1. health and fitness
2. disease
3. cancer

Fall 2008
Visit us at brch.com
Catch breast
cancer early
Get your regular
screening mammogram
The light brigade
Let the BRCH team help you
reach your weight-loss goal.
Cancel out colon cancer
Talk to your doctor about
colorectal cancer screening—
it could save your life.
9
20
News
From the CEO’s desk
Dear neighbors:
Welcome to another issue of Healthy Living. I hope that you and
your loved ones had a wonderful summer here in South Florida.
We’ve been very busy here at Boca Raton Community Hospital. We are preparing for the opening of the Harvey and Phyllis
Sandler Pavilion, which will house the Eugene M. & Christine
Richard Van Lith,
E. Lynn Cancer Institute, including multimodality treatment
President and CEO
programs, Radiation, Chemotherapy and Support
Services, as well as Outpatient Imaging and Diagnostics.
We’re also excited about our new Deerfield Beach imaging
center—BRCH Imaging Hillsboro—which will offer MRI, CT, ultrasound
and digital X-ray services.
This fall, we will open an Advanced Arrhythmia Center, featuring our
new Electrophysiology Lab, offering state-of-the-art treatment for atrial fibrillation. We are also pursuing designation as a certified stroke center. As we
enter the third year of our heart program, we continue to exceed all expectations—our outcomes and quality are simply unsurpassed.
As always, we thank you for support. We are proud to continue to provide high-quality healthcare to this community.
Free
community
education
series
Total Joint Replacement:
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Wednesday, Oct. 29, 7 to 8 p.m.
Presented by Edgar Handal, MD,
orthopedic surgeon
Dawson Theater at BRCH, located
in the Charles E. and Dorothy F.
Schmidt Education Center
The more you know, the
better you can take care of
yourself. Call 561-95-LEARN
(561-955-3276) to make a
reservation today or for a free
physician referral.
Sincerely,
Richard Van Lith
President and Chief Executive Officer
Blessings in a Backpack
Two members of
BRCH’s activities
committee present
a check for Boca
Helping Hands’
program Blessings
in a Backpack.
Standing left to
right are Sue Willis
(BRCH), Nelia Oiler
(BRCH), Jessie
Arredendo, Duna
Dumas and Linda
Gove (BHH). Sitting
are Jonathan
Laurent and Allison
Hernandez.
2 | HealthyLiving
The activities committee at Boca Raton Community Hospital produced a
cookbook of staff members’ favorite recipes. The committee began selling the cookbooks last November and presented Boca Helping Hands
with the first donation. The remaining proceeds—in the form of a $2,000
check—were presented to Linda Gove, executive director of BHH, for
Blessings in a Backpack, a new program that feeds hungry children on
the weekends.
The activities committee consists of 15 members whose purpose is to
provide enjoyable year-round, staff-related activities by hosting contests,
trips and events for the employees, physicians and volunteers at BRCH.
Co-chairperson Sue Willis says, “The members of BRCH’s activities committee unanimously voted to support BHH and Blessings in a Backpack
with the proceeds we made from our cookbooks. We are excited to assist
with the launching of their new program and helping the children any way
we can.”
Save the date:
Go Pink Luncheon
October 20
The Go Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon celebrates its fifth anniversary of bringing
education and public awareness of breast cancer prevention, detection and treatment to
the community. Seated from left are Freyda Burns, who together with her husband, Ed,
underwrites the luncheon speaker; Robin Rubin, Go Pink Challenge co-chair; five-time
Luncheon Chair Patti Carpenter; and Amy Ross, Go Pink Challenge co-chair.
Many
happy
returns
Debbie-Rand Memorial
Service League hosted a
special birthday party in
the hospital main lobby
for Ruth McGoldrick’s
90th birthday. Well-wishers
enjoyed cake and punch
as they stopped by to
congratulate her.
This year’s biggest trend may be
going green, but for supporters of Boca Raton Community
Hospital’s Center for Breast Care,
it’s always been Go Pink.
The fifth annual Go Pink
Luncheon takes place Monday,
Oct. 20, at Boca West Country
Club. Returning for an encore of
last year’s sellout presentation is
Geralyn Lucas, breast cancer survivor and author of Why I Wore
Lipstick to My Mastectomy.
“Thanks to the generosity
of Ed and Freyda Burns, we are
pleased to bring back this dynamic young woman who inspires
and entertains with her unique
brand of humor, which she calls
‘laughing in the face of breast
cancer,’” says Patti Carpenter,
the event chairwoman. “Last year,
the response to Geralyn was so
powerful we knew we had to invite
her back to continue her story.”
This year will also launch the
Go Pink Challenge, a yearlong
fundraising initiative for the
Center for Breast Care. Go Pink
Challenge co-chairs, Amy Ross
and Robin Rubin, are recruiting
a committee of dedicated volunteers to focus on raising sums
from $250 thousand to $1 million.
The funds will support technological advancements to help fight
breast cancer. The committee will
also benefit from the experience
and support of Honorary Chairs
Jo Ann and Rose Proccaci, as
well as Honorary Advisor Helen
Babione.
Individual luncheon
tickets begin at $125.
If you would like more
information about table
reservations or event underwriting and sponsorship opportunities,
please call Kimberly
Read at 561-955-5168.
From left are Carolyn Kates,
Joan Wargo, Gloria Drummond,
Ruth McGoldrick, Margaret
Westervelt, Nancy Quick and
Pat Thomas. All are past presidents of the League.
www.brch.com | News
Vince Loscalzo, president of Debbie-Rand Memorial Service
League, presents a pin to Ruth McGoldrick for her 35,000
hours of volunteer service.
Standing from left are Arthur Dermer, Vince Loscalzo, Gail Oren and Walter Pelstring. Seated from left are Maryann Stark,
Maxine Beck, Shelley Greenwald and Debbie Leising. Not pictured are Siobhan Kleinman, Nona Goldstein and Cindy Bittner.
25 years
of keeping shop
League update: New board of trustees
Each year the Debbie-Rand Memorial Service
League, Inc. presents award pins to volunteers who have donated 100 hours or more.
This year Ruth McGoldrick, chairperson of the
Debbie-Rand Thrift Shoppe, received her pin
for donating 35,000 hours to the League.
For the past 25 years, McGoldrick has
been manager of the Debbie-Rand Thrift
Shoppe, which raises hundreds of thousands
of dollars for Boca Raton Community Hospital
each year. While she credits the shop’s success to a generous community and dedicated
volunteers, McGoldrick’s hard work and commitment help everything run smoothly and
efficiently. She turned 90 years old in July and
has no intention of slowing down.
Debbie-Rand
Thrift Shoppe
561-395-2208
903 Meadows Road
Call for information and hours.
| HealthyLiving
The Debbie-Rand Memorial Service League, Inc. elected its new board of trustees at their annual meeting, awards ceremony and luncheon on May 6.
The League has served Boca Raton Community Hospital since 1962 and has approximately
1,000 members.
For information about volunteering at BRCH, please call the Debbie-Rand Memorial Service
League at 561-955-4098.
Nurse excellence awards
Each year Boca Raton Community Hospital honors a group of nurses for outstanding
work in patient care, professionalism, commitment, teamwork and dedication. These
nurses are nominated by
their peers, and one nurse
is selected as nurse of the
year. This year Melanie Horvath, RN, a nurse from the
PCI/Interventional Telemetry
Unit, earned the title.
Horvath and other nurses
were honored in a ceremony
at BRCH’s Dawson Theater
on May 8, where Boca Raton
Mayor Susan Whelchel officially proclaimed the day
From left are Julie Hilsenbeck, COO, and Melanie Horvath, RN.
Nurses’ Day 2008.
New medical staff leaders
The Boca Raton Community Hospital Board of Trustees has appointed
the hospital’s medical staff leaders for 2008 through 2010.
