– While colorectal deaths are steadily declining, there are still shocking racial or ethnic disparities.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), Latinos who live in the United States have a higher risk of dying from this disease than their counterparts in Central and South American countries. Colorectal cancer is at least 41% more common in African Americans than it is among whites.
They are also less likely than the other groups to have their cancers screened.
What can we do?
Virtual colonoscopy, also known as CT colonography, is being advocated by a growing number of medical organizations and patient advocates. It can help overcome cultural stigmas and anxiety.
“CT colonography can attract those who would otherwise not be screened, allow doctors to remove more polyps before they become cancers and help people avoid getting this disease,” says Carolyn R. (“Bo”) Aldigé, president and founder of the Prevent Cancer Foundation.
The evidence is overwhelming
Virtual colonoscopy has been recommended by the American Cancer Society as a screening test. It is accurate in most cases, even those over 65. Studies have shown this to be true.
Virtual colonoscopy improves screening rates wherever it is offered in the U.S.A and abroad. The virtual exam was chosen by former President Obama.
Michael Sapienza is the President and CEO at the Colon Cancer Alliance. He says that the virtual exam can be used to detect cancer. “jump-start screening by offering access to a less-invasive option that millions of screening age who choose not to be tested find more appealing.”
The prep is not the same, unfortunately.
The virtual colonoscopy is much less intrusive than the standard procedure. Low-dose Xrays are used to create 3-D moving images of the colon using CT scanners. These images can be used by doctors to check for cancerous polyps or other issues.
It is not necessary to be sedated for this test. The test is completed in a matter of minutes. It is possible that you don’t need someone driving you to the exam. You can then return to your daily activities.
Private insurers are now starting to listen
Virtual colonoscopy is required by 36 states. The Affordable Care Act requires that all federal exchange-participating insurers cover the exam. CIGNA and UnitedHealthcare cover the exam, as well as Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield and Anthem Blue Shield.
Medicare patients still face challenges
Virtual colonoscopy screenings for Medicare patients may be less expensive than regular colonoscopy. The test is not covered by Medicare, which is a declining number of insurance companies.
“We need more Medicare-covered options, including CT colonography, to increase Hispanic screening rates and save lives,”Elena V. Rios MD MSPH, President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hispanic Medical Association.
Provider and patient groups are asking Congress to pass legislation that would give Medicare coverage for virtual colposcopy.
“With Medicare coverage, CT colonography can increase screening and reduce unnecessary deaths,”Judy Yee MD is the chair of American College of Radiology Colon Cancer Committee.
Get more information on virtual colonoscopy and CT colonography at RadiologyInfo.org/virtualct.
Pregnancy can be very exciting. There are so many things to do and so many appointments. Many expectant mothers worry so much about the baby that they neglect to take care of themselves.
Experts agree that prenatal vitamins are crucial for both mother and baby.
“During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes many physical and hormonal changes. She can experience things like fatigue, loss of appetite and an upset stomach, which can make it difficult to maintain the proper levels of essential nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy,”Jay M. Goldberg MD, FACOG, is an obstetrician based in Los Angeles.
Prenatal vitamins include DHA, an Omega-3 fat acid, and Folic acid. These vitamins not only help soon-to-be moms maintain a healthy lifestyle, but also can help the baby’s brain and eyes develop.
It is important to know that vitamins do not work in the same way. There are alternatives. Vertical Pharmaceuticals LLC is the inventor of the prenatal vitamin that contains egg-based DHA. OB Complete Gold. OB Complete Gold includes OmEGGa DHA. This DHA is bio-efficient and can be found in the brain, eyes, and other body parts. OmEGGa DHA has a simple absorption and is easily absorbed by the body. It’s more efficiently distributed in simple steps.
OB Complete Gold is available in a small softgel. It can be taken only once daily. This complete formula is rich in highly soluble vitamins and minerals. It contains no sugar, lactose or gluten.
The supplement vitamin can be stored in a small, convenient container. This supplement vitamin is convenient for busy moms. It provides useful information, helps to keep track of daily dosages and discounts on refills. OB Complete gold is a prescription-prenatal vitamin. Ask your healthcare provider for a free trial.
This page contains additional information regarding safety and product details. www.obcompletegold.com.
