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4 Common Handwashing Mistakes

Handwashing is important to reduce the spread of infection.  We pick up infections daily by touching contaminated surfaces, then touch our hand to our mouth, nose, or eyes. There are some infections that are airborne, but most are spread through contact with the hands. According to the CDC, handwashing can prevent about 30% of diarrhea-related sicknesses and about 20% of respiratory infections.

Handwashing takes on an especially important role during the winter months, so I thought I’d share with you the 4 most common handwashing mistakes that people tend to overlook.

      1. Not washing when you should
        After using the bathroom is not the only time you should be washing your hands. You should be washing them before, during, and after preparing food, after touching garbage, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing, and after touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste.
      2. Not washing long enough
        Many people tend to wash their hands for only 5 or 10 seconds but scrubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds is recommended. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
      3.  Not completely drying your hands
        Drying your hands is an essential part of handwashing. Germs love wet, moist areas so making sure your hands are fully dry will help prevent bacteria from spreading on your skin.
      4.  Touching germy surfaces directly after 
        If you wind up touching contaminated surfaces such as the faucet handles or door handle after handwashing, it becomes ineffective. Try using a paper towel when turning off the faucet or reaching for the door handle.

If you find yourself in a situation where there is no running water, use hand sanitizer. It doesn’t work nearly as well as soap and water, but does help.

No matter where you find yourself, good hand hygiene can protect and prevent you, your family, and others from illnesses.

 

 

Identifying Breast Lumps: 8 Non-Cancer Causes of Breast Lumps

“Is it cancer?” is what most people think when they discover a lump in their breast. But, did you know, not all breast lumps are cancerous? In fact, the American Cancer Society reported that four out of five biopsies of breast lumps are benign, harmless and surely not breast cancer.

The more common non-cancer causes of breast lumps are:

  1. Breast cysts- a fluid-filled sac that’s usually benign
  2. Fibroadenoma- a solid, benign mass that is most common in young women
  3. Fibrocystic breasts- lumpy or rope-like breast tissue
  4. Injury or trauma to the breast
  5. Intraductal papilloma- a benign, wart-like growth in a milk duct
  6. Lipoma- a slow-growing lump made up of fatty tissue
  7. Mastitis- an infection in breast tissue that most commonly affects women who are breast-feeding
  8. Milk cyst (galactocele)- a milk-filled cyst that’s usually harmless

Knowing your body and being aware of how your breasts normally look and feel can help determine any new changes such as an increase in size or change in shape. If there are changes you are concerned about, let your doctor know. They will take more steps to find out what it is.

 

 

The Importance of Breastfeeding Health

There are few things more exciting than a newborn baby. But what’s important is a healthy baby. There are many ways to keep babies healthy and breastfeeding plays one of the most important roles. August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month where the goal is to promote the health and well-being of babies by encouraging breastfeeding.

Part of encouraging breastfeeding is offering the mother proper encouragement. Three keys to this are providing time, space, and family support. While breastfeeding comes naturally for some, it may not for others. It takes patience and time to perfect, which is why paid maternity leave becomes very important. It’s essential for mothers to have areas to breastfeed in private, and spaces where they can rest and be free from interruptions, as family and friends are always eager to greet the mother and new baby.

It’s important that a mother feel supported by her decision to breastfeed. Comfortability will lead to more breastfeeding success in the short and long-term, especially during busy times where a mother may feel like it is not an accessible option.

Finally, breast milk supplies the infant with nutrients made especially for their growth and development. It’s natures perfect food for babies. It’s not only beneficial for the child, but for the mother as well. Per WebMD, the following are the benefits for both mother and child:

For Child:

  • Antibodies in breast milk help fight viruses and bacteria
  • Lowers risk of baby having asthma or allergies
  • Fewer ear infections, less diarrhea and respiratory illnesses
  • Linked to higher IQ scores in later childhood
  • Reduced risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)

For Mother:

  • Faster weight loss (can burn an extra 500 calories when breastfeeding)
  • Lower risks of cancer (breast and ovarian cancer) by about 20%
  • Lower risks of osteoporosis
  • More bonding through skin to skin contact, which stimulates release of oxytocin (a hormone that facilitates bonding)

As you can see, breastfeeding is important for all involved and there’s a need for its continued support. Not only is it a bonding experience, but it offers an abundance of health benefits. For more tips, such as best positions, additional medical considerations while breastfeeding, or if breastfeeding is a healthy option for you, reach out to your doctor for the best recommendation.

Vaccines Are What You Need

Every August, the health community celebrates National Immunization Month. This period aims to showcase the importance of vaccinations and their role in preventing illness, long-term health issues, and even death. From adolescence to adulthood, vaccinations are always recommended since some can wear off over the years, while others may become available as you get older.

