Women's Health Digest E-magazine

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CANCER TOPICS

BALANCE & LONGEVITY

KUDOS TO THE "ENDOFOUND" PATIENT SYMPOSIUM:March 3-4, 2024
A special congratulations goes to the Endometriosis Foundation for launching their 15th Annual Patient Symposium - a fantastic event in support of sufferers and survivors of endometriosis! Every year, the Endometriosis Foundation of America hosts a patient conference designed to equip patients with all the tools and information they need to live their best lives with endometriosis. This event covered a weekend of powerful expert panels and patient discussions on the science and management of endometriosis including Medical leaders like Dr. Dan Martin (EndoFound Medical Director) & Dr. Tamer Seckin (Founder/president). Session Topics included: Menopause & Endo: Hormonal and Non-Hormonal Approaches, Hysterectomy: When it Works and When it Doesn't, Debunking Endometriosis Myths Talking to Your Employer about Endo: How to Request Reasonable Accommodations, Surgery-first or IVF-first for Embryo Banking & Egg-Freezing, Inflammation & Food as Medicine and so much more! Learn about new research for future patient care (Panel Discussion), Providers with Endometriosis: Advocating for Change from Within (Panel Discussion) and the ENPOWR Program Update: Adolescent Endometriosis Education. See our photo showcase covering this event.

Also, check out the latest press release about Dr. Roberta Kline's special presentation at this symposium on THE ROLE OF GENOMICS & EPIGENETICS IN ENDOMETRIOSIS.

THE 2024 ENDOMETRIOSIS RESOURCE GUIDE (download now)
Dr. Roberta Kline, women's health and genomics specialist presents this supplemental workbook from her presentation at the 15th Annual Endometriosis Foundation Patient Conference in NYC. "To address endometriosis more effectively, we first need to understand what causes it. And it turns out it's not so simple. Endometriosis is a complex disease, which means that there is no single cause and no single answer. What's exciting is that genetic expression research is providing many clues, opening up new opportunities for better diagnostics, earlier detection, and more effective treatments because they're addressing the root causes. While you can’t change your genes, you CAN influence how they get expressed and thus affect your health. In this Endometriosis Resource Guide, you’ll learn simple strategies to optimize your body’s own biology. It’s a powerful tool to help you regain some control back from a disease that all too often feels like it’s controlling you".

CANCER ADVOCACY NEWS

HONORING HEWLETT HOUSE & GERI BARISH- WINNER OF "THE CATS PAJAMAS AWARD"!
An inspiration to countless cancer advocates, Long Island's own Geri Barish shares her uncompromising passion for her life’s work in patient support. As co-founder of Hewlett House, Ms. Barish established a well-loved community learning resource center for cancer patients and their families. She and her staff have been serving the local community for over 28 years and have served tens of thousands of cancer patients and their families. "We started out as breast cancer support, but today Hewlett House services all kinds of cancer patients. We see men, women, children and we have served over 37,000 people since we opened our doors. All services are free and we work with all hospitals."

"EARLIER DETECTION"- REACHING A GENERATION IN CRISIS
Allie Federlein (23) belongs to the graduate-level age group that continues to witness the increasing numbers of breast cancer cases in our country. She alongside the women in this generation also happens to be the next group that falls prey to being UNDERDIAGNOSED. Insurance companies and the medical community have made little or no action to support or identify the need for women in their 20's and 30's to be approved for standardized early detection / breast cancer screening. Starting in January, 2024, Ms. Fiederlein and the Women's Health Digest will launch a national outreach to connect with women's cancer groups to promote a collaborative message called "EARLIER DETECTION". This awareness project will promote screenings for breast cancer for ages 20-39 (an underserved group). This educational program also offers resources for younger women who may be at risk of getting cancer.

27y/o Advanced Breast Cancer Victim Survived by Her Own WITS... Despite MISDIAGNOSES! "In 2015, I was diagnosed with a stage three breast cancer on my right breast. It was a triple negative. All my doctors said I was way too young for it to be cancer- and they told me I shouldn't be concerned at all! My intuition says to keep digging for answers and keep getting checked up... If I didn't, I wouldn't be here today! This was an aggressive kind of cancer!" Jamie Butera shares her journey to persevering getting checked to save her own life- 'demanding' the right screening and tests! "Be your own advocate, get the answers you deserve... if I didn't seek answers when I did, I would only have had 2 months to live!"

HEADLINER: The REAL Cause and Effect of ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS - By: Dr. Roberta Kline | Source: ECOSMART NEWS Vol 2-2024
The reality is that we are exposed to numerous toxins over the course of our lives – starting even before birth. Over the last 50 years, more than 87,000 chemicals have been approved for commercial use. Yet only about 1% (about 1,000 chemicals) have been actually evaluated for health risk. Half of those have been found to have some risk of causing cancer by the WHO: 120 as known carcinogens, 81 as probably carcinogens, and 299 as possible carcinogens. Here in the U.S. we have lagged behind. To date, the EPA has only banned 9 chemicals, and the National Toxicology Program has identified 27 chemical substances as carcinogens. Clearly, there is much more work to do.

