OurHealth Lynchburg & Southside Aug/Sep 2015 Edition by OurHealth Media LLC

table of contents | august • september 2015

All About the Bite

Examining how orthodontists care for your teeth and jaws

MEDI•CABU•LARY.....................12 Local experts define health-related terms

JUST ASK!.......................................14 Healthcare questions answered by local professionals

NEW & NOTEWORTHY.............16 A listing of new physicians, providers, locations and upcoming events in the Lynchburg and Southside communities

HEALTH POINTS.........................18 Interesting facts and tidbits about health

THE ANATOMY CHALLENGE..................................21

Raise Your Hand for Health!

10 questions asked by parents & answered by doctors.

Are you up for the challenge? In this issue, test your knowledge when it comes to the MOUTH.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

The results are in! Senior Living Awards

Sen

ds ar

Living Aw ior

ds ar

Living Aw ior

hello, HEALTH!.............................. 56 Capturing the spirit of those working in healthcare and of people leading healthy lives through photos

FIT BITS!........................................ 59 COUCH TO 5K! Have you ever dreamed of running a 5k but didn't know how to start? OurHealth resident fitness specialist, Deidre

Prostate Cancer Screening Could SAVE YOUR LIFE

Wilkes can show you how.

NUTRITION.................................. 61 HEALTHY EATS: Check out the OurHealth staff favorite recipes including Beet Summer Salad, Sweet Corn Salad, and Almond Butter Cookies!

CLOSER LOOK.............................. 74 Images reflecting the landscape of healthcare in Lynchburg and Southside * PLUS * a chance to win prizes!

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CONTRIBUTING MEDICAL EXPERTS & WRITERS Melody M. Ailsworth, DO Chapman Brown, RPh Jay Cline, MD Samantha E. Hill, MD, FAAD Michael O’Neill, MD Michael Padilla, MD

McClintic Media, Inc. Steve McClintic, Jr. | steve@ourhealthvirginia.com Jennifer Hungate Deidre Wilkes Laura Bower Tori Long Joe Palotas Next Generation Designs Jourdan Markey Dalton Holody

John G. Pierce, Jr., MD Johanne Policard, MD Laura Robert, MD Shepherd Sittason, DDS Gary St. Clair, OD Sarah Woods, MD

CONTRIBUTING PROFESSIONAL WRITERS Bob Morgan, CD, BS Suzanne Ramsey Edwin Schwartz Deidre Wilkes Diane York ADVERTISING AND MARKETING Cynthia Trujillo | Senior Media Consultant P: 434.907.5255 | cindy@ourhealthvirginia.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS To receive OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside via U.S. Mail, please contact Deidre Wilkes at deidre@ourhealthvirginia.com or at 540.387.6482

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to view the digital edition! COMMENTS/FEEDBACK/QUESTIONS We welcome your feedback. Please send all comments and/or questions to the following: U.S. Mail: McClintic Media, Inc., ATTN: Steve McClintic, Jr., President/ Publisher/Editor: 303 S. Colorado Street • Salem, VA 24153. | Email: steve@ourhealthvirginia.com | Phone: 540.387.6482 Ext. 1 Information in all print editions of OurHealth and on all OurHealth websites (websites listed below) and social media updates and emails is for informational purposes only. The information is not intended to replace medical or health advice of an individual’s physician or healthcare provider as it relates to individual situations. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES ALTER ANY MEDICAL TREATMENT WITHOUT THE CONSENT OF YOUR DOCTOR. All matters concerning physical and mental health should be supervised by a health practitioner knowledgeable in treating that particular condition. The publisher does not directly or indirectly dispense medical advice and does not assume any responsibility for those who choose to treat themselves. The publisher has taken reasonable precaution in preparing this publication, however, the publisher does not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. Copyright © 2015 by McClintic Media, Inc. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. OurHealth Lynchburg/Southside is published bi-monthly • Special editions are also published • McClintic Media, Inc. • 303 S. Colorado Street, Salem, VA 24153, P: 540.387.6482 F: 540.387.6483. MAIN: ourhealthvirginia.com | ourhealthswva.com | ourhealthlbss.com | ourhealthrichmond.com | ourhealthcville.com | Advertising rates upon request.

LOCAL EXPERTS D E F I N E H E A LT H R E L AT E D T E R M S

What is myasthenia gravis?

What is the TDAP vaccine?

What is prostate brachytherapy?

Myasthenia gravis is a rare and serious disease. It is an autoimmune neuromuscular disorder. The body produces antibodies that mistakenly target the connection between the nerves and the muscles, block electric signal transmission from nerves to muscles, and cause muscle weakness.

This vaccine protects against tetanus (lockjaw), diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). These are all serious diseases that can be prevented by this vaccine. It is given routinely at age 11 or 12 prior to entering sixth grade, but it is very important that adults stay updated as well. Healthcare workers and anyone who has close contact with infants and young children – such as parents, grandparents, and church nursery workers should stay updated to protect themselves as well as the children under their care. Pregnant women are recommended to receive the vaccine late in pregnancy to protect their newborn from pertussis. Infants are at the highest risk for a life-threatening infection due to their small airways. For more information regarding this vaccine, contact your primary care physician.

Prostate brachytherapy is a treatment option for many types of prostate cancer. Tiny radioactive seeds, the size of a grain of rice, are placed in and around the prostate to directly kill the cancer. It can be used alone or in combination with external radiation. The process includes visits to discuss the treatment and to map out the prostate and prepare for the actual implant. The implant itself consists of an urologist and radiation oncologist working together to place the radioactive seeds, or sources, inside the prostate. The implant takes one to two hours and is performed as outpatient surgery. In most cases, the seeds are permanent and work to eradicate the cancer as they give off radiation. There are some possible side effects, which usually wear off as the seeds weaken. The effectiveness of treatment and any side effects are closely monitored by both the urologist and the radiation oncologist. Overall prostate brachytherapy is an effective, targeted treatment against prostate cancer.

It affects all ethnicities and age groups. The disease’s hallmark is fluctuant weakness that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Symptoms can include drooping eyelids, double vision, facial, shoulder or hip muscle weakness, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. In myasthenia crisis, severe weakness and breathing difficulties require hospitalization and monitoring in an intensive care unit. Myasthenia gravis can be diagnosed by a neurologist based on history and physical examination. Blood tests, nerve and muscle testing and imaging scans could help establish the diagnosis. There is no cure for myasthenia gravis but treatments are available for improving the weakness and decreasing the antibodies. Johanne Policard, MD

Centra Medical Group Neurology Center Lynchburg | 434.200.2900 neuroscience.centrahealth.com

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Laura Robert, MD

Central Virginia Family Physicians Lynchburg | 434.534.6868 www.cvfp.net

Michael O’Neill, MD

Radiation Oncologist Centra Medical Group Lynchburg | 434.947.4010 www.centrahealth.com

H E A LT H C A R E QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY LOCAL PROFESSIONALS

If my child receives the varicella vaccine, can he still get chicken pox? Most people know varicella causes chicken pox rash, but many don’t realize varicella can cause severe pneumonia, meningitis, encephalitis, and seizures. The vaccine is routinely given around ages one and five. Two vaccines are required to enter kindergarten. The CDC states that one dose is 85 percent effective at preventing any form of varicella, and two doses is 100 percent effective at preventing severe varicella. Truthfully, there is a very small chance that your child may get chicken pox even after having the vaccine, but realize it is the severe forms of varicella that we wish to protect against. The CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics are in agreement with these recommendations.

Michael Padilla, MD

Richeson Drive Pediatrics Lynchburg | 434.385.7776 www.richesondrivepediatrics.com

What should I do if I miss my child's antibiotic? Typically, I tell my patients to give the dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Give the next dose at the regular time. Do not give your child two doses to make up for the one missed dose. Always remember if a rash or stomach upset occurs, stop the medication and call the original prescriber about changing it. If the medication is well tolerated, make sure to finish the course of treatment. Always remember to call your pharmacist if you have any questions. Chapman Brown, III RPh Gretna Drug Lynchburg | 434.656.1251 www.gretnadrug.com

When should I bring my teenage daughter in for her first gynecological exam? The question can bring out sheer terror or an opportunity for growth and open discussion. We must decide which will it be and how do we parent? Of all high school females, 19 percent will smoke, 34 percent will report having used marijuana, 43 percent will have consumed alcohol over the previous month, and approximately 42 percent will have had sexual intercourse. The challenge for parents and the pressure for teenagers is immense. Healthy relationships among the parent and the child reduce risks. Most authorities recommend the first gynecologic office visit occur between ages 13 to 15. Office visit means assessment, education, and development of the doctor- patient relationship. The visit should focus on milestones, development, and healthy decisions. The physician, the patient and the parent can determine the need (if any) for a pelvic examination depending on the individual’s needs or concerns. Often a pelvic examination is not needed. This initial visit should be a springboard for greater health and improved relationships. John G. Pierce, Jr., MD Women’s Health Services of Central Virginia Lynchburg | 434.239.7890 www.whsvc.com

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NEW

NOTEWORTHY

NEW PHYSICIANS, P R O V I D E R S , L O C AT I O N S AND UPCOMING EVENTS

Centra Foundation Announces 2015 Community Health Initiative Fund Grant Recipients

•

Amazing Grace Outreach Church

•

Central Virginia Alliance for Community Living

•

Central Virginia Community College Educational Foundation, Inc.

