Author Archives: Joe Hilbert

  1. Could A Focus Supplement Be Doing Men More Harm Than Good?

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    Walk through the vitamin aisle or spend a few minutes on social media, and you’ll likely see supplements promising better focus, sharper thinking, and improved mental performance. Many contain L-tyrosine, an amino acid that recently made headlines after a study suggested higher levels may be associated with a slightly shorter lifespan in men.

    Tyrosine is one of the amino acids, often called the building blocks of protein, that naturally occurs in everyone’s body. It helps produce important brain chemicals and hormones, including dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.

    “The study wasn’t showing that taking a tyrosine supplement causes men to die sooner,” Scott Warren, PharmD, Ambulatory Care Pharmacist with Shore Physicians Group, explained. “It found that men who naturally had higher than normal tyrosine levels were associated with a slightly shorter lifespan.” Even then, the difference was modest. Researchers found an average reduction of less than one year over a lifetime.

    Importantly, researchers did not find the same association in women. But Warren says the study’s biggest takeaway applies to everyone: don’t assume a supplement is right for you simply because it’s popular or promises better focus.

    According to Warren, the concern stems from tyrosine’s role in producing norepinephrine, commonly known as adrenaline. When adrenaline levels remain elevated over long periods, the body stays in a heightened state of stress. That can contribute to insulin resistance and increase the risk of conditions such as Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death among men.

    That does not mean everyone should avoid tyrosine. In fact, most people consume it every day through protein rich foods without any concern. The bigger issue, Warren says, is taking supplements without knowing whether you actually need them.

    “Many people see a supplement advertised for focus or mental clarity and assume it will help them,” Warren said. “The reality is you may already have enough or even too much. Without knowing what’s causing your symptoms, you’re really just guessing.”

    Difficulty concentrating can have many different causes, from poor sleep and stress to anxiety or an underlying medical condition. Treating yourself with a supplement before identifying the cause may do more harm than good. Warren recommends speaking with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. A medical evaluation and, when appropriate, blood work can help determine whether you actually have a deficiency or another condition that needs attention.

    He also reminds patients that supplements are not risk free simply because they are sold over the counter. “It is possible to take too much of many vitamins and supplements,” Warren said. “More isn’t always better.”

    The study is less a warning about tyrosine itself than a reminder that supplements should be personalized, not self-prescribed. What works for one person may not be appropriate for another, and understanding what’s happening in your body should always come before reaching for a bottle.

    Scott Warren, PharmD, treats patients at Shore Physicians Group’s offices at 401 Bethel Road, Somers Point, and 2605 Shore Road, Northfield. To schedule an appointment, call 609-365-5300.

  2. Two Kiwis a Day May Help Keep the Doctor Away

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    Although kiwi is available year round, its bright flavor and refreshing taste make it a popular choice during the summer months. But its health benefits extend well beyond its sweet, tangy flavor.

    According to Tiffany Rios, RD, CDE, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist with Shore Physicians Group Endocrinology, kiwi offers a unique combination of nutrients that can benefit immunity, digestive health, and heart health.

    One of kiwi’s biggest nutritional surprises is its vitamin C content. “Gram for gram, kiwi delivers nearly twice the vitamin C of an orange,” Rios said. Per 100 grams, green kiwi contains approximately 90 milligrams of vitamin C compared with about 53 to 59 milligrams in an orange. Vitamin C supports immune function, collagen production, wound healing, and acts as an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

    Beyond its impressive vitamin C content, kiwi also supports digestive health. A healthy gut depends on maintaining a balanced community of beneficial bacteria, also known as the gut microbiome. These beneficial bacteria help reduce inflammation, support the absorption of vitamins and minerals, protect the lining of the digestive tract, and promote regular digestion.

    “When that balance is disrupted, people may experience constipation, bloating, stomach discomfort, or irregular bowel habits,” Rios said. “Supporting the gut microbiome through healthy food choices can make a real difference.”

