Tuesday, November 22, 2016
Spinach and mushroom frittata
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/spinach-mushroom-frittata/rcp-20049936
Cancer blood tests: Lab tests used in cancer diagnosis
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cancer/in-depth/cancer-diagnosis/art-20046459
Ambrosia with coconut and toasted almonds
Treat your sweetheart to this classic Southern dessert. The sweet fruit combined with cream sherry, toasted almonds and coconut offer rich flavor and little fat.
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/ambrosia-with-coconut-and-toasted-almonds/rcp-20049601
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/ambrosia-with-coconut-and-toasted-almonds/rcp-20049601
Movember: Stashing prostate and testicular cancer awareness into the limelight
Since 2003, the Movember movement has been raising public awareness of testicular and prostate cancer. The common theme that links cancers of all types is that early detection tends to lead to better outcomes. Because cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages, screening for cancer has been an integral part of primary care routine visits.
I go for an annual physical every year. Do I really need to do self-examinations?
Although routine screening by a health care provider is critical, it does not alleviate the need for self-examinations. In terms of gender-specific cancers, breast cancer is one that receives a great deal of attention due to its prevalence, as one in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. It is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in women, and the second leading cause of cancer death in women. As with any form of cancer, early detection is critical, and the importance of routine breast self-examinations cannot be stressed highly enough. For these reasons, multiple foundations and even the National Football League promote awareness.
What is the deal with men’s health?
Far fewer people know the facts about prostate and testicular cancer. Regarding prostate cancer, about one in seven men will be diagnosed during their lifetime. It most often affects men over the age of 65, and it is the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Although there is no proven way to do self-exams, a digital rectal examination (DRE) performed by a health care provider is a useful screening tool in the detection of prostate cancer. During a DRE, a healthcare provider uses a gloved, lubricated finger inserted into the rectum to feel the prostate gland.
Testicular cancer is fortunately much less common than prostate cancer, as about one in 263 men will be diagnosed during their lifetime. Unlike prostate cancer, testicular cancer is a disease of young and middle-aged men, with about 7% of cases occurring in teens and young boys. Although the number of deaths from testicular cancer is far lower than breast or prostate cancer, it is estimated that about 380 men will die of testicular cancer in the U.S. in 2016. Early detection is critical, and we must stress the importance of routine testicular self-examinations.
Prostate and testicular cancers, especially when not detected early, can lead to difficult treatment, sterility, and potentially a lifetime of hormone replacement therapy. Men tend to be less likely in general to access the health care system, particularly for routine care, which further punctuates the need for awareness. Many men find the thought of a DRE or a testicular examination embarrassing, but such embarrassment can be lifesaving.
Why is a neurologist so interested in prostate and testicular cancer?
A few years ago, I met a colleague who was similar to me in many ways, a relatively young physician and father of two with no health problems. That is, until he discovered a small nodule on one of his testicles during a self-exam. Follow-up tests confirmed testicular cancer. Fortunately, with early intervention, he was cured after the surgical removal of one of his testicles.
So when I heard about the Movember movement, I felt compelled to do my part to raise awareness.
So here are some of my Movember experiences…
For the past few years, I have grown out a full beard in October, and then shaved it down to a mustache on November 1. For a man who never wears a mustache to suddenly have one is very much an attention grabber. I fondly recall my daughter who is now 4 saying, “Papa, you look like Super Mario with that mustache.” Fortunately, some of the comments I received have been a little more flattering. After sharing the story of Movember with some coworkers, one of the nurses said, “That mustache reminds me of Tom Selleck’s mustache. The only difference is, he is Magnum P.I., which I guess makes you Magnum P.M. (my initials).” During Movember, I begin every patient encounter explaining why I have a mustache, the importance of prostate and testicular cancer awareness, and how early detection can be lifesaving. It has always amazed me how many patients reply with a personal story of their own about a brother, uncle, coworker, etc. who was diagnosed with prostate or testicular cancer.
