Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource - May 2003

Friday, May 02, 2003

Here are highlights from the May issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource. You may cite this publication as often as you wish. Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource attribution is required. Also, you may reprint up to four articles annually without cost. More frequent reprinting is allowed for a fee. Include the following subscription information as your editorial policies permit: Call toll free for subscription information, 1-800-291-1128.

Pap Test: One of Medicine's Best Success Stories

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - It is time to schedule a Pap test? There are new guidelines on how often to have this test for cervical cancer, according to the May issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource. Most women should have a Pap test annually until age 30. After age 30, you can have a Pap test every two to three years if you have three normal tests in a row and if you're not at increased risk for cervical cancer. After age 70, some women can stop Pap tests. Check with your doctor to find out more about the recommendations, which could vary depending on your risks.

One fact doesn't vary. Getting a regular Pap test pays off. Since the test was introduced 50 years ago, deaths from cervical cancer have dropped 70 percent. About half of the cervical cancers diagnosed in the United States occur in women who've never had a Pap test, and another 10 percent occur in women who haven't been screened within the past five years.

Fresh Garlic, on the Side Please

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - The demand for garlic — sometimes called the stinking rose — is surging because of possible health benefits. But it's not clear yet whether garlic has earned its healthy reputation, according to the May issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource.

Research does support garlic's ability to slightly lower total and LDL cholesterol. Preliminary studies suggest that garlic may reduce your risk of heart disease, perhaps by lowering cholesterol or blood pressure. Other studies suggest that garlic may slightly improve circulation in the legs or reduce the risk of cancer. But all these purported benefits await definitive proof.

Most researchers agree that garlic is most effective when eaten raw. The results from eating large amounts are no surprise — bad breath, body odor, indigestion or heartburn. The most serious potential side effect is bleeding. Avoid fresh garlic and garlic supplements if you take a blood thinner or aspirin.

Psoriasis — It's Persistent but Doctors Have Many Teatment Options

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - Patches of red, thick skin covered with silvery scales are the hallmark of psoriasis, a chronic skin disease. The scaling occurs when cells in the outer level of skin reproduce faster than normal and pile up on the surface of your skin. Psoriasis isn't contagious, but it's common and can be difficult to control, according to the May issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource. Each case is different, so your doctor will tailor treatment based on the type and severity of your condition.

Treatment options include:

• Creams and ointments: One is calcipotriene (Dovonex), made from Vitamin D. Creams containing cortisone-like drugs may improve but not clear psoriasis. Used long-term, they can worsen it. Coal tar and a retinoid medication may also be used.
• Oral medications: Retinoids, an anticancer drug or an immune system suppressant can be used in severe cases. All have the potential for serious side effects.
• Light phototherapy: Light therapy in combination with medication is effective for severe psoriasis. Long-term use may increase the risk of melanoma. Self-care techniques: Avoid scratching or rubbing. Take a daily bath to soak off scales, but avoid hot water and harsh soaps. Apply a heavy moisturizing cream after bathing. Get a little sunlight every day, but not enough to cause sunburn.

Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource is published monthly to help women enjoy healthier, more productive lives. Revenue from subscriptions is used to support medical research at Mayo Clinic. To subscribe, please call 1-800-291-1128.

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