For
Your Health
MARTIN MEMORIAL’S WELLNESS MAGAZINE
Individualized Care through Treasure Coast Concierge
Innovative Imaging Suites Offer Comfort and Serenity
SPRING 2010
Martin Memorial, VGTI Florida Partner on Research Study
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GTI Florida and Martin Memorial are working on a research study that represents the initial collaboration between the life sciences organization and the health care provider. The study began collecting blood samples in late October 2009 from patients visiting Martin Memorial physicians who agreed to participate in the study. Those samples are then turned over to scientists at VGTI Florida — an offshoot of Oregon Health and Science University’s Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute — for study. VGTI Florida is one of the three life sciences organizations comprising the Florida Center for Innovation, located at the Tradition development in western St. Lucie County.
the flu, either by immunization or by infection with the virus itself. The study of this process will allow researchers to better understand the reaction the body has against the virus. Better understanding of the model for the acute phase of influenza infection will be helpful in determining protective strategies and developing innovative vaccine and immune therapies to control the current flu epidemic, HIV and other chronic infections.
Study Investigates Immune Response
The purpose of the study, which is expected to involve approximately 270 subjects, is to investigate how the body’s immune cells react to exposure to a viral infection such as
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Playing It Cool Can Make a Difference for Cardiac Arrest Patients
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Martin Memorial’s new technology, the Arctic Sun® System, helps cardiac arrest patients by rapidly reducing their core body temperature.
Cancer Patients Find Hope and Healing Close to Home
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Learn about the continuum of cancer care provided at the Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center and Martin Memorial Medical Center.
New Knee Can Be Custom FIT FOR PATIENTS
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Knee replacement patients can get back on their feet sooner with Martin Memorial’s new OtisKnee® technology, which allows patients to be fitted before surgery.
Collaborative Research
Martin Memorial, which is seeking approval to build an 80-bed hospital in Tradition near Torrey Pines, has been participating in research studies for many years — primarily in cancer clinical trials. Since 2001, more than 50 cancer clinical research trials have been conducted at the Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center, which have provided valuable insight into the causes of and treatments for cancer. “We believe this will be the first of many collaborative opportunities with our partners at the Florida Center for Innovation,” says Mark Robitaille, president and chief executive officer of Martin Memorial. “This is a perfect example of how we can provide valuable clinical resources that are critical to scientific research and that can profoundly impact the way health care is delivered.”
Contents
Martin Memorial Offers New Form of Weight-loss Surgery 12
Who Can Participate?
Three groups of subjects are being asked to participate in the study. These include: • Men and women who have flulike symptoms such as fever, cough or runny nose and are diagnosed with the seasonal flu (both types A and B) by having a positive rapid flu test • Men and women who have flulike symptoms and are diagnosed with the flu by having a positive rapid flu test for type A flu only • Men and women who are scheduled to have the flu vaccine Those interested in participating in the study can call (772) 288-5858 and select option four.
Considering weight-loss surgery? Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG) generates weight loss by removing a portion of the stomach without a bypass of the intestines. For Your Health, a publication of the Marketing Communications Department of Martin Memorial Health Systems, is designed to help you and your family make informed health care decisions. You can also find answers to your health-related questions by visiting our Web site at mmhs.com. If you have further questions or comments, please contact Kelly Beard at (772) 223-2835, or e-mail info@mmhs-fla.org. Editor: New Growth Media, LLC Featured Writers: Kelly Beard, Arthur M. “Rusty” Brink, Scott Samples Art Direction: New Growth Media, LLC Photography: Bob Dobens, Steven Martine Martin Memorial Health Systems is a not-for-profit, communitybased health care organization. It offers a continuum of care, including preventive, primary and acute hospital care, as well as cancer care, fitness and rehabilitation services. Its 2,900 associates and more than 385 affiliated physicians operate in 12 different locations serving Martin and St. Lucie counties.
Cover: Barbara and James Mondello are appreciative members of the Treasure Coast Concierge program.
Spring 2010 For Your Health 3
MRI Technologist, Therese Astoske, prepares a patient for an MRI on the high-field open bore 1.5 Magnetom Espree MRI system at Martin Memorial Diagnostic Imaging Services at Port St. Lucie.
