1. health and fitness
2. disease
3. cancer

fall 2014
H e a lt h y l i v i n g f r o m h o ly n a m e
first
Give
your back
a break
this
fall
Acclaimed doctor
joins cancer team
Could you have
celiac disease?
New moms need
doctor visits, too
Where does
Holy Name rank?
‘Top Hospitals’ ranking and Radiology Department
accreditation are the latest votes of confidence
c
Choosing where you or a loved one can get the best health care is
a major decision. Fortunately, there are many independent rankings that can help you see what the experts think—and where Holy
Name Medical Center stacks up.
Top Hospital—again!
Holy Name Medical Center has once again been ranked among the
top hospitals on the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals list. In
order to make the list, the Medical Center had to score in the top 25
percent of hospitals nationwide in at least one medical specialty. Not
only is Holy Name ranked among the top 10 hospitals in New Jersey,
it’s been recognized in nine specialties:
• Diabetes and endocrinology
• Gastroenterology
• Geriatrics
• Gynecology
• Nephrology
• Neurology and neurosurgery
• Orthopedics
• Pulmonology
• Urology
U.S. News & World Report publishes Best Hospitals to help
guide patients who need a high level of care because they face
particularly difficult surgery, a challenging condition or extra risk
due to age or multiple health problems. Objective measures, such as
patient survival and safety data, adequacy of nurse staffing levels
and other data largely determined the rankings in most specialties.
Radiation Oncology performance
earns accreditation
The Department of Radiology
Oncology was recently awarded a
three-year term of reaccreditation after
a recent review by the American College
of Radiology (ACR), the nation’s oldest
and most widely accepted radiation oncology accrediting body.
ACR recognition represents the highest level of quality, patient
safety and technical standards.
Radiology Oncology at Holy Name offers a wide range of
therapeutic radiation options, including image-guided radiation
therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, high-dose rate brachytherapy and microsphere radioembolization (with The Interventional Institute).
Holy Name Medical Center ‘makes the
grade’ with an A in patient safety
Holy Name Medical Center was honored with an “A”
grade from The Leapfrog Group in its Hospital Safety
Score, which rates how well hospitals protect patients
from accidents, errors, injuries and infections.
The Hospital Safety Score is compiled under the
guidance of the nation’s leading experts on patient safety
and is administered by Leapfrog, an independent industry
watchdog. The first and only hospital safety rating to be
analyzed in the peer-reviewed Journal of Patient Safety,
the Score is designed to give the public information they
can use to protect themselves and their families.
When you need leading-edge care, choose the award-winning hospital in your own community
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Bariatric Services
Bone & Joint Center
Breast Center
Cardiovascular Services
Center for Physical Rehabilitation
Center for Sleep Medicine
Diabetes Center
Emergency Care Services
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Hispanic Outreach Program
HNH Fitness
Holy Name Physician Network
Institute for Clinical Research
Institute for Simulation Learning
Interventional Radiology
Korean Medical Program
MS Center
• Occupational Health Services
• Regional Cancer Center
• Sabbath Elevator & Lounge
• School of Nursing
• Surgical Services
• Travel Medicine
• Villa Marie Claire
• Women and Children’s Services
Michael Maron President/CEO
Nicole Russell Editor
Contributors Barbara Bermudez, Michael Chananie, Sal Clemenza, Barbara Franzese Cron, Katherine
Emmanoulidi, Jacqueline Kates, Victoria Matthews and Jeffrey Rhode
Health First is published by Holy Name Medical Center. The information is intended to inform and educate
about subjects pertinent to health, not as a substitute for consultation with a personal physician. ©2014.
Printed in the U.S.A.
2 www.holyname.org
Doctor’s dream now a
lifesaving reality
Sharyn N. Lewin, MD
a
Nationally recognized specialist in
gynecologic cancers brings her expertise
to Holy Name’s Regional Cancer Center
As a small child, Sharyn N. Lewin, MD, dreamed of becoming
a doctor like her grandmother, treating women for gynecologic
conditions and diseases. She never wavered from that goal, and
today, scores of women are alive and healthy because of her
focus and efforts.
“My grandmother was truly a pioneer—she was my first role
model and mentor,” Dr. Lewin says. “She used to talk to me about
being a physician, particularly a women’s physician, so I always
wanted to be a women’s health care doctor.”
