- Cancer Care, WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogEvery day, you take steps to protect your health. You may buckle up when you get in the car or put sunscreen on when you plan to be outdoors. Or maybe you take the stairs instead of the elevator at work and make it a point to eat plenty of fruits and veggies. These are simple things, but they can reap big rewards when it comes to keeping you well. And if you’re a current or former smoker, there’s another easy way to stay healthy and safe: Talk with your doctor about lung cancer screening. Lung cancer screening may be one of our most powerful weapons yet in the fight against lung cancer. And with updated recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), more people than ever now qualify for this potentially lifesaving care. You might be one of them. Discover how early detection can make a difference Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer deaths. It’s also the second most common type of cancer diagnosed in men and women in the U.S. One big reason: Most people don’t notice symptoms of the disease until it’s in an advanced stage, when it’s often difficult to treat. Screening may help doctors find cancer early, before symptoms appear. When lung cancer is small and hasn’t spread, treatment may keep you from dying of the disease. That’s a good reason to go looking for trouble, even if you feel fine. Know if you should get screened We know smoking poses, by far, the most significant risk factor for lung cancer. With this in mind, the USPSTF now recommends annual lung cancer screening if you: Are between 50 and 80 years old. Previous guidelines suggested starting screening at age 55. Have a 20 pack-year smoking history. To calculate your pack-years, multiply the number of packs you smoked each year by the number of years you smoked. For example, a 20 pack-year means you smoked half a pack a day for 40 years or two packs a day for 10 years. Smoke now or stopped smoking in the past 15 years. Kicking your tobacco habit is the best thing you can do to prevent lung cancer — and a host of other health problems as well. And even if you quit several years ago, you’re still at increased risk. The USPSTF says you can stop screening if you: Have a health problem likely to limit your life expectancy or make it hard for you to have lung surgery that could cure your cancer Haven’t smoked in more than 15 years Know what to expect during your screening test Lung cancer screening involves a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan. During the test, you will lie in a machine that takes X-ray images of your lungs. These detailed images allow your doctors to identify spots that might be cancer. LDCT tests take just a few minutes and are not painful. Medicare and most insurance plans help pay for these screening tests. Speak with your health care provider The best way to find out if and when you should get screened for lung cancer is to speak with your health care provider. Your doctor will talk with you about your risk factors and explain the benefits and possible drawbacks. If the test is right for you, your health care team will help you get it scheduled. However, screening isn’t a good substitute for giving up tobacco. Quitting smoking is the single best step you can take to prevent lung cancer and improve your overall health. It isn’t easy, but it is doable. Millions of Americans have successfully stopped smoking, and you can be one of them. Learn more about our quit smoking resources. Author Imad Tabbara, MD, FACP, has more than three decades of clinical experience with cancer patients, and holds board certifications in internal medicine, hematology and medical oncology. He leads the LHAAMC Hematology and Medical Oncology program. Learn more at LuminisHealth.org/cancercare.0
- Orthopedics, Patient StoriesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAfter numerous setbacks, Hope Lomvardias thought she was out of options. In the spring of 2015, Hope was a 17-year-old Archbishop Spalding junior who was excitedly touring colleges around the Northeast in preparation for applying in the fall. However, during the long car trips, she started experiencing intense low back pain, as well as leg pain and numbness. Her mother, Karyn, an infusion nurse at Anne Arundel Medical Center, became increasingly concerned. “When we would stop the car, Hope could hardly stand up because she was in terrible pain,” explains Karyn. “And, it just worsened. I knew something was wrong, because I’ve had my own cervical spine issues, and I recognized nerve pain.” Because of Hope’s young age, her healthcare providers were reluctant to diagnose a spinal disc problem. Eventually, Hope had an MRI that confirmed a large herniation in the disc in the lowest part of her spine, between L5 and S1 — an unusual diagnosis at her age. She began conservative treatment options that included medication and physical therapy. “During all of this, Hope started her senior year of high school,” recalls Karyn. “It really created problems because she was in excruciating pain.” Hope was able to make arrangements with the school to use the elevator and a rolling backpack, although she hated having to do things differently than her classmates. When Hope was younger, she wore a brace to treat her scoliosis, and she didn’t like feeling different again. However, she had little choice. Next Steps The medication and physical therapy did not offer Hope the relief she needed, and school was getting more difficult. Her parents gave her the option of taking placement tests and going straight into college. But Hope did not want to give up her high school experience, including graduating with her class and going to prom. She continued on with physical therapy, while searching for other treatment options. Hope then met with Roy Bands, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at The Spine Center at AAMC. Dr. Bands had treated both Karyn and Karyn’s father for spine issues, and now Hope would be the third generation to see him. “Hope had a degenerative herniated lumbar disc, which in someone her age, we