FREE
MVHEALTHNEWS.COM
JULY 2022 • ISSUE 197
SEVEN SUPER-QUICK
FIXES FOR STRESS Mental health counselor James Davis, executive director of Samaritan Counseling Center in Utica, offers tips for you to get through stressed out moments. P. 9
NEW AT THE HELM Physician Alexander R. Harris is now the leader of SlocumDickson Medical Group. He discusses his career and plans for the physician-owned and -operated group. P. 4
U.S. SPENDS MORE ON CANCER THAN ANY OTHER COUNTRY WHY ARE SURVIVAL RATES SO LOW? Page 6
WANT TO LOSE CALORIES? BOWLING MAY BE AN OPTION. P. 20
Are Taller People More Prone to Certain Conditions?
I
f you’re taller than average, your genes may affect your risk for a variety of diseases, a new study suggests. These include a higher risk for the heart rhythm disorder atrial fibrillation and varicose veins, but a lower risk of coronary heart disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Other investigators have reported similar findings before. This new study found new links between being tall and a higher risk for nerve damage leading to peripheral neuropathy, as well as skin and bone infections, such as leg and foot ulcers. But just because you’re tall doesn’t mean that you’re destined to develop one of these conditions, said lead researcher, physician Sridharan Raghavan. He is an assistant professor at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Denver. “Personally, I don’t think a person should worry about their height as a predeterminant of their risk for medical conditions,” Raghavan said. The new study provides a catalog of conditions with which height may be biologically or causally related, he said. “This is really a starting point for future work, first, for considering whether height can help identify individuals at risk for specific conditions and guide preventive measures targeting modifiable risk factors for those conditions, and second, for understanding the biological mechanisms tying height to clinical conditions,” Raghavan said.
Those mechanisms are likely to differ for various medical conditions, and the new study may provide direction for future research, he noted. Raghavan said that most conditions arise from a combination of factors. And while people can’t change their genetics, many studies have shown that healthy behaviors, which people can control and modify, can be protective. “Nonmodifiable risk factors like height and family history might give us information about who is at risk for a condition, but they do not deter-
mine whether a person will get that condition,” Raghavan said. “Modifying other risk factors is likely to still be helpful in most cases.” For the study, Raghavan’s team collected data on more than 250,000 participants in the U.S. Veterans Affairs (VA) Million Veteran Program, looking at more than 1,000 traits and conditions among them. The data included more than 200,000 white adults and more than 50,000 Black adults. Raghavan, who treats patients at Rocky Mountain Regional VA
Medical Center in Aurora, Colorado, noted that growth and metabolism related to height are connected to many aspects of health. “In some cases, the mechanism will be due to physical effects of tall stature rather than a biological process,” he said. “For example, the association between height and chronic lower extremity venous circulatory disorders may be related to physical distance and different pressure in the circulatory system that impact taller individuals, compared to shorter individuals.” Other links may owe to biological processes related to both height and physiology, Raghavan said. Todd Lencz, a professor at the Institute of Behavioral Science at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research in Manhasset, Long Island, reviewed the findings, which were published online June 2 in PLOS Genetics. “These effect sizes are not huge,” Lencz said. “This is not something that anyone should be reading and consulting their doctor about.” While the effect of height on developing a medical condition may seem significant across an entire population, Lencz noted the risk is small on an individual level and can often be offset with a healthy lifestyle. The effect of height is “such a tiny amount that all sorts of other things are going to be playing a much larger role,” he said. “It’s still good advice for everyone to not smoke, and to exercise and eat right.”
Caring for our members and
our community.
For over 85 years, we’ve called the Utica area home. And we’ve been here to care for the local community. Not only providing high quality low cost health insurance, but resources to make Upstate New York a better place to live, work and raise a family. That’s why we are proud to support the 45th Boilermaker Road Race and runners like Bob Bluey, an Excellus BlueCross BlueShield Medicare member. We’ll be cheering on Bob and runners from around the world as they cross the finish of one of the nation’s best road races.
Read Bob’s story at
Bob Bluey, Member 45th Boilermaker
Follow us on: A nonprofit independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association
Page 2 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2022
AHealthierUpstate.com
Thank you to our healthcare heroes for your continued support and endless exceptional work.
Thank you to all our healthcare professionals across Elemental Management Group for your continued dedication and commitment to caring for our communities.
Join our team today.
No experience? We will train you!
Apply Online
or visit any of our listed facilities. Waterville Residential in Waterville watervillecares.com Currently recruiting CNA, LPN, RN Aaron Manor Nursing and Rehab in Fairport aaronmanor.com Currently recruiting CNA, LPN, RN Shire Senior Living Adult Home/Assisted Living, Rochester shireseniorliving.com. Currently hiring HHA, PCA, Medication Technician Morningstar Residential, Oswego morningstarcares.com Currently recruiting CNA, LPN, RN The Gardens by Morningstar, Oswego Currently recruiting Adult Home/Assisted Living, HHA, PCA and Medication Technician
www.elementalmgt.com July 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 3
Meet
Your Doctor
By Barbara Pierce
Alexander R. Harris, M.D.
Physician is now the leader of Slocum-Dickson Medical Group. He discusses his career and plans for the physician-owned and -operated group
New Guidelines for Pancreatic Cancer Screening
B
y the year 2030, pancreatic cancer is expected to become the second most common cause of cancer deaths for both men and women in the United States, according to recent reports. While considered uncommon, inherited gene mutations can increase a person’s risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Early detection of cancer is key to a greater chance of survival, but it is difficult to catch pancreatic cancer early as people usually have no symptoms until the cancer has advanced and hard to treat. A clinician-researcher from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) contributed to new national guidelines published by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE), recommending annual pancreatic cancer screening for patients who are at increased risk because of genetic susceptibility. While earlier guidelines had restricted screening to only those individuals with BRCA 1/2 who had a family history of pancreatic cancer, the new guidelines expand indication for screening for all with the gene variations regardless of family history. “Because less than 25% of patients with BRCA 1/2 who develop pancreatic cancer have family history of pancreatic cancer, most cancers will be missed if screening is restricted to those with a family history” said first author of the guidelines Mandeep S. Sawhney, a gastroenterologist at BIDMC and associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. “Although screen-detected pancreatic cancers are more likely to be diagnosed at an earlier and more treatable stage, it is important to acknowledge the potential downsides of screening. These guidelines are the first to quantify harms from pancreatic cancer screening resulting from false-positive screening tests results and encourage care providers to carefully counsel their patients before enrolling in a screening program.”
Q: What is the Slocum-Dickson Medical Group? A: We’re physician-owned and -operated; with both primary care physicians and specialists, we collaborate to work together, providing high quality to care to Central New York. The Slocum-Dickson Medical Group has been in business since 1938, caring for this community. It started with three physicians who made a practice on Genesee Street in Utica. The group has grown over the years; we now have more than 70 physicians. We have a campus on Burrstone Road in New Hartford and another campus in Ilion and we’ll have a third site opening this summer on Business Park Drive. It’s a wonderful model, with primary care physicians and specialists under one roof, collaborating. It remains a pillar in the community. We intend to grow and expand our footprint in the community. As we continue to expand, our focus is still on patient-centered, physician-directed, quality care. Q: You’ve been a member of Slocum-Dickson’s board of managers since 2019. What will your new role as president entail? A: As president of the board, I’ll chair the board and manage the dayto-day operations of the group. I’ll oversee all aspects of the group to ensure that high quality standards are upheld and that patients have the best possible experience with us. There are many exciting changes coming for us. Q: What exciting new changes will we see? A: This summer we’ll be opening a new site down the street on Business Park Drive. At this location, we’ll focus on women and children, with cutting-edge breast care, OB-GYN, pediatrics, radiology and dermatology. The extra space will let us bring in more specialists and
Page 4 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2022
primary care physicians. And there will be more parking. We’ll have an entire building of physicians, all under one roof. We provide a very caring, collaborative partnership. Your primary doctor is in the same building with specialists. We can call or walk over to them, making it easy for us to collaborate. Slocum-Dickson Medical Group is all about comprehensive care, with all of our physicians working together for the benefit of our patients. Another exciting new change is that we’ll be unveiling a new logo in conjunction with the opening of the Business Park Drive campus. We want to bring all three of our campuses together in one logo. Slocum-Dickson Medical Group is all about comprehensive care, with all of our physicians working together for the benefit of our patients. Our goal was to combine this continuity of care and our long history into a modern new logo. Q: Since 2018, you have cared for patients at the Slocum-Dickson Eye Care Center as an ophthalmologist. Will you continue to see patients at the Eye Care Center? A.: Yes, I’m happy to say that I’ll continue to see Eye Care Center patients as a full-time ophthalmologist, as well as taking some time to handle the presidency. Our Eye Care Center is a full-service eye care center to the entire family, from babies to grandparents. We provide eye exams, glasses, contact lenses, cutting-edge surgery and whatever is needed. As an ophthalmologist, I specialize in cataract surgery, often implanting artificial lens; I do all forms of laser surgery and treatment of various eye diseases, like glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and dry eye. Q: You are an ophthalmologist. At the Eye Care Center, you also have an optometrist and an optician
In the News Physician Alexander R. Harris has recently been named president of the board of managers of the Slocum-Dickson Medical Group. Harris has been a medical doctor at SlocumDickson specializing in ophthalmology since 2018. working with you. What’s the difference? A: Yes, there’s often confusion between an ophthalmologist, optometrist and optician. As an ophthalmologist, I am a medical doctor; I have an M.D. degree, am licensed to practice medicine and do surgery. I diagnose and treat all eye diseases, perform surgery and can prescribe glasses and contact lenses. An optometrist is not a medical doctor, but a doctor of optometry. They are licensed to perform eye exams and vision tests, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, detect eye abnormalities and prescribe medications for eye diseases. Opticians are eye care professionals but not officially “eye doctors” and they cannot give eye exams. They are technicians trained to fit eyeglass lenses and frames and contact lenses to correct vision problems. We have many good optometrists in the area; they do routine eye exams. If it’s beyond their scope, they refer the patient to me. We all work together. And we work together with opticians. Q: How did you become interested in becoming an ophthalmologist? A: My dad was an ophthalmologist with the Slocum-Dickson Group. I’m a second-generation Slocum-Dickson doctor and ophthalmologist. He was with the group for 30 years. I heard all of his stories. When I was only 5 years old, he showed me how to do cataract surgery, using a table napkin and a butter knife. That got me hooked! Q: What do you find most rewarding about your practice? A: What’s most rewarding about my practice is my interaction with patients. They come in with an issue; I’m able to help them; I’m able to deliver gratifying results. I’m excited about my new role as president; I’ll have a whole new set of gratifications.
