WHJR_ISSUU_June2010 by The Health Journal

the

Health Journal June 2010 Vol. 6 No. 1

Richmond Edition

th anni ver issuesary

Fathersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Day Gift Guide 5 Amazing facts about vitamin d

Plastic Surgery

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Skin myths

Meet Dr. Oz

exclusive interview inside

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June Contents 2010

[ Features ]

6 5 Questions for Dr. Barry Sears The founder of the Zone Diet discusses his latest book, Toxic Fat. Catch him in Richmond on June 19.

14 5 Surprises About Health Care Reform What you should know about the massive overhaul.

16 Vitamin D’s Amazing Attributes

Research reveals the “sunshine vitamin” is more powerful than once thought.

23 Meet Dr. Mehmet Oz

An exclusive interview with the celebrated physician.

29 Fact or Fiction?

A dermatologist debunks five common suntan myths.

[ In Every Issue ] 4 Editor’s Note 5 Inbox

11 Snapshots 18 Fitness

23 Feature

29 Skin & Beauty 37 Calendar

40 Health Directory 42 Profile

THE HEALTH JOURNAL

the

Health Journal

The Health Journal is a free, monthly consumer health magazine distributed in a variety of ways throughout Hampton Roads and Richmond. Four editions are currently available: Williamsburg, Peninsula, Southside and Richmond.

Editor’s

Note

Publisher Brian M. Freer

“Life isn't a matter of milestones, but of moments.”

Executive Director Rita L. Kikoen

—Rose Kennedy

Editor Page Bishop-Freer

Associate Editor Beth Shamaiengar

Medical Editor Ravi V. Shamaiengar, MD Sales Executives Johnna Cossaboon Jeannette Cosby

Memorable moment: Meeting Dr. Mehmet Oz for the second time

Hayes Cloninger [“Hayes’s Way,” June 2006; “It All Started with a Bead,” May 2009] While being treated for a brain tumor at Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, six-year-old Hayes Cloninger began making friendship bracelets for doctors and patients. Her hobby turned into a major source of funding for the American Cancer Society—to date she has raised over $36,000 for the ACS through the sale of her hand-made crafts.

GRAPHIC DESIGNERs Christie Edwards Natalie Monteith Jean Pokorny

On the Cover

photo by Brian M. Freer

Administrative assistant Danielle Di Salvo PhotographY Christie Edwards Page Bishop-Freer Brian M. Freer

Contributing Writers

Jenny Andrus, MD Sally Hartsfield, PhD Alison Johnson Bridgit Kin-Charlton, MS, CPT Jess Madden Gayle Pinn, CPT Keith Schumann, MD Maggie Souza Barry Strasnick, MD

elcome to our Five-Year Anniversary Issue! Throughout this month’s Health Journal, you’ll find a “5” theme in several of our regular columns and special features, which cover topics ranging from the health care reform bill (p. 12), to illuminating new data on “the sunshine vitamin” (16) to common myths surrounding sun exposure (29). My monthly column follows suit with my five all-time favorite stories (and follow-ups). Here goes:

Katrina and Brian Wise of James City County are learning to cope after multiple sclerosis took Katrina’s vision in 2002. Permanant vision loss is a rare effect of this devastating disease.

“Yes, It Really Is Brain Surgery” [April 2007] I’ve always liked the juxtaposition between patient Nancy Belvin’s (far right) small-town life in Gloucester and the remarkable Gamma Knife that doctors used to shrink her brain tumor. A University of Virginia professor and leading expert on stereotactic radiation weighed in, as did neurosurgeon Dr. Jim Lesnick. During my interview with Belvin at her > INSIDE house in Guinea, we ISSUE ate soft-shell crab sandwiches—a local delicacy! THIS

Volume 1 Number 7

JULY 2007

“The Mysteries of Multiple Sclerosis” [July 2007] When Katrina Wise went blind in 2002 as a consequence of multiple sclerosis, her husband Brian became more than her caregiver; he became her biggest advocate. That same year he entered the Hampton Roads MS 150-mile Bike Tour held annually on the Eastern Shore to benefit the Hampton Roads MS Society. This month Wise rides for the eighth time and has set a fundraising goal of $3,000 (donate at www.nationalmssociety.org).

Feature 18 the Mysteries of Multiple sclerosis Advertiser index Associates in Dermatology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Back Pain Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Bennington on the Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Blue Ocean Commercial Funding, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Carpet Pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 CEAGH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Colonial Center for Hearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 DVD Flashbacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Hampton Hearing Aids, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Holiday Chevrolet-Cadillac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

The Health Journal—Williamsburg Edition is directmailed to homes and businesses in Williamsburg, James City County and Northern York County. Newsstand, rack and countertop distribution supplement our direct-mail program.

J . Stuart Oglesby, DDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Nancy Y . Schumann, DDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 National Multiple Sclerosis Society . . . . . . . . . . 17, 20 OB/GYN Associates of Hampton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Oyster Point Oral and Facial Surgery . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Peninsula Cancer Institute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Results Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Retina and Glaucoma Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 S-Works Construction Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Subscriptions are available for $24/year. Please send a check or money order, payable to RIAN Enterprises, LLC, to the address below. Include current mailing address and other contact information. Notify us of any change in address.

Sentara Weight-Loss Surgery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Stein Financial Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 The Chesapeake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 The Healthy Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Tidewater Services Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Virginia Oncology Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Williamsburg's Center for Chiropractic . . . . . . . . . . 15

Patients and doctors hope to increase awareness about an illness that affects more than 5,000 Hampton Roads residents .

“

Articles 5 HU’s Positive Charge

Learn how Hampton University is “positively” on the fast track to providing cutting-edge cancer care .

safety at sea 33 15 Josephine” “Remembering [February 2010] When a local father queried me about an essay he’d composed, detailing 33 Woman with a Cause the life and loss of his 10-month-old daughter Josephine and the physispiritual journey that followed, I wasn’t sure how to 5cal, emotional and 34 Let’s Go to the Beach! proceed. But after reading his draft, I followed my heart and ran it as our 34 feature story. I connected with this story because at the time my own In Every Issue daughter was turning 10 months old. I’d come home from work every 4 Letter from the editor day and hug and5 Local kiss Cami nonstop—I still do. news Before setting sail this summer, consider these safeboating tips from James E . Barton, M .D .

Check out our in-depth interview with Sally Derrig, former executive director at Dream Catchers therapeutic riding center .

We’ll show you how to take your cardio and strength routines to the beach . Don’t forget the sunscreen!

25 Health directory 31 Calendar 33 Profiles neW! 34 Fitness

Williamsburg Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Williamsburg Healthy Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

The editorial content of The Health Journal is produced according to the highest standards of journalistic accuracy. However, readers should not substitute information in the magazine for professional health care. JULY 2007

Editorial contributions are welcome. All submissions become the property of the publisher. We reserve the right to edit for style, clarity and space requirements.

www.HamptonRoadsHealth.com HEALTH JOURNAL

Dr. Mehmet Oz Visits Hampton Roads [January 2009, June 2010] Meeting the “Grand Poobah” of health not once but twice were definitely highlights from the first five, as was sharing his comments with our readers. What we like most about Oz isn’t his own star-power or that he’s in Oprah’s inner circle, but that his message is simple and straightforward. He genuinely cares about America’s health and wants to stamp out preventable diseases like obesity, Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. [Read our latest interview with Dr. Oz on p. 24.]

Missed it the first time around? You can read all of these articles online at www.thehealthjournals.com.

For advertising and editorial information, call or write: The Health Journal 4808 Courthouse St., Ste. 204 Williamsburg, VA 23188 Phone: (757) 645-4475 • Fax: (757) 645-4473 info@thehealthjournals.com www.thehealthjournals.com 4 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Page Bishop-Freer, Editor page@thehealthjournals.com

Dad’s

Picks

From the athlete to the outdoorsman, the traditional to the “I-don’t-need-anything” type of fathers, here are some great “green” gift options for Fathers’ Day. 1. Green Gear ($8.99, www.organicbambooclothing.com) Instead of going for the usual cotton tees and socks, why not try another excellent organic choice, like bamboo? It’s softer, naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic. Bamboo absorbs moisture quickly, keeping you dry and odor-free in the summer months and warm in the winter. It also releases more oxygen into the atmosphere than trees. At left: “Men’s Bamboo Dress Socks”

2. Kayak Tours ($35 to $100; try www.kayakonline.com/virginia.html) Drift slowly and experience the tranquility and wildlife on the James River and other local waterways. Unguided tours average $35 per person for two to three hours, and guided tours can average $100 or more.

Enter to win a FREE custom-guided kayak fishing trip for two ($100 value) from Ocean Eagle Kayak Adventures (www.oceaneaglekayak.com)! Tell The Health Journal about a special dad who’s deserving of a day trip. He and his guest of choice will embark from Virginia Beach’s Rudee Inlet. E-mail your essays to info@ thehealthjournals.com. Deadline: Friday, June 18, 12 noon. 3. Suunto Foot POD ($75 to $100, www.suunto.com) Whether training for a marathon or simply trying to enhance your jogging performance, the Suunto Foot POD assesses your running by recording real-time speed, distance and pace data—essentials for runners, joggers and walkers who want to improve. The POD attaches to a shoe and performs training analysis complete with illustrations. A speed-limit alarm also prevents overtraining.

4. Golf Lesson With a Pro (Call your local golf club for prices.) Improve your golf game with a private session from a seasoned pro. Cover the fundamentals or concentrate on a specific technique.

5. Guided Mountain Hike of the Shenandoah Terrain ($250—average cost for a six-hour hike) Spend the day outdoors taking in the scenic views of the hardwood forests, and mountain ridges while and learning about the local flora and fauna. Try this site: www.excitations.com.

inbox

“I just wanted to thank you for all your help in promoting Jewish Family Services’ 6th Annual Week of Healthy Living. We had over 640 race participants, and both programs were well attended. Several people mentioned The Health Journal ads and coverage as their information source for the events. Thanks again for all your assistance, and please let your staff know how much we appreciate their support.” —Micheline Anderson, JFS Marketing Coordinator Virginia Beach “Happy 5-year anniversary. I am always so happy when I see The Health Journal in my mailbox. I have a P.O. box, so I don’t get any mail at the house. I do get The Health Journal, though. I’ve benefited in so many ways from the articles and have sent, via “U.S. Mule” (mail) and e-mail, to friends as well as my brothers in Atlanta, several of the articles from past issues. I appreciate it being free and, thus, always try to remember who your advertisers are and use them whenever I can. Thanks, and keep up the good work! P.S. Great picture of the sweet Cami!” —Don S., Virginia Beach

“I just finished reading Richmond’s Introductory Issue of The Health Journal. I enjoyed each and every article, especially “Baking!” I have food allergies and have enjoyed Dr. Lucy’s cookies. Now I know the back story!” —Jennifer S., Richmond “Wonderful magazine!” —Lori D., Norfolk

“In the March 2010 and April 2010 Williamsburg editions, you had an advertisement for a clinic specializing in aging and weight-loss. I lost my old copies of the Journal and would very much like the information to set up an appointment in that office. How can I get their contact info?”

—Melanie T., Williamsburg Ed.: Did you mean the Center for Metabolic Health? Their phone number is (757) 873-1880. “The Health Journal has a superfluity of information pertinent to Hampton Roads…and provides a diversity of health information. I commend each of its staff for their educationally illuminating efforts, from publisher to contributing writers.” —Anita W., Norfolk THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Celebrating

Five Years

HCA Hospitals in Greater Richmond Go Public With ER Wait Times Patients visiting the emergency room at any of the six local HCA Virginia hospitals (Chippenham Hospital, Johnston-Willis Hospital, John Randolph Medical Center, Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, Parham Doctors’ Hospital and Retreat Doctor’s Hospital) no longer need to guess how long they will wait for care, thanks to a new program that communicates each hospital’s average wait times via text messaging, electronic billboards and the Internet. The news feed automatically displays and updates the time online at http://richmond.hcavirginia.com and on electronic billboards every 30 minutes. Bon Secours Systems Recognized for Environmental Efforts Practice Greenhealth, a national membership organization for health care facilities committed to environmentally responsible operations, has presented Environmental Excellence Awards to all of Bon Secours Health System’s local systems, including Bon Secours Hampton Roads and Bon Secours Richmond. The Bon Secours Health System of Richmond also received the organization’s Partner for Change Award, which recognizes health care facilities that continuously improve and expand upon their mercury elimination, waste reduction and pollution prevention programs. Sentara Healthcare Recognized for Employee Health and Wellness Programs For the second year in a row, Sentara Healthcare has received the American Heart Association’s Platinum Level award for its employee health and wellness program, Mission: Health, which focuses on decreasing healthcare costs and helping employees lead healthier lives. Mission: Health program offerings include courses on heart health, yoga and smoking cessation as well as a structured walking program. Sentara received the Platinum Level award because Mission: Health meets criteria established by The American Heart Association’s Start! Fit-Friendly Companies Program, which aims to be a catalyst for positive change in the American workforce by helping companies make their employees’ health and wellness a priority.

