Mammogram screening deemed not helpful for healthy women in 40’s

11/19/2009

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New breast cancer screening guidelines recommend against routine mammograms for healthy women in their 40s due to the number of false positives. Although controversial, I can appreciate the decision. As a naturopathic physician, I strongly believe in the basic medical tenet “first do no harm” and breast trauma (squishing) and radiation are harmful. The decision to do a mammogram should be an individualized and educated decision.

The bottom line is prevention. Naturopathic physicians are experts in preventive medicine. Generally speaking, there is much to be done preventively. Regarding breast cancer risk assessment, I highly recommend vitamin D level testing and extensive hormone testing that includes estrone metabolites. Contact me, or your local naturopathic physician, for a complete preventive wellness check, including vitamin and hormone testing.
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Vitamin D levels low even in Hawaii

10/22/2009

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It has become apparent through numerous studies that there is widespread deficiency in vitamin D in people around the country, even people living in Hawaii where there is year round sun exposure (we make vitamin D from the sun).  There are many possible causes of these low levels, but my primary guess is the widespread use of sunscreen, which stops the production of vitamin D. Low levels are linked to many health problems, including lowering our ability to fight infection, bone and muscle pain, diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, and an overall increased risk of death. Yikes!

Contact me, or your primary care physician, to have your vitamin D levels checked.  It’s easy and the information has the potential to improve your overall health.
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