Lifelines
Name: Alexander R. Harris, M.D. Position: President of the board of managers of the Slocum-Dickson Medical Group and Ophthalmologist with Slocum-Dickson Medical Group. Hometown: Mohawk Valley Current Residence: New Hartford Education: Bachelor’s degree from Boston University; medical degree from the Commonwealth Medical College of Pennsylvania in Scranton, Pennsylvania; post graduate training at Lehigh Valley Health Network, Allentown, Pennsylvania; residency in ophthalmology at SUNY Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse Affiliations: Member of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Personal: Married, one daughter, another due in August Hobbies: Fitness, Adirondacks, music, piano, guitar.
Free, easy, local access to information and assistance about long term care services and supports… regardless of age, income, or payor source. Get help with community services/supports designed to help people remain healthy and independent for Older Adults, Adults or Children with Disabilities as well as their Families and Caregivers.
HOW CAN NY CONNECTS HELP?
The 988 Mental Health Hotline Is Coming
T
he mental health equivalent of 911 is about to launch across the United States, but a new study finds that many communities may not be prepared for it. Beginning July 16, a new 988 number will be available 24/7 for Americans dealing with a mental health crisis. It’s akin to 911, long used to get help for medical emergencies. The new code will replace the 10-digit number currently used to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which was established in 2005. Health officials expect the easy-to-remember 988 to spur a surge in calls. The trouble is, few jurisdictions are ready for that, according to the new study, by the nonprofit research organization RAND Corp. “At the service level, the 988 transition is a simple number change,” said Ryan McBain, a RAND policy researcher who co-led the study. But on the ground, McBain said, it’s a different story. For one, local crisis centers need enough counselors to handle any influx of calls. Beyond that, some callers will need additional in-person help. Yet, the study found, many jurisdictions lack such resources. It surveyed 180 state, regional and county health officials, and found that only half said their jurisdiction had shortterm “crisis stabilization” services to which callers could be directed. Even fewer — 28% — had urgent care units that could be dispatched to people in urgent need. Meanwhile, only 22% had call centers that could schedule mental health appointments
on behalf of people who wanted them. On top of those shortfalls, most local hotlines did not offer text or online chat options. That’s a key gap, McBain said, since teenagers and young adults often prefer those modes of communication. Overall, McBain said, the findings confirm the concerns of many mental health experts: Jurisdictions have not had the time or resources to prepare for the 988 rollout. The 988 code was authorized by Congress in 2020, with the intent of giving Americans an easier way to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The Lifeline is a network of almost 200 crisis centers throughout the United States. When people call the national number, they are connected with the center closest to them to speak with a trained counselor and, if needed, get help finding local resources. The intent of the Lifeline, and 988, goes beyond suicide prevention, McBain noted. It offers help to people in mental health distress, including problems related to substance abuse. The looming 988 launch is only the beginning of efforts to shore up that system, said physician John Palmieri, acting director of the 988 coordination office at the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). “The Biden-Harris Administration has made significant strides in strengthening and expanding the existing Lifeline, and we expect 988 will continue to grow and evolve in the coming months, as more states start to step up,” Palmieri said in a statement.
SERVING ONEIDA, HERKIMER, & MADISON COUNTIES A monthly newspaper published by Local News, Inc. 20,000 copies distributed. To request home delivery ($21 per year), call 315-749-7070.
of MADISON COUNTY
(800) (315) 342-9871 697-3092
(315) 697-5700
For answers to all your questions Contact us at 800-342-9871 or call one of the NY Connects partnering agencies at 315-697-5700. You may also look for services and support at www.nyconnects.ny.gov
Keeping up-to-date with recommended vaccines is just another step we can all take to protect ourselves and our loved ones. It’s simple. Get vaccinated today. Bassett.org/GetVaccinated
In Good Health is published 12 times a year by Local News, Inc. © 2022 by Local News, Inc. All rights reserved. 4 Riverside Drive, Suite 251, Utica, NY 13502 Phone: 315-749-7070 • Email: IGHmohawkvalley@gmail.com Editor & Publisher: Wagner Dotto Contributing Writers: Barbara Pierce, Deb Dittner, Gwenn Voelckers, David Podos, Deborah Jeanne Sergeant, Anne Palumbo, Daniel Baldwin, Melissa Stefanec Amy Barkley • Advertising: Amy Gagliano Layout & Design: Joey Sweener • Office Manager: Kate Honebein 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.
This resource is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $247,645 with 0% financed with non-governmental sources. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit HRSA.gov.
July 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 5
U.S. Spends More on Cancer Than Any Other Country Why are survival rates so low?
T
he United States spends far more on cancer care than other wealthy nations, but it’s not seeing a return on that investment in terms of lives saved, a new study shows. Compared with the average high-income country, researchers found the U.S. spends twice as much on cancer care — more than $200 billion a year. Yet the nation’s cancer death rates remain just about average. Experts said the findings — published May 27 in the journal JAMA Health Forum — are not entirely surprising. It’s well known that the U.S. pays much more for cancer drugs, for example, so the heavy spending on cancer treatment was expected. “But it was disappointing to see that despite that, our outcomes aren’t at the top of the pack,” said senior researcher, physician Cary Gross, a professor at Yale School of Medicine. Why is all that spending not reaping bigger rewards? Gross said those high drug prices are likely a big factor: If the U.S. is paying more for the same treatments, that could go a long way in explaining why its cancer death rates are no lower than many other countries’. When it comes to approving new drugs, Gross said, “most other countries are a little more dubious than we are.” The U.S. tends to approve more new cancer treatments more quickly than other countries — often without evidence they improve patients’ long-term survival. Unlike the U.S., other countries consider costs when making decisions on new drug approvals, and also negotiate prices of those drugs. In contrast, new cancer drugs
typically have a higher starting price in the U.S., and that price tag usually grows over time, Gross and his colleagues point out. That happens, in large part, because Medicare, which provides health insurance to older Americans, has no power to negotiate drug prices. Beyond that, Gross said, Americans with cancer tend to receive more aggressive treatment — sometimes getting chemotherapy in the last months of life, when it does not make a difference in survival. Physician William Dahut, chief scientific officer for the American Cancer Society, made similar points. Cancer drugs cost more in the U.S., he said, and a large portion of spend-
ing goes toward patients with incurable cancers. Lengthening people’s lives and giving palliative care — treatment to manage pain and otherwise improve quality of life — are important goals, Dahut stressed. But those expenditures do not prevent deaths. For the study, Gross and his team looked at cancer care spending and cancer death rates in 22 high-income countries for the year 2020. Overall, the U.S. spent twice as much per capita, compared with the average for all countries studied — nearly $600 per person, versus $300. Yet cancer death rates in the U.S. were only slightly lower than the median, or midpoint, for all coun-
tries studied — about 86 deaths per 100,000 people, versus 91 per 100,000. Even that small difference went away once researchers factored in smoking: It’s less common in the U.S. than in many other countries, which helps protect more Americans from getting certain cancers in the first place. Overall, nine countries had lower “smoking-adjusted” cancer death rates than the U.S., despite spending less on cancer care: Australia, Finland, Iceland, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Norway, Spain and Switzerland. For his part, Dahut saw a positive in those smoking-related figures. “Smoking cessation has been critical to lowering cancer mortality in the U.S.,” he said. While that’s true, Gross said more needs to be done on the prevention front — including addressing the nation’s high obesity rate, and improving Americans’ diet quality and physical activity levels. Both Dahut and Gross said disparities could be playing a role in the U.S. cancer death rates, too. Studies show that Black Americans and Hispanic Americans have lower screening rates for certain cancers, and even after a cancer is detected may face delays in treatment. “Care is much more expensive when the cancer is more advanced,” Dahut said. Gross also pointed to the larger picture: While the U.S. spends a lot on cancer care, it generally spends less than other wealthy countries on social programs that may help people live healthier. “We’re willing to spend the money,” he said. “But I don’t think we’re investing wisely.”
Is Politics Creating a ‘Mortality Gap’ for Americans?
T
he sharp political divide in the United States may also be creating a widening gap in death rates between those on opposing sides, new research suggests. For the study, researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) in Boston analyzed death rates and federal and state election data for all U.S. counties from 2001 to 2019. During that time, deaths rates in Democratic counties fell 22% (from 850 deaths to 664 deaths per 100,000 people), compared with an 11% decline (from 867 to 771 deaths per 100,000) in Republican counties. Democratic counties had greater reductions in death rates for most common causes of death, including heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory tract diseases, diabetes, influenza and pneumonia, and kidney disease. When the research team focused on race, they found similar declines in death rates among Black and Hispanic people in both Democratic and Republican counties, but white people in Republican counties had much smaller decreases than those in Democratic counties. That resulted in a nearly fourfold increase in the “mortality gap” between white people in Republican versus Democratic counties during
the study period, according to the report published June 7 in the BMJ. “In an ideal world, politics and health would be independent of each other and it wouldn’t matter whether one lives in an area that voted for one party or another,” said study corresponding author, physician Haider Warraich, from the hospital’s division of cardiovascular medicine. “But that is no longer the case. From our data, we can see that the risk of premature death is higher for people living in a county that voted
Page 6 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2022
Republican,” Warraich added in a BWH news release. The widening gap in death rates may reflect the influence of politics on health policies, the researchers suggested. More Democratic states than Republican states adopted Medicaid expansion, which expanded health insurance coverage to low-income people, the study authors noted. The investigators also pointed out that the study period ended in 2019, before the start of
the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have had an even more profound impact on the mortality gap between Republican and Democratic counties. “Our study suggests that the mortality gap is a modern phenomenon, not an inevitability,” Warraich said. “At the start of our study, we saw little difference in mortality rates in Democratic and Republican counties. We hope that our findings will open people’s eyes and show the real effect that politics and health policy can have on people’s lives.”
A: For the rehab team, it’s really all about helping people to take that first step and call us so we can evaluate them for services. To educate them that we don’t limit our services to just those who are totally blind but to those who are experiencing visual impairment issues as well. To step forward and get those services.
Q A &
with Kathy Beaver
Stigma prevents some seniors from seeking services, says vice president of rehabilitation at Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired By David L Podos Q: What are the main services CABVI provides and who are the recipients? A: We help individuals who are either blind and or visually impaired to reach their highest level of independence. Q: What constitutes a person to be visually impaired? A: Visual impairment varies a great deal. For example, it could be a person’s inability to see objects at a far distance or having difficulty reading small print. It could be a child who has 20/20 vision but still has difficulty seeing because they are wearing an eye patch due to an eye muscle imbalance.
Q: So, a person does not necessarily have to be totally blind to receive services? A: In fact, very few people that we serve are totally blind. This past year we served 1,900 people and out of that number a very small percentage were totally blind. Q: What age demographics do you serve? A: From birth to the elderly and everyone in-between. Q: What has been the biggest challenge for CABVI over the last several years?
