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Don’t be a fall guy

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Use this checklist to prevent falls at home 

Every year, thousands of older adults fall and hurt themselves. Falls are one of the main causes of injury and disability in people aged 65 and older. Those who fall once are two to three times more likely to fall again. Hip fractures are especially serious, and most of them are caused by falling. 

 

Falls are often caused by hazards that are easy to overlook. Fortunately, these hazards can also be easy to fix. This checklist helps you find hazards in each room of your home, and it gives tips on how to fix the problem. 

 

If you experienced a fall recently or are concerned about falling, it’s a good idea to talk with your primary care physician.  

 

Checklist

Floors

____Move furniture so your path through a room is clear. 

____Remove throw rugs on floors or use double-sided tape or a special backing so the rugs won’t slip. 

 

____ Pick up papers, books, shoes, boxes or other things that are on the floor. Always keep objects off the floor. 

 

____ Coil or tape wires (such as extension cords, or lamp or phone cords) next to the wall so you can’t trip over them. If you need another power outlet, have an electrician install one. 

 

Stairs and steps

____ Pick up papers, shoes, books or other things on stairs. Always keep objects off stairs. 

 

____ Fix loose, broken or uneven steps. 

 

____ Make sure you have plenty of light in stairways. Have an electrician put in an overhead light at the top and bottom of the stairs. You can get light switches that glow. 

 

____If you have burned-out lights in the stairway, have a friend or family member change the bulbs. 

 

____Make sure the carpet is firmly attached to every step. You can also remove the carpet and attach rubber treads to the stairs to prevent slips. 

 

____Fix loose handrails or put in new ones. Make sure handrails are on both sides of the stairs and span the full length of the stairs. 

 

Kitchen

____Move items in your cabinets so that the things you use a lot are on the lower shelves (about waist level). 

 

____If you must use a step stool, get one with a bar to hold onto. Never use a chair as a step stool. 

 

Bathroom

____Put a rubber mat that won’t slip or self-stick strips on the floor of the tub or shower. 

 

____Have a carpenter install grab bars inside the tub and next to the toilet. 

 

Bedrooms

____Place a lamp close to the bed where it’s easy to reach. 

 

____Put in a night light so you can see where you’re walking. Some night lights turn on by themselves after dark. You might also turn on an overhead light in the hallway or bathroom before you go to bed. 

 

____Change the height of your bed if you have trouble getting in or out of bed. You might try a thinner mattress or a shorter bed frame. 

 

____Don’t use sleepwear or bedspreads that are slippery. 

 

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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.

don't be a fall guy

This checklist helps you find hazards in each room of your home, and it gives tips on how to fix the problem. 

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3 heatless hairstyles

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Styling your hair with hot tools every day is time-consuming and bad for your hair. According to a study in the National Center for Biotechnology Center, heat damage happens when you use excessive heat on your hair for extended periods of time. Using a curling iron or straightener multiple times a week can cause your lovely locks to break and become dry. To combat frizzy, lifeless hair, try these other methods of styling.  

 

1. Heatless curls 

Curls without the heat sound like the best of both worlds. It’s not as hard as you might think. There are lots of different methods to try. You can get creative with what you have at home, like a pair of leggings or socks. By wrapping damp hair over the material and sleeping in it to let your hair dry overnight, you can wake up with luscious curls. You can purchase heatless curling rod headbands and do the same thing. Lots of tutorials are available online. With a little trial and error, you can wake up with styled hair. This will let you hit the snooze button a couple more times in the morning and save your hair.  

 

2. Braids or twists 

Braids and twists can take practice, but the results certainly make it worthwhile. A simple braid can create both a sophisticated and a relaxed look. If you’re not one for wearing your hair in this kind of style, try braiding your hair at night and sleeping in it. In the morning, take the braids out and comb through them for a wavy style.  

 

3. Hair accessories 

Headbands, berets, clips and more have been used to add a little touch to hairstyles for centuries. In fact, there are depictions of ancient Egyptians wearing hair accessories. Adding a headband can keep your hair out of your face in a stylish way. Claw clips and butterfly clips from the 90s are back on the rise in fashion.  