MAKING OF THE MUSICFEST / MUSICIANS FOR CANCER CAUSES:
An interview with Joe Cappello (Co-founder of the Are You Dense? Foundation) The concept of the Musicfest is an event that we started producing 15 years ago as a fundraiser to support the Are You Dense? mission. For many years, we have done legislative work while bringing awareness and education to the public about the cancer concerns linked to Dense Breast Tissue. The musicfest was our largest finance producer and we need it every year. It's very exciting to have bands from all over the country come in to perform-- both well-known and not-so well-known groups. Many organizations fundraise through golf club outings and things like that. We thought to do better- by bringing families together under one roof for a memorable night of "joyful noise". As a musician myself, I found beauty in bringing people together with music. (see complete feature)

MEET OUR LATEST FRIENDS & ALLIES SUPPORTING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
We welcome some of the greatest champions in breast cancer advocacy to our WOMEN'S HEALTH COLLABORATIVE. Click their logos to learn more about their special commitment to the community. (Cancer orgs listed in alphabetical order)

LEARN ABOUT OUR FRIENDS & ALLIES IN CANCER CARE

American Breast Cancer Foundation is driven by a mission to make early detection tests that save thousands of lives each year available to those uninsured and underserved individuals who have no other means of access, while transcending age and gender barriers. By providing grants for these tests through the Breast Cancer Assistance Program (BCAP), the goal of ABCF is to improve the chance of ruling out breast cancer or the diagnosis of the disease at an early stage, enhancing successful treatment and increasing survivorship. The Community Partnership and Advocacy Programs have been instrumental in linking patients with facilities, assistance, and support. ABCF takes great pride in the positive impact we make on the countless lives of the people we serve.. www.abcf.org

EBeauty’s mission is to enhance and strengthen the education, charitable, and community support network for women undergoing cancer treatments. EBeauty works to improve the quality of life of women undergoing chemotherapy treatments through the implementation of its Wig Exchange Program and Hospital Partnership Program. Their primary goal is to provide all women, regardless of economic status or geographic location, access to wigs. Operating through an expanding hospital network, as well as through an online platform, EBeauty is able to serve women on a national level. Over the last 12 years over 70,000 women and their families have received and/or given wigs through the Wig Exchange Program, in which women who have completed cancer treatment donate their used wigs, which are then refurbished and distributed free of charge to women newly undergoing treatment. Through the Hospital Partnership Program, EBeauty provides wigs directly to the hospital to distribute them to their patients on-site. Today, EBeauty runs the only national wig exchange program in the United States supporting women undergoing treatment for cancer. Hair loss may add emotional strain and compromise confidence for women already struggling physically. More than a hairpiece, these wigs can transform the outlook for women in crisis and can provide them with a regained sense of identity. www.ebeauty.com

LATINA SISTERS SUPPORT INC: Our mission is to eEducate, encourage, empathize, and empower our Hispanic / Latina sisters and their families faced with breast cancer diagnosis, and survivorship, and risk reduction. By providing workshops, medical support, professional support, community awareness events, and shared individual testimonies, we engage our sisters, and serve as a living portrait of hope. A woman lifted by others is stronger than a woman who stands alone.
Latina Sisters Support is Long Island’s sole organization that promotes breast cancer and other
types of cancer awareness and access to care within the Latina community. As a sisterhood of
cancer survivors, we advocate for our Latina sisters and work to eliminate barriers to healthcare
access through our Latina Access to Cancer Care Program. The program educates the Latina community about their risks for breast cancer and connects them with the appropriate screenings and resources to reduce that risk. Latina Sisters Support is an extended family please contact us 6319840640, visit our facebook page, Instagram and our website https://latinasisterssupport.org/who-we-are/ Together we are stronger and help more ladies with cancer and families.

OjaiCARES is a 501c3 non-profit and the only community-based organization that provides comprehensive cancer support services to people in the Ojai Valley touched by cancer as well as their family and caregivers since 2013. All services are non-medical and include patient navigation, patient advocacy, counseling, support groups, oncology massage, Reiki, guided imagery, acupuncture, lymphatic drainage, and outreach to the Hispanic community through our Promotora program. No matter where a patient is in their cancer journey, the first step is to become more informed and feel more empowered to adjust to their diagnosis. Ideally, the patient will face cancer with the support of many friends, loved ones and compassionate caregivers. Too often, however, people experience cancer in isolation without financial or emotional support and few resources at their disposal. Increasing information and psycho-social care, while reducing miscommunication, vulnerability and, therefore, stress, have been shown to improve the outcomes of an individual with a cancer diagnosis. Therefore, no matter what the circumstances or where one is along the path of their cancer journey, having good skills to negotiate and communicate one’s needs are critical for self-advocacy. We aim to provide these. Learn more about Twisted Pink at www.ojaicares.org

For the past 24 years, BREAST CANCER ANGELS has been raising funds through events, corporate funding, and our Angel Dues Program, where each month, donors send in a recurring monthly fee that allows us to carry out our mission. Donations given to Breast Cancer Angels are directed to cover the basic needs of patients under our care; we assist with paying utilities, partial rent, groceries, transportation, medical assistance, childcare, house cleaning, car payments, and more. We currently are supporting 140 individuals each month. Breast Cancer Angels (BCA) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit whose mission is to provide financial and emotional security for people undergoing breast cancer treatment, allowing them to focus on healing. Our vision is that no one will ever have to choose between paying for treatment or getting groceries for their family, and we take steps to ensure they don't have to. If you would like to support BCA with an event or fundraiser, volunteer, or want to learn more about us, please call the office at 714-898-8900. You may also go to our webpage www.breastcancerangels.org

TWISTED PINK is a non-profit organization based in Louisville, KY with a mission to provide hope and connection to people living with metastatic (stage IV) breast cancer by funding bold breakthroughs in research and awareness of the disease. Our programs consist of education on topics of prevention, treatment, research, and living beyond a diagnosis of breast cancer at any stage. In collaboration with the United Breast Cancer Foundation, we offer a Box of Hope filled with resources and health and beauty items. Each box is carefully packaged by our volunteers, many of whom are breast cancer survivors or thrivers themselves. People in active treatment for breast cancer can receive a Box for Free and survivors are welcome to request one by paying $20 for S&H. Learn more about Twisted Pink at www.twistedpink.org

