Category: News

Pink Ribbon Chronicles: Breast Cancer Disparities

Among women in the United States, breast cancer ranks as the second most prevalent cancer. However, some women are at greater risk of developing breast cancer or dying from the disease. Keep reading to learn some facts about this health inequity as well as some underlying causes contributing to this phenomenon. 

1. Diagnosis. Hispanic and African American women are more likely to be diagnosed with late stage breast cancer. This can be due to limited healthcare access. For example, Hispanics in the U.S. have the highest uninsured rates, which may delay the opportunity for seeking care.

2. Cancer type. African American women are more likely to have triple negative breast cancer, a more aggressive form of the disease. Some studies suggest this may be due to the fact that African American women are more likely to be obese, however more research is needed to determine the exact causes.

3. Mortality. Black women have higher rates of mortality in comparison to white women.¹ The reasons behind this may be multifaceted. Black and Hispaniac women alike are less likely to receive care according to the standard guidelines in comparison to white women.² Furthermore, the historical exclusion of minority groups in clinical trials contributes to the lack of tailored cancer treatment for diverse racial and ethnic groups.

4. Screening. Women with lower incomes and lower educational attainment have lower rates of breast cancer screening. This may be attributed to several factors, including lack of insurance, lack of screening guidance and recommendations from providers, and challenges in scheduling screening appointments.

Unfortunately, breast cancer does not impact all women the same. Thus, it is important to make your health a priority and start screening for breast cancer at the appropriate age according to your provider. For those who are underinsured, check out the CDC’s financial assistance program. The last article of this series will give tips for optimal breast health, so stay tuned!  In the meantime, schedule an appointment to get started with scheduling your mammogram.

1.  CDCBreastCancer. Breast Cancer Statistics. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published November 29, 2022. Accessed September 25, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/statistics/index.htm
2.  Lu Chen, Christopher I. Li; Racial Disparities in Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment by Hormone Receptor and HER2 Status. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1 November 2015; 24 (11): 1666–1672. https://doi.org/10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-15-0293
3.  Bureau UC. Census Bureau Releases New Report on Health Insurance by Race and Hispanic Origin. Census.gov. Accessed September 25, 2023. https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2022/health-insurance-by-race.html
4.  Siddharth S, Sharma D. Racial Disparity and Triple-Negative Breast Cancer in African-American Women: A Multifaceted Affair between Obesity, Biology, and Socioeconomic Determinants. Cancers (Basel). 2018;10(12):514. doi:10.3390/cancers10120514
5.  Mutale F. Inclusion of Racial and Ethnic Minorities in Cancer Clinical Trials: 30 Years After the NIH Revitalization Act, Where Are We?. J Adv Pract Oncol. 2022;13(8):755-757. doi:10.6004/jadpro.2022.13.8.2
6.  Turbow SD, White MC, Breslau ES, Sabatino SA. Mammography use and breast cancer incidence among older U.S. women. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2021;188(1):307-316. doi:10.1007/s10549-021-06160-4

Pink Ribbon Chronicles: Tips for Optimal Breast Health

Breast cancer will affect 1 in 8 women in the United States. Some risk factors may be out of control, such as aging and family history. Nonetheless, to conclude this series we will provide you with some tips to optimize your overall breast health.

1. Maintain a healthy weight. Individuals who are overweight, particularly following menopause, face an elevated risk for breast cancer. This heightened risk is associated with the ability of fat tissue to generate estrogen, a hormone that is linked with the development of breast cancer. Moderate lifestyle changes, such as taking daily walks and limiting red meat consumption, can help maintain your weight.

2. Limit alcohol intake. The more alcohol consumed, the higher the risk of breast cancer. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation which is no more than 1 drink a day for women according to the  Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

3. Opt for breastfeeding. Breastfeeding not only provides benefits to the newborn, but also minimizes breast cancer risk. There is a lower prevalence of breast cancer among mothers who breast feed in comparison to mothers who don’t.

4. Consider your medications. Some hormonal medications used for menopause management as well as birth control may increase risk of breast cancer. Speak with your provider to discuss any potential side effects when taking these medications.

5. Keep screening top of mind. Early detection is key in ensuring a favorable outcome if diagnosed with breast cancer. Once you are 40 years of age, it is essential to speak with your provider regarding mammogram visits and frequency. However, if you are younger than 40, you can administer breast self-examinations to detect any changes in breast anatomy.

The above recommendations are a great starting point to maintain your breast health. To conclude our Pink Ribbon Chronicles, our care team strongly encourages you to make a commitment to stay up-to-date with scheduling your mammograms. Schedule an appointment with us so we can help you navigate this process!