 

The next time you go to reach for a hot styling tool, think about trying one of these options instead. Your hair will thank you.  

 

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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.

no heat hairstyles

Using a curling iron or straightener multiple times a week can cause your lovely locks to break and become dry. To combat frizzy, lifeless hair, try these other methods of styling.  

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Check-up: A widowmaker heart attack leads to more family milestones

Tami Swope walked into the Genesis HealthCare System Emergency Department (ED) on Nov. 8, 2018, and learned she was suffering a heart attack. Her left anterior descending artery (LAD) was 100% blocked. The LAD is the most important artery in the heart, and an attack like Tami’s is often referred to as a widowmaker.

 

The medical team from the ED and Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute stabilized Tami. Then they took her to surgery to insert a wire through her clogged artery so they could inflate a tiny balloon and clear the blockage. Next, they inserted two small tubes called stents where the blockage was to keep blood flowing.

Crisis averted.

 

Life after a heart attack

Tami lost eight days due to her heart attack. She decided she didn’t want to lose another day.

 

Abdulhay Albirini, M.D., a Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Interventional Cardiologist at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute, met with Tami for follow-up care and advised her to attend the Genesis Cardiac Rehabilitation Program.

 

“The Cardiac Rehab Program gave me the tools I needed to recover and stay healthy,” said Tami. “They helped me regain my strength and endurance, scheduled testing for me, helped with my medications and advised me on a diet and exercise program.”

 

Tami credits the Cardiac Rehab Program for doing more than getting her back on her feet. Due to their guidance and her determination, she is back on the links golfing with friends. She also supports the community by volunteering at festivals and golf outings and routinely attends her grandchildren’s sporting events.

 

“Tami had a severe heart attack,” said Dr. Albirini. “However, she had a lot more she wanted to do, so she followed our recommendations. She has recovered and is actively enjoying life.”

 

Living the life she wants

It has been five years since her heart attack, and Tami is going strong. She follows the advice from the Cardiac Rehab Program and keeps her routine checkups with Dr. Albirini.

 

Recently she celebrated with her family as her first grandchild graduated high school. She plans to be there for each of her grandchildren’s graduations. The same goes for holidays, family reunions and more. From summer golf days to baking snacks for grandchildren, Tami is soaking up milestones and memories with her family.

 

“I’m grateful for Genesis extending the time I have with my family and friends,” said Tami. “I am also thankful for the Cardiac Rehab Program for enabling me to live an active life, which to me, is the best life.”

 

 

The not so secret to success

Tami Swope credits the Genesis Heart and Vascular Cardiac Rehab Program with her successful and continuing recovery from a 2018 cardiac arrest.

 

The program is a safe way to bounce back after a heart attack, open-heart surgery or balloon angioplasty.

 

The focus of rehab education is understanding the causes and effects of heart disorders. Dietitians, pharmacists, exercise physiologists, behavioral health counselors and registered nurses help patients understand heart disease, its risk factors and what patients can do to  
change their risks.

 

Another goal of the program is to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Group sessions enable patients to share experiences, concerns, challenges and victories and gain support from others who understand how they feel.

 

A personalized exercise program is created for each patient. Patients exercise under the watchful eye of staff with ECG and blood pressure monitoring when they first enter the program.

 

As strength, endurance and range of motion improve, patients progress toward maintenance exercise. Exercise physiologists can work with patients and monitor their progress.

 

Tami continues to attend exercise classes several times a week, keeping an exercise journal that is now five years old. The food journal that she started in the program continues, too.

 

Genesis Heart and Vascular Rehab is located in the Genesis Physician Pavilion at 945 Bethesda Drive in Zanesville. Call 740-454-4336 to make an appointment and learn more about our cardiac rehab offerings.

We're checking in on patients whose stories we've shared in the last five years.

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Breast cancer blindsided me, and I overcame it

- by Ashley Tamasovich 

 

In 2018, I had everything anyone could desire. A loving husband, two wonderful daughters ages 8 and 3, a beautiful home and a career that enabled me to help people. 

 

I had a lot of life ahead of me. Or so I thought. 

