Leading Medicine Spring Summer 2019, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital edition

LEADING MEDICINE SPRI N G/SUM M ER 219

Are You Ignoring Possible Signs of Cancer?

20 Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

Orthopedic and Sports Injuries

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM HEAD TO TOE

YOUR LINK TO HEALTH INNOVATIONS, NEWS AND TIPS IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

Are You Ignoring Possible

A

suspicious lump. A small sore that refuses to heal. A new mole or one that looks different than it used to.

These could be possible signs of cancer that Dr. Kirtan you shouldn’t ignore.

Nautiyal However, living in fear or constantly worrying or wondering, “Is this cancer?” is not good for your health either. If you have a concern, get it checked out, that way you can put your fears to rest or tackle the problem head-on.

Dr. Kirtan Nautiyal, fellowship-trained hematologist-oncologist with Houston Methodist Oncology Partners in Sugar Land, explains that treating cancer works best when it’s found early and less likely to spread to other areas. “Since cancer is such a large group of diseases, it can cause almost any sign or symptom,” he explained. “Sometimes, cancer is a silent disease with no symptoms in the early stages. That’s why getting recommended cancer screenings is so important.”

WATCH FOR SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

General signs and symptoms of cancer include unexplained weight loss, fever, fatigue and pain. “Keep in mind there may be other causes for each of these not related to cancer, and it’s important to see a health professional to identify the problem,” Nautiyal said.

Some common symptoms that may be linked with cancer, include: Change in bowel habits or bladder function: Diarrhea, long-term constipation or a change in the size of the stool could be a symptom of colon cancer. Having to pass urine more or less often than usual, or pain when doing so, might be caused by bladder or prostate cancer.

2 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

Signs of Cancer?

Unusual bleeding: Coughing up blood might be a sign of lung cancer and blood in the stool could be a sign of colon cancer. Cervical or endometrial (lining of the uterus) cancer can cause abnormal vaginal bleeding. Blood in the urine could be related to bladder or kidney cancer.

Indigestion or trouble swallowing: Cancers of the esophagus, stomach or pharynx can cause problems with swallowing or digestion.

Lump or thickening in an area of the body: A lump or thickening in the breast, testicle, lymph nodes or the soft tissues of the body could possibly be an early or late sign of cancer, and if one is found, it should be reported to your doctor.

Sores that don’t heal: Typically, the first sign of skin cancer is a sore that doesn’t heal properly.

Recent change in a wart or mole, or any new skin development: A wart, mole or freckle that changes color or size should be shown to your doctor right away. These all may be a sign of melanoma, which can be treated successfully if found early.

PHYSICAL EXAMS AND HEALTH SCREENINGS

Don’t ignore changes in your health or delay important screenings. If you’re concerned about an unusual sign or symptom, make an appointment with your primary care doctor. If you need help finding a primary care doctor near you, visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg/ southwest or call 832.416.1678.

Schedule an Appointment To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kirtan Nautiyal or another physician at Houston Methodist Oncology Partners in Sugar Land, call 281.201.6669.

CANCER SCREENINGS Your doctor may recommend cancer screening tests for you based on your age and health history. The following lists are a general guide, and your doctor may suggest you have these tests done at the time that’s right for you.

SCREENINGS FOR MEN S kin cancer screening — talk to your doctor, especially if you have a family history of cancer C olon cancer screening — starting at age 45 P rostate cancer screening — talk to your doctor at age 50 L ung cancer screening — for current or former smokers ages 55 to 77, who meet criteria*

SCREENINGS FOR WOMEN S kin cancer screening — talk to your doctor, especially if you have a family history of cancer P ap tests and pelvic exams — starting at age 21 M ammogram — talk to your doctor at age 40 C olon cancer screening — starting at age 45 L ung cancer screening — for current or former smokers ages 55 to 77, who meet criteria* Source: American Cancer Society Guidelines for the Early Detection of Cancer * Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

CANCER SURVIVORS DAY CELEBRATION & RESOURCE FAIR Date: Friday, May 31 Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Location: Sugar Land Marriott Town Square Address: 16090 City Walk, Sugar Land, TX Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land welcomes local cancer survivors and a guest to join us for a celebration and luncheon with motivational keynote speaker, author and two-time cancer survivor, Conor Cunneen. Register at events.houstonmethodist.org/ survivorluncheon-sl or call 281.205.4514.