To further highlight the importance of vaccines, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) listed some of the top reasons to be vaccinated.

  • Vaccine-preventable diseases haven’t gone away
    • Illnesses from dangerous viruses and bacteria are still be passed on to those in frequent contact.
  • Vaccines keep you healthy
    • Vaccines are as important as diet and exercise, as they protect you throughout life from many infections.
  • Vaccines can prevent death
    • Approximately 55,000 adults die from vaccine-preventable diseases in the United States.
  • Vaccines won’t give you the disease
    • Vaccines contain killed or weakened viruses designed to prevent you from catching the disease.
  • Vaccine-preventable disease can be expensive
    • Illnesses like the flu, or other diseases like hepatitis are not only expensive to treat, but may also keep you out of work for an extended period of time.

If you’re not up to date on all your vaccines, which ones should you consider? The NFID recommends the following:

  • Influenza*
  • Tetanus*
  • Diphtheria*
  • Pertussis*
  • Shingles*
  • Hepatitis B*
  • HPV*

*– available at R-Health practices

There are many preventable diseases that can severely impact your life. Vaccination could prevent you from their effects that could leave you permanently disabled, out of work for significant time, drive up your medical bills, and even spread to your family and friends. Protect yourself and those around you from vaccine-preventable diseases. Visit your doctor’s office to determine which vaccines you need on a schedule that is based on your health, immune status and lifestyle factors.  Please talk to your doctor about any concerns or questions that are preventing you from getting vaccinated.

What You Need To Know About Hepatitis

One of the biggest health threats in the world is hepatitis. Hepatitis is a very dangerous virus that comes in many forms, but they all have major impact on the liver. Over 300 million people are affected by this disease, many of whom are undiagnosed and untreated. Every 28th of July, organizations celebrate World Hepatitis Day, aimed at raising awareness and finding the missing cases by encouraging people to act on getting tested.

Hepatitis accounts for two out of every three liver cancer related deaths, and overall accounts for over one million deaths per year in the United States. While there are many types (Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E), Hepatitis C is the most common form. It is most commonly transmitted through sharing needles, contact with infected blood, and less commonly, sex. However, it can also be transmitted through tattooing, piercing, and acupuncture.

Though in some instances symptoms may not appear, according to WebMD there are a few common symptoms for all types of hepatitis.

  • Dark urine
  • Stomach pain
  • Yellowing of skin/eyes
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Pale or clay-colored stool

WebMD also supplied a few additional facts on Hepatitis C. Unlike hepatitis A and B, there is no current vaccine for hepatitis C. Although there is no cure, there are a few techniques that aid in prevention.

  • Never share needles – Though this plays a bigger factor for drug users who are at greater risk, even simple things like sharing a straw can pass on the virus.
  • Avoid direct exposure to blood – Particularly for healthcare professionals, it’s important to take steps to avoid direct contact with blood and be sure all tools used to extract blood are discarded or safely sterilized.
  • Don’t share personal items – Items like razors, toothbrushes, nail clippers, etc., can easily be infected with hepatitis C due to their constant exposure to blood.
  • Choose parlors wisely – Make sure tattoo or piercing shops are sanitary and their items used get cleaned or disposed for new customers.
  • Practice safe sex

Although World Hepatitis Day has passed, make sure to go out and get screened. With over 300 million cases left undiagnosed, you could be one of many living with the virus with no symptoms. If you have any questions be sure to reach out to your doctor, and they’ll be able to provide more information on hepatitis virus and ways to protect your liver.

Safe Fun in the Sun

Summer is here and in full swing, which means the sun will be shining its brightest. While we may all love that extra bit of sunlight throughout the day and can be healthy in many ways, the direct sunlight of the summer months is also a source of ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Therefore, July is recognized as UV Safety Awareness Month.

While UV rays only account for a slight portion of all the sun’s rays, they may be the most dangerous in terms of their effect on the skin. UV radiation is a major risk factor for many skin cancers, therefore the more you’re exposed to them, the greater the risk of developing it. However, UV rays aren’t limited to just the sunlight. UV radiation exposure can also occur in tanning beds, mercury lamps, and welding equipment among other things.

According to the American Cancer Society, the strength of the UV rays determines how much a person is exposed. The following is a list of factors that determine the strength of UV rays.

  • Time of Day – UV rays are strongest between 10 AM to 4 PM
  • SeasonUV rays are strongest during the spring and summer months
  • Equator – The further from the equator the weaker the exposure
  • Altitude – UV rays reach the ground more frequently at higher elevations
  • Reflection off Surfaces – Surfaces like water, sand, or snow allow UV rays to bounce and ultimately lead to more exposure.