 

One night, at the age of 36, I felt a lump in my armpit. 

 

Soon after, I was diagnosed with stage 2 HER2 breast cancer, a high-risk and aggressive disease. My storybook life was shattered. What if … 

 

Too much at risk to settle for less 

I was young, active, ate healthy and had no family history of breast cancer. How could this happen? I had a family and couldn’t bear the thought of not being there for them. 

 

So, I researched. I needed the best care and the best doctors. There was too much at risk to settle for less. Thankfully, I found the Genesis Cancer Care Center. As time matters in cancer treatment, I quickly underwent surgery and chemotherapy. 

 

Gratefully looking back 

It was hard. I was exhausted, nauseated, lost my appetite and my body ached. However, I was blessed to receive support from my family and friends and the new friends I made at Genesis. I was more than a task they had to complete. They understood what was at stake. They took a personal interest in me and got me through the most challenging part of my life. 

 

It has been five amazing years since my diagnosis. Five years of continuing to be a wife and mom. Five years of watching my daughters grow and compete in gymnastics competitions across the U.S. I know the pressure is on them when they compete, but I promise it is harder to watch. I want them to be happy so much I become a nervous wreck during competitions … and I wouldn’t miss it for anything. 

 

Joyfully looking ahead 

I am sharing my story because I want everyone to know you can beat cancer. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can make a difference. I didn’t fit the profile, but cancer still found me. Then I found Genesis, and I get to stay active and do the things I love. 

 

I get to keep being a wife, a mom and enjoying my hectic, wonderful life. 

 

Self-exams to self-awareness 

Breast self-exams (BSE) used to be the recommended routine screening for breast cancer. Current guidelines from the American Cancer Society (ACS) now emphasize the importance of breast awareness. 

 

Breast awareness involves being familiar with how your breasts look and feel and promptly reporting changes to your healthcare provider.  

 

Here are general guidelines: 

  1. Know: Familiarize yourself with your breasts’ normal appearance and feel. 

  2. Observe: Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides and visually inspect your breasts for changes in size, shape or contour; skin changes or changes in the nipples. 

  3. Perform: Lie down and place a pillow under your right shoulder. Use the pads of your three middle fingers on your left hand to examine your right breast. Apply light pressure and use a circular motion to cover the entire breast, including the underarm area and the area above the collarbone. Repeat the process on your left breast using your right hand. 

  4. Check: Pay attention to lumps, thickening or areas of unusual firmness. Many women have lumpy breasts due to normal hormonal changes, so finding a lump doesn’t mean you have breast cancer. Consult your provider if you notice new or unusual changes. 

 

Breast awareness is not a substitute for regular mammograms or professional exams. Women aged 40 and older are encouraged to undergo regular mammograms as part of breast cancer screening programs. 

 

However, if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, talk with your Primary Care or Specialty Physician about a screening schedule. 

 

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.

In 2018, I had everything anyone could desire. A loving husband, two wonderful daughters ages 8 and 3, a beautiful home and a career that enabled me to help people. 

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Choosing Genesis: a doctor’s choice for treatment

In September 2023, Brandice Alexander, D.O., began her 13th year as a Fellowship-trained, Board-certified Trauma Surgeon at Genesis HealthCare System. 

 

Only because she followed recommended colon cancer screening guidelines when prompted by her family physician. Two days after her colonoscopy, she received a call with the biopsy results that one of the two polyps found was cancerous. 

  

Dr. Alexander’s mentor and colleague Stuart D. Chow, D.O., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Trauma Surgeon at the Genesis Center for Surgical Excellence, performed her surgery. Shyamal R. Bastola, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Hematologist/Oncologist at the Genesis Cancer Care Center, coordinated with her treatment. “I’d rather be treated close to home by people I know and trust,” she said. “If I thought for one second that my chance for recovery was better somewhere else, I would have gone there.” 

  

Another factor in choosing Genesis was that Dr. Chow would perform her surgery robotically. “He was instrumental in getting our robotic program going,” she said. “We are far ahead of most hospitals.” 

  

After her surgery, Dr. Alexander created a Facebook post. “I rarely post. However, I wanted all my friends and colleagues to see and share the message that cancer is treatable if you catch it early.” 

