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Genesis Radiation Oncology earns reaccreditation

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American College of Radiology Award demonstrates excellence 

Genesis Cancer Services’ Radiation Oncology department has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in radiation oncology as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Radiation oncology is the careful use of high-energy radiation to treat cancer. This is the third consecutive time Genesis has earned the three-year accreditation. 

 

“This accreditation is a testament to our team of skilled, experienced and compassionate physicians, nurses, technologists and others working hard each day to provide high-quality radiation oncology care to our patients,” said Pebbles Kieber, Director of Cancer, Palliative Medicine and Hospice Services at Genesis HealthCare System. “We are pleased the ACR recognizes our efforts.” 

 

The ACR seal of accreditation represents the highest level of quality and patient safety. Genesis earned the accreditation by meeting specific practice guidelines and technical standards developed by the ACR. Patient care and treatment, patient safety, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures and quality assurance programs were assessed during the review. For more information about Genesis Cancer Services, visit genesishcs.org/cancer. 

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Genesis Cancer Services’ Radiation Oncology department has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in radiation oncology as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

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Are women more at risk for developing osteoporosis than men?

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Osteoporosis is a chronic disease that causes bone tissue loss and weakness and is often referred to as a “silent” disease. Historically, it is proven that women are more prone to osteoporosis due to their hormonal changes and thinner body frames. This leads to a five times greater risk compared to men. There are also different reasons why women are more prone to osteoporosis and what they can do to prevent their pain.  

Symptoms and causes 

The reason osteoporosis is called a “silent” disease is because there are no symptoms until you experience an injury. Although osteoporosis has been linked to severe back pain, loss of height or hunched posture. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, some factors that could increase your risk for osteoporosis include:  

  • Gender 

  • Age 

  • Body size 

  • Race 

  • Family history  

  • Changes to hormones  

  • Diet 

  • Other medical conditions 

  • Medications 

  • Lifestyle 

How to prevent and treat osteoporosis 

Prevention and treatment for osteoporosis can happen before you experience any pain or symptoms, especially if you are at higher risk for osteoporosis. It all starts with nutrition, exercise and lifestyle changes. According to the University of Chicago Medicine, this includes:  

  • Maintaining a well-balanced diet with foods rich in calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients that are good for bone health. 

  • Learning fall prevention techniques, including avoiding activities that increase the risk of falls.  

  • Exercise regularly by walking, running, dancing and balance training.  

  • Quit smoking, limit alcohol intake and decrease substance abuse. 

Remember, these can help prevent osteoporosis symptoms, but if symptoms appear or continue, please contact your doctor to find other solutions that may work for you.  

Overall, women are more prone to osteoporosis than men. If you have a family history of osteoporosis, talk to your doctor about when to get a bone density test. It is better to take steps now to prevent any pain, especially if you have a family history of osteoporosis.  

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Are women more at risk for developing osteoporosis than men?

Osteoporosis is a chronic disease that causes bone tissue loss and weakness and is often referred to as a “silent” disease. 

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Stop urinary infections in its tracts

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Talking about what happens in the bathroom is always an awkward conversation. We must remember that our bodies have warning signs to indicate something is wrong. For example, if you notice you go to the bathroom frequently or feel like you constantly have to go, you may have a urinary tract infection, more commonly known as a UTI. A UTI is an infection that occurs within the urinary tract, and it is best to treat a UTI right away to avoid potential complications in the future.  

According to Harvard Health, UTIs are more common in women than men due to anatomical differences. Women may get UTIs more than men, but the symptoms of a UTI are the same, and this includes: 

  • Unusual frequent urination 

  • An intense urge to urinate 

  • Pain, discomfort or a burning sensation during urination 

  • Pain, pressure or tenderness around the bladder  

  • Urine that looks cloudy, smells foul or is unusually strong 

  • Fever, with or without chills 

  • Nausea and vomiting 

  • Pain in the side or mid-to-upper back 

  • Waking from sleep to pass urine 

  • Unusual bedwetting 

 

The treatment for UTIs usually includes a week or more of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. Instead of going to the doctor every time you feel a UTI coming on, there are multiple ways to get ahead of the infection. Yale Medicine states that some ways you can prevent a UTI include: 

  • Staying hydrated 

  • Going to the bathroom at appropriate intervals; do not wait to go to the bathroom 

  • Take cranberry tablets 

  • Practice good hygiene 

  • See a bladder specialist if you are getting frequent UTIs 

 

Genesis Urology Group

If you would like to read more information about your bladder health, check out "When was the last time you checked on your bladder?" linked below.