New Imaging Facility Provides State-of-the-Art Diagnostics with Patient ComforT
S
ince December 2009, Treasure Coast residents have had access to the latest innovations in imaging technology at the new Martin Memorial Diagnostic Imaging Services at Port St. Lucie. Located at 1651 S.E. Tiffany Ave., Suite 100, the facility provides the most recent generation of technologically sophisticated MRI and CT scanners, and the new imaging suites offer patient comfort features that are unique on the Treasure Coast. The Latest Imaging Technology
“This new facility allows us to present physicians with highquality diagnostic imaging that is critical to providing patient care,” says Eric Pfeiffer, MD, chief of radiology services at Martin Memorial. “This technology is state of the art, which provides us with the best images with which to make a diagnosis. At the same time, the environment allows us to provide patients with enhanced comfort and ease of mind during their examinations.” The facility features a high-field open bore Magnetom Espree MRI system, which combines high-quality imaging capabilities with the highest level of patient comfort, improved space and access. The facility also features the 16-slice Somatom
4 For Your Health Spring 2010
Emotion Spiral CT, a fast and powerful diagnostic tool that provides physicians with incredibly precise images. Soothing Scenery
Patients are able to select from a menu of special themes, filling their exam room with soothing lighting and music, as relaxing scenery is displayed on large flat-screen monitors within their view. Pediatric themes are also available, designed to help entertain and calm children while their imaging studies are being performed. The 3,608-square-foot space was renovated at Martin Memorial’s Tiffany Avenue location, which also features physician offices, rehabilitation services and laboratory services. Martin Memorial also has outpatient diagnostic imaging services in Stuart and St. Lucie West, and features both inpatient and outpatient diagnostic imaging services at its two hospitals. To learn more about Martin Memorial’s Diagnostic Imaging Services, visit mmhs.com and click on “Services and Locations,” then “Diagnostic Imaging.” For diagnostic central scheduling, call (772) 288-5817.
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Playing It Cool Can Make a Difference for Cardiac Arrest Patients
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ichard Button shouldn’t have made it to his 76th birthday. In October 2009, days before he was ready to blow out candles on a cake, the Martin County resident suffered cardiac arrest and was rushed to the Martin Memorial Medical Center. Button coded in the emergency department about 20 times, but managed to pull through. Because cardiac arrest can cut off the flow of oxygen, brain damage can occur in these patients. To help reduce the risk for damage to Button’s brain, a specially trained team of physicians and nurses at Martin Memorial used noninvasive technology called the Arctic Sun® System, which rapidly reduces the core body temperature.
Richard and Mary Button are grateful for the Arctic Sun® System at Martin Memorial.
Critical Temperature Control
“The goal is to try to preserve brain function following cardiac arrest,” says Cynthia Silva, director of the cardiovascular intensive care unit at the Frances Langford Heart Center at Martin Memorial. “By inducing mild hypothermia you slow the body’s function down and prevent swelling that could lead to damage to the brain.” Button had gel packs placed on him and the Arctic Sun® directed cool water to circulate through them, reducing his temperature by approximately six degrees. After 24 hours, his temperature was gradually brought back up by having warm water circulate through the pads. Button remained in a comalike state for four days after his cardiac arrest. But when his wife, Mary, went to visit him at the hospital on the fifth day — his 76th birthday — she found him sitting up and alert. LifeSaving Technology
“I went to my cardiologist for a follow-up visit and she looked at all my records and told me, ‘According to what I’m seeing, you should not have survived this,’” Button says.
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Not every heart patient who comes to Martin Memorial is a candidate for Arctic Sun®. There are a number of criteria that must be met, including the amount of time since the onset of cardiac arrest. Other patients may have specific medical conditions that don’t allow them to be a candidate for the treatment. But for patients such as Richard Button, Arctic Sun® has proven to be a lifesaver.
