STRONG UNION Actor Gabrielle Union Urges Women Not to Put Off Breast-Cancer Screenings PG

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October 2016 $4.95 CANCER RESEARCH CANINE MEN’S THERAPIES HEALTH OFFER 5 Key HOPE FOR HEALTHY Cancer Signs HUMANS BEAUTY pg. 13 PG. 34

The Deal With FOOD Chemical Peels FAMILY & pg. 16 PARENTING Tasty Apple Making Shots Dishes for Fall pg. 40 CHECKUP Less Scary pg. 23

Advances in Breast Cancer pg. 44

LIVING HEALTHY

Workout Recovery Tips pg. 12

STRONG UNION Actor Gabrielle Union urges women not to put off breast-cancer screenings PG. 28 OCTOBER 2016 Contents FEATURES

Pg. 28

Download WebMD Magazine You’ve Got for FREE on the App Store and a Friend Google Play. Gabrielle Union knows all too well the pain of breast cancer. She lost one of her closest friends to the disease in 2010. Today she’s dedicated to spreading the I HAVE TO word about the importance MAKE SURE of breast cancer screening. MY HEALTH“ “ IS GREAT—SO I’M AROUND TO HELP MY The Canine FAMILY. Connection Promising new research looks at how treatments used to help dogs with cancer could one day help humans with the disease. IN EVERY ISSUE

Pg. 4 EDITOR’S NOTE

TAKE 10 Sonequa Martin- Green of The Walking Dead shares how a family history of cancer spurred her to become a health activist. Plus, she reveals her favorite

Pg. health advice and her 34 ultimate “cheat food.” Pg.

Cover Photograph by Alexei Hay/Trunk Archive 49

W ebMD.COM 2 OCTOBER 2016 Contents OCTOBER 2016

HEALTHY START Pg. HOT TOPICS: How exercise can help improve your memory, the health benefits of whole grains, why standing at work can make you more productive, 7 and more news you can use. LIVING HEALTHY WORKPLACE HEALTH: How to balance work and cancer treatment. Pg. • WORK IT OUT: If you want to improve your fitness, it matters what you do after 10 you exercise. • MEN’S HEALTH: 5 cancer signs that no man should ignore. HEALTHY BEAUTY BEAUTY SMARTS: A chemical peel can improve your skin’s appearance

Pg. while treating common issues. • EXPERT PICKS: Rejuvenate your skin with a hydrating oil. Plus: The Scoop, Aisle Do, and Dirty Secret.

14 FAMILY & PARENTING PARENTING: Good old-fashioned handwriting has benefits for kids’ developing brains. • PREGNANCY: Before conception, a father’s health matters as Pg. well as the mother’s. • BABY TALK: Practical tips for making vaccinations less painful for infants. • PET HEALTH: Cancer signs and symptoms to watch for. 20 • KIDS’ HEALTH: The importance of mental health screening for children. FOOD IN SEASON: Apples are the star of three simple recipes for lunch, dinner, Pg. 40 and dessert. Plus: Breakfast Smarts.

WEBMD CHECKUP Pg. Promising new research on breast cancer prevention and treatment. • LIVING WELL: Treating bipolar depression. • MY STORY: A reader explains how she learned to deal with ADHD. • QUIZ: How much do you know about back pain? Test your knowledge. 44 • BY THE NUMBERS: A closer look at cancer.

W ebMD.COM 3 OCTOBER 2016 EDITOR’S NOTE

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Have questions about health insurance? Wonder which are the best options in your area and what your choices are? We’ve just launched our Health Insurance Directory to easily answer those questions and many more. You’ll also find the new 2016 health insurance plan ratings, published exclusively with the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), a not-for- profit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. Visit doctor.webmd.com/find-health-insurance. And while you’re there, use our other directories to find a doctor, hospital, and pharmacy near you. October marks the start of Breast Cancer Awareness month, an annual campaign to raise awareness about the disease. For actor Gabrielle Union, like it is for so many of us, this effort is deeply Access Now! personal. She opens up to us in this month’s cover story starting on page 28 about her Download the free Digimarc close friend’s diagnosis at age 31, and how 1 Discover app, available at iTunes she uses her star power to encourage and Google Play. women to get regular screenings. Unfor- Look for this tunately, when to start screenings is a mat- Open the app. Hold your device icon on pages ter of debate in the medical community. 2 4 to 7 inches away from the throughout activated icon (shown at right) to scan it. the magazine. We speak with experts to better understand Your phone will alert you when Digimarc what’s behind the conflicting guidelines. Discover recognizes the image. Also in this issue, we look at some recent cancer research, a topic we’ll explore fur- Your browser will open to display ther in our upcoming WebMD digital 3 a web page where you can access series with Good Morning America’s co- WebMD articles, videos, slideshows, and host Robin Roberts, The Cutting Edge of more content or download WebMD apps. Cancer. And be sure to check out our back page as well to learn why actor Sonequa Martin-Green from The Walking Dead became an ambassador for Stand Up To CONNECT WITH US! Cancer. Like Union, a personal connec- Subscribe to a newsletter! tion inspired her. webmd.com/newsletters Take a look at these stories and more to help you and your loved ones make Download Like WebMD! WebMD facebook.com/webmd smarter prevention, diagnosis, and treat- Magazine ment decisions. for FREE Tweet us! on the twitter.com/webmd App Store and Google Pin with us! Play. pinterest.com/webmd/ webmd-magazine

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W ebMD.COM 6 OCTOBER 2016 HEALTHY START HOTTOPICS! CURRENT CANCER FACTS AND FIGURES

Most common cancers in women: breast, lung, and colorectal Source: CDC

More than 100 Types of cancer researchers have identified 15.5 million Source: American Cancer Society People who’ve survived a cancer diagnosis Source: American Cancer Society 23% EACH YEAR, more than Drop in cancer 12 MILLION dogs and cats are death rate since its diagnosed with cancer peak in 1991 Source: Fetch a Cure Source: American Cancer Society

Most common cancers in 66 years men: prostate, Average age at which cancer lung, and is diagnosed colorectal THINKSTOCK Source: American Cancer Society Source: CDC

W ebMD.COM 7 OCTOBER 2016 HEALTHY START JUMP START

For millennia, dogs have truly been man’s (and woman’s) best friend, providing protection, com- panionship, untold moments of pleasure, even unconditional love. Their contribu- tion to humans’ health and happiness has NEW CANCER RISK been researched and measured. But per- Recent research shows that gum disease may be linked to pancreatic cancer. People whose haps less well-known mouths harbored two bacteria related to periodontal disease were more likely to develop is dogs’ role in human pancreatic cancer later on, according to a study of more than 700 people. The researchers can’t medicine, including cancer research, say for sure that the bacteria cause cancer, but they could be a risk factor for the disease. as we report in our Source: American Association for Cancer Research story, “The Canine Connection.” Dogs and humans share about 85% of the same DNA, and dogs develop cancer much like we do. So researchers at 22 45% U.S. universities, part Percentage of U.S. adults who eat of the Comparative Oncology Trials Con- meals considered “poor” quality— sortium, now study down from 56% in the last 15 years dogs with cancer in clinical trials to deter- Source: JAMA mine better tumor- fighting treatments for the dogs themselves—with potential implications for under- standing and treating cancer in people. The results so far are pretty exciting. “A handful of products have been added to Whole Health the market that were Whole wheat or white? It makes initially tested in pet dogs with cancer,” a difference. An analysis of several says one of our studies including more than 78,000 experts. Even better, adults found that people who some dogs survived ate more whole grains were less longer and had a better likely to die prematurely during the quality of life thanks study period. Each daily serving to the trials. For more, turn to page 34. BACK TO NATURE slashed the risk of death from cancer A good reason to head for the great outdoors: by 5%, death from heart disease In a study of more than 1,500 urban dwellers, by 9%, and death from any cause those who spent at least 30 minutes a week in by 7%. Greatest benefits come from Colleen Paretty green spaces were less likely than their peers three servings of whole grains per Editorial Director to have depression or high blood pressure. day, the researchers say. [email protected]

FROM TOP: GETTY IMAGES (2); THINKSTOCK GETTY IMAGES TOP: FROM Source: Nature Scientific Reports Source: Circulation

W ebMD.COM 8 OCTOBER 2016 HEALTHY START 8% Percentage of U.S. adults older than 40 who have coronary heart disease, a leading cause of death in the nation. That’s down from 10% in 2001.

Source: American Journal of Preventive Medicine

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Hot Hits What’s trending on WebMD.com right now*

LATE ARRIVAL Vitamins and Foods for sleep Being late is usually not a good thing. But for babies, minerals showing up a week or two after they’re expected could Thyroid symptoms bring benefits later on. A study of 1.5 million kids in Hand-foot-and- Florida public schools found that those who were born at 41 weeks had higher test scores in elementary and mouth disease Estrogen middle school than those born at 39 or 40 weeks. They were also more likely to be classified as “gifted.” *as of August 1, 2016

Source: JAMA Pediatrics

EXERCISE YOUR MEMORY Cramming for a test? Try scheduling study and exercise about four hours apart. In an experiment, 72 young adults studied a series of images. Twenty-four of them did a cardio workout immediately after. Another 24 waited four hours to exercise. The rest skippedthe workout. Two days later, everyone took a memory recall test on the images. Those who exercised four hours after studying performed far better than the rest. Researchers found no difference in those who exercised immediately and those who didn’t exercise at all.

FROM TOP: THINKSTOCK; GETTY IMAGES THINKSTOCK; TOP: FROM Source: Current Biology

W ebMD.COM 9 OCTOBER 2016 LIVING HEALTHY

Take Note Want a foolproof trick for remembering what someone tells you? Simply grab a pen and notepad. Sound oh-so nondigital? That may be, but a recent study suggests that taking notes prevents details from slipping your mind. Another study suggests handwriting trumps typing. To secure more details in your mental vault, try these tips:

Use your own words. Instead of copying someone’s speech verbatim, jot down the main points.

Review what you’ve written. Reread your notes later to keep them fresh in your mind.

Speak up. Borrow a strategy that Dartmouth College teaches its Ivy League students: Recite and repeat key concepts aloud.

Be brief. Use short sentences, phrases, and abbreviations. Keep it simple with bullets and lists.

