AN OVERVIEW ON ENERGY HEALING

Written by: Roberta Kline, MD
Energetic healing has been practiced by many cultures and in many forms over the centuries. While mainstream medicine has embraced some forms of energetic modalities, by and large it has viewed most as “alternative” and “non-science based”. This is slowly changing as the science is catching up to be able to explain this ancient practice. 

The term "energy medicine" has been in general use since the founding of the International Society for the Study of Subtle Energies and Energy Medicine in the 1980s.  Energy medicine often proposes that imbalances in the body's "energy field" result in illness, and that by re-balancing the body's energy-field health can be restored.[5] Some modalities are described to "bring balance to the body's overall wellness", while others bring claims of  addressing pain, detoxing, cell regeneration or improve overall energy. 

Samples of energy therapies include:

• Biofield energy healing • Contact healing • Distant healing • Therapeutic touch • Reiki • Magnetic resonance therapy

• Colorpuncture • Light therapy • Polarity therapy • Bioresonance therapy • MORA therapy • Zero Balancing

ENERGY IS EVERYWHERE

Everything is energy. Quantum physics has demonstrated that everything exists as a vibrational energy. Some forms of energy have a frequency low enough to make the object solid and therefore visible and physically tangible, such as concrete, trees, mountains, and the human body. Others, such as sound, light, heat and gravity are invisible – but they are no less real. 

Every living thing requires energy to exist and function, and this comes in different forms. For example, in the human body are “energy generators” called the mitochondria. These tiny powerhouses in our cells convert fat, protein and glucose into ATP – the energy that fuels everything that is needed for us to be alive. (see review on the mitochondria)

While the science behind how energy exists and is utilized for health and well-being is quite complex, efforts have been underway for more than 30 years to create a more approachable understanding.

THE SCIENCE OF ENERGETICS: THE BIOFIELD

The Biofield is a relatively new term developed in 1992 to describe the concept of energy in a more unified way, integrating knowledge gained from traditional practices with that of modern science. [1] Three of the main scientific principles underlying our current understanding of the Biofield energy are thermodynamics, physics and quantum physics.

The First Law of Thermodynamics is a conservation law, meaning that the total amount of energy in the universe is constant, therefore it cannot be created or destroyed but only transformed. 

Physics operates on the principle that energy is the ability to do work, and there are 4 types of energetic forces found in nature: gravity, electromagnetism, and two related to atoms. 

Quantum physics demonstrates that all matter is energy, composed of atoms and subatomic particles that are always in motion. This energy is never static in its natural state, rather it is vibrating at a specific frequency. Sometimes that frequency is readily measured, as in the electrical signals from various parts of the body. The ECG (electrocardiogram) measures the electrical activity of the heart, the EEG (electroencephalogram) for the brain, and EMG (electromyogram) measures electrical activity in response to a nerve’s stimulation of muscle. These are all standard in Western Medicine.

In addition to the physical body, our food, thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and consciousness are also composed of energy. The end result is a complex interaction of multiple vibrational frequencies that either work in harmony or are creating dissonance. 

“The concept of biofield regulation offers a shift from a mechanical, chemistry-based view of biology to an information-based view.” [1]

This, then, is the biofield: a complex energy field responsible for the generation, maintenance, and regulation of biological homeodynamics. Cell biology and biophysics research has validated that our own electromagnetic and other types of energetic fields play active roles in many biological processes including embryonic development, tissue repair, inflammation, pain, cell-membrane potential, cell signaling and other communication, and even as information encoded in our DNA. [1, 2, 3] 

The ongoing exchange of information that is required for living systems to maintain their integrity could be considered to be the true “language of life”. While much of this language has been described to date as electromagnetic, there is growing evidence for the role of quantum energy as well. [1]

ENERGY IS HEALTH

When that vibrational frequency or information flow is disrupted or altered, cellular health suffers and the end result can range from minor aches and pains to major illness. But now our knowledge of the Energy of the Biofield also provides the opportunity for healing in a much more effective way that can complement or even replace the need for more invasive conventional therapies. 

ACUPUNCTURE AND ACUPRESSURE

The ancient modalities of acupuncture and acupressure are now thought to operate within the connective tissue biofield that runs along the meridian lines, creating a rapid and effective communication channel [1] that may result in epigenetic changes. (see DNA methylation)

ULTRASOUND

With a wide range of frequencies available, clinical uses for ultrasound have expanded from limited diagnostic and treatment (such as lithotripsy for kidney stones) to advanced assessment and treatment of a wide range of tissues – even including surgical procedures. [4]

ELECTROMAGNETICS

PEMF (pulsed electromagnetic fields) devices have a wide range of frequencies available, and can influence cell membrane potentials of many different tissues to enhance communication and increase blood flow, decrease inflammation and activate a number of genes [3] possibly through epigenetics. 

