ASGHAR AFSARI, MD, PC

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ASGHAR AFSARI, MD, PC

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Locations

West Bloomfield Office
7419 Middlebelt
Suite #1
West Bloomfield, MI   48322
Phone: 248-737-BABY (2229) OR 248-851-6070
Fax: 248-626-BABY (2229)
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What is Gynecology?

     For most women, their gynecologist is their primary care physician. Since this is the only physician they see regularly, the following preventative measures are recommended. We believe that prevention if the best way to manage the health issues. These suggestions are being made through reviewing current medical literature and, additionally, based on years of experience in the care of women:

  1. For detection of cancer of the cervix, an annual Pap. Smear is advised. If you are taking hormones or oral contraceptives, then every 6-9 months is recommended. Patients with past history of hysterectomy should also have an annual Pap Smear.  

  2. As always, I would suggest the continuation of the breast self-examination 7-10 days after each period (using the calendar if you are not menstruating).

  3. Baseline mammogram of the breast, unless this has been done in the previous 1-2 years. Studies have shown that the newer techniques used for this study (so called, low dose) are safer, with minimal radiation, and detection rate is 90% accurate. We will provide you with an appropriate request (mammography card) and information. The recommended schedule of mammography as it is suggested by several medical organizations are as follows:

    § Between ages 35-39 : Baseline mammography.
    § Between ages 40-50 : Every 1-2 years, unless there has been history of breast disease in the past, which requires more frequent studies.
    § Beyond age 50 : Annual mammography.

  4. A structured, continuous exercise program, such as the use of a stationary bicycle, Nordic Trac, or treadmill is recommended. This helps to maintain a good cardiovascular endurance and also helps to absorb calcium into the bones and prevent osteoporosis. It has to be started on a gradual basis and then be increased in duration and intensity. Usually 20-30 minutes each time and about 3-4 days per week is quite adequate. 

  5. It is a well-known fact that the use of appetite suppressants and crash dieting is not helpful in maintaining a normal and expected weight for your height. A graduated diet and exercise is the best-proven method for weight control. 

  6. To help prevent the problem of osteoporosis  , 1000-1500 mg daily intake of calcium is recommended for ladies form ages 35 and onward. Natural form, oyster shell tablets may be purchased over-the-counter. If you are an avid milk drinker, you may reduce the tablet intake by 100 mg per 8 oz glass of milk. Bone Mineral Density (BMD) testing is available in our office to evaluate the status of bone quality, and recommended for women age 50 and over, and earlier is there is family history or other rare risk factors.

  7. An annual stool test for occult blood is recommended (this test detects cancer of the large bowel). We will be happy to provide you with a self-explanatory packet to perform the test at home. This test is recommended to be carried out at age 40. Additionally, a colonoscopy (visually examining the inside of the large bowel with a flexible fibro-optic telescope) is recommended at age 50 and beyond, unless there is a family history of colon cancer which would require earlier examination.

  8. An annual evaluation of your blood cholesterol (LDL and HDL- good cholesterol), triglycerides, blood sugar and thyroid hormones is recommended for all patients from age 35 and beyond. The test needs to be done from a sample of fasting (no food for 12 hours) blood before 10:00 am. 

  9. An annual screening for ovarian cancer is recommended for patients 40 and over. If there is a history of ovarian cancer, the annual screening is suggested beginning at age 35. The screening consists of a blood test, for a tumor marker known as CA-125, and a transvaginal ultrasound. If you are menstruating, the ultrasound and blood test should preferably be planned 7-10 days after the start of your period. If you are no longer having periods it can be planned at your convenience.

  10. For patients who are on hormone replacement therapy, we recommend a periodic hormonal and uterine assessment. In order to further streamline the necessary information regarding your health and preventative care, I would suggest in the future years to arrange any and all of the above recommended screening tests to be completed 3-4 weeks prior to your pre-arranged appointment with me for you physical examination. During that visit, then I will be able to discuss the findings with you and answer any and all of your respective questions.

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