LivingWell-May2012

LW3: Varicose veins: The good,

the bad and the ugly LW5: Carbon monoxide poisoning, hearing aid technology,‘frozen shoulder’

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION CREATED BY REPUBLIC MEDIA CUSTOM PUBLISHING

THE ARIZONA REPUBLIC

DISCOVER

home alone

UNDERSTAND

LEARN

LW2: Health-related product recalls LW7: Women’s Health Week LW7: When can a child stay

LW4: Free stroke screenings THISISSUE:Women’s healthcheckups NEXTISSUE:WednesdayJune6,2012 LW4&5: Health-care support groups, classes and events

TOPIC:Men’s health:cancer,vision,pain managementandhearthealth

HEALTH-CARE NEWS YOU CAN USE FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILY

Vol. 2, No. 5 May 2012

NEWS & TRENDS

Important information to keep you connected to your health-care community.

SCOTTSDALE HEALTHCARE

NEWS

Scottsdale Healthcare Osborn Medical Center in the early 1960s, when it was City Hospital of Scottsdale.

RICK D’ELIA

On May 15, 1962, the City Hospital of Scottsdale – now known as Scottsdale Healthcare Osborn Medical Center – opened its doors.

Over the past 50 years, as Scottsdale grew the hospital did too, transforming into one of the Valley’s premier health systems. Scottsdale Healthcare Shea Medical Center opened in 1984, Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center in 2001 and Scottsdale Healthcare Thompson Peak Hospital in 2007.

Along with more common screenings, Scottsdale internal medicine specialist Angela DeRosa, D.O., recommends that patients in their 30s have a C-Reactive Protein (CRP) blood test that can reveal a predisposition to heart disease or cancer.

Checking in on

checkups

For more information, visit shc.org.

Phoenix Children’s Hospital announced the launch of a new Liver Transplant Program in affiliation with Mayo Clinic-Arizona, the only pediatric liver transplant program of its kind in the region. Phoenix Children’s will be the first in Arizona to offer a full-spectrum, childcentered liver transplant program that will complement the hospital’s successful heart, kidney and bone marrow transplant programs.

Which health screenings should you have and when?

BY DEBRA GELBART

W

hen to have regular health screenings never used to be this complicated. You saw your health-care provider and simply followed his or her direction, whether it was for a mammogram, Pap test or something else.

But now, with the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and other organizations weighing in on the effectiveness of certain tests, you may be confused about how often you should undergo routine screenings.

“Every patient has the right to be treated as an individual,” said Barbara Lockwood, MSN, N.P., a nurse practitioner with Sunrise Women’s Health Care in Mesa.“Guidelines for health screenings are just that - guidelines. They don’t necessarily apply to all women. Every woman’s health-care provider should tell her what is best for her based on her family and personal medical history.”

For more information,visit phoenixchildrens.com.

MOUNTAIN VISTA MEDICAL CENTER

HONORS

Mountain Vista Medical Center announced that the Arizona Department of Health Services/ Division of Trauma has named it a Provisional Level III Trauma Center, meaning that Mountain Vista has the ability to treat high-level acuity patients and is equipped to treat rare and life-threatening medical conditions. Mountain Vista is the only Provisional Level III Trauma Center in the Valley.

Pap tests

Pap tests for cervical cancer, for example, are a prime target for conflicting information.

The USPSTF and the American College of Gynecology both say that if a patient has had a normal Pap result for the previous three consecutive years, then she only needs to have a Pap test every three years. Yet some doctors still recommend a yearly Pap. “It’s a good idea to discuss getting the test

For more information,visit mvmedicalcenter.com

INNOVATIONS

For more information, visit MercyGilbert.org or ChandlerRegional.org.

By The Numbers

Mammograms

Mammography may be the most controversial subject when health screenings are discussed, because anecdotal evidence seems to show that many practitioners and health organizations do not agree with the USPSTF’s

All women vets have access to annual wellwoman exams through the VA. – Cara Garcia, women veterans program manager, Veterans Hospital in Phoenix

Continued on page 6: Checking In

May is National Stroke Awareness Month

Stroke kills over 133,000 people each year in the U.S. Approximately 795,000 strokes will occur this year or 1 every 40 seconds Strokes take a life approximately every 4 minutes THINKSTOCK

Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Medical Centers, Dignity Health members, have acquired the latest technology to perform microscopic neurological surgeries. The Zeiss OPMI Pentero® 900 microscope builds on groundbreaking innovations that provide benefits for both surgeons and patients. Among other advantages, this state-of-the-art technology allows surgeons to experience optical immersion with razor-sharp video images presented in full HD quality.

every year with your doctor,” said Judith Wolf, M.D., a gynecologic oncologist and Surgery Section Chief at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center in Gilbert, “if you change sexual partners or to protect yourself against any new strain of human papilloma virus (which can cause cervical cancer).”

Most women should have their first Pap test at age 21, Lockwood said. A Pap before age 21 is often not necessary, she believes, because any atypical cells usually resolve on their own among women younger than 21.

Most providers agree that a yearly Pap is needed throughout the decade of the 20s, because younger women are more vulnerable to cervical cancer. Once you turn 30, “you may be able to go three years between Paps as long as you have had three consecutive normal results,” said Scottsdale internal medicine specialist Angela DeRosa, D.O. “But it’s critical to talk to your doctor about your particular situation.” DeRosa also recommends yearly human papilloma virus (HPV) testing for women beginning at age 30.

Choose HealthSouth:

2,000,000 brain cells die every minute during a stroke For more information about stroke’s warning signs and symptoms, visit stroke.org or call 800-STROKES (787-6537).

SOURCE: NATIONAL STROKE ASSOCIATION, STROKE.ORG

– PAULA HUBBS COHEN

A Higher Level of Care

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HealthSouth East Valley Rehabilitation Hospital 5652 E. Baseline Road Mesa, AZ 85206 480 567-0350 Fax 480 567-0352 healthsoutheastvalley.com

HealthSouth Scottsdale Rehabilitation Hospital 9630 E. Shea Blvd. Scottsdale, AZ 85260 480 551-5400 Fax 480 551-5401 healthsouthscottsdale.com

HealthSouth Valley of the Sun Rehabilitation Hospital 13460 N. 67th Ave. Glendale, AZ 85304 623 878-8800 Fax 623 334-5360 healthsouthvalleyofthesun.com ©2011:HealthSouth Corporation:473726

2 | LIVING WELL A-Z | WEDNESDAY, May 2, 2012

VITAL SIGNS

Health-related product recalls How to find out if a product you use is recalled

BY POLLY BAUGHMAN

3 websites with more info on

C

onsumers have long been advised ‘buyer beware.’ In the health arena, consumers are taking that advice seriously and arming themselves with information on product recalls of prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs and even medical devices such as cardiac monitors and joint implants.

recalls

While some recalls result in massive publicity, some folks don’t want to chance that they’ll miss the media coverage, especially since some recalls can ‘fly under the radar’ of all but the most conscientious consumers.