Pharmacology is also leveraging electromagnetics to explore more effective ways of getting medications into cells. Drug delivery systems are being developed using nanoparticles designed to manipulate cell membrane electromagnetic fields to improve absorption.

No longer relegated to a few small corners of the healing world, energetic medicine has come into its own as an advanced way to view health and to promote healing.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ROBERTA KLINE, MD (Educational Dir. /Women's Diagnostic Group)

Dr. Kline is a board-certified ObGyn physician, Integrative Personalized Medicine expert, consultant, author, and educator whose mission is to change how we approach health and deliver healthcare. She helped to create the Integrative & Functional Medicine program for a family practice residency, has consulted with Sodexo to implement the first personalized nutrition menu for healthcare facilities, and serves as Education Director for several organizations including the Women’s Diagnostic Health Network, Mommies on a Mission. Learn more at https://bobbiklinemd.com 

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HEALTH TECH REVIEW:  NEUROMAGNETIC STIMULATION FOR PTSD SYMPTOMS Current report on Non-Invasive solutions for anxiety and post traumatic symptoms in military veterans 1/2/2023- Retired USAF Veteran Dr. Robert L. Bard presents an overview and his latest findings about conventional treatments and research on technical innovations that may be globally explored to manage PTSD symptoms.

REFERENCES

[1] Rubik B et al. Biofield Science and Healing: History, Terminology, and Concepts. Global Adv Health Med. 2015;4(suppl):8-14.

[2] Seema Bhattessa Pharmaceutical Drugs and the Human Energy System (Biofield) Global Journal of Medical Research: B Pharma, Drug Discovery, Toxicology & Medicine  Volume 20 Issue 6 Version 1.0 Year 2020

[3] Wu, Ziying et al. Efficacy and safety of the pulsed electromagnetic field in osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis. 2018 BMJ Vol 8 Issue 12

[4] Miller, Douglas et al. Overview of Therapeutic Ultrasound Applications and Safety Considerations. J Ultrasound Med. 2012 April ; 31(4): 623–634.

5) National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (2005). "Energy Medicine: An Overview".

Disclaimer: The information (including, but not limited to text, graphics, images and other material) contained in this article is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or scientific claims. Furthermore, any/all contributors (both medical and non-medical) featured in this article are presenting only ANECDOTAL findings pertaining to the effects and performance of the products/technologies being reviewed - and are not offering clinical data or medical recommendations in any way. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read on this page, article, blog or website.

HEALTHSPAN: Living Longer with Quality of Life (feat. TELOMERES EXPLAINED)

Written By: Dr. Roberta Kline

Thanks to the many advanced health solutions and wellness resources available, our concept of aging and lifespan continues to evolve.  Our new generations who boast about "50 is the new 30" is no longer content with hoping to add a few years to their existence- instead seek true QUALITY OF LIFE even in the advanced years.  This means feeling healthy and vibrant and running at optimum performance as long as possible. 

RE-DEFINING TIME

A person’s chronological age describes how long a person has been alive. The biological age describes how well they are aging at the cell level.  HEALTHSPAN (years of good health) is now replacing LIFESPAN as the ultimate goal. This has spawned a huge global industry with people spending hundreds of billions of dollars on services ranging from aesthetic products and procedures to complementary and alternative therapies to optimize mental and cellular health, and that is only expected to grow with an aging population. [1] Grandview research

Knowing how to objectively measure the impact of these strategies to increase a person’s healthspan is a key driver behind development of technologies from lab tests that evaluate biochemical pathways to ones that look at biological aging. Two tests that evaluate biological aging are telomeres and DNA methylation.

TELOMERES EXPLAINED
DNA exists in our cells as tightly coiled sequences called chromosomes. Each cell has 23 pairs. Every time our cells divide to create new cells, our DNA also has to get divided and replicated. In order to do this, the chromosomes have to unwind and become vulnerable. 

Telomeres are specific sequences of DNA on the ends of our chromosomes that are designed to protect them from getting tangled or damaged during this process. This minimizes the risk of large-scale errors in the DNA when the chromosomes get transferred to the newly created cells.

