilize contemporary surgical by Mercy Medical Center. lymphedema therapy, cancer prompt and accurate diagtechniques such as breast conThe Center for Breast support groups, bra and nosis, patient education and serving surgery (lumpectomy) Health & Gynecologic Onprosthesis fitting, spiritual coordinated, state-of-the-art using radiation-free MagSeed cology is located in a private care and access to community cancer care. “Our goal is to localization, nipple sparing office setting. “It is converesources for transportation, become a full partner in each mastectomy, reverse axillary niently located for any type childcare and other social patient’s journey with cancer mapping and oncoplastic of care that might need to be services. and guide them to successful procedures. delivered, including imaging, “Cancer patients are survivorship and assessed for life beyond caninclusion and cer,” he said. given the option “The Cenof participating ter for Breast in a variety of Health and clinical research Gynecologic trials conducted Oncology was both at Mercy developed at and at other terMercy Medical tiary care centers Center to create throughout the a comprehenregion,” Frank sive approach to said. women’s cancer A specially care delivered trained genetics by experts in a nurse practisingle, beautitioner provides ful location,” screening for said Dr. Robert genetic predisJ. Roose, chief position to hemedical officer reditary cancer. at Mercy MediPost-test councal Center. seling is offered As one of the as indicated and largest providers referral to other of care in the specialists for Doctors at the Mercy Hospital Breast Center include (from top), Nada Kawar, MD, greater Springfurther managefield area, Trinity FACOG, Gynecologic Oncologist and Breast Surgeon, James Frank, MD, FACS, Medical ment including Director of the Center for Breast Health and Gynecologic Oncology and Health Of New prophylactic Sarah McPartland, MD, MS, FACS, Breast and General Surgeon. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN) England cares surgery.
Currently there are 20 such accredited centers in Massachusetts; the Mercy Center for Breast Health and Gynecologic Oncology is the only accredited program in Springfield. Each center undergoes a review and site visit by an external reviewer every three years. “In this way patients can be assured that they are getting the highest and most comprehensive level of care that is in accord with national standards established by the American College of Surgeons,” Frank said. “Every member of our team recognizes how overwhelming an abnormal mammogram or cancer diagnosis can be. One of our primary goals is to educate women on the many options they have for treatment so that they can feel empowered as they make choices about their care,” commented Dr. Sarah J. McPartland, a surgeon at Mercy Medical Center. “Being a part of a comprehensive breast center means that we can offer a truly individualized approach to every patient.” The Mercy Breast Care Center was initially developed by Dr. Nancy Weiss in 2005. She was joined by Dr. Steven Schonholz and Dr. Lisa Planeta, who led the breast center until 2019 when Frank, a surgical oncologist, became the medical director. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States and results in nearly 40,000 deaths each year. The Center for Breast Health and Gynecologic Oncology at Mercy Medical Center is located at 271 Carew Street in Springfield. The office phone number is (413) 452-6600.
VALLEY WOMEN’S HEALTH GROUP
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Charles W. Cahill, MD Hani Haddad, MD
Debra DiSandro, MD Yelena Mikich, MD
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Valley Women’s Health Group provides comprehensive women’s care for all ages in an environment that is comfortable, knowledgeable, and focused on you.
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S2 | SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2020
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
It’s Not Just about
Breast Cancer
Exploring the Benefits of Genetic Testing By Nada Kawar, MD, FACOG Many of the women with breast cancer that I meet and their family members are often surprised when I spend time asking them details of their family’s cancer history. Consider Sue, my 51-year-old patient with a new diagnosis
of breast cancer who denies any knowledge of other women with breast cancer in her family. Is her uncle’s history of pancreatic cancer and her grandfather’s history of prostate cancer really that important? The answer is yes. Our knowledge of the role
of genes and cancer risk has grown exponentially over the past twenty years, and how I counsel and treat women with breast cancer and their family members now incorporates an appreciation of their extended family cancer history. Simply put, it’s not just about breast
Nada Kawar, MD, FACOG
Gynecologic Oncologist and Breast Surgeon at Mercy Medical Center Dr. Kawar specializes in the care of women’s cancers, treating the full range of gynecologic malignancies, including cancers of the breast, cervix, endometrium/ uterus, fallopian tube, ovary, vagina and vulva. She is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
cancer anymore. First, let me give a brief overview of genetics. Every cell in our body is made up of genes which contain our blueprints or genetic code. These genes determine physical characteristics like the color of our hair and affect functions like how cells in our body grow, divide and die. While some mutations (changes) in the genetic code can have no effect or even be helpful, other mutations can be harmful. Gene mutations that are inherited are those that can be passed from parent to child. Multiple gene mutations have now been identified that are linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. The most well-known of these are BRCA1 and BRCA2 (Breast
Breast cancer doesn’t stop for COVID-19. Neither should you. Early detection is important, now more than ever if you have postponed screening. Don’t delay your care, schedule your mammogram today. Mercy Medical Center is taking special precautions to provide the safe care you need. With increased cleaning measures, mask requirements, and designated COVID-Free Zones throughout our facilities, we pledge to protect you as you make your health a priority. For an appointment, please call (413) 748-9729.