“It’s really amazing. He had no brain damage as a result (of the cardiac arrest), no motor damage,” Mary Button says. “It’s like a miracle.” For more information on the services available at the Frances Langford Heart Center at Martin Memorial, visit mmhs.com and click on “Services and Locations,” then “Heart Center,” or call (772) 221-2094.
Spring 2010 For Your Health 5
Cancer Patients Find Hope and Healing Close to Home
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ancer patients, survivors, their family and friends can all find hope, healing and compassion at Martin Memorial. The Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center at Martin Memorial provides exceptional cancer treatment services and hope to patients and their families, close to home. For 10 years, the cancer center has combined medical expertise with advanced technology to fight the disease. Some of the very best treatments for cancer are available on Martin Memorial’s campus. An affiliation with H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa allows for collaboration with exceptional doctors and access to the latest research, drug protocols and treatments. Moffitt is the only center in Florida to be accredited by the National Cancer Institute. Martin Memorial offers a continuum of care that features inpatient and outpatient services through the Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center and Martin Memorial Medical Center, including radiation therapy; chemotherapy; clinical trials; social and support services; and nutritional counseling. Radiation Oncology
Martin Memorial’s radiation oncology department is the most comprehensive facility of its kind on the Treasure Coast. Specially trained, board-certified radiation oncologists are
skilled in the latest and most advanced technology, including image-guided stereotactic radiosurgery using Novalis Tx ; Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT). These therapies target cancerous tissue with highly focused three-dimensional radiation beams, enabling clinicians to aim a precise dose to the shape and depth of the tumor, which significantly reduces adverse effects to healthy tissue. Radiation oncology services are available in Stuart and St. Lucie West. TM
Infusion Suite
Martin Memorial’s infusion suite provides chemotherapy and medical infusion services, performed by oncology-certified registered nurses, with a pharmacist on site. The suite is located on the third floor of the cancer center, overlooking a picturesque view of downtown Stuart. Research and Clinical Trials
Martin Memorial is committed to supporting national cancer-related research projects, including clinical trials and drug protocols that will improve the treatments and lives of people who have cancer, now and in the future. For more information, call (772) 223-5945, ext. 3699.
The Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center at Martin Memorial has been serving the Treasure Coast for 10 years.
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Medical Nutrition Therapy
An outpatient nutrition program helps patients maintain optimal nutrition while undergoing treatment for cancer. Eating the right kinds of foods and getting proper nutrients before, during and after treatment can be a challenge. A registered dietitian can help patients eat healthily, feel better and stay stronger. Call (772) 223-4916 to make an appointment. Oncology Rehabilitation
Martin Memorial’s specially trained therapists offer a comprehensive treatment approach for people with cancer. The outpatient oncology rehabilitation program is designed for oncology patients who have received inpatient rehabilitation or home health and are ready to progress with their rehabilitation. This rehabilitation program addresses functional deficits encountered during any phase of a patient’s cancer therapy. For more information, call (772) 781-2778. Patient Resource Center and Community Outreach
Patients, their families and community members are welcome to visit the patient resource center, located on the second floor of the cancer center. A library is available, including computers with Internet access. Breast health and lung cancer navigator programs are also available to provide personalized assistance and resources for the fight against breast and lung cancers. Community outreach programs, including cancer prevention and detection screenings, are hosted regularly. For more
information on cancer forums, lectures and screenings, call (772) 223-5945, ext. 3704. See the calendar of events on page 14 for information on the upcoming prostate forum and screening. Clinical Social Services and Support Groups
A licensed clinical social worker collaborates with patients, their families and their health care team to address the psychosocial and spiritual concerns before, during and after a diagnosis of cancer. Monthly support groups provide a place to listen, share and empower patients, families and survivors. Call (772) 223-5945, ext. 3719 for more information.
To learn more about the cancer services available at Martin Memorial, call (772) 288-5858 or visit mmhs.com and click on “Services and Locations,” then “Cancer.”
Cancer Program Earns Accreditation with Commendation Martin Memorial’s cancer program
personnel who are making a tremendous
process and review of their performance.
has again been granted three-year
difference in the lives of Treasure Coast
To maintain approval, facilities with an
accreditation with commendation
residents every day,” says Cindy Pingolt,
approved cancer program must undergo
from the Commission on Cancer.
assistant vice president of professional
an on-site review every three years.