    One reason kiwi stands out is because it contains actinidin, a natural enzyme concentrated in both the flesh and skin of the fruit. Actinidin helps promote gastric emptying by helping food move more efficiently from the stomach into the small intestine and through the digestive tract. Research has shown that eating two kiwis each day may help improve bowel regularity and reduce constipation by supporting healthy digestion.

    In addition to actinidin, kiwi is an excellent source of dietary fiber. Fiber feeds the beneficial bacteria that live in the gut, creating a healthier digestive environment while supporting the integrity of the intestinal lining.

    Another important nutrient found in kiwi is potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, supports healthy muscle function, and contributes to normal heart function.

    Adding kiwi to your diet is simple. It can be eaten on its own, blended into smoothies, or added to plain Greek yogurt. While many people peel kiwi before eating it, the skin is edible after washing and contains additional fiber along with some of the fruit’s naturally occurring actinidin.

    “Kiwi is a simple food that’s packed with nutritional value,” Rios said. “Adding it to your diet is an easy way to support gut health, boost your vitamin C intake, and contribute to your overall wellness.”

    People with a known kiwi allergy should avoid the fruit, and anyone taking medications that require careful monitoring of vitamin K intake should discuss significant dietary changes with their healthcare provider.

    To schedule an appointment with Tiffany Rios, RD, CDE, at Shore Physicians Group Endocrinology, located at 18 West New York Avenue in Somers Point, call 609-365-5300.

  3. Think It’s Just a Pulled Muscle? What Groin Pain Could Really Mean

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    Groin pain is easy to dismiss. Maybe it started after a workout, while lifting something heavy, or after spending the weekend working in the yard. Many people assume it is simply a pulled muscle that will get better with time.

    While muscle strains are common, persistent or worsening groin pain can sometimes signal a more serious medical condition. Knowing when to seek medical attention can help prevent complications and get you back to your normal activities sooner.

    According to Matthew J. Finnegan, MD, a robotic general and colorectal surgeon with Shore Physicians Group, one of the biggest mistakes people make is ignoring pain or a lump in the groin because it doesn’t seem serious.

    “Hernias often don’t start with severe pain,” Dr. Finnegan said. “Many people notice a small lump or occasional discomfort and simply live with it. Then they become more active, start exercising, lose weight, or lift something heavy, and suddenly that area becomes painful.”

    One of the most common causes of groin pain is an inguinal hernia, which occurs when tissue pushes through a weakened area of the abdominal wall. You may notice a bulge near the crease where your abdomen meets your thigh that becomes more noticeable when standing, coughing, or lifting. The discomfort can range from a dull ache to a sharp pain, particularly during physical activity.

    Dr. Finnegan says any new lump in the groin deserves attention. While he recommends prompt evaluation for lumps about the size of a golf ball, even smaller lumps that persist for several weeks, continue to grow, or are associated with pain should be examined. “If you’re concerned, get it checked,” he said. “It may not be a hernia, but it’s important to know what you’re dealing with.”

    Not every case of groin pain is a hernia, however. Muscle strains are also common, especially among people who play sports or work out regularly. Dr. Finnegan says injuries involving the large adductor muscles on the inside of the thigh can cause pain that closely resembles a hernia. In some athletes, a tear of the muscle or tendon can result in what is commonly known as a sports hernia, which is actually a muscle injury rather than a true hernia.

    “The treatments are very different,” Dr. Finnegan explained. “A sports hernia often responds well to physical therapy, while a true hernia usually requires surgery to repair the defect in the abdominal wall.”

    Not every lump in the groin is a hernia, either. Enlarged lymph nodes, cysts, lipomas, which are benign fatty growths, and skin infections can all cause swelling in the area. Dr. Finnegan notes that fatty growths larger than about a Kennedy half dollar should also be evaluated, particularly if they begin to enlarge after remaining unchanged for years. Infections affecting the legs, feet, or groin can also cause nearby lymph nodes to swell as the body fights infection.

