Evidence Update: Sexual Health and Breast Cancer
Recent evidence shows that problems with intimacy and sexual well-being may be one of the most significant changes following the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Many women report a decrease in frequency of intimacy, a lack of interest in sexual activity, menopausal symptoms which may contribute to dryness and/or pain with intercourse and body image changes. It is estimated that up to 65% of women will experience sexual dysfunction following a diagnosis of breast cancer. A study published in Breast Cancer Research and Treatment surveyed women with a history of breast and/or gynecologic cancer and found that 55% reported vaginal dryness, 39% reported vaginal pain, and 51% experienced loss of libido. Women also report feeling embarrassed to talk about sexual dysfunction with their healthcare providers. Although women may receive many forms of treatment for their breast cancer, they are often reluctant to seek help for their sexual dysfunction, https://nygoodhealth.com. Please join us for an open and honest discussion about the many changes in intimacy and sexual health that follow a diagnosis of breast cancer at the June Patient Education Event. References: Bober SL, Reese JB, Barbera L, et al. How to ask and what to do: A guide for clinical inquiry and intervention regarding female sexual health after cancer. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care. 2016;10:44-54. Stabile C, Goldfarb S, et al. Sexual health needs and educational intervention preferences for women with cancer. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2017;165:77-84.
Patient Perspectives: Robyn
Patient-Volunteer-Board Member-Patient…Life is a circle Two weeks ago, I was honored to be invited to join the Board of TurningPoint. It is my hope that as a Board Member I can supply creativity and energy to this wonderful non-profit organization that does so much to help women (and men) after breast cancer treatment. We all arrive to TurningPoint with different perspectives. I arrived with the hope of being able to use my arm again after my mastectomy. What I got was so much more. Yes, I regained arm movement and my lymphedema improved. I thank TurningPoint out loud each time I reach for my morning coffee. But I got so much more. I was taken in by an organization that provided me with such loving care and such professional expertise mixed with kindness and genuine concern for my overall wellbeing, that even as I compose this, I am reduced to tears. I come across as a bubbly, upbeat, easy-going kind of gal. But the therapists magically knew about my act. They intuitively felt my silent depression and fears, and massaged both my arm and my emotional health simultaneously. I fell in love. I fell in love with this wonderful, caring place and became personally commanded to give back to them somehow. I asked to join the acquisitions committee for auction items for the 2018 gala and was so inspired by the dedication of the Chair and the passion brought to each meeting. I asked to be on the Board, where my personal goals are many. Two weeks ago, I fell and broke my wrist. As a result, I have lymphedema yet again. My surgeon suggested that I go to TurningPoint again for massage, massage, massage!!! So here I am again, a Patient!!!! Tears stream from my eyes as I write. I am so very lucky to be able to know about TP as a solution to a new set of scary problems. I am so thrilled to be a Board Member and I am excited about using my skills to make more and more people aware of this unique and life-saving organization.
Evidence Update: Brighten Your Plate & Palate with Cancer Protection
Sweet or tart, fresh or frozen, cherries can brighten your plate and palate throughout the year. These red gems also boast valuable nutrients and cancer prevention in their tiny packages. Picture Perfect Nutrition Cherries are packed with vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, with only about 70-90 calories per cup (sweet cherries have a few more calories). Except for vitamin C, nutrients in frozen and canned cherries are nearly nutritionally equivalent to fresh. Their rich red color comes from anthocyanins, a group of phytochemicals that lab research shows slow cancer cell growth and stimulate their self-destruction. Another phytochemical in cherries, perillyl alcohol, have similar effects and it may also act to disable carcinogens. Versatile and Vibrant In the United States, cherries are in season from May through August. But don’t overlook the freezer aisle for bags of unsweetened tart or sweet cherries. You can also find cherries canned in light syrup or water or try dried cherries for more intense flavoring. All can be used in baking, cooking, or in a mixed fruit salad. From salads to desserts, here are ways cherries can add color and flavor to your meals: Green salads – add halved sweet cherries or a handful of dried cherries along with pecans and a sprinkling of blue cheese. Whole grain dishes – try brown rice or quinoa pilaf with tart cherries, dried apricots, onions, and curry spices. Meats and poultry: top with a cherry sauce or cherry salsa. Dessert: Try Very Berry Bread Pudding or dip sweet or tart cherries in dark chocolate for a simple, elegant treat. Snack Time: Mix dried cherries into your oatmeal or morning cereal, in muffins or other quick bread, with yogurt or with nuts and other dried fruits for an on-the-go power snack. A version of this article appeared in the 02/01/12 issue of AICR’s eNews. http://www.aicr.org/enews/2012/february-2012/enews-cherry-love-brighten.html
Patient Perspectives: Amena, Ashley and Mary Lynn
This month we are sharing a video featuring three patients describing the impact TurningPoint has made in their lives.