  

There was one more call containing bad news. One of her lymph nodes was positive for cancer, and she needed chemo. “My Genesis family was phenomenal,” she said. “I received cards from Genesis President and CEO Matt Perry, and letters of encouragement from the entire hospital community.” She said that whoever designed the Cancer Care Center infusion suite, where rows of comfortable recliners overlook the Genesis Fitness Trail, is a genius. “Watching colleagues and people come and go was great therapy,” she said.  

 

Eleven years ago, Dr. Alexander and her husband purchased a foreclosed property on an acre of land less than a mile from Genesis Hospital. They have a pair of St. Bernard littermates, Sophie and Finn, who endlessly entertain them with sibling squabbles. 

  

When she gets home from work, Dr. Alexander does a walkabout of the yard and gardens with the dogs. “This year, I’ve been into propagating plants,” she said. “We love our backyard. It’s a good place to recharge.” A guitarist at her church, Dr. Alexander often plays in her gazebo or one of several seating areas. 

 

Dr. Alexander says she is a glass-is-half-full kind of person. Now she uses her experience as a patient to reassure her patients. “I tell them, ‘I know you’re scared, but you need to know that there are six people in this surgery suite, and you are our only focus.’ I’ve been on the receiving end of that focus. The right people are in those positions.” 

 

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.

In September 2023, Brandice Alexander, D.O., began her 13th year as a Fellowship-trained, Board-certified Trauma Surgeon at Genesis HealthCare System. 

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Thankful for helping hands close to home

Alicia Farus’ hands are always moving. She is either making, baking or cooking something. She loves to knit. During the holiday season, she enjoys handwriting messages in Christmas cards. A few years ago, though, she started to have issues with her right hand and arm. She has another neurological issue, so at first she attributed her symptoms to that disorder.   

  

An initial symptom was weakness. She started to drop things. She had to regularly stop knitting because of numbness. She couldn’t write Christmas cards. As time went by, she couldn’t lift things. If she wanted to cook pasta, a family favorite, her husband Scott had to fill the pots with water and move them to the stove. When the pasta was ready, Scott had to lift the contents and move them to a strainer. “We are a team,” Alicia said, “and I’m grateful for that, but it is difficult to become completely dependent on someone.” Eventually, Alicia had to stop almost all of the activities she loved. “The pain kept increasing,” she said. “I wasn’t sleeping.” She finally decided to move ahead with a diagnosis she was fairly certain would include surgery.  

  

Alicia and her husband were referred to a specialist at a hospital that required a fair amount of travel. They expected to hear that Alicia had carpal tunnel syndrome, and the specialist confirmed that.   

 

The best option is close to home  

Her husband was happy about a surgery he’d had at Genesis, so Alicia decided to get a second opinion from Matthew Langford, M.D., Fellowship-trained, Board-certified Orthopedic Hand Surgeon at the Genesis Orthopedic Center. Dr. Langford confirmed the carpal tunnel diagnosis but added that she also needed surgery for pronator syndrome. “Pronator syndrome makes carpal tunnel worse,” said Alicia. “That explained the absolutely excruciating pain.”   

  

Alicia felt extremely comfortable with Dr. Langford and listed his amazing bedside manner as one of the reasons. “He takes his time and explains everything. He told me what he was looking for and what he found. He talks to you as if you’re on the same level.” 

  

Dr. Langford told Alicia that he could perform both surgeries at the same time. “It sounds worse than it was,” Alicia said. “Carpal tunnel is a simple surgery, and even with the addition of the pronator surgery, it was done on an outpatient basis.” Alicia went home that day. “I had discomfort because of the surgery, of course, but the terrible pain went away as soon as the surgery was done.” 

  

At the time of this interview, Alicia was about eight weeks out from her surgery, still healing but well on her way to a full recovery. As she followed the recovery plan, which included physical therapy at home, Dr. Langford and his team were available to answer questions and review her progress. 

 

“I’m cooking and writing again, but my favorite recovered activities are pushing my granddaughter on a swing and steering her stroller when we go on walks. I highly recommend that people considering surgery for a hand or arm issue meet with the orthopedic team at Genesis first." 