6 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Questions for Dr. Barry Sears

Catch the Zone Diet founder in Richmond on June 19

Written By Jess Madden

verweight? Don’t be so quick to blame yourself. According to Dr. Barry Sears’ new book Toxic Fat, the root cause is your genes. “There’s a stereotype that fat people are weak-willed or lazy and that all they need to do is eat less and exercise more,” says Sears, founder of the Zone Diet (www.zonediet.com). “That’s simply not true.” Sears has been telling Americans for years that most of our chronic health problems—cancer, diabetes, obesity, even Alzheimer’s—stem from inflammation that is linked to our genes. His new book focuses on the role that arachidonic acid or “toxic fat,” plays in the body,” and here he takes time to answer a few questions for Health Journal readers.

HJ: Toxic Fat is your 12th Zone Diet book. What will readers of your previous books find different about this one, and how is it different from the thousands of other diet programs out there? Sears: “It’s looking at the diet from the standpoint of not cutting calories, but altering hormones and how those hormones change our genes. It’s understanding how the food we eat can cause inflammation in our bodies and that inflammation can turn on genes that make us fat and keep us fat.” HJ: You’ve been quoted as saying, “Medicine is not as complicated as we think, and likewise, nutrition is not as simple as we are led to believe.” Could you elaborate on that a bit?

Sears: “If we look at virtually all chronic diseases, they are caused by inflammation. Obviously the way to treat them is to simply reduce inflammation. Your diet is the primary cause of inflammation, so it’s not as simple as eating less and exercising more. This method always fails because it doesn’t address the real reason why we gain weight and the real reason we get sick. We need to treat food like a drug and take it in the right dosage at the right time.”

“There’s a stereotype that fat people are weak-willed or lazy and that all they need to do is eat less and exercise more. That’s simply not true.” HJ: In your book, you write that “the epidemics of weight gain and diabetes in America are primarily caused because the genes in susceptible individuals are being activated by recent changes in the American diet.” Is fast food the culprit here?

Celebrating

Five Years

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Dr. Sears will be appearing at the 2010 Richmond Women’s Health and Wellness Symposium on June 19.

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Sears: “Fast food is an easy target. It’s processed food. If you go to any grocery store in America, you will find the two cheapest types of food available are vegetable oils and refined carbohydrates. The Perfect Nutritional Storm has been caused to a great extent by annual government subsidies of about $20 billion for corn and soybean crops, resulting in a glut of cheap, refined carbohydrates and vegetable oils that are the most abundantly consumed items in the American diet. Those ingredients combine in the diet and increase the production of toxic fat.”

HJ: You believe that toxic fat causes hormonal changes in the brain that create a constant state of hunger. You also write that this toxic fat can activate the bad genes in those who have a genetic predisposition to obesity, presumably causing them to put on more weight. How can you tell if you have high levels of toxic fat? Sears: “You really can’t tell what your levels are without a blood test any more than you can tell if you have high levels of cholesterol. Looks can be very misleading. Some people who are obese have very low levels. Some who are fit have very high levels. About two-thirds of the U.S. population is genetically predisposed to gain weight if their genes are activated through inflammation. The other third aren’t off the hook, though; they could just have inflammation show up as cancer, heart disease, etc. Those genes can be turned on or turned off by your diet. Drugs can’t do that, but the food you eat can.”

HJ: So many diets out there don’t seem to be designed for people to stay on them long-term. Is your program a long-term solution for all those people who struggle with yo-yo dieting and weight gain? Sears: “It really is. It’s a way of life to keep hormones in a zone that isn’t too high or low. It’s a dietary program you can follow for the rest of your life because it’s a fight against inflammation. Until you go to the root cause of why you gain weight, you will never lose weight. The good news is that you have the ability to change it now. You can start today and begin to reverse the effects.”

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Dr. Sears’ Diet Guidelines Sears says the key is to change your diet to exactly the way your grandmother told you to eat two generations ago. She told you four things:

1. Eat small meals throughout the day. 2. Eat protein in every meal—an amount the size of the palm of your hand. 3. Always eat your veggies. 4.

Don’t leave the house until you eat your fish oil. Two generations ago, no child could leave until they drank cod liver oil.

$7 Million Interior Renovation Transforms Lexington Court Lexington Court Rehabilitation and Healthcare held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of major renovations at 1776 Cambridge Drive in Henrico County. The ceremony marked the culmination of more than three years of planning and two years of construction that transformed the 30-year-old building into one of the most advanced rehabilitation and long-term healthcare facilities in the greater Richmond area. Designed by the award-winning Richmond-based interior design and architectural firms, KSA Interiors and Cornerstone Architects, and built by Woolfolk Construction, the project renovated more than 38,000 square feet inside the nearly 69,000-square-foot building. A new rehabilitation gym focuses on patients with short-term physical and occupational therapy requirements. Free Skin Cancer Screenings on Thursdays Keith W. Schumann, M.D., a volunteer for the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, will offer complimentary skin cancer screenings (by appointment) on Thursdays this month at his office, Ageless Dermatology & Laser Center, located at 5309 Discovery Park Blvd. Dr. Schumann will provide free sunscreen samples as well as educational materials on skin cancer prevention. Screenings will last approximately 15 minutes each, and insurance is not necessary. To schedule an appointment, call (757) 564-1200.

Corrections In last month’s Local Beat story, “Agents for Change” [p. 6], we incorrectly stated that Physicians for Peace performs missions within the U.S. Also, founder Dr. Horton died in 2003, not 2006 as stated. On last month’s Snapshots page, the picture of Big Bird and the girl was taken by Peter Jones for Child Development Resources. Email your press releases to info@thehealthjournals.com

THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Celebrating

Five Years

Salt-Slashing Strategies

1. Choose fresh over canned or process foods. You’ll know exactly how much sodium you are consuming.

Lunch Packs Major Sodium Punch Written By Anne Harding NEW YORK (Reuters Health)

ast food fans beware: even if you’re being calorie-conscious, you are very likely getting far too much sodium with that burger and fries—or even that chicken salad. A survey of thousands of lunchtime patrons of 11 different fast food chains found their meals contained an average of more than 1,700 milligrams (mg) of sodium. U.S. health guidelines recommend most people eat no more than 1,500 mg of sodium daily. “Sodium was high across all of the chains that we looked at, and in particular the sodium density is high,” Christine M. Johnson of the Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Control Program of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, one of the study’s authors, told Reuters Health. Eating too much salt is a well-established risk factor for high blood pressure, Johnson added. But it’s tough for people to keep their sodium intake under control, especially since more than three quarters of the salt people eat comes from restaurant meals and packaged foods, she and her colleagues point out in a research letter in the Archives of Internal Medicine. U.S. guidelines state that adults should consume less than 2,300 mg of sodium daily, and that limit shrinks to 1,500 mg for African Americans, people with high blood pressure, and people over 40, who represent seven in 10 U.S. adults. To examine how much sodium people might be consuming with fast food meals, the researchers quizzed people leaving 167 different New York City fast food chain restaurants about what they’d purchased for lunch, gathering a total of 6,580 receipts. Nearly 60 percent of purchases contained more than 1,500 mg of sodium. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration states that 600 mg of

8 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

sodium per meal is “healthy”; just three percent of the meals met this guideline, while 20 percent contained more than 2,300 mg of sodium. Meals averaged around 2,100 mg of sodium for every 1,000 calories. One of the study’s strengths is that it isn’t based on a person’s memory of what he or she ate, Johnson noted. “This is really what people are purchasing to eat for lunch right then. It’s what they actually have in their hands.” New York City restaurants are now required to list the calorie content of all the food and drink they sell, but there aren’t requirements for listing sodium content. Johnson recommends that people who enjoy fast food and want to limit their sodium intake check for this information online, for example at a restaurant’s Web site. “Really being able to see that information before you make the decision is so key,” she said. Something that may seem like a healthier, lowsodium choice—like a chicken salad—may still be packed with salt, she explained. While the city has no plans to start requiring restaurants to list the sodium contents of their products, according to Erin Brady, deputy press secretary with the NYC Health Department, it has launched a national initiative to reduce the sodium content of packaged and restaurant foods by 25 percent by 2014; so far, 16 companies have signed on to the voluntary effort, along with dozens of cities and states and 18 national health organizations.

Average amount of salt consumed by women daily—4,000 mg Average amount of salt consumed by men daily—3,000 mg

2. Choose products labeled “sodium-free,” “reduced sodium” or “low in sodium” when buying canned or prepackaged foods. 3. If you can’t find a sodiumfree or low in sodium alternative, rinse canned foods with water before cooking or eating to help remove some of the salt. 4. Substitute herbs and spices for salt while cooking and at the dinner table. 5. Eat more raw foods like fruits and vegetables, which are naturally low in sodium.

THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Celebrating

Five Years

Sickle Cell Disease Affects Brain Function

Written By Julie Steenhuysen CHICAGO (Reuters)

The researchers found that people with sickle cell disease scored lower on tests of intellect, working memory, processing speed and attention span than the healthy study participants. 10 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

dults with sickle cell disease scored worse on memory function tests than healthy adults, suggesting the blood disorder may affect brain function, U.S. researchers said last month. The study is the first to look at brain function in adults with sickle cell disease, and it may mean new drugs are needed to protect the brains of patients with the inherited disorder. The differences in intelligence were striking enough that researchers worry some patients might have trouble staying employed, managing their money and keeping track of their medications. “What this shows is that people who have even fairly clinically mild sickle cell disease seem to be having some effects from the disease in terms of their neurocognitive function,” said Dr. Susan Shurin, acting director of the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, whose agency funded the study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder affecting red blood cells. Red blood cells in people with sickle cell disease contain mostly an abnormal type of hemoglobin (hemoglobin S), causing red blood cells to take on a sickle-shaped form. It affects 70,000 Americans and three to five million people globally. At one time, most people with the disease died in childhood, but new treatments allow people to live into middle age, Shurin said. Dr. Elliott Vichinsky of Children’s Hospital & Research Center in Oakland, California, tested 149 adult sickle cell patients and 47 healthy people of similar age and education levels from the same communities. Patients were considered low risk for complications because they had no history of frequent pain, hospitalization, stroke, high blood pressure or other problems that could affect brain function. The researchers found people with sickle cell disease scored lower on tests of intellect, working memory, processing speed and attention span than the healthy study participants. The oldest and the sickest sickle cell patients scored the worst, suggesting the longer a person lived with the disease or the worse it was, the bigger the effect on brain function. Shurin said the findings suggest the need for more study of potential new treatments that could help protect brain function in people with sickle cell disease. “It also raises the question of should we be more aggressive [in treating sickle cell disease] earlier in life,” Shurin said in a telephone interview. A cancer pill called hydroxyurea, which is available generically, can stop the severe pain and prevent the need for blood transfusions. Shurin said the study may indicate that more patients should start taking the drug at an earlier age.

snapshots

Dr. Martin Coleman of Orthopaedic & Spine Center (OSC), located in Port Warwick, Newport News, hands a donation check to Rob Bradley, executive director of the Lackey Free Clinic. The Lackey Free Clinic, located in Yorktown, is thankful for the continued support from OSC.

During the Week of Young Child, York County families celebrated each day with children at the First Steps Child Care and Development Center at the Griffin-Yeates Government Building. The families did a five-minute activity each day including painting, reading, planting flowers and taking pictures. (2) Local mom Melissa Olivis smiles for a picture with her daughter Meya Holmes. (3) Early Head Start Policy Council Chair Kim Griffin reads with her son.

2,3

Bon Secours Virginia Health System cut the ribbon for the expanded Harbour View Medical Arts Building on the campus of Bon Secours Health Center at Harbour View in Suffolk. The 20,000-square-foot expansion brings a host of services to meet the needs of Suffolk’s growing population, which Bon Secours has served for 11 years. Pictured from left to right: Linwood Howard, chair, Bon Secours Hampton Roads Board of Directors; Robert C. Barclay, IV, Suffolk City Council; Sister Patricia Heath, senior vice president for sponsorship, Bon Secours Hampton Roads Health System; Jun Chung, M.D., cardiologist, Cardiovascular Specialists; Millie Lancaster; Glen Moore, M.D., surgeon, Tidewater Surgical Specialists; Trudy Roberts; Ernesto Luciano-Perez, M.D., orthopaedic surgeon, Virginia Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists; Linda Johnson, mayor, City of Suffolk; Michael Kerner, CEO, Bon Secours Hampton Roads Health System.

