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Listen to your gut, prevent colorectal cancer

Submitted by emily.griffin on

When it comes to colorectal cancer, listening to your gut proves critical. Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum (a.k.a the digestive system, a.k.a. the gut). Although colorectal cancer is a common cancer, the good news is that colorectal cancer is known as one of the most preventable cancers, according to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.  

 

Want to do everything possible to prevent colorectal cancer? There’s no guaranteed way to sidestep colon cancer, but researchers have found these seven health and lifestyle choices make a difference: 

 

1. Get screened. 

The number one way to prevent colorectal cancer is to participate in regular screenings beginning at 45 years old. Here’s why: It usually takes 10 to 15 years for abnormal cells to grow into the polyps that develop into colorectal cancer. Thanks to screenings, physicians can identify and remove most polyps before they morph into cancer. Plus, when detected early, colorectal cancer has a 90% survival rate. 

 

2. Know your family and personal history. 

Talk with a doctor about your family and personal history to decide if early screening is necessary. A history of cancer, genetic conditions and diagnoses such as Chron’s disease may warrant an early screening. 

 

3. Look for red-flag symptoms. 

Talk to a doctor if any of the following show up: 

  • Bowel habits change  

  • Persistent abdominal discomfort  

  • Rectal bleeding 

  • Unexplained weakness or fatigue 

 

4. Live an active life. 

Studies on the MDPI scientific journal publishing website have shown that physically active people have a 25% lower risk of developing colorectal cancer. Exercise supports blood flow, metabolism and - you guessed it - the gut.  

 

5. Stop smoking. 

While known as the main preventable cause of death due to any cancer, heavy smoking specifically increases the risk of colon cancer by 40%. Plus, those with colorectal cancer who smoke double their risk of not surviving compared with people who do not smoke. 

 

6. Reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption. 

Moderate to heavy social drinkers have a 20 to 40% increased risk for colorectal cancer, depending on consumption frequency. Grab a water instead. 

 

7.Replace some red meat with poultry, fish, dairy and whole grains. 

A high intake of red and processed meat means a 20 to 30% increase in the likelihood of colorectal cancer malignancies. On the flip side, eating whole grains and dairy products can help reduce the risk of colon cancer. 

 

While it may feel tempting to pick one of the above seven tactics to focus on, a recent trial on the American Association for Cancer Research website found that addressing a combination of risk factors maximizes success in preventing colorectal cancer. So, look at the list, and then make as many healthy choices and improvements as possible to prevent colon cancer.  

 

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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.

Listen to your gut, prevent colorectal cancer

Researchers have found these seven health and lifestyle choices make a difference in preventing colorectal cancer.

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Want a long, healthy life? Start exercising.

Submitted by emily.griffin on

The American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and almost every other health organization and health system recommend that exercise is good for your health. This is nothing new. Do you know the long-term benefits of being active? 

 

When you exercise enough to raise your heart rate and work your muscles, you are helping almost every system in your body. According to Harvard Health Publishing, the long-term benefits of exercising include reducing the risk of: 

  • Heart disease 

  • Stroke 

  • Type 2 diabetes 

  • Dementia 

  • Depression 

  • Cancers including bladder, breast, colon, endometrium, esophagus, kidney, lung and stomach 

 

Harvard Health Publishing also states exercising: 

  • Helps maintain a healthy blood pressure. 

  • Keeps harmful plaque from accumulating in your arteries. 

  • Reduces inflammation. 

  • Improves blood sugar levels. 

  • Strengthens bones. 

  • Combats depression. 

  • Improves sleep. 

 

The American Heart Association reports that being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight can lead to living seven years longer than non-active and obese people. Plus, they say those extra seven years are healthier.  

 

In addition to living longer and healthier, exercise can also help you live happier. Based on a study, Karmel Choi, a clinical and research fellow at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, said, “We saw a 26% decrease in odds for becoming depressed for each major increase in objectively measured physical activity … (meaning) if you replaced 15 minutes of sitting with 15 minutes of running, or one hour of sitting with one hour of moderate activity like brisk walking.” 

 

There are also several short-term benefits of exercising. For information on these, read our blog, Need motivation to exercise?

 

Before starting any workout program, talk to your family doctor for recommendations so you can safely begin at the appropriate level.  

 

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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.

Want a long, healthy life? Start exercising.

Do you know the long-term benefits of being active? 

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Genesis Coshocton Medical Center celebrates first year

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Genesis HealthCare System is celebrating the one-year anniversary of the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center (GCMC). Opened on April 3, 2023, the GCMC is continuing Genesis’ mission of providing compassionate, exceptional and affordable healthcare services in the Coshocton area.

