June 19, 2019 
Mammography Is a Recipe for Net Harm
Written by ACCT May 06, 2015
Eric J. Topol, MD
The medical community prides itself on evidence to drive important decision-making. But when the evidence is contrary to entrenched medical practice, it has a hard time coming to terms. Such is the case for mammography recommendations. All of the data now available point to significant net harm—far more risk than benefit— for routine mammography. If this were a drug, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would never approve it. Last year, the Swiss Medical Board, after reviewing all of the data, recommended abolishing mammography.[1]
But last week, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued new draft recommendations regarding who should undergo screening and how often. There was no support for routine screening in women younger than 50 or older than 74 years. But the recommendation for women aged 50-74 years is to undergo mammography every 2 years. There has never been a large study of mammography done every 2 years, so the basis for that periodicity of screening is questionable. But there are abundant data for annual screening and they are not at all supportive of continuing this practice.
A systematic assessment based on all of the evidence available from 1960-2014 showed that for 10,000 women in their 50s, who are screened annually over the course of a decade, there are only 5 individuals whose breast cancer deaths are prevented.[2] But there are over 6100 women who have false-positive tests that lead to additional imaging and unnecessary biopsy procedures. This > 60% false-positive rate is an indicator of a remarkably poor test with respect to accuracy, no less the large toll of emotional turmoil that it engenders.
What about all of the biopsies that are performed? A recent study also underscored yet another level of imprecision: the problem of interpreting biopsies by pathologists when there is agreement among three experts about the presence of cancer only 75% of the time.[3] Added to the net harm of mammography is over-diagnosis, which occurs in 20%-30% of women who have an abnormal result but in whom cancer would not be apparent unless the scan was performed.
Nevertheless, these women often undergo surgery and receive chemotherapy or radiation (or a combination of all of these treatments), even though there is little to no impact on prognosis. Such individuals typically believe that their lives have been saved even though the data point against that assertion. A Harvard study published in the current issue of Health Affairs demonstrated that the cost of these false-positive studies and over-diagnosis was approximately $4 billion per year.[4] This is on top of the current US costs of annual mammography of nearly $10 billion.
It is time to reboot how we screen for breast cancer. Until now, the use of mass screening suggests that we are unable to differentiate the risk in any given individual. So instead of a smart approach that uses family history and genetics, we have dumbed it down and treated all women the same. As a result, we have come to rely on a test that is notoriously inaccurate but has become a fixed part of American medical practice since it was introduced almost 50 years ago. With the tens of millions of low-risk women unnecessarily undergoing screening each year, any test would be vulnerable to a high rate of false positives. That applies to higher-resolution scans, too, such as magnetic resonance, digital mammography and ultrasound. Indeed, there is a better path forward.
Why Family History and Genomics Matter
There is strong evidence that family history is critical for defining risk. Beyond family history, we have the ability to sequence the genes known to carry high-risk mutations. Dr Mary-Claire King, who discovered the BRCA1 gene, has advocated that all women age 30 and older should be screened for mutations that carry a high risk for breast and ovarian cancer.[5] She’s right. And at some point, why not add men, who unknowingly can pass along important BRCA mutations to their daughters?
We didn’t have a way to widely implement such a recommendation until this past week when a collaboration, called BRCA Share, was reported between the two largest central lab companies—Laboratory Corporation of America and Quest Diagnostics —as was the announcement of a new genetic testing company called Color Genomics. For $249, Color Genomics is offering, via a saliva sample, sequencing of the BRCA genes along with 17 other genes that carry a high risk for familial cancer. For 1 year of mammography costs in the United States, we could now perform such genetic testing for over 56 million women. The unrelenting plummeting of the cost of sequencing—and a much more expansive approach to the whole genome (instead of just ~20 genes)—is just around the corner.
When she announced her choice to undergo bilateral mastectomy in 2013, Angelina Jolie wrote in an op-ed in The New York Times : “But today it is possible to find out through a blood test whether you are highly susceptible to breast and ovarian cancer, and then take action. Life comes with many challenges. The ones that should not scare us are the ones we can take on and take control of.” Just a couple of years later, the Angelina Effect on heightening awareness and the US Supreme Court decision against Myriad Genetics’ BRCA testing monopoly have introduced exciting opportunities for adopting a new approach. We shouldn’t be scared of it. It doesn’t even require a blood test anymore. We should take it on, study it, and exploit the progress in genomic science to develop an intelligent, evidence-based, and economically attractive precise path forward.