    Dr. Finnegan recommends seeking medical attention if a lump persists beyond a few weeks, becomes larger, or is accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, changes in bowel habits, fever, or increasing pain. Even small hernias can become trapped, cutting off blood supply to the intestine and creating a surgical emergency.

    “We always prefer to repair a hernia before it becomes an emergency,” Dr. Finnegan said. “The earlier we diagnose it, the more options we have and the easier the operation typically is. I’ve operated on patients who waited years and ended up needing much more extensive surgery because the intestine became trapped. If you notice a lump or have groin pain that isn’t improving, don’t ignore it. It’s always better to have it evaluated early.”

    Matthew J. Finnegan, MD, is a Robotic General & Colorectal Surgeon with Shore Physicians Group specializing in robotic general surgery, colorectal surgery, and advanced surgical wound healing. He treats patients age 18 and older at 649 Shore Road in Somers Point. To schedule an appointment, call 609-365-6239.

  4. Exploring the Neurological Questions Surrounding GLP-1 Drugs

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    researchers are exploring how these drugs may affect more than appetite, blood sugar, and weight loss. A Washington Post article updated on May 28, 2026, and distributed through Yahoo News examined emerging research into how GLP-1 medications may interact with the brain, raising questions about their potential influence on areas involved in appetite, reward, motivation, and emotion.

    While the article discussed intriguing findings, it also highlighted an important reality: scientists are still learning about the full effects of these medications throughout the body.

    To help readers better understand the topic, Shore Healthy Living spoke with Reeva Salkin, DNP, APN-BC, ANP-BC , a neurology specialist with Shore Physicians Group. Salkin was not involved in the research discussed in the article but shared her professional perspective on the questions being raised.

    Originally developed to help manage Type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists have become widely known for their effectiveness in helping patients lose weight. For many people, these medications have produced significant health benefits, including improved blood sugar control and reduced risk factors for chronic disease.

    “These medications were originally developed for diabetes management and are now widely recognized for their weight-loss benefits,” Salkin explained. “What we’re learning is that their effects may not be limited to the stomach and digestive system.”

    Because the medications affect pathways involved in appetite, glucose metabolism, and inflammation, researchers are studying whether they may also influence certain functions within the brain. Some patients have reported symptoms such as brain fog, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, or changes in mood, but determining the cause can be challenging.

    “The challenge is determining what’s actually causing those symptoms,” Salkin said. “Are they related to the medication’s effects on the brain, or are they the result of reduced food intake, dehydration, changes in blood sugar, electrolyte imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies?”

    That distinction is important. Because GLP-1 medications suppress appetite, some patients consume significantly fewer calories than they did previously. Rapid weight loss and reduced nutritional intake can sometimes lead to symptoms that feel neurological but may actually be related to hydration, blood sugar, or nutrition.

    “If someone comes in experiencing brain fog, dizziness, weakness, or fatigue, we need to go back to basics,” Salkin said. “We need to evaluate blood sugar levels, blood pressure, hydration, protein intake, and overall nutritional status before drawing conclusions.”

    Researchers are also investigating the potential long-term effects of GLP-1 medications. In addition to diabetes and weight management, these drugs have been studied for possible applications in conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. While some findings have generated interest, research remains ongoing.

    At the same time, rare side effects continue to be identified. One recently recognized condition, known as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), has been associated with a very small number of users and can affect vision. Although the risk appears to be extremely low, it serves as a reminder that all medications carry both benefits and risks.

    For Salkin, the takeaway is not fear or alarm.

    “The goal isn’t to create fear,” she said. “The goal is informed decision-making.”

    For many patients, GLP-1 medications can be life-changing. The key is understanding that these are powerful medications that should be used thoughtfully and under medical supervision. Patients who experience new symptoms should discuss them with their healthcare provider rather than making assumptions or attempting to manage concerns on their own.

    “We’re still learning,” Salkin said. “That’s why regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider are so important.”