THE DENSE BREAST PARADIGM
Another panelist of the November 2023 Cancer Powermeet was Joe Cappello(L) of the "Are You Dense" Foundation, who was astonished at how Nancy fully-related to his awareness mission about Dense Breasts and its links to cancer. "I actually have dense breasts", starts Nancy. "...and nobody has done a thing about it any different than the old fashioned mammogram. And every time I go in there and I say, "but wait a minute, what about sonogram?"... and they act like this is such an odd request. I'm very interested in this subject and I'd like to help you educate more women about this and what's available to them. I believe they can push for the same kind of techniques that we should all be having. I do worry about it because I've been following Dr. (Robert) Bard's work and that's a concern to me. And probably many of the women that I deal with-- 40% post-menopausal women, sign us up! My ultimate job is to educate people and give them opportunities and possibilities other than the leftovers that we've been doing for so long."

From PinkSmart News

THE RISK OF BREAST CANCER STARTS EARLIER THAN 40

The medical community has identified over 5% of all breast cancer cases occur in women over 20 and under the age of 40. The increased risk for breast cancer in dense tissue also exists and is identified by the medical community. "In order to catch cancer, you need to be able to detect it at an early stage so we can treat patients with the most effective mechanisms. Ultrasounds are an easy, cost-effective method for screening for early breast cancers, especially in women below the age of 45, who are likely to have dense breasts. When you are young and premenopausal your breasts are dense and we know that breast density is linked to cancer and which also makes it harder for cancers to be seen on a mammogram. Although breast cancer is rare in women under the age of 40, early detection is key. Public health campaigns are spending so much money on mammograms for this population of women who can easily and cost effectively be screened using an ultrasound." - By: Noelle Cutter, PhD (See full feature)

Epigenetic Research Notes: Profiling the Dense Breast Paradigm (part 1) Coursework written by: Dr. Roberta Kline

LINKING DENSE BREAST WITH BREAST CANCER
We have known for a very long time that there is an increased risk of breast cancer for women who have dense breasts. Until recently, the research has been lagging in terms of what's the molecular mechanism, why do dense breasts present an increased risk of breast cancer? Without this knowledge, we can’t address the root causes, and are left with a lot of trial and error based on incomplete understanding. It's very encouraging to know that currently there are 124 clinical trials ongoing looking at dense breasts and the relationship with breast cancer, anywhere from improved diagnostics, to treatment, to prevention, and, what’s close to my heart, to understanding the molecular mechanisms - what's happening at the cell level, at the genetic level that is causing different women to have an elevated risk of breast cancer. (see feature)

Report 2: GENE EXPRESSION - THE NEXT SCIENTIFIC VENTURE
Gene expression is the final result of many systems interacting with each other. Now while alterations in DNA such as genetic SNPs and mutations are the best study, epigenetic changes are emerging as very important regulators, and both of these interact with the exosome or the sum total of all environmental exposures over a person's lifetime. These interactions are multi-directional. The exosome influences epigenetic changes. DNA affects how we respond to the exosome as well as our ability to create these epigenetic changes. And then the resulting genetic expression provides yet another feedback loop to influence all of these systems. Epigenetics literally means above the genome and it's our body's way of adapting to environmental cues without changing the actual DNA code. There are three main ways in which this occurs. There's methylation of DNA modification of histones, and then non-coding RNA. (from the Intl. Cancer Research Summit 2023@ Multi-Expert Presentation Panel)

THE ENDO SPACE

In the spirit of Endometriosis Awareness Month (March 2024), the Women's Health Collaborative is proud to introduce our brand new "Endo Section"- comprised of the latest events, news, patient articles and clinical feature coverage. We welcome contributors in support of public awareness and education about this highly complex health issue continuing to plague women today.

Also, check out the latest press release about Dr. Roberta Kline's special presentation at this symposium on THE ROLE OF GENOMICS & EPIGENETICS IN ENDOMETRIOSIS.

	REDEFINING TERMINOLOGY IN ENDOMETRIOSIS By Dr. Tamar Zelovich 2/2024- Diagnosing endometriosis is challenging, with an average delay of approximately 12 years. A definitive diagnosis requires laparoscopic surgery and a biopsy of endometrial tissues. Endo’, being a multisystem disease, manifests in diverse symptoms such as severe pain during menstruation and/or ovulation, chronic pelvic pain, lower back pain, pain during intercourse, dyspareunia, various digestive and urination issues, infertility, etc. Meanwhile, it is now clear that the existing classification system fails to correlate with the intensity of pain experienced and provides a great disservice to women, researchers, and clinicians. To rectify this, our top priority should be to redefine the terminology in endometriosis. (See complete feature)

	EVENT NEWS: FORMER OBGYN, NOW A CLINICAL RESEARCHER AND EDUCATOR, TO "UNLOCK THE MYSTERY OF GENES" AT ENDOFOUND PATIENT DAY- Roberta Kline, MD, a researcher, educator, and passionate advocate for women’s health, will explain how in her presentation, “Unlocking the Mystery of Your Genes: The Role of Genomics and Epigenetics in Endometriosis,” at the 15th Annual Endometriosis Foundation of America (EndoFound) Patient Symposium on March 2 and 3 in New York City. “Most people know that endometriosis is linked to hormones, but there are a lot of other biological systems involved,” Dr. Kline said. “I plan to give an introduction to the role of genetics beyond mutations, an overview in layman’s terms of what that science looks like, and what simple strategies women can implement in their lives to potentially improve their health.” (See complete feature) Also see information on the 15th Annual Patient Symposium: ENDOMETRIOSIS 2024, NYC- TOGETHER FOR TOMORROW. (3/2-3/3 2024.

