IGH MV 161 July 2019 by In Good Health: MV's Healthcare Newspaper

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Carpal tunnel Constant repetitive motion leads to disabling condition Page 7

Under pressure Stop hypertension in its tracks by taking natural path

JULY 2019 • ISSUE 161

Parents Beware! 100 Deadliest Days: Distracted driving causes majority of teen crashes Page 3

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Women’s Health Special Edition

Meet Your Doctor

Misery of Miscarriage The ‘new normal’ Making and sticking to healthy lifestyle decisions well worth the effort

Daniel G. Herbowy

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Mammo Van Coming to Your Neighborhood

Italian sausage

Awareness grows regarding devastating loss See story, Page 5

Listen up!

Can this sizzling grill sensation be part of a healthy diet?

Be wary of threats to auditory health

See SmartBites, Page 12

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Podiatrist sets up shop at Community Memorial Hospital in Hamilton Page 4

Breast implants

Are they right for you? Page 6

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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BREAST HEALTH CARDIAC CARE WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY UROLOGY PELVIC PHYSICAL REHAB GYN GYN ONCOLOGY

Women’s services at Crouse. As individual as you are.

o two women are alike. At Crouse, we believe you want — and need — healthcare that puts a continual focus

on what matters most — you. Our hospital was founded by women — and more than a century later, services for infants and women of all ages remain at the heart of Crouse Health.

Partner with women’s wellness providers who discover your individual needs by listening more closely and caring more deeply — and treating you with the respect and dignity you deserve.

crouse.org/women

LOW & HIGH-RISK OB REGIONAL NICU LACTATION CONSULTANTS PERINATAL ANXIETY & MOOD DISORDER SPIRIT OF WOMEN Page 2

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2019

100 deadliest days Summer break: Steer your teen out of harm’s way by establishing driving rules By Barbara Pierce

e’re in the middle of the 100 deadliest days — the summer days between Memorial Day and Labor Day. These are the summer days when more teens will be cruising around with their friends. Also, these are the summer days when more teens will be killed or injured in car crashes. Teens have the highest crash rate of any age group. Teen deaths will be much higher than other months of the year. Distracted driving causes 60% of teen crashes, according to the Welch American Automobile Association. Distracted driving crashes are one of the deadliest crimes in the United States. The top teen distraction for teens is other kids in the car, even more of a distraction than texting or talking on a cell phone. Passengers are the most important risk for teen drivers. Consider restricting the number of passengers until your teen or new driver gains experience behind the wheel. “We’ve done a lot of research on teens and distracted driving,” said Ed Welsh, AAA Northeast regional general manager. “This is a big deal. It’s a huge problem.” AAA research found at least 50% of teens admitted to reading a text while driving within the past 30 days. Welsh said it is important for parents to prepare their inexperienced teen drivers so they will be safer drivers. “Parents are the front line of defense for keeping our roads safer this summer,” said Jennifer Ryan, AAA director of state relations, online.

What can parents do?

When your teen gets his driver’s license, he is grown-up; he’s an adult. Make a parent-driver agreement, Welsh advised. “It will set the family rules for the teen driver. The parents say: ‘We agree that we will provide a car for you, and you will agree to follow these rules,’” Welsh said.

Oneida, Herkimer in good

“Have an adult conversation with your teen,” Welsh added. “It’s not you just nagging at him, but an adult-to-adult conversation. Say to him: ‘Here are the rules. If you want to be treated like an adult, you’ll have to act like one. Adults keep their word when they make agreements.’” “Kids do respond to this,” Welsh added. The website TeenDriving.AAA. com has a variety of tools for parents and teens and serves as a great resource, says Welsh. Also, parents are encouraged to keep kids off the road between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., which officials say is the deadliest time for young drivers.

my purse and my car just went right into another a car! But luckily that didn’t hurt either car.” I wanted to shout at her: “No! It’s not your car’s fault! You’re just an idiot, not paying attention when you’re driving!” Yes, this was really the conversation I had with my sister-in-law last night. You can’t make this stuff up.

Focus just on driving

When we don’t pay full attention to our driving, we are idiots. Be responsible while driving. You’ve got one job: driving. That means setting aside everything else: no calls, no texts, no food, no fiddling with the radio or navigation system, or doing anything that distracts from driving. Electronic devices are addictive. Be honest with yourself; if you can’t

resist the “ding” of a text alert, shut off your phone. Put it in the glove compartment until your drive is done. The same goes for cigarettes. Put them out of sight while you’re driving. If you’re riding with someone who is texting or otherwise distracted, speak up and tell them to stop and focus on the road. Plan your route before you go. Program your navigation system before you leave home. Avoiding reaching. Resist the urge to reach for items that fall, which results in taking your eyes off the road to search for that item and potentially causing an accident. “Pay full attention to driving when you’re driving,” summed up Coromato. “Don’t let yourself get distracted.”

It’s not just teens

It is not just inexperienced teen drivers who have accidents caused by distracted driving. “Distracted driving is definitely a serious issue,” said Lieutenant Bryan Coromato of the Utica Police Department. “It creates accidents that are preventable; accidents that can be avoided.” As adults, we do know better. But here’s a conversation I just had with my sister-in-law: “I was just driving along, eating my French fries and drinking a Coke. All of sudden, there was a car right there in front of me! I couldn’t help hitting it! I didn’t even see it,” Elsy said when I asked her how she was. I mentally rolled my eyes. “My car’s pretty smashed up; the car I hit was huge! I think something must be wrong with my car because it drove right into that other one,” she exclaimed. More eye rolling on my part. “Oh, my word! I can’t believe this!” I thought. “I think something’s wrong with my car because the same thing happened a couple of weeks ago,” she said. “I was trying to find a paper in

and

Health MV’s Healthcare Newspaper

“Distracted driving is definitely a serious issue. It creates accidents that are preventable; accidents that can be avoided.”

Madison

counties

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Advanced clinical rehab, close to home. At Little Falls Hospital, our Swing Bed program provides advanced short-stay rehabilitation. Get back on your feet with a medical team who knows you well – and have the peace of mind you’re in good hands with access to advanced diagnostic services and 24/7 care.

Learn more by calling 315-823-5268 or visiting Bassett.org/Swing-Bed.

No material may be reproduced in whole or in part from this publication without the express written permission of the publisher. The information in this publication is intended to complement — not to take the place of — the recommendations of your health provider.

July 2019 •

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Letter to the editor

Meet

Your Doctor

By Barbara Pierce

WIC offers electronic accessibility

ear Editor, There is an exciting new development in the New York State Women, Infants and Children program called eWIC. With eWIC, benefits are now provided electronically, making shopping with WIC easier and more convenient. Anyone who has shopped with WIC paper checks will appreciate the convenience of eWIC. WIC benefits are loaded onto the eWIC card at the WIC clinic appointment. The eWIC card is used just like a debit card at the grocery store, letting participants buy food when it works best for them rather than all at once. Another benefit of eWIC is a new app called WIC2Go that lets participants check their WIC benefit balance right from their phone. This app also allows participants to scan foods to see if they are WIC-approved, look up WIC-approved stores and local WIC clinics, and see their next WIC appointment. WIC may be able to help those who are pregnant, a new mom or those who have children under age 5, or are fathers, grandparents or caregivers of children under age 5. WIC provides nutritious food, breastfeeding support, nutrition education, and referrals to other services. In our community, there are many families who are eligible for WIC but not participating. Applying is easy and so is using the eWIC card. To learn more about WIC eligibility, contact the local WIC help specialist or visit WICHelpNY.org. WIC help specialists provide one-on-one services to help connect eligible pregnant women and families with young children to WIC. These services are free and confidential. Nicole Nardozza WIC Help Specialist Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency 315-624-9930, ext. 2390 (Serving Oneida and Onondaga counties)

Dr. Daniel G. Herbowy Daniel G. Herbowy recently opened his practice of podiatric medicine and foot surgery in the specialty offices at Community Memorial Hospital, 150 Broad St., Hamilton. Herbowy has more than 40 years’ experience in the field of podiatry, in both private practice and hospital settings. He specializes in foot and ankle surgery, diabetic shoes, braces, orthotics, wound care, and foot deformities.

Q.: If I have foot pain or problems, why is it important to see a podiatrist rather than my primary physician? A.: It’s like when you get a problem with your teeth; you don’t go to your primary physician for a dental problem. You know he or she doesn’t have the skills to deal with it. It’s similar for foot pain or problems. Your primary care physician is not qualified to deal with foot problems. They don’t have the specialized knowledge about feet that a podiatrist does. Q.: Do many of us tend to ignore foot pain as part of getting older? A.: People do tend to ignore foot pain until it becomes debilitating. Foot problems can seriously impact your health and well-being. I urge people not to accept foot pain as part of aging, because there may be an underlying cause of the pain that can be treated. Q.: We are impressed with the dedication you demonstrate to your profession. A.: I like this profession; it is very rewarding. Podiatry is a different type of practice than other medical professions in that patients initially see me when they are in pain and, in the majority of cases, leave the office feeling better. As a medical practitioner, that is very gratifying. What motivates me in my practice is helping others feel better. Q.: You specialize in shoes for patients with diabetes. Why is this important? A.: People with diabetes have an increased risk of foot problems. Wearing specially designed shoes can reduce your risk and promote healthy circulation in your feet. Medicare and most insurances will cover the cost of specialized shoes if you are diabetic and have a qualifying foot condition. They have

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Wearing diabetic shoes can prevent you from needing an amputation. Most important are the inserts, custom made to head off any potential problems. The shoes and inserts work together as a preventive system to help avoid foot complications. I also specialize in braces if needed. There are clear fiberglass braces, very inconspicuous, that keep the foot in the correct position. The majority of diabetic shoes I dispense look like any shoes off the shelf. They look like the shoes everyone wears.

Q.: With your many years of experience, we are fortunate to have you in the Hamilton area. As a doctor of podiatric medicine, what training did you have to become a podiatrist? A.: I studied this medical specialty for seven years. After earning my undergraduate degree, I studied for four years in the college of podiatry, then completed three years of residency in a hospital. To do surgery and podiatric medicine, this extensive training is necessary.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2019

determined it is much less expensive to provide correct shoes than pay for the cost of the foot problems that can result if you don’t wear specialized shoes. If you are diabetic, this is a great opportunity to get shoes custom-made to fit your feet and your particular problem, ensuring that you have comfortable shoes that do not cause damage or pain to your feet. The shoes with their inserts prevent infection, keep ulcers from forming, and prevent foot strain and calluses.

Q.: Should a person with diabetes be under the care of a podiatrist? A.: As people with diabetes have an increased risk of foot problems, make sure your feet get looked at. If you have calluses or ulcerations, see a podiatrist every six months. Many diabetics have neuropathy and don’t realize when they’re having foot problems. Q.: We understand you will do advanced wound care in Rome. What does this involve? A.: A wound care center treats wounds that don’t heal. I’ll be working as a member of the medical team, with a wound care specialist, a vascular specialist, and an infectious disease specialist. I’m honored to work shoulder-to-shoulder with these professionals.

Lifelines Birth year: 1950 Birthplace: Utica (at the old St. Luke’s) Current residence: New Hartford Education: Undergraduate degree, Syracuse University; doctorate in podiatric medicine, Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine (now Temple University), Philadelphia, Pa.; residency, Lindell Hospital, St. Louis, Mo. Personal: Married with two adult children. Hobbies: Traveling, fishing

Women’s Health Mothers’ worst nightmare Miscarriage can be traumatizing to mom, family By Barbara Pierce

ew experiences are as isolating as losing a much-wanted pregnancy. “When we choose to become parents, we take a big risk with our hearts. Never do we love so intensely — and this is scary, but so worth it.” This is what Hilaria Baldwin — wife of Alex Baldwin — recently posted on social media (as quoted in USA Today). “This time, when I opened my heart up to another baby, he or she didn’t stay very long. But I love this little soul deeply and wholly,” she continued. “I’m feeling fragile and I need support. I’m hoping, that by sharing this, I can raise awareness about this sensitive topic.” A few years ago, Mark Zuckerberg wrote on Facebook: “We’ve been trying to have a child and have had three miscarriages along the way.” “You feel so hopeful when you learn you’re going to have a child. You start imagining who they’ll become and dreaming of hopes for their future. You start making plans, and then they’re gone. It’s a lonely experience,” the Facebook chief said. “Miscarriage is lonely and a great loss,” said Michelle Firlit, community health worker supervisor for The Neighborhood Center in Utica and its community health worker program, which works to improve birth outcomes among women with disparities. Community health worker services include free home visits for women in their childbearing years, explained Firlit. “We work with women before they have a baby, during pregnancy and after pregnancy. We help and support women and their families to get needed health care,” she said. The Mohawk Valley Perinatal Network recently merged with The Neighborhood Center. “We provide support to women who have had miscarriages,” Firlit said. “We listen to her feelings, help

with further counseling, and help her feel positive about the future. We get her through it.” According to the March of Dimes, as many as 50% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. This high number is because most miscarriages happen in the first months of pregnancy, before a woman misses a period or knows she is pregnant. About 15% to 25% of recognized pregnancies will end in a miscarriage. Usually a miscarriage cannot be prevented and occurs because the pregnancy is not normal. Most miscarriages happen when the unborn baby has fatal genetic problems. Usually, these problems are unrelated to the mother. Other causes of miscarriage include infection, medical conditions in the mother, such as diabetes or thyroid disease, hormone problems, immune system responses or uterine

abnormalities. A woman has a higher risk of miscarriage if she is over age 35, has certain diseases, or has had three or more miscarriages. Having a miscarriage does not mean you have a fertility problem. The good news for couples that have experienced miscarriage is that a miscarriage does not lower the chances of successful pregnancy in the future. Even those with recurrent miscarriages are most likely going to have healthy children. After three miscarriages, Zuckerberg and his wife now have two healthy little girls. Symptoms of a miscarriage include bleeding which progresses from light to heavy, severe cramps and stomach pain, fever, weakness, and back pain. If you experience these symptoms, contact your health care provider right away. Discuss the timing of your next

“Being open just allowed me relief a little bit. Secrets are only scary when they’re secrets. Once you let the secret out, it’s not so scary anymore.”

pregnancy with your health care provider. Some recommend waiting from one menstrual cycle to three months before trying to conceive again. If you’ve had two miscarriages in a row, you should stop trying to conceive, use birth control, and ask for diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the miscarriages. Taking time to heal both physically and emotionally after a miscarriage is important. Baldwin said she posted her pain on social media because she felt “fragile” and needed support. “For me, it would be harder to do it silently,” she said. “Being open just allowed me relief a little bit. Secrets are only scary when they’re secrets. Once you let the secret out, it’s not so scary anymore.” The overall response to her sharing was supportive. She also has gotten helpful knowledge from other women who have been through miscarriages. “I got great advice,’’ she said. “This is something I’ve never gone through before. Women came on my Instagram or stopped on the street and gave me such wisdom.” Women also don’t often live near their mothers, sisters, aunts and cousins. It’s likely that they haven’t been present and aware when these women lost pregnancies and don’t have the physical and emotional support for their losses that extended family would provide. If you or someone you love suffers a miscarriage, find a way to get the support you need to cope with this difficult experience. You don’t have to feel devastated and alone when you experience such a loss. Above all, don’t blame yourself for the miscarriage. Counseling is available to help you cope with your loss. Pregnancy loss support groups may also be a valuable resource to you and your partner. Ask your health care provider for more information about these resources.