CHECK OUT OUR DIGITAL MAGAZINE AT HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/NEWSROOM/NEWSLETTERS 3

Heart Attack vs. Stroke What is the Difference?

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heart attack and stroke are both caused by problems with blood flow. A heart attack occurs when there’s a loss of blood flow to the heart muscle; a stroke is caused Dr. Sherman by loss of blood flow to Tang the brain.

“You could save a life by learning the warning signs of a heart attack and stroke and calling 911 immediately,” said Dr. Sherman Tang, board-certified cardiologist with Houston Methodist Cardiology Associates in Sugar Land. “The sooner someone with these symptoms arrives in the emergency department, the more likely they will have proper treatment and a full recovery.”

HEART ATTACK

Heart attack symptoms may vary from person to person, and symptoms can appear drastically different in women versus men. Men are more likely to experience crushing chest pain while women may have symptoms that are harder to recognize, such as shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain. Here’s what to look for in women and men: Severe chest pain, heaviness or squeezing Shortness of breath Pain down the left arm and hand Pain in the neck and/or jaw Pain in the back, between the shoulders Nausea, vomiting or heartburn pain

STROKE

Stroke usually happens suddenly, without warning. Watch for the following: Weakness/numbness on one side of the body Slurred or impaired speech Blurred, double vision or loss of vision Dizziness, loss of balance or coordination Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

An easy way to remember the signs of stroke is to think FAST.

F

Does the face look uneven?

A

Does one arm drift down when both arms are raised?

S

Does their speech sound strange?

T

If you observe any of these signs, it’s time to call 911.

EVERY SECOND COUNTS

Don’t try to drive yourself or someone else to the hospital who may be experiencing a heart attack or stroke. In most cases, EMS can start treatment as soon as they arrive, up to an hour sooner than if a patient is driven by car to the ER. Emergency personnel can also get through traffic more quickly.

“Once at the hospital, there are medications available that may be able to stop a heart attack or stroke in progress, limiting the damage and possibly saving a life,” Tang said. “These drugs are most effective when given as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms.”

Know Your Numbers

If you have high cholesterol or other risk factors, we can perform a heart and vascular screening to analyze your risk for heart disease. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sherman Tang or another cardiologist with Houston Methodist Cardiology Associates in Sugar Land, call 281.491.6808.

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Take Control

6 WAYS TO PREVENT HEART ATTACK AND STROKE High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) all contribute to blood vessel damage that can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attack and stroke.

The following healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke: 1. Don’t smoke: If you do smoke, find support for quitting (See page 11).

2. Keep a healthy weight: Your body mass index (BMI) should be kept below 25.

3. Manage blood pressure: Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg or less.

4. Eat a heart-healthy diet: High in fruits, vegetables and fiber; low in fat, sodium and sugar.

5. Exercise regularly: Moderate to vigorous activity, 15 to 30 minutes each day.

6. Reduce cholesterol: Total cholesterol less than 200 mg/dL with triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL.

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Reasons to Visit A NEUROLOGIST

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Dr. Jinal Shah

eurologists are specialists who treat diseases of the brain and spinal cord, peripheral nerves and muscles. This includes neurological conditions such as epilepsy, stroke, ALS, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis (MS). In addition, neurologists treat chronic headaches, pain and more.

Here are six reasons you may want to schedule an appointment with a neurologist:

1

Headaches. It’s common to experience headaches, but when a headache includes sensitivity to light, vomiting or changes in vision, it could be a sign of something more serious. “Someone with chronic or severe headaches would benefit from seeing a specialist who treats patients with different types of headaches and can offer proven treatment options,” said Dr. Jinal Shah, board-certified neurologist with the Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center in Sugar Land.

2

Dizziness. Feeling light-headed occasionally is normal, but feeling dizzy on a repeated basis is not. If you feel like things around you are spinning or you have difficulty keeping your balance, it’s time to see a neurologist. “Dizziness can be a common complaint for a stroke patient or a person with an inner ear problem,” Shah said.