    As science continues to evolve, that partnership between patients and providers remains the best way to make informed decisions about treatment and long-term health.

    Reeva Salkin, DNP, APN-BC, ANP-BC is a neurology specialist with Shore Physicians Group who treats patients age 18 and older. She sees patients at 700 Shore Road, First Floor, Somers Point, NJ 08244. To schedule an appointment, call 609-365-6202.

  5. How Much Protein Do You Need to Build Muscle?

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    Protein is one of the most talked-about nutrients among people looking to build muscle, lose weight, or improve their overall fitness. A recent Medical News Today article highlighted research suggesting that individuals seeking to increase muscle mass may benefit from consuming between 1.2 and 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, particularly when combined with strength training. However, according to Dante Marconi, MD, FAAOS, an orthopaedic surgeon with Shore Physicians Group Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, the ideal amount of protein depends on more than just the number on the scale.

    “Generally, for muscle maintenance, I recommend about 0.75 grams of protein per kilogram of lean body mass each day,” says Dr. Marconi. “For individuals actively trying to build muscle, that number increases to about one gram of protein per kilogram of lean body mass.”

    Lean body mass refers to your body weight minus body fat percentage, a distinction Dr. Marconi says is important to understand when determining protein needs. Rather than basing recommendations solely on total body weight, he advises using lean body mass to calculate protein intake, particularly for individuals carrying excess body fat.

    While protein gets much of the attention, Dr. Marconi emphasizes that nutrition and exercise must work together to support muscle growth. “Without physical activity, especially strength training, you’re not going to maximize muscle development,” he says. Resistance training creates the stimulus for muscles to grow, while protein provides the building blocks needed for repair and recovery.

    The importance of preserving muscle mass has become an even bigger topic with the growing popularity of GLP-1 weight loss medications. Although these medications can be highly effective for helping people lose weight, Dr. Marconi notes that some of that weight loss can come from muscle tissue if patients are not careful about maintaining adequate protein intake and exercise habits.

    “When people lose weight rapidly, some of that weight loss comes from muscle,” he explains. “It’s crucial to maintain adequate protein intake and continue exercising to preserve muscle mass and support bone health.”

    For those trying to meet their protein goals, Dr. Marconi recommends spreading protein intake throughout the day rather than consuming most of it in a single meal. Including protein with every meal can help support muscle maintenance while also improving satiety and reducing unhealthy snacking. He notes that a high-protein breakfast is often a particularly effective way to start the day.

    Good sources of protein include lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, and protein-fortified foods. Protein supplements may also be useful for athletes and highly active individuals who struggle to meet their daily requirements through food alone.

    Beyond helping people look and perform their best, maintaining muscle mass plays a critical role in long-term health. Strong muscles support balance, mobility, and independence, while helping reduce the risk of falls and fractures as people age.

    “It’s much easier to build a foundation of muscle when you’re younger than it is to develop it later in life,” says Dr. Marconi. “Maintaining muscle strength throughout adulthood is one of the best investments you can make in your long-term health.”

    Dr. Dante Marconi treats patients at Shore Physicians Group’s Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Division offices located at 710 Centre Street, 2nd Floor in Somers Point, NJ, and at Shore Physicians Group Primary and Specialty office located at 4450 East Black Horse Pike, Mays Landing, NJ. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Marconi, call 609-365-6280.

  6. Shore Physicians Group Welcomes Neurosurgeon Dr. Robert A. Sabo

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    Shore Physicians Group is pleased to welcome neurosurgeon Robert A. Sabo, M.D., F.A.C.S., a board-certified neurosurgeon with more than 30 years of experience in complex spine and neurological care. Dr. Sabo will begin seeing patients ages 18 and older on Monday, June 1 at Shore Physicians Group Neurosurgery, located at 155 Medical Center Way, 3rd Floor in Somers Point, directly across from Shore Medical Center.