trinityhealthofne.org
Cancer genes 1 and 2), but others include ATM, CDH1, CHEK2, PALB2, PTEN, STK11, TP53. While carrying a mutation in one of these genes may significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer in a lifetime, it does not mean one will definitely get breast cancer. But breast cancer is not the only cancer that one may be at increased risk for if there is a mutation in one of these genes. For example, BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers are also at increased risk for cancers of the ovary/ fallopian tube/peritoneum, pancreas, prostate, skin (melanoma), brain (glioblastoma multiforme), and other sites. Understanding one’s family cancer history can therefore help identify those people who may benefit from genetic testing for inherited mutations. The knowledge of whether a genetic mutation exists can change treatment decisions, increase screening for other cancers, suggest interventions to reduce the risk of developing new cancers, and can have implications for the health of other family members. So, what do I tell Sue, my 51-year-old breast cancer patient whose uncle had pancreatic cancer, and grandfather had prostate cancer? I explain that her family history raises the possibility that she may carry a mutation in one of the BRCA genes, and that she should consider genetic counseling and testing to gather more information and help guide treatment decisions. Testing is performed on a sample of blood or saliva. The costs of genetic counseling and testing are generally covered by health insurance on high risk patients where testing is recommended based on a personal or family history
of cancer. If Sue does test positive for a mutation, there is a lot more to talk about. This includes the option of increasing frequency of breast cancer screening tests and the addition of breast MRI, cancer risk-reducing treatments including medications or surgery to remove ovaries, and bilateral mastectomy. If you or a family member has been affected by breast cancer, consider discussing your family’s cancer history with your healthcare provider and inquiring about genetic counseling and testing.
Who should consider getting genetic testing? - A personal or family history of breast cancer at age 45 or younger - A personal history of breast cancer at any age, and a close family member with breast cancer at age 50 or younger - A family member with a BRCA1⁄2 gene mutation (or other mutation linked to breast cancer) - A personal or family history of ovarian, pancreatic or metastatic prostate cancer at any age For more information about breast and gynecologic cancers, genetic testing, and the most recent recommendations, the following sources can be helpful: American Cancer Society (www.cancer. org); National Comprehensive Cancer Network (www.nccn.org).
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2020 | S3
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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
I Have a Lump in My Breast,
Now What?
I
By Glenda Flynn, NP t is normal to be scared when you find a breast lump, but not necessarily a finding of concern. Schedule an appointment to be seen by your primary care provider. Although 80% of breast lumps found by women are not cancerous, it is still important to have any new and persistent breast lump checked out. Don’t ignore a new lump in your breast. I encourage everyone to know their own bodies and to perform monthly self-breast exams to detect any changes that may need to be evaluated. If that breast lump turns out to be breast cancer, early detection can save your life. Benign breast lumps usually have smooth edges and move easily when you touch them. They are often found in both breasts. There are several factors that can cause benign breast lumps, including normal changes in breast tissue, breast infection, injury, breast cyst, fibroadenoma, intraductal papilloma, and traumatic fat necrosis. Some of these factors are highlighted below:
normal breast tissue or cysts which have become enlarged or irritated in response to cyclic hormone changes. They usually become less prominent and tender after the period ends.