Footnotes

1.   Breast Cancer Statistics | How Common Is Breast Cancer? Accessed October 2, 2023. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/about/how-common-is-breast-cancer.html
2.  CDC. Five Great Benefits of Breastfeeding. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published September 7, 2023. Accessed October 2, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/features/breastfeeding-benefits/index.html

Pink Ribbon Chronicles: Breast Health Beyond Breast Cancer

For many of us, when we think of breast health, we automatically think of breast cancer. However, there are several conditions beyond breast cancer that may cause pain and discomfort in our breasts besides cancerous tumors. Keep reading to find out more about several underlying causes of breast pain.

Menstruation

Hormonal changes are the number one cause of breast pain. Typically, breasts become tender and sore for about three to five days before the start of the menstrual period and return to normal once menstruation begins. This is a result of increased levels of estrogen and progesterone just before your period, which can cause breast swelling and sensitivity.

Pregnancy

Breast soreness and tenderness is one of the first indicators of pregnancy. This discomfort is often due to the rise of hormones during the first trimester. It is not uncommon for new mothers to experience discomfort while breastfeeding. Breastfeeding women are susceptible to breast infection, which includes fever and pain or swelling of the breasts. However, it is possible for women who are not breastfeeding to contract infection as well.

Medications

Prescribed medications can cause breast pain as a side effect. Some examples of these medications include birth control pills, infertility medications, and Chlorpromazine, which is used to treat a variety of mental health conditions.

Injury

Breast tissue is susceptible to injury like any other part of the body. Trauma to the breast can cause swelling and bruising. Furthermore, pulled muscles of the chest wall and rib injury can also cause breast discomfort.

Bad bras

Without proper support, the ligaments of the breast can become overstretched, resulting in pain. This may be especially noticeable during exercise. Make sure your bra is the correct size and provides good support.

Benign breast lumps

1. Common benign (non-cancerous) lumps include the following:
   • Cysts, which are sacs filled with fluid as a result of blocked breast glands. These can be drained, or resolved without treatment.
   • Fibroadenomas are painless lumps common in women in their 20s and 30s.
   • Galactocele-These are typically fluid-filled lumps that often result from a clogged milk duct.

There are a variety of reasons why you may feel breast discomfort besides breast cancer. While not all breast lumps are cancerous, it is always necessary to present these lumps to your provider. At Trust.

Women’s Healthcare, we provide comprehensive breast examinations and will help you navigate your breast pain. Do not hesitate, schedule an appointment with us.

Footnotes

1.  John Hopkins Medicine. Breast Pain: 10 Reasons Your Breasts May Hurt. Published November 1, 2022. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/breast-pain-10-reasons-your-breasts-may-hurt

Pink Ribbon Chronicles: The Basics of Breast Cancer

Many of us know at least one person affected by breast cancer. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States, following certain skin cancers. This first blog in Pink Ribbon Chronicles aims to shed light on the basics of breast cancer. 

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is when a malignant (cancerous) tumor is located in the breast tissue. Breast cancer can originate throughout various regions of the breast including the nipples, the lobules (glands that produce breast milk), and breast fat and tissue. Furthermore, there are different types of breast cancer, which are often classified according to the genes and proteins present in a sample of tumor cells.

Causes and risk factors

The causes of breast cancer is attributed to the interplay of several risk factors. Some of these factors may be out of control, such as aging, having a family history of breast cancer, and having a higher breast density. However, certain health behaviors are modifiable, or under your control. For example, lack of physical activity and being overweight after menopause has shown to increase risk of breast cancer. Alcohol is also linked to breast cancer; the more you consume, the greater your risk. Aspects of your reproductive health may contribute to higher breast cancer risk, such as deciding to have kids after age 30 or choosing not to breastfeed.

Diagnosis and Treatment 

If you notice changes in your breast anatomy, it is important to consult your provider. Various imaging procedures may be recommended to determine cancer diagnosis. Your provider may request an ultrasound of the breast, and MRI, or a diagnostic mammogram. If cancer is detected, then further testing may be done to determine the stage of the cancer, or in other words, how much the cancer has spread and advanced. Depending on the stage and type of breast cancer, your provider may recommend different treatment options. Removing the tumor through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are common treatments which may be used individually or together. Also, your provider may recommend you explore enrolling in a clinical trial in the case other treatment options are insufficient.

While this article provides a brief introduction to the complexities of breast cancer, there is so much to learn regarding breast health! Stay tuned for the upcoming articles for breast cancer awareness month. As always, if you have any concerns regarding your breast health, schedule an appointment with us.

