March 29, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Colorectal Cancer on the Rise in Young Adults

Your Bridge to Health; Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

March is Colon-Rectal Cancer Awareness Month –

According to the American Cancer Society, “Thanks in part to improvements in screening, the rates of new colon and rectal cancer diagnoses have been falling in the United States for people ages 50 and older. But for people under 50, for whom routine screening is not recommended, rates seem to be increasing significantly,” especially among Generation Xers.

Prevention, Screening, Early Detection and Treatment of Colon-Rectal Cancer SAVES LIVES!

Talk to Your Doctor About Screening.

Signs of Colorectal Cancer can include changes in bowel movements and blood in the stool. But cancer of the colon and/or rectum (colorectal cancer) can begin without symptoms, which is why early screening is important. Pre-cancerous and benign polyps can be removed before they become cancer. While routine screening often begins at 50, screening for those at higher risk may begin as early as 30’s. If you or your family have a history of colorectal cancer, benign colorectal polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease,) you may need to begin screenings earlier than age 50.

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October 7, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Breast Cancer: Be Aware and Lower Your Risks

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Breast Cancer Statistics – According to most recent statistics (2013) from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC):

Breast cancer occurs in both men and women.
230,815 women and 2,109 men in the United States were diagnosed with breast cancer.
40,860 women and 464 men in the United States died from breast cancer.

Early Detection Saves Lives – Research shows that early detection and treatment saves lives. Ask your doctor about prevention and routine screening for breast and other cancers.

“When breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 100%. Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.” (National Breast Cancer Foundation.)

Lowering Your Risks of Breast Cancer. There are preventative measure for breast (and other) cancers. Tips from the Mayo Clinic for prevention –

Limit alcohol. Less than 1 drink per day is recommended.
Avoid smoking.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Engage in Physical activity. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training at least twice a week. Check with your doctor before exercising for guidelines and recommendations.
Breast-feeding might play a role in prevention.
Limit dose and duration of hormone therapy. Ask your doctor about recommendations and other non-pharmaceutical options.
Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution. Medical-imaging methods, such as computerized tomography, use high doses of radiation. Limit exposure.

Ask Your Doctor. Talk to your doctor about recommendations for prevention and screening to see is best for you. Check with your insurance company to see what type of screening they cover. If you think you might be pregnant, let your doctor know before having a mammogram.

Information for Those Undergoing Treatment for Breast Cancer –

Integrative Medicine (IM) Therapies – Studies show that some IM therapies may help with symptom management, including anxiety, pain, fatigue, sleep and mood.
In one study, Cognitive Behavioral Stress Management was shown to demonstrate increased survival in one study.
Hypnosis may reduce hot flashes in breast cancer survivors.

Ask your Oncologist about Integrative Therapies for adjunctive (supportive) treatment. Talk to your healthcare providers about any integrative, complementary or alternative therapies you are using. Let your healthcare providers know about any over-the-counter, herbal or vitamin supplements you are taking. Note: some may be contraindicated for your care. Discuss with your doctor/oncologist before pursuing.

Wishing you the Best in Health, Karen

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N. Alumnus. Certified Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussion about health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other health care worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated.

Sources and More Information –

January 17, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

More than 12,000 woman in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually. (2012 statistics.) Cervical cancer is highly preventable through routine screening, early detection, and vaccination for the Human papilloma virus (HPV.) HPV is a sexually transmitted virus and one of the common causes of cervical cancer.

Screening and Early Detection Saves Lives!

A Pap test can help prevent cervical cancer through early detection. Over the last 30 years, deaths related to cervical cancer have gone down by more than 50% due to improved and increased use of screening tests and vaccinations against HPV.

HPV affects men too!

HPV can cause other cancers besides cancer of the cervix, including cancer of the vagina, vulva, penis and anus. It can also cause cancer in the back of the throat, including the tongue and tonsils (oropharyngeal cancer).

Ask Your Physician About Screening Guidelines and Vaccinations for HPV for girls and boys. More Information on screening guidelines can be found here.

Wishing you the best in health, Karen

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N. Alumnus. Certified Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

Sources and More Information:

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. American Cancer Society.

Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines. American Cancer Society.

Cervical Cancer Statistics. Centers for Prevention and Disease Control.

HPV and Men. Centers for Prevention and Disease Control.

HPV Infection Fact Sheet. Centers for Prevention and Disease Control.

HPV and Cancer. Centers for Prevention and Disease Control.

January 16, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Good News – More People Surviving Cancer!

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Good News – More People Are Surviving Cancer!

The Boston Globe reported January 8th that “cancer deaths have fallen to their lowest rated since the numbers peaked in 1991,” based on a study done by the American Cancer Society.

Cancer Survivorship is a growing field offering education and specific programs addressing the long-term physical, mental-emotional, psychosocial, and financial, needs of those living with and living beyond cancer.

The Biennial Cancer Survivorship Symposium: Advancing Care and Research is taking place this weekend in San Francisco, CA. Sponsored by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO,) the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP,) and American College of Physicians (ACP) information is presented on treatment, research and support for patients with a cancer diagnosis and beyond.