	INFORMATIONAL FEATURE: ENDOMETRIOSIS 2023 FROM ESSENTIALS, ADVANCEMENTS TO FIELD REVIEWS - To address endometriosis more effectively, we first need to understand what causes it. And it turns out it's not so simple. Endometriosis is a complex disease, which means that there is no single cause and no single answer. It is well known that endometriosis is very much linked to hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone. Gene expression research is providing many clues about other biological systems that contribute to endometriosis. These include inflammation and oxidative stress, processing of toxins – including chemicals called endocrine disruptors, blood vessels, and even repair of our DNA. While this can seem overwhelming , it’s also opening up new opportunities for better diagnostics, earlier detection, and more effective treatments by addressing the root causes. (see complete feature)

	ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSTICS OF ENDOMETRIOMA - By: Dr. Robert L. Bard Endometriosis starts in the endometrium with abnormal cellular proliferation. Through the use of 3D Ultrasound, this disorder can be measured through the monitoring of the widening or the increased tissue in the endometrium. Another form of quantitative measure is by the study of blood flow in the endometrium. Its ability to spread can be recognized by the number of vessels in the active tissue. The big problem with staging endometriosis (or endometriomas) are the cysts that follow it. Because of its capacity to spread in most areas of the body, a strategic protocol for clinical management is to conduct IMAGE GUIDED treatments, whereby use of real-time scanning of or during therapeutic process helps navigate the focus the treatment area. Imaging solutions include CT (which has radiation), MRI, or the 3D Doppler ultrasound. (See full feature)

	LIVING WITH ENDOMETRIOSIS: From an interview with MJ Smith \| My personal and professional missions are both in women's health. By day, I work for a breast AI company focused on helping radiologists find breast cancers on mammograms. I chose this path because I believe in advancing causes that support women's health simply because women are core members of our culture and our families. I have had two family members, both maternal aunts, who died of breast cancer, - one at the age of 36, and an the other at the age of 52. Advocacy for Endometriosis is directly related to my personal journey. Growing up with endometriosis since puberty, I've been to the emergency department probably over 20 times for pain or pelvic pain related conditions. The pain had me flat on my back for days at a time or falling out of bed with pain. I drove myself to a Planned Parenthood in Minnesota where I grew up and was prescribed birth control to manage it well into my twenties. Despite the hormonal treatments, I still had a series of episodes. (see full feature)

WE ARE THE WOMEN'S HEALTH COLLABORATIVE

From the publishers of THE WELLNESS JOURNAL and the WOMEN'S DIAGNOSTIC NETWORK NEWS comes a consortium of IPHA'S top professional contributors in women's health & wellness advocacy. Subscribe to our latest community E-news forum and get the insiders news on pain therapeutics, diagnostics and lifestyle upgrades.

Get the latest feeds! FOLLOW US ON OUR LINKEDIN PAGE- and subscribe to the Women's Health Newsletter! We welcome special guest contributors from all modalities of healing - from practitioners, product innovators and researchers. Also, gain valuable insight from success stories of real people and their experience with WHAT WORKED for them! Check back with us soon to get front row access to our latest headlines.

Meet the COLLABORATIVE and our recently elected resource advisory board members! We are an all-volunteer self-funded (Linkedin Based) group of educators, advocates and resources in support of the many top health issues of women. Our clinical professionals, researchers and community leaders are joined under the spirit of collaboration and partnership. In October of 2023, our editorial community recently expanded our professional network to bring forth the next generation of visionaries, outreach efforts and resources for Women's Health (including women's cancers and longevity programs) within the Women's Health Digest e-magazine dedicated to public awareness, news and educational information "by women- for women's health"! (visit our WHD Linkedin page & newsletter | www.FightRecurrence.com | Balance & Longevity Health Journal

“It is incredibly important for Cancer Support Community Greater NY & CT at Gilda’s Club (formerly Gilda’s Club Westchester) to collaborate with community partners to empower cancer patients and their families. Opportunities to join with other cancer-focused individuals and organizations, such as those provided by the NYCRA Powermeet virtual conferences, enable us to learn from one another, consider new ways to advocate for those impacted by cancer, and join forces to launch important initiatives.” - Ms. Debbie Vincent, Director of Outreach and Clinical Partnerships

Our primary members include: recently elected L-R (1)Executive Director, Dr. LESLIE VALLE-MONTOYA (Sta Barbara, CA), the group is a much expanded platform that started from the NY Cancer Resource Alliance. Also recently elected in the executive board is (2) Dr. NOELLE CUTTER, Clinical Researcher for Women's Cancers & Cold Spring Harbor Labs + Associate Professor at Molloy University. Chief Clinical Advisor of Women's Disorders is (3) DR. ROBERTA KLINE, OB-GYN / Genomics Specialist & Publisher of Women's Health Digest. ICRS is an all-volunteer self-funded (Linkedin Based) independent volunteer group of non-profit foundations/charities, clinical professionals, researchers and community leaders joined under the spirit of collaboration and partnership. In October of 2023, ICRS executive leaders recently expanded the editorial team of the Women's Health e-magazine with MARILYN ABRAHAMSON (brain training/health specialist and award-winning wellness writer). Other honored contributors are featured in our role models spotlight section or feature news including: NANCY NOVACK (Nancy's List), MARY NIELSEN (Psilocybin, Nutrition) and ALEXANDRA FIEDERLEIN (Dense Breast/Underserved Age for early detection).