But telomeres also have another function: they are a cell’s biological clock. Telomeres shorten over time, and one of the main ways this happens is when cells divide. Eventually the telomere becomes too short to protect the chromosomes reliably, and so the cell dies. In this way, the length of the telomeres can provide a good estimation of how many times the chromosomes have been replicated to form new cells. [3] 

It is also possible increase telomere length, thus resulting in the interaction of multiple factors such as female sex and genetics. Estrogen tends to be associated with longer telomere length. Errors in a person’s genes, whether due to rare inherited genetic mutations or more common smaller changes called SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) can lead to shorter telomere. [4] 

To review the telomere length, shorter telomeres are associated with an increase in the risk for many diseases associated with aging, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s Disease.[5]  Though studies have shown that telomere length is typically longer in cancer cells, because they have hijacked the normal internal clock. This is one reason why cancer cells can continue to multiply much faster and longer than normal cells.  But cancer is not the only way to lengthen telomeres. Dietary and lifestyle factors have also been shown to affect the length of telomeres. Chronic stress, poor diet, environmental toxins (including smoking), and lack of adequate exercise have all been linked to shorter telomeres, primarily by increasing the levels of oxidative stress. [4] 

Not everyone who experiences these stressors ends up with the same length telomeres, however. All of these interactions are under the control of genes, and having multiple errors in these genes called SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) can make a big difference in how much these factors affect telomere length. 

The good news is that a person’s short telomere length is not irreversible. Recent studies have shown that providing the right dietary, lifestyle and nutritional supplements to reduce oxidative stress can reverse this process of telomere shortening over time. [5] 

DNA METHYLATION
Diet, lifestyle, stress and environment also affect our DNA in another way called EPIGENETICS. More broadly termed as epigenomics, this literally means “above the genome”. Epigenetics provides a way for genes to quickly adapt to changing environments, without changing the actual DNA. Epigenetic changes can turn genes on and off, modifying a person’s biochemistry without changing the DNA code itself. Because of this, these changes can be easily reversible if the situation calls for something different. [3] While there are several mechanisms to accomplish this, one of the best-studied is called DNA methylation.

DNA methylation works by utilizing a specific chemical your body produces to run your biochemistry: a methyl group, composed of carbon and hydrogen molecules. These methyl groups are used in thousands of biochemical processes throughout multiple biological systems every day. When a methyl group is added to a specific place on the DNA, it turns the gene “off”. This same methyl group can also be removed through a process called demethylation, and that turns the gene on. This is a normal process that controls everything from fetal development to how various cells can function differently even though they have the same DNA and the same genes. [7]

Researchers have discovered that over time, the natural course of aging results in fewer genes having these methyl groups attached to the DNA. [8] But, like the telomeres, this is a dynamic process that is also influenced by a number of different factors, including genes, diet, lifestyle, environment, and exercise. 

As with every biochemical process in the body, genes themselves control the whole process of methylation and demethylation. SNPs in these genes can impact a person’s ability to efficiently regulate DNA methylation. One of the best known genes is involved in producing the methyl groups necessary for DNA methylation, and is called methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase – or MTHFR for short. People with this SNP are predisposed to producing fewer methyl groups, and this is even more significantly impacted by diet and lifestyle factors. 

Aging is a natural process, and yet we are learning that the diseases commonly associated with aging may not be inevitable. As science continues to progress, it is providing clues as to how we can stay healthier longer. Telomeres and DNA methylation are two technologies to help people know how they are doing in the quest for a longer healthspan, so they can enjoy their later years to the fullest.

1)  https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/medical-aesthetics-market 
2) https://www.grandviewresearch.com/press-release/global-alternative-complementary-medicine-therapies-market 
3) Genome.gov
4) Tsoukalas, D et al Association of nutraceutical supplements with longer telomere length. Int J Mol Med. 2019 Jul; 44(1): 218–226
5) Gruber HJ et al. Telomeres and Age-Related Diseases. Biomedicines 2021, 9, 1335.
6) Masood A. Shammas Telomeres, lifestyle, cancer, and aging. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2011 Jan; 14(1): 28–34.
7) https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/disease/epigenetics
8) Heyn H et al. Distinct DNA methylomes of newborns and centenarians. PNAS June 26, 2012 vol 109 no 26

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ROBERTA KLINE, MD (Educational Dir. /Women's Diagnostic Group)

Dr. Kline is a board-certified ObGyn physician, Integrative Personalized Medicine expert, consultant, author, and educator whose mission is to change how we approach health and deliver healthcare. She helped to create the Integrative & Functional Medicine program for a family practice residency, has consulted with Sodexo to implement the first personalized nutrition menu for healthcare facilities, and serves as Education Director for several organizations including the Women’s Diagnostic Health Network, Mommies on a Mission. Learn more at https://robertaklinemd.com/

Disclaimer: The information (including, but not limited to text, graphics, images and other material) contained in this article is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or scientific claims. Furthermore, any/all contributors (both medical and non-medical) featured in this article are presenting only ANECDOTAL findings pertaining to the effects and performance of the products/technologies being reviewed - and are not offering clinical data or medical recommendations in any way. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read on this page, article, blog or website.

BRAIN FOG Explained- and What Can be Done about It

 

Welcome to Health Resource Digest. One of our newest projects is looking at brain health. Marilyn Abramson has just written an amazing article talking about the basics of why people get brain fog post covid, and some really simple strategies that they can do to improve how their brain functions as they recover and try to get back to work and normal activities. 

