Women and Hidden Heart Disease

New research shows that many women have undiagnosed heart disease even after getting tested for it—3 million women in the United States have a hard-to-spot form of heart disease called coronary microvascular dysfunction (MVD) that isn't detected by standard diagnostic tests.

Dr. Farzan Filsoufi, leading cardiothoracic surgeon at Mount Sinai Medical Center advises, "Women who have an angiogram (which is designed to pick up blockages in large arteries) is likely to show their arteries to be normal. If you receive a 'normal' angiogram but still have other heart symptoms, ask your doctor whether you might have a problem with your small arteries and request a functional vascular imaging test."

Studies have shown that women are more likely than men to have coronary MVD and autopsy studies support this approach.  They show that women who die of heart attacks often have pathology different from that of men.  In women, plaque is more likely to be deposited uniformly around the inside of the small vessels – the possible result of chronic inflammation. In men, plaque tends to build up in isolated accumulations.    

Many researchers think the inflammation associated with MVD heart disease is caused by a drop in estrogen levels.  Estrogen may decrease inflammation, so when too little is available, the risk of heart disease may rise, especially in premenopausal or menopausal women.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide.  According to the American Heart Association, almost two-thirds of women who die suddenly of coronary heart disease had no previous symptoms.

Women need to know that certain seemingly unrelated symptoms – unexplained fatigue, depression, shortness of breath – could be preludes to a serious cardiac event. 

Dr. Filsoufi strongly advises, "Even if you're not sure you're having a heart attack, act quickly—call 911 immediately. Hospitals have clot-busting medicines and other artery-opening procedures that can stop a heart attack.  These treatments work best when given within the first hour after a heart attack starts."

Source:  Dr. Farzan Filsoufi

What's Love Really Got to Do With It?

As we near the end of October, I felt compelled to address one very important issue, which is often overlooked, brushed under the rug and sometimes disregarded, Domestic Violence.  Because Domestic Violence shares the month of October with Breast Cancer Awareness, it is often overshadowed.   Nonetheless, it is of equal importance, as many women lose their lives yearly at the hands of significant others.  Strangely enough, these are women who go to work everyday, attend church every Sunday and appear to live happily amongst us all.  Unfortunately, it’s all a façade to cope. 

Sadly, the first couple that came to mind when I reflected on this subject was Chris Brown and Rhianna.  Many on the outside looking in have formulated opinions about Chris and Rhianna. I have even witnessed people jokingly discussing the couple’s misfortune. However, doing so distracts us all from what’s important. The fact of the matter is Rhianna was hurt at the hands of her lover and that’s not cool.  Further, criticism of the young couple has begun to resurface, due to the couple being recently spotted together.  Is she wrong for going back?  It's not for me to judge.   

While I am one who believes a relationship is between two people and only the two people in that relationship should determine what makes them happy, I am also one who knows that true love should never hurt.  Sure, challenges and difficulties can and will arise, however, challenges and difficulties should never lead to cuts, bruises, self-esteem scarring, hospitalization or a casket.  

If you are in a violent relationship and you don’t have a strategy to get out, here is the Domestic Violence Hotline # 1-800-799-SAFE.  

Trendiest Halloween 2012 Costumes for Women

What does Honey Boo Boo, McKayla Mahoney, the Tan Mom (Patricia Krentcil) and Big Bird all have in common?  Let's just say everyone wants to channel them....well at least for Halloween.  According to the blogosphere, these are the trendiest women costumes for Halloween 2012.  The good thing is that all of the costumes should be fairly easy to pull off.  Hilarious!!!

Foundation Application

Should you be using your fingers, a foundation brush or make-up sponges to apply foundation? There is no right or wrong answer to this question. It’s simply a mat

ter of preference. I personally prefer to use my fingers (with my client’s approval) or a foundation brush. Applying foundation with my fingers really allows me to work the foundation in to the skin, as the heat from my fingers really assists me in achieving a smooth application. An added incentive is that your fingers do not absorb product. The same is true when it comes to using foundation brushes. While foundation brushes tend to be dense and hold a good amount of product, they don’t absorb product. Make-up sponges are good for control and I know a lot of artists who prefer sponges. I never really liked sponges because they absorb my product, which results in wasted product = an absolute no-no for me. However, I have been using sponges more often lately because they actually prevent streaking, which is important for HD situations. Therefore, the answer to the question is to use whatever works for you. 

Selling Your Beauty Card for a Good Cocktail

At times, a good cocktail can be just what the doctor ordered. However, don’t allow too much over indulging to revoke your beauty card. During your yo

uth, the feeling of invincibility takes over. It seems that some people ignore the fact that aging is inevitable. Yet, how you age is totally up to you. One thing you should be mindful of is the way you treat your body now will be reflected as you mature. As with anything, alcohol consumption should be done in moderation. 

