Tips for Stressing Less This Back-to-School Season

Back-to-school season represents the end of summer vacation. It also brings new challenges that frequently cause stress for individuals of all ages.

Fortunately, there are lots of ways to stay calm, cool and collected during back-to-school season, including:

Identify and Address the Signs of Stress

This back-to-school season, keep an eye out for any signs of stress. That way, an individual can alleviate stress before it gets out of hand.

Remember, stress comes in a variety of forms. These include:

  • Behavioral Changes: Forgetfulness, insomnia, temper tantrums and other behavioral changes are common signs of stress.
  • Emotional Issues: Mood swings, low self-esteem and other emotional problems are often related to stress.
  • Physical Problems: Fatigue, headaches and other physical issues may be linked to stress.
  • Psychological Problems: Anxiety, depression and other physiological problems may occur due to stress.

Back-to-school stress may happen due to one or more of the aforementioned factors. For those who are struggling with back-to-school stress, it may be beneficial to discuss their concerns and questions with a loved one. Consulting with a doctor also may be helpful, as this medical professional can help a patient develop a successful stress management strategy.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Let’s face it – back-to-school season may lead to restless nights. Yet there are several things a person can do to make a good night’s sleep a regular occurrence. These include:

  • Avoid Caffeinated Beverages Close to Bedtime: Caffeine stimulates the nervous system, which may make it tough for the body to relax at night. As such, people should avoid consuming coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages in the late-afternoon and evening.
  • Create a Comfortable Bedroom: A bedroom’s setup should be conducive to a good night’s sleep. Therefore, it is important to remove any bright lights and minimize external noise in a bedroom that otherwise can interfere with a person’s ability to enjoy restful sleep.
  • Relax Before Bedtime: Scrolling through social media websites, texting on a smartphone or tablet or playing video games before bedtime often stimulates the mind. On the other hand, reading a book, taking a hot bath or using other relaxation methods may help a person calm down and get the Zzz’s that he or she needs at bedtime.

The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) recommends children between the ages of 6 and 13 get between nine and 11 hours of sleep each night. Comparatively, the NSF recommends kids between the ages of 14 and 17 get between eight and 10 hours of sleep and adults get seven to nine hours of sleep. If a person follows the NSF’s sleep guidelines, he or she could enjoy sufficient sleep every night and put back-to-school stress to rest.

Exercise Regularly

There is a direct correlation between exercise and stress reduction. In fact, exercise delivers a number of stress-relieving benefits, and these include:

  • Increased Endorphin Production: Exercise boosts the production of endorphins, i.e. the brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters. Thus, even taking a few minutes to walk, play and enjoy other physical activities may help a person instantly increase his or her endorphin levels.
  • Reduced Tension: Exercise may help a person take his or her mind off of back-to-school season stress. Therefore, those who are struggling with the hustle-and-bustle of the back-to-school season can exercise to simultaneously take a break from their everyday activities and minimize tension.
  • Enhanced Mood: Exercise helps a person improve his or her mood. It also helps reduce the risk of anxiety, depression and insomnia – all of which may affect parents and kids more frequently during the back-to-school season.

As the summer comes to an end and the hot temperatures subside, now may be the perfect time to get into a regular exercise routine. With an exercise regimen in place, parents and kids may be better equipped than ever before to stay active and manage back-to-school stress.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

The foods a person eats every day can have far-flung effects on his or her stress levels. If an individual prioritizes his or her diet during back-to-school season, he or she may be able to eat healthy and limit stress throughout the school year.

Many foods have been shown to help individuals combat stress. These foods include:

  • Avocados: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, avocados have been shown to help people minimize stress, as well as improve mood and bolster concentration.
  • Fish: Like avocados, fish is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids that help people reduce stress.
  • Milk: Drinking a glass of warm milk before bedtime has a relaxing effect on the body. Also, the calcium and vitamin D in milk often helps stabilize a person’s mood and relax the muscles.

Additionally, those who want to embark on dietary changes to alleviate back-to-school stress may want to consult with a doctor. By doing so, an individual can receive the support that he or she needs to develop and maintain a healthy diet both now and in the future.