Mohawk Valley Practitioners In Practice for 23 Years Now Accepting New Patients for Primary Care

Call Now for an Appointment We are excited to announce the addition of Sarah Alexander RN, MS, FNP-C to the practice Cathryn J. Barns RN, MS, FNP, ANP-C

Will continue to treat current and new dermatology patients: Diseases of the skin, including acne, warts, moles, mole removal, skin cancer, rashes, psoriasis, eczema, skin infections, sun damages, shingles, hair and nail disease.

1 Notre Dame Lane. Utica, NY 13502

315-733-7913

We continue to be located next to Notre Dame High School Accepting Most Insurances We look foward to providing your care

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Women’s Health Considering breast implants? Experienced specialist says do it for the right reasons By Barbara Pierce

reast implant surgery — to increase breast size — is popular. It involves placing implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles. More and more women are undergoing voluntary breast implant surgery every year. The Federal Drug Administration has approved two types of breast implants: saline (salt water solution)-filled and silicone gelfilled. Both have a silicone outer shell and vary in size, shell thickness, and shape. FDA-approved implants undergo extensive testing to establish reasonable assurance of safety and Krasniak effectiveness. Although many women say that silicone gel implants feel more like real breasts than saline, they pose more of a risk if they leak. Both saline and silicone come in different sizes. This is something to discuss with your physician if you are considering this surgery. According to the FDA, there are risks associated with all breast implants, including scar tissue, breast pain, infection, leakage or rupture with deflation of implants, changes in nipple and nipple sensation. Some women with implants have reported a range of serious health problems that they believe are linked to their implants. Studies have not confirmed

there is a connection. Correcting these complications might require more surgery, either to remove or replace the implants. Mohawk Valley In Good Health newspaper asked Dr. Carl Krasniak of the Solcum-Dickson Breast Care Center, New Hartford, to share his expertise, from his 30 years of experience with breast implant surgery:

procedure has risks. Most patients do well and don’t have any problems.

Q.: How safe is breast implant surgery? A.: The vast majority of women do very well with this procedure. This is confirmed by the FDA, which states that a majority of patients are satisfied with the results of their surgery.

Q.: What about the risk of implant ruptures or leaking? We understand this is a risk and the reasons are not well understood. A.: Yes, there is a risk or leaking or rupturing. After about seven to nine years, your chances of the implants deflating go up. They are man-made — your tires wear out; your shoes wear out; everything man-made wears out. If your implants are saline, your body will absorb the saline and your breasts will be flat. Your option then would be to replace them, which requires surgery. If they are silicone, and they rupture, you may have issues. You can have a silent rupture that you aren’t aware of.

Q.: Does it have risks? A.: It is surgery. Every surgical

Q.: Are increasing numbers of women having this surgery? A.: Yes, the number of women having it has been growing 4 to 5 percent every year for the past few years. It’s the most popular type of cosmetic surgery.

Q.: What do you suggest if I am considering breast implant surgery? A.: Do it for the right reasons. If a woman is doing it for cosmetic reasons, I interview her twice to make sure she has thought about it. It

is not surgery to do on an impulse. I interview her to make sure she is not doing it to please someone else, but she has carefully thought about this decision. In 2013, Angelina Jolie sparked a debate when she announced that a genetic predisposition to breast cancer led her to undergo a preventive double mastectomy. She revealed that she carries a “faulty” gene, BRCA1, linked to an increased likelihood of breast cancer. “Once I knew that this was my reality,” she wrote in The New York Times, “I decided to be proactive and to minimize the risk as much I could.” About 12 percent of all women will develop breast cancer sometime in their lives, according to the National Cancer Institute. But for women with the gene mutation, the risk is closer to 60% to 70%. Q.: Are preventive mastectomies like Jolie’s common? A.: No, they aren’t common. However, if a woman has a strong family history of breast cancer and genetic testing indicates a predisposition for breast cancer, she may wish to consider a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy. We don’t understand everything about genes and how they impact breast cancer. Q.: In conclusion, what do you recommend to women who are considering breast implant surgery? A.: It is surgery. Every surgery carries a risk. This surgery is usually tolerated well. Most women are happy with it, but make sure you are doing it for the right reasons and you have investigated and carefully thought it through. I’ve been doing this surgery for 30 years, and found that most women are happy that they had the surgery. Often, when they come back for their follow-up a year later, they say, “I wish I’d gone bigger.” Most are so happy that they had the surgery. For more discussion of considerations regarding breast implant surgery, both the FDA website and the Mayo Clinic website contain helpful information.

Representative payee service available

he Rome Rescue Mission is offering a representative payee service for the city of Rome and greater Oneida County. The representative payee program provides benefit payment management for those receiving Social Security or Supplemental Security Income. The Social Security Representative Payment Program provides benefit payment management for beneficiaries who are incapable of managing their SS or SSI payments. “The program is essential to the community and once more aligns

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2019

with our mission in providing ‘a hand up, not a hand out,” said Matt Miller, Rome Rescue Mission executive director. “Taking part in this program allows us to work with our clients and help them manage their finances while promoting independence.” Office hours are from 9 a.m. to noon Monday and Thursday at 309 E. Dominick St. For questions or inquiries, call 315-335-3085 or visit http:// romemission.org/services/representative-payee-program/

Women’s Health Tunnel of Pain Carpal tunnel syndrome afflicts those who use repetitive motion By Jessica Arsenault Rivenburg

arpal tunnel syndrome is the most common nerve disorder, affecting millions of adults in the United States. Symptoms range from mild and occasional numbness in the fingers, a burning sensation and hand weakness, to loss of feeling and hand function. It is also very treatable and can often be avoided. CTS occurs when swelling in the carpal tunnel — a tunnel formed by eight small wrist bones and a ligament through which a nerve and tendons pass — squeezes and restricts the impulses of the median nerve as the result of a traumatic injury or prolonged repetitive motion. The smaller the carpal tunnel is to begin with, the more likely CTS will develop. For this reason, the majority of sufferers are women, who naturally have narrower wrists than men. CTS has long been associated with the office setting. Prolonged use of a mouse and keyboard can lead to carpal tunnel swelling. But any highly repetitive task performed day in and day out can serve as a culprit,

from gardening and cooking, to excessive texting, said Amy Manning, physical therapist at SECO Physical Therapy in Ilion. If CTS gets bad enough, patients may undergo surgery to correct the issue. But more often, a few simple steps like stretching and icing can mitigate CTS or prevent it all together, Manning said.

Alleviate wrist pain

• Take breaks: Manning advises patients to be cautious about performing high-risk activities and to take breaks. “Switch off tasks so you’re not in the same position for a long time,” she said. “Get up and stretch or do something else for a bit, and then

return to the task.” • Practice good posture: “Good posture is key,” Manning said. Finding a chair at the correct height for your size to keep the computer screen at eye level, keeping elbows down and on arm rests, sitting up with your back straight, keeping shoulders relaxed and your feet flat on the floor are all important factors in avoiding wrist pain. • Stretch: “There are a handful of simple stretches you can do to keep things loose and relieve tightness,” Manning said. “For one, you can do this throughout the day at your desk: Place your palm down on the desk and bend your hand back and up so your fingers are pointing toward the ceiling. Use your other hand to gently pull them back further.” Another stretch involves holding your arm out straight and flexing your hand and wrist on and off for a few seconds. • Braces: There exist a number of styles and brands of wrist braces that can be worn while working, and others designed to be worn while sleeping that guide and hold the wrist into a neutral position and provide support, Manning said. Braces can be

found in local drug stores or online. • Proper equipment: “A chair set at the proper height and an ergonomic keyboard can be key in preventing swelling and discomfort,” Manning advised. There is ergonomic equipment available for many fields of work from keyboards and mouse pads to gardening tools and power tools, all designed to help the user keep their arms, wrists, hands and neck in proper alignment and reduce strain. “A quick internet search will find you dozens of options,” Manning said. • Seek medical assistance sooner than later: “If you’re feeling tightness and fatigue in your wrist, immediately start taking breaks, stretching and using ice rather than heat,” Manning urged. “And if there is any numbness and tingling, that means the nerve is involved and you should seek medical assistance.” “There are more aggressive stretches and strengthening exercises you can do in physical therapy or electric stimulation,” she added. “But if you ignore it and keep going, you could injure yourself further so that the only answer is surgery.”

AMERICANS WALK 5,000 STEPS A DAY - ONLY HALF THE RECOMMENDED AMOUNT KEEP YOUR FEET PREPARED.

Always have sneakers near the front door or at your desk for a quick, brisk walk during the day.

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Women’s Health Health care on wheels Upstate University Hospital’s ‘Mammo Van’ takes breast cancer screenings on the road By Payne Horning

arly detection and diagnosis is the best protection against breast cancer. But for many women, access to these potentially life-saving screenings is out of reach. A new partnership between the New York State Department of Health and Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse hopes to eliminate those barriers with a $1 million “Mammo Van.” The mobile clinic is traveling through eight Central and Northern New York counties, bringing the same kind of stateof-the-art 3-D mammography equipment used at Upstate to a much wider range of patients. Bacon “By having a mobile mammography van in our system — in our community — we are offering this life-saving resource to all of our neighbors and friends,” said physician Ranjna Sharma, division chief of breast surgery at Upstate. “We are stating the importance of health maintenance and self-care, and we are empowering members of our community to be advocates for their own health and the health of their families.”

Mammo Van Coming to Your Neighborhood The Upstate University Hospital “mammo van” will be making stops at town halls, businesses and Kinney Drugs locations in Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida, Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, and St. Lawrence counties. The pink and blue Mammo Van is more like a bus. It’s 45-feet long, 13-feet tall and weighs 44,000 pounds. Inside are a small reception area, dressing room, exam room and table, ADA-accessible bathroom, and a technologist room where patients will be screened. When it’s up and running, a staff of eight to 10 will accompany the van on its travels. The appointments are expected to take 15 to 20 minutes each, with results emailed to patients within two to 10 days. This is just one of several regional mobile mammography vehicles the state is funding with its “No Excuses, Get Screened” campaign. State lawmakers have taken several steps in recent years to increase breast cancer screenings through partnerships with

Upstate University Hospital’s mobile clinic will travel through eight Central and Northern New York counties, bringing the same kind of state-of-the-art 3-D mammography equipment used at Upstate to a much wider range of patients. health care organizations and legislation that funds initiatives like the elimination of co-pays for screenings. “This is what it’s all about — creating access and opportunity for people to remove any excuses that they may have,” said Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, who attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Mammo Van. “Ninety-one million dollars has been allocated to help a whole panoply of initiatives, partly which is to ensure longer hours on weekends and evenings so women don’t have to sacrifice money from their jobs or time away, but also to the countless women and families who are underserved because they don’t have the transportation to go to an urban area where there would be screening. This is the answer to that problem.” According to the NYS DOH, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the Empire State and the second-leading cause of cancer-related death in New York women. Sharma says the mortality rate for breast cancer has seen a significant decrease since the 1990s, largely attributable to the rise of improvements in screening mammography.

Detecting breast cancer early as a mammographic abnormality — sometimes years before it would be detected on a physical exam — allows for more treatment options. Sharma says those treatments may be less extensive and less aggressive when these cancers are caught earlier. Syracuse resident Janet Bacon knows how critical early detection is. She survived breast cancer after getting a screening at Upstate in 2015. Now, Bacon says it’s her time to give back. She plans to travel with the Mammo Van to encourage other women to get this test. “It means so much to me because people in rural areas probably don’t get this information, don’t get the screenings like they’re supposed to,” Bacon said. “So, this van can go out, get the mammograms, and give you peace of mind. That’s what I’m all about — helping getting people signed up, getting that very important mammogram to save their life like they saved mine.” The van began its journey in June, making stops at town halls, businesses, and Kinney Drugs locations in Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida, Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, and St. Lawrence counties.

