Genesis Logo

Be a skin cancer sleuth

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Be a skin cancer sleuth by checking your skin regularly for signs of cancer. Skin cancer, including melanoma, is curable if spotted early. A careful skin exam may identify suspicious growths that may be cancer or growths that may develop into skin cancer (precancers). It’s important to do self-exams of your skin regularly so you can prevent skin cancer from becoming a major health battle. 

 

Skin self-exams are as easy as ABC (and D and E). 

  • Examine your skin once every month. 

  • Get to know your moles and birthmarks. Look for any abnormal skin growth and any change in the color, shape, size, or appearance of a skin growth. 

  • Check for any area of skin that does not heal after an injury. 

  • Ask your doctor to check your skin during health exams. 

  • Bring any suspicious skin growths or changes in a mole to the attention of your doctor. 

 

The ABCDEs of melanoma skin cancer are: 

  • Asymmetry 

  • Border irregularity 

  • Color 

  • Diameter 

  • Evolution 

 

A – Asymmetry 

One half of the spot or growth doesn't match the appearance of the other half. 

 

B – Border irregularity 

The edges are ragged, notched or blurred. 

 

C – Color 

The color (pigmentation) is not uniform. Shades of tan, brown and black are present. Dashes of red, white and blue add to a mottled appearance.

 

D – Diameter 

The size of the mole is greater than 1/4 inch (6 mm), which is about the size of a pencil eraser. Any growth of a mole should be evaluated. 

 

E – Evolution 

There is a change in the size, shape, symptoms (such as itching or tenderness), surface (especially bleeding) or color of a mole. 

 

Talk to your doctor. 

If you notice any of these ABCDEs, be sure to talk with your doctor. The earlier you diagnose skin cancer, the better your chances are for effective treatment.  

 

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.

Skin-1

Be a skin cancer sleuth by checking your skin regularly for signs of cancer. Skin cancer, including melanoma, is curable if spotted early.

Exclude From Search
No

Digital detox: surviving without your phone (yes, it is possible)

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

In a world where our phones are practically extensions of ourselves, the idea of a digital detox can seem as radical as pineapple on pizza, controversial but surprisingly refreshing. So, why should you consider unplugging, and how can you do it without feeling like you’re missing out on the latest trends? Let’s dive in:   

Why detox?   

1. Reclaim your time: How many hours have you spent scrolling through social media feeds or watching funny videos? A digital detox gives you the gift of time, allowing you to focus on activities that truly matter.   

 

2. Improve mental health: The constant stream of information and notifications can affect our mental well-being. According to the National Library of Medicine, spending too much time with technology can cause issues related to attention span, understanding emotions and social cues, becoming addicted, feeling alone and having trouble sleeping. Detoxing can help reduce anxiety and improve overall mental health.   

 

3. Enhance relationships: Remember when people used to have conversations without staring at their phones? A detox can help you reconnect with loved ones in a meaningful way.   

 

4. Boost creativity: Without the distractions of digital devices, you’ll find your creative juices flowing more freely. Who knows, you might even discover a hidden talent.   

 

5. Improve sleep: According to Havard Health, the blue light emitted by screens impacts your sleep and body clock, keeping you awake longer and disrupting your natural sleep-wake cycle.   

 

Tips:   

6. Set clear intentions: Decide how long you want to detox and what you hope to achieve. Whether it’s a day, a weekend or a week, having a goal in mind will help you stay committed.   

 

7. Inform your digital companions: Tell your friends, family and colleagues about your detox. They might be surprised initially, but they’ll soon appreciate the benefits of your newfound presence. 

  

8. Plan adventures: Fill your detox time with activities that don’t involve screens. Go for a hike, explore a museum or enjoy a stroll in nature.  

 

9. Embrace silence: Enjoy the peace and quiet that comes with a screen-free life. You might be surprised at how refreshing it can be to disconnect from digital noise.  

 

10. Reflect and rejoice: Take note of how you feel during your detox. Notice any changes in your mood, energy levels or overall well-being? Use this time to reflect on your digital habits.

 

So, why not try a digital detox? It is the reset button your mind and body need. You might even find yourself enjoying a break from the digital world.    