milk-forming glands. This causes development of a solid, round, rubbery lump in the breast that freely moves when touched. There can be one or many of them. Patients who have just been Cancer is the most concern“We want our patients to have the option of seeing diagnosed with cancer ing cause of a breast lump. A a medical oncologists as soon as the next day,” 2. Breast infection: Some- cancerous mass in the breast urgently want to know times a painful lump, with will continue to get bigger said Lindsay Rockwell, DO, medical director of the what happens next. That is or without redness, is the and ultimately can cause Mass General Cancer Center at Cooley Dickinson. why medical oncologists at first sign of infection. Abdisfigurement of the breast. the Mass General Cancer scess tends to occur in small Breast cancer can also spread “Our teams are ready right away to provide Center at Cooley Dickinson pockets that are warm and to other parts of the body and reassurance, answer questions and start creating Hospital now off er next day tender to touch. Symptoms vital organs making it life a personalized treatment plan for each patient.” appointments for people usually worsen quickly. Apthreatening. newly diagnosed with cancer. plying warm compresses can The good news is that breast be helpful, but you may also cancer can be found in the To make an appointment or for more information, visit cooleydickinson.org need antibiotics to treat this. early stages when treatment and cure are possible. For this or call Mass General Cancer Center at 413-582-2900. 3. Breast injury: A bump to reason, it is vitally important the breast can cause bruising for you to watch for the warnor an underlying blood clot provider may also recoming signs of breast cancer and 6. Distortion of the nipple family history or a first(hematoma). These lumps or other parts of the breast. mend a clinical breast exam report them immediately to degree relative developed tend to occur in response to a your health care provider. Be (done by your provider) every breast cancer at a young age), known injury and are associ- aware of any changes in the 7. Nipple discharge that 1-3 years starting at 20. then a mammogram every ated with the “black and blue” look or feel of the breast, the starts suddenly or is bloody. As you get older, get a mam- 1-2 years (www.uspreventacolor changes characteristic mogram. Expert organizanipple, or the development of tiveservicestaskforce.org) of bruising. Hematomas can 8. New pain in one spot tions disagree on the timing nipple discharge. between the ages of 40 and 50, and annual mammograms take a long time to heal. of the breast that does and frequency of mammoThe warning signs of between the ages of 50 not go away. grams, so it is best to discuss breast cancer include: 4. Simple cysts: Simple and 75. this with your health care cysts are fluid-filled sacks Screeing mammograms provider. If you have any of these that are usually found in both 1. A lump, hard knot or can identify breast cancer at Consider having a first breast changes, seek care thickening of the breast or breasts. They can vary in size an early stage, even before it mammogram at the age of immediately. underarm area. and tenderness particularly has created a palpable mass 40 (or earlier if you have a around the menstrual cycle. or other symptoms in your 1. Normal changes in This is Breast Cancer 2. Swelling, warmth, redness The number of cysts vary breast. Early detection breast tissue: Breast tissue from one to many. Breast cyst Awareness Month. I encouror darkening of the breast. saves lives. responds to hormone changes development tends to run in age you to consider things that particularly around the men- families. contribute to breast health. 3. Change in the size or strual cycle. During normal Once you turn 20, you should shape of the breast. 5. Fibroadenomas: These monthly menstrual cycles check your breasts every some women have fibrocystic lumps tend to occur in women 4. Dimpling or puckering month, usually the week after Advanced Oncology between the ages of 20 and breast changes. This means your period. In this way you of the skin. Nurse Practitioner 30. They are more common that they have lumps in both can become familiar with in African-American wombreasts that increase in size your breast tissue and more 5. Itchy, scaly sore or rash Mass General Cancer Center en. A fibroadenoma forms and tenderness just before easily recognize any changes on the nipple. at Cooley Dickinson Hospital their periods. These lumps are when the breast makes extra that occur. Your health care
Newly Diagnosed with Cancer? Next Day Appointments Now Available
Glenda Flynn, NP
Today, you were diagnosed with cancer. Tomorrow, we can start planning your care. Next day appointments following a new cancer diagnosis If you have just been diagnosed with cancer, you have the option to see a medical oncologist from the Mass
30 Locust Street, Northampton, MA Medical Oncology: 413-582-2900
General Cancer Center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital as soon as the next day. Our teams are here when you need us, to reassure you, answer your questions, and start planning your personalized treatment. 3140619-01
cooleydickinson.org
ADVANCING CARE TOGETHER
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S4 | SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2020
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Rays of
Hope
Above: Jackie Rodriguez, and her husband Al are the 2020 chairpersons of the Rays of Hope Virtual Challenge. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)
By Cori Urban
incentives. You can host your own socially distant and safe fundraising event such as a dress-down day or virtual pink party.