Why so many older women develop UTIs

rinary tract infections are one of the indignities many women face as they age. One reason why is because their bladder walls can be invaded by several species of bacteria, a new study finds. Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are among the most common type of bacterial infections in women, accounting for nearly 25% of all infections. UTI recurrence rates can range from 16%-36% in younger women to 55% in postmenopausal women. In the new study, researchers at University of Texas Southwestern (UTSW) in Dallas analyzed bacteria in bladder biopsies from 14 postmenopausal women with recurrent UTI. The investigators found that, in these patients, several species of bacteria can get inside the bladder’s surface area. Bacterial diversity, antibiotic resistance and immune response all play significant roles in recurrent UTIs, according to the study. Page 8

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“Our findings represent a step in understanding [recurrent] UTIs in postmenopausal women,” senior study author Kim Orth said in a university news release. Orth is a professor of molecular biology and biochemistry at UTSW. “We will need to use methods other than antibiotics to treat this disease, as now we observe diverse types of bacteria in the bladder wall of these patients,” Orth added. UTI is the most common reason for antibiotic prescriptions in older adults. The high rate of UTIs has a significant social impact, and treatment costs billions of dollars a year, the study authors noted. Recurrent UTI “reduces quality of life, places a significant burden on the health care system, and contributes to antimicrobial resistance,” Orth said. Other factors believed to contribute to higher UTI rates in postmenopausal women include pelvic organ

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2019

prolapse, diabetes, lack of estrogen, loss of Lactobacilli in the vagina, and higher levels of E. coli in tissues surrounding the urethra, according

to the researchers. The report was published online recently in the Journal of Molecular Biology.

Women’s Health The Balanced Body

By Deb Dittner

Lower blood pressure, naturally Homeopathic approach results in controlling hypertension

igh blood pressure, or hypertension, is known as the “silent killer” as it can slowly create damage without any symptoms. Uncontrolled blood pressure can cause stroke, kidney problems, and heart failure, narrowing of the arteries, eye problems, dementia, and more. But what you eat — and you all know what a foodie I am — can help decrease blood pressure if it is already borderline or elevated. One of my favorites is flax seed as this helps in reducing inflammation. Adding 2 Dittner tablespoons to ¼ cup of ground flax seeds daily has shown significant reduction in blood pressure. Ground flax seed can be added to oatmeal, smoothies, muffins or pancakes. Other seeds such as chia or pumpkin seeds may also help to lower blood pressure as they are rich in magnesium. Wild caught salmon, 5 ounces three times a week, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil capsules have a similar effect when it comes to blood pressure. Also rich in monounsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols and Omega-6 fatty acids is extra virgin olive oil. Drizzle over salads and vegetables at approximately 2 tablespoons daily to appreciate the benefits. Dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, arugula, beet greens, turnip greens, collard greens, Swiss chard and more contain potassium necessary in balancing electrolytes in the body and helping the kidneys get rid of excess sodium. These greens are also rich in magnesium that aids in dilating blood vessels.

Sweet potatoes, butternut squash and baked white potatoes are starchy vegetables and need to be limited to 1 cup daily, but contain plenty of potassium to aid in lowering blood pressure. Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are rich in polyphenols and Vitamin C which help to decrease inflammation in the arteries. Berries can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, salads, and made into ice pops as a refreshing dessert. Berries also benefit brain and bowel health. Lentils and beans — white, kidney, black, and lima — are rich in potassium and magnesium and indeed are a heart-healthy choice. Beetroot is rich in potassium, polyphenols, and nitrates that help to relax blood vessels. Beetroot can be added to smoothies, roasted, or drank in the form of beet juice.

Nuts, specifically pistachio, have been shown to reduce blood pressure by eating 1 serving daily. Other nuts did help in lowering blood pressure but are not as effective. Garlic is just an overall super food. Allicin is the active ingredient in garlic with fresh garlic containing more than cooked. Add minced garlic (1-to-4 cloves daily) to salad, salad dressings or dips such as hummus and tahini. Now who doesn’t enjoy dark chocolate? Dark chocolate that is greater than 70% cacao is rich in polyphenols and magnesium, aiding not only in blood pressure but also sleep. Consider one square added to your diet to also support cardiovascular health. Now that you are eating foods to help lower blood pressure, let’s look at other lifestyle changes that create benefit as well.

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• Deborah Dittner is a family nurse practitioner and health consultant. Her mission is to transform as many individuals as possible through nutrition and lifestyle changes. For more information, check out her website at www.debdittner. com or contact her at 518-596-8565.

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— Movement comes in many forms but one that aids in blood pressure, flexibility and strength, and mental health is yoga. Just 15 minutes of yoga five times weekly may be as effective as commonly prescribed medications to lower blood pressure. Regular exercise keeps the body’s organs pumped with oxygen and nutrients. — Meditation and deep breathing techniques aid in reducing blood pressure, anxiety and stress. — Sleep consisting of seven to nine hours nightly also aids in blood pressure management. If you have sleep apnea, discuss this with your primary provider. Sleep apnea can be a negative side effect of being overweight. Manage your weight to decrease your risk of metabolic syndrome, vascular disease, coronary artery disease, and hypertension. And remember — have fun! Go out and find happiness as this too helps in reducing blood pressure. Looking for happiness? Here are some suggestions: • Treat others the way you want to be treated • Say hello, and smile at a stranger. • Be kind and polite, and respect your elders. • Be patient with yourself and others, listen, and be kind to animals. Enjoy life! This information is for educational purposes. Please consult with your primary care provider before beginning a new approach.

By appointment only - please contact for scheduling your one-on-one sessions at 315-338-1318 505 North James St., Rome, NY 13440

www.insighthouse.com July 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Women’s Health Pauline’s Pieces

By Pauline DiGiorgio

The New Normal Transition to mainly plant-based diet pays dividends

’m approaching my fifth year working in the fitness and health industry. I can confidently say that I have had my fair share of diet exploration. With the abundance of online resources out there, it’s a lot of noise when it comes to determining which way of eating is most effective when it comes to an active lifestyle. Coming from a body building prep introduction in my earlier days, DiGiorgio meat consumption was the norm. I can confidently say that as I fast forward to the “now,” my new normal has cut meat, dairy and many animal products from my diet. But why? Since I lift three to four times a week and stress the importance of building and sustaining lean muscle, why would I turn to a diet that has no protein? I’m here to bust that myth. Disclaimer, I am not a vegan; I simply have created a new normal for

myself to consume mostly plants, thereby erasing the fear that I would lack the protein needed to fuel and recover from my workouts. I’ve kept lean meats and yogurt, for now, at a minimum. Here are some facts that may benefit you on your journey to a cleaner, plant-based diet: — First off, what I really enjoy about this new normal is pretty simple. Before, when I was planning out a meal, the first thought was always the choice of protein, typically like steak, chicken or fish. Now, this new normal has inevitably led me to rely on filling my plate heavily with other foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, beans, nuts and fruit. So, because these foods make up the larger percentage of my diet, I’m consuming way more beneficial nutrients. I know this because I’ve been tracking it on the app My Fitness Pal, which has indicated an increase in fiber, antioxidants, potassium, and lots of vitamins.

Not-so-obvious protein sources

— Another really surprising point to me is the amount of protein I’ve found in plant-based foods. My favorite is my new obses-

sion — chickpea pasta. It’s a super easy way to deliver some high-quality amino acids to your body and it packs 24 grams of protein in one 4-ounce serving. Plus, it’s so tasty with some red sauce and sauteed veggies. I also really enjoy some whole grains like oats and quinoa, and there are some really great cereals on the market. Be sure to get a cereal that has no fillers or extra sugar add-ins and get a nice dose of your childhood favorite. — Lastly, my digestive health has improved with a more focused vegetarian diet. It’s important to strive for balance and variety while avoiding foods that are high in trans and saturated fats and sodium. What has filled my plate are mostly fiber-rich foods, and that has my stomach calm and happy. Most effective are leafy greens, asparagus,

celery, green beans and Brussels sprouts. Be sure to cook all your veggies to make it easier for your body to break them down. Also, the healthy fats really facilitate nutrients to be absorbed and metabolized. Avocado, coconut oil and raw nut butters are on rotation in my pantry. These are anti-viral and are highly beneficial food for your gut. Blend up avocado, coconut cream, maple syrup, a pinch of sea salt, organic cacao and a few spoonfuls of non-dairy milk to create a vegan mousse. Always feel free to send me an email at Ptlifts@gmail with any questions on plant-based eating. • Pauline DiGiorgio is a local health and fitness enthusiast and creator of SPINN ‘N’ SCULPT. For question or comments, email her at Ptlifts@gmail.com.

Oneida County, city of Utica, nonprofit partners sign Green & Healthy Homes Initiative Compact

ead-Free Mohawk Valley Coalition partners signed a compact with the Green & Health Homes Initiative, establishing Utica-Oneida County as one of 26 designated GHHI sites in the nation. Oneida County, the city of Utica and other nonprofit partners will work in partnership to form “GHHI Utica-Oneida County,” which will perform comprehensive and coordinated home interventions that address health, safety, lead hazard, energy efficiency and weatherization concerns in eligible housing. Integrated home interventions will provide the area’s most vulnerable families with access to a full complement of resources to address health and safety hazards in their homes, ensuring the health and well-being of the entire family. “Lead-Free MV’s collaboration with GHHI will advance solutions to some of the major problems that families in our communities face every day,” said Alicia Dicks, president-CEO of The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, convener of the Lead-Free Page 10

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Dicks MV Coalition. The creation of GHHI Utica-Oneida County comes after six months of intensive collaboration among GHHI and Lead-Free MV partners who are already conducting work related to green and healthy homes interventions. Through technical assistance, GHHI works to establish a compre-

hensive home intervention model. The approach is focused on a wholehouse strategy that aligns programs, braids funding and coordinates agency services for maximum results. On average, performing an integrated home intervention costs 20 to 25% less than separate interventions by multiple contractors and programs. “The GHHI platform is helping local communities across the country deliver integrated and coordinated health and housing services to low-income families that more efficiently and cost-effectively implements local and federally funded programs,” said Ruth Ann Norton, president and CEO of GHHI. “Using the GHHI model, children are healthier, families have safer and more energy efficient homes — and lower utility bills — and medical costs decline due to fewer housing-related health issues.” Entities that took part in the compact signing ceremony include the city of Utica, Cornell Cooperative Extension, HomeOwnershipCenter, Lead-Free MV, Mohawk Valley

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2019

Community Action Agency, Oneida County, Oneida County Health Department, The Community Foundation and GHHI. Efforts to combat childhood lead poisoning and unhealthy housing in Oneida County have been ongoing and will continue to be an emphasis for the GHHI Utica-Oneida County collaborative. The County has implemented primary and secondary prevention programs to address cases of childhood lead exposure. The City, through the Mayor’s regular quality-of-life sweeps, has worked to call attention to and address housing and other issues in challenged Utica neighborhoods. The Lead-Free Mohawk Valley Coalition is a strategic initiative of The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties focused on the reduction of lead hazards, as well as expanding testing and community awareness of the problem in the Mohawk Valley. For information, visit www.leadfreemv.org or call 1-844-NOT-LEAD.

Women’s Health Making ‘me’ time Learn to unplug and live longer By Barbara Pierce

oes life speed by too quickly for you? Like most of us, do you often ask, “Wow! Where did the time go?” Most of us are on the fast track all the time and it’s hard to slow down. Yet, research finds that when people find ways to slow down or downshift throughout their day, they live longer, healthier and happier lives. Seventh-day Adventists in California pray, Greeks in Icaria take a nap, and Italians in Sardinia do happy hour and socialize with friends, according to the Blue Zones National Geographic Project. Although techSaranga nology has made our lives less stressful in many ways, being constantly connected has serious negative impacts on our physical and mental health. “This had become a problem for myself and my family,” said Dr. Vinay Saranga, psychiatrist and founder of Saranga Comprehensive Psychiatry, Apex, N.C. “And I see this as an issue for my clients — the children I see and their parents.” “I see parents struggling to take away devices from their kids. The kids become irritated. Their screens are always in front of them. Devices eat into family time. My own family — we’re no different. We’re doing our best to address it,” he said. “Clinically, I’ve noticed when people don’t have ‘me’ time, they become depressed and anxious; they may have decreased job performance as they can’t focus properly. This is all thanks to social media,” he added. An American Psychological Association survey found that people who are constantly checking their phones experience higher stress levels. Also, those who check their work

emails on their days off experience even more stress. The expectation with texts, emails and phone calls is that we’re available 24/7 to anyone who wants to reach us. “It’s important to unplug regularly and take a mental break,” said Saranga. “It’s a time for you to rest, relax and recharge. It’s a time for you to take a mental break from the world around you and refresh your mind. As a society, we’ve got to prioritize this.” “Yes, it is tough to do,” he agreed. “It’s tough to take me time. For me, it’s simply going for a walk. Or sitting on the back porch with my dog,” he added.

Here’s some useful advice

He suggested some simple steps you can take to incorporate more “me time” into your daily routine: — “You have to make the time,” he stressed. “‘Me’ time is just as important to your health as eating a balanced diet and getting enough exercise. For many of us, it’s simply a matter of making the time. It’s important to start seeing this as a ‘mustdo’ activity and block off 30-minutes to an hour each day to just sit and get quiet with yourself. Anytime of the day will work, but to make it a regular habit, it’s best to schedule this precious time around the same time each day.” There are only 24 hours in a day. But you might be surprised that you can free up some time, he suggested. Try spending less time clicking around on social media or surfing the web. Maybe you can wake up a halfhour earlier to give yourself some extra time. — There is no set agenda: The best part about “me” time is there is no set list of things you have to do. It’s about doing what you want to do, Saranga added. You can sit in a room that you find soothing. You can listen to relaxing music. You can go to the park and people watch. This is your time to spend by yourself to

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rest, relax and clear the mental clutter that often bogs us down. — Spend time in nature, finding silence and nurturing your health. Enjoy a walk or bike ride. Go alone and use your senses to observe. Listen to the sounds, the chirping of the birds, and the smell of newly cut grass. — Setting aside 30 minutes a day for “me” time is best, said Saranga. But if you really can’t spare 30 minutes, even 10 minutes will help. One good way to do this is to use mindfulness apps, like Headspace. com. Even 10 minutes of mindfulness with calming breathing is good. The apps mostly focus on breathing, he explained, with a person guiding you

through it. “I find it very refreshing. Ten minutes of mindfulness feel like 30 minutes,” he added. “Once you do 10 minutes, you feel like you are awakening a different person, calmer, more settled. You feel like a weight is taken off your shoulders. Many people feel guilty for taking time for themselves, Saranga noted. “But you must have a change in mindset and realize that scheduling some ‘me’ time is a positive step in caring for your mental health and overall well-being,” he said. “In fact, it’s something everybody can benefit from. Best of all, you’ll feel better, think clearer and be more productive.”

