Inbox

Inbox

Q: My mom is 67 years old and has never had a mammogram. Why do somewomen have difficulty getting into the practice of yearly exams?
--Paula DiPasquale
Richmond, Va.

A: A study conducted by the National Cancer Institute showed that manywomen age 65 and older have false impressions about the need for a mammogram.One explanation points to the fact that in the past, most education about theimportance of receiving regular examinations has been aimed at younger women.

The American Cancer Society suggests if you are a woman age 40 or over, youshould get a mammogram every year. They also have put together an informativebrochure called "8 Things to Expect When You Get a Mammogram." Thispamphlet may help alleviate any misconceptions or anxieties your mother--oryou--may have about getting a yearly mammogram. The brochure covers informationon exam costs and insurance coverage, what to expect during the procedure,Mammography Quality Standards and much more.

To request a copy of this pamphlet, call the American Cancer Society at (800)227-2345.

Q: Why are some of my friends able to build a beautiful base tanfaster than me?
--Pam Cumisky
Hollywood, Fla.

A: A person's heredity is the leading factor that determines skincolor (skin type) and ability to tan. This is based on the regions of the worldfrom which a person's ancestors descended. For example, a person with EastIndian or Hispanic heritage may tan easily--and above the average--with eachexposure to UV. On the other hand, a person with a Celtic heritage would be moreprone to burn easily. In fact, if tanning is even possible for them, they willhave to be more patient in acquiring a tan over a slower and longer time period.

Each skin type reacts in its own way to UV light. The reaction is dependentupon the amount of pigment already in the skin naturally and the production ofadditional pigmentation during the tanning process.

Q: Recently in the news I have seen more reports about heart diseaseand women. As a woman, is this something I should be paying closer attention to?
--Victoria Mulligan
Raleigh, N.C.

A: Surprisingly, most women don't realize that coronary disease hasbecome the No. 1 cause of death among American women. However, in many cases,this tragedy can be reduced or even eliminated.

The American Heart Association has identified a number of steps to helpreduce the risk of coronary disease. They recommend that women:

• Quit smoking
• Decrease high blood pressure
• Reduce high cholesterol
• Be more physically active
• Control or delay diabetes
• Maintain a healthy weight and eat a healthy diet

For a more complete list of risks or to discuss your specific needs, talk toyour doctor or contact the American Heart Association at (800) 242-8721.

AskAlix

Q: If high-pressure machines are so wonderful, why doesn't the salon Igo to have one? --Logan Peck

Irvine, Calif.
Alix Wilson
Ultrabronz America

A: There are three main reasons that come to mind. The first, thesalon may not have seen or heard of a high-pressure tanning unit. Second, thesalon owner might be hesitant of such an expensive equipment purchase. Third,the salon owner might not understand the advantages a high-pressure unit canoffer his or her customers.

The decision to add or use high-pressure equipment can be a big step forsalons owners and customers who are accustomed to using conventional equipmentand paying conventional prices. Fewer sessions--three to four a month--arerequired to maintain a high- pressure tan, so think of all the personal timeyou'll be saving. And, fewer sessions mean less overall exposure to UV light.

High-pressure may seem more expensive because a single session can costanywhere between $17 and $25, but it pretty much adds up in the end.High-pressure tanning is relaxing, cool and comfortable--no slippery, sweatyacrylics and no white pressure spots.

If you think this is something you would be interested in trying, ask yoursalon to get more information. If you would like some more detailed informationabout the benefits of high-pressure tanning, please visit us at . www.ultrabronzamerica.com