Theodore Raptis, MD
Jose Castellanos, MD
Position: President and chief
Position: Member-at-large
of the medical staff
Board certification: Internal medicine
Board certification: Internal
Medical school: Ross University School of
medicine
Medicine, Dominica
Medical school: St. George’s
Internship and residency: Our Lady of Mercy
University School of Medicine, Grenada, West
Medical Center, Bronx, N.Y.
Indies
Internship and residency: Jamaica Hospital
David Wulkan, MD
Medical Center, Jamaica, N.Y.
Position: Member-at-large
Hospital heroes
Jose
Castellanos, MD
Internal medicine
Physician of the month
March
Board certification: General and vascular surgery
Andrew Ross, MD
Medical school: University of Pittsburgh Medical
Position: Vice president of the medical staff
Center, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Board certification: Colorectal surgery
Internship and residency: Jackson Memorial
Medical school: State University of New York at
Hospital, Miami, Fla.
Charles Stewart, MD
Orthopedic surgeon
Physician of the month
April
Buffalo School of Medicine
Internship: New England Medical Center, Boston
Craig Brodsky, MD
Residency: Shore University Hospital,
Position: Chief of the Department of Cardiology
Manhasset, N.Y.
Board certification: Cardiology/internal medicine
Fellowship: University of Medicine and Dentistry
Medical school: State University of New York at
of New Jersey–Robert Wood Johnson Medical
Stony Brook
School, New Brunswick
Internship and residency: University Hospital at
Gunther RinconVeracoechea, MD
Anesthesiologist
Physician of the month
May
Stony Brook
John Panos, MD
Fellowship: Emory University School of
Position: Secretary of the medical staff
Medicine, Atlanta, Ga.
Board certification: Nephrology/internal medicine
Medical school: State University of New York at
Alan Saitowitz, MD
Buffalo School of Medicine
Position: Chief of the Department of Medicine
Internship and residency: Winthrop University
Board certification: Internal medicine
Hospital, Mineola, N.Y.
Medical school: University of Witwatersrand,
Fellowship: Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City
Johannesburg, South Africa
Internship and residency: Jacobi Medical
Todd Eisner, MD
Center, Bronx, N.Y.
Position: Treasurer of the medical staff
Board certification: Gastroenterology/internal
Charles Stewart, MD
medicine
Position: Chief of the Department of Orthopedics
Medical school: State University of New York at
Board certification: Orthopedic surgery
Stony Brook
Medical school: University of Maryland School of
Internship and residency: North Shore University
Medicine, Baltimore, Md.
Hospital, Manhasset, N.Y.
Internship and residency: Shands Hospital at the
Fellowship: North Shore University Hospital,
University of Florida, Gainesville, Fla.
Manhasset, N.Y.
Fellowship: Piedmont Hospital, Atlanta, Ga., and
The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Md.
Andrew Ross, MD
Colon and rectal
surgeon
Physician of the month
June
Congratulations! In recognition of your
commitment, dedication and professionalism in patient care, the physician
satisfaction team and the entire staff
of Boca Raton Community Hospital
thank you.
For a referral to one of our
board-certified physicians,
please call 561-95-LEARN
(561-955-3276).
www.brch.com | 5
Imaging
A
better
look
inside
B
Advanced system combines two types of scanning
Boca Raton Community Hospital has
acquired the GE Discovery STE, a nextgeneration scanner that helps doctors detect disease in its early stages and monitor
the progress of patient treatment.
The scanner combines two kinds of
imaging—computed tomography and positron emission tomography—to give doctors more complete information about a
patient’s condition in a single exam that is
usually shorter than one hour. CT provides
highly detailed pictures of the patient’s
anatomy, and PET reveals information
about tissue function. The procedure can
provide staging information about cancer
For more information about the
new GE Discovery STE system,
call BRCH at 561-95-LEARN
(561-955-3276).
6 | HealthyLiving
patients, or it can be used to evaluate dementia or abnormalities of brain function
that might otherwise go undetected. It also
has other advanced applications in oncology, neurology and radiology. Previously,
doctors had to put patients through two
separate scans to get similar information.
plan—instead of waiting until the end of
treatment to do a follow-up study.
IMMEDIATE ANSWERS
IT’S ALL IN YOUR HEAD
“Using the combined images, our doctors can answer critical questions,” says
Joseph Kleinman, MD, medical director
of Imaging Services at BRCH. “Where is
the tumor? Is it spreading? How large is it?
What is the best way to treat it? Is the treatment working? In some cases, a definitive
diagnosis can help the patient avoid painful invasive procedures, such as biopsies.”
In addition, the scanner can be used
for follow-up care. Doctors can monitor
the patient during treatment, check progress and, if necessary, adjust the treatment
PET/CT is an excellent diagnostic tool
to evaluate brain function and is proving
beneficial for patients with neurological
disorders. For example, it can localize the
site of seizure activity in the brain, which
is especially important for children with
uncontrollable seizures. PET/CT can also
tell if that muscle tremor is Parkinson’s
disease or another movement disorder.
“This new scanner helps us to provide
a higher level of cancer detection and
care for the residents of our community,”
Dr. Kleinman says.
A
high-tech view
S
Medical imaging techniques that help doctors help you
Sometimes doctors need to see inside the
body to help diagnose or treat diseases.
Often they can accomplish this without
surgery—thanks to modern medical
imaging.
The following brief descriptions
cover some of the most commonly used
techniques.
X-rays are the oldest and most often
used imaging tests. The preferred way to
diagnose broken bones, X-rays also have
many other uses, such as to image the
chest or to assess damage from arthritis.
X-rays are a form of radiation that can
pass through the body, allowing an image
to be recorded on the other side. Bones
and other dense tissues absorb the most
X-rays and appear light; soft tissues look
dark because more rays pass through them.
A mammogram is a special type of
X-ray exam used to image the breasts, often
to screen for breast cancer. Mammograms
can detect breast tumors early, when treatment has the best chance of success.
Ultrasound doesn’t rely on radiation.
Instead, the technology uses sound waves
and their echoes to create pictures that
can provide, among other things, a breathtaking first look at a growing fetus.
Ultrasound is also used to view internal
organs, since it is very good at seeing soft
tissues, and to guide biopsy tests. Doppler ultrasound can track blood flowing
through vessels and is used to detect narrowing in leg or neck arteries.
CT—computed tomography—
scanning uses X-rays and a computer to
create cross-sectional images of organs,
blood vessels and other types of tissue—
in great detail. For example, CT can show
fibrous tissue in organs and other details
that aren’t visible with regular X-ray exams.
Multiple X-ray beams are sent through
the body at different angles, producing
thin images, or slices, that are assembled
by a computer and viewed on a monitor.
CT is often used to get views of the
head, abdominal organs or the pelvis. It
can help detect cancer, spinal injuries and
other conditions.
MRI—magnetic resonance imaging—
also captures very detailed cross-sectional
images, but with a strong magnetic field
and radio waves instead of X-rays.
While MRI can be used to view most
any part of the body, some of the more
common uses are to view the brain and
the spinal cord to evaluate back pain.
PET—positron emission tomography—
scans can reveal details about the chemical activity of organs, so doctors can see
how well they are functioning.
These images are taken by detecting the
energy from particles released by a shortlasting radioactive substance put inside
the body.
PET scans can help doctors detect
cancer, monitor its treatment, or study
the heart or the brain.
It’s all
right here
The diagnostic imaging technology at Boca
Raton Community Hospital is among the
most advanced in the world. The radiologists
who read results are nationally renowned,
fellowship-trained and board-certified. The
combination of extraordinary equipment
and experienced eyes provides you and your
physician with the most accurate information
possible—information that may save your life.