“Since we opened our new GCMC, one year ago, the entire Genesis team has dedicated itself to providing the highest quality patient care and service to the residents of Coshocton,” said Matthew Perry, Genesis President and CEO. “The positive response and feedback we have received from the community has been extraordinary. We are very grateful for all the support.”

Recently, Professional Research Consultants (PRC), an independent, national survey organization, awarded the GCMC with several patient satisfaction accomplishments. The Emergency Department (ED) staff received an Award of Distinction for Excellent Performance for scoring at the 100th percentile for patient experience. The center’s Overnight Observation Unit, Surgery and Imaging departments each received PRC’s 5-Star awards. All of the departments earned high patient satisfaction scores, including Therapies, Laboratory, Cardiac Diagnostics and Respiratory Therapy.

In its first year, the GCMC provided exceptional care to 56,185 patient encounters from March 20, 2023 to March 20, 2024. Other notable accomplishments include:

  • Patients waited an average of 13 minutes to be seen by a physician in the ED upon arrival compared to the national average of 145 minutes.
  • There were 15,835 patients seen in the ED with a 109-minute average total length of stay compared to the national average of 143 minutes.
  • 1,186 patients had procedures in Outpatient Surgery.
  • 20,421 patients had imaging tests performed.
  • 7,565 patients received physical or occupational therapy.
  • 28,769 patients saw Genesis providers in Coshocton County.
  • 3,067 patients were seen in Heart & Vascular Diagnostics.

To learn more about the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center, visit genesishcs.org/coshocton.

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Genesis HealthCare System is celebrating the one-year anniversary of the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center (GCMC).

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Here is the bottom line for tips on preventing colon cancer

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Colon cancer is the third most frequent form of cancer in men and women. So many younger adults are getting it that the American Cancer Society reduced the recommended screening age to 45 a few years ago.  

 

What if you are not 45? Are you doing all you can to lower your risk factors? Take our quiz to find out. It could save you from an embarrassing conversation, and more importantly, it could save your life.  

 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletter 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.

preventing colon cancer

(Quiz) Are you doing all you can to lower your risk factors for colon cancer? Take our quiz to find out. 

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Missing the confidence gene?

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Picture an individual radiating with confidence. Their poise and assurance oozes from them, guiding their path and captivating everyone. Incredible, right? Ever feel like the confidence gene skipped you? Well, guess what? Confidence is not something people are born with or born without. Like most things in life, confidence comes from intentional growth.  
 

Develop a growth mindset to grow confidence 

Dr. Carol Dweck’s research, on the MDPI website says a growth mindset means believing in one’s ability to learn, improve and grow new skills. Taking a growth mindset can help build confidence in certain skill sets and develop confidence in one’s ability to develop confidence. 

 

Confidence genes don’t exist. Instead, confidence stems from our thoughts and how those thoughts influence our actions. Research into neural plasticity shows that our brains can be rewired to think new thoughts and act in new ways, including with confidence. In other words, it turns out old dogs can learn new tricks.  

  

To develop a growth mindset: 

  • Edit self-talk. As we listen closely to the thoughts we entertain, we can edit the words to build confidence. For example, we can revise “I can’t” to “I’m still learning,” thus encouraging our progress.  
      

  • Try hard things. To cultivate an environment for confidence growth, choose to take on new challenges. Start with something low stakes and notice how what once was hard slowly becomes easier. Talk about a confidence boost. 

 

Courage and confidence go hand-in-hand 

Courage means being willing to risk vulnerability and failure. So, when low confidence plays with our minds, let’s build up the courage to act anyway. The more we take courageous action with a growth mindset, whether it is trying a new skill at work or making that phone call to a new friend, the more our confidence grows.  

To cultivate courage, try this:  

  • Label fear. When fearful thoughts pop into the mind, label what kind of fear it is. Is this fear irrational, over-reactive fear? Is this excited fear that comes with doing something new? Logically identifying the fear can shoo irrational fears away. This tip is provided by Amy Kosterlitz and published by the American Bar Association.  
     

  • Picture it before doing it. Simply visualizing oneself, acting, and speaking with confidence can increase success. Neuroscience teaches that our brains don’t know the difference between visualizations and reality. Let’s take advantage of that fact.  

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletter 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.

Missing the confidence gene?

Confidence is not something people are born with or born without. Like most things in life, confidence comes from intentional growth.

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Be prepared for anything

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Jason Richardson celebrated Father’s Day with his girlfriend, Amanda, his daughters and his family. They spent the day riding dirt bikes and cooking out.  It was a great day.  

