OurHealth Lynchburg & Southside Jun/Jul 2016 Edition by OurHealth Media LLC

table of contents | june • july 2016

32 Despite popular opinion, men need to take care of themselves. OurHealth is celebrating Mens Health Month with a Men's Chart for Healthy Aging. This information may be the difference in helping you live your fullest and happiest life.

MEDI•CABU•LARY.....................10 Local experts define health-related terms

JUST ASK!.......................................12 Healthcare questions answered by local professionals

NEW & NOTEWORTHY.............14 A listing of new physicians, providers, locations and upcoming events in the Lynchburg and Southside communities

New Kitchen New Nutrition New You!

HEALTH POINTS.........................16 Interesting facts and tidbits about health

THE ANATOMY CHALLENGE..................................19 Are you up for the challenge? In this issue, test your knowledge when it comes to the TOOTH.

Part three of the OurHealth series that highlights small changes you can make in your food prep and shopping habits that can add up to a major positive impact on your nutrition and health.

BRACE YOURSELF FOR THE NEW BRACES............................... 20 Getting a jumpstart on braces—if your child needs them—will save loads of time once class is back in session. Key words: If your child needs them. So how do you know if your kiddo does?

39 Part II of OurHealth’s four-part series looks at how students and their families can evaluate and choose the right undergraduate school to best prepare them for their healthcare specialty, and how to achieve success as an undergrad.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

54 A radiologist and a scuba diver, Richard Newton, MD, lives in a world most people never have a chance to see. OurHealth interviews Dr. Newton for a closer look into both these worlds.

hello, HEALTH!.............................. 50 Capturing the spirit of those working in healthcare and of people leading healthy lives through photos

FIT BITS!........................................ 53 Get to the 'Core' of Your Workout This article, the third in a yearlong OurHealth series about primary care, will focus on just that — doing your care. We’ll delve into your part of the patient-physician partnership.

Deidre Wilkes, OurHealth's resident fitness specialist, shares the many training benefits working your 'Core'.

CLOSER LOOK.............................. 74 Images reflecting the landscape of healthcare in Lynchburg and Southside * PLUS * a chance to win a free year's subscription to OurHealth!

71 At OurHealth, we care about helping you stay healthy, so we’ve come up with a list of ten dermatologist-approved tips you can use to protect your skin.

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june • july 2016

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PUBLISHER PRESIDENT/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF VICE PRESIDENT OF PRODUCTION PROJECT COORDINATOR ACCOUNTING MANAGER CHIEF GRAPHIC DESIGNER GRAPHIC DESIGNER DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER | EVENT SPECIALIST COPY EDITOR DIGITAL MEDIA STRATEGY WEBSITE INTERN COVER ART

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CONTRIBUTING MEDICAL EXPERTS Eric Baugher, DMD Emily Jenkins, MD Troy Mysliwiec, OD Michael Richardson, PT, DPT Catherine Schuller, MD

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CLICK ON THE MAGAZINE COVER 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 © 2016 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 Are Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) as related to senior care?

“

Dry Needling is a highly effective manual treatment used by physical therapists to assist in pain reduction and restoration of normal muscle function. A small sterile solid filament needle is inserted into the painful muscle to inactivate trigger points or knots in the muscle tissue.

”

– Michael Richardson, PT, DPT

Prior to admission to a licensed assisted living facility, an individual must be assessed by the facility. This assessment is vital in determining the level of care and required services that are needed. The assessment process includes two disciplines: activities of daily living (ADL) which focus on personal care and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), which focus more on tasks associated with daily living. IADL includes meal preparation, housekeeping, laundry, and money management. The assessor asks probing questions to determine if the individual can perform these activities independently or if assistance is needed. Assistance may be in the form of supervision, cueing, prompts or hands on help. IADL may also measure the desire to complete the activity versus the ability to complete the activity. Desire can be affected by depression, social situations, and/or environment. The assessment process can make the transition into an assisted living facility a positive experience.

Denise Dombroski

Licensed Administrator The Williams Home, Inc. Lynchburg | 434.384.8282 www.thewilliamshome.org

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

What is Dry Needling? Dry Needling is a highly effective manual treatment used by physical therapists to assist in pain reduction and restoration of normal muscle function. A small sterile solid filament needle is inserted into the painful muscle to inactivate trigger points or knots in the muscle tissue. The result is reduction of pain and restoration of normal tension and length to the specific muscle which allows for improved joint motion. One big advantage to this treatment is that it allows access to deeper painful parts of muscles that cannot be reached by more traditional techniques. The treatment is termed dry needling because no medication is injected. Dry needling is effective for the following conditions: neck pain, back pain, cervicogenic headaches (headaches originating from the neck), acute athletic strains, and muscle imbalances and tightness. I have been very pleased with patient outcomes and feel that the treatment expedites the healing process.