In our article, Marilyn talks about the role of inflammation in the brain and how the changes induced by Covid can actually reduce the blood flow that our brain needs to function. And so these two components can really be a major part of the brain fog that people experience post-Covid. Now, some people experience very mild brain fog and it results very quickly, but other people are impacted for months and sometimes even longer than that. As we're now finding following people farther out from their Covid infections, this can really impact their ability, not just in their daily activity, but in their work. 

So one of the things I like about this article is that Marilyn has given some really simple tools that can be very effective in learning how to manage your brain, how to work with your brain, the way it is functioning as a result of Covid-19 infections, to help you be better organized and more focused. Not having to wait for this to resolve using other health strategies. So I like it because it really helps people in the moment, uh, as they're doing other strategies to try and improve what's going on in their brain.

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Written by: Marilyn Abrahamson, MA,CCC-SLP - CBHC

For some, Post-Covid brain fog can cause everyday cognitive tasks to be more difficult, causing the thought of returning to work to become daunting. Among the many symptoms of Long Covid, one study suggests that up to 80% of Covid-19 survivors suffer from neuropsychological symptoms such as memory impairment, attention deficit, executive dysfunction, difficulty with word finding, multitasking, and impaired visual/spatial skills. These are skills people need to properly perform their jobs, and without these skills, people can become overwhelmed by the smallest tasks.

Another study specifically measured the effects of brain fog on quality of life (QoL) at work. It showed that QoL at work was reduced for over 75% of study participants continuing to experience brain fog symptoms. There were many symptoms included under the umbrella term brain fog, however, in this study, memory problems and difficulty with multitasking had the most significant impact on QoL at work.

With this in mind, many employers are now being asked to help by making accommodations that include delaying deadlines, allowing more flexible work schedules, and reducing workloads.

HOW AND WHY COVID-19 CAUSES BRAIN FOG SYMPTOMS

Researchers have discovered multiple causes of persistent neurocognitive symptoms after having Covid-19.  Three of the most common are as follows:

● NEUROINFLAMMATION: Increased levels of inflammatory cytokines (molecules produced by the immune system that help the body fight infection) have been found within the brain for weeks after a bout with Covid-19. When the immune system becomes uncontrolled, it can cause increased inflammation in the brain, resulting in poor communication between the brain cells and nerve pathways, causing the brain to feel foggy and slow.

● REDUCED OXYGEN AND BLOOD FLOW TO THE BRAIN: Covid-19 is primarily a respiratory virus and can cause hypoxia (reduced levels of oxygen) in some patients. This reduction of oxygen and blood flow to the brain can result in a metabolic disturbance, disrupting the connection between brain cells and the blood vessels that supply them with nourishment. Imaging studies showed the same metabolic changes in both the brains of patients who had suffered from hypoxia as well as those with Long Covid brain fog symptoms. Notably, this is also a similar mechanism for lingering cognitive symptoms after traumatic brain injury.

● DISTRACTION CAUSED BY THE PRESENCE OF OTHER LINGERING SYMPTOMS: This is not exclusive to Covid-19, but the symptoms of brain fog can be partially attributed to associated symptoms such as acute or long-standing bouts with headaches, fatigue, and body aches. The presence of any type of physical discomfort or emotional upset can make cognitive tasks more difficult due to distraction, causing the lack of attention, focus and concentration.

HOW TO COPE WITH SYMPTOMS

If brain fog symptoms are significantly affecting work performance, deep cognitive testing can be performed by a neuropsychologist (SLP). Evaluation and treatment for cognitive symptoms can also be offered by a speech-language pathologist. Treatment by an SLP will likely include brain exercises as well as instruction in compensatory strategies for memory and attention. There are also brain-healthy habits people can engage in on their own.

● Exercise is key. Both aerobic exercise and strength training are important for brain health.

● Puzzles or brain training apps like Brain HQ can be helpful.

● Try to get 7-8 hours of good quality sleep each night.

● Eat a brain healthy diet high in monounsaturated fats, plant protein, whole grains, and seafood.

● Stay connected with others and socialize often.

● Try mindfulness and meditation to help reduce stress and improve focused attention.

● Learning and using both internal and external memory strategies. There are strategies for name recall, remembering lists and reminders, organizational systems and calendar management. These are compensatory strategies that help people work around the part of their brains that are not working as well as they did before.

● Pacing oneself. If fatigue sets in, it can cause more fogginess. Taking a break is the best way to reset and recharge.

● Aside from seeing their personal physician, consulting a mental health professional is crucial if a person is experiencing mood changes or depression. 