A board certified gynecologic oncologist, Dr. Lewin specializes
in the five gynecologic cancers—cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal
and vulvar. She also treats other conditions, such as fibroids and
benign tumors.
Dr. Lewin joined the staff at Holy Name Medical Center’s
Regional Cancer Center in July, bringing her national reputation
for diagnosing and treating serious gynecologic conditions and
performing complex surgical procedures.
Before coming to Holy Name, Dr. Lewin built her practice at
Columbia University Medical Center/New York Presbyterian
Hospital following a four-year fellowship at Memorial Sloan
Kettering Cancer Center. She cultivated her expertise in hereditary
genetics there, including mutated BRCA genes and high-risk identification with testing and treatment, making her a leader in the
field of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome.
“Our practice employs a comprehensive approach to caring for
patients and their families,” says Dr. Lewin, the Medical Director
of Gynecologic Oncology at Holy Name. “Our practice incorporates leading-edge surgical management for women with gynecologic cancers and state-of-the-art chemotherapy.”
National data shows women with ovarian cancer do better—
they live longer and have a better quality of life—when treated
by a specialist such as a gynecologic oncologist. Dr. Lewin specializes in robotic surgery and minimally invasive techniques to
From left are Julie Canavatchel, Ellen Kelly,
Dr. Sharyn N. Lewin, Pat Butler and Diane Gannon
Family members choose
preventive surgery
To prevent getting ovarian cancer, four family members
spanning three generations opted for surgery to remove
their ovaries and fallopian tubes. They clung close and
helped each other through the procedures.
They all credit Dr. Sharyn Lewin, Holy Name’s
gynecologic oncologist who performed all four
surgeries, with potentially saving their lives. She
allayed their fears prior to surgery and made herself
available for them days, nights and weekends after
they went home. Go online at holyname.org/
patientstories to read this family’s inspiring story.
treat many gynecologic symptoms, providing patients with quicker
recovery time and less pain. She is at the forefront of her field in
utilizing new therapies, but is also devoted to educating women
about the signs and symptoms of disease, wellness and prevention.
“My job is addressing the whole person, not just the cancer,”
Dr. Lewin says. “Our practice takes a comprehensive, multidisciplinary team approach to the screening, treatment and overall
improvement in quality of care for women.”
In realizing her childhood dream, Dr. Lewin carried on the
family tradition and is providing high-quality comprehensive care
within a warm and supportive environment. Her grandmother,
Dr. Gerda Bruno, would surely be proud.
The Jewish Women’s Health: Symposium and Brunch will feature a panel of experts led
by Sharyn N. Lewin, MD, discussing overall gynecologic health and issues related to wellness, prevention, and
genetics, including Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) and Lynch syndrome. Don’t miss it on Sunday,
November 16, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Holy Name Medical Center’s Marian Hall. A kosher brunch will be served.
Call 1-877-HOLY-NAME (465-9626), prompt #5, to reserve a seat.
3
New cancer therapy offers faster,
more precise treatment
Powerful new TrueBeam Radiotherapy System puts
Holy Name at the forefront of cancer care
i
In a promising development for cancer patients in the metro area,
Holy Name Medical Center now offers an innovative system that
enables a radically different approach to treating cancer with
image-guided radiotherapy.
The TrueBeam system, from Varian Medical Systems, was
engineered from the ground up to deliver more powerful cancer
treatments with pinpoint accuracy and precision. It uniquely integrates new imaging and motion management technologies within
a sophisticated new architecture that makes it possible to deliver
treatments more quickly while monitoring and compensating for
tumor motion. This opens the door to new possibilities for the
treatment of lung, breast, prostate, head and neck cancers, as well
as other cancers that are treatable with radiotherapy.
‘A real game changer’
Expertise
“TrueBeam is a real game changer that will enable us to treat
even the most challenging cases with unprecedented speed and
precision,” says Benjamin Rosenbluth, MD, Medical Director of
Radiation Oncology at Holy Name Medical Center. “With a broad
spectrum of new capabilities, TrueBeam breaks the mold in just
about every dimension, making it possible for us to offer faster,
more targeted treatments to tumors even as they move and change
over time.”