What is Cervical Dysplasia? The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Dysplasia is when healthy cells of the cervix undergo abnormal changes. These changes are worrisome because they can eventually lead to a cancer. Screening for dysplasia is done during a pelvic exam at a routine visit by administering a Pap smear. It is recommended women have their first Pap smear starting at age 21. When caught early, dysplasia is usually curable. A sexually transmitted disease called Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is what causes these changes. Certain things, like smoking and having a suppressed immune system, can accelerate the changes. There is now an HPV vaccine that can help prevent dysplasia. It is recommended boys and girls receive the vaccine between the ages of 9 and 26.

Catherine Schuller, MD Michael Richardson, PT, DPT Rehab Associates Lynchburg | 434.525.4851 www.racva.com

Women’s Health Services of Lynchburg Lynchburg | 434.239.7890 www.whscv.com

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

“

Orthodontics can help improve the appearance and health of a smile at any age and the American Association of Orthodontists notes that adults seeking treatment now represent over 20 percent of new patients.

”

– Eric Baugher, DMD

Am I too ‘old’ for braces? Although adolescence is a common time to get braces, more adults than ever are realizing that orthodontic treatment is not just for kids anymore. In fact, orthodontics can help improve the appearance and health of a smile at any age and the American Association of Orthodontists notes that adults seeking treatment now represent over 20 percent of new patients. Some common reasons that adults are choosing to invest in orthodontic treatment today include: •

Crowding or spacing that has always bothered them.

•

Recent change in alignment of front teeth for unexplained reasons.

•

To prepare for implants or other extensive dental work.

•

To gain confidence from a more esthetic smile.

Some adult patients have gone decades trying to hide their teeth. With the wide variety of treatment options available today, however, the process of orthodontic treatment can be barely noticeable while offering the lifetime benefits of improved oral health and a more attractive smile.

Eric Baugher, DMD

Central Virginia Orthodontics Lynchburg | 434.385.4746 www.bracesbycvo.com

What are some signs that may indicate I need a low vision evaluation? A low vision exam is a comprehensive evaluation to determine what "aids" are best suited for providing a patient with the most functional vision. This exam is preformed after vision loss from ocular conditions such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, or other conditions that effect vision such as a stroke. If a person has suffered vision loss that is not simply corrected with glasses only, a low vision exam may be recommended. The results from the low vision evaluation can be beneficial in finding ways to use the patient’s current vision in a more functional manner with the end goal of gaining independence and achieving activities of daily living that would not be possible with glasses only.

Troy Mysliwiec, OD

Johnson Curran Optometry Centers Lynchburg | 434.237.2100 www.johnsoncurran.com

How can I tell if I am at risk for colorectal cancer? Everyone over the age of 50 should have a screening colonoscopy. Screening is important because finding cancer early means higher cure rates. Many cancers, including colorectal cancer, run in families so talking to your loved ones about their medical history is important. Other signs you may need to be screened for colorectal cancer include unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, constipation, or gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Colorectal cancer is common, but even when it has spread to other parts of the body, is a very treatable disease.

Emily Jenkins, MD

Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center Lynchburg | 434.200.5925 Cancer.centrahealth.com

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 Begins Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) Program Services for cardiovascular disease are in demand as the disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the United States.

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Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), which can extend and improve the quality of life in patients, is now available in Lynchburg at Centra Lynchburg General Hospital. This procedure is distinct because of its immediate effectiveness in the improvement in quality of life as well as its non-invasive nature. Fadi El-Ahdab, MD and Kenneth Saum, MD lead the TAVR Heart team that consists of fellow cardiothoracic surgeon Houman Tavaf, MD and cardiac nurse practitioner, Crystal Ransom, NP. “TAVR is minimally invasive, does not require a surgical incision and has a short recovery in most patients. It has been shown to prolong life and significantly improve the quality of life in patients with aortic valve stenosis,” says Dr. El-Ahdab. The procedure repairs the valve without removing the old, damaged valve. Instead, it wedges a replacement valve into the aortic valve’s place. This beneficial treatment provides options to patients who may have previously been considered too high risk for open heart surgery while also providing the added benefit of a faster recovery. Patients continue to report that they feel an immediate difference upon completion of the surgery. Centra is excited to continue to develop and expand services, such as TAVR, to meet the ever changing and growing needs of Central Virginia and its thriving communities. For more information, visit the Centra Medical Group Stroobants Cardiovascular Center at www.stroobantscardiovascular.com.