SURVIVOR STORES: "Silenced No More: The Endometriosis Warrior's Battlecry"

 Written by: Ciji Castro

For three decades, I have battled the silent monster within-- endometriosis. It started at the young age of nine when my first period marked the onset of a tumultuous relationship with my own body. What followed was a labyrinth of surgeries, treatments, and trial drugs, each peeling away parts of me, leaving behind battle scars that narrate a tale of resilience and fortitude.

pre-op photo taken right before last major
excision surgery and total hysterectomy

Endometriosis has spared no organ within me; it afflicted not only my uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes but also my appendix, bladder, ureters, colon, rectum, and cervix, potentially encroaching on my lungs. Despite the excruciating agony that became my constant companion, I was met with dismissive remarks, such as overreacting, having a low pain tolerance, being a hypochondriac, or worse, my test results being "normal," and there was nothing "wrong" with me.

Little did they know that beneath my happy, outgoing persona lay a warrior battling stage four endometriosis, armed with a pain threshold that masked the torment within. Post-surgery, I would wake up in recovery, walk to the bathroom on my own, and recover with nothing more than ibuprofen.

Amidst the labyrinth of myths and misconceptions, I was fed lies disguised as hope-- a promise that pregnancy could cure my Endo, that a hysterectomy would be the end of my Endo, and that menopause would usher in an era of long-awaited respite. Yet, each falsehood only fueled my determination to shatter the silence surrounding this nonsensical, mysterious disease.

To those facing their own battle with endometriosis, I urge you to fight fiercely and advocate for yourself. Your voice matters, your pain is real, and your journey is valid. Don't let dismissive attitudes or misconceptions deter you from seeking help and support. Educate yourself, speak up, and don't be afraid to contradict medical professionals who do not specialize in endometriosis or even mention that they "just looked it up"... because, yes, that happens. Never hesitate to demand the care and understanding you deserve, stay resilient, stay determined, and stand in your power. You are not alone in this fight.

As an ambassador for the Endometriosis Foundation of America, my mission transcends mere advocacy; it embodies a fervent dedication to enlighten the masses. I strive to empower today's youth with knowledge, equipping them to navigate a medical landscape where endometriosis languishes in obscurity. I engage in conversations with families, encouraging them to talk to their children about Endo with sensitivity and candor, all while nurturing a culture of understanding and empathy. Together, I hope to break the silence surrounding endometriosis and pave the way for a future where women's health is taken seriously. We are warriors, and our voices can spark change: change in funding for research, change in more medical professionals taking an interest in endometriosis, and change in the care we, as patients, receive.

Until then, I stand resolute, a beacon of strength for those who walk the same arduous path, a voice that reverberates through the silence, echoing the unwavering resolve of a warrior undaunted by the shadows of the pain and uncertainty in my journey with Endo.

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CIJI CASTRO

Domestic Gourmet, Content Creator, Restaurant Guide, Activist

Ciji Castro, also known as Domestic Gourmet, is the CEO and Executive Chef behind a line of organic Spanish cooking staples. As a mom of three girls, she is passionate about teaching them about endometriosis. Ciji is an ambassador for the Endometriosis Foundation of America and lends her voice to the character of Maya's mom in the animated show featured on the ENPOWR Project. Look out for her upcoming products, achiote oil and spices, launching later this summer. Combining her culinary expertise with advocacy work, Ciji is making a difference in both the food industry and in raising awareness about women's health issues.

e consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product.

THE 2024 ENDOMETRIOSIS RESOURCE GUIDE (download now) Dr. Roberta Kline, women's health and genomics specialist presents this supplemental workbook from her presentation at the 15th Annual Endometriosis Foundation Patient Conference in NYC. "To address endometriosis more effectively, we first need to understand what causes it. And it turns out it's not so simple. Endometriosis is a complex disease, which means that there is no single cause and no single answer. What's exciting is that genetic expression research is providing many clues, opening up new opportunities for better diagnostics, earlier detection, and more effective treatments because they're addressing the root causes. While you can’t change your genes, you CAN influence how they get expressed and thus affect your health. In this Endometriosis Resource Guide, you’ll learn simple strategies to optimize your body’s own biology. It’s a powerful tool to help you regain some control back from a disease that all too often feels like it’s controlling you".

Disclaimer: The information (including, but not limited to text, graphics, images and other material) contained in this article is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or scientific claims. Furthermore, any/all contributors (both medical and non-medical) featured in this article are presenting only ANECDOTAL findings pertaining to the effects and performance of the products/technologies being reviewed - and are not offering clinical data or medical recommendations in any way. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read on this page, article, blog or website.

