H1N1 UPDATE 10/12/2009 |
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Influenza Diagnostic Testing During the 2009-2010 Flu Season
For the Public
How will I know if I have the flu this season?
You may have the flu if you have one or more of these symptoms: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue and sometimes, diarrhea and vomiting. Most people with 2009 H1N1 have had mild illness and have not needed medical care or antiviral drugs, and the same is true of seasonal flu. (More information is available on What To Do If You Get Sick this flu season.) Most people with flu symptoms do not need a test for 2009 H1N1 because the test results usually do not change how you are treated.
How can I know for certain if I have the flu this season?
To know for certain, a test specific for flu would need to be performed. But most people with flu symptoms do not need a test for 2009 H1N1 flu because the test results usually does not change how you are treated.
What kinds of flu tests are there?
A number of flu tests are available to detect influenza viruses. The most common are called “rapid influenza diagnostic tests” that can be used in outpatient settings. These tests can provide results in 30 minutes or less. Unfortunately, the ability of these tests to detect the flu can vary greatly. Therefore, you could still have the flu, even though your rapid test result is negative. In addition to rapid tests, there are several more accurate and sensitive flu tests available that must be performed in specialized laboratories, such as those found in hospitals or state public health laboratories. All of these tests are performed by a health care provider using a swab to swipe the inside of your nose or the back of your throat. These tests do not require a blood sample. For more information, see Seasonal Influenza Testing.
How well can these tests detect the flu?
Rapid tests vary in their ability to detect flu viruses. Depending on the test used, their ability to detect 2009 H1N1 flu can range from 10% to 70%. This means that some people with a 2009 H1N1 flu infection have had a negative rapid test result. (This situation is called a false negative test result.) Rapid tests appear to be better at detecting flu in children than adults. None of the rapid tests currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are able to distinguish 2009 H1N1 flu from other flu viruses.
Will my health care provider test me for flu if I have flu-like symptoms?
Not necessarily. Your health care provider may diagnose you with flu based on your symptoms and their clinical judgment or they may choose to use an influenza diagnostic test. Depending on their clinical judgment and your symptoms, your healthcare provider will decide whether testing is needed and what type of test to perform. CDC has provided recommendations for clinicians this season to help with testing decisions. This season, most testing will be done in people who are seriously ill (hospitalized patients) and patients where testing may impact treatment decisions. In most cases, if a healthcare provider suspects you have the flu, the test results will not change their treatment decisions.
Who is being tested for flu this season?
This season CDC has provided Interim Recommendations for Clinical Use of Influenza Diagnostic Tests During the 2009-10 Influenza Season which recommends that the following people receive influenza diagnostic testing: 1) people who are hospitalized with suspected flu and 2) people such as pregnant women or people with weakened immune systems, for whom a diagnosis of flu will help their doctor make decisions about their care. CDC expects that most people with flu symptoms this season will not require testing for 2009 H1N1 because the test results usually do not change how you are treated. Additional people may be recommended for testing based on the clinical judgment of their health care provider.
How will I know what strain of flu I have or if it’s 2009 H1N1 (formerly known as Swine Flu)?
You may not be able to find out definitively what flu virus you have. Currently available rapid influenza diagnostic tests cannot distinguish between 2009 H1N1 and seasonal influenza A viruses. Most people with flu symptoms this season will not require testing for 2009 H1N1 because the test results usually do not change how you are treated. As of September 2009, more than 99% of circulating influenza viruses in the United States are 2009 H1N1. Therefore, at this time, if your health care provider determines that you have the flu, you most likely have 2009 H1N1. As the season progresses, different influenza viruses may circulate and updated national information on circulating influenza viruses is available in the FluView U.S. Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report.
There are laboratory tests available that can tell the difference between 2009 H1N1 and other strains of flu, but these can take one to several days to provide results and this season, CDC has recommended that this testing be focused on 1) people who are hospitalized with suspected flu; 2) people such as pregnant women or people with weakened immune systems, for whom a diagnosis of flu will help their doctor make decisions about their care.
Why can’t I get a more accurate laboratory test to find out if I had flu or what kind of flu I had?
The most accurate laboratory tests, such as real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) are only available in certain laboratories, and these tests can take several days to obtain results. This season, CDC is focusing use of these tests on people who are hospitalized or for other reasons explained in the question “Who is being tested for flu this season?”
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CERVICAL CANCER |
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CLUW JOINS GLOBAL PEARL OF WISDOM CAMPAIGN
TO PREVENT CERVICAL CANCER
Coalition Promotes Pearl of Wisdom As Worldwide Symbol of Cervical Cancer Prevention
Washington, D.C. – Jan. 14, 2009 – Marking Cervical Cancer Awareness Month in January, the Coalition of Labor Union Women has joined a coalition of women’s health and advocacy organizations in the United States and Europe in a new, united effort to prevent cervical cancer worldwide.