Local Pharmacy Accreditation and Expansion Rustburg Family Pharmacy has achieved accreditation by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB), a service of Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC), for the services of sterile and non-sterile compounding services. The accreditation is awarded in recognition of the pharmacy’s commitment to meeting and/or exceeding national quality standards.

34 on page

“Rustburg Family Pharmacy is committed to delivering the highest quality compounded medications to Rustburg, Lynchburg and the surrounding community in which we have been serving for 9 years,” says Vince Ettare, PharmD. “By achieving PCAB Accreditation, our customers can be assured that our organization follows industry best practices and is in compliance with the industry’s most stringent national standards.” Other news for Rustburg Family Pharmacy is the expansion to a second location as Timberlake Family Pharmacy in the soon-to-be remodeled DAV building on Timberlake Road. As a native to the area, pharmacist, Jodi Ettare, PharmD looks forward to serving friends and family closer to home. For more information about PCAB accreditation, visit www.achc.org/program/pharmacy. For more information, please visit www.rustburgpharmacy.com, info@rustburgpharmacy.com or call 434.332.1730.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Cheryl Emery

Director of Patient Experience Memorial Hospital of Martinsville and Henry County Martinsville | 276.666.7200 www.martinsvillehospital.com

Alisa Funke, MD

Dermatology Consultants Lynchburg | 434.847.6132 www.lynchburgdermatology.com

James Klena, MD

Danville Heart and Vascular Clinic Danville | 434.791.3009 www.heartandvasculardanville.com

Morgan McDowell, NP

Centra Medical Group Urology Center Lynchburg | 434.200.6623 www.centramedicalgroup.com

NEW

NOTEWORTHY

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

Trying to Eat Healthier?

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Kare Pharmacy & Compounding Announces Relocation in Danville Kare Pharmacy & Compounding of Danville is proud to announce the relocation of their Sherwood Shopping Center location to a new space located at 411 Park Avenue in Danville. Due to the increased demand on both retail and compounding prescriptions at their Sherwood location, Kare is relocating into the new facility in Danville. The state-of-the-art 2,300 foot lab offers compounding by licensed staff using the most advanced equipment and techniques. Kare Pharmacy & Compounding welcomes the opportunity to serve individuals and their healthcare providers in Central and Southside Virginia. For more information on Kare Pharmacy & Compounding, call 434.792.8281 or visit www.kare-rx.com.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Centra Plans for Electronic Health Record (EHR) Debut in 2018

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Centra announces it has entered into a contract with Cerner, a global leader in healthcare technology, to implement a new electronic health record (EHR) system to support all of Centra’s medical facilities by the spring of 2018. An EHR is an electronic version of a patient’s medical history that is maintained over time by healthcare providers at multiple locations across a health system. It can include clinical data relevant to a patient’s care, including medical history, immunizations, laboratory data, radiology reports demographics, progress notes, medications and vital signs. “These technologies will provide the platform we need to engage with individuals beyond the four walls of our hospitals,” says E.W. Tibbs Jr., president and CEO of Centra. This new tool will improve system connectivity among providers, connectivity with patients, timely access to information and data sharing across Centra’s continuum of care. With the new Cerner platform, doctors and staff within Centra will be able to access complete patient records, and patients themselves will be able to view their medical records online. For more information on Centra, visit www.centrahealth.com.

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

MEN’S HEALTH WEEK JUNE 13TH- 19TH

The purpose of Men’s Health Week,

celebrated every

June, is to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys.

DID YOU KNOW: •

•

Women are 100 percent more likely to visit the doctor for annual examinations and preventive services than men. In 1920, women lived, on average one year longer than men. Now, men, on average, die almost five years earlier than women.

Source: Center for Disease Control.

Mooove Over Milk Carton!

On average,

230 people

go the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4th holiday. Source: United States Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Did you know that drinking milk from a glass bottle is better for your health? Local farm-fresh milk delivery offers milk that is free of all hormones and antibiotics, and because it is sold in recycled glass bottles it tastes fresher longer and is

more environmentally friendly. It can also be a trip down memory lane for those who grew up remembering the ‘milk man’ coming to the door each week! Source: Homestead Creamery in Moneta.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

HARD FACT: The enamel on teeth are the body’s HARDEST substance.