Schedule a Sports Physical

Back-to-school season means youth sports are kicking off for many kids across the United States. Approximately 38 million kids participate in organized youth sports, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, there is always a risk that a child will get hurt or sick during an organized sports activity. Yet parents who take a proactive approach to sports physicals can help their kids prepare accordingly.

A sports physical enables parents to determine if it is safe for a child to participate in a particular sport. During the evaluation, a doctor learns about a child’s medical history and performs a physical examination. If a doctor still has questions about a child’s well-being after the assessment, he or she may then request a follow-up exam or additional tests.

For parents or kids who are worried about sports injuries, the La Peer Health Systems team can help. Our expert outpatient care physicians learn about each patient and provide him or her with a personalized treatment plan. They next will work with a patient to put his or her treatment plan into action and ensure this individual can achieve the optimal results.

Schedule a Consultation with the La Peer Team Today

When it comes to receiving comprehensive medical treatment, there is no need to stress. At La Peer, our outpatient care physicians diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions – everything from bunions to osteoarthritis. Plus, our physicians dedicate the necessary time and resources to educate patients about various medical conditions and help them make informed treatment decisions. To find out more, please contact us today at 855.360.9119 to schedule a consultation with one of our physicians.

Top 10 Health Tips for Men

Did you know that on average, the life expectancy for men is less than women? This is partially to do with the fact that men are far less likely to visit their doctors for annual check-ups, take note of signs and symptoms of serious disease, and maintain a healthy lifestyle compared to women. It may be true that many men subscribe to the old adage, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” Fortunately, attitudes are changing and men are realizing that they have to be proactive with regard to their health. With that being said, the top 10 health tips for men (no matter your age) have been compiled below:

  1. Eat a well-balanced diet

Highly processed foods, including white flour and white sugar, should be eliminated or at least minimized in the diet. These foods have minimal nutritive value, as vitamins, minerals, and fiber have been stripped away. Accordingly, they contribute to weight gain and chronic diseases that are major causes of death. In addition, fat intake should be judicious, as some forms can contribute to heart disease. Instead, concentrate on eating an array of colorful, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables along with whole grains and healthy fats (e.g., olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids). These measures can not only help men attain an optimal weight but also protect against heart disease and other chronic health problems.

  1. Exercise regularly

Most authorities recommend a goal of 30 minutes of exercise daily, which has been shown to improve health. The good news is that the physical activity doesn’t have to be continuous. It can be achieved intermittently in 5 to 10 minutes bursts throughout the day. It can also take various forms such as walking, biking, swimming, jogging, and even gardening or mowing your lawn. You should avoid being a “weekend warrior,” as it increases your chances of injury. Also, don’t forget to incorporate weight training (at least 2 times per week) into your routine to maximize the results of your exercise program.

  1. Drink moderate amounts of alcohol

Drinking moderate amounts of alcohol, no matter what kind, not only protects against heart disease but also lowers risk of death from all causes. If you drink alcohol, limit your intake to no more than two drinks per day. As a reference, a standard drink equals one 12-ounce bottle of beer or wine cooler, one 8-ounce glass of malt liquor, one 5-ounce glass of wine, or 1 1/2 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits. Keep in mind that your drinks should be staggered throughout the week and not consumed all at once, as many men fall into the trap of binge drinking and don’t realize its long-term effects. After all, while one to two drinks a day are okay, excessive alcohol consumption can be adverse to your health.

  1. Abstain from tobacco use

Whether you smoke cigarettes, vape, or chew tobacco, you are putting your health at risk. Tobacco smoke contains more than 4000 chemicals and is a known cause of cancer (carcinogen). Smoking also increases the likelihood of chronic health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and lung disease. Chewing tobacco is not any safer, as it is still a carcinogen and also contributes to gum disease and tooth loss. Tobacco can even contribute to poor mental health. As a result, discontinuing tobacco use can be one of the single most effective ways to improve your health. Also, don’t forget to limit your exposure to secondhand smoke (also known as passive smoking), as it too can increase your chances of developing chronic health problems.