The Pearl of Wisdom Campaign to Prevent Cervical Cancer (www.PearlofWisdom.us) will raise awareness of cervical cancer, encourage women to take advantage of the means that are now available to prevent it and work to make sure that these methods are accessible to girls and women around the globe – particularly to the undeserved populations that have much higher rates of cervical cancer. A central focus of the campaign is the promotion of the Pearl of Wisdom as the global symbol of cervical cancer prevention, designed to help all groups involved unite behind a core set of messages.
“Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women around the world, killing nearly 300,000 women worldwide each year, however, this disease is almost completely preventable,” said CLUW Executive Vice President Jean Hervey, who attributes her cancer-free health to information she learned from CLUW about HPV and preventing cervical cancer.
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“Research has established that cervical cancer is caused by persistent infection with a very common virus called the human papillomavirus (HPV), whose presence is seen in 99.7% of all
cervical cancers. So, almost every case of cervical cancer is now preventable through organized screening with Pap tests, HPV tests and immunization programs with HPV vaccines.”
CLUW plans to support the campaign by incorporating it into its ongoing cervical cancer prevention project, Cervical Cancer Prevention Works, which focuses on raising union members’ awareness of HPV’s link to cervical cancer and educating union women on how to prevent this nearly 100% preventable disease.
The Pearl of Wisdom Campaign to Prevent Cervical Cancer was started by the European
Cervical Cancer Association, or ECCA (www.ecca.info) which includes 100 organizations from
across Europe. In addition to CLUW, the U.S. partners include the American Medical Women’s Association, the American Social Health Association, the Balm in Gilead, the Global Summit of Women, the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health, the National Council of Women’s Organizations, the Society for Women’s Health Research, Tamika and Friends, Women In Government, The Yellow Umbrella Organization, and others.
Pearl of Wisdom pins are available at www.PearlofWisdom.us for $6.95 each and are also available in bulk. Proceeds will go to the U.S.Pearl of Wisdom Campaign Fund, dedicated to the support of U.S.-based cervical cancer prevention activities. Visitors can also send
“virtual” Pearls of Wisdom to the women in their lives through the website.
“The prevention of cervical cancer is now a realizable goal and the Pearl of Wisdom is the ideal symbol to spread this powerful message. It is my hope that women around the world and, indeed, everyone takes this symbol to heart and supports our united campaign to ultimately eliminate cervical cancer,” said Dr. Anne Szarewski, interim president of the ECCA.
About Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women worldwide. In the U.S., the American Cancer society estimates that 11,070 women will have been diagnosed with cervical cancer and 3,870 women will have died of the disease in 2008. Cervical cancer is caused by high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a very common sexually transmitted infection that 3 of 4 adults will have at some time in their lives. Most of these infections go away on their own without treatment. Infections that do not go away on their own can lead to cervical cancer.
A Pap test is the traditional method used for cervical cancer screening. An HPV test identifies women who are infected with high-risk types of HPV that could potentially lead to cervical cancer. Clinical studies suggest that screening with both a Pap test and an HPV test offers women aged 30 and older the best protection against cervical cancer. An HPV vaccine is now FDA-approved for girls and young women ages 9-26. It has been shown to be 100% effective – in women not previously infected – at preventing infection with the two types of HPV that cause approximately 70% of all cervical cancers. HPV vaccination does not protect against all the HPV types that can cause cervical cancer, however, meaning that women who have been vaccinated still need to be screened to protect against the HPV types that are not covered by the vaccine.
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GUM DISEASE |
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The Health Perils of Gum Disease
Gum disease does more than endanger your teeth and gums. It can also lead to and worsen far more dangerous ills.
The eyes are the windows to the soul, goes the old saying. In the same way, growing research suggests, your mouth may be a kind of window to much of what happens to the rest of your body.
How exactly does the mouth reveal and even influence overall health and well-being? First, the condition of the teeth, tongue, and lips can determine how we talk, how we eat, what we eat, how we kiss, and how we go about our daily lives, says William Maas, DDS, MPH, director of the CDC's Division of Oral Health.
"There are children at school right now who can't quite concentrate on what the teacher is talking about because they have a nagging toothache," says Maas. "Maybe somebody at work is not functioning as well as they could [for the same reason]."
Sally Cram, DDS, a spokeswoman for the American Dental Association (ADA), agrees. "We can no longer think of the mouth as not part of the overall body, because so much that goes on in the mouth can affect the overall health in the body."
Cram cites research that links gum disease with heart disease, diabetes, lung problems, and premature and low-birth-weight babies. Helena Gallant Tripp, RDH, president of the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA), says, "In bulimic patients [who] induce vomiting, you see the acid wearing away the inner surface of their teeth. You can pick up osteoporosis [bone thinning] in dental X-rays."
To further explain how the mouth and the body seem to share such a close relationship, let's start with the basics of oral health and what can go wrong in the mouth.
What Goes Wrong in the Mouth: Gum Disease
Many people worry about cavities, but periodontal disease can also be a big problem for people with poor oral hygiene.
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. When plaque develops, bacteria irritate the gums and cause them to swell. In the beginning, the disease is called gingivitis and only affects the gums. In more advanced phases, the disease is known as periodontitis. The bacteria go under the gum line, eventually attacking the tissues and bone around the teeth. This can lead to tooth loss.