3

Numbness or tingling. A sensation of numbness or tingling from being in a position that cuts off your blood circulation is a common experience. If numbness continues, only occurs on one side of the body or comes on suddenly, it could be a sign of a stroke or other serious condition.

4

Movement problems. Difficulty walking, shuffling your feet, tremors and unintentional jerks, can all be signs of a nervous system problem. If these movement problems interrupt your daily life, you may want to see a neurologist.

5

Weakness or loss of grip. Pain or weakness in the hands can lead to loss of grip, which is a symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome. This happens when the median nerve in the forearm and hand is pressured at the wrist.

6

Memory problems or confusion. Everyone forgets things from time to time, and some memory loss can be a normal part of aging. However, extreme problems with memory, personality changes or mixing up words could be signs of Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Learn More

The Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center in Sugar Land has boardcertified physicians who work together to provide comprehensive, personalized care, designed to help patients return to a productive lifestyle. The care team includes: Neurologists Neuroradiologists Neurosurgeons Nurse practitioners Orthopedic spine surgeons Pain management specialists Primary care sports medicine specialists Therapists Aquatic Occupational ® ® BIG & LOUD Pelvic health Hand Physical Lymphedema Speech Visit houstonmethodist.org/neuro-sl to request an appointment online or call 281.205.4662.

HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/SUGARLAND 5

Orthopedic and Sports Injuries

Protect Yourself from HEAD TO TOE D ealing with orthopedic and sports injuries often comes with the territory for football players, marathon runners, gymnasts and other competitive athletes. But you don’t have to be on the field or court to end up with a painful or chronic injury. Everyday types of injuries from carrying groceries or doing yardwork happen all the time and can also lead to long-term problems if not treated properly.

Dr. Kyle A. Back problems, joint disorders and osteoarthritis are Borque among the top reasons for seeing a doctor. “Joint and muscle issues result in millions of orthopedic visits every year,” said Dr. Kyle A. Borque, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee and shoulder surgery at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Sugar Land.

KNOW YOUR LIMITS

Borque says it’s important to listen to your body when it’s telling you to slow down. “We may try to push through the pain, but you can end up doing more damage if you’re not careful. When you have joint and muscle pain, you can’t always walk it off or solve it by taking anti-inflammatory medication,” he noted.

“With age, our ability to heal is not as fast as it used to be, and we don’t have as much elasticity in our muscles and tendons — like a rubber band that loses its elasticity over time. One proven strategy is to modify your activities or try a new activity that puts less stress on your body, such as biking or swimming,” Borque added.

WHEN TO GET CHECKED

Injuries are part of life whether you’re competing in sports or just trying to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. Minor injuries can often be treated at home with rest, ice, compression and elevation. However, there are times when it’s important to see a doctor so you can avoid further damage and ensure that you can heal properly.

It’s wise to get medical help if you experience the following symptoms after an injury: Instability (unable to bear weight on your knee or ankle) Limited range of motion Numbness or tingling Persistent joint or back pain Significant swelling or tenderness Weakness or lack of strength while moving a limb or muscle In addition, any impact to the head should be taken seriously, whether it’s from a sports collision or a minor fall at home. “When it comes to head injuries, it’s important to be safe rather than sorry. Always seek medical help for any signs of concussion, such as persistent headache, loss of consciousness, confusion or dizziness following a bump on the head,” Borque said.

6 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

ORTHOPEDIC INJURY CLINIC

Don’t wait in pain. The Houston Methodist Orthopedic Injury Clinic in Sugar Land makes it easy and convenient to be seen by a specialist with expertise in treating orthopedic injuries. When you need immediate orthopedic care, count on our knowledgeable doctors and staff to quickly evaluate and treat your injury, and get you back to your active life.

The injury clinic provides treatment for: Acute orthopedic injuries Fractures and broken bones Injured tendons Minor dislocations Painful or swollen joints Sports injuries Sprains and strains Torn ligaments No appointment required Monday – Thursday 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Friday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Walk-in visits welcome Accepting patients ages 5 and up Office-visit pricing Major insurance plans accepted 281.609.7547 houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics-sl Chronic conditions, concussions, motor vehicle accidents, spine injuries and workers’ compensation injuries are not treated at the Orthopedic Injury Clinic. Please call 281.201.0396 to schedule an appointment with the appropriate physician for those conditions.