  1. Pay attention to your prostate

In the majority of men, the prostate begins to grow larger after the age of 40. This growth spurt can lead to bothersome symptoms, such as frequent nighttime urination and a weak urine stream, which are indicative of a condition referred to as benign prostatic hyperplasia (an “enlarged prostate”). Fortunately, there are measures with the potential to prevent or reverse this benign (noncancerous) disease, such as supplementing with the herbs saw palmetto and/or pygeum. Additionally, advancing age is a risk factor for prostate cancer. You may be able to decrease your risk of prostate cancer by consuming foods that are protective of the prostate, such as soy, green tea, and tomatoes. Soy contains isoflavones, green tea contains polyphenols, and tomatoes contain lycopene, all of which have anti-cancer properties. Additionally, supplementation with the antioxidants selenium and vitamin E may also decrease your chances of developing prostate cancer.

  1. Get into the habit of visiting your doctor for yearly preventative health exams

It is no secret that men are far less likely to visit their doctors for preventative health exams. A way to combat this is by choosing a doctor that you are comfortable with and trust, as this is conducive to open discussions about all aspects of your health, including mental and sexual wellness. You should keep track of your numbers—weight, body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, and cholesterol (including total cholesterol, triglycerides, “bad” cholesterol [LDL], and “good” cholesterol [HDL]). It is important to undergo recommended health screenings, including those for vision and hearing, depression, diabetes, and skin, prostate, and colon cancers. The preventative health exam also provides an opportunity to update vaccinations, such as the flu, meningitis, pneumonia, tetanus, and others. In short, regular, yearly checkups have the potential to save your life.

  1. Take your mental health seriously

Your mental health is inseparable from your physical health. It is estimated that upwards of 6 million men report struggling with depression, while over 3 million men report struggling with anxiety. Accordingly, mental health is crucially important, but many men, due to the associated stigma, are afraid to discuss their emotional well-being. As a result, they may cope by drinking excessively, overeating, becoming aggressive, or engaging in risky behaviors. It is important to reach out and seek evaluation if you are experiencing symptoms such as low mood, anxiety, thoughts of suicide, etc.

  1. Prioritize sleep

Sleep deprivation is extremely common in today’s on-the-go society. But, did you know that sleep deprivation can be detrimental to your health? It can increase your risk of developing heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, depression, and other chronic health problems. It can even increase the likelihood of accidents, one of the leading causes of death. Adequate rest is one of the easiest ways to improve your health. Sleep requirements vary with age and from person to person, but most men need between 7 and 9 hours a night. The benefits of adequate sleep include increased energy, sharper mental focus, improved mental health, and boosted immunity.

  1. Maintain close relationships with family and friends

Unfortunately, women seem to be better at maintaining close relationships than men. As a result, men should strive to strengthen bonds with their family and friends. Engage in volunteer work, religious/church groups, hobbies, or any other activity that gets you involved socially with others. Additionally, consider adopting a pet or having a weekly meal or coffee with others in an effort to establish stronger bonds. The payoff from maintaining close ties to others includes reduced stress levels and enhanced mental, as well as overall, health.

  1. Reduce stress

Stress can be a major factor in the development of acute and chronic health problems. Many men juggle a variety of roles—employer/employee, son, father, husband, etc. These roles can be a significant source of stress. As a result, men oftentimes succumb to the pressure and overextend themselves, which can lead to sleep deprivation, lack of exercise, and a shortage of personal time. All of this is a recipe for disaster, as the accumulated stress can take a physical as well as psychological toll. This is why it is vital that men learn to set aside/schedule some personal time for themselves each day, even if it’s only 30 minutes. Those 30 minutes have the potential to physically and emotionally renew, which could tremendously enhance health and well-being.

The above tips have the potential to provide a framework for the adoption of long-lasting habits that should culminate in an enhanced sense of health and well-being. All you have to do is become proactive in your health.

Recover Fast After Surgery at an Outpatient Center [Infographic]

Outpatient surgery is a top choice for patients nationwide. Since outpatient surgery is performed at a surgeon’s office instead of a traditional hospital, it enables a patient to return home the same day a procedure is performed.