The 2015 recipients of the Centra Foundation Community Health Initiative Fund grants totaling $591,902 to support health-related projects and programs in our community have been announced. Funds for the grants are administered by the Centra Foundation and come directly from Centra. The grants funded are closely aligned to the funding goals that have been established as a result of Centra’s most recent Community Health Needs Assessment. The funding provided through these grant awards will help many area agencies support new projects and programs that will greatly enhance the community’s health.

•

Centra/Central Virginia Center for Simulation & Virtual Learning

•

Coalition for HIV Awareness & Prevention of Central VA (CHAP)

•

Central Virginia Aging and Disabilities Resources Connection (CVADRC)

•

American Heart Association (Mid-Atlantic Affiliate)

•

Free Clinic of Central Virginia, Inc.

According to Kathryn M. Pumphrey, EdD, Executive Vice President of the Centra Foundation, “The Centra Foundation has supported priority issues that are closely linked to improving our region’s immediate and long-term health.” The 2015 Community Health Initiative Fund Grant Recipients are listed to the right.

•

Lynchburg Literacy Council, Inc.

•

Foundation for Rehabilitation Equipment and Endowment (FREE Foundation)

•

Live Healthy Lynchburg

•

The Free Clinic of Danville

•

Piedmont Senior Resources, Area Agency on Aging, Inc. Farmville & Southside

Daniel Breland, MD

Jay M. Cline, MD

Mark Hankins, NP

Nazim Khan, MD

Kriston Sandidge, NP

Kyana Smith, LAT, ATC

Carrell R. Spann, MD

Peggy A. Warner, AuD

Samira Zaman, MD

Eduardo Zilli, MD

Centra Medical Group – Bedford Medical Bedford | 540.586.7273 www.centramedicalgroup. com/bedfordmedical

Center for Industrial Rehab and Sports Medicine Memorial Hospital Martinsville | 276.666.7200 www.martinsvillehospital.com

Blue Ridge Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery, Inc. Lynchburg | 434.947.3993 www.blueridgeentps.com

Dermatology Consultants, Inc. Lynchburg | 434.847.6132 www.dermconsult.com

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Centra Medical Group – Nationwide Lynchburg | 434.200.3908 www.centramedicalgroup. com/lim

Blue Ridge Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery, Inc. Lynchburg | 434.947.3993 www.blueridgeentps.com

Southern Virginia Cardiovascular Consultants Martinsville 276.634.4976 www.martinsvilleheart.com

Centra Medical Group – Nationwide Lynchburg | 434.200.3908 www.centramedicalgroup. com/lim

Centra Neurosciene Institute Bedford | 540.425.7699 neuroscience.centrahealth. com

Hospice to Reopen at Memorial Hospital Memorial Hospital of Martinsville & Henry County (MHMHC) announces that Legacy Hospice of the Piedmont-Martinsville has reopened a physical office on the first floor of the hospital “I am proud to say that we are reopening our hospice office here at Memorial Hospital,” says Keni Christansen, Hospice Market Director for Legacy Hospice of the Piedmont. “For many years, Hospice of Memorial Hospital was a valuable resource for so many patients and their families across our region. It has been a major priority for myself and my staff to see the Martinsville location reopen in order to meet the tremendous need for compassionate hospice care in our community.” Hospice of Memorial Hospital, a department of MHMHC was established in 1984, and was one of the first hospices in the state of Virginia. For twenty nine years, Hospice of Memorial Hospital provided care to patients, families and caregivers facing life-limiting illnesses throughout Martinsville and Henry County and the surrounding region. In 2013, Hospice of Memorial Hospital became a market affiliate of Danville Regional Medical Center and was renamed Legacy Hospice of the Piedmont. The Martinsville location was closed in December of 2013 and operations were consolidated with the Danville office. “We are extremely pleased to see Legacy of the Piedmont reopen their location here in Martinsville,” said Michael Ehrat, CEO of Memorial Hospital. “Hospice is a critically important service to provide patients at the end of their lives. Our hospital location means we can better offer terminally ill patients and their loved ones peace of mind and the care they need to alleviate their suffering.” Volunters are a vital part of providing assistance to patients and their families. Legacy Hospice of the Piedmont-Martinsville will be recruiting volunteers throughout the Martinsville and Henry County area and will have volunteer classes starting September 10th. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Deborah Spencer at 276.666.7469. For more information about Legacy Hospice of the Piedmont, call 276.666.7469 or 434.799.5313. For more information about Memorial Hospital of Martinsville & Henry County, visit www.martinsvillehospital.com

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TI P S , T I D B I T S A ND MO R E TO IN F O R M A ND ENT ERTA I N YO U

August marks Back-to-School & NATIONAL IMMUNIZATION

AWARENESS MONTH

Did you know that in 2006, the Virginia General Assembly passed a law which requires ALL 6th grade students to have a Tdap booster prior to entry into school, unless there is documentation of receipt of a dose of Tdap booster after age 7?

GO FOR A RIDE! If your preference is ‘riding’ over running, Lynchburg has two great bicycle shops that offer weekly rides. There are road and ‘off-road’ options and routes and distances range from beginner to advanced: Bikes Unlimited offers group road rides every Saturday morning, and a Wednesday evening ‘Ladies Only’ ride. For more information, visit their website at www.bikesunlimited.com If ‘off-road’ mountain biking is your preference, Blackwater Bike Shop offers intermediate and advanced group rides at Candlers Mountain on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. For more information, visit their website at www.blackwaterbikeshop.com

THE GENWORTH

VIRGINIA 10 MILER The Genworth Virginia 10 Miler held its first race in 1974. The events’ growth over the years includes adding a 4-mile run and walk, as well as a one mile kids’ fun run.

Date: Saturday, September 26

DON'T FORGET TO

DRINK UP!

The human body can only survive for two days without fluids. Not sure how much water you should drink each day? To determine your water requirement, divide your weight (in pounds) by two. This gives a customized daily ounce recommendation.

your weight (in pounds)

ounces of water needed daily

Time: 8:00 a.m. Location: E.C. Glass High School

2111 Memorial Avenue Lynchburg, VA 24501

For more information and to register, visit www.virginiatenmiler.com.

Fascinating

FACT: The circulatory system of arteries, veins, and capillaries is about

60,000 MILES LONG. 18

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SNACK TIME Snacks are an important part of child’s diet as children may not get sufficient nutrients from breakfast, lunch and dinner. It’s important to ensure that kids have nutritious healthy snacks available in their lunchbox to get them through the school day and provide the extra energy and nutrients they need. Avoid the trap of filling your child’s lunchbox with items such as chips, cookies, chocolate bars and soft drinks that are high in saturated fat, salt and sugar and offer little nutritional value. These foods are known as ‘extra’ or ‘occasional’ foods and while they can be included in a healthy diet they should not be eaten on a daily basis.

A FEW TIPS FOR HEALTHY LUNCHBOX SNACKS: Keep it small – there should be just enough to get kids through until their next meal, not a meal themselves.

Make it nutrient rich – use this opportunity to get extra nutrients into your child’s diet, such as calcium, vitamins, minerals and fiber.

NEED SOME IDEAS?

HERE ARE JUST A FEW HEALTHY, SIMPLE AND FUN-TO-EAT-SNACKS: • Fruit and cheese ‘kabobs’ (on a skewer, alternate cheese cubes or shapes with various varieties of fruit) • Pretzel rods and cream cheese • Carrots and ranch dressing • Avocado spread on whole wheat toast • Watermelon cubes mixed with feta cheese (or any cheese) • Plain yogurt with frozen berries • Ants on a log (celery, peanut butter*, and raisins)

Think like a kid – choose snacks that kids can eat easily without too much fuss, that way they are more likely to eat them!

* for school lunch boxes, substitute cream cheese or cottage cheese for peanut butter

PROSTATE CANCER – BY THE NUMBERS: Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men. About one in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men, behind only lung cancer. Approximately one in 38 men will die of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer can be a serious disease, but most men diagnosed with prostate cancer do not die from it. In fact, more than 2.9 million men in the U.S. who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point are still alive today.

The American Cancer Society’s estimates for prostate cancer in the United States for 2015 are: •

About 220,800 new cases of prostate cancer

•

About 27,540 deaths from prostate cancer

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the

Anatomy

Sponsored By:

CHALLENGE How much do you know about the

Mouth? First, complete the

word search below. Next, match up the correct word with the part of the body in the illustration.

[ the Mouth Series ]

WORD SEARCH canine

orapharynx

bottom lip

premolars

central incisor

right tonsil

hard palate

solft palate

lateral incisor

tongue

left tonsil

top lip

molars

uvula

____________________ ____________________

For answers, visit OurHealth

Lynchburg & Southsideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page at

____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________

105 Paulette Circle Lynchburg, VA 24502 434.237.0125 www.smilelynchburg.com www.OurHealthlbss.com

All Ab ut

BITE

the

Examining how orthodontists care for your teeth and jaws words | EDWIN SCHWARTZ

Malocclusion is the term orthodontists use for misaligned teeth. Left untreated, malocclusion can cause periodontal disease and create unusual amounts of stress on teeth and jaws. To learn more about the types of malocclusion conditions, OurHealth spoke with the experts at Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dentistry & Orthodontics of Lynchburg, Mark E. Blanchette, DDS, and Central Virginia Orthodontics. Malocclusion, or misaligned teeth, is the most common condition treated by orthodontists. Malocclusion may impact periodontal health, because plaque is more difficult to remove when teeth are not aligned. If left untreated, it may cause periodontal (gum) disease and premature wear of teeth. Periodontal disease may also increase the risk for hardening of the arteries. Orthodontic problems are skeletal (jaw-related) or dental (teeth-related) in nature. Most are a combination of the two. Treatment plans are individualized according to the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s age, the severity of the condition and the cause of the misalignment. Typical malocclusion conditions include overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite, misplaced midline, spacing and crowding. www.OurHealthlbss.com

Overbite An overbite occurs when the lower teeth are far behind the upper teeth. An excessive overbite can promote wear of the front teeth, and, in severe cases, may damage the gum tissue behind the upper teeth. With an overbite, or deep bite, the lower teeth often remain unseen due to the overlapping upper teeth. The lower front teeth may also experience premature wear and chipping. Overbites can be dental or skeletal in nature. Treatment can include braces, tooth extraction, Invisalign or a growth modification device such as a Herbst appliance, which attaches to the upper and lower molars to correct overbite caused by a small lower jaw. Surgical intervention may be required in severe cases.