 

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.

Alicia and her husband were referred to a specialist at a hospital that required a fair amount of travel. They expected to hear that Alicia had carpal tunnel syndrome, and the specialist confirmed that.   

 

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Genesis Primary Care in Coshocton

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Offering experience and convenience

Your Primary Care Physician (PCP) is your go-to medical partner. They manage your preventative and wellness care, such as physicals and immunizations, and the management of chronic diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. They are there for you when you are sick to order diagnostic testing, treatment, referrals to specialists and much more.  

 

Genesis Primary Care now has three compassionate, experienced physicians who specialize in family medicine in the Genesis Physician Services office at 23599 Airport Rd., Suite A, Coshocton. They also specialize in internal medicine, obesity medicine and addiction medicine. 

 

Audrey Onuzo, M.D. 

Sameera Rahman, M.D. 

Elise Sadoun, M.D. 

 

Extended office hours 

We know you’re busy, so we offer appointments in the evenings during the week. If weekdays are challenging for you – we have good news. We offer all-day Saturday hours, too.  

 

Hours are: 

Monday and Tuesday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Thursday through Saturday: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

 

Walk-ins welcome 

Scheduling an appointment ahead of time works well for many, but you have another option at the Genesis Primary Care Airport Road office in Coshocton. Walk-in patients are welcome. 

 

Schedule an appointment 

You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Onuzo, Dr. Rahman or Dr. Sadoun through the Genesis website and your MyChart electronic medical record. Go to genesishcs.org/schedule. You can also call 740-722-9555 to make an appointment. 

 

Location 

Genesis Primary Care 

23599 Airport Rd., Suite A 

Coshocton, OH 43812 

 

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.

Genesis Primary Care now has three compassionate, experienced physicians who specialize in family medicine in the Genesis Physician Services office at 23599 Airport Rd., Suite A, Coshocton.

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The surgical care you need in Coshocton

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Your Coshocton surgeons 

Matthew Phillips, M.D., FACS, Board-certified General Surgeon, has joined the surgical team of Thomas Diehl, M.D., Board-certified General Surgeon, and David Barbara, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified General Surgeon, at the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center (GCMC). This team of superb surgeons brings the skills, experience and compassion to Coshocton that has elevated Genesis Surgery to among the best in Central and Southeastern Ohio.   

 

These surgeons and other specialists perform several outpatient surgeries at the new GCMC so patients can remain close to home and family. 

 

Surgeries and procedures performed in Coshocton   

  • Ear, nose and throat (tonsillectomies, ear tubes and sinus procedures)  

  • Endoscopies (colonoscopies and upper endoscopies)  

  • General (laparoscopic procedures, cyst removals, port placements and more)  

  • Gynecology  

  • Orthopedics (carpal tunnel release, pinning, nerve repair and more)  

  • Podiatry (foot and ankle procedures)  

  • Sports medicine (shoulder and knee procedures)  

  • Urogynecology (bladder stimulator, implants, slings, cystoscopies and more) 

 

Thomas Diehl, M.D.; Matthew Phillips, M.D.; David Barbara, M.D.

Thomas Diehl, M.D.; Matthew Phillips, M.D.; David Barbara, M.D.

Each of our surgeons is accepting new patients, and a referral is not required. However, it is always recommended to start with your Primary Care Physician. To contact the Genesis Medical Group in Coshocton, call 740-722-9555. 

 

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.

This team of superb surgeons brings the skills, experience and compassion to Coshocton that has elevated Genesis Surgery to among the best in Central and Southeastern Ohio.   

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How to Combat Motion Sickness

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Are you planning a fall cruise, road trip or vacation? Don’t let motion sickness bring your plans to a halt. It’s reported that one in three people are prone to motion sickness, so it’s a good idea to be prepared before you hit the road (or the high seas.)  

 

What causes motion sickness? 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motion sickness happens when the movement you see with your eyes is different than the movement your inner ears sense. This mishap can result in dizziness, nausea, irritability and even vomiting. Yuck. Thankfully, there are ways to ease your symptoms and maybe prevent them altogether.  