Recover Fast After Surgery at an Outpatient Center

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Outpatient Surgery Benefits

Outpatient surgery offers many benefits, such as:

  •         Low Costs: Outpatient surgery often is less expensive than surgery performed at a hospital.
  •         At-Home Recovery: Outpatient surgery allows patients to avoid an extended hospital stay. A patient may be more comfortable when recovering in their home.
  •         Convenient Scheduling: A patient can schedule an outpatient surgery at his or her convenience.
  •         Reduced Stress: For many patients, outpatient surgery is less stressful than inpatient surgery.

Choose La Peer Health Systems for Outpatient Surgery

There are many reasons to choose La Peer Health Systems for outpatient surgery. These include:

  •         Personalized Treatment: We deliver personalized care in a safe, controlled environment.
  •         Multiple Specialties: We provide medical and surgical care across 12 specialties.
  •         Expert Surgeons: We have more than 40 surgeons on staff.
  •         Concierge, Knowledgeable Nurses: 98 percent of patients described our nurses as friendly, knowledgeable and professional.
  •         Minimal Surgery Time: Due to our surgeons working with the same nurses and assistants every day.
  •         Private Recovery Room: Following surgery, we offer each patient a private recovery room.
  •         Flexible Billing: We accept many types of insurance and offer cash discounts for patients without insurance.
  •         Short Wait Times: We only perform outpatient surgery. This allows us to provide you with short wait times to perform your surgery.
  •         Proven Results: 98 percent of patients said they are likely to recommend La Peer to friends.

To schedule a consultation with La Peer, please contact us today at 855.360.9119.

5 Most-Popular Outpatient Surgeries in America [Infographic]

Outpatient surgery often provides a convenient, affordable alternative to traditional inpatient surgery. As such, the number of outpatient surgeries is increasing in the United States – a trend that appears likely to continue in the years to come.

5 Most Popular Outpatient Surgeries in America

 

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There is no shortage of outpatient surgery options, either. Now, let’s take a look at five of the most-popular outpatient surgeries in America.

  1. High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

HIFU is a non-surgical, FDA-approved and radiation-free outpatient procedure that leverages focused soundwaves to heat and destroy prostate cancer. To date, HIFU has been used to treat more than 50,000 men globally.

  1. Gastric Balloon

Gastric balloon is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure that involves the insertion of a soft silicon balloon into the stomach via the mouth and esophagus. On average, gastric balloon helps people lose between 20 and 50 pounds over a six-month period.

  1. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Surgery

ACL surgery requires the reconstruction of the ligament in the center of the knee. Over 150,000 ACL tears occur in the United States annually, and these injuries result in more than $500 million in healthcare costs.

  1. Knee Reconstruction

Knee reconstruction involves the restoration of knee joints that are injured or damaged. It helps alleviate knee pain, and most knee reconstruction patients are able to perform daily activities and stay active.

  1. Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat torn or damaged cartilage, conduct ligament reconstruction and trim damaged tissue that is causing pain. It has a better success rate and smaller risk of complications in comparison to open surgery.

LA Peer Health Systems has an elite team of renowned board-certified plastic surgeons to perform outpatient procedures in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills. To find out more, please call us at 855.360.9119.

When You Should Consider a Total Hip Replacement

Total hip replacement helps individuals address hip pain due to arthritis, injuries, pinched nerves or other problems. It involves the removal and replacement of damaged bone and cartilage in the hip with prosthetic components.

Millions of people have undergone total hip replacement surgery. There are several instances where this type of hip surgery is recommended, and these are:

· Hip pain makes it difficult to bend, walk or perform everyday activities
· Hip pain is ongoing and makes it tough to rest
· Hip stiffness limits an individual’s ability to lift or move the leg
· Anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy or walking supports are used to treat hip pain yet fail to deliver the optimal results

Many hip replacement surgery options are available, such as:

1. Traditional Hip Replacement Surgery

Traditional hip replacement surgery is intended for patients who are dealing with severe hip arthritis or joint damage that cannot be remedied with medication or other less-invasive procedures. It is most commonly used to address osteoarthritis, a chronic joint condition that causes cartilage or cushioning between joints to break down, resulting in pain, stiffness and swelling. Additionally, hip replacement surgery may be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, hip fractures and hip pain.