INSPIRING OUR COMMUNITY "TO BE THE VERY BEST IT CAN BE" - From an interview by: Nancy Novack

I am a survivor of 20 years of stage four ovarian cancer. I knew nothing about cancer at that time, and just was complaining of what I thought was an appendicitis attack. (Of course) that didn't turn out that way. I was swept away to Stanford where I was treated pretty traditionally by a wonderful man whom I have a tremendous amount of respect and trust in- and I haven't had a recurrence in 20 years. I love being Stanford's poster poster child, but I think in the process I learned a great deal about the psychology (which I'm a psychologist) of cancer. I don't have the medical knowledge, but I certainly understand the psychology within my work with so many cancer patients.

As it turned out, I spent a great deal of time in the infusion room with a ton of chemo. Because I'm a psychologist, I tend to ask a lot of questions and started talking to everybody in the room about what their experience was. I call it immediate intimacy that you have with another cancer patient. All of a sudden you cut through everything and you're everybody's best friend, and what I was struck by was the amount of fear that went into (not about dying, but) the fact that they didn't have enough money to have cancer. And that they feared that if they told their doctors they wouldn't be treated if they told their doctors that they couldn't afford their medications- and instead put food on the table for their families, they would be dismissed. So many stories of people telling me deep pain that they were suffering and a lot of stress about the money. (see complete feature)

The Science of Energy Healing
by: Roberta Kline, MD
Energetic healing has been practiced by many cultures and in many forms over the centuries. While mainstream medicine has embraced some forms of energetic modalities, by and large it has viewed most as “alternative” and “non-science based”. This is slowly changing as the science is catching up to be able to explain this ancient practice. The term "energy medicine" has been in general use since the founding of the International Society for the Study of Subtle Energies and Energy Medicine in the 1980s. Energy medicine often proposes that imbalances in the body's "energy field" result in illness, and that by re-balancing the body's energy-field health can be restored. Some modalities are described to "bring balance to the body's overall wellness", while others bring claims of addressing pain, detoxing, cell regeneration or improve overall energy. (see complete article)

Nutrition & the Skin: Choosing the Path of a Certified Nutritionist
By: Mary Nielsen
The skin performs incredibly complex and vital functions for survival. It’s the first line of defense in protecting the body from infection, allergens, and irritants. Secretions of sebum keep the skin soft, supple, moisturized and hydrated. Touch receptors affect our ability to feel pressure, pain and pleasure. The skin’s surface absorbs whatever is applied to it and an exchange of oxygen occurs through the superficial capillaries of the circulatory system. The skin also synthesizes Vitamin D through the absorption of ultraviolet light.

SCIENCE FEATURES

Have You Heard of the Term "YOUR SECOND BRAIN"? A Mini-Review of the Gut-Brain Axis: By Leslie Valle, MD
To heal from chronic conditions, it is essential to approach the gut-brain axis as an integral system. Some of us don’t know that most of the symptoms we suffer can be reversed by resetting our gut. Brain fog, fatigue, mental health issues, mood swings, inflammation, short-term memory loss, neurodegenerative diseases, and cognition can result from an imbalance in our gut microbiome (gut bacteria). The two-way biochemical communication that takes place between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system, the gut-brain axis (GBA), is influenced by microbiota. For example, during a stressful event or exciting short-term event one might experience cramping, nausea, or even diarrhea. This second brain (our gut), composed by immune, endocrine, and neuronal components, will alert when an imbalance (dysbiosis) in the gut microbiome has been identified. Constant microbiota fluctuations change our gastro intestinal terrain, and influence our judgment and well-being. For example, when our good bacteria are out of proportion with the bad bacteria in our gut, there is no production of anti-inflammatory antioxidants to help the body get over trauma. Thus, bad bacteria begin to flourish, releasing toxins and increasing inflammatory responses in our body which can circulate back through our blood and back to our brains. (see full feature)

Addressing Long Haul Symptoms with Integrative Naturopathic Care
By: Dr. Jennifer Stagg
Over the last couple of years, obviously with the amount of Covid-19 infection that we've seen in the United States, all practitioners can expect to see patients Long Covid. More are having BRAIN FOG, some have cognitive issues at times, some issues with memory and others claim to have mood changes. We can identify depression and anxiety from Long Covid - but may have had preexisting or mental health diagnoses but Covid made it much worse afterwards. Or for people who never had any problems before, we can see a new presentation of depression or anxiety or chronic fatigue. And then there's more focused cases like lung issues, extended chronic coughs, loss of smell and taste. (see full article)

Brain Healh Review: Post-Covid Brain Fog vs Work Performance
By: Marilyn Abrahamson, MA,CCC-SLP - CBHC
For some, Post-Covid brain fog can cause everyday cognitive tasks to be more difficult, causing the thought of returning to work to become daunting. Among the many symptoms of Long Covid, one study suggests that up to 80% of Covid-19 survivors suffer from neuropsychological symptoms such as memory impairment, attention deficit, executive dysfunction, difficulty with word finding, multitasking, and impaired visual/spatial skills. These are skills people need to properly perform their jobs, and without these skills, people can become overwhelmed by the smallest tasks. (see full article)