That’s why people can sign up for an email alert from MedWatch, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) program that not only informs the public about safety issues, but also allows the public to report adverse events resulting from the use of a health product. In fact, the FDA has approximately 75,000 subscribers to its MedWatch Safety Alert program and as many as 709,000 web users scouring its website each month for the latest product recall information.

THINKSTOCK

Email alerts

“The FDA encourages consumers and health-care professionals to follow agency updates and to report problems. The public is an important partner in protecting the public health.” Shelly Burgess, FDA Office of Public Affairs The number of recalls in these areas can be surprising. Pharmacist Stuart Gethner of Fairmont Pharmacy in Phoenix said, “On average we deal with a recall of some sort at least once a month. Some months more.”

FDA-regulated recalls

Range of seriousness

The products that can be subject to an FDA-regulated recall fall in these categories: • Drugs for humans and animals • Medical devices and radiation-emitting products • Vaccines • Blood and blood products • Transplantable human tissue • Animal feed • Cosmetics • 80 percent of the foods eaten in the United States

Most recalls are voluntary and initiated by the manufacturer. However, it’s the FDA that classifies the seriousness of the recall and ensures that the corrective action is in line with the potential danger.

When a pharmaceutical-related recall happens, pharmacists like Gethner respond according to FDA guidance. If a recall is for a minor concern, the pharmacy may only need to pull all items out of inventory. If a product poses a more

serious health concern, the pharmacy tries to notify all customers in its database known to have purchased the item and have the product returned to the store.

“It works pretty well with prescription drugs. Over-the-counter drugs are another matter,” Gethner said.

Avenues for information

Fortunately, there are several avenues for consumers to learn of dangers.

The FDA maintains a searchable database of recalls on its website and the agency issues updates via email alerts, RSS Feeds and Twitter. Consumers can sign-up for alerts on narrow topics of personal concern or the more inclusive MedWatch Safety Alerts.

Look for Livingwell a-z on the first Wednesday of each month!

A division of The Arizona Republic.

200 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix, AZ 85004

Each month, we bring you local health information you can use to keep you and your family living well.

From A to Z, we tackle a broad range of health issues and offer tips for keeping your health-care costs in check. This publication is produced by Republic Media Custom Publishing. For questions concerning any content included in this publication please contact: Editor Paula Hubbs Cohen, Paula.Cohen@cox.net or call 602-444-8658.

1.

To sign up for email alerts: U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): FDA.gov

2.

To sign up for RSS feeds from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): cpsc.gov

3. Or visit recalls.gov, a collaborative effort of several government agencies including the FDA and the CPSC.The website has information on recalls ranging from motor vehicles to medicines to cosmetics.

General Manager: CAMI KAISER, ckaiser@republicmedia.com Manager Creative Development: ISAAC MOYA, imoya@republicmedia.com Editor: PAULA HUBBS COHEN, Paula.Cohen@cox.net Contributing Editor: JIM WILLIAMS, jlwilliams@republicmedia.com Managing Art Director: TRACEY PHALEN, tphalen@republicmedia.com Design: SW!TCH s t u d i o Republic Media Intern: JESSICA RUSH Advertising: RHONDA PRINGLE, 602-444-4929, rpringle@republicmedia.com For general advertising inquiries, contact Republic Media at 602-444-8000.

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WEDNESDAY, May 2, 2012 | LIVING WELL A-Z | 3

Varicose veins:

The good, the bad and the ugly

2 ways to treat pesky spider veins

BY POLLY BAUGHMAN

C

osmetic concerns over bulging, rope-like varicose veins often drive people to seek treatment.

Only then do they learn the extent to which vein disease is affecting their health.

“When I explain how varicose veins occur and the symptoms associated with them, patients will often go ‘Aha, that’s why I’ve been feeling this way.’ They come in because of how the veins look and discover there’s more to it than that,” said Edgardo Zavala-Alarcon, M.D., of Ciao Bella Medical Spa & Vein Clinic in Chandler.

Spider veins are red or darkpurple thread-like veins that can be found anywhere on the body, but show up most often on the legs. Formed when the veins become enlarged and swollen with stagnant blood, spider veins are often more noticeable than varicose veins because they are close to the surface.

Aching legs

If untreated, pain usually increases and can result in limitations in walking, open sores on the feet, blood clots and tissue loss. According to Rajagopalan Ravi, M.D., medical director of the Vein Center at Arizona Heart Institute, 75 percent of ulcers in the legs are due to “venous incompetence,” the same condition that causes varicose veins.

Faulty valves

The problems begin with faulty valves in the veins, which are the vessels responsible for pushing blood against gravity back to the heart and lungs. Inside the veins are one-way valves which open to allow blood-flow to the heart; these valves close to prevent the blood from flowing backward. When the valves don’t close properly, blood can pool causing veins to bulge and push on surrounding nerve endings.

By age 50, about half the population will develop varicose veins, and the rate goes up each year after that, explained Nick Morrison, M.D., of the Morrison Vein Institute in Tempe and Scottsdale.

Easily treated, spider veins can be addressed two ways: THINKSTOCK

In those ‘aha moments,’ patients realize the same underlying condition that makes their veins unsightly can also cause: • Aching and throbbing pain • Itching • Numbness • Heavy and tired legs • Poor circulation • Night cramps • Restless Leg Syndrome, or RLS

1. Sclerotherapy

Family history, pregnancy, excessive weight and jobs that require long periods of standing can prompt earlier onset.

Easily treated

Typically, treatment involves inserting a catheter in the vein through an opening the size of a pencil-tip. As the catheter is removed, it uses laser or radiofrequency energy to heat the vein and seal it shut. Blood flow from the treated vein naturally diverts into stronger, healthier veins improving circulation.

This approach is a vast improvement over the once-common practice of ‘vein stripping’ which was painful, required a long recovery and was sometimes ineffective, according to Morrison and Zavala-Alarcon.

