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Simeon Margolis, M.D., Ph.D.

The risk of ischemic strokes—the complete blockage of a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain—is more than two times greater in adults who have suffered migraine headaches than in those without migraines. This is the latest finding from a recent study from Johns Hopkins, presented at the 2009 scientific sessions of the American Heart Association. The study also found that the risk is even greater among those whose attacks are preceded or accompanied by an aura, such as flickering zig-zag lines that may progress to temporary blind spots in their field of vision.

ScienceDaily (Jan. 8, 2010) — Viruses love plane travel. They get to fly around the world inside a closed container while their infected carrier breathes and coughs, spreading pathogens to other passengers, either by direct contact or through the air. And once people deplane, the virus can spread to other geographical areas.

December 6-12

Washing your hands is a good habit to acquire. During the months where your immune system may be compromised (especially during the flu season) it is important to wash your hands under warm running water with soap for about 15-20 seconds.  

The U.S. Department of State has warned that U.S. citizens traveling abroad should be prepared for screening and quarantine procedures that may be put in place at some foreign airports as a way to reduce the spread of the H1N1 flu.

By Jina Kim, MPH, Wellness Coordinator, Adventist Risk Management

Many women have chanted it and engrained it in their minds--mammograms at age 40; breast self-exams every month. However, a set of new guidelines for breast cancer screening may start a new chant for women that may cause confusion, concern, or even relief for some.

The new 2009 guidelines released by the USPSTF (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force) are for the general population and not those at high risk of breast cancer. It also states that women should start mammography at age 50, and then have one every two years until they reach the age of 75. Also, breast self-examinations are not necessary and are of no value. More research is needed to conclude if mammography screening recommendations after age 74 is necessary.

The panel of doctors and scientists concluded that early and frequent screenings often lead to false alarms, unnecessary biopsies, and added stress without improving women’s odds of survival. Education is needed to implement the new guidelines for both clinicians and patients.

A survey consisting of women in their 40s stated that most women would plan to stay with the old mammogram recommendations for now. Some are confused about which set of guidelines to follow. Young survivors of breast cancer voice their opinions on how early screenings and self-exams have saved their lives.

The American Cancer Society and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists said they will not be changing their guidelines. They will continue to promote and recommend that women of average risk of breast cancer start screening at age 40 and get screened every year.

“The National Cancer Institute said that women of average risk should discuss the risks and benefits of mammograms with their physicians. Breast cancer is the top cancer killer of women globally, killing 500,000 annually.”

We encourage you to consult with your personal physician about the approach that is best for you.

For more information please visit: www.webmd.com

Sources:

• U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for breast cancer. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement. Ann Intern Med 2009 Nov 17;151:716.
• Noveck, J. New Mammogram advice raises questions, concerns. Associated Press. Available at: htt;://news.yahoo.com. 2009.
• Steenhuysen, J. New U.S. guidelines: routine mammograms start at 50. Reuters. 2009.