With dose delivery rates that are 40 to 140 percent higher than
earlier generations of Varian technology, the TrueBeam system can
complete a treatment in less time. This makes it possible to offer
greater patient comfort by shortening treatments, and to improve
precision by leaving less time for tumor motion during dose delivery. “Intelligent” automation further speeds treatments with an up
to fivefold reduction in the number of steps needed for image guidance and dose delivery.
Simple treatments that once took 15 minutes or more can be
completed in less than two, once the patient is in position. “These
are significant reductions in treatment time,” says Dr. Rosenbluth.
“Patients will spend a whole lot less time lying still, immobilized
on a hard surface.”
Tumors can move, making traditional treatment difficult. The new
TrueBeam system, however, can compensate for this motion, making
treatment faster and more targeted.
Enhanced precision
The precision of the TrueBeam system is measured in increments
of less than a millimeter.
For lung and other tumors subject to respiratory motion,
TrueBeam offers Gated RapidArc® radiotherapy, which makes it
possible to monitor patient breathing and compensate for tumor
motion while quickly delivering the dose during a continuous rotation around the patient.
“During the last decade, lung cancer became the leading cause
of cancer death for both men and women in the United States,”
says Dr. Rosenbluth. “With TrueBeam, we can treat a moving lung
tumor as if it were standing still. We expect this to make a meaningful difference for lung cancer patients in the area.”
Holy Name Medical Center’s Cancer Center has
been designated as a Radiation Oncology Accredited
Facility by the American College of Radiology for
the careful use of high-energy radiation to treat cancer—representing
the highest level of quality and patient safety.
4 www.holyname.org
Could celiac disease
be your problem?
Adam Palance, MD
i
Gluten intolerance symptoms include
abdominal pain or anemia and may
not appear until adulthood
If you’ve noticed the gluten-free options in grocery stores and restaurants, you may have wondered about celiac disease.
Celiac disease is a digestive disease that damages the small intestine because of a sensitivity to gluten, found in wheat, rye, barley
and oats. This hereditary disorder interferes with the absorption of
nutrients from food.
Immune system reacts
When people with celiac disease eat foods containing gluten, their
immune system responds by damaging the small intestine. Tiny fingerlike protrusions, called villi, which line the small intestine and
enable the absorption of nutrients from food into the bloodstream,
are lost. Without these villi, malnutrition occurs, regardless of how
much food is eaten.
Celiac disease is more common in people of European ancestry,
Caucasians, and people with type 1 diabetes. More than 2 million
Americans have been diagnosed with celiac disease; however, recent
studies have suggested that as many as one in every 133 Americans
may have it. It’s a genetic disease that runs in families. A person can
have the disease and not know it until it is triggered by severe stress,
pregnancy, surgery, physical injury, infection or childbirth.
Celiac disease affects people in different ways. Some people may
develop symptoms as children, whereas others do not experience
Gluten-free
cranberry nut
bread Perfect for a
holiday party
1 ¹/³ cups brown rice flour
3 ¹/³ Tbsp. tapioca flour
7 Tbsp. potato starch
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
²/³ tsp. xanthan gum
symptoms until adulthood. Some may have diarrhea and abdominal
pains, while others have irritability or depression with the onset of the
disease. Anemia, or low blood count, is one of the routine lab tests
that might trigger your doctor to check for celiac disease. Sometimes
people with celiac disease have no symptoms. If celiac disease is suspected, your doctor will check for certain antibodies in your blood.
What is the treatment for celiac disease?
A gluten-free diet is the only treatment for people with celiac
disease. Adhering to a gluten-free diet is a lifetime requirement,
as eating any gluten will further damage the intestine.
For most people, eliminating gluten from their diet will stop
symptoms, heal intestinal damage and prevent further damage.
Usually, a person will see an improvement in symptoms within
days of starting the diet and, within three to six months, the small
intestine is usually completely healed. For older people, healing
may take up to two years.
¾ tsp. salt
½ tsp. baking soda
¼ cup coconut oil
½ cup fresh orange juice
1 large egg, slightly beaten
2 cups fresh cranberries,
coarsely chopped
½ cup shelled walnuts,
coarsely chopped
1 Tbsp. grated orange rind
Granulated sugar (optional
topping)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and position rack in center. Spray a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan
with cooking spray.