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Stop urinary infections in its tracts

If you notice you go to the bathroom frequently or feel like you constantly have to go, you may have a urinary tract infection.

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The dangers of being sedentary

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Even if you hit your workout goals 

We’ve all heard, “Get 30 minutes of exercise a day to stay healthy.” But what if you do that and still spend most of your day sitting? Well, buckle up because there is a twist. Even if you hit your daily exercise goal, being sedentary for hours at a time can still be a serious health risk.  

1. Sitting = silent health problems 

Let’s face it, sitting is sneaky. You can go for your daily jog or hit the gym, but if you’re sitting at your desk, binge-watching Netflix or lounging on the couch for hours, your body’s not exactly celebrating. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, prolonged sitting has been linked to higher risks of heart disease, diabetes and even some cancers. Yikes.  

2. Muscle weakness and poor posture 

When you’re not moving, your muscles aren’t working as much, which can lead to weakness and poor posture. That slouched position in your office chair isn’t doing your back or neck any favors. Over time, this can result in aches, pains and even long-term injuries. 

3. Metabolism slows down 

Our bodies were built to move. When we’re sedentary, our metabolism slows, and fat-burning processes decrease. So, even if you’re crushing your daily workout, sitting too much can sabotage your metabolism and lead to weight gain. 

4. Mental health matters 

More than your body suffers. Sitting for long periods can affect your mood, too. Research shows that being inactive can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. So, stand up, stretch and take a break.  

Conclusion: move more, sit less 

According to the Mayo Clinic, staying active throughout the day doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple yet effective tips that can save you from the dangers of being sedentary: 

  • Take a break every 30 minutes: Stand up, stretch or walk for a minute. 

  • Stand while talking: Whether it’s on the phone or watching TV, stand up.  

  • Consider a standing desk: If you work at a desk, consider a standing desk or improvise with a high table. 

  • Walk and talk: For meetings, walk with your colleagues instead of sitting in a conference room. 

  • Treadmill desk: Set up a desk above a treadmill to keep moving while you work. 

Incorporating these simple changes can make a big difference for your heart, mind and overall well-being. Move more, sit less, and your body will thank you. 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

The dangers of being sedentary

Incorporating these simple changes can make a big difference for your heart, mind and overall well-being. Move more, sit less, and your body will thank you.

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Take time to reflect

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Do you feel like something in your life is off, but you’re not sure what? Maybe you feel like your brain is racing all the time. If you think of thoughts and feelings like these as warning signs, learning to practice reflection is a holistic approach to bettering your overall health.   

What is reflection? 

Reflection looks like different things to different people. Some people call it mindfulness. Maybe it’s thoughts of gratitude. Reflection can be a mantra you repeat. It can be a time to focus on your breathing. If you’d like, it can be an affirmation of your faith or prayer. What’s important is you take time for yourself. Take a step back from your ongoing tasks. Turn your attention to yourself. Listening deeply to your mind, body and soul comes with many health benefits.  

What are the benefits? 

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that learning to pause and reflect can reduce anxiety, depression and stress. Taking five to 10 minutes to reflect has physical benefits as well. According to the Journal of the American Heart Association, calming meditation may play a role in reducing the risk of heart disease. With these facts alone, you may be ready to jump into this practice.   

How can you reflect? 

Sit quietly with your eyes closed. Start to inhale and exhale deeply. Relax your muscles. Settle your body and mind. Begin your reflection for the day. This can be as simple as one word: peace, love or kindness. You can recite a prayer. Ask yourself a question. No matter your focus, try to center your thoughts around only that. If your mind starts to wander, take another deep inhale. Bring your thoughts back to your reflection. Give yourself grace. This requires practice. You will get better in time.   

When you first begin practicing, you may feel uncomfortable with silence. If you normally put others’ needs ahead of your own, it can feel strange. Set aside any bad feelings. Remember, to serve others, you must also tend to your needs. Your body and mind will thank you.   

As always, talk with your primary care provider if you are experiencing any health issues. 

Want more breathing tips? Read our Daily Breathing article at genesishcs.org/breathing. 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Take time to reflect

Do you feel like something in your life is off, but you’re not sure what? Maybe you feel like your brain is racing all the time. If you think of thoughts and feelings like these as warning signs, learning to practice reflection is a holistic approach to bettering your overall health.

