"I've been very happy with the service that I've had when I've gone to NorthStar."

Nancy Cason

"As someone in the Sports Rehab field, I know excellent orthopedic care. And NorthStar provides excellent orthopedic care! Not only have I been a patient at NorthStar, but members of my family have as well. I highly recommend NorthStar to anyone considering outpatient surgery."

Kerry Wimberly

"I had a meniscus repair at NorthStar by Dr. Cord. I would like to tell you that I have NEVER been treated as well as I was at NorthStar, anywhere, anytime. Thank you sincerely for a job well done."

Raford Hargrove

FOR YOUR EDUCATION

Colon Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths for men and women combined, according to the American Cancer Society. However, because this form of cancer develops slowly, the National Cancer Institute recommends a screening colonoscopy for early detection, which focuses on finding and removing polyps that can be a precursor to colon cancer in most cases. For most people, screening colonoscopy should begin at age 50 at the earliest for people at average risk. Screening colonoscopy should be done at an earlier age if you have risk factors, which include family history of colon cancer, and those whose diets are high in fat, calories, alcohol and low in calcium and vitamin D may also be at a higher risk of colorectal cancer. Diabetes, obesity and smoking can also put people at higher risk of the disease.

Breast Cancer

With advances in today's medicine, breast cancer can be detected at an earlier stage, which can improve survival. Risk factors, such as family history, cannot be controlled. However, dietary changes and lifestyle modification may reduce the overall risk of many forms of cancer in general. Most experts recommend that women age 20 and older perform monthly self breast exams; women between the ages of 20-39 should have their doctor perform a breast exam at least every three years. After age 40, women should have a clinical breast exam by their physician every year. Mammography can be an effective way of detecting breast cancer at an early stage. The National Cancer Institute recommends yearly mammographic screening for women age 40 and older unless they are at high risk, in which case, they should start getting a mammogram at age 30. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have a family history of breast cancer or if you notice a lump in your breast. Also, notify your physician if you have not had a screening mammogram by the age of 40. These few, simple steps can have a great impact on survival.

Prostate Cancer

The cause of prostate cancer is unknown, although some studies have shown a relationship between high dietary fat intake and increased testosterone levels. It is the third most common cause of death from cancer in men of all ages and is the most common cause of death from cancer in men older than 75. It is rarely found in men younger than 40. Because it is such a slow-growing cancer, early detection is key. The National Cancer Institute recommends men to have a rectal exam beginning at age 40, which can reveal an enlarged prostate. From there, a number of additional tests can confirm a diagnosis of possible prostate cancer. The American Cancer Society also recommends in addition to annual rectal exams, a PSA test beginning at age 45 if there is a family history of prostate cancer and/or if you are African-American, and at age 50 for all others. To reduce the risk or progression of prostate cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and dietary fiber, and low in red meat and saturated fats. Studies have shown that a low fat diet may slow the progression of prostate cancer.