References
1.Biller-Andorno N, Jüni P. Abolishing mammography screening programs? A view from the Swiss medical board. N Engl J Med. 2014; 370:1965-196. Abstract
2.Elmore JG, Kramer BS. Breast cancer screening toward informed decisions. JAMA. 2014;311:1298-1299. Abstract
3.Elmore JG, Longton GM, Carney PA, et al. Diagnostic concordance among pathologists interpreting breast biopsy specimens. JAMA. 2015;313:1122-1132. Abstract
4.Ong MS, Mandl KD. National expenditure for false-positive mammograms and breast cancer overdiagnoses estimated at $4 billion a year. Health Aff (Millwood). 2015:34;576-583. Abstract
5.King, MC, Levy-Lahad E, Lahad A. Population-based screening for BRCA1 and BRCA2. 2014 Lasker Award. JAMA. 2014;312:1091-1092. Abstract
May 1, 2019 Cranberry Ginger Smoothie Recipe
The kidneys are vital organs that allow our bodies to process waste and turn it into urine and filter our blood of toxins before it gets back to the heart. The kidneys also maintain our overall fluid balance and create hormones that regulate blood pressure, support bone health and produce red blood cells. To support your kidneys, it’s beneficial to stay plenty hydrated and avoid extra salt in your food.
Jam-packed with vitamins and healthy fats and low in sodium from all the fresh fruits and veggies, this smoothie is a kidney-boosting wonder!
Cranberries are often praised for their bladder-healthy benefits. They are also full of Vitamin C and fiber and have anti-inflammatory effects. Walnuts are a great source of healthy fat and also benefit the kidneys, according to traditional Chinese medicine. You can make this smoothie with water or almond milk for an extra calcium boost. Making sure you have enough calcium in your diet can help to prevent kidney stones. Lastly, ginger is always a great smoothie addition, making the flavor more dynamic and contributing to the smoothie’s anti-inflammatory effects.
To make, combine the ingredients in a blender and enjoy!
Ingredients:
● 1 cup water, almond milk, hemp seed milk, or rice milk (organic "milks")
● 1 ½ ounces organic baby spinach
● 2 ounces organic cranberries (fresh or frozen)
● 2 organic dates
● 1 chopped organic pear
● ½ inch fresh organic ginger
● 3 tablespoons organic walnuts
● 1 cup ice
March 4, 2019 
With March comes the promise of sunnier, warmer days, inspiring many people to get outside and into the woods, parks or whatever green spaces their town has to offer.
Unfortunately, for many people the arrival of spring also means another round of seasonal allergies and the accompanying symptoms. Many people suffer through weeks of a runny nose, watery eyes and a scratchy throat, which make it hard to want to get outside and relish in the new growth sprouting up all around.
Instead of immediately reaching for the Claritin, consider learning about the herbs and foods growing right outside that might support you in alleviating your symptoms this year.
This recipe for parsley pesto is a twist on an old classic. Its vibrant green color is meant to help ring in spring, while the substitution of parsley for basil is meant to support you in fighting off some of those nasty allergies. Parsley is recognized for its potential to alleviate allergic reactions because of a naturally occurring antioxidant called quercetin, which is found in many plants as well as several common foods, including parsley. Quercetin is a natural antihistamine, meaning it blocks the release of the compound histamine, which the body releases in response to allergic and inflammatory reactions. Quercetin also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can be very beneficial in mitigating the severity of allergic reactions.
This recipe also includes mint, for more fresh, springy flavor, and garlic, another nutritional powerhouse. Research has shown that garlic can actually suppress the release of a substance called beta-hexosaminidase. Stopping the body’s release of beta-hexosaminidase is linked to stopping or reducing allergic reactions. Garlic also has vitamin C, which is great for boosting immunity, it has strong germ-killing effects and it has been used for centuries to treat lung ailments such as asthma and pneumonia.
Spread this pesto like mustard on sandwiches or use it as a pasta sauce or base for your next pizza.
Makes about ½ cup.