UV rays have short and long wavelengths that can penetrate the outer and middle layer of your skin. In addition to sunburn and premature skin aging, UV radiation can lead to vision issues like cataracts, suppression of your immune system, and of course skin cancer. So how can you better protect yourself during the upcoming months? Per the USVA, you can lower your risk by doing the following:

  • Cover Up – Hats, long-sleeved shirts, and sunglasses are all options that can help shield your body from exposure
  • Stay in the Shade – Staying in a shaded area midday, especially during 10 AM – 4 PM can help keep you protected
  • Choose the Right Sunscreen – Be sure to buy sunscreen SPF 15 or above that protects against UV-A and UV-B rays
  • Use (the right amount of) Sunscreen – It’s recommended to apply a least a palmful every few hours, even if it is waterproof.

Don’t let the UV rays ruin your summer. Make sure to take the proper precautions to stay safe during your fun in the sun. Be sure to reach out to your doctor if you have questions or need sunscreen recommendations that fit your health plan.

Breaking Down Mental Health

Mental health is an issue that affects millions of Americans. According to MentalHealth.gov, one in five adults experienced a mental health issue, and one in ten young people experienced a period of major depression. Signs of mental disorder may show as early as 14 years old, however, less than 20% of cases with diagnosable problems get treated.

When mental health issues are treated properly, it can result in you being able to live, work, and enjoy life to the fullest. However, if left untreated, mental health can affect your diet, sleep, stress, gut health, and exercise. Mental Health America shared a toolkit on the impact of mental health.

Diet and Nutrition

Both your physical and mental health are impacted by the quality of food you consume. Studies have shown those with a diet high in junk and processed foods are 80% more likely to have depression. Healthy diets including the consumption of more fruits, vegetables, fish, and other healthy foods are used as effective treatment methods for depression. A study showed one in three participants saw full relief of symptoms with a healthier diet.

Sleep

Sleep is a major key to a healthy body but more importantly, a healthy mind. Sleep accounts for our moods, memories, healthy organs, immune system, among other things. Sleep re-energizes cells, and increases the space between brain cells to allow free flowing fluid to clear away toxins. Poor sleep quality can lead to manic episodes, paranoia, anxiety, and depression.

Gut Health

There’s a very important connection between the gut and the brain. Your gut connects with the brain through hormones and neurotransmitters that help exchange messages. Gastrointestinal symptoms like indigestions, acid reflux, heartburn, diarrhea, and etc., are linked to mental health problems. Changes in your gut can be caused from a stress response, which may ultimately lead to diseases like Parkinson’s and autism.

Exercise

An hour of exercise has been linked to lower levels of anxiety and substance use disorders and less likely to have panic disorders, phobias, and depression. Exercise plays an important role in brain function in terms of protecting nerve cells, sending messages, and releasing endorphins among other things.

Mental health is a very important issue that we must continue to address. If you are experiencing some symptoms, or have some general questions, reach out to your doctor and get the assistance you need right away.

Interesting Facts About Skin Cancer

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, with the goal to encourage and educate sun-safe habits while raising awareness for lifesaving programs.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. According to The Skin Cancer Foundation there are over five million new cases diagnosed each year, and although it is the most preventable form of cancer, spreading awareness about unprotected exposure to the sun can change habits and save many lives.

Here are a few skin cancer facts:

  • One in five Americans develop skin cancer by the age of 70.
  • There are three major types of cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) [also known as non-melanoma skin cancers], and melanoma.
    • Nonmelanoma skin cancers
      • Regular use of SPF 15 sunscreen or higher reduces risk of these cancers by 40%
      • 90% of these cases are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun
    • Melanoma skin cancers
      • The vast majority of melanoma is caused by the sun
      • Men age 49 and under have a high probability of developing melanoma than any other cancer
      • Women age 49 and under are more likely to develop melanoma than other cancers except breast and thyroid cancers
      • Regular use of SPF 15 sunscreen or higher reduces risk of these cancers by 50%
      • Although more common in lighter skin tones, melanoma is more dangerous in darker skin tones
      • Acral lentiginous melanoma is found in skin areas not exposed to the sun, and is more common in those that have dark skin tones

How can you keep your skin safe during the upcoming summer months? EverydayHealth shared some tips and other helpful facts from the top dermatologists in the country.