Treatment Options:

How Invisalign works Invisalign is an orthodontic device that uses transparent, incremental aligners to straighten teeth. Simple, nearly invisible plastic aligner trays are worn over the teeth as they are gradually moved into position. A new set of aligners â&#x20AC;&#x201D; slightly different from the last â&#x20AC;&#x201D; is provided every two weeks until the treatment is complete. Invisalign works well for patients who prefer not to wear braces.

Underbite An underbite occurs when the lower teeth are in front of the upper teeth. An underbite is usually caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw or a combination of the two. Underbites can be dental or skeletal in nature. Left untreated, an underbite can cause chewing problems and uneven wear of the teeth. Treatment may include braces and elastics (rubber bands), growth modification of the jaws at an early age, tooth extraction or surgical jaw correction.

Treatment Options: 24

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Crossbite Crossbite occurs when the upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth in the back. A narrow or V-shaped upper jaw causes this skeletal condition. A crossbite can cause premature wear of teeth, asymmetrical jaw growth and difficulty chewing. If the patient is still growing (typically 8 to 12 years old), a crossbite can be corrected with a painless expander to widen the upper jaw. If growth has ended, surgery is required to alter the upper jaw width and correct the misalignment. However, many single-tooth or less severe crossbites can be treated with braces and elastics.

Treatment Options:

Open Bite An open bite occurs when the teeth do not overlap in the front, or the front teeth do not meet. Certain jaw growth patterns and thumb or finger sucking may be the cause. An open bite can produce wear on the teeth that do not meet, speech problems, tongue thrusting habits and eating problems. For example, it may be impossible to bite into pizza or tear lettuce. Recommended treatment depends on multiple factors and can include growth modification using braces, tooth extraction, Invisalign or surgical jaw correction.

Treatment Options:

Misplaced Midlines The midline is an imaginary vertical line that divides the left and right sides of the mouth. A misplaced midline occurs when the upper midline

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

and lower midline do not align; it can be dental or skeletal in nature. Dental causes are relatively easy to correct, but skeletal ones can be more difficult. According to Keith Pyle, an orthodontist with Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics of Lynchburg, most misplaced midlines occur when one or both midlines drift to one side due to the early loss of baby teeth, excessive crowding to one side or a combination of both. Dental causes can also include excessive spacing or missing teeth and would require braces or Invisalign to correct. “The midlines can also be off when the lower jaw grows more on one side than the other,” says Dr. Pyle. This type of asymmetric jaw growth could require jaw surgery.

Treatment Options:

Spacing Spacing is an excess of space, or gaps, between a patient’s teeth. This condition usually occurs when the teeth are smaller than the available space. These gaps may be reduced with braces or Invisalign. If the orthodontist does not want to close a space, the dentist will use an implant (or bridge) to replace a missing tooth. The orthodontist then makes sure the space is appropriate in size and space for the dentist to do the job properly.

Keith Pyle, DDS, is an orthodontist with Children's Dentistry & Orthodontics of Lynchburg and serves patients from their Paulette Circle practice location.

Treatment Options: www.OurHealthlbss.com

Crowding This condition occurs when there is not enough space for the teeth to fit properly within the jaws or when the teeth are larger than the available space. Crowding can make it difficult to clean the surfaces of teeth and can increase the risk of gum disease and tooth loss. “Think of your jaw as a shoebox and the teeth as shoes,” says Dr. Pyle. “If all the shoes are too big they won’t fit in the box, and it becomes overcrowded.” Treatment includes braces or Invisalign. Extractions are only necessary in severe cases or if teeth protrude.

Treatment Options:

Eric Baugher, DMD, is an orthodontist at Central Virginia Orthodontics on Timberlake Road in Lynchburg.

The benefits of seeking orthodontic treatment “If left untreated, certain conditions or the habits that cause them can adversely affect the growth of the jaws and require more complex treatment later,” says Dr. Eric Baugher (rhymes with "soccer") of Central Virginia Orthodontics. “On the emotional side, we see patients of all ages who won’t smile for pictures or don’t like talking to people because they are embarrassed by their smile. Having their smile

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

corrected can have a profound impact on that person’s future emotional health.” Well-aligned teeth also have significant oral health benefits because they are easier to clean, function better, are less likely to decay and are less susceptible to chipping and wear.

Orthodontists treat patients of all ages

Mark Blanchette, DDS, MS, orthodontist, serves patients from his Thomson Drive practice in Lynchburg.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic evaluation at age 7. This exam will determine when to begin treatment and identify any conditions to be addressed before all permanent teeth are in. Orthodontic treatment is available for all ages and is never too late to consider. “One of the fastest growing areas in orthodontics today is adult treatment,” says Mark Blanchette, an orthodontist whose office is in Lynchburg. "Some adults feel they are too old for orthodontic treatment. However, with the many cosmetic options available today, we can customize treatment for each patient. Advancements in 3-D imaging, clear aesthetic brackets and Invisalign treatment are examples.”

Expert contributors: Eric Baugher, DMD with Central Virginia Orthodontics Mark Blanchette, DDS, MS, orthodontist Keith Pyle, DDS with Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics of Lynchburg

ON THE WEB

More at ourhealthlbss.com 29

words | DIANE YORK

Reprints To order reprints of the original artwork featured on this issue’s cover, contact Deidre Wilkes at 540.387.6482 or via email at deidre@ourhealthvirginia.com. To view additional work by our artist, Joe Palotas, visit www.salemartcenter.com

Back to school means meeting new teachers, new classmates, school supplies, clothes, choosing sports and so much more! This time of year can generate a lot of anxiety in parents and kids. While all of these things are important, perhaps the most important element is your child’s health. Parents have so many questions about their children’s health and the return to school. Will my child need shots? What’s the difference between a physical exam and a sports exam? How do I tell if he is too sick to go to school? Might she have a vision or hearing problem? There’s just so much to deal with. To help you and your children start the school year with less stress and the right information, Our Health asked parents what they most want to know before sending their children back to school. Then they asked the experts for feedback. Local doctors, counselors, nurses, and other professionals have provided answers to some of the most important questions you may have at this time of year. www.OurHealthlbss.com

We tend to get lots of runny noses early in the school year. How do I know if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a cold, or allergies?

Jay Cline, MD

Blue Ridge Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery Lynchburg | 434.947.3993 www.blueridgeentps.com

Allergic rhinitis (allergies) and upper respiratory infections (common cold) can have very similar symptoms and often be difficult to distinguish. Both can have stuffy or runny nose, coughing, sneezing, and/or sinus pressure. It is more common to have itchy or watery eyes with allergies and more common to have fever, body aches, or fatigue with an upper respiratory infection. Allergy symptoms will often flare up more at specific times of the year (spring or fall) or when exposed to a specific trigger (cat dander, dust, pollen) and can last weeks, months or even a year depending on exposure to the trigger. Upper respiratory infections seem to be more common in the winter months (but not always) and last an average of one to two weeks. Children may have six to eight upper respiratory infections per year. If a child is having symptoms that are suspicious for allergic rhinitis, the first thing to do is try to identify and avoid the trigger. Simple blood and skin tests can be used to help diagnose the allergen that is causing the problem.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

What is the HPV vaccine, and should I consider it for my teenage daughter who is not yet sexually active?

Sarah Woods, MD

Lynchburg Gynecology Lynchburg | 434.385.7818 www.lynchburggynecology.com

Cervical cancer claims the lives of more than 4,000 women each year in the United States. The HPV vaccine is a revolutionary vaccine that can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer, other cancers and infections in females and males. It targets specific cancer causing strains of the human papillomavirus and can reduce the risk of HPV related cancers by up to 99 percent. Three preparations of the vaccine are available and the newest targets nine HPV strains. The three injection vaccine series is given over six months. National health organizations recommend administration at age 11 to 12 years old for girls and boys, but it can be given to children aged nine up to 26 years old. As with all vaccines, the best protection is provided when administered prior to the exposure. Your teenage daughter will receive the most benefit in cervical cancer prevention if she is vaccinated now. Vaccination has not been associated with earlier onset of sexual activity or increase incidence of sexually transmitted infections. More information can be found at www.acog.org/More-Info/HPV.

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When should I start a tutoring program for my child?

