June recognizes Men's Health awareness.  Why is Bon Secours concerned about Men's Health?  Men are less likely than women to seek medical care and are nearly half as likely as women to pursue preventive health visits.  Local research also shows that  men between the ages of 20-40 are the group least likely to access health care and are more likely to be uninsured than women.  We also know that men are more likely to smoke and drink.  Combine this lack of medical treatment with these behavioral choices, and we know that men are dying at higher rates than women for nine of the top ten causes of death.  That's why Bon Secours offers a comprehensive set of services to help men of all ages access preventive care, treat practically any injury or illness and take an active role in maintaining a healthy life. 

Stay on top of your health by following these guidelines for checkups and screenings:

Age 20-39:

• Physical Exam: Review overall health status, perform a thorough physical exam and discuss health related topics. Recommended every three years.
• Blood Tests & Urinalysis: Screens for various illnesses and diseases (such as cholesterol, diabetes, kidney or thyroid dysfunction) before symptoms occur. Recommended every three years.
• EKG: Electrocardiogram screens for heart abnormalities. Baseline test recommended at 30.

Join Bon Secours for Men on your journey to a healthy life.  If you do not have a primary care physician, we can help you find one close to home or work.  This is the first step toward understanding your risks and catching diseases early.  Visit  www.goodhelpdocs.com or call 804-359-WELL [9355].

By Rishi Bala, MD, CAQSM, RMSK

Bon Secours Sports Medicine & Primary Care

Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center

2401 W. Leigh Street

Richmond, VA 23220

804-325-8801

Bon Secours Patterson Avenue Family Practice

9600 Patterson Avenue

Richmond, VA 23229

804-741-6200

The rate of new melanoma cases has doubled in the past 30 years, according to a new Vital Signs report from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  "Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, and it's on the rise," said CDC Director Tom Frieden, MD, MPH. 

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. More than 90 percent of melanoma skin cancers are due to skin cell damage from too much exposure to UV rays from the sun or sources such as indoor tanning, according to the CDC.  Melanoma rates increased from 11.2 per 100,000 in 1982 to 22.7 per 100,000 in 2011.  

Despite the increase, federal health authorities say comprehensive skin cancer prevention programs could prevent one-fifth of new cases between 2020 and 2030.  The federal report notes that without additional community prevention efforts, the number of people diagnosed with melanoma will continue to increase over the next 15 years, with 112,000 new cases projected in 2030. The annual cost of treating new melanoma cases is estimated to nearly triple from $457 million in 2011 to $1.6 billion in 2030.

Read more to learn how to protect yourself from the sun...

For more information on Bon Secours skin screenings or cancer services, please visit www.bonsecours.com or call 804-359-WELL [9355].  

Exercise Video

Plank Row American Family Fitness

Phil Masterson received his Bachelor of Science in Health Fitness from East Carolina University. He also received both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from George Mason University. 

Board Certification: 

Mr. Masterson is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner. He is also a Certified Exercise Physiologist through the American College of Sports Medicine.

What do you enjoy most about being a nurse practitioner?

Being a partner in someone's health is the most rewarding aspect of being a nurse practitioner. That includes helping someone through difficult times of illness or helping someone maintain wellness and promote health.  Everyone has their own story and being a part of that journey is a privilege. 

Why did you choose Bon Secours Health System?

Bon Secours has exemplified what it means to care for a community.  I believe their dedication to uphold organizational mission and values is unrivaled.  This reputation and unwavering stance to provide quality care made it an easy choice in wanting to find a home within the Bon Secours Health System.

What do you enjoy outside of your work?

I am an active person and I absolutely love the outdoors.  You can usually find me hiking in the mountains, visiting a local park or sitting in a tranquil spot down near the river.