Author Archives: Brooke Phillips

5 Best Foods for your Brain

Posted by Brooke Phillips on March 20, 2013 under Resources | Read the First Comment

Looking to boost your brain power? The answer may be in your grocery cart. Studies show that some powerhouse foods may boost long term and short term memory, as well as stave off dementia and alzheimer’s disease. Here are our five favorites, and the reasons why:

THINK STOCK PHOTOS

1. Walnuts

Rich in minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, b-complex vitamins and vitamin E, walnuts top our list of powerhouse brain foods. Vitamin E is a powerful brain booster, essential for maintaining the integrity of cell membranes. A recent Dutch study showed that people with the most vitamin E in their diets cut their risk of Alzheimer’s by 25 percent – and some of the best sources of vitamin E are nuts and seeds. Polyphenols in walnuts are also thought to improve communication between neurons. According to a Spanish study, People who ate a small handful of walnuts every day improved their working memory by 19 percent.

THINK STOCK PHOTOS

2. Fish

Fish are filled with vitamin D and B2, rich in calcium and phosphorus, and most importantly — they’re packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which aid healthy brain function. Loss of fatty acids EPA and DHA are linked to depression, ADHD, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Researchers have found that a protein called beta-amyloid is associated with memory problems and Alzheimer’s disease – in fact, plaques found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients are actually clumps of this substance. A study published in the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology found that people who consume omega-3 have significantly lower levels of beta-amyloid in their blood! Omega-3 fatty acids also prevent inflammation and lower blood pressure, making them essential to heart health.

THINK STOCK PHOTOS

3. Spinach

Packed with magnesium and folic acid (as well as vitamins E and K), these greens can help dilate blood vessels, boosting blood flow throughout the body and brain, according to Japanese researchers. Magnesium helps with cell repair, bone and teeth strength and muscle strength, while folic acid builds healthy red blood cells and fights heart disease. Folic Acid is also believed to protect the brain against Alzheimer’s disease and age-related memory loss. Broccoli and asparagus are also excellent sources of folic acid.

4. Blueberries

Antioxidant-rich and cholesterol-free, blueberries are tiny powerhouses of vitamin C, vitamin K and fiber. The color of blueberries is caused by a group of flavonoids called anthocyanins, which destroy free radicals – and studies indicate may help prevent cancer, heart disease, stroke and memory loss. Research suggests blueberries may also reduce the risk for Parkinson’s disease because of their anti-inflammatory powers. Red grapes, cherries and other dark berries are also great sources of anthocyanins.

Image by Abhijit Tembhekar

5. Apples

It’s true – an apple a day may keep the doctor away! Apples are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants anthocyanin and quercetin. Quercetin helps prevent LDL cholesterol from oxidizing and inhibits inflammation. Over time, inflammation in the brain can cause cognitive decline. Quercetin also helps prevent dementia by protecting the brain against neurological disorders – as well as decreases cancer risk in your lungs, colon and prostate. The soluble fiber in apples also decreases cholesterol levels and contributes to keeping you feeling energized and full. Quercetin is primarily found in the apple peel, so be sure to eat the peel for maximum health benefit.

For more health information and useful tools, please visit our Resources and Tools Blog on TotalHomeCareSupplies.com. For brand-name incontinence, ostomy, urological or wound supplies, visit our Total Home Care Supplies web store. Fast, Free, Discreet shipping on all orders over $40.

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Fad or Fruitful? The Benefits of a Balanced pH Diet

Posted by Brooke Phillips on March 18, 2013 under Resources | Read the First Comment

You may have heard about the Alkaline Diet – a mostly vegetarian diet that’s centered around the pH balance of the foods we eat. If you’re like us, you may be wondering if there’s any value to it – so we did a little research for you!

Everything around us registers on the pH spectrum, from completely acidic (0) to completely alkaline (14). Even our own bodies maintain a pH balance; we require a blood pH value between 7.35 and 7.45 and a stomach pH of 1.35-3.5 in order to function properly. The Alkaline Diet believes that one of the best ways to help our bodies maintain a proper pH balance is by consuming a balance of the right foods. Ideally, our diets should have a healthy balance of acidic and alkaline foods . Where does your diet fall?

Foods and Beverages on the pH Spectrum

The pH balance our body requires is a narrow window, and any time we slip outside of that window, our bodies work to bring it back into that zone. Don’t worry – regardless of the foods we eat, that’s what our bodies are designed to do. You’ll notice that in the infographic above, there are lots of healthy foods pictured in the “Alkaline” section, and some not-so-healthy (but tasty!) foods pictured in the “Acidic” section. However in the text below the image, you can see that there are plenty of healthy food choices that fall into the “Acidic” section as well. Doctors have found no evidence that our blood pH is affected by the foods we eat – however, research proves it does affect the pH balance of our urine.