Be ready for anything: a doctor’s visit, teacher’s conference, or important telephone call. Simply stash a pad and pen in your car, in your bag, and next to the phone. Yes, even your smartphone. —Kara Mayer Robinson ASTRAKAN IMAGES/OFFSET ASTRAKAN

W ebMD.COM 10 OCTOBER 2016 Join 200-plus convos in WebMD’s Cancer LIVING community at WebMD.com. HEALTHY LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4

WORKPLACE HEALTH Working Through Cancer WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW IF YOU CAN AND WANT TO DO YOUR JOB DURING TREATMENT

By Sonya Collins

ing cancer, going through chemotherapy, or requesting reasonable work accommo- dations. If the side effects from your treatment mean extra trips to the bathroom or that you need to make changes to your workstation, this law can help you with that, too. As long as you are still able to do your job, the ADA prevents discrimination based on your condition. Maybe your diagnosis came right after you’d used up all your sick days and vacation time. The Family and Medical Leave Act says that companies of 50 employees or more must allow up to 12 weeks of For the time being, cancer treatment is going to unpaid leave to recover from HOW TO DECIDE be a part of your life. Maybe you’re wondering how a serious health condition. you’ll have time for work with cancer or maybe you’re ARE YOU WORRIED Even though you have the ABOUT HOW wondering how you’ll have time for cancer with work. YOU’LL BALANCE right to work with cancer, Whether you can or should work during your treatment WORK AND CANCER that doesn’t mean you won’t TREATMENT? depends on the type of cancer, the treatment, and the ASK YOUR DOCTOR need to slow down. A high- work you do. But if you can work and want to, no hard THESE QUESTIONS: stress workplace and round- and fast rule says you shouldn’t. the-clock demands might How can I expect to feel during my not be best for someone “If you’re capable of But if you expect to lose treatment? trying to get better. doing it, I encourage you to your hair or take time off for “You have to create some work. Psychologically it’s treatment, you might decide How do other kind of work/life balance. a big plus,” says Jim Han- it’s best to explain why. If people like me feel Eat right, get some exercise, during the same kins, MSW, LCSW, director so, it’s probably a good idea treatment? and sleep,” Hankins says. of patient support and to wait until you know your “This is a time that you’re social services at Winship treatment plan. That way, How much fatigue going through treatment. Cancer Institute of Emory you can tell your employer will I have? Your body’s going to need University in Atlanta. “If exactly what you need— to heal. You need all the How long will any you’re not working, what are whether it’s time off, flexible side effects last? strength you can get.” you going to think about? hours, or the option to work Cancer.” from home. Can a social worker So how do you tell your The Americans with help me balance work Reviewed by and treatment? Brunilda Nazario, MD boss? You’re not required to Disabilities Act ensures that WebMD Lead Medical Editor

GALLERY STOCK GALLERY tell your employer anything. you won’t get fired for hav-

W ebMD.COM 11 OCTOBER 2016 Watch Stretching With a Foam Roller, a video at WebMD.com. LIVING HEALTHY LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4

WORK IT OUT Post-Workout Moves WHAT YOU DO AFTER YOU EXERCISE CAN REALLY HELP YOU GET FIT

By Kara Mayer Robinson

Your fitness routine doesn’t end when you hit the 4. Compress a hot shower. Soak in frigid showers. The downtime after your workouts is when Many athletes and fitness water for 45 seconds, then the good stuff happens: Your muscles repair and rebuild buffs rock compression socks, let a hot shower cascade over themselves, and your fitness level surges. tights, and sleeves while they you for three to four min- Want to optimize your recovery and propel your future work out. But keeping them utes. Repeat several times, workouts to the next level? Make these post-workout prac- on longer may be beneficial. always starting and ending tices a regular part of your regimen. Recent research suggests that with cold. donning compression wear 1. Refuel 3. Massage after exercise—even while 6. Go light Dip into a stash of carbo- Kick muscle tightness, you sleep—may aid muscle Intense exercise has hydrate- and protein- aches, and limitations recovery. major benefits, but gentle rich foods after you work to the curb with a soft- workouts deserve credit, out. A healthy snack at tissue massage. “If you 5. Ice too. They boost blood the right time tops off can’t get a massage, Ice packs and ice baths are circulation, promote the your energy supply and using products like foam a tried-and-true recovery flow of nutrients to your helps repair and rebuild rollers or massage balls tool. The frigid temp con- muscles, and prevent scar- your muscles. is a decent substitute,” stricts your blood vessels, ring of muscle and connec- About 20 to 60 minutes Oliver says. Roll them which sends extra oxygen tive tissue, Oliver says. after your workout, have slowly over your muscles, to your muscles when they Try low-intensity activities a snack that’s two-thirds and when you find a sore warm up again. like yoga or walking a few carbs and one-third pro- spot, hold it there for Some pros suggest flip- times a week. tein, like a turkey sandwich 30 to 60 seconds. ping between an ice bath and on whole grain bread. 7. Take off “Recovery days are critical 2. Rehydrate in developing more strength, “Replenishing your power, or speed from your water is critical to opti- exercise efforts,” Oliver says. mize your recovery,” says If you work out hard, Eric Oliver, PT, owner alternate muscle groups on of Beyond Exercise, an different days. Every week, athletic development and pencil in one full day off physical therapy facility plus one day of active recov- in Cincinnati. Sipping ery, like stretching, easy H20 post-workout restores cardio, or core work. cell function, boosts cir- If you’re a low-key culation, and brings your exerciser, you don’t need body temperature back a day off. But, says Oliver, “it to normal. doesn’t hurt to have that time Drink 8 ounces before off to let your body and mind your workout, 7 to 10 relax and recover for the next ounces every 20 minutes week of exercise.” during exercise, and another 8 ounces after. Reviewed by For a flavor boost, add Michael W. Smith, MD, CPT a splash of 100% fruit WebMD Chief Medical Editor

PATRIK GIARDINO/GETTY IMAGES GIARDINO/GETTY PATRIK juice or a slice of lime.

W ebMD.COM 12 OCTOBER 2016 Check out Essential Screening Tests Every Man Needs, a LIVING slideshow at WebMD.com. HEALTHY LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4

MEN’S HEALTH 5 Cancer Clues EARLY DETECTION IS KEY, SO PAY ATTENTION TO THESE SIGNS

By Matt McMillen

Behind on screenings? Avoiding the doctor? When it comes to cancer, think about changing your game plan. You might be able to beat the disease if your doctor catches it early on. “With many cancers, the earlier we find it, the more effectively we can treat it,” says Durado Brooks, MD, MPH, a specialist in prevention and early detection at the American Cancer Society. “If left alone, many cancers will grow and spread.” That’s why Brooks says men shouldn’t ignore these five symptoms.

1. Lumps and bumps. If you notice a new growth anywhere on your body, get it checked out if it does not go away or gets larger. An enlarged lymph node in your neck, for example, may indicate an infection—but it could also be a sign of cancers like leukemia or lymphoma. And don’t ignore a lump on your tes- 3. Changes in bathroom habits. 4. Unexplained weight loss. ticles. “If it lasts two to three weeks or If your daily bowel movements If you drop 10 to 15 pounds in a few grows, see your doctor,” Brooks says. dwindle to once or twice per week, months without changes to your diet or Testicular cancer can be treated very that should sound an alarm, espe- exercise habits, get evaluated. This type effectively in its early stages. cially if you also have persistent of weight loss may signal cancer of the stomach pain—both may signal colon pancreas, stomach, esophagus, or lung, 2. Blood in your urine or stool. cancer. See a doctor if these symp- or some other serious health problem. “This should always be taken very toms last more than a few days. The “Don’t assume it’s cancer, but assume seriously,” Brooks says. “In most cases, same goes if you find yourself get- something is going on,” Brooks says. it’s not cancer, but if it is cancer, you ting up several times in the night to want to know about it and address it pee or if you have trouble starting or 5. Skin changes. Sores that don’t heal, early on.” Bloody urine could signal stopping your urine stream. In most raised growths or lumps, moles that bladder or prostate cancer, while cases, such changes are due to benign change, and other odd skin appearances bloody stools point to colorectal cancer. enlargement of the prostate, but they could be a sign of skin cancer, which Caught early, both bladder and colon can be a symptom of prostate is easily treatable when caught early. cancer have high survival rates. cancer, Brooks says. If you see something, see your doctor, Brooks says. “Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., but most ? ASK YOUR DOCTOR are not fatal or disfiguring.” 1. Does anything in my family history indicate I have a higher risk of cancer? 2. What lifestyle changes can I make to reduce my risk of cancer? Reviewed by Michael W. Smith, MD 3. How can I best take responsibility for my overall health? WebMD Chief Medical Editor JOSE LUIS PELAEZ/GETTY IMAGES PELAEZ/GETTY LUIS JOSE

W ebMD.COM 13 OCTOBER 2016 HEALTHY BEAUTY

Get Even A splattering of freckles across the nose is cute in your teens and 20s, but later on brown spots from the sun or hormone-induced melasma patches can add years to your complexion. Dermatologist Kally Papantoniou, MD, clinical instructor at Mount Sinai Health Center in New York City, suggests a simple dark-spot-diminishing plan.

Get skin under control. Try a dermaroller. If you still get acne lesions, This product, a roller with numerous fine new scars and dark spots will continue needles, rolls over scars to create small to develop. Use a broad spectrum perforations. New collagen forms to heal SPF 30 (or higher) sunscreen to prevent them. Use it once or twice weekly; spots and current spots from darkening blotchiness should fade in a few months. due to sun exposure. Be patient. Stock up on retinoic acid. It can take three to six months to see Retinoic acid (prescription) or retinol the full effect of a treatment. We’re talking (over the counter) creams can help about a tissue-remodeling process, with stimulate new collagen production and new collagen and elastin production, which

GALLERY STOCK STOCK GALLERY skin cell turnover. takes time. —Ayren Jackson-Cannady

W ebMD.COM 14 OCTOBER 2016 Make healthy habits stick with the WebMD App.

With the WebMD App, you’ll get:

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WMD_Core_1016_WebMDApp.indd 1 9/7/16 9:53 AM HEALTHY BEAUTY

BEAUTY SMARTS The Peels Deal HOW CHEMICAL TREATMENTS CAN HELP IMPROVE YOUR SKIN

By Liesa Goins

HOW TO PREP AND RECOVER WELL YOUR SKIN CARE BEFORE AND AFTER A PEEL MAKES A BIG IMPACT ON YOUR RESULTS AND RECOVERY TIME. HERE’S WHAT YOU SHOULD DO.