Footnotes

1.  CDCBreastCancer. Breast Cancer Statistics. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published November 29, 2022. Accessed September 11, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/statistics/index.htm
2. CDCBreastCancer. What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published July 31, 2023. Accessed September 11, 2023.https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/risk_factors.htm

UTI Unveiled: Insights into Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are typically bacterial infections of the bladder that can lead to pain during urination. About 50% percent of women will experience this infection at least once in their lifetime. UTIs are very common among women– so this blog may be applicable to you at one point or another. Keep reading to learn a few facts about these infections!

UTIs can affect any structure within the urinary system.

While oftentimes these bacterial infections are within the bladder, a UTI can develop in the kidneys, ureters, and urethra.

Women get UTIs more often than men.

In fact, women get these infections up to 30 times more often than men. Women are more prone to getting UTIs because their urethra (the tube connecting the bladder to where urine exits the body) is shorter compared to men, making it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder. Additionally, a woman’s urethra is positioned closer to both the vagina and the anus, which are sources of germs like E. coli. 

Pregnant women are at greater risk for UTI.

Hormone fluctuations during pregnancy can lead to changes in the urinary tract’s bacterial environment leading to infection. Pregnant women may also have difficulty completely emptying their bladder because of how the baby is positioned. This leftover urine in the bladder can cause infection.

Menopausal women are also at greater risk.

The decrease in estrogen can cause vaginal tissue to become thin and dry, making it easier for bacteria to grow.

Cranberry products are not clinically proven to treat UTIs.

Studies have shown inconsistent results regarding the effectiveness of cranberry products for treating infections. However, some believe that these products may hinder bacteria from attaching to the cells lining the urinary tract wall, thereby reducing the likelihood of infection. The best mode of action is to discuss the use of cranberry products with your provider.

Good hygiene practices can help prevent infection.

Wiping front to back can prevent bacteria from the anus from entering the urinary tract. Furthermore, do not hold in your urine for too long. Be sure to urinate after sex.UTIs can be easily detected with a urine sample. The good news is, UTIs  are curable with the right antibiotics! If left untreated, infection can spread to the kidneys, and in more severe, but less common cases, to the bloodstream. If you have been experiencing discomfort during your bathroom visits, schedule an appointment with us!

Footnotes

1.  Urinary tract infections | Office on Women’s Health. Accessed August 20, 2023 https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/urinary-tract-infections
2. Foxman, B. (2002). Epidemiology of urinary tract infections: Incidence, morbidity, and economic costs. American Journal of Medicine; 113(Suppl. 1A): 5S-13S.

Reasons Behind Delayed & Missed Menstruals

Missed periods can cause mounts of anxiety and stress. For most women, menstrual bleeding occurs every 21 to 35 days. However, there are few reasons for delayed or missed periods–keep reading to find out!

1. Pregnancy. Menstrual bleeding will cease in order to prevent the fertilized egg from being expelled from the body. Pregnancy tests can determine pregnancy approximately 10 days after conception.¹

2. Perimenopause. This time period marks the transition to menopause, or when your ovaries start to lose function. In this phase of womanhood, decline in estrogen and overall fertility is to be expected.

3. Adolescence. For those who recently started menstruating or girls in their teens may experience irregular cycles. However, if it has been 90 days or more since the last period, it is best to seek medical attention.²

4. Polycystic ovarian syndrome. PCOS can lead to high levels of androgen hormones. The excess of these hormones can lead to fluctuations in the regulation of the menstrual cycle.

5. Birth control. Certain birth control pills can be used to delay periods, and in some cases this is done intentionally under a provider upon patient request. With the proper dosage, continuous use of certain birth controls (vaginal rings, IUDs, etc.) can lead to delayed or missed periods.³

6. Thyroid conditions. Your thyroid is a gland that produces the thyroid hormone. When an excess of this hormone is produced, fewer and lighter menstrual cycles can be expected. 

7. Extreme dieting and exercise. Putting your body through strict caloric deficits and extensive workouts for extended periods of time can cause your body to put your menstrual bleeding on a temporary pause.

8. Stress. Stress can manifest into physical symptoms including a late period. Stress can cause a hormonal imbalance which can alter your cycle.

Hopefully you can identify one of the reasons that may be contributing to your delayed or missed period. Schedule an appointment with us to find the culprit behind your menstrual cycle irregularities and develop a tailored treatment plan.