After they returned home, as Jason was unloading the bikes from his truck, he began to feel feverish, and extremely thirsty. After guzzling a glass of water, his nausea became worse. He rushed to the bathroom and began to vomit. He experienced a sudden onset of severe abdominal pain as his nausea and sweating worsened. He asked Amanda to call 911, and he was rushed to the Genesis Hospital Emergency Department. This call saved his life. 

 

A surgeon identifies a rare and dangerous situation 

Edmund Kassis, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Thoracic Surgeon and Medical Director of Thoracic Surgery at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute, was notified of Jason early Monday morning. After examining him and reviewing the CT scan, he quickly diagnosed Jason as having a rupture of the esophagus. The operating room was notified, and Jason was taken to the operating room to repair his life-threatening condition.  

Dr. Kassis drained the fluid and undigested food that escaped from the esophagus and then repaired the ruptured esophagus.  

“Jason suffered from Boerhaave syndrome,” said Dr. Kassis. “It is a rare problem where the esophagus tears. This happens most commonly after severe vomiting. It is a life-threatening condition, and delays in surgical treatment can be fatal.” 

After the surgery, Jason faced a long journey to recovery. He remained in the hospital for most of the summer to make sure the infection was controlled, and he was given nutritional support and time to allow his esophagus to heal. 

“I can’t thank Dr. Kassis and his team enough. They saved my life.” 

“It was hard to be in the hospital and away from my daughters,” said Jason. “I’m grateful for my family and friends for visiting and helping to care for my girls.   

I also appreciate Amanda, my girlfriend, for being by my side more than anyone could have expected.” 

 

Back to life 

After healing, Jason left the hospital and returned to work as a heavy equipment operator. He also learned his grandfather had suffered from the same thing many years before.  

“I can’t thank Dr. Kassis and his team enough,” said Jason. “They saved my life. They did a wonderful job.” 

“It feels good to return to life,” Jason said. “It sounds cliché, but once the little things are taken from you, you realize how much you missed them. Getting to be a dad. Going to work. I’ve also proposed to Amanda, and thankfully, she said yes. I am excited to start our lives together.” 

Jason Richardson

“I can’t thank Dr. Kassis and his team enough,” said Jason. “They saved my life. They did a wonderful job.” 

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Prostate cancer screening can save your life

Submitted by emily.griffin on

According to the American Cancer Society: 

  • About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. 

  • Prostate cancer is more likely to develop in older men, with the average age of 67 when first diagnosed. 

  • Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in American men, behind lung cancer.  

  • About 1 in 43 men will die of prostate cancer. 

 

Early detection matters: 

  • 99% – 5-year survival rate if cancer is detected early before it spreads or only spreads to nearby structures or lymph nodes. 

  • 32% – 5-year survival rate if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body such as the lungs, liver or bones. 

 

Your screening options: 

  • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test 

  • Digital rectal exam (DRE) 

  • No single screening is absolute. A diagnosis is usually dependent on several factors, and other tests like a prostate biopsy or an MRI may be needed. 

Discuss your options with your Primary Care Physician. You may also be referred to a Urologist for testing, diagnosis and a plan of treatment if you are diagnosed with prostate cancer. 

For more information, visit genesishcs.org/screenings. 

prostate screenings

99% – 5-year survival rate if cancer is detected early before it spreads or only spreads to nearby structures or lymph nodes. 

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Spotlight on David Wu, D.O.

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Palliative Medicine 

David Wu, D.O., recently joined Genesis Palliative Care Specialists, specializing in hospice and palliative medicine. Dr. Wu’s background in science and desire to serve his community spurred his interest in medicine, particularly in palliative care. His philosophy is to treat patients from a personalized holistic perspective. 

“I was drawn to palliative care,” Dr. Wu said, “because I find guiding patients and families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives fulfilling, and I liked the possibility of exploring ways to treat symptoms.”   

Dr. Wu was looking for a community hospital system that is quick to change and respond to the needs of its patients and providers. Genesis turned out to be the perfect fit.  

“It’s essential that the medical and emotional health of patients in palliative care is closely monitored and treated,” Du Wu said. “Things can change quickly. It is very satisfying to see that a quick response or explanation provides a great deal of comfort to patients and their families.”  

Outside of work, Dr. Wu enjoys Brazilian jiujitsu, travel and cooking. He has one cat named Nelly. 

Dr. Wu’s office is in Genesis Medical Arts Building III at 1330 Ashland Ave., Zanesville. He is seeing patients in Genesis Hospital, at the Coshocton Genesis Medical Group office and in patients’ homes. His phone number is 740-455-4925. He is accepting new patients. 