“I had cancer...

cancer never had me.” Meet Tracy: Mother, patient, advocate and blessed!

“When I was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer in 2004, I was a single mom. So when I received my diagnosis, I thought, ‘This, too?’ I was shocked. A friend introduced me to HOA. At HOA, cancer wears a face, and not a number. Let me explain.”

To read more about Tracy’s story, and HOA, visit

HOACNY.com/About/Testimonials

(315) 927-4035

July 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 11

SmartBites

By Anne Palumbo

The skinny on healthy eating

Can Italian sausage be part of healthy diet?

ur nation’s Italian sausage consumption skyrockets during summer months — who can blame us? The irresistible aroma of sizzling sausage sends our taste buds into overdrive! Fan the flame with some peppers and onions, and it’s no wonder many of us indulge in seconds and thirds. But as tasty as Italian sausage is — and for reasons easily imagined — it’s not the best food to eat on a regular basis. Occasionally? Yes. Daily? No. So what makes Italian sausage a “sometimes” food versus an everyday staple? In a word, most sausage tends to run fairly high in fat, calories, and sodium; most are no slouch in the cholesterol department; and, all are a processed food. Although nutritional stats vary widely for Italian sausage, a typical link of Italian pork sausage has around 200 calories, 16 grams of total fat (of which six are saturated), 50 grams of cholesterol, and 550 mg of sodium. Of course, depending on your eating habits, you may need to double (or triple) those stats. Gulp! Overconsumption of any one of the above — from the calories to the fat, the cholesterol to the sodium — can lead to serious health issues, including obesity, heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Another good reason to rein in consumption: Italian sausage is classified as a “processed meat,” meaning it’s been preserved by smoking, salting, curing or adding other

preservatives. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, any amount of processed meat eaten regularly increases the risk of both stomach and colorectal cancers. It’s why the AICR and other health organizations recommend limited consumption of processed meats like sausage, hot dogs, bacon and deli meat. On the plus side, Italian sausage is an excellent source of complete protein and some B vitamins (especially B12). An essential nutrient for building and maintaining tissues and cells, protein also makes up the enzymes that power many chemical reactions in our body. The B vitamins play a key role in converting food to energy and in supporting nervous system function and red blood cell formation. Those monitoring carbs will be thrilled to know that Italian sausage has next to none! So, can Italian sausage be part of a healthy diet? On average and with limited consumption: yes. But for those battling health issues that may be exacerbated by eating processed meat, probably not. If you’re unsure, seek a doctor’s advice. Although my husband and I love the succulent flavor of pork sausage, we don’t love the calories, fat, and sodium and have since switched to poultry Italian sausage, shaving off half the calories, over half the fat and a modest amount of sodium. Served alongside sautéed veggies, it’s a delicious “sometime” meal.

Braised Italian sausage with broccoli, garlic and lemon 5-6 Italian sausage links (recommend: Trader Joe’s Italian Style Chicken Sausage) 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 medium yellow onion, cut into ½-inch wedges 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon ground coriander ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes 3 crowns broccoli, cut into 2-inch long florets with florets then halved or quartered 2 cups water 2 tablespoons lemon juice Salt and pepper

Preheat oven to 200 degrees. Place sausages in large skillet: drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil; add ½ inch water. Over medium-high heat, boil sausages to cook through. Once water cooks away (about 8-10 minutes), lower heat to medium and brown sausage in remaining oil. Remove from heat; transfer to foil-lined baking sheet; place in oven to keep warm. In same skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and sauté until golden, about 6 minutes, lowering heat if needed. Add garlic, coriander, and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds. Add prepared broccoli and 2 cups

Helpful tips

Read Italian sausage labels carefully. Keep in mind that claims like “natural” or “uncured” or “nitrate- and nitrite-free” do not necessarily mean the food is healthier. Some products cured with sea salt or juices such as celery juice that contain naturally occurring nitrates may end up with just as high nitrite content as meats with sodium nitrite added. Choose lower-temperate methods of cooking—such as roasting or braising—to thwart the “grilled char” that can develop harmful carcinogens. water; stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Cook until fork-tender, about 8 minutes, stirring throughout. Mix in lemon juice; season with salt and pepper. Serve sausages atop broccoli mixture.

Anne Palumbo is a lifestyle colum-

nist, food guru, and seasoned cook, who has perfected the art of preparing nutritious, calorie-conscious dishes. She is hungry for your questions and comments about SmartBites, so be in touch with Anne at avpalumbo@aol.com.

Community Foundation: $85,000 available in awards

he Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is welcoming applications for its 2019 Community Choice Awards, an $85,000 grant-making program to help local nonprofits realize priority community projects. Nonprofit organizations in Herkimer and Oneida counties are invited to submit grant proposals for projects in eight categories: animal welfare; arts and culture; copper city (city of Rome); education; health and wellness; human services; seniors; and sports and recreation. Community Foundation staff, in consultation with category sponsors, will select three finalists in each category. The public will vote online in August to determine the recipients of eight $10,000 grants being awarded to local nonprofits. Interested nonprofits must apply by July 19 to be considered for participation. Visit www.ccawards. org for more information on the rules and regulations of the contest and to Page 12

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apply. After the votes are tallied and the eight grand-prize winners have been chosen by the community, one of the remaining 16 finalists will be selected to receive a special $5,000 board recognition award given by The Community Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Community Foundation staff, trustees and category sponsors will take part in surprise award presentations at winning organizations’ headquarters on Sept. 18. Since 1952, The Community Foundation has invested more than $75 million in Oneida and Herkimer counties. The Community Foundation partners with various local organizations to make impactful investments in core areas of need, including economic development, education, health, and arts and culture. For more information, visit www. foundationhoc.org or call 315-7358212.

Community Foundation staff and category sponsors surprise Community Choice Awards winners in 2018.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2019

The Eyes Have It Summertime can pose threats to eye health By Jessica Arsenault Rivenburg

ye care and protection are important year round. The summer months often bring a number of season-specific hazards with people spending more time outside in the sun, splashing in pools and doing yard work and other outdoor activities. The American Academy of Ophthalmology warns against the four most common summer eye dangers: reflections, chlorine, dry eye and flying objects.

Reflections

Most know the importance of protecting the eyes against ultraviolet rays from sunlight. Many, however, may assume that being in the shade is protection enough. “People have to remember that light bounces, especially on or near the water,” said Tim Woolner, Woolner optometrist and owner of Woolner Family Eye Care in Ilion. “Even if you’re in the shade, light bounces up and sideways. Especially around a pool, at the beach, on a boat, it’s a good idea to wear sunglasses at all times.” As for which sunglasses are the best, Woolner advises patients to look for a pair that is marked with a decal saying the lenses block 100 percent of UV light. “Patients frequently ask me

about whether the tint matters or if polarized lenses are better, but actually neither of those things are the same as blocking UV rays,” Woolner said. In fact, being polarized simply means the sunglasses cut down on glare, thereby maintaining true color and increasing visibility. Tint alone refers only to the color of the lenses, and doesn’t necessarily indicate the amount of UV protection. “Patients are shocked to learn that clear lenses can protect against UV rays,” Woolner said.

Chlorine

With the onset of warm weather comes time spent in the pool. The chlorine used to keep the water clean can strip eyes of their natural film of tears, leaving them red and irritated. “It’s going to cause irritation, but it’s nothing long-standing,” said Woolner. “To actually do damage to the eye, it would have to involve a mishandling of the chlorine, like putting in too much, or an excessive amount of time spent under water with your eyes open.” Still, noting that even temporary irritation is unpleasant, Woolner advises swimmers to wear goggles. For those with contact lenses, however, swimming can pose a greater danger to eye health, he noted. “Contacts are porous and absorb those chemicals, which can result in discomfort,” he said. “But the biggest complication about swimming in contacts is increased infection risk.”

Dry eye

Between hot temperatures, fans and air conditioners, and time spent outside in windy weather, dry eye

sometimes proves a problem in summertime. “Dry eye can affect people during any time of year and actually proves more of a problem for many during the winter when the air is usually dryer,” said Woolner. “But using fans and air conditioners, especially if they’re blowing on us all night while we sleep, can definitely cause dry eye too.” If being in a windy environment or the direct wind of a fan cannot be avoided, Woolner said a moisturizing eye drop is the next best thing. He advises patients to look for an eye drop that “lubricates” rather than advertises that it “gets the red out.” “Eye drops meant to ‘get the red out’ are largely cosmetic,” he explained. “They include agents that constrict blood vessels and give the appearance of a more comfortable eye, but they don’t always address the actual cause of the problem.” Woolner also cautions against eye drop overuse. “Tears contain natural enzymes and salt that protect the eye and keep it healthy,” he said. “Constantly putting in eye drops wash away those natural things.”

Woolner suggests keeping eye drop use to a maximum of eight to 10 drops per day.

Flying objects

“I deal with this all the time,” Woolner said. “This time of year I easily get one to two patients a week with an eye injury. You’d be shocked at the most random causes of some of them.” Woolner said he has seen eye injuries caused by weed trimming, fishing, pruning rose bushes and working underneath a car, among others. Preventing such injuries can be as easy as wearing a pair of sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses — a material many sunglasses are made with, he said. As a side benefit, polycarbonate lenses block 100 percent of UV rays. And it’s something Woolner has experienced himself. One time, while fishing, he forcefully yanked a hook from a fish’s mouth. As it suddenly pulled free, the hook flew toward his eye, taking a small chunk out of his sunglasses. “Had I not been wearing sunglasses, that hook would have been in my eye,” Woolner said.

Rome Memorial honors employees’ care, commitment During National Hospital Week (May 12-18), Rome Memorial Hospital honored its employees of the year for demonstrating customer service characteristics that enhance patient satisfaction and promote positive peer relationships. Celebrating the event are, from left, Melissa Williams, therapy; Amy Culjak, operating room; Kara DeNicola, medical imaging; Roxanne Pohorenec, materials management; Erica Wheeler, food and nutrition; Stephanie Schlau, food and nutrition; David Lundquist, presidentCEO; Amy George, food and nutrition; Jodi Roser, continuum of care; Carmel Moglia, medical records; Casey Laribee, cardio pulmonary services, and Dennis Hayes, patient access. Not shown are Laura Bambury, Residential Health Care Facility; Eileen Kilgore, progressive care unit; Kyle Lacey, building services; Kelvin Molina, building services; Angela Moore, medical imaging; Rachel Nadeau, emergency department; Sope Riem, building services; Erik Strail, medical imaging; Amanda Toole, progressive care unit; Deanna Vaughn, building services, and Justin Waters, Chestnut Commons Physical Therapy. July 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 13

Ask The Social

Security Office

From the Social Security District Office

Youth that lose parent can turn to SS

or young people whose parent dies, Social Security is here. Losing a parent is both emotionally painful and oftentimes devastating to a family’s finances. In the same way that Social Security helps to lift up the disabled and seniors when they need it, we support families when an income-earning parent dies. You should let Social Security know as soon as possible when a person in your family dies. Usually, the funeral director will report the person’s death to Social Security. You’ll need to give the deceased’s Social Security number to the funeral director so they can make the report. Some of the deceased’s family members may be able to receive Social Security benefits if the deceased person worked long enough in jobs covered by Social Security to qualify for benefits. Contact Social Security as soon as possible to make sure the family gets all the benefits they’re entitled to. P lease read the following information carefully to learn what benefits may be available. Your unmarried child can get benefits if they’re: • Younger than age 18; • 18-19 years old and a full-time student (no higher than grade 12); or

Richard M. Cherpak, M.D. Richard M. Cherpak, M.D. Richard M. Cherpak, M.D. Garth J. Garramone, D.O., F.A.C.P. Garth Garramone, D.O., F.A.C.P. Dr J.Stanley Weiselberg GarthBrett J. Garramone, F.A.C.P Brett R. Gandhi, Gandhi,D.O., M.D. R. M.D. Dr Norman Neslin Norman R. Neslin, M.D. Brett R. Gandhi, M.D. Dr Robert Pavelock Norman Neslin, M.D. Robert R.R.Pavelock, M.D. Norman R.F. Sklar, Neslin, M.D. Bradley M.D. Dr Bradley Sklar Robert R. Pavelock, M.D. Stanley P. Weiselberg, M.D. Dr Richard Cherpak Robert R. Pavelock, M.D. Q&A 116 Business Park Drive, Bradley F. Sklar, M.D. Dr Harvey Allen Utica,F.NYSklar, 13502M.D. Bradley p. 315 -624-7070 | f. 315-316-0367 Dr info@mveccny.com Emil MiskovskyM.D. Stanley P. Weiselberg, Stanley P. Weiselberg, M.D.

Q: I can’t seem to find my Social Security card. Do I need to get a replacement?