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Under a joint report with the Women's Diagnostic Network and HealthTech Reporter, our editors met with Ms. MJ Smith, a clinical ambassador from Screen Point Medical (breast imaging AI) at the 2023 NYC Roentgen Society conference. At the height of the medical conference, we found MJ to be a uniquely profound and engaging speaker about women's health topics.  Exploring a private connection opened us into a collaborative and educational journey befitting our UNDERDIAGNOSED WOMEN series where MJ is truly a life-long supporter of diagnostic care, innovation and non-invasive options.

Endometriosis (sometimes called "endo" for short) is a common health problem in women that is reported to affect more than 11% of American women between 15 and 44. It gets its name from the word endometrium, the tissue that normally lines the uterus or womb. When this tissue is found in locations outside of the uterus, it is called endometriosis. Most often this involves the nearby organs and tissues – ovaries, fallopian tubes, outer surface of the uterus, bladder, bowel and rectum. It can also be found in other locations including the vagina, cervix, vulva, or even distant tissues such as the lungs, brain, eye, and skin. Just like the lining of the uterus, this tissue responds to cycling hormones to grow. But unlike normal endometrium, it is not limited to the surface and does not shed. Because of this, it builds up and creates inflammation, scarring, and other changes that contribute to the most common symptom: pain. 

While endometriosis is most often diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s, it likely develops much earlier. Due to the wide range of symptoms that women can experience, and lack of effective and noninvasive diagnostic tools, women often suffer for years or even decades. Currently the only accepted way to diagnosis endometriosis is to directly visualize and biopsy the lesions with surgery. This is limiting for two reasons. First, endometriosis has to be considered as a possible explanation for symptoms that are often seen as “normal” for menstruating women. Second, the risk of not knowing has to outweigh the risk of potential complications of invasive surgery. 

Endometriosis can also make it harder to get pregnant, and it is not uncommon for a diagnosis to be made only as part of evaluation or treatment for infertility. Getting a diagnosis to explain symptoms is only the first step in addressing endometriosis, however. There is no cure, and most current treatments often come with significant risks or side effects but do not fully resolve a woman’s symptoms. While research progresses slowly, we still do not have a clear understanding of what causes endometriosis, how to diagnose it early without invasive procedures, how to ease symptoms, and ultimately treat and possibly cure the disease itself.

This special interview features great insight from a woman’s journey with endometriosis.  We explore her remarkable quest for answers from the range of pain relief to therapeutic treatments to risks of surgical solutions.

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SEXISM IN THE WOMEN'S HEALTHCARE by: Mary Nielsen

Many women suffer with undiagnosed endometriosis. The medical field has prided itself on providing objective observations because it claims to rely on science. However, sexism lurks in hospitals, clinics and other health care facilities and the gender gap in treating pain is real. Diane Hoffman and Anita Tarzian from the University of Maryland, Francis King Carey School of Law published, "The Girl Who Cried Pain, A Bias against Women in the Treatment of Pain." Although that study is 20+ years old, little has changed.

Sexist stereotypes that see women as 'emotional' and consequently medical staff doubt a physical basis for women's pain. Men are viewed as more 'rational' and when men say they are feeling acute pain, their symptoms are taken more seriously and considered to have a physical cause. This means women receive very different care for pain management and pain diagnosis. Researcher, Karen Calderone found that women are more likely given sedatives as an answer to complaints of pain and are perceived as being anxious.

Medical professionals focus on returning the woman to a state of being calm and not investigating the cause behind their pain. The sedatives can then make the women seem calmer from outside appearance, while their medical condition can continue to worsen as they remain undiagnosed. Undiagnosed endometriosis has enormous repercussions for a woman. Life altering heavy bleeding, cramping and pain can lead to infertility, anemia, and internal adhesions requiring surgery. 

Education toward gender bias and addressing women's pain is needed to allow earlier diagnosis with a non-invasive technology like ultrasound. 

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Elevating Women's Wellbeing at Work

Insights from the US Surgeon General's Report

Written by: Joyce Gregory, MD

Promoting the mental health and wellbeing of women in the workplace remains paramount in today’s dynamic post COVID pandemic work landscape. Work plays a pivotal role in shaping the health, wealth, and overall wellbeing of women. Ideally, work provides women with the means to support themselves and their families while also offering a sense of purpose, opportunities for growth, and a supportive community. When women thrive in the workplace, they are more likely to experience both physical and mental wellness, contributing positively to their work environments.

Despite facing challenges like economic disparities, educational debts, and housing instability, organizations have the power to support women's mental health and wellbeing. Leaders and employees can rethink the role of work in women's lives and explore strategies to better support their needs. By prioritizing women's health and happiness at work, organizations can create environments where women can thrive both personally and professionally.

The US Surgeon General's 2022 report on Workplace Mental Health and Well-being offers a comprehensive framework that outlines five essential components designed to meet the unique needs of women in the workforce. Let's explore how these essentials can cultivate workplaces that prioritize women's well-being and professional growth.

