Q & A with Pharmacist Marla Ahlgrimm – Early Screenings for Breast Cancer

Prompt medical care and early detection are critical factors in terms of breast cancer treatment, according to women’s health expert Marla Ahlgrimm. Here, she explains why recent medical developments are improving survivorship rates among women across the United States.

Q: How has the health security of American women increased in the last 20 years?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Owing in large part to greater communication through social media and online forums, health groups and organizations throughout the U.S. continue to raise funds and create programming that draws attention to breast cancer education and research. The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program is one such valuable initiative.

Marla Ahlgrimm on Menopausal Weight Gain

The hormonal changes associated with menopause may result in weight gain around the thighs, hips and abdomen, reports women’s health expert Marla Ahlgrimm. In this Q & A, Ahlgrimm presents some tips on leading a more active and fulfilling lifestyle without the additional pounds.

Q: Are hormonal changes the primary reason for weight gain in middle age?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Although hormonal changes are a common cause in this situation, a number of genetic and lifestyle factors may also be contributing factors. If close relatives have acquired extra weight in the midsection, it’s likely that this trait will carry out into future generations. Along with other stressors and pressures at work and in the home, the instinct to eat sweets and salty snacks is even greater.