Geisinger – How to Perform a Self-Breast Exam How to perform a self-breast examKnow exactly what to do, and what to look for, so you can keep on top of your health.Dr. Rebecca Jordan, general surgery, breast, Geisinger Life can get busy, but you’re never too busy to take a moment to check on your health. A monthly, at-home breast exam is just one of the many ways you can keep on top of any changes with your body. Along with your regular mammogram, monthly breast self-exams give you the opportunity to check for variations in skin texture, bumps or changes in your breasts.But, exactly how do you do a breast self-exam? Performing a breast exam at home It’s a good idea to align these monthly self-exams with your menstrual cycle. Choose a time when your breasts are the least tender or swollen. The best time is often the week after your period ends. Looking at a mirror, keep your arms at your sides to start. And remember that the key to these exams is to look for any changes compared to the previous month. You’ll begin your self-exam by looking for any visual changes in your breasts’ appearance. Visual changes in your breast appearance may include: Puckering or dimpling of the skin Changes in your breast size Nipple inversion Next, lie down to spread out your breast tissue to make it easier to feel for any bumps or lumps. Take your time as you feel around your breast and stick to a pattern — such as moving clockwise or up and down. Use the pads of your fingers to feel around, use different levels of pressure and gently squeeze your nipple to check for discharge. Examine your entire breast before moving to your other side and make sure to feel around your armpits, because your breast tissue extends up to that area. You can also perform a self-exam in the shower, using soap so your fingers glide up and down your skin more easily. When should you call your doctor to schedule a mammogram? Remember, just because you feel a lump or have any symptoms doesn’t mean you have breast cancer. But it’s always a good idea to follow up with your doctor to rule it out. Schedule an appointment with your doctor if you notice any of the following: A hard lump in your breast or underarm Bloody nipple discharge Changes in your breast size Nipple inversion Pain redness, warmth or swelling in your breast Puckering or dimpling Scaly skin Sores or rashes At this appointment, your doctor will perform an external breast exam, like the one you get at your annual appointment. In some cases, they may recommend additional testing. For younger people, we may only recommend an ultrasound. Other times, we may recommend a magnetic resonance imagining test — or MRI — which can help when there have been no findings through other imaging tests but other symptoms present, including nipple discharge. Your doctor may even recommend a mammogram, especially if you have dense breasts or a lump that requires further testing. A mammogram, or low-dose X-ray exam of your breasts, will allow your doctor to detect any changes in your breast tissue that can’t be detected during a breast exam. You’ll be scheduled for either a screening mammogram or a diagnostic mammogram to determine the cause of your symptoms and come to a diagnosis. Remember that keeping on top of your health, including scheduling regular mammograms and self-exams, is important to detecting signs of breast cancer at their earliest stages — when they are easiest to treat. By following these steps each month, you’re doing just that — taking steps towards your healthiest self. To learn more about breast cancer care at Geisinger, visit geisinger.org/breastcare.
Geisinger – What Can Raise Your Risk of Breast Cancer? What can raise your risk of breast cancer?While you can’t control all your risk factors of breast cancer, you can arm yourself with knowledge. Better-informed health decisions, like taking preventive measures, could reduce your risk.By: Rebecca Jordan, DO, general surgery, breast, Geisinger Breast cancer is one of the better-known conditions because it’s relatively common. It’s likely you or someone you know — a friend, family member, neighbor or coworker — will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Fortunately, you can take charge of your breast health now to help change the direction of your narrative and keep your breast cancer risk as low as possible. While breast cancer can’t always be prevented, regular screenings and healthy lifestyle choices can reduce your risk. The important first step is arming yourself with knowledge and the right resources to help prevent breast cancer or catch it in its earliest stages when success rates are higher. When you know your risk factors of breast cancer, you can make informed health decisions and take preventative measures by changing elements in your environment and lifestyle. Modifiable risk factors of breast cancer Modifiable risk factors are those you can control. You can modify lifestyle choices like diet, physical activity and alcohol consumption. Scientists don’t know what causes breast cancer. But they do know positive changes in your environment and daily habits can reduce your breast cancer risk. Maintain a healthy weight and eat a balanced diet Being overweight or obese is a known breast cancer risk factor. Exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins to lower your risk. Limiting your intake of processed food, sugar and red meat may also be beneficial. Stay physically active Because a