I fondly recall one such patient, a woman in her 70s, later changing the subject by saying, “Dr. Mathew, do you know that it tickles very much to kiss a man with a mustache?” I replied with a big smile while shrugging my shoulders, “I wouldn’t know (implying that as a heterosexual married man, I have never tried to kiss a man with a mustache),” One of my most rewarding Movember experiences occurred when I had a female patient in the medical field ask me how to perform a testicular exam. I was initially shocked by the question, but then later elated that my mustache served its purpose and then some. Not only did I raise awareness of testicular cancer, but this woman may actually help detect a case, and save someone’s life.
Then came the difficult part … showing this woman how to perform a testicular exam. My mind quickly scrambled, and after scanning the room, I noticed an Angry Bird toy from a Happy Meal that my daughter did not want. As I picked up the rotund bird, and used it as a teaching prop, she seemed to grasp the concept perfectly. I then put the Angry Bird down, and I could not help but feel that one just flew over the cuckoo’s nest…
The post Movember: Stashing prostate and testicular cancer awareness into the limelight appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Paul G. Mathew, MD, FAAN, FAHS http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/movember-stashing-prostate-and-testicular-cancer-awareness-into-the-limelight-2016112210740
Zika birth defect may surface months after birth
A study of 13 Brazilian babies shows that the absence of microcephaly at birth doesn’t mean abnormalities won't develop later
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/zika-birth-defect-microcephaly-may-surface-months-after-birth/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/zika-birth-defect-microcephaly-may-surface-months-after-birth/
N.Y. kids learn important Thanksgiving lesson: Kindness equals tolerance
This election has pitted some families against each other, but there are some ways to accept people's differences
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/thanksgiving-stress-election-cure/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/thanksgiving-stress-election-cure/
“This Is My Truth. This Is Diabetes.”
When you ask Jessica where “home” is, she pictures the Indian reservation in upstate New York where her parents are from. Jessica’s family is part of the Haudenosaunee—the people of the longhouses—where entire family units live together in one house with grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, parents and siblings. Close family ties define her community.
At nearly 16 percent, American Indians and Alaska Natives have the highest prevalence of diabetes among all racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Jessica knew she had a strong family history of type 2 diabetes, but didn’t think it would affect her until she was much older.
Jessica was only in her 30s when her family’s history of diabetes became her own reality. Now she is determined to take control of her disease so she can watch her seven nieces and nephews grow up.
This is her story.
During American Diabetes Month® we’re sharing the stories of people affected by diabetes, just like Jessica. What do YOU want the world to know about this disease?
If you or someone you know is living with diabetes, share your story during November using #ThisIsDiabetes. And learn more at http://diabetes.org/adm.
From: American Diabetes Association http://diabetesstopshere.org/2016/11/22/this-is-my-truth-this-is-diabetes/
Palliative Care Raises Quality of Life
Researchers find value for extremely ill patients and their caregivers, but add that it doesn't affect survival
From: http://www.webmd.com/palliative-care/news/20161122/palliative-care-raises-quality-of-life-but-doesnt-extend-it?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Movember: Stashing prostate and testicular cancer awareness into the limelight
Since 2003, the Movember movement has been raising public awareness of testicular and prostate cancer. The common theme that links cancers of all types is that early detection tends to lead to better outcomes. Because cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages, screening for cancer has been an integral part of primary care routine visits.
I go for an annual physical every year. Do I really need to do self-examinations?
Although routine screening by a health care provider is critical, it does not alleviate the need for self-examinations. In terms of gender-specific cancers, breast cancer is one that receives a great deal of attention due to its prevalence, as one in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. It is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in women, and the second leading cause of cancer death in women. As with any form of cancer, early detection is critical, and the importance of routine breast self-examinations cannot be stressed highly enough. For these reasons, multiple foundations and even the National Football League promote awareness.
What is the deal with men’s health?
Far fewer people know the facts about prostate and testicular cancer. Regarding prostate cancer, about one in seven men will be diagnosed during their lifetime. It most often affects men over the age of 65, and it is the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Although there is no proven way to do self-exams, a digital rectal examination (DRE) performed by a health care provider is a useful screening tool in the detection of prostate cancer. During a DRE, a healthcare provider uses a gloved, lubricated finger inserted into the rectum to feel the prostate gland.