Moisturize. Keeping your skin hydrated helps prevent irritation and speed the healing process, dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD, explains. Add heavier moisturizers to your routine, and make sure you’re applying liberally at bedtime.

Stop using retinoids. Since retinoids speed up cell turnover and have potential for irritation, stop using them a week before a peel, Katherine Holcomb, MD, says. The doctor will advise that you stop using hydroquinone and other exfoliants.

Go gentle. Holcomb tells her patients to follow a gentle skin care routine of fragrance- free and moisturizing products and to limit the use of acne and anti-aging products until skin has com- pletely healed. As the seasons change, so should months, you’re not going to suffer recur- your skin care. Aside from swapping ring damage from the sun.” Your resur- Wear sun protection. Perhaps the most in heavier-duty moisturizers, scheduling a faced skin has time to heal before you’re important directive is to peel now can help your skin recover from spending a lot of time outside, which wear sun protection every summer’s excesses. “Peels are often increases the benefits of a peel. second you’re outside, performed to correct the damage during Timing is important because of the way Engelman says. The surface extended sun exposure,” says Dendy peels work. In a professional peel, a doctor of the skin is new and Engelman, MD, a dermatologist in New applies a combination of acids that pen- especially vulnerable to injury. Plus, you’ve just York City and director of dermatologic etrate the skin to stimulate cell turnover erased sun damage, so you surgery at New York Medical College. and remove the surface layer of dull skin don’t want to start the cycle

HERO IMAGES/SUPERSTOCK/GLOW IMAGES IMAGES/SUPERSTOCK/GLOW HERO “When a peel is done during colder cells. “Generally, a peel causes the bonds all over again.

W ebMD.COM 16 OCTOBER 2016 Check out No-Knife Cosmetic Fixes, a slideshow at WebMD.com.

LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4

between cells to break, making it easier to remove them from the surface,” Engelman says. The acids also help treat sun damage by removing pigment from the skin’s surface, and they inhibit the production of more pigmentation. Their strength varies, from a mild The Scoop “lunchtime” peel to a deep peel that Can probiotics really improve my skin? requires anesthesia and a couple weeks of You’re likely already hip to the health benefits of probiotics recovery. “The lunchtime-type peels have (aka the good-for-you bacteria found in foods like no downtime, but require multiple treat- yogurt and kimchi), including supporting your immune ments to see major results,” says Katherine system, easing depression, and preventing obesity. Now a recent Holcomb, MD, a clinical assistant profes- study suggests that topical products that contain probiotics may also offer some skin benefits, perhaps acting like an anti- sor of dermatology at Tulane University inflammatory while boosting antimicrobial properties. The result School of Medicine in New Orleans. “I do could mean fewer outbreaks of acne and eczema. many more big-impact peels that have some downtime but yield quicker results.” In the study, researchers found that probiotics applied topically Chemical peels treat a range of skin com- improve the skin’s barrier function and decrease acne flares. plaints including acne, uneven pigmenta- Understand that you are not applying bacteria or anything tion, fine lines, dullness, and rough texture. fermented to your skin. Rather, scientists have created “When you come in for a peel, you should a shelf-stable synthetic probiotic for skin care. have an idea of what your primary concern To see if your serum or face cream includes probiotics, is,” Holcomb says. “Certain peels are better look on the ingredients list for Lactobacillus ferment, a lactic acid for each complaint, and we can tailor the bacteria that stabilizes active ingredients, improves cell peel to each patient’s primary concern.” renewal, and encourages skin healing. Doctors often combine acids to maximize Two products I like are Tula Hydrating Day & Night Cream, the results. For example, salicylic acid and infused with probiotic technology to hydrate skin and lactic acid are frequently combined because reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and LJH Probiotics Sleeping together they help remove surface cells. The Cream, a blemish-fighting night product. addition of phenylethyl resorcinol offers the —Debra Jaliman, MD, assistant professor of dermatology, benefit of inhibiting pigment production. Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, New York City, and author of Skin Rules: “Peels are the most effective way of exfoli- Trade Secrets From a Top New York Dermatologist ating the skin,” Engelman says. “Chemical

AISLE DO

“I love this volumizing spray; it doesn’t weigh down my hair or leave a PRODUCT PICK residue. My hair is fine and needs all of the volume it can get. A French Phyto Phytovolume Actif ($15) hairstylist introduced me to the spray, and I immediately liked that it has a light and clean scent—I’m very sensitive to fragrance, and this doesn’t make me sneeze. I spray it from roots to ends on wet hair, brush it through, and EXPERT Amy Wechsler, MD blow-dry. The wheat proteins and amino acids in the formula create thick- dermatologist, New York City, ness, but don’t feel sticky the way hairspray can. Since it’s non-sticky, I can and assistant clinical professor of dermatology, restyle my hair the next day without having to shampoo again.” SUNY Downstate Medical Center GALLERY STOCK GALLERY

THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS SECTION ARE OF THE EXPERTS AND ARE NOT THE OPINIONS OF WEBMD. WEBMD DOES NOT ENDORSE ANY SPECIFIC PRODUCT, SERVICE, OR TREATMENT.

W ebMD.COM 17 OCTOBER 2016 HEALTHY BEAUTY

Dirty Secret TIME TO TOSS IT? “I don’t pay attention to makeup expiration dates. How bad is that?”

Expiration dates are important because as ingredients degrade over time, products can become contaminated with bacteria and cause skin reactions or infections.

With makeup, you need to be especially cautious with anything you apply to your eyes or lips. It’s easy to leave an eyeliner or lip gloss in a drawer for months, but that doesn’t mean it’s still good. I see patients with pinkeye (conjunctivitis) and cold sores from using contaminated makeup. You’ll know a product is expired if it smells bad, if the color or consistency has changed, or if it applies differently.

To keep track of expiration dates, keep a marker handy to write the date you open any makeup. When in doubt, toss old products. It’s better to buy new makeup than to treat infections or breakouts.

—Papri Sarkar, MD, dermatologist, Brookline, Massachusetts

exfoliants work more evenly than mechanical And don’t let the term “peel” scare you: Dermatologists scrubs, which can vary depending on degree Dermatologists have many options for of pressure and time spent on certain areas.” mild peels whose only side effects are have many Whether you’re considering a drugstore flaking and redness. Bottom line, accord- options for product or a professional peel, it’s wise ing to Holcomb: “There are so many to seek a doctor’s opinion. When in doubt, peel options and the chemical technology mild peels with opt for the lowest concentration and strictly is so predictable that there really is only minor follow instructions. Professional peels will a peel for everyone.” offer the most dramatic results, but incorpo- side effects. rating salicylic or glycolic acid into Reviewed by Mohiba Tareen, MD your daily routine will also provide some WebMD Medical Reviewer

KATE MATHIS/OFFSET KATE benefits, Engelman says.

W ebMD.COM 18 OCTOBER 2016 Check out The Beauty Benefits of Natural Oils, HEALTHY a slideshow at WebMD.com. BEAUTY LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4

EXPERT PICKS Get Up and Glow REJUVENATE YOUR SKIN WITH THESE SIX OILS

By Ayren Jackson-Cannady

2 Currant Affairs Grape Escape 1 Cecilia Wong Reviving 4 The Vitamin Black Currant Serum, $72 Shoppe Grape “Perfect for skin in need Seed Oil, $8 of some TLC, this helps “Best used to combat hydrate a worn out greasy skin, a few complexion from too much drops of this oil, with time in the sun. Bonus: its natural antioxidants, This oil is rich in fatty acids has a mild astringent and anti-inflammatories, effect. Note that some which may improve skin 1 people with acne-prone texture and softness.” skin can tolerate this oil, but not all.”

Brighten Up Double Duty 2 The Organic 5 Acure Organics Pharmacy Virgin Cold Argan Facial Oil, $12.99 Pressed Rose Hip Oil, $60 4 “This oil, which is light “This is a dry oil that 3 enough to use every penetrates deep into skin day, pulls double duty layers to regenerate since it can be used skin cells and increase on your hair and on collagen production. your face. It contains This oil contains antioxidants, essential retinoic acid, which fatty acids, and vita- helps to brighten the min E, which together skin and reduce the serve as a superfood appearance of wrinkles.” for your skin.” 5

Hemp Give Me 3 Hydrator 6 a ‘Tea’ Nutiva Organic The Body Shop Hemp Oil, $18 Tea Tree Oil, $10 “This is my all-time “Try this natural acne- favorite because it does fighting alternative not clog pores. Also, made with a generous studies show that the 6 5% tea tree oil; it works linoleic acid in hemp to help treat those oil can boost hydration unwanted blemishes to prevent age-related that pop up.” drying and flaking.”

Seth Forman, MD Reviewed by clinical dermatologist, Karyn Grossman, MD Tampa, Florida WebMD Medical Reviewer

JEFFREY WESTBROOK JEFFREY THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS SECTION ARE OF THE EXPERTS AND ARE NOT THE OPINIONS OF WEBMD. WEBMD DOES NOT ENDORSE ANY SPECIFIC PRODUCT, SERVICE, OR TREATMENT.

W ebMD.COM 19 OCTOBER 2016 FAMILY & PARENTING

Learning to Share

Despite parents’ best wishes, taking turns may be too sophisticated for kids younger than 5, according to new research in the journal Psychological Science.

Researchers designed a machine that delivers a prize out of one side or the other. Two children facing eachTK other on opposite sides of the machine must each pull their lever in the same direction to release a prize on one side, while the prize on the other side disappears. After a prize is released, the machine resets. Then the children can agree to pull the levers the other way, so the other child gets the reward.

Twenty-four pairs of 5-year-olds worked it out and managed to release a prize more than 99% of the time. But their 3½-year-old counterparts got a prize from the machine only 62% of the time. The other times, they couldn’t let go of their own self-interest and agree which way to pull the lever.

