A Guide to Exercise for Cancer Patients
The American Cancer Society recommends that cancer patients exercise as much as possible to help keep their muscles working. Physical activity can help prevent weak muscles and other issues that are often caused by long-term bed rest, including stiff joints, breathing problems, constipation and bedsores. Exercise can also help reduce the emotional stress of dealing with cancer. If you are living with cancer, it's a safe assumption that you are probably not feeling ready to hit the gym. That's okay because even basic exercise like a walk around your own home is an easy way to get up and move. Cancer patients and survivors who have never exercised before or those who are experiencing low physical endurance due to the disease will probably have different fitness goals from someone who has been physically active on a regular basis, explains HCA Cancer Guides. Consult your doctor for approval before beginning any exercise regimen, but here are some simple physical activities that you can consider:
For more information about exercise classes for cancer patients and other classes and events at Blake Medical Center, check our calendar and register online or call 1-888-359-3552 for assistance.
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Cancer is a difficult disease that takes its toll both mentally and physically. One of the most common side effects of cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy is fatigue, or extreme tiredness. Once a cancer patient feels well enough to move about, it’s a good idea to consider exercise because of its multiple benefits.
Mamm and Glamm: Make a Date!
Ladies, are you due for a mammogram? You may be putting it off, procrastinating, telling yourself that you’ll get to it. But where this recommended screening is concerned, there is no good reason to get behind. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the perfect time for you to get a mammogram—and we offer a great way to do it. Join us for a Mamm and Glamm! During this event, you can visit our Breast Care Center and experience a relaxing getaway. In addition to completing a screening mammogram, you can get a makeover, enjoy a soothing paraffin wax treatment, and indulge in light refreshments. What a wonderful way to pamper yourself and protect your health, too. So what are you waiting for? Our next Mamm and Glamm events are this Saturday, October 15, from 8 am to noon, and Wednesday, October 26, from 4 pm to 7 pm. Check your calendar and make a date to take care of yourself. The Breast Care Center at Blake Medical Center is located at 2010 59th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209. For more information or to make a mammogram appointment, just call 1-888-359-3552.
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Breast Cancer: Prevention and Screening
Breast cancer prevention and screening go hand in hand. While there are no guarantees, there are a number of things you can do prevent breast cancer or detect it early to ensure the most effective treatment.
Screening
Prevention
This October, Blake Medical Center invites you to take part in our National Breast Cancer Awareness Month programs, including The Hunt for Pink October, the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer fundraising walk, and our “Mamm and Glamm” mammogram screening events. Our next Mamm and Glamm events are scheduled for Wednesday, October 5; Saturday, October 15; and Wednesday, October 26. Take advantage of all these opportunities to learn everything you can about breast cancer and how you can help prevent it.
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The Hunt for Pink October
October is just around the corner, and that means the 3rd Annual Hunt for Pink October will soon be underway. If you participated last year, you know what a great experience this can be! During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take this opportunity to learn more about the disease and help bring attention to the need for research, prevention, and screening. The team at Blake Medical Center has joined forces with businesses throughout Manatee and Sarasota Counties, and the result is a fun-filled scavenger hunt. Starting on October 1, maps will be available in the Bradenton Herald as well as online or at participating businesses. The participating businesses are: As you visit each location on the map, you will learn important information about breast cancer. You will get a question and fill in your answer before you move on to the next stop. Be sure you visit all the locations on the map and fill in all the answers. That way, you’ll qualify for chances to win incredible prizes, including a weekend getaway at Anna Maria Island! Winners will be announced on October 31. Want to get more involved? Join the Hunt for Pink October Making Strides Against Breast Cancer (MSABC) team! The MSABC event will take place on Saturday, October 22, at the Sarasota Polo Club. Help us raise funds for research and put an end to breast cancer. To learn more about the Hunt for Pink October, visit the Blake Medical Center website. You can also check our Facebook page for updates and results. Get ready for the hunt!
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Prostate Cancer 101
September brings many things: a new school year for students, Labor Day weekend for vacationers, and a host of college and NFL football games. However, September also brings Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Aside from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer among men, affecting 20% of the American male population. This month, learn all that you can about prostate cancer—to protect your own health or that of your loved ones.