Ingredients:
● 2 organic garlic cloves, roughly chopped
● 2 cups, tightly packed, organic parsley leaves, coarsely chopped
● 1 tablespoon, tightly packed, organic mint leaves, coarsely chopped
● ⅓ cup organic olive oil
● 6 TB freshly grated organic Parmesan cheese
● Salt to taste (Himalayan pink salt)
● Freshly ground pepper (optional)
Directions:
In a food processor, drop in the garlic and turn on. When the garlic is chopped and sticking to the sides of the bowl, stop. Scrape the garlic down into the bowl. Next, add the parsley and mint, processing until finely chopped. With the food processor on, slowly add the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Stop the machine and scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the cheese. Pulse to combine.
February 5, 2019 
Digestion is a complex task performed by the body. It begins in the mouth and finishes when the ingested food leaves the body through the rectum. For all we have learned over the years regarding digestion, there is still so much more we don’t know or are still learning. For example, it wasn’t until recently, the last 10 years or so, that modern medicine confirmed our gastrointestinal tract is our second brain. This discovery is drastically changing the way the body and its many functions are viewed, because everything we put in our mouths can potentially have life-altering effects on the mind, as well as the body.
Digestive disorders are rampant in the United States. Surveys estimate nearly 70 million people in the United States are affected by some sort of digestive disorder. This could be anything from gallstones to acid reflux to pancreatitis. For many, these disorders are extremely debilitating. But for every person dealing with a debilitating digestive disorder, there are thousands more that just assume everything they are experiencing is “normal.”
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is just one of the many ways people can deal with their digestive disorders. TCM is a very old medical system that utilizes many different modalities to treat imbalances in the body. Acupuncture is just one of the modalities that can be used. More and more studies about the effectiveness of acupuncture are being performed every day, many of which hold great promise for those who suffer from digestive issues.
Acupuncture helps with digestion because it treats the person holistically, meaning all parts are considered when treatment is rendered. There is no compartmentalizing as in Western medicine. So, a person being treated by a licensed acupuncturist or TCM practitioner will not only notice changes in their digestive issues, but they may also notice changes in their psyche too. And since the mind and body are closely connected, this can be very beneficial for the patient.
Studies have shown acupuncture can stimulate peristalsis in the intestinal tract. This is very helpful for people who deal with chronic constipation. In as few as one to two treatments, a person suffering from chronic constipation may find relief.
Nausea and vomiting are another frequent problem associated with digestion. Acupuncture and even acupressure are wonderful tools for calming the upset stomach. One acupressure point on the underside of the forearm has been studied extensively just for this function. In most cases, the nausea and vomiting are greatly decreased or stopped altogether.
Bloating is another common problem associated with the digestive tract. This can be caused by eating too much food or improper digestion. Acupuncture treatments help the digestive process of breaking down foods without the excess gas that frequently causes bloating.
Diarrhea isn’t just a problem that occurs when somebody is suffering from the stomach flu. In fact, it is much more common than many people think. Acupuncture treatments can help resolve diarrhea by clearing either excess heat or excess dampness from the digestive tract, while also strengthening it.
If you are curious about how acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can help you with your digestive issues, ask us! We are happy to guide you along your healing journey.
December 9, 2018 Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD, is a form of depression that affects people all throughout the world. Most commonly experienced during fall and winter months, the symptoms of SAD include depression, hypersomnia, lethargy, difficulty concentrating, negative thoughts and decreased social interaction. Higher levels of anxiety are experienced at the end of the summer season as those who suffer from this ailment start to anticipate the coming months of less sunshine and increased symptoms.
Studies suggest many people who suffer from SAD may also be afflicted with other forms of mental imbalance such as addiction, personality disorders or anxiety. Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture are great choices for treatment of this condition. Other therapies (besides taking a vacation to the Caribbean) that are effective at relieving SAD are Fisher Wallace Device, AmpCoil, BSFF, exercise and many more. Here at Carolina Holistic Health we offer a blend of services to meet the needs, goals and budget of our patients.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is very effective in treating depression, including Seasonal Affective Disorder. Modern medicine usually treats depression with antidepressants and psychotherapy regardless of the presenting symptoms. In contrast, TCM diagnoses each patient on an individual basis and treats the specific symptoms, while also addressing the root of the illness. TCM incorporates multiple modalities such as acupuncture, Chinese herbs, tuina massage, cupping and exercises like qi gong to help restore balance to the body. Traditional Chinese medicine also treats the person holistically instead of treating mind and body separately.