INJURY PREVENTION TIPS Marie Charpentier, a board-certified physical therapist in orthopedic and sports, and manual therapy fellow at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Sugar Land, shared the following injury prevention tips.

HEAD AND NECK Concussion Whiplash Injury prevention: Stay fit and maintain good posture for a strong neck and upper back. Wear headgear for contact sports or safety equipment for your activity.

Marie Charpentier

BACK Herniated disk Repetitive strain Injury prevention: Protect your back from injuries by strengthening your core muscles (the muscles that wrap around your entire torso) by doing exercises, such as planks and/or abdominal bracing exercises.

SHOULDER Rotator cuff injury Shoulder instability Injury prevention: Lift properly by picking up objects in front of you and as close to your body as possible.

ARM AND ELBOW

HIP AND LEG

Bursitis Golfer’s elbow Tennis elbow

Hamstring strain Hip flexor strain Shin splints

Injury prevention: Mix up your routine by doing a variety of arm movements to avoid repetitive injuries. Learning the proper mechanics for throwing and swinging is key to avoiding upper extremity injuries.

Injury prevention: Take care of your muscles and joints by warming up and stretching before exercise.

KNEE ACL injuries Jumper’s knee (patellar tendonitis) Osteoarthritis of the knee Injury prevention: Lose weight or maintain a healthy weight to take pressure off the knee and reduce wear and tear over time. Staying active helps protect the knee because you’re building muscles in the hips, quads and thighs to support the knee.

WRIST AND HAND FOOT AND ANKLE Ankle sprains Tendonitis Turf toe Injury prevention: Wear good shoes with solid support to absorb impact and prevent ankle injuries. Balance activities can help with stability — it can be as simple as standing on one leg.

Carpal tunnel syndrome Jammed fingers Skier’s thumb Wrist sprains Injury prevention: Take breaks from activity to rest the hands and wrists. If you spend a lot of time at a desk, set a timer throughout the day for every half hour to remind you to stretch and move.

STUDENT PHYSICALS When: Saturday, July 27, 9 a.m. — noon Location: Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Sugar Land Address: 16811 Southwest Fwy., Sugar Land, TX 77479 Cost: $20* Cash only Extracurricular preparticipation physicals will be available for all students ages 12-18. Orthopedic, sports medicine and cardiology specialists will be on-site to provide additional clearance as needed. For more information, visit events.houstonmethodist.org/physicals-sl or call 281.275.0447. * Proceeds generated from the physicals are donated back to the athletic training program for Fort Bend Independent School District.

HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/SUGARLAND 7

20 Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy Take good care of yourself and give your baby a healthy start with these tips.

1 | Schedule prenatal visits with your health care provider.

11 | Add more fiber to your diet.

2 | Stay up-to-date with vaccines and screenings.

12 | Eat 2 to 3 servings of fish per week, but avoid fish high in mercury, such as king mackerel and swordfish.

3 | Take a prenatal vitamin.

13 | Limit coffee to 1 cup per day.

4 | Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day.

14 | Don’t drink alcohol.

5 | Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.

6 | Exercise for 20 to 30 minutes on most days (with your doctor’s approval).

7 | Eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and veggies.

8 | Eat calcium-rich foods, such as low-fat dairy or soy.

9 | Don’t eat soft cheeses, such as brie and feta.

10 | Don’t eat lunch meat unless it’s heated until steaming hot.

8 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

15 | Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.

16 | Ask your doctor before taking prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

17 | Avoid harsh cleaners and toxic chemicals.

18 | Have someone else change the cat litter box.

19 | Ask your doctor about air travel late in pregnancy.

20 | Rest when you feel tired; take a nap if you can!

You’re in Good Hands Expecting moms often get a lot of advice from friends, family, co-workers, social media and more. “Try to stay focused on what matters most, and lean on your doctor for answers you can trust,” said Dr. Lauren Swords, board-certified obstetriciangynecologist at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “You and your doctor know Dr. Lauren what’s best for your baby.” You can trust Swords that our team at the Houston Methodist Childbirth Center in Sugar Land will listen to you and help you prepare for a smooth transition from pregnancy to parenthood.