UT-000595577

mveccny.com

116 Business Park Drive, Utica, NY 13502 Phone Fax p.315-624-7070 315 -624-7070 | f.315-316-0367 315-316-0367 info@mveccny.com mveccny.com

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LEY ENDOSCOPY PROOF CREATED AT: 2/22/2017 9:24:00 AM UT-000595577

NEXT RUN DATE: 02/26/17

A: In most cases, knowing your Social Security number is enough. But if you do apply for and receive a replacement card, don’t carry that card with you. Keep it with your important papers. For more information about your Social Security card and number, and for information about how to apply for a replacement, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber. If you believe you’re the victim of identity theft, read our publication Identity Theft and Your Social Security Number, at www. socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

Q: What should I do if an employee gives me a Social Security number but cannot produce the card?

A: Seeing the card is not as important as putting the correct information on the worker’s Form W-2. You can verify employee Social Security numbers by using the Social Security Number Verification Service. Just go to www.socialsecurity.gov/

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• 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22. To get benefits, a child must have: • A parent who’s disabled or retired and entitled to Social Security benefits; or • A parent who died after having worked long enough in a job where they paid Social Security taxes. Benefits stop when your child reaches age 18 unless your child is a student in secondary school or disabled. Within a family, a child can receive up to half of the parent’s full retirement or disability benefit. If a child receives survivors benefits, he or she can get up to 75 percent of the deceased parent’s basic Social Security benefit. There is a limit to the amount of money that we can pay to a family. This family maximum is determined as part of every Social Security benefit computation. It can be from 150 to 180 percent of the parent’s full benefit amount. If the total amount payable to all family members exceeds this limit, we reduce each person’s benefit proportionately (except the parent’s) until the total equals the maximum allowable amount.

bso. This online service allows registered employers to verify employee Social Security numbers against Social Security records for wage reporting purposes.

Q: I am nearing my full retirement age, but I plan to keep working after I apply for Social Security benefits. Will my benefits be reduced because of my income?

A: No. If you start receiving benefits after you’ve reached your full retirement age, you can work while you receive Social Security and your current benefit will not be reduced because of the earned income. If you keep working, it could mean a higher benefit for you in the future. Higher benefits can be important to you later in life and increase the future benefit amounts your survivors could receive. If you begin receiving benefits before your full retirement age, your earnings could reduce your monthly benefit amount. After you reach full retirement age, we recalculate your benefit amount to leave out the months when we reduced or withheld benefits due to your excess earnings.

Have you heard? Summertime activities can compromise auditory health By Kristopher Light

t’s finally time for summer and that means barbecues, beach days and pool parties. It also means a lot of loud events like concerts, riding motorcycles and even yard work. These outdoor activities might be fun, but if we don’t take proper caution, they can lead to tinnitus or even severe hearing damage. You may not believe it, but something as common as using a leaf blower can affect your hearing and cause damage. We don’t think too much about going to a sporting event, but even this activity can lead to hearing problems. It might sound silly to think that almost every summertime activity is bad for our ears, but how often have you come back from a concert and had your ears ringing for the next few days, or gotten off a motorcycle and couldn’t hear what anyone was saying to you for a few minutes? We tend to think because these impairments tend to go away after a little while, that it’s no real harm done. However, many times this is just not the case. Wendi Trousdale, an audiologist for Hearing Health USA in New Hartford, provided some interesting information about how little it takes to cause damage to eardrums. Any sound 85 decibels (or dBs) can cause hearing damage, and this includes many common activities we tend to not think twice about. A decible is a unit used to measure the intensity of a sound or the power level of an electrical signal by comparing it with a given level on a logarithmic scale. A leaf blower is usually around 90 dBs, while motorcycles, sporting events and concerts can be from 100 to 115 dBs. If 85 is the limit, then we are surpassing that limit by a significant amount with these type of activities. Even things like air shows can make your ears ring long after the planes have been put back in the hanger. We know that everyone loves outdoor summer fun, especially in a place that only has a few weeks of warm and nice weather. But we need to make sure we are enjoying these times safely or the rest of the year you will be responding to every question with a loud, “What?”

Turn down the volume

So we now know many things during the sunny days of summer can be harmful to your ears, but how

do you enjoy these activities without putting your hearing health at risk just because you enjoy football or watching the Blue Angels? Well, if you are going to any of these activities or even anywhere where loud noise is involved, the best thing you could do is simply bring earplugs to these events. A simple pair of ear plugs can save your hearing and your wallet. That’s a $1.50 purchase to save you $200 dollars on a hearing aid, so even if the risk to your ears doesn’t bother you, the cost to your pocket should. If long-term hearing loss persists, it can lead to a lot of serious conditions. We have all heard that loud ringing in our ears from time to time, but even a little bit of tinnitus can lead to serious things. If it lasts longer than a day, you need to see a doctor. Things like tinnitus and other hearing damage can cause what’s called “cognitive dampening,” which can make thinking and understanding a situation harder and can also triple one’s risk of dementia. We all know losing hearing is natural as we get older, but when you have hearing damage from exposure to loud noises, the natural hearing loss is compounded and you can lose most of your hearing all together. The amount of people who have not heeded this risk is astounding. According to Trousdale, around 40 million adults in the United States have noise-induced hearing loss, and most of these people are only around loud noises during their personal time. We all know someone who has trouble hearing things, or can’t hear that high-pitched noise everyone else seems to be able to. We tend to think hearing loss just comes from natural wear and tear of life, but most people can start to develop hearing issues in their early 20s. We tend to not notice as much, but as we get older these issues compound and make any natural hearing loss a much bigger deal. Human beings just enjoy loud things; something about them is fun and exciting to us. Hearing music live with the bass blowing in your ears while you dance, or watching a jet take off at 190 mph is fun and makes you feel alive. But you will still feel the bass boom and the speed of the jet will still be seen even if you simply temper down the sound a little bit.

Upstate can provide all the comprehensive treatment and support you need at our offices in Oneida, or if needed, at the Upstate Cancer Center in Syracuse. Our patients benefit from: • Over 25 years experience in treating patients in Oneida. • A full complement of treatment options including radiation oncology. • Access to the latest advances including immunotherapy, molecular targeted therapy and clinical trials. • The same multidisciplinary case review as those treated at the Upstate Cancer Center in Syracuse, the area’s only academic medical center.

ASK FOR THE EXPERTS. ASK FOR UPSTATE. WWW.UPSTATE.EDU/ONEIDA

Rabies vaccination clinics scheduled

he Oneida County Health Department is scheduling rabies vaccination clinics throughout the year. The next clinic is set for 5-6:30 p.m. July 1 at the Annsville Highway Garage. Clinics are also scheduled for: — July 25: Rome Kennedy Arena, 6-7:30 p.m. — Aug. 5: Vienna Highway Garage, 5-6:30 p.m. — Sept. 10: Back to Basics Dog Obedience, Forestport, 6-7:30 p.m. Dogs need to be on a leash, and cats need to be in a carrier or laundry basket.

July 2019 •

All cats, dogs and ferrets 3 months or older must have a current rabies vaccination, even if they stay indoors. Dogs and cats need to be vaccinated at 3 months old, 1 year, and the once every three years. Ferrets must be vaccinated every year. Pets will receive a one-year certificate if no prior proof of rabies is shown. A $10 donation per pet is requested to help cover costs. Pre-register for clinic dates by calling 315-798-5064.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Health care in a Minute By Jim Miller

By George W. Chapman

‘Surprise’ Bills: Senate Health Committee to deal with problem

hese are bills sent to you by providers who, unbeknownst to you, are non-participating providers in your insurance plan. They can send you a bill for the difference between their charge and what your insurance company paid them. Participating providers contractually agree to accept your insurance payments. A typical example would be when you receive services from a participating hospital emergency department only to learn when the bill arrives (surprise!) that the emergency department is staffed by a national MD group that doesn’t accept nor participate in your insurance. The obvious question is, why would a participating hospital staff its ED with non-participating providers? The answer is they may not have much of a choice, especially if it’s a hard-pressed rural hospital that cannot maintain its own staff. A rare bipartisan bill coming out of the Senate health committee deals with surprise bills. It would require all providers that work for an “in network” hospital to accept a patient’s insurance. In this ED example, the national MD staffing group company must agree to become participating providers or agree to send their bill directly to the hospital vs. the patient.

Price transparency

The same bill that addresses “surprise” billing also addresses price transparency. It would require providers and insurers to give patients price quotes on expected out-of-pocket expenses so consumers can shop around. It would require insurers to keep up-to-date directories so patients know what providers are in network in the first place which would virtually eliminate surprise bills. It would also ban anti-competitive language in contracts between an insurer and a health care system that prevent patients from seeking lower cost/ higher quality providers.

JAMA and single payer

For the first time in a long time, JAMA (Journal of American Medical Association) published an opinion piece supporting the concept of a single payer for health care. Recent surveys and polls reveal half of physician respondents now support the concept of a single payer system for health care. This was not nearly the case 20 years ago or so, when commercial payers paid physicians considerably more than Medicare for the exact same service. Over time, commercial insurance companies gradually lowered their fees to the equivalent of Medicare fees, or close to them, causing a lot of physicians to wonder what’s the point of the administrative hassle created by multiple payers if all are now paying Page 16

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about the same as Medicare. The Medicare physician fee schedule, once derided as a necessary evil by physicians, has become the “gold standard” of all physician fees. By dropping their fees to Medicare equivalents, commercial carriers have unwittingly created the case/ justification for a single payer system. Despite the rationale, physicians remain justifiably wary of a single payer that would have a monopoly on their fees. To counter, the idea of a physician’s union has been floated.

Advantage plans

Medicare Advantage (MA) plan applications were up 87% the first quarter of 2019 vs. the same period last year. MA plans are administered by commercial carriers like Aetna, Excellus, Cigna, United, etc. They typically charge a small premium more per month than regular Medicare because they offer more benefits. The typical MA “premium” decreased this year from $12 to $8 a month. Industry experts believe the price drop is due to competition, increased efficiency and tech savvy baby boomer consumers. Seniors are free to move back and forth between regular Medicare and MA plans during annual open enrollment periods. People who switched from traditional Medicare to an Advantage plan spent/cost an average of $1,253 per year less (2016 versus 2015) than those remaining on traditional Medicare.

CVS HealthHUBS

As further evidence of the expansion/encroachment of retail corporations into the provision of health care, CVS announced it will increase its community-based hubs by 1,500 locations over the next two years. Twenty percent of a CVS store will be dedicated to these “HealthHUBs” that will provide “new product categories, digital tools, on-demand health kiosks, trusted advice and personalized care.” CVS argues it is fulfilling unmet consumer preferences and is keeping up with competitors like Walmart.

George W. Chapman is a healthcare business consultant who works exclusively with physicians, hospitals and healthcare organizations. He operates GW Chapman Consulting based in Syracuse. Email him at gwc@gwchapmanconsulting.com.

Does government pension affect Social Security benefits? Dear Savvy Senior,

As a teacher for 20 years, I receive a pension from a school system that did not withhold Social Security taxes from my pay. After teaching, I’ve been working for a small company where I do pay Social Security taxes. Now, approaching age 65, I would like to retire and apply for my Social Security benefits. But I’ve been told that my teacher’s pension may cause me to lose some of my Social Security. Is that true?

Ready to Retire

Dear Ready, Yes, it’s true. It’s very likely that your Social Security retirement benefits will be reduced under the terms of a government rule called the Windfall Elimination Provision (or WEP). The WEP affects people who receive pensions from jobs in which they were not required to pay Social Security taxes — for example, police officers, firefighters, teachers and state and local government workers whose employers were not part of the national Social Security system. People who worked for nonprofit or religious organizations before 1984 may also be outside the system. Many of these people, like you, are also eligible for Social Security retirement or disability benefits based on other work they did over the course of their career for which Social Security taxes were paid. Because of your teacher’s pension, Social Security will use a special formula to calculate your retirement benefits, reducing them compared to what you’d otherwise get. How much they’ll be reduced depends on your work history. But one rule that generally applies is that your Social Security retirement benefits cannot be cut by more than half the size of your pension. And the WEP does not apply to survivor benefits. If you’re married and die, your dependents can get a full Social Security payment, unless your spouse has earned his or her own government pension for which they didn’t pay Social Security taxes. If that’s the case, Social Security has another rule known as the Government Pension Offset (or GPO) that affects spouses or widows/ widowers benefits.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2019

Under the GPO, spousal and survivor benefits will be cut by twothirds of the amount of their pension. And if their pension is large enough, their Social Security spousal or survivor benefits will be zero. There are a few exceptions to these rules most of which are based on when you entered the Social Security workforce.

Why do these rules exist?

