Comorbid Drug Abuse and Mental Illness

When two disorders or illnesses occur simultaneously in the same person, they are comorbid. Surveys show that drug abuse and other mental illnesses are often comorbid. Six out of ten people with a substance abuse disorder may also suffer from another form of mental illness. The high prevalence of comorbidities does not mean that one condition causes the other, even if one appears first. Drug abuse can cause a mental illness. Mental illness can lead to drug abuse. Common risk factors cause drug abuse and mental disorders.

Executive Health

Executive Health Practitioner Associations are coming together to customize health programs for groups of executives and independent businesses with an objective of reducing the lost productivity time. At the core of many Executive Healthcare packages is an Executive Physical. In many instances, the doctor will travel to company facilities in order to perform a basic physical for all executive members. In others, as in the case of Elite IPA (Independent Practitioner Association), the office visit is an option, but executives are given the benefit of in-depth diagnostic treatment, which allows for an even more in-depth analysis of their health than what is typical. This level of the physical exam, given at a time that is convenient for the executive, is to have a positive impact on the bottom line. The average wait to see a physician is 68 minutes. There is no wait with the IPA Health associates for executives. IPA works around the schedule. Nor does IPA rush the visit. The visit is complete only when all of the concerns and questions answered. For those who prefer to communicate in writing, IPA is only an e-mail away. IPA physicians travel with hand-held e-mail devices for quick responses. Furthermore, IPA does not rush the visit. The visit is complete only when all of the concerns and questions are answered. Of course, there are times when one just wants to speak directly with the doctor on the telephone. One of the first things given to a new IPA patient is the doctor’s personal cell phone number. Wherever business or pleasure takes you, IPA is just a phone call away. Turn to IPA’s Executive Health for a complete executive physical that looks at health from all angles. True health and wellness is only achieved when there is a good understanding of the family history and personal medical history. IPA offers the latest in both non-invasive and blood-based cardiovascular screening testing. For early cancer detection, there may be reason to consider modern scanning approaches, including the PET technology. The integration of state-of-the-art cancer detection approach is a major feature of the program, as is ready access to leading specialists for preventive consultations.

Pregnancy Complications

Overweight and obesity raise the risk of pregnancy complications for both mother and baby. Pregnant women who are overweight or obese may have an increased risk for: Gestational diabetes high blood sugar during pregnancy; Pre-eclampsia, which is high blood pressure during pregnancy that can cause severe problems for both mother and baby if left untreated; and Cesarean delivery or complications with cesarean delivery.
Babies of overweight or obese mothers have an increased risk of neural tube defects of the brain and spinal cord, stillbirth, prematurity and being large for gestational age.
Pregnant women who are overweight are more likely to develop insulin resistance, high blood sugar and high blood pressure. Insulin resistance is when cells do not respond properly to the hormone insulin, which carries blood sugar to cells for energy. Insulin resistance may result in high levels of blood sugar. Being overweight also increases risks associated with surgery and anesthesia and severe obesity increases operative time and blood loss.
Some studies have shown that gaining excess weight during pregnancy, even without becoming obese, may increase risks. It is important to consult with an obstetrician or other health care provider about how much weight to gain during pregnancy.
Women who are overweight or obese and who would like to become pregnant should speak with a health care provider about losing weight before becoming pregnant. Pre-pregnancy weight loss significantly reduces pregnancy complications. Pregnant women who are overweight or obese should speak with a health care provider about limiting gestational weight gain and being physically active during pregnancy.
Losing excess weight after delivery may help women reduce their health risks. If a woman developed gestational diabetes, losing weight will lower her risk of developing diabetes later in life.