CHILDBIRTH CENTER TOURS

Helping moms feel comfortable is an essential part of a positive labor and delivery experience. Come see our facility and meet our dedicated nursing staff so you know what to expect. Tours are available on Saturdays and Sundays at 4 p.m. and on Mondays at 5 p.m. in the Sweetwater Pavilion Atrium. Please call 281.205.4514 or visit houstonmethodist.org/events to register online.

WOMEN’S SERVICES OPEN HOUSE Date: Thursday, July 18 | Time: 5-7 p.m.

Tour the new three-story addition to our Sweetwater Pavilion, which now houses a newly expanded Breast Care Center with state-of-the-art imaging technologies and a calm, comfortable, welcoming interior, on the first floor. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour our brand new two-level Childbirth Center, which offers newly renovated birthing and postpartum suites, continuum care and well-baby nurseries.

This expansion will bring us closer to opening a level III NICU, which will be the first in Fort Bend County.

Tours of both facilities will be offered, as well as refreshments, door prizes and a gift for all attendees. For more information, visit events.houstonmethodist.org/openhouse-sl.

COMMUNITY BABY SHOWER

Date: Thursday, Aug. 1 | Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Expecting and new moms (including their babies and partners) are invited to join us for Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s annual Community Baby Shower. We will have demonstrations on how to safely use baby carriers and presentations on safe sleeping practices. Lactation consultants from the Childbirth Center will be available to talk one-on-one with moms who need support with breastfeeding.

For more information, visit events.houstonmethodist.org/ babyshower-sl or call 281.205.4514.

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TAKE THE CONFUSION OUT OF CHOLESTEROL

C

holesterol can be confusing — especially when you’re trying to make sense of your results from a cholesterol test.

Dr. Jeanene Smith, board-certified internal Dr. Jeanene medicine and pediatrics Smith physician with Houston Methodist Primary Care Group in Sugar Land, explains what you need to know about cholesterol and why it matters for your health.

Q: What is cholesterol?

A: Cholesterol is a soft, waxy, fat-like substance that can clog arteries and increase the risk for heart disease and a heart attack.

Cholesterol is produced by the liver and is essential for the body, but it becomes harmful when levels are too high.

Q: When should I get a cholesterol test?

A: Everyone should have a cholesterol test at least once after age 20. Based on your age and risk factors, your doctor will determine how frequently you should be tested in the future.

Q: Do I need to fast before a cholesterol test?

A: Fasting used to be the norm, but that’s not always the case today. Check with your doctor and follow their instructions about fasting before your test.

Q: What do my cholesterol numbers mean?

A: Your results from a cholesterol test typically include numbers for total blood cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Even if you’re in the normal range for total blood cholesterol, it’s possible to have high LDL, which puts you at risk for heart disease.

Review these numbers with your doctor so you understand what it could mean for your health.

Q: What can I do to lower my cholesterol?

A: Focus on eating a healthy diet that’s low in saturated fat and high in fiber. Gradually reduce red meat to less than one serving per week. Swap in vegetarian or Mediterraneaninspired meals, including fish, nuts, fruits and vegetables. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week and quit smoking. In some cases, medication is needed to help lower cholesterol levels.

GET SMART ABOUT CHOLESTEROL L DL cholesterol is known as the “bad” cholesterol because it is deposited in artery walls and causes plaque buildup. Normal level: Less than 100 mg/dL. H DL cholesterol is called “good” because it helps to remove some cholesterol from your system. Normal level: More than 40 mg/dL. T riglycerides are a type of fat that binds with protein in the bloodstream to form LDL cholesterol. Normal level: Less than 150 mg/dL. T otal blood cholesterol is the overall level of cholesterol, including LDL, HDL and triglycerides.

Normal level: Less than 200 mg/dL.

How’s Your Heart?