“Treatments now are minimally invasive

and patients are awake. We use mild sedation, if any,” said Morrison. “The biggest surprise to patients is how easy the treatment is and how immediate the results.”

In fact, many patients can return to normal activity immediately with little or no pain. Patients with more extensive treatment are allowed to return to normal activity one to three days after the procedure, and can control discomfort with over-the-counter painkillers.

Seeing is believing

Ravi encourages patients to learn more about what to expect when undergoing treatment. To view a 10-minute patienteducation video, visit azheart.com/ centersofexcellence/veincenter.

It’s in the genes When one parent has varicose veins

This involves injections into the veins that cause them to shrink, close-off and eventually disappear. Nick Morrison, M.D., of the Morrison Vein Institute calls sclerotherapy “the gold standard” for treating spider veins in the legs and said, “Injections can be done on a lunch hour and the patient can go right back to work.”

2. Laser treatments Strong bursts of lights are directed at the veins causing them to slowly fade and disappear. New technology allows the veins to be treated by lasers without damage to surrounding skin.

Heredity is a major determinate in who gets varicose veins.

Percent of children who will develop varicose veins

75% 25%

When both parents have varicose veins

100% 50%

SOURCE: RAJAGOPALAN RAVI, M.D., OF THE VEIN CENTER AT ARIZONA HEART INSTITUTE

Can you guess this woman’s age?

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4 | LIVING WELL A-Z | WEDNESDAY, May 2, 2012

MAY is National Stroke Awareness Month, stroke.org

TOP Events

Take advantage of over 150 opportunities for you to meet others with similar issues and learn more about various aspects of your health – from A to Z. All groups and events are believed, but not guaranteed, to be free unless otherwise stated. Every effort has been made to verify accuracy, but please call before attending to confirm details.

WELLNESS BONE HEALTH & OSTEOPOROSIS Various dates, times & locations

By Sun Health & Banner Health Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633 SKIN CANCER & MELANOMA May 3, 6 p.m.

By Banner MD Anderson at Banner Gateway 1900 N. Higley Rd., Gilbert 602-230-2273

SLEEP SECRETS May 18, 1-2:30 p.m.

By Sun Health at Sun City West Recreation Center 19803 RH Johnson Blvd., Sun City West Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633 SKIN CANCER SCREENING May 19, 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare 10460 N. 92 St., Scottsdale Appointments: shc.org/events; 480-323-4636 BACTERIAL & VIRAL INFECTIONS May 21, noon-1 p.m.

Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355)

SOLVING SHOULDER, HIP & KNEE PAIN May 8, 1 p.m., Banner Baywood, 6644 E. Baywood Ave., Mesa May 12, 8 a.m., Banner Desert, 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa Register: 602-230-CARE (2273)

FOOD ALLERGIES May 9, 1-2 p.m.

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Appaloosa Library 7377 E. Silverstone Dr., Scottsdale Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636 STAY SAFE IN THE SUN May 10, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

By Sun Health at La Loma Care Center 14260 Denny Blvd., Litchfield Park Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633 EXERCISE & ARTHRITIS May 11, 10-11 a.m.

By Sun Health at The Colonnade Recreation Village 19116 Colonnade Way, Surprise Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633 HEARING TESTS May 15, 16 & 17, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

John C. Lincoln Audiologist at Tatum Health Center 18404 N. Tatum Blvd., Phx Appointments: 602-494-6237 LASER SPINE INSTITUTE: MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY May15,6p.m.&May19,10a.m.

LaserSpineInstitute, 8888E.RaintreeDr.,Scottsdale May17,noon,CrownePlazaPhoenix, 2532W.PeoriaAve.,Phx Register:SpineSeminar.com;866-811-3275 CPR TRAINING May 16, 4-7 p.m.

Banner Thunderbird 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 602-230-CARE (2273) KEEP YOUR FEET HAPPY May 16, 7-8 p.m.

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Barnes & Noble 10500 N. 90 St., Scottsdale Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636 HOMEOPATHY May 17, 1-2 p.m.

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Desert Foothills Library 38442 N. Schoolhouse Rd., Cave Creek Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636 MEN’S DISABILITY ISSUES GROUP May 17, 5:30-7 p.m.

Disability Empowerment Center 5025 E. Washington St., Phx 602-980-3232

HEART HEALTH: TREATMENT & PREVENTION May 18, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

By Sun Health at The Colonnade Recreation Village 19116 Colonnade Way, Surprise Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633

SAVE YOUR VISION May 24, 1-2 p.m.

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Civic Center Library 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636

HEART/STROKE CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE May 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 475 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414 STROKE SUPPORT GROUP May 7 & 21, 10 a.m.-noon Cowden Center at John C. Lincoln North Mountain 9202 N. Second St., Phx Register: 602-331-8432

PREVENTING PRE-DIABETES PROGRESSION May 14, 1-2 p.m.

By Sun Health at Church of the Nazarene 14636 N. Del Webb Blvd., Sun City Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633

COMPASS FOR CAREGIVERS May 17, 10-11:30 a.m.

May 24, 4-5:30 p.m.

Banner Alzheimer’s 901 E. Willetta St., Phx Register: 602-839-6850; Deidra.Colvin@bannerhealth

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP May 14, 3-4 p.m.

Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa 877-924-WELL (9355)

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP (lunch provided) May 19, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

St. Joseph’s Huger Mercy Living Center 2345 W. Orangewood Ave., Phx 602-406-5600

INSULIN PUMPERS SUPPORT GROUP May 14, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Cowden Center at John C. Lincoln North Mountain 9202 N. Second St., Phx 602-870-6060

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUPS (DUET) Various dates, times & locations 602-274-5022

MENDED HEARTS SUPPORT GROUP May 9, 6:30-8 p.m.

John C. Lincoln Medical Office Bldg 1 19841 N. 27 Ave., Phx 623-879-5765 STROKE SUPPORT GROUP May 10, 10-11 a.m.

Banner Thunderbird 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 602-230-CARE (2273) STRIKE OUT STROKE May 10, 1-2 p.m.

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Civic Center Library 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636 HEART HEALTH: REDUCING RISKS May 11, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

By Sun Health at The Colonnade Recreation Village 19116 Colonnade Way, Surprise Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633

DIABETES PREVENTION May 24, 10-11 a.m.