Talk to your doctor about diagnostic imaging at BRCH, including interventional imaging, CT, PET/CT, MRI and ultrasound.
ADVANCING AND EXPANDING
Keep in mind that these imaging techniques have many more uses.
As technology advances, the ways that
imaging is used to diagnose and help treat
conditions are expanding all the time.
Sources: American College of Physicians; American College of Radiology;
Radiological Society of North America
If you’re scheduled for an imaging
procedure and have questions about
what to expect, or for a free physician referral, call 561-95-LEARN
(561-955-3276).
www.brch.com | 7
Surgery
When
joints
hurt
J
Surgical solutions for
weary, sore joints
Joints are among the most hardworking
parts of your body. Hips, knees, shoulders,
elbows and wrists—even your fingers—
take on the stresses of daily living.
“So it’s no surprise that your joints
suffer from wear and tear,” says Edgar
Handal, MD, orthopedic surgeon at Boca
Raton Community Hospital.
joint through a small incision. The camera
sends a picture to a monitor. The doctor
can then see and repair problems, such
as torn cartilage or ligaments, using small
surgical instruments inserted through
incisions. Also, it can be used to smooth
rough joint surfaces. Arthroscopy is used
most often on knees and shoulders.
Osteotomy. This is a surgery to cut and
reposition bone to correct forces on weightbearing joints, such as knees. It’s also useful
in people with hip arthritis who are too
young for a total hip or knee replacement.
THE RISKS AND REWARDS
“Joint surgeries are serious procedures
that pose significant risks; however, the rewards of a successful surgery far outweigh
these risks,” Dr. Handal says.
Some may involve a lengthy period
of rehabilitation. Ask an orthopedic
surgeon—a doctor who specializes in
surgery on bones and joints—to explain
what outcomes can be expected and how
the surgery might change your life.
During joint replacement, damaged
bone or joint tissue is removed and replaced with metal, ceramic and plastic
parts. Replacement is most commonly
used for hips and knees. Shoulder, elbow
and finger joints can also be replaced.
Arthrodesis. This surgery involves
fusing the two bones that form a joint.
The fused joint loses
Sources: American Medical Association; Arthritis Foundation
“If joint pain is keeping you from your favorite flexibility but is better
activities, talk to your doctor,” Dr. Handal says. able to bear weight, is
more stable and is not
When joints hurt, medicines, exercise,
painful. Arthrodesis can relieve pain in
For more information about the orthoand heat or cold applications may provide
ankles, wrists, fingers and thumbs.
pedics program at BRCH or to hear
relief. However, if pain from arthritis, injuArthroscopy. A thin tube with a
Dr. Handal speak about total joint
ries or other joint problems is severe, your
light and a tiny video camera at the
replacement on Oct. 29, please call
doctor may discuss surgery
end (arthroscope) is inserted into the
561-95-LEARN (561-955-3276).
as a treatment option.
“The type of surgery you
need depends on which
joint is affected and what
is causing the problem,”
The decision to have joint surgery is not to be made lightly. Usually, surgery is the last
Edgar Handal, MD Dr. Handal says.
Considering surgery: Is it time?
JOINT SURGERIES
The following are some common surgical treatments for joint pain.
Arthroplasty/joint replacement. Arthroplasty is used to resurface or reline the
ends of bones when cartilage has worn
away and bone has been destroyed.
8 | HealthyLiving
resort for a painful condition. The Arthritis Foundation suggests talking to your doctor
about joint surgery if you have:
■ Increasing pain that has not been helped by medications or other methods
of pain relief.
■ Significant loss of ability to move comfortably. For example, you may have trouble
with daily tasks, such as walking, bathing and dressing.
■ Increased dependence on friends and family members to help you take care
of yourself.
Weight loss
The
light
brigade
BRCH can help you rethink your weight
management plan
A
By Cindi Creighton-Reis, registered, licensed
dietitian/nutritionist at Boca Raton Community
Hospital
A primary key to weight management is
eating when you are hungry and doing
something else when you are not. To do
this, you must be an aware eater, paying
attention when you eat.
It sounds simple until you consider
all the habits that can trigger unaware
eating, or eating for reasons other than
hunger. These habits might include taking
a handful of chips as you pass through
the kitchen; munching on licorice sticks
as you unpack the groceries; taking a few
extra bites at lunch during
an enjoyable conversation;
or visiting the candy jar at
work after a difficult phone
call.
Do you ever find yourself
yearning for chocolate
Cindi CreightonReis, RD, LDN, CDE after you’ve heard some
bad news?
This happens
for many
reasons, and
once you
understand
these, it will
be easier to
make alternative choices,
take better care
of yourself, and
be happier and
healthier.
You can learn all this
and more in our six-week weight
management and health class.
BRCH’s Davis Therapy Centers also offers a four-session class called “Nutrition
and Pre-Diabetes” for diabetes prevention,
heart health and weight management. In
this class, you will receive a meal planner
developed especially for you, and you’ll
learn food label reading techniques,
dining out strategies and essential stress management tools.
In addition, if you prefer oneon-one attention for any health
concern, we offer individual nutrition counseling.
These services are all provided
by registered, licensed dietitians/
nutritionists at Davis Therapy
Centers. Call 561-955-2100 for
more information, class fees or an
appointment.
www.brch.com | 9
Emergency care
HEART ATTACK:
S
Sometimes, waiting is the right thing to do.
Waiting for your temper to cool down
before confronting your boss is often a
wise choice. So is waiting for the temperature to drop on a boiling bowl of soup.
But there’s one scenario in which
waiting is never a good idea: when you’re
having symptoms of a heart attack.
IS A MUST
WHY WAITING IS DANGEROUS
The heart is a powerful muscle responsible for pumping life-sustaining blood
to the entire body. “But when something
compromises that process—a heart attack,
for example—the effects can be fatal,” says
James Morris, MD, cardiovascular surgeon
at Boca Raton Community Hospital and
medical director of the Christine E. Lynn
Heart Institute.
The heart itself receives blood through
a network of vessels called the coronary
arteries. A heart attack occurs when one
of these arteries becomes
blocked—usually by a
clot—and most or all of
the blood supply to the
heart is cut off.
Time is of the essence at
James Morris, MD that point. “The longer you
wait to have doctors clear
the blockage and restore blood flow, the
greater your risk of permanent damage to
your heart or of dying,” Dr. Morris warns.
ACT FAST
The Christine E. Lynn Heart
Institute is equipped to perform
a variety of advanced heart procedures. Call 561-95-LEARN
(561-955-3276) to learn more
or for a free physician referral.
10 | HealthyLiving
It cannot be stressed enough: A heart
attack is a medical emergency.
If you or someone you know has any
symptoms of a heart attack, you should
call 911 immediately. Don’t wait for more
than a few minutes—five at the most—to
call for help. Treatments for a heart attack
work best if given within one hour of the
start of symptoms. Acting fast may save
your life and may help prevent or limit
damage to your heart.
According to the American Heart Association, the following are warning signs
of a heart attack:
Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks
involve discomfort in the center of the
chest that lasts more than a few minutes
or goes away and comes back. It can feel
like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing,
fullness or pain.
Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain
or discomfort in one or both arms or the
back, neck, jaw or stomach.
Shortness of breath. This may occur
with or without chest discomfort.
Other symptoms. These may include
nausea, light-headedness or breaking out
in a cold sweat.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY KILLER
Many women still mistakenly believe
that only men get heart disease or have
heart attacks. That’s a dangerous misperception. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer
of women, and nearly half of all people
who die from heart attacks are women.
Unfortunately, despite their risk, women
are less likely than men to believe they’re
having a heart attack and more likely to
delay getting medical help, reports the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
The most common heart attack symptom in both men and women is chest
pain or discomfort. “However, women are
more likely than men to have some of the
other warning signs—especially shortness
of breath, nausea, vomiting, and back
pain or jaw pain,” Dr. Morris says.