What does this mean? Highly acidic diets can lower urine pH and raise the risk for kidney stones, as well as irritate the bladder and erode teeth enamel. Eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, like the alkaline diet, can raise urine pH and reduce the risk for kidney stones – and it’s more gentle on the bladder, teeth and gums.

Remember, in a pH-balanced diet, the point is not to eliminate acid- or alkaline-forming foods, but to maintain healthy balance. A diet that’s healthy for your heart, weight, blood-pressure and colon will most likely be pH-balanced as well. Highly-processed foods tend to be more acidic after digestion than minimally-processed foods. Many of the chemicals in highly-processed or mass-produced foods (such as pesticides) tend to be acid-forming. This means simply choosing organic or locally-grown produce – and thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables before you eat them – can potentially reduce the acid in your diet.

See these food charts by degree of Alkallinity or Acidity:

If your blood pH is outside of the zone, it’s most likely a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as kidney failure – and not the foods you eat. For questions or concerns about your blood pH, consult with your primary care doctor.

For more health and nutrition information, or for incontinence, ostomy, urological and wound home care supplies, visit our resources blog on totalhomecaresupplies.com.

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Shamrock Vinyl Exam Gloves – Fast, Free, Discreet Shipping

Posted by Brooke Phillips on under Promotions | Be the First to Comment

Shamrock Vinyl Powder-Free Exam Gloves at TotalHomeCareSupplies.com

Shamrocks are cropping up at Total Home Care Supplies!

If you’re looking for Shamrock gloves, you’re in luck – Shamrock Vinyl Powder-Free Exam Gloves are for sale on TotalHomeCareSupplies.com. Medical grade and clear in color, Shamrock vinyl gloves provide superior comfort and quality. Shamrock gloves are 100 percent synthetic and latex-free! They’re also non-sterile, powder-free, and ambidextrous for ease of use.

100% of customers would recommend Shamrock Vinyl Exam Gloves to a friend. Read what some of our customers have been saying:

“I use these gloves when I am bathing someone. I also use them while I’m massaging their feet with lotion. Oh and it didn’t even take a week from when I ordered them to receive them…good, fast service!”

“I use them to keep the patient germ free while he’s being cleaned. Delivery was prompt and product came in good condition. Customer Service was very helpful.”

Shamrock gloves come 100 to a box, and are offered in four sizes:

1S 20211 SMALL $5.80
1S 20212 MEDIUM $5.80
1S 20213 LARGE $5.80
1S 20214 EXTRA LARGE $5.80

We also offer Shamrock Latex Powder-Free Exam Gloves and Shamrock Nitrile Powder-Free Exam Gloves, which provide a textured fingertip for a secure grip in both wet and dry conditions. Both Shamrock Latex and Shamrock Nitrile Gloves provide exceptional quality and premium quality.

Shipping is completely free on all orders over $40! For more incontinence, ostomy, urological or wound care supplies, visit TotalHomeCareSupplies.com.

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First Quality Prevail Adult Incontinence Washcloths

Posted by Brooke Phillips on under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

Made with super strong and super soft fabric, First Quality Prevail Adult Incontinence Washcloths are designed to improve the quality of life for those managing incontinence. The comfortably-sized washcloths measure 12inches by 8 inches, and each Prevail adult washcloth is enriched with Vitamin E and Aloe to moisturize sensitive skin and maintain skin health. Single Hand Dispensing^® ensures that a single unfolded wipe dispenses each and every time. This creates added convenience and less waste, especially for those with only one hand available.

Each pack comes with 48 adult washcloths, giving you 576 adult washcloths in a case. At $33.96 a case, that’s less than 6 cents per washcloth:

FQ WW710 12IN X 8IN 576/case $33.96

All orders come packaged in discreet, unmarked boxes for customer privacy. And shipping is completely free for all orders over $40, guaranteed! Read about our Fast, Free, Discreet shipping policy.

For more high-quality, low-cost incontinence supplies, visit TotalHomeCareSupplies.com.