Dana-Farber Institute Adult and Pediatric Survivorship* programs provide clinical care and services for cancer survivors, including research focused on finding solutions to key issues survivors may face after cancer treatment.

Reid R. Sacco Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Program at Tufts* Medical Center is for patients in this AYA age group who have been diagnosed with cancer or blood disorders. The clinic is also available to patients that are survivors of pediatric cancers and now, as adolescents and young adults, need to transition their follow-up to a facility specifically designed for them. Tufts AYA Cancer Program offers age-appropriate, comprehensive care using a team-based approach for a personalized Survivorship Care Plan.

*You do not need to have been treated at Dana-Farber or Tufts in order to be seen in their Adult, Pediatric, and AYA Survivorship Programs.

HOLD ONTO HOPE

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Friends of Mel Foundation holds an annual conference, The Art of Living; Life Beyond Cancer in Quincy MA, offering support and education for survivors and caregivers.

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October 21, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week – Men Are At Risk of Breast Cancer Too

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

October is breast cancer awareness month and this week is Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week. While more rare than in women (< 1% of breast cancer according to the national cancer institute,) breast cancer in men is often further along when diagnosed due to less routine screening or awareness of risks. Knowledge is Power – Increased awareness leads to early detection and increased survival.

Couples with Breast Cancer Husband and wives faced with breast cancer, and their inspiring stories – Meg and Gerard Campion and Kara and Mike Selsman. Kara’s breast cancer was caught at an early stage due to routine screening. By the time Mike’s breast cancer was diagnosed, it was more advanced with metastasis to the lungs and bones. Hear their stories and efforts and increasing awareness of male breast cancer.

http://boston.cbslocal.com/2015/10/20/husband-and-wife-battle-breast-cancer-together/

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/gerard-meg-campion-male-breast-cancer_561bcd56e4b0e66ad4c88624

Marines with Breast Cancer at Camp Lejeune –

Are You At Risk of Male Breast Cancer? Increased risks for male breast cancer include –

radiation exposure
high levels of estrogen
inherited genetic mutations
family history of breast cancer

EARLY DETECTION – Self-Breast Exams for Men and Women. What to look for and report to your physician –

Lump or thickening in the breast, chest or underarm area
Change in the size or shape of the breast
Dimpling, pulling in, puckering or redness of the skin of the breast or nipple
Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
Discharge (drainage) from the nipple

Note – Men tend to have much less breast tissue compared to women, so some of these signs can be easier to notice in men than in women.

Prevention of Breast Cancer (for Men and Women) Includes a Healthy lifestyle —

healthy eating
regular exercise
maintain a healthy weight
don’t smoke,
limit alcohol.

Check with your physician about prevention, risks, screening, early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

For more information about risks, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of male breast cancer –

http://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/patient/male-breast-treatment-pdq

http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/male_bc

http://ww5.komen.org/BreastCancer/BreastCancerScreeningForMenAtHigherRisk.html

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/male-breast-cancer/basics/symptoms/con-20025972

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/763567

Early Detection Saves Lives – Breast Cancer Awareness for Men and Women

Enjoy today in a health way, and be well, Karen Pischke

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

October 1, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Ladies – Time to Get Squished! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in American women.

The Good News –

When detected early, breast cancer has a high survival rate.
You can take steps to help prevent breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Awareness – HOPE

** Talk to your doctor about your risk factors, prevention advice, and screening recommendations for early detection.**

Some Recommendations for Prevention and Early Detection from the American Cancer Association –

Self-breast exams (http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/moreinformation/breastcancerearlydetection/breast-cancer-early-detection-acs-recs-bse)
Annual mammogram
Healthy Diet
Healthy Weight
Regular Exercise
Avoid Smoking
Minimize Alcohol Consumption

Sources:

The thought of screening mammograms, needle-guided breast biopsies, or possibility of breast cancer can be very stressful and even overwhelming for some. You are not alone! Ask your doctor about supportive therapies for stress relief and cancer treatment.

Contact me here or privately for additional information on stress relief and relaxation techniques.

Join me in getting squished this month! ~ Karen

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

August 6, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Beach Goers Beware – August is Skin Cancer Prevention Month

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

August is Skin Cancer Prevention Month – Here Are Some Important Sun Safety Tips

Summertime means beach vacations with locals and tourists alike flocking to Cape Ann’s Many Beautiful Beaches – Cape Hedge, Cressy, Good Harbor, Half moon, Front/Back, White/Black, Long, Lighthouse, Magnolia, Niles, Pavillion, Pebble, Plum Cove, Singing, Wingaersheek … each one beautiful and unique.

Be Safe From the Summer Sun

Days at the beach signify relaxation and ‘fun in the sun.’ But too much sun can lead to early wrinkles and worse … Skin Cancer. You can still enjoy exercising outdoors and a fun day at the beach, but it is in your best interest to take precautions and practice ‘sun safety’ to best avoid the damaging effects of the sun and skin cancer.