VIRTUAL URGENT CARE The next time you get sick, you can skip the waiting room. See our providers via video visit — 24/7, from wherever you are. Virtual Urgent Care is available through the MyMethodist app. Download it today or visit houstonmethodist.org/virtual-care to learn more.

10 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

Are you on target with your blood pressure, cholesterol and other health numbers? Your doctor may recommend screening tests to identify any heart-health risks. Schedule an appointment online with a primary care physician near you at houstonmethodist.org/ pcg/southwest or call 832.416.1678.

Is Vaping SAFE?

I

t sounds like a dream come true for smokers — a supposedly safer alternative to cigarettes. Electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, are rechargeable, batterypowered inhalers filled with a liquid that generally contains nicotine, flavoring and/or other additives. A heater within the device creates a vapor, which is inhaled — or “vaped” — Dr. Suneesh just like cigarette smoke but without the tar and Nair certain other chemicals.

When e-cigarettes arrived on the market a decade ago, there was hope among some that this “safer” nicotine product could be used to help people quit smoking. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not found any e-cigarette to be a safe and effective method for quitting smoking. In fact the FDA, who has tried to regulate e-cigarettes as a drug, has some serious concerns.

THERE ARE BETTER WAYS TO QUIT

“Quitting smoking is definitely the best thing you can do for your lungs and overall health,” said Dr. Suneesh Nair, board-certified pulmonologist at Houston Methodist Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine Specialists in Sugar Land. “But without understanding the full health risks of vaping and using e-cigarettes, I do not recommend them as a way to quit smoking.” Nair, a member of Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land, recommends proven and safe nicotine replacement methods, such as support groups, nicotine patches, lozenges or gum. “Eventually the goal is to stop using nicotine. Breaking the habit of inhaling nicotine — whether by cigarette or e-cigarette — will have an immediate positive impact on your lung health.”

ONGOING RESEARCH RAISES CONCERNS

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine has released a report on the health effects of e-cigarettes. While the report concludes that vaping exposes your lungs to fewer toxins than traditional cigarettes, it does not find conclusive evidence that they are safe and harmless. In fact, there is substantial evidence that exposure to certain chemicals in e-cigarettes (like formaldehyde) may cause damage to the lungs — which could increase your risk of cancer and other health problems over time. Without extensive testing, there’s no way of knowing the long-term effects of inhaling the vapor into the lungs.

In addition, the report finds that the use of e-cigarettes among young people increases their risk of becoming cigarette smokers.

The American Lung Association reports that e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product by kids. This raises serious concerns that a new generation may become hooked on nicotine, using a product with unpredictable long-term health effects.

Certain flavored e-cigarettes contain the chemical diacetyl, a chemical that was previously used to flavor buttered popcorn — until it was linked to deaths from a serious lung disease called

BEAT THE PACK® Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is offering a unique program to help people quit smoking.

Participants meet once a week for four weeks from 5:30-6:30 p.m. with sessions beginning on July 9 and another on Nov. 5. A trained facilitator provides tools, tips and support to help smokers create and follow through with their personalized “quit plan.”

Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit houstonmethodist.org/events and search for Beat the Pack, or call 281.205.4514.

How Healthy Are Your Lungs?

Lung cancer screenings are covered by most insurance plans and can provide early detection to help you live the life you want.

Criteria for screening: Age 55-77 years No current signs or symptoms of lung cancer Current smoker or former smoker who has quit within the last 15 years Tobacco smoking history of at least 30-pack years (calculated by multiplying the number of packs smoked per day by the number of years smoked) Have not had a chest computed tomography (CT) scan in the last year For more information or to schedule an appointment, call our nurse navigator at 281.672.8585.

bronchiolitis obliterans, commonly known as “popcorn lung.” Researchers at Harvard found diacetyl to be present in 75 percent of the flavors they tested. Until the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is able to regulate the manufacturing of e-cigarettes, there is no way to stop harmful chemicals like diacetyl from being included in e-cigarette liquids.

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The expertise to

KEEP YOU MOVING

At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we know your body is made to move.

Our specialists use the latest technology, perform minimally invasive procedures and develop customized treatment plans, including physical therapy. Whether you’re getting back in shape or back to work, we can help get you back on your feet — and keep you moving. houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics 20 convenient locations

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