Bob Morgan, CD, BS

Sylvan Learning Centers Lynchburg | 434.832.1000 Danville | 434.799.6900 www.sylvanlearning.com

Parents should think about academics in the same way we think about health — wellness and prevention are the keys to long-term success. The solution is to think in terms of “academic wellness.” A common refrain we hear from parents is, “I wish I had started sooner.” It is only natural for parents to wait and see how the school year has started before seeking help, but that often means a longer period of teaching and tutoring to fill in a greater number of learning gaps. Taking a proactive approach and exploring academic assistance early will certainly create a better and usually faster resolution. For younger students the first grading period is often a review of the previous year. For older students it is generally the foundational content the rest of the year will build upon. A stumble early in the year is an indication of problems ahead. Setting up an academic assessment early in the school year or before the year begins can help you position your child for academic achievement.

When is your child ready to return to school after an illness? Melody M. Ailsworth, DO

Richeson Drive Pediatrics Lynchburg | 434.385.7776 www.richesondrivepediatrics.com

All parents will face the dilemma of a half sick child and whether to send them to school or not. Your parent intuition is usually the best guide you have, so listen to your gut. But sometimes, illness is not always timely or clear cut. If your little one is lying around, has a fever, has not slept, or is throwing up- it’s a no brainer, NO GO. But now, they are a little better with a cough and runny nose — to send or not to send? You can’t go wrong by keeping your child home when they are feeling poorly but here are a few guidelines that help make the decision a little easier: • FEVER- most schools and the Center for Disease Control recommend 24 hours fever free without medication • THROWING UP AND DIARRHEA- 24 hours since last episode • COUGH- able to concentrate and not disrupt the class • ACTING SICK- able to handle a full day at school If your little one is recovering from a substantial illness like the flu, you may want to give them 48 hours fever free. Remember the environment they are going back to is one of the “germiest places in town”. 34

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My son often has bad breath, sometimes brushing doesn’t seem to help. What could be the problem? The most common cause of bad breath in children is simple plaque buildup and poor dental hygiene. The bacteria that cause halitosis live on oral debris and plaque on the teeth. They give off a rotten egg smell while feeding on sulfur containing substrates on the teeth. The main odor-causing sites in the mouth are the back of the tongue, areas between the teeth and under the gum line. It is not unusual for a child to wake up with very smelly breath. Throughout the day a child’s saliva washes away unwanted debris. Saliva production decreases greatly while we sleep. This allows bacteria counts to rise, resulting in “morning breath”. Bad breath that persists throughout the day can be the result of mouth breathing, which dries out the mouth and allows the bacteria to grow. Certain illnesses can cause bad breath as well. Sinus congestions or infections can cause a post-nasal drip that leads to bad breath. Tonsillitis can also cause bad breath either from drainage or food getting stuck in the crevices of the tonsils. If your child has bad breath with other symptoms of illness call your pediatrician.

Shepherd Sittason, DDS

Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics of Lynchburg Lynchburg | 434.237.0125 www.smilelynchburg.com

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Samantha E. Hill, MD, FAAD

My teen has acne. Do we have options other than oral medications?

RidgeView Dermatology Lynchburg | 434.363.4190 www.ridgeviewdermatology.com

The best way to start an acne routine is by making it a habit to wash daily with a facial cleanser. If a gentle cleanser is not helping, an over-the-counter medicated product with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can be added. For some teens, prescription medications or other therapies are needed to control acne. Cream or gel medications are often very effective when used together in various combinations to reduce inflammation and to unclog pores. However, when acne is severe, oral medicines may be necessary to prevent or lessen permanent consequences such as scarring. Another option for mild to moderate acne is blue light photodynamic therapy, which uses a wavelength of blue light to reduce specific acne-causing bacteria on the skin and improve inflamed breakouts. Photodynamic therapy is performed in a medical office, and is very well-tolerated. This acne treatment is a great option for patients who would prefer to avoid oral medications, and it can be used as an addition to almost any existing acne routine.

What tips can you offer about caring for a child with autism?

Crystal Collette, MS, BCBA, LBA

Autism Services Manager Centra Autism & Developmental Services Lynchburg | 434.200.1662 www.bridgesrtc.com

Learning all you can about autism and getting involved in treatment will go a long way toward helping your child and you. Below are a few tips for those interested in knowing a bit more about caring for a child with autism. • • •

• • • •

Trust your instincts. If you suspect your child is not meeting certain milestones, talk with your doctor. The earlier treatment is started, the better. Give yourself time to adjust to this new diagnosis and remember that it is okay to feel a wide range of emotions. Spend time learning about autism. Be your child’s best advocate. Do not try to go it alone. Lean on the support of others. Find an autism support group nearby. Play to your child’s strengths.

• •

• • •

•

Celebrate progress, no matter how small. Find strength in each other. The divorce rate for couples with a child with autism is high. Supporting and encouraging each other will help parents and children. Become actively engaged in your child’s education and ask questions. Get on the floor or go outside and play with your child. Build up your child socially by talking with them often and asking questions. In order to care for your child, you must take care of yourself.

My daughter has been diagnosed with strep throat four times in the past year. Should we consider having her tonsils removed?

Jay Cline, MD

Blue Ridge Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery Lynchburg | 434.947.3993 www.blueridgeentps.com

This is a good question to ask as strep throat, or acute tonsillitis, is difficult for the child and family and often results in missed school or work. The Academy of Otolaryngology recommends a tonsillectomy in a child who has had five to seven episodes in a year, five episodes per year over the course of two years, or three episodes per year over the course of three years. Another reason would be if there has been more than two weeks of missed school or work over the course of a year. Based on her number of episodes, it seems that it may be worthwhile to give it some time and see if the frequency tapers off (which it often does). If not, tonsillectomy may be beneficial for her in the future. Enlarged tonsils that cause blockage of the airway and lead to snoring or sleep apnea is another common reason for tonsillectomy and something to watch for in children with recurrent strep throat. www.OurHealthlbss.com

Gary St. Clair, OD

How do I know if my child is not able to see well?

St. Clair Eye Care Timberlake | 434.239.2800 Langhorne | 434.845.6086 www.stclair-eye.com

The only sure way to tell is by having a thorough professional eye exam. Many parents mistakenly think that if their child passes the school vision screening then the child has "perfect" vision. Not necessarily so! A child can have 20/20 vision, pass a school screening but still have problems that prevent them from performing to their full potential in the classroom. The most common vision conditions in children are nearsightedness (trouble seeing far away), farsightedness (trouble seeing up close) and astigmatism which can affect vision both far and near. Common symptoms of nearsightedness are squinting, sitting close to the TV and holding books close to the face. Common symptoms of farsightedness may be difficulty reading and holding books farther away. Uncorrected astigmatism often causes difficulty seeing detail, ghost or superimposed images and blurry vision. All three conditions may also cause headaches from visual fatigue and eye strain. There are other conditions that could cause vision and learning problems if not detected. Muscle imbalances where an eye turns in or out either constantly or intermittently. This could lead to amblyopia (lazy eye). The danger here is that one eye may see well, but the fellow eye may not see well. This needs to be diagnosed and treated by 3 to 5 years of age. There are also convergence and accommodation problems that may delay a child's reading skills. Symptoms may include holding books too close, too far away, a head turn or tilt and following a finger when reading. This can cause issues with reading speed, comprehension and retention of the subject matter. Since vision problems usually do not cause pain, children often will not complain. Most common vision problems are hereditary and usually occur between the ages of 7 to 13 years of age. Once discovered, these conditions are usually progressive; therefore, ALL children should have yearly professional eye exams.

Sarah Woods, MD

Lynchburg Gynecology Lynchburg | 434.385.7818 www.lynchburggynecology.com

When should we schedule a first gynecology appointment for my teenage daughter?

There are many reasons to seek the care and advice of a gynecologist as a teen, for example management of menstrual cycles, initiation of birth control, HPV vaccination and discussions about safe sex. The first visit should take place between ages 13 to 15 years old. Depending on the reason for the visit a pelvic exam may not be necessary. 38

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While this information may have answered many of your questions, you may want to schedule a back to school physical to give you (and your child) the opportunity to get more answers from your pediatrician or other medical professional. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that every child have a yearly physical exam and suggests that just prior to return to school is a good time for that exam. Many studies show that your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health will affect his ability to learn. A back to school physical can help identify and treat problems such as: hyperactivity, sleep disorders, vision or hearing problems, swings in blood sugar from prediabetes, diabetes or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and other disorders. For teens especially, adolescence is a time when important changes are taking place physically and mentally. Back to school physicals can help identify and treat physical or mental health problems and can be the most important part of your plan to help your child ensure academic success. Knowing that you have done the best you can to improve your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health will help both of you relax and enjoy the new school year!

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Senior Living AWARDS

The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg & Southside

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc.

GOLD

"Family owned and affordable, everyone at Tharp stays focused on providing excellent service every time, for every family." Christ Tharp Owner

After Life

Lynchburg | 434.237.9424 | www.tharpfuneralhome.com

HONORABLE MENTION

SILVER

BRONZE

Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory

Whitten Funeral Home

Lynchburg | 434.239.2405 www.heritagefuneralandcremation.com

GOLD

Lynchburg |434.845.4521 www.dignitymemorial.com

Diuguid Funeral Service & Crematory Lynchburg |434.385.8900 www.diuguidfuneralservice.com

Westminster Canterbury

"Here you can retire with peace of mind. Life at Westminster Canterbury means 24-hour security, a financial safety net and a LifeCare program that's nationally recognized by the Continuing Care Accreditation Commission (CCAC). With our LifeCare program, Westminster Canterbury will be there, whatever your healthcare needs. And should you suffer financial reversals, we'll be there, too, thanks to the Westminster Canterbury Fellowship Endowment Fund." Sean Huyett Chief Executive Officer Lynchburg | 800.962.3520 | www.wclynchburg.org

Assisted Living

SILVER

BRONZE

HONORABLE MENTION

Heritage Green Assisted Living Communities

Valley View Retirement Community

The Summit Assisted Living

Lynchburg |434.237.3009 www.valleyviewretirement.com

Lynchburg | 434.582.1500 www.summitlynchburg.com

Lynchburg | 800.362.1763 www.heritagegreenal.com

Bentley Commons at Lynchburg Lynchburg | 434.485.0482 www.kapdev.com

GOLD

Elder Law Attorney

Ron Feinman, Esq.

