To Your Health

Protect Yourself and Your Family From MRSA

You’ve likely heard news reports about MRSA (methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus), a type of bacterial infection resistant to some antibiotics. Cases have been reported in our region, including among school athletes.

MRSA is preventable with good hygiene, says infectious disease specialist Luther Rhodes, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. “Regular hand-washing and alcohol-based hand sanitizers are a proven defense,” he says. “Also, clean any wounds with hot, soapy water and apply a bandage immediately.” Another tip: wash your clothes regularly. (Clothing is a potential carrier of bacteria.) For more details, call 610-402-CARE.

New Insights on Colon Rectal Cancer

Researchers at Lehigh Valley Hospital are collaborating with other members of the Penn State Cancer Institute to determine if a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors—including smoking tobacco and consuming overgrilled red meats—can lead to colon rectal cancer. The incidence and death rates from this cancer in a six-county region are high compared to the rest of Pennsylvania and the nation. “We’re trying to figure out why,” says oncologist Gregory Harper, M.D., the study’s medical director. The goal: preventing colon cancer in the future.

Health Risks for Shift Workers

Can working the night shift raise your risk for breast or prostate cancer, as suggested in a report from the World Health Organization? It might, says occupational medicine physician Carmine Pellosie, D.O., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network: “People who work rotating or night shifts or often travel across time zones may suffer circadian (sleep) rhythm disturbances that affect the body’s production of the hormone melatonin. This can lower immunity and raise cancer risk.” Reduce the detrimental effects by:

• Getting bright light exposure at work.
• Getting at least eight hours of sleep in a darkened room.
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol for 4-6 hours before bedtime.
• Getting regular exercise and eating a healthy diet.
• Asking your doctor about melatonin supplements.

Want to Know More? Call 610-402-CARE.

Published from Healthy You Magazine, March-April 2008

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