    Dr. Sabo brings extensive expertise in the treatment of complex spine conditions, with advanced training in minimally invasive and complex spinal surgery of the cervical and lumbar spine, 3-D navigation–guided spinal fusion, spinal cord stimulator implantation for chronic neck and back pain, and minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion. His clinical focus spans degenerative spine disease, injury-related conditions, and chronic pain syndromes that can significantly impact a patient’s ability to function and enjoy daily life.

    Dr. Sabo’s approach centers on a simple, patient-first philosophy: helping people return to what matters most in their lives. He begins each patient visit with two guiding questions: “What do you physically need to do? And what do you physically want to do?” From there, he works closely with patients to build individualized treatment plans focused on restoring function, reducing pain, and improving quality of life in practical, meaningful ways.

    Board-certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Dr. Sabo has dedicated his career to advancing neurosurgical care in our region while keeping patients at the center of every decision. He earned his undergraduate degree in Biology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University. He completed his surgical internship at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia and his neurosurgery residency at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria.

    Dr. Sabo’s interest in medicine began early, inspired by his father, a thoracic surgeon, and a lifelong curiosity about how the brain and spine control movement and function. That foundation shaped a career focused on helping patients regain independence through both surgical and minimally invasive approaches.

    In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Sabo has contributed to research and published extensively on neurosurgical topics, including advancements in spinal cord stimulation technology and spine surgery techniques.

    To schedule an appointment, please call (609) 609-365-6239.

  7. Alzheimer’s and Napping: When Changes in Sleep Patterns May Signal Something More

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    Napping is a normal part of life for many people, especially as they age. In fact, research shows that older adults often nap more frequently, and in many cases, this is considered typical. However, recent discussions around sleep and Alzheimer’s disease have raised important questions: can napping signal something more serious?

    According to Medical News Today in an article published August 16, 2023, the relationship between napping and Alzheimer’s disease is complex and “bidirectional.” This means the connection works in two directions at once: Alzheimer’s-related changes in the brain can increase daytime sleepiness, while increased or prolonged napping is also linked with worsening cognitive function over time. In other words, each can influence the other, creating a reinforcing cycle rather than a simple cause-and-effect relationship.

    Reeva Salkin, DNP, APN-BC, ANP-BC, a provider with Shore Physicians Group’s Neurology Division in Somers Point, emphasizes this distinction. “Napping does not cause Alzheimer’s, and it does not prevent it,” she explains. “What matters most is a change in a person’s normal sleep pattern. That’s where we start to pay attention.”

    Sleep plays a critical role in brain health. During deep sleep, the brain activates what is known as the glymphatic system—a process that helps clear waste products, including amyloid-beta proteins, which are linked to Alzheimer’s disease. While naps can offer short-term restorative benefits, they do not replace the deeper, more comprehensive sleep cycles that occur at night.

    Short naps, generally around 20 to 30 minutes, may be beneficial. However, longer daytime naps, particularly those lasting more than an hour, have been associated in some studies with a higher risk of cognitive decline. One reason may be that extended daytime sleep can disrupt nighttime rest, reducing the brain’s ability to perform its essential “cleanup” processes.

    Still, Salkin cautions against alarm. “It’s not the nap itself that’s concerning, it’s the change in sleeping pattern,” she says. “If someone who typically doesn’t nap suddenly begins sleeping more during the day, or if their naps become longer and more frequent, that could be a signal that something else is going on.”

    In other words, excessive or changing sleep patterns can act as a window into brain health. They may be an early clinical sign worth discussing with a healthcare provider, especially if accompanied by memory issues, confusion, or noticeable changes in daily functioning and routines.

    The takeaway is reassuring but important: sleep is not the enemy. In fact, it is essential. But like many aspects of health, changes in baseline behavior deserve attention.

    For individuals or families with concerns about memory, sleep changes, or cognitive health, professional guidance can provide clarity and peace of mind.