Testicular cancer is fortunately much less common than prostate cancer, as about one in 263 men will be diagnosed during their lifetime. Unlike prostate cancer, testicular cancer is a disease of young and middle-aged men, with about 7% of cases occurring in teens and young boys. Although the number of deaths from testicular cancer is far lower than breast or prostate cancer, it is estimated that about 380 men will die of testicular cancer in the U.S. in 2016. Early detection is critical, and we must stress the importance of routine testicular self-examinations.
Prostate and testicular cancers, especially when not detected early, can lead to difficult treatment, sterility, and potentially a lifetime of hormone replacement therapy. Men tend to be less likely in general to access the health care system, particularly for routine care, which further punctuates the need for awareness. Many men find the thought of a DRE or a testicular examination embarrassing, but such embarrassment can be lifesaving.
Why is a neurologist so interested in prostate and testicular cancer?
A few years ago, I met a colleague who was similar to me in many ways, a relatively young physician and father of two with no health problems. That is, until he discovered a small nodule on one of his testicles during a self-exam. Follow-up tests confirmed testicular cancer. Fortunately, with early intervention, he was cured after the surgical removal of one of his testicles.
So when I heard about the Movember movement, I felt compelled to do my part to raise awareness.
So here are some of my Movember experiences…
For the past few years, I have grown out a full beard in October, and then shaved it down to a mustache on November 1. For a man who never wears a mustache to suddenly have one is very much an attention grabber. I fondly recall my daughter who is now 4 saying, “Papa, you look like Super Mario with that mustache.” Fortunately, some of the comments I received have been a little more flattering. After sharing the story of Movember with some coworkers, one of the nurses said, “That mustache reminds me of Tom Selleck’s mustache. The only difference is, he is Magnum P.I., which I guess makes you Magnum P.M. (my initials).” During Movember, I begin every patient encounter explaining why I have a mustache, the importance of prostate and testicular cancer awareness, and how early detection can be lifesaving. It has always amazed me how many patients reply with a personal story of their own about a brother, uncle, coworker, etc. who was diagnosed with prostate or testicular cancer.
I fondly recall one such patient, a woman in her 70s, later changing the subject by saying, “Dr. Mathew, do you know that it tickles very much to kiss a man with a mustache?” I replied with a big smile while shrugging my shoulders, “I wouldn’t know (implying that as a heterosexual married man, I have never tried to kiss a man with a mustache),” One of my most rewarding Movember experiences occurred when I had a female patient in the medical field ask me how to perform a testicular exam. I was initially shocked by the question, but then later elated that my mustache served its purpose and then some. Not only did I raise awareness of testicular cancer, but this woman may actually help detect a case, and save someone’s life.
Then came the difficult part … showing this woman how to perform a testicular exam. My mind quickly scrambled, and after scanning the room, I noticed an Angry Bird toy from a Happy Meal that my daughter did not want. As I picked up the rotund bird, and used it as a teaching prop, she seemed to grasp the concept perfectly. I then put the Angry Bird down, and I could not help but feel that one just flew over the cuckoo’s nest…
The post Movember: Stashing prostate and testicular cancer awareness into the limelight appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Paul G. Mathew, MD, FAAN, FAHS http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/movember-stashing-prostate-and-testicular-cancer-awareness-into-the-limelight-2016112210740
Saving Lives With Gus: Incarcerated Hernia
From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wb3q3S_Vj0A
Handle Stress for Help Against Hep C
If you have hepatitis C, you have enough stress in your life already. WebMD shows you some ways to handle that type of stress, and others, to keep you as healthy as you can be.
From: http://www.webmd.com/hepatitis/features/hep-c-manage-stress?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Hepatitis C: You Are Not Your Condition
Hepatitis C can make you feel anxious or lonely. WebMD shows you how to cut through the stigma of this disease and start to feel better.
