- 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.
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogLanham, MD—Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center (LHDCMC) proudly marks its 50th anniversary, celebrating five decades of exceptional care and service to Prince George’s County. As part of this milestone, LHDCMC is hosting special events aimed at addressing maternal health disparities and supporting expectant and new mothers in the community. On Saturday, April 5, LHDCMC will host its 50th Anniversary Golden Gala, an evening of celebration and tribute to the hospital’s legacy of providing high-quality care since 1975. The event will bring together healthcare leaders, community advocates, and supporters to honor the hospital’s legacy while raising funds to expand services, advance health equity, and eliminate disparities. Following the gala, Luminis Health’s Community Improvement Department will hold a Community Baby Shower on Saturday, April 12, from 12 pm to 4 pm, on the LHDCMC campus. This free event will provide essential resources, education, and support for expectant and new mothers in Prince George’s County, featuring: Expert-led panel discussions on gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, postpartum depression, nutrition during and after pregnancy, and lactation Local vendors offering baby essentials and services Diaper and baby essential giveaways “We want mothers and loved ones to feel empowered about their health during pregnancy,” said Temi Oshiyoye, Luminis Health’s director of Community Health Improvement. “With 8 out of 10 moms having to leave Prince George’s County to give birth, we want them to know that support and resources are available close to home, before, during, and after pregnancy.” As part of its on-going commitment to maternal health, Luminis Health has opened an Ob-Gyn clinic in Greenbelt and launched CenteringPregnancy®, a nationally recognized program that offers group sessions for expectant mothers and personalized consultations with trusted Ob-Gyns and midwives. LHDCMC is finalizing design plans to add inpatient obstetric services, labor, delivery, and postpartum care with rooms designed for a family-centered birth experience. These initiatives will transform healthcare in Prince George’s County and play a crucial role in eliminating maternal and infant mortality, an ambitious goal of Vision 2030, the health system’s 10-year strategic plan. “Prince George’s County has a maternal mortality rate that is twice the national average, and this is simply unacceptable,” said Deneen Richmond, president of Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center. “Luminis Health is taking bold steps to address these disparities by expanding access to quality prenatal and postnatal care, educating families, and advocating for systemic change. These events are not just celebrations of our past but reaffirmations of our commitment to a healthier future for mothers and babies in the communities we serve.” Anticipated to open in 2028, the new state-of-the-art women’s health center on the hospital’s Lanham campus is expected to welcome approximately 2,000 babies each year once fully operational.
- Pregnancy & BirthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIf you’ve just found out you’re pregnant, congratulations! This is such an exciting time. We hope you’re savoring every precious moment… without stressing too much. But first, a reality check. According to Prince George’s County health data, only about 6 in 10 mothers receive early prenatal care, and the maternal mortality rate is twice the national average. Luminis Health is committed to improving maternal health by expanding services, advancing health equity, and eliminating disparities. We’re here to help you with expert advice to help you maintain a healthy pregnancy and safeguard your baby before and after delivery. Here are some dos and don’ts: Pregnancy Do's Since every pregnancy is unique, your doctor will always have the best answers for you. But generally, it’s important to remember to: Eat well. A healthy, well-balanced diet will fuel your baby’s growth. Make sure to add seafood, especially fish high in omega-3 fatty acids. Exercise regularly. You don’t need a gym to stay active, there are plenty of ways to move your body at home. Try gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility or follow an online prenatal yoga video to ease stress and promote relaxation. Even simple activities like walking around your home, doing light bodyweight exercises, or practicing deep breathing techniques can help keep you active and feeling your best during pregnancy. Get plenty of sleep. It’s common to feel tired when you’re pregnant, and it can be hard to get comfortable with your growing bump. But sleep is essential for mother and baby (7-9 hours each night is best). Get your flu shot and other recommended vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control recommend certain vaccinations during pregnancy to help mothers develop antibodies that can be passed on to their babies, providing protection during the first few months of life. For example, the flu shot is safe and will protect you and your baby. The RSV vaccine is now recommended between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, particularly during RSV season (September thru January). Go to all your prenatal appointments. Pregnancy care is key to keeping your baby healthy. Consider joining CenteringPregnancy,® a new program offered at Luminis Health Ob-Gyn Greenbelt. With group sessions for expectant mothers and personalized consultations with trusted OB-GYNs and midwives, this nationally recognized program has been shown to improve birth outcomes, breastfeeding rates and patient satisfaction for new moms. Limit stress and maintain your mental well-being. When you’re pregnant, your body goes through a lot of changes, all of which can affect your mental health. Any steps you can take to feel connected, grounded and centered will go a long way toward ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Take a prenatal vitamin. Ask for doctor recommendations and look for a vitamin that includes folic acid and iron if needed. Travel safely. Your doctor will help you make informed decisions about traveling, including telling you when it’s best to stop traveling (usually by 36 weeks). Pregnancy Don'ts To protect your health and your growing baby, there are a few things you should avoid during pregnancy, including: Dangerous chemicals, including some household cleaners, and refrain from cleaning cat litter boxes Foods that increase the risk of foodborne illness, including deli meats, raw or processed meats, and unpasteurized milk and cheese Excess caffeine (one cup of coffee a day is usually safe) Hot tubs and saunas Radiation exposure, including X-rays, unless absolutely necessary Alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs Taking these steps can help you lower your risk of complications and prepare for a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery. Authors Dr. Jonelle Samuel, a Luminis Health Ob-Gyn, is a Prince George’s County native and practices in Greenbelt.
- WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogVirtual Urgent Care: A Fast and Convenient Alternative No one likes to wait, especially when you’re home sick, feeling miserable, and the last thing you want to do is leave the house for a doctor’s appointment. While traditional urgent care can be convenient, long wait times are often the norm. Why wait when there’s a faster option? Luminis Health is proud to introduce CareConnectNow, a virtual urgent care service that lets you receive high-quality care from the comfort of your home. All you need is a smartphone, tablet or computer to connect with a skilled Luminis Health provider in real-time. Since this is relatively a new service, you may have questions. Here are some answers to help you make the right decision for you and your family. What kinds of things can CareConnectNow providers diagnose and treat? For true emergencies, such as life-threatening injuries or conditions, call 911 or visit the nearest Emergency Department. Virtual urgent care is ideal for addressing many other health concerns, including: Acid reflux Constipation Cough, cold or sore throat COVID screenings Eye problems, such as pink eye Fever or flu Headaches or migraines Insect bites or poison ivy Seasonal allergies Shingles Sinus problems Skin rashes and infections Urinary tract infections (UTIs) Vertigo They can also prescribe medications or refer you to a specialist when needed. Is CareConnectNow available to everyone? Our CareConnectNow providers are ready to see patients 13 and older—and you don’t have to be an established Luminis Health patient to get virtual urgent care. Keep in mind, you must be in the state of Maryland at the time of service. Most insurance providers cover virtual urgent care appointments, but it is a good idea to confirm with your provider first. Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center in Lanham also partners with Children’s National Hospital for emergency pediatric needs should your child require additional or complex care. The urgent care you need in the palm of your hands With CareConnectNow, accessing urgent care has never been easier. You can schedule an appointment with our providers weekdays from 8 am–9 pm ET and weekends from 9 am–4 pm ET. The best part? You can often see a provider in under an hour, often times within minutes. Get a diagnosis, personalized care plan, and prescription, all from the comfort of your home. Schedule a live visit today. Visit LuminisHealth.org and click “Find Care”, go directly to LuminisHealth.org/CareConnectNow or call us at 443-951-4270 from your smartphone. Authors Waseem Hussain, MD, is Associate Regional Director of Primary Care at Luminis Health with expertise in all areas of family medicine. He specializes in the management of neurologic, pulmonary, and cardiac diseases, as well as diabetes and gynecologic care.
- Digestive CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogYour gut can tell you a lot about your overall well-being since it plays a crucial role in digestion, immunity and even mental health. But does that mean you need supplements or vitamins designed to improve gut health? That depends on factors like your diet and lifestyle, and whether you’re facing digestive issues that feel disruptive to your everyday activities. Let’s explore how your gut works, why it matters, and what you can do to keep it healthy. Understanding Gut Health Your gastrointestinal (GI) tract includes your esophagus, stomach and intestines. When you eat, these organs work together to digest food, absorb essential nutrients and eliminate waste. Trillions of microorganisms—including bacteria, fungi and even parasites—live in your gut and play a key role in these processes. The composition of your gut microbiome is affected by many factors, including your diet, medications, genetics and age. Signs of a Healthy Gut A well-balanced gut microbiome often leads to: Clear skin Regular and comfortable bowel movements Steady energy levels However, frequent digestive issues like bloating, cramps, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn or nausea, may signal an imbalance. Other symptoms linked to poor gut health include: Acid reflux and heartburn Allergies and skin rashes Autoimmune issues Chronic bloating or constipation Unexplained fatigue Unexplained weight changes Natural Ways to Improve Gut Health Your daily habits can significantly impact your gut health. Try these natural strategies to keep your digestive system in top shape: Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables Eat slowly to support digestion Exercise regularly Manage stress Prioritize quality sleep Reduce ultra-processed foods Stay hydrated Use antibiotics only when necessary Can Prebiotics and Probiotics Help? Ongoing research suggests that prebiotics and probiotics, which can either be found naturally in certain foods or added to your routine with dietary supplements, can benefit gut health in some cases. However, because not everyone needs supplements—and because the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate them—it’s best to consult your primary care doctor before adding prebiotics or probiotics to your routine. A doctor can help you navigate the existing research and keep a pulse on new findings, as well help you decide if any of these gut health remedies are right for you. How Do Prebiotics Work? Prebiotics serve as food for probiotics. They occur naturally in many high-fiber foods, such as: Bananas Beans Berries Garlic Oats Onions But while prebiotic supplements like inulin can enhance gut health, they can also be costly. How Do Probiotics Work? Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that support digestive health. When you consume probiotics through food or supplements, you’re reinforcing your gut’s natural microbiome. Foods rich in probiotics include: Certain cheeses Fermented foods like kimchi, miso, and pickles Sourdough bread Yogurt (with live active cultures) Look for labels that mention “live active cultures” to ensure you’re getting beneficial bacteria. Strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are among the most effective, according to current research, and probiotics with added B12 can further boost your metabolism, energy, and digestion. With so many choices though, finding the right probiotic can be overwhelming. Your doctor can help determine whether a probiotic is right for you, and which best meets your needs. Here When You Need Us If you believe your gut health needs improvement, your next primary care visit is a great time to discuss your concerns with your doctor. Together, you can decide your next steps, including any dietary, lifestyle or supplement changes, and monitor your progress over time. If you don’t have an established relationship with a primary care physician, find a Luminis Health doctor who’s ready to help. Visit Luminis.Health/PrimaryCare to book an appointment. Authors Dr. Ijeoma Nwogu is a primary care physician at Luminis Health who sees patients in Greenbelt, Bowie and Lanham, Maryland.
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?