Know Your Risk
Understand the Examination
Screening is the key to identifying disease early. In the very early stages, cancer is much easier to treat and the treatment is also far more effective.
Know the Facts about Enlarged Prostate Limit Red Meat and Dairy Have questions? Contact us through our Consult-A-Nurse® service at 1-888-359-3552 to seek medical advice or to schedule an appointment. Our Cancer Care program is staffed by highly experienced and qualified doctors, nurses and medical professionals, providing comprehensive care from diagnosis through treatment.
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Can Foods Fight Cancer?
While the exact causes and cures for cancer may be somewhat of a mystery, research has provided some clues in regard to preventing and fighting the disease. Studies have shown that certain foods can help reduce inflammation, rid the body of toxins, aid in killing cancer cells, and more. As part of a healthy, balanced diet the following foods may have the power to help prevent and fight cancer. Japanese green tea. A good source of polyphenols, green tea is believed to help stunt the growth of tumors and even increase the benefits of radiation treatment. Pomegranate juice. This juice has a history of being used for medicinal purposes, and is thought to have the ability to help slow the growth and spread of cancers. Ginger. Fresh ginger, not the powdered version of the spice, has been shown to help fight inflammation and tumor growth. Turmeric. Ground turmeric has been shown to not only slow tumor growth, but also to foster the killing of cancer cells and increase the benefits of chemotherapy. Garlic. Research indicates that garlic can help ward off evil by helping to kill certain types of cancer cells. Apples. The skin of an apple is a good source of cancer-fighting compounds. However, note that while the skin of an organic apple is pesticide-free, an apple grown using traditional methods is subject to the use of pesticides. Oranges. These, as well as some other citrus fruits, contain flavenoids, which are linked to reducing inflammation and eliminating toxins from the body. Blueberries. The polyphenols contained in both fresh and frozen blueberries have been found to help keep cells healthy, slow the growth of tumors, and foster the killing of cancer cells. Bok choy. This green, leafy vegetable is believed to have the power to help prevent precancerous cells from growing into cancerous tumors. Soy. Foods such as soy milk, edamame, and tofu contain isoflavones and are thought to help slow tumor growth. Fresh wild salmon. This fish is rich in healthy omega 3 fatty acids, which are believed to protect against the growth of cancers. Note that freezing diminishes the power of omega 3s. Dark chocolate. Dark chocolate that contains more than 70 percent cocoa is a good source of antioxidants that play a part in reducing the growth of cancer cells. While no food has miraculous powers, there are many nutritional choices that can help you stay healthy. For more information about cancer education and screenings, contact Blake Medical Center. Visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse® at 1-888-359-3552 for a physician referral.
Sources: American Cancer Society
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Stay Safe in the SunSkin cancer is a growing concern. In fact, more than 3.5 million Americans are diagnosed each year. Nearly 90 percent of the diagnoses are related to sun exposure, and the numbers are only rising. However, there are many precautions to take to avoid the risk of skin cancer. Summertime is not the only time to think about skin cancer. The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun reach our skin year-round, on cloudy, hazy, and sunny days. UV rays can reflect off many surfaces as well, from the sidewalk, to the Here are some tips to live by: · Seek shade during peak hours. The rays are most harmful between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. · Keep skin covered with tightly woven clothing that will block the UV rays. Darker colors offer more protection, and wet clothing offers less protection than dry. · Use a wide-brimmed hat to cover head and neck areas. · Utilize sunglasses to protect your precious peepers from the dangerous rays. · Wear sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. It should protect against UVA and UVB rays, so read the label. Sunscreen should be applied any time you go outside. Re-apply frequently, especially when swimming or sweating. Sunscreen will expire after three years, sooner when stored in high temperatures. Be sure to replace yours each year to ensure total protection. Use cosmetics with SPF 15 or higher to protect delicate facial skin each day. · Indoor tanning increases UV exposure by up to 12%. This is not a risk worth taking, so avoid indoor tanning at all costs. · Check your skin monthly for any signs of skin cancer and be sure to have regular screenings. Any changes in moles, freckles, or skin blemishes should be looked at by a doctor as soon as possible. Know your skin and look for abnormalities. Keep an eye out for the ABC’s of skin cancer spotting: o Asymmetrical (halves do not match up) marks o Irregular borders o Color variation o Diameter that increases or is greater than 6 millimeters · Don’t become a skin cancer statistic, so keep your skin protected. Knowing you are safe will give you that natural glow of happiness. May is Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month, so this is the perfect time to learn and about the risks and avoid them. If you have questions, visit the Health Library at Blake Medical Center or call Consult-A-Nurse® at 1-888-359-3552 for a physician referral.