Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Donate Your Old Computer

Do you have an old computer taking up room in your house or office? Now, you can put it to good use through the San Antonio Youth organization's computer giving program. Your computer will be refurbished and go into the homes of families with young children who do not have a computer. I'm getting ready to retire my old computer and hope to make a donation soon. To get started call Lia Payne at 210.223.3131 ext. 214 or email lia@sanantonioyouth.org to donate computers. SAYC will provide you with a contributions receipt for your tax purposes.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Thank A Doctor Today

This year in advance of Doctors' Day on March 30 we are offering Baptist Health System patients an opportunity to thank a doctor affliated with Baptist Health System by sending an online greeting card via the Baptist Health System website.

Get Started

The History

National Doctors' Day was created to show appreciation to your doctors. Doctors perform vital diagnosis, treatment and care for yourself and your family. Doctors' Day observances date back to March 30, 1933. It was started by Eudora Brown Almond of Winder, Ga. The day marks the anniversary of the first use of general anesthesia in surgery.

The first National Doctor's Day was celebrated in 1991. On March 30, 1958, the United States House of Representatives adopted a resolution commemorating Doctors' Day. In 1990, the congress and the senate approved legislation establishing National Doctors Day. The resolution designating March 30 as National Doctors' Day was signed by President George Bush.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

What is Bloodless Surgery?

Interested in learning about bloodless surgery? Bloodless medicine can avoid your need for blood transfusion and reduce your risk of blood-related complications. Plus, it can be used for almost any surgery – from minimally invasive to complex cardiovascular, orthopedic, gastrointestinal, vascular and urologic procedures.

Are you due to have a surgery and want to find out more? Maybe you are looking for an expert to speak to your community organization? Contact Mary Ann Roach at (210) 297-2616 for more information about the Baptist Health System bloodless surgery program.


The Less Blood The Better
    • Improved patient outcomes
    • Less exposure to viruses and infections
    • Faster recovery time
    • Preserves limited supplies of certain blood types

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month

Did you know March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention colorectal cancer screening saves lives but many people who are at risk for the disease are not being screened according to national guidelines.

What is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer is the growth of cancer in the large intestine. Cancer occurs when cells in the body divide out of control or order. If cells keep dividing, a mass of tissue, called a growth or tumor, forms. The term cancer refers to malignant tumors. They can invade nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body
Learn More

Reducing Your Risk
It is estimated that as many as 60% of colorectal cancer deaths could be prevented if all men and women aged 50 years or older were screened routinely. In most cases, colorectal cancer develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps, so that they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests also can find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best.

Some studies show that increased physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight may decrease the risk for colorectal cancer. Evidence is less clear about other ways to prevent colorectal cancer.

Currently, there is no consensus on the role of diet in preventing colorectal cancer, but medical experts recommend a diet low in animal fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grain products to reduce the risk of other chronic diseases, such as coronary artery disease and diabetes.

In addition, researchers are examining the role of certain medications and supplements, including aspirin, calcium, vitamin D, and selenium, in preventing colorectal cancer. While these supplements may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, the most effective way to reduce your risk is by having regular colorectal cancer screening tests beginning at age 50.

www.cdc.gov