Some women may be better off delaying breast reconstruction after mastectomy, a study suggests. Researchers looked at 302 breast cancer cases. All of the women had mastectomies. Of these, 152 had reconstruction. This includes 131 who had it right away. In all, 100 women had radiation treatment. Further problems (complications) occurred in 44% of the women who had radiation after reconstruction. About 31% of them had to have their implants removed. But complications occurred in only 7% of women who had radiation but did not have immediate reconstruction. About 6% had their implants removed. One study author told HealthDay News that he has changed patient care because of this research. He now recommends a biopsy of the lymph node closest to the cancer before women decide about reconstruction. If this lymph node is cancer-free, a woman probably won’t need radiation.
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Studies of breast cancer survivors have provided information that may lead to changes in the practice of lymph node removal and the use of radiation.
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Data from studies shows that cutting sodium intake will lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Cognitive enhancement therapy, an approach that combines cognitive techniques with skills training, may help people with schizophrenia gain more control over their thinking and social skills.
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Researchers interviewed people with bipolar disorder to learn what strategies they used to manage their symptoms and avoid relapse.
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The feeling of fullness is a result of the complex interaction between the digestive tract and the brain via hormones and neurotransmitters.
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Daily self-monitoring of blood pressure readings can help keep pressure from drifting upward.
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Brief reports on anxiety disorders and increased risk of heart disease, the decline in trans fat use in fast food, and the health benefits of bicycling.
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A healthy diet that includes poultry, fish, whole grains, vegetables and fruits, nuts, legumes, low-fat dairy products, and unsaturated fats can help control high blood pressure.
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A revised formula for calculating peak heart rate in women can help those who may want to determine a target heart rate as a guideline for exercise.
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