Farewell Patrick Swayze

Patrick Swayze died from pancreatic cancer at age 57. He had starred in movies such as "Dirty Dancing" and "Ghost." According to CNN, Swayze passed away peacefully. Dr. George Fisher, revealed in early March 2008 that Swayze had pancreatic cancer. Sometimes it's hard to believe how quickly cancer can take a life.

What's sad is that Swayze had a history of drinking heavily and smoking. Swayze had advanced pancreatic cancer that had spread to other organs. Could his pancreatic cancer been prevented had he lived a healthier lifestyle? Could he still be alive if he wasn't a drinker or a smoker? So many celebrities fall into problems with drugs, tobacco, and alcohol. We see many celebrities drinking under the influence, needing alcohol rehab, or some who kill themselves from drug overdoses.

Farewell Patrick Swayze. I hope that other people may become more educated about pancreatic cancer and the risk factors associated with this terrible disease. I sincerely hope that those (including celebrities) who can change their lifestyle habits would do so to reduce their risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Remember Fetal Alcohol Syndrome today (9/9/09)

Today is a unique day on the calendar that only happens once: 9/9/09

Since pregnancy is 9 months, remember Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) on this day. That's what the Minnesota Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (MOFAS) is doing today. This date was chosen to represent 9 months of no alcohol for women who are considering pregnancy.

Many people have misconceptions regarding alcohol and pregnancy. For instance, some people think that alcohol-related birth defects only occur if you drink alcohol heavily during your pregnancy. The fact is that many defects (including developmental problems) can occur even if you only drink very small amounts of alcohol during pregnancy.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has a website that provides additional information about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs). FASDs are 100% preventable if a woman does not drink alcohol during pregnancy.

Impaired physicians and alcohol rehab

We all know that there are impaired physicians in the community. We may not want to admit this reality, but it's true. Physicians fall into addictions and they often need rehab, including alcohol rehab. Whether it's inpatient rehab or outpatient rehab, these programs offer important services that can eventually protect the public from dangerous healthcare professionals who may have drinking problems.

You don't need to be a classic "alcoholic" to have a drinking problem. You don't need to fail the CAGE questionnaire to have a drinking problem. Some people have the misconception that they don't have an alcohol problem because they never need an "eye opener" and they only drink at night. Others may think they're drinking is fine because they never feel guilty about it. These people may be in desperate need of alcohol treatment, but they may simply be living in denial.

Let's hope that the statistics improve as more impaired healthcare professionals recognize their need for help. Let's also hope that co-workers are not shy to approach their impaired colleagues who may require assistance. Since physicians often hold the lives of other people in their own hands, they can't afford to be impaired. The effects of alcohol misuse or dependence may impact the lives of many patients if physicians don't get the help they need. The best way to get results may be to send our loved ones to private alcohol rehab.

Drug and Alcohol Rehab Programs

I've seen many patients who have needed some type of drug or alcohol rehabilitation. Do you know where to go to find help? It can be difficult to find a good drug rehab facility because of the social stigma associated with addiction problems. It's also very difficult for addicts to quit their addictions. I don't think that most people or family members would feel comfortable asking their friends and colleagues for referrals to rehab programs. However, it is important to find a good program that has the proper support structure and that centers around your beliefs and values.

Many celebrities fall into drug and alcohol addiction. Remember the musician Ray Charles? He was a heroin addict. The biographic movie about Ray Charles had some graphic scenes showing him go through heroin withdrawal. Heroin withdrawal can be difficult to witness at home, so it's important to have your loved one in a safe and professional environment. Ray Charles should have gone through a detox program and heroin rehab.