Martin Memorial’s cancer program has
services. “Cancer affects countless people
been accredited by the Commission on
in our community and we are determined
Cancer for many years, but this is the sec-
to provide access to high-quality care
To learn more about the cancer services
ond consecutive time it has received the
that can help them battle the disease.”
available at Martin Memorial, call
commendation distinction, the highest
(772) 288-5858 or visit mmhs.com
possible level of accreditation.
Cancer is given only to those facilities that
and click on “Services and Locations,”
have voluntarily committed to providing
then “Cancer.”
“This accreditation is a reflection of
Approval by the Commission on
the hard work and dedication shown
the highest level of quality cancer care
by physicians, clinical staff and support
and that undergo a rigorous evaluation
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Spring 2010 For Your Health 7
New Knee Can Be Custom Fit for Patients
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oanne Roberson knew she was going to need a knee replacement eventually. She had already undergone three arthroscopic procedures to repair a meniscus; plus, she had cartilage damage and arthritis to the point her joints were rubbing together bone-on-bone. The Port St. Lucie resident also knew the procedure could involve a long recovery process: When a relative had knee replacement 25 years ago, it took nearly a year to fully recover. But thanks in large part to new technology called the Custom Fit Knee® replacement, Roberson was on her feet quickly. “Within 24 hours I was out of bed and walking with a walker down the hall,” Roberson says. “I had more mobility within 48 hours in that knee than I had in the previous two years.” Breaking the Mold with Custom Fitting
The OtisKnee® procedure is a new type of surgery for knee replacement that allows the surgeon to custom fit the patient’s knee. An MRI is taken of the
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patient’s knee before surgery. The MRI is then sent to OtisMed, which manufactures a small plastic block that goes over the knee during surgery. The block is placed over the tibia and the femur, which allows the surgeon to precisely make the cuts that are necessary to custom fit a knee replacement to the patient’s specific anatomy. The cuts are made through a slice in the blocks, which are programmed exactly to the angles of the patient’s leg. The block is then removed and the replacement knee is put in place. “This type of an operation takes your knee surgery out of the surgery room and takes it to a computer laboratory, where it’s preprogrammed and your knee is modeled and preplanned,” says Norman Palmeri, MD, an orthopedic surgeon on staff at Martin Memorial who performs the procedure.
Norman Palmeri, MD
alignment of the implant. Much of that decision-making process takes place during the operation itself. That process is eliminated with the Custom Fit Knee® replacement. “Because this procedure provides a custom fit to each patient, there is an increased level of accuracy in the fit of the knee replacement,” says Dr. Palmeri, who is the only surgeon in St. Lucie and Martin counties who performs the OtisKnee® procedure. “It also reduces surgical time considerably and it will improve the patients’ recovery process, allowing them to return to their activities more quickly.”
Taking the Guesswork out of Knee Replacement
For most knee replacement procedures, surgeons must estimate the size, fit and
To learn more about joint replacement, visit mmhs.com and click on “Services and Locations,” then “Joint Replacement,” or call (772) 288-5848. To find an orthopedic surgeon, visit mmhs.com and click on “Find a Doctor,” or call 1-800-DOCTORS.
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Treasure Coast Concierge Provides Individualized Care and Peace of Mind
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arbara and James Mondello understand the importance of having access to health care as well as anyone. She is a breast cancer survivor who also has experienced other extensive medical issues. He is also a cancer survivor. So when Linda Kardos, MD, began Treasure Coast Concierge in January 2009, the Mondellos were quick to sign on as members. And they have been thrilled with the service they have received. Dedicated Physician
“We were awestruck by the dedication and commitment that she has for her patients. She is an extraordinary physician,” James Mondello says. “She is great at diagnosing issues, is always available by phone and is available 24 hours a day for you and your family.” That desire to provide complete, full-service care for each individual patient led Dr. Kardos to start Treasure Coast Concierge after practicing internal medicine in the community for more than 30 years. Through Treasure Coast Concierge, Dr. Kardos works closely with patients not only to treat illnesses, but also to prevent disease through a personalized health and wellness program. Patients also receive physician availability 24 hours a day, as well as unlimited consultation time with Dr. Kardos during office visits.
