National Eating Disorder Week
February 19th-February 25th

Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives.

While no one knows for sure what causes eating disorders, a growing consensus suggests that it is a range of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors.  Article from: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/what-are-eating-disorders

• ONLINE CHATMonday—Thursday 9am—9pm ET Friday 9am—5pm ET
• CALL (800) 931-2237 Monday—Thursday 11am—9pm ET Friday 11am—5pm ETTranslation services are available on the phone.
• TEXT (800) 931-2237 Monday—Thursday 3pm—6pm ET Friday 1pm—5pm ETStandard text messaging rates may apply.
• Contact the NEDA Helpline for support, resources, and treatment options for yourself or a loved one who is struggling with an eating disorder. Helpline volunteers are trained to help you find the support and information you need. Please note that our Helpline is not a substitute for professional help. We cannot provide any kind of advice or ongoing support. We are happy to listen to your concerns, provide information on eating disorders, help you locate professional help, and explore support options. Reach out today!
• You can always leave a message for the Helpline if it is not currently available, and we will return your call or message promptly.

For more information on eating disorders, help, and recovery go to: www.nationaleatingdisorders.org

Wellness Center Physician Assistant Corner
Author: Sara Harrison, PA

What do these three actors have in common? They all died from Colorectal Cancer!

What is Colorectal Cancer? – Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the intestines. Each year in the United States, an estimated 150,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer and over 50,000 people die due to colorectal cancer.

Who does Colorectal Cancer Affect? – Colorectal cancer can affect any person of any race and of any gender. This type of cancer is currently the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the US. Unfortunately, certain groups of people such as African Americans and people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent are considered at higher risk for colorectal cancer. People who have a history of Inflammatory Bowel Disease or Crohn’s Disease are also considered at higher risk.

What are the symptoms of Colon Cancer? – Some of these symptoms include changes in stool, abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating, blood in the stool, and weight loss. However, some people with colorectal cancer do not have any symptoms at all, which is why it is so important to have regular screening tests completed.

How do I prevent colorectal cancer? – The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force recommends that patients be screened for colon cancer starting at 45 years old. If you have certain risk factors such as a family history of colorectal cancer, then your doctor may recommend that you start screening at a younger age. A colonoscopy (a flexible camera that allows the doctor to look at the inside of your intestines) is the most accurate way to screen for colorectal cancer.  

Spread the word about the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer and encourage your friends and family to be screened! You could save a life!

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, February 17). Colorectal cancer screening tests.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved February 14, 2023, from
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/basic_info/screening/tests.htm

Information & Resources. Colorectal Cancer Alliance. (n.d.). Retrieved February 14, 2023, from https://www.ccalliance.org/colorectal-cancer-information