By Sun Health at Grandview Care Center 14505 W. Granite Valley Dr., Sun City West Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP May 4, 10:30 a.m.-noon John C. Lincoln North Mountain 9202 N. Second St., Phx 602-870-6374

ALZHEIMER’S/ DEMENTIA ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVERS May 3 & 17, 1:30-3 p.m.

Tempe St. Luke’s 1500 S. Mill Ave., Tempe 877-351-WELL (9355)

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP May 23, 2:30-3:30 p.m.

St. Luke’s 1800 E. Van Buren St., Phx 877-351-WELL (9355)

MAKING MUSIC & MEMORIES May 4, 10-11:30 a.m.

By Banner Alzheimer’s at Pyle Recreation Center 655 E. Southern Ave., Tempe Register: 602-839-6850; Deidra.Colvin@bannerhealth.com

LGBT CAREGIVERS (DUET) June 5, 9-10 a.m.

One Voice Community Center 4442 N. Seventh Ave., Phx 602-274-5022

SOLUTIONS FOR DEMENTIA PROBLEMS May 11, 10:30 a.m.-noon

By Banner Alzheimer’s at AZ Museum of Natural History 53 N. Macdonald, Mesa Register: 602-230-CARE (2272) ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVERS May 15, 12:30-2 p.m.

By Duet at Church of the Beatitudes 555 W. Glendale Ave., Phx 602-274-5022

GRIEF May 8 & 22, 4:30-6 p.m.

By Hospice of the Valley at Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare 10460 N. 92 St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321

May 4, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Location: St. Joseph’s, 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Appointments: 877-602-4111

May 8, 8 a.m.-noon

Location: Cowden Center at John C. Lincoln North Mountain, 9202 N. Second St., Phoenix Appointments: 602-434-6265

May 19, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Location: DeerValley Medical, 6206W. Bell Rd., Glendale Appointments: 602-368-0458 (First 27 ultrasound carotid artery screenings offered at no charge; others $55 each)

Granite Reef Senior Center 1700 N. Granite Reef Rd., Scottsdale 602-406-3840

PARKINSON’S DANCE-PARADISE VALLEY May 4, 11, 18 & 25, 1:30-3 p.m.

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Elizabeth Keith Movement Education 16620 N. 40 St., Phx Register: 602-406-6903

SYRINGO & CHIARI May 17, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

St. Joseph’s Barrow Neurological Institute 114 W. Thomas Rd., Phx 623-561-9606

VOCES UNIDAS (Spanish singing program) May 5, 12, 19 & 26, 10:30 a.m.-noon

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Church of the Beatitudes 555 W. Glendale Ave., Phx 602-406-2453

COPD May 17, 1-2 p.m.

By Sun Health at Church of the Nazarene 14636 N. Del Webb Blvd., Sun City Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633 SJOGREN’S SYNDROME May 19, 11:30 a.m.

Scottsdale Country Club 11500 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale RSVP: grandy2@cox.net; 480-391-2522

BRAIN TUMOR May 22, 6-8 p.m.

St. Joseph’s 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phx 623-205-6446

PARKINSON’S CAREGIVERS (DUET) May 7, 1:30-3 p.m., Red Mountain Multi-Generational Center, 7550 E. Adobe St., Mesa May 9, 1:30-3 p.m. & May 15, 12:302 p.m., Church of the Beatitudes, 555 W. Glendale Ave., Phx 602-274-5022

SENIORS ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION EXERCISE PROGRAM Various dates & times Mountain Vista Medical Center, Mesa Tempe St. Luke’s, Tempe 877-924-WELL (9355)

WOMEN WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS May 26, 10 a.m.

St. Joseph’s 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phx 480-829-6563

GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN (DUET) Various dates, times & locations 602-274-5022

PARKINSON’S

SUPPORT GROUPS BETTER BREATHERS May 4, 1:30-3 p.m.

John C. Lincoln North Mountain 9202 N. Second St., Phx 602-870-6060

A SAMPLING OF ADDITIONAL STROKE SCREENING EVENTS:

HUNTINGTON’S May 21, 6-8 p.m.

St. Joseph’s 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phx 602-406-4931

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP May 9, 2:30-4 p.m.

Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa 877-924-WELL (9355) CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP May 14; St. Joseph’s Barrow Neurological Institute 114 W. Thomas Rd., Phx Call for time: 602-406-6688

May 15, 7-11 a.m.: Banner Del E. Webb, 14502 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West May 18, 8-11:30 a.m.: Banner Boswell, 10401 W. Thunderbird Blvd., Sun City May 19, 8 a.m.-noon: Banner Thunderbird, 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale

BETTER BREATHERS May 16, 2-3 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414

CAREGIVERS

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP May 16, 7-8:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-5195

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP May 9, 2:30-4 p.m.

Chandler Regional 475 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler 480-728-3828

MAY 11-31 What: Vital signs, risk factor assessment, Bruit Check (abnormal sound in carotid artery) if indicated Presented by: Abrazo Health Care Appointments: 855-292-9355; azhealthyhours.com Cost: Free Dates/Locations: May 11, noon-4 p.m.: Paradise Valley Hospital, 3929 E. Bell Rd., Phoenix May 16, 8 a.m.-noon: West Valley Hospital, 13677 W. McDowell Rd., Goodyear May 18, 8 a.m.-noon: Maryvale Hospital, 5102 W. Campbell Ave., Phoenix May 19, 8 a.m.-noon: Arizona Heart Hospital, 1930 E. Thomas Rd., Phoenix May 24, 8 a.m.-noon: Arrowhead Hospital, 18701 N. 67th Ave., Glendale May 31, 8 a.m.-noon: Phoenix Baptist Hospital, 2000 W. Bethany Home Rd., Phoenix MAY 12-19 What: Evaluation of neck arteries, cholesterol/glucose screen (4-hour fast recommended) Presented by: Banner Health and the American Heart Association Appointments: 602-230-CARE (2273) Cost: Free Dates/Locations: May 12, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.: Banner Estrella, 9201 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP May 10, 1-2 p.m.

St. Luke’s 1800 E. Van Buren St., Phx 877-351-WELL (9355)

URINARY INCONTINENCE May 23, 6-7 p.m.

Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355)

FREE HEART-HEALTHY EATING CLASS May 15, 11 a.m.-noon Banner Heart Hospital 6750 E. Baywood Ave., Mesa 480-854-5401

MENDED HEARTS SUPPORT GROUP May 16, 6:30 p.m.

