- OrthopedicsGeneral Page Tier 3BlogYou may not realize it, but your bones are in a constant state of regeneration. Your body naturally replaces old bone with new. But by the time you reach your mid-30s, you begin to lose more bone than your body can replace and then menopause speeds this process up. Over time this leads to thinner, weaker bones and the potential for developing osteoporosis. One in two women over age 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in her lifetime. It’s important that you go for bone scans to measure bone loss, as well as incorporate lifestyle habits that can slow down the weakening of bones. Ultimately, this helps reduce your risk of fractures. A bone density test called DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) can diagnose osteoporosis. A DEXA scan uses very little radiation and produces detailed information about your bone density by comparing data from two X-rays operating at different frequencies. Information is collected and compared to a reference group to determine your bone mineral density. “The bone density from the DEXA scan helps your radiologist determine your T-score, which we use to diagnose osteoporosis,” says John Park, MD, a radiologist with Anne Arundel Diagnostics Imaging. “A T-score of -2.5 or lower indicates you have osteoporosis.” You should talk to your doctor if you’ve gone through menopause or if you have any of the following risk factors: Low physical activity Low body weight Smoke Drink too much alcohol Heavy caffeine use Have a diet low in calcium and vitamin D Previous fracture, especially after age 50 Menopause before age 45 Take certain medicines, for example long-term use of corticosteroids Family history of osteoporosisThere’s also a Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®) for evaluating fracture risk. Using the results of the DEXA scan, a FRAX score can be given to estimate the risk of a fracture within 10 years. Unfortunately, many women don’t get screened. Even if they have a fragility fracture, many don’t realize that’s a sign they may have osteoporosis. “A bone fracture is not unlike a heart attack — they are both a sign that something is wrong. In the case of a fracture, it could mean you have osteoporosis or a weaker form of bone loss called osteopenia,” says Christina Morganti, MD, orthopedic surgeon and medical director of the Osteoporosis Program at Anne Arundel Medical Center Orthopedics. Bones shouldn’t break with low-energy falls such as from standing height or less. When they do, your doctor may want to run blood and bone density tests to determine if you have osteoporosis. If diagnosed, you should learn about weight-bearing exercise, fall prevention, nutrition and medication options for healthy bones. You can improve your bone health and reduce your risk of fragility fractures by doing the following: Pay attention to your calcium intake. Try to get 1,200 mg of calcium a day, preferably from food. If you don’t get enough from food, add a 500-600 mg calcium pill. Get enough vitamin D. Many people benefit from a supplement of 800-1,000 iu per day. Incorporate weight-bearing exercise into your lifestyle. Try walking 30 minutes a day. Plus, lift weights two or three days per week when cleared by your doctor. Evaluate your home. Throw rugs, slippery surfaces and poorly lit hallways can lead to falls and then fractures. Get your eyes checked. If your sight is impaired, your chance of falling is higher. Eliminate vices. Alcohol and tobacco are two common vices that are detrimental to your bone health. Educate yourself. There are many good resources on the web, including the National Osteoporosis Foundation: nof.org. Authors Christina Morganti, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon and medical director of the Osteoporosis Program at Anne Arundel Medical Center Orthopedics. John S. Park, MD, is a radiologist at Anne Arundel Medical Center.0
- Cancer Care, Digestive CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIn recent years, researchers and doctors have observed a troubling trend: colorectal cancer, which includes colon and rectal cancer, is on the rise among millennials and Generation Z (Gen Z). With so much at stake, it’s important to understand how you can lower your risk and recognize symptoms. Discussing your bowel movements with your doctor—even if it feels embarrassing—could save your life. What Millennials and Gen Zers Should Know Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among both women and men in the United States. In 2019, the American Cancer Society found that 20 percent of new colorectal cancer cases were diagnosed in people 54-years-old or younger. Some researchers suggest that obesity and alcohol consumption—risk factors now more common in younger adults—may be contributing to the rise. Scientists are also investigating the link between environmental chemicals and colorectal cancer. So, what does this mean for millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) and Gen Zers (born between 1997 and 2012)? It’s more crucial than ever to be aware of the risk factors and make lifestyle changes to lower your risk. Ways to Lower Your Risk Having a risk factor for colorectal cancer doesn’t mean you’ll develop the disease, but it does increase your chances. Some factors are beyond your control, including: Age: While more young adults are being diagnosed, colorectal cancer is still more common in people over 50. Certain genetic syndromes Personal or family history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease Personal history of radiation treatment around the pelvis