Nearly 75% of American adults have some form of periodontal disease, reports the ADHA. The symptoms of gum disease can be so mild that some people don't know they have it. According to the ADA, warning signs include:
· Gums that bleed easily
· Red, swollen, tender gums
· Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
· Persistent bad breath or bad taste
· Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
· Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
· Any change in the fit of partial dentures
Besides poor oral hygiene, several factors raise the risk of periodontal disease:
· Smoking/tobacco use
· Genetics
· Stress
· Medication use, such as oral contraceptives (the pill) and steroids (such as those people with asthma take)
· Poor nutrition
· Diseases that affect multiple organs, such as diabetes
· Pregnancy and puberty
· Clenching or grinding teeth
· Bridges that no longer fit properly
· Crooked teeth
· Defective fillings
Regular professional checkups of the mouth can help detect, prevent, and treat gum disease and the disorders that go along with it.
Preventing periodontal disease may have benefits besides keeping gums and teeth in mint condition.
"There's no question that good periodontal health is good for overall health and well-being," says Gordon Douglass, DDS, past president of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP).
To show how gum disease can harm the rest of the body, Douglass suggests curving your hand around a pen, and imagining the pen as a tooth, and the hand as the gums. There is normally little space around the gums and teeth.
In gum disease, bacteria break down the tissues around the tooth. The resulting space becomes a niche where periodontal bacteria can breed. The gums then become inflamed and bleed in an attempt to fight the infection. Yet the greater the swelling and the deeper the space between the teeth and gums, the easier it is for the periodontal bacteria to enter the bloodstream, says Douglass.
"It appears that just the presence of these bacteria in elevated levels causes inflammation in the bloodstream," says Douglass.
Inflamed arteries and blood clots are hallmarks of heart disease. The AAP reports that people with gum disease are almost twice as likely to have coronary artery disease (heart disease), compared to folks without gum disease.
At the same time, drugs intended to control blood pressure, regulate heart rhythm, and reduce cholesterol levels may make gums larger or more swollen, reports the ADHA. If that happens, people can work with their dentist to treat and reduce gum swelling and then with their doctor to prescribe drugs that don't cause this side effect.
Gum Disease's Effect on Diabetes, Pregnancy
Gum disease also creates problems for people with diabetes, who are twice as likely to develop the condition. Once they have it, periodontal bacteria that makes its way into the bloodstream can make it harder to regulate blood sugar levels. And if their diabetes is not well managed, more oral health breakdown happens. The ADHA reports people with diabetes also tend to have these mouth-related problems: burning sensations, overgrowth of gum tissue, abnormal wound healing, tooth decay, fungal infections, fruity breath, frequent dry mouth, or foamy saliva.
"We know that having chronic infection in the gum and bone around your teeth can affect your body's ability to heal," says Cram. "On the flip side, we see diabetics who, once they find out they have gum infection and get that under control, they find it much easier to get their blood sugar under control."
Gum disease can also complicate pregnancies. According to the AAP, expectant mothers with periodontal bacteria are seven times more likely to have a premature and low-birth-weight baby.
The bacteria and the toxins from the periodontal disease enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation that induces the pregnancy," says Tripp of the ADHA. "It triggers premature labor."
Babies born before 37 weeks and who weigh less than five-and-a-half pounds are considered premature. Chances of survival depend on how early the baby arrives. At 24 weeks, a baby has about a 10% chance of survival. At 26 weeks, the chance increases to 55%, and at 28 weeks, it is 77%.
Doctors suspect that the risk of having a preterm birth is even higher if gum disease worsens during pregnancy. This is why, experts say, pregnant women or women thinking about becoming pregnant should have a thorough oral exam.
Gum disease may also cause and aggravate problems in the respiratory system. Studies are still ongoing, but scientists suspect that when bacteria in the mouth enter the lungs, they can cause infection or worsen an already weakened system.
"When you have a chronic infection in your mouth, it certainly can put you at higher risk for infections elsewhere in your body," says Cram.
Research also shows that people with a respiratory problem called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may have poorer oral health. And the ADHA reports that some asthma treatments may cause dry mouth or a fungal infection, which may increase the risk of diseases in the mouth.
Keeping the mouth healthy may, indeed, be a worthwhile investment in overall good health.
"Only brush the teeth you want to keep," jokes Maas. But such advice is not far off from the mark.
The ADA recommends the following for optimal oral health:
Brush your teeth twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste.
Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.
Eat balanced mix of foods and limit between-meal snacks.
Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.
Also, avoid sharing toothbrushes and change brushes often.
"It's been shown that within families, the bacteria from periodontal disease can be transmitted, probably most commonly by picking up someone else's toothbrush," says Douglass. This isn't the same as passing cold germs back and forth, adds Douglass. It also doesn't mean instant infection. People who do acquire the bacteria may or may not succumb to gum disease, depending on how susceptible they are.
That means that everyone in the family should get regular, thorough oral exams. Ask your oral health professional to especially check the gums.