According to the Social Security Administration, the reason Congress created the WEP (in 1983) and GPO (in 1977) was to create a more equitable system. People who get both a pension from non-Social Security work and benefits from Social Security-covered work get an unfair windfall due to the formula of how benefit amounts are calculated. These rules ensure that government employees who don’t pay Social Security taxes would end up with roughly the same income as people who work in the private sector and do pay them. For more information on the WEP visit SSA.gov/planners/retire/ wep.html, where you’ll also find a link to their WEP online calculator to help you figure out how much your Social Security benefits may be reduced. And for more information on GPO, including a GPO calculator, see SSA.gov/planners/retire/gpo. html. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

Spiritual Health Milk & Honey

By Brooke Stacia Demott

Restoration and the power of forgiveness

the more mysterious when we un’ve seen over 25 winters release derstand that God isn’t a new friend; their grip on Upstate New York, he’s an estranged father desiring reluctantly handing the reins over reconciliation. first to a fickle spring, and finally to Considering the mercy of Jesus breathtaking summer. — that he not only forgave me but Each time, the transformation paid for my sin with his own blood fascinates me. — how could I refuse forgiveness A choir of toward another person? birds returns to Whenever I start to think about greet the dawn, writing someone off, God reminds and peepers me who I was — and who I would chirp farewell to still be — without his forgiveness. In the sunset. Field that moment, it seems almost a privgrass yawns and ilege to persevere in seeking peace stretches out — like I’m sharing in the ministry of months of slumChrist, in a small way, by forgiving ber. Harsh winter like he forgives. gales repent in the Confronted with the struggle soothing hands of Demott to be justified or merciful, the most summer, sighing surprising thing of all is that forgivewarmly over the county. ness is much harder to withhold than And although summer isn’t new, to give away. Instead of a burden, it somehow it’s better than that. It’s rebecomes a sacred exchange. newed. Novelty is exciting, but also Forgiveness is God’s gift through a bit unsteady, and even frightening. ple, like a murderer or this thieving doing better than most other people. Christ, and forgiveness is the bond of A renewal manages to embrace the tax collector over here. I do a whole And although my prayers to be peace between ourselves and everyexcitement of newness with the com- lot of good.” The other man — the justified to a holy God in that arroone else. When an offense is forgiven Propo fort of familiarity. MP Order thieving tax collector — couldn’t gant state of rebellion would fall on and friendship is restored, we end up This ad will appear at the classification of: Our most meaningful relationeven lift his head to heaven and said, deaf ears, one day, there was a prayer with a relationship that is far better ships also seem to ring familiar, right “Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner.” that he would gladly answer: “Lord, than new. It is renewed. Tested and Rome NY from the start. I remember feeling Jesus tells us that the tax collector, forgive me. I am a sinner.” strengthened, it bears the marks of as if I’d known my husband Brian and in not Home the good religious man, left There was such comfort in that trial and triumph, prepared to weathDate 05/2014 for years after our first cup of coffee with the temple with the Lord’s blessing. admission, and an undeniable, iner the next winter storm. together. Many of my best friends Why? March 17, 2014 Acct# A1ZGFE creasing sense of peace that I came to Date: Sales Rep: GRIMALDI, JENNIFER HCN6 “Be kind to L oneSize: another, tender-Ad Id: AM felt like family within minutes of One of those men sought to be understand that this story had been hearted, forgiving one another, as meeting. From the beginning, there’s honored, and the other only wanted written long before I turned the page. God in Christ forgave you” (Ephean echo of nostalgia in those kindred to be forgiven. “He who had set me apart before sians 4:32). bonds. God sees all of the hidden sins of I was born, called me by his grace” But this side of Heaven, not our lives, even those that are hidden (Galatians 1:15). • Brooke Stacia Demott is a columeven the most meaningful relationdeep inside our own hearts. My prayer wasn’t an introducnist with In Good Health newspaper. Got ships can escape the inevitability of While the tax collector’s sin was tion; it was a reunion. a question for Demott? Feel free to email conflict. visible to everyone, the religious The beauty of saving grace is all her at brooketo@aol.com. Eventually, you’re going to be man’s sins — though hidden from in conflict, and someone will be public view — were nevertheless just offended. Quiet bitterness drifts in, as visible to God. Diabetes? and begins to drain your hearts of MP Order Proposal# warmth toward one another. Before This ad will appear at the classification of: Flat Feet? Ad ‘We’re all sinners’ Letter you know it, unforgiveness has enRome NY The reason thatwith unforgiveness capsulated the relationship and your Plantar Fasciitis? in Home Date 05/2014 ravages and destroys Date: relationships love has grown entirely cold. March 17, 2014 Acct# A1ZGFEYou Sales Rep: GRIMALDI, JENNIFER L Size: HCN6 Ad Id: AMZHMA1 Contract# may be eligible for shoes at little or5544766 no cost! that were once intimate is that we Far too often, we’ll allow a relado not understand a fundamental, tionship to stay frozen in a moment critical truth of our own natures. of contention. We tend to think that We’re all sinners. as long as we are the “lesser” bad Every one of us can remember guy, that we don’t have a responsitimes when we were selfish, wicked, Diabetes? bility to make things right. To pacify Flat Feet? or injurious to another. our uneasy conscience, we’ll comPlantar Fasciitis? I have done some terrible things. pare the best parts of us with the You may be eligible for shoes at little or no cost! I’ve stolen money and possessions; worst parts of the other person in I’ve lied probably hundreds of times; order to feel justified. I’ve been involved in illicit relationJesus tells a story about two men ships; I’ve been jealous and connivwho went to the temple to pray. One ing and cruel, gossipy and divisive man, a good religious man, prayed and manipulative; and convinced like this: “Thank you, God, that I’m myself for a long time that I was still not like all these really wicked peo-

Children’s Miracle Network sponsors program

he Mohawk Valley Health System Central New York Diabetes Education Program will host a parent orientation to learn about free counseling available to children at risk for diabetes from noon to 1 p.m. June 25. The event will take place at the CNY Diabetes Education Program

office located on the fourth floor of the Faxton Campus, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica. RSVP by calling 315-624-5620 or email mrios1@mvhealthsystem.org. Those interested should leave their full name and telephone number. Corresponding Listing Information: July 2019 •

AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

If you require a change, please contact your sales representative or call Yellow Book Customer Service at 1-800-891-1899. SIGNATURE: __________________________

AAMZHMB2DNLMA

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Health News MVHS medical staffs elect new officers Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare and St. Elizabeth Medical Center medical staffs in Utica announced their 2019 officers. They are: • Waleed Albert, president Albert received his Doctor of Medicine from the Faculty of Medicine of Damascus University in Damascus, Syria. He completed a residency in internal medicine at Trenton Affiliated Hospitals in Trenton, N.J., and a fellowship in infectious diseases at Albany Medical College and the Albany Stratton VA Medical Center, Albert both in Albany. Albert is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in internal medicine and infectious diseases. He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and a member of the American College of Physician Executives. • Jonathan Block, vice president Block received his Doctor of Medicine from SUNY Stony Brook and his Master of Business Administration in health care administration from California Pacific University, Pinole, Calif. Block completed graduate Block medical education in general surgery at Albany Medical Center Hospital. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Urology and a partner in Associated Medical Professionals. In addition, Block served in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged as a major. • Mathew Ulahannan, treasurer-secretary Ulahannan received his medical degree from Government Medical College in Kottayam, Kerala, India. He completed his residency in internal medicine at Flushing Hospital Medical Center in Flushing. Ulahannan He is board-certified in internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. The 2019 SEMC medical officers are: • Sushma Kaul, MD, president Kaul, a specialist in pulmonary and critical care, has joined the Mohawk Valley Health System’s Pulmonary and Critical Care Group Page 18

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UCP Tradewinds students partake in annual prom The 2019 Tradewinds Education Center Prom held recently was a night to remember for more than 80 Tradewinds Education Center students of Upstate Cerebral Palsy. Welcomed by the grand marshal, Utica City School District Superintendent Bruce Karam, attendees experienced a magical night filled with dinner and dancing. Tradewinds students had the honor of creating all the decorations in their art classes to match the theme, “Under the Sea.” Above, Tradewinds Education Center student Nate VanDeusen walks the red carpet with staff person Katherine Castellar. For more information or to become involved with the 2020 Tradewinds Prom, contact Patti Carey, vice president of school-aged services at UCP, at 315-533-1150 ext. 2452. and has admitting privileges at FSLH and SEMC. Kaul also serves as medical director for the intensive care unit, medical director for respiratory therapy and president of the medical staff at SEMC. She specializes in conditions including asthma, bronchitis, respiratory tract infections, pneumonia, Kaul pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and more, and has an interest and expertise in the diagnosis and management of lung cancer. Prior to joining the MVHS Medical Group, Kaul was affiliated with Pulmonary & Critical Care Associates, LLP in New Hartford. Kaul earned her Doctor of Medicine and a premedical degree in medical sciences from Kashmir Universi-

ty in Srinagar, India. She completed a fellowship in critical care medicine at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, a fellowship in pulmonary diseases from St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital at Columbia University in New York, and a residency and internship in internal medicine at Catholic Medical Center, a hospital affiliated with Cornell University in Jamaica, N.Y. Kaul has provided critical care lectures for MVHS nursing staff and oversight for critical care training of residents in the St. Elizabeth Family Practice Residency Program since 1997. Prior to that, he taught for Mount Sinai Services at Queens Hospital Center in Jamaica, N.Y. Kaul is board-certified in critical care medicine and pulmonary diseases. • Jonathan Wigderson, vice-president Wigderson is a specialist in orthopedic trauma with the MVHS Orthopedic Group. He received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Ohio University College of Osteo-

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2019

pathic Medicine in Athens, Ohio. Wigderson received his Bachelor of Science, cum laude, from SUNY Albany. He completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at Peninsula Hospital Center in Far Rockaway, and fellowships in orthopedic trauma at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York and in orthopedics at Wigderson Booth Memorial Medical Center in Flushing. He also completed a rotating internship at Mount Clemens General Hospital in Mount Clemens, Mich. Wigderson is board-certified in orthopedic surgery by the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery. • Michael Kelberman, treasurer Kelberman is a specialist in general and interventional cardiology and is a senior member of the Central New York Cardiology Group. He has been the director of clinical research for CNY Cardiology and is the director of cardiology at the St. Elizabeth Campus of MVHS. Kelberman He received his bachelor’s degree from Hamilton College in Clinton and his medical degree from the SUNY Health Science Center in Syracuse, where he also completed his internal medicine residency, was selected as chief resident and then went on to complete a fellowship in cardiology. He is board certified in internal medicine, cardiovascular and interventional cardiology by the American Board of Medical Specialties, and is a fellow of the American College of Cardiology. Kelberman is also the founder and president of the board of the directors of the Kelberman Center, a comprehensive organization providing autism services across Central New York.

SECON graduates 81 new nurses St. Elizabeth College of Nursing in Utica recently graduated 81 new nurses. Of the 81 graduates, 57 attended weekday classes and 24 participated in the evening-weekend program. The 113th graduation ceremony was held at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utica, following a procession across Genesee Street. The valedictorian was Alexis Jory of Frankfort. Salutatorians were

Continued on Page 19

Health News Neighborhood Center, Inc. hires marketing, PR head

Continued from Page 18 Rebecca Schmitt of Utica and Sarah Pickering of Sherrill. College President Varinya Sheppard and Jessica Eldred Beverly Plante, deans of student and faculty development at SECON, presented the graduates with their Associate in Applied Science degrees. Senior class advisers Michelle Wolff and Lauren Fallon presented them with the SECON pin. Darlene Stromstad, president-CEO of the Mohawk Valley Health System, welcomed the graduates, faculty, staff and participants. The Rev. Joseph Salerno, pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, gave the commencement address. SECON is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc., and registered by the New York State Education Department.

MVHS re-verified as level III trauma center The Mohawk Valley Health System Trauma Center at the St. Elizabeth Campus in Utica was recently re-verified as a level III trauma center by the verification review committee, an ad hoc committee of the Committee on Trauma of the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This achievement recognizes the trauma center’s dedication to providing optimal care for injured patients. Established by the American College of Surgeons in 1987, the COT’s consultation-verification program for hospitals promotes the development of trauma centers in which participants provide not only the hospital resources necessary for trauma care, but also the entire spectrum of care to address the needs of all injured patients. This spectrum encompasses the pre-hospital phase through the rehabilitation process. The ACS Committee on Trauma’s verification program does not designate trauma centers. Rather, the program provides confirmation that a trauma center has demonstrated its commitment to providing the highest quality trauma care for all injured patients. The actual establishment and the designation of trauma centers is the function of local, regional or state healthcare systems agencies, such as the local emergency medical services (EMS) authority. “Our re-verification as a level III trauma center recognizes MVHS’s dedication to providing optimal care for injured patients and we are proud to offer exceptional trauma care to those within our community,” said Tracey Barone, trauma coordinator at MVHS.

Outstanding health care professional awarded Valley Health Services’ Director of Nursing Melissa Ippolito was awarded the Outstanding Healthcare

Community Memorial participates in Denim Day for Sexual Assault Awareness Month Community Memorial Hospital in Hamilton and its five family health centers, as part of their Denim Day Campaign, recently raised $145 for the Madison County Liberty Resources/Help Restore Hope Center. In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April, community members, elected officials, employees and students were asked to make a social statement by wearing jeans during the one-day campaign to protest against the misconceptions surrounding sexual violence. Celebrating the occasion are, from left, Sara Haag, divisional director of Liberty Resources, and Diane Chase, CMH senior director of clinical services. Professional Award on behalf of The Genesis Group, The Medical Societies and its partners, recently at Hart’s Hill Inn, Whitesboro. Ippolito began her career in nursing at VHS while in high school as a certified nursing assistant and has worked as a registered nurse in several different capacities since 2001. Ippolito’s accolades are numerous and include being a certified rehabilitation registered nurse, skin and wound care certified by the National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy and Ipro-certified by the New York State Department of Health for corporate quality and value in health care. Ippolito resides in Middleville with her husband, John, and daughters, Gabrielle and Hannah.

SDMG adds to its endocrinology department Jason Sloane will be joining the endocrinology department at Slocum-Dickson Medical Group in New Hartford on July 15. As a specialist in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism, he cares for patients with various forms of diabetes, including Type 1 and Type 2, as well as diabetes related to obesity, checkpoint inhibitors, surgery, or steroid treatment. His practice includes the care of patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, hypothyroidism, Grave’s disease, thyroid nodules, acromegaly, Cush-

ing’s disease, hormone deficiency or excess due to pituitary adenomas, testosterone deficiency, menopause, hyperlipidemia, and osteoporosis. Sloane completed his fellowship in fndocrinology at Massachusetts General Hospital, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School. He served as chief medical resident during the final year of his internal medSloane icine residency at Albany Medical Center. Sloane earned his medical degree from Duke University and his master’s degree in neuroscience from Upstate Medical University in Syracuse. He is a member of the American Medical Association and the Endocrine Society. From September of 2015 to July of 2016, Sloane served as editor-in-chief of the Albany Medical Review. He has authored several peer-reviewed research articles as well as professional educational material for providers and patients. In 2015, he was awarded the Albany Medical Center Award for Compassionate Patient Care.