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Wintertime Blues: Are They Real?

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

It’s chilly outside, and the days are getting shorter. Do you dread winter because you get the blues? If you had the blues or felt depressed the past two winters but feel better in the spring and summer, you may have seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, a type of depression that occurs during the same season each year.


Can SAD be prevented?


Because the onset of winter is predictable, people with a history of SAD might benefit from starting treatments before the fall season to help prevent or reduce depression. Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for yourself. If the sun is shining, try to get outside. Being active, especially early in the day, may help you have more energy and feel less depressed. Symptoms come and go at roughly the same times every year, which is an easy way to track when it’s time to add to your physical activity.


What causes SAD


Scientists don’t fully understand what causes SAD, but research indicates it might be from reduced activity of the brain chemical serotonin, which helps regulate mood. Research also suggests that sunlight controls the levels of molecules that help maintain normal serotonin levels. In people with SAD, this regulation does not function properly, resulting in lower serotonin levels in the winter.


Other findings suggest that people with SAD produce too much melatonin, a hormone that is essential for maintaining the normal sleep-wake cycle. In people with SAD, the changes in serotonin and melatonin levels disrupt normal daily rhythms. As a result, they can no longer adjust to the seasonal changes in day length, leading to sleep, mood and behavior changes.

Vitamin D is believed to promote serotonin activity. Few foods in nature provide vitamin D, but it’s in egg yolks and canned fish. The body produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight on the skin. With less daylight in the winter, people with SAD may have lower vitamin D levels.


Who gets SAD


Millions of adults may suffer from SAD, although many might not know they have the condition. SAD occurs more often in women, and it is more common in those living farther north, where there are shorter daylight hours in the winter. It’s most common in people between the ages of 15 and 55, and the risk of getting SAD for the first time goes down as you age. In most cases, SAD begins in young adulthood and sometimes runs in families.


Treatments are available that can help many people with SAD. Talk to your healthcare provider about which treatment is best for you.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Do you dread winter because you get the blues? If you had the blues or felt depressed the past two winters but feel better in the spring and summer, you may have seasonal affective disorder, or SAD.

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Sweet treats of the season

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Nothing screams summer quite like fresh fruit. From juicy watermelons to plump peaches to a rainbow of fresh berries, summer recipes featuring fruit look and taste delicious. Make sure your fruit-based recipes are top-notch with these tips for choosing the best fruits this summer. 

 

The selection process  

Whether you’re visiting the grocery store, farmers market or roadside stand, it’s important to know how to choose fresh fruits. Some signs of poor-quality fruits are obvious, like brown spots or cuts. However, each fruit has its own checklist to ensure you get the freshest, most delicious option. 

 

Peaches  

Look for brightly colored peaches. Avoid peaches with green skin as this is a sign they were picked too soon. Once you’ve identified a peach with the right coloring, squeeze it gently. If it’s firm, it might need more time to fully ripen. If it’s soft, it’s ready to eat. 

Storage: 

Store peaches at room temperature stem side down.  

 

Watermelons  

Experts recommend using the “Look, lift and turn” strategy when choosing a watermelon. 

Look – Choose a watermelon that is firm and doesn’t have any bruises or dents.   

Lift – Pick the watermelon up to gauge its weight. It should feel firm and heavy.  

Turn – Turn the watermelon over and check for the ground spot. Make sure the spot is yellowish in color instead of white.  

Storage: 

You can store a whole watermelon on your counter at room temperature. Once it’s been cut, the halves or slices should be stored in the refrigerator.  

 

Blackberries  

Look for berries with a deep color, and make sure to double-check for any crushed or bruised berries in your package.  

Storage: 

Store your blackberries in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for two to three days. Wash them before using them.  

 

Strawberries  

If you’re buying your strawberries from the grocery store, make sure to smell them to get the freshest and most flavorful batch. Choose berries that are bright red with green leaves. Avoid berries that are green or white as strawberries don’t ripen after they have been picked. 

Storage: 

Strawberries won’t stay fresh for longer than 24 hours if you leave them on your counter, so make sure to pop them in the refrigerator for maximum shelf life. Don’t wash your berries until you’re ready to use them. 

 

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Sweet Treats

How to pick and store the best summer fruits. 

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