"Those of us who manage patients clinically have found that we'll have someone who appears to do everything right, and they keep getting recurrent periodontal problems," says Douglass. "Then, it turns out, after examining their spouse, the spouse really has significant periodontal disease."
In addition, be aware of certain factors that can raise your risk for periodontal infection:
Family history of gum disease
Smoking (tobacco alters the gingival or gum tissue, breaks down the seal around the teeth, and makes oral tissue less able to fight bad bacteria.)
Poor oral hygiene
Exposure to periodontal bacteria
An oral health professional can also help you assess what type of toothbrush, floss, and other gadgets can help you take proper care of your mouth.
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Preparing for a Swine Flu (H1N1) Pandemic |
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Preparing for a Swine Flu (H1N1) Pandemic
Family Preparedness Fact Sheet
The symptoms of pandemic flu are likely to be similar to those of seasonal flu, which are:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Extreme tiredness
- Headache
- Muscle aches and pains
- Stomach problems, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)
Contact a health care provider if you have any questions about specific symptoms. Visit
The flu, also known as influenza, is a contagious respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses. In the United States, flu season begins every fall and ends every spring. The flu people get during this season is called seasonal flu. Sometimes, a new type of flu virus may emerge to which people have no resistance. When this happens, it can spread more easily from person to person around the world in a very short time, causing serious illness and death. This is pandemic flu. www.cdc.gov/flu/keyfacts.htm for more detailed flu symptom information.
Pandemic Flu: the Disease
Pandemic flu is more serious than seasonal flu. Most people who get seasonal flu recover within a week or two and do not require medical treatment. The very young, the very old and the very sick are most likely to become seriously ill from seasonal flu. Pandemic flu is different because more people who get it might not recover, even with medical treatment, and people of every age may be at risk of serious illness or death.
Unlike seasonal flu, there may not be a vaccine for pandemic flu until researchers and pharmaceutical companies are able to create one. Vaccine development depends on the scientific understanding of the specific virus causing the disease. If a vaccine is developed for pandemic flu, it will be a challenge to produce enough for everyone and dispense it to all the people that need it in a timely manner.
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Flu Pandemic: the Event
An influenza pandemic is a global outbreak of disease that occurs when a new influenza virus, to which people have little or no immunity, appears in the human population. It causes a serious illness that spreads easily from person to person worldwide.
Pandemics are different from seasonal outbreaks of influenza. Seasonal outbreaks are caused by subtypes of influenza viruses that are already in existence among people, whereas pandemic outbreaks are caused by new subtypes or by subtypes that have never circulated among people or that have not circulated among people in a long time.
In the 20th century, flu pandemics occurred in 1918, 1957 and 1968. The 1918 pandemic led to high levels of illness, death, social disruption and economic loss. It is estimated it killed more than 20 million people worldwide.
Flu Pandemic: Preparedness
During a flu pandemic, government officials may impose activity, movement or travel restrictions to prevent the flu virus from spreading. You may be asked to stay home for an extended period of time even if you are not sick. Schools, workplaces and public gatherings, such as sporting events or worship services, may close temporarily. Mass transportation such as subways, buses, trains and air travel—may be limited. You and your family and friends may need to rely on each other.
Think about how you handle stress and know your strengths. Take steps to plan for, get through and recover from a flu pandemic.
- Store a two-week supply of food that does not require refrigeration, preparation or cooking. Ensure that formula for infants and any child's or older person's special nutritional needs are a part of your planning. Plan for your pets as well.
- Store a two-week supply of water, 1 gallon of water per person per day, in clean plastic containers. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass bottles.
- Ask your health care provider and health insurance company if you can get an extra supply of your regular prescription drugs and medical supplies, such as glucose monitoring supplies.
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HEART DISEASE AND STRESS |
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Heart Disease and Stress
Are stress and heart disease related? Does stress increase the risk of heart disease? Stress is a normal part of life. But if left unmanaged, stress can lead to emotional, psychological, and even physical problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, chest pains, or irregular heart beats.
How Does Stress Increase the Risk for Heart Disease?
Medical researchers aren't sure exactly how stress increases the risk of heart disease. Stress itself might be a risk factor, or it could be that high levels of stress make other risk factors (such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure) worse. For example, if you are under stress, your blood pressure goes up, you may overeat, you may exercise less, and you may be more likely to smoke.
If stress itself is a risk factor for heart disease, it could be because chronic stress exposes your body to unhealthy, persistently elevated levels of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Studies also link stress to changes in the way blood clots, which increases the risk of heart attack.
Does Stress Affect Everyone the Same?
No. People respond in different ways to events and situations. One person may find an event joyful and gratifying, but another person may find the same event miserable and frustrating. Sometimes, people may handle stress in ways that make bad situations worse by reacting with feelings of anger, guilt, fear, hostility, anxiety, and moodiness. Others may face life's challenges with ease.
What Causes Stress?
Stress can be caused by a physical or emotional change, or a change in your environment that requires you to adjust or respond. Things that make you feel stressed are called "stressors."
Stressors can be minor hassles, major lifestyle changes, or a combination of both. Being able to identify stressors in your life and releasing the tension they cause are the keys to managing stress.