 

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.

Digital Detox

Why should you consider unplugging, and how can you do it without feeling like you’re missing out on the latest trends? Let’s dive in:

Exclude From Search
No

Want a long, healthy life? Start exercising.

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton 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.  

 

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.

Want a long, healthy life? Start exercising.

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

Exclude From Search
No

One fish, two fish, catfish, shellfish

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

There’s something fishy about eating fish. Nearly half of Americans eat fish occasionally or not at all. Yet the American Heart Association, the National Institute of Health and Myplate.gov, to name a few, recommend eating fish at least twice a week. We won’t go into why people don’t eat fish – that’s personal. Here are the reasons why we should:  

  • Strong evidence has shown that eating fish and other kinds of seafood improves brain, eye and heart health.  

  • Fish is packed with protein, vitamins and nutrients that can lower blood pressure and help reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke. 

  • May decrease the risk of depression, ADHD, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and diabetes. 

  • May prevent inflammation and reduce the risk of arthritis. 

  • It is an important source of omega-3 fatty acids, which our bodies don’t produce, so we must get them through the food we eat. 

 

Fish is rich in calcium and phosphorus and a great source of minerals, such as iron, zinc, iodine, magnesium and potassium and vitamins such as D and B2 (riboflavin). Omega-3 fatty acids are found in every kind of fish but are especially high in fatty fish. Some good choices are salmon, trout, sardines, herring, canned mackerel, canned light tuna and oysters. 

 

No thank you?  

As we know from the statistic previously mentioned, non-fish eaters are not alone. Our body benefits from omega-3 fats, and fortunately, there is a source besides fish. They can also be obtained through plants. Flaxseed, walnuts and a few vegetable oils are also high in omega-3 fats.  

 

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.

Fish

Nearly half of Americans eat fish occasionally or not at all. Yet the American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week.

Exclude From Search
No

Understanding water safety

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Are you ready to make a splash this summer? Make sure you stay safe as well. The best way to ensure you and your loved ones are safe is through water competency.   

 

According to the American Red Cross, “Water competency is a way of improving water safety for yourself and those around you through avoiding common dangers, developing fundamental water safety skills and knowing how to prevent and respond to drowning emergencies.”    

 

In addition to water competency, here are some tips to keep you safe all summer long no matter what kind of water you’re enjoying.  

  

Swimming safely in pools  

Whether it’s a pool at your home or a public pool, being vigilant is important for the safety of children and adults alike. Here are some tips from the American Red Cross.

 

  • Secure your pool during non-swim times: Oftentimes drowning deaths occur when children aren’t expected to be near the water. Keep your pool secured to prevent any accidents.   

  • Keep inexperienced swimmers safe: Make sure they wear approved life jackets and stay within arm’s length of them.  

  

Enjoying hot tubs safely  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends following HOT steps for hot tub safety.

 

  • Heed (H): Heed rules about hot tub safety. Don’t go in if you’re sick, don’t swallow any water and don’t allow small children to get in. 

  • Observe (O): Observe the hot tub and its surroundings. The temperature should not exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit, there shouldn’t be a strong odor and the filtration devices should be working appropriately.

  • Talk (T): Talk to the hot tub’s owner and other users to make sure it’s been inspected and is in working order.  
     

Swimming safely in lakes, streams and rivers  

Swimming in natural water is different from swimming in a pool or a hot tub for many reasons. There are weather concerns, animals, vegetation, currents and waves. Check out these tips from The American Red Cross. 

 

  • Take care when entering the water: Always enter feet first, especially in shallow water or water you’re unfamiliar with. 

  • Don’t swim alone: Swim with a friend and stay sober. Make sure someone is always watching over the group to ensure your safety.  

  

Swimming safely in the ocean  

There’s nothing like a day at the beach. Keep these tips from the National Ocean Service in mind so your day stays sunny and fun.

 

  • Be careful of the ocean waves: Ocean water can be unpredictable. Rip currents (strong currents of water that can pull you out to the ocean) and shore breaks (when ocean waves crash against the shoreline) often occur. Always make sure to swim at beaches with a lifeguard on duty.  