Banner Heart Hospital 6750 E. Baywood Ave., Mesa 480-854-5070

TAKING CONTROL OF DIABETES Various dates, 10 a.m.-noon Phoenix Baptist Hospital 2040 W. Bethany Home Rd., Phx Register: azhealthyhours.com; 855-292-9355

HERNIATED DISCS May 22, 6-7 p.m.

Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355)

ANTI-SKIN CANCER FOODS May 8, 6-7:30 p.m.

Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare 10460 N. 92 St., Scottsdale Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP May 15, 3-4 p.m.

Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa 877-924-WELL (9355)

DIABETES

LOSS OF BLADDER CONTROL May 22, 2-3 p.m.

Paradise Valley Hospital 3805 E. Bell Rd., Phx azhealthyhours.com; 855-292-9355

EXERCISES TO PREVENT FALLS May 8, 2-3 p.m.

Paradise Valley Hospital 3805 E. Bell Rd., Phx azhealthyhours.com; 855-292-9355

In recognition of National Stroke Awareness Month, numerous health-care facilities are offering community stroke screening events, often at no charge. Most require pre-registration. Please call to confirm details.

THINKSTOCK

May

WESTSIDE TREMBLE CLEFS (singing program) May 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 10 a.m.-noon

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church 11025 N. 111 Ave., Sun City 602-406-3840 PARKINSON’S DANCE-ARCADIA May 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31, 1:30-3 p.m.

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Brick’s Studio 4550 E. Indian School Rd., Phx Register: 602-406-6903

CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE May 7, noon-1 p.m.

Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) MEDICATION CHECKS May 8, 10-11 a.m.

Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa 877-924-WELL (9355) EYE HEALTH: CATARACTS May 8, noon-1 p.m.

St. Luke’s, 1800 E. Van Buren St., Phx May 15, noon-1 p.m.

Tempe St. Luke’s, 1500 S. Mill Ave.,Tempe 877-351-WELL (9355)

EASTSIDE TREMBLE CLEFS (singing program) May 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31, 4-6 p.m.

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s

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WEDNESDAY, May 2, 2012 | LIVING WELL A-Z | 5

BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC May 15, 9-11 a.m.

By Sun Health at Grandview Care Center 14505 W. Granite Valley Dr., Sun City West Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633

ORAL, HEAD & NECK May 16, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-4673

BREAST CANCER NEWLY DIAGNOSED May 3 & 17, 6-8 p.m.

Co-sponsored by The Wellness Community John C. Lincoln Breast Center 19646 N. 27 Ave., Phx 602-712-1006

CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS

LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA May 16, 6-7:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414

HEAD & NECK May 2, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

UA Cancer Center at St. Joseph’s 500 W. Thomas Rd., Phx 602-406-6621

COLORECTAL May 17, 6-7:30 p.m.

Banner Thunderbird 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 602-865-5450

YOGA FOR RECOVERY May 3 & 17, 6-8 p.m.

Co-sponsored by The Wellness Community John C. Lincoln Medical Office Bldg 1 19841 N. 27 Ave., Phx 602-712-1006

ORAL, HEAD & NECK May 2, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414

ESOPHAGEAL May 17, 6-7:30 p.m.

Banner Good Samaritan 1111 E. McDowell Rd., Phx 602-839-4970; 602-527-3776

YOUNG SURVIVAL COALITION May 8, 6-8 p.m.

John C. Lincoln Breast Center 19646 N. 27 Ave., Phx 602-712-1006

CANCER May 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31, 2-3:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414

PROSTATE May 21, 4-5:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414

CAVE CREEK May 4, 10 a.m.-noon

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Good Shepherd of the Hills Episcopal Church 6502 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek RSVP: 480-488-3283

PROSTATE May 28, 7-9 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-4673

SUPPORT GROUP May 12, 10 a.m.-noon Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare 10460 N. 92 St., Scottsdale Register: tinastreasures@shc.org; 480-323-1990

CANCER-RELATED

GYNECOLOGIC May 8, 5-6:15 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-4673

GENTLE YOGA May 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31, 4 p.m.

Banner MD Anderson 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 480-256-4141

SPANISH-SPEAKING May 8, 6-7:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-4673

OVARIAN CANCER DISCUSSION Dr. Mike Janicek, Arizona Oncology May 5, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Scottsdale Healthcare Shea 9003 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale 480-664-4948

YOUNG WOMEN May 8, 6:30-8 p.m.

Banner Thunderbird 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 602-865-5450 FACING FORWARD (for women) May 9, 1-3 p.m.

Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare 10460 N. 92 St., Scottsdale Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636

MYELOMA DISCUSSION Dr. Jeffrey Schriber, Arizona Oncology May 5, 10 a.m.-noon Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N 92 St., Scottsdale 480-882-4636 CHAIR YOGA May 7, 14, 21 & 28, 10 a.m.

Banner MD Anderson 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 480-256-4141

COPING WITH CANCER May 9 & 23, 6:30-8 p.m.

Banner Thunderbird 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 602-865-5450

LIVING & COPING May 8, 4 p.m.

Banner MD Anderson 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 480-256-4141

THYROID May 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414

YOGA, RELAXATION & VISUALIZATION May 14, 4-5:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-3817

LUNG May 12, 1-3 p.m.

By St. Joseph’s at The Wellness Community 360 E. Palm Ln., Phx 602-712-1006 PROSTATE May 14, 7 p.m.

St. Joseph’s 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phx 602-242-3131 CANCER May 15, 5-6:15 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-4673 UNA REUNION (Latino Cancer Outreach Task Force) May 15, 6-7:30 p.m.

UA Cancer Center at St. Joseph’s 500 W. Thomas Rd., Phx 602-567-7640 KIDS CAN COPE May 15, 7-8 p.m.

Banner Thunderbird 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 602-865-5450

TAI CHI & MANAGING SLEEP DIFFICULTIES May 15, 4-5:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-3817 UNDERSTANDING TREATMENT & NUTRITION May 17, 4-5:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-3817 LIVER CANCER UPDATE Dr. Mahesh Seetharam, Arizona Oncology May 17, 6-8 p.m.

The Wellness Community 360 E. Palm Ln., Phx 602-712-1006 MOBILIZING RESOURCES & SUPPORT May 28, 6-8 p.m.