  1. Avoid indoor tanning.
    • Tanning beds can increase your chances of developing melanoma by 20%
  2. Re-apply SPF to keep you skin safe.
    • The active ingredients in SPF can break down with time and UV exposure, so to be sure to re-apply every three to four hours. Avoid spray versions and stick to SPF 50 or higher.
  3. Some medications may increase sun sensitivity.
    • Some antibiotics or medications can make your skin more prone to burning, while also affecting your immune system, so ask your doctor about any medications you are taking.
  4. Sunscreen may trick you into feeling protected.
    • Spray sunscreens are difficult to apply and may leave areas unprotected, and can be inhaled and entered into bloodstream and trigger skin reactions. It’s best to avoid any spray sunscreen.
  5. Certain foods can combat UV effects.
    • Foods like red bell peppers, broccoli, and others may help boost UV defense, so get your fill of these helpful veggies.

If you are spending time outdoors it’s good to know different sunscreen types:

  • Mineral Sunscreens
    • Sits on top of your skin and physically block your skin from the UV waves.
  • Chemical Sunscreens
    • Works by absorbing into your skin and absorbing the UV rays.

Remember, some sunlight is healthy too! A recent study has shown that not only does sunlight help us make Vitamin D, it also increases levels of other important molecules in the body like serotonin, melatonin, nitic oxide, and may increase endorphins.  These changes may improve risk for diabetes, high blood pressure, mood disorder and breast and prostate cancers.   

For more skin protection tips, or if you want to know which sunscreen works for you and balancing sun protection and sun exposure, please visit your doctor before you enjoy your time in the sun.

Growth: The Expansion of R-Health and Direct Care

The growth of Direct Care continues to spread across the country as more and more people begin to realize its positive influence on healthcare delivery. As awareness has grown, so too has R-Health – as one of the leaders of the industry, R-Health continues to expand its footprint in New Jersey by not only offering unprecedented relationship-based access to doctors, but curating a model that challenges the episodic, transactional, and volume-maximizing traits that presently exist.

Last year, Hint, a software organization that helps streamline administrative tasks for Direct Care practices, released a study on the practice trends of Direct Care, or Direct Primary Care. Hint reported that the average yearly patient panel growth for Direct Care practices is growing at over 8% per year. With more time with the patients due to the elimination of many administrative tasks, Direct Care is great for both the doctor and the patient.

R-Health follows right along these lines. Not only does R-Health offer individual memberships, but after signing a groundbreaking contract with the State of New Jersey, it is able to offer Direct Care as a benefit to over half a million New Jersey school and state employees and their families, completely free of charge.

With such an historic agreement, R-Health saw major growth over the past year. R-Health expanded to seven locations across New Jersey, three which came during the final quarter of 2017. Just like our approach to healthcare, our sites are committed to quality, excellence, and convenience. With comfortable assessment areas along with some of the latest technology in medicine, our locations offer the convenience of a one-stop-shop for all primary care needs whether you’re a patient or doctor. To see a list of all of locations, please visit our website.

Recognized as game changers, in 2017 R-Health received Philadelphia Business Journal’s Healthcare Innovator award for our efforts to reinvent the healthcare industry. Other news outlets such as the Wall Street Journal, Politico, and NJBIZ were just a few others who graciously acknowledged the hard work and commitment towards the success of this model.

In closing, this past year has been a great year for Direct Care, and an even greater year for R-Health. Now having laid a strong foundation in New Jersey, R-Health is driven to expand to more markets and develop new relationships with other businesses more than ever. As a tight knit group that puts our doctors and patients first, excitement ensues for what’s to come and we hope that more physicians join our clinical team to enjoy it with us.

Cervical Health Awareness

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month. The goal of this month is to raise awareness on how to protect against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STIs) in the United States, affecting nearly 80% of women, at least once in their lifetime. According to WomensHealth.gov, though most cases don’t show any symptoms, and usually goes away on its own, if it doesn’t, HPV can lead to:

  • Cervical cancer
  • Other genital cancers (e.g. cancers of the vulva, anus, penis, etc.)
  • Oropharyngeal cancer (i.e. cancer of the back of the throat, affecting tongue and tonsils)
  • Genital warts

However, there is good news. With HPV vaccine shots, regular screenings, and follow-up care, HPV and cervical cancer can often be prevented. This is one of the many reasons why a yearly well-woman visit is important. Other ways to prevent HPV and the risk of cervical cancer include:

  • Get tested – make sure you are your partner are tested for STIs
  • Use condoms – condoms have been linked to lower cervical cancer rates
  • Limit your number of sexual partners – your risk increases with the number of partners you have

As parents, it’s important to understand the benefits of the HPV vaccines, and have them administered to your children, both boys and girls. Though encouraged to get the vaccine during the pre-teen years, teens and young adults are still able to receive the vaccine (boys – up to age 21; girls – up to age 26).

R-Health gives our members access to vaccines right in the office. If you want to learn more about the HPV vaccine, or want more tips to prevent cervical cancer, call your local R-Health office to get started.