“So women, take note: Ignoring signs
of a heart attack could cost you your life.
Call for emergency help right away.”
LEAVE IT TO THE PROS
Calling 911 for a heart attack is almost
always your best option for getting medical help quickly. Emergency medical personnel are trained to treat heart attacks on
the spot—they can give medications and
restart a heart that has stopped.
If for some reason you can’t access
emergency medical services, then have
someone drive you to the hospital immediately. You shouldn’t drive yourself unless
you have no other choice, Dr. Morris says.
And what about taking aspirin if you
have a heart attack? You shouldn’t delay
calling 911 to take an aspirin, advises the
NHLBI. Studies have shown that people
sometimes wait to seek medical help for a
heart attack if they take an aspirin or other
medicine. Emergency medical personnel
will give you an aspirin when they arrive.
Free
booklets
wo
marteDin
& He
sease
Prevention
Diagnosis
Treatment
561-395-71
00 • www
.brch.com
men& Hear
t Healt
Take charg
e—
h
a guide
for every
561-395-
7100 •
man
www.brch
.com
Are you at risk for heart
disease? Find out what you
need to know about this lifethreatening condition with free
Women and Heart Disease or Men
and Heart Health booklets. Call
561-95-LEARN (561-955-3276)
to request your free copies.
Restoring blood flow—ASAP
The time between when a heart attack patient arrives at the hospital and the time when
blood flow is restored is known as door-to-balloon time. Less than one-third of hospitals meet
the goal of the American Heart Association. Boca Raton Community Hospital is among the few
hospitals in the U.S. that meet this established goal in more than 75 percent of patients.
BRCH knows the importance of providing as rapid treatment as possible under the circumstances for heart attacks. In addition to the rapid care you receive at the hospital, new technology allows information to be shared between emergency responders in the ambulance and
physicians at the hospital. This allows physicians to diagnose your condition, determine the
best treatment option and prepare for your arrival at the hospital.
Where extraordinary is standard
To provide world-class heart care, you can never rest on your accomplishments, which
is why we’re opening the Advanced Arrhythmia Center at the Christine E. Lynn Heart
Institute this fall. Here you’ll find a state-of-the-art electrophysiology lab and leading-edge
technology, as well as board-certified cardiac electrophysiologists, cardiovascular surgeons
and cardiologists. This multidisciplinary team works together to offer a full spectrum of
sophisticated invasive and noninvasive procedures, including diagnosis and treatment of
cardiac rhythm disorders, catheter ablation, and cutting edge mini-maze surgery for treatment of atrial fibrillation. In fact, the team is among a select few in the region that offer the
mini-maze procedure—another reason to choose the Christine E. Lynn Heart Institute.
Talk to your physician about the benefits of our Advanced Arrhythmia
Center and mini-maze surgery. Learn more at BRCH.com or call 56195-LEARN (561-955-3276).
www.brch.com | 11
Genetics
Breast cancer:
Are you
I
at risk?
By Louise Morrell, MD, medical director of the Women’s Center–Center for Breast Care at BRCH
If you are a woman, you have probably
heard that family history plays an important role in breast cancer. You may
even feel a little safer knowing that breast
cancer does not run in your family. But
advances in genetic research mean all
women should ask: “Do I have a genetic
risk of developing cancer?”
New at the
Women’s Center
Please ask us about a new service offered at
the Women’s Center–Center for Breast Care
known as a clinical breast exam.
A clinical breast exam is a comprehensive
breast exam performed by a breast health specialist. For details, speak to any staff member.
Three locations to serve you
The Women’s Center–Center for Breast Care
offers three convenient locations to better
serve our patients.
MORE THAN
FAMILY HISTORY
First of all, the simple
fact is that the most important genetic risk factor
for breast cancer is being
Louise Morrell, MD
female. Every woman has
a one in nine chance of developing breast
cancer. Other genetic history is important,
but only about 25 percent of breast cancer
occurs because of genetic factors, and
75 to 80 percent of breast cancer occurs
with no particular family history. Therefore, it’s recommended that all women
have mammograms beginning at age 40,
regardless of family history.
For the 25 percent of women who have
a family history, there are two definable
groups: those who have a mutation of the
breast cancer (BRCA) gene and those who
do not have the BRCA gene or a classic
genetic familial history. For women who
have the BRCA gene, that single mutation increases their risk of both breast
cancer and ovarian cancer. For those who
do not have the BRCA gene or one of the
classic syndromes, there is a moderately
increased risk of breast cancer but not an
increase in the risk of ovarian cancer.
ESTIMATING YOUR RISK
Main location
690 Meadows Road, Boca Raton
Boca Raton Satellite
1905 Clint Moore Road, Suite 11, Boca Raton
Deerfield Beach Satellite
1979 W. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach
12 | HealthyLiving
The important questions for women to
ask are:
■ What is my risk of having the gene?
■ Why would I want to know I have the
gene?
■ What does the testing process involve,
and how much does it cost?
■ How will this affect my insurance or
my family’s insurance?
■ What hope is there for prevention?
■ What is the percentage chance I have a
gene mutation of the BRCA gene?
■ What is the risk of developing cancer if
I have the gene mutation?
We can estimate your chances of having a mutation by looking at family
history, including relatives on both the
father’s and mother’s sides, including
siblings, first and second cousins, aunts,
uncles, grandparents, and your own adult
children. Red flags for having a mutation
include multiple generations of breast
cancer, especially if there is a diagnosis
before age 50; ovarian cancer; breast cancer affecting both breasts; and male breast
cancer.
Certain ancestry groups have a higher
likelihood of carrying a mutation of the
BRCA gene with any family history. One
such group is the Jewish population from
Eastern Europe (Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry) who carry this mutation at a rate that
is 10 times higher than the non-Jewish
population.
The risk of developing breast cancer
for a woman who has a mutation of the
BRCA gene is as high as 87 percent, and
the risk of ovarian cancer is as high as
44 percent. Cancers due to BRCA gene
tend to occur at younger ages. The importance of these statistics is that there
are interventions that can alter these
outcomes.
More than just
mammograms
CENTER FOR BREAST CARE AT
THE WOMEN’S CENTER WELCOMES
BREAST HEALTH SPECIALISTS
The Center for Breast Care at the Women’s
Center is committed to your health and wellbeing. Our certified breast health specialists
are trained to provide clinical breast exams,
and we choose licensed, registered nurse
practitioners to join our team.
That’s one more reason to rest assured
that Boca Raton Community Hospital’s Women’s Center is the right place to go for breast
health concerns. Our whole team is committed to your peace of mind.
What Is a breast health specialist?
For example, when a woman who has a
BRCA mutation finishes having children,
surgical removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes can lower the rate of ovarian
cancer by as much as 96 percent. Those
same women who have ovaries removed
before menopause may be lowering their
may also help reduce the risk of breast
cancer.
A SIMPLE TEST
To determine if a woman has a mutation of the BRCA gene, it takes a single
blood test. Ninety percent of insurance
companies are now coverIt’s more important than ever that women ing this test, and legislaconsider a genetic consult and testing. tion has recently been
passed to further protect
risk of breast cancer by approximately
people from health insurance discrimina60 percent. In addition, for women with
tion. Education and understanding of the
a gene mutation, yearly specialized breast
test and result implications are crucial to
MRI scans in addition to annual mamknowing which test version to take and
mograms can detect breast cancer at an
how to interpret the results.
earlier stage. Prophylactic breast surgery is
It is estimated that only 3 percent of
also an option.
BRCA carriers have had genetic testing.
