By David P. Warshal, MD, FACOG, Director of Gynecologic Oncology,
Gynecologic Oncologist, Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper

Each year, more than 12,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer. Most women don't usually experience symptoms until the disease has advanced and affected surrounding tissues.

While various treatment options exist for cervical cancer, it's better to focus on prevention rather than relying solely on a cure. The good news is, by adopting healthy habits and lifestyle changes, women can significantly reduce their risk of developing cervical cancer.

Below are several steps a woman can take to reduce the risk of cervical cancer:

1. Get Regular Pap Tests or an HPV test with or without a Pap. Getting regular Pap and HPV tests is crucial for the early detection of cervical cancer. Pap tests can help detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they turn cancerous. HPV testing detects the virus that is associated with the development of almost all cervical cancers. Women should begin getting Pap tests at age 21 and continue to get them regularly every three years. HPV testing can be added at the discretion of your gynecologist. Women who have a high risk of cervical cancer may need to get more frequent tests. Your gynecologist can share information with you about the latest guidelines.
2. Get Vaccinated. One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer and a variety of additional cancers is by getting vaccinated against the human papillomavirus (HPV). The vaccine is recommended for girls and boys aged 11-12 years, but it can be given up to age 45.
3. Practice Safe Sex. Having a sexually transmitted disease (STD) can elevate the chances of developing cervical cancer. Adopting safer sex practices, such as consistent condom use and limiting sexual partners, can greatly decrease your risk of cervical cancer.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet. Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants - all of which supports a strong immune system and can help reduce the risk of cervical cancer. Limiting red and processed meats, unhealthy fats, and sugars can further reduce the risk, as these have been linked to an increased risk of cancers.
5. Avoid Smoking. Smoking weakens the immune system, making it easier for HPV to cause cancer. Women who smoke are also less responsive to treatment than non-smokers. Quitting smoking can improve your health in many ways; reducing your risk of cervical cancer is one of them.
6. Exercise Regularly. Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is important since obesity has been associated with less effective screening and treatment for cervical cancer.

The bottom line is that cervical cancer can be preventable if you get Pap tests regularly, receive the HPV vaccination when recommended, and adopt the above healthy habits and lifestyle changes.

Don't wait. Start taking control of your cervical health today.

To find a Redeemer Health OB-GYN, call 800-818-4747 or visit the Redeemer Health website.

About the Author: Dr. David Warshal is the Director of Gynecologic Oncology and Gynecologic Oncologist at Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper. He also serves as Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Cooper Medical School or Rowan University. Dr. Warshal received his medical degree from Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine. He has more than 37 years of experience in gynecological oncology and obstetrics-gynecology. He is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology (Obstetrics & Gynecology - General) and the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology (Gynecologic Oncology).

By Paul Sandhu, MD, FHRS, Interventional Cardiologist at Redeemer Health

The recent sudden death of a Philadelphia undergraduate student placed a spotlight on caffeine consumption and its potential role in provoking arrhythmias - irregular heartbeats with the potential for serious health effects.

The 21-year-old college junior, who had an arrhythmia problem called Long QT Syndrome Type I, died from cardiac arrest hours after drinking lemonade infused with caffeine at a local quick-service restaurant. She had previously avoided caffeinated beverages at the recommendation of her doctors, and seemingly was unaware that the beverage consumed contained high amounts of caffeine.

Caffeine's Impact on the Heart's Electrical System

Drinks with high caffeine amounts can cause immediate heart-related effects, including an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Caffeine changes the way that the heart’s electrical system, or its “wiring,” works. Caffeine has therefore long been believed to play a role in arrhythmia disturbances.  

Mild to moderate caffeine consumption is typically safe; however, it is worth noting that this may not be true for all patients, especially those with ventricular arrhythmias or those who may be at risk for them. Some acquired or inherited arrhythmia syndromes (including the aforementioned Long QT Syndrome, Catecholaminergic Polymorphic VT, Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy, and Brugada Syndrome), which leave patients at risk for sudden cardiac death, are more likely to be active in a high adrenalin-related situation, which caffeine can create.  

Moderate to high levels of caffeine consumption, which is increasingly found in many people with the more widespread use of energy drinks, is known to result in a sudden increase in the adrenalin-related (and resulting “fight or flight”) condition of the person affected. Further research is needed to study the effect of caffeine in these select groups of people.

When to Consult with Your Doctor

If you drink large quantities of caffeine, you should consult with your primary care clinician or cardiologist, especially if you have a family history of unexplained sudden death or other cardiac-related conditions.