sedentary lifestyle increases your risk of breast cancer, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise (brisk walking, swimming or biking) or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise (running or aerobics) each week. Limit alcohol consumption The more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk of breast cancer. If you choose to drink alcohol, limit the amount to no more than one drink a day for women and no more than two drinks a day for men. Quit smoking Smoking cigarettes, being around secondhand smoke or using other tobacco products are known risk factors. The harmful chemicals in tobacco can increase your risk of breast cancer, especially when you use or are exposed to them for long periods of time. Limit exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants Exposure to harmful substances, such as pesticides — especially DDT — industrial chemicals, plastic that contains BPA and even some beauty products that include parabens, can increase your risk of breast cancer. However, more research is needed in this area. Understand the impact of your reproductive history Childbirth can affect your risk, too. Factors that increase your risk of breast cancer include becoming pregnant for the first time after age 30, not breastfeeding and never giving birth at all. Avoid hormone replacement therapy Hormone replacement therapy is used to relieve symptoms of menopause and help prevent osteoporosis. But according to research, taking some forms of hormone replacement therapy, especially those that combine estrogen and progesterone, for more than five years during menopause can raise your risk of breast cancer. If you’re considering hormone therapy, talk to your doctor about the benefits versus risks to decide if it’s right for you. Can deodorant cause breast cancer? Because underarm antiperspirant or deodorant is applied near the breast, some fear that the potentially harmful ingredients in these products, such as aluminum compounds or parabens, might be absorbed into the body, disrupt hormone levels and lead to breast cancer. Research on this topic is limited, but the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute state there is no convincing scientific evidence to support the claim that deodorant or antiperspirant use increases the risk of breast cancer. While concerns about deodorant and antiperspirant use persist, focusing on known risk factors and taking appropriate steps to maintain breast health are the most important things you can do to reduce your risk. Can birth control cause breast cancer? Many studies have found consistent evidence that women who use birth control pills that contain both estrogen and progesterone have a slightly higher risk of developing breast cancer. This is especially true if they have used them for longer than 10 years. We know that estrogen and progesterone stimulate the development and growth of some cancers, but studies vary on the true risk of these medications. Fortunately, research also shows us that once the pills are stopped, the risk for breast cancer seems to return to normal within about 10 years. If you’re considering oral contraceptives, talk to your doctor. They can guide you based on your medical history, risk factors and birth control preferences. Weigh the risks versus benefits with a healthcare professional to decide what’s best for you. Nonmodifiable risk factors of breast cancer Nonmodifiable risk factors are those beyond your control, including your age, gender and family history of breast cancer. Although you can’t change these risk factors, being aware of them can help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about screening and risk management. Nonmodifiable risk factors of breast cancer include: Your age, especially if you’re older than 50 Family history of breast or ovarian cancer Inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 Dense breast tissue Early menstruation (before age 12) and late menopause (after age 55) Reducing your risk factors of breast cancer Now you know what changes to make in your environment and daily habits to reduce your modifiable risk factors. But don’t forget about screenings and early detection strategies. They’re crucial in the fight against breast cancer. Regular breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams, can help detect the disease in its early stages when it’s most treatable. If you’re in your 20s or 30s, start getting a clinical breast exam every one to three years when you visit your primary care provider or gynecologist. Before turning 40, talk to your doctor about risk factors that determine how often you should have a screening mammogram. The American Society of Breast Surgeons recommends women of average risk start annual screening mammograms at age 40. Do you know you have nonmodifiable risk factors for breast cancer, such as a family history or genetic mutations? Your doctor can make personalized recommendations for earlier or additional breast screening and discuss options for risk reduction, such as medications and preventive surgeries. Early detection is the best protection: The five-year survival rate is highest for early-stage breast cancer. Understanding your unique risk profile, you can work with your healthcare team to develop a personalized plan for early detection and risk reduction — and beat the odds if you’re diagnosed. To learn more about breast cancer care at Geisinger, visit geisinger.org/breastcare.