Acupuncture is one of the tools used in TCM. Acupuncture needles move energy throughout the body and releases endorphins. By doing so, it improves the flow of energy throughout the body, while eliminating blockages and bringing balance to the mind and body. Endorphins counter the symptoms of depression and allow the person to resume a normal life.
Twelve studies have been conducted using the Fisher Wallace Stimulator® demonstrating its effectiveness for depression, anxiety, insomnia and pain relief (research). The therapy is safe, gentle, painless, relaxing and can be used as a standalone therapy or added to an Acupuncture session.
The AmpCoil is a non-invasive PEMF sound technology that brings the body 
back in tune, vibrating in its original, pure state faster than you might expect. PEMF re-energizes damaged cells by restoring them to their normal, healthy state, which is in harmony with nature, as nature intended them to be. Many people report enhanced energy, focus, and mood. As well as better sleep and less pain. For more information, visit https://www.ampcoil.com/testimonials.
BSFF is a highly focused method for treating virtually any kind of discomfort. This is done by eliminating from your subconscious both self-limiting beliefs and the emotional roots of the discomforts by tapping on Acupuncture points while recognizing and stating affirmations and limiting beliefs. The basic theory of BSFF is that your subconscious mind is a faithful servant and will do whatever you tell it. Each session is one hour.
Physical activity is also important to combat SAD. One of the best forms of physical activity is Tai chi. Tai chi is an ancient Chinese tradition practiced today as a graceful, fluid low-impact form of exercise. Tai chi involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner accompanied by deep breathing. This form of martial art is practiced all over the world and can be performed by anybody, at any age and in almost any physical condition. Many studies show physical activity like Tai chi can improve mood and sleep quality, while also improving immune system function. All of these things are important to address when feeling the grasp of SAD.
Nutrition is another vitally-important aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine. During the fall and winter months, when the weather tends to be cooler and the hours of darkness are more abundant, it is recommended to eat less fruit and increase the intake of warming foods like soups and grains. Many studies show depression and SAD can be attributed to nutritional deficiencies, like fatty acids and vitamin D. So during the fall and winter, these nutrients need to be increased to combat the feelings of depression and sadness. Fatty acids can be found in fish and nuts. Vitamin D is also found in fatty fish like tuna and some organic dairy products.
If you or somebody you know suffers from Seasonal Affective Disorder or depression and are looking for a natural way of dealing with it, contact me to find how Carolina Holistic Health can help.
November 15, 2018 
Dementia is defined as a chronic disorder of the mental processes caused by either brain injury or brain disease. Dementia is marked by memory disorders, personality changes and impaired reasoning. Dementia is not a specific disease though. Dementia is an overall term that describes a wide range of symptoms characterized by a decline in mental ability that becomes severe enough to interfere with daily life. This includes Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy Bodies and even Parkinson’s disease.
Current estimates of dementia sufferers vary considerably based on the age group. But the numbers for just one segment of the dementia spectrum is staggering. This is Alzheimer’s disease, which affects up to 5.3 million Americans. Worldwide, the prevalence of dementia, in any of its forms, affects 5 to 7 percent of adults age 60 or older. Most forms of dementia are the result of changes in the neural pathways, but the cause of these changes is still undefined in most cases, unless there was traumatic brain injury. Due to this inability to define the cause of the neural changes, the current treatment methods are also variable and definitely not reliable.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic medical system that includes the modalities of acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion and herbal formulations. Of all these modalities, acupuncture has been studied the most intensely. And this has led to studies showing acupuncture can help with the symptoms of dementia.
There are many symptoms associated with dementia, aside from memory loss, including depression, anxiety and changes in sleeping patterns. Acupuncture can effectively treat depression and anxiety by balancing the hormones in the body. This will also help with insomnia, which is common in those experiencing dementia.
Electroacupuncture has also shown promise for dementia patients. Electroacupuncture is the same as traditional acupuncture, but it adds a small current of electricity through the acupuncture needles, which increases the ability to break up blockages and get energy flowing properly. This is especially helpful for those suffering from vascular dementia, which occurs due to impaired blood flow that deprives oxygen and nutrients from the brain. Studies show the use of electroacupuncture can reduce behavioral deficits and improve memory over time.