Banner Thunderbird 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 602-865-5450

BOSOM BUDDIES May 19, 10 a.m.-noon Scottsdale Healthcare Thompson Peak 7400 E. Thompson Peak, Scottsdale 623-547-2206 EAST VALLEY YOUNG SURVIVORS (age 40 and under) May 19, 10 a.m.-noon Dynamic Life Coaching Center 1701 S. Mill Ave., Tempe 480-326-7023 BLACKS AGAINST BREAST CANCER May 20, 3-5 p.m.

The Wellness Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phx 602-320-0502 SUPPORT GROUP May 22, 5-6:15 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-4673 CIRCLE OF HELP May 24, 6-8 p.m.

John C. Lincoln 19646 N. 27 Ave., Phx 623-434-2784

PARENTING/KIDS BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP May 2, 9 & 16, 10-11 a.m.

Phoenix Baptist Hospital 2000 W. Bethany Home Rd., Phx Register: abrazohealth.com/newborn; 855-292-9355 POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP May 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 1-2:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414 CHILDREN’S IMMUNIZATION CLINIC May 5, 8 a.m.-noon Scottsdale Healthcare Osborn 3634 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale 480-882-4317 POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP May 8, 15, 22 & 29, 10-11:30 a.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-5292 POSTPARTUM SUPPORT GROUP May 8 & 22, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Banner Thunderbird 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 602-865-5908 NURSING MOMS SUPPORT GROUP May 9, 10:30 a.m.-noon Banner Del E. Webb 14502 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West 800-230-CARE (2273)

ASK AN EXPERT Health-care advice

QUESTION: How can we prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from our boat exhaust?

Answer: Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a major contributor to fatalities on Arizona lakes. CO levels from boat exhaust can reach critical levels in a very short period of time and can affect passengers whether they are traveling, anchored or idling. Symptoms may include severe headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea or fainting. However, when concentrations of CO are high, unconsciousness can be the first sign; this can occur with none of the previously noted symptoms.

You cannot see, smell or taste CO, so you need to install and maintain CO alarms inside your boat – and do not ignore an alarm. Learn where your propulsion engine and/or generator exhaust pipes are located and keep everyone well away from these areas. Never sit, surf or hang on the back deck or swim platform while the engines are running.

The areas under swim platforms can be dangerous, too.

If you suspect CO poisoning, immediately get the victim to fresh air and seek medical attention.

BOB BARON, M.D., BANNER GOOD SAMARITAN MEDICAL CENTER

QUESTION: What is ‘frozen shoulder’?

Answer: The shoulder joint is encased in a capsule of connective tissue; frozen shoulder, better known as adhesive capsulitis, occurs when this capsule thickens and tightens around the shoulder joint, restricting its movement.

Living Well a-z invites readers to submit questions to a panel of health-care experts. The short questions and answers will offer readers a little more information about hot topics in medicine and refer you to other resources where you can learn more. Responses will also arm you with information so you know what to ask your own health-care providers.

The first stage is pain with any movement of the shoulder. As the shoulder’s range of motion becomes limited, it enters the frozen stage with notable loss of range of motion. In the thawing stage, range of motion and pain begin to improve.

Treatment involves stretching exercises and sometimes, injection of corticosteroids and numbing medications into the joint capsule. Often oral anti-inflammatories are used, while in a small percentage of cases, surgery may be needed.

STEVEN J. HATTRUP, M.D., ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON AND CHAIR OF ORTHOPEDICS AT MAYO CLINIC IN ARIZONA

QUESTION: Do I really need the latest and greatest hearing aid?

Answer: Not everyone will need the highest level of technology in their hearing aids, but make sure you are getting what you need for your specific hearing loss because trying to save money and buying something that doesn’t fulfill your needs will not give you the results you are looking for.

Adjusting to hearing aids takes time.

You should see your hearing healthcare provider four to six times over the first sixty days and they can make adjustments in the programming of the hearing aid based on the feedback they receive from you. Be patient - a person has to commit to the process of working with their provider to achieve the most benefit out of their hearing aids. If you make that commitment you will find it is well worth it.

ROBERT BABER, BOARD-CERTIFIED HEARING INSTRUMENT SPECIALIST AND OWNER OF 21 MIRACLE-EAR CENTERS LOCATED THROUGHOUT ARIZONA

If you would like your question to be considered for the June 6, 2012 issue of Living Well a-z, please write to editor: Paula Hubbs Cohen Paula.Cohen@cox.net or c/o The Arizona Republic 200 E. Van Buren St., CA22 Phoenix, AZ 85004

WEBSITES FOR MORE INFORMATION • Abrazo Health Care (Arizona Heart Hospital, Arizona Heart Institute, Arrowhead Hospital, Maryvale Hospital, Paradise Valley Hospital, Phoenix Baptist Hospital,WestValley Hospital): abrazohealth.com • Banner Health: bannerhealth.com • Cardon Children’s Medical Center: bannerhealth.com • Chandler Regional Medical Center: ChandlerRegional.org • Duet, Partners in Health & Aging: duetaz.org • HealthSouth Rehabilitation: healthsouth.com

BARIATRIC PROGRAM Hear about medical & surgical treatments for obesity.

THURS., MAY 3: 6-6:45PM

TUES., MAY 15: 6-6:45PM

(480) 301-4533 MayoClinic.org/Arizona

• • • • • • • • •

John C. Lincoln Hospital: JCL.com Laser Spine Institute: LaserSpineInstitute.com Mercy Gilbert Medical Center: MercyGilbert.org MountainVista Medical Center: mvmedicalcenter.com Scottsdale Healthcare: shc.org St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center: stjosephs-phx.org St. Luke’s Medical Center, Phoenix: stlukesmedcenter.com Tempe St. Luke’s: tempestlukeshospital.com TheWellness Community-AZ: twccaz.org

Solving Shoulder, Hip and Knee Pain Early diagnosis and surgical treatment can be the answer.

May 8, 1 p.m.

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Most people my age don’t think they can get skin cancer. But I was diagnosed with stage one melanoma at 17. Now, I wear my scar proudly and tell my friends how important it is to get regular skin checks.

My answer was Mayo Clinic.

Caitlyn Potter, Phoenix, AZ

Because of Mayo Clinic’s collaborative model of care, Caity had an entire team on her side, focused on her recovery. Now, she is cancer-free and attending college. For over 100 years, people from all walks of life have come to Mayo Clinic for answers. Mayo is an in-network provider for millions of people. In most cases you don’t need a physician referral. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit mayoclinic.org.