July 2019 •

The Neighborhood Center Inc. in Utica recently hired Lauren Lottermoser as its director of marketing and public relations. Lottermoser will support the Neighborhood Centers’ mission to build a stronger community by promoting awareness and advocating for needs. Lottermoser brings with her five years of nonprofit experience in marketing, Lottermoser social media, event planning, newsletters and donor development. “I feel honored to be able to work for such a wonderful agency that does a lot for the local and surrounding communities. The agency provides an array of services for those in need, in which I am proud to support in order to make our community stronger,” she said. Lottermoser has a degree in public relations-journalism from The College of Saint Rose in Albany and her experience includes working at Upstate Cerebral Palsy and Little Falls Hospital. She resides in Holland Patent with her husband and two children. The Neighborhood Center is a comprehensive human services agency in Central New York. For more information, go to www.neighborhoodctr.org.

LFH presents President’s Excellence Award Joseph Sweet was recently recognized with the President’s Excellence Award at Little Falls Hospital. The award is given to a non-nursing individual within the organization who has demonstrated superior performance in upholding the values of LFH. Sweet was chosen for this award because of his overall performance in each of the value areas including relationships, excellence, accountability, service, learning and integration. “It is my honor and privilege to award Joe with the President’s Excellence Award because of his seemingly natural and effortless way of integrating all of our values for the benefit of our patients, colleagues and the hospital,” said Michael Ogden, president of LFH. Stephanie Pope, nurse manager on the inpatient unit, said, “Mr. Sweet is the friendly, shining face of welcome and caring at Little Falls Hospital. His presence is always positive and productive.” Sweet began his career at LFH in July 2001 and is a technician II in the environmental service department.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 19

Combat Zone Battle over location of new MVHS regional hospital rages on David L. Podos

he new Mohawk Valley Health System regional hospital planned for downtown Utica is being met with resistance. Jim Brock Jr. and Brett Truett — both local Utica businessmen — are co-founders and co-chairmen for an organization called No Hospital Downtown. The pair co-founded the group before the announcement was made for the hospital to be located downtown. “I was given a Brock head’s up about the location by three board members of MVHS who expressed concern that they were being forced to locate the proposed hospital downtown,” said Brock, president of Jim Brock Agency of Utica, Inc. No Hospital Downtown — as well as the Landmark Society of Greater Utica and Oneida County Historian Joe Bottini — have brought legal action against MVHS, the city of Utica Planning Board, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and Erik Kulleseid, acting commissioner of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York. This action, known as an Article 78 proceeding, challenges the process and findings of the State Environmental Quality Review, which was Stromstad conducted over an 18-month period. The suit was filed with the New York State Supreme Court in Albany County to prevent the building of MVHS’ new hospital in the downtown area. “Sadly, we have a few politicians and others who want to line the pockets of their friends at the expense of the many. Only Utica would do something like this that is so ridiculous,” Brock said. “We anticipated a response from the defendants sometime in June, and we expected oral arguments in court sometime in late June, and maybe a decision sometime in July. Whatever side loses, it will then go to the Appellate Court. Our organization expects a long, drawn-out battle which we are prepared and ready for.” “I think it’s important to recognize that in my professional life, for over 20 years, I have spent time raising money for local hospitals,” Brock said. Brock said when he moved back to Utica from Houston, Texas, he was a board member of the Faxton Foundation for 10 years. After that, he served for the Faxton-St. Luke’s Foundation when the two hospitals merged. “My work and fundraising were to help bring the best medical care to Page 20

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Above is a digital rendering of the new Mohawk Valley Health System medical center in downtown Utica. people of the Mohawk Valley. Prior to that, my family has a long history of support going all the way back to Faxton Children’s Hospital. So, I have a lot of knowledge about hospitals in general, especially local ones,” he said. Brock said the St. Luke’s campus would be a better option in terms of locating a hospital there. He said the properties in and around the St. Luke campus were acquired over the last 20 to 30 years for the purpose of accommodating a new hospital at the site. “It has its own co-generator power system and sits on 64 acres of land, land that can be built on,” he said. “Also, with a new hospital being built on the existing site, it will sit directly across from Utica College and would form a great synergy.” He said placing the hospital downtown would eliminate that potential synergy, demolish a third of the historic infrastructure of downtown, displace 40 businesses — many that deal with human services work — and displace churches. “I got to know the people and businesses in that area because I worked many years for the Upper Mohawk Valley Memorial Auditorium Authority, which is just across the street from the proposed downtown site,” he said. Darlene Stromstad, president and CEO of MVHS, said the MVHS Board of Directors unanimously approved the downtown location. “This small group — No Hospital Downtown — is making every attempt to put obstacles in the way of the new regional medical center,” Stromstad said. “It is an unnecessary distraction and expense to this important project that will be successful. The opportunity to bring a new hospital to this community is extremely beneficial to the people that live and work here, not just today, but for years into the future.” She said given the project’s importance to the city and region, MVHS believes it is critical for the

community to have accurate information. Stromstad said the decision to build a new MVHS regional medical center in downtown Utica was made nearly four years ago after a thorough review of potential locations. Since that decision, significant time, money and resources have been invested into the design of the new facility. “The St. Luke’s campus is no longer an option,” she said. She added there were 20 businesses in the footprint of the new medical center, not 40, and the location is not one third of the historic infrastructure of downtown Utica.

Infrastructure concerns

Brock said under Columbia and Lafayette streets — within the footprint of the downtown hospital site — is some of the oldest infrastructure in Oneida County. “You would have to literally rebuild that infrastructure — water, sewage, power, electricity and gas. I will say that of the $300 million we are getting from the state for this new hospital [Statewide Health Care Facility Transformation Program grant], $150 million will go toward rebuilding that infrastructure, leaving very little money to build a new hospital. “I do not believe that this hospital will ever be built downtown. I will submit to you after filing suit with the Supreme Court in Albany that you won’t see shovels in the ground in downtown, ever.” Stromstad said the cost to upgrade utilities alone, not including water, is less than $9 million — not $150 million. Also, grant money is not going to be used for the infrastructure upgrade; it is being paid for by MVHS, she said. “Further, the medical center project will benefit downtown Utica by upgrading and replacing old, unreliable systems located in these quadrants which would otherwise only be updated over time as portions fail,”

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2019

she said. Brock said cities across the United States today are not building new hospitals in downtown areas. “Now the ‘yes’ people like to point to hospitals that are being built in downtowns,” he said. He said a new hospital in the Chicago, Ill. area was built 19 miles from downtown. Also, a new hospital in Tampa, Fla. is located near a community college and residential area, and is not downtown. However, Stromstad said there are a number of hospitals that have been built in downtown areas and they have, in fact, been cited as a key reason for the revitalization of downtown areas. One example in the Northeast is St. Vincent Medical Center in Worcester, Mass. She pointed to a Nov. 9, 2018 article in the Worcester Telegram-Gazette that stated, “Medicine has been key to Worcester’s revitalization in the new millennium. The East Central Urban Renewal Project was renamed the Medical City project and resulted in the relocation of St. Vincent Hospital from high on Vernon Hill to a downtown site just a few blocks away in 2000.”

Bone of contention

Brock claims that several board members from MVHS told him that the $300 million in state aid would be withheld if the project did not locate downtown. However, Stromstad said the downtown location for the new medical center was supported by the state as part of a larger initiative to revitalize urban centers in Upstate New York. Because of that state support, MVHS was granted $300 million in Health Care Facility Transformation monies. In order to obtain the grant, the hospital needed to be located in Oneida County’s largest population center, which is the city of Utica, Stromstad noted. In addition to state and regional government support, the downtown location offers better accessibility because of its location to major highways and public transportation, she added. Building at or expanding on the St. Luke’s campus is no longer an option and is not viable for a number of reasons, she said. “There is not enough adjoining acreage that is not currently being used to support the design of a new medical center,” said Stromstad, noting there are also other buildings on the site — the Center for Rehabilitation and Continuing Care Services, a dental center, onsite day care buildings, and other additional buildings. Stromstad also noted there are federally regulated wetlands on the St. Luke’s campus. She said both hospital campuses — St. Elizabeth and St. Luke’s — need to remain open and functional during construction to meet the needs of patients and community members.

Roswell Park, Oneida Health partner up Quality radiation care available in Oneida

eaving Central New York for quality cancer care is now a thing of the past. Leadership from Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and Oneida Health recently announced the grand opening of the Dorothy G. Griffin Radiation Oncology Center on Oneida’s campus. This is the next step in expanding the reach of the Roswell Park Care Network, which launched in May. The partnership with Oneida Health offers patients state-of-the-art equipment and clinical and technical expertise that only a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center such as Roswell Park can provide. Under the Roswell Park Care Network, it means access to chemotherapy infusion, clinical trials, genetic counseling, supportive care and educational services. Adding radiation oncology to this slate of services expands convenient access to comprehensive cancer care for residents of CNY. The completed radiation oncology center features four exam rooms, a consultation room, a CT scanner, a Truebeam linear accelerator for radiation therapy and required support facilities, with clinical and quality management provided by Roswell Park radiation oncologist Shilpa

Leaders from Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Oneida Health cut the ribbon at the Dorothy G. Griffin Radiation Oncology Center recently. Vyas, as well as a Roswell Park medical dosimetrist and medical physicists. Vyas and her team will follow the same quality standards patients can expect at Roswell Park, including evidence-based and peer-reviewed radiation treatment plans, availability of all treatment options and adherence to guidelines that carefully control radiation doses to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. A team of radiation oncologists at Roswell Park will review every patient’s radiation treatment plan. In addition, all staff based in

Oneida will be trained on Roswell Park standards. This translates to exceptional NCI-level cancer care for residents of CNY. The center joins an established medical oncology center operated jointly by Roswell Park and Oneida Health on Oneida’s campus under the medical direction of Mohamed elNaghy. Oneida Health is also in the process of expanding its outpatient Alice M. Gorman Imaging Center to further meet the needs of its cancer patients. “Our growing collaboration means patients are going to receive

tailor-made care that our patients in Buffalo receive, but right in their backyards. They won’t have to travel far to know that they are being treated following the same care standards of a comprehensive cancer center,” said Candace S. Johnson, president and CEO of Roswell Park. “Patients will benefit from stateof-the-art diagnosis, local access to NCI cancer care guidelines, and the latest treatment options from a comprehensive cancer center ranked among the top 3% in the nation,” said Gene Morreale, president and CEO of Oneida Health.

For children and adolescents, ideal measures include total cholesterol (TC) at less than 170 mg/ dL, LDL or “bad” cholesterol at less than 110 mg/dL and HDL or “good” cholesterol at greater than 45 mg/ dL. These levels are associated with better long-term health. All youth should have their cholesterol checked at ages 9 to 11 years and again at 17 to 21 years, according to the latest guidelines from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. “If a child is found to have borderline-high or high levels of cholesterol, we can usually improve those levels through lifestyle changes, such as healthier diet and increased physical activity,” says Perak. “Children are rarely placed on cholesterol-lowering medications like statins.”

The improving cholesterol trends observed in the study are surprising given that obesity is one of the factors that drives abnormal cholesterol levels and childhood obesity continues to increase. “More research is needed to understand the reasons for the favorable cholesterol trends we found,” says Perak. “Some factors that influence cholesterol may be improving, such as decreased trans fats in the food supply. Although more efforts are needed, the fact that cholesterol levels are moving in the right direction warrants some optimism about the future cardiovascular health of our population since cholesterol is such an important driver of cardiovascular disease.”

s d i K Corner

Only half of U.S. kids, teenagers have ideal cholesterol levels

holesterol levels in U.S. youth have improved from 1999 to 2016, but only half of children and adolescents are in the ideal range and 25% are in the clinically high range, according to a study published in JAMA, led by cardiologist Amanda Marma Perak at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. The study is the first to report estimated prevalence of high cholesterol in youth in recent years, analyzing nationally representative data from more than 26,000 children and adolescents (ages 6-19 years). “High cholesterol in childhood is one of the key risk factors for de-

veloping heart disease later in life,” says Perak, who is also an assistant professor of pediatric cardiology and preventive medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. “Although we see favorable trends in all measures of cholesterol in children and adolescents over the years, we still need to work harder to ensure that many more kids have healthy cholesterol levels. We know that high cholesterol is the critical initiator of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries, and even in childhood it is associated with these changes in the blood vessels that can lead to heart attack in adulthood.”

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Between You and Me

CALENDAR of

By Barbara Pierce

‘Man flu’

HEALTH EVENTS

Are men just babies when it comes to getting sick? Maybe not

ou’ve suspected it, and well, you’re right. It’s true. When it comes to getting sick, men are wimps. If the man in your life is a baby or a real drama queen when he’s sick, that’s what men do. I’ve always thought so. Yes, women and doctors have long noticed that men tend to suffer more than women for the same thing. And research has proved we’re right. Recently, my partner had a skin cancer removed from his chest, necessitating three or four stitches to close the site. I was puzzled when, several times a Pierce day, he came bringing his flashlight so I could take a good look at it and make sure it was healing properly. Why can’t he just look in the mirror and see for himself? I thought. I’ve had far more serious surgeries and far bigger scars and I never paid any attention to them unless they called attention to themselves. Then I remembered last year when he had his eyes done — he came out with black and blue eyes, his face looking like it had been run over by a truck. It looked far worse than it was. I was flabbergasted when he posted a photo of his terrible looking face on Facebook. Then I saw all the sympathetic comments from his kids and grandkids. That explained it. And explained his need for me to look at his miniscule scar. Now this is not a wimpy guy. Growing up in rural New York state, he’s all man. But when it comes to the least little thing wrong with his body, he becomes a wimp. Apparently, it’s in the male genes. New research from Canada suggests that illnesses, like the flu or a cold, may really hit men harder than women. The phenomenon even has a name: “man flu.” According to the definition — and, yes, it’s common enough to have made it into the dictionaries — man flu is an illness, such as a cold, that is not serious but the person who has it treats as more serious. Usually this person is a man. Study author Kyle Sue says: “There are already many physiologic differences between men and women, so it makes sense that we could differ in our responses to cold and flu viruses as well.” The evidence in this and other current studies points toward men having weaker immune systems than women, especially when it comes to common viral respiratory infections, Sue explained. “Men are more susceptible to them, symptoms are worse, they last longer, and men are more likely to be hospitalized and die from the flu,” she noted. Page 22

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Got a health-related activity or event that you would like publicized? Call Lou Sorendo at 315-749-7070 or email lou@cnymail.com.