NOT COO L Mom

VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH GAMES 5K

DID YOU

KNOW? Although it is largely preventable,

TOOTH DECAY is the

NUMBER ONE chronic disease affecting children in the United States. Source: Centers for Disease Control.

The inaugural Commonwealth Games 5k is part of the Lynchburg Road Runners Race Series.

One or more

Participants throughout the state of Virginia are invited to challenge themselves on a road course, touring the campus of Liberty University.

blistering sunburns in

Date: Time: Location:

For more information, scan the QR or visit www.runsignup.com.

PLAYING IN THE POOL: Don’t Forget to

Adolescents 32-48 ounces every hour

9-12 years old 3-8 ounces every 20 minutes

childhood or adolescence MORE THAN DOUBLE a person’s chances of developing MELANOMA later in life.

Saturday, July 16, 2016 8 a.m. Liberty University 1971 University Boulevard Lynchburg, VA 24515

Hydrate! Hydration is important before, during and after swimming. Kids aged 9-12 years old should drink 3-8 fluid ounces of water every 20 minutes. For adolescents, the recommendation is 32-48 fluid ounces every hour. Source: American Academy of Pediatrics.

Source: Skin Cancer Foundation.

14TH ANNUAL

PERCIVAL’S ISLAND 5-MILER Lynchburg is known as the "Hill City"....but this course is flat, flat, flat. The start finish is located at the Blackwater Creek Natural Area Percival's Island in downtown Lynchburg and the course follows the Blackwater Creek Bikeway...a paved rails to trails path along the James River. A bit longer than a 5k but without the effort of a 10k, 5 miles is considered by many the perfect distance.

Date:

Saturday, July 2, 2016

Time:

8 a.m.

Location:

Percival’s Island – Blackwater Creek Natural Area 1200 Concord Turnpike Lynchburg, VA 24504

For more information, scan the QR or visit www.riversiderunners.com.

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Anatomy CHALLENGE

the

How much do you know about the

tooth in your mouth? Complete

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

[ the tooth ]

WORD SEARCH blood vessels

gum

bone

pulp

crown

root

dentin

root canal

enamel

For answers, visit OurHealth Lynchburg & Southsideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page at

_____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________

_____________ _____________ _____________ www.OurHealthlbss.com

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

for the

Advances in childhood orthodontics make getting your children’s teeth “fixed” easier than ever. words | CHRISTINE STODDARD

Summer can be a time of fun and enrichment for children. It’s also a great time for parents to check things off of their to-do lists without having to schedule around school. This includes making your son or daughter’s dentist appointments and, depending on his or her age and needs, orthodontist appointments, too. Getting a jumpstart on braces—if your child needs them—will save loads of time once class is back in session. Key words: If your child needs them. So how do you know if your kiddo does? If it seems like your child’s teeth are a little off or every kid in the class is flashing a new set of braces, you probably have plenty of questions. You probably also have plenty of preconceived notions about braces. If you’re basing everything you know about braces on your personal experiences from middle or high school, stop. The truth is, a lot has changed in childhood orthodontics since you were growing up. That includes the rise of braces that you can’t even see.

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“Early evaluation of the teeth, jaws, and airway can be beneficial in order to address physical or functional issues which can reduce the amount or need for treatment later.”

ADVANCES IN TEETH

STRAIGHTENING TECHNOLOGY “The biggest change has been the rise of Invisalign and similar companies that use a sequence of clear plastic aligners instead of metal braces to straighten the teeth,” says Eric Baugher, DMD of Central Virginia Orthodontics in Lynchburg. “Many people are drawn to this idea of treatment because you can avoid the look and feel of traditional braces. But compliance is the key to successful treatment with Invisalign since the trays need to be worn 22 hours per day.” The prevalence of Invisalign isn’t the only change in orthodontics since you were a tween. Traditional braces themselves have been modernized, too.

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

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

“Advances with traditional braces include super-elastic wires that make treatment more comfortable for the patient and is more protective of the roots of the teeth compared to treatment decades ago,” continues Dr. Baugher. Another advance is simply making traditional braces smaller.