From: http://www.webmd.com/hepatitis/features/hep-c-live-with-confidence?src=RSS_PUBLIC
2 Doses of HPV Vaccine Effective for Younger Teens
Global study supports revised regimen for those under 15
From: http://www.webmd.com/sexual-conditions/hpv-genital-warts/news/20161122/2-doses-of-hpv-vaccine-effective-for-younger-teens?src=RSS_PUBLIC
These Medicines Often Send Americans to ERs
CDC cites blood thinners, antibiotics, diabetes drugs for nearly half of adverse drug-related events
From: http://www.webmd.com/dvt/news/20161122/these-medicines-often-send-americans-to-ers?src=RSS_PUBLIC
U.S. Death Toll From Infectious Diseases Unchanged
Although new threats have emerged, the number of people dying from infections has stayed relatively stable
From: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/news/20161122/us-death-toll-from-infectious-diseases-unchanged-study?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Zika Babies May Look Normal at Birth, Display Brain Defects Later: CDC
Findings underscore need for continuing evaluation after prenatal exposure
From: http://www.webmd.com/news/20161122/zika-babies-may-look-normal-at-birth-display-brain-defects-later-cdc?src=RSS_PUBLIC
No Benefit From Routine Thyroid Cancer Screening?
Public invited to comment on draft recommendation, which is the same as one in place since the 1990s
From: http://www.webmd.com/cancer/news/20161122/no-benefit-from-routine-thyroid-cancer-screening-task-force?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Cancer blood tests: Lab tests used in cancer diagnosis
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/in-depth/cancer-diagnosis/art-20046459
Spinach and mushroom frittata
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/spinach-mushroom-frittata/rcp-20049936
Ambrosia with coconut and toasted almonds
Treat your sweetheart to this classic Southern dessert. The sweet fruit combined with cream sherry, toasted almonds and coconut offer rich flavor and little fat.
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/ambrosia-with-coconut-and-toasted-almonds/rcp-20049601
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/ambrosia-with-coconut-and-toasted-almonds/rcp-20049601
Baked apples with cherries and almonds
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/baked-apples-with-cherries-and-almonds/rcp-20049603
Sweet peppers stuffed with scalloped corn
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/sweet-peppers-stuffed-with-scalloped-corn/rcp-20049836
Black bean burgers with chipotle ketchup
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/black-bean-burgers-with-chipotle-ketchup/rcp-20049605
That aloe vera gel might not actually include any aloe
Aloe gel sold at three of the country's largest sellers of body-care products may not be what they advertise
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/that-aloe-vera-gel-might-not-actually-include-any-aloe/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/that-aloe-vera-gel-might-not-actually-include-any-aloe/
Being sexist could harm men's health, study suggests
Men who have "playboy" attitudes and believe in power over women may face a higher risk for mental health trouble, new research suggests
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/being-sexist-could-harm-mens-health-study/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/being-sexist-could-harm-mens-health-study/
Is there a bone bonus from some blood pressure drugs?
One class of blood pressure drugs is linked to fewer fractures, large study suggests
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/thiazide-diuretics-bone-health-bonus-from-blood-pressure-hypertension-drugs/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/thiazide-diuretics-bone-health-bonus-from-blood-pressure-hypertension-drugs/
Mayo Clinic Minute: How much dietary fiber do you need?
From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDBJ24A1Vak
Smoking Plus Diabetes a Very Deadly Mix
Chances of an early death double if smoker also has the blood sugar disease, study finds
From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/news/20161122/smoking-plus-diabetes-a-very-deadly-mix?src=RSS_PUBLIC
A Benefit of Back Pain Surgery: Better Sex
Operation often leads to more comfortable lovemaking, study finds
From: http://www.webmd.com/back-pain/news/20161122/a-benefit-of-back-pain-surgery-better-sex?src=RSS_PUBLIC
USDA Report Highlights Scientific Research, Development Breakthroughs
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22, 2016 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today released results of investments in scientific research including 222 new inventions, 94 patents awarded and 125 new patent applications filed in 2015. The USDA Annual Report on Technology Transfer includes new agriculture-related discoveries, inventions and processes made by USDA researchers, universities and small businesses with the potential for commercial application.