registration displayed on the Pink Celebration. The event along the way. She remembers dashboard, participants will will feature the Rodriguezthe kindness of others — not Breast cancer does not drive under the Pink Arch. es; Rays of Hope founder only from her circle of friends take a break, not even for a Images and messages of hope Lucy Giuggio Carvalho; and and family but everyone with pandemic. will be displayed on the Pink Dr. Grace Makari-Judson, whom she came in contact That’s why it is important Jumbotron as they drive the chair, Baystate Health Breast while going through breast to continue to raise aware• This year you can walk or route. A radio station will Network and co-director cancer treatment and planness about the disease and to run wherever and whenever entertain during the drive, of the Rays of Hope Center ning the first walk 27 years continue to support those af- you choose through October. and there will be a traditional for Breast Cancer Research. ago. “I remember how all the fected by it, agree Alberto and If you prefer, maps and direc- water stop along the route. There will be entertainment, doors opened as I approached Jacqueline Rodriguez, 2020- tions to replicate the tradiThe drive-through Parade of a salsa lesson and more online media venues, businesses, 2021 chairmen of the Rays of tional Rays of Hope routes are Hope offers participants the fun. community organizations and Hope Walk & Run Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer. But because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the fundraiser will take a different form this year: the first Rays of Hope Walk & Run Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer Hybrid Virtual Challenge 2020. It will include independent runs, a drive-through Parade of Hope and an online Pink Celebration. “Our first priority is the health and safety of our community, including the - Kathy Tobin, Director of Annual Giving and Events for Baystate Health Foundation Rays of Hope family, said Kathy Tobin, Director of Annual Giving and Events for available on the Rays of Hope opportunity to pick up their Carvalho was diagnosed anyone who would listen and Baystate Health Foundation. website. 2020 T-shirt. Big Wigs, who with breast cancer in 1993 embrace the idea,” she said. “I “Now more than ever, cancer On Oct. 25, there will be an raise $1,000 or more online, when she was 38, and she had wanted to pay it forward and survivors need our support, innovative drive-through Pa- can pick up their special good- a difficult time navigating provide such an opportunity and we cannot afford to rade of Hope from 8 to 11 a.m. ie bags. Breast cancer surviher care even as a nurse who within our community to do stop the important research for registered participants at vors also will receive a gift worked in the health care something positive in the face funded by this event. We are Baystate Health’s 361 Whitney from the Pink Hope Lounge. system. Her friends and fam- of adversity.” excited to offer this creative, Ave. facility in Holyoke. At noon, following the ily were an inspiration along She is in awe that the event twist on our annual gathering With their Rays of Hope parade, there will be an online with the many people she met has become such a powerful so that we can continue to spread hope, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.” The goal is to continue to support the hundreds of new breast cancer patients diagnosed locally each year throughout their treatment and recovery and to fund the work being done by scientists at the Rays of Hope Center for Breast Cancer Research. Funds also will be used for breast health programs and services in the area, equipment needs, help for underor uninsured breast cancer patients and community programs.