With hip replacement surgery, a patient can replace damaged portions of the hip joint. During a hip replacement procedure, an orthopedic surgeon makes an incision over the hip joint; the incision may be several inches long. Next, the surgeon replaces a portion of the hip joint or the entire hip joint with a cemented or uncemented prosthesis. A cemented prosthesis is attached to the bone with surgical cement. Comparatively, an uncemented prosthesis connects to the bone with a porous surface, and the bone gradually attaches to the prosthesis over time. In some instances, a surgeon may use a combination of cemented and uncemented prostheses.

The benefits of total hip replacement can be significant. In a recent NIH study of 49 osteoarthritis patients, 40 patients reported being pain-free after hip replacement surgery. Also, most study participants were better able to perform certain activities of daily life, and their range of hip movement and mobility improved moderately following surgery.

2. Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement

Minimally invasive hip replacement is a variation of traditional hip replacement surgery. Like a standard hip replacement procedure, minimally invasive hip replacement involves the use of a prosthesis to replace a hip joint or a portion of the hip joint. However, during a minimally invasive hip replacement, a surgeon makes an incision of 3 to 6 inches. This generally results in less muscle damage and scarring and faster healing in comparison to traditional hip replacement surgery.

With minimally invasive hip replacement, a surgeon makes a small incision over the outside of the hip. Then, the surgeon detaches or splits the muscles and tendons from the hip; this is done to a lesser extent than in a traditional hip replacement procedure. The surgeon also repairs the tendons before inserting the prosthesis. This often helps reduce the risk of hip dislocation.

3. Hip Resurfacing

Hip resurfacing is ideal for younger patients who have strong, healthy bones. Or, patients with advanced arthritis may be candidates for this type of hip surgery.

A hip resurfacing patient can reshape the damaged ball of the hip joint and cap it with a metal prosthesis. During hip resurfacing, a surgeon makes an incision in the thigh and dislocates the femoral head out of the socket. He or she then trims the femoral head and cements a metal cap over the prepared femoral head. The surgeon next removes the cartilage that lines the socket, and a metal cup is then pushed into the socket; this socket is held in place by friction between the bone and metal. After the cup is in place, the femoral head is relocated back into the socket, and the surgeon closes the incision.

Hip resurfacing requires only about 1.5 to 3 hours to complete. It has been shown to reduce the risk of hip dislocation. Plus, various studies have revealed patients’ walking patterns are more natural after hip resurfacing versus traditional hip replacement.

Other Hip Surgery Options

Patients who experience hip pain may be candidates for hip replacement surgery, as well as other hip surgical procedures. In addition to total hip replacement, common hip surgical procedures that may be used to address hip pain include:

1. Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that has a low risk of complications. It addresses joint conditions or injuries of the hip, including hip arthritis, hip joint infections and cartilage tears.

To perform a hip arthroscopy procedure, a surgeon first puts a patient’s leg into traction. The surgeon pulls the hip away from the socket to ensure he or she can view the entire joint, insert instruments and administer treatment. After traction is applied, two or three small incisions are made in the hip. At this point, the surgeon uses an arthroscope and other surgical instruments to repair any labral tears, deformities or misalignment of the femoral head or inflamed tissue.

Upon successful completion of hip arthroscopy, the surgeon inserts pins into the re-shaped bone. These pins ensure the bone stays in place to accommodate the correct fit of the femoral head and hip socket.

2. Hip Fracture Surgery

Hip fracture surgery is used to treat stress fractures and breaks caused by degenerative conditions. It may involve stabilizing broken bones with surgical screws, nails, rods or plates. Or, hip fracture surgery may require replacement of the entire hip joint or a portion of it with artificial parts.

Typically, a surgeon will use X-rays or an MRI to diagnose the root cause of a hip fracture. The surgeon then will determine the best hip fracture surgery option based on the diagnosis.

