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Health Bulletins

October, 2011

Mammogram

By: Mamhoud Al Ameen

Pre-Approvals Section Assistant

First Insurance Company

Mammography is a specific type of imaging used to examine the human breast and is used as a diagnostic and screening tool for breast cancer.

Typically this occurs through the detection of characteristic masses. Mammography is believed to reduce mortality from breast cancer. It is

considered to be the most reliable and sensitive method for detecting early benign tumors by the scientific world.

When is a Mammogram needed?

- When you feel any lumps under your armpit or breast.

- When you feel any irritation or discoloration in the breast’s epidermis

(skin), or nipple.

- When you feel persistent pain in either one or both breasts. Or when there are abnormal secretions from the nipple.

- When your age is over 40; it is suggested to take a Mammogram every 1-2 years. Ask your radiologist how often you need a Mammogram.

Tips for taking a Mammogram:

- The Mammogram’s duration is 20 minutes. Try not to have your Mammogram 5 to 10 days before you get your period or during your period, as breasts may be tender or swollen then.

- Do not take the test if you’re pregnant or think you may be pregnant.

- On the day of your mammogram, don’t wear deodorant, creams or any perfumes under the armpits or in the chest cavity region.

The amount of radiation you will be exposed to is very minimal, and no radiation remains in the body after this examination. Thus the benefits outweigh the risks!

Test Your Knowledge About Cancer

Try solving the quiz below and test your knowledge about the second most deadly disease, cancer.

1. What do all cancers have in common?

a. They develop from red blood cells

b. They develop from white blood cells

c. They develop from uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells

d. They develop in tissues in the body

2. All tumors are malignant (cancerous)?

True or False

3. How many people develop cancer in Jordan per year?

a. 6000

b. 10000

c. 1000

d. 25000

4. After skin cancer what are the two most common cancers diagnosed in Jordan?

a. Breast and prostate

b. Liver and pancreatic

c. Lung and brain

d. Lung and liver

5. How often should women over the age of 40 take a mammogram?

a. Every 6 months

b. Every 1 year

c. Every 1.5 years

d. Every 1-2 year

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM)

During the month of October breast cancer charities around the globe

organize events to increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure. It also provides a platform for breast cancer charities to raise awareness of their work and of the disease; NBCAM is also a prime opportunity to remind women to be breast aware for earlier detection.

Worldwide Events:

1. Pink Ribbon Challenge: a consortium that combines efforts from

radio and TV stations, listeners and celebrities, to raise funds to provide free mammograms for undeserved women.

2. Walks and Runs: organized community runs and fitness walks that take place across the globe. These events raise millions of funds and raise breast cancer awareness. E.g. the Race for Cure.

3. Global Breast Cancer Conference: this is held to help raise awareness among the medical and scientific community. If there are no local events in your area; here are some activities that one can take to make a big impact:

1. Ask your employer to give all females the afternoon off, and use some of

that time to get a mammogram.

2. Hold a charity bake sale.

3. Encourage your female relatives and friends to do a regular mammogram.

4. Send cards to all the women in your contact list telling them about the events going on during the month.

Please visit http://www.jbcp.jo for a listing of NBCAM events happening in Jordan this year!

Nutrition Facts Label

Nutrition can sometimes seem complicated. But a simple tool called the Nutrition Facts Label will help you know exactly what you’re eating. You will find it on all packaged foods and beverages. It serves as your guide for making choices that can affect your long-term health. It is important for the consumer to read these labels; in here, we’ll give you the skinny on reading nutrition labels. A Nutrition Facts Label is divided into the following 4 sections:

1. Serving Size: listed in standard measurements such as cups or pieces. The label also includes serving per container to help you calculate the calories and nutrients in an entire package. Be sure to check the serving size vs. how much you actually eat.

2. Amounts per Serving: in here you will find the amount of calories in one serving of this food. The label shows how much calories come from fat.

3. Percent Daily Value: it shows how much of a specific nutrient one serving of the product has as a percentage of how much you should eat during your entire day. Nutrients you should consume minimally include: total fats, total carbohydrates and cholesterol. Eating enough healthy nutrients (dietary fiber, vitamins, proteins and minerals) may help improve your health.

4. Footnotes: this bottom part of the label is a reminder that Percent Daily Value is based on a 2000 calorie a day diet. Think of 2000 calories as a general reference point.

The more practice you get reading food labels, the better you can become in using them as a tool to plan your healthy, balanced diet.

Yoga

Yoga is a science that has been practiced for thousands of years. It consists of ancient theories, observations and principles about the mind and body connection. Substantial research has been conducted to look at the health benefits of Yoga - from Yoga Postures (Asanas), Yoga Breathing (Pranayama), and Meditation. Yoga can have physiological, psychological and spiritual benefits. In this Soul Care section we will focus on the mental and spiritual benefits of Yoga.

Mental Benefits

A few mental benefits of Yoga would include:

1. Awareness - People who practice this alternative health therapy are able to have an understanding of their whole body through increased awareness; you will become a true advocate for yourself.

2 . Relief - This practice helps release stress patterns and muscle strain, which will help refresh your body. It provides you with spiritual, emotional, and physical relief.

3. Relaxation - Yoga helps relax the mind and body which will in turn, sharpen your concentration and mental capabilities. Deeper relaxation also aids in maintaining emotional health.

Spiritual Benefits

Yoga is practiced by people from all religions; it is nondenominational. Yoga teaches “right” living in how you deal with yourself and others. Yoga advocates proper eating, but you don’t have to be a vegetarian to practice yoga.

If you would like to gain these mental, spiritual and other physical

benefits, you can join one of several Yoga centers in Amman!

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