“Encouragement and modeling turn-taking could help at younger ages, making children aware they both get what they want and both are happy afterward,” says Alicia Melis, PhD, assistant professor of behavioral science at the University

STEPHEN MORRIS/STOCKSY STEPHEN of Warwick in Coventry, England, and author of the study. —Sonya Collins

W ebMD.COM 20 OCTOBER 2016 Get tips for preventive health care and better well-being. Sign up FAMILY& for the Living Better Newsletter PARENTING at WebMD.com. LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4

PARENTING The Write Stuff PENCILS, PAPER, AND PENMANSHIP MAY BE GOOD FOR GROWING KIDS’ BRAINS

By Lisa Marshall Before the lesson, the children couldn’t decipher between a random shape and a letter, and their brains responded simi- larly to each. After they learned to hand- draw a letter, brain regions instrumental for reading lit up at the sight of the letter like they do in a literate adult. Learning to type a letter yielded no such change. James suspects that practicing a sloppy letter over and over—rather than just pecking a perfect one on a keyboard—helps a child recognize it better later. In fact, numerous studies have shown that preschoolers who practice handwriting read better in elementary school. But the benefits don’t end there. Handwriting also requires concentration and teaches brain circuits responsible for motor coordination, vision, Today’s schoolchildren get about WRITING and memory to work together. “If in the one-fourth the handwriting STEP BY STEP future we were to take away teaching instruction their parents got, and many EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGIST handwriting altogether, I worry there never learn cursive at all, thanks to the VIRGINIA BERNINGER, PhD, could be real negative impacts on chil- OFFERS THESE GUIDELINES rise of computers and new education FOR INTRODUCING VARIOUS dren’s development,” James says. guidelines that de-emphasize penman- WRITING TOOLS: ship. That concerns some educators and The Value of Longhand Preschool brain researchers, who say putting Strengthen motor skills by Timed right, cursive also comes with pencil to paper stimulates brain circuits playing with clay, stringing some unique advantages. Berninger’s involved with memory, attention, motor beads, working through mazes, research suggests kids who link their skills, and language in a way punching and connecting dots with arrows letters via cursive get a better handle on a keyboard doesn’t. to form letters. what those words look like and end up “There is this assumption that we Kindergarten to second grade being better spellers, she says. Cur- live in the computer age, and we don’t Master block letters. sive also allows them to compose their need handwriting anymore. That’s Third to fourth grade thoughts faster than in block handwrit- wrong,” says Virginia Berninger, PhD, Learn cursive. ing or via typing (at least until about a professor of educational psychology seventh grade, when their brains become Fifth grade at University of Washington. mature enough to manage two-handed Continue to write by hand while introducing typing by touch typing quickly). Priming the Preschool Brain (not just hunt and peck). “I always encourage my own students Indiana University psychologist Karin to take handwritten notes,” James says. Onward James, PhD, recently published a study Many tablets allow writing looking at brain scans of preschoolers directly on screen with a pen or Reviewed by Roy Benaroch, MD before and after they learned to produce stylus. Writing by hand doesn’t WebMD Medical Reviewer

MARIA MANCO/OFFSET MARIA letters, either by printing or typing. mean not using technology.

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PREGNANCY Dads Matter NEW RESEARCH SUGGESTS THAT A MAN’S AGE AND LIFESTYLE MAY INFLUENCE HIS CHILDREN’S HEALTH

By Matt McMillen

It’s not just about Mom. New research shows that Age and certain cancers, per- a man’s age and lifestyle may have a significant effect Studies that Kitlinska’s haps because the father’s on his children’s health—well before they are born. team reviewed showed that obesity and poor nutrition Joanna Kitlinska, PhD, an assistant professor of biochemistry children whose fathers were cause changes in certain and molecular and cellular biology at Georgetown University, older than 40 had a much genes directly linked to looked at dozens of studies on dads’ and children’s health. The higher risk of autism than these conditions. research she reviewed suggests “that paternal age, lifestyle, and those with fathers younger certain exposures can have an impact on children,” she says. than 30. Older fathers also Alcohol Here’s how: Age and unhealthy habits cause changes to tend to have children at As many as 3 out of 4 chil- a man’s genes. Although scientists don’t yet fully understand greater risk of schizophrenia. dren diagnosed with fetal how it happens, these changes are then passed on to his No one knows why. alcohol spectrum disorders kids—perhaps even to his grandchildren. For example, a man’s Another study links have alcoholic fathers. Chil- obesity may affect his genes in a way that makes his children fathers older than 35 to dren with these disorders more likely to be obese. Or tobacco smoke may damage higher chances for heart may have low birth weight, a man’s sperm, allowing it to pass on potentially harmful problems in their kids as impaired brain development, genes to his children. well as birth defects such as and learning disabilities. Most of the studies were able to show only a link between Down syndrome. “With alcohol and many the two and didn’t prove one causes the other. The field requires other exposures, it’s been much more research. Absolute risks of birth defects and other Diet believed that it’s mainly issues remain low for any one child, and researchers still believe Obese men appear to father mothers who influence the the mother’s health and habits while pregnant have a much children who face a higher children directly,” says Kit- stronger impact on a child’s health. Here’s a breakdown of what risk for obesity, diabetes, linska, whose review

GALLERY STOCK STOCK GALLERY Kitlinska and her colleagues found. abnormal metabolism, challenges that notion.

Practice Healthy Habits Kitlinska says more research needs to be done before any conclusions can be drawn from this “relatively new field of study.” But her work suggests that fathers-to-be should take good care of themselves. That means a healthy diet, regular exercise, limited alcohol, and no smoking. “It’s common sense to have a healthy lifestyle if you are planning to have children,” she says.

Reviewed by Hansa Bhargava, MD WebMD Medical Editor

W ebMD.COM 22 OCTOBER 2016 Get the WebMD Baby App to track growth and capture your FAMILY& baby’s special moments. PARENTING LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4

BABY TALK Tot Shots MAKE VACCINES LESS PAINFUL FOR YOUR BABY—AND LESS STRESSFUL FOR YOU

By Stephanie Watson

tested the five S’s on a group of infants, the method decreased pain scores and crying time. You don’t need to use all five S’s, he says. Pick those that work best for your baby.

Numbing Medicine For a child older than 3, a spritz of a cooling spray or smear of anesthetic cream before the vaccination will numb her arm or leg. Then when the needle goes in, she’ll feel less pain.

Breastfeeding Breastfeeding soothes the fussiest of babies, and it may relieve vaccine pain even better than cooling spray. Try nursing your baby before the shots, as part of the five S’s, or right afterward.

Tandem Shots At 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months, many babies will need three or more By the time your baby is a year And vaccines don’t have to hurt. “You shots in the same visit. It might seem old, she’ll need at least 16 can do a lot of different things to ad- like giving two shots simultaneously vaccinations. The pain of each needle dress the baby’s pain,” Harrington says. (one in each leg or arm) would accen- stick is fleeting for her, but the stress tuate pain, but the opposite is true. of seeing your baby cry can stick The Five S’s “When you tandem shoot like that, the with you. The side/stomach position, shushing, brain gets confused,” Harrington says. Fear of painful shots shouldn’t swinging, swaddling, and sucking One thing you may not want to do steer you away from the recommended soothe fussy babies, and are also a good is give your baby Tylenol before vac- vaccination schedule. Vaccines are distraction technique during vaccines. cinations. A 2009 study found the pain all that stand between your baby and Here’s how it works: You hold baby on reliever reduces the body’s immune dangerous childhood diseases like his stomach or side. After the doctor response, which could make vaccines polio, diphtheria, measles, and rubella. or nurse gives the shot, you quickly less effective. But ask your pediatrician; “With each shot you get an increase in swaddle baby in a blanket. Then you if your baby is in pain afterward, a little immunity,” says John W. Harrington, swing him, make a shushing sound Tylenol might be OK. MD, professor of pediatrics at Eastern in one ear, and place a pacifier in his Finally, try to calm your own nerves Virginia Medical School. mouth. When Harrington and his team so they don’t rub off on your baby. “You really want to have the parent on board,” Harrington says. “If they’re ? ASK YOUR PEDIATRICIAN skittish about the vaccines, their emo- 1. Which vaccinations will my baby need? tions can increase the child’s anxiety.” 2. What’s the schedule? 3. What are the possible risks and side effects? 4. What will you do to reduce my baby’s pain during and after the shots? Reviewed by Hansa Bhargava, MD WebMD Medical Editor 5. What should I do if my baby has a reaction to a vaccine? CHRISTOPHER FUTCHER/GETTY IMAGES FUTCHER/GETTY CHRISTOPHER

W ebMD.COM 23 OCTOBER 2016 Read the article Skin Lumps and Bumps in Dogs at WebMD.com. FAMILY& PARENTING LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4

PET HEALTH

You’re vigilant about the signs Spotting Cancer of cancer your doctor tells you MILLIONS OF DOGS AND CATS DEVELOP CANCER EVERY YEAR. to watch out for—an irregular mole KNOW WHAT TO WATCH FOR or a suspicious lump. But do you know the possible signs in your pets? Not By Sonya Collins just a two-legged problem, cancer is all too common in cats and dogs. Doctors find more than a million cases in their human patients every year. Veterinarians, on the other hand, diagnose about 6 million cancers a year in dogs and another 6 million in cats. “Animals can’t tell us what they’re feeling. We have to be observant,” says Brian Collins, DVM, chief of community practice at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in Ithaca, New York.

Lumps, Growths, Tumors A lump isn’t automatically cause for alarm. Middle-aged and older dogs often get benign fatty tumors. But a veterinarian should check any lump on your pet. If you’ve been watching one, and it changes, that warrants a vet visit, too. “It may start to grow more rapidly, become [an open sore], start bleeding, or seem painful because the animal is licking or chewing it,” Collins says. A red, teary, or bulging eye might be harboring a tumor. Tumors can also cause symptoms of an ear infection. “The ear might be uncomfortable. The pet might be shaking its head or claw- ing at the ear. There might be discharge or an odor,” Collins says. Growths on the lips, gums, or tongue can be a sign of oral cancer. These may come with bad breath, too. A suddenly expanded belly without A veterinarian should check any lump on any other weight gain could point to an abdominal tumor. Unexplained your pet. If you’ve been watching one, and it weight loss could be a complication

GALLERY STOCK GALLERY changes, that warrants a vet visit, too. of cancer as well.