2 3

Dr. Sebastiana Springmann, Carrie Rhodes and Dr. Sarah Allen of New Town Dental Arts partnered with The Heritage Humane Society to help collect items such as food, cleaning supplies, collars and leashes for animals in need.

Bon Secours Maryview Nursing Care Center recently named Marvin Mills (center) of The Gospel Travelers Band as Volunteer of the Year. Mills has been performing gospel, country and Elvis tunes for the residents every Tuesday evening for the past 20 years.

Emilie Pinto, a Warhill High School student and Key Club member, presents a check for over $2,000 to Rob Bradley, executive director of the Lackey Free Clinic. The money was raised during a recent dodgeball tournament sponsored by the club.

Dr. Jim Shaw of the Lackey Free Clinic was recently awarded one of the Virginia Governor’s Volunteerism and Community Service awards. Dr. Shaw and his wife Cooka Shaw, who founded the clinic, attended the awards ceremony with Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell, First Lady Maureen McDonnell and members of the Lackey staff. From left to right: Cooka and Jim Shaw; the Shaws’ daughter-in-law Jenny Shaw; Robert Bradley, Jr., executive director of the Lackey Free Clinic; and Kim Spencer, volunteer coordinator of the Lackey Free Clinic.

your s u d n e S ots! snapsh healthjo info@the

urnals.com

Physicians join with administrators from Chesapeake Regional Medical Center to officially cut the ribbon at the Urgent Care Center–Princess Anne during their grand opening. The event included games, food, giveaways and a meet-and-greet with the practitioners were held. The new family practice is the hospital’s first business venture in Princess Anne.

8 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Celebrating

Five Years

Things That Might Surprise You about Health Care Reform Written By Alison Johnson

edia coverage of the $940-million health care reform overhaul—which aims to extend coverage to 32 million uninsured Americans—may have seemed nonstop, during the debates about this massive piece of legislation, but there were bound to be some surprises in the end. Here are a handful:

Payments for end-of-life counseling sessions are NOT included. Legislators originally considered reimbursing doctors for having conversations on end-of-life care with Medicare patients—discussions that would have included information on treatment options, living wills and advance medical directives, which outline the interventions a person would prefer should his or her health decline. One version of the legislation would have paid for such sessions every five years, although they would not have been mandatory for patients. However, a loud chorus of opponents raised fears that the policy would encourage doctors to push patients into hospice care rather than pursue more aggressive and expensive therapies. Some critics, including former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, labeled the sessions “death panels.” In the end, lawmakers dropped the entire provision from the final bill. Supporters still hope doctors will make time for the talks, saying they ease stress on aging patients and their families.

There ARE exemptions to the mandate on buying insurance. Some Americans who choose not to purchase health coverage will have to pay fines starting in 2014, with penalties fully phased in by 2016. The goal is to get younger, healthier people into the insurance pool to reduce costs for others (parents also can keep children on their plans until age 26). But people can ask for exemptions for several reasons, including significant financial hardship, their religious beliefs or membership in a Native American tribe. People also will not be penalized

12 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

if the cheapest option available to them costs more than eight percent of their annual income. Of approximately 21 million people predicted to be uninsured in 2016, government officials estimate about four million will end up facing a fine of $695 a year or 2.5 percent of their household income, whichever is greater (but families wouldn’t pay more than $2,085). After 2016, penalties will increase with annual cost-of-living adjustments. The Internal Revenue Service will have authority to collect the money through tax returns but not to charge anyone with a crime. A number of state attorneys generals, including Virginia’s Ken Cuccinelli, have declared the mandate and the fine unconstitutional; Cuccinelli argues it is an overstepping of government authority and clashes with state legislation dictating that Virginians can’t be forced to buy health insurance. Many legal scholars believe the supremacy clause of the U.S. Constitution will give precedent to the federal statute.

TANNING SALONS are taking a tax hit. To help fund the overhaul, Congress approved a 10 percent tax on customers at indoor tanning businesses (other sunless tanning options, including spray tans and tanning lotions, aren’t included). The government expects to raise $2.7 billion over 10 years with the tax—scheduled to kick in July 1—and hopefully reduce rates of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. (See www.thehealthjournals.com if you missed last month’s article on melanoma.) Outraged business owners, though, say the extra charge will force layoffs and shutdowns. The tanning industry actually was the second such tax target in the health reform debate. Earlier versions of the reform bill would have slapped a five percent tax on elective cosmetic procedures such as Botox injections and breast implants, but legislators dropped the so-called “Botax” after heavy lobbying from the medical and dermatology industries. No such luck for the Indoor Tanning Association.

Illegal immigrants will NOT benefit from the bill. Earlier drafts of legislation would have extended coverage to uninsured illegal immigrants, who often seek treatment in hospital emergency rooms. But Congress dropped that language to help gain support from conservative Democrats, who felt it would unfairly reward lawbreakers. As passed, the bill aims to bring in 95 percent of the population currently without insurance—mostly people who couldn’t afford coverage, had a pre-existing health condition or chose to go uninsured. Anyone in the country illegally will be excluded from new state-based insurance exchanges—online portals through which consumers can now “shop” for the best plan—even if they want to buy coverage with their own money and not federal funds. According to estimates from the Congressional Budget Office, about 23 million people will remain uninsured five years after the exchanges start running in 2014, and a third of them will be illegal immigrants (the other two-thirds likely will be people who choose to pay fines rather than buy insurance). That 23 million is expected to include immigrants who have lived in America for many years and have children who are citizens.

Taxpayer subsidies WON’T go toward plans that cover abortions. No health care plan will be required to include abortion coverage, and individual states can pass legislation to opt out of offering it. The bill also dictates that people who receive subsidies and want to buy such coverage will have to pay into an account kept separate from federal and taxpayer funds. At the urging of pro-life Democrats, President Barack Obama also issued an executive order stating that no federal funds can be used for abortion except in cases of rape, incest or when the mother’s life is at risk.

Hear Everything Better

For further reading: Get updates and read the latest articles about health care legislation at www.healthreform.gov.

How will health reform affect you specifically? Download fact sheets at www.whitehouse.gov/healthreform/downloads.

Read summaries of the Patient Protection & Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590) and the Health Care & Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (H.R. 4872) online at www.thomas.loc.gov.

FIVE MORE FACTS •

No one has to give up their current insurance. People have a choice: keep the plan they have or buy coverage through new state-run insurance marketplaces beginning in 2014. Existing health insurance programs will face tighter regulations and will have to include some of the requirements passed in the reform bill, including an end to lifetime limits on coverage and canceling policies for people who get sick.

•

People refused coverage because of a pre-existing health condition can get into a new high-risk pool that will operate until 2014, when insurance companies will no longer be able to turn down an application based on a person’s health—or to charge higher premiums to sicker customers. Pools will be run by either the federal government or states, depending on whether states opt out. (Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell said in late April that Virginia will opt out, citing concerns that there wouldn’t be enough funding to support the exchange program.)

•

Deductibles and co-payments for many preventive services and screenings will be eliminated for Medicare patients. Medicare also will pay for an annual physical exam.

•

Insurers in the new state marketplaces will be required to spend between 80 and 85 cents of every premium dollar on health care. On average, companies have been spending 74 cents.

•

Premiums for individual policies will be 10 to 13 percent higher by 2016 than they are today, according to Congressional estimates. However, many people will qualify for subsidies and may pay less than they do now.

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14 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

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Celebrating

Five Years

ooking for answers to a health question? While the Web can be a great tool for settling an argument over who won the World Series in 1979 or figuring out how to spell the word “hors d’oeuvres,” finding accurate medical information can be a bit more difficult. When it comes to general health matters, the Internet can be a valuable source for news, resources and support for a particular illness or condition. If you’re looking for medical sites that offer answers to specific questions and general treatment options, you’ll want to make sure the sites are credible. The following five tried-and-true sites combine medical information from experts as well as useful health and wellness resources.

Mayo Clinic http:\\www.mayoclinic.com Created by the world-famous medical institution that runs clinics in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota, this site offers tools, up-to-date medical information and input from over 3,300 physicians, scientists and researchers.

WebMD http:\\www.WebMD.com A blend of expertise in medicine, journalism and health issues, this site features quality health information reviewed continuously by an independent medical review board.

Virginia Department of Health http:\\www.vdh.virginia.gov Get state-specific information on vaccinations, health programs and current health news, as well as links to your local community health departments.

5 For Fun squeezeitin.com Designed with busy moms in mind, this site features short videos (they’re free to watch) on ways to build exercise into your daily routine, whether you’re shopping for groceries, folding laundry or blow-drying your hair. Watch the “5 Anywhere” demos for abs, shoulders and calves.

realage.com RealAge is a personalized health and wellness website developed by a team of experts, including medical doctors. Tons of informational articles and fun tests on the site can help make your life a healthier one. (Ed.: Dr. Mehmet Oz—whose recent visit to Hampton is featured on p.23—heads the RealAge scientific advisory board.)

lumosity.com

KidsHealth http:\\www.kidshealth.org Created by Nemours, one of the largest nonprofit organizations devoted to children’s health, this site offers health and medical information with sections for parents, kids and teens.

AARP http:\\www.aarp.org/health With a Medicare Interactive Tool, Drug Interaction Checker and links to an online community, this site provides medical news and insights specifically targeted to senior health issues.

YOUR FAVORITE SITE ISN’T HERE? If you’ve come to count on a health site that’s not on this list, that doesn’t mean it’s not reliable. There are hundreds of medical and health websites online, and you can look for signs of credibility with these three simple tips: Consider the site’s sponsor. Many sites are supported or sponsored by medical colleges, research laboratories or government agencies; the reputation of these organizations can help you decide if the site is a credible source of information. Notice the date. Most quality sites will feature a “Last Updated” note, usually at the bottom of the page. Some will also have recent updates, especially on newsworthy health topics. Avoid health sites with news more than six months old.

New scientific research shows that with the right mental workouts we can improve the brain’s health and function. Play scientifically designed memory-boosting brain games for free at this site. (An iPhone App is also available.)

nourishinteractive.com This family-friendly site features fun ways to incorporate nutrition into your daily life and get kids interested in making healthy food choices. Kids can play nutrition games, and parents can find resources such as a printable calendar with daily health tips.

thehealthjournals.com Did you know that you can access all of our current and previously published articles online? Share articles with friends, post comments and send us story ideas—all from this site.

Notice the HONcode. This accreditation seal, found at the bottom of a site’s Web page, identifies sites that meet certain ethical standards established by the HON Foundation (Health On the Net Foundation, an independent Swiss organization) for medical and health sites. You can find HON-approved sites at www.hon.ch. THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Celebrating

Five Years

Amazing Amasing Facts About:

Vitamin D Written By Maggie Souza

ith summer here, there’s no better time to learn about—and benefit from—the many ways that the “sunshine vitamin” can improve your health. Vitamin D has long been noted for its role in the body’s ability to absorb calcium. It helps build bone mass during the early years and helps prevent diseases such as osteoporosis as the body ages. But did you know that a deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to more than a dozen cancers, or that it can help with weight loss? “In study after study, it’s shown that if you can achieve higher levels [of vitamin D], you have better health in many categories,” notes Matthew J. Beckman, an assistant professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Virginia Commonwealth University. Beckman has been at the forefront of vitamin D research for the past 20 years, and he is currently studying its effect on ovarian and breast cancer cells when used with treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy. Beckman’s work is part of a growing body of research on vitamin D and its benefits. As knowledge about the sunshine vitamin continues to accumulate, here are five things to keep in mind:

Vitamin D has been linked to cancer prevention and now is showing promise in cancer treatments. According to the California-based nonprofit Vitamin D Council (www.vitamindcouncil.org), studies show women with low levels of vitamin D have a 222-percent increased risk for developing breast cancer. In addition, studies have shown that breast cancer patients with a higher blood level of vitamin D at the time of diagnosis are more likely to survive. Vitamin D helps battle cancer in a number of ways. It inhibits inappropriate cell division and tumor growth. It enhances the immune system’s cancer-fighting actions. The Vitamin D Council reports a correlation between vitamin D and the pathology of 17 cancers, and a recent study at the State University of New York at Albany found that vitamin D reduced and eliminated breast cancer tumors in mice.

16 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

The immune system needs vitamin D. “The immune system, in particular, is very sensitive to increased levels of vitamin D by supplementation,” Beckman says. He adds that it “helps with general well-being,” including alleviating depression. And, according to the Vitamin D Council, people with low levels of vitamin D are “40 percent more likely to report respiratory infections such as colds and flu.”