Q: Why is it difficult for some people to call and follow though to seek your services? A: For many it’s a stigma problem particularly for our mature population. By reaching out you recognize that you can’t do what you once did, or you are getting older and might need the help of a social services organization such as ours. That can be very difficult for some people. People who have been independent and worked their whole lives now have to depend on others to help them. Q: How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect your agency? A: Well, it affected everybody. We had to re-think how we did things. We were able however to quickly transition for our school-age kids to a remote services delivery system, [using Zoom]. We also followed the guidelines and protocols given by the CDC. So, that allowed us to still continue to see our adult population. Even though some people were afraid to come to the facility most still came but had to wear masks and social distance etc. That said we actually came out of the pandemic stronger as we were forced to make internal changes but those changes made us much more efficient. Q: Do you need a doctor’s referral for someone to receive services? A: You would have to be seen by a doctor in the last two years. For example, if you saw our commercial on TV and called us and said I am having some trouble with my vision, we would then send a case manager to see you and or you could come here. We then would talk about all the services we have and what might be good for you. We have you sign a release so we can get your medical records that way we can work with your doctor and our professional
staff to help you and provide those services that are best suited for you. Q: How many staff do you have? A: In my department I have 28, for the entire organization we have approximately 271 employees. Q: Where does the CABVI receive its funding from? A: We have a number of funding streams that support us from fundraising to federal and state grants. We also have an opportunity for people to choose CABVI as a beneficiary in their will, leaving a legacy. In fact, we have received $1.75 million since 2016 by people who include CABVI in their estate planning. Another very large income source for us is Central Industries. Central Industries is the employment and manufacturing division of CABVI. More than half of the employees are blind or visually impaired. They earn prevailing wages with benefits. Working side-by-side with their sighted peers they make products and provide services needed daily by the federal and state governments. Our 2021 financial report is as follows — $124 million in revenue and more than $107 million in expenses. Q: How are your services paid for? A: In some cases, depending on the severity of eye loss there are state programs that help pay for services. We also will bill your insurance company. We do not see any financial barriers that might prevent someone from receiving our services. Q: Do you offer any kind of health and wellness programs? A: We actually do. We have a therapy pool as well as a state-of-theart fitness center. Diabetic retinopathy is the second leading cause of vision loss. That said, we can help our clients out earlier by having them learn more about health and wellness, which includes proper nutrition. So, they are managing their diabetes or preventing it all together by exercise and good nutrition. For more information, please contact CABVI at 315-797-2233 or visit cabvi. org
©
Are you having trouble losing weight and keeping it off? Do you have diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, heart/cholesterol problems, or other medical conditions associated with extra weight? If so, learn how weight loss surgery can improve your life. William A. Graber, MD, PC – Weight Loss Surgery is an experienced team dedicated to helping people achieve their weight loss and healthy lifestyle goals. Our board certified bariatric surgeons specialize in laparoscopic and robotic assisted weight loss surgery and have performed thousands of procedures.
Working together with expertise to promote a supportive and safe environment for our patients as they strive to restore health and quality of life. Offices in Utica and Syracuse
Visit DrGraberMD.com or call 877-269-0355 July 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 7
Live Alone & Thrive
By Gwenn Voelckers
Practical tips, advice and hope for those who live alone
G
What My Garden Has Taught Me
ardening season is in full swing, as evidenced by the long check-out lines at gardening centers throughout our area. July is the perfect month for folks to dig in, get their knees dirty, and try their hand at growing a few flowers and vegetables at home. It’s also a good time to reflect the many life lessons that gardening offers to those who live alone. It has taught me the value of planning, preparation, patience and pleasure — four essential “P’s” for a bountiful garden and ... a bountiful life. Fertile ground exists in each of us, and a little tending can produce beautiful results. Here’s what I have learned:
• Plan. Realizing the garden of your dreams begins in your imagination, followed by careful planning. Diagram your garden and it will help you avoid planting onions on top of potatoes or mistaking basil for a weed.
Likewise, envisioning your life goals and committing them to writing can help you flourish and grow.
• Cultivate. Good, cultivated soil promotes healthy, deep roots. When you add fertilizer to your garden you are rewarded with abundance. Adding essential ingredients to the foundation of your dream garden (and your dream life) will nourish all that follows. You can’t go wrong with nutritious food, a walk in nature, a good book, soothing music or saying “yes” to a new adventure that’s been tugging at your heart. • Plant. So many choices! Revisit your plan and embed your carefully selected seeds or seedlings with a tender, loving touch, being careful not to overcrowd or plant more than you can manage. And remember: We reap what we sow, so follow your dreams. Plant a tomato and you get a tomato; neglect to pull a dandelion and you’ll
New Hope for Relief From Peanut Allergy in Kids
F
or families of children with peanut allergy, there may be some hope. Researchers say they’re working on a treatment that can cre-
ate immune system changes that put kids into remission from their allergy. A parent of a child who participated in an allergy trial in Australia
Page 8 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2022
get an abundance of dandelions. Seed your future with healthy choices that promote well-being. • Weed. We all need room to breathe and space in which to blossom. It holds true for your garden and your life. Gardening is all about consistent caretaking. Slack off, even for a few days, and all things unwelcome show up and take root. Weed out the negativity and any dream-stealing toxins that contaminate your life, dash your hopes, or spoil your fun. When you pull out the bad, you can more easily focus on the good in your life. • Prune. When weeding is not enough, a major pruning may be in order. A job, relationship or home that no longer satisfies or meets your needs may need a hard look. It may be time to pull out that pair of “life loppers.” • Mulch. Mulching keeps weeds at bay, the ground moist, and adds nutrients to the soil. It also adds a finishing touch. Mulch offers a blanket of protection, in the same way that regular doctor appointments, insurances, vaccinations, and safety measures protect our lives. We can learn a lot from mulching. • Wait. We all know that good things come to those who wait. Enjoy the gradual unfolding of a garlic scape, a lettuce leaf, an idea, or a
said her 9-year-old daughter, Stella, has been in remission for almost four years and eats peanuts regularly. “Stella’s quality of life has improved considerably since the trial,” said her mom, Ju Lee Ng. Stella no longer has to always check food labels for peanuts. Her level of freedom has increased and her anxiety has dropped dramatically, her mother reported. “We previously had to avoid travel to countries that use lots of peanuts in the food, including Malaysia, where my husband and I are from,” Ng said. “Shortly after Stella achieved remission we were so excited to be able to travel on a family holiday to Thailand. We tried local dishes and enjoyed an amazing holiday without the stress that Stella could have an allergic reaction.” Led by researchers from Murdoch Children’s Research Institute in Melbourne, Australia, and the Telethon Kids Institute in Australia, the study showed that gene networks are rewired after a combination treatment of a probiotic and peanut oral immunotherapy (gradual introduction of the allergenic food). The reprogramming appears to shut down the allergic immune response that caused the food allergy. “The immunological changes leading to remission of peanut allergy were largely unknown,” said lead researcher Mimi Tang, a professor of allergy and immunology at Murdoch Children’s. Previous studies had mostly focused on examining the levels of gene expression but did not explore how genes interact with one another. It made sense to look at communication between the genes, the research-
friendship. When you exercise patience, life can be savored and more deeply appreciated. Each year, I look to my garden to remind myself that growth takes time. • Enjoy. Before you know it, your labor of love and patience will pay off. Take pleasure in the transformation as the colors, textures, and fragrances emerge. Too often, we fail to “stop and smell the roses” in our gardens and in our lives. So get busy, then step back and take a good look. There’s nothing quite as gratifying as admiring what you’ve accomplished. It’s reason to celebrate! By osmosis, gardening has taught me how to take better care of myself. I have absorbed its rich messages and learned how to nurture my inner garden and growth as a woman on her own. I encourage you to grab a spade and join me. Beauty, growth, and an energizing sense of renewal can be yours, season after season after season. Gwenn Voelckers is the founder and facilitator of Alone and Content, empowerment workshops for women and author of “Alone and Content,” a collection of inspiring essays for those who live alone. For information about her workshops, to purchase her book, or invite her to speak, visit www. aloneandcontent.com
ers said. “What we found was profound differences in network connectivity patterns between children who were allergic and those who were in remission,” Tang said in an institute news release. “These same changes were also seen when we compared gene networks before and after immunotherapy in the children who achieved remission following immunotherapy.” Food allergies affect about 10% of infants and 5% to 8% of children around the world. For this study, the researchers worked with 62 peanut allergic children aged 1 to 10 years old. The children were randomized to receive a treatment of a probiotic with a gradual introduction of peanut immunotherapy or a placebo for 18 months. About 74% who had the combination treatment achieved remission from their allergy. About 4% of those in the placebo group also achieved remission. A separate trial found that peanut immunotherapy alone was also highly effective at inducing remission and desensitization. In that, about half of the children achieved remission. The study was published May 25 in the journal Allergy. This approach is still far from prime time, however. Desensitization often waned after treatment ended or even during ongoing maintenance dosing, said co-author Sarah Ashley, a Murdoch Children’s researcher. The trial used an allergy immunotherapy from Australian biotech company Prota Therapeutics.
ors can really help lift the weight off your shoulders. You might find patterns that lead you to begin to think about how you can improve things for yourself.
SEVEN SUPER-QUICK
FIXES FOR STRESS By Barbara Pierce
Y
ou just got home from work, took off your shoes, sank into a chair, hoping to relax for a minute until you fix dinner. You had a really horrific day at work because two people called in sick and you had to fill in for them. Then your two kids race in, fighting with each other, crying for your help. Their older brother comes to ask what’s for dinner, he’s starving. You’re at the breaking point. You feel totally overwhelmed. This happens to most of us from time to time. Mental health counselor James Davis, executive director of Samaritan Counseling Center, Utica, a nonprofit organization offering counseling to individuals, couples and families, suggests these valuable tips for a quick fix to get through those moments when you’re totally stressed out: 1. 4-7-8 BREATHING: This is easy to do and works well, suggested Davis. You can do it at work, at home, even driving in your car: Close your mouth and inhale for four seconds. Hold your breath for seven seconds.
Open your mouth and exhale for eight seconds. Do this cycle three or four times. It’s a powerful fix for stress. “When I do this, I feel more relaxed. It really does work,” he added. “Your amygdala resets.” Amygdala is the center for emotions in your brain. Or, many people find the apps that help with your breathing to be helpful, he said. Breathe2Relax is one. It offers calming music, bars to regulate your breathing and you rate your anxiety level before you start and afterwards so you can see how it helped. 2. TAKE A FIVE-MINUTE MINI-VACATION: Close your door, relax in a chair, close your eyes and take a five-minute mini-vacation. Seeing yourself in your favorite place, he advised. Whether it’s on the beach, playing with your kids, on a boat, whatever brings you a good feeling. It works. Really get into it. What are your experiencing? What do you see? What do you smell? What do you hear? It’s a quick break to reset your brain, he added. “I go to the beach, where I hear the sound of waves and feel the sun on my body,” he said.