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Micropore 3M Tape – For Sale Online

Posted by Brooke Phillips on under Promotions | Be the First to Comment

Latex-free, Hypoallergenic 3M Micropore Tape

3M Micropore Tape is a latex-free, hypoallergenic paper tape that is gentle to the skin yet adheres well. Preferred by doctors and patients alike, this medical tape won’t budge once applied, and it leaves minimal adhesive residue upon removal. 3M Micropore tape is an excellent medical tape for repeated applications on sensitive or fragile skin, and for use on elderly patients.

3M Micropore Tape is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars, and 100% of our customers would recommend it to a friend. Here are some of their reviews:

“Great product for securing bandages on the face and arms. Great product for patients that are elderly and have thin skin; [it] does not peel their skin.”

“I was introduced to this tape from a plastic surgeon after an injury on my face. It was not as noticeable because it is tan-colored. Worked great.”

“We were looking for a tape that was easy to apply and remove for over a year. We first saw a small roll of your tape in our medicine cabinet. We saw 3m inside the roll. We found you online […and] called many drugstores in our area for your product to no avail. I would recommend everyone in need of tape, to try 3M Micropore tape.”

“The same product as used by my doctor, and it was delivered in a timely manner.”

3M Micropore Tape comes in both 1-inch and 2-inch widths, and in tan and white colors.

MM 15331 Tan 1″ X 10 YDS $1.49
MM 15332 Tan 2″ X 10 YDS $3.60
MM 15301 White 1″ X 10 YDS $1.80
MM 15302 White 2″ X 10 YDS $3.60

Fast, free, discreet shipping on all orders over $40. For more information, or for more wound care supplies, please visit TotalHomeCareSupplies.com.

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5 Health Benefits of Drinking Water in the Morning

Posted by Brooke Phillips on March 14, 2013 under Resources | 5 Comments to Read

Trying to boost your metabolism? How about fighting off infection? The answer could be as close as the kitchen sink. A glass of water in the morning (don’t worry, you can still have coffee!) brings amazing health benefits – from purifying your colon to increasing blood cell production! Here are 5 surprising health advantages of drinking water in the morning:

#5 – Increased nutrient absorption: Drinking water on an empty stomach purifies the colon, making it easier for your body to absorb nutrients.

#4 – New cell production: Our blood is composed of about 83% water, while lean muscle tissue is approximately 75% water. Early morning water consumption increases the daily production of new blood and muscle cells.

#3 – Increased weight loss: Believe it or not, your body works a little bit harder to raise your core temperature when you consume something cold. Drinking at least 16 ounces of chilled water in the morning can boost your daily metabolism by up to 24%!

#2. Clear, moisturized skin: It’s no coincidence that it’s called the “fountain” of youth. Water helps to purge toxins from the blood, which helps keep your skin glowing, moisturized and clear. This gives you a more youthful appearance, and over time visibly reduces signs of aging.

#1. Balanced lymph system: Your lymph nodes act as filters for foreign particles and are important in the proper functioning of the immune system. Lymph fluids circulate throughout the body, helping you perform multiple daily functions – including balancing your bodily fluids and fighting off infection.

What’s better for you, cold water or room-temperature water? Both cold water and lukewarm water have health benefits. Drinking cold water increases the number of calories you burn, in turn raising your metabolism, because your body has to work harder to return to normal temperature. However, room-temperature water can be absorbed more quickly into your system.

Should you add lemon to your water? Adding freshly-squeezed lemon or lime juice – or a slice of orange – can add a hint of flavor without the calories. Some people also believe that adding lemon juice to their water increases their vitamin and mineral consumption. To an extent, that’s correct: home-grown, organic lemons have a higher vitamin and mineral content than store-bought lemons, and often contain calcium, magnesium and potassium along with high levels of vitamin C. However, if you’re sensitive to an acidic diet, consistently adding citric acid to your water could be detrimental to your overall health. Citric acid is a known bladder irritant, and can erode teeth enamel more quickly.

Can you drink too much water? If you’re worried about drinking too much water, then you’ve heard about hyponatremia – meaning “low sodium in the blood.” This occurs when someone drinks enormous amounts of water and/or loses too much salt from the body within a short period of time – like a marathon runner pounding one or two gallons of water without adding electrolytes, for example. Hyponatremia is rare, and doesn’t happen when a healthy person spreads his or her water intake over the course of the full day.

Cold or warm, pure or with a slice of citrus – there are plenty of ways to stay hydrated! Far more important than temperature or citrus is making sure you’re getting enough fluids. Wondering how much water is enough? For the average healthy adult in a moderate climate, sufficient daily fluid intake for men is about 13 cups, and for women is about 9 cups. This may souns like a lot, but keep in mind that up to 20% of our fluid intake can be drawn from the food we eat – especially moisture-rich foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables. A great rule of thumb is the 8-8 rule: Drink at least 8 8oz glasses of fluids (preferably water) a day, starting first thing in the morning, and you’ll be in a healthy range.