W ebMD.COM 24 OCTOBER 2016 FAMILY& PARENTING

New Behaviors “Your pet’s personality might that they can be signs of other Cancer can cause changes in your seem to change. Maybe they become problems, too. Straining to urinate, pet’s behavior or habits, such as more withdrawn, act more irritable, or for example, could point to a urin- decreased appetite, chronic vomit- hide. They might develop new quirky ary tract infection. Cough in a dog ing or diarrhea, coughing or labored behaviors. These could be potential might mean heart disease; in a cat, breathing, increased thirst, and signs of a brain tumor,” Collins says. asthma. Excessive thirst can stem change in food preferences. Take Cancer-related personality changes from diabetes or kidney problems. notice if a once-active dog suddenly could also include pacing, agitation, Diarrhea and vomiting may suggest spends all his time lying around— and wanting togo outside more. any one of a host of diseases. or limping, a possible sign of bone “A lot of these symptoms overlap cancer. Straining to urinate or other False Alarms with other diseases as well, so I gen- changes in pee patterns, such as Before you see your vet, don’t panic erally recommend if people see any increased volume or frequency, might or jump to conclusions. The tricky of these signs to go to the vet,” Col- be a red flag, too. thing about symptoms of cancer is lins says. “We don’t want people to always be on the edge of their seats about cancer, but we don’t want to CANCER TREATMENT BASICS let something go unnoticed or DID YOU JUST LEARN YOUR PET HAS CANCER? progress too far before action ASK YOUR VETERINARIAN THESE QUESTIONS: is taken either.”

If my pet is older, How long will my What will be the Are most people how will treatment pet have a good cost and time glad they pursued extend his quality of life commitment of treatment for this Reviewed by Will Draper, DVM overall survival? without and with treatment? type of cancer? WebMD Medical Reviewer

GALLERY STOCK GALLERY treatment?

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KIDS’ HEALTH Children at Risk WE NEED TO SCREEN KIDS FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND LEARNING DISORDERS. OUR EXPERT EXPLAINS WHY

By Stephanie Watson

How can schools identify which kids are in need of mental health services? I would love to see national screening. Schools do hearing tests and vision tests. They should also do mental health screening. I think there should be a 10-question screener in seventh grade and again in ninth grade. The reason for doing it in those grades is to see results pre-puberty and post-puberty.

What can parents do if they know or suspect their child has a mental health issue? I would imagine that the No. 1 About 1 in 5 kids in the United States has a mental programs are positive problem parents have is health or learning disorder, according to the Child behavioral interventions that they’re ashamed. Mind Institute, a nonprofit that focuses on mental health and supports, which focus [We need to] get parents care for children. on reinforcing kids’ positive to not feel defensive about Children who aren’t diagnosed and treated early on can behaviors. It takes an effort, it and instead say, It’s not face a lifetime of educational, legal, and emotional issues, from the head of the school a matter of my child being according to the organization’s 2016 Children’s Mental Health all the way to the lunch- defective—it’s just that my Report. Institute president Harold S. Koplewicz, MD, room staff and the custodial child has symptoms that explains why schools can—and should—do more to identify staff, to focus on when kids are making their function- and help these at-risk kids. are doing positive things. ing in school more chal- Schools that have adopted lenging, and as a good par- What happens to kids The current antiquated way this cultural change of posi- ent I need to find out what with mental health issues of focusing on bad behavior tive behavioral intervention those symptoms are, what in schools? The bad news is throwing more kids out of and support have those symptoms mean, and is that schools overwhelm- school, but it’s not effec- a 30% decrease in in-school whether there is something ingly have adopted a zero- tively increasing high school suspension. We know that I can do to make their life tolerance discipline policy. graduation rates. if you keep kids in school, easier at school. Kids are kicked out much they have a better chance of faster than ever before. In What are the best inter- graduating high school. Reviewed by 1974, school suspensions ventions for children with And when they graduate Hansa Bhargava, MD were 1.7 million. In 2001, we mental health issues? high school, they have a WebMD Medical Editor

GALLERY STOCK GALLERY had 3.1 million suspensions. I think the most effective lower risk of going to jail.

W ebMD.COM 26 OCTOBER 2016 ADVERTISEMENT

Products, Ideas & Promotions for Healthy Health Happenings Living

WebMDHH_Oct2016_FP_PR.indd 1 9/8/16 12:01 PM WMD_Core_1016_HealthHappenings.indd 1 9/13/16 1:25 PM YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND Inspired by the loss of a close pal, Gabrielle Union is on a mission to empower women to get cancer screenings

By Kara Mayer Robinson

Gabrielle Union with her friend Kristen Martinez

WHEN LIFE DELIVERS A BLOW, actor Gabrielle Union doesn’t sit around and stew. Instead she takes action. Case in point: In 2005, she discovered that her close friend Kristen Martinez, then 31, had stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Without skipping a beat, Union rallied behind Martinez and her family to arrange treatment that could boost Martinez’s chances of survival. “We were all like, ‘We’re going to get her cured,’” says Union. “Let’s go to Mexico or let’s go to Europe— whoever was doing cutting-edge work. As long as we could find the funds, let’s do it.” Because it was late-stage cancer, Martinez didn’t have a minute to waste. She thought her odds would be best with progressive treatment and clinical trials. But because they were considered experimental, her insurance didn’t cover them. So Union plunged into grassroots fundraising. She hosted casino nights and auctioned off high-ticket items to help her friend pay for the care she wanted. THIS PAGE: WIREIMAGE. OPPOSITE PAGE: JEFF LIPSKY/CPI SYNDICATION LIPSKY/CPI JEFF PAGE: OPPOSITE WIREIMAGE. PAGE: THIS Photography by Jeff Lipsky

W ebMD.COM 28 OCTOBER 2016 “It looked like a miracle happened. Her hair was growing back. She was gaining her weight back. She looked amazing. It was like she was cured.”

After Martinez completed a clin- The American Cancer Society re ical trial, things began to look up, commends yearly mammograms be and then suddenly the cancer seemed ginning at age 45—and for women at to be gone. “It looked like a mira- high risk, an annual mammogram cle happened. Her hair was grow- along with MRI. But not every- ing back. She was gaining her weight one agrees. “There is no consensus back. She looked amazing. It was like about whether screening average- she was cured,” Union says. risk women ages 40 to 49 years is But instead, less than a year later, Racing for a breast-cancer cure, in beneficial,” says Crew. memory of her friend the cancer was anything but gone. In Some doctors advise breast self- 2010, five years after her diagnosis, exams, but many do not. Some orga- Kristen Martinez died. nizations, such as the American “It had never occurred to me that Cancer Society, don’t recommend she was not going to beat it,” says Union, 43, who stars them, citing lack of evidence that they are effective. in the BET television series Being Mary Jane and has “It’s important to recognize symptoms, such as breast appeared in movies like Top Five and Bring It On. “I guess lumps,” says Crew, noting that is especially true for young nobody Googled what metastatic means. We didn’t real- women who don’t get regular screenings. Other symptoms ize that the prognosis is sort of built into the diagnosis.” include breast pain, nipple pain, swelling, skin irritation, redness, nipple retraction, and nipple discharge. Many experts urge women to know their bodies and if something DO EARLIER DIAGNOSES MAKE A DIFFERENCE? doesn’t feel right, talk to a doctor. Metastatic cancer is cancer that has spread to other parts Sadly, Martinez had symptoms—pain in her side and of the body. While some treatments can help some women back—but put off seeing a doctor. With a recent work pro- with metastatic breast cancer live longer, the disease is motion, new apartment, and budding relationship, her not curable, says Katherine Crew, MD, an oncologist at life was on overdrive. “Everything was more important New York-Presbyterian/Columbia Medical Center. By the than these little nagging aches and pains,” Union recalls. time Martinez received her diagnosis, cancer cells had By the time Martinez saw a doctor, her cancer was already traveled from her breast to her bones. in a late stage. Would the outcome be different if Martinez had discov- Cindy Fletcher, who runs an outreach program to Lati- ered her cancer sooner? Maybe. “The earlier breast can- nas for the breast cancer foundation Susan G. Komen, cer is detected, the greater the likelihood of cure,” says says this is common. “Women are so concerned about Crew. When caught early, it typically hasn’t spread. everyone else in their lives, they don’t take the time to Many doctors believe tests that detect breast cancer, like care about themselves,” she says. She adds that in com- mammograms, can save thousands of lives every year. But munities she works with, women often face a host of

OPPOSITE PAGE: JEFF LIPSKY/CPI SYNDICATION. THIS PAGE: COURTESY GABRIELLE UNION GABRIELLE COURTESY PAGE: THIS SYNDICATION. LIPSKY/CPI JEFF PAGE: OPPOSITE there’s controversy about what the guidelines should be. barriers to care, like language and cultural differences,

OCTOBER 2016 31 W ebMD.COM Read 9 Warning Signs of WHO GETS Breast Cancer, an article BREAST at WebMD.com. CANCER? LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4

One in 8 women develops breast cancer. It’s rare in women younger than “I get mammograms once a year. 40—about 1 in 300.