"We provide seniors with effective strategies to make sure they get the best care while protecting their assets from being entirely spent at the end of life. We also provide guidance through the complex and often confusing maze of governmental benefits, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes, with a focus on providing peace of mind that your wishes will be followed." Ron Feinman, Esq. Law Offices of Ron Feinman

Lynchburg |434.528.0696 | www.ronfeinman.com

SILVER

BRONZE

Susan Oliver

Bernard C. Baldwin III

Lynchburg |434.832.1332

Lynchburg | 434.455.9101 www.ewlaw.com

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SILVER

GOLD

Frederick T. Scruggs, Jr., CLU, CHFC with Financial Designs

Financial Advising GOLD

Sutton Tinsley â&#x20AC;&#x201C; New York Life Lynchburg | 434.944.7243

BRONZE Brian R. Carlton â&#x20AC;&#x201C; HSC Wealth Advisors Forest | 434.316.9356 www.hscwealthadvisors.com

Forest | 434.528.0051 www.financialdesigns.com

Lynchburg Health & Rehabilitation Center

"Lifeworks Rehab is an exclusive program designed to get patients home quicker, stronger, and healthier than ever." Gary Salyers Administrator Lynchburg | 434.239.2657 | www.lynchburghealthrehab.com

Rehab - Inpatient

SILVER

BRONZE

HONORABLE MENTION

The Summit

Westminster Canterbury

Liberty Ridge Health & Rehab

Lynchburg | 434.582.1500 www.summitlynchburg.com

Lynchburg | 800.962.3520 www.wclynchburg.org

Lynchburg | 434.847.1033 www.saberhealth.com

GOLD

Rehab - Outpatient

Rehab Associates of Central Virginia

"At Rehab Associates, our Physical therapists are evidencebased health care professionals who offer cost-effective treatment that improves mobility and relieves pain, reduces the need for surgery and prescription drugs, and allows patients to participate in a recovery plan designed for their specific needs. We believe in a patient-first model that is driven by exceeding expectations on clinical outcomes as well as patient satisfaction. Rehab Associates has several offices in Central Virginia to make it convenient to get expert, specialized physical therapy close to home or work." Harrison F. Hunt, PT, DPT Partner and Site Director Lynchburg | 434.528.1848 | www.racv.hostcentric.com

SILVER

BRONZE

Orthopedic Center of Central Virginia

Seven Hills Home Health

Lynchburg | 434.485.8500 www.occva.com

Lynchburg | 434.847.6400 www.sevenhillshh.com

HONORABLE MENTION Centra Virginia Baptist Hospital Lynchburg | 434.200.4537 vbh.centrahealth.com www.OurHealthlbss.com

GOLD

Generation Solution

"The strength of Generation Solutions is our people. We have some of the best professional health caregivers in the region. What is so great is that they are all client focused â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we provide our clients quality home health care every visit every day!"

Home Health

Tulane Patterson Chief Executive Officer Lynchburg | 434.455.6500 | www.generationsolution.net

HONORABLE MENTION

SILVER

BRONZE

Seven Hills Home Health

Home Instead Senior Care

Lynchburg | 434.847.6400 www.sevenhillshh.com

Lynchburg | 434.385.0321 www.homeinstead.com

Lynchburg | 434.200.4111 www.centrahealth.com

SILVER

GOLD

Gentle Shepherd Hospice

Seven Hills Hospice

Hospice Care

Centra Home Health

Lynchburg | 434.846.6270 www.gentleshepherdhospice.com

BRONZE Centra Hospice Lynchburg | 434.200.3204 www.centrahealth.com/hospice

Lynchburg | 434.847.6400 www.sevenhillshh.com

HONORABLE MENTION Hospice of the Hills Lynchburg | 434.200.4072

GOLD

Valley View Retirement Community "Winning first place honors for retirement living is extremely gratifying. This award reaffirms that our hard work and dedication for our residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; comfort and wellbeing is appreciated. We take pride in a job well done!" Pam Grigg Community Director

Independent Living Community SILVER Bentley Commons at Lynchburg Lynchburg | 434.485.0482 www.kapdev.com

Lynchburg | 434.237.3009 | www.valleyviewretirement.com

The Summit Lynchburg | 434.582.1500 www.summitlynchburg.com

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BRONZE Westminster Canterbury Lynchburg | 800.962.3520 www.wclynchburg.org

GOLD

Lincare

"We stay abreast of the latest changes with regards to insurance, we provide state of the art equipment but our biggest advantage is we are dedicated to providing the best patient care possible. As our logo states, Lincare, The Caring Choice."

Medical Equipment Provider

Joey Mason Western Virginia Area Manager Lynchburg | 434.237.3712 | www.lincare.com

SILVER

BRONZE

GME Medical Supply

Roberts Home Medical

Lynchburg | 434.528.3765 www.gmemedical.com

Lynchburg |434.846.5381 www.robertshomemedical.com

GOLD Heritage Green Assisted Living and Memory Care "Heritage Green Assisted Living sets the standard in long term care because of our experienced leadership, excellent care, and well trained compassionate staff; all of which contribute to the positive experience our residents enjoy each and every day." Heather Pippen Executive Director Lynchburg | 434.333.0503 | www.heritagegreenlynchburg.com

Memory Care

SILVER Runk and Pratt of Forest Forest | 434.385.8506 www.runkandpratt.com/facilities/forest

BRONZE Westminster Canterbury Lynchburg | 800.962.3520 www.wclynchburg.org

HONORABLE MENTION The Summit Lynchburg | 434.582.1500 www.summitlynchburg.com

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GOLD

Lynchburg Health & Rehabilitation Center

"We believe that providing the best care begins with getting to know our patients first â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the cornerstone of our personalized approach to rehabilitation services and skilled nursing care."

Nursing Home

Gary Salyers Administrator Lynchburg| 434.239.2657 | www.lynchburghealthrehab.com

SILVER Westminster Canterbury Lynchburg | 800.962.3520 www.wclynchburg.org

BRONZE The Summit Health & Rehabilitation Center Lynchburg | 434.845.6045 www.centrahealth.com

Heritage Green Assisted Living and Memory Care Lynchburg | 434.333.0503 www.heritagegreenlynchburg.com

HONORABLE MENTION Runk & Pratt Lynchburg | 434.515.1247 www.runkandpratt.com

Heritage Hall Brookneal | 434.376.3717 www.heritage-hall.org

Palliative Care

Post-Acute Rehab Services

Senior Community Center

GOLD

Robert Armock, MD with Medical Associates of Central Virginia

Lynchburg Health & Rehabilitation Center

GOLD

Lynchburg | 434.947.3944 www.centralvamd.com

SILVER Centra Palliative Care Services Lynchburg | 434.200.6085 www.centrahealth.com

BRONZE

"Lifeworks Rehab is an exclusive program designed to get patients home quicker, stronger, and healthier than ever." Gary Salyers Administrator

Lynchburg | 434.582.1900 www.ymcava.org

SILVER Templeton Senior Center Lynchburg | 434.455.4000 www.lynchburgva.gov

BRONZE Lynchburg | 434.239.2657 www.lynchburghealthrehab.com

Seven Hills Home Health Lynchburg | 434.847.6400 www.sevenhillshh.com

Jamerson Family YMCA

Adult Care Center Lynchburg | 434.847.8111 www.adultcarecenter.org

SILVER

HONORABLE MENTION

Westminster Canterbury

Centra PACE

Lynchburg | 800.962.3520 www.wclynchburg.org

Lynchburg | 434.200.3000 www.centrahealth.com

BRONZE Virginia Baptist Acute Rehabilitation Center Lynchburg | 434.200.4651 vbh.centrahealth.com

HONORABLE MENTION The Summit Health & Rehabilitation Center Lynchburg | 434.845.6045 www.centrahealth.com

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Skilled Nursing GOLD

Heartland Health Care Center Lynchburg | 434.846.4626 www.heartland-manorcare.com

SILVER Lynchburg Health & Rehabilitation Center Lynchburg| 434.239.2657 www.lynchburghealthrehab.com

Avante at Lynchburg Lynchburg | 434.846.8437 www.avantecenters.com

BRONZE The Summit Health & Rehabilitation Center Lynchburg | 434.845.6045 www.centrahealth.com

HONORABLE MENTION Fairmont Crossing Amherst | 434.946.2850 www.centrahealth.com

Speech Therapy

Stroke Care

GOLD

Blue Ridge Therapy Associates "We are honored to receive this reward and pride ourselves in offering not only individualized speech therapy to our community but also physical therapy and occupational therapy in a privately owned outpatient clinic environment that serves all ages. Our goal is to provide quality evaluations and therapy, uphold strict ethical standards, and to curtail healthcare costs for families and individuals as much as possible. All patients receive therapy on a one on one basis with a dedicated therapist whom they see every visit which lays a foundation for caring and rapport that facilitates rehabilitation and development. Thanks to our patients and community for your show of support - We are grateful and look forward to serving the Lynchburg area in years to come. " Scott Rankins and Amy Morris Martin Business Owners Lynchburg | 434.845.8765 www.blueridgetherapy.com

