- News & Press Releases, Women's HealthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogToday, Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center (LHDCMC) received approval from the Maryland Health Care Commission to add inpatient obstetrics services to our comprehensive women’s health programs. This approval is a monumental stride forward in addressing critical health disparities in Prince George’s County, where 8 out of 10 women leave the county to deliver their babies due to a lack of obstetrical and other healthcare services. In 2024, LHDCMC will embark on a transformative journey of expansion that will unfold over the next several years. At the heart of this growth is the construction of a new patient care pavilion, designed to elevate the standard of healthcare in our community. A Family-Centered Approach Within the new pavilion will be a dedicated family birth center. This center will offer the new inpatient obstetrics services, covering everything from labor and delivery to postpartum care. We understand the importance of providing essential care close to home, giving women the option to welcome their babies right here in their own community. The family birth center is expected to open in 2028, and once fully operational, 2,000 babies are expected to be delivered each year. It will feature: Private rooms for labor and delivery and post-delivery suites Dedicated C-Section operating rooms A Level II Special Care Nursery Access to family planning, lactation, mental health and other maternal care support Comprehensive Surgical Care The new pavilion will also house state-of-the-art operating rooms for surgical procedures including gynecologic surgery, breast surgery, bariatric surgery and complex general surgery. Our commitment to comprehensive healthcare means that we’ll be able to provide advanced services right here in Prince George’s County. Campus Enhancements for a Better Experience In addition, the expansion will provide improved campus access, additional parking, and enhanced safety and security. There will also be a redesigned front entrance and lobby, new pharmacy, cafeteria and additional visitor facing services. As we approach the 50th anniversary of LHDCMC, these initiatives mark a significant leap forward in realizing our mission of enriching the health of the people and communities we serve. Since the inception of Luminis Health, we have pledged to elevate the standard of healthcare in Prince George’s County, and with your ongoing support, we are making these improvements possible. Stay tuned for more updates as we progress on this journey toward a brighter future.
- Cancer CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogHere’s some food for thought: Being overweight or obese can significantly increase your risk for many types of cancer. Obesity can also lead to a higher rate of cancer recurrence and a lower likelihood of survival. While this might be surprising news, it’s important to realize the reasons why, and with the help of Luminis Health Surgical Oncologist Dr. Naeem A. Newman, know how you can decrease your risk of developing cancer. Which cancers are associated with obesity? The 13 types of cancer for which obesity is known to increase the risk are: Breast cancer (in postmenopausal women) Multiple myeloma, a cancer that forms in a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell Meningioma, a type of brain cancer Cancers of the esophagus, colon and rectum, uterus, gallbladder, upper stomach, kidneys, liver, ovaries, pancreas and thyroid The risk of getting cancer increases with the more excess weight a person has and the longer they are overweight. Experts believe being obese increases that risk largely due to the inflammation caused by the fat that surrounds your vital organs. This excess fat affects certain processes in the body, including how it manages hormones like insulin—the hormone that regulates blood sugar—and estrogen. How does inflammation cause damage? Inflammation caused by obesity can keep the body from properly responding to insulin. This is called insulin resistance. When the body doesn’t respond to insulin correctly, it produces more insulin to make up for that. The increase in insulin due to insulin resistance triggers an increase in the number of cells produced, which can lead to cancer. Increased insulin also affects how hormones like estrogen are controlled. More insulin can lead to more available estrogen, which also increases the risk for cancer. What’s wrong with excess estrogen? Estrogen is necessary for the body to function: In women, the ovaries are the main source of estrogen. In men, an enzyme converts testosterone to estrogen. Fat cells in both men and women can also make estrogen, which is why too much estrogen is often seen in obese people. In a nutshell, higher estrogen levels lead to increased cell production, which could result in the growth of a tumor. What is a healthy weight? Body mass index (BMI) is used as a screening tool for being overweight and obese. BMI is calculated using a ratio of a person’s weight in proportion to height. BMI calculators are readily available online. Adults with a BMI from 25.0 to 29.9 are considered overweight. A person with a BMI that is 30.0 or higher is considered obese. It’s estimated that about 21% of all cancers that are linked to obesity could be prevented if the American adult population had a BMI of less than 25. What you can do There are steps you can take to prevent obesity: Keep moving—Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week. Eat healthy—Fill at least two thirds of your plate with non-starchy vegetables, fruit, whole grains and legumes (beans and peas), and a third or less with protein. Evidence shows that exercise combined with healthy eating results in greater weight loss and the greatest impact on reducing inflammation in your body. Limit alcohol—Women should limit themselves to one alcoholic drink per day and men to two. Get plenty of rest—Fatigue can make you want to eat more and increases the chances of making unhealthy choices. When it comes to cancer, there are some risks we can’t control, but when we know more about the risks we can control, it gives us one more reason to make healthy choices. If you are interested in losing weight, create a weight loss plan with your doctor that works for you. Author Naeem A. Newman, MD, is a surgical oncologist/general surgeon at Luminis Health. He is dedicated to a multi-disciplinary, collaborative approach to cancer care.