Below are some common stressors that can affect people at all stages of life.
- Illness, either personal or of a family member or friend.
- Death of a friend or loved one.
- Problems in a personal relationship.
- Work overload.
- Starting a new job.
- Unemployment.
- Retirement.
- Pregnancy.
- Crowds.
- Relocation.
- Daily hassles.
- Legal problems.
- Financial concerns.
- Perfectionism.
What Are the Warning Signs of Stress?
When you are exposed to long periods of stress, your body gives warning signals that something is wrong. These physical, cognitive, emotional and behavioral warning signs should not be ignored. They tell you that you need to slow down. If you continue to be stressed and you don't give your body a break, you are likely to develop health problems like heart disease. You could also worsen an existing illness.
Below are some common warning signs and symptoms of stress.
Physical signs
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Dizziness, general aches and pains, grinding teeth, clenched jaws, headaches, indigestion, muscle tension, difficulty sleeping, racing heart, ringing in the ears, stooped posture, sweaty palms, tiredness, exhaustion, trembling, weight gain or loss, upset stomach
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Mental signs
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Constant worry, difficulty making decisions, forgetfulness, inability to concentrate, lack of creativity, loss of sense of humor, poor memory
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Emotional signs
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Anger, anxiety, crying, depression, feeling powerless, frequent mood swings, irritability, loneliness, negative thinking, nervousness, sadness
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Behavioral signs
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Bossiness, compulsive eating, critical attitude of others, explosive actions, frequent job changes, impulsive actions, increased use of alcohol or drugs, withdrawal from relationships or social situations
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How Can I Cope With Stress?
After you've identified the cause of stress in your life, the next step is to learn techniques that can help you cope with stress while fighting heart disease. There are many techniques you can use to manage stress. Some of which you can learn yourself, while other techniques may require the guidance of a trained therapist.
Some common techniques for coping with stress include:
- Eat and drink sensibly. Abusing alcohol and food may seem to reduce stress, but it actually adds to it.
- Assert yourself. You do not have to meet others' expectations or demands. It's OK to say "no." Remember, being assertive allows you to stand up for your rights and beliefs while respecting those of others.
- Stop smoking. Aside from the obvious health risks of cigarettes, nicotine acts as a stimulant and brings on more stress symptoms.
- Exercise regularly. Choose non-competitive exercise and set reasonable goals. Aerobic exercise has been shown to release endorphins (natural substances that help you feel better and maintain a positive attitude.)
- Relax every day. Choose from a variety of different techniques (see below).
- Take responsibility. Control what you can and leave behind what you cannot control.
- Reduce causes of stress. Many people find life is filled with too many demands and too little time. For the most part, these demands are ones we have chosen. Effective time-management skills involve asking for help when appropriate, setting priorities, pacing yourself, and taking time out for yourself.
- Examine your values and live by them. The more your actions reflect your beliefs, the better you will feel, no matter how busy your life is.
- Set realistic goals and expectations. It's OK, and healthy, to realize you cannot be 100% successful at everything all at once.
- Sell yourself to yourself. When you are feeling overwhelmed, remind yourself of what you do well. Have a healthy sense of self-esteem.
- Get enough rest. Even with proper diet and exercise, you can't fight stress effectively without rest. You need time to recover from exercise and stressful events. The time you spend resting should be long enough to relax your mind as well as your body. Some people find that taking a nap in the middle of the day helps them reduce stress.
How Can I Keep a Positive Attitude?
A positive attitude and self-esteem are good defenses against stress and heart disease because they help you view stress as a challenge rather than a problem. A positive attitude keeps you in control when there are inevitable changes in your life. A positive attitude means telling yourself there are things you can do to improve certain situations and admitting that sometimes there's nothing you can do. To maintain a positive attitude during a stressful situation (or to prepare yourself for a potentially stressful situation), keep these tips in mind:
- Stay calm. Stop what you're doing. Breathe deeply. Reflect on your choices.
- Always tell yourself you can get through the situation.
- Try to be objective, realistic, and flexible.
- Try to keep the situation in perspective. Think about the possible solutions. Choose one that is the most acceptable and feasible.
- Think about the outcome: Ask yourself, what is the worst possible thing that can happen? (Chances are that won't happen)
- Tell yourself that you can learn something from every situation.
How Can I Reduce My Stressors?
While it is impossible to live your life completely stress-free, it is possible to reduce the harmful effects of certain stressors on you and your heart. Here are some suggestions:
- First identify the stressor. What's causing you to feel stressed?
- Avoid hassles and minor irritations if possible. If traffic jams cause you stress, try taking a different route, riding the train or bus, or car-pooling.
- When you experience a change in your life, try to continue doing the things that you enjoyed before the change occurred.
- Learn how to manage your time effectively, but be realistic and flexible when you plan your schedule.
- Do one thing at a time; concentrate on each task as it comes.
- Take a break when your stressors compile to an uncontrollable level.
- Ask for help if you feel that you are unable to deal with stress on your own.
How Can I Learn How to Relax?
