March, 2015

Understanding Colorectal Cancer Basics

According to the latest statistics compiled by the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. It is the second leading cause of cancer death. Risk factors for the disease include a lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, and the heavy consumption of alcohol. A diet that is high in red meat and processed meat can play a substantial role in the development of colorectal cancer. Doctors recommend that you ado...

Healthy Eating: Tips for Staying on Course

Making healthy lifestyle changes can feel overwhelming at times. However, taking these small steps one at a time may lead to more profound changes over time. Watson Clinic dietitians recommend the following: 1 Rethink how you view your food and lifestyle choices. Avoid using the phrase "dieting," which has a temporary connotation attached to it. Instead, commit to making healthy lifestyle changes that will stay with you throughout your life. 2 Find one or two friends who also want to make ...

The Importance of Colonoscopy

We know you dread it. But the test, which detects colon cancer, could save your life. Just ask Central Florida resident Pat Thorbin. In my mid-50’s, I decided to have my colonoscopy, she recounts. I had no family history of the disease, no symptoms and no reason to believe anything would come of it. But after years of working in healthcare, I’ve always been a big supporter of preventative screenings, so I knew I shouldn’t hold off having a colonoscopy any longer. Pat had partak...

Colonoscopy: Questions and Answers

If you've been avoiding a colonoscopy, here are some answers to common questions that may convince you to give it a try, courtesy of Dr. Louis Saco, a board-certified gastroenterologist at Watson Clinic. Q: Why should I get one? A: Colonoscopy can find cancer—the earlier the better. It can also find polyps, which are abnormal growths that can become cancer. With colonoscopy, if you get the polyps out, you eliminate the risk for colon cancer. It also gives your doctor immediate, direct acce...

Cholesterol Counts in Heart Health

So what are your cholesterol numbers? If you're drawing a blank right now, it could mean you're overdue for the routine blood test that helps give a heads-up on your risk for heart problems or a stroke. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that helps our bodies function properly. The liver makes the cholesterol we need, but we can get more from what we eat. The two main types of cholesterol are: • Low-density lipoprotein LDL , or bad cholesterol. Excess amounts can build up in the walls of art...