3. TAKE A BREAK FROM THE NEWS and social media, from anything negative. 4. MEDITATION AND YOGA are both good ways to reset your brain on calm, though they aren’t for everybody. 5. TALK TO SUPPORTIVE PEOPLE. This is a most effective way to relieve stress. Ask a friend or co-worker to be a sounding board as you talk out your issues. Sometimes just sharing what you’re going through can help you see things better from that perspective and the perspective of your friend. 6. LIST YOUR STRESSES OF THE MOMENT: Take a minute to jot down all the things you have going on at this moment, Davis suggested. Then prioritize them. Skip the ones on the bottom. For example, you’re totally exhausted from your day at work, your kid is crying, you’ve got a bunch of dirty dishes in the sink and you need to do the laundry. Forget the dishes and the laundry, they can wait. Just acknowledging your stress-
7. LIST THE STRESSES THAT ARE ONGOING: Make an hour or so break for yourself and list all the things that you’re facing in your life, all the things you’re juggling to keep in the air. You probably have a long list here—and it feels overwhelming. Prioritize the things on this list also. Then, cross off those that are low priority. If it looks like you have too much on your plate, eliminate what you can. Really work at saying “no” to taking on any new responsibilities at work or at home. Try to find a healthy balance between work and other activities. For the stressors and problems that you didn’t cross off this list, it helps to break them down into manageable pieces. Problems that seem huge and overwhelming are more manageable when they’re looked at as a series of smaller tasks. Also look at each item on your list. Is there something you could do to change the situation? If so, do what you can to change the situation, and then step back. Or, if you can’t do anything about the situation, why let it stress you out? Accept what you cannot change. If a problem is beyond your control, you’re better off accepting it for now than spinning your wheels. You might consider sitting down with a mental health counselor to help you sort through your list, prioritize all that is going on in your life, and determine how to make the necessary changes.
New
Breast Care Program
In Oneida
Oneida Health is excited to welcome Dr. Mary Ellen Greco MD, FACS and Kristen McNeil, PA-C to our new Breast Care Program.
Experienced Breast Surgeon Roswell Park Cancer Network Affiliate Advanced Imaging Technology
Breast Care
Mary Ellen Greco, MD, FACS Breast Surgeon
NOW ACCEPTING PATIENTS 315-606-2768
301 Genesee St, Suite B • Oneida
Kristen A. McNeil, PA-C Breast Specialist
July 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 9
U.S. Fatal Drug ODs Rose Again in 2021, But Increase Is Slowing Drug overdose deaths in the United States continue to climb, but at a slower pace, federal health officials recently reported. Early data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that nearly 108,000 Americans died from drug overdoses in 2021. “Drug overdose deaths are still increasing,” said report co-author Farida Ahmad, the mortality surveillance lead at the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics. “We predict that they are about 15% higher than they were a year ago.” That increase, however, was half of what it was from 2019 to 2020, when overdose deaths took nearly 94,000 lives — an increase of 30%, the researchers reported. Several factors may be driving the continuing rise in drug overdose deaths, said physician Nora Volkow, director of the U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse. Volkow said that the hardest questions to answer are, “What’s making Americans so vulnerable to taking drugs? Why is this problem so persistent?” Some reasons are all too clear. “Drug dealers made a lot of money and there’s no incentive for them to stop,” Volkow said. “As a result of that, we have seen an increase, a very dramatic increase, in the distribution of fentanyl across all of the United States.” Fentanyl and other analogs of fentanyl are mixed with other drugs so dealers can boost their profits, she said. It’s fentanyl, which is more powerful than the drugs it is mixed with, that is driving the continuing increase in overdose deaths. “The drug market and the drug supply right now is very, very dangerous, because of the increasing frequency with which it is contaminated with fentanyl,” Volkow said. “You have a much greater risk of overdosing and dying if you take drugs currently than, say, 10 years ago.” Volkow said that social conditions are often why some people turn to drugs. “Social circumstances, lack of opportunity, those situations are the ones that actually lead someone to take drugs as a way to compensate for their everyday reality because otherwise, they don’t feel they have alternatives,” she said.
Why Am l Always Hungry? By Barbara Pierce
“R
umbling stomach growls are a sure sign that you’re hungry. It’s your body’s way of telling you so,” said registered dietitian Crystal Hein, owner and operator of Crystal Clear Nutrition in Herkimer. “Hunger is a physiological need for food.” Feelings of hunger are how our body tells us we need food. Or do they? What if we feel hungry all the time, even after a meal? Are we really hungry or could there be another reason we’re feeling hungry? Hein offers these reasons you could feel hungry all the time: • You may actually be hungry—you may not be eating enough calories, she said. Or it could be your food choices; what you’re eating can leave you feeling hungry. • You may not be eating enough protein. Protein takes longer to digest and therefore will promote feelings of fullness, she suggested. It works by increasing the production of the hormones that signal fullness and reducing the levels of hormones that stimulate hunger. To add more protein to your diet, include lean meats, low fat dairy products like cheeses and Greek yogurt, eggs, nuts and seeds at your meals and snacks, she recommended. Including a source of protein in every meal can help prevent excessive hunger. • You may not be drinking enough water. Mild dehydration may be the cause of your hunger feelings, she said. Feelings of thirst can be mistaken for feelings of hunger. Your hypothalamus is the region of the brain that regulates hunger and thirst. If you haven’t had much water to drink, try drinking a glass of water, wait 10 to 15 minutes and see if you’re still hungry. Due to water’s role in keeping you full, you may find that you feel hungry frequently
Page 10 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2022
Registered dietitian Crystal Hein, owner and operator of Crystal Clear Nutrition in Herkimer. if you’re not drinking enough of it. Also, as water is filling, it can reduce your appetite when you drink it before eating. • You may be eating too many refined carbohydrates and not enough fiber. One of the most popular sources of refined carbs is white flour, found in bread and pasta. Foods like soda, candy and baked goods, which are made with processed sugars, are also considered to be refined carbs. These are easily digested and lead to a quick rise in blood sugar levels. Spiking blood sugar levels will be followed by a plunging blood sugar, which can leave you craving more sugary carbohydrates. Since refined carbs lack fiber, your body digests them quickly, so they don’t leave you feeling full. Fiber requires more chewing and slows digestion so you feel full, said Hein. For more fiber, add fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes, oatmeal, popcorn, nuts and seeds and whole grains to your diet. • You may not be eating enough fat. As with protein, not enough fat can increase feelings of hunger. Unsaturated fats can keep you feeling full. Nuts, seeds, avocados, olives, chia seeds and flaxseed are a good way to get these good fats. • You may have a high stress
level: Stress can increase hormones adrenaline and cortisol and decrease serotonin levels—that can lead to increased appetite and make you feel hungry, suggested Hein. People with higher stress levels are more likely to overeat and to eat significantly sweeter foods. • You may not be getting enough sleep: Poor sleep results in an increased ghrelin level, said Hein. Ghrelin is the hormone that stimulates your appetite. And poor sleep lowers your leptin levels. Leptin is the hormone that makes you feel full. Therefore, not getting enough sleep and subsequent elevated ghrelin levels can cause you to feel hungry. To keep your hunger levels managed, it’s recommended you get at least eight hours of sleep each night. • You may be eating too fast: Eating too fast doesn’t give your brain enough time to get the message that your stomach is full. The slower you eat, the fuller you will feel and less hungry you will be, she added. This is partly due to the lack of chewing and reduced awareness that occur when you eat too fast, both of which are necessary to lessen feelings of hunger. If you eat while you’re distracted, this reduces your awareness of how much you’re eating and prevents you from recognizing your body’s fullness signals efficiently. • You aren’t getting enough solid food: If you consume a lot of liquid foods, such as smoothies, meal replacement shakes and soups, you may be hungrier more often than you would be if you ate more solid foods, as liquids pass through your stomach more quickly than solid foods. Or, your hunger may indicate a medical condition; see your health care provider to rule this out. Also, excessive hunger can be a side effect of some medications. Drinking too much alcohol may cause you to feel hungry frequently as alcohol decreases the hormones that give you that full feeling.
SmartBites By Anne Palumbo
Helpful tips
The skinny on healthy eating
Pork Ribs 101: Why Moderation is Key!
D
uring the grilling season and especially on the Fourth of July, my husband and I indulge in something we rarely eat all year long: pork ribs. It’s a summer tradition that allows us to enjoy this tasty meat with an understanding that it won’t last forever. We rarely eat ribs because, much like addictive chicken wings, we tend to devour them without really thinking about what or how much we’re eating. And while ribs certainly have some nutritional merit, they also have enough drawbacks for us — cholesterol-worriers that we are! — to put them in the “occasional” food category. What have ribs got going for them? You might be surprised. An average serving of ribs (3-4 oz) has around 20 grams of protein, which, for some, provides nearly 50% of the recommended amount. Protein is a powerhouse nutrient that we need throughout our lifetime, from growth and development when we’re young to maintaining muscle mass and strength when we’re old. More pork perks: Ribs teem with several B vitamins, including the coveted B12, a critical vitamin whose deficiency is marked by extreme fatigue and lethargy. All together, the mighty B-team plays a vital role in helping to maintain good health, provide energy, improve memory, and boost immunity. In addition to all those good B vitamins, pork ribs are an excellent source of selenium and zinc, two powerful antioxidants that neutralize free radicals — unstable molecules
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
that can harm your cells and contribute to many age-related diseases. So, what’s not to love about this lip-smackin’ cut of red meat? Three biggies: fat, cholesterol, and calories. Although some cuts of pork fall into the lean category with 10 grams of fat or less, baby back ribs and spareribs do not, delivering 20 grams of fat (or more!) per average serving. What’s more, a notable portion of that fat is saturated fat, the unhealthy fat that can raise cholesterol levels and increase risk of heart disease or stroke. As for cholesterol, a 3-oz serving of ribs has 70 mg, a hearty chunk of the 300-mg recommended daily limit. Last but not least, calories. Ever see someone eat an entire rack of barbecued ribs in one sitting? You’ve just witnessed the inhalation of nearly 2000 calories, perhaps more if the ribs were slathered in rich barbecue sauce. At about 300 calories per 3-oz serving, pork ribs on their own won’t land you in eater’s jail, especially if
Most People Think Their Diet Is Healthier Than It Is
U.S. adults commonly overestimate the quality of their diet, study shows
H
ow healthy is your diet? It seems like a simple question, but according to a new study, it’s one that most Americans struggle to get right. “We found that only a small percentage of U.S. adults can accurately assess the healthfulness of their diet, and interestingly, it’s mostly those who perceive their diet as poor who are able to accurately assess their diet,” said Jessica Thomson, PhD, research epidemiologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricul-
Named for their shorter length (not the piglet), baby back ribs are leaner, more tender, and have less meat than heartier, fattier spareribs. To cut calories and make ribs a tad healthier: season ribs with a dry rub; read barbecue sauce labels carefully and cut your sauce with some apple juice or cider. To further reduce salt and sugar, consider making your own rub and sauce.
tural Research Service in the Southeast Area, the study’s lead author. “Additionally, most adults overrate the quality of their diet, sometimes to a substantial degree.” Thomson presented the findings during the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition held June 14-16. The researchers wanted to find out whether a single, simple question could be used as a screening tool for nutrition studies — to replace or complement the detailed dietary
you practice portion control and only eat them occasionally. What may land you in the culinary clink, however, is the finger-lickin’ sauce, which can add hundreds of calories, not to mention loads of sugar and salt.