Westminster Canterbury "Experience the freedom to do the things you love, experience Life Refreshed at Westminster Canterbury." Sean Huyett Chief Executive Officer

Lynchburg | 800.962.3520 www.wclynchburg.org

SILVER Lynchburg Health & Rehabilitation Center Lynchburg| 434.239.2657 www.lynchburghealthrehab.com

BRONZE Heartland Health Care Center Lynchburg | 434.846.4626 www.heartland-manorcare.com

HONORABLE MENTION Virginia Baptist Acute Rehabilitation Center Lynchburg | 434.200.4651

SILVER Lynchburg Health & Rehabilitation Center

Lynchburg| 434.239.2657 www.lynchburghealthrehab.com

BRONZE Lynchburg Speech Therapy

Lynchburg | 434.845.6355 www.lynchburgspeechtherapy.com

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Valley View RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

For 27 years, seniors from the Lynchburg community and across the country have delighted in Valley View Retirement Communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gracious amenities and joyful home like atmosphere. Valley View provides a unique blend of independent and assisted living, offering each resident the flexibility to make their living arrangement feel like home. Across Valley Viewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community, residents enjoy luscious, mature trees, walking trails, and raised gardening beds, and each apartment offers a private balcony, allowing residents to further enjoy the natural beauty surrounding each home. In this quiet, park-like community, Valley View also offers dining, housekeeping, and a wellness center, each maintained by an outstanding, experienced staff. With two full-time activity coordinators, Valley View looks forward to entertaining residents with a variety of social events. Valley View prides itself on hosting a rich calendar of social activities, including fitness classes, outdoor activities, crafts, outings, games, volunteer opportunities, and more. In addition, the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free transportation service provides each resident with access to his or her favorite medical facilities, shopping, and entertainment in the Lynchburg area. Valley View encourages family and friends to visit. We offer access to a private dining room and catering services are available for special occasions. While residents can look forward to experiencing the independence and freedom they want, family and friends are put at ease knowing the campus is staffed by 24-hour personnel, and monthly rental fees include emergency pull cord and response system services for an added level of security. Because Valley View offers both independent and assisted living care, residents can stay on site as needs change; residents interested in moving to a higher level of care can do so without losing contact with the staff and fellow residents they have come to know well and value as family. Month-to-month leases are available for flexibility without long-term commitment, entrance fee, and buy-in expense, providing excellent senior living value.

1213 Long Meadows Drive | Lynchburg, VA 24502 | 434.237.3009 | www.valleyviewretirement.com

Heritage Green The Lynchburg area is home to two Heritage Green Assisted Living Communities. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Heritage Green offers both assisted living and memory care accommodations. Heritage Green Assisted Living Community caters to seniors who require assistance with the activities of daily living, ranging from a variety of needs from very independent to againg in place with hospice care. The 48-unit, community encourages residents to maintain maximum independence by providing a unique mix of support services and privacy. With both private and semi-private accommodations, Heritage Green offers 24-hour personal care assistance managed by a Clinical Care Director with an onsite Medical Director. Heritage Green shares its campus with DayBreak, which offers programs for residents with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. For those who desire memory care, DayBreak offers a 32-unit, fully secured community that caters to seniors with various degrees of memory impairment. The unique facility features self-contained neighborhoods, each with a living room, dining room, and outside courtyard. The staff is highly trained to assist in all activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and managing health and wellness. A consulting Geriatric Psychiatrist and monthly Alzheimer’s Support Group attend to the resident’s and families’ needs. DayBreak’s memory care program, overseen by a Clinical Care Director and a Life Enrichment Director, incorporates clinical, personal, and social needs into an individualized yet interactive approach by promoting sensory activities, reminiscence techniques, physical exercises, motor skills therapy, and social engagement. Residents of both communities look forward to three delicious meals per day and nutritious snacks. Meals prepared in consultation with a nutritionist are cooked from scratch, and menus are adjusted seasonally to meet the preferences of each resident. In the elegant dining room, holidays and special events are particularly festive. Heritage Green encourages residents to invite family and friends to experience special events, as well. At Heritage Green Assisted Living Communities residents enjoy the benefits of weekly laundry and housekeeping services, therapeutic and social activities, safety features, care assessment, ongoing case management, and wellness programs. Staff members delight in providing respect, care, and compassion to residents, family, and guests, alike. We are Growing a Tradition of Care at Heritage Green Assisted Living and Memory Care!

200 Lillian Lane | Lynchburg, VA 24502 | 434.385.5102 | www.heritagegreenal.com

The Williams Home Serving Ladies in Lynchburg for Over “65” Years! Our Mission Statement:

The Williams Home, Inc. is a non-profit organization providing Independent, Residential and Assisted Living to meet the needs of its female residents in a caring environment. The Williams Home provides Three (3) Levels of Care: Independent, Residential and Assisted Living. We are nestled on 6 acres in one of the finest neighborhoods of Lynchburg, Virginia. We are a community of gracious ladies who enjoy daily activities, comfort, security and friendships both with staff and other residents. The Williams Home may be the solution you have been looking for. The stately columned entrance to the beautiful lobby, relaxing sitting areas, elegant dining room, comfortable resident’s rooms and peaceful gardens are waiting to be seen by you.

Monthly Rates: Effective July 1, 2015

Independent Living- $1476, Residential Living -$1785, Assisted Living - $3065

Rates include: private room/bath, 3 daily meals, snacks, activities, housekeeping, laundry, WI-FI and cable television. Medication Administration, L.P.N and licensed staff on duty 24/7 (excludes Independent living).

Our History:

If you want to understand what makes the Williams Home unique in Central Virginia it is important to know about our founding and how we have arrived at where we are today. The Williams Home was founded in 1941 by Mr. James Luther Williams. He had been the Secretary of the Lynchburg Coca-Cola Bottling Works and then the president of the Depositors Industrial Loan Bank. In his Will he provided for the construction and maintaining of a non-profit home for women 55 years of age and older. The land was purchased in 1944 but because of WWII the building was not completed until 1950 when the doors opened in March. At that time the capacity was just 11 residents. Currently licensed for 38 residents.

What Sets Us Apart:

We are Lynchburg’s only retirement home for ladies. We strive to keep a home-like environment and are unique with our one-to-one personal care. Our residents play an essential role in creating a sense of belonging at the Home. You are sure to benefit from our intimate family atmosphere and friendly personalized service.

The Landmark Group The Landmark Center â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stuart

227 Landmark Drive | Stuart, VA 24171 | 276.694.3050 | www.thelandmarkgroupllc.com

The Landmark Center is the Assisted-Living Facility of the Landmark Group, and is located adjacent to the campus of Blue Ridge Therapy Connection. Opened in 1996, The Landmark Center has 75-beds, and provides the freedom of lifestyle and care for wellness. The variety of activities and time spent with friends gives the peace of mind that comes from knowing that someone is always there. Some of the many services provided at The Landmark Center include both assisted and independent community living, respite care for short and long-term stays, inpatient rehabilitation, wellness and chiropractic services, and on-site licensed rehab and medical services. The Landmark Center also provides both on and off-site catering services, with restaurant-style meals served daily, as well as a variety of social, educational and recreational programs.

Blue Ridge Therapy Connection- Stuart

105 Landmark Drive | Stuart, VA 24171 | 276.694.7161 | www.thelandmarkgroupllc.com

A progressive nursing facility, Blue Ridge Therapy Connection has 190-beds with semi-private or private rooms. They provide multi-faceted nursing services including skilled short-term and long-term services, specialized care for Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Dementia, and access to an adjacent Assisted Living campus. If more complex care is required, these services along with telemedicine, rehab, pain management, and post surgical care are provided. In addition to short and long-term services, Blue Ridge Therapy Connection also offers on-site therapy rehabilitation. First Quality Rehab combines physical, occupational and speech therapies with a transitional care model to provide the full continuum of care. Wellness Programs at Blue Ridge Therapy Connection are offered along with a Culture Change model, which incorporates weight control, proper eating habits, nutritional counseling and environmental adjustments.

www.thelandmarkgroupllc.com

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Seven Hills Hospice House Welcome to our home….

Nestled in the beautiful hills of Lynchburg, Virginia our home Seven Hills Hospice House provides quality services to assist our patients and families through the end of life journey. Our team of caregivers believe this journey should not be traveled alone. We offer 24 hour skilled nursing care in a peaceful setting to ensure our patients come first.

Familiar Smiles and Expert Care

Seven Hills Hospice House provides individualized hospice care in the peaceful atmosphere of our home while maintaining our patient’s dignity and rights. Our dedicated team of caregivers includes Skilled Nurses, Therapists, Certified Nursing Assistants, Medical Social Workers, Medical Director, Chaplain, Pharmacist, and Volunteers. These individuals are highly trained to help each patient live as comfortable as possible while achieving the best quality of life during the final stages of their illness.

Hospice House services include: • • • • •

24 hour nursing services Medication preparation and administration Meal preparation Laundry services Housekeeping services

• • • •

Activities of Daily Living Home-like environment Semi-private and private rooms available Families are welcome to visit anytime

Seven Hills Hospice House serves our community by utilizing a comprehensive approach to end of life care in our home. We are committed to providing a life-affirming concept with compassion towards patients’ goals, as well as extending our hearts to families and caregivers while crossing the bridge during the final transition of life’s journey. Contact us today to schedule a private tour. Our hospice agency is Medicare and Medicaid certified.