“In study after study, it’s shown that if you can achieve higher levels [of vitamin D], you have better health in many categories.” — Matthew J. Beckman

It’s hard to get enough vitamin D through diet alone. Some foods that are high in vitamin D include fish (such as salmon, herring and tuna) and fortified milk and other dairy products. However, diet is not enough. “You can’t just eat your way to adequate levels of vitamin D, it appears,” Beckman explains. Experts recommend anywhere from 800 to 5,000 international units (IU) of vitamin D daily. A serving of milk has about 120 IU; a tablespoon of cod liver oil has about 1,360 IU. In comparison, the skin can produce about 10,000 IU of vitamin D after half an hour of full-body exposure to the summer sun, according to the Vitamin D Council. “Sunlight is definitely your best way,” Beckman asserts. “The recommendation is kind of hard to dictate—because of the fear of melanoma and other types of skin cancer disorders, you don’t want to have people exposing their skin to too much sunlight. At the same time, that’s where we’re acclimated to get our most vitamin D.”

Even sunlight is not a good enough source in many cases, making supplements the only way to get adequate amounts of vitamin D. North of Boston, the sun is not strong enough to make the skin produce vitamin D from November through February, according to the National Institutes of Health. Says Beckman, “It doesn’t take much sunlight to generate vitamin D if you’re in the right setting, but many people aren’t.” Changes in latitude, clothing, sunscreen, pollution—these are all factors that can limit the skin’s production of vitamin D through sun exposure. Beckman suggests taking a supplement consistently, after consulting with a physician. “The good news is [that supplementing is inexpensive],” he says, “and that’s [what] people need to understand.”

Vitamin D is important for people of all ages. While vitamin D is beneficial in many aspects of senior health, it has been reported to decrease the risk of diseases such as childhood diabetes. It even has been studied in relation to prenatal care. According to the Vitamin D Council, research has shown that low maternal vitamin D3 has a significant impact on the developing brain of a fetus. Also, the council links dysfunctional vitamin D receptors in newborns to abnormal emotional responses and a deficiency in certain motor skills. Some theories link widespread vitamin D deficiency to an increase in cases of autism. Says Beckman: “When I talk to people, most are interested in vitamin D because they’re getting older and they’re worried about their health. [But] it’s not just something for older people. It’s something that’s probably important for all of us. As we get more knowledgeable…I think that’s how the story is going to be told. This is important for everyone.”

Little-Known Facts About

Vitamin D

1. It is not actually a vitamin, but a prohormone; that helps regulate calcium levels in the body. 2. Ethnicity plays a role in determining a person’s vitamin D status. People with darker skin do not produce vitamin D as readily as those with lighter skin. Therefore, they need more sun exposure in order to produce optimal levels of vitamin D in the blood. 3. Vitamin D deficiency is a global problem. One billion people worldwide are at risk for diseases related to vitamin D deficiency, according to the Vitamin D Council. 4. Researchers continue to modify their recommendations for daily intake of vitamin D, along with what they consider to be toxic levels. At one point, experts thought a dose of 3,600 IU was toxic. Now, that mark is at 40,000 IU. 5. Vitamin D toxicity results in hypercalcemia, or a high calcium level in the blood. According to the Mayo Clinic, vitamin D toxicity is usually caused by excessive supplementation, as sun exposure and foods don’t produce or contain large enough amounts to be toxic. Symptoms of hypercalcemia include nausea, vomiting, poor appetite and kidney stones. Treatments include eliminating supplements , restricting calcium intake, hydration, and hospitalization in severe cases.

Download a race flyer or register online at www.Icelandic8Krun.com An evening run/walk for all levels that will include an incredible seafood dinner provided by Bonefish Grill of Newport News. Michelob Ultra and Red Hook beer on tap will be provided by M. Price Distributing Co. Door prizes, raffle, awards and family entertainment will be sure to make the Icelandic® Seafood Fest 8K Run a must for you, your family, and friends.

RACE DIRECTOR: Mike Thome 757-820-4042 or mthome@icelandic.com RACE COORDINATOR: Rick Platt 757-229-7375 or rickplatt1@juno.com FINISH LINE RESULTS AND RACE SUPPORT PROVIDED BY:

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE CONTACT: Lisa Taylor 757-820-3535 or ltaylor@icelandic.com DATE: WHERE:

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SCHEDULE: 5:00 pm - Festival starts, registration/race packet/T-shirt pickup starts 6:30 pm - 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk 7:00 pm - 8K Run/Walk start 7:30 pm - Bonefish Grill seafood dinner begins service 8:00 pm - Door prizes 8:30 pm - Awards ceremony and raffle drawing

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Bone UP on

Celebrating

Five Years

fitness

Strength Training Put some weight into your exercise program to preserve your bone density Written By Gayle Pinn

he term osteoporosis means “porous bones.” It’s a condition in which bones have lost minerals (especially calcium), making them weaker, more brittle and susceptible to fractures. Osteoporosis can affect men and women, although post-menopausal women are at a greater risk due to a decline in estrogen production, as estrogen enables the bones to absorb calcium. Throughout your lifetime your bones grow with your body, and they should reach their maximum density and strength potential by about age 30. After this point your bone density naturally decreases with age, and for some individuals this can lead to osteoporosis. Bone loss—the deterioration of bones—can occur with no obvious symptoms. While your bones may not feel weak, you may experience symptoms without realizing they’re associated with osteoporosis (such as diminished height, change in posture, or severe back pain). Unfortunately, many people do not discover that

they have osNext > teoporosis until Fitness Through the Ages: a bone fracture Workout tips for every occurs. stage of life Thanks to improvements in doctors’ understanding of the condition, osteoporosis is now treatable in its early stages, and fractures can be prevented through medication and lifestyle changes. You can increase bone density and, in some cases, return your bones to full health. Activities such as biking, rowing and swimming are great for your cardiovascular system, but they don’t strengthen bones. Weight-bearing exercises—examples are weight training, walking, jogging or running, climbing stairs, dancing and jumping—are essential for increasing bone mass. Such exercises force the muscles to work against gravity or resistance. When muscle pulls against bone, the resistance signals bone growth.

Author’s note: Consult your doctor before beginning a weight-bearing exercise program aimed at preventing osteoporosis. If you have osteoporosis, you may be limited to certain exercises or activities in order to prevent injuries. If you suspect you have osteoporosis, talk with your physician about a bone mineral (density) test to determine if you have osteoporosis. If you have been cleared for exercise by a doctor but are unfamiliar with weight-bearing exercises, a personal trainer can help you develop an appropriate exercise program.

Gayle Pinn is the owner of Results Personal Training Studio. She has 10 years experience as a certified personal trainer.

Osteoporosis: 5 Startling Facts According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis and low bone mass affect 44 million— about 55 percent of— U.S. men and women age 50 and older.

18 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Osteoporosis causes an estimated 1.5 million bone fractures annually in the U.S. Here’s a breakdown by type: Hip Fractures Vertebral Fractures Wrist Fractures Other

300,000 700,000 250,000 300,000

Fifty thousand people die each year from post-fracture complications, and as many as one-fifth of people suffering from osteoporosis cannot live independently and end up in nursing homes.

Half of all women age 50 and older will develop some degree of osteoporosis. To maintain or increase bone density, women are advised to start an exercise program long before the onset of menopause.

New research shows deficiencies in calcium and vitamin D during childhood and the teen years can contribute to osteoporosis (see related article on vitamin D in this issue) as can certain diseases (including eating disorders), medications and medical treatments.

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Celebrating

Five Years

Ages

Fitness Through The

Written By Bridgit Kin-Charlton

taying active is key to a healthy lifestyle. However, as we age, our bodies change and have different needs. It is important that your exercise program reflect those needs. Follow this age-appropriate guide to fitness.

Your 20s and 30s

Now is the time to make exercise part of your routine. By establishing good habits in your 20s, you’ll be more likely to stay active throughout your life. Choose exercises that develop bone mineral density such as weight-bearing exercises and dynamic ones like running, dancing, football or martial arts. This is also a good time to develop postural awareness. Twenty-somethings tend to be desk-slaves. By creating an ergonomically correct workspace, you’ll reduce the risk of developing poor posture, which can show up later in life. Consider sitting on a stability ball instead of a chair, with your legs and arms bent at 90 degrees. Engage your core muscles as you work by keeping your spine neutral. Pull your shoulders down and roll them back so they are directly over your hips. Make sure your workspace has good lighting so that you are not squinting or extending your neck to see the computer. Get up and move around for five minutes every hour to give your spine a break. Incorporate posturebased exercises such as Pilates or yoga into your weekly fitness routine. TIP: For women who want to become pregnant: Carrying extra body weight and being sedentary can contribute to fertility difficulties. Exercise can help by regulating hormones and, therefore, increasing the possibility of conception.

In both men and women, a series of changes begins to happen right around the mid-30s. There is a decrease in the pituitary gland’s production of growth hormone, theprimary stimulus for muscle, bone and tendon strength (it helps the mobile fat into fuel). As a result, our resting heart rate rises and our muscle mass and strength start to decline. Intense exercise helps produce more GH, increasing youthfulness and vitality. It is important to do short, intense bursts of activity at this age, rather than endurance-type training. Whatever cardiovascular activity you choose—running, biking and swimming (and for the truly ambitious, triathlons) are good options—be sure to include some form of

20 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

strength training. Strength training can be done on machines; however, when done correctly, free weights are a better choice as they improve functional and core strength.

Your 40s and 50s

The fifth decade is when your body really starts to show signs of aging. Joint wear and tear is common, as is osteoarthritis. If you have sore or stiff joints, choose low-impact activities like rowing, swimming, biking or the elliptical machine. Because lung function declines with age, it is important to maintain cardiovascular fitness. Strength work continues to be important, as the more muscle you have and maintain, the higher your metabolic rate. (With a higher metabolic rate, you burn more fat at rest.) Choose compound movements (with moderate to heavy weights in hand) such as bench presses, squats and dead lifts (see illustrations at right). TIP: For menopausal women, drops in estrogen levels can trigger mood swings, hot flashes, weight gain, sleep loss and fatigue. Exercise can improve body composition, guard against osteoporosis and heart disease, and diminish many of the secondary symptoms associated with menopause.

Your 60s and 70s Most people can expect to lose about 15 percent of their total strength during their 60s. For this reason, strength training should take priority. Your goal is not to increase strength, but to decrease the decline of it. Use lighter weights (or rubber resistance bands) and aim for 20 to 30 repetitions of each exercise. As for cardio, keep it low-impact. At this age, it’s all about protecting the knees and hips. Falling, due to a lack of balance, is the classic cause of disability in older adults. Protecting and preserving the nervous system is critical during the senior years. Pilates and other core-stability exercises can help stimulate the neural system, improving proprioception (the ability to know where your limbs are in space without having to look)—a key component of balance. Try this: Stand on one leg with your eyes closed. Your muscles may quiver and twitch at first, but as you practice, your proprioception and balance will improve.

25% The amount of lean mass the average person will lose between the ages of 30 and 70.

Your 80s and Beyond

Your exercise routine during this stage in life should focus on balance, flexibility and breathing. Consider tai chi, table tennis or badminton, activities that can be performed with limited mobility while providing a good cardiovascular workout. Specific exercises should include ones that make the activities of daily living easier. If your balance and flexibility are diminished, choose static exercises that require holding the stretch for 20 to 30 seconds. If you can manage more dynamic movements, go for gentle yoga or Pilates.

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Attendance to the speaker-led sessions is FREE OF CHARGE, but pre-registration is required as seating is limited. First 100 women to register receive a FREE event tote bag! Lunch with DR BARRY SEARS, acclaimed New York Times bestselling author of The Zone Diet, is $35. Registration and prepayment are required as seats are limited.

Other Presenters Include: James Carraway, MD Slowing the Aging Process/Preventing Skin Aging Nutrition and Cancer

Linda Kendall, PhD, RN Stress Management, Mental Health and Self Care

Bridgit Kin-Charlton, M.S. Ed., is a certified personal trainer and the founder of Bdefined Innovative Personal Training and Wellness.

Jo Robins, PhD, RN Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Barbara Wiggins, PharmD Vitamin D and Cardiovascular Health

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STRAIGHT TALK Dr. Mehmet Oz, star of The Dr. Oz Show, returns to Hampton Roads, gets personal with The Health Journal

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The Best Lawyers in America ~ 2009 Super Lawyers ~ 2009 President of the Brain Injury Association of Virginia From top: Dr. Mehmet Oz presents the keynote address at the Successful Aging Forum; Cathy and Leroy Williamson; Sister Rita Thomas (also featured on page 42 of this issue), a Sister of Bon Secours, presents Oz with the “Man of the Year Award” on behalf of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign; Dr. Oz presents Shawn Smith, founder of Designed for Life, with the 2010 Senior Organization of the Year award for his company’s role in constructing a greenhouse and garden for residents at Provence Place of Maryview as well as aiding in the reconstruction of the Store House in Norfolk’s East Ocean View community after the local food pantry was destroyed by a storm last November; (left to right) Wendy Johnson, Iwalani White, Denise Cofer.