Lightened-Up Baby Back Ribs
Adapted from foodnetwork.com 1 (3-lb) rack, bone-in baby back ribs dry rub mix ½ cup 100% apple juice ½ cup barbecue sauce Dry rub mix: 2 tablespoons paprika 1 tablespoon brown sugar 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder ½ teaspoon cumin questionnaires commonly used in nutrition research. Previous studies have found that self-rated health is a strong predictor of morbidity and mortality, but there is scant research on whether self-rated diet quality is predictive of the actual quality of one’s diet. The study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a nationally representative survey of U.S. adults conducted every two years. Participants were asked to complete detailed 24-hour dietary recall questionnaires and rate their diet as excellent, very good, good, fair or poor. Researchers used the food recall questionnaires to score each participant’s diet quality. Examples of foods ranked as healthier include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, lower-fat dairy products, seafood and plant proteins. Foods considered less healthy included refined grains and foods high in sodium, added sugars or saturated fats. The study revealed significant disconnects between the researcher-calculated scores and how participants ranked their own diet. Out of over 9,700 participants, about 8,000 (roughly 85%) inaccurately assessed their diet quality. Of those, almost all (99%) overrated the healthfulness of
Preheat oven to 225 degrees. In a small bowl, combine all ingredients for dry rub, using a fork to crush any clumps. Place ribs on a double layer of aluminum foil (tear enough to encase ribs). Rub mix on both sides and then wrap foil around ribs, leaving a small section open at the top. Place wrapped rack of ribs on a large sheet pan and pour apple juice on the ribs through the opening in the foil. Cook for 2 hours. Remove ribs from foil and reserve ¼ cup of the juices. Preheat outdoor grill to medium. Mix reserved juices with barbecue sauce and set aside. Grill over indirect heat for 10 to 15 minutes per side. For the last 10 minutes of cooking, baste with barbecue sauce. Remove from grill, allow to rest 15 minutes before cutting, enjoy!
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.
their diet. Surprisingly, accuracy was highest among those who rated their diet as poor, among whom the researcher’s score matched the participant’s rating 97% of the time. The proportion of participants who accurately assessed their diet quality ranged from 1%-18% in the other four rating categories. Thomson said further research could help to elucidate what factors people consider when asked to assess their diet quality. For instance, it would be helpful to know whether people are aware of particular dietary recommendations and whether they take into consideration where their food is purchased or how it is prepared. “It’s difficult for us to say whether U.S. adults lack an accurate understanding of the components of a healthful versus unhealthful diet or whether adults perceive the healthfulness of their diet as they wish it to be—that is, higher in quality than it actually is,” said Thomson. “Until we have a better understanding of what individuals consider when assessing the healthfulness of their diet, it will be difficult to determine what knowledge and skills are necessary to improve self-assessment or perception of one’s diet quality.”
July 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 11
OMEN'S HEALTH not alone.” During the pandemic, the meditation classes she leads have all been online. She has found that it is possible for people to develop close friendships even online. While women share feelings with their friends, men rarely talk about their feelings or their personal lives with their friends. Men usually form relationships by engaging in activities, like sports, hobbies or business. The sharing that women do benefits our health in so many ways. For example, in one study, research found that people with the most friends over a nine-year period cut their risk of death by more than 60%. A Harvard Medical School study found that the more friends a women has, the less likely she was to develop physical impairments as she aged and the more likely she was leading a joyful life. In fact, the results were so significant, the researchers concluded, that not having close friends or confidantes was as detrimental to your health as smoking or carrying extra weight. And that’s not all. When the researchers looked at how well women functioned after the death of their spouse, they found that, even in this biggest stressor of all, those women who had a close friend and confidante were more likely to survive the part of the stress response in womexperience without any new physical en, it encourages them to bond with impairments or permanent loss of other women and take care of their vitality. Those without friends were children. These actions then pump not always so fortunate. more oxytocin, which further relieves Maintaining bonds with female stress and produces a calming effect. friends becomes even more importUntil this study was published, ant as we grow older, say experts. scientists generally believed that While children and spouses may when people experience stress, it not understand the struggles that triggers a “fight or flight” response, come with old age, your friends will. an ancient survival mechanism left Whether that struggle is menopause over from the time we were chased or choosing between transitioning to by saber-toothed tigers. Previously a different career or going to retirestudies were primarily done on men. ment or managing the obstacles of Experts say this may explain why aging. women consistently outlive men. If you are a female, no matter Study after study has found that soyour age, treasure your friends for cial ties reduce our risk of disease by as long as possible, as they are the lowering blood pressure, heart rate backbone of your support system. and cholesterol. As Pandit said: “We all value the “My relationships give me love, friends in our life.” reliance, trust and connection,” said Pandit offers meditation classes, Pandit. “A good relationship is one at no charge. At this time, they are that gives you these things.” online only, every Wednesday, noon “As humans, we seek connection,” to 1 p.m. See www.meditateupstate. she added. “We want to feel we’re com for details.
The Health Benefits of Female Friendships
One study found that people with the most friends over a nine-year period cut their risk of death by more than 60% By Barbara Pierce
“M
y friends are my life. They’re everything to me,” said Marylou Vorhees of Naples, Florida. “I would do anything for them.” She nailed it. There is so much power in female friendships; our friends nurture and support us. As women, we thrive on strong relationships with our friends. They give us an outlet to share our problems, thoughts, feelings and triumphs. Our friends contribute hugely to our overall health and happiness. We are each other’s emotional support system. Friends help us live longer, decrease our physical impairments and help us fight stress. The psychology behind strong female friendships is strong. According to a study, women with early-stage breast cancer were four times more likely to die from cancer if they didn’t have many friends. Those with a larger group of friends had a
much better survival rate. “Friendships are a beautiful exchange of love. A giving and taking without any strings attached,” said Melanie Pandit, meditation instructor, Sahaja Meditation, Upstate New York. “Friends help us deal with stress.” When women are stressed, we respond differently than men. We react to stress by tending to those around us and seeking out social contact. A landmark UCLA study suggests that women respond to stress with a cascade of brain chemicals. These chemicals cause us to make and maintain friendships with other women. Researchers who did this study joked that when the women who worked in the lab were stressed, they came in, cleaned the lab, had coffee and bonded. When the men were stressed, they holed up somewhere on their own. The study found that, when the hormone oxytocin in released as
PANDEMIC CAUSED MILLIONS OF U.S. WOMEN TO SKIP CANCER SCREENINGS
M
illions of U.S. women missed breast, cervical and colon cancer screenings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new study. It found that compared to 2018, the number of women in 2020 who said they had breast cancer screening in the past year fell by 2.13 million (6%). The number of women who said they had cervical cancer screening in the past year fell by 4.47 million (11%). Over the same period, colonoscopies for colon cancer detection dropped by 16% for both
Page 12 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2022
men and women. “COVID-19 pandemic had an immediate impact in March and April of 2020, as screenings initially dropped by close to 80%,” said senior author, physician Ahmedin Jemal, a senior vice president at the American Cancer Society. “Many people caught up on screenings later in 2020, but overall, the COVID-19 pandemic kept screenings down over the course of the entire year,” he said in a society news release. “As we move forward, it’s crucial to get people back into their doctor’s offices to get screened.”
Between You & Me
OMEN'S HEALTH
By Barbara Pierce
FORGIVENESS:
LETTING GO OF RESENTMENT AND BITTERNESS A
nother mass shooting! As I write this, an 18-year-old man recently killed 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in Texas. Not many days before that, another 18-year-old man killed 10 people at Tops Market in Buffalo. And, more happening many days since then — more victims. It’s heart-breaking. Agonizingly heart-breaking. Beyond words to express just how much. But my purpose is not to write about gun safety. I’m sure you’ve heard a lot about that. My purpose is to write about forgiveness. Police officers at the scene in Uvalde waited nearly an hour to go in and confront the gunman while children were being shot at and terrorized. How can the parents who lost a child ever forgive those who didn’t intervene to save their child? Who hasn’t experienced a hurt or a loss because of someone else? Perhaps you’ve lost someone due to another’s negligence or you’ve been badly hurt by a parent or your partner, perhaps your partner had an affair or a work colleague claimed credit for something that was your
work. Being hurt by someone, especially when it’s someone you love and trust, can leave you with lasting feelings of anger and bitterness — even vengeance. You may be carrying that around with you. It’s like carrying around a bag of garbage and wondering why you stink. When someone hurts you, or causes you to feel emotional pain, you have a choice. You can hold on to your anger, resentment and thoughts of revenge. Or you can forgive and move forward. When you’re unforgiving, you may become depressed or wrapped up in the wrong so that you can’t enjoy the present. You may bring your anger and bitterness into every new relationship. It can define your life and not in a good way. The dictionary defines forgiveness as when you cease to feel resentment against an offender, when you give up wanting retribution from your offender. With forgiveness, you give up your anger and no longer hold the abuser to blame and require no compensation, no statement of guilt or apology for what was done. Forgiveness is letting go of
resentment or shame that has resulted from wrongdoing, your own or others. The act that hurt or offended you might always be with you, but forgiveness can lessen its grip on you and free you from the control of the person who harmed you. Forgiveness brings you a kind of peace that helps you go on with life. It’s that simple. And that complex. You give up your anger and resentment. When we’ve been wronged, anger is perhaps our first emotion. Resentment is the lingering bitterness, replaying the feeling, dwelling on the thing that makes upset, not letting go of those bad feelings. “You will not be punished for your anger, you will be punished by your anger,” said the Buddha. It’s not the bite of the snake that kills you; it’s the poison coursing through your veins that kills you. When you hold onto your anger, that keeps the focus on the perpetrator. It gives all the power to the other person. In my own life, I carried resentment and bitterness toward my father for years. Then I wrote my life
Why Home-Made Baby Formula Is a Bad Idea
I
f you’re having trouble finding infant formula for your baby due to the nationwide shortage, do not turn to homemade recipes, an expert warns. “Even the best intentions can have devastating results,” said Diane Calello, a pediatrician and director of the New Jersey Poison Control Center based at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark. “Although it may seem safe to use substitutes or make homemade formula to feed your baby, it can be very dangerous and potentially life-threatening,” she cautioned in a news release. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported on three infants who were treated in emergency rooms for low calcium levels and vitamin D-deficient rickets after being fed homemade formula. Infants fed watered-down formula also face the risk
of electrolyte imbalance and brain swelling. Calello outlined what shouldn’t be fed to babies and what formula alternatives are safe. Rice drinks, goat’s milk, almond milk, cow’s milk, protein shakes and homemade or watered-down formula can quickly lead to severe nutritional deficiency in infants because they lack essential nutrients babies require at each feeding.