Facts from the American Cancer Society:

The skin is the largest organ of the body
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer
Skin cancer is preventable and when caught early, easily treatable

Risk factors for skin cancer include:

Too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (from sunlight or tanning beds and lamps)
Pale skin (easily sunburned, doesn’t tan much or at all, natural red or blond hair)
Exposure to large amounts of coal-tar, paraffin, arsenic compounds, or certain types of oil
You or members of your family have had skin cancers
Multiple or unusual moles
Severe sunburns in the past
Weakened immune system
Older age (although melanomas can also occur in younger people)

Source and More information – http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancercauses/sunanduvexposure/skin-cancer-facts

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March 24, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Are You at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

March is Colon-Rectal Cancer Awareness Month! Too many of my friends, relatives, patients, and clients have been affected by this disease. March 5th was National Colon Cancer Day. That date came and went, but I could not let the month pass without bringing attention to the importance of Prevention, Screening, and Early Detection of Colon-Rectal Cancer.

Prevent. Screen. Treat. Early Detection Saves Lives.

Cancer of the colon and/or rectum (colorectal cancer) can begin without symptoms, which is why early screening is important. Pre-cancerous and benign polyps can be removed before they become cancer. While routine screening often begins at 50, screening for those at higher risk may begin as early as 30’s. Having a family history of colorectal cancer puts you at higher risk. Increased Risk of Colorectal Cancer –

Family history of colon and/or rectal cancer
History of colorectal polyps
Obesity
Lack of Physical Activity
Smoking
High-Fat (Saturated/Trans-fat) Diet
Alcohol Use

Colon Cancer Facts from the American Cancer Society –

Approximately 5%, (1 in 20 Americans) will be diagnosed with cancer of the colon or rectum in their lifetime.
Second Leading Cause of Cancer Deaths in Men and Women
Approximately 9o% Cure Rate When Caught Early!

The Good News – Prevention, Early Detection and Treatment Improves Outcomes and Saves Lives!! ** Ask Your Doctor About Screening!

Colorectal Screening Includes (but not limited to):

Colonoscopy
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Fecal Occult Blood (FOB) (*Easily performed at home or in the doctor’s office.) **
Stool immunochemical test (FIT) **
Stool DNA test (sDNA) **

** According to the American Cancer Society, if these tests are positive a colonoscopy is recommended. Video of Katie Couric and a screening colonoscopy – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CbUesuxT1IE

“An Ounce of Preventions is Worth a Pound of Cure.” Though at the time, this quote by Benjamin Franklin referred to fire fighting, the advice rings as true today as it did in the 1700’s

Decreasing the Risk of Colon-rectal Cancer –

(Many of the ‘cardiac risk factor reduction’ recommendations mentioned in earlier posts apply to ‘colorectal cancer risk reduction.’)

Physical Activity (of 30 minutes, 5 x a week)
Maintain Healthy Weight
Avoid Smoking
Minimize Alcohol (2 Drinks for Men, 1 for Women; per day. No need to start if you don’t currently drink.)

**Diet may also play a role in preventing colon cancer, but the study results have been mixed. Some dietary recommendations that may help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer:

- Minimize Red and Processed Meats
- Limit Saturated Fat in Your Diet
- Diets Higher in Fruits, Vegetables and Whole Grains may be beneficial

** Talk to your physician about colorectal screening and prevention!

** TREATMENT for Colorectal Cancer – Conventional Treatment for Colorectal Cancer May Include:

Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiation

‘Integrative Health Therapies’ for Added Support – Integrative Health Therapies are complementary therapies offered ‘in addition to’ (not in place of,) conventional therapies for supportive care and to minimize side effects of treatment. Integrative therapies may include: acupuncture, massage, meditation, reiki, tai chi, and yoga. To learn more about supportive, integrative therapies offered during cancer treatment – www.nccih.nih.gov. Many hospitals now offer integrative therapies as part of comprehensive health care programs. Ask your physician about incorporating integrative therapies in your plan of care.

Finding an integrative health provider – https://nccih.nih.gov/health/howtofind.htm. and https://nccih.nih.gov/health/tips/selecting Warning: Some complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies may not be recommended with your condition. Some herbal and over-the-counter (OTC) products may even interfere with your treatment! ASK Your Oncologist, before pursuing complementary, alternative and integrative therapies. Let your physicians know if you are using CAM therapies or herbs/supplements.

The ‘Integrative Health Model’ is meant to incorporate conventional medicine with complementary therapies that have been demonstrated to be safe, effective and potentially minimize negative side effects, improve outcomes, and increase patient satisfaction.

Sources and More Information: American Cancer Society – http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/content/@nho/documents/document/colorectalcancer.pdf

Center for Disease Control –

http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/resources/features/colorectalawareness/

National Cancer Institute – http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/prevention/colorectal

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health –

https://nccih.nih.gov/health/cancer/camcancer.htm

Nip Colon Cancer in the Butt! Prevent, Screen, Detect and Treat EARLY!

Wishing you the Best in Health, Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.

Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199