In order to cope with stress, especially if you have heart disease, you need to learn how to relax. Relaxing is a learned skill -- it takes commitment and practice. Relaxation is more than sitting back and being quiet. Rather, it's an active process involving techniques that calm your body and mind. True relaxation requires becoming sensitive to your basic needs for peace, self-awareness, and thoughtful reflection. The challenge is being willing to meet these needs rather than dismissing them.
There are a number of relaxation techniques, including:
- Deep breathing. Imagine a spot just below your navel. Breathe into that spot, filling your abdomen with air. Let the air fill you from the abdomen up, then let it out, like deflating a balloon. With every long, slow exhalation, you should feel more relaxed.
- Progressive muscle relaxation. Switch your thoughts to yourself and your breathing. Take a few deep breaths, exhaling slowly. Mentally scan your body. Notice areas that feel tense or cramped. Quickly loosen up these areas. Let go of as much tension as you can. Rotate your head in a smooth, circular motion once or twice. (Stop any movements that cause pain!) Roll your shoulders forward and backward several times. Let all of your muscles completely relax. Recall a pleasant thought for a few seconds. Take another deep breath and exhale slowly. You should feel relaxed.
- Guided Imagery. Guided imagery, or mental imagery relaxation, is a proven form of focused relaxation that helps create harmony between the mind and body. Guided imagery coaches you in creating calm, peaceful images in your mind -- a "mental escape." Identify your self-talk, that is, what you are saying to yourself about what is going on with your illness or situation. It is important to identify negative self-talk and develop healthy, positive self-talk. By making affirmations, you can counteract negative thoughts and emotions.
- Relax to music. Combine relaxation exercises with your favorite music. Select the type of music that lifts your mood or that you find soothing or calming. Some people find it easier to relax while listening to specially designed relaxation audio tapes, which provide music and relaxation instructions.
- Biofeedback. Biofeedback helps a person learn stress-reduction skills by using various instruments to measure temperature, heart rate, muscle tension, and other vital signs as a person attempts to relax. The goal of biofeedback is to teach you to monitor your own body as you relax. It is used to gain control over certain bodily functions that cause tension and physical pain. If a headache, such as a migraine, begins slowly, many people can use biofeedback to stop the attack before it becomes full blown.
- Yoga. Many types of yoga teach you how to relax while also helping posture and flexibility. Consult with your doctor before starting a yoga program.
Once you find a relaxation method that works for you, practice it every day for at least 30 minutes. Taking the time to practice simple relaxation techniques gives you the chance to unwind and get ready for life's next challenge.
Can What I Eat Help Fight Stress?
Your body is able to fight stress and heart disease better when you take the time to eat well-balanced meals. Eat a variety of foods each day, including lean meats, fish, or poultry, enriched or whole grain breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables, and low-fat dairy products.
About 55%-60% of your daily intake of calories should come from carbohydrates, no more than 25%-30% from of your caloric intake should come from fat and 10%-15% should come from protein.
Guidelines for Healthy Eating
- Eat a wide variety of healthy foods.
- Eat in moderation -- control the portions of the foods you eat.
- Reach a healthy weight and maintain it.
- Eat at least 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
- Eat food that is high in dietary fiber such as whole grain cereals, legumes, and vegetables.
- Minimize your daily fat intake. Choose foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
- Limit your consumption of sugar and salt.
- Limit the amount of alcohol that you drink.
- Make small changes in your diet over time.
- Combine healthy eating habits with a regular exercise program.
What if Sleep Problems Are Contributing to my Stress?
If you cannot sleep and it's causing you stress or making it worse, try these tips:
- Establish a regular sleep schedule. Go to bed and get up at the same time every day.
- Make sure your bed and surroundings are comfortable. Arrange the pillows so you can maintain a comfortable position.
- Keep your bedroom dark and quiet.
- Use your bedroom for sleeping only; don't work or watch TV in your bedroom.
- Avoid napping too much during the day. At the same time, remember to balance activity with rest during recovery.
- If you feel nervous or anxious, talk to your spouse, partner, or a trusted friend. Get your troubles off your mind.
- Listen to relaxing music.
- Talk to your doctor before taking any sleeping aid.
- Take diuretics or "water pills" earlier, if possible, so you don't have to get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.
- If you can't sleep, get up and do something relaxing until you feel tired. Don't stay in bed worrying about when you're going to fall asleep.
- Avoid caffeine.
- Don't exercise within two to three hours of bedtime.
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February is American Heart Month |
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February is American Heart Month
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Learn about heart disease prevention.
Heart Disease is the Number One Cause of Death
About every 25 seconds, an American will have a coronary event.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and is a major cause of disability. The most common heart disease in the United States is coronary heart disease, which often appears as a heart attack. In 2009, an estimated 785,000 Americans had a new coronary attack, and about 470,000 will have a recurrent attack. About every 25 seconds, an American will have a coronary event, and about one every minute will die from one.