presence in the community: “We have become a Rays of Hope Family over the 27 years in so many ways. Rays of Hope has empowered a community to make a difference in breast cancer care through Baystate Health System reaching out to all who seek our help and support. I cannot take credit for a whole community coming together, but I will say that I love being the inciter of this wonderful walk! I am so proud of what we as a community have accomplished and the progress we have made together in Western Mass.” Since the walk began in 1993 much progress has been made in breast cancer treatment nationally and in the local community. “It’s important to note that we have been at the forefront of new treatments, for example, we were performing sentinel node biopsies at Baystate through a Rays of Hope Grant when it was still considered experimental. Now it is considered standardized care,” Carvalho said. “We have our Rays of Hope Center for Breast Cancer Research and have provided seed monies that have led to acquiring large grants from the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research, National Institute of Health, Avon Grants and others that give us a presence nationally in Breast Cancer Research. I believe that we could possibly make new scientific discoveries from our local efforts and ultimately a cure. That is our goal and hope.” The walk has survived throughout the years and through national disasters such as the 9/11 attacks on the United States and Hurricane Katrina. “Now we are virtually walking this year due to COVID-19. Although disappointed at first to have this year be a virtual walk, I There are three steps now see it as an opportunito join this year’s ty to strengthen our walk,” Rays of Hope event: Carvalho said. “Nothing will • Register as an individual stop our Rays of Hope Family or create or join a team. This of walkers, supporters and survivors to make a difference year there is a $30 registrain the breast health of our tion fee, which includes a community. With hope and collectible Rays of Hope 2020 faith, we keep putting one T-shirt. step — whether virtual or on • Begin fundraising imthe pavement — in front of the mediately by asking friends, other.” family, co-workers and neighFor more information bors to make a donation. You about this year’s can create your own online Rays of Hope event, call fundraising page including 413-794-8001 or visit Rays of Hope tribute flags will be displayed during the Parade of Hope on October 25. Send a name you would like written on the BaystateHealth.org/ asking for donations in lieu 2020 Rays of Hope tribute flags to raysofhope@baystatehealth.org of birthday or wedding gifts, RaysofHope providing challenges and SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN
“Now more than ever, cancer survivors need our support, and we cannot afford to stop the important research funded by this event. We are excited to offer this creative, twist on our annual gathering so that we can continue to spread hope, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2020 | S5
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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Baystate Medical Center Achieves Fourth
Magnet® Recognition Only one percent of U.S. hospitals have achieved Magnet designation four times For an unprecedented fourth consecutive time, Baystate Medical Center has achieved Magnet® recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), a distinction that places the hospital’s nursing staff among the finest in the nation.
for nursing practice. Such an accomplishment is a testament to the unrelenting commitment of Baystate Medical Center nurses to the patients and families they serve. “Recognizing nursing excellence at Baystate Medical Center for a fourth time over a span of 15 years has placed us among a group of less than one percent of hospitals nationally who have achieved this honor. Only three other hospitals in Massachusetts hold a four-time Magnet Hospital designation,” said Nancy Shendell-Falik, RN, MA, president, Baystate Medical As a Magnet-certified hospi- Center, and senior vice prestal, Baystate Medical Center ident, Hospital Operations, is part of a select group of 530 Baystate Health. healthcare organizations out Shendell-Falik noted this of more than 6,000 in the fourth designation comes at United States. It is one of only an unprecedented time. 10 such hospitals in Massa“The COVID-19 pandemchusetts and 26 in New Enic has brought fast moving gland. Nationally, only about changes in the delivery of care 8.5% of all U.S. hospitals are and incredible stress on the Magnet-recognized. lives of patients and caregivThe Magnet Recognition ers. The award recognizes the Program® was developed by high level of care our nurses the ANCC, a subsidiary of the have always delivered, espeAmerican Nurses Associacially the unique challenges tion, to recognize health care they have faced in the past organizations that provide the seven months treating comvery best in nursing care and plex coronavirus patients,” uphold the tradition within she said. nursing of professional pracHealth care organizations, tice. Magnet® recognition is such as Baystate Medical the highest national credenCenter, are required to tial for nursing excellence, reapply for Magnet recogniserving as the gold standard tion every four years based
on adherence to Magnet concepts and demonstrated improvements in patient care and quality. The re-credentialing initiative involves an extensive application and review process and site visit by representatives of the ANCC during which hospitals must provide documented evidence to demonstrate how staff members sustained and improved Magnet concepts, performance and quality over the four-year period since the organization received its most recent recognition.
Left to right: Eric Griffin, RN, Baystate Medical Center’s Magnet Program director; Laura Bolella RN, Baystate Medical Center’s Magnet Program coordinator; and Christine Klucznik, DNP, RN, Baystate Medical Center’s chief nursing officer, respond with joy as they receive a phone call (on speaker) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center announcing Baystate Medical Center’s unprecedented fourth consecutive Magnet® recognition. Seen on the computer screen are various Baystate Medical Center staff joining in on the good news via Cisco Webex.