  • Be aware of what’s in the water: Marine life like jellyfish and sharks, trash and debris and harmful algal blooms can be dangerous for swimmers and beachgoers.  

 

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.

Understanding water safety 

In addition to water competency, here are some tips to keep you safe all summer long no matter what kind of water you’re enjoying. 

Exclude From Search
No

Free mammograms for those in need in October

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Several community businesses and healthcare organizations are partnering to offer free mammograms to those who can’t afford one due to lack of insurance, being under-insured or not having the ability to pay. Coconis Furniture, Marquee Broadcasting (WHIZ-TV), Genesis HealthCare System, Muskingum County Community Foundation, Southeastern Ohio Breast and Cervical Cancer Project, and Riverside Radiology/Lucid Health are committed to ensuring area residents receive this life-saving breast cancer screening regardless of their ability to pay.

 

During the month of October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, vouchers for free mammograms are available at Coconis Furniture locations and the Genesis Cancer Care Center for community members to pick up. Mammograms will be conducted at the Genesis HealthPlex in Zanesville or the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center by the end of 2024, free of charge.

 

For more information, contact Pebbles Kieber, Director, Genesis Cancer, Palliative Medicine and Hospice Services, at (740) 454-4274.

Organizations partnering to provide breast cancer screenings.

Exclude From Search
No

Social media and youth mental health

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Should you be concerned? 

 

In May 2023, Dr. Vivek Murthy, Surgeon General of the United States, released an advisory called Social Media and Youth Mental Health.  

 

A Surgeon General’s Advisory is a public statement that calls the American people’s attention to a public health issue and provides recommendations for how that issue should be addressed. Advisories are reserved for significant public health challenges that need the American people’s immediate awareness.  

 

Dr. Murthy explained that the national youth mental health crisis convinced him of the need for such an action. 

 

Here are the key takeaways: 

  • Up to 95% of young people aged 13-17 report using a social media platform. Two-thirds report using social media every day, and one-third report using social media “almost constantly.” 

  • There is growing evidence that social media use is associated with harm to young people’s mental health, with harmful content, sleep disruption and reduced physical activity being highlighted as key issues. 

  • Children and adolescents who spend more than three hours a day on social media face experiencing poor mental health outcomes, including depression and anxiety.  

  • Children and adolescents on social media are commonly exposed to extreme, inappropriate and harmful content. Roughly, 64% of adolescents report being exposed to hate-based content often or sometimes. Nearly 6-in-10 adolescent girls say they’ve been contacted by a stranger in ways that make them feel uncomfortable.  

  • The advisory acknowledges that there are benefits to social media. For example, youth with disabilities and younger members of the LGBTQ+ community say they find identity-affirming content and acceptance online.  

  • However, the overall message is that the risks outweigh the benefits for most children and teens. According to Dr. Murthy, “We cannot conclude that social media is sufficiently safe for children and adolescents. We cannot afford to wait for decades of study results to take action.”  

     

Click here for a quick-read executive summary of the advisory. The 25-page complete advisory presents the research and statistics the researchers discovered and clear action items youth and adolescents, families, technology companies and policymakers can use to address this significant mental health challenge.  

 

If you read the advisory and decide it’s a good idea to cut back on your child’s use of social media, here’s some encouraging news. In a report released by Common Sense Media, only 34% percent of teens who use social media say they enjoy it “a lot.” In fact, when asked about the impact of social media on their body image, 46% of adolescents aged 13-17 said social media makes them feel worse. 

 

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.

Social media and youth mental health

Up to 95% of young people aged 13-17 report using a social media platform. Two-thirds report using social media every day, and one-third report using social media “almost constantly.” 

Exclude From Search
No

How to beat shin splints

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

If you do any type of exercise with lots of running, you have probably had shin splints at some point. In that case, you know it is no fun. So, take our short quiz to prevent getting them again or what to do in case it happens. 

Take the quiz

 

If you think you have shin splints, you should contact your doctor. Although they typically get better with rest and the tips provided in this article, occasionally, it could be something else.  

 

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.

How to beat shin splints

Take our short quiz to prevent getting shin splints again or what to do in case it happens. 