Keep this in mind: for most women and men too, wrinkles are an unwelcomed part of aging. Sagging near the jaw line and bags under the eyes can add years to the face. Unfortunately, excessive alcohol intake can cause all of the above to occur more rapidly. The reason is because alcohol contains certain toxins that can cause skin damage, ultimately, causing the capillaries in the face to leak. When this occurs, water can seep in causing the face to sag or look and puffy, according to Susan Ayers of Break Studios. Further, alcohol is a diuretic, which causes accelerated dehydration causing dry skin and dry, brittle hair. In fact, research indicates excessive alcohol consumption can deplete levels of iron in the body, which can lead to hair loss. It’s your choice but I try to always choose the road to beauty.

Let's Get Ready to Rumble.....

By The Political Beauty

Fresh off the heels of a lackluster Presidential Debate, I am sure many are eagerly awaiting the vice Presidential debates set to happen on October 11, 2012.  In the “blue corner” we have Vice President Joe Biden and in the “red corner” we have GOP darling, Congressman Paul Ryan.  While most predict a dogfight, my hope is that Biden serves as a great attack dog and learns from the first Presidential debate.

Delivery trumps truth.  Not saying Biden should lie, simply saying he needs to do what position and color disallows President Obama to do—strongly call out Ryan and hold him accountable for insulting the intellect of voters.  Yes, Romney gave a lively performance—strong on style and completely devoid of truth.  Romney flip flopped throughout his entire performance; yet in a country that often rewards style over substance, he was declared the people’s champ and afforded a temporary bump in the polls.  Let’s hope our seasoned VP Biden takes the much younger Ryan to task and holds him accountable for the policies he has supported—policies that promise to devastate the middle class. 

While many of us were discouraged by the POTUS’ performance (I tend to think it was deliberate), I strongly encourage everyone to vote, vote early if possible, and make sure the sick and shut in get to the polls.  The newly energized right is banking on a complacent left who assumes “President Obama has it in the bag”.  A presumptuous left who thinks, "Americans are not dumb enough to believe Romney’s lies".  A disenchanted left who thinks, “my vote does not matter”.  To not vote is to not have a voice.  Let’s make our voices heard and use our vote to put the final nail in Romney’s political coffin.  We simply cannot afford his presidency.   FORWARD 2012!  

8 Paraben Free/Organic/ Natural Skincare and Cosmetic Lines for Chemotherapy Patients

I have been extensively researching skincare and cosmetic lines for women undergoing chemotherapy. My goal was to compile a list of companies, which include products that protect your skin and keep your skin supple while undergoing treatments. It’s no secret that chemotherapy can have harsh effects on your skin. In fact, all of the information I have encountered indicated chemotherapy can cause extremely dry skin causing it to crack and tear, ultimately subjecting your skin to infection.

Therefore, the importance of protecting your skin from the effects of chemotherapy goes beyond preserving your beauty; it’s about protecting your health. However, when it does come to glamorization, some women undergoing treatments may want to spruce up a bit by adding a little bronzer, wearing lipstick/lip gloss more often or creating brows with make-up, because chemotherapy can zap your hair and skin beauty. Yet, I discovered most women are extremely concerned about using products loaded with chemicals. So, with this in mind, I have a list of products below that all claim to be natural, organic and/or paraben-free:

- Bare Escentuals

- Burt’s Bees

- Origins

- Sephora Brand (not all products)

- Shea Moisture

- Tarte

- Yardley

- Yes to

As I mentioned before, the above products claim to be natural, organic and/or paraben free.  If you still have doubts about any of the skincare and cosmetic lines, my suggestion would be to consult with a doctor. 

5 Breast Cancer Prevention Tips

The following information provides five ways to aid in preventing Breast Cancer, according to Dr. Oz: 

1- Eat for Protection

A healthy diet can lower your risk of breas

t cancer, and an unhealthy diet can increase your risk. Fruits and veggies all the way!!!

2- Stay Away From Smokes

Although smoking is a factor in lung and other cancers, its role in breast cancer has been unclear. But a recent review by a Canadian panel of experts showed that both active smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke increase breast cancer risk in premenopausal women.

3- Get Physical

Moderate daily exercise reduces breast cancer risk by 15 to 25 percent, Dr. Oz says. And you don’t have to become a gym rat or train for a marathon — walking 30 minutes five days a week will do the trick. To get the protective effect, walk briskly. “It has to be moderate exercise,” says Dr. Oz, “not just a stroll to the park.”

4- Opt for a 'Mocktail'

The evidence that alcohol raises the risk of cancer, including breast cancer, is so strong that in 2000, the National Institutes of Health listed the consumption of alcoholic beverages as a “known human carcinogen” for the first time. Dr. Oz advises avoiding alcohol entirely or greatly limiting drinking.

5- Join In!

Dr. Oz says one way to improve your own chances against breast cancer is to support these efforts, and the feeling of community can have a positive effect on your overall health.