Exciting new studies are investigating
Knowing that the results can save lives in
medications that may also be used in the
our community, it is more important than
future for prevention of these cancers, but
ever that women consider a genetic conTamoxifen—which is currently available— sult and testing.
Breast health specialists are advancedpractice nurses with graduate-level education
and advanced clinical training beyond their
registered nurse preparation.
Breast health specialists may:
■ Order further testing for a more comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s condition.
■ Diagnose and treat breast conditions in
compliance with their areas of specialty.
■ Prescribe medications and other
treatments.
■ Counsel patients.
■ Teach patients how behavior affects their
health and well-being.
Breast health specialists take a different
approach from other health care providers
through their commitment to:
■ Focus on the whole person when treating
specific health problems.
■ Collaborate with other health care professionals to ensure the best care for patients
and their families.
■ Teach patients how health problems will
affect them and their loved ones.
www.brch.com | 1
Breast health
Personalized breast care
Trust the Women’s Center–Center for Breast Care at BRCH
has been shown to successfully find
cancers that were not detected through
mammography.
While ultrasound is an important test
Mammography remains the most imfor women with dense breasts, different
portant tool for early detection of breast
women need different screenings. Women
cancer. With the advent of digital mamshould be aware of the density of their
mography, we can expect to continue
breast tissue so that they get all the screenseeing improvements in survival. Howings that are appropriate for their indiever, with medical technology and science
vidual needs.
advancing every year, we should all ask
Another example of personalized care
the question, “What else can I be doing?”
comes from women who have had breast
surgery, such as augmentation with breast
JUST FOR YOU
implants. While they are believed to be
At the Women’s Center–
safe, implants can make it more difficult
Center for Breast Care at
to find extremely early breast cancers on
Boca Raton Community
a mammogram. This may be true for imHospital, we have develplants in front of or behind the muscle.
oped a new philosophy.
Breast MRIs are performed with a
Kathy Schilling, MD
The philosophy is a perspecialty breast magnet that can see
sonalized approach to care.
through implants to the chest wall and
More and more often in our daily lives
can maximize breast cancer identificawe are making choices that make sense
tion in women with breast augmentation.
for each of us. We have individualized
This imaging tool can also assess the
implant itself. Women with
For a free physician referral, please call breast implants who are at a
561-955-LEARN (561-955-3276). higher risk for breast cancer
may especially benefit from
exercise programs, individualized investbreast MRIs. The Women’s Center–Center
ment plans—even individualized cosfor Breast Care offers clinical services to
metic makeovers!
evaluate and develop personalized recWe believe it makes sense to offer a
ommendations for breast implants and
more personalized approach to breast
imaging.
care.
Finally, while all women are at risk
For example, the standard for breast
for developing breast cancer, that risk is
imaging is a mammogram that includes
higher in some women who have family
four images, or views, of the breast. Some
history, genetic predisposition, prior rawomen, however, have very dense breast
diation or atypical biopsies. These women
tissue that appears as patchy white areas
may also benefit from an individualized
on the mammography images. New
approach to breast screening, including
ultrasound technology can be used as
clinical breast exams by a breast health
a screening tool for these women and
specialist.
By Kathy Schilling, MD, medical director,
Imaging and Intervention, Women’s Center–
Center for Breast Care at BRCH
M
1 | HealthyLiving
STUDYING UP
New detection technologies are evolving, and at the Women’s Center–Center
for Breast Care, we are participating in
research and offering women opportunities to enroll in clinical trials. Digital
mammography, MRI studies and breast
cancer prevention trials are all part of our
research efforts. Most recently, hundreds
of women participated in a study of a
specialized PET scan of the breast called
a PEM scan. The exciting results from that
study should be available in the coming
year. Our next study will offer special imaging to women who are at a high risk for
breast cancer. These women will be imaged with a mammogram, MRI and PEM
scan to compare the accuracy of all three
of these tests.
For more information about the individualized programs offered at the
Women’s Center–Center for Breast Care
at BRCH, the latest in our state-of-the-art
technology or to learn how you can be a
part of our clinical trials, please call 561955-5000.
You’re invited to Boca Raton Community Hospital’s Go Pink Luncheon, an annual event to help raise
awareness of and funds for breast
cancer prevention. See page 3 for
more information.
The Harvey
and Phyllis
Sandler
Pavilion
Boca’s new center for
state-of-the-art cancer care
and imaging
F
For Phyllis and Harvey Sandler, the greatest gift is to be able to share their blessings with others.
This fall, our whole community will
benefit from their generosity as the Harvey
and Phyllis Sandler Pavilion opens to the
public. Located just a block north of the
hospital at the corner of N.W. 13th Street
and N.W. 7th Avenue, it will house the
outpatient services of the Eugene M. &
Christine E. Lynn Cancer Institute as
well as Boca Raton Community Hospital’s
Phyllis and Harvey Sandler
comfort to have this available near home;
in fact, it is a blessing,” Harvey Sandler
says. “Phyllis and I are proud and delighted to be able to make the dream of
having a new state-of-the-art cancer center
in Boca Raton a reality.”
Harvey and Phyllis Sandler are longtime supporters of BRCH, and Mr.
Sandler is a member of the BRCH board
of trustees and a former member of the
BRCH Foundation board of trustees. For
more than a decade, the Sandlers have
given generously of
The Harvey and Phyllis Sandler Pavilion brings their time, energy
resources, diagnosis, treatment, therapies, and resources. They
counseling and support under one roof. believe that caring
for the community
outpatient Imaging Center.
is everyone’s responsibility, and that evThe Eugene M. & Christine E. Lynn
eryone can make a difference.
Cancer Institute has been providing
The Harvey and Phyllis Sandler
patients with cancer care and services for
Pavilion has been specifically designed
more than 30 years and has become the
for the comfort and care of patients,
fifth largest program in the state by paoffering an unsurpassed level of care for
tient volume.
cancer patients by bringing resources,
“When a patient is informed that they
diagnosis, treatment, infusion therapy,
have cancer, it is a devastating experience.
radiation therapy, counseling and support
They should be with friends and family
services under one roof.
while receiving superior care. It is a
The Multimodality Center will be the
first stop for new patients, who, in one
visit, will meet oncology specialists ranging from physicians and research nurses
to social workers. The multimodality
model eliminates the need for patients
to wait several weeks to see a physician
and then drive between offices of various
specialists. Multimodality clinics are
the hallmark of the nation’s top cancer
centers.
The Harvey and Phyllis Sandler Pavilion will also house the new outpatient
Imaging Center for BRCH, which will
offer the latest technology in imaging
services.
“To watch the Sandler Pavilion being
built from the ground up—and knowing
that so many people will be better off
because of it—is just incredible,” Phyllis
Sandler says. “Long after we are gone, this
will be our legacy to our community.”
For more information about the
Harvey and Phyllis Sandler Pavilion,
please call the BRCH Foundation at
561-955-4142.
www.brch.com | 15
!
h
c
u
O
Sports injuries
When sports hurt
Sports injuries happen—
common woes and when you should see the doctor
T
Taking part in sports is good for your body
and mind. But whether you’re a real athlete, a weekend warrior or just sporty sporadically, you’re always at risk for injury.
“Some athletes get injured from accidents during play,” says Larry Levin, MD,
an orthopedic surgeon on staff at Boca
Raton Community Hospital. “Others get
hurt as a result of poor training practices,
improper equipment, lack of conditioning
or insufficient warm-up and stretching.”
COMMON SPORTS INJURIES
Most sports injuries involve muscles,
bones and connective tissues—cartilage, tendons and ligaments—according to the U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services.
Common sports injuries include:
Sprains. A sprain is a stretch or tear of
a ligament—the band of tissue that joins
one bone to another. Sprains are usually
caused by a fall, twist or blow to your body
that knocks a joint out of position. Parts
of your body most vulnerable to sprains
are your ankles, knees and wrists. Symptoms of a sprain include varying degrees of
tenderness and pain, bruising, swelling, and inability
to move a limb or joint
properly.