or abdomen However, there are many risk factors you can reduce by committing to a healthier lifestyle. Here are a few examples of beneficial lifestyle changes: Get regular screenings. Colorectal cancer screening should begin at age 45. Several types of screenings are available including colonoscopy and stool based testing like Cologuard. Talk to your doctor about which screening method is right for you. Move more and eat healthier. Diets high in red and processed meats are linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Instead, eat more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, five days a week. Limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking. Alcohol and nicotine use can increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer. If you need help cutting back, ask your doctor about available resources. How to Recognize Colorectal Cancer Symptoms Many symptoms of colorectal cancer can be easy to miss, as they overlap with other common conditions. For example, hemorrhoids can also cause rectal bleeding. However, it’s important to be aware of key warning signs, including: Blood in or on your stool New changes in bowel habits, such as developing daily diarrhea or constipation Chronic abdominal symptoms, including cramps, pain, or bloating Unexplained weight loss Recurrent vomiting If discussing your bathroom habits with a doctor feels uncomfortable, you’re not alone. Studies show that younger adults are often reluctant to seek care for these symptoms, dismissing them as minor issues. However, if something doesn’t feel normal for you, it’s essential to schedule an appointment. Early detection is critical for improving colorectal cancer outcomes. It is also important to talk to your parents and siblings about conditions that could increase your cancer risk. Are You Due for a Colorectal Cancer Screening? At your next primary care visit, ask your provider if you’re due for screening and review your risks—especially if you’re 45 or older and haven’t been screened yet. To schedule a primary care appointment, visit Luminis.Health/PrimaryCare. Authors Andrew McGlone, MD, is the Executive Medical Director of Primary Care and Community Medicine at Luminis Health.0
- GivingGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWhile some may have historically perceived Anne Arundel Medical Center as focused on serving Anne Arundel County, the reality is AAMC is a regional health system that serves a larger community. In 2008, the hospital opened the AAMC Pavilion on Kent Island to provide easier access for its large patient population on the Eastern Shore. More than 10,600 AAMC patients live on the Eastern Shore, including Queen Anne’s, Kent and Talbot counties. Kent Island residents Sara and Tim Adelman volunteer on AAMC Foundation’s Building Traditions Society (BTS) Board, and have always viewed AAMC as their community hospital. Sara and Tim joined the Building Traditions Society at its inception in 2011 because they understood the importance of supporting AAMC and the wide variety of care services provided to our community. In 2016, the Building Traditions Society provided critically needed funding in support of a bilingual therapist for AAMC’s Community Health Clinic on Forest Drive. The Building Traditions Society also provided funding for a licensed clinical social worker who is devoted to providing pediatric emergency mental health evaluations within AAMC’s Pediatric Emergency Department. The Adelmans know the value of having access to the highest quality healthcare in your backyard. “I come from a family of healthcare people. You’re either a healthcare lawyer or a healthcare provider – doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, we have them all. While our professions are healthcare oriented, our philanthropic efforts are as well,” says Tim. “I grew up watching my parents give back to their community, including the hospital. My mother, Cathy Adelman, has been extremely active with AAMC’s Foundation for many years and is the incoming Foundation board chair. It was a natural fit for me to get involved with AAMC’s Building Traditions Society.” Sara, a nurse practitioner at Annapolis Internal Medicine, feels strongly that mental health services are a critical need in our community. “The demand is much higher than the community’s current capacity, and there are many patients that will benefit from expanded services,” she says. “We have been very successful in raising money for Pediatrics, which is near and dear to most BTS families. Now we are excited to put our efforts into this much needed Mental Health initiative.” BTS has raised more than $410,000 to support pediatric and NICU services, community clinic services, and behavioral health services. BTS helps engage the younger generation in a meaningful manner. “While raising funds to support AAMC is at the core of BTS, we do it in a fun way. BTS brings together families from across the region in a social manner that supports a good cause. We have met so many great friends through BTS and look forward to another exciting year of events, including events on the Eastern Shore,” says Tim. “AAMC provides an array of medical services on the Shore, and our goal is to get more Eastern Shore families and local businesses involved in supporting their hospital,” says Tim.0