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hances are you’re familiar with Dr. Mehmet Oz. Maybe you’ve caught episodes of The Dr. Oz Show, or before that, one of his 55 guest appearances on The Oprah Show. Perhaps you’ve read books from the YOU series—four became New York Times bestsellers—or some of his regular columns in O: The Oprah Magazine, Esquire, or his recent cover story in AARP Magazine. What you may not know is that Oz has strong local ties: He’s the co-clinical director of the Bon Secours Heart Institute at Maryview Medical Center in Portsmouth and has visited the area multiple times, most recently on May 14 to host the Bon Secours Successful Aging Forum held at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. It’s the relationship with Bon Secours that made booking “America’s Doctor” possible, notes Rick Jackson, who has served on the Successful Aging Forum Board for the last 10 years. Previous keynote speakers have included celebrities Naomi Judd and Pat Boone, but, in the last year, due in part to Oz’s daily show which airs nationwide, his popularity has skyrocketed— a reason getting him to host the Forum was a “big surprise,” says Jackson. Part of Oz’s appeal, and it’s an approach he takes on his show, is his way of bringing health to life by sharing real yet shocking photos and videos of damaged lungs, clogged arteries and even a chubby Venus de Milo. His theory? “People change their minds on what they

feel, not what they know,” Oz told the audience of approximately 1,000. Cathy and Leroy Williamson of Virginia Beach felt Oz’s keynote address was “outstanding.” “He makes a message so simple,” Cathy explains. “He’s right on target.” Later, during an awards presentation, Oz accepted the “Man of the Year Award” from the American Heart Association’s “Go Next > Red for Read our exclusive Women” interview with Dr. Oz. campaign. A panel discussion followed, in which Oz, along with local physicians Jeffery Carlson, Ryan Seutter, Anne Redding and Richard Bikowski answered audience questions about getting older. The biggest myth about aging, says Oz, is that it’s a natural part of life; in reality, he says, “aging is really a side effect of lifestyle choices.” Wendy Johnson of Yorktown came to the show at her sister Marilyn’s urging; she has had two heart attacks and is taking 14 prescription medications in addition to a daily aspirin. She wanted information on how to decide which were necessary. Iwalani White of Yorktown said: “I’m at a cusp in my life when I could become a percentage,” referring to her personal health struggles. “He didn’t tell me anything new, no; but like he said, you have to feel it to make a difference.”

According to Oz: 5 Essential Lifestyle Adjustments 1. Get blood pressure under control (115/75 is optimal).

4. Find a healthy diet that you LOVE.

2. Eliminate cigarettes and other toxins.

5. Control your stress.

3. Exercise for 30 minutes a day—make it a part of your life.

THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Celebrating

Five Years

one-on-one with Dr. Oz

HJ: We spoke with some people in the audience, and they admitted that you didn’t tell them a lot that they didn’t already know—but when it comes to actually doing it, they fail. What’s the problem? Oz: I really do think we’re the best-educated society ever. We have the information; we have to focus on motivation. And the messages get clouded sometimes. The smartest thing we can do is to agree on the top 10 things we should do in our lives [to improve our health] and make it automatic. How? You make it easy to do the right thing. You don’t put it off until it’s some big task at the end of the day, you make it part of your day. When you don’t realize you’re on ‘the program,’ then you’re doing fine. You can’t overcome your biology, but you can nudge it in the right direction.

“Medicine—for me, that’s a vacation day, as crazy as it sounds. I get to leave all the lights and makeup behind and go practice medicine and be a real doctor for a day, which is very centering for me.”

HJ: How do you balance it all—a wife and four children, a daily TV show, surgeries on Thursdays, live appearances, books and columns….?

“Fame is an interesting phenomenon.” interview by page bishop-freer photography by brian M. freer

ast month, The Health Journal sat down with Dr. Mehmet Oz to inquire about his new daily TV show, his 25-year marriage to wife Lisa, and his favorite aspect of turning 50. Here’s what he shared:

HJ: So, a lot has changed since your last visit to Hampton Roads. Oz: I know. I’m very busy!

HJ: Why should people watch The Dr. Oz Show? Oz: The point of the show is to have a conversation with people about their bodies, and issues of wellness, sexuality, obesity—they all play a role in that. We want to get people to think differently about their responsibility, and that’s fundamentally what health information is all about. I’ve realized on the show that if you get people emotionally connected to the information, they begin to act on it. So we write stories about people. Then folks at home say, ‘I’m like that person. If they’ve got that problem and they overcame it, then I can do the same thing.’ That’s how the human mind works. And so we use metaphors and human stories to connect emotionally, and from there we give them action steps, so they can begin to change their life— whether it’s a 28-day plan for kicking sugar out of your life or trying to deal with infidelity in relationships or trying to find a better doctor. It’s all part of the same goal, which is to make you ‘show up’ for life.

24 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Oz: Lisa, my wife, has been a huge part of all this. We spend a lot of time together choreographing it all, and she picks up a lot of the creative load and figuring out which direction we’re heading in. Medicine—for me, that’s a vacation day, crazy as it sounds. I get to leave all the lights and makeup behind and go practice medicine and be a real doctor for a day, which is very centering for me. Also, it’s not really about time management; it’s about energy management. If you are energetically charged by what you do, then you don’t get tired doing it. A colleague of mine who’s an athlete says the game itself is not the job. Getting to the game is work. Being away from your family when you practice, that’s work. But playing in the game is not a job. And I feel like I’m always in the game. Driving to work is a hassle. Waiting for the props to be fixed, that’s work for me. Dictating an operation, that’s work. But doing the operation is not. HJ: How has fame affected you as a surgeon? For example, is there increased pressure in the OR?

Oz: The operating room is the best because that’s where I came from. The nurses still boss me around and give me a hard time for being late. Fame is an interesting phenomenon. It affects your personal life more than anything else. You can’t go to a restaurant and eat what you normally eat because people will say, ‘Look! He’s eating ribs!’

HJ: Your wife Lisa—she recently wrote a book on relationships. What was your role, and who should read it? Oz: I was the guinea pig. [He laughs.] [The publisher] gave her the freedom to create the book she felt was in her heart to write. I really am convinced she wrote it just for me. Everyone else is welcome to read it. But it was written for me. It’s all the things she wishes she could have taught me. She spent 25 years of marriage—25 years in June—telling me what she felt I needed to do for our relationship. And me, late at night, as I often have after a long day of operating, would just fall asleep. She finally realized, that for me to finally ‘get it,’ she needed to put it [in writing]. But the lessons are there for all of us, such as figuring out how to say things in terms that guys understand. Men don’t always connect the dots—much less see the dots.

HJ: She’s a Reiki master and you’re a cardiothoracic surgeon. How does it work? Oz: She pushes my buttons, which I think you need for a healthy dynamic. She’ll say, ‘We don’t need vaccines.’ I say, ‘Honey, we do need vaccines.’ Or [she says], ‘I became a Reiki master,’ and I say, ‘I can’t even see Reiki.’ So you go back and forth, and you often find the truth is somewhere in the middle….It’s so easy to polarize arguments, make them black or white, but almost everything has a gray element to it. HJ: Our next feature deals with childhood obesity. Tell us about your nonprofit HealthCorps (www.healthcorps.org).

Oz: HealthCorps [founded in 2003] is something I’m very proud of. It’s an organization based on the principle of the Peace Corps. We put college grads in schools around the country. We’re in 10 states now. It’s an example of how we can take a very big [problem], in this case kids who are obese, and make them the army. Because once they’ve gotten past their obesity…they can teach other kids how to get past the problem. So you end up having peers teaching peers, asking questions they’d never ask me. And it works: One randomized trial showed kids who are in the program drank fewer soft drinks, had much better insights about [food choices] and tended to do more fitness work. That was our goal—to change the behaviors of kids in the schools. Over time, you’ll also change obesity rates.

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HJ: What’s the best thing about turning 50?

Oz: The colonoscopy. [We laugh.] No, seriously. I feel a lot calmer. A lot of the nervous energy that’s so common—and appropriate—when you’re young and trying to find your way…. It’s like finally catching the wind perfectly. You’re going in the right direction. All the pain and angst of trying to get your sails up, the discomfort when you’re trying to get going in life…a lot of those mistakes get past you and you’re comfortable just being. HJ: What direction are you sailing in now?

Oz: The show is a big commitment for a lot of people, and not just me—my family, Oprah, Harpo, Sony and the stations that carry it. [My focus is on] making sure it’s the best show it can be for as many years as it makes sense to do it. I tend to think about my life in five-year horizons, because it’s hard to project further than that, I’ve found. At least I’m too jittery to go past five years and plan things. So, I want to be doing the show in five years, and I want to do it better than I’ve done it. I want to continue to improve as a host—I’ve got a lot of improving to do—and explore different ways of getting people to change. Because at the end of the day, the show is about you, the viewer. And we’ve got to get people thinking differently about [their investment in their health]. The number one cause of death in America is bad decisions—suicide, accidents, obesity, cigarettes—we know what to do and we don’t do it.

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HJ: Is there a chance of turning around America’s health, particularly the obesity epidemic?

Oz: It’s already starting: Childhood obesity last year did not increase. [Before that] it had been increasing at a rate higher than adult obesity. I think folks are beginning to realize [the effectiveness of] some very simple steps, and manufacturers are making products to suit them. We’re seeing more and more people who already know they need more vitamin D, know they need to cut out the whites [sugar, flour], know the role of soft drinks [in the obesity epidemic]. You said it at the beginning of the interview—if folks know what I just said, which was a fairly advanced discussion 10 years ago—then we’re in pretty good shape. They’ve already got the basics. HJ: What do you say to someone who knows the information, wants to change, but doesn’t have the strength?

Oz: It’s not just strength; it’s self-esteem. We did our 100th show this year and brought on 100 people who lost 100 pounds. After the lights were turned off, I asked some of them what worked. One person said, ‘It was me realizing that I was worth it.’” I think too many people don’t realize they are worth it. They may not express that verbally, but that’s ultimately what it comes down to. You’re worth it.

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Celebrating

Five Years

Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery: Get the Facts Before You Commit Two leading plastic surgeons answer pressing questions about popular cosmetic procedures.

Written By Jess Madden

n spite of one of the worst recessions in our nation’s history, the demand for plastic surgery in the United States decreased a mere two percent last year. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, almost 10 million cosmetic surgical and nonsurgical procedures were performed in the U.S. in 2009. We’ve all had those days when we dreamed of turning back the hands of time, so The Health Journal sat down with Dr. Isaac Wornom, III, of Richmond Plastic Surgeons and Dr. Johnstuart Guarnieri of Williamsburg’s Aesthetic Center for Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery to find out what you need to know before committing to a cosmetic procedure. HJ: In the years you’ve been performing surgery, what changes have you seen?

Dr. Guarnieri: In my 11 years as a surgeon, I think there’s been a movement towards a more graded approach. Before you get a face lift, we will do a lot more volume fillers like Botox. We’ll do laser skin resurfacing or eyelid surgery instead of a face lift. You don’t need to just jump to a face lift; you can do a graded progression. Dr. Wornom, III: I would say that the general trend I’ve seen is towards minimally invasive techniques, in facial regeneration particularly. When I first started in 1989, injectables were not even available, and that is a huge part of what plastic surgeons are doing now to make people look better. In the area of face lifting, there’s a real trend towards techniques that involve smaller scars and shorter recovery times. Another important change relates to the popularity of weight-loss surgery. We are seeing many patients who have lost weight due to surgery and are looking to have their skin contoured. Another change is liposuction.

26 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Today it’s nothing like it was 20 years ago. There are newer techniques of ultrasound and laser technology available that make it more effective in removing the fat and changing the shape of the body. HJ: Has the recession had much of an impact on demand?

Dr. Guarnieri: What we’ve seen across the nation, really, is that there are fewer of the larger procedures being done—fewer bigticket items. We’re seeing more of the use of fillers and laser treatment and Botox because they are more affordable. We always see that with any recession.

“The other thing patients should be sure to ask surgeons is if they use sutures or staples. Staples tend to leave ‘railroad tracks.’ It’s faster for the surgeon, but it’s not a very aesthetically pleasing outcome. If you want it to look the best, you want sutures.” —Dr. Johnstuart Guarnieri

HJ: What should patients know before undergoing surgery? Dr. Guarnieri: Find a surgeon who is willing to listen to you so you can impart to the surgeon exactly what you are looking for. Don’t just go in and say, “I want a facelift.” Don’t force the surgeon to be a mind reader. You need to tell them what specifically you like and don’t like and how you would like to

look different. There are always multiple options. Know what they are so you can make an informed decision. The other thing patients should be sure to ask surgeons is if they use sutures or staples. Staples tend to leave “railroad tracks.” It’s faster for the surgeon, but it’s not a very aesthetically pleasing outcome. They are a gross form of sutures. I would only use them in emergency situations. If you want it to look the best, you want sutures.