- General Page Tier 3BlogThe temptation of sugary delights becomes almost irresistible during the holidays. While sugar is an integral part of traditions, it can exact a significant toll on our health when consumed excessively. We see the resulting effect in our medical practices with a 1-2 percent drop in diabetic control each year in January. If you have a chronic health condition or are working to improve your health, having a strategy to approach the holiday season is key to your success. Americans are eating and drinking more added sugar than recommended according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Excess added sugar in our diet increases the risk for weight gain, diabetes, hypertension and certain cancers. As we enter a sugar-conscious holiday season, moderation can pave the way for a celebration of joy and tradition, with enhanced well-being. Here are some recommendations: Mindful Drink Choices: Sugar-sweetened beverages are the top source of added sugar for the U.S. population – this is a great place to cut back. While water is always the best choice, there are many sugar-free and low-sugar beverages available. Plus, it’s easy for our bodies to confuse thirst with hunger, which can lead to overeating. Amidst the array of cocktails, sodas and sweetened drinks this season, try a glass of sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice or a squeeze of lemon. Creative Substitutes: Reduce the amount of sugar in your desserts by replacing it with natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup or dates. These alternatives introduce sweetness and distinct flavors to your sweet dishes. Experiment by sautéing apples with cinnamon and honey for a healthy take on a seasonal treat.When baking, Colleen Kiley, lead diabetes educator at Luminis Health notes “You can lower the sugar amount in any recipe by 25 percent without a noticeable taste change. For example, you can reduce one cup of sugar to three-fourths cup.” Cinnamon in Coffee: To infuse your morning coffee with a festive essence, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon instead of traditional sweeteners. Allison Maurer, registered dietitian at Luminis Health, shares more tips to reduce sugar in caffeinated drinks here. Adding Fruit: Include fruit in baked goods and drinks when appropriate to add natural sweetener and increase nutritional value. For example, when crafting cocktails and mocktails, try using muddled fruit or seltzers rather than sugary mixers and syrups. Thoughtful Gift-Giving: Be a conscientious gift giver, especially if you are known for your holiday treats. Consider reducing the portions you generously give out to friends, family and co-workers. Smaller portions can help others savor the flavors while being mindful of their health.Another option is to get creative with gifts. For example, consider sharing festive cheer with candles, potted plants, or seasonal fruits like figs, pomegranates and clementines. It’s a thoughtful gesture that embodies the joy of giving with the consideration of wellbeing. Don’t forget to prioritize exercise and movement. Planning activities with family and friends is a great way to maintain your health and spend time together. Create new holiday traditions, such as a family walk, or sign up for seasonal events like a turkey trot or other organized activities to stay active this season. Holidays are a time of indulgence, but they don’t have to mean sacrificing your health. By making these mindful swaps and taking a balanced approach, you can embrace the season without compromising your well-being. Author Dr. Andrew McGlone is the executive medical director of Luminis Health Primary Care and Population Health.