acquired pressure injuries for the majority of two years. Magnet status helps consumers locate providers with a proven level of excellence in nursing care, and assists hospitals in attracting and retaining quality employees. In 1983, the American Academy of Nursing’s task force on
because they attracted and kept good nurses. The study found that quality patient care was provided through sustaining excellence in nursing services. Magnet status recognizes excellence in a variety of areas including nursing management, philosophy and practices; adherence to stan-
care providers in the system. Magnet-designated healthcare organizations consistently outperform their peers in recruiting and retaining nurses, resulting in increased stability in patient care systems across the organization. Also, research documents that high quality nurses is one of the most important attributes in attracting high quality physicians. “Congratulations to our exceptional nurses for this achievement, which is considered the ‘gold - Nancy Shendell-Falik, RN, MA, president, Baystate Medical Center, standard’ and senior vice president, Hospital Operations, Baystate Health. of nursing. Thank you Surveyors noted the leadnursing practice in hospitals dards for improving quality of for your expertise, your comership of Christine Klucznik, conducted a study of U.S. patient care; leadership of the passion, your advocacy, and the holistic care you provide DNP, RN, Baystate Medical hospitals. The research iden- nurse administrator in supCenter’s chief nursing officer, tified and described variables porting professional practice to patients and families to as instrumental in the hospithat created an environment and continued competence of advance care and enhance tal’s COVID-19 pandemic re- that attracted and retained nursing personnel; and under- lives,” added Shendell-Falik. For more information on sponse. Additionally, Baystate well-qualified nurses. These standing and respecting the Baystate Health, visit bayMedical Center outperformed variables were called “forces cultural and ethnic diversity the national benchmark of magnetism,” and the insti- of patients, their families and statehealth.org, and follow us on our social media channels. for device-related hospital tutions were called “Magnets” significant others, and the
“The COVID-19 pandemic has brought fast moving changes in the delivery of care and incredible stress on the lives of patients and caregivers. The award recognizes the high level of care our nurses have always delivered, especially the unique challenges they have faced in the past seven months treating complex coronavirus patients.”
Breast Wellness Series INNOVATIVE SEED PROCEDURE FOR BREAST SURGERY – A Virtual Event with Dr. Holly Mason Wednesday, October 14, 6-7 pm The new seed procedure is used to help the surgeon localize the part of the breast during surgery. Most patients tolerate the placement of this seed very well; in fact, there is often less pain. Join Dr. Holly Mason, breast surgeon, Baystate Surgical Oncology & Breast Specialists, for a discussion about breast surgery and the innovative seed procedure. There will be time for questions and answers. Holly Mason, MD
3D PRINTING IN RADIATION THERAPY – A Virtual Event with Dr. Michael Yunes Wednesday, October 21, 6-7 pm 3D printing has expanded the ways in which we can enhance peoples’ lives. This enhancement has expanded to our use for 3D printing in clinical practice. For radiation treatment we can now create devices that protect critical areas, optimize treatment, improve the accuracy and safety of treatment while at the same time making it a faster process for the patient and the treating therapists. Join Dr. Michael Yunes, Division Chief of Radiation Oncology at the D’Amour Center for Cancer Care, to learn more about this exciting new technology and its use in therapies to treat many diseases including breast and skin cancer. There will be time for questions and answers.
Michael Yunes, MD
Visit BaystateHealth.org/BreastSeries to register for these and other breast wellness events in October 2020. Attend all the events and receive a free gift. CS12455
3140755-01
BaystateHealth.org
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S6 | SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2020
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
The risk
factors for breast cancer
Symptoms of
male breast cancer
B
reast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer diagnosed among the female population. Though breast cancer may seem like a disease that’s exclusive to women, breast cancer can affect men as well. While they have a smaller concentration than women, men have breast tissue, which means it’s possible for them to develop breast cancer. Male breast cancer is most common in older men, but it is important that men recognize that the disease can strike them at any age.