Dr. Wornom, III: Board certification is definitely important. Make sure the surgeries are being performed in a certified surgery center or a hospital because it is surgery. It’s important for patients not to be afraid to ask their doctor about potential complications. Complications are pretty rare, but as with any operation, they can happen. HJ: What would you say is the average recovery time for most surgical procedures?

Dr. Guarnieri: Across the board, the first 48 hours after any surgical procedure are the roughest. That’s when you get the most swelling from any procedure. Some start off rockier than others. Everything has to do with whether or not muscle is being affected. A tummy tuck is the most painful because you are putting stitches in the muscle directly. You are down for a minimum of a week. With breast reduction, we usually encourage five to seven days of down time. For other procedures, most people can go back to work after two or three days.

HJ: What are some common complications? Dr. Guarnieri: I think that what a lot of surgeons don’t do that would help their compli-

For more information: The 2,500-member American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) is the leading organization of plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) who specialize in cosmetic surgery of the face and body. Toll-free referral line: 1-888-ASAPS-11 (272-7711). Web site: www.surgery.org.

Top surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures among U.S. men and women in 2009: Surgical # Procedures

cation rate is have their patients do salt restriction before and after a surgery. When you have salt in your diet, it pulls in water, which causes additional swelling and pain at the surgery site.

The most important factor in reducing the number of serious complications, though, is for there to be a partnership between the patient and the doctor, both for surgery and post-operative care. A patient who feels comfortable with their surgeon is more likely to mention a slight area of redness or some other type of minor complication. Even if you think it’s nothing serious, talk to your surgeon because it could be important. Dr. Wornom, III: Any surgical procedure can be complicated by infection, but fortunately that is extremely rare. You can sometimes have some minor problems with wound healing, but that, too, is rarely an issue. The best thing anyone who is considering plastic surgery could do is to take care of themselves and STOP SMOKING. For certain procedures I will not do surgery on them unless they stop smoking. It decreases blood flow to the skin, and if the skin is not well-vascularized, it won’t heal well. HJ: Is there a less expensive alternative than plastic surgery for certain cosmetic issues?

Dr. Wornom, III: It’s important to know that something like liposuction is not a treatment for a problem like obesity, so if someone is obese, they should lose weight. But there isn’t really a cheaper alternative for something like breast implants. In the non-surgical realm of skin care, there are a lot of things we can do to skin for make it look better, but if you have extra skin or fat, surgery will be your best option for that.

• Women underwent 91 percent of the cosmetic proce-

dures performed in the United States in 2009. The number of procedures (surgical and nonsurgical) performed on women was more than 9 million, a decrease of 3.4 percent from the previous year. Since 1997, surgical procedures have increased 67 percent, while nonsurgical procedures have increased 225 percent.

• Men had 9 percent of the cosmetic procedures performed in America in 2009. The number of procedures (surgical and nonsurgical) performed on men was more than 900,000, an increase of 9 percent over the previous year. Surgical procedures on men decreased 3 percent; nonsurgical procedures increased 11 percent. Since 1997, surgical procedures on men have decreased 18 percent while nonsurgical procedures have increased 290 percent.

Breast augmentation Average Cost: $3,813

311,957

Liposuction Average Cost: $2,868

283,735

Eyelid surgery Average Cost: $2,882

149,943

Rhinoplasty (“Nose Job”) Average Cost: $4,277

138,258

Abdominoplasty (“Tummy Tuck”) Average Cost: $5,263

127,923

Nonsurgical

# Procedures

Botulinum Toxin Type A (Botox, Dysport) Average Cost: $417

2,557,068

Hyaluronic Acid (Hylaform, Restylane, Juvederm—“dermal fillers”) Average Cost: $532

1,313,038

Laser Hair Removal Average Cost: $373

1,280,031

Microdermabrasion Average Cost: $162

621,943

Chemical Peel Average Cost: $870

529,285

Charts courtesy of THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY (ASAPS) THE HEALTH JOURNAL

28 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

skin & beauty

Celebrating

Five Years

UV Truth or Myth? Written By Dr. Keith Schumann

1. Tanning booths boost your vitamin D. Myth. After only 20 minutes of natural sunlight, and specifically UVB rays, our skin’s ability to make, or photosynthesize, vitamin D is maximized. Extended sun exposure, either via natural light or tanning beds, provides no additional benefit, but rather, increases sun damage and risk for skin cancer. A higher dose of vitamin D intake may be necessary for individuals with known risk factors for vitamin D insufficiency, such as elderly individuals, people with limited sun exposure, and dark-skinned individuals, to name a few. Boost vitamin D levels through food and dietary supplements and not through intentional increased exposure to natural and artificial light.

2. I won’t burn my skin if I’m outdoors on a cloudy day. Myth. Clouds do not block the harmful UV rays that cause sunburns. It’s often when we least expect it that we burn our skin the worst. Whether we feel cool due to overlying clouds or a refreshing breeze, or we are high in the mountains where the temperature may be lower (but UV rays more intense), we are often fooled into thinking that if we are not hot, our skin will not burn. It’s not the heat, but rather the cloud-penetrating UV rays, that damage our skin. 3. A sunscreen with an SPF of 30 provides twice the protection of one that has an SPF of 15. Myth. SPF stands for sun protection factor and solely relates to a sunscreen’s ability to protect us from one type of the sun’s rays, UVB. SPF is an excellent guide to sunscreen protection, but soon the labeling on sunscreens will change (in accordance with FDA guidelines) to reflect the total

level of protection, including that against UVA rays. While UVB certainly burns our skin, UVA ages our skin and, more importantly, increases our risk for melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. [For more on melanoma, see Dr. Schumann’s May article at www.thehealthjournals. com]. Further, an SPF of 15 protects us from 93 percent of UVB rays and an SPF of 30 protects us from 97 percent. It’s commonly assumed that an SPF of 30 is twice the protection of SPF 15, but this is not the case.

4. Tanning beds can help you avoid sunburn by providing a “base tan.” Truth—but don’t sign up for the monthly tanning-bed special just yet. A base tan provides the equivalent of a low, single-digit SPF. Do you buy an SPF 4 sunscreen and expect great protection? Of course not. A base tan does not provide much protection and is not healthy. Burn or tan, all sun exposure is unfortunately harmful to the skin. Skin cancer, lowered immunity against infection, and photodamage (such as wrinkles) are some of the major ill effects.

Keith W. Schumann, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist with advanced training in lasers. The founder of Ageless Dermatology & Laser Center, he has practiced in Williamsburg for the last 10 years. He can be reached at info@agelessderm.com.

5. Sunscreens prevent wrinkles. Myth. Comprehensive sun protection prevents wrinkles, but sunscreens alone do not. Many of us negate the positive benefits of sunscreen in a simple manner—we extend our time in the sun, believing that we are fully protected by sunscreen. The net effect of this increased sun exposure time is more damage to our skin, and more wrinkles. Visit Dr. Schumann’s patient education center for further skin care information: www.ylysnetwork. com/7575641200/.

THE HEALTH JOURNAL

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Q. I’ve heard of doctors using electronic spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain. What is it, and how do I know if it’s right for me?

The issue of living with chronic pain has become a hot topic in America. Just turn on the television and view the multitude of commercials for medications and various devices that claim to reduce pain. In fact, chronic pain is such a common complaint that one in 10 Americans report they have had pain lasting for more than one year. And a full 25 percent of Americans say that they have had low back pain lasting for three or more months. Fortunately, our understanding of the complex nature of chronic pain has increased, and medical technology has improved to provide new ways to address chronic pain. One promising treatment for pain control is spinal cord stimulation (SCS), also known as neurostimulation or neuromodulation therapy. Although SCS has been in use since the 1960s, the technology has advanced in recent years to become a very effective means of controlling pain. SCS has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and has been shown in medical research to not only reduce pain, but also to improve functional ability and quality of life. Additionally, SCS provides an alternative for pain relief in patients for whom surgery is not recommended. In fact, for some patients, SCS has been shown to be more effective than repeated surgery.

How It Works

Spinal cord stimulation uses a thin cable, or lead, to deliver low-level electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses interfere with the signaling of pain between the spinal cord and the brain. The lead is placed into the epidural space around the spinal cord and is then attached to a generator, which can be controlled with a hand-held programmer. The generator size varies but is typically palm-sized or smaller. This generator produces an electrical impulse, which the patient experiences as a tingling or tapping sensation and which replaces the feeling of pain. The patient can adjust the impulse with personalized, preset programs, which are focused on the areas where the patient typically experiences pain. The device can be turned on and off, the sensation intensity turned up or down, and the area of coverage adjusted. These are valuable features as pain can be felt at different times

at varying intensities or even in different locations. Spinal cord stimulation is used for treatment of chronic or intractable pain—pain that simpler measures, such as medications or physical therapy, cannot control. Not only is it an effective method of pain control for many patients, but it may also reduce the need for medications. This is an important feature, as pain medications are often limited in their use because of side effects, such as sedation. Another benefit is that SCS is usually performed first as a trial. The lead is placed in the epidural space and connected to an external generator. The length of the trial period varies but is typically five to seven days. This allows the patient to try the device to determine what benefit it provides. After the trial period, the patient can decide if he or she would like to proceed with the device. If so, the stimulator is implanted through minor surgery. SCS is less invasive than many surgical options and can be reversed. Many patients who benefit from SCS have spine or spine-related conditions. These include radiculopathy (also called pinched nerves or sciatica) and failed back surgery syndrome—a term used to describe patients who have had correction of an anatomical problem through surgery but continue to have significant pain. Two types of failed back surgery syndrome that may benefit from SCS are epidural fibrosis and arachnoiditis. Epidural fibrosis refers to the development of scar tissue which can compress the nerves as they exit the spine. Arachnoiditis is inflammation of the tissue covering the nerves. Both can cause severe pain and even weakness. Spinal cord stimulation is also frequently effective for patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD). In this disorder, the body exhibits an exaggerated response to an injury, and the pain response may be perpetuated by the nervous system itself. To best determine if you are a candidate for SCS, consult a physician who is knowledgeable about chronic pain as well as SCS therapy. Like all medical procedures, SCS is not appropriate for everyone; however, it is a very effective pain-control alternative for many patients. SCS has improved the lives of many patients and allowed them to return to the activities that matter to them most.

Dr. Jenny Andrus is a board-certified and fellowship-trained interventional pain management specialist with Orthopaedic and Spine Center in Newport News.

THE HEALTH JOURNAL

iPods

Celebrating

Five Years

Hip or Harmful?

Written by Dr. Barry Strasnick

Barry Strasnick, M.D., FACS chairs Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery at Eastern Virginia Medical School. He currently serves as president of the Coalition for Hearing Education and Research (CHEAR) and chair of the Virginia State Advisory Committee on Newborn Hearing Screening.

32 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

f you are reading this article while listening to your favorite music on your iPod or MP3 player, you may be setting yourself up for permanent hearing loss. While there are a number of medical causes for hearing loss, one of the most recognizable and avoidable causes is prolonged exposure to loud sounds. U.S. government survey data reveal that 12.5 percent of children ages six to 19 (approximately 5.2 million children) have permanent hearing loss caused by prolonged noise exposure. Similarly, 16 million people—20.4 percent of the baby boomer generation (born between 1945 and 1964)—have some degree of hearing loss. A majority of experts agree that prolonged exposure to noise levels greater than 85 decibels is hazardous to your hearing. The greater the noise level, the shorter the time needed to damage your hearing. To illustrate, a normal conversation occurs at about 60 decibels while lawnmowers and shop tools often run at 90 decibels or greater. Rock concerts typically reach 115 decibels while motorcycle engines often tip the scales at 140 decibels. Maximum sound levels of MP3 players and iPods, by comparison, are estimated to be between 100 and 115 decibels. Most people experience noise-induced hearing loss gradually over a 15- to 20-year period. Repeated exposure to loud noise damages the small sensory hair cells of the inner ear. Once these cells are damaged or destroyed, they cannot regenerate and result in a permanent loss of hearing.

In response to concerns about iPod noise levels, Apple released a software update for iPods that allows parents to use a combination lock to set the maximum decibel level for their children.