Still, nearly 13,000 I started getting them in my 30s, women 40 or younger are diagnosed every year. In 2014, she married professional basketball player due to Kristen. Yes, it’s uncomfortable. It’s the most common Dwyane Wade. So far, she says, things are going smash- cancer in women ages 15 But it can literally save your life.” ingly. “He’s my best friend—at least right now. Talk to me to 39. Young women in a few years,” she says with a laugh. often have risk factors Not only is Union a new wife, she’s also a new mom. like family history. When she and Wade tied the knot, she became a stepmom Caucasian women are to his sons Zaire, 14, and Zion, 9, and slightly more likely his nephew Dahveon, 15. “I lucked to develop breast cancer insurance gaps, limited access, and lic service announcements to edu- out. They’re loving kids that are than African-American misinformation. “Their screening cate and urge women to get screen- appreciative of my consistency,” she women. African-American women age 35 or younger rate is less. So they may be detect- ings. The same year, she joined says. “Being a stepparent is probably are twice as likely to ing it later,” she says. Komen to open Ghana’s first breast one of the more thankless jobs. It’s develop it and three times Unfortunately, late detection can health hospital. hard to figure out: How much do more likely to die compared be particularly devastating to women After losing Martinez, Union con- I do? When do I pull back? It’s a very with same-age Caucasian like Martinez, who was young tinued full steam ahead. In 2010, challenging tap dance.” women. Latinas tend to be diagnosed earlier and Latina. “On average, younger she formed “Gabby’s Circle of Prom- With Wade’s recent transfer to the but at more advanced women tend to have more aggressive ise,” a Race for the Cure team in Chicago Bulls, the entire brood is in the stages. LGBT women have breast cancers,” says Crew. When her friend’s honor. And in 2012, she midst of a major transition—relocating higher rates than hetero- Latina women are diagnosed with became a spokesperson for Planned from Miami to the Midwest. Union says sexual women. breast cancer, they tend to have Union with husband Dwyane Parenthood, launching an initiative it’s particularly daunting for Zaire and Union, with Navia Ziraili Robinson, Wade and his sons and nephew in an episode of Being Mary Jane Men can have breast cancer more advanced-stage tumors. While to encourage more women to get Dahveon, who just entered high too. About 2,350 men are African-American women tend to screened for breast cancer. school. But she says they’re up for it— diagnosed every year. have lower breast cancer rates than and she’ll be there to ease them over Caucasians, they’re more likely to die the bumps. from the disease. FAMILY AFFAIR Several organizations are pushing to get the word out Today Union continues to advocate for women’s health. to groups at particular risk. Komen funds over 530 pro- She works with Planned Parenthood to promote afford- A LASTING LEGACY grams to educate, screen, diagnose, and treat the Latina able wellness programs and runs Komen’s Race for the While Union is committed to her family and career, she She visits her doctor regularly and checks on anything community. Young Survival Coalition recently created Cure whenever possible. Her cause work is more challeng- stops short of neglecting herself. “I set boundaries,” she that doesn’t feel right. “Some could say I’m a hypochon- a diversity strategy to promote outreach to the Latina, ing now because her schedule is packed solid. She’s film- says. “I want to make sure I’m as healthy as possible.” driac,” she says. “I investigate everything—any aches, African-American, and LGBT communities. ing the fourth season of Being Mary Jane and has three To stay fit, Union works out with a personal trainer. pains, creaks. I’ll go see doctors and specialists. I’m like, If Union joined the cause early on. In 2008, she movies coming out: The Birth of a Nation, Almost Christ- A favorite calorie-crusher is a basketball-themed workout I’m paying for this insurance, I’m going to use it—all of it.” became a Global Ambassador for Komen, leveraging her mas, and Sleepless. She is also launching a line of watches that taps her competitive spirit—perfect for the athletic Her breast health is no exception. “I get mammograms celebrity to raise awareness about breast cancer and for Invicta and has her own wine label, Vanilla Puddin. Union, who played basketball and soccer and ran track once a year. I started getting them in my 30s, due to Kristen. encourage others to join the cause. She appeared in pub- When she’s not working, she’s in full-on family mode. in high school. I just wanted to stay on top of it. Yes, it’s uncomfortable. Yes, it’s a little weird. But it can literally save your life,” she says. If there’s one lesson Union learned from her friend, it’s that no matter how busy her life gets, no matter how difficult it can be to carve out time, neglecting her health simply is not an option. “I prioritize my own health,” Union says. “I have to make sure my health is great—so I’m around Try Pilates Drink water Banish sugary drinks to help my family.” GABRIELLE’S “I started doing Pilates for Bad Boys 2 and “I drink a gallon of water a day. “Coffee drinks? They’re like a whole day’s HEALTHY I just loved how my body transformed. It’s actually not as hard as it sounds. worth of calories. Some of us need LIVING TIPS I zone out, find that little bit of peace for Yes, you’re going to the bathroom that jolt of caffeine, but we can get it Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD, WebMD Lead Medical Editor 1 an hour, then go back to my crazy life.” 2 all the time, but it is the best thing.” GETTY IMAGES BET COURTESY 3 with an espresso or black coffee.”

W ebMD.COM 32 OCTOBER 2016 OCTOBER 2016 33 W ebMD.COM the CANINE CONNECTION Cancer can strike our furry friends too. Fortunately, recent By Kara Mayer Robinson Photography By Jeff Lipsky research has led to treatment advances that help ailing dogs live longer and happier lives—and offer hope for humans as well. BY R. SCOTT RAPPOLD

Photographs by Tiffany Hagler-Geard looking for answers RESEARCHERS AT THE VETERINARY CANCER NETWORK IN NORWALK, CONNECTICUT, TREAT DOGS WITH CANCER TO UNDERSTAND THE DISEASE BETTER

WHEN MARISA ROCKWELL OF GUILFORD, CONNECTICUT, TOOK HER DOG TO A VETERINARIAN IN OCTOBER 2014, SHE SUSPECTED SOME SORT OF URINARY TRACT INFECTION. VALO, A PIT BULL MIX, HAD TROUBLE PEEING.

But the diagnosis was much worse: bladder can- When cancer strikes, humans and dogs share cer, two types. The vet gave Valo six months to similarities as well. For example, tumors associ- live, a devastating prognosis for Rockwell, who’d ated with lymphoma, the most common cancer had him for a decade. So when she heard about an among dogs, are genetically similar to lymphoma experimental study on canine cancer at a nearby in humans. Dogs also develop many forms of can- veterinary clinic, she signed up. cer spontaneously, as humans do, making them “I said, ‘If there’s no cure for either of these can- better test subjects than mice in some cases. cers already, we might as well try something that’s Canine research isn’t confined to cancer, with not been tried before,’” she says. Valo received two studies around the U.S. exploring such areas as shots and follow-up testing, then returned home. spinal cord injuries, aging, and whether having Ten months later, Valo showed no signs of ill- a pet dog makes people healthier. But unlocking ness. When he died in May 2016, he’d survived the mysteries of cancer, from testing new drugs to end-stage cancer for a year longer than expected. trying to understand why benign lumps turn into Scientists hope that the experimental vaccine, malignant tumors, may pose the greatest potential which works by inducing the animals’ bodies to benefits for humans and dogs, health experts say. make their own monoclonal antibodies to fight The American Kennel Club Canine Health cancerous tumors, could one day play a role in Foundation has funded some 30 trials in the past treating the disease in humans. 16 years. Meanwhile, veterinarian researchers at “The data look good. We’re excited about the 22 universities around the nation have formed results of phase 1 of the study and we’re looking the Comparative Oncology Trials Consortium to to move on to a phase 2,” says Gerald Post, DVM, share information and cooperate in clinical trials Comparative oncology offers great potential to treat and someday cure cancer. Why is this research so an oncologist at the Veterinary Cancer Center on cancer in dogs, with the goal of better under- important? Statistics show that 1 in 4 men and 1 in 5 women in the U.S. will die from cancer. Dogs are simi- in Norwalk, Connecticut, who conducted the standing and treating cancer in people. BY THE larly susceptible to spontaneous, naturally occurring cancers. By studying cancer in dogs, scientists can research with Mark Mamula, PhD, a professor at And the results are real. “A handful of products NUMBERS develop medicines and therapies that may one day benefit human cancer patients. Yale School of Medicine. have been added to the market that were initially COMPARATIVE ONCOLOGY IN CONTEXT tested in dogs. There are many more in the DOGS HELP FIND ANSWERS pipeline,” says Arlene Weintraub, journalist and $1.8 million $3 million 6 million 22 schools The American Kennel Club has The National Cancer Institute Among the 65 million pet The National Cancer Institute The clinical trial that included Valo is one of many author of the new book Heal, about comparative dedicated about $1.8 million in this year made $3 million in dogs in the U.S., 6 million partners with 22 veterinary around the country focusing on cancer in dogs. oncology between dogs and humans. For instance, 2016 to fund 13 oncology trials, grant money available for cancer cancer cases are diagnosed schools around the country, Humans and dogs share much more than living she points to Palladia, the first FDA-approved seven of which involve pet dogs. specialists and veterinarians in each year, according to the making up the Comparative spaces. Research shows they share 85% of the same cancer drug for pets, and says the canine trials several locations to study immu- National Cancer Institute. Oncology Trials Consortium. DNA, in part the result of exchanging viruses over that led to it were important in the development notherapy and canine tumors. tens of thousands of years of cohabitation. of a human version, Sutent (sunitinib malate).

W ebMD.COM 36 OCTOBER 2016 OCTOBER 2016 37 W ebMD.COM Read Advances in Cancer Research, an article at WebMD.com.

LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4 cutting-edge treatment DOGS IN CLINICAL TRIALS HAVE ACCESS TO THE LATEST TESTS AND EXPERIMENTAL DRUG THERAPIES

Researchers have also begun human trials on work from animal testing. “Sometimes people PAC-1, which causes cancer cells to self-destruct, think, ‘Oh, this is about owners who are dropping following successful results from canine studies. their dogs off for research purposes,’ and that’s not The vaccine that researchers gave to Valo the case at all. These are dogs that belong to peo- and other dogs in the Connecticut cancer study ple, that continue to be cared for and live in their doesn’t even have a name yet. Of the 20 dogs homes,” Brown says. Their cancer is treated as it enrolled in that study, five are still alive, Post would be normally—the difference is that “veteri- says. But that’s only part of the story. All had end- nary specialists, who are running trials, have ac- stage cancer and the study wasn’t meant to focus cess to all the latest tests and MRIs and equipment. on survivability, Post adds. Rather, researchers The dogs just happen to be having samples taken wanted to see how the dogs would respond to a or having drug therapy that is still experimental.” vaccine developed and first tested in mice by Yale Another benefit is that some find solace in know- School of Medicine. ing their pets can help humans. “I don’t know if he Post says the study is a new take on monoclonal will be cured, because the tumor is quite large,” antibody drugs that doctors have used in humans. Rockwell, Valo’s owner, said several months before The vaccine spurs the plasma cells in the dog’s im- her dog died. But “in a way, he is making his little mune system to create tumor-fighting antibodies. mark on history.” “Instead of making the antibodies externally, we have hopefully figured out a way to make the Reviewed by Arefa Cassoobhoy, MD, MPH body make them itself,” Post says. WebMD Medical Editor The initial results were encouraging. The dogs’ bodies responded and developed antibodies; researchers added 24 more cancer-stricken dogs to the trial from the fall of 2015 through early 2016. About half of these are still alive, Post says. Researchers hope to have a post-trial study published by the end of this year. Post aims to secure grant funding by the end of 2016 for phase 2, which will focus on dosing and the dogs’ survivability and quality of life.

