Basic HTML Version
health
link
www.samc.com
FALL 2012
On a Mission to Heal Body, Mind and Spirit
Continued on page 6
In today’s whirlwind world, it’s easy to look at schedules
for home and work and think that something just has to
give. And maybe some of the things you are considering
giving up are those routine screening tests your doctor
is always recommending.
Before you put those tests on hold, however, consider
this: Getting screened for serious diseases could literally
save your life. “Regular screenings can often detect an
ailment earlier, when treatments are usually ideal,” says
Fresno internist Lee Copeland, MD.
Many screenings are gender-neutral. Others are
specific to men or women. Here’s a breakdown of which
tests are most important for you.
FOR MEN
Prostate cancer.
One in six men will be diagnosed
with prostate cancer at some point in his lifetime.
According to the American Urological Association
(AUA), it’s best to begin prostate cancer screening
at age 40. This includes a baseline prostate-specific
antigen test and a digital rectal exam. Family history,
age, overall health and ethnicity are also important fac-
tors when considering the risk of developing prostate
cancer. The AUA encourages men to talk to their doctor
to determine the best course of action.
Abdominal aortic aneurysm.
If you are between 65 and
75 years old and have ever smoked 100 or more ciga-
rettes, ask your doctor to screen you for an abdominal
aortic aneurysm (AAA). An aneurysm is a swollen blood
vessel that can lead to very serious problems. If an an-
eurysm develops in the abdominal aorta – a large blood
vessel through which the heart pumps blood to the lower
part of the body – it’s known as AAA. The screening is
Take charge
of your health
4
New electronic medical record
technology at Saint Agnes means safer
care and more time with patients
5
Genetic counseling can give you
answers about your risk for breast
cancer – and put your mind at ease
“Regular
screenings can
often detect an
ailment earlier, when
treatments are
usually ideal.”
– Lee Copeland, MD