Vim & Vigor - Spring 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center - (Page 37)

With a staff comprising the area’s top oncologists, radiologists and cancer experts, GMC specializes in the treatment of all types of cancer. Learn more at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/cancer. ONlINe Expert Cancer Care at GMC Being overweight RISK LEVEL: 5 REASON: “If you don’t smoke, weight is the next most important risk factor for cancer,” Doyle says. “But you can eat healthy and exercise and still be overweight.” Doyle explains that a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher increases your risk for a variety of cancers, including breast cancer and colon cancer. “Current patterns of overweight and obesity in the United States could account for up to 14 percent of cancer deaths in men and 20 percent in women, and contribute to 90,000 cancer deaths each year,” she says. RECOMMENDATION: Doyle suggests calculating your BMI (visit nhlbisupport.com/bmi), and taking action if it’s 25 or higher. “Reducing your weight by just 5 to 10 percent equates to good health benefits,” she says. “You can do this by watching your portion sizes, getting 30 minutes of exercise five or more days per week and eating more fruits and vegetables to help fill you up.” photography by getty images Testing 1, 2, 3 One of the riskiest behaviors for cancer is skipping screenings, says Cindy Snyder, R.N., DNP, manager of Oncology Services at GMC and an advanced practice nurse in genetics. “It’s extremely important to find cancer early enough for it to be easily treatable.” Use this guide to make sure you’re up-todate on your cancer screenings. Be sure to discuss your health and family history with your doctor. Screening FreQUencY Pap test Annually, three years after having intercourse or by age 21 Clinical breast exam Every three years during 20s and 30s, annually after 40 Mammogram Annually, after age 40 Colonoscopy Beginning at age 50 and then every 10 years for average-risk individuals Prostate exam Starting at age 50 (45 for men at high risk), discuss with your doctor what is best for you based on health and family history Source: American Cancer Society Spri ng 2013 37 http://www.gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/cancer http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vim & Vigor - Spring 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center

Vim & Vigor - Spring 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center
Contents
Phil’s Feature
Where Lasting Weight Loss Begins
Open Heart Surgery Journey
You’re the Star
Heart-to-Heart
Lighten Up!
Have No Fear
Work It!
Diane Keaton
What Are the Chances?
9 Symptoms Never to Ignore
When Allergies Attack
Virtual Health
PrimeTime Health
Aiding Babies
Back on Top
Out of the White Coat
Transforming Healthcare

Vim & Vigor - Spring 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center