Mondays

Food Addicts in Recovery to meet Food Addicts in Recovery holds an anonymous meeting from 6:308 p.m. Mondays at Trinity United Methodist Church, 8595 Westmoreland Road, Whitesboro. For more information, call Helen at 315-794-2314.

Tuesdays The fact is that in a number of diseases and conditions — including heart disease, osteoarthritis, urinary tract health, stroke, migraine, alcoholism and mental health issues — women and men are affected differently. Some interesting research, in both animals and humans, suggests men generally have weaker immune systems than women. What Sue found was that, perhaps due to certain physiological differences between the sexes, a man’s immune system appears to react more forcefully to the influenza virus than a woman’s. That may sound like a good thing, but the aches, pains, fever, chills and outpouring of mucus that typically accompany the flu are all courtesy of your immune system’s best efforts. A stronger immune response means worse symptoms.

Really now?

Another recent study, done by Georgia State University, found that people take the pain of girls less seriously than that of boys. Adults are likely to downgrade the pain experienced by young girls. For instance, fathers rated the pain of their sons higher than that of their daughters in a cold pressor test, in which a subject immerses a hand in a container of ice water. In other research, a child’s finger is pricked at a doctor’s office, and the child cries out: “Ow! Ah! Ow!” How much pain adults think the young patient is suffering will depend on whether they believe the child to be a girl or a boy. Interesting. That explains a lot. As women, we’re raised to be appropriately sympathetic to pain, to care about those in pain. And it seems that we probably have been raised to take the pain of males more seriously than our own pain. We care for the pain of the male; we take care of him when he is ill. No one takes care of us; we just tough it out. Reminds me of that old song by Helen Reddy: “I am woman; I am strong! I am invincible! I am woman!” • Barbara Pierce is a retired licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience helping people. If you would like to purchase a copy of her book, “When You Come to the Edge: Aging” or if you have questions for her, contact her at barbarapierce06@yahoo.com.

Insight House offers family support group Insight House Chemical Dependency Services, Inc. is offering a family support group meeting from 6:15-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Insight House, 500 Whitesboro St., Utica. The group is free and open to anyone who is concerned about a loved one’s relationship with alcohol, opiates/heroin, or other substances. For more information about the group, call 724-5168, ext. 265, from 8:30-4 p.m. weekdays. All calls are strictly confidential.

Thursdays

Loved one on drugs? There is support CNY Services Milestones is featuring a support group for anyone dealing with another person’s drug and/or alcohol addiction. The support group meets at 6 p.m. Thursdays at 502 Court St., Suite 210, Utica. The support group is free and open to those struggling with a child, partner, wife, husband, mother, father or friend who is battling addiction. For more information, call Tony at 315-717-9153.

July 3

Narcan training classes available In response to the influx of overdoses in the local community, Insight House will be offering free community Narcan training classes on a bi-weekly basis. Classes will be held from 2-3 p.m. on the first and last Wednesday of every month at 500 Whitesboro St. The next sessions will take place on July 3 and July 31. Space is limited and preregistration is recommended by calling 315-724-5168 ext. 238.

July 8

Support forum for patients, cancer survivors

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2019

The Mohawk Valley Health

System’s Cancer Center’s monthly support forum for patients and cancer survivors will be held at 6 p.m. July 8. The cancer support forum meets at 6 p.m. on the second Monday of every month in the Cancer Center’s fireplace lounge on the main floor of Faxton Campus, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica. The forum, led by the Cancer Center’s social worker, offers support to anyone who has received a cancer diagnosis. Light refreshments will be served. For more information or to RSVP, call 315-624-5241.

July 8

Support group to meet at Rome Memorial Hospital The brain aneurysm, AVM (arteriovenous malformation) and stroke support group will meet from 5:307:30 p.m. July 8 at Rome Memorial Hospital’s second-floor classroom. The group meets on the second Monday of every month. RMH is located at 1500 N. James St., Rome. For more information, call Deb Dunn at 315-533-6467 or email RomeNY@JoeNiekroFoundation.org.

July 11

Laryngectomy support group to meet The Laryngectomy Support Group will hold its monthly meeting at noon July 11 in the Sister Regina Conference Room on the first floor of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center hospital building, 2209 Genesee St., Utica. The support group is sponsored by SEMC. Laryngectomy support group meetings are held at noon on the second Thursday of each month. A laryngectomy is the procedure to remove a person’s larynx and separates the airway from the mouth, nose and esophagus. The laryngectomee breathes through an opening in the neck, called a stoma. The public is welcome to attend. Those with questions can call the speech therapy department at 315801-4475.

July 12

Breastfeeding Café opens at Rome Memorial The Mohawk Valley Breastfeeding Network, in partnership with Rome Memorial Hospital, has opened a new Breastfeeding Café to provide pregnant and breastfeeding moms and their families a place to support one another, socialize and

Continued on Page 23

CALENDAR of

HEALTH EVENTS

Got a health-related activity or event that you would like publicized? Call Lou Sorendo at 315-749-7070 or email lou@cnymail.com. Continued from Page 22 get breastfeeding clinical support if needed. The group meets from noon to 2 p.m. on the second and fourth Fridays of the month at Rome Memorial Hospital, fourth floor, 1500 N. James St. The next meetings will be on July 12 and July 26. There is no cost to participate and mothers can bring their babies to be weighed at the hospital’s “Weighto-Go” station. Snacks will be provided. Dads and grandparents are welcome. For more information, contact Laurie Hoke in RMH’s maternity department at 315-338-7291. You can find meeting announcements on Breastfeeding Café and Rome Memorial Hospital Facebook pages.

July 13

Class focuses on feeding newborn Human milk is the best possible nutrition for your baby. With knowledge and practice, both mother and baby can learn how to successfully breastfeed. Rome Memorial Hospital will be featuring classes where parents-to-be can learn about their baby’s nutritional needs, feeding by breast or bottle and other hand-feeding methods. All are welcome to attend regardless of feeding choice.

International board-certified lactation specialist Amanda Huey will lead the free class. Classes will be offered from 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays on July 13, Sept. 14 and Nov. 9. Classes will be held in the hospital’s second floor classroom. No registration is required. For more information, call the education department at 315-338-7143.

July 15

Family support group focuses on addiction Families who are dealing with the problems of addiction can find help and information at a support group meeting from 6-7 p.m. July 15 in the second floor classroom at Rome Memorial Hospital. The group meets the third Monday of each month and is free and open to everyone. Offered by the hospital’s Community Recovery Center, the support group provides an opportunity to discuss issues with others who are in the same situation. Certified by the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, the Community Recovery Center, 264 W. Dominick St., Rome, offers alcohol and substance abuse treatment for adolescents and adults. Open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday and Friday and from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, the center participates with most major insur-

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Walk for Wanda supports Herkimer County HealthNet

$21 payment enclosed

In Good Health

4 Riverside Drive, Suite 251, Utica, NY 13502

The sixth annual Walk for Wanda Event raised $1,500 for Herkimer County HealthNet recently. The walk took place at Eastern Park in Little Falls on with a raffle fundraiser, which followed at Benton Hall Academy. Above, Elyse Enea, right, executive director of HealthNet, accepts the check from event organizer Althea Noyes. “With the help of Althea Noyes, who along with many volunteers organizes this event in memory of her mother, HealthNet has been able to increase the amount of free ‘Living Well’ prevention programs offered in Herkimer County by six programs per year,” Enea said. The proceeds raised from this event support events and programs hosted by HealthNet related to prevention and living well with diabetes and chronic diseases in Herkimer County. For more information about HealthNet and its upcoming programs, call 315-867-1552 or visit www.healthnetinc.org. ance programs, including Medicare and Medicaid. A sliding scale fee is available for self-pay clients. For more information about the support group or the Community Recovery Center, call 334-4701.

July 17

Valley Health Services accepts syringes Valley Health Services is accepting the community’s medical waste of needles, syringes and lancets from noon until 2 p.m. on July 17. The service is available on the third Wednesday of every month. The waste must be in approved puncture-resistant containers available at local pharmacies and properly marked “biohazard.” The containers may be brought to the outpatient receptionist on the ground floor at VHS, who will contact the personnel responsible for medical waste disposal.

VHS is located at 690 W. German St., Herkimer. Questions may be directed to Tammi King, infection control nurse, at 866-3330, ext. 2308.

July 17

Parents: Learn baby care basics Parents-to-be can learn about childbirth, newborns and other related topics by attending Baby Care Basics, a two-hour program taught by Rome Memorial Hospital maternity nurse Michelle Bates. Classes are available from 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays on July 17, Sept. 25 and Nov. 6, and from 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays on July 13, Sept. 7 and Nov. 16 in the hospital’s classroom. The program is free and no advance registration is required. Call 315-338-7143 for more information.

Health in good

MV’S HEALTHCARE NEWSPAPER

EMPLOYMENT Advertise your health-related services or products and reach potential customers throughout the Mohawk Valley for as little as $90 a month. Call 749-7070 for more info.

July 2019 •

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Page 23

Family approach to addiction Here’s an innovative approach to help your loved one with addiction By Barbara Pierce

aving an adult child, partner or sibling with a substance abuse problem puts a tremendous strain on you and your relationship. It can disrupt family gatherings and has the potential to uproot your life entirely. You never know when the next shoe will drop, such as when you’ll get the phone call you’re dreading. “When you’re the parent of an addicted child, you feel helpless. Daniel You go through each and every setback with them. You feel like your hands are tied, and you don’t know what to do next,” says J.A. Reed of Canandaigua in her book, “Nine Lives: The Heartbreak of Addiction.” “Every time the phone rings, it’s a nagging reminder that the worst is almost inevitable. You live with the fear that one day your world will be turned upside down. Then it happened. I got the call that would change my life forever,” Reed says. “I lost my only son in a tragic accident — though you could say I lost him many years earlier when he lost

himself to the perilous world of drug addiction.” Far too many parents get that call. The leading cause of death among those under 50 is now drugs. Likewise, alcoholism also destroys people, relationships and families. “I never know what she’s going to do,” says Ben Hansen of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. regarding his wife. “She gets drunk, then drives off. I hide the keys but she finds them. My family doesn’t even want to see us because they’ve seen her do so many stupid things. We don’t have any friends because she gets drunk and sends emails to her friends telling them what she really thinks of them. I can’t leave her; we’ve been together over 40 years.” “So many families struggle with addiction,” said Ambi Daniel, family support navigator at the Center for Family Life & Recovery, Utica. Daniel offers a new path for families on this very difficult road. She gives them strategies for helping their loved one change and for feeling better themselves. These are strategies that work much more effectively than traditional methods. “I meet with the family over a few months to help them learn about addiction in a different way,” she said. She uses the Community Reinforcement Approach and Family

Training program, created by Robert Myers.

Getting CRAFT-y

CRAFT helps families learn techniques to encourage their loved one to begin and continue treatment, she explained. CRAFT teaches families strategies for interacting with their loved one. For example, participants learn the power of positive reinforcement for positive behavior (and of withdrawing it for unwanted behavior), and how to use positive communication skills to improve interactions and maximize their influence. Another example: “We stay away from the word ‘enabling.’ It’s a stigma,” she said. “It makes families feel bad. Instead, we look at the unintentional support to the negative behavior they may be giving the person. What are the benefits for the person who is giving that unintentional support?” “And the theory of ‘let them fall’ is being reconsidered,” she continued. When a loved one is abusing substances and refusing to get help, CRAFT helps families move their loved one toward recovery through other methods. CRAFT provides an alternative approach to the 12-step based AlAnon, and to “intervention,” which is a surprise family meeting with the user. This surprise meeting is intended to motivate the addicted person to

enter treatment. CRAFT is a time-limited treatment with a set number of sessions. It differs significantly from Al-Anon as it advocates that family can have a positive impact on the person. Al-Anon does not promote the view that significant others can have any impact on changing behavior. Research has demonstrated that CRAFT has significantly greater success than Al-Anon or intervention as far as engaging loved ones in treatment. The goals for CRAFT are to improve the lives of the family member, reduce the addictive behavior of the user, and increase the user’s motivation to enter treatment. Even when the user does not enter treatment, he or she often substantially reduces their addictive behavior. Families who work with Daniel get results quickly: “The benefits are seen within a few weeks,” she added. “That’s huge!” “Families are powerful,” she continued. “They have a unique perception of the situation. This is a beautiful way to enhance recovery and shape the path for all the family members.” Usually she sees the family alone; the person with the addiction is not included in the sessions. “If he or she is brought in, it is carefully planned,” she said.

The Intersection of Cancer Specialists and Local Care

medical oncology affiliate

Roswell Park Affiliated Medical Oncology Care is now at Oneida Health.

Now accepting patients. 604 Seneca Street, Oneida • (315) 361-2381 • oneidacancer.org Page 24

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2019