Don’t forget that many other factors can affect your sufficient fluid intake, such as climate, elevation, exercise, breast feeding, and medications or certain medical conditions. For more information on these factors, check out this article from the Mayo Clinic: http://mayocl.in/UkbZD. If you have medical questions about your daily fluid intake, check first with your primary care physician.

For more health information and home health care products, visit our resources blog on TotalHomeCareSupplies.com.

March-Only Savings on All Top-Rated Home Care Supplies!

Posted by Brooke Phillips on March 11, 2013 under Promotions | Be the First to Comment

Loyal Customer Savings

Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, Passover, Easter or the First Day of Spring – March is a busy month! With so much to do, we thought you could use a break. That’s why we’re offering an extra 5% coupon for all our loyal customers in the month of March.

Looking for Hollister or Coloplast ostomy supplies? We’ve got them, and ConvaTec too! From Hollister M9 Deodorizer Drops to ConvaTec Stomahesive Paste, we’ve got all your ostomy accessories as well as closed and drainable pouches, barriers with flange, barrier rings and more.

If your incontinence supplies are running low, stock up now and save an extra 5% off all orders over $100. We carry all the top brand name manufacturers, including Depends, Prevail by First Quality, Poise, Tena, Tranquility and much more. Read customer reviews for all our top-rated products, such as Tranquility ATN (All-Thru-the-Night) Briefs which customers give 4.7 out of 5 stars – or Prevail Adult Extra Pull-Ups, which have a 98% customer satisfaction rate! We even carry top-performance baby and youth diapers, too.

You can find brand-name urological and wound supplies on TotalHomeCareSupplies.com as well. From Coloplast and Bard catheters and leg bags to Kendall Gauze and 3M Surgical Tape, we stock all the urological and wound supplies and accessories you need. Have questions about a product or an order? Our customer service team is standing by to answer any questions you have!

For the whole month of March, use promo code “GREEN” and save 5% off all orders over $100. And you can count on fast, free discreet shipping for all orders over $40, guaranteed. All home care supplies are shipped in discreet, unmarked packages right to your doorstep.

To take advantage of this loyal customer discount:

Add all your items to the shopping cart and select “Secure Checkout”
Enter your Billing and Shipping Information, and click “Save”
Enter promo code: GREEN and click “Apply”!

We know you have many options when you shop, and we appreciate your business. Thank you for choosing Total Home Care Supplies.

Top-Rated Adult Incontinence Product – Free Shipping!

Posted by Brooke Phillips on March 8, 2013 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars, First Quality Prevail Extra Adult Pull-Ups are Total Home Care Supplies’ top-rated best-selling incontinence product. Comfortable and discreet, First Quality Prevail Extra Adult Pull-Ups are ideal for men and women who want the look and feel of underwear, not diapers. Prevail Pull-ups are a disposable, underwear-style incontinence product with special features for every day comfort and confidence.

Special Features:

Soft, stretchable cloth-like backing for a secure and comfortable fit with excellent leakage protection
Cloth-like hypoallergenic fabric, enriched with Aloe, Chamomile and Vitamin E for skin wellness
Odor guard technology to neutralize odor
Innovative thin core with a quick wick layer to pull moisture away from the skin
Breathable, ventilated panels to improve skin health and comfort

With high-quality materials and affordable prices, it’s easy to understand why this is one of the best-selling and best-reviewed adult pull-ups we offer. 98% of our customers say they would recommend this product to a friend! Here’s what some of our reviewers have to say:

“These gave Dad a sense of independence since he can manage them alone (unlike tabbed diapers) while still providing protection.”

“My mother is 92 years old and would not use any other product. I know this because we have tried them all.”

“The product works great for Plus Size Women. My mother who wouldn’t use Pull Ups before loves these Pull Ups, and we will be buying this product over and over again!!!! The product usually arrives within 2-3 days after I order them and the staff is very helpful when I order them….they come in a plain box so no one will know what you have ordered, and they always arrive in great condition.”

“If you use as many as we do, you can’t beat the price and with free shipping. Save the pocket book.”

“Couldn’t find the size we needed until we found the Prevail pull ups. These are the only product that comes in 2x for our family member. Great to find them when we did. Thank you for your making this product available.”