Strains. A strain is a
pull, twist or tear of a
Larry Levin, MD
muscle or tendon—the tissue that connects muscles
to bones. Symptoms of a strain include
pain, muscle spasm and loss of strength.
Knee injuries. The knee is the most
commonly injured joint. Knee injuries can
range from mild to severe. They can occur
16 | HealthyLiving
Don’t ignore pain at play—
treatment can help keep you
in the game.
when you stretch or tear the cartilage or
ligaments that allow your knee to function.
Your knee can be injured from a blow or
twist; from improper landing after a jump;
or from running too hard, too much or
without proper warm-up.
A common knee injury, especially in
women, is an ACL tear. ACL stands for
anterior cruciate ligament, a ligament that
connects the thighbone and shinbone
inside the knee joint.
Shin splints. The term shin splint refers
to pain along your tibia, or shinbone—
the large bone in the front of your lower
leg. Pain can occur in the front outside
part of your leg, including the foot and
ankle, or in the inner part of your shinbone where it connects with your calf
muscles. You’re most likely to get shin
splints from running—especially if you
are starting a new exercise routine.
Achilles tendon injuries. You can injure your Achilles tendon, which connects
the calf muscle to the back of your heel, by
irritating, stretching or tearing it. Achilles
tendon injuries can occur suddenly and
are very painful. The most common cause
of Achilles tendon tears is a problem
called tendonitis, a degenerative condition
brought on by aging or overuse.
Achilles tendon injuries are common in
middle-aged, casual athletes who do not
exercise regularly or don’t take the time to
stretch properly before an activity.
Stress fractures. A stress fracture is most
likely to occur in your feet or legs. Stress fractures are often the result of repetitive impact,
primarily in running or jumping sports.
Common symptoms of stress fractures
include pain at the site of the fracture
that worsens when you put weight on it,
tenderness and swelling.
THIS CALLS FOR THE DOCTOR
“Some injuries need medical attention
immediately,” Dr. Levin says. The HHS
says you should see a doctor if:
■ The injury causes severe pain, swelling
or numbness.
■ You can’t put weight on the injured area.
■ The pain of an old injury is accompanied
by increased swelling or joint problems.
“Most sports injuries can be treated effectively, and you can usually start playing
again after they heal,” Dr. Levin says.
“Remember, when you feel pain, stop
immediately. Playing on an injury can
cause more damage—and keep you sidelined longer.”
For more information about the
orthopedics program at BRCH, to
sign up for our monthly hip and knee
pain seminars, or for a free physician
referral, please call 561-95-LEARN
(561-955-3276).
Dysphagia
When it’s
hard
to swallow
I
If you’ve had trouble swallowing, you may
not have thought much of it. However,
did you know that swallowing problems
can have a significant effect on your
health? Known as dysphagia, difficulty
swallowing can be caused by other health
problems, including stroke, head injuries,
Parkinson’s disease and various cancers of
the head and neck. What’s more, dysphagia often goes un- or misdiagnosed.
or multiple medical
issues.
ALL-AROUND CARE
At Boca Raton
Community Hospital, we provide comprehensive assessment
and treatment programs for patients who
have dysphagia. A thorough examination
may include a detailed clinical history,
pertinent clinical observations, an oromoSERIOUS CONCERNS
tor examination and swallowing trials.
Even mild problems with the swallowing
Additional assessment procedures can
process can lead to aspiration, or the result
help determine your risk for aspiration
of food or liquid going into the trachea,
and pinpoint the part of your swallowor windpipe, and passing into the lungs.
ing mechanism causing the problem. Our
technology allows us to view a
Boca Raton Community Hospital moving X-ray of your swallowing
provides comprehensive assessment and assess the benefit of treatment strategies during the study.
and treatment programs for patients
Dysphagia treatment may
who have problems swallowing. include a combination of patient
and family education, dietary
Sometimes aspiration makes you cough
modifications, traditional exercises, and
or clear your throat. These reactions are
neuromuscular electrical stimulation,
the body’s protective mechanism for the
which is used to rehabilitate muscles that
lungs. Silent aspiration occurs when there
may have lost function.
is no protective cough.
Aspiration can have serious health implications, including causing acute pneumonia and preventing you from eating
If you have questions or would like
enough of the right foods to stay healthy or
to learn more about the treatment
maintain an ideal weight. These problems
of dysphagia, call the Speech
can be even more serious when they ocPathology Department at Davis
cur in older adults, as well as people with
Therapy Centers at 561-395-7100,
limited mobility, respiratory impairments
ext. 7430 or 7444.
Symptom
checker
Do you:
❐ Cough or choke during or after eating or drinking?
❐ Get food stuck in your throat?
❐ Need a lot of liquid to wash your
food down?
❐ Cough or choke after lying down?
❐ Wake up choking or coughing?
❐ Have chronic cough or throat
clearing?
❐ Have excessive phlegm or saliva?
❐ Have recurrent bronchitis, chest
congestion or pneumonia?
❐ Have exacerbated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease symptoms?
❐ Have shortness of breath when you
eat or drink?
❐ Have low-grade fevers of unknown
origin?
❐ Sneeze or have a runny nose during
or after eating or drinking?
If you answered yes to one or more
of these questions, you may benefit
from dysphagia treatment. For more
information about your next step, talk
to your doctor or call 561-395-7100,
ext. 7430 or 7444.
www.brch.com | 17
Senior health
Life is good:
Growing happier
with age
Institute
Quality
for
T
THE INSTITUTE for Quality Aging at Boca
Raton Community Hospital aims to become one of the nation’s premier programs
focused on improving the quality of life
and care for older adults and their caregivers.
The institute is a team effort among
BRCH, the University of Miami and Florida
Atlantic University.
Led by internationally recognized
geriatrician Joseph G.
Ouslander, MD, the institute will provide education on geriatric issues to
medical, nursing and other
health professional students; practicing clinicians;
Joseph G.
Ouslander, MD
and the general public.
18 | HealthyLiving
Aging
Clinicians with the institute will participate in activities directed at advancing the
care for older adults and their caregivers at
BRCH, the surrounding community and
nationwide.
The institute will also conduct research
that will help develop programs and health
for older adults and their caregivers.
The centerpiece of the institute’s research program will be the Boca Longitudinal Study of Quality Aging. This study will
provide the infrastructure for important
research conducted by Dr. Ouslander and
faculty from the University of Miami and
Florida Atlantic University.
Institute activities will involve several
community-based organizations and will
Oh, the good ol’ days. Popular belief
suggests that our younger years are
the happiest time of life.
Yet researchers have found that
people may actually become happier
as they age. In a survey of younger
adults (ages 21 to 0) and older adults
(over the age of 60), researchers asked
both groups to assess their current
state of happiness.
While both groups predicted that
happiness would decline as they aged,
older adults actually rated themselves
as happier than the younger people
rated themselves.
Researchers believe that increased
happiness in older adults may be due
to several factors. For one, people may
be better equipped to manage life’s
up and downs as they grow older and
gain life experience. Also, people may
tend to change their life goals over the
years, making success and happiness
more attainable.
The results of the survey were published in the Journal of Happiness
Studies.
be guided by input from a variety of advisory groups.
If you are interested in participating in the
longitudinal study or know someone who is,
please call 561-95-LEARN (561-955-3276).
For more information about the
Institute for Quality Aging, visit
www.brch.com or call 56195-LEARN (561-955-3276).
Home health
A 100-year-old
love story
J
Judith Lupella looks up lovingly at the man that she has been
married to for nearly 80 years. Judith celebrated her birthday
on June 15; her husband Michael celebrated his birthday on
April 15. They both turned 100 this year!