She also warned against feeding babies honey. Honey and products such as graham crackers or cereal that have honey as an ingredient are also nutritionally deficient and may cause a serious type of food poisoning called botulism in children younger than 12 months, Calello said. If you can’t obtain your baby’s regular formula, speak with your pediatrician to get advice on the safest available options for your baby, especially if your child has special health needs. Government agencies have offered resources for finding formula, and major media outlets are regularly publishing updates on the status of the crisis. New guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests checking at smaller stores and drug stores for formula, buying
story. Through that process, I came to understand his actions towards me. I saw it from a different perspective. I truly forgave him when I was able to see the situation from his perspective. Usually the idea of forgiveness means that one must forgive the person who harmed you. I disagree. I worked at a shelter for persons who were victims of abuse. Many had been very damaged and hurt by others. These victims often said they’ve been told to forgive their abuser. That they had to forgive their abuser to move on with their lives. They didn’t know how to do this. They didn’t know how to forgive someone who had damaged them so badly. What I told them was forgiveness doesn’t mean you’re saying it’s OK what they did to you. It just means you accept that this happened to you and you’re choosing to let go of your anger and resentment. Accept that you were hurt. And that it wasn’t OK. It shouldn’t have happened, but it did. And you survived. You are a victor, not a victim. You are a survivor with the strength to overcome. You gained some good qualities by being victorious. Forgiveness changes your brain chemistry. It brings you peace. And there are huge rewards for your health, lowering the risk of heart attack; improving cholesterol levels and sleep; and reducing pain, blood pressure, and anxiety, depression and stress. And research points to an increase in the forgiveness-health connection as you age. 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. formula online from well-recognized distributors and checking local social media groups dedicated to this issue. If it’s impossible to find infant formula, toddler formula — while not recommended for infants — can be used for a few days if the infant is close to 12 months old, according to the AAP. It also says full-term babies can be fed formula made for premature infants for a few weeks if needed. In an absolute emergency, soy milk fortified with protein and calcium may be an option for a few days for babies who are close to a year old. If you use an alternative, be sure to switch back to formula as soon as you can get some, the AAP advises. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is considering accelerated approval of some imported formulas, but it is not safe to buy them at the moment. Many formulas sold in Europe have sufficient nutrients, but they need to be imported under certain safety measures, such as maintaining the correct temperature.
July 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 13
Benefits of Bicycle Riding That’ll Make You Want to Jump On A Bike
decreased body fat levels and preventing major diseases. The mental health benefits of ridhe COVID-19 pandemic ing a bicycle: it improves your mood brought unexpected challenges as endorphins are released in your to all of us. Throughout lockbrain, helps you sleep better, imdown, rusty bikes were dusted off proves your memory, improves your in garages around the world and the ability to think creatively, promotes sales of new bikes surged. feelings of calm and well-being, and “Many more people got into decreases your stress levels. biking—thousands of people began “I feel totally refreshed after I’ve biking as a way to get outdoors and to get exercise during the pandemic,” ridden,” said Gloo. “It’s always a great experience.” said Dick Gloo, owner and operator “It’s good for my state of mind,” of Dick’s Wheel Shop in Herkimer. White said, agreeing with the fact The bonuses of riding a bicyriding improves your mood and your cle — the physical health benefits of brain. cycling, the mental health benefits And riding worked as a great of cycling and an almost guaranteed stress reliever for White. “Now I’m broadening of your social circle — retired. When I was working and are as numerous as the beautiful under stress, I’d get on my bike, put roads you can find here in the Momy mind on autopilot and blow off hawk Valley. steam.” “Certainly I know I’m healthier Cycling combines physical because I ride,” said Jim White of exercise with stress relief with being Clinton, who has been an avid bicyoutdoors and exploring new views. cler for many years. You can ride by yourself, or you can “I got into it to rehab my knee ride with a group which broadens from an injury—that was more than Jim White of Clinton has been an avid bicycler for many years. “Certainly I know I’m your social circle. 40 years ago and I’ve never looked healthier because I ride,” he says. White does both; he rides in the back!” he said. hills around Clinton and he rides Cycling is a healthy, low-impact with the Mohawk Valley Bicycling exercise that can be enjoyed by peoHow many bikers go on each beautiful network of trails, there is so Club. MVBC is a group of riders who trips varies, White said. Anywhere ple of all ages, from young children much to explore on a bicycle. organize weekly bicycle rides and to older adults. It’s also fun, cheap from half a dozen to 15 or 20. The Oneida County Tourism cycling events. They are a nonprofit and good for the environment. White invites anyone interested bureau offers a free hard copy of the group, passionate about getting peoIt only takes two to four hours to join them for a ride; see https:// Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Guide ple out riding on our local roads. a week to achieve a general immvbc.us/ for information on the for Herkimer and Oneida counties at MPfriends Order “Our club is about riding Proposal# provement to your rides. Anyone can take one ride their Welcome Center at Union Stahe classification of:health through together,” according to their website. bicycling. As it’s mainly an aerobic without being a member because ofAd tion or online or call 315-724-7221. Letter “We’re dedicated to the encourageactivity, your heart, blood vessels liability issues. Once you join, you’ll Bicycling is fun, has a great many ment of all aspects of bicycling. The and lungs all get a workout. You’ll be notified of the rides by email. benefits for your physical and mental mission of the club is to encourage As for our beautiful roads, White health, and is a wonderful family ac2014 breathe deeper, perspire and experibicycling as a leisure activity, as a ence increased body temperature, all sums it up: “I’ve ridden all over the tivity. However, as you might expect, Acct# A1ZGFE Sales Rep: JENNIFER L exercise, Size: HCN6 AMZHMA1 5544766 beneficial form of and to Ad Id: of which will improve yourGRIMALDI, overall United States. HereContract# in Central New when a crash occurs between a car promote safe bicycling practices.” fitness level. York, we have the best all-around and a bike, it’s the cyclist who is most MP Order Proposal# “The club is very social,” said The physical health benefits of cycling; the best network of trails in likely to be injured. Therefore, follow he classification of: Ad regular cycling include increased car- White. “We ride on Tuesdays, the country!” safety tips, from properly fitting your Letter Wednesdays, Thursdays and weekdiovascular fitness, increased muscle Gloo bikes all around the Valley, helmet to driving defensively and ends. Last Saturday, someone said strength and flexibility, improved on the Canal Trail, around Little Falls predictably, make sure you can be 2014 ‘Let’s go to Verona and get coffee,’ so and all over the Adirondacks. With joint mobility, improved posture and seen and watch out for cars. Acct# A1ZGFE Sales Rep: GRIMALDI, JENNIFER we all went.” L Size: HCN6 Ad Id: coordination, strengthened bones, theAMZHMA1 rich history of Contract# our area and5544766 our By Barbara Pierce
T
ar at the classification of:
ate 05/2014
Diabetes? Flat Feet? Plantar Fasciitis? MP Order
Ad Letter
Diabetes? You may be eligible for shoes at little or no cost!
, 2014 Acct# A1ZGFE Sales Rep: GRIMALDI, JENNIFER L Size: HCN6 Ad Id: AMZHMA1 Contract# 5544766
ar at the classification of:
te 05/2014
Flat Feet? Plantar Fasciitis? MP Order
Not a Subscriber?
Proposal#
Proposal#
Ad Letter
Subscribe today and get In Good Health: MV’s Healthcare Newspaper right to your home or office!
You may be eligible for shoes at little or no cost!
, 2014 Acct# A1ZGFE Sales Rep: GRIMALDI, JENNIFER L Size: HCN6 Ad Id: AMZHMA1 Contract# 5544766
Diabetes? Flat Feet? Plantar Fasciitis?
NAME
Flat Feet? Plantar Fasciitis?
ADDRESS
Diabetes? You may be eligible for shoes at little or no cost! You may be eligible for shoes at little or no cost!
CITY/TOWN
STATE
ZIP
WHERE DID YOU FIRST PICK UP IN GOOD HEALTH?
Clip and Mail with payment to:
$21.00
Compression Wear Available AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57
1 YEAR (6 ISSUES)
AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57
ding Listing Information:
John H. Dominic Jr. AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 ABC Board Certified Pedorthist
uire a change, please contact your sales representative ding e l l o wListing B o o k Information: Customer Service at 1-800-891-1899.
E: __________________________
07:57
AAMZHMB2DNLMA
DUPLICATE PROOF
AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57 Page 14 contact • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2022 quire a change, please your sales representative Please Note: Print quality may vary from final product.
ellow Book Customer Service at 1-800-891-1899.
ting Information:
RE: __________________________
AAMZHMB2DNLMA
DUPLICATE PROOF
Please Note: Print quality may vary from final product.
4 Riverside Drive, Suite 251, Utica, NY 13502
$35.00
2 YEARS (12 ISSUES)
Tips and Tricks for Enjoying a Vacation with Kids Too much screen time is bad for developing brains. We all know that. However, vacations are about indulgence. Give yourself a little break and bring in the screens when you need them. Whether it’s in a car or on a plane or in a restaurant or when you need some alone time, you shouldn’t feel guilty about giving the kids a little extra screen time on a vacation.
• LET EACH PERSON CHOOSE AN ACTIVITY
A happy family makes for a happy vacation. When planning a vacation, make sure there is a little something in it for everyone. Then, when the whining ensues, you can kindly remind the kids that they got to do a special thing, so they should make room for other people’s special things.
• TALK ABOUT WATER SAFETY
By Melissa Stefanec
P
arenting and vacation, can the two really coincide? Between the packing, the unpacking, the travel, the shopping, the dirty clothes and the mishaps, taking a vacation with kids can feel like it’s not actually a vacation. A family vacation is always going to be more demanding than a child-free vacation. But with a little proper planning and a willingness to throw away unnecessary expectations, a family vacation can feel like a real vacation. Here are some tips and tricks for how to pull off a successful family vacation:
children’s ibuprofen, bug spray, sun lotion, motion-sickness medicine, hair ties, tweezers, hand sanitizer? Whatever your family always needs, pack into a bag or pouch that is easy to find and access. Don’t waste precious moments of your vacation in line at a drugstore.
• MAKE A LIST OF THINGS YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT
Not having a vital item really cramps the style of a vacation. Whether it’s an important medication, a favorite stuffed toy, an extra pair of contacts, cash or something else that you can’t do without, put that item on a list. Do not leave the house until you’ve confirmed you have every item on that list. Check that list again in the car.
can keep a mini crisis from becoming a full-on mess.
• PACK WIPES
Even adults drip ice cream in the car, get their hands dirty and get strange injuries. Do the whole family a favor and make sure wherever you go that you have wipes. They aren’t just for the bathroom; wipes work on food, dirt, spills and just about anything you throw under them.
Balls are fun. Whether you’re 6 months old or 46 years old, a ball can turn a vacant parking lot or field into a good time. Pack a couple of different kinds of balls. When people get bored, a ball can turn the world into a game.
Throw all of your family’s food rules out the window. Turn the kids loose in a store and let them buy a few items from their dream grocery lists. When you give them power and autonomy in some areas, they just might be more likely to pick some of their battles.