In the meantime, be sure to read labels if you know you are at risk. In the case of the Philadelphia college student, caffeine content in her choice of beverage wasn't clearly labeled enough, so if you are at risk, ask for information.

Click here to learn more about cardiology care at Redeemer Health. To find a doctor who is right for you, visit our provider directory or call the Redeemer Health Physician Referral Service at 800-818-4747.

About the Author: Dr. Paul Sandhu is a member of the Redeemer Health medical staff, specializing in cardiac electrophysiology for the management of arrhythmias. He treats patients with chronic coronary artery disease, valvular heart diseases and congestive heart failure. He also has extensive experience with pacemaker, defibrillator (ICD) and biventricular devices.

MEADOWBROOK, Pa. - January 2024 The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), a quality program administered by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) has granted accredited status to the breast health program at Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper. This means the program meets the NAPBC standards for leadership, clinical services, research, community outreach, professional education, and quality improvement for patients.

Compliance proves the program is committed to excellence in delivery of comprehensive, patient-centered, multidisciplinary care for patients with breast disease. An NAPBC-accredited center also gives patients access to information on clinical trials and new treatment options, genetic counseling, and patient-centered services including psychosocial support, rehabilitation services, and survivorship care.

"As an accredited program, we are committed to serving our patients and community and we remain focused on access to screenings, early detection, treatment, and quality care," said Dr. William Scarlett, Executive Director of the Cancer Center at Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson at Cooper. "Breast care patients who choose our program receive care from a multidisciplinary team that is committed to working together and providing the best care possible throughout their entire course of treatment."

Breast centers seeking NAPBC accreditation undergo a site visit every three years. Accreditation is granted only to those programs that are committed to providing multidisciplinary, integrated, comprehensive breast cancer services.

During pregnancy, it's important to adopt helpful strategies to ensure a healthy and successful journey for both you and your baby.

Below are several helpful tips shared by Dr. Natalie Dogal Gardner, Fellow of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and OB-GYN, Redeemer Health:

• Don't smoke or drink alcohol: Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol to minimize the risk of complications and harm to your baby.
• Eat a nutritious diet: Sticking to a healthy diet will decrease the risk of pregnancy complications, help you look and feel better during your pregnancy, and make it easier and faster to get back to your pre-pregnancy weight. If your current diet comes up short, now's the time to set good eating habits such as those below:
  • Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Vegetables are high in vitamin A, vitamin C, iron and magnesium, while fruits deliver vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium and fiber, all of which are essential to a baby's healthy development.
  • Don't skip meals. Skipping meals can lead to inadequate intake of key nutrients that are crucial for the health and development of both you and your baby. Skipping meals can also lead to low energy levels and fatigue, and may disrupt a healthy weight gain pattern during pregnancy. 
  • Restrict your sugar intake. Consuming excessive sugar during pregnancy can contribute to increased gestational weight gain, which may lead to complications such as gestational diabetes and high blood pressure. High sugar consumption can also lead to dental problems for you and your baby, and in some cases, excessive sugar intake has been linked to negative effects on the baby's brain function.
  • Curb the caffeine. While there is conflicting research on the effects of caffeine during pregnancy, it's best to err on the side of caution and limit caffeine intake as much as possible during pregnancy.
  • Practice food safety. Practicing food safety during pregnancy is critical protecting you and your developing baby from potential foodborne illnesses.
• Stay physically active: Engage in regular exercise as advised by your healthcare provider. Moderate-intensity activities like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga can help maintain overall fitness and manage weight gain during pregnancy.
• Take prenatal vitamins: Be sure to take your daily prenatal vitamins containing key nutrients such as folic acid, iron, and calcium to support the healthy growth and development of your baby.
• Get regular prenatal care: Schedule regular visits with your healthcare practitioner to monitor the progress of your pregnancy, receive necessary screenings, and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

Whether it's your first pregnancy or you're expanding your family, Redeemer Health's OB providers are available to support you every step of the journey.

Dr. Gardner sees patients at the Redeemer Health Medical Office Building, located at 1650 Huntingdon Pike, #118, Meadowbrook, PA 19046, as well as other locations. To schedule an appointment, call 215-914-2600.

You can also visit our provider directory or call the Redeemer Health Physician Referral Service at 800-818-4747 for assistance.

Watch Our Webinar - Baby on Board: Strategies for a Healthy Pregnancy Journey

In this webinar, OB-GYN Natalie Dogal Gardner, MD, Redeemer Health, offers tips for keeping you and your baby healthy throughout your pregnancy. Watch here.

Interested in Taking a Virtual Tour?

Visit RedeemerHealth.org/MaternityCare to take a virtual tour of Holy Redeemer Hospital's Labor and Delivery Unit.

Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths and second most common cancer in both men and women in the United States. According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 230,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with the disease each year. While most cases are linked to tobacco smoking, a growing number of diagnoses are among non-smokers, especially among women.

Risk Factors

The main risk factors for lung cancer may include:

• Smoking tobacco (currently or in the past)
• Exposure to second-hand smoke
• Exposure to radon, asbestos, arsenic, chromium, or other chemicals
• Living in an area with air pollution
• A family history of lung cancer
• Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Radiation exposure, including radiation therapy to the breast or chest, and radon exposure. This is a minor risk factor and the benefits of radiation therapy as a cancer treatment far outweigh the risks.

Symptoms

Lung cancer symptoms can vary from person to person. Many people with lung cancer may have no symptoms, but when symptoms present they can include:

• Cough that does not go away and gets worse over time
• Chest pain that is constant and often made worse by deep breathing, coughing or laughing
• Arm or shoulder pain
• Coughing up blood or rust-colored phlegm
• Shortness of breath, wheezing or hoarseness
• Infections like pneumonia or bronchitis that do not go away or come back often
• Swelling of the neck and face
• Loss of appetite and/or weight loss
• Feeling weak or tired

Note: The above symptoms are not specific to lung cancer and can occur with other conditions as well. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should consult your family physician to discuss screening and diagnosis recommendations.

Screening and Diagnosis

"Early detection is crucial in treatment of lung cancer," said Dr. Alan Reinach, Lead Physician with Redeemer Pulmonary Associates.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual screening for lung cancer with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) in adults aged 50 to 80 years, who have a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

If you meet the above criteria and are interested in screening, you should talk to your doctor about your options. You should also check with your individual insurance carrier to determine coverage.

A low-dose CT scan is a non-invasive tool that captures multiple cross-sectional images of your lungs, creating a comprehensive and detailed picture. When a screening indicates that further testing is needed, Redeemer Health provides state-of-the-art procedures to help diagnose lung cancer, such as endobronchial ultrasound bronchoscopy (EBUS), navigational bronchoscopy, and positron emission tomography (PET) scanning.

To learn more about the lung cancer screening options available at Redeemer Health, visit redeemerhealth.org/lung-cancer-screening or call 215-938-LUNG (5864).

Experienced Care for Lung Cancer: Close to Home

The Redeemer Health in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper lung cancer program maintains nationally recognized accreditation through the Care Continuum Center of Excellence by the GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer and is recognized as a Screening Center of Excellence by the Lung Cancer Alliance.

Visit redeemerhealth.org/services/health-care/cancer-care/lung-cancer to learn more.

Redeemer Health Home Care and Hospice earned reaccreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC). To achieve this, an organization undergoes a review process to demonstrate its capabilities and commitment to quality and safety standards.

For health care consumers, seeing that a home care and hospice provider has ACHC accreditation can provide peace of mind. It indicates that the provider has gone through a careful review process and has met high standards for quality and safety. It also signifies that the provider is committed to constantly improving its services.

"ACHC accreditation is a badge of excellence for home care providers, proving they have been thoroughly vetted and are dedicated to providing the best possible care," said Alan Rosenberg, Executive Vice President of Redeemer Health Home Care and Hospice Services.

Click here for more information about the many quality achievements and accreditations earned by Redeemer Health.

Redeemer Health's Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC), located at 821 Huntingdon Pike, has been recognized in Newsweek's 2024 list of "America's Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers." Newsweek reserves this top ranking for facilities that demonstrate excellence based on careful analysis of facility performance data and recommendations of medical authorities.

"For an ambulatory surgery center, getting this award is a big achievement. It signals that the ASC is doing a great job in delivering care to its patients and that it stands among the best in its state and the entire nation," said James Armstrong, Administrator for the Redeemer Health Ambulatory Surgery Center.

Click here for more information about the many quality achievements and accreditations earned by Redeemer Health.

We are excited to announce that Dr. Romash, emergency medicine physician at Holy Redeemer Hospital, was presented the 2023 Preceptor of the Year Award.

Dr. Romash accepted this prestigious award at Salus University's Long White Coat Ceremony, hosted on Oct. 16.

Each year, Salus University recognizes a clinical preceptor who has shown exceptional commitment, dedication, and significant contributions in guiding and mentoring students in their professional development. Dr. Romash was recognized specifically for his work in mentoring students from Salus University and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) in the area of emergency medicine.

This remarkable achievement showcases Dr. Romash's exceptional skills and unwavering dedication to his field. We honor and thank Dr. Romash for his hard work and commitment, making an indelible mark on these young students and their future careers.