It may be hard to believe, but 100 years ago—when the Lupellas’
story began—the average life expectancy in the United States was
47 years. There were only 8,000 cars, 144 miles of paved roads, and
the average wage was 22 cents an hour.
Michael met Judith through mutual friends when they were
both 21 and he was in Italy visiting his family. He didn’t speak
any Italian, and she didn’t speak any English, yet Michael knew
Judith was someone special. Michael asked Judith’s father for
permission to marry her, and he brought her back to the United
States to build a life in Chicago.
With Michael in the military, Judith dreamed of owning her
own business. She had worked in the garment business for many
years. One day she found an advertisement for a business—titled
“Must Sell”—in a local paper.
“I walked into the business one day and told the owner that I
didn’t have any money, but I wanted this business,” Judith says.
The owner, taking a liking to her, handed over the keys and said,
“It’s yours.” In those days, contracts weren’t necessary, so with a
promise and a handshake, Judith took over. The rest is history.
The Lupellas created a successful business in the ready-to-wear
industry. Although they sold the business many years ago, the
business is still there today and is owned by a big corporation.
THE NEXT CHAPTER
Mary Stevens, registered home health nurse at Boca Raton
Community Hospital, has worked with Judith over the past year.
Mary has grown fond of the couple that still holds hands when
referring to each other. “The story of their lives is a true inspiration. The Lupellas are an amazing couple.”
“The staff is so excited to be part of the Lupellas 100-year-old
birthday celebration,” says Jenny Watts, director of Home Health
Services at BRCH. “We are proud to join in the birthday celebration of such a momentous occasion, and we are looking forward
to participating in the celebration of their 80th wedding anniversary in January.”
The Lupellas say hard work is the secret to long life. They have
three children: a son, age 78; a daughter, age 76; and their baby,
who came 20 years later, age 56. They have five grandchildren
and one great-grandchild.
Home Health Services at BRCH provides health care during
hospital stays or in the privacy of homes. Qualified health care
personnel care for surgical, oncology, cardiac, wound care, ostomy, diabetic, orthopedic and infusion patients, giving you the
peace of mind that your loved ones are in good hands.
For more information about Home Health Services at
BRCH, please call 561-955-4040.
www.brch.com | 19
Colorectal cancer
50?
Nearing
Do a wise thing—talk
to your doctor about
colon cancer screening
Y
You would stop cancer from developing if
you could, wouldn’t you?
This isn’t the hypothetical question you
might suspect.
Colon cancer—which
this year alone will be diagnosed in some 106,000
Americans—can indeed be
prevented in many cases,
according to the American
Cancer Society (ACS).
Manuel Molina, MD
How, exactly? “Colon cancer often starts
as a polyp, a growth that is not yet cancerous,” says Manuel Molina, MD, an oncologic
surgeon on staff at Boca Raton Community
Hospital. Colon cancer screening can help
doctors find—and remove—polyps before
cancer develops, thereby stopping a potentially deadly cancer in its tracks.
“If cancer is already present, screening can
find it early, when treatment can be most
effective,” Dr. Molina says.
More than 90 percent of people diagnosed with colon cancer are 50 or older,
the ACS reports.
“So if your 50th birthday is near, talk
to your doctor about being screened,”
Dr. Molina says. “And if you have an increased risk for colon cancer—for
example, if it runs in your family—you
may need to begin screening earlier.”
Several tests can help detect cancers
of the colon and rectum; ask your doctor
which is best for you.
COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENINGS UNDERUSED
We could save more lives!
More people are getting screened for colorectal cancer these days, which is good news, since
testing can save lives.
However, we could do much better.
Although recent studies report a rise in colorectal cancer screening, many people 50 and
older—those who generally need the test—still aren’t getting screened.
More than half of colorectal cancer deaths could be avoided with regular screening, the
American Cancer Society says. Tests used to screen for colorectal cancer include the following:
■ Stool tests—detect blood or other indicators of cancer.
■ Flexible sigmoidoscopy—a slender, lighted tube with a tiny camera is inserted into the colon, allowing doctors to look at the rectum and the lower part of the colon.
■ Colonoscopy—similar to a flexible sigmoidoscopy, except the entire colon is
examined.
■ Double-contrast barium enema—this involves a barium enema and X-rays to look for abnormal spots.
If you are approaching or past 50, ask your doctor about these crucial screenings.
New treatments
available at BRCH
“The most common site of the body for colon
cancer to spread is the liver,” says Manuel
Molina, MD, an oncologic surgeon on staff at
Boca Raton Community Hospital. ”At BRCH,
we are performing laparoscopy of the liver,
liver re-sections and percutaneous radio
frequency ablations of the liver to prevent
cancer from spreading.”
In laparoscopy liver biopsy, a lighted, narrow
tubular instrument is inserted through a small
incision in the abdominal wall. The internal
organs are moved away from the abdominal
wall by gas that is introduced into the abdomen. Patients who undergo this procedure are
generally discharged after 10 to 12 hours.
The laparoscopic liver resection is performed under a general anesthetic. The
abdomen is filled with carbon dioxide and a
number of small incisions are made to provide access for the laparoscope and surgical
instruments. The resected liver is enclosed in
a bag and removed through a small incision
in the umbilical area.
Laparoscopic liver resection allows patients
to go home earlier and recover more quickly
than after open procedures and percutaneous
radio frequency ablations of the liver.
Radiofrequency ablation, sometimes referred to as RFA, is a minimally invasive treatment for cancer. Imaging techniques such as
ultrasound and computed tomography are
used to help guide a needle electrode into
a cancerous tumor. High-frequency electrical
currents are then passed through the electrode, creating heat that destroys the abnormal cells.
To learn more about colorectal cancer screening, which type of test is right for you, where you can get tested and for a free
physician referral, please call 561-95-LEARN (561-955-3276).
20 | HealthyLiving
World-class boca
raTon commUniTy
hosPiTal Physicians
and nUrses are JUsT
The beginning
insTiTUTes of excellence
Provide coordinaTed,
mUlTi-disciPlinary care
PaTienTs receive
sTaTe-of-The-arT
medical
Technology
and access
To research
ProTocols
The harvey and
Phyllis sandler
Pavilion Will
oPen in
november
2008, WiTh
an advanced
imaging cenTer,
ToTal cancer
services and
more Under
one roof
Healthy Living Ad Final.indd 1
Physicians, nUrses
and naTionally
recognized safeTy
exPerTs are
chrisTine e. lynn hearT
insTiTUTe feaTUres off-PUmP creaTing a PaTienTand familybeaTing hearT sUrgery
cenTered cUlTUre
of care
Our community
tradition of
philanthropy
supports all these
programs and more
For information on how you
can support the hospital,
please call the BRCH
Foundation at 561.955.4142
eUgene m. & chrisTine e.
lynn cancer insTiTUTe
is one of florida’s five
largesT cancer Programs
www.brch.com
7/15/08 2:49:32 PM
www.brch.com | 21
Infant health
Touch of love
Massage class helps
strengthen the bond
between parents and infant
I
Infant Massage is an interactive class
designed to instruct parents on infant
massage techniques and a wonderful
opportunity for parent-infant bonding.
Clinical research confirms the value of a
loving environment and a nurturing touch
to a child’s long-term, positive emotional
development.
“The importance of touch to a baby is
immeasurable,” says Carrie Tanella, lactation consultant and certified infant massage therapist at Toppel Family Place at
Boca Raton Community Hospital. “Infant
massage is the transference of a mom’s
positive energy to the baby. The more a
mother touches her infant, the more she
communicates love.”