“I buy these for my sister and she loves them. The brands we’ve tried previously would leak and cause her embarrassment in public. She has not had that problem with these. I personally love the price, it is a wonderful product for us and we intend to continue using them as long as they’re available.”

SIZES

First Quality Prevail Extra Adult Pull-Ups come in five different sizes, so that you can find the perfect fit for you:

FQ PV511 Size Small (20 – 34 inch waist)
FQ PV512 Size Medium (34 – 46 inch waist)
FQ PV513 Size Large (44 – 58 inch waist)
FQ PV514 Size XL (58 – 68 inch waist)
FQ PV517 Size 2X (68 – 80 inch waist)

At Total Home Care Supplies, we offer Fast, Free, Discreet Shipping on all orders over $40. We also offer convenient $3 sample packs, should you wish to test before you buy. Visit our online store for all your incontinence supplies today!

Caregiver Burnout: Signs, Symptoms and Solutions

Posted by Brooke Phillips on under Caregiver Corner | 4 Comments to Read

Caregiver Health Statistics Snapshot:

20 hrs: Average hours per week of unpaid in-home care provided by family caregivers
87%: Percentage of caregivers who are not getting enough sleep
91%: Percentage of caregivers whose own health is in decline & who report depression
4-8 years: Average life expectancy decrease for those caring for an Alzheimer’s patient

Chances are, if you’re one of the 75 million adults in North America caring for an elderly, ill, or disabled family member, you’re managing symptoms of depression, high levels of stress and often feeling overwhelmed. For caregivers who are also raising children or holding down a full-time job (known as “The Sandwich Generation”) the combined pressures of working, running a family, and caring for a loved one actually hinders their immune system’s ability to fight disease – leading to a doubled risk of developing chronic illness earlier in life.

Caregiver burnout is real, and it is serious. The last thing a working caregiver needs is to struggle with a decline in their own health – so take a moment to learn the signs and symptoms of burnout, as well as five easy tips to help you recover.

Signs and Symptoms:

Because burnout is not immediately obvious when you’re functioning in a high-stress environment, it’s often noticed first by friends or family. If loved ones have expressed concern about your health, take those concerns seriously.

Ask yourself these questions:

Have you been feeling pessimistic or dissatisfied?
Do you find yourself withdrawing from friends or avoiding social interactions?
Are you emotionally exhausted?
Are you less interested in work or hobbies that you used to enjoy?
Do you find yourself becoming impatient, irritable, or argumentative more often?
Are you increasing your alcohol consumption or prescription medication so that you can relax?
Do you feel like you’re under the weather more often?

If you’ve answered yes to two or more questions, you may be suffering from caregiver burnout. Fortunately, what is done can be undone! Here are 5 tips to help you recover from burnout and to avoid it in the future:

1. Set firm limits. Emotional health is like a bank account. You can only give – or lend – your available funds. If you’re consistently “overdrawn”, be realistic about how much time and energy you can spend on caregiving, and set firm limits. If you find yourself getting “low”, make time to replenish yourself in any of the ways listed below. If you give until there’s nothing left, you not only can’t be a successful caregiver, but your own health could be at risk.

2. Build time for yourself into your schedule. It’s not easy, but try to incorporate “me” time into your schedule. Think about activities you’ve enjoyed in the past, and try to find a way to work them into your routines. Whether it’s listening to music, gardening, cooking, working on a puzzle or walking the dog – try to find time for activities that take your mind off your daily routine.

3. Join a caregiver support group. If you’re reading this article, then you’re already looking for guidance and support. Don’t stop there! There are caregiver support groups everywhere – try calling your local senior center, hospital, doctor’s office or place of worship to inquire about meetings. If you can’t leave the house, there are plenty of caregiver support groups available online. Caregiver support groups offer a safe place to vent your frustrations, share experiences and ask advice from people in similar positions.

4. Start a journal. Whether it’s in a notebook or on a computer, writing can be a therapeutic exercise. Journals provide a private place for you to express your concerns, frustrations and emotions. Not comfortable writing? There are other options – some people turn to creating art, including everything from ink-and-pen drawings to cutouts and craft-paper. Creative projects can be the perfect way to express feelings that can’t be put into words. For more on this technique, see our blog article: Creativity and Self-Care.

5. Take care of your health. No, seriously! Take extra care to maintain a healthy diet, including super foods such as bananas, blueberries, dark chocolate, fish, nuts, eggs, and dark leafy vegetables (yes, we said chocolate!). Exercise for at least 20 minutes, 3 times a week—even a short walk around the neighborhood can help. Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night (regular exercise will help you sleep better, too), and visit your doctor for regular check-ups.