The chance of developing coronary heart disease can be reduced by taking steps to prevent and control factors that put people at greater risk. Additionally, knowing the signs and symptoms of heart attack are crucial to the most positive outcomes after having a heart attack. People who have survived a heart attack can also work to reduce their risk of another heart attack or a stroke in the future. For more information on heart disease and stroke, visit CDC's Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention.
Diseases and Conditions That Put Your Heart at Risk
Other conditions that affect your heart or increase your risk of death or disability include arrhythmia, heart failure, and peripheral artery disease (PAD). High cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, tobacco use, and secondhand smoke are also risk factors associated with heart disease. For a full list of diseases and conditions along with risk factors and other health information associated with heart disease, visit the American Heart Association.
Know Your Signs and Symptoms
Some heart attacks are sudden and intense; however, most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening:
- Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
- Shortness of breath. May occur with or without chest discomfort.
- Other signs. These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.
The American Heart Association, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the American Red Cross, and the National Council on Aging have launched a new "Act in Time" campaign to increase people's awareness of heart attack and the importance of calling 9-1-1 immediately at the onset of heart attack symptoms.
More information on good health is available under our HEALTH AND WELL BEING tab on the left side of our web page.
QUEENS AREA LOCAL,
KEEPING OUR MEMBERS HEALTHY.
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PROSTATE CANCER |
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The Burden of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer (other than some forms of skin cancer) and the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the United States, after lung cancer.1 About 62% of all clinically diagnosed prostate cancers occur in men over age 65.1
In 2004 (the most recent year for which data are available), 189,075 new cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in the United States, and 29,002 men died of the cancer.*1
As compared to white men, African American men experience higher rates of prostate cancer, while the disease occurs less frequently among Asian/Pacific Islander and American Indian/Alaska Native men.1 In addition, Hispanic men are at greater risk than non-Hispanics.
The incidence of prostate cancer in the United States significantly decreased in the early 1990s but has remained level since 1995.2
Deaths from prostate cancer have declined significantly since the early 1990s.2
*Incidence counts cover approximately 98% of the U.S. population. Death counts cover 100% of the U.S. population. Use caution in comparing incidence and death counts.
FOR MORE INFORMATION SEE THE ATTACHED SCREENING GUIDE BELOW.
1U.S. Cancer Statistics Working Group. United States Cancer Statistics: 2004 Incidence and Mortality. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Washington, D.C.: National Cancer Institute; 2007.
2Espey DK, Wu X, Swan J, Wiggins C, Jim M, Ward E, Wingo PA, Howe HL, Ries LAG, Miller BA, Jemal A, Ahmed F, Cobb N, Kaur JS, Edwards BK. Annual report to the nation on the status of cancer, 1975–2004, featuring cancer in American Indians and Alaska natives. Cancer 2007;110(10):2119–2152.
SCREENING GUIDE
Download:
PROSTATE 012309.pdf
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Safety Tips for Your Fun in the Sun |
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Safety Tips for Your Fun in the Sun
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At last, beautiful weather is here! Before going outside, plan to protect your skin. By following some simple steps, you can help yourself avoid skin cancer -- the most common form of cancer in the US.
Skin cancer affects more than one million people in America annually. Most of these cases are thought to be sun-related. Melanoma, the most serious type of sun-related skin cancer, makes up about 75 percent of the nearly 11,590 deaths from skin cancer each year.
Skin cancer prevention: a concern for us all
All people are at risk for skin cancer, no matter our skin color. Unfortunately, those of us with darker complexions tend not to see ourselves as being at risk. As a result, skin cancer may not be detected early enough, making us much more likely to die from skin cancer than people with lighter complexions. So it's important for all of us to be aware of effective prevention, early detection and prompt treatment.
Make sun safety a part of your life!
To keep your skin healthy and burn-free, follow these tips from the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention and the American Cancer Society:
1. Avoid tanning in the sun and at the salon. You've probably heard that the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause skin cancer and wrinkles. Did you know that the same goes for tanning beds? If you want to look sun-kissed, try a sunless tanning product. It's available at most pharmacies. Don't forget to wear your sunscreen along with it!
2. Wear lots of sunscreen. Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, even when it's cloudy out. Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. It should be labeled "broad spectrum." This means that it protects you from two types of ultraviolet rays -- UVA and UVB. Put on more sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or heavy sweating.
3. Wear protective clothing. Long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses are smart clothing options for your outdoor play.
4. Stay in the shade, when possible. Between 10 am and 4 pm, the sun's rays are at their strongest -- and most dangerous. The shade of an umbrella or tree can keep those rays away.
5. Be careful near the water and sand. Being on the beach or cooling off in the pool may feel great. But water and sand reflect the sun's rays, increasing the chance for sunburn.
Examining your skin
Finding skin cancer early is the best way to make sure it can be treated effectively. That's why it's important to check your skin at least once a month. Make an appointment with your doctor if you develop any of the following:
· Any change in the size, color, shape or texture of a mole or skin growth.
· A change in the surface of a mole, including scaliness, oozing, bleeding or the appearance of a bump or nodule (a small, solid lump).
· A sore that does not heal.
· Coloring that spreads past the edge of a mole or mark, often in shades of brown or black and sometimes with patches of pink, red, white or blue.