Estimates suggest that more than 200 million portable personal music devices such as the iPod have been sold worldwide. This prevalence has raised concerns about the risk of hearing loss due to potentially harmful noise levels on these devices. Previous research suggests that eight hours of continuous exposure to noise levels less than 80 decibels poses

little risk to hearing. However, in a recent study, 55 percent of college students questioned indicated that they set their iPod devices to volume levels greater than 85 decibels, which is widely recognized as potentially harmful to our hearing. In addition, most users receive their music via small ear buds or in-the-ear headphones, which can further increase the effective sound level that reaches the inner ear. In 2006, a Louisiana man filed suit against Apple, Inc., maker of the iPod, claiming that iPods were “not sufficiently adorned with adequate warnings regarding the likelihood of hearing loss.” Soon after, health authorities in France demanded strict limits on volume outputs for MP3 players sold in their country, leading Apple to revise its software to set maximum volume output for devices sold in Europe to 100 decibels. Unfortunately, no such limitation exists for devices sold in the U.S. at this time. The recorded volume outputs of our devices are reaching levels as high as 115 decibels. In response to concerns about these noise levels, Apple released a software update for iPods in March of 2006 that allows parents to use a combination lock to set the maximum decibel level for their children. To best reduce the risks of prolonged noise exposure to your hearing health, consider following these simple guidelines: Do not listen to your iPod for more than 90 minutes a day at a volume level greater than 80 percent of capacity. If you set the volume at 60 percent of capacity, you can probably listen safely almost all day. Use ear buds that fit snugly in your ears to remove as much background noise as possible. People often tend to increase the volume of their iPod to overcome interfering background noise. As a rule of thumb, set the volume so that you can still hear sound around you and carry on a conversation.

Take breaks from listening to allow your ears to recover from the constant noise exposure.

By lowering the decibel level and taking a proactive approach to your hearing, you should be able to enjoy music on your iPod or MP3 player and protect your hearing for years to come.

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THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Urinary Incontinence: Embarrassing and Inconvenient, But Treatable Written By Dr. Jennifer Miles-Thomas

re you familiar with every rest stop on I-64? When you go out to dinner, do you request the table closest to the bathroom? Urinary incontinence, or poor bladder control, affects nearly 25 million people each year. There are several different types of incontinence, including stress, urge and overflow.

Stress incontinence is the leakage of small amounts of urine while sneezing, coughing or performing any physical activity. Childbirth and some surgeries are the most common causes of stress incontinence. Urge incontinence is the unexpected, sudden urge to urinate and can be caused by infections that irritate the bladder. Constipation and nervous system disorders (i.e., stroke) as well as certain medications may also cause urge incontinence. Overflow incontinence is the inability to empty the bladder completely, resulting in frequent or constant leaking.

Women over the age of 40 are three times more likely to suffer from urinary incontinence than men of the same age. Childbirth can injure the pelvic floor muscles supporting the bladder, causing the involuntary loss of urine. Men, on the other hand, often develop incontinence as a result of prostatic disease. The removal of the prostate gland or damage to nerves can lead to stress incontinence, while an enlarged prostate gland can cause blockage in the urethra and create overflow incontinence. Men over 50 years of age are at higher risk of developing incontinence than younger men. Risk factors for urinary incontinence for both men and women include obesity, smoking, vascular disease, kidney dis-

34 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

ease and diabetes. If not treated, urinary incontinence can lead to complications such as bladder infections, skin ulcers and an overall decline in quality of life. Treating urinary incontinence can be as simple as making lifestyle changes or taking oral medication. Anticholinergic drugs are prescription medications that calm the overactive bladder, while antibiotics may be prescribed for incontinence caused by an infection. Pelvic floor exercises, bladder training, scheduled toilet trips (timed voiding) and weight-loss can help control the symptoms of incontinence. Severe incontinence, however, may require a more invasive intervention such as surgery. In some cases, urinary incontinence can actually be prevented. Simple lifestyle choices including not smoking, reducing body weight, eating foods high in fiber and maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle can help to prevent symptoms associated with urinary incontinence. If you or someone you know is suffering from the inconvenient and often embarrassing symptoms of urinary incontinence, see a doctor. On average, women live with symptoms unnecessarily for six years before seeking treatmentâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and men, an average of four years. Eighty percent of people who seek treatment for urinary incontinence either see a drastic reduction in symptoms or experience no symptoms at all. Jennifer Miles-Thomas, M.D., a urologist with Riverside Hampton Roads Urology, is the only female urologist on the Peninsula specializing in treating adult incontinence.

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relationships

Celebrating

Five Years

Meet the Parents Written By Dr. Sally Hartsfield

Sally Hartsfield, Ph.D., is a retired clinical psychologist who specialized in working with women and children in her Newport News private practice. She now lives in Hayes, Va.

36 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

eople often ask how they can get along better with their parents. We have no trouble relating to other people who are the same age as Mom and Dad. So what’s the problem? Truth be told, we do not really know our parents as people. We respond to them at times as if we were still six years old and they still had all the power over us. Although we say otherwise, their opinions of us matter deeply, sometimes even more than those of our close friends. Their criticism can hurt us, and their praise can mean everything. But we know little of how they developed the traits and attitudes that are so important to us. What do you know of your father? Do you even know how he met your mother? The more specific the questions you ask, the more likely he is to respond with details (e.g., when did he know Mom was the “one,” and when did he propose?). Your mother can tell you about her first day in school, her first kiss and her first job. You can ask about her relationship with her mother and what she did as a teenager

that helped or hurt her relationship with her parents. When did she start wearing makeup? What did she dream of becoming when she was a child, and what came of those dreams? Given the chance, your parents will reveal a lot about themselves. And you can help by encouraging them to share their memories. Try these suggestions: Start a family tree. Your parents will be more eager to talk to you if you show an interest by taking notes of what they say. Should the conversation veer away from whom your great-grandmother married and why, welcome that diversion. You are looking for anecdotes more than factual information. Family photographs are also helpful as a starting point, even if they are stored in boxes unsorted by date or names. Talk one-on-one. Talking to Mom and Dad separately is a great way to learn about them. If you can’t visit them, try snail mail. Yes, I know. But older generations really appreciate written

letters and take them seriously. Telephone conversations are great for saying “hello,” but we can find ourselves distracted by something going on around us instead of pursuing a question we really want to know about. Face time lets you see facial expressions and body language, two keys to understanding a person’s story.

Look to your own experiences. You can select the better questions to ask your parents by reviewing your own life. What was the best (or worst) thing that happened to you in high school? Where did you get your ideas of what is ethical, and how did your politics get shaped? If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be? After a few conversations, you might find that the old folks had some very interesting experiences growing up. And their likes and dislikes, their feelings at different life stages, are very likely to mirror yours in a way you never would have expected. Who knew that Mom and Dad could have gotten so smart after all these years?

June Calendar 8

8 9

2010

Skin Cancer Checks

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer but also the most curable. From 1 to 4 p.m. every Tuesday, the Skin Clinic at Thomas Johns Cancer Hospital (part of CJW Medical Center, 1401 Johnston Willis Dr., Midlothian) offers skin cancer screenings for $30. Call (804) 320-3627 to make an appointment.

Hear Dr. James Bennett, Jr., director of the VCU Parkinson’s Disease Research and Treatment Center, talk about the link between energy levels in the brain and age-related brain diseases during a special presentation held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden at the Education and Library Complex, 1800 Lakeside Avenue. For more information and to register, call Katherine Poarch at (804) 828-0123.

Preparing Your Pet for Baby

How will your dog react to a new baby in your home? Learn how to prepare your four-legged family member for the “big change,” from 7 to 9 p.m. in the fourth-floor Atrium Auditorium at CJW Medical Center (JohnstonWillis Hospital, 1401 Johnston Willis Dr.). Call instructor Jessica Powell at (804) 317-0670 for more details.

10 th 12 th

17 19 22

“The Aging Brain: A Tipping Point?”

The Latest in Smoking Cessation

The Community Health Education Center at VCU Medical Center/MCV Campus presents “New and Exciting Ways to Quit Tobacco: Meds and More that Provide Hope and Help,” starting at noon in the Gateway Building. Reservations are required; call Dana Ladd at (804) 828-2432.

Celebrating Survivors

Anyone who’s been touched by a cancer diagnosis is invited to attend a Cancer Survivors’ Day celebration, to be held from noon to 2 p.m. at Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center (8260 Atlee Rd., Mechanicsville). This family-friendly event will feature food, prizes, music, massage and more.

Lunch & Learn

As part of its ongoing “Lunch & Learn” series, Bon Secours Heart & Vascular Institute presents “DASH to a Healthier You,” a free nutrition lecture led by registered dietician Whitney Voorhees and focused on reducing high blood pressure by limiting salt intake. The group will meet from 12:05 to 12:50 p.m. at the Bon Secours Heart Institute at Reynolds Crossing (7001 Forest Ave., in the Education Center). Seating is limited. Call (804) 359-9355 to register.

Women’s Health & Wellness Symposium

American Critical Care Services and Wellness for Life presents Dr. Barry Sears, founder of The Zone Diet, and author of numerous books, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hotel Sierra in Short Pump Town Center. Attendance is free but preregistration is required due to limited seating. Register online at www.womenshealthsymposium.com or call (804) 320-1113.

Free Yoga Class

Join Lois Broocker, RYT, at 11:30 a.m. for a free one-hour yoga class at the Hawthorne Cancer Resource Center at CJW Medical Center (1401 Johnston Willis Dr., Midlothian). Call (804) 320-3627 to register. THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Support Groups Support Groups

When life presents a health challenge,

SUPPORT

makes all the difference.

38 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Support Groups Support Groups

ABUSE Domestic/Sexual Violence YWCA Woman’s Advocacy Program 6 North 5th St. Tues., 11:30 a.m. (800) 838-8238 YWCA Domestic & Sexual Violence Resource Center 10111 Krause Rd. Mon., 6:30 p.m. (804) 706-1272

ADDICTION & RECOVERY Gambling Gamblers Anonymous Meetings held 6 days per week. (804) 245-9831 www.gamblersanonymous. org/mtgdirVA Sex Addiction Sexaholics Anonymous Call or e-mail for dates/times/locations. (804) 639-7699 or sa_richmond@comcast.net Smoking Cessation St. Mary’s Hospital Call for meeting dates/ times. (804) 441-4557 Substance Abuse/Treatment Al-Anon/Alateen Meetings held daily. Visit www.va-al-anon.org Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings held daily. Visit www.aarichmond.org/ meetings Narcotics Anonymous Meetings held daily. Visit www.na.org CW Medical Center— Johnston-Willis Campus Call for dates/times. (804) 330-2323 Nicotine Anonymous St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Thurs., 5:30 p.m. Visit info@nicotineanonymous.org

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE Bon Air Methodist Church 1645 Buford Rd., Rm. 202 3rd Tues., 2 p.m. (804) 320-3890 Brookland United

Methodist Church 2501 Staples Mill Rd. 3rd Friday, 10 a.m. (804) 320-3890 The Hermitage 1600 Westwood Ave. 3rd Tues., 7 p.m. (804) 828-3553 New Life United Methodist Church 900 Old Hundred Rd. 2nd Wed., 10 a.m. (804) 310-7991 Lucy Corr Village 6800 Lucy Corr Ct. 3rd Thurs., 7 p.m. (804) 748-5585 Adult Children Bon Air Methodist Church 1645 Buford Rd., Rm. 207 2nd Tues., 7 p.m. (804) 320-3890

AUTISM Autism Society of Virginia Riverview United Methodist Church 2nd Thursday of each month Call for meeting times. (804) 257-0192 Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center 3600 W. Broad St. Call for meeting information. (804) 819-1999 www.peatc.org Parent to Parent Call for information. (804) 282-0352 (Dana Yarbrough) Asberger’s (Family Support) Autism Society of America St. Joseph’s Villa Call for information. (804) 553-3200 www.asacv.org

ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER Bon Air Presbyterian Church 3rd Tues., 7:30 p.m. (804) 385-3139 www.CHADD.org

BEREAVEMENT/GRIEF Compassionate Friends St. Mathias Episcopal Church 11300 W. Huguenot Rd. Last Tues., 7:15 p.m. (804) 254-0588

Richmond Surgical Group, Tuckahoe Medical Center 8921 Three Chopt Rd. 3rd Wed., 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. (804) 285-9416

Compassionate Friends Beulah United Methodist Church 6930 Hopkins Rd. 2nd Mon., 7:15 p.m. (804) 254-0588

Caregivers Group Forrest Patient Resource Library, Rm. 346 1602 Skipwith Rd. Thurs., 11:30 a.m. (804) 200-7033

DIABETES Martin’s Supermarket 11361 Midlothian Turnpike 3rd Thurs., 4 p.m. (804) 340-3005 or (800) 272-9683 Chester Christian Church 4330 Curtis St. 2nd Wed., 7 p.m. (804) 828-8076

BREASTFEEDING La Leche League St. Michael’s Episcopal Church 8706 Quaker Lane 3rd Wed., 10 a.m. (804) 994-2837 (804) 739-2029 Bon Secours Lactation Center 4121 Cox Rd., Ste. 115 1st & 3rd Tues., 10 a.m. 2nd & 4th Wed., 6 p.m. (804) 545-1665 VCU Medical Center Nelson Clinic, 5th Floor Bi-monthly; 3:30 p.m. Call for exact dates. (804) 282-4409 VCU Women’s Health Center 9000 Stony Point Pkwy. Bi-monthly, 3:30 p.m. Call for exact dates. (804) 560-8950

CANCER St. Mary’s Medical Office Building 5801 Bremo Rd., South; Ste. 105 Tues., 6 p.m. Call to register. (804) 281-8282 Breast Cancer The Hawthorn Center at CJW Medical Center 1459 Johnston Willis Dr. Wed., 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. (804) 330-2136 Henrico Doctors’ Hospital Forrest Patient Resource Library, Rm. 346 1602 Skipwith Rd. 4th Tues., 6 p.m. (804) 200-7033

If you’d like to add a support group to this FREE list, call (757) 645-4475

or e-mail your information to info@thehealthjournals.com.