Doctor of Medicine:    

Midwestern University/Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine Downers Grove, Illinois  

Internal Medicine Residency:  

University of Connecticut Farmington, Connecticut  

Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship:  

OhioHealth Columbus, Ohio  

Professional Memberships:    

American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, American College of Physicians and the American College of Osteopathic Internal Medicine 

Dr. David Wu

David Wu, D.O., recently joined Genesis Palliative Care Specialists, specializing in hospice and palliative medicine.

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A letter from our President and CEO | LiveWell Spring 2024

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Mission Moments

Saving a life when seconds count, taking the extra time to comfort a patient and family in unique ways and organizing a bedside birthday party. 

We call them mission moments, and they happen at Genesis every day. These are the special times when our team members make our values of Compassion, Excellence, Integrity, Team and Innovation come alive for our patients. They are living our mission and are responsible for the extra things that make a big difference for those we care for and their families.  

As a testament to their character, their goodwill also extends beyond our walls when they change out of their uniforms. You can routinely find our 4,000-plus Genesis team members out in our neighborhoods, building houses for the less fortunate, coaching and serving meals to the hungry and so much more. They are creating mission moments in our community alongside each of you who gives your time, money and energy to help others.  

It is this mindset that makes our community special. And please accept my thanks for all you do for your neighbors, friends and our team.  

 

Our growing team 

This issue will introduce you to David Wu, D.O., our new Palliative Medicine Specialist. He has already become a great addition and is helping those in need. 

 

A rare diagnosis  

On the following pages, you can read about Jason Richardson, who, at only 39 years old, suffered a rare, ruptured esophagus. Thanks to a quick diagnosis and treatment, he is at home enjoying life with his family. 

 

Community Benefit Report 

When I think about Genesis, I am proudest of the people who care for our patients and families.  As I mentioned in the opening, they tirelessly give to help others, both through their profession and outside of work. I am also grateful for how our non-profit health system constantly gives back locally. Our annual Community Benefit Report, within this issue of LiveWell, highlights some of the programs and efforts we make to ensure everyone in our community receives the exceptional healthcare they need. 

 

In good health, 

Matthew Perry signature

Matthew J. Perry  

President & CEO

An update from our President and CEO, Matthew J. Perry.

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Top 10 tips to prevent indoor pets from spreading germs

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Gross: Our animals bring bacteria inside  

Nearly 70% of US households have a pet, ranging from dogs to reptiles. While pet choice varies, all indoor pets have the potential to spread germs. Let’s face it, our pets eat random things off the ground, roll in questionable substances, use the restroom wherever they feel like it and can host fleas, parasites, ticks, infections and diseases. From their feet to their respiratory fluids, furry, feathered or scaled pets can bring a variety of viruses and bacteria into the home. 

 

To keep spreading the love between species but ditch spreading the infections, follow these top 10 tips: 

  1. Regular vet visits: Keep pets current on vaccines, deworming and monitoring their overall health to lower the chance they’ll bring germs into the home. 

  2. Handwashing: Whether playing with a dog, feeding a reptile or cleaning a bird’s cage, building the habit of hand washing after interacting with a pet and their care is key to staying healthy, according to the KidsHealth website. 

  3. Avoid kisses: Although puppy kisses may be tempting, it is best to avoid kissing or touching a pet’s mouth as their saliva hosts a variety of germs.  

  4. Wear masks: Specific to bird care, wearing a mask when cleaning the cage can help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases unique to birds. 

  5. Pick up waste frequently: Whether the pet does their business inside or out, keeping their waste picked up and their living area clean will help prevent the spread of disease. 

  6. Clean their feet: After going for a walk, use soapy water or animal wipes to clean off all the potential bacteria and fungus they picked up along the way.  

  7. Wash pet bowls daily: A good sanitizing run through the dishwasher or hot, soapy water will help kill the germs breeding in a pet’s food and water bowls. 

  8. Clean toys weekly: From rubber chew toys to a hamster’s wheel, weekly washing will help keep pets and humans alike healthy.  

  9. Vacuum up dander: Hair, fur and dander can get caught in furniture, rugs, curtains … basically all fabrics. A regular vacuum or run through the laundry machine will help prevent the spread of airborne germs.  

  10. Use tick preventatives: Veterinarian-approved tick prevention will help stop pets from bringing the little buggers inside, where they could jump onto a human and increase the risk of Lyme disease, according to the NSF website.  

 

While pets and people make excellent pairs, practicing pet hygiene measures and common sense is important in keeping those relationships healthy and happy. 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletter 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.

Top 10 tips to prevent indoor pets from spreading germs

To keep spreading the love between species but ditch spreading the infections, follow these top 10 tips.

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