The Mondellos are grateful for the personalized care they have received from Linda Kardos, MD, and Treasure Coast Concierge.
Focused on You
Linda Kardos, MD
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“I have time to focus more on individual patients and their individual needs,” Dr. Kardos says. “I’m able to be more responsive, to explain things to them. If they have a question, they can pick up the phone and call me.” It’s a commitment Barbara Mondello understands well. During a recent bout with cancer, she was traveling to the National Institutes of Health in
Maryland four times a month for care. However, through Martin Memorial’s affiliation with Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Dr. Kardos was able to arrange for treatments at the Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center in Stuart. “One of the most important things you need is to have a good quarterback to coordinate your care,” Barbara says. “I have a tremendous appreciation for Linda for coordinating this outreach and experience.” For more information about this program or to find out about membership opportunities, call (772) 223-5630.
Spring 2010 For Your Health 9
Philanthropy Matters
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How Do You Say Thank You?
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ecently, one of my friends asked me, “How do I say thank you? The care I received at Martin Memorial was impressive. The doctors were thoughtful and skilled and the nursing staff, compassionate and professional.” Usually, folks who make those statements go on to say that they were surprised at the quality of care Arthur M. “Rusty” Brink and the professional skill they Jr., Vice President and experienced at Martin Memorial Chief Philanthropic and how fortunate they feel to Officer, Martin Memorial Foundation have such a high-caliber medical facility in their own backyard. I am a bit prejudiced, but I agree. In fact, I was one of those “grateful patients.” Several months ago, I had a knee replacement and I just had the second one done right here at Martin Memorial. Be a Guardian Angel
As an expression of gratitude to those who so thoughtfully cared for me, I participated in the Martin Memorial Foundation’s new “Guardian Angel” program. It was easy and efficient. I simply filled out the brochure (you can find them all over the hospital) and sent it to the Foundation with a charitable gift in honor of those caregivers (I just listed their names). The Foundation sent a letter acknowledging my gift to the caregivers I identified, and enclosed a special pin that can be worn on the their uniforms as a testimony to their dedicated service to our patients. Even more impressive was that many of those associates, when I saw them next, remarked at how pleased they were to be honored in such a special way. Your gift can be for any amount. Simply contact us at the e-mail address or phone number listed on this page. Endowments Can Shape Your Legacy
Another more lasting option is creating an endowment, which can help you direct your gift to a particular hospital department or honor a loved one. Endowments provide
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a steady stream of income each year for the purpose you select. The principal is invested as part of Martin Memorial’s endowment and is intended to grow at least at the rate of inflation. You benefit because you can see your gift at work every year when we send you a report of the activity. Endowments can be established outright with a minimum gift of $50,000, or over a five-year period with gifts of $10,000 annually.
Your Gift Saves Lives Without philanthropy, Martin Memorial could not provide the quality health care services it offers to the community. To learn more about how you can help, please call Arthur M. “Rusty” Brink Jr., CFP, FAHP at (772) 223-5635 or e-mail rbrink@mmhs-fla.org. Visit GIVEmmhs.org for details on how you can make a lifesaving gift.