Exclude From Search
No

Chapstick, it’s the BALM

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

We often are too busy or have other things going on to realize how much of a difference one thing can make. We often get into the habit of using the same products and having the same routines daily. One thing you should include in your routine if you already have not done so, is using chapstick every day. Chapstick has so many benefits and is simple and easy to use. Some of the outside forces chapstick protects you from are:  

Sunburn:  

Everyone knows what sunburn is and has had it. What we might forget is how to prevent sunburn. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that everyone wears sunscreen everyday with at least an SPF of 30 or higher, water resistance and broad-spectrum protection. The AAD wants to make everyone aware that skin cancer also can form on the lips. To protect your lips, apply lip balm or lipstick that contains sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.  

Windburn: 

HealthPages say that windburn occurs when our skin is exposed to dry, cold air. One of the primary signs that you have windburn is when your skin develops redness with a burning sensation after being exposed to cold air. Other symptoms of windburn include:  

  • Soreness 

  • Irritation 

  • Peeling 

  • Dryness 

There are many ways to prevent wind burn, but the two simplest ways are wearing sunscreen and wearing chapstick. What a coincidence.  

Dry and cracked lips:

The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) has written seven tips about how to prevent and heal dry and cracked lips. The tips are: 

  • Use non-irritating lip balm, lipstick or other products that you apply to your lips 

  • Apply a non-irritating lip balm (or lip moisturizer) several times a day and before bed 

  • Slather a non-irritating lip balm with SPF 30 or higher before going outdoors 

  • Drink plenty of water 

  • Stop licking, biting and picking at your lips 

  • Avoid holding items made of metal at your lips (Paperclips, jewelry, etc.) 

  • Plug in a humidifier at home 

The AAD also recommends staying away from harmful ingredients in lip balm such as camphor, eucalyptus, flavoring (cinnamon, citrus, mint and peppermint flavors can be especially irritating to dry, chapped lips), fragrance, lanolin, menthol, octinoxate or oxybenzone, phenol (or phenyl), propyl gallate and salicylic acid.  

If you would like to learn more, check out these resources:  

Protecting Your Skin From the Sun (healthwise.net) 

https://www.healthwise.net/genesishc/Content/StdDocument.aspx?DOCHWID=sid44562 

 

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.

Chapstick, it’s the BALM

Chapstick has so many benefits and is simple and easy to use. Some of the outside forces chapstick protects you from are:

Exclude From Search
No

Matcha tea health benefits compared to coffee

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Most of us drink coffee in the morning and we all have our favorite places and orders. Matcha tea is a healthy alternative to coffee and is made from Japanese green tea leaves. Thanks to social media, matcha is becoming more and more common and, therefore, is widely available in most of your favorite coffee shops.  

Matcha is very similar to coffee because you can make so many drinks with it. For example, vanilla matcha lattes are popular, along with matcha fruit smoothies. Adding extra healthy ingredients to matcha helps mask the bitter taste and makes it full of extra vitamins and nutrients. How will you benefit from drinking matcha? Are the benefits better in matcha than in coffee? Let us help you pick your new favorite drink.  

 

The benefits of matcha 

The National Library of Medicine conducted a study on matcha tea and the benefits of drinking it. The benefits include:  

  • Decreased stress and anxiety 

  • Improved memory and long and short-term cognitive functions  

  • Enhanced spatial learning (More aware of your surroundings) 

  • Reduces inflammation in your stomach 

  • Reduces viability, and mitochondrial metabolism in cancer cells  

  •  

Shared benefits of both  

The BlueCross BlueShield has researched and found that both beverages share a lot of important health benefits, such as:  

  • Weight loss 

  • Cancer-fighting antioxidants  

  • Compounds that reduce heart disease risk factors  

  • Improved liver health  

  • Enhance mood and brain function 

 

Who knew that caffeinated drinks could be so healthy? Both drinks have great short- and long-term benefits. If you are feeling adventurous, try matcha the next time you go to your favorite coffee shop.  

 

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.

Matcha tea health benefits compared to coffee

How will you benefit from drinking matcha? Are the benefits better in matcha than in coffee? Let us help you pick your new favorite drink.  

Exclude From Search
No
Subscribe to