- Heart CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWhat are healthy foods for your heart? The choices you make in your diet can have a powerful impact on your heart. Certain foods and beverages have nutrients and natural compounds that can lower cholesterol, maintain healthy blood vessels and protect your heart. Here are the top picks for heart-smart foods to eat often. Adding these foods to your diet can keep your heart healthy and reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Leafy green vegetables All vegetables are nutritious, but dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, Swiss chard, and collard greens are especially rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that promote healthy blood clotting, lower blood pressure, and protect your heart and blood vessels. Eat leafy green vegetables daily by adding them to salads, sautéeing them as a side dish, adding them to soups or stews, or blending them into a smoothie. Avocados This creamy, satisfying fruit is full of heart-healthy, unsaturated fats. Replacing foods like butter, margarine, cheese, or processed meat with avocado can reduce your risk of heart disease. Skip the tortilla chips, though. For healthier ways to eat avocado, add it to your salad or sandwich or dip fresh vegetables into your guacamole. Fresh or frozen berries Colorful blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries contain polyphenols, antioxidants that reduce inflammation, protect blood vessels and lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. Fresh or frozen berries can be added to overnight oats, yogurt and salads, or enjoyed on their own for dessert. Oats and barley These whole grains are full of soluble fiber, which helps reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol. Soluble fiber also slows digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer, which can promote weight loss. Add these grains to your weekly meal plan by eating oats for breakfast and trying barley as a side dish, in soups, or as a base for salads. Beans (legumes) Chickpeas, lentils, black, pinto, kidney, white beans, and all other dried beans or legumes are heart-smart superfoods. They’re full of plant protein, cholesterol-lowering soluble fiber, and many other nutrients that support your heart, blood vessels, and blood pressure. A 2023 analysis of studies published in Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases found that eating about 3 cups of beans each week can reduce your risk of heart disease. To meet that goal, add beans to soups, stews, chili, tacos, and salads, and blend them with herbs to make dips and sandwich spreads. Fatty fish Oily fish, such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, and rainbow trout, are excellent sources of omega-3 fats (fish oil). These essential fatty acids can help reduce blood pressure and triglyceride levels. Research links a higher fish intake to a lower risk of heart attack and stroke. As such, the American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings (a total of eight ounces) of fatty fish each week. If you don’t like oily fish, lean fish or seafood like tilapia, cod, or shrimp still provides some omega-3 fats. Any type of fish is better than none. Nuts and seeds All nuts and seeds are excellent sources of unsaturated, heart-healthy fats which can improve your cholesterol. They also contain significant antioxidants to reduce inflammation and protect your heart and blood vessels from oxidative damage. To get the most benefits from nuts and seeds, vary them in your diet: Snack on almonds, peanuts, and pistachios. Sprinkle chopped walnuts, pecans, pumpkin, or sunflower seeds on salads and roasted vegetables. Add a spoonful of chia or ground flaxseeds to a smoothie. Olive oil Olive oil is an essential ingredient in the Mediterranean diet, and extensive research supports its benefits for heart health. A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Nutrition found about 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil each day is enough to reap the benefits. Use it to make salad dressings, in place of butter or other oil for baking, and when roasting fish, chicken, or vegetables. Tea According to a 2021 study published in the Annals of Medicine, drinking two cups of unsweetened brewed green or black tea each day can reduce the risk and progression of cardiovascular disease. Researchers believe antioxidant compounds in tea called flavonoids account for its benefits. If you prefer herbal tea without caffeine, try hibiscus tea. A 2022 review and analysis of 17 studies published in Nutrition Reviews determined it can reduce risk by lowering blood pressure and LDL cholesterol. The bottom line When it comes to heart health, food is medicine, so try to incorporate as many of these foods as possible into your regular diet. If you are taking blood thinners or other medications, talk to your physician before making substantial changes to your diet as some foods can change the effectiveness of those medications. Make sure you stay on top of your heart and overall health by getting regular wellness checks and notifying your doctor about any heart-related symptoms. Author Author: Luminis Health Chief of Cardiac Surgery, David J. Caparrelli, MD. Dr. Caparrelli has more than 20 years of experience in both cardiac and vascular surgery. To make an appointment with Dr. Caparrelli, please call 443-481-1358.