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Jerome and Phyllis Rappaport, Carol and Bob Weissman
Chrysanthemum Ball Celebrates 15 Years of Philanthropy
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he Martin Memorial Foundation Chrysanthemum Ball once again proved to be a hot ticket. The 15th annual event officially sold out, with 450 seats filled and $800,000 raised. The funds will be used to enhance and support Martin Memorial’s clinical staff through technology. Martin Memorial’s information technology and performance excellence teams evaluated the health system’s service lines — ranging from cancer and heart services to stroke, orthopedics and much more — to find appropriate opportunities for technology improvements. The clinical staff from selected service lines assisted in determining what new technologies will best help them provide enhanced patient care. “We wanted to honor nurses and other clinical staff at Martin Memorial for the lifesaving work they perform each and every day,” says Suzanne Kissling, chair of the Chrysanthemum Ball Committee. “It was important to us that we solicit their input on what kinds of technology would be most beneficial in providing care for this community.” The gala, which traditionally kicks off the Treasure Coast’s social season, has raised more than $9.3 million for lifesaving care at not-for-profit Martin Memorial. Barry and Merle Ginsburg, Karen and Bob Croce “For 15 years, the Chrysanthemum Ball has played a vital role in helping Martin Memorial provide exceptional health care to residents of the Treasure Lisa and Dr. Edward Rossario Tony and Suzanne Coast,” says Judy Williams, co-chair Kissling of the 2009 event. “It is one more example of how the community partners with Martin Memorial to ensure valuable medical services are available right here, close to home.” Since its inception, the Chrysanthemum Ball has earned a reputation for providing high-quality entertainment, fine cuisine and an energetic atmosphere. This year the committee of more than 30 volunteers focused on “going green” for the event while working to support the local community. That included serving local foods, maximizing décor that will be reused or redistributed and Mark Robitaille, Mike Earley, Nancy Bachman, Sharon and John Dunn hiring local vendors whenever possible. As part of that commitment to giving back to the community, fruits and vegetables that were included as part of the evening’s centerpieces were donated immediately following the event to the Treasure Coast Food Bank.
For more information or to make a gift to the Martin Memorial Foundation, call (772) 223-5634 or visit GIVEmmhs.org.
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Spring 2010 For Your Health 11
Could Weight-Loss Surgery Save Your Life?
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he benefits of weight-loss surgery go beyond what the eye can see. If you are obese, surgery to lose weight may be safer than carrying around those extra pounds. If you’re dealing with diabetes as well, weight-loss surgery can send the disease into longterm remission. But is losing weight worth the risks associated with surgery? A study by the National Institutes of Health found that 10 to 15 years after having weight-loss surgery, obese patients were less likely to develop — and more likely to recover from — diabetes and other heart disease risk factors. These patients also showed an almost 25 percent reduction in death, compared with obese patients who didn’t have the procedure. Weight-loss surgery appears to
improve the body’s ability to control blood sugar levels. It may even reverse type 2 diabetes. By helping you lose weight, it may also lower your risk for serious conditions such as heart disease and stroke. Balancing Benefits and Risks
Recently, a study on weight-loss surgery was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers found weight-loss surgery to be an effective and safe treatment for severe obesity. The incidence of death and adverse events within 30 days after surgery was very low. It matched the rates seen with other major surgeries. All four main kinds of weight-loss surgery limit the amount of food you can eat or decrease the absorption of food,
and some do both. Each type of surgery comes with its own risks and benefits, and doctors don’t agree on which is best. Consider Your Candidacy
Weight-loss surgery is typically recommended for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater. If you have a serious health condition, such as diabetes or heart disease, you may want to look into surgery if your BMI is between 35 and 39.9. You can calculate yours at cdc.gov/healthyweight. It’s also important to consider how ready you are to make a change. Every weight-loss procedure requires you to commit to a lifetime of healthy eating and regular exercise. Ask your doctor for his or her opinion on your weightloss options.
Martin Memorial Offers New Form of Weight-loss Surgery In addition to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and LAP-BAND® surgery, the
Martin Memorial Center for Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery now
option adding to the selection of bariatric surgeries offered at
offers Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG). LSG generates weight
Martin Memorial,” says George Rittersbach Jr., MD, a general and
loss by restricting the amount of food that can be eaten via removal
vascular surgeon at Martin Memorial Health Systems. “I’m very
of a portion of the stomach without bypass of the intestines.
excited to offer this surgery that can benefit many of our patients.