It is clear acupuncture can help those suffering from this debilitating disease. Even greater success is achieved when used in conjunction with AmpCoil bioresonance/PEMF, herbal medicine, Asea-Redox molecules, dietary changes, Chiropractic, and Electro Sound Lymphatic drainage… Contact us to see how we can help you or your family members who may be afflicted with dementia and memory loss.
October 16, 2018 Help For Respiratory Issues
Our lungs are incredibly important. Without properly functioning lungs, we cease to exist. In the United States alone, nearly 200,000 people die every year from forms of respiratory disease. Respiratory diseases include both acute and chronic conditions, everything from the flu to emphysema. While many of these ailments can be prevented, there are others not avoidable due to things like genetics.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the lungs play a very strange role because they are considered the most external of the internal organs. With every breath taken, the lungs come into contact with the outside world. Also, any part of the body that has anything to do with breathing can be considered part of the respiratory system. This includes the nose, bronchi, sinuses, the diaphragm and even the skin, to some degree.
What’s nice about TCM, is it approaches the treatment of any condition on a very individualized basis. Every person gets a different treatment protocol depending on their symptoms and diagnosis. There are also accessory modalities like cupping that can help pull toxins out of the lungs and herbal formulas that can be added to treat almost any respiratory condition. Here are some ways that TCM can help those suffering with respiratory issues.
Acupuncture for Respiratory Issues: Acupuncture helps build or tonify the energy within the respiratory system. This energy is called Qi (pronounced “chee”). When lung Qi is strong and the body is balanced, then respiratory issues rarely become an issue. Acupuncture stimulates blood flow which carries oxygen to every cell in the body. The increase blood flow boosts the immune system, dilates the bronchioles and produces anti-inflammatory agents that help improve breathing by relaxing the muscles.
Acupuncture Points for Respiratory Issues:
· Kidney 27 – This point is located bilaterally on the chest, just below the collarbone. Kidney 27 is used to open the lungs, reduce coughing and encourage full breathing.
· Lung 5 – Lung 5 is located at the end of the outer crease of the elbow, just to the outside of the tendon. This point opens up the airways and the throat, while reducing coughing and wheezing.
· Ren 17 – This point is located in the middle of the chest, midway between both nipples. It is used to open the chest, loosen up congestion, stop coughing and encourage full breathing.
Chinese Herbals Formulas for Respiratory Issues: Combinations of herbs, known as formulas are used frequently in TCM. One of the most commonly used individual herbs is Wu Wei Zi, also known as Schisandra. This herb is used to treat asthma, wheezing, and boost immune function.
A popular formula choice of TCM practitioners is Bi Yan Pian. This formula works to clear the nasal passages and it usually accomplishes this within five days to a week. The herbs in Bi Yan Pian work to disperse wind, expel toxins, relieve inflammation and dissolve phlegm.
Nutrition for Respiratory Issues: For the lungs and respiratory system to be strong, they need proper nourishment, just like the rest of the body. Certain foods are good for increasing immunity, while also opening up the lungs and increasing circulation. Foods like garlic, turmeric, ginger and onions reduce inflammation and fight off infections. Chili peppers open up the nasal passages, stimulating the mucus membranes and fighting invasion of nasty bacteria and viruses. Carrots and pumpkin are rich in vitamins A, C and lycopene. All of these vitamins affect lung health by lowering the chances of developing lung disease.
As you can see, TCM is a great way to deal with respiratory issues. Additionally, ASEA the one and only Redox supplement has undergoing numerous scientific tests verifying its ability to increase glutathione production in the body, reduce the signs of aging and activate 5 key genes in the body…one of which is inflammation reduction. To read this fantastic study or patient testimonials related to respiratory issues contact Carolina Holistic Health at 864-516-6868. Let's see what we can do to get you back on track.
CITATIONS:
https://sunwarrior.com/healthhub/foods-for-lung-health
https://www.modernacupuncture.com/news/2017-07-05-breathe-deeply-acupuncture-for-respiratory-issues-allergies-45
https://www.acufinder.com/Acupuncture+Information/Detail/Energetics+of+Foods+for+Health+and+Healing+-+Part+II
https://www.livestrong.com/article/69650-chinese-herbs-strengthing-lungs/
http://www.modernreflexology.com/acupressure-points-to-treat-lung-diseases/
http://acupuncturewellness.net/respiratory-diseases-and-chinese-medicine/
http://www.touch2cure.com/acupressure-points-for-asthma/