CANCER NEWS

Linking Dense Breast Tissue with Breast Cancer
We have known for a very long time that there is an increased risk of breast cancer for women who have dense breasts. Until recently, the research has been lagging in terms of what's the molecular mechanism, why do dense breasts present an increased risk of breast cancer? Without this knowledge, we can’t address the root causes, and are left with a lot of trial and error based on incomplete understanding. It's very encouraging to know that currently there are 124 clinical trials ongoing looking at dense breasts and the relationship with breast cancer, anywhere from improved diagnostics, to treatment, to prevention, and, what’s close to my heart, to understanding the molecular mechanisms - what's happening at the cell level, at the genetic level that is causing different women to have an elevated risk of breast cancer. One of the striking features that we're learning about dense breasts and what is creating that density is the microenvironment, which means the environment in the supporting tissue surrounding the glands. This includes fibroblasts and collagen. It seems that rather than estrogen being the dominant factor, it is inflammation that is creating the increased density of breast tissue. (See complete issue)

Advancement in Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer
By: Dr. Robert L. Bard
According to the Society for Women's Health Research, Over 20,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year in the United States and women have a 92% chance of surviving for five years post-diagnosis. However, more than three-fourths of women are not diagnosed until later stages." [1] Abnormal ovaries are often benign simple cysts, however the complex cysts are classifiable with the new ultrasound scoring system as to how suspicious they may be. The same way we detect prostate tumors by routine yearly ultrasound screening in high risk patients, we could save many lives because sometimes the first sign of ovarian cancer is a gland in the neck that pops up, a mass under the arm or jaundice because the liver is filled with metastatic tumor. (See the latest report)


Nurse DEBI CAVOLO shares some of the top health disorders in women based on her research and professional experience!	"Putting ourselves first is not a luxury- but a health and wellness necessity!" states DR. ARTEMIS MORRIS, Naturopathic Physician.	DR. OSAMA KANDALAFT addresses the evolution in the medical community about underserved communities (including women).

8/28/2023 - THE LEGACY OF DR. NANCY CAPPELLO
In 2014, Imaging Technology News (ITN) introduced breast cancer survivor-turned-crusader Dr. Nancy Cappello and her story about having dense breast tissue leading to a late-stage cancer. A false negative mammography scan (diagnosed in 2004) concealed a large 2.5 cm suspicious lesion, which was later confirmed to be stage 3c breast cancer. Dr. Cappello created the "Are You Dense?" Foundation to better support dense breast diagnostics and to pass legislation and laws requiring mammography centers to inform patients about their breast density and the associated cancer risks. Dr. Cappello passed away on Nov 15, 2018, from secondary myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a bone marrow cancer that was a complication of her prior aggressive breast cancer treatments. Her legacy continues to help address this health crisis that puts the est. 40% of the female population (women with dense breasts) at risk of a false negative readings.. (See complete press release)

Why support a Diagnostic-Based Network?
Though our professional group is certainly about a wide range of health resources and the collaboration of all types of professionals working on women's issues, a DIAGNOSTIC-based collective ensures a patient-dedicated road map and a more thoughtful health analysis and research-based evaluation. It is this commitment to a deeper sense of examination of the patient that lends itself to a more holistic and integrative strategy to therapeutics. It is also this philosophy that draws more intuitive and insightful clinicians to collaborate and share insights on a patient's disorder with compassion and genuine care. (See "The Future in Personalized Medicine")

THE FIRST TRULY INTEGRATIVE PROGRAM FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH!
With the latest in NON-INVASIVE, real-time diagnostic solutions and clinical educators, we have united with other clinical experts to cover an even wider set of supportive services for women in areas of Prevention and Early Detection screenings alongside a comprehensive analysis of major Chronic Health Disorders.

An Alliance of Caring Experts
Having access to the latest in compassionate experts and innovative diagnostic solutions for women is the first step to maintaining good health. Our alliance unites collaborative minds about the latest solutions from a wide range of modalities to offer optimum choices for all patients. Together, we provide expansive research and info-sharing about all clinical options and protocols as well as testimonials and clinical viewpoints from active professionals in the field.

DISORDERS & SYMPTOMS
• Breast Cancer
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Diabetes (Symptoms)
• Endometriosis
• Incontinence (Stress/ Urge)
• Inflammatory Skin Disease
• Melanoma/Skin Cancer
• Migraines (chronic / acute)
• Myocarditis / Heart Disease
• Postpartum issues*
• Stroke/Temporal Arteritis

DIAGNOSTIC PROGRAMS
• Early Detection/Mammography
• CardioVascular Imaging
• Post-Covid Scanning
• Pre & Post Operative Scans
• Genetic Testing
• Aesthetic safety screening-
(Skin and Scalp Analysis)

THERAPEUTICS
• Pulsed Electromagnetic Stimulation
• Scar maintenance / removal
• Genetic Counseling*
• Nutraceutical Counseling*

The Women’s Diagnostic Network is a public informational resource backed by the Integrative Pain Healers' Alliance and the AngioFoundation. We are comprised of an all-volunteer collective of independent clinical experts, medical researchers and educators in specialized areas of clinical study. We support all areas of women's health interests including (but not limited to) CANCER CARE, ONCOLOGY, GYNECOLOGY, PHYSIATRY, DERMATOLOGY, NEUROLOGY, CARDIOLOGY & MENTAL HEALTH. Through clinical and academic collaboration, we unite to support improved patient evaluation, reporting on innovations and comprehensive diagnostic care.

For more information, contact us today at: 631.920.5757

Heart Disease is the #1 Killer of Women
According to the CDC, despite an increase in awareness over the past decades, only about half (56%) of women recognize that heart disease is their number 1 killer. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, killing 301,280 women in 2019—or about 1 in every 5 female deaths. We unite a network of clinical researchers, women's advocates and support groups to promote educational awareness about this national health alert.

