cial needs:' she said. For those concerned about the ramifications of testing on health insurance or employ- ment matters, Zakalik cited the 2008 GINA (Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act), which prohibits the use of genetic test results to set insurance rates or make employment decisions. Another boon was a Supreme Court decision in June that made it illegal for companies to patent naturally occurring genes, includ- ing BRCA1 and BRCA2. Many cancer prevention profes- sionals are optimistic this will pave the way for new and less expensive genetic testing equipment and pro- cedures, making this potentially life-saving technology more widely available. "If testing is warranted, don't be afraid:' Zakalik said. "Survival rates for BRCA-related cancer are the same [as for sporadic cancer], and early detection and surveil- lance can increase the odds." Death Rates Lower The good news is that the mortal- ity rates have declined over the last several years because of enhanced education and awareness, increased early detection and improved treatment options that encompass drugs, radiation and chemotherapy. A New York Times article reported a 25 percent decline in breast cancer mortality rates since 1990, with an average five-year survival rate of 80 percent. Zakalik also discussed possible future developments, including drugs that target certain enzymes and help repair DNA pathways, increased use of chemoprevention and pre-genetic diagnosis (PGD), which would allow embryos to be screened prior to implantation. Regarding the effects of lifestyle, Zakalik said research has shown a correlation between regular exercise and reduced risk of breast cancer. "Diet and exercise are always important:' she said. "There's a lot we don't know yet:' The Maimonides Society is a national organization of health care professionals whose goal is to strengthen the bonds between local medical and Jewish commu- nities through philanthropy, edu- cation and social activities. TradeFirst Wishes You and Yours a Happy and Healthy New Year! eT radeFirst 1 23200 Coolidge Hwy., Oak Park, MI 48237 Helping Businesses Compete in The Marketplace for 35 Years! THE NEW BUSINESS CURRENCY p. 248-544-1350 I www.tradefirst.com ir am Bed sore won't heal? We know why. There are 5 reasons a wound won't heal: poor circulation, infection, edema (too much surrounding fluid), poor nutrition and repetitive trauma to the wound. At Encompass HealthCare and Wound Medicine, we use hospital-level diagnostics in a convenient, outpatient setting to discover these underlying conditions. Then, using the latest advances in wound care, IV therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and traditional Chinese medicine, we help you heal your wound completely. So stop suffering with your non-healing wound by calling us today at 248-624-9800 or by visiting us online at www.encompasshealthcare.com . ❑ For information on the Beaumont HealthCare Cancer Genetics Program, contact and Wound Medicine (248) 551-3388 or www.cancer. beaumont.edu/genetics. Healing wounds from the inside out. 2300 Haggerty Road. Ste. 1190, West Bloomfield, MI 48323 248-624-9800 1851070 August 29 • 2013 107