    To schedule an appointment with Reeva Salkin at Shore Physicians Group’s Neurology Division, located at 700 Shore Road in Somers Point, call 609-365-6202.

  8. Can’t Lay Your Hand Flat? It Could Be Dupuytren’s Contracture

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    For many people, changes in their hands happen so gradually that they are easy to overlook until everyday tasks become more difficult. That is often the case with Dupuytren’s contracture, a condition that affects the tissue beneath the skin of the palm. To better understand the condition, Dr. Jasmine Bauknight, a hand surgeon with Shore Physicians Group Orthopaedic Surgery Division located at 710 Center Street in Somers Point, explains that Dupuytren’s contracture affects the tissue beneath the skin of the palm and can gradually change how the hand functions over time.

    Dupuytren’s contracture is a progressive condition in which the fascia, the thick connective tissue in the palm, begins to abnormally thicken. Over time, this can form firm nodules and rope like cords beneath the skin. “Patients often first notice a small bump or puckering in the palm,” Dr. Bauknight explains. “As the condition progresses, those cords can thicken and start pulling the fingers down toward the palm.”

    In Dupuytren’s disease, the ring and small fingers are most commonly affected. While the condition is typically not painful, it can significantly impact hand function. As the fingers become more bent, simple activities like putting on gloves, reaching into a pocket, or even washing your face can become challenging and frustrating.

    Dupuytren’s contracture is believed to have a genetic component and is more common in individuals of Northern European descent. It also tends to appear later in life, often in men in their fifties and women in their sixties. However, Dr. Bauknight notes that earlier onset can indicate a more aggressive form of the disease that progresses more quickly.

    One of the most important things for patients to understand is that not every case requires immediate treatment. “If you just have a small nodule or mild cord and your hand is still functioning well, we typically monitor it,” she says. “Intervention is usually recommended when the fingers can no longer fully straighten and it starts interfering with daily activities.”

    When treatment is needed, there are a few options. Surgical removal of the diseased tissue is one approach, carefully separating the diseased cords from nearby nerves and blood vessels. Another option is a minimally invasive injection using an enzyme that breaks down the collagen in the cord, allowing the finger to be straightened and improving mobility and function.

    It is also important to know that Dupuytren’s contracture is a chronic condition. “No matter what treatment you choose, it can come back over time,” Dr. Bauknight says. “The goal is to improve function and quality of life.”

    If you notice changes in your hands such as lumps, tightening, or difficulty straightening your fingers, it is worth having it evaluated. Early awareness can help you better understand your options and plan ahead with confidence.

    To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bauknight, call 609 365 6280.

  9. Medication Overuse Headaches: Can taking too much Tylenol or Ibuprofen cause daily head pain?

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    Many people rely on over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to manage headaches. While occasional use is generally safe, taking these medications too frequently can actually lead to a condition known as a medication overuse headache, also called a rebound headache. For some patients, this cycle can result in chronic or daily headaches that seem difficult to break.

    A recent article in Medical News Today highlighted how overusing headache medications may contribute to persistent head pain. According to Christina Camp, MSN, FNP-C, BSN, PCCN, of Shore Physicians Group’s Neurology Division, this is a pattern providers commonly see in patients who struggle with recurring migraines or tension headaches.

    “A medication overuse headache occurs when pain relief medications are taken too often,” Camp explains. “Patients may not realize that the medication they’re using to treat their headache could actually be contributing to more frequent headaches.”

    The cycle often begins with a primary headache disorder, such as migraines or chronic tension headaches. A patient experiences pain and takes acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or another headache medication. The headache improves temporarily. But when the medication wears off, the pain may return—leading to another dose.

    “You have a headache, you take medication, it improves,” Camp says. “When the medication wears off and the headache returns, you take more. Over time, the body becomes accustomed to that cycle.”

    Eventually, patients may notice they are experiencing daily headaches, headaches upon waking, or pain that seems less responsive to medication. In some cases, the medication provides only brief relief before symptoms return.