Innovations in Stress Incontinence:
Anywhere from 26-40% of women are recorded to suffer from incontinence. Therapeutic experts and innovators find that the vast majority not know that there are treatment options and they resign themselves to a life of pads or diapers (and emotional challenges). A united alliance of global experts share valuable information about the current state of solutions about the various types of incontinence- including postpartum/stress incontinence. (see our feature article)

Reducing False Negative Readings of Cancer-Linked Dense Breasts
The medical community is now recognizing the link between dense breast tissue to the risk of breast cancer. This tissue type shows as a white cloud on a mammogram, cloaking a white tumor on a mammogram. As mammography prevails as the standard early detection screening test for breast cancer, the need for SUPPLEMENTAL SCANNING (with devices like an ultrasound) offers supportive detection of potential tumors that may be concealed by dense breast tissue under a mammogram. (see our feature article)

Diagnosing Female Incontinence through Imaging (4.5min)
A diagnosis is defined as the process of accurately and quantitatively determining health status, disorder or a diseased condition. One of various diagnostic options in modern medical science is through the use of imaging. Though this video narrated by Dr. Bard (resident imaging interpretation expert), we are able to visualize and better understand the physiology of Stress Incontinence- a popular postpartum disorder in women.

Additional material on this topic are available in Dr. Bobbi Kline's feature on "Health & Healing 101"

Editorial Feature: UNDERDIAGNOSED WOMEN (4.5min)
Historically, there is substantial evidence of gross disregard and dismissive response on the part of the medical establishment in the way women have been diagnosed. Critics have speculated everything from professional carelessness to blatant sexism (and other forms of discrimination) to a lack of updated education in current research. This compelling report starts with the landmark story of the legendary comedienne, Gilda Radner who died of ovarian cancer remission in 1989, then to the treatment complications of Nancy Cappello whose false negative mammography reports led to a fatal, late stage breast cancer(2018). Their stories remain as life-saving references about early detection. (see complete article)

FREE LIMITED ACCESS: "PELVIC FLOOR ULTRASOUND"- by Dr. Hans Peter Dietz

What can Pelvic Floor Ultrasound do for the clinician?
Ultrasound has been used in the investigation of pelvic floor disorders since the 1980’s, not that long after its introduction into other gynaecological subspecialties such as Reproductive Endocrinology and Gyn. Oncology. Progress in our field however has been much slower, and this deserves comment. Delays in the uptake of the new modality were partly due to the relative immaturity of urogynecology as a subspecialty, partly due to the fundamentally different way in which ultrasound was utilised in clinical practice.

The WOMEN'S DIAGNOSTIC NETWORK proudly offers 1 FREE DOWNLOAD/access to Dr. Hans Peter Dietz's PELVIC FLOOR ULTRASOUND: Atlas & Textbook. First published in 2016 by HP Dietz MD, PhD FRANZCOG DDU CU (Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaeoclogy/NSW Australia) - click to access

Three Staging Options for Advanced Digital Breast Imaging
Advanced sonogram technology provides accurate use of sound waves to produce real-time images of the inside of the body. It is used as a complement to find anomalies and help diagnose the causes of pain, swelling and infection in the body’s internal organs while allowing the diagnostician the ability to zoom and ‘travel’ deep into the body for maximum exploration. Digital Imaging technology is also used to help guide biopsies and in many cases, even replicate much of the same reports of a clinical invasive biopsy. Imaging solutions such as high-powered Sonograms, Spectral Doppler, sonofluoroscopy, 3D/4D Image Reconstruction and the Spectral Doppler are safe, noninvasive, and does not use ionizing radiation. They also have the ability to provide early detection scans. ** Three STAGING OPTIONS are available depending on the patient’s current needs- to be discussed with practitioner prior to or during examination.

Option 1	Option 2	Option 3
BREAST only Typically performed for patients either self-identifying anomalies (bumps) for the first time and/or are seeking a second opinion + may have a family history of breast cancer (or other related cancers related to the breast)	BREAST & AXILLAE This option scans the breast and the shoulder through which vessels and nerves enter and leave the upper arm; a person's armpit. This option is recommended for anyone who may be currently Undergoing cancer treatment... also anyone who has recently (prior to 5 years) undergone a mastectomy since it detects unsuspected metastatic disease	BREAST, DUCTS & LYMPH NODES For a patient who is at high risk for developing a cancer or requires advanced confirmation of a current tumor treatment protocol since the 3D/4D computer analysis verifies the success of the therapy in a quantitative analysis by the unique Doppler histogram technology
Technology applied:  SONOGRAM	Technology applied:  SONOGRAM  SPECTRAL DOPPLER	Technology applied:  SONOGRAM-HIGH RESOLUTION  SONOFLUOROSCOPY  3D/4D IMAGE RECONSTRUCTION  SPECTRAL DOPPLER
• SONOGRAM: Seek subdermal masses, breast lumps, tumor growths, fluid-filled cysts, nodes or hematoma. Sonography can be performed in multiple scan planes with real time 3-D image analysis with power and spectral Doppler flows. • SONOFLUOROSCOPY: of intra/subdermal soft tissues is to be performed in multiple scan planes with varying transducer frequencies. • 3D/4D IMAGE RECONSTRUCTION: For any lesions that are homogeneous echogenic and well marginated on 3D and 4D computer histogram analysis. • SPECTRAL DOPPLER: Search for hyperemia of any lesions. Power Doppler will show normal flows in the adjacent arteries/veins. Spectral flows will show normal tri-phasic waveforms. Search for any peripheral lesion abnormalities or focal vascularity. For more information on Advanced Digital Breast Imaging, contact us at: 212.355.7017

BREAST CANCER SCREENING REGIMEN
The current standard in screening for breast cancer is mammography. However, this imaging tool misses some breast tumors, especially in women with dense breasts. Published data suggests that sonography can play an important role in detecting tumors that mammography misses. In fact, over 94% of cancers seen only on ultrasound were invasive tumors with average size of 10 mm, and in the studies where staging was detailed, 91% were node negative, meaning it had not spread and complete cure was possible due to early detection.