Remember, you’re not alone. Reach out for help if you need it; call a friend, family member, or even a volunteer from a senior center or church – there are many resources available if you’re willing to ask! If you can afford it, give yourself time to recharge by hiring a caregiver from a reputable home care agency, or check with your loved one’s insurance carrier to see if they provide part-time outpatient care.

For more caregiver advice, visit our Caregiver Corner blog on TotalHomeCareSupplies.com.

Colorectal Cancer: Know the Symptoms, Know Your Risk

Posted by Brooke Phillips on February 27, 2013 under Resources | Read the First Comment

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month kicks off Friday, March 1st with National Wear Blue Day. Experts predict that in 2013, 150,000 Americans will be diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer, making it the third most common cancer in the United States – surpassed only by lung and prostate cancer in men and lung and breast cancer in women. Colorectal cancer is also the 2nd deadliest cancer in the US – second only behind lung cancer.

Unlike many cancers, colorectal cancer is up to 90% treatable. Unfortunately, most people don’t think about getting checked until signs or symptoms apear – and by this time, the cancer is usually in late stages. If detected early, colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable. That’s why it’s important to:

Know the symptoms
Know your risk
Get regular screenings

Read on for more information, and the life you save could be your own!

Know the Symptoms

It’s important to remember that colorectal cancer can be present without any symptoms at all. If you or someone you love has any of the following below, tell your doctor. A colonoscopy may be necessary to rule out cancer.

Symptoms can include:

A significant change in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea that lasts more than a couple of weeks
Bright red or very dark blood in the stool; black stools may also indicate blood
A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
Unexplained anemia (low number of red blood cells)
Stools that consistently look narrower or thinner than normal
Abdominal discomfort such as frequent gas pains, bloating or abdominal cramps
Unexpected, unexplained weight loss
Constant exhaustion or fatigue

Know Your Risk

All adults are at risk for colorectal cancer, as well as a small percentage of children and young adults. Adult risk for colorectal cancer increases significantly over age 50, so if you’re 50 or above, make sure you’re screened regularly. Certain factors can increase your risk, such as your family history, personal medical history and lifestyle choices. Which of the following risk categories do you fall under?

Average Risk:

You’re age 50 or over with no other personal or family risk factors

Increased Risk:

You’ve had previous colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps, or
You have a family history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps

High Risk:

You’ve inherited Lynch Syndrome (also known as hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer or HNPCC) – a type of cancer of the digestive tract
You’ve inherited familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis (AFAP)

Additional Lifestyle Risks:

Obesity
Smoking
Heavy alcohol use
Lack of exercise
Diets high in fat and red or processed meat
Diets low in fruits and vegetables
Inadequate levels of Calcium and Vitamin D

Get Regular Screenings

Since up to 90% of colorectal cancers are treatable if discovered early, we can’t emphasize a regular screening program enough! Leaders in the field have estimated that up to 30,000 lives are lost unnecessarily each year, due to late-stage diagnosis.

Tests that screen for cancer and polyps:

Colonoscopy (Every ten years starting at age 50.) What to Expect: the doctor examines the inside of the rectum and entire colon using a long, lighted tube called a colonoscope.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy (Every five years starting at age 50.) What to Expect: the doctor examines your rectum and lower part of the colon with a lighted tube called a sigmoidoscope.
Virtual Colonoscopy (Every five years starting at age 50.) What to Expect: the doctor uses x-rays and computers to take 2- or 3-dimensional images of your colon and rectum.
Double-Contrast Barium Enema (DCBE) (Every five to ten years starting at age 50.) What to Expect: the doctor pumps air and barium into your rectum. The solution shows polyps or tumors on x-rays.

Tests That Screen for Cancer (these stool tests are less invasive, but also can’t detect polyps)

Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) – Guaiac FOBT (Once a year starting at age 50.) What to Expect: you’ll submit a portion of several bowel movements to your doctor, who will test for small amounts of blood in the stool.
Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) – Fecal Immunochemical Test (Once a year starting at age 50.) What to Expect: you’ll submit a portion of one to three bowel movements to your doctor, who will test for blood in the stool that can’t be seen with the naked eye.
Stool DNA (sDNA) (This is a new method, and the screening interval is still unknown.) What to Expect: you’ll submit a stool sample to your doctor, who will look for certain DNA mutations caused from cancerous tumors or precancerous polyps.

Please share this article and spread the word! Have you been screened for colorectal cancer?