3. Hip Osteotomy

Hip osteotomy corrects a deformed or misaligned hip socket, as well as hip dysplasia, mild hip arthritis or a deformed or improperly formed femur. It involves cutting and realigning the hip bone into a new position and placing healthy cartilage in the weight-bearing area of the joint.

During hip osteotomy, a surgeon cuts the pelvis around the hip joint and moves it into a position that helps a patient alleviate pain. Once the hip is repositioned, it is held in place with screws. It takes about six to 12 months for a patient to recover after hip osteotomy. The screws in the hip can be removed, but this is not usually required.

4. Hip Bursitis Surgery

Bursitis refers to inflammation of the bursae, jelly-like sacs in the hips and other parts of the body. Bursae are located between bones and soft tissues and contain a small amount of fluid that enables the sacs to act as cushions that help limit friction. Two bursae are located in the hip: one that covers the bony point of the hip, and another that is found on the inside of the hip. If one or both of these bursae become inflamed, an individual may experience hip pain.

Hip bursitis surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that involves arthroscopic removal of a bursa. A surgeon uses an arthroscope to guide surgical instruments in the hip and remove the bursa. Removal of bursae does not cause permanent hip damage, and after surgery, a patient can use the hip normally without bursae.

5. Hip Dislocation Surgery

An individual who experiences a car accident, serious fall or sports injury may suffer hip dislocation. Thanks to hip dislocation surgery, a person can manipulate the thigh and leg to realign the femur into the hip socket.

Hip dislocation surgery simultaneously treats a broken hip bone and hip dislocation. In most cases, hip dislocation patients suffer posterior dislocation. When this happens, the thigh bone is pushed backward out of the socket, the lower leg moves into a fixed position and the knee and foot rotate toward the middle of the body. Anterior dislocation also may occur. In this instance, the thigh bone moves forward out of the socket, the hip becomes slightly bent and the leg rotates toward the middle of the body. Both posterior and anterior hip dislocation may cause damage to the ligaments, labrum, muscles and soft tissues that hold the femoral head in place. Nerves surrounding the hip may be damaged as well.

Choose La Peer Health Systems for Hip Surgery

Hip pain is a common problem that can affect both children and adults, and it may hinder a person’s ability to walk, play sports and perform everyday activities. Hip pain occurs for many reasons, and without proper diagnosis and treatment, it may worsen over time.

La Peer Health Systems helps patients in the Beverly Hills area address a wide range of hip conditions. We offer minimally invasive, state-of-the-art procedures to treat hip ailments, and our highly trained and specialized orthopedic surgeons can work with you to determine how to help you alleviate hip pain. To find out more about our hip surgery options, please contact us today at 855.360.9119 to schedule a consultation.

The Importance of Getting an Annual Prostate Cancer Screening After You Turn 40

Let’s face it, a prostate cancer test is something few men want to complete. But for many men, a prostate cancer screening ultimately may prove to be the difference between life and death. If you get a prostate cancer test when you turn 40, you may reap the benefits of your decision for literally years to come.

 

Prostate Cancer: Here’s What You Need to Know

Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death among men in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). One in nine men will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis in his lifetime, ACS notes. Additionally, ACS estimates nearly 165,000 new prostate cancer cases will be reported and roughly 29,000 prostate cancer deaths will occur in 2018.

In most instances, prostate cancer develops in older men. The average age at the time of a prostate cancer diagnosis is 66, ACS states. Meanwhile, 60% of prostate cancer cases are diagnosed in men aged 65 or older, and prostate cancer is rarely reported among men under 40.

Prostate cancer is a serious problem, but most men with a prostate cancer diagnosis can manage this condition. ACS points out more than 2.9 million men in the United States have received a prostate cancer diagnosis during their lifetime and are still alive today. Furthermore, ACS estimates the five-year survival rate in local-stage prostate cancer cases in which cancer has not spread outside the body is nearly 100%.

A prostate cancer screening helps men identify prostate cancer in its early stages. That way, men can address prostate cancer before it spreads throughout the body and increase the likelihood of fast, effective recovery.