Three one-hour sessions are given by
a certified infant massage instructor/
neonatal intensive care nurse and are
intended to help parents improve and
maintain the physical health and wellbeing of their infants. By applying gentle
pressure and simple strokes to different
parts of the body, pains such as gas and
congestion can be soothed. The health
benefits of infant massage include stress
reduction, improved sleep patterns,
constipation prevention and a better
Welcome, little one
Toppel Family Place at Boca Raton Community
Hospital provides the care you seek, including:
■ Beautifully decorated labor and delivery
suites with all the comforts of home
■ Family-centered mother and baby nursing
care
■ A level two neonatal intensive care unit
■ Lactation services
■ A board-certified neonatologist on-site 2/7
■ Maternity nurses available 2/7
■ Support groups for mom, dad and family.
understanding of an infant’s nonverbal cues.
This class is designed for newborns to
infants from 1 to 3 months old. Moms,
dads and grandparents are welcome. The
fee is $45.
To learn more about this opportunity to bond with your child, please call 56195-LEARN (561-955-3276).
Breastfeeding: Protect
against food allergies
New moms can help their babies avoid food allergies
by feeding them breast milk—and nothing else—for
the first six months of life, according to the American
College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
Moreover, giving a baby only breast milk for six
months helps prevent food allergies long after nursing
stops, the report notes. This protection is important
The Lactation Center at Toppel Family Place at Boca Raton Community Hospital celebrated World Breastfeeding
because food allergies can trigger unwanted sympWeek, Aug. 1 through 7, with a special celebratory luncheon on Tuesday, Aug. 5.
toms, including a runny nose, itchy skin, nausea and
wheezing. Severe reactions can be life-threatening.
diarrhea, respiratory illnesses and sudden infant death syndrome.
Along with reducing the risk of food allergies, breast milk—which
At six months, it’s typically OK to gradually introduce babies to
contains disease-fighting antibodies—guards against ear infections,
solid foods along with breastfeeding, says the ACAAI. Your baby’s
doctor can advise you on a timetable. In the meantime, here’s a rule of
thumb from the ACAAI worth remembering: Serve only one new food
at a time. Then let three to five days pass before you offer another new
For more information about breastfeeding classes offered
food.
at Toppel Family Place, please call 561-95-LEARN (561You’ll be better able to know which food is to blame if your baby
955-3276).
shows signs of a food allergy or sensitivity.
22 | HealthyLiving
Heart attack and stroke
Test
your risk
I
It is important to realize you may be at
risk for either heart attack or stroke even
though you have no symptoms. Inflammation of the arteries is the leading cause
of clots that result in heart attacks or
strokes. But the arteries and veins that
make up your blood vessel, or cardiovascular, system do not have the same nerves
as your skin. Your arteries do not hurt
when they are inflamed.
Many people are unaware that 68 percent of all heart attacks and strokes occur
from clots, not from the narrowing of the
arteries. This is why the first symptom of
artery disease in more than 50 percent of
people is an actual heart attack or stroke.
Don’t wait for time to tell—test your
risk today! You must have a written prescription for this test. If you
do not have a doctor, call 56195-LEARN (561-955-3276) for a
physician referral.
Diane Perry, senior medical technologist, processes lab
specimens at BRCH.
A TEST TO TELL
Boca Raton Community Hospital cares
about reducing your risk for heart attack
and stroke. A new, simple blood test
called the PLAC test, is now available at
our four outpatient laboratory locations.
The test measures the amount of an
enzyme in your blood called Lp-PLA2.
A fatty deposit called plaque builds up in
the walls of the arteries, and Lp-PLA2 is
found in this plaque. If the amount of
Lp-PLA2 increases in your blood, it can
indicate that the plaque is likely to leak
out into your blood stream, resulting in
a clot that may lead to a heart attack or
stroke. The PLAC test is the only blood
test that is specific for this enzyme, and it
can help your doctor identify whether you
are at increased risk for a heart attack or
stroke.
Your doctor may order this test if you
have one or more of the following risk
factors:
■ A family history of heart attack or
stroke
■ High blood pressure
■ Diabetes
■ Borderline or high cholesterol
■ Metabolic syndrome
Or if you:
■ Are overweight by more than
20 pounds
■ Are physically inactive
■ Smoke
Once you have your PLAC test results,
you and your doctor can discuss the best
way for you to maintain or improve your
health through lifestyle changes and
medical management.
To serve you
Boca Raton Community Hospital offers four convenient outpatient lab locations. All
locations are in Boca Raton. Please call for hours of operation.
Boca Raton Community Hospital
Outpatient Laboratory (first floor)
800 Meadows Road
561-955-4653
Imaging Center/Women’s Center
690 Meadows Road
561-955-4708
Diagnostic Center of BRCH
1905 Clint Moore Road, Suite 11
561-955-3000
BRCH Lab Collection Center
Oaks Medical Complex
670 Glades Road, Suite 10
561-955-3473
www.brch.com | 2
Food for thought
Caving to
our cravings
When dieters crave high-calorie foods, it’s
a normal reaction, according to a small study
of female dieters by researchers at Tufts
University.
What’s more, dieters can eat foods they
crave now and then—but it’s best to practice
restraint as often as possible.
Most of the women in the Tufts study
reported still having food cravings after six
months on a calorie-restricted diet. Some of
the most commonly desired foods were high
in calories, sugar and fat, including chocolate
and salty snacks, such as chips and french fries.
To keep cravings from derailing your
healthy diet, the researchers offer these
suggestions:
■ Substitute lower-calorie foods that taste
similar to the foods you crave.
■ Control how often you surrender. Women
in the study who lost the greatest percentage
of weight actually craved higher-calorie foods
more than their less successful peers—but
they gave in to their cravings less often.
8
habits
for a
healthy weight
I
It’s not easy to get rid of a habit. And
that’s why good habits can work for
you when it comes to weight control.
To maintain a weight that’s right for
you, dietary experts recommend these
healthy habits:
1 Burn those calories. You’ll gain
weight if you take in more calories
than you use.
Most health experts recommend at
least 30 minutes of physical activity
most days of the week for good health.
But it may take 60 minutes of moderateto-vigorous activity daily to lose weight
or prevent weight gain.
2 Learn to love plants. Ideally,
plant foods should make up two-thirds
A healthy start in 2009
Davis Therapy Centers at Boca Raton Community Hospital will offer a six-week
“Weight Management and Health Risk Reduction” class beginning in January
2009. For more information or to register, call 561-955-2100.
Boca Raton Community Hospital
800 Meadows Road
Boca Raton, FL 86
HEALTHY LIVING is published as a community service for
the friends and patrons of BOCA RATON COMMUNITY
HOSPITAL, 800 Meadows Road, Boca Raton, FL 33486.
Richard Van Lith
President and CEO
Lisa Cook
Executive Director of Marketing
and Public Relations
Information in HEALTHY LIVING comes from a wide range
of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions
about specific content that may affect your health, please
contact your health care provider.
Models may be used in photos and illustrations. Icons used with
permission from iStock International, Inc.
Copyright © 2008 Coffey Communications, Inc.
CUM22417c
TO:
or more of the food on your plate. Eating
vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans
reduces calories and fat in your diet.
3 Snack on the light side. Keep lowcalorie foods on hand for times when you
feel the urge to snack.
4 Rethink drinks. Choose noncaloric
beverages over sugar-sweetened drinks.
5 Downsize your plate. People often eat
more when they’re served larger portions.
6 Don’t speed eat. It takes 15 or
more minutes for your brain to get the
message you’ve been fed. Eat slowly and
you’re more likely to feel full before you
clean your plate.
7 Avoid eating on cue. Your brain
may think you’re hungry even when your
tummy doesn’t. When hunger calls for
no good reason, create a diversion. Take a
walk, play with the kids or start a project.
8 Don’t skip meals. When you let
yourself get very hungry, you’re more
likely to overeat.
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