Tag Archive for: awareness

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is More Than Pink

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Breast cancer and the color pink go hand-in-hand during October. But there’s so much more to breast cancer awareness and NOAH wants you and your loved ones to be aware about breast cancer risks, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and more.

Breast Cancer Awareness Fast Facts:

  • Breast cancer occurs almost entirely in women, but according to the American Cancer Society, men can get breast cancer too.
  • Breast cancer is often (though not always) detected by a lump in the breast. However, most lumps in the breast are benign (not cancerous), but ALL lumps should be checked by your provider.
  • There are different kinds of breast cancer that start in different areas of the breast.
  • Alcohol increases the risk of developing breast cancer. An average of 1 drink per day increases risk by 7-10% while 2 to 3 drinks per day increases risk by 20%!
  • Being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight are the best things to do to prevent breast cancer. This is especially true for women after menopause.
  • Mammograms and breast ultrasounds are the most commonly used, and the most effective screening tool available to detect breast cancer early.
  • There is little to no benefit of doing self-breast exams or clinical breast exams, but women should still be alert and see a provider if anything looks or feels different.

Treatments for breast cancer will vary depending on the type of breast cancer and when it is diagnosed. At NOAH, we want to work with you to keep a healthy lifestyle, focus on prevention, answer any questions you have, support you through a diagnosis, and help you during treatment.

To learn more about breast cancer risks, types, treatments, and more, check out the American Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer section. To talk with your NOAH provider about any questions you have, request an appointment today.

Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week

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By Stephanie Olzinski, RDN

Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis (UC) are both forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. People with these conditions can have moderate to severe symptoms and Crohn’s and UC currently affect over 780,000 and 900,000 Americans, respectively. Some people may go undiagnosed, however knowing the symptoms can help you determine which you suffer from and how to get help.

UC is characterized by affecting the large intestine and rectum whereas Crohn’s can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, but commonly at the site between the small and large intestines.

When examining symptoms, most people experience:

  • abdominal pain.
  • bloating.
  • inflammation.
  • diarrhea with or without blood and/or mucus.
  • weight loss.
  • anemia.

Nutrition plays a large role in managing symptoms of Crohn’s and UC as some foods or beverages can either help or worsen symptoms. Meeting with a Registered Dietitian at NOAH can help with determine the right personalized plan for you.

For Crohn’s disease, some people need a higher calorie and protein diet to maintain nutritional needs. Certain fibers should be limited, as well as fatty and spicy foods. 

For UC, consume more:

  • fibers from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
  • probiotic foods like yogurt and sauerkraut.

The same triggers for Crohn’s can affect those with UC as well. Recording a journal that highlights foods/beverages consumed alongside the types of symptoms and when they occur can be great to review with your dietitian. He or she can determine what triggers your symptoms as well as provide recommendations of a healthy diet that fits your specific needs.