Ensuring Protection from Harm

Prioritizing workplace safety is critical, particularly for women who may face heightened risks due to various factors such as discrimination and violence. Organizations must diligently adhere to regulations, improve policies, and collaborate with female employees to ensure a safe work environment.

Adequate rest is essential for the physical and mental well-being of women in the workplace while insufficient rest can lead to increased risks of injuries and burnout. Workplace leaders should consider factors like working hours and provide opportunities for rest to support the well-being and productivity of female employees.

Supporting mental health is crucial, especially for women, to combat stigma and foster inclusive cultures. Organizations can achieve this by providing training, enhancing Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), and ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage.

Fostering Connection & Community

Fostering a sense of belonging in the workplace is paramount, particularly for women. Encouraging social interaction and breaking down barriers can cultivate positive relationships and shield against bias. Leaders must strive to create inclusive environments where every woman feels empowered to voice her thoughts.

Building trust among female colleagues is key. Leaders should facilitate opportunities for team members to bond, fostering empathy and support, particularly during challenging times. Strong workplace relationships not only enhance performance but also drive innovation, highlighting the importance of transparent communication.

In today's remote or hybrid work setups, promoting collaboration is essential. Leaders should advocate for teamwork, facilitate regular communication, and provide effective collaboration tools. Addressing broader social issues can further strengthen bonds among women, fostering a supportive environment.

Striking Work-Life Harmony

Achieving work-life balance is a common challenge, yet crucial for women's well-being. Granting women autonomy over their work methods and providing flexibility in tasks, schedules, and locations can mitigate conflicts and build trust. Implementing family-friendly policies and respecting boundaries between work and personal time are also essential.

Embracing Mattering at Work

Recognizing the contributions of women in the workplace is vital for fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. This involves providing fair compensation, engaging women in decision-making processes, fostering gratitude and recognition, and aligning individual work with the organizational mission. Empowering women enhances morale and organizational commitment.

Nurturing Opportunity for Growth

Providing women with opportunities for growth and learning is paramount. Companies should offer quality training, education, mentoring programs, and clear pathways for career advancement. Ensuring equitable distribution of opportunities and offering relevant feedback are essential for women's career development and fulfillment.

In the post-pandemic era, workplaces have a unique chance to prioritize women's mental health and well-being, fostering resilience and success. The Surgeon General’s 2022 Framework for Workplace Mental Health & Well-Being serves as a roadmap for creating supportive environments. Sustainable change requires dedicated leadership that amplifies the voices of women. I encourage you to explore the full report to gain deeper insights into fostering women's wellbeing in the workplace and creating inclusive environments for all.

Click to download full report

 

DR. JOYCE GREGORY holds over two decades of professional experience as a clinical psychiatrist specializing in addictions and mental health treatment programs.  She is dedicated to advancing performance-based solutions in both the healthcare and education sectors to enhance patient outcomes and academic achievements. She is deeply passionate about utilizing her clinical expertise and data-driven approach not only in healthcare but also in education to bridge the gap between medical science and industry. Dr. Gregory is also a recognized clinical speaker and a published educator.  Her latest educational contribution to mental health and wellness is in an upcoming series by BALANCE & LONGEVITY (WHC-TV) / Women's Health Collaborative) set to launch in the summer of 2024. 

Public Service Annc.

BREAST CANCER NEWS: THE 2024 WHC RESOURCE NEWORK PRESENTS THE COALITION FOR ULTRASOUND SCREENING

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEET THE NEXT CHAMPION PROGRAMS FOR EARLY DETECTION

5/1/2024- The Women’s Health Collaborative (WHC) officially launches what educational director Dr. Roberta Kline calls “the ultimate alliance of women’s health champions”.   This united volunteer group consists of public resources for women’s cancer, dense breast advocacy, research foundations of complex disorders (ie. Endometriosis and pelvic floor issues) and medical specialists from the private sector.  This coalition aligns the promotion of ultrasound technology as the common life-saving solution for affordable and effective medical screening programs.  

In support of the underserved and underdiagnosed women, the WHC was originally founded to bring early detection and public education about the many women’s health disorders that many find to be lacking in access and information. This doctrine united women’s health advocates like Geri Barish (Hewlett House), Joe Cappello (co-founder of the Are You Dense? Foundation), Dr. Robert Bard (IHRC / Integrative Health Research Center), Dr. Noelle Cutter (Molloy University Research on Ovarian and Breast Cancer research programs) and Nancy Novack (of nancyslist.org). “It’s time we wake up lawmakers and the medical community to re-evaluate the existing gold standards (like mammography),” stated Mr. Cappello during a Key to the City speech honored by Waterbury mayor Neil O’Leary. “We are finally picking up great steam in our national push to have all clinicians adopt the advanced results of ultrasound technology… as a sustainable and affordable solution for ALL women!” 