A Special Time of Year for Seniors and Their Families
Thanksgiving is a time of year that holds a special place in the hearts of many, especially for seniors who have spent decades building and cherishing family traditions. If you are considering the transition to a senior living community, it's natural to worry about maintaining these beloved customs. But you need not worry. Senior living communities strive to create an environment where Thanksgiving traditions can continue to thrive and evolve, ensuring that the holiday remains a special time for residents and their families alike.

Nurturing Beloved Thanksgiving Traditions
Many communities host festive Thanksgiving dinners or luncheons for residents and their families, complete with all the traditional trimmings. These events provide an opportunity for residents to share their cherished holiday with their loved ones, just as they always have, but without the stress of preparation and cleanup. It's not unusual to see multiple generations sharing stories, laughter, and of course, delicious food around tables adorned with gracious Thanksgiving decor.

At The Lafayette, a Redeemer Health senior living community, our culinary staff offers a Thanksgiving luncheon for residents and their families that nurtures the warmth and togetherness that makes Thanksgiving such a popular holiday. 

“The Thanksgiving season is a time for us to come together as a community and nurture a spirit of gratitude and fellowship. Residents look forward to our annual Thanksgiving luncheon, where they can enjoy a delicious meal and share warm conversations with friends and family. We make sure that every resident feels the joy, warmth, and unity that Thanksgiving brings," says Jillian Lockton, Director of Residential Services for Independent Living at The Lafayette.

What’s more, it’s not unusual to find recreational activities that encourage participation and foster a sense of community. For instance, some communities organize Thanksgiving-themed crafts sessions where residents can create their own decorations.

Others might host a "Turkey Trot" or similar fun walks on Thanksgiving morning, promoting both physical health and holiday spirit. Best of all, these activities provide opportunities to socialize and make new friends, while the communal atmosphere helps alleviate feelings of loneliness that can sometimes accompany this time of year.

Bring Your Own Special Customs
Consider how your traditions might be incorporated into a community's celebrations. Don't be afraid to initiate activities that reflect your traditions and invite others to join in. This not only keeps your customs alive but also helps build a sense of community.

Above all, the move to a senior living community provides an excellent opportunity to cherish and preserve Thanksgiving traditions in an environment that fosters support and fellowship. You may even find yourself establishing new holiday rituals that bring added meaning and joy. Rest assured, you can feel confident that senior living communities are places where traditions are not just maintained, but celebrated and nurtured.
 

About The Lafayette
The Lafayette features stylish Independent Living apartments and all-inclusive services. Our senior living lifestyle frees you from home maintenance and daily chores while allowing you to explore our vibrant array of fitness, recreational, and spiritual life opportunities.

Located in a beautiful park-like setting in Northeast Philadelphia and easily accessible from adjacent Montgomery County, PA, and nearby Bucks County, PA, our warm and welcoming retirement community has been a favorite choice of discerning seniors throughout the Philadelphia, PA, area for more than three decades. Learn more! 
 

Meadowbrook, Pa. - Oct. 24, 2023 - St. Joseph Manor, one of Redeemer Health's senior living communities, was ranked fourth in Newsweek's 2024 "America's Best Nursing Homes" out of Pennsylvania's top 30.

According to Newsweek, the rankings are based on five data sources, including performance data, peer recommendations, management of the COVID-19 situation and accreditations from The Joint Commission and Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. For the first time, resident satisfaction data for nursing homes, based on National Safety Goals from The Joint Commission and Google Scores, has been added to the scoring model.

"This distinction is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team, who consistently go above and beyond to provide exceptional care and support to our residents. We will continue to strive for excellence in providing a vibrant and nurturing community for seniors to call home," said D. Freeman, RN, BSN, NHA, PCA, the Manor's administrator.

Click here for more information about the many quality achievements and accreditations earned by Redeemer Health.

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About St. Joseph Manor
A member of the Redeemer Health system, St. Joseph Manor is a senior living community that provides personal care, memory care, short-term rehab, and long-term care. Committed to the delivery of high-quality care, as well as strict attention to resident and patient safety and satisfaction, St. Joseph Manor continues to gain national recognition for achievement in these areas. Situated within a beautiful, historic property, the community welcomes seniors of all faiths and fosters an environment of inclusivity and fellowship. Conveniently located in eastern Montgomery County, at 1616 Huntingdon Pike, St. Joseph Manor is also easily accessible from Northeast Philadelphia and many areas in Lower and Central Bucks County. For more information about St. Joseph Manor visit: redeemerhealth.org/StJosephManor.