believe is primarily genetic,” says Dr. Bands. “She has a strong family history of this, including her mother and grandfather.” At first, Dr. Bands recommended Hope continue physical therapy so he could monitor for any improvement. “Unfortunately physical therapy did not improve her condition, so we then discussed her surgical options.” According to Chad Patton, MD, medical director of The Spine Center at AAMC, “Our philosophy of care is patient-centric from beginning to end. It’s important to exhaust conservative treatment options before surgery is considered.” Better Images, Better Outcomes The Spine Center at AAMC recently added the O-arm 3-D imaging system, which can improve patient safety and outcomes during complex spinal procedures. Chad Patton, MD, medical director of The Spine Center at AAMC, is shown in front of the new O-arm 3-D imaging system. “The O-arm captures full 360-degree 3-D images of a patient’s spine, giving us precise anatomical views,” explains Chad Patton, MD, orthopedic surgeon and medical director of The Spine Center at AAMC. “In real time, navigational software can show us where our instruments and implants are in relation to the patient’s anatomy without having to take additional x-rays during the surgery. Not only does this dramatically decrease the radiation exposure to the surgical team, but it also improves patient safety and ultimately allows us to tackle more complex surgery here at AAMC.” According to Dr. Patton, AAMC’s investment in O-arm technology is one additional way the hospital provides the highest quality care possible. A Surgical Solution Although Hope was hesitant to have back surgery, she also recalls how badly she was hurting. “One time it got so bad right before surgery that I even thought ‘if only I can have my leg amputated’ because I couldn’t stand the pain,” she remembers. “The pain was that bad.” By that point, Hope was ready for surgery. “The surgery to repair a herniated disc involves opening the spinal canal and shaving off the herniated portions of the disc. It’s called a laminectomy and discectomy,” explains Dr. Bands. Hope had surgery over the Christmas break to minimize her time away from school, and she emerged in a much better place both physically and mentally. “Immediately after the surgery, I felt so much better,” says Hope. “It was amazing. I felt like I had my old leg back. I was basically pain free. I’m so glad I decided to have surgery.” Now, Hope has returned to her life as an active teenager. Dr. Bands cleared her to play sports again if she’d like. Plus, Hope was accepted to Johns Hopkins, where she plans to study history in the fall. “Hope is a perfect example of how back surgery can make significant improvement in your life,” says Dr. Bands. Author Roy Bands, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon at The Spine Center at AAMC.0
- Heart Care, WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWhen former Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones tragically passed away from hypertensive cardiovascular disease in July at the age of 40, it brought attention to a disease that millions of Americans are at risk for – and that many don’t even know they have. That’s why it is important to take steps to reduce your risk of hypertensive cardiac disease and other dangerous heart conditions. What is hypertensive heart disease? Hypertensive cardiovascular disease, or hypertensive heart disease, is a condition caused by having high blood pressure over a long period of time. High blood pressure puts extra strain on your heart, forcing it to work harder to pump blood throughout your body, which can lead to damage over time. This damage can lead to heart attacks, heart failure, strokes and other health problems. High blood pressure is defined as pressure that is consistently above 130/80 mmHg. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, but just a quarter have it under control. That’s because many may not know they have high blood pressure in the first place. In addition to heart attacks, heart failure and strokes, high blood pressure can put you at greater risk for conditions like: Atherosclerosis, including coronary artery disease Atrial fibrillation (AFib) Aortic Dissection or Rupture Congestive heart failure Kidney disease Retinal problems The risk of heart disease generally goes up with age, and those who have a family history of heart disease may be at higher risk. Athletes or other active people may be prone to hypertensive cardiovascular disease after they wrap up their careers and their activity level decreases. Even people who have lived very active lives can be diagnosed with heart disease. For example, arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease (or the buildup of plaque or cholesterol on the walls of the arteries) played a role in the death of fitness guru Richard Simmons. Warning signs of cardiovascular disease High blood pressure usually doesn’t present symptoms, making it challenging to diagnose and treat. However, over time, high blood pressure can cause damage to your heart and lead to symptoms like: Chest pain Dizziness or fainting Heart attack or stroke Irregular, rapid or pounding heartbeat Shortness of breath It’s important to see your primary care provider and check your blood pressure regularly. Your care team will monitor your risk factors, including a family history of hypertension. Depending on your risk factors, your provider may recommend additional testing. These tests may include blood and urine tests or an electrocardiogram (EKG). How to prevent cardiovascular disease Managing your blood pressure can greatly lower your risk of dangerous cardiac events like heart attacks and strokes. That includes living a heart-healthy lifestyle by: Getting enough sleep Lowering your stress Maintaining a healthy weight Quitting smoking Reducing salt intake Reducing alcohol consumption Staying physically active Treating chronic conditions like sleep apnea, high cholesterol, diabetes and kidney disease How to treat cardiovascular disease Your provider will likely recommend adjusting lifestyle factors as a first line