“The bracket technology has created smaller braces that have a prescription for each tooth in order to provide a more efficient and comfortable patient experience,” says Mark Blanchette, DDS, MS of Blanchette Orthodontics in Lynchburg. “We now have smaller, esthetic brackets that can help those patients who are concerned with the appearance of the appliances.” Other advances in bracket technology have come along, as well. Take thermal technology, for instance. “Thermal wires are activated by the temperature of the mouth,” explains Dr. Blanchette. “This can speed initial alignment and leveling of the arches.” Even the way patients are fitted for braces has changed. “As opposed to taking impressions, today we use a digital scanner, which scans the patient’s teeth and creates an immediate computer model,” says Dr. Blanchette.

How have braces changed? There have been a number of advancments in teeth straightening techonology including: •

Introduction of Invisaline

•

Super-elastic, thermal wires

•

Smaller, self-ligating brackets

•

Digital impressions

•

And more

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The list of advances does not end there. “Other advances are self-ligating brackets, which help minimize friction during treatment and lingual brackets which hide traditional braces on the other side of the teeth next to the tongue,” says Dr. Baugher. AT WHAT AGE SHOULD MY CHILD BE

EVALUATED FOR BRACES? When Should My Child be Evaluated for Braces?

No Later

than

YEARS OLD

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Hearing of these advances may remove your hesitation to take your child to the orthodontist this summer, but if you’re still wondering, wonder no more. A check-up can do no harm. Your child may be too young for braces, but a first or second-grade child isn’t too young for a check-up. Early planning can save a lot of angst down the line.

“The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children have a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7,” says Dr. Baugher. “The AAO does not advocate comprehensive orthodontic treatment at age seven,

but interceptive—Phase I—treatment may be appropriate for some specific dental problems. Just a few examples of dental problems that may need early orthodontic treatment include: severe crowding, anterior crossbite, deep bite, and problems with the eruption of permanent teeth.”

“The best thing, from a dental standpoint, that parents can do to help their children is to take them to the dentist early—no later than the first birthday—and make going to the dentist a positive experience.”

Age seven may sound startlingly young, far younger than you remember. It may seem that children are now able to get braces earlier than they were in decades past, but that may not actually be the case. What’s different is how ubiquitous braces are these days. “Braces are definitely much more common now than they were 30 years ago,” Dr. Baugher. “This is partly due to braces being more affordable today with many dental insurance plans covering a portion of the cost. Also, more people want a ‘perfect smile’ and are willing to invest in orthodontic treatment to achieve a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.” Even with the assurance that orthodontic technology has advanced and an early check-up is a sound idea, actually

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

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read this edition of putting your child in braces can be a difficult decision. How do you know if your son or daughter is ready? on your tablet or smartphone

“There is no exact age that applies across the board for kids to begin orthodontic treatment,” says Dr. Baugher. “An early evaluation by an orthodontist will help ensure that treatment begins at the correct time to give the greatest possible result. Many children will not be ready for orthodontic treatment until most of their permanent teeth are in or close to erupting.”

“Dental health also plays a big part in determining when someone is ready to begin orthodontic treatment. If teeth and gums are not absolutely healthy without braces on, then it is best to delay the start of treatment and work on improving oral hygiene first,” says Dr. Baugher. Puberty should consideration.

another

“For most adolescents, the proper time to start is when most of the primary (or baby) teeth have exfoliated,” says Dr. Blanchette. “This can reduce the amount of time that the appliances are needed. There are times when it is appropriate to initiate treatment earlier if there is a disharmony in growth, if there are impacted teeth, or if the child has a habit such as thumbsucking or tongue-thrusting. Occasionally it is appropriate to initiate treatment if the child is having self-esteem issues due to the alignment of their teeth.”

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

WHEN GENETICS COME INTO PLAY Some kids are pre-disposed to needing braces, regardless of thumb sucking and other childhood habits. “Genetics play a role in tooth number, size and shape, as well as jaw size,” says Dr. Baugher. “If a child has parents that, as children themselves, both had braces with permanent teeth removed due to severe crowding, then the child is much more likely to also have dental crowding requiring orthodontic treatment. Likewise, a parent that still has a primary (baby) tooth present where a permanent tooth never formed is more likely to have a child with a missing permanent tooth. So, just like all the other traits we inherit from our parents, dental problems and malocculusions can be passed on also.” Of course, not every child is genetically predisposed to needing braces. But there isn’t a lot that parents can do to prevent the need for them, either.