Signs and symptoms
Men with breast cancer experience symptoms that are similar to those experienced by women. Possible signs to be aware of include: · skin dimpling or puckering · a lump or swelling, which is typically (but not always) painless · nipple retraction · redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin
· discharge from the nipple, which may be clear or blood-tinged
· Lobular carcinoma: Cancer that begins in the milk-producing glands. This type is rare The American Cancer Soin men because they ciety advises that sometimes have few lobules in breast cancer can spread to their breast tissue. the lymph nodes under the Especially rare types of arm or around the collar bone breast cancer that can occur and cause a lump or swellin men include Paget’s dising in these locations. The protrusion may be noticeable ease of the nipple and inflammatory breast cancer. even before the original tumor in the breast is large enough to be felt. Diagnosis Men should realize that enBreastCancer.org says largements or issues affecting that a small study of breast both breasts (not on just one cancer in men found that the side) typically is not cancer. average time between first Enlargement or changes symptoms and diagnosis was to both breasts in men can about 19 months. This can be be caused by weight gain, startling because early diagmedications or heavy alcohol nosis can be vital to survival. consumption. Through the realization that
breast cancer can happen to men and more education and awareness, men can feel more comfortable about Various types of breast can- discussing changes to breast cer can affect men, according tissue with their doctors. to the Mayo Clinic: Male breast cancer is a very · Ductal carcinoma: real occurrence, albeit a rare Cancer that begins in one. It is important that men the milk ducts. Nearly take any abnormalities in all male breast cancer is their chests seriously. ductal carcinoma.
Types of male breast cancer
OAKDALE DENTAL ASSOCIATES, P.C. Early detection is so important..
For us at Oakdale Dental Associates – it is personal.l
On July 9, 2015 we lost part of our family.
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Suzanne Williams 1820 Northampton Street • Holyoke 413-536-1782 • OakdaleDental.com
No two women are the same. But when it comes to breast cancer, women from all walks of life share various risk factors for a disease that the World Health Organization indicates is the most frequent cancer among women. Risk factors are anything that affects the likelihood that individuals will get a certain disease. In regard to breast cancer, the American Breast Cancer Foundation notes that various factors, some that result from lifestyle choices and others that are not changeable, can increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. Recognizing these risk factors can help women make any necessary changes and even highlight the importance of routine cancer screenings that can detect the presence of the disease in its earliest, most treatable stages.
Lifestyle-related risk factors
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The ABCF notes that certain habits or behaviors can increase a woman’s risk for breast cancer. But the good news is that women who understand the link between certain habits or behaviors and breast cancer can avoid those behaviors to decrease their risk of developing the disease. According to Breastcancer.org, the following are some habits, behaviors or lifestyle choices that can increase a woman’s risk for breast cancer.
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· Alcohol consumption: Breastcancer.org notes that researchers have uncovered links between the consumption of alcoholic beverages and hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. One study found that women
who consume three alcoholic beverages per week have a 15 percent higher risk of developing breast cancer than women who don’t drink at all. And while research into the connection is limited, a 2009 study found a link between alcohol consumption and breast cancer recurrence.
Unchangeable risk factors
Unfortunately, many risk factors for breast cancer are beyond women’s control. For example, the ABCF notes that roughly two out of three invasive breast cancers occur in women age 55 and older. Women cannot change their ages, but recognizing the link between age and breast can· Sedentary lifestyle: cer risk is important, as such Exercise consumes and controls blood sugar and a recognition may compel more women 55 and older to limits blood levels of insulin growth factor. That’s prioritize cancer screening. Gender and family history an important connection, are two additional unchangeas insulin growth factor able risk factors for breast can affect how breast cells grow and behave. A cancer. Women are much more likely to get breast sedentary lifestyle also cancer than men. In addition, can increase a woman’s risk of being obese, which Breastcancer.org notes that between 5 and 10 percent of the ABCF notes is a risk breast cancers are believed to factor for breast cancer be caused by abnormal genes among postmenopausal that are passed from parent women. to child. Women are not helpless · Smoking: Smoking has in the fight against breast long been linked to cancer, and Breastcancer.org cancer. Knowledge of breast cancer, including its various notes that smoking has risk factors, is a great weapon been linked to a higher against it as women look to risk of breast cancer in younger, premenopausal reduce their risk of developing the disease. women.
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2020 | S7
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There is hope.
Breast
CANCER
AWARENESS MONTH
Visit bigy.com/Community/ BreastCancerAwareness
to donate to our Partners of Hope program. Your donations provide much-needed assistance to local breast cancer organizations, hospitals and medical centers. Since 2007, we were able to raise more than $2 Million with your help!
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S8 | SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2020
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
BEHIND EVERY GREAT HOUSE IS A GREAT
WOMAN
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