In a recent “Cancer Powermeet” event, leading advocacy leader Ms. Barish joined the WHC concept about “EARLIER DETECTION” in support of proactive screenings for women from 20-39.  “Due to the continuing rise in numbers of breast cancer cases in younger women, doctors need to change their thinking about starting checkups at 40.” Innovative screening plans comprise the use of ultrasound in screening centers and traveling vans as a starting point in underserved locations. For over 20 years, Ms. Barish has been active in state congress about a list of cancer related interests impacting women’s health including public initiatives like environmental causes and legislative change in healthcare protocols. 

THE NON-INVASIVE MOVEMENT
Cancer Imaging specialist Dr. Robert Bard presented a lecture in the 2024 Ultracon (AIUM) Symposium about diagnostic and screening innovations advancements the next stage in women’s longevity. “In the 1990's, 3D imaging allowed us to accurately detect uterine cancer, and particularly see abnormal ovarian tumors. In addition, imaging allowed us to detect an entire classification of ovarian cysts. Where ovarian cancer was once known as the ‘silent disease”, today's 3D ultrasound imaging brought the battle lines forward … as it can now identify potentially cancerous tumors in the glands in earlier stages pre-metastases. Creating a coalition promoting new education and clinical application of ultrasound is a game-changer-- offering a most affordable and highly accessible real-time scanning for immediate answers for women’s concerns”. 

The outreach team behind the WHC aims to connect with lawmakers and health professionals alike, in pursuit of change through awareness.  The Women’s Health Collaborative continues its mission to unite with new resources in support of better screening, community outreach and educational efforts to improve healthcare for women. 

PROGRAM 1: EARLIER DETECTION

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PROGRAM 2: DENSE BREAST SCREENING

Video News Release: Innovations in Early Detection "Are You Dense?" Foundation Co-founder Joe Cappello joins the medical diagnostic community to promote the "Get Checked Now!" campaign. Dr. Robert Bard from the Bard Cancer Center (NYC) supports supplemental imaging including the 3D Doppler Ultrasound scanner to offer dense breast detection.  This video presents some of the latest advancements in ultrasound features to detect tumors through dense breast tissue- reportedly a significant challenge with mammograms.

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PROGRAM 3: GENE TESTING FOR CANCER PREDISPOSITION: TEST- DON’T GUESS!

CANCER PREDISPOSITION, HEREDITY & GENE TESTING
Most CANCERS are not directly caused by inherited gene mutations. Unlike traits and characteristics passed down to children like blood type and eye color, which are a direct result of genetics, chronic diseases like cancer are recognized to be the result of an interaction between your genetics and your environment. These genetic changes that increase the risk of cancer CAN be passed down or inherited.  

When a specific cancer type is prevalent in one side of the family, the cancer is recognized as a FAMILIAL cancer. Many of them are caused by a genetic mutation in one or more genes related to cancer susceptibility, such as BRCA1 and breast cancer. This is also the case with a "family cancer syndrome" (or "hereditary cancer syndrome"), such as Lynch Syndrome, which is a rare disorder in which family members have an above-average chance of developing a certain type or types of cancer. It is reported that up to 10% of all cancer cases may be caused by specific inherited genetic mutations called CANCER PREDISPOSITION genes. Individuals who carry a mutant allele of these genes have an increased susceptibility to cancer. Research also shows that other types of genetic variations can also predispose to cancer including epigenetics.  It is now widely identified that an accumulation of genetic or epigenetic alterations can affect the conversion of normal cells to cancer cells. 

GET CHECKED NOW!
If you have family members that have been diagnosed with cancer, you may want to consider a comprehensive genetic test to get your personal biological blueprint which includes your predisposition.  Call today to speak to a genetic advisor for a free consultation at 212-355-7017. THE WOMEN'S HEALTH COLLABORATIVE is an all-volunteer support resource offering public awareness about health solutions for women. We are not a medical facility but are navigators in support of understanding the current resources available. We also provide public news, educational materials and information about the latest resources in specific health disorders. FOLLOW US ON LINKEDIN and subscribe to the Women's Health Newsletter!  

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT: Cancer Science News features Dr. Ben Ho Park on EARLIER DETECTION & THE TYPES OF BREAST CANCERS Ben Ho Park, MD, PhD, is Director of the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center (VICC). Dr. Park is also a Professor of Medicine in the Department of Medicine's Division of Hematology and Oncology. Dr. Park's research is dedicated to finding a cure for all types of breast cancer by investigating mutated and altered genes responsible for the development and progression of breast cancer, as well as genes that lead to drug resistance. He is actively involved with the VICC Breast Cancer Research Program’s clinical research team to translate his research into clinical practice and patient care.  (Complete interview & feature story)