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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Look Good … Feel BetterIf you have received a cancer diagnosis, you may have a million questions about what to expect. In many cases, as you go through treatment, your body will undergo a number of changes. You may be low on energy, and you may not feel as attractive as you once were. But there is help! Look Good … Feel Better is a free program that is offered to cancer patients as they experience radiation, chemotherapy, and other treatments. Through the program, patients can regain their self-esteem by learning how to look great. Beauty professionals will offer practical tips for makeup and skin care. They will also offer advice for making the most of wigs, turbans, and scarves to accommodate hair loss. When you attend a Look Good … Feel Better seminar, you’ll get a consultation about the best shades of makeup to Look Good … Feel Better does not offer medical advice or push certain brands. Instead, the volunteers offer their services to teach beauty techniques to patients who want to manage the side effects of cancer treatment. All of the volunteer beauty professionals are trained and certified by the Personal Care Products Council Foundation, the American Cancer Society, and the Professional Beauty Association/National Cosmetology Association at local, statewide, and national workshops. At Blake Medical Center, our next Look Good … Feel Good program is scheduled for Thursday, April 28, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. For more information, email diane.lehman@hcahealthcare.com or call 1-888-359-3552. Take time to make yourself look and feel the best you can be.
Sources: Community Calendar (Blake Medical Center) Program Description (Look Good … Feel Better) Our Mission (Look Good … Feel Better)
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What You Should Know about Colorectal CancerMarch is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, so this is the perfect time to learn about the disease and how to prevent it. Colorectal cancer is a disease that affects the colon (large intestine) and the rectum. It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, but there is good news. When caught early, colorectal cancer is very treatable. Risk Factors There are a number of conditions and issues that may be linked to colorectal cancer. Here are some to consider:
Symptoms In the early stages, colorectal cancer often has few symptoms. However, you should talk to a doctor if you experience any of these:
Prevention While nothing is foolproof, you can take certain steps to decrease your risk of colorectal cancer. Here are some places to start:
If you have questions or need a screening, contact Blake Medical Center. Visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse® at 1-888-359-3552 for a physician referral throughout Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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Nutrition Basics for Cancer PatientsIf you’re being treated for cancer, you’re going through so much. You may be exhausted and you may have lost your appetite. For As you work on getting better, consider these nutritional guidelines: · Try eating something about an hour before each treatment. Many patients report that this helps with nausea. · Eat small amounts every two or three hours. This may be easier on your system than eating three big meals a day. · Foods that are very sweet, fatty, or spicy can aggravate nausea. · Avoid foods with a strong odor. Foods served cool or at room temperature may be easier to eat than hot and spicy foods. · Try eating foods that normally make you feel better when you have had the flu or been pregnant. Try peanut butter on crackers, cereal, toast, rice, and pasta. · Be sure you eat protein, since it will help your body repair itself. If some meats are unappealing to you, try cheese, beans, lentils, and yogurt. · Stock up on prepared foods, since you probably won’t feel like cooking. You could also have a friend or family member make meals ahead of time for you. · Try drinking breakfast shakes or meal replacement shakes. These are often loaded with vitamins and minerals, and they are easy to have on hand. · Make sure you drink at least 64 ounces of fluid a day. Try water, fruit juice, lemonade, and smoothies. · Don’t worry about consuming high-calorie or high-fat foods during this time. It’s important that you eat enough to help you recover. If you’re having a difficult time eating or keeping nausea under control, don’t hesitate to discuss the issue with your doctor. There may be medications that can help. To learn more about nutrition during cancer treatment, contact the Cancer Care Center at Blake Medical Center. Visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse® at 1-888-359-3552. Serving Bradenton and surrounding Manatee County, we’re here to answer all your questions. Sources:
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