 

What to Expect During a Prostate Cancer Screening

A prostate cancer screening generally involves two tests: a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and a digital rectal exam (DRE). The PSA test is used to review the level of PSA in the bloodstream. For most men, a healthy PSA level falls below 4 nanograms per milliliter of blood. Comparatively, a DRE requires a doctor to insert a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum. The doctor then feels for any bumps or hard areas on the prostate.

If prostate cancer screening results are not normal, a doctor may request a prostate biopsy. At this point, the doctor uses a needle to remove a sample of prostate tissue from a patient. Next, a lab specialist will examine the tissue sample and find out if it contains any cancer cells.

Also, a doctor may request a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) if he or she suspects a patient is dealing with prostate cancer. A TRUS procedure involves the use of soundwaves to create an image of the prostate gland. It allows a doctor to visualize the prostate gland and identify any abnormalities in the rectum and nearby structures.

Although prostate cancer screenings are valuable, it is important to recognize that no tests are perfect. In some instances, a prostate cancer screening fails to detect cancer or identifies red flags that turn out to be harmless. Yet when it comes to prostate cancer, it is always better to err on the side of caution. And if men undergo regular prostate cancer screenings starting at age 40, they can address the risks associated with prostate cancer as soon as they are detected.

 

Is an Annual Prostate Cancer Screening Necessary?

Prostate cancer testing may be performed annually. Yet how frequently an individual receives a prostate cancer screening may vary based on several risk factors, including:

  • Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases as a person gets older.
  •  Ethnicity: Recent research indicates African-American men are more susceptible than others to prostate cancer.
  • Family History: An individual may be more likely than others to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis if a parent, brother or other family member received a prostate cancer diagnosis before the age of 65.
  •  Diet: A high-fat diet increases an individual’s risk of prostate cancer.

In addition to periodic prostate cancer screenings, there are many ways to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Some of the best ways to limit the risk of prostate cancer include:

  •         Eat healthy. A diet that includes low-fat foods like lean meats and reduced-fat dairy products can help an individual simultaneously keep the heart healthy, lose weight and ward off prostate cancer.
  •         Exercise regularly. Studies have shown there is a direct correlation between exercise and prostate cancer. If a person exercises for at least 30 minutes a day, this individual may reduce the risk of prostate cancer, heart disease and other health problems.
  •         Avoid smoking. Research indicates smokers may be more susceptible than others to an aggressive form of prostate cancer, and prostate cancer patients who smoke are more likely than others to have a recurrence of the condition. Fortunately, individuals who avoid smoking can reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

Don’t forget to consult with a doctor to learn about prostate cancer. A doctor can perform an in-depth prostate cancer test, as well as provide recommendations to help patients prevent prostate cancer. Best of all, a doctor can deliver personalized prostate cancer treatments.

 

How to Treat Prostate Cancer

There are many prostate cancer treatments, and these include:

  • Active Surveillance: Usually involves a PSA test and DRE about every six months and annual prostate biopsies.
  • Radiation Therapy: Consists of external beam radiation or brachytherapy (internal radiation). Radiation therapy may be used in cases of low-grade prostate cancer or as part of an initial treatment for cancers that have developed outside the prostate and affect nearby tissues.
  • Cryotherapy (Cryosurgery): Requires cold temperatures to freeze and destroy prostate cancer cells. Cryotherapy may be used to treat early-stage prostate cancer; or, it may be used if prostate cancer returns following radiation therapy.
  •  Hormone Therapy: Reduces the level of male hormones in the body or ensures they remain unaffected by prostate cancer cells. Hormone therapy is also referred to as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) or androgen suppression therapy.
  •  Chemotherapy: Involves the use of anti-cancer drugs that are injected into a vein or given by mouth. Chemotherapy may prove to be a viable treatment for cancer that has spread to distant organs.

In order to find the right prostate cancer treatment, an individual first requires a prostate cancer screening and diagnosis. If an individual is diagnosed with prostate cancer, this patient then can work with a doctor to determine the best course of action.

 

Contact La Peer Health Systems for a Prostate Cancer Screening Today

La Peer Health Systems provides prostate cancer testing to help patients stay ahead of prostate cancer and identify this problem in its early stages. To schedule a prostate cancer test with La Peer Health Systems, please contact us today at 855.360.9119.