 

Try these tips and tricks: 

  • If you’re in a car or bus, try to sit as close to the front as possible. Facing the direction you’re traveling and focusing on a non-moving object can ease your queasiness.  

  • If you’re on a boat, cruise ship or airplane, stick to the middle of the vessel. This will help reduce the ups and downs of the water or air.  

  • Hydration helps. Avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine until the chance of motion sickness subsides.   

  • Bring lozenges or mints to ease your tummy.  

  • Listen to music to distract yourself.  

 

Who suffers the most? 

Children are especially at risk of suffering from motion sickness, and it appears to run in families. There are hundreds of parent posts on social media dedicated to both natural and medicinal remedies. Many parents says that it’s often a case of trial-and-error to find something that works. Check with your family doctor if giving an over-the-counter product to a child under the age of 18 is suggested.  

 

According to a 2018 study published in the National Library of Medicine, antihistamines with the lowest level of sedation are the treatment of choice for adults experiencing vertigo, nausea and vomiting.  

 

The U.S. Travel Association predicts domestic leisure travel will increase through 2024. Hopefully, you’ll be taking a trip to see friends, spend time with family or visit a destination you’ve always wanted to explore. Bookmark this article to keep motion sickness at bay when you’re on an adventure. 

 

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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.

Are you planning a fall cruise, road trip or vacation? Don’t let motion sickness bring your plans to a halt. It’s reported that one in three people are prone to motion sickness, so it’s a good idea to be prepared before you hit the road (or the high seas.)  

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Mammograms

Submitted by emily.griffin on

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Thankfully, it is treatable, especially with early detection. Even so, many women avoid scheduling or keeping an appointment for a mammogram. 

 

What is a mammogram? 

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. Its primary function is to detect breast cancer or other abnormalities in the breast tissue. 

 

When should women start getting mammograms? 

General recommendations for cancer screenings vary based on age: 

  •  Women older than 30 only need to have a mammogram if they exhibit symptoms, like a lump. 

  •  Women between the ages of 40 and 54 should be screened for breast cancer each year.  

  •  Women over age 55 should be screened for breast cancer every other year. 

 

If you have a family history of breast cancer, your Primary Care Physician (PCP) may recommend beginning screenings sooner or more frequently.  

 

Why are mammograms so important? 

Mammograms can detect abnormalities sooner than a manual breast exam, making them a great first line of defense. According to the American College of Radiology, mammography has helped reduce breast cancer mortality in the U.S. by nearly 40% since 1990. 

 

Although mammograms are a key part of breast cancer prevention, many women put off their mammograms or avoid them entirely. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. 

 

According to a new study from MedStar Health, here are the most common reasons women don’t get mammograms (and why you should rethink getting that appointment on your calendar): 

 

“I haven’t gotten around to it.” 

Life is busy, and it’s easy to let preventive care fall by the wayside, especially when taking care of family. However, your health is important, too. Next time you make an appointment with your PCP, mention that you’re due for a mammogram and schedule it.  

 

“I’ve had normal mammograms in the past,” or “Breast cancer doesn’t run in my family.” 

If breast cancer isn’t a concern for you, missing a mammogram or two doesn’t seem like a big deal. However, the risk of developing cancer increases with age, regardless of family history. It’s critical to continue getting tested to ensure you are healthy. 

 

“Mammograms are painful.” 

Many women complain that mammograms are uncomfortable or painful, but they don’t have to be. If you’re avoiding your mammogram due to pain, talk to your PCP about your options. 

 

Avoid scheduling your mammogram the week before your period to avoid sensitivities from hormonal changes. Take acetaminophen before the appointment. If the position of the imaging plates is uncomfortable,  

ask the technician to adjust them. 

 

"I’m afraid. What if they find something?” 

Anxiety around medical testing is common, and understandable, particularly when it comes to tests that can reveal something like cancer.  

 

Talk to your PCP about your concerns. Bring a loved one with you for moral support before and after the test. 

 

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.

 

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.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Thankfully, it is treatable, especially with early detection. Even so, many women avoid scheduling or keeping an appointment for a mammogram. 

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