A GLOBAL INITIATIVE Post’s canine clinical trial is part of the One Health Initiative, a global movement based in the U.S., that aims to look at all aspects of human, animal, and environmental health. Studying the link between animal and human diseases is a major goal of this international consortium of scientists and physicians. For example, researchers at Mississippi State University see promise in studying blood platelets in dogs with cancer to better understand how the disease spreads and how to stop it. Diane Brown, DVM, PhD, CEO of the AKC Canine Health Foundation, is quick to differentiate this

W ebMD.COM 38 OCTOBER 2016 OCTOBER 2016 39 W ebMD.COM FOOD

IN SEASON Super Snack

Bite into a crisp, juicy apple, and you may indeed keep the doctor away. “The combination of fiber and water in apples helps you feel full, which can be really helpful with getting to and staying at a healthy weight,” says Alice Bender, MS, director of nutrition programs and a registered dietitian at the American Institute for Cancer Research. Weight control is key to reducing your risk of cancer and heart disease. In addition, apples offer vitamin C and beneficial plant chemicals such as quercetin (which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties) and triterpenoids (which may prevent out-of-control cell growth, preliminary studies suggest). Many of those compounds are located in or near the skin, so don’t peel apples before you munch. And with the host of different varieties in markets right now, Bender says, “everybody can find one they like.” Check out our a-peeling apple recipes on the next pages. — Erin O’Donnell

Recipes by Kathleen Zelman, MPH, RD, LD FOOD STYLING: EUGENE JHO/PLUM REPS, PROP STYLING: KAITLYN DUROSS WALKER/ HONEY ARTISTS ARTISTS HONEY WALKER/ DUROSS KAITLYN STYLING: PROP REPS, JHO/PLUM EUGENE STYLING: FOOD

W ebMD.COM 40 OCTOBER 2016 Photographs by Christopher Testani Sign up for The Daily Bite Newsletter at WebMD.com and get featured recipes FOOD from WebMD’s Healthy Recipe Finder. LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4

The top apple- growing states are Washington, New York, and Michigan.

Wrap Star This wrap makes a lovely lunch, and looks especially appealing when made with red-skinned apples. To get the biggest health benefits, leave skin on. Kitchen tip: Soaking the raw red onion in cold water for a few minutes will mellow out the flavor.

Turkey Apple Wrap With Yogurt Dressing Makes 6 servings Ingredients

DRESSING ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt 1 tbsp honey mustard ½ tsp sea salt freshly ground black pepper to taste SANDWICH 6 (6–8 inch) whole wheat wraps or tortillas 6 large bibb lettuce leaves 12 oz sliced turkey breast 6 (1 oz) slices low-fat Swiss cheese 1 large red apple, cored and thinly sliced 1 avocado, sliced ½ cup shredded carrots ½ red onion, sliced thin

Directions 1. Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, email honey mustard, salt, and pep- this per. Set aside. recipe! One medium 2. In a small bowl of ice water, apple contains soak onion for 10 minutes; 95 calories. remove and dry. Slice thin. 3. To construct wraps, spread dressing on one side of each .com tortilla. Layer on lettuce, turkey, cheese, apple, avocado, carrots, and onion. Fold in the What’s Cooking! sides and roll up the wraps. Thousands of people turn to WebMD.com for meal inspiration every day. Cut in half and serve. Here are the most-clicked recipes.*

Per serving Tomato, Onion, and Roasted Zucchini and Pesto Lemon Dill Chicken Cucumber Salad 308 calories, 31 g protein, 32 g Easy Cherry Berry Pork Tacos With carbohydrate, 7 g fat (2 g saturated fat), BLT Salad Cheesecake Cobbler Pineapple-Bell Pepper Salsa 57 mg cholesterol, 6 g fiber, 7 g sugar, 305 mg sodium. Calories from fat: 23% *August 1, 2016

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Good varieties for An estimated 2,500 cooking and baking varieties of apples grow apples include in the United States. Jonagold,TK Pippin, and Granny Smith apples. Try a Little Warm It Up TK Tenderloin Nothing completes a fall meal like warm apple crisp. Whole grain oats This recipe provides a delectable and nuts add protein and more fiber. twist on a beloved fall combo. We use Granny Smith apples, but any variety Fall Apple Crisp will work. Makes 8 servings

Roasted Pork Tenderloin Ingredients With Apple Onion Compote 6 cups peeled, cored, email Makes 6 servings chopped apples (2–3 lbs) 1 tsp cinnamon this Ingredients recipe! ⅔ cup packed light brown sugar, 2 tbsp olive oil divided 2 pork tenderloins, 1 lb each 1 tsp lemon juice ½ tsp sea salt ¼ tsp lemon zest freshly ground 1½ cups oats black pepper to taste ½ cup whole wheat flour 1 tsp fresh thyme ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans plus sprigs for garnish 3 tbsp cold trans-fat-free margarine, 1 large onion cut into small pieces 2 large Granny Smith apples, Directions peeled, cored, sliced ½-inch thick 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 1. Heat oven to 375ºF. In a large bowl, 2 tbsp maple syrup toss apples with cinnamon, 2 tbsp ¼ cup unsweetened apple juice brown sugar, lemon juice, and zest. or cider 2. Place mixture in a 13x9-inch baking dish, coated with cooking spray. Directions 3. In a small bowl, mix oats, flour, nuts, 1. Preheat oven to 425ºF. remaining brown sugar, and marga- 2. Heat olive oil in a large nonstick rine; combine thoroughly with a fork. oven-safe skillet over medium- 4. Layer topping over the apple mixture; high heat. Season pork with lightly coat with cooking spray. salt and pepper. Sear pork on Bake 30-40 minutes, until golden email all sides until browned; remove brown. Serve warm. this recipe! to plate. Per serving 3. Add thyme, onion, and apple slices to pan and sauté until 334 calories, 8 g protein, 54 g carbohydrate, golden, about 5 minutes. Place 11 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 11 mg cholesterol, 6 g fiber, 25 g sugar, 36 mg sodium. pork atop apple mixture. Place in Reviewed by Calories from fat: 28% BREAKFAST SMARTS oven and bake 10–15 minutes or Hansa Bhargava, MD until an instant-read thermometer WebMD Medical Editor registers 145ºF. Remove pork from oven and cover with foil for at least 10 minutes. 4. Combine mustard, maple syrup, TRY A TACO arugula. Cook the egg and greens and apple cider in a small bowl. FOR BREAKFAST until the greens are wilted and egg is Return skillet to medium-high cooked. Divide the mixture between SMALLER THAN A BREAKFAST the tortillas. Add slices of avocado and heat, add apple cider mixture to BURRITO BUT JUST AS SATISFYING, apple-onion mix, and cook until A BREAKFAST TACO IS A MORNING some hot sauce or salsa. slightly reduced. Place apple MEAL THAT SATISFIES ON ALL You can make lots of variations, 2. Meanwhile, add a drizzle of olive compote on plate and top with FRONTS: FLAVOR, NUTRITION, depending on what you have on AND CONVENIENCE. oil to a small nonstick pan heated to slices of pork. Garnish with hand. Have leftover cooked greens, medium-hot. Crack an egg in the pan sprigs of fresh thyme and serve. mushrooms, or other veggies from last and use a spatula to fold and cut into Make one in a few simple steps: night’s dinner? Add that to the pan. Feel the egg as it cooks—you’re essentially Per serving 1. Place two small corn tortillas on a like tofu rather than eggs? Scramble it scrambling it in the pan. 289 calories, 31 g protein, 17 g carbohydrate, large plate. Spread each with a couple up. You can also add crumbled chorizo, 10 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 97 mg cholesterol, tablespoons of black beans. Pop into 3. While the egg is still a bit runny, and herbs and spices—cumin and 1 g fiber, 13 g sugar, 302 mg sodium. the microwave for 20 seconds. add a handful of baby spinach or oregano work well. —Kerri-Ann Jennings Calories from fat: 32%

W ebMD.COM 42 OCTOBER 2016 OCTOBER 2016 43 W ebMD.COM CheckupTAKING CARE, LIVING WELL

A closeup of breast cancer cells

New Discoveries in Breast Cancer Research Breast cancer is one of the most researched cancers of all. Three new studies show promise for the future of prevention and treatment

1. Drinking raises risk. At the University of Houston, in the breast after the cancer is removed release radiation biologists found a potential link between alcohol intake for two months to help prevent recurrence. This method and breast cancer. When researchers added alcohol to is already a standard treatment for prostate cancer. breast cancer cells, BRAF—a gene that promotes the disease—kicked into overdrive. At the same time, alcohol 3. New NASA research shows promise. Researchers weakened the cancer drug Tamoxifen’s ability to fight at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California inspect the disease. These findings could help doctors advise spacecraft for microbes before they send them out in patients about alcohol intake. space. This protects other parts of the solar system from earthly bacteria. Now they’ve teamed up with cancer 2. Radiation therapy just got simpler. Traditional experts to test breast duct fluid for microbes using the radiation therapy requires multiple appointments, same methods. The team compared bacteria in the where radiologists use large machines to deliver radio- breast fluid of women with and without cancer and active beams. While the treatment kills cancer cells, found that it differed greatly between the two groups. painful skin problems can occur as a result. Now, with This could lead to studies on the role of bacteria in microseed therapy, tiny seed-like devices implanted causing or preventing cancer. —Sonya Collins STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/GETTY IMAGES GSCHMEISSNER/GETTY STEVE

W ebMD.COM 44 OCTOBER 2016 Check out What You Should Know About Bipolar Disorder, Checkup a slideshow at WebMD.com. LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4 Reviewed by Arefa Cassoobhoy, MD, MPH, WebMD Medical Editor