2078 Leesville Road | Lynchburg, VA 24502 | 434.847.4703 | www.sevenhillshh.com

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Locavores Cooking Series at Lynchburg Community Market OurHealth staff photographer, KG Thienemann spent a sunny July morning at the Lynchburg Community Market, and captured many people out and about, and enjoying the Locavores Cooking demonstration. The Locavores Cooking Series features a different local chef every Saturday morning, who will prepare a variety of recipes using the spotlighted produce item of the week. On this particular morning, the chefs of Cater This! demonstrated some new ways to use fresh herbs in every day recipes. The Lynchburg is for Locavores campaign celebrates fantastic local food grown in the region and the growing community of local food enthusiasts. Their goal is to encourage even more area citizens to care about where their food is coming from, and to choose local food whenever possible.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Original photography by KG Thienemann

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FIT BITS Couch to 5K

CHALLENGE Have you ever dreamed about running in a 5K, but didn’t know where to start? The two most important things when training for a 5K are having a plan and a goal. The following chart gives you both! This 10-week program culminates with the Human Kind Turkey Trot 5K in Downtown Lynchburg on Thursday, November 26, 2015. The plan starts out with a lot of walking, and just short bouts of jogging. As you progress, there is more jogging, and less walking, until the final weeks when you’ll be done with walking altogether. Your final reward is completing the Human Kind Turkey Trot 5K on Thanksgiving morning! Invite family or friends to join you – this is great for accountability and camaraderie – as well as safety when running as a group. For more motivation, go online at www. humankind.org and register today for the race! Most races offer some type of ‘swag’ to registrants – t-shirts, goody bags, etc. Be sure to check for group pricing, too – sometimes, there are discounts if you register as a group.

AFAA, ACSM,

Certified Personal Trainer Deidre is our resident fitness specialist for OurHealth Lynchburch & Southside.

WEEK WEEK

DAY 1

DAY 2

DAY 5

DAY 6 DAY 7

5 min walk 2 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 2 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 3 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 3 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 4 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 5 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 6 min jog 5 min walk

REST

4 min jog 5 min walk 4 min jog 5 min wakj

REST

5 min walk 7 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 7 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 8 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 9 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 9 min jog 5 min walk

REST

6 min jog 5 min walk 6 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 10 min jog 5 min walk

REST

5 min walk 11 min jog 5 min walk

REST

13 min jog 5 min walk

REST

15 min jog 5 min walk

REST

15 min jog 5 min walk

REST

8 min jog 5 min walk 8 min jog 5 min walk

REST

16 min jog 5 min walk

REST

17 min jog 5 min walk

REST

18 min jog 5 min walk

REST

20 min jog 5 min walk

REST

20 min jog

REST

12 min jog 5 min walk 12 min jog

REST

24 min jog2

REST

5 min jog

27 min jog

REST

30 min jog

REST

RACE DAY!

CELEBRATE! You did it!

*Consult with your physician/provider before beginning any new fitness program

RUNNING TIPS

Deidre Wilkes,

DAY 3 DAY 4

»»

STRETCH IT OUT: Stretch after every workout

»»

TAKE IT EASY: Don’t push yourself too hard

»»

KNOW YOUR LIMITS: If you start developing

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HYDRATE: Hydrate properly and energize

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GEAR UP: Make sure you have the proper

»»

to avoid injuries.

an injury, STOP running before it gets worse and take a few days off.

TRY IT OUT: This is only a rough outline of

the perfect plan for you. You can change it as you need to.

when you jog. Go at a comfortable pace.

yourself at least an hour before you run.

running shoes. Most local running stores can assist with fitting and recommending the right shoe. www.OurHealthlbss.com

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

HealthyEats Beet Summer Salad Ingredients: 1 pound cubed beets ½ yellow pepper sliced ½ small red onion sliced ¼ cup crumbled feta ¼ cup toasted almonds 1

12 ounce bag of spring mix

Directions: 1. Roast cubed beets at 375 degrees until tender. Let cool. 2. Lay all ingredients on bed of spring mix. 3. Serve and enjoy!

OurHealth Staff Favorite

BEET SUMMER SALAD for more recipes follow us on Pinterest or visit our website at ourhealthswva.com

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OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

HealthyEats Sweet Corn Salad Ingredients: 1 pound frozen corn ½ cup minced red onion 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic 1½ tablespoon fresh basil minced ¼ cup balsamic ¼ cup olive oil 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes 8 ounce cubed fresh mozzarella ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper

Directions: 1. Combine top three ingredients then roast at 375 degrees until slightly brown. 2. Mix remaining ingredients together and let marinate while corn cooks. Once corn is cooled mix all ingredients together. 3. Serve and enjoy!

OurHealth Staff Favorite

SWEET CORN SALAD for more recipes follow us on Pinterest or visit our website at ourhealthswva.com

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The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Local health. Anywhere you go. OurHealth magazine is Central Virginiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only resource entirely dedicated to delivering information about local healthcare services and healthy living topics. Pick up our print edition at more than 900 locations throughout the area or get the digital edition by visiting

ourhealthlbss.com .

HealthyEats Vegan Gluten-Free Almond Butter Cookies Ingredients: 1 cup almond flour 1 cup Bob’s Gluten Free flour ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup almond butter ½ cup maple syrup

Directions: 1. In a food processor, combine both flours, salt, and baking soda. Process into a fine flour. 2. Add almond butter and continue to process. Scrape down sides. 3. Stream in maple syrup. Scrape down sides. Process one more time. 4. Dump dough into a bowl, finish mixing by hand to combine. 5. Scoop and press dough onto greased cookie sheets. 6. Bake at 325 degrees for 10-15 minutes, depending on size.

OurHealth Staff Favorite

ALMOND BUTTER COOKIES for more recipes follow us on Pinterest or visit our website at ourhealthswva.com

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Merle Alvis of Lynchburg Virginia.

Prostate Cancer Screening Could SAVE YOUR

LIFE words | SUZANNE RAMSEY

original photography | KG THIENEMANN

The night before her husband, Harry, died of prostate cancer in February of this year, Merle Alvis had what she describes as a “real meltdown.” As she tells it, she was sitting on the sofa in the family room of their Lynchburg home, thinking about the 42-year marriage they’d celebrated a couple of nights before and contemplating a future without Harry. “I was sobbing my heart out,” Merle says. She told herself to “get a grip” and headed into the bedroom, where she thought Harry was fast asleep. He wasn’t. “He heard me making my little whimpering sounds as I climbed into bed," she recalls. "He said, ‘What’s wrong?’ and I said, ‘I don’t want you to leave me.’ He said, ‘You had me for 42 years,’ and I said, ‘It wasn’t enough.’ That was the entire conversation.” Looking back, a conversation Merle wishes she and her husband had more often, and a message she feels strongly about conveying to others, is the one about annual prostate cancer screening. It wasn’t that Harry had never been screened for prostate cancer; it’s just that he hadn’t been having his PSA checked on a regular basis. “I don’t know when he had the last one,” Merle says of the prostate specific antigen, or PSA test. “I feel pretty sure he hadn’t been having them annually for the last few years. That’s the takeaway I have: I tell any man, ‘Don’t wait till you’re feeling bad.’”

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What is prostate cancer? Prostate cancer is a cancer that occurs in a man’s prostate — a small, walnut-shaped gland that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Source: WebMD

The Importance of Annual Screening In the months leading up to the late summer of 2014, Harry hadn’t been feeling bad. In fact, he’d been feeling better than he had in a long time. After surviving colon cancer in the summer of 2013, Merle says Harry had "a new lease on life” and had proposed that they get out more often and do some things. “He came through the family room one night and said, ‘If there’s any place you want to go or anything you want to do, let me know and I’ll do it,’” Merle says. Even though Harry had dealt with the neuromuscular disease cerebellar ataxia for the past 20 years and used a walker to get around, he and Merle went to an art show, the local symphony and cookouts. In April 2014, they took their beloved granddaughters, Anna and Katie, on a long-promised trip to Disney World. “Their Papa was on every ride they wanted to get on, from the roller coasters to the Tower of Terror, his favorite ride,” Merle says. “We had a wonderful time.”

What is prostate specific antigen testing? A prostate specific antigen test measures the amount of PSA in the blood. PSA is released into a man's blood by his prostate gland. Healthy men have low levels of PSA in the blood; the level normally increases as a man's prostate enlarges with age. Source: WebMD

What is hematocrit? Hematocrit (he-MAT-uh-krit) is the proportion of your total blood volume that is composed of red blood cells. A hematocrit (Hct) test indicates whether you have too few or too many red blood cells — conditions that can result from certain diseases. Source: Mayo Clinic

By late summer, however, Harry was complaining that he felt tired and didn’t feel much like eating. He worried that the colon cancer had returned. One physician initially chalked it up to anxiety, saying Harry was probably nervous about an upcoming colonoscopy scheduled as a follow-up to his cancer. But the colonoscopy was clear and the symptoms persisted. The week after the colonoscopy, Harry saw his primary care physician about a flu shot. When he complained about his lack of energy and appetite, the physician suggested they draw some blood. “When he came back into the room, that’s when the rug was pulled out from under our feet,” Merle says. “He looked at Harry and said, ‘Something is seriously wrong. When you were in my office six weeks ago, your hematocrit was 13. Today it’s 8. A 5-point drop in six weeks. That would indicate you have some internal bleeding or some sort of problem. You’re severely anemic.’” Harry spent the next week in the hospital as physicians ran tests, trying to figure out what was wrong. Finally, Merle and Harry received a devastating diagnosis: stage 4 prostate cancer, meaning the cancer had already spread beyond the prostate. Harry was given four to five months to live.