Visit mayoclinic.org/arizona

6 | LIVING WELL A-Z | WEDNESDAY, May 2, 2012

Blood test for breast cancer detection

VA Health Administration offers screenings for female veterans

A

A new, not yet widely used blood test for breast cancer detection is available through about 100 providers in Arizona according to the test’s developer, Phoenix-based Provista Diagnostics.

Called the BT Test, it analyzes five specific blood-based proteins involved in the body’s immune system response to the development and proliferation of breast cancer.

When they return home, they are scheduled for an appointment with a primary care physician, explained Cara Garcia, the women veterans program manager for the Veterans Hospital in Phoenix.

“They get a head-to-toe evaluation with screenings that may include a Pap test, diabetes screening if they’re overweight or have other risk factors, and a mental health screening,” she said. In addition, all veterans returning from deployment are screened for a brain injury, Garcia said.

Continued from COVER: Checking In

2009 recommendation that annual screening begin only after a woman reaches the age of 50.

“The focus of the USPSTF is more on cutting costs and less on saving lives,” said Murali Murty, M.D., M.P.A., a radiation oncologist with Arizona Breast Cancer Specialists in Scottsdale. “I can’t count the number of patients under age 50 we see who have breast cancer.”

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona recommends and covers annual or biannual mammograms for women age 40 and over, depending on their doctor’s recommendation as medically necessary, said senior medical director Edward Fenstermacher, M.D., M.B.A. Blue Cross also covers a baseline mammogram for women between 35 and 39 if recommended by their doctor.

Your provider may recommend a baseline mammogram between ages 35 and 39. Whether or not a patient chooses to have a baseline, she needs her first screening mammogram at age 40, most providers say. “It’s important that women in their 40s have mammograms,” said Murty, “because cancer in a younger individual generally tends to be more aggressive.”

RICK D’ELIA

long with their older and/or retired colleagues, female veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, most of whom are between the ages of 19 and 29, receive routine screenings through the Veterans Health Administration health-care system.

In the Phoenix area, more than 1,700 women who have returned from these two overseas operations are enrolled to receive VA health-care.

All women vets (of which there are more than 7,200 in the Phoenix area alone) have access to annual wellwoman exams through the VA, Garcia said. These can include any or all of the screenings recommended for the general population, such as Pap tests, mammograms and bone density tests.

Skin cancer screenings are another potentially confusing topic.

The USPSTF has concluded that“the evidence is insufficient to recommend for or against routine screening for skin cancer using a total-body skin examination for the early detection of…melanoma, basal cell cancer or squamous cell skin cancer.” Yet again, many doctors seem to disagree with that.

In fact, DeRosa recommends starting skin cancer screening at a young age.

“In our practice, we follow the American Cancer Society guidelines of doing a full-body screen during the annual exam starting at age 18 to 21, depending on the patient’s clinical background. While the patient is gowned, it’s a great time for her to get examined,” she said.

Bone health

Bone density testing, also called a DEXA scan, can begin in the 50s if the patient is at risk for fractures because of family history, because she has been or is a smoker, or because she doesn’t take calcium regularly, DeRosa said. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona recommends that a patient have her first DEXA scan between 60 and 65, or as medically necessary,

Women in different decades of life have different health-care needs.

Take a look at this handy chart that provides a broad summary of some of them.

20s

Screening/Exam

How often?

Cholesterol testing (blood test)

Every five years

Pap test

Annually

Clinical breast exam

Annually

Breast self-exam

Monthly

All other tests performed in the 20s, however a Pap test may only be needed every three years in this decade (consult your provider)

30s

35 35-39 40

Scottsdale internal medicine specialist Angela DeRosa, D.O., has offered the BT test to her patients for about seven months.“It’s an especially useful test when it can help distinguish between benign breast disease and cancer if a mammogram comes back inconclusive,” she said. There’s a possibility that in five to 10 years, this test could make it possible to reduce the frequency of screening mammography for women under 50, she added.

Skin cancer

Women’s health screening through the ages Age

Cara Garcia, women veterans program manager at the VA Hospital in Phoenix, said that more than 7,200 female veterans in Maricopa County are receiving care at our local VA hospital.

Joann Ahlemeyer, Doctor of Nursing Practice, talks with a patient in the background.

Provista Diagnostics says that if breast cancer is present in a patient, the BT Test can recognize it with 97 percent accuracy in women 35-49 years old and with 86 percent accuracy in women 50 years of age and older. The test costs $249 and some insurance companies cover it as an out-of-network benefit.

HPV screening

Annually

Thyroid test

Annually

Diabetes screening

Annually

Comprehensive metabolic panel and Vitamin D testing

Annually

C-Reactive Protein test

Annually

Vision screening

Every three to five years

Breast cancer test (optional blood test)

Annually

Baseline mammogram

Once

Screening mammogram

Every one or two years (consult your provider)

Scottsdale internal medicine specialist Angela DeRosa, D.O., examines Cassi Sharp of Glendale. DeRosa believes in treating the whole body as she thoroughly screens her patients for a variety of common concerns.

Fenstermacher said. “After that, she should have bone density testing every two years,” Lockwood said.

General health

Cholesterol testing should begin at 20, Fenstermacher of Blue Cross advised, and continue throughout one’s life every five years or as medically necessary. A blood test called a comprehensive metabolic panel that includes testing for blood glucose, protein and calcium, is appropriate every year beginning in a patient’s 30s, DeRosa said. She also recommends that beginning in this decade of life, the patient have another blood test called a C-Reactive Protein (CRP) test that can reveal a predisposition to heart disease or cancer.

Annual screening for diabetes and thyroid health should begin in the 30s, DeRosa said, adding that annual thyroid testing can begin in the 20s if the patient is on birth control pills.

Vision screening through an optometrist or ophthalmologist should also begin in the 30s and be repeated every three to five years, DeRosa said.

Hormone testing should begin in the 40s, DeRosa said, unless symptoms

suggest doing this earlier. Testosterone deficiency in women is a common problem, she said, characterized by fuzzy thinking, mood disorders and low libido.

The deficiency can be easily corrected with hormone therapy.

A patient should have an EKG to evaluate the heart’s electrical activity beginning in her 40s, DeRosa advised, and then annually beginning in the 50s. She also typically refers a patient to a cardiologist starting at age 50 for a cardiac stress test every five to 10 years, depending on the patient’s clinical background.

Beginning at age 50, every woman should ask her provider about a colonoscopy to check for colon cancer. The test is typically repeated every 10 years or so, again depending on the patient’s medical history. Many providers recommend a fecal occult blood test to detect hidden blood in the stool every year beginning at age 50.