Mix flours, potato starch, sugar, baking powder, xanthan gum, salt and baking
soda in a large bowl with an electric mixer.
Blend in coconut oil until mixture resembles fine cornmeal. Blend orange juice
with egg and add dry ingredients. Mix until just moistened. Fold in cranberries,
walnuts and orange rind. Pour batter into pan and sprinkle with sugar (optional).
Bake for one hour or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool for 10 minutes, then remove from pan and serve. Serves 12.
Each serving provides: 250 calories, 9 g fat, 4.5 g saturated fat, 15 mg cholesterol, 290
mg sodium, 43 g carbohydrates, 2 g fiber, and 3 g protein.
—National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
5
The ABC’s
of pediatric urology
Children can get help for everything from common urinary tract infections to obstruction
of the kidneys and congenital problems
w
When your child—whether a baby or teenager—needs urology services, Holy Name has the expertise to help.
Pediatric urologists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and
ongoing management of diseases and disorders of the urinary
system in boys and girls and the reproductive system of boys.
Common pediatric urologic disorders include pediatric hernias and urinary tract infections. Less common problems include
an obstruction of the kidneys, ureters or bladder; kidney stones;
and conditions that occur when there is abnormal development
of a baby boy’s reproductive organs before birth, such as an
undescended testicle. Newborn circumcisions and circumcision
revisions are done in the hospital or the doctor’s office.
Sonogram may spot a problem
“Many pediatric urology issues are congenital and occur during the development and growth of the fetus before birth,”
says Steven Y. Tennenbaum, MD, FAAP, a board certified,
fellowship-trained pediatric urologist at Holy Name. “Most of
these conditions are identified during a routine prenatal screening sonogram. Having this information before the baby is born
gives us the opportunity to prepare adequately for any immediate urological needs a newborn may have at birth or in the first
weeks and months of life. Often, if a baby needs surgery, we
can schedule it when the baby is bigger and stronger.”
Because pediatric urologists are trained in both medical and
surgical skills, treatments may include medical therapeutics, such
as antibiotics or other medications, and surgical intervention.
Steven Y. Tennenbaum, MD
6 www.holyname.org
Same-day procedures common
Although several procedures can be done at one of Dr.
Tennenbaum’s offices, he performs most of them at Holy
Name Medical Center. The majority of pediatric urologic surgical procedures are performed on a same-day basis, with the
young patient going home later the same day.
Dr. Tennenbaum performs most surgeries using minimally
invasive techniques, through small incisions, which enable the
baby, child or teenager to experience less pain, less blood loss and
a low risk for complications. Smaller incisions also heal more
quickly, so patients recuperate faster, with little to no scarring.
Dr. Tennenbaum cares exclusively for children from newborns to age 20. He is well-known throughout northern New
Jersey and New York City for his personalized attention to
his patients, his expert diagnostic and treatment skills and his
ongoing commitment to keeping up-to-date with the latest
advances in medical and surgical care for pediatric urology.
Count on Holy Name! In addition to being
named one of the Best Hospitals in New
Jersey and the New York Metro Area by
U.S. News & World Report, Holy
Name received “high-performing” status in nine
specialties, including urology.
New moms need
doctor ’s visits, too
Lucy Tovmasian, MD
n
The postpartum visit is a good way for your doctor to spot
problems and help your whole family get off to a healthy start
No sleep. Surging hormones. The time just after your new baby
arrives is joyful—but intense. It is normal to feel overwhelmed
after having a new baby—whether this is your first or fourth!
With all these challenges, it’s no wonder many women put
their own health on the back burner. In fact, a shocking new
study finds just half of new moms see their doctor within a year
of giving birth.
But doctors say proper postpartum care is key to getting your
whole family off to a healthy start. Each pregnancy is different,
meaning a postpartum visit is essential. Not only will your doctor check how well your body is recovering from birth, he or she
can offer you valuable guidance on infant care, and give you an
opportunity to ask questions.
Your body, after the baby
Your body changed a lot during pregnancy. After birth, even
more shifts will occur. At your postpartum visit—ideally four to
six weeks later—your doctor will examine you and address any
concerns you have. Common issues include:
• Pain
• Constipation
• Swollen legs and feet
• Burning when you urinate
Though most of these problems are minor, treatment can
alleviate them so you feel better. Your doctor can also offer you
advice on breast-feeding, physical activity and weight loss.