of treatment for hypertensive cardiovascular disease. If these adjustments don’t bring your blood pressure down, or if your heart has already sustained damage from high blood pressure over time, your care team may recommend medications as a next step. There are many kinds of blood pressure medications (or antihypertensives) including: ACE inhibitors Beta-Blockers Calcium channel blockers Diuretics (thiazide) All medicines can have side effects and it’s important to understand these impacts. Take medications as directed and follow up with your provider if you have any questions. Protecting your heart in the long run High blood pressure might not cause symptoms by itself, but it can be dangerous if left untreated. If you experience concerning symptoms, we have a number of Luminis Health primary care doctors ready to help, as well as cardiovascular specialists and heart surgeons with all the experience and expertise you need. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for taking medications or change your lifestyle. Your heart will thank you. About the Author: Luminis Health Chief of Heart Surgery David J. Caparrelli, MD. Dr. Caparrelli has more than 20 years of experience in both cardiac and vascular surgery.0
- Women's HealthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, routine screening can reduce the number of people who die from colorectal cancer by at least sixty percent—and that’s just one type of screening. Whether it’s blood sugar for diabetes, mammograms for breast cancer or even monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol for heart disease, screenings are tests that look for diseases before you have symptoms. We refresh and renew our homes like clockwork when spring arrives, but what if we spring clean our health in the same way? A checkup with your primary care provider can help you learn what screenings and tests you might need and when you need them. Screenings help spot problems early, when treatment may be easier and more effective. So, which screenings are for you? Depending on your age, family history, health and risk factors, women may benefit from routine screening for: Cholesterol. Healthy adults should have their cholesterol tested at least every four to six years since high cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease. Blood pressure. This should be checked at least once every two years since high blood pressure increases risks of heart and kidney disease and stroke. Breast and cervical cancers. Your age and health history determine how often women need tests, like mammograms and PAP tests, that screen for breast and cervical cancers. Sexually transmitted infections. If you’re sexually active and have risk factors, it is important to be screened for sexually transmitted infections. Diabetes. If you have high blood pressure or are on blood pressure medication, you should get screened for diabetes. Colorectal cancer. Most adults should have their first exam at age 50. Your provider can guide you as to which of several available tests is right for you. Osteoporosis. Women should have a bone density scan at least once beginning at age 65. There’s a lot of varying information out there that really does depend on your family history and risk factors. It’s usually best—and you’ll likely feel more comfortable—if you develop an honest, open relationship with your primary care provider as your health partner, so you know what tests are needed and which are not. Remember, it’s a great time for spring cleaning AND spring screenings. Author Schedule your appointment with a primary care provider today and take the first step toward better health.0
- Senior Care, Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogThe holidays are usually a time to gather with family and friends. Our calendars fill up with parties and other social outings. We celebrate with our loved ones. We reflect on the past year and look forward to the future. But the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has led to months of physical distancing as we work together to slow the spread of the virus. This has sparked feelings of loneliness in many people. Including seniors, who may be at risk of severe illness from COVID-19. 43 percent of seniors say they feel lonely on a regular basis. According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), about 20 percent of adults who are at least 65 years old live alone. Those who are lonely can suffer from health problems as a result. The health effects of social isolation In her 2015 study on public health and loneliness, Brigham Young University Professor Julianne Holt-Lunstad said social isolation can be as damaging to one’s health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. And according to the NIA, research has also linked loneliness to high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weaker immune system, depression, anxiety and dementia. Having loved ones around often encourages people to take better care of themselves. Including eating well, exercising and taking necessary medications. Living alone and not leaving the house on a regular basis are two major things that can cause loneliness in seniors. How you can help Feeling connected to others is key. And these days, many of these connections are happening virtually. Thanks to FaceTime, Zoom and Skype, staying in touch is easier than ever. If you have an older family member or friend who wants to learn to use the new technology, set up some time to explain to them how it works. Or, simply give them a call. Chat with them about their worries and concerns. Let them know you are thinking of them. This year has been like no other. This holiday season will be no exception. The best gift you could give during the holidays or any day is to reach out to those who may be feeling lonely. Offer them connection and companionship. It costs nothing, and you’ll brighten someone’s day. Author Lil Banchero is the senior director of Luminis Health AAMC’s Institute for Healthy Aging. Originally published Dec. 16, 2019. Last updated Dec. 7, 2020.0
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