Power Doppler Sonography adds increased accuracy to breast imaging evaluation over ordinary ultrasound because it shows higher blood flow speeds, often a sign of cancerous activity in the breast. Studies have shown that suspicious blood flow identified by pre-surgery Power Doppler scans corresponds very well with the size, location and aggression of actual tumors that are then surgically removed. Thus, Power Doppler brings an important clinical dimension to breast cancer detection. 3D sonography clearly shows tumor margins and 3D Doppler affords an index of cancer aggression and metastatic potential.

Breast Sonograms and Ultrasound offers the following advantages:
• Highest accuracy in dense (lumpy, cystic) breasts
• Non-invasive-no radiation exposure
• Cost effective
• Can distinguish cysts (fluid-filled masses) from cancerous tumors without needle sampling
• Ease of image guidance for breast biopsy

Women who should consider ultrasound scanning of the breast include those at risk of breast cancer because of personal or family history and the presence of fibrocystic (dense) breast tissue which increases cancer risk by 400%.

(SEE COMPLETE DETAILS)

Breast Imaging & Advanced Screening Programs
for New York Women's Groups & Organizations

LET'S UNITE IN THE FIGHT! In the spring of 2018, Bard Cancer Diagnostics (BCD) recently partnered with AWARENESS FOR A CURE and The NY Cancer Resource Alliance to join the battle against breast cancer by establishing a foundation-based Cancer Screening & Monitoring program for all members of non-profit Breast Cancer Organizations and NY-based Women's Groups. This unique program works with all major health providers to bring the most up-to-date technologies and alternative diagnostic solutions (including "2nd Opinion" reviews) and regularly scheduled monitoring and EARLY DETECTION SCANS - all at a significantly reduced rates. BCD also raffles off an Advanced Comprehensive 3/D & 4/D Diagnostic Packages for Breast, Skin and Lung Cancers for qualified organizations- a $2200 value. Inquire about our programs for Women's orgs: email bardcancercenter1@gmail.com
or call 631-920-5757. (vid1)

FAQ about Non-Invasive Sonic Technology & the Future of Cancer Biopsies

Since 1973, Dr. Bard established global recognition in the medical field through his contributions in the advancement of cancer diagnostic innovations. His special use of advanced imaging technologies are widely praised as the painless alternative and a more accurate innovation as well as a much faster solution for acquiring results over surgical biopsies. For the patient, it's a world of difference and immediate peace of mind when the 3D imaging establishes the diagnosis during the examination as you literally see the pictures in front of you in real time.

Q: How accurate is Advanced Sonography in identifying cancers? (open)

Q: Give us an example of your 4D Scan's accuracy over conventional diagnostic methods? (open)

Q: What types of cancers are most commonly captured with this technology? (open)

Q: How can digital scanning be instrumental in Early Detection? (open)

Q: What are the benefits of using the Doppler Ultrasound imaging for BREAST CANCER? (open)

Q: Why scan the lymph nodes in the axillae? (open)

Q: What are the most recent upgrades in the cancer imaging industry? (open)

Q: Can this technology be useful in other health issues and disorders? (open)

MPR-TV reports on Advanced Cancer Doppler Imaging. Meet Dr. Robert L. Bard (award-winning cancer diagnostician and expert imaging specialist) and see him break down the difference between a benign tumor and a fully-blown cancerous cell- and how using his advanced 3D and 4D Doppler technology makes all the time-saving difference in getting an accurate study.

SELF-AWARENESS IS JOB 1!

Many routine imaging procedures can assure people that they are at risk for a disease or catastrophic medical event: heart scans, virtual colonoscopies, and lung screening are a few examples of ways to encourage healthy choices (nutrition, supplements, exercise, stress management, etc.) by reinforcing them. BARD CANCER DIAGNOSTICS is founded on the commitment to explore and implement the latest diagnostic technologies as a means of building the proper treatment strategy of many types of cancers. We also specialize in PREVENTION solutions for our patients who strive to maintain a health-conscious lifestyle as well as those who are at increased risk of certain diseases (hereditary factors or environmental exposure to toxic substances) by confirming that their efforts to prevent disease are working.

COMPUTERIZED 3D DOPPLER HISTOGRAM ANALYSIS
Using state-of-the-art equipment, Dr. Bard’s practice offers unique forms of sonography to evaluate blood flow related to tumor activity and to identify areas of suspicion. More tumor vessels signifies more aggressive disease. 3D & 4D analyses are non-invasive and rapid with results available to the patient during the visit. Patients in need of reassurance and world class imaging come from all countries for cancers of the prostate, breast, skin, thyroid and melanoma.

PINK-SMART NEWS IS COMING BACK! In April of 2021, we are publishing new interviews, articles, videos and other educational must-haves for survivors, patients and the community that is breast cancer. With support from some of the top leading foundations, Pink-Smart News will be presented by some of the who's who in Oncology, Immunology, cancer radiology and other areas that support the advancement of cancer care. See archived articles from Pink-Smart News

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