• MAKE A NECESSITY KIT
Last time you were on a vacation, what did you run into the gas station or drugstore for? Was it Band-Aid,
• BRING EXTRAS OF IMPORTANT CLOTHES • BRING A ROLL OF PAPER TOWELS AND A TRASH BAG
If you’re taking a road trip, pack these two items. When traveling with children, there will be a mini crisis. There will be bodily fluids. There will be mud. There will be a spill. A couple of plastic bags and paper towels
• TALK ABOUT RULES AND EXPECTATIONS Before you go on a trip, have a small family meeting about rules and expectations. Make sure everyone understands. If people clearly understand expectations, they are more likely to meet those expectations. That rule goes for 4-year-olds and 40-year-olds.
• TELL THE KIDS ABOUT ALL THE RULES THEY CAN BREAK • LET THE KIDS PICK THEIR SNACKS
• PACK SOME BALLS
Water is dangerous. According to the CDC, drowning is the second-leading cause of death for children between 1 and 14 years of age. If you are going to vacation anywhere near water, talk to your entire family about water safety. Drowning probably doesn’t look like you think it does. You can learn about drowning prevention from the CDC at www.cdc.gov/drowning/prevention. Don’t let your vacation turn into a nightmare.
Whether you or your children have a pension for going through sneakers, socks or underwear, pack a few extras in a separate bag. Think of this bag as an emergency clothes stash. Access it when needed.
• FORGET ALL THOSE RULES ABOUT SCREEN TIME
Vacations are a break from the ordinary. Although kids (and human beings in general) crave structure, most of us also enjoy rebelling against authority every once in a while. If you hype up the rules the kids can break (e.g., early bedtimes, no ice cream before dinner, no movie popcorn in the living room), they will be psyched, have a little extra gratitude and, perhaps, be more likely to fall in line on the important stuff. ——— So, as you embark on summer and fall trips with the family, remember these tricks. Family vacations don’t have to be stressful. With a little planning, some methodical packing and some family conversations, your trip can be just the break everyone needed.
July 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 15
The Balanced Body
By Deborah Dittner
Weight Loss: Nutrient Dense Foods for Health and Wellness Many today continue to talk about losing weight, going on restrictive diets or trying products from teas to supplements. Being that you are all individuals leads to the fact that each and every one wanting to lose weight needs an individualized approach. No two people are alike therefore your food choices and other aspects of life are not the same as the person next to you. When considering weight loss, are you also looking to improve fatigue, brain fog, midafternoon slump, deficiency in vitamins and minerals, digestive issues, kidney issues, stiff joints, anxiety or overly emotional? Going on a restrictive diet will not help these issues but may only create more of the same. Not all supplements (magnesium, zinc, quercetin, ashwagandha and more) again are not created equally. A good approach I recommend is to write down a seven- to 10-day food and lifestyle journal discussing everything you eat and drink, physical activity, sleep habits, relationships, financials, career, spirituality, social life, education, home environment and what brings you joy. This may sound like a lot but all of these issues are involved with not only your weight but your overall health. By looking at the whole person, a health coach or nutrition and lifestyle educator or health care provider, will be able to direct and encourage you to find the best and long-lasting op-
tions for a healthier you. Taking into consideration are other health issues already in play such as hypertension, metabolic conditions, autoimmune issues and more. This approach is not a one size fits all and will take time, commitment and determination on your part to want to be the best you can be. Whole nutrient dense foods are on top of the list to create a healthier you. As summer is here, visit your local farmer, go to farmers markets, or grow your own fresh whole foods. Consisting of one ingredient, for example, zucchini, cucumber, tomato, strawberries, blueberries and more, these whole foods are the best of the best! Add fresh herbs and you’ve got a delicious burst of flavor and nutrients. Eating cruciferous and a rainbow of veggies chock full of antioxidants boosts metabolism. Summer is the time to enjoy these as they become more abundant at the farmers market. Vegetables such as broccoli, kale, spinach, salad greens, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, Bok choy, arugula, Swiss chard, cauliflower…I could go on and on, detoxify and support the liver, provide fiber, help to decrease inflammatory markers and will bind with excess hormones in the gut helping to flush it out and improve the microbiome of the gut. Raw, steamed or grilled can be a staple on your summer dining table. Aim for a minimum of three to five servings daily. I know that may
“Weight loss does not occur overnight…You will see your hard work come to fruition in about three months so be patient with yourself.” sound like a lot but the end result will be well worth it. Start slow as these veggies can cause initial bloating. Eating a rainbow of antioxidant rich fruits aid against metabolic syndrome and heart disease. Summer produces the sweetest blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and cherries. Citrus fruits and apples are soaking up the summer sun ready for the picking come fall. Now, let’s spice things up! A variety of herbs and spices will aid in nutrition, proper digestion, anti-inflammatory properties, and boosting the immune system. If you haven’t already, experiment with any or all of the following: curcumin, parsley, garlic, ginger, oregano, cilantro, cinnamon, thyme, chili powder and fenugreek. Herbs that aid in digestion are chia seeds and licorice. Experiencing chronic stress can wreak havoc on your hormones. The emotional stress of everyday life, the stress of a poor diet, lack of sleep and even exercising too much can all play a role in your hormones. Reducing
stress, both emotionally and bodily, with whole nutrient dense foods and physical exercise, is often forgotten during any kind of treatment you may seek. Weight loss does not occur overnight. By listening to your body as you make changes in your food choices, exercise, proper sleep, alleviating stress and taking care of your gut, you will see your hard work come to fruition in about three months so be patient with yourself and all that you do. Lifestyle changes are just that—changes for a lifetime.
The information provided is for education purposes only and is in no way intended to replace the advice of your health care professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. 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.
Frank Guido couldn’t be happier he had a choice for treating his prostate cancer! Frank chose non-surgical CyberKnife® at HOA – offering 5 treatments instead of 35! “The original diagnosis was to treat my prostate cancer with seven weeks of radiation, five days a week. I was kind of upset that I was never given the option of CyberKnife,”
said Frank. “The precise radiation achieved by CyberKnife, far fewer treatments, and the personalized care I received from Dr. Chin and his team made my decision an easy one. Better, the treatment was a real success!”
To hear more of Frank’s story and learn if CyberKnife is right for you, visit hoacny.com
Page 16 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2022
We BUY TEST STRIPS We will pick up and pay on the spot
Highest Prices Paid By Jim Miller
How to Choose a Medicare Supplemental (Medigap) Policy Dear Savvy Senior, I’m planning to enroll in original Medicare in a few months and have been told I probably need to get a Medicare supplemental policy too. Can you offer any tips on selecting one? — Almost 65
Dear Almost, If you’re enrolling in original Medicare, getting a supplemental policy (also known as Medigap insurance) too is a smart idea because it will help pay for things that aren’t covered by Medicare like copayments, coinsurance and the Part A deductible. Here are some tips to help you choose an appropriate plan. Medigap Plans: In all but three states (Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin), Medigap plans, which are sold by private health insurers, are available to new enrollees in eight different standardized plans. These plans are labeled with the letters A, B, D, G, K, L, M and N, with two more, C and F, that are only available to those eligible for Medicare before 2020. Plan G is the most popular policy among new enrollees because it covers the most comprehensive range of benefits. Monthly premiums for Plan G typically range between $100 and $300, depending on your age and the state you reside in. If that’s more than you’re willing to pay, there are also high-deductible plans that have lower premiums but impose higher out-of-pocket costs. For more information on the different types of plans and coverage details, including Medigap options in Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, go to Medicare.gov/ publications and type in “choosing a medigap policy” in the Keyword box, and download their 2022 guide. Or call 1-800-MEDICARE and ask them to mail you a copy. How to Choose: To pick a Medigap policy that works best for you, consider your health, family medical history and your budget. The differences among plans can be small and rather confusing. To help you choose, visit Medicare.gov/medigap-supplemental-insurance-plans and type in your ZIP code. This will give you a list of the plans available in your area, their price ranges and the names, and contact information of companies that sell them. But to get specific pricing
information, you’ll need to contact the carriers directly or call the state health insurance assistance program. See ShipHelp.org or call 877-839-2675 for contact information. Since all Medigap policies with the same letter must cover the exact same benefits (it’s required by law), you should shop for the cheapest policy. You’ll get the best price if you sign up within six months after enrolling in Medicare Part B. During this open-enrollment period, an insurer cannot refuse to sell you a policy or charge you more because of your health. You also need to be aware of the pricing methods, which will affect your costs. Medigap policies are usually sold as either: “community-rated” where everyone in an area is charged the same premium regardless of age; “issue-age-rated” that is based on your age when you buy the policy, but will only increase due to inflation, not age; and “attained-age-rated,” that starts premiums low but increases as you age. Community-rate and issue-age-rated policies are the best options because they will save you money in the long run. You can buy the plan directly from an insurance company, or you can work with a reputable insurance broker. Drug Coverage: You also need to know that Medigap policies do not cover prescription drugs, so if you don’t have drug coverage, you’ll need to buy a separate Medicare Part D drug plan too. See Medicare.gov/ plan-compare to compare plans. Also note that Medigap plans do not cover vision, dental care, hearing aids or long-term care. Alternative Option: Instead of getting original Medicare, plus a Medigap policy and a separate Part D drug plan, you could sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan (see medicare.gov/plan-compare) that provides all-in-one coverage. These plans, which are sold by insurance companies, are generally available through HMOs and PPOs that require you to get your care within a network of doctors.
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.
We pick up 6 days a week. 11am to 6:30pm One Touch Ultra & Freestyle Lite. All Brands Considered. Up to $50.
(315) 927-4035
Need help getting long term care or behavioral health services through your managed care plan?
“Without the help of ICAN, my mother would not have received the home care services I requested.”