Stage and Grade of Prostate Cancer According to Robert Cook, MD with Centra Seven Hills Urology

Survival from prostate cancer depends greatly on the stage and grade of the disease. The stage refers to whether the prostate cancer is limited to the prostate or spread to other locations. The grade refers to the level of aggressiveness that the prostate cancer appears to have when examined under a microscope. Overall, prostate cancer tends to be a slow-growing disease. Statistics from the National Cancer Institute show a 98 percent five-year survival rate for prostate cancer.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Looking back, a conversation Merle wishes she and her husband had more often, and a message she feels strongly about conveying to others, is the one about annual prostate cancer screening.

Over the next five months, while Harry underwent hormone therapy and regular blood transfusions, he drafted a power of attorney and a do not resuscitate order. He put together a folder for Merle, detailing all of the things he usually handled — property taxes, online banking, etc. He wrote his obituary, instructing Merle that she was free to edit it but to keep it “short and simple.” Harry also spent a lot of time with his granddaughters, ages seven and eight, who Merle says were the “highlight of his life” and the “best therapy ever.” Harry spent time helping the girls with their homework, quizzing them on the states and capitals and teaching them new words and definitions. He was fond of saying, “If you don’t learn something new every day, you wasted your day,” a phrase Merle says the girls have taken to using since Harry’s death. “They miss him terribly,” Merle says. “They talk about him a lot. The oldest will say, ‘I miss Papa. I wish he could come back and visit us.’ They saw him up to the end ... even the night before he died. They would go in and say something to him, and when they left that night they went in and hugged and kissed him and told him they loved him. It’s a big gap in our lives.” Harry and his son, Bob, the couple’s only child, also were close. “The day his dad died, Bob posted on Facebook, ‘Today, I lost my best friend.’ That was true,” Merle says. “If they weren’t texting each other, they were on the phone. They were sports addicts. My son learned to read by his dad watching TV and reading the sports pages.”

A Screening Advocate Merle doesn’t want anyone else to lose a loved one to prostate cancer, which is why she’s adamant about annual PSA screening, despite current controversy within the medical community about whether or not routine PSA screening does more harm than good overall.

What is Hormone Therapy? Hormone therapy for prostate cancer is treatment to stop the male hormone testosterone from reaching prostate cancer cells. Hormone therapy for prostate cancer is also called androgen deprivation therapy. Most prostate cancer cells rely on testosterone to help them grow. Hormone therapy for prostate cancer cuts off the supply of testosterone or stops testosterone from reaching the cancer cells, causing cancer cells to die or to grow more slowly. Source: Mayo Clinic

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“The only way to pick it up early is through PSA testing,” she says. “It’s such an easy thing to do. I compare it to a mammogram. I would encourage wives, girlfriends or significant others not to just leave the responsibility up to the men in their lives, but to make sure they are getting this screening.” “Every male who is at middle age, it may cost you a few bucks, but it may also extend your life. If the insurance doesn’t pay for it, it’s a good investment of dollars to have that PSA checked and to have it monitored. “Both my father and Harry’s father were diagnosed with prostate cancer in their early 60’s”, says Merle. “It was detected early and treated. Neither died from cancer. In fact, they lived to be 80 and 82. Grandparents are important people in their grandchildren’s lives. I’m so grateful Bob, our son, got to know and spend time with his Grandpa and Granddaddy.” Even before Harry’s diagnosis, Merle was a weekly volunteer at Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center, and still is today.

Who’s at Risk? According to the American Cancer Society, “other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men.” The organization also estimates that in 2015, approximately 220,800 U.S. men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and about 27,540 will die from the disease. The ACS says 1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in his life. African American men are at even greater risk. “An African American man has about a 60 percent increased risk for developing prostate cancer,” says Robert Cook, MD, a board-certified urologist with Centra Seven Hills Urology. “African American men also tend to have more advanced and more aggressive cancer.”

Robert Cook, MD is a urologist with Centra Seven Hills Urology. He is certified by the American Board of Urology.

Heredity is also a factor. “A man with one close family relative, a father or brother, with prostate cancer has double the risk for developing prostate cancer,” Dr. Cook explains. “A man with two close relatives with prostate cancer has a five-fold increased risk for the disease.” Other risk factors include things men can control, such as poor diet and lack of exercise. “It’s felt that a lifestyle with decreased exercise, increased dietary fats and refined sugars and increased calorie intake may play a role,” Dr. Cook says. “While obesity has not been shown to be a cause for developing prostate cancer, it does put one at increased risk for death from prostate cancer.” Unfortunately, prostate cancer often has no symptoms, at least not in the early stages when it’s easiest to treat.

Michael J. O’Neill, MD is a radiation oncologist with Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center. He is certified by the American Board of Radiology in radiation oncology.

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Dr. Cook calls it a silent disease. “There are no real warning signs for prostate cancer. Seventy percent of men diagnosed with the disease have no symptoms at all at the time of diagnosis. Early symptoms tend to mimic that of an enlarged prostate. These symptoms are decreased force

to the urine stream, feelings of incomplete emptying, urgency and frequency of urination and post-void dribbling. “There is no way to easily distinguish the symptoms of early prostate cancer and benign prostate enlargement, which most men experience as they get older. Late symptoms of prostate cancer can be inability to urinate or bone pain. Because this tends to be an asymptomatic disease, screening for the disease becomes important.” In Harry’s case, Merle wonders if he was experiencing symptoms but just didn’t make a connection to prostate cancer. “One of the things that you have with cerebellar ataxia is dry mouth,” she says. “He always had some kind of beverage — water, juice — and he was going to the bathroom a lot more than I was because of his intake. Some men have symptoms of frequent or difficult urination. It may indicate a prostate issue. But don’t self-diagnose. See a doctor.” Screening for prostate cancer is easy — a digital rectal exam and a simple blood test — and early detection appears to be key to survival. The American Cancer Society claims that the five-year survival rate for patients with prostate cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate, or that has only spread to what it describes as “nearby areas,” is nearly 100 percent. For those with “distant stage” cancers — meaning the cancer has spread beyond the prostate to lymph nodes, bones or other organs — that number drops to 28 percent. “The vast majority of men with prostate cancer will not die of prostate cancer,” says Michael O’Neill, MD, Centra radiation oncologist. “Even those who have disease that has spread to other parts of the body usually live at least five years, often more than 10.” Unfortunately, prostate cancer screening is controversial. In 2012, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force, which describes itself as “an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine,” concluded that “there is moderate certainty that the benefits of PSA-based screening for prostate cancer do not outweigh the harms.” Dr. Cook explains the USPSTF’s determination this way: “The concern was that the PSA was an imperfect test leading to potentially too many unnecessary tests, and the risks of those tests to patients were greater than those it actually helped.

Men’s Luncheon: What’s New in Prostate Health and Disease Date: September 15

Time:

11:30 am

Corey M. Passman, MD, urologist with Centra Medical Group Urology Center, will discuss signs, symptoms and ways to help detect prostate cancer. Invite your fathers, sons and friends to this informative and free luncheon with Dr. Passman. Location: Conference Room, Centra Alan B.

Pearson Regional Cancer Center Seating is limited. For more information or to register, call 1.877.MDLINK1 (1.877.635.4651).

Boys On the Move Date: September 5

Time:

10 am – 2 pm

The Lynchburg chapter of Alpha Gamma Omega, a Christian social fraternity, is promoting community awareness of prostate cancer and raising funds for the Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center Patient Support Fund. Through the fraternity’s Boys on the Move project, boys and their adult partners will run an obstacle course for donations. For more information, contact Antonio Davis Sr., program director, Jubilee Family Development Center, at 434.845.0433, or jubileepd@gmail.com.

“Since prostate cancer is a slow-growing cancer, www.OurHealthlbss.com

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there was also the concern about the overdetection of prostate cancer — detecting small, nonaggressive cancers that may not bother someone in their lifetime but, once detected, may be overtreated and thus put the patient through the morbidity of a procedure that they may have never needed.” Dr. O’Neill admits that prostate cancer screening is “a bit of a gray area right now,” which is why he urges men to start a conversation with their physician. “In certain men or groups of men, it can be very beneficial, but in other cases it can do more harm than good by leading to treatments for a cancer that would otherwise not cause a man any problems,” he says. “Like any medical test, it’s really important to discuss the pros and cons before deciding if it’s right for you.” Controversy aside, Dr. Cook says, “The only way to detect it early is to screen for it. While the PSA test is imperfect, it’s still the best test we have.”

Expert contributors:

Robert Cook, MD with Centra Seven Hills Urology Michael J. O’Neill, MD with Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center

Sources: American Cancer Society – www.cancer.org Mayo Clinic – www.mayoclinic.org WebMD – www.webmd.com

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closer LOOK

Can you identify which local practice the image belongs to?

5 2 $ NA

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A C T GIF Fresh

The rket! Ma

Post the correct answer on our Facebook page by September 10th for a chance to WIN a gift card to The Fresh Market! The winner will be announced on our Facebook page by September 15th so make sure you check it out!

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Living Aw ior