Footnotes

1.  Pregnancy tests | Office on Women’s Health. Accessed August 25, 2023. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/pregnancy-tests
2.  Menstruation in Girls and Adolescents: Using the Menstrual Cycle as a Vital Sign. Accessed August 26, 2023. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2015/12/menstruation-in-girls-and-adolescents-using-the-menstrual-cycle-as-a-vital-sign
3.  Birth control lets you decide when to have your period. Mayo Clinic. Accessed August 26, 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/birth-control/in-depth/womens-health/art-20044044

Making Meaning of Menopause

Menopause is a natural part of every woman’s life. The transition into menopause is not a universal experience, some are subjected to more symptoms than others. Let this blog serve as a template for overcoming the challenges of this hallmark of womanhood.

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is a time period that signifies the onset of menopause which typically begins in your 40’s, and for some women, as early as mid 30’s. During this time period, women may experience shorter and irregular periods indicating the natural loss of ovary function. Furthermore, less estrogen will be produced and there will be a decline in fertility. Some women during perimenopause may experience symptoms such as hot flashes, night flashes, vaginal dryness, changes in sexual desire, along with other physical and emotional side effects. While treatment is not necessary, your provider may be able to prescribe medications to alleviate symptoms.

Menopause

Many mistake the perimenopause transitional period as menopause itself. However, true menopause is when a woman’s menstrual cycle completely ceases for at least one year. Post-menopause, women can expect several changes in physical and mental wellbeing. Below are a few tips you can implement into your routine to alleviate symptoms:

1. Identify your triggers. Many times hot flashes can be linked to an external trigger, such as caffeine or alcohol. Try to identify potential sources of stress that lead to your hot flashes.
2. Consider kegel exercise. Women going through menopause may experience incontinence, or have difficulty controlling the bladder. Doing kegel exercises can strengthen your pelvic floor muscles to help with bladder control.
3. Increase calcium and Vitamin D intake. Menopausal women are more likely to experience osteoporosis, or weakening of the bones. Increasing consumption of these nutrients can help prevent this condition. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D  include salmon, oranges, and dairy products.
4. Limit smoking. Smoking can increase your risk for a host of conditions, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and may even increase likelihood of hot flashes.
5. Stay physically active. During menopause, women tend to gain weight in their midsection. Staying active can help prevent weight gain. Consider simple lifestyle changes, such as walking around your neighborhood, or opting to take the stairs instead of an elevator.
6. Stay mentally active. Memory loss and forgetfulness are common during aging. Stimulating your brain, such as learning new skills or completing crossword puzzles provides several benefits for your brain health.

The tips mentioned above can serve as a starting point to help you navigate your health and wellbeing through menopause. For a personalized treatment plan, schedule an appointment with us.

All About the Causes of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer ranks as the world’s fourth most prevalent cancer in women. ¹ All those with a cervix are susceptible to this cancer, many cases being among those 30 years of age and older. ² However, if diagnosed early, the disease is likely treatable. The causes and cures to cervical cancer are further explained below.

Cause of Cervical Cancer

The majority of cervical cancer cases can be attributed to the human papillomavirus, also known as HPV. This virus is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States where it is estimated that 85% of people will contract the virus at least once in their lifetime. ³ In most cases, people are unaware if they are HPV positive as this infection clears on its own majority of the time. However, in 10% of cases the virus isn’t expelled, it has the potential to manifest as cervical cancer. While there are over 100+ viral strains of HPV, only 13 types are known to cause cancer.

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus, also known as HIV, is also a risk factor for cervical cancer. Women with HIV have a sixfold higher risk of developing cervical cancer compared to those without HIV. Women with HIV have a weakened immune system and can potentially develop pre-cancerous lesions as a result of an untreated HPV infection.Thus many are made to raise awareness around both HIV and cervical cancer. 

Smoking is another known risk factor associated with cervical cancer. Women who smoke have approximately double the risk of developing cervical cancer compared to non-smokers. ⁵​ Smoking introduces tobacco by-products into the cervical mucus of women, which can lead to DNA damage in cervix cells and potentially contribute to the development of cervical cancer. Additionally, smoking weakens the immune system’s ability to combat HPV infections.
Other risk factors include low fruit and vegetable intake, having multiple-full term pregnancies or full term pregnancy before age twenty, and those who do not have adequate access to healthcare services to get cervical cancer sccreening.ⁱ

Prevention

Despite these causes, cervical cancer is a disease that can be effectively treated if detected early. Pap smears are vital in detecting changes and identifying abnormal cells within the cervix. Screening recommendations are based on age and health history. Pap tests are recommended for those age 21 years and older despite sexual activity prior to this age. At Trust Women’s Healthcare we provide routine cervical cancer screening as part of our Annual Women’s Health Examinations. Always remember, prevention is better than cure, so schedule an appointment with us today!