“Genetics play a role in tooth number, size and shape, as well as jaw size. If a child has parents that, as children themselves, both had braces with permanent teeth removed due to severe crowding, then the child is much more likely to also have dental crowding requiring orthodontic treatment. – Eric Baugher, DMD

“Many issues, such as crowding, crossbites, and overbites, are pre-programmed in the individual based on the growth and development of their teeth and jaws,” says Dr. Baugher. There is one thing you can do, though: discourage thumb and finger-sucking habits. Dr. Baugher says, “The earlier such habits are stopped will help minimize their negative effects on the teeth and bite.” BRACES IN STAGES,

OR ALL AT ONCE? You may think that you want your child’s braces done in stages instead of all at once. For most children, that is not an option. “Most orthodontic treatments are comprehensive, which means that teeth in both the top and bottom arches have braces during treatment,” says Dr. Baugher. “This is usually necessary to ensure that the bite fits together well after the teeth are straightened. Some people that have a good, stable bite but are not happy with their smile due to a little spacing or crowding around the front teeth can get a partial set of braces to fix that one issue.” Even if, medically, it made sense, doing braces in stages doesn’t make financial sense. “Occasionally, children need braces on only one arch,” says Dr. Blanchette. “It is unusual to place braces on one arch and then later correct the other arch. This would not be very cost and time efficient.” “The best thing, from a dental standpoint, that parents can do to help their children is to take them to the dentist early— www.OurHealthlbss.com

no later than the first birthday—and make going to the dentist a positive experience,” says Dr. Baugher. “Early evaluation of the teeth, jaws, and airway can be beneficial in order to address physical or functional issues which can reduce the amount or need for treatment later,” says Dr. Blanchette. Consult with a professional to make the most informed decision. With so many advancements in orthodontic care available today, identifying which direction is best for your child can be challenging without advice from a dental health professional. Speak with your child’s dentist or schedule an appointment with an orthodontist for more information.

EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS: Mark Blanchette, DDS, MS of Blanchette Orthodontics in Lynchburg Eric Baugher, DMD of Central Virginia Orthodontics in Lynchburg

OurHealth Lynchburg & Southside on Social Media!

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Be Healthy Age Healthy June is Men’s Health Month. But it’s not the only month men should do their health justice.

words |STEVE MCCLINTIC JR.

DESPITE POPULAR OPINION,

MEN NEED TO TAKE CARE OF THEMSELVES.

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

This may sound like a common sense statement. But it’s not one that often resonates. For many men, taking care of their health, which includes getting regular check-ups, is about half as important to them as it is for women. This isn’t an opinion. It’s a fact: according to the National Institute of Health, men go the doctor 50 percent less than women. Men aren’t immune to the many common and unfortunate health-related issues that anyone can develop. Men can get the cold. Men can get the flu. Men can get diabetes. Men can get cancer. And men can prevent many of these health conditions from occurring if they take better care of themselves. In the following pages of OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside is the OurHealth Men’s Chart for Healthy Aging. This chart is 100 percent important. Read it. Embrace it. Engage it. This information may be the difference in helping you live your fullest and happiest life.

CLICK HERE

FOR THE 2016 MEN’S CHART FOR HEALTHY AGING

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words | CYNTHIA BEMENT and TRICIA FOLEY, MS, RD

ip Rec

New Kitchen New Nutrition New You! Our New Kitchen, New Nutrition, New You series focuses on helping you get healthier in the kitchen — one ingredient at a time. In each edition of OurHealth, we suggest small changes in your food preparation and grocery shopping habits that can make a big, positive impact on your overall nutrition and health. Our goal is to present you with ideas you can use and build upon and will help you create a healthier kitchen — and life — by year’s end. In this edition’s segment of our New Kitchen, New Nutrition, New You series, we have a few tasty, alternate recipes for you to try with your favorite grilling foods.

Making BBQ Better and Healthier There is not much in the world better than sitting outside on a golden, summer evening with friends, a cold beverage and a plate piled high with steak hot off the grill, barbecue baked beans and fresh coleslaw. The bold essence of a steak contrasts the cool, sweet crunch of coleslaw, and baked beans top it all off with salty-sweet savory flavor. This combination is a summertime masterpiece and you are the artist. But as every great artist knows, even a masterpiece has room for improvement. Give these recipes a try! You will be amazed how swapping out a few ingredients will make your grilled foods healthier and just as scrumptious!

The Meat Makes the Man In our recipe for steak on the grill, we substitute a skirt steak for a flank steak. These two cuts of meat can be used interchangeably in many recipes. The difference between them lies in where these steaks come from. The skirt steak comes from the muscle that makes up a cow’s diaphragm while the flank steak comes from the lower abdominal muscles of the cow. Both are similarly textured— tough with lots of fibers running through them. While the skirt steak has a more intense, beefy flavor, the flank steak is the leaner of the two cuts of meat. Any meals made with flank steak tend to be lower in fat content.

