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Hospa has one of the largest Cardio care programs in a community academic hospital in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area), and provides treatment for many types of CVD, including heart transplant, open heart surgery, engiogram prostate, gynecological and urinary.
Hospa General is constantly thinking and going beyond for our patients, our community and our people. As people and communities change, Hospa General will continuously evolve to meet their needs. We are driven to achieve the promise of people-centred care – to create a welcome and inclusive environment that contributes to health equity.
Enhancing the patient and family experience
We work to ensure our patients receive the highest standard of cancer care. All patients receive care guided by best practice standards of Cardio Care. These practices have been shown to provide the best patient outcomes. Patients and their families can quickly access a diverse range of cancer care services, including these facilities:
- The BMO Breast Diagnostic Clinic, part of the Karen, Heather & Lynn Steinberg Breast Centre
- The Baruch/Weisz Cardio Centre
- Freeman Centre for the Advancement of Palliative Care
- Gale and Graham Wright Prostate Centre
Patients supported by dedicated team of experts
Our interdisciplinary team of highly skilled and compassionate health-care professionals includes physicians, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, oncologists, nurses, medical imaging professionals, case managers, and volunteers.
We partner with the two regional cancer centres: the Odette Cancer Centre at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, and Princess Margaret Hospital at the University Health Network, to facilitate radiation treatments for our patients. A partnership between North York General and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre offers patients easy and timely access to quality colorectal cancer care.
Information for new patient
This following series of videos are designed for patients who are receiving treatment at the Anne Tanenbaum Chemotherapy Clinic. The first video “A Day in Chemo Clinic”, is helpful to watch prior to starting treatment and want to know what to expect before your appointment.
Most patients will receive conventional chemotherapy and may find the videos that explain what chemotherapy is and how it is given, helpful. For a general introduction, start with “Chemo 101”. This video covers important day-to-day considerations such as “Can I take supplements while on chemo?”, “Can I drink alcohol while on chemo?” and “Do I have to avoid crowds while on chemo?” Additional videos include common side effects of chemotherapy, important prevention and management tips.
Available Doctors Under Food & Nutrition
Shazafar Ahmad
IT & Innovation Advisor
Sharon Noelker, RRT
Cosmetic DermatologistMelanie Dalton, MD
Pulmonary & Critical Care, Henry Ford Hospital, USA
Imad Awan
Lead - Art & AnimationAsk Any Question If You Have
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The Importance of Sleep: Why Quality Matters
Sleep is one of the most vital aspects of our daily health. In fact, if you live for 60 years, you will have spent 20 years sleeping! But sleep is far more than just resting – it’s when the body and mind do their most essential work. Our body recovers and re-energizes, while our brain consolidates memories and organizes information. Whether it’s a small nap or a full night’s rest, quality sleep can make all the difference in how we feel and perform.
Let’s dive into why quality sleep is crucial, how to improve it, and what to do if you’re struggling with sleep-related issues.
KEY POINTS
1. Sleep is crucial for both physical and mental well-being, aiding in the recovery and rejuvenation of the body and brain.
2. Quality of sleep is as important as quantity, with different sleep stages contributing to various functions like memory consolidation and emotional regulation.
3. Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality can lead to irritability, increased appetite, daytime sleepiness, and impaired cognitive functions.
4. Sleep plays a role in regulating hormones, immune function, energy stores, and hunger cues.
5. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine before bedtime, and establishing a calming bedtime routine can improve sleep quality.
6. Creating a comfortable sleep environment with darkness, coolness, and minimal electronic device use before bedtime promotes better sleep.
7. Disconnecting from screens and stimulating activities before bedtime helps signal to the brain that it’s time to wind down for sleep.
8. Individuals experiencing persistent sleep problems like insomnia, sleep apnea, or excessive daytime sleepiness should seek medical evaluation and treatment.
9. Consulting a sleep doctor is recommended for addressing complex sleep issues that impact overall health and well-being.
What Happens When You Don’t Sleep Well?
Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality can significantly affect your body and mind. Common consequences include:
– Irritability: A lack of sleep often makes you more emotionally reactive.
– Increased Appetite: Poor sleep can disrupt hunger-regulating hormones, causing cravings for high-calorie foods.
– Daytime Sleepiness: You may feel constantly tired, impacting productivity and concentration.
– Impaired Cognitive Function: Decision-making and problem-solving become more difficult with poor sleep.
– Health Risks: Chronic sleep issues can lead to high blood pressure, depression, and other serious health problems.
How to Improve Your Sleep
There are several steps you can take to improve both the quality and quantity of your sleep:
1. Stick to a Regular Schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Your body’s internal clock thrives on consistency.
2. Limit Caffeine: Avoid caffeine 6-8 hours before bedtime. Caffeine can stay in your system for up to 8 hours, disrupting your ability to fall asleep.
3. Establish a Relaxing Routine: About 20-30 minutes before bed, engage in calming activities like reading, meditation, or light stretching.
4. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment: Ensure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. Darkness promotes the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for making us feel sleepy.
5. Disconnect from Devices: Avoid using screens (phones, tablets, computers) at least an hour before bed, as blue light interferes with melatonin production.
6. Don’t Toss and Turn: If you can’t fall asleep after 30 minutes, get out of bed and do something calming until you feel tired again.
Sleep Disorders: When to Seek Help
Sometimes, poor sleep quality is due to underlying health issues. Common sleep disorders include:
– Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep despite trying relaxation techniques.
– Sleep Apnea: A condition where breathing stops intermittently during sleep, leading to disrupted rest.
– Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: Feeling constantly tired even after getting a sufficient amount of sleep.
If you’ve tried improving your sleep habits and still struggle with rest, consider consulting a sleep specialist.
Fantastic Fact!
Did you know that all animals, fish, and insects need sleep? However, they each have their unique way of resting. Some sleep standing up, some with their eyes open, and some even sleep upside down!
For instance, dolphins have a fascinating sleep cycle where only half of their brain sleeps at a time. This allows them to continue swimming, eating, and staying alert for predators while half of their brain rests.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
If you’re facing sleep challenges, here are some questions to discuss with your healthcare provider:
– What is the ideal amount of sleep for someone of my age?
– How can I improve the quality of my sleep?
– Are there medical conditions that could be affecting my sleep?
– What are the common signs of sleep disorders, and should I be concerned about them?
– How does my sleep schedule affect my overall health?
– Are there any lifestyle changes or habits I should adopt to sleep better?
– What role does stress or anxiety play in sleep quality, and how can I manage them?
– Is it normal to have difficulty falling or staying asleep, and when should I seek medical help for these issues?
– Are there medications or supplements that can help improve sleep quality?
Guest Experts
Dr. Toral Shah, DO
Sleep Specialist, Emory University
Dr. Muhammad Ahsan Zafar, MD, MSc
Pulmonary & Critical Care University of Cincinnati, USA