- Wellness, Cancer CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogThe saying “you are what you eat” is more than just a catchphrase, it holds the key to potentially lowering your risk of cancer. According to the World Health Organization, adopting a healthy lifestyle, which includes maintaining an ideal body weight and eating a nourishing diet, can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing cancer. But how can you achieve this? Here are things to include in your diet and what to avoid. Foods to add to your diet 1. Beans Beans and other legumes can give you fiber, which helps your gut and immune health—and can help prevent colorectal cancer. While all beans are beneficial, lentils offer the best protection. 2. Berries Berries like strawberries, blueberries and cranberries are full of antioxidants like vitamin C, and compounds called cyanidins, which protect your cells from stress and inflammation that could lead to cancer. 3. Broccoli Broccoli and other cruciferous foods like cauliflower, cabbage and kale have special plant compounds that help cells remove toxins and protect themselves. Studies show that eating these vegetables four or five times a week can reduce your risk of colorectal, prostate, bladder and breast cancer. 4. Nuts Studies have shown that tree nuts can help you prevent cancers in the digestive system. Common tree nuts, such as pecans, walnuts and almonds, have high levels of plant compounds called ellagitannins that can help gut bacteria stop cancer from growing. It’s best to choose unsalted and unsweetened nuts. If you don’t like them raw, mix the nuts into steamed vegetables, stir-fry, or salads. 5. Tomatoes Tomatoes are full of an antioxidant called lycopene, which may fight prostate cancer, according to many studies over the years. Other studies say that tomatoes (and tomato products such as tomato sauce) can lower your risk for breast, lung and colorectal cancer. Foods to avoid 1. Alcohol Alcohol, including beer, wine and spirits, causes tissue damage which can lead to changes in cells and increase your risk for cancer. If you don’t want to avoid alcohol entirely, try limiting yourself to one drink per day if you’re a woman, and two drinks per day if you’re a man. 2. Food and drinks with added sugar Candy, cookies and soda can lead to obesity, which in turn can increase your risk for cancer. Experts suggest you limit the amount of food and drinks in your diet that have added sugar. While diet sodas have no sugar and fewer calories, they lack essential nutrients found in water. 3. Fried foods When starchy foods are cooked at high temperatures (such as during the process of frying), they form a compound called acrylamide. Some studies have shown that acrylamide can damage cells, leading to a higher risk of cancer. Fried foods can also lead to obesity, which increases your risk for cancer. Air frying is a healthier alternative to than frying in traditional oil. It reduces calories by as much as 80% and significantly decreases fat content. 4. Processed meats This category includes most of the meats behind the deli counter, as well as hot dogs, ham, sausage, and anything sold in a pre-packaged container. These meats are often preserved using nitrates and nitrates, which increase your risk for colorectal and stomach cancers. 5. Red meats Researchers have found that consuming red meats such as beef, pork and lamb can increase your risk for colorectal cancer. Dietitians recommend eating less than 18 ounces of red meat each week. Balance is Key When it comes to healthy eating, it’s important to remember that finding a balance is essential to your overall success. Adding these cancer-fighting foods — and avoiding cancer-causing ones — as often as you’re able, can help you manage your risks. But making big, sweeping changes to your diet can sometimes be counterproductive. Be sure to start with small changes you know you can maintain. Finally, ongoing conversations with your primary care provider can help you better understand your personal cancer risk, and help you navigate any needed changes. To manage your overall wellness as well as cancer risks, schedule a visit with a primary care provider at Luminis Health Primary Care.
How can we help?
Common Searches
Common Searches
Log in with MyChart
Access personalized site features & view your health records.
Learn more about MyChartDon’t have a MyChart account?
Your Account
View your Dashboard
Messages
Billing Summary
Find Care
Schedule Appointment
My Care Team
My Record
Appointments
Medications
Insurance Summary
Log in with MyChart
Access personalized site features & view your health records.
Learn more about MyChartDon’t have a MyChart account?