With LSG, weight loss is achieved through reduced stomach
“Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy is another effective
It is proving to offer real advantages: A good weight-loss experience,
volume. The stomach is divided and stapled, and a significant
fewer side effects, very little post-op intervention and the data
portion of its volume is removed. This creates a restrictive effect,
collected over the past five years indicate very good results.”
enabling the patient to eat a smaller amount to achieve a feeling of fullness. In addition, the portion of stomach that is removed contains a large number of cells that secrete ghrelin, a hormone
To learn more about the weight-loss surgeries available at the
that signals appetite and hunger to the brain. The removal of
Martin Memorial Center for Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery,
these cells helps to suppress appetite further.
call (772) 223-4916 or visit mmhs.com and click on “Services and Locations,” then “Bariatrics.” Turn to the calendar of events on page 14 for upcoming bariatric education sessions.
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Get Your Greens for Bone Health
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our skeleton is a living, changing structure. Every day, your body breaks down old bone cells and builds new ones. It’s a complex process requiring lots of vitamins and minerals. This includes the old standbys calcium and vitamin D — plus a new player on the scene, vitamin K. Vitamin K is best known for helping blood clot. Now, scientists believe it may play a key role in bone health. The latest evidence suggests this nutrient doesn’t make your bones thicker or denser, but might still prevent fractures. Scientists think it may be working to help support bone structure in some other way.
take the blood thinner warfarin; consult your doctor before you increase your intake of foods containing vitamin K. Vitamin K can affect how this drug works. “Bone fractures are associated with a loss of independence. Making lifestyle changes to promote bone density is important and can aid in maintaining independence as we age,” says Rosemarie Lembo James, RD, CNSD, LD/N, clinical director of nutrition services at Martin Memorial. “Including dietary sources of vitamins D, vitamin K and calcium, as well as taking the responsibility to follow the recommendations for exercise, can have beneficial effects on bone health for many years to come.”
Are You OK on Your Vitamin K?
Low vitamin K levels are rare. You’re more likely to run short if you’re older than 65, live in a group care facility, drink large quantities of alcohol or have a condition like celiac disease that interferes with how your body absorbs vitamins. Experts say that specific recommendations for vitamin K depend on age, gender and other factors, such as pregnancy. In most cases, eating foods rich in vitamin K is enough to boost levels. These include: • Green, leafy vegetables, such as spinach • Broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower • Green peas • Soybeans • Olives • Cereals Doctors don’t recommend supplements unless blood tests show you’re vitamin K-deficient. Get checked if you have symptoms of low levels, such as unusual bruising or bleeding. Be careful if you
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Other Ways to Build Bone
Tried-and-true methods for boosting bone strength include: • Eating foods that are good sources of calcium and vitamin D, including low-fat dairy • Exercising at least 30 minutes a day • Not smoking
Martin Memorial offers nutrition counseling. To learn more, visit mmhs.com and click on “Services and Locations,” then “Nutrition,” or call (772) 223-4916.
QUICK TIP Keep your bones in mind when planning your gym routine. Weightbearing workouts — such as walking, lifting and dancing — do the most to build skeletal strength.
Potato Vegetable Salad with Yogurt Serves six Ingredients 2 lbs. red potatoes 2 cups broccoli florets 2 cups cauliflower florets 2 medium carrots, peeled 1 medium cucumber 3/4 cup sliced radishes 1/2 cup sliced scallions 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt 3 Tbsp. Dijon mustard 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper Directions 1. Steam potatoes until they are tender. 2. While potatoes are cooling, steam broccoli and cauliflower until slightly cooked, about four minutes. Set broccoli and cauliflower aside to cool. 3. Cut carrots into thin slivers. Slice cucumber. Cut potatoes into chunks. 4. Gently stir all vegetables together in a large mixing bowl. 5. In another bowl, whisk together yogurt, mustard, salt and pepper. Pour yogurt dressing over vegetables and stir carefully until coated evenly. 6. Refrigerate one hour before serving. Per Serving (about 1/6 of recipe) Calories 170, Total Fat 1 g (Calories from fat 10%), Saturated Fat 0 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Sodium 360 mg, Carbohydrates 34 g, Dietary fiber 5 g, Sugar 8 g, Protein 7 g Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Fruits and Veggies: More Matters”
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Welcome New Physicians! The following physicians recently joined the Martin Memorial team: Gabriel Breuer, MD, Cardiology Mikhail Deputat, MD Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology Luis Diaz-Gorrichategui, MD Emergency Medicine Stephen Dodds, MD Emergency Medicine Julian Fisher, MD Neurology Todd Horkins, MD Radiology Maria Martone, DO Emergency Medicine Christopher Reed, DO, Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology For a physician referral, visit mmhs.com and click on “Find a Doctor,” or call 1-800-DOCTORS.