Help with serious health concerns
If you had a health issue during pregnancy, such as gestational
diabetes or high blood pressure, it’s even more important to see
your doctor. You may need follow-up care to prevent further
complications.
Your doctor can also help with the emotional side of new
motherhood. Many moms have baby blues that last a few days or
weeks. But others develop a more serious condition called postpartum depression, or sadness so severe it interferes with their daily
activities. If this describes you, don’t wait to book a visit—call
your doctor right away.
Prepare for the best care
Make the most of your postpartum visit by taking a few minutes
to prepare ahead of time. Write down the questions you have
about your own health, and your baby’s. Take notes on your
doctor’s answers. Before you leave, make sure you understand
your next steps, including whether you need to make additional
appointments.
Questions? We've got answers
If you’re a new parent, you’ve probably got lots of questions about
caring for your little one.
Get off to the right start by attending one of our Baby Basics classes
and participating in our pre- and post-natal support groups. We offer
classes on everything from breast-feeding to grandparent preparation
to infant massage.
To learn more, call 201-833-3124.
7
Doctors take aim at
women’s stroke risk
Soo Mi Park, MD
s
Having high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure or a family history of
stroke are risk factors for both sexes, but women face some unique dangers
Stroke is the third leading cause of death for women, and the fifth
leading cause of death for men. Research shows that the lifetime
risk for stroke is higher in women than men.
Still, only 27 percent of women questioned could name more than
two of the primary stroke symptoms, according to a survey commissioned in 2010 by Healthy Women in partnership with the National
Stroke Association and the American College of Emergency Physicians.
Now, a new 2014 guideline for stroke prevention focuses on reducing women’s stroke risk. Women’s unique risk factors for stroke are
related to pregnancy and childbirth as well as birth control pills. Risk
factors associated with migraines also affect more women than men.
EXCELLENCE. Holy Name is recognized by
The Joint Commission, the nation’s leading
health care evaluation and accreditation organization,
for excellence in care for stroke patients.
• Migraine headaches. More women
than men suffer from migraines with
aura, and increased frequency of migraines is associated with
increased risk for stroke. Smoking in addition to having migraines
with aura profoundly increases stroke risk, and women who smoke
and suffer from migraines are strongly urged to quit.
• Atrial fibrillation. Since women have a longer life expectancy, about
60 percent of atrial fibrillation patients older than age 75 are women.
Atrial fibrillation increases stroke risk four- to five-fold. Also, the
stroke risk for people with this condition increases with age; therefore,
women older than age 75 should have a stroke screening.
Act FAST when symptoms strike
In the meantime, you can take action by learning the warning
signs. Remember the acronym F.A.S.T.:
Face drooping. Look for an uneven smile.
Arm weakness. One arm may feel numb or may
drift down.
Risk factors women face
Speech difficulty. Listen for slurring, garbling, or trouble talking
It is important to remember risk factors for stroke that are common to both women and men. These include a family history of
stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, diabetes, being overweight and lack of exercise. However, women have
additional unique risk factors for stroke, such as:
• Birth control pills. These pills are associated with higher risk in
women who have high blood pressure, are smokers and have a
history of blood clot formation.
• Pregnancy. Changes in the body—such as venous stasis, edema
and higher risk for blood clot formation—increase the risk for
stroke, especially in the third trimester and the postpartum period.
• Pre-eclampsia. High blood pressure with protein in the urine may
occur during pregnancy. This doubles a woman’s risk, and increases
the risk from one to 30 years after delivery. Women who have had
pre-eclampsia should be monitored for strokes later in life. Women with
high blood pressure before pregnancy or a history of pregnancy-related
high blood pressure should take a low-dose aspirin starting in their 12th
week of pregnancy until delivery.
at all.
8 www.holyname.org
Time to call 911. Dial 911 if any of these symptoms appear in
you or a loved one. Also, remember the time of the onset of
symptoms. If it is a stroke, a clot-busting medication can be given
within three hours of the onset of symptoms, and may make a
huge difference.
Sudden onset is a key symptom
Beyond the FAST acronym, be on the alert if these symptoms
happen suddenly:
• Numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one
side of the body.
• Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding.
• Trouble seeing or blurred vision in one or both eyes.
• Trouble walking, dizziness or loss of balance or coordination.
• Severe headache with no known cause.
By recognizing the warning signs and acting FAST, you may
save your loved one’s life or your very own life.
Give your
back a break
Jeffrey Steuer, MD
c
Raking leaves and shoveling snow can
be a real workout, so take it easy
Colorful autumn leaves and new-fallen snow are nature’s delights.
When it comes to your back, though, raking leaves or shoveling
snow can be anything but delightful.
Both raking and shoveling are common sources of back pain.
You may feel an ache, burn or even a sharp pain. Some people also
have weakness in the legs or feet.
Harder than it looks
While it may seem simple, raking leaves can be physically stressful,
even for healthy individuals. All the bending, reaching, twisting, lifting
and carrying can easily lead to painful musculoskeletal injury.
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons,
herniated disks in the neck or low back are particularly common. So
are muscle strains of the back, arms and legs—especially for those
who aren’t used to regular exercise or demanding physical activity.
Use the right technique
Most raking injuries are related to poor technique or overdoing it.
So take these steps:
• Wear sturdy, slip-resistant shoes.
• Stand up straight as you rake.
• Bend from your knees.
• Switch your arm and leg positions, trading sides every few minutes.
• Be careful on slippery, wet leaves.
• Lift only as much as you can comfortably carry.
• Don’t wrench or twist too severely.
• Take your time.
• Rake in short segments with rests in between.
• Cool down when you’re done by stretching for 10 minutes.
• Be sure your rake can be used comfortably and efficiently.
In addition to being named one of the Best
Hospitals in New Jersey and the New York
metro area by U.S. News & World Report,
Holy Name received “high-performing” status in
orthopedics and eight other specialties.
Lift snow carefully
Some of the same strategies can be
adapted for shoveling snow.
Try these tips for shoveling safely:
1. Select the right shovel. Use a shovel
that’s appropriate for your height and
strength. Avoid shovels that are too
heavy or too long.
2. Dress in layers. Wear layers of light,
water-repellent clothing that breathe
while keeping you warm.
3. Take it slow. Pace yourself and take
frequent breaks.
4. Push the snow. Don’t lift snow—push
it if you can. Avoid throwing it over your
shoulder or to the side.
5. Lift properly. If you must lift, bend
your knees and try to keep your back
straight. Don’t pick up too much at once.
6. Clear early and often. Shovel early on,
when the snow is a lighter covering.
9
You ask the questions:
Our physicians answer
Q
I had chicken pox growing up, but my pediatrician
suggests I have my child vaccinated for it. Is this
vaccine needed?
A
There is good reason to give your child this
vaccine. While symptoms of chicken pox
are usually mild among children, they can be lifethreatening to healthy infants, children and adults,
and people with impaired immune systems.
Unborn babies may also be infected if the
mother has not had chicken pox before she
became pregnant. Even healthy children may
Harry Banschick, MD
develop complications from chicken pox, such
as serious skin infections.
Chicken pox is a highly infectious disease that usually occurs during
childhood. The disease is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), a
form of the herpes virus. Transmission occurs from person-to-person
by direct contact or through the air by coughing or sneezing.
By adulthood, more than 90 percent of Americans have had chicken
pox. Since the mid-1990s, most children have been vaccinated against
the infection. The introduction of the chicken pox vaccine has caused
a decline in the incidence of chicken pox in all ages, particularly in
children ages 1 through 4 years. The varicella vaccine can help prevent
this disease, and two doses of the vaccine are recommended for children, adolescents and adults who have not already had the disease.
It is possible to contract chicken pox despite having the vaccine, but
the symptoms will be much less severe. These are the most common
symptoms of chicken pox:
• Fatigue and irritability one to two days before the rash begins
• Itchy, red rash that progresses to tiny, fluid-filled blisters on the
trunk, face, scalp, under the armpits, on the upper arms and legs
and inside the mouth
• Fever or feeling ill
• Decreased appetite
• Muscle and/or joint pain
• Cough or runny nose
Most people who have had chicken pox will be immune to the disease for the rest of their lives. However, the virus remains dormant in
nerve tissue and may reactivate, resulting in herpes zoster (shingles)
later in life. (See the advice at right.)