- Heart CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogNew health studies can be confusing, especially when it comes to certain foods and drinks that affect your health. A piece of chocolate or a glass of wine are common treats, and there’s lots of conflicting information about their health benefits. Some types of chocolate and wine offer more heart-healthy benefits than others, but that’s still not a green light to overindulge. Dark Chocolate Dark chocolate has gained a reputation as being a heart-healthy treat because cocoa beans are rich in flavonoids—a nutrient that protects plants from toxins and helps repair damage. The term ‘antioxidant’ is a reference to those benefits. Studies have shown when we eat foods rich in flavonoids, we also benefit from these antioxidant powers. Flavanols are the main type of flavonoid found in cocoa. In addition to their antioxidant qualities, research has shown other potential health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure. But not all dark chocolate is created equal. The more processed chocolate is, the more flavanols are lost along the way. And flavanols are not a nutrient reported on food labels. For the most health benefits, choose a dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 70 percent or higher. And remember, chocolate is not a ‘health’ food. Enjoy dark chocolate as part of a well-balanced, heart-healthy diet. Think of it as a treat rather than a regular part of your diet. Red Wine Red wine, in moderation, has long been thought of as heart healthy. Those who drink moderate amounts of red wine seem to have a lower risk of heart disease. An antioxidant called resveratrol is the substance in red wine that has received a lot of attention. The ingredient may help prevent damage to blood vessels, reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol’) and prevent blood clots. While those benefits might sound great if you enjoy a five-ounce glass of red wine with your evening meal, I would never encourage anyone to start drinking alcohol on the premise that it’s heart healthy. Too much alcohol has harmful effects on your health, such as raising your risk of high blood pressure, liver damage, obesity and certain types of cancer. Drinking too much regularly can actually weaken your heart muscle. If you truly want the health benefits of antioxidants, you should think outside of the wine and chocolate box. Stock your kitchen with antioxidant ‘super foods’ such as blueberries, strawberries, purple grapes, raw nuts, dark green veggies, salmon and green tea. Author Barbara Hutchinson, MD is a cardiologist at Anne Arundel Medical Center. Originally published Feb. 16, 2016. Last updated Sept. 16, 2025.0
- Sleep, Heart Care, WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAs you get older, you may find that many of the things you resented as a child, like enforced nap and bedtimes, you actually long for now. And for good reason: recent research suggests it’s good for your overall health. When compared to people who hit the hay between 10-11 pm, researchers found the following associations between bedtimes and heart disease: · 12% increased risk of heart disease when falling asleep between 11-11:59 pm · 25% increased risk of heart disease when falling asleep at midnight or later · 24% increased risk of heart disease when falling asleep before 10 pm Scientists still aren’t exactly sure what’s causing the differences in risk. But one theory is that going to bed too early or too late disrupts your body’s natural clock and throws off your systems, like your heart. A sleep routine tailored to you It can get a little overwhelming to decipher all the latest studies about what you should and shouldn’t do when it comes to sleep. But the bottom line is that you shouldn’t worry if you have a late night or two – or just need to hit the sack earlier than usual. Sometimes, that’s your body’s way of telling you it needs a little extra rest. What’s most important is establishing a healthy sleep routine – one that works well for you. And that means one that works with your schedule and makes you feel best prepared to take on tomorrow. Here are some of our favorite tips to help you get the Zzzs your body needs: Be consistent. Sure, you can shoot for bedtime between 10-11 pm, but if your lifestyle or work schedule doesn’t allow for that, the most important thing you can do is go to bed around the same time every night. Find ways to unwind. Before climbing into bed, work some relaxation techniques into your routine. Maybe that’s gentle stretching, listening to gentle music or a short meditation. You can also try taking a warm bath to help calm your mind and body. Give your body regular clues. Beyond bedtime, try to do the same things in the same order every night. Whether it’s a specific order to washing your face, pulling on PJs or cracking open up a book, these can serve as a subtle cue to your body that it’s time to wind down. Set up a sleep haven. Get your bedroom ready for a good night’s sleep. That means no distractions, a comfy mattress and pillows, soft sheets and a comfortable-to-you temperature. Turn off screens an hour before bed. The blue light from screens (TVs, tablets and phones) has been shown to disrupt your body’s natural rhythm when it comes to falling and staying asleep. Have a question about sleep? A good night’s sleep has a host of benefits for your physical, mental and emotional health. If you’re struggling to get the rest you need, let us know. Your doctor can help you find the best approach to bedtime or address any underlying issues, like anxiety or depression, that may be interfering with your sleep schedule. Call your provider today to schedule your appointment or use our search tool to find a provider near you. Author To make an appointment with Dr. Dakheel, please call 301-850-6333.0
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