St. Francis Medical Center 1st & 3rd Tues., 6 p.m. (804) 594-3130 St. Mary’s Hospital 2nd Tues., 7 p.m. (804) 828-9244 Leukemia/Lymphoma Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Henrico Doctors’ Hospital-Forest Campus, Williamsburg Rm. B 2nd Friday, 12:30 p.m. (804) 627-0400 Women’s Group St. Mary’s Medical Office Building, South 5875 Bremo Rd., Ste. 108 2nd & 4th Tues., 3 p.m. Call to register. (804) 281-8314

fibromyalgia Richmond Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Association For information, call (804) 862-4244

HEART DISEASE “Mended Hearts” Henrico Doctors’ Hospital Forest Avenue Campus Even months, 1st Tues., 7:30 p.m. (804) 741-3893 “Mended Hearts” Levinson Heart Hospital 7101 Jahnke Rd. Odd months, 1st Tues., 7:30 p.m. (804) 741-3893

THE HEALTH JOURNAL

Health Directory richmond

The Health Directory is free to hospitals,

clinics and local health-related non-profit organizations.

Want to advertise your business?

Call (757) 645-4475 for rates.

40 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

To change or add a listing, e-mail information to info@thehealthjournals.com.

Health Directory richmond

Assisted Living & Adult Day Care Riverside PACE Richmond (804) 549-5500 Audiologists Advanced Hearing Centers 10120 W. Broad St., Ste. M Glen Allen 1-888-559-HEAR Dentistry & Oral Health Holbert Orthodontics 2821 N. Parham Rd., Ste. 201 Richmond (804) 270-7824 Dermatology Ageless dermatology and laser center 5309 Discovery Park Blvd. Williamsburg (757) 564-1200 Health Care Attorneys The Brain Injury Law Center P.O. Box 1437 Hampton (757) 840-3431

Health South— Rehabilitation Hospital of Virginia 5700 Fitzhugh Ave. Richmond (804) 288-5700 Henrico Doctors’ Hospital 1602 Skipwith Rd. Richmond (804) 289-4500 John Randolph Medical Center 411 W. Randolph Rd. Hopewell (804) 541-1600 Kindred Hospital 2220 Edward Holland Dr. Richmond (804) 678-7000 McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center 1201 Broad Rock Blvd. Richmond (804) 675-5000

Goochland Free Clinic and Family Services 3001 River Road West Goochland (804) 556-6260 Non-Profit Organizations Alzheimer’s Association— Greater Richmond Chapter 4600 Cox Rd., Ste. 130 Glen Allen (804) 967-2575 American Cancer Society 4240 Park Place Court Glen Allen (804) 527-3700 American Lung Association of Virginia 9221 Forest Hill Ave. Richmond (804) 267-1900, ext. 2007

SCAN (Stop Child Abuse Now) of Greater Richmond 1506 Staples Mill Rd. Richmond (804) 257-7226 Guiding Eyes for the Blind, Inc. Richmond (804) 285-7931 Hilliard House 3900 Nine Mile Rd. Richmond (804) 236-5800, ext. 28 IVNA (Instructive Visiting Nurse Association) 5008 Monument Ave. Richmond (804) 355-7100 James House 1016 Maplewood Ave. Hopewell (804) 458-2704, (804) 732-1711 Make-A-Wish Foundation 2810 N. Parham Rd., Ste. 302 Richmond (804) 217-9474

Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation 5004 Monument Ave., Ste. 102 Richmond (804) 285-1200 Virginia Voice P.O. Box 15546 Richmond (804) 266-2477 Opthalmology Retina and Glaucoma Associates 113 Bulifants Blvd., Ste. A Williamsburg (757) 220-3375 Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine West End Orthopaedic Clinic 5899 Bremo Rd., Ste. 100 Richmond (804) 288-8512 Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Tidewater Physical Therapy, Inc. 6049 Harbour Park Drive Midlothian (804) 639-2359

Parham Doctors’ Hospital 7700 E Parham Rd. Richmond (804) 747-5600

American Red Cross 420 E. Cary St. Richmond (804) 780-2250

Retreat Doctors’ Hospital 2621 Gove Ave. Richmond (804) 254-1700

Arc of Greater Richmond 1901 Westwood Ave. Richmond (804) 358-1874

March of Dimes— Virginia Chapter 10128 W. Broad St. Glen Allen (804) 968-4120

Southside Regional Medical Center 200 Medical Park Blvd. Petersburg (804) 765-5000

ARC of hanover P.O. Box 91 Ashland (804) 798-2400

Meals on Wheels 1600 Willow Lawn Dr. Richmond (804) 673-5035

Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center/ St. Mary’s Hospital 5801 Bremo Rd. Richmond (804) 285-2011

Stony Point Surgery Center 8700 Stony Point Pkwy. Richmond (804) 775-4500

Arthritis Foundation, Virginia Chapter 3805 Cutshaw Ave., Ste. 200 Richmond (804) 359-1700, ext. 311

Medical Society of Virginia Foundation 2924 Emerywood Pkwy., Ste. 300 Richmond (804) 353-2721

Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center 13710 St. Francis Blvd. Richmond (804) 594-7300

VCU Health System— Children’s Pavilion 1001 E. Marshall St. Richmond (804) 628-5432

Central Virginia Food Bank 1415 Rhoadmiller St. Richmond (804) 521-327

Pathways 1200 W. Washington St. Petersburg (804) 862-1104, ext. 330

7493 Right Flank Rd., Ste. 410  Mechanicsville (804) 569-7091

Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center 8260 Atlee Rd. Mechanicsville (804) 764-6000

VCU Health System— Hayes E. Willis Health Center 4730 N. Southside Plaza Richmond (804) 628-5432

Prevent Child Abuse, Virginia 4901 Fitzhugh Ave. Richmond (804) 359-6166

3510 Anderson Hwy., Ste. 2 Powhatan (804) 598-2100

Hospitals & Medical Centers Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center/ Richmond Community Hospital 1500 N 28th St. Richmond (804) 225-1700

Children’s Hospital 2924 Brook Rd. Richmond (804) 228-5818 C J W Medical Center— Chippenham Campus 7101 Jahnke Rd. Richmond (804) 320-3911 C J W Medical Center— Johnston-Willis Campus 1401 Johnston Willis Dr. Richmond (804) 330-2000

VCU Medical Center 1250 E. Marshall St. Richmond (804) 828-9000 VCU Medical Center at Stony Point 9000 Stony Point Pkwy. Richmond (804) 628-5432 Free Clinics Fan Free Clinic 1010 N. Thompson St. Richmond (804) 358-6343, ext. 101

Child Savers 200 N. 22nd St. Richmond (804) 644-9590, ext. 3007 CrossOver Ministry 108 Cowardin Ave. Richmond (804) 233-5016, ext. 117 Easter Seals Virginia 8003 Franklin Farms Dr., Ste. 100 Richmond (804) 287-1007 ElderHomes 88 Carnation St. Richmond (804) 233-2827, ext. 237

Resources for Independent Living 4009 Fitzhugh Ave., Ste. 100 Richmond (804) 353-6503 or (804) 249-9470, ext. 15 Shepherd’s Center of Richmond 4900 Augusta Ave., Ste. 104 Richmond (804) 355-7282

300B Temple Lake Drive, Ste. 1  Colonial Heights (804) 524-9036 10128 W. Broad Street, Forum Building 3, Suite K   Glen Allen (804) 217-9210 10400 Ironbridge Road  Chester (804) 796-1518 2040 John Rolfe Parkway  Richmond (804) 754-0916 10640 Charter Hill Ct., Ste. 102  Ashland (804) 550-5730

227 Wadsworth Drive  Richmond (804) 323-7874

Urology SENTARA ADVANCED UROLOGY CENTER 4000 Coliseum Drive, Suite 300, Hampton (757) 736-8500 Virginia Urology Surgery Center at Stony Point 9105 Stony Point Drive Richmond (804) 330-9105

Special Olympics Virginia 3212 Skipwith Rd., Ste. 100 Richmond (804) 346-5544

THE HEALTH JOURNAL

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Sister Rita Thomas Interview by Sharon Miller Cindrich Photo By Christie Edwards

alm, soft-spoken and thoughtful, Sister Rita Thomas has an unassuming and humble nature that seems ironic for someone who has helped to change the health care landscape in Virginia. Despite a powerhouse career, several major awards and a series of executive positions, Sister Thomas takes very little credit for all she’s done. “It’s not what I do, it’s what God does through me,” she says. “You never know what good you’re doing sometimes. You just go about your work and God takes over. I thank God for what I’ve been able to do.” Her service in health care began when she felt a call to serve in Baltimore with the Sisters of Bon Secours, a health care community that originated in France in 1824 with a mission “to provide healing and compassion and liberation for the sick,” according to Sister Thomas. Over the past 65 years, since becoming a registered nurse, she has worked her way through the ranks of health care from clinical to administrative roles. She was instrumental in the 1966 opening of St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, serving as director of nursing, and was named the hospital’s

42 THE HEALTH JOURNAL

chief executive officer the following year, becoming the first female CEO to lead a Richmond hospital. Sister Thomas’ experience and leadership were pivotal in helping to lay the foundation for the Bon Secours Health System, which now operates 18 hospitals in seven states, and in developing Portsmouth’s Maryview Hospital into a regional health care center. The Sisters of Bon Secours were initiators of the Bon Secours Health System, Sister Thomas says, and the system carries out the mission and values of the Sisters. “My work in health care has not been a business for me,” explains Sister Thomas. “I didn’t get into health care as a career. It’s a ministry. My career has developed on its own, almost in spite of me.” This month, Sister Thomas will travel to Denver to receive the national Catholic Health Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award. She will be honored for strengthening the ministries of the Sisters of Bon Secours and of Bon Secours Health System. The award will also recognize her leadership in health care, her commitment to human dignity, her defense of the poor and vulnerable,

and her actions on behalf of the common good, justice and stewardship. Sister Thomas adds that while she is happy about the award, it is an honor she accepts on behalf of her calling, not her individual accolades. “This lifetime achievement award is not about me,” she says. “It’s about the ministry.” The Health Journal caught up with Sister Thomas before the awards banquet to talk about her travels, her latest read and where she finds inspiration. Following are excerpts from our interview.

I value honesty in others—being true to yourself and what you are, whatever that is. And courage—being able to speak the truth. I think being true to yourself sometimes challenges others. I think it’s just basic to who we are and who we are called to be. Compassion is another quality I value. And a desire to do the right thing, regardless.

I am inspired by our whole staff and my co-workers. They are so good and so dedicated—they work so hard. They are an inspiration every day. They strive to carry out our mission and our values and make it a part of themselves. It’s overwhelming to me because everyone has so many other things to do and yet they give themselves so wholeheartedly to the work of caring for the sick. That is very humbling. Getting consensus is always a

challenge. You can function on your own, but working together as a team and getting input from everyone to come to decisions is a great challenge.

It’s something that can be done, but you must be willing to be patient and work through issues. And I’m not a very patient person—I like to move on and get things done. But sometimes you have to be patient.

One of my most memorable experiences occurred when I was

an obstetrics nurse, and a young couple did not want to take their baby home after delivery because the family didn’t know she was pregnant. I worked with them, and they left with the baby. I stayed in touch with them for quite a few years. It’s something that I’ve never forgotten and I can’t imagine what would have happened to the baby if they’d left her. This story has always touched me, and I’ll never forget it.

My favorite trip, from a ministry

standpoint, was a mission in Peru. From a personal standpoint, I love Paris. I could go back to France anytime. And I loved being in Israel and being in the Holy Land.

I read a lot of spirituality books. I’m

reading a book about Saint Theresa— Story of Soul: The Autobiography of Theresa of Lisieux. St. Theresa was quite a woman. She did a lot of traveling. Although she was a cloistered nun, she got a lot of things done.

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