Geisinger Marworth Ranked Top Treatment Center in Pennsylvania For the second year in a row, Geisinger Marworth Treatment Center has been named to Newsweek’s 2024 of American’s Best Addiction Treatment Centers as the top-ranked facility in Pennsylvania. “This recognition shows Geisinger Marworth’s dedication to providing quality, evidence-based treatment for people in our communities with substance use disorder. We are honored to once again be recognized as the top treatment center in the state,” said Kimberly Kabernagel, DO, medical director at Geisinger Marworth. The America’s Best Addiction Treatment Centers 2024 list highlights the nation’s top facilities, ranking the top 400 inpatient/residential and long-term addiction treatment centers. Facilities in the 25 states with the highest number of addiction treatment centers, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), were included in the rankings. The evaluation process included quality and accreditation scores as well as likelihood of recommendations by peers. Geisinger Marworth, located in Waverly, offers a wide continuum of treatment services to include inpatient residential treatment, IOP and general outpatient services. Geisinger Marworth ensures individualized, well-integrated, evidence-based addiction care that has been repeatedly recognized and honored on various platforms to include these Newsweek rankings. A diversity of services offered include, but are not limited to, medication-assisted treatment, dialectical behavioral therapy, recreational therapy, canine therapy and grief and trauma support. While Marworth’s rankings are for Pennsylvania, its services have expanded to care for individuals in New Jersey, New York, New England, and more and include specialty populations of healthcare professionals and first responders. To date, Marworth has served more than 40,000 people with substance use disorder since opening its doors in 1982.For more information about Marworth and addiction medicine care at Geisinger, visit geisinger.org/newsweekmarworth.
Gino J. Merli Center Celebrates 30 Years on Veterans’ Day The Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center will celebrate both its 30th anniversary and Veteran’s Day weekend by lighting up the sky with a drone display. This is the first drone display of this magnitude in the City of Scranton. The event will take place at the Gino J. Merli Center in Scranton on Friday, November 8, 2024 at 7pm. Sponsors and donations are gladly accepted, and proceeds benefit the Gino J. Merli Resident Welfare Fund. Please contact Volunteer Resource Coordinator Janice McAllister for more information at (570) 961-4380 or janmcallis@pa.gov
The Dime Bank Supports Pocono Environmental Education Center The Dime Bank is proud to announce a $9,000.00 donation to the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) through the PA Department of Community and Economic Development’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit to support their hands-on environmental education programs for local school students. “The Dime Bank is committed to supporting initiatives that promote environmental education and sustainability,” said President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich. “We believe that investing in the future of our planet is essential, and PEEC’s programs are a valuable resource for our community’s young people.” PEEC’s mission is to inspire, educate, and empower people to care for the natural world. Through their innovative programs, students have the opportunity to explore the wonders of nature, learn about environmental issues, and develop a deeper appreciation for the planet. Director of Development Amanda Subjin stated, “We are so thankful for the support of The Dime Bank through the EITC program. The majority of the funding we receive through these donations is dedicated towards providing hands-on environmental education programming to local school students either by visiting their classroom or when they come to PEEC for a field trip. How exciting for students to connect with their local national recreation area!”
Indraloka Announces Free Fall Events for October NEPA’s first farmed animal sanctuary and wellness center for people, is hosting FREE events throughout the fall. These events offer visitors the opportunity to experience a fun and inspiring environment, meet new friends, and learn about ways to create healthier lifestyles for themselves, their families, and the future. On Thursday, September 26th, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., the Sanctuary Sunrise Social invites people to enjoy a free continental breakfast in Indraloka’s beautiful Art Barn while meeting and mingling with other local businesses. Those interested can also join a complimentary sanctuary tour immediately following. On Friday, October 4th, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., we’re hosting an Open Mic and Karaoke Night, sponsored by the Lackawanna County Arts & Culture Department. Musicians, poets, comedians, singers, and raconteurs are invited to showcase their talents. Snacks and beverages are included. On Saturday, October 12th, from 10 a.m. to noon, Public Volunteer Day is designed for those interested in spending time with the beloved animals of Indraloka while helping out with light chores. It’s a great opportunity to test drive volunteering regularly or just for the day. If you’ve always wanted to know what it’s like to volunteer, here’s your chance! Monthly donors to Indraloka are invited to free Circle of Compassion tours twice yearly. On September 28th, we’ll host a special tour with plenty of photo ops with the animals. Existing monthly donors can email info@indraloka.org for details on how to register. Not a monthly donor? Becoming one is easy. Just click