Q
I keep seeing signs about shingles shots, but I’m
confused. What exactly is shingles, and who should
get the shot?
A
If you are one of the many who
have had the classic childhood disease chicken pox, you may be at risk of
getting shingles.
Fortunately, there’s a vaccine that can
protect people ages 60 and older from this
painful condition.
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster,
Suraj Saggar, MD
affects nearly one in three people in the
U.S. at some point. The condition causes
a blistering rash—usually on one side of the face or body—and
can lead to scarring and problems with eyesight. In some people,
it can result in debilitating pain for weeks, months or even years.
Triggered by chicken pox virus
Shingles develops from the varicella zoster virus—the same virus
that causes chicken pox. After you recover from chicken pox, the
virus lives dormant in your nerve cells. When the virus is reactivated, shingles results.
These factors may increase your risk:
• Age. Shingles most often occurs in people age 60 or older. The
risk increases with age.
• A weakened immune system. Cancer, using steroid drugs and
even stress or a cold can weaken your immune system.
60 or older? Get the shot
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends
that most people ages 60 and older get the one-time shot.
Research shows the vaccine reduces occurrence of the disease by
about 50 percent in this group. It also can reduce the duration of
symptoms in those who develop it. The vaccine is most effective
in people ages 60 to 69. It also can work for people who have
had shingles before.
If you think you might have shingles, see a doctor right away.
Antiviral medications can speed recovery, but must be taken
quickly.
Browse our online Health Encyclopedia
Learn more about these topics or other conditions by checking out our online Health Encyclopedia and an array of
other resources at holyname.org/wellness.
10 www.holyname.org
fall 2014
To attend a class, you must register by calling
1-877-HOLY NAME (1-877-465-9626), prompt #5. A $5
parking fee may apply. All classes are at Holy Name
Medical Center’s Marian Hall Conference Center
unless otherwise noted. For a full listing of classes,
visit holyname.org/events.
Jewish Women’s Health: Symposium
& Brunch
Our panel of experts, led by Dr. Sharyn
N. Lewin, will discuss overall gynecologic
health, issues related to wellness, prevention
and genetics—including Hereditary Breast
and Ovarian Cancer and Lynch syndrome,
which increases your risk of other cancers.
A kosher brunch will be served.
Sunday, November 16
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Speaker: Sharyn N. Lewin, MD, HNMC,
gynecologic oncologist
FREE
You Are What You Breathe!
Symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) vary. There is no cure,
but many steps can be taken to manage the
disease and delay its progression. Learn
more during COPD Awareness Month.
Wednesday, November 19
7 to 8 p.m.
Speaker: Harris Tesher, MD, HNMC
Pulmonologist
Holy Name Medical Center Marian Hall
FREE
Call 1-877-HOLY-NAME (1-877-465-9626),
prompt #5, to learn more.
Lose Weight Naturally with Hypnosis
The program is conducted by a certified
hypnotist and includes a 30-day reinforcement CD, behavior modification cards and
free reinforcement sessions for one year.
Tuesday, December 2
7 to 9 p.m.
$70 per session; class size limited.
Call 1-877-HOLY-NAME (1-877-465-9626),
prompt #5, to register.
Getting a Jump on Your Resolutions
The key lies in setting small, achievable
and realistic goals. Come learn about goalsetting, and make your resolutions early!
Wednesday, December 3
7 to 8 p.m.
Speaker: J. Christopher Mendler, MD,
Medical Director, HNH Fitness and Sports
Medicine
FREE
Hypnosis for Smoking Cessation
The program is conducted by a certified
hypnotist and includes a 30-day reinforcement CD and free reinforcement sessions
for one year.
Tuesday, December 9
7 to 9 p.m.
$70 per session; class size is limited.
Call 1-877-HOLY-NAME (1-877-465-9626),
prompt #5, to register.
Bariatric Surgery Seminar
The best place to start when contemplating bariatric surgery is a patient seminar,
held several times a month at Holy Name
Medical Center.
FREE
Call 1-877-HOLY-NAME (1-877-465-9626),
prompt #5, for dates and more information.
CPR Classes: Adult, Child and Infant
Call 201-227-6254 for dates, times and location.