The Importance of Being “Herbiest” Using herbs and seasonings in your cooking, as opposed to store-bought sauces, can really spice up your kitchen. Switching ingredients in recipes like the ones we’ve provided is a great way to cut back on the sodium and sugar content in your meals.

Sweeter Than Sugar and Better for You Many people are familiar with using honey in place of sugar in hot tea, but honey can be used as an alternative sweetener in lots of other recipes, as well. Honey has a lower GI (glycemic index) value, meaning it doesn’t raise blood sugar as quickly as regular sugar. www.OurHealthlbss.com

Tricia Foley’s

STEAK ON THE GRILL

Tricia Foley is OurHealth Magazine’s resident nutritionist.

Meat Cuts Diagrams

Regular Recipe

Healthier Recipe

6 Servings

Beef

Pork

Chicken

6 Servings

1½

pound skirt steak

1½

pound flank steak

cup vegetable oil

tablespoons olive oil

1/3

cup soy sauce

1/3

cup low sodium soy sauce

tablespoons lime juice

1½

tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1½

tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

tablespoon Dijon mustard

cloves garlic, minced

teaspoon black pepper, ground

Directions:

In a medium bowl, mix all wet ingredients as well as mustard, garlic and black pepper. Place meat in a shallow glass dish, pour marinade over the steak coating thoroughly. Cover, and refrigerate for six hours. Heat grill to medium-high. Oil the grill grate, then place steaks on the grill, discard the marinade. Grill meat for five minutes on each side or to desired doneness.

Nutrition Facts per serving

with marinade:

•

363 calories

•

308 calories.

•

27 grams fat (4 grams saturated)

•

20 grams fat (2 grams saturated).

•

2 grams carbohydrate

•

2 grams carbohydrate.

•

28 grams protein

•

28 grams protein.

•

225.5 milligrams sodium

•

143 milligrams sodium.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Tricia Foley’s

COLE SLAW

Tricia Foley is OurHealth Magazine’s resident nutritionist.

Regular Recipe

Healthier Recipe

6 Servings

cups shredded cabbage

1½

cups shredded purple cabbage

cup shredded carrot

1½

cups shredded green cabbage

cup mayonnaise

cup shredded carrot

tablespoons white wine vinegar

cup green pepper, diced

teaspoon celery seed

cup red pepper, diced

tablespoons sugar

cup red onion, diced

Salt and pepper to taste

cup apple cider vinegar with the mother

tablespoons local honey

Directions: In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, vinegar, celery seed, sugar, salt and pepper to make dressing. Toss dressing over cabbage mixture and allow chilling. Serve in large bowl.

Nutrition Facts per serving:

Directions: Combine all vegetables and in a separate bowl mix the vinegar and honey. Then drizzle this mixture over the bowl of vegetables and mix well. Allow to chill and serve in large bowl.

•

177.5 calories

Nutrition Facts per serving:

•

14.5 grams carbohydrate

•

56 calories

•

4 grams sugar

•

14 grams carbohydrate

•

0 grams protein

•

5.6 grams of sugar

•

13.3 grams fat (2.1 grams saturated fat)

•

0 grams protein

•

0 grams fat

•

negligible sodium

•

117 mg sodium

The

Meaning of

“With the

Mother”

Apple cider vinegar "with the mother" is said to have more health benefits than it does without. “Mother” is what gives organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar its cloudy appearance. Mother is made up of enzymes, protein strands, and good bacteria.

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Tricia Foley’s

BAKED BEANS

Tricia Foley is OurHealth Magazine’s resident nutritionist.

Regular Recipe

Healthier Recipe

6 Servings 6

tablespoons BBQ sauce

1½

(15.8 ounce) cans low sodium pinto beans

tablespoons ketchup

tablespoons brown sugar

(15 ounce) can “no salt added” tomato sauce

1/2

teaspoon dry mustard

large onion diced

1½

(15.8 ounce) cans pinto beans

1 3/4

cup water

large onion diced

tablespoons apple cider vinegar

teaspoons minced garlic

tablespoon molasses

tablespoons local honey

1/2

teaspoon salt

tablespoon cumin powder

11/4

teaspoons chili powder

1/2

teaspoon onion powder

Directions: Drain and rinse the beans. Lightly grease a four-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Add all ingredients. Cover and cook on high seven hours or until beans are soft. Turn off the crockpot, keeping the lid closed, let sit one hour. Serve immediately, or transfer to a container and refrigerate for up to four days. If reheating, add a little water (up to 1/2 cup for the entire recipe) and stir, then heat.