Call ICAN at (844) 614-8800 or visit icannys.org
A program of the
ICAN is funded by the State of New York
REACH 60,000+ HEALTH-CONSCIOUS READERS
IN ONEIDA, HERKIMER AND MADISON Advertise every month in In Good Health: MV’s Healthcare Newspaper and reach readers you can’t find anywhere else. Call 315-749-7070 or email editor@MVhealthnews.com
July 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 17
Health News Rome Health Honored by EMS with Award of Excellence The Midstate Regional Emergency Medical Services Council recognized Rome Health at its annual awards banquet in May, celebrating the people and organizations that work together to provide a system of care that supports the community through every emergency. The Commissioner of Health’s Award of Excellence was presented to the Rome Health’s emergency department for remaining open and accessible even as its volume surged with each COVID-19 wave. In addition, registered nurse Chris Durfee was honored as the Emergency Department RN of the Year for consistently holding himself and others to the highest standards, which elevates everyone in their service to the community. “We are exceptionally proud of our team for their steadfast commitment to ensure access to the best care out there, here,” said Rome Health President and Chief Executive Officer AnneMarie Czyz. “Through every challenge, our team works together to overcome situations that may seem insurmountable because we know how much our community depends upon us.” In his nomination, Paul Taylor, president and chief executive officer at AmCare Ambulance Service, Inc., praised Rome Health’s emergency department, under the leadership of Medical Director Andrew Bushnell and Director Kelly West for never turning away EMS units and working quickly to get EMS units back into service to meet the community’s
Mohawk Valley Health System Launches New Brand The Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) in June introduced its new brand and logo at an event focused on the next generation of healthcare in the Mohawk Valley, which was attended by representatives from the local media and community as well as elected officials and members of the MVHS board of directors, foundation board and the MVHS community. “This new brand was developed based on input from our employees, medical staff, board of directors and the community,” said Darlene Stromstad, MVHS president and CEO. “Based on the research we did with these important stakeholders, we defined the goals for an updated MVHS brand as: • Creating a contemporary look
Rome Health was recently honored by Midstate Regional Emergency Medical Services Council for the services provided during the pandemic. From left: Rome Health President and Chief Executive Officer AnneMarie W. Czyz; Chief Operating Officer Ryan Thompson; Chris Durfee; Director Kelly West; Nurse Manager Amanda Marchesani; Erin Shea; AmCare President and Chief Executive Officer Paul Taylor; and physician Andrew Bushnell, medical director of Rome Health emergency department.
needs. “During the pandemic, all facilities were receiving a significant increase in their case loads. Rome Health was no exception. While all Mid-State regional facilities went on ‘diversion’ at some point when their EDs were inundated, Rome Health did not, not once,” Taylor said. “The
comment coming directly from administration was ‘we are not closing, the community depends on us too much. We are the safety net and we will not go on diversion.’” “The emergency department staff went out of their way to clear room for incoming EMS units, knowing that they were the only ambulances
available for Rome and the surrounding communities,” Taylor said. “It was truly a rare occurrence that any patient had to wait on an ambulance stretcher more than 10-15 minutes.” In 2021, more than 25,500 people received care in the hospital’s emergency department. Patient volume increased more than 9.2% over 2020.
to reflect a new state-of-the-art building (the Wynn Hospital, opening in 2023) and care — the next step in our transformation • Incorporating bold colors which reflect strength, transformation, health, trust and hope • Visually connecting MVHS and the Wynn Hospital • Having a logo design that reflects the majesty of the Mohawk Valley through the Adirondacks and the Mohawk River, the region’s agricultural base, and the history of the Wynn Hospital site at the original Erie Canal location.” Stromstad explained the significance of the shapes and colors in the new MVHS and Wynn Hospital logos as follows. • Purple mountain —This speaks to the majesty of the Adirondacks and the entire region. Purple represents strength, transformation, power, and royalty • Light blue river — The river reflects the historical significance of the Mohawk River and the Erie Canal and to the growth of this country by opening up the West. Light blue represents empathy, compassion and path to growth. • Green mountain — This mountain reflects the Mohawk Valley’s robust agriculture industry. Green represents the color of health and
hope. • Dark blue lettering — The acronym, MVHS, is recognizable to the whole of Oneida and Herkimer county. The dark blue of the lettering represents trust and loyalty. The new brand was developed in conjunction with an update of MVHS’s mission and vision statements, core beliefs and values, and promises to our stakeholders to include patients, employees, the community and our medical providers. “It’s an exciting time for both our region and our healthcare system,” said Stromstad. “We are moving to the next generation of healthcare in the Mohawk Valley. The launching of our new brand today is another step in our journey to transform healthcare from excellent to exceptional. We are looking forward to the future with hope and optimism as we strengthen and grow our services to meet our community’s healthcare needs.”
knee joint care in Rome. A team of four SOS joint replacement surgeons will work together with Rome Health’s orthopedic team at Rome Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, located in Chestnut Commons, 107 E. Chestnut St. in Rome. SOS orthopedic surgeons, Stephen P. Bogosian, Max R. Greenky, Kevin A. Kopko and Anthony M. Orio will perform hip and knee total joint replacement procedures at Rome Health for the convenience of patients. “We are pleased to welcome SOS here at Rome Health. Since opening its doors in 1999, Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists has been a leading name in providing comprehensive orthopedic care,” said President and Chief Executive Officer AnneMarie W. Czyz. “At Rome Health, we partner with the best out there because we believe great healthcare should be within reach of each and every member of our community,” said Rome Health Orthopedic Surgeon Mark Moriarty.
Page 18 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2022
Rome Health welcomes SOS orthopedic surgeons Rome Health recently announced it is collaborating with Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists (SOS) to expand local access to leading edge hip and
Weight Loss Surgery It’s about more than just weight loss. It’s about reducing your risk for serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes — and regaining the stamina, mobility and confidence to take on every day. Crouse’s bariatric surgery program offers a dedicated team of physicians and providers, as well as psychological and nutritional counseling — all with the expertise to support you every step of the way.
Begin the process from home by viewing our online informational video. Then consult with our bariatric team via telemedicine visits to start your journey. It’s time — and now easier than ever.
Start today at crouse.org/weightloss or call 315-470-8974.
Don’t Miss the Latest Issue of 55 Plus! E IN 2035 AT IT WILL LOOK LIK URITY RUNS OUT: WH WHEN SOCIAL SEC
SOME OF THE HEADLINES • With alopecia in the news lately, well-known women’s advocate and business owner Tracy Chamberlain Higginbotham shares her story of living with alopecia for over 30 years; • What will Social Security look like in 2035?; • Nicole Christina of Syracuse hosts the award-winning “Zestful Aging” podcast, and has interviewed over 300 influential people about the challenges of getting older; • Writer David Figura finds retirement quite busy; ...and so much more!
2022 Issue 99 – June / July For Active Adults Area York in the Central New
cny55.com
Hello. I’d like to subscribe to 55 Plus, the only magazine celebrating life after 55 in Central New York, and have it delivered to my door. Payment is enclosed.
NAME
Living with Alopecia
CITY/TOWN
STATE
ZIP
$21.00
I S NS Sp um IDE ec me ia r l!
es hair loss, has been une disorder that caus ness Alopecia, the autoimm Higginbotham, a busi rlain mbe Cha y Trac y. in the news latel women, has cate and supporter of advo wn -kno well a owner and , she went totally nearly 30 years. In 2018 been living with it for . P. 30 bald. She shares her story
ADDRESS
1 YEAR (12 ISSUES)
4 Riverside Dr., Ste. 251, Utica, NY 13502
$35.00
2 YEARS (24 ISSUES)
Offer valid through August 2022. Offer subject to change without notice. First issue mails within 3 to 6 weeks. 55 Plus is published bi-monthly by Local News, Inc.. Find us online at cny55.com.
July 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 19
Want to Lose Calories? Bowling May Be an Option
The fun and less grueling way to burn calories, build muscle and relieve stress By Daniel Baldwin
L
ocal bowlers know what size shoe and pound ball they need to play the sport. They know how to release the bowling ball, get it out of the gutter and get strikes. Many people know how to bowl and be good at it. But they may not know the number of pounds they lose and calories they burn while playing the game. They may not know the affects and benefits this sport has on their bodies and mental health. John Knight, a bowling coach and owner of John Knight’s Bowlers’ Shoppe (located inside King Pin Lanes in Rome), said that an average person, who bowls for an hour, can burn 240 calories during that time. A 200-pound adult, who bowls for an hour, can burn up to 275 calories, according to Mayoclinic.org. Bowlers do a lot of ball lifting, swinging, stretching and walking during a one-, two-, and three-game span. Knight said that an average bowler walks six-tenths of mile up and down the lanes during a threegame stretch. They are lifting, carrying, and throwing a six- to 16-pound bowling ball 20-22 times per game. “You walk sixth-tenths of a mile when you bowl three games and you burn 240 calories per hour bowling,” Knight said. “Those are pretty good numbers. Plus, we [bowlers] use the heaviest object in sports. A bowling ball is the heaviest object in any sport, so that helps anaerobically
build muscle tone.” According to Bowlingoverhaul. com, bowlers are using and building up all the major muscle groups in their bodies (arms, legs, upper and lower portion) while playing. They are stretching their tendons, joints, and ligaments; muscles that are not stretched, but should be in order to stay fit and avoid injury, according to Bowling.com. “There is a thought in people’s mind that you’re exercising just your arm,” Knight said. “I mean the workout that you give your abs and your legs, that cannot be understated. You arguably work out those more than your arm. It’s understated and underappreciated the amount of inner workings your legs and core get. They get quite a workout too.” Not only are bowlers losing weight and building muscles, but they are also reducing the risk of getting heart and blood-related diseases. According to Capitol-bowl.com, people, who bowl a few times or on a regular basis, are less likely to have a heart attack, stroke or diabetes. Bowling also improves eye-hand coordination, the eyes and the hands working together to perform a certain task. It is easy for people, young and old, to throw and release a bowling ball down the lane, but if bowlers want to keep their balls out of the gutter and record strikes consistently, then they must find a spot or target on the lanes and place their ball on that spot every frame. That improves a person’s eye-hand coordination and their bowling score.
Page 20 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • July 2022
“Aiming for targets on the lane help immensely because the head pin is 60 feet away from the foul line,” Knight said. “It’s generally advisable to aim closer, as looking at a closer target is generally easier to hit for most. There are several targets on the lane that you could aim for to knock down all the pins. Most league bowlers use the arrows, which are 15 feet out beyond the foul line. Most people target the arrows, but there are other spots on the lane that you could target and look at. Some people even look at the pins, but most people target the arrows. Having a target to focus on and roll the ball over improves eye-hand coordination tremendously.” There is a lot of ball lifting, swinging, stretching, calorie burning, eye-hand coordinating and muscle building in the sport of bowling— but it is not as tough or grueling as working out at the gym or playing outdoors on the field, according to Knight. Bowlers do sit down and take many breathers during a game. They also use that time (waiting for their turn) to talk to their friends, family members and other bowlers that they have not met nor talked to. “It’s not overly grueling to bowl,” Knight said. “There are frequent breaks.” Bowling may be serious to some, but fun for others. Some see it as a sport while others see it as a social gathering; an opportunity to hang out and have fun with friends and family. A chance for those who have not gone out and socialized that
FROM TOP Players at John Knight’s Bowlers’ Shoppe in Rome. According to Mayo Clinic, a 200-pound adult who bowls for an hour can burn up to 240 calories; John Knight is the owner John Knight’s Bowlers’ Shoppe in Rome and an avid bowler. “There is a thought in people’s mind that you’re exercising just your arm,” Knight says. “I mean the workout that you give your abs and your legs, that cannot be understated.”
much, to leave the house, make new friends and improve their social lives. Approximately two million bowlers socialize and bowl together in weekly leagues across America, according to The Bowling Foundation. The social aspects of bowling can improve a person’s mental outlook, according to Knight. People who bowl in leagues or with friends will be more social and not feel stressed or depressed. They will be in a much happier state. “The social aspects of bowling help improve your mental outlook,” Knight said. “If you’re amongst friends and peers bowling and you’re having a good time, your stress levels are reduced. You’re laughing and having fun. Mentally, you’re in a much better place. Having fun and bowling helps create an environment where you’re enjoying yourself.” Based on this information, bowling is indeed a good exercise and enjoyable experience for both first-timers and professionals.