this link and choose a wonderful animal to sponsor. “Indraloka’s free events are the perfect way to check us out and see what we’re all about. Even though we’ve been in NEPA for nearly 20 years now, many are unaware we’re here. And those who do know about us often don’t realize we are much more than a farmed animal sanctuary. We offer a place of peace, healing, and fun for everyone, including people of all ages and abilities,” Indraloka founder Indra Lahiri, PhD, says. Indraloka hosts a wide variety of family-friendly events weekly. Low-cost summer and day camps help ease the financial burden of providing healthy, fun activities for children. Indraloka’s NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic provides low-cost veterinary care for animal companions in income-qualified households and low-cost spaying and neutering to all animals. The clinic also provides low-cost care to animals in other shelters and assists communities with their Trap, Neuter, and Release programs that help manage feral cat populations. This past weekend, Leslie Interlandi, DVM, Director of Indraloka’s vet clinic, neutered 48 feral cats, thereby reducing the potential feral population by thousands of cats. But it is Indraloka’s work serving people where we have made the most significant strides. This year, Indraloka introduced programs that help people build resilience and overcome trauma, depression, and anxiety. Studies show that people can experience greater well-being through a holistic approach to mental health, including animal-assisted and nature therapy. Dr. Lahiri’s background in organizational psychology and her work in developing trauma-informed education and leadership workshops inform every program and activity Indraloka offers. Dr. Lahiri is available for in-person and phone interviews. Please call 570-855-8440.
PennDOT Invites Pennsylvanians to Share Feedback on Construction, Maintenance Services The statewide survey is available until October 22. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is accepting construction and maintenance services feedback through an online survey. The public can take the survey through October 22 by visiting 2024 PennDOT Construction/Maintenance Customer Satisfaction Survey. Construction and maintenance work has been underway across the state this year. From January through August, 303 bridges were put out for bid to be repaired, replaced, or preserved by PennDOT or industry forces. Additionally, from January through August more than 3,100 roadway miles were improved by department or partner crews. This includes 1,114 miles of paving. “PennDOT is working hard for Pennsylvanians every day, and work on our roads and bridges is one of our largest services in our communities,” PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said. “This survey is one way the public can help us find successes, potential improvements, or educational opportunities.” The 24-question survey asks respondents how they receive PennDOT roadway information and how often PennDOT meets or exceeds expectations in construction and maintenance activities. Respondents are also asked about experiences with reporting concerns to the department, and whether or how they use the state’s 511PA traveler information services. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.
Save the Date for Fall Winefest Attention wine lovers! Next weekend, Saturday October 5th from Noon until 5pm, Montage Mountain is having their annual Fall Winefest inside and around the main lodge. It’s the perfect way to get out and enjoy a fall day in NEPA as the seasons change. Sample and purchase wine from two dozen wineries, enjoy shopping, food trucks, live music and more as you stroll the festival grounds. Tickets include all your wine samples and start at just $39 each. For all the details or to grab tickets, go to bit.ly/mmfallwinefest. Cheers!
My Benefit Advisor on Creating “Cool” Job Perks for Employee Inspiration Most business owners will agree that maintaining employee happiness is a key factor in working to achieve overall success in their business operations. Although there are many complexities involved in achieving this goal, creating a positive corporate work culture through the offering of unique and desirable job perks has proven successful for many companies. With the proper selection of incentives, individuals within the workforce are more likely to feel part of a larger team and appreciated for their contribution to the common goals of the organization. As a result, human resource personnel will find it easier to both attract and retain necessary talent. Of course, salary increases and bonuses are welcomed by nearly all employees. But going beyond that to find more unique and impactful benefits or perks targeted to a particular workforce requires benefit planners to understand the demographics and needs of their employees. An easy way to discover the priorities and interests of employees is simply to ask them through one-on-one interviews, group meetings or surveys. An engaged workforce is a more productive workforce. Perks that create motivation among employees will reduce turnover and help increase productivity. Here are a few ideas for “cool” perks that have been successfully utilized by companies: Occasional “free food” or “snack giveaways An elimination of official work hours In-Office professional training programs Family-focused benefits Onsite health services Childcare discounts or on-site childcare facilities Surprise days off Financial wellness programs Continuing education programs Student loan assistance New baby bonuses Fertility assistance Private Lactation facilities Give back programs Office parties Pet focused benefits Personalized appreciation notes Work anniversary celebrations Welcome packages for new employees