Look What’s Happening Mark your calendar with these healthrelated events. For a complete list of community events, visit mmhs.com and click on “Calendar of Events.”
WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY EDUCATION SESSION Tuesday, Feb. 23, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Learn about weight-loss (bariatric) surgery and LAP-BAND® at Martin Memorial. Martin Memorial Medical Center, 200 S.E. Hospital Ave., Stuart Call (772) 223-4916 to RSVP.
Prostate Cancer Screening Thursday, Feb. 25, 4 to 6 p.m. Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center, second floor 501 E. Osceola St., Stuart Call (772) 223-5945, ext. 3736 to schedule an appointment.
Prostate Cancer Forum Coming soon! For details or to RSVP, call (772) 223-5945, ext. 3736.
WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY EDUCATION SESSION Tuesday, March 2, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Martin Memorial Hospital South, administrative conference room 2100 S.E. Salerno Rd., Stuart Call (772) 223-4916 to RSVP.
Living Tobacco Free Smoking Cessation Program Wednesday, March 3, 12 to 1 p.m. Receive educational, behavioral and nutritional support in a group setting to help you quit tobacco use. Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center, second floor 501 E. Osceola St., Stuart Call (772) 223-4916 to register.
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Cancer Support Group Wednesdays, March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 2 to 3 p.m. Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center, second floor 501 E. Osceola St., Stuart Call (772) 223-5945, ext. 3719 for more information.
FREE Balance Screening Thursday, March 4 and April 1, 12 to 3 p.m. Take a free 20- to 25-minute computerized “sensory organization” balance test, which can identify problems in the body’s systems that are used for balance. Raub Rehabilitation Center, Smithfield Plaza 2189 S.E. Ocean Blvd., Stuart Call (772) 223-4936 to schedule an appointment.
Heart Link Cardiac Club Tuesday, March to 3 p.m. referral, call For9,a 2physician “Know your meds, ” meet your pharmacist. 1-866-361-HOPE (4673) or Martin Memorial Center, visitMedical mmhs.com and click on conference center “Find a Doctor.” 200 S.E. Hospital Ave., Stuart Call (772) 221-2094 for more information.
Cholesterol Screening Saturday, March 13, 7 to 9 a.m. Get detailed cholesterol information, including lipid profile, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, total/HDL ratio and glucose results. Cost: $19 for members; $24 for nonmembers Martin Memorial Treasure Coast Health and Fitness Center 3496 N.W. Federal Highway, Jensen Beach Call (772) 223-5683 for more information.
mmhs.com
At martin memorial “matters of the heart�
Matter most.
TheF rances Langford HeartC enter has partnered with the renowned Ocala HeartI nstitute, one of the top non-teaching institutes in the United States. Our heartc enter staff has received the highest quality training. Our physicians are board-certified cardiovascular surgeons, noninvasive cardiologists and interventionalc ardiologists. Ourn ursing staff has dual certifications in critical and cardiacc are. From advanced interventional services, including angioplasty and stenting, to open-heart surgery andv alver eplacement, we caref or your heart. Our goal is to provide you with exceptionalh ealthc are, hope andc ompassion.
For more information about our services and programs, call (772) 221-2094 or visit us at mmhs.com.
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P.O. Box 9010 Stuart, FL 34995-9010
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For Your Health is published four times a year by Martin Memorial Health Systems, P.O. Box 9010, Stuart, FL 34995-9010. Š 2010. All rights reserved. For Your Health and its graphic representation are trademarks. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. No material in this issue may be reproduced without written permission.
All articles in For Your Health are written and edited by professionals in health care communications and reviewed for accuracy by appropriate specialists. For Your Health does not promote any form of medical treatment, nor does it encourage the selfmanagement of medical problems. It is meant to supplement, not replace, the advice and care of health care professionals.