Bottom line

It’s vital to discuss all of these screenings with your provider, the professionals advise, because you as an individual may need specific screenings more or less often than the general recommendations.

EATING HEALTHY

All other tests performed in the 30s

40s

50s

EKG

At least once

Hormone testing

Annually

All other tests performed in the 40s

Annually

Screening mammogram

Annually

Fecal occult blood test for colon cancer

Annually

Colonoscopy

Typically every 10 years

Cardiac stress test

Every five to 10 years, depending on patient’s medical history

Bone density testing (DEXA scan) if patient is Per health-care provider at high risk of osteoporosis recommendation

60s 60-65 70s 75

All other tests performed in the 50s DEXA scan

Every two years

All other tests performed in the 60s May be able to cease annual mammograms SOURCE: MULTIPLE SOURCES

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WEDNESDAY, May 2, 2012 | LIVING WELL A-Z | 7

National Women’s Health Week

O

n Mother’s Day, Sunday May 13, the 13th annual National Women’s Health Week will get underway.

The weeklong observance of women’s health is coordinated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’Office on Women’s Health.

According to the National Women’s Health Week website, womenshealth.gov/whw, the event helps bring together businesses, health organizations, communities and government and other groups in order to promote women’s health.

Make health a priority This year’s theme for National Women’s Health Week is ‘It’s Your Time.’ Women are encouraged to make their health a top priority by taking the time to do tangible things that will help improve their physical and mental health such as scheduling a checkup or preventative screening,

Some things to consider before leaving a child home alone: • Are parents’contact numbers written down and in a place accessible to the child?

• Does the child clearly understand the rules she’s supposed to follow and the consequences of not following the rules?

• What should a child do if a stranger knocks on the door or the phone rings?

• Is there a trusted neighbor, friend or family member that the child can contact in case of an emergency?

• Or, is there a trusted person who can check-in on the child?

• Does the child know how to prepare food in a safe manner?

• Does the child have the added responsibility of looking after younger family members?

• Does the child understand when it is appropriate to call 9-1-1?

• If there is an emergency, does the child know how to get out of the house, and get others out as well, if necessary?

SOURCES: HAROLD MAGALNICK, M.D.; SGT. TOMMY THOMPSON, PHOENIX POLICE DEPARTMENT; GOLDIE LA PORTE, CARDON CHILDREN’S MEDICAL CENTER; JAN HAMILTON, DOORWAYS

eating healthily, getting enough sleep, managing stress and avoiding unhealthy behaviors like smoking or not wearing a seatbelt or helmet.

Open House at Curves Throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area, a variety of businesses and organizations have planned special events in honor of National Women’s Health Week. One of them is Curves, a nationwide group of women-only fitness centers.

Shannon Todarello, owner of Curves on Central in Phoenix, said that 14 locations in a local Curves co-op are hosting an Open House during the week of May 14 to 18.

“People can come in, tour the facilities and see what we do. We’ll also be offering education on fitness and wellness as well as nutrition,” she said. On May 17 only, Todarello said Curves facilities across the country are giving away free one-month memberships.

Nationally, she said Curves is hoping to reach one million people with the offer.

Take time to take control of your health Other events

10th Annual Women’s Tea Speakers: Brunch and presentations on ‘liquid face-lifts’, healthy foods and making the most of your women’s health visit When: May 19, 10 a.m.-noon Where: Scottsdale Healthcare Shea, Brady Conference Center, 9003 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale Who: Open to the public Cost: Free Register: 480-882-4636; shc.org/events

Several other local businesses and organizations have events planned for National Women’s Health Week.

Here is a sampling of some of them: Ladies Night Out: What’s New in Women’s Health When: May 3, 6-7 p.m.

Where: Mountain Vista Medical Center, 1301 S. Crismon Road, Mesa Who: Open to the public Cost: Free Register: 877-924-9355 Community lecture on gynecological cancers Speaker: Shana Wingo, M.D., gynecologic oncologist with Arizona Oncology When: May 9, 5:30-7 p.m.

Where: Banner Thunderbird, 5555 W. Thunderbird Road, Glendale Who: Open to the public Cost: Free Info: 602-230-2273; bannerhealth.com

THINKSTOCK

BY ALISON STANTON

Ready – or not? – to stay home alone Consider a host of variables before leaving your child alone

BY GREMLYN BRADLEY-WADDELL

W

ith summer approaching, many parents are wondering the same thing: Can we leave the kids alone for awhile? The whole day? The evening?

The answers, say those in the know, should be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Age and maturity

Age needs to be taken into consideration, but so does maturity as well as the ability to handle responsibility. Some 12-year-olds are far more mature than some 15-yearolds, said Harold Magalnick, M.D., a Phoenix pediatrician. Nevertheless, he said, it should be a given that children younger than elementary-school-age should never be left home alone.

According to Sgt. Tommy Thompson of the Phoenix Police Department, there is no state or federal law regarding the age at which a child is considered old enough,

or too young, to be left alone. But both Thompson and Magalnick said parents must be ready to face the consequences should something go awry.

“You need to be able to explain why you did what you did,” Thompson said, noting that negligence or abandonment are examples of charges that parents could face if a youngster is left alone and ends up in harm’s way.

Preparation and follow-up

Parents need to prepare their children for going it alone at home, no matter the duration.

First, ask your child if he wants to stay by himself, said Goldie La Porte, manager of the Child Development department at Cardon Children’s Medical Center in Mesa. She said many will embrace the opportunity, but children with active imaginations, for example, might be frightened by every noise they hear. If your child isn’t interested, consider delaying the solo stays, however, if your child

relishes the idea, gauge his readiness by observing and communicating with him, La Porte said.

Parents should set clear boundaries and run through scenarios that could happen, such as a stranger knocking at the door, the phone ringing or even a house fire.“Put a lot of structure into it,” said Jan Hamilton, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with Doorways, a teen counseling center in Phoenix.“Then have your child call or text you while you’re gone, or have someone go to your house and check-in on your child.”

Hamilton also suggests parents gradually increase the length of their absences. In addition, a Q-and-A session after each outing is helpful so parents can determine if their child experienced any concerns while the adults were gone.

“The process of allowing kids to have more responsibility is tricky, but it’s a normal part of growing up that they need to learn,” Hamilton said.“It’s normal to have both the parents and the teens be a little anxious about it.”

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