Source: www.doctoroz.com

Sam's Club Offering Free Women's Health Screenings October 13th

Over the course of a lifetime, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, making it one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among women. In support of Women's Health Month and to contribute to the fight against this disease, Sam's Club is offering free women's health and vision screenings Saturday, Oct. 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at all Sam's Club locations with a pharmacy, open to members and non-members alike.

Happy Anniversary to the POTUS and FLOTUS

Our favorite couple, President Barack and Michelle Obama,  celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary today.  Ironically, it falls on the same night as the debate.  Oh well, we wish the Obamas many more years of love.    Love them!!!

5 Debunked Breast Cancer Myths

Myth: Hair straighteners cause breast cancer in African-American women.

Reality: A 

large 2007 study funded by the National Cancer Institute found no increase in breast cancer risk due to the use of hair straighteners or relaxers. Study participants included African-American women who had used straighteners seven or more times a year for 20 years.

Myth: Wearing antiperspirant increases your risk of getting breast cancer.

Reality: The American Cancer Society debunks this rumor, but admits that more research is needed. One small study did stumble on traces of parabens in a tiny sample of breast cancer tumors. Parabens, used as preservatives in some antiperspirants, have weak estrogen-like properties, but the study in question made no cause-and-effect connection between parabens and breast cancer, nor did it conclusively identify the source of the parabens found in tumors.

Myth: Overweight women have the same breast cancer risk as other women.

Reality: Being overweight or obese does increase your breast cancer risk—especially if you're past menopause and/or you gained the weight later in life.

Myth: Small-breasted women have less chance of getting breast cancer.
Reality: There's no connection between the size of your breasts and your risk of getting breast cancer. Very large breasts may be harder to examine than small breasts, with clinical breast exams—and even mammograms and MRIs—more difficult to conduct. But all women, regardless of breast size, should commit to routine screenings and checkups.

Myth: If you're at risk for breast cancer, there's little you can do but watch for the signs.
Reality: There's a lot that women can do to lower their risk, including losing weight if they're obese, getting regular exercise, lowering or eliminating alcohol consumption, being rigorous about examining their own breasts, and having regular clinical exams and mammograms. Quitting smoking wouldn't hurt either.

Source: Health.com

Creme Of Nature Partners with My Favorite Non-Profit Organization During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Creme of Nature^® announced today that the long-standing hair care brand has partnered with Look Good Feel Better to educate people on the services available for women who are battling cancer and want to enhance their appearance. Through the end of October, Look Good Feel Better leaflets can be found inside Creme of Nature with Argan Oil product packaging to help spread the word about the organization and the support it provides for women who are undergoing cancer treatment.

Look Good Feel Better is a non-medical, brand-neutral public service program that teaches beauty techniques to help cancer patients manage the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatments. But, more than that, the organization offers cancer patients a circle of support. Through Look Good Feel Better , women receive step-by-step makeover learning sessions that are led by cosmetology professionals. Products are donated by various cosmetic and beauty companies. Each free two-hour, hands-on workshop includes a 12-step skin care and make-up lesson, information on nail care techniques and advice on how to deal with hair loss, including tips on the use of wigs and hairpieces and scarves and other accessories.

SOURCE Creme of Nature

Breast Cancer is the 2nd Leading Cause of Cancer Death in Women

In case you were wondering, Lung Cancer is # 1. The chance that breast cancer will be responsible for a woman's death is about 1 in 36 (about 3%). Death rates from breast cancer have been declining since about 1990, with larger decreases in women younger than 50. These decreases are believed to be the result of earlier detection through screening and increased awareness, as well as improved treatment.

Source: American Cancer Society

Tyler Perry signs with OWN

Two industry giants and my two favorite people have combined forces and inked a deal. OWN  (Oprah Winfrey Network) has signed Tyler Perry to a multi-year deal to create new scripted TV shows for the network. Two scripted shows are targeted for a mid-2013 premiere. This deal has greatness written all over it. 

Source: Huffington Post 

Breast Cancer is the Most Common Cancer among American Women

Last month, Kellie Pickler, country star and former American Idol, shaved her long blond locks off on Good Morning America to show support for her lifelong BFF, Summer Holt Miller, who is undergoing breast cancer treatment. Since her brave, epic haircut, there's been an outpouring of support for the singing sensation.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, except for skin cancers. About 1 in 8 (12%) women in the US will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime.

Source: Eonline and American Cancer Society

October is All About Pink

Today is the first day of Breast Cancer Awareness month. To mark the first week, I will be providing daily breast cancer quick facts, stats and tips. This disease has absolutely no discretion. It affects women of all nationalities, ages, and breast sizes. While I am not a medical practitioner, this unpredictable disease has directly impacted my life through loved ones. Witnessing breast cancer, first hand, is what has led me to use this platform to educate you as much as possible. I hope you find this week’s posts useful and informative.