· A change in the sensation, itchiness, tenderness or pain of a skin growth.
· Redness or a new swelling beyond the border of a mole or mark.
Your doctor should look at your skin carefully at all routine checkups.
Learn more!
Sources
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SUMMER HEALTH AND SAFETY INFO |
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SUMMER HEALTH AND SAFETY INFO
Summer's here! As you plan your trips to the beach, into the woods or a park, or just into your own backyard, take time to plan for summer safety. Here are some ways to protect yourself so you can get the most out of your favorite outdoor activities:
Sun Safety
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. And it can be prevented by taking steps to protect your skin. Remember, the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays shine down even on cloudy days. So even when the sun seems to be hiding, follow safety measures such as:
- Wearing sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher,
- Applying sunscreen to dry skin 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, again every 2 hours once in the sun, and even more often if you're swimming or sweating,
- Staying out of the sun from 10 am to 4 pm, when the sun is strongest,
- Seeking shade when it's available,
- Covering up as much unprotected skin as possible, and/or
- Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses that block UV rays.
Bug Safety
for most people, insect bites and bee stings aren't dangerous. But for people who are allergic to them, bites and stings can cause a potentially deadly allergic reaction called anaphylactic shock. This must be handled as a medical emergency. When in the woods, wear long sleeves and pants to prevent tick bites. Most tick bites are harmless. But many types of ticks carry and spread Lyme Disease.
Water Safety
Watch your children closely when they're in or around a pool. Before they learn to swim, flotation devices can help them stay above water. Early on, teach them the rules of safe swimming, including no running near a pool and no diving in waters less than five feet deep.
Heat Safety
To avoid heat-related illness, drink plenty of water or liquids with electrolytes. Know the symptoms of heat rash and heat stroke to prevent serious problems. If you have young children, never leave them alone in the car with the windows rolled up.
Travel Safety
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 40 percent of run-off-the-road car crashes happen because of driver distractions. These include reading, eating and using a cell phone. Whether you're driving, biking or running, stay focused on the road and be aware of the drivers and conditions around you. Always wear your seatbelt and ask all the passengers in your car to do the same.
Bike Safety
When you're biking, make sure your bike is the right size and always wear a helmet that fits you. For the most protection, use a bike light and wear light-colored clothes.
Don't let the season's dangers spoil your fun in the sun. Plan ahead to stay safe!
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PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUMMER SUN |
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Don't Fry Day !
Safety Tips for Your Fun in the Sun
|
At last, beautiful weather is here! Before going outside, plan to protect your skin. By following some simple steps, you can help yourself avoid skin cancer -- the most common form of cancer in the US.
Skin cancer affects more than one million people in America annually. Most of these cases are thought to be sun-related. Melanoma, the most serious type of sun-related skin cancer, makes up about 75 percent of the nearly 11,590 deaths from skin cancer each year.
Skin cancer prevention: a concern for us all
All people are at risk for skin cancer, no matter our skin color. Unfortunately, those of us with darker complexions tend not to see ourselves as being at risk. As a result, skin cancer may not be detected early enough, making us much more likely to die from skin cancer than people with lighter complexions. So it's important for all of us to be aware of effective prevention, early detection and prompt treatment.
Make sun safety a part of your life!
To keep your skin healthy and burn-free, follow these tips from the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention and the American Cancer Society:
1. Avoid tanning in the sun and at the salon. You've probably heard that the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause skin cancer and wrinkles. Did you know that the same goes for tanning beds? If you want to look sun-kissed, try a sunless tanning product. It's available at most pharmacies. Don't forget to wear your sunscreen along with it!
2. Wear lots of sunscreen. Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, even when it's cloudy out. Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. It should be labeled "broad spectrum." This means that it protects you from two types of ultraviolet rays -- UVA and UVB. Put on more sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or heavy sweating.
3. Wear protective clothing. Long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses are smart clothing options for your outdoor play.
4. Stay in the shade, when possible. Between 10 am and 4 pm, the sun's rays are at their strongest -- and most dangerous. The shade of an umbrella or tree can keep those rays away.
5. Be careful near the water and sand. Being on the beach or cooling off in the pool may feel great. But water and sand reflect the sun's rays, increasing the chance for sunburn.
Examining your skin
Finding skin cancer early is the best way to make sure it can be treated effectively. That's why it's important to check your skin at least once a month. Make an appointment with your doctor if you develop any of the following:
· Any change in the size, color, shape or texture of a mole or skin growth.
· A change in the surface of a mole, including scaliness, oozing, bleeding or the appearance of a bump or nodule (a small, solid lump).
· A sore that does not heal.
· Coloring that spreads past the edge of a mole or mark, often in shades of brown or black and sometimes with patches of pink, red, white or blue.
· A change in the sensation, itchiness, tenderness or pain of a skin growth.
· Redness or a new swelling beyond the border of a mole or mark.
Your doctor should look at your skin carefully at all routine checkups.
Learn more!
Sources
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Page Last Updated: Oct 12, 2009 (07:23:52)
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