From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/11/0248.xml&contentidonly=true
From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/11/0248.xml&contentidonly=true
Spotlight on nonnutritive sucking behavior and malocclusions in December JADA
Nonnutritive sucking is associated with substantial risks of developing malocclusions, according to research published in the December issue of The Journal of the American Dental Association.
From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2016-archive/november/spotlight-on-nonnutritive-sucking-behavior-and-malocclusions-in-december-jada
From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2016-archive/november/spotlight-on-nonnutritive-sucking-behavior-and-malocclusions-in-december-jada
Gender Gap in Life Expectancy Persists
Genetics and riskier behaviors may help explain the difference, researchers say
From: http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/news/20161121/gender-gap-in-life-expectancy-persists?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Can Occupational Therapy Slow Alzheimer's Decline?
Patients, caregivers may reap some benefits, but study sees no effect on everyday functioning
From: http://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/news/20161122/can-occupational-therapy-slow-alzheimers-decline?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Movember: Stashing prostate and testicular cancer awareness into the limelight
Since 2003, the Movember movement has been raising public awareness of testicular and prostate cancer. The common theme that links cancers of all types is that early detection tends to lead to better outcomes. Because cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages, screening for cancer has been an integral part of primary care routine visits.
I go for an annual physical every year. Do I really need to do self-examinations?
Although routine screening by a health care provider is critical, it does not alleviate the need for self-examinations. In terms of gender-specific cancers, breast cancer is one that receives a great deal of attention due to its prevalence, as one in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. It is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in women, and the second leading cause of cancer death in women. As with any form of cancer, early detection is critical, and the importance of routine breast self-examinations cannot be stressed highly enough. For these reasons, multiple foundations and even the National Football League promote awareness.
What is the deal with men’s health?
Far fewer people know the facts about prostate and testicular cancer. Regarding prostate cancer, about one in seven men will be diagnosed during their lifetime. It most often affects men over the age of 65, and it is the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Although there is no proven way to do self-exams, a digital rectal examination (DRE) performed by a health care provider is a useful screening tool in the detection of prostate cancer. During a DRE, a healthcare provider uses a gloved, lubricated finger inserted into the rectum to feel the prostate gland.
Testicular cancer is fortunately much less common than prostate cancer, as about one in 263 men will be diagnosed during their lifetime. Unlike prostate cancer, testicular cancer is a disease of young and middle-aged men, with about 7% of cases occurring in teens and young boys. Although the number of deaths from testicular cancer is far lower than breast or prostate cancer, it is estimated that about 380 men will die of testicular cancer in the U.S. in 2016. Early detection is critical, and we must stress the importance of routine testicular self-examinations.
Prostate and testicular cancers, especially when not detected early, can lead to difficult treatment, sterility, and potentially a lifetime of hormone replacement therapy. Men tend to be less likely in general to access the health care system, particularly for routine care, which further punctuates the need for awareness. Many men find the thought of a DRE or a testicular examination embarrassing, but such embarrassment can be lifesaving.
Why is a neurologist so interested in prostate and testicular cancer?
A few years ago, I met a colleague who was similar to me in many ways, a relatively young physician and father of two with no health problems. That is, until he discovered a small nodule on one of his testicles during a self-exam. Follow-up tests confirmed testicular cancer. Fortunately, with early intervention, he was cured after the surgical removal of one of his testicles.
So when I heard about the Movember movement, I felt compelled to do my part to raise awareness.
So here are some of my Movember experiences…
For the past few years, I have grown out a full beard in October, and then shaved it down to a mustache on November 1. For a man who never wears a mustache to suddenly have one is very much an attention grabber. I fondly recall my daughter who is now 4 saying, “Papa, you look like Super Mario with that mustache.” Fortunately, some of the comments I received have been a little more flattering. After sharing the story of Movember with some coworkers, one of the nurses said, “That mustache reminds me of Tom Selleck’s mustache. The only difference is, he is Magnum P.I., which I guess makes you Magnum P.M. (my initials).” During Movember, I begin every patient encounter explaining why I have a mustache, the importance of prostate and testicular cancer awareness, and how early detection can be lifesaving. It has always amazed me how many patients reply with a personal story of their own about a brother, uncle, coworker, etc. who was diagnosed with prostate or testicular cancer.