1. World Health Organization. Cervical cancer. Accessed August 6, 2023. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer
2. Basic Information About Cervical Cancer | CDC. Published December 15, 2022. Accessed August 6, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/basic_info/index.htm
3. STD Facts – Human papillomavirus (HPV). Published December 20, 2022. Accessed July 26, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv.htm
4. Cervical cancer and HIV—two diseases, one response. Accessed August 6, 2023. https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/presscentre/featurestories/2018/october/cervical-cancer-and-hiv
5. Cervical Cancer Risk Factors | Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer. Accessed August 7, 2023. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html

About Dr. Peggy Roberts:

Dr. Peggy Roberts is a board certified, New York licensed Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. She has spent over a decade caring for women of all ages. She has extensive experience in preventative medicine for women, high-risk pregnancies, other medicine and aesthetics.

Media Contact:

Lana Schupbach
Autumn Lane Productions
[email protected]
516-331-1461

HPV Demystified: Navigating the Facts

The Human Papillomavirus, also known as HPV, is the number one sexually transmitted infection (STI) among both men and women in the United States.​​ Despite its prevalence, much misinformation and myths surround this virus. In this blog post, we aim to shed light on the truth about HPV, dispelling common misconceptions. Continue reading to see common HPV myths debunked.

Myth #1: I do not have multiple sex partners therefore I am not at risk for HPV.

Fact: About 85% of people will get HPV in their lifetime. ² Individuals infected with HPV may unknowingly carry and spread the infection even in monogamous relationships. 

Myth #2 : I use condoms therefore I am not at risk for HPV.

Fact: When used appropriately, condoms can be used to prevent the spread of common STIs. Nevertheless, condoms offer limited protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HPV that are transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Thus, condoms do not provide absolute immunity against HPV infection.

Myth #3: Those infected with HPV present with symptoms.

Fact: The majority of individuals infected with HPV remain unaware of their infection and never experience any symptoms or health complications arising from it. In 90% of cases, the immune system is able to clear the HPV infection within two years.¹

Myth #4: All strains of HPV cause cancer.

Fact: Among the 100+ HPV strains, 13 strains are linked to cervical cancer (most commonly), and cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and some head and neck cancers (less commonly). ³

Myth #5: You only contract HPV through sexual intercourse.

Fact: HPV is primarily transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact, thus the virus can spread even in the absence of sexual intercourse.

Myth #6: There are treatments for HPV.

Fact: Currently there is no cure for HPV virus, however symptoms associated with HPV (ie. genital warts) can be managed under a provider. The HPV vaccine is a great preventative measure to protect against HPV-related cancers. According to the CDC, vaccination is recommended for those between 11-26 years old.

Myth #7: The HPV vaccine promotes promiscuous behavior among teens.

Currently, there is no research evidence to suggest that the HPV vaccine induces or encourages sexual activity among teens and preteens. 

Myth #8: The HPV vaccine may cause medical problems.

The HPV vaccine has proven to be safe by the FDA and a successful method in preventing HPV-related infections and cancers. Like any vaccine, the HPV vaccine can potentially cause side effects. However, the vast majority of cases side effects are mild, such as soreness at site of injection.

Myth #9: You got the HPV vaccine, so you can skip your Pap test.

False! Despite its efficacy, the HPV vaccine does not protect against all strains that cause cervical cancer. 

Because of the high prevalence of HPV, navigating the facts of this infection may be overwhelming at first. Please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with us to go over any of HPV-related questions and concerns, we are here to support you!

1.  STD Facts – Human papillomavirus (HPV). Published December 20, 2022. Accessed July 26, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv.htm
2.   Why Get the HPV Vaccine. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published March 18, 2022. Accessed July 26, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/parents/vaccine/six-reasons.html
3.  Basic Information about HPV and Cancer | CDC. Published October 24, 2022. Accessed July 26, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/hpv/basic_info/index.htm
4.  Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Safety. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published December 22, 2022. Accessed July 26, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/vaccines/hpv-vaccine.html

About Dr. Peggy Roberts:

Dr. Peggy Roberts is a board certified, New York licensed Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. She has spent over a decade caring for women of all ages. She has extensive experience in preventative medicine for women, high-risk pregnancies, other medicine and aesthetics.

Media Contact:

Lana Schupbach
Autumn Lane Productions
[email protected]
516-331-1461