    Common medications associated with rebound headaches include over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol and NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen. Prescription migraine medications, including triptans, can also contribute to medication overuse headaches when used too frequently.

    “The concern is that you’re not allowing your body to regulate naturally,” Camp explains. “Occasional use of pain relievers is appropriate, but consistent daily use can perpetuate the headache cycle.”

    Breaking the cycle typically requires reducing or discontinuing the overused medication. “In many cases, the most effective treatment for a medication overuse headache is to stop the medication,” she says. “Some patients taper gradually, while others stop completely. Symptoms may temporarily worsen for a short period, but that often allows the body to reset.”

    If headaches persist after stopping over-the-counter medications, it may indicate an underlying migraine disorder that requires preventive treatment rather than repeated symptom management.

    “If someone finds they’re relying on Tylenol or ibuprofen regularly and it’s no longer providing meaningful relief, that’s a sign to seek medical evaluation,” Camp says. “A provider can assess the situation and determine whether a preventive treatment plan would be more appropriate.”

    Because headache disorders are highly individualized, proper evaluation is essential. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough assessment and develop a personalized treatment strategy to help reduce both headache frequency and reliance on daily pain medication.

    Christina Camp, MSN, FNP-C, BSN, PCCN, treats patients at Shore Physicians Group’s Neurology Division located at 700 Shore Road in Somers Point, NJ. To schedule an appointment with Christina, call 609-365-6202.

  10. Colonoscopies: A General Surgeon Weighs In on this Lifesaving Cancer Screening

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    It’s 2 a.m., and Shore Physicians Group General Surgeon Dr. John Millili rushes to the OR to treat a patient who came to Shore Medical Center with a sudden bowel obstruction caused by an undiagnosed colorectal tumor. These are the cases that upset Dr. Millili the most – the ones that could have been prevented with a routine screening.

    March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a reminder that one of the most preventable cancers still affects far too many people.

    “Unfortunately, too often I meet patients who haven’t kept up with their colorectal cancer screenings and are now facing serious complications,” says Dr. Millili. “They may arrive with a bowel obstruction from a tumor and need urgent, life-saving surgery, or we find the cancer has already spread. In many cases, these situations could have been prevented with routine screening.”

    Why Screening Matters

    Colorectal cancer usually begins as small growths in the colon called polyps. A colonoscopy allows doctors to detect and remove these polyps before they turn into cancer.

    “Colonoscopy is unique because it doesn’t just detect cancer—it can actually prevent it,” Dr. Millili explains. “Removing precancerous polyps stops the disease before it starts.”

    At-Home Tests Are Not Enough

    Tests like Cologuard or newer blood-based screenings can sometimes detect cancer early, but they cannot remove polyps.

    “Even if an at-home test is positive, a colonoscopy is still needed to identify and remove any growths,” Dr. Millili says. “Colonoscopies are the gold standard and I always recommend them over anything else.”

    Who Should Get Screened?

    Most adults should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45, or earlier if they have risk factors such as a family history of colorectal cancer or certain gastrointestinal conditions like ulcerative colitis.

    “Patients are often surprised by how straightforward the procedure is,” Dr. Millili notes. “The peace of mind it provides is invaluable.”

    How to Get Started

    1. Talk to your primary care provider (PCP). Your PCP will review your health history, assess your risk factors, and provide a referral for a colonoscopy if needed.
    2. Schedule a gastroenterology (GI) consultation. Depending on your insurance, you may be able to book directly with a gastroenterologist. During this visit, the doctor will evaluate your needs and schedule your screening.
    3. Prepare for and complete your colonoscopy. Colonoscopies are outpatient procedures, usually quick and done under sedation. During the exam, doctors can detect and remove polyps, helping prevent colorectal cancer before it develops.

    Screening doesn’t just detect cancer early—it prevents cancer from developing in the first place.

    If you’re due for a screening, talk with your primary care provider and find a gastroenterologist at Shore Medical Center here.

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