I fondly recall one such patient, a woman in her 70s, later changing the subject by saying, “Dr. Mathew, do you know that it tickles very much to kiss a man with a mustache?” I replied with a big smile while shrugging my shoulders, “I wouldn’t know (implying that as a heterosexual married man, I have never tried to kiss a man with a mustache),” One of my most rewarding Movember experiences occurred when I had a female patient in the medical field ask me how to perform a testicular exam. I was initially shocked by the question, but then later elated that my mustache served its purpose and then some. Not only did I raise awareness of testicular cancer, but this woman may actually help detect a case, and save someone’s life.
Then came the difficult part … showing this woman how to perform a testicular exam. My mind quickly scrambled, and after scanning the room, I noticed an Angry Bird toy from a Happy Meal that my daughter did not want. As I picked up the rotund bird, and used it as a teaching prop, she seemed to grasp the concept perfectly. I then put the Angry Bird down, and I could not help but feel that one just flew over the cuckoo’s nest…
The post Movember: Stashing prostate and testicular cancer awareness into the limelight appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Paul G. Mathew, MD, FAAN, FAHS http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/movember-stashing-prostate-and-testicular-cancer-awareness-into-the-limelight-2016112210740
OMS : Classification internationale des maladies
From: World Health Organization http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlxvuRPNCFc
Let’s recognize caregivers and make it easier for all of us to do the right thing
I walked out of the doctor’s office, overwhelmed and paralyzed. My daughter had just been diagnosed with multiple food allergies from nearly all fruits, numerous vegetables, seafood, nuts, soy, wheat, and more. We headed straight to the grocery store to figure out what she could eat without wasting away from malnutrition, or so I thought.
Two hours later, we were still in the grocery store, reading every label.
You would think I would know what to do. After all, I am a doctor. But that day, I was simply a mom and a caregiver.
My problem was simple in the big scheme of things. Many years later, we figured out what my daughter can and can’t eat, how to go out to dinner, have friends over, and basically return to normal everyday life.
But for many of the more than 40 million caregivers in the USA today, it’s not so easy.
The costs of caregiving: health, time, and money
Fully 32% of family caregivers provide at least 21 hours of care per week with the average of 62.2 hours, according to a June 2015 AARP and National Alliance on Caregiving research report, Caregiving in the U.S. Those who provide caregiving 14 hours per week or for two or more years doubled the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and significantly increased the risk of developing high blood pressure and depression.
And it’s not just the time burden and health risks, but there’s also the expense.
A just-released AARP study, Caregiving and Out-of-Pocket Costs: 2016 Report, concludes that “family caregivers are spending roughly $7,000 in 2016 on caregiving expenses which amounts to, on average, 20% of their total income.” Some groups, including Hispanic/Latino, African American, and those caring for someone with dementia experience higher than average out-of-pocket expenses.
Many caregivers are forced to cut back on their own personal spending, reducing leisure spending or retirement savings, to accommodate caregiving costs.
When I think back to the day our family life changed, I am struck by how little doctors seem to know about the impact of our recommendations to our patients. My problem was minor — just changing grocery shopping habits and recipes.
But think about a new diagnosis of diabetes. It’s not just the recipes and grocery habits, but more trips to the pharmacy, tracking blood sugars, and follow-ups to doctors. According to a Harvard Medical School study, it takes two hours on average for one doctor visit for travel, waiting time, and visit. Even more time is spent if one needs public transportation or to arrange a ride.
Maybe it’s time to contemplate new measures for health care delivery
What if doctors and health systems were measured by how much they reduced the time, money, and the overall burden of care that patients, family, and caregivers need to follow recommended care? What if we told our patients, their families, and their caregivers not only what they “should do,” but “how to” with the least disruption to their everyday lives?
We need to make it easy to do the right thing.
Doctors care about having meaningful time with their patients. So, every time a new guidance or documentation rule is mandated, physicians understandably complain about the new time burden to incorporate the new tasks into the workflow of their practice.
