Journal of women's health
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Journal of women's health · Feb 2014
Does removal of the primary tumor in metastatic breast cancer improve survival?
Although relative survival for breast cancer has improved in recent years, patients who present with metastatic disease have a less than 30% 5-year survival. Thus, improvements in treatment for these patients have the potential to have a significant impact on outcomes. ⋯ Here, we review the theories and data at the center of the debate, the landmark studies that historically guided treatment, the retrospective data that revisited the role of removal of the primary tumor, as well as the latest advances in basic science and the accruing clinical studies to provide for future directions in this field. Although the definitive role of removal of the primary tumor in metastatic breast cancer is not settled, it is critical to understand the complexities of this debate in order to make further gains in breast cancer survivorship.
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Journal of women's health · Feb 2014
Laboratory testing for and diagnosis of nutritional deficiencies in pregnancy before and after bariatric surgery.
Bariatric surgery can reduce the risk of obesity-related complications of pregnancy, but may cause essential nutrient deficiencies. To assess adherence to laboratory testing guidelines, we examined frequency of testing for and diagnosis of deficiency during preconception and pregnancy using claims data in women with a delivery and bariatric surgery. ⋯ Women with pregnancy after bariatric surgery were tested for and diagnosed with micronutrient deficiencies more frequently than those with pregnancy before surgery. However, most laboratory testing occurred in less than half the women and was triggered by anemia. Increased testing may help identify nutrient deficiencies and prevent consequences for maternal and child health.
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Journal of women's health · Feb 2014
Nonexercise physical activity and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in women.
Leisure time exercise has been linked to lower circulating levels of inflammatory markers. Few studies have examined the association of nonexercise physical activity with markers of inflammation and oxidative stress. ⋯ Daily nonexercise physical activity is associated with lower levels of systemic inflammation. This finding may have important public health implications because this type of activity is the main contributor to overall physical activity among middle-aged and elderly women.
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Journal of women's health · Feb 2014
Self-reported infertility among male and female veterans serving during Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Infertility is associated with psychosocial distress and is a growing public health concern. Our objective was to report the prevalence of lifetime history of infertility among men and women Veterans. ⋯ Women Veterans are more likely than their male counterparts to seek care for infertility, and given their increasing numbers, the demand for infertility evaluation and care within Veterans' Affairs may increase.
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Journal of women's health · Feb 2014
Perceived discrimination is associated with reduced breast and cervical cancer screening: the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN).
Racial disparities in breast and cervical cancer screening have been documented in African American, Hispanic, and Asian populations. Perceived discrimination may contribute to this disparity. The aim of this study was to understand the relationship between perceived everyday racial/ethnic and other discrimination and receipt of breast and cervical cancer screening in a multiethnic population of women. ⋯ Perceived discrimination is an important issue across racial/ethnic groups and is negatively associated with receipt of breast and cervical cancer screening. This is an important issue that needs to be further explored and addressed in efforts to improve the delivery of healthcare to all groups.