Stress Management Series
Learn more about stress and introduce
ways to control it. All classes will be held
at the Puffin Cultural Forum, 20 Puffin
Way, Teaneck (0.5 miles south of HNMC,
off Teaneck Road).
The Holidays: De-Stress or Distress?
As joyful as it is, this season can add stress
to our already stress-filled lives. Set aside
an hour for yourself to relax and learn
techniques to handle it all.
Tuesday, November 18
7 to 8 p.m.
Speaker: Linda Lohsen, BSN, RN, Director,
Center for Healthy Living
FREE
Call 1-877-HOLY-NAME (1-877-465-9626),
prompt #5, to register.
DIABETES SEMINARS
ADA Basic Course for Diabetes
Self-Management
Group Classes in English
2014 Diabetes CORE Class Schedule
November 18 and 19, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
December 2 and 3, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Community Events at Villa
Marie Claire–Saddle River
This new series will offer community programs in the family rooms at our beautiful
residential hospice, Villa Marie Claire in
Saddle River, N.J. Please join us!
The Sounds of the Season: Academy
of the Holy Angels Chorus
Take some time from your busy holiday
preparations and join us as we welcome
the chorus from Academy of the Holy
Angels in a wonderful seasonal concert.
Refreshments served.
12 West Saddle River Road, Saddle River, N.J.
FREE
Call 1-877-HOLY-NAME (1-877-465-9626),
prompt #5, for date and time and to register.
Free Support Groups
Bereavement Support
Call 201-833-3000, ext. 7580.
Breast Cancer Support Group
Meets twice monthly in Marian Hall,
Room #6. First and third Wednesday, 5:30
to 6:30 p.m. Call 1-877-465-9626.
Cancer Support Group
Meets twice monthly in Marian Hall,
Room #6. Second and fourth Wednesday,
4 to 5 p.m. Call 1-877-465-9626.
Caregiver Support Group
Meets monthly in DayAway, 725 Teaneck
Road, Teaneck. First Wednesday, 1 to 2 p.m.
Call 201-833-3757 for more information.
Diabetes Support
Second Wednesday, 1 to 2 p.m. every other
month. Call 201-833-3371.
Perinatal Loss Support
Call 201-833-3058 for more information.
Support for Korean Cancer Patients
First Friday, 10 a.m. to noon
Medical Affairs Conference Room
Call Hei Young Yoon at 201-833-3332.
11
cancer news
Postmaster: Please deliver Nov. 10-14
Holy Name Medical Center
718 Teaneck Road
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Non-Profit Org.
US Postage
PAID
Holy Name
Medical Center
®
Free pass to fitness
Take the first step to a
healthier you. For a free
7-day guest pass to HNH
Fitness, visit hnhfitness.org.
645M
Get the facts on the flu
The flu shot is one-size-fits-all.
true
false
FALSE. Healthy children and adults—ages 2 to 49—can often get a nasal spray version of the vaccine instead. People older than 65 also have the option of taking a high-dose version of the shot.
I’ll get the flu if I have a flu shot.
true
false
FALSE. This is a common myth, but you can’t get the flu from the flu shot or the nasal
spray. The flu shot contains inactivated (dead) flu viruses that can’t cause illness. The nasal
spray contains weakened live viruses that can’t survive to infect the lungs or other areas in the
body where it is warmer than in the nose. It takes about two weeks for the shot to take effect,
though.
There’s not much you can do to avoid the flu.
true
false
FALSE. In addition to the flu shot, wash your hands thoroughly and often; keep the humidity
levels up at your home (to keep your mouth and nasal passages moist); and try to avoid others who have the flu.
Pregnant women should be sure to get a flu shot.
true
false
Free information!
TRUE. Pregnant women are more susceptible to the flu. Getting a flu shot will also provide
some protection to the baby after he or she is born.
Please send me the following information:
● Balance and Dizziness Program
●B
ariatric Services
●C
PR Training Center
●D
iabetes Center
●H
NH Fitness
1. Mail: Holy Name Medical Center, c/o Health First,
Marketing, 718 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666
2. Phone: 1-877-HOLY-NAME, prompt #4.
3. Email: Contact us at [email protected].
Name (please add Mr., Mrs., Ms.)
Address
City
State ZIP
Telephone number
OPTIONAL email address