Similarly, every time we give our patients and caregivers new recommendations to follow, we are disrupting the “workflow of their lives.” Is it any wonder that compliance is challenging for our patients? Do we address the daily changes that will be needed in everyday living? The Lasix prescription that means figuring out where all the nearest bathrooms will be when the fluid reduction pill takes effect. Or the cost of dressings, bandages, tape, and time to manage wound care at home? And the anxiety of not knowing if one just broke sterile technique at home? What a steep learning curve we expect from our patients following each visit!
A thank you from health care providers to caregivers
November is National Family Caregivers Month. Kudos to all family and friend caregivers, not only for “care taking” — ensuring your loved one is safe, taking the correct medications at the right time, preventing falls, making the right meals, and helping with bathing — but also for “care giving” – the giving of love, compassion, and care. You are spending your precious hours and your own money to do what you do best: sharing your love to your parent, your spouse, your children, or your friends. You are making a difference to our patients (your loved ones). It’s time we clinicians pay tribute, recognize, and thank you for being a caregiver, and not just a caretaker.
The post Let’s recognize caregivers and make it easier for all of us to do the right thing appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Charlotte S. Yeh, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/lets-recognize-caregivers-and-make-it-easier-for-all-of-us-to-do-the-right-thing-2016112110705
Judge: Severely anorexic woman can refuse force-feedings
29 year old weighs 69 pounds and has been in state psychiatric hospital in New Jersey since 2014
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/judge-severely-anorexic-woman-can-refuse-force-feedings/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/judge-severely-anorexic-woman-can-refuse-force-feedings/
FDA: Mislabeled Heinz Homestyle Gravy Recalled
Result could be people allergic to milk or soy accidentally eating them and possibly suffering serious or life-threatening reactions
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/fda-mislabeled-heinz-homestyle-gravy-recalled/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/fda-mislabeled-heinz-homestyle-gravy-recalled/
Baked apples with cherries and almonds
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/baked-apples-with-cherries-and-almonds/rcp-20049603
Sweet peppers stuffed with scalloped corn
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/sweet-peppers-stuffed-with-scalloped-corn/rcp-20049836
Black bean burgers with chipotle ketchup
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/black-bean-burgers-with-chipotle-ketchup/rcp-20049605
Spinach and mushroom frittata
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/spinach-mushroom-frittata/rcp-20049936
Cancer blood tests: Lab tests used in cancer diagnosis
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cancer/in-depth/cancer-diagnosis/art-20046459
Ambrosia with coconut and toasted almonds
Treat your sweetheart to this classic Southern dessert. The sweet fruit combined with cream sherry, toasted almonds and coconut offer rich flavor and little fat.
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/ambrosia-with-coconut-and-toasted-almonds/rcp-20049601
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/ambrosia-with-coconut-and-toasted-almonds/rcp-20049601
How to navigate the politics of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving may be more divisive this year due to post-election emotions; should table talk stick to turkey instead of Trump?
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/thanksgiving-politics-keeping-the-peace-with-family-post-election-donald-trump-hillary-clinton/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/thanksgiving-politics-keeping-the-peace-with-family-post-election-donald-trump-hillary-clinton/
Baked apples with cherries and almonds
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/baked-apples-with-cherries-and-almonds/rcp-20049603
Sweet peppers stuffed with scalloped corn
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/sweet-peppers-stuffed-with-scalloped-corn/rcp-20049836
Black bean burgers with chipotle ketchup
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/black-bean-burgers-with-chipotle-ketchup/rcp-20049605
Spinach and mushroom frittata
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/spinach-mushroom-frittata/rcp-20049936
Cancer blood tests: Lab tests used in cancer diagnosis
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/in-depth/cancer-diagnosis/art-20046459
Ambrosia with coconut and toasted almonds
Treat your sweetheart to this classic Southern dessert. The sweet fruit combined with cream sherry, toasted almonds and coconut offer rich flavor and little fat.
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/ambrosia-with-coconut-and-toasted-almonds/rcp-20049601
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/ambrosia-with-coconut-and-toasted-almonds/rcp-20049601
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