LIVING WELL Partner with a mental Get regular sleep. health expert. “Sleep is crucial,” as many Because bipolar depression people with bipolar condi- HELP FOR can resemble other condition “have a very sensitive, tions, see your doctor or very delicate internal clock BIPOLAR mental health professional to that’s easy to knock out of get a correct diagnosis. tune,” Youngstrom explains. DEPRESSION “Even though the depres- Practice good sleep HEALTHY HABITS CAN PREVENT THE sion looks similar [to regular hygiene, such as going to bed LOWS FROM KEEPING YOU DOWN depression], it doesn’t and waking up at the same respond the same to treat- time. “Get the electronics out By Christina Boufis ments,” says Youngstrom, of the bedroom, and get off acting director of UNC’s your e-reader or cellphone at Center for Excellence in least 90 minutes before bed,” Research and Treatment of Youngstrom says. Bipolar Disorder. Talk to an expert about medication or Consider a supplement. types of therapy that may be Research shows that right for you. omega-3 fatty acids help reduce symptoms of bipolar Get moving. depression. While they’re “Exercise helps,” Young not a cure, Youngstrom says, strom says. In addition “they’re likely to be helpful to releasing endorphins in prevention or extending (feel-good chemicals in the amount of time that you the body), exercise helps stay well between flare-ups.” reduce inflammation. As for Riordan, now 35, “We’re starting to suspect she’s doing well with medica- that inflammatory pro- tion and lifestyle changes. cesses—chemical changes Going to a weekly support that trigger swelling of blood group has been crucial, she vessels throughout the body, says. “Exercise is a huge including the brain—are a help, even just getting out core feature of bipolar disor- for a walk and getting some der,” Youngstrom says. sunshine.” Exercising and eating And she has found it help- heart-healthy meals, which ful to write notes to herself When she was 19, Laura Riordan was diagnosed are good for reducing inflam- about what works during with bipolar disorder, a brain condition character- mation in general, may ease periods when she is feeling ized by extreme mood swings—periods of highs (called symptoms of bipolar depres- better. “It may sound silly,” mania) and lows of depression. sion, he adds. But avoid she says. “But when you’re “During periods of depression, I’ve had really dark days drugs and alcohol: Both can feeling depressed, you can’t where I didn’t want to be alive,” Riordan says. “I’d sleep worsen the disease and make really remember anything 18 to 20 hours some days. I really didn’t function for treatment more difficult. that works.” months. I’d be holed up in bed, not showering for three or four days and not even able to make my own food.” “For anyone living with the condition, they tend to spend a lot more time in the downs than the ups,” explains ? ASK YOUR DOCTOR 1. Do I have bipolar depression? Eric A. Youngstrom, PhD, professor of psychology and 2. What medications can help me? neuroscience, and psychiatry, at the University of North 3. What kind of exercise is right for me? Carolina at Chapel Hill. But “recovery is possible with 4. Can supplements help? bipolar disorder,” he says. 5. How can I improve my sleep? PATTY LAGERA/GETTY IMAGES LAGERA/GETTY PATTY

W ebMD.COM 45 OCTOBER 2016 Check out ADHD in Women and Checkup Girls, a slideshow at WebMD.com. LEARN HOW ON PAGE 4

MY STORY MY LIFE WITH ADHD A READER SHARES HOW MEDICATION AND A STRONG SUPPORT SYSTEM HELPED HER TO SUCCEED

By Katherine Firestone, WebMD.com community member

I remember feeling stressed because I hadn’t like an impostor when gotten anything done. I was younger. I was held That’s when my mom back in second grade. In took me to see a psycholo- high school, though I was in gist, and I was diagnosed a lot of higher-level classes, with attention deficit hyper- I always felt like I was activity disorder. I was 17. working harder than anyone My doctor prescribed medi- KATHERINE’S I couldn’t write in them, and else. Reading took much cation, and my mom hired KEYS then she’d sit with me as a longer for me, it seemed. I’d what would now be called an silent partner while I worked. read a paragraph and think, executive functions coach. “For me, not feeling I continued to take medi- “I have no clue what I just My coach taught me how like a failure and taking cation through my junior the medication when read.” I’d skip ahead, never to plan my time. She had year of college and apply the I need it are key.” read directions, and made me organize every 15 min- executive function skills I’d a lot of careless mistakes. utes of my day. She showed “I can’t say enough learned. I became a teacher In my junior year of me that I could complete about having a really and then an executive func- high school, I was taking all my work and explained great support system. tions coach, where I taught two Advanced Placement strategies for reading to help I had great teachers. kids how they could improve courses and was on the me remember things better, My parents and the skills that I had learned. soccer and dance teams. I’d like previewing chapters and my husband have been I’m 30 now and run my own very supportive.” get home after practice and not just jumping ahead. She company, an educational would have a ton of home- taught me to break big tasks “Being self-aware nonprofit that helps parents work and no idea where to into small ones, how to stop and embracing all parts improve the academic lives start. I had no organization procrastinating, prioritize, of myself, including of their children. or time management skills, start a task, focus, and fin- the ADHD, has Once I was diagnosed, no ability to prioritize. I’d get ish. I started using a planner been very important in it kind of empowered me to started on one subject and to organize everything. The my success.” think, “So I have ADHD. think, “This is taking forever. medication helped as well. I’m smart and capable. “Practicing executive I’m never going to get any I’m also really lucky to I have something that’s function skills of this done.” Then I’d be have an amazing family was a huge part of holding me back, but I can paralyzed and stress out, who was very supportive. my success. Know create strategies to help me cry, take a break, and come My mom would copy pages that adults can have overcome it.” I don’t feel like back and be even more from my textbooks because coaches, too.” an impostor anymore. NICK ONKEN NICK

W ebMD.COM 46 OCTOBER 2016 Checkup

Reviewed by Arefa Cassoobhoy, MD, MPH, WebMD Medical Editor

HEALTH CHECK WHAT’S YOUR BACK PAIN IQ?

QUIZ 1. To avoid further injury, call a doctor right away if your back is in pain. Yes No

2. Plenty of bed rest and relaxation is the best cure. Yes No

3. Heat or cold can help some people with low back pain. Yes No

4. Surgery can help all types of back pain. Yes No

Answers: 1. Yes, but only in certain circum- stances. Try self-care for a couple of days if pain is persistent yet mild. But don’t hesitate to call your doctor if pain is severe or if you have a fever. Call 911 if you have back pain with chest pain, you fell or suffered a severe blow, you are vomiting, or you have weak- ness, tingling, or numbness in your legs. 2. No. Don’t stay in bed more than a couple About 80% of Americans have low back pain at some point—pain that ranges of days. Getting up and moving about some will speed your recovery. 3. Yes. Right after from mild aches to jaw-gritting spasms. Many aren’t sure what to do when it the injury, cold from an ice pack or other hits. “A little while ago, I was cleaning my shower. Suddenly I felt a searing pain source can be applied for 10 to 15 minutes. in my lower back and I went to my knees,” nikkiporter writes to the WebMD Repeat every two hours as needed for the first two or three days. After that, heat from back pain community. “I painfully made it to my couch where I am lying now, but a hot pack or other source can be applied I am unable to get comfortable. What treatment should I do right now? Hospital? for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Warm baths Ice? Heat?” Do you know how to treat back pain? may also help. 4. No. Surgery usually helps only certain types of back pain, such as pain caused by a pinched nerve, a compressed spinal cord, or too much movement between ? ASK YOUR DOCTOR the vertebrae (spinal bones). Doctors consider surgery a last-resort treatment. 1. What can I do to prevent my back pain from getting worse?

2. Why is my back vulnerable to pain and injury? Is there anything I can do to prevent it? SOURCES: 3. What are my treatment options? Will I need medication or surgery? American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and 4. If you advise surgery, what are the risks? How long does it generally take to recover? Stroke, WebMD Back Pain Health Center GETTY IMAGES

W ebMD.COM 47 OCTOBER 2016 Checkup

Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD, WebMD Lead Medical Editor

BY THE NUMBERS CANCER FACTS AND STATS ABOUT TOP HEALTH ISSUES

By Heather Hatfield

Breast 14,483,830 1.7 Lung Number of people in the U.S. today with cancer million Prostate Number of cancer deaths Ranking of most common averted due to the types of cancers drop in death rates 5-Year Survival Rate 66.9% Percent of people with all 99% 89% 17% types of cancer who have survived 5 years Prostate Breast Lung past diagnosis $125 billion 1.7 million Annual cost of cancer care in the U.S. today Approximate number of new cancer cases diagnosed this year

39.6% Percent chance that a person will be diagnosed 26 Approximate number with cancer at some of new cancer point in life therapies approved in the U.S. during $156 billion 2015 and 2016 Projected annual cost of cancer in the U.S. in 2020 SOURCES: CenterWatch, National Cancer Institute, NIH

W ebMD.COM 48 OCTOBER 2016 TAKE 10 10 QUESTIONS Sonequa Martin-Green Actor and Cancer Activist

The show feels so a three-time survivor: authentic because first colon cancer, then 3 the cast is not breast, and then a cancer emoting inside a in her stomach. She is a studio—you’re shooting warrior. One of my sisters outside. How physically recently won her battle taxing is the role? with breast cancer. So This is the most strenuous many of my aunts and show I’ve ever worked on, uncles and my grandpar- by far. If you’re not taking ents on both sides have care of yourself, eating clean struggled with it. and staying hydrated, your body will fail you. It’s a lot What’s the best of cardio, and we’re in the health advice elements: running, jump- 8 anyone ever gave ing, diving, while shooting you? in 100-degree weather and One of my best friends is 80-percent humidity. a fitness fanatic, and he taught me the responsibility Do you use a trainer? for caring for your body; it’s I’m actually just your most valued posses- 4 starting with a sion. He said no matter what trainer. Weightlifting success you might amass, is such a centered workout. if you haven’t cared for your I love lifting. I’ve done lots of body, you have failed. other things in recent years, but weightlifting is a real You’re married to side passion of mine. fellow actor Kenric 9 Green, with a Are you a health nut, toddler son at in a health rut, or do home. Is it tough to strike a 5 you fall somewhere healthy work/life balance? in between? Man, it’s tough. But I’ve The Walking Dead, I do try to eat lean meats learned it’s a lifelong project. Season 6 cliff- and veggies most of the You might have balance in 1 hanger! Can you tell time, and organic as much your professional life, or in us if your character as possible. I stay away from your family at home. But Sasha makes it out alive? dairy, gluten, and sugar as balance in everything? In [The character] Negan is a much as possible. I’m a work yourself? You strive for it “If you’re not psychopath, and everything in progress. your whole life. changes now that he’s here. taking care The cast is kept in the dark Name your ultimate Describe your of yourself, quite a bit. The finale has “cheat” food. perfect day. been shot. I’m not saying 6 I can’t get burgers 10 It’s at the beach. anything else! and fries out of my The weather is 85 eating clean mind! (Laughs.) At this point degrees with a warm wind. and staying It must be gratifying I eat them maybe three I’m with my husband and to portray a strong, times a month. son, and we’re enjoying each hydrated, your 2 female African- other and life, playing in the American character You’ve recently water and the sand. Then we body will who regularly kicks butt. become an walk around an interesting Oh, yeah! I play a strong 7 ambassador for neighborhood, get some fail you.” woman who is very real Stand Up To Cancer. really good food. Once and also a very vulnerable, Why did you get involved it’s time for the baby to go well-rounded human being. in that effort? down, the hubby and I hit the Women tell me how it’s great I had to be a part of SUTC. town and have a real good for their daughters to see a Cancer runs rampant dance party at a reggae club!

MATT SAYLES MATT strong black woman on TV. in my family. My mother is —Lauren Paige Kennedy

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