Nutrition Facts per serving:

6 Servings

•

173 calories

•

37.3 grams carbohydrate

•

7 grams fiber

•

18 grams sugar

•

0 grams fat

•

6 grams protein

•

427 milligrams sodium

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Nutrition Facts per serving: •

133 calories

•

8.3 grams protein

•

.03 grams fat

•

25 grams carbohydrate

•

7 grams fiber

•

246.8 milligrams sodium

•

5 grams sugar

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

the

2016

OurHealth Lynchburg & Southside

HOW TO IN HEALTHCARE SERIES:

RT PA

words | RICH ELLIS

Part I of OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside magazine’s four-part series—How to in Healthcare: "A Step-by-Step Guide to

Pursuing a Career in Medicine” – examined how students can begin preparing for a healthcare career as early as high school. It that article, we focused on building a foundation for success and making high school curriculum count.

Part II in our series looks at how students and their families can evaluate and choose the right undergraduate school to best prepare them for their healthcare specialty of choice, and how to achieve success as an undergrad.

an issue-by-issue overview

PART TWO

Choosing the right undergraduate school for your healthcare specialty.

June | July

PART THREE

Entering graduate school and residency/fellowship/ clinical training.

August | September

PART FOUR

Insight on how to find the right job in your field of specialty.

October | November

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ALL EDUCATION PROGRAMS AVAILABLE TO

STUDENTS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL

The following is an overview of the types of healthcare and healthcare-related certificates, diplomas and degrees available to students after high school, including the general time to complete or graduate as a full time student.

CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS Certificate programs offer professional training in a specific field. Most certificate programs take a year or less to complete, and are offered primarily at community or technical colleges or schools.

DIPLOMA PROGRAMS Diploma programs are similar to certificate programs, but are usually more in depth. Offered at community colleges or technical schools, diploma programs generally include a one to two-year program of course work and on-the-job-training.

ASSOCIATE DEGREE An associate degree is two-year degree most commonly granted by a community college or technical school. They can, however, also be granted by four-year colleges and universities. These two-year programs may provide the necessary training to prepare students for entry-level positions in certain fields. An associate degree translates into the first two years of a bachelor's degree, for those who choose to transfer into a four-program.

BACHELOR'S DEGREE A bachelor's degree is a four-year degree that is granted by a college or university. Most schools that grant bachelor's degrees require a specific course load and a minimum number of credits to graduate. A bachelor's degree is required for admittance into a graduate program, medical or dental school. There are a variety of healthcare positions available to those who are interested in pursuing a career in the field. Listed below are healthcare professions, both clinical and non-clinical that are available, broken down by their education and degree requirements.

OFFERS DIFFERENT OPTIONS Both clinical and non-clinical healthcare career paths offer a myriad of choices when it comes to deciding what type of healthcare professional a student wants to become. That career decision in turn dictates a specific undergraduate path and its associated educational requirements. WHAT IS A CERTIFICATE? Students pursuing higher education after high school for a healthcare career can choose to earn a certificate, diploma, associate degree or bachelor’s degree. (See sidebar for additional information about healthcare and healthcare-related programs). Each opens the door to employment in any one of a number of healthcare careers. For example, a certificate—primarily offered at community colleges or technical schools and taking 12 months or less to complete—provides professional training in a specific field or occupation, such as a certified nursing assistant, dental assistant or home health aide. WHAT IS A DIPLOMA? A diploma is similar to a certificate program but covers the material more in-depth and requires one to two years to complete, along with hands-on experience gained on the job. Available career choices for diploma holders include medical assistant, nursing assistant, and pharmacy technician, to name just a few. WHAT IS AN ASSOCIATE DEGREE? An associate degree is a two-year degree offered primarily by community colleges and technical schools, but also by some fouryear colleges and universities. This degree is often transferable to a four-year bachelor’s degree program, and may serve as the first two years of the four-year degree program. Registered nurses (RN), dental hygienists, medical office managers and paramedics are some of the healthcare careers requiring an associate degree. Community colleges are an attractive option for attainting an associate degree and should be considered by many students pursuing healthcare-related degrees. Central Virginia Community College’s (CVCC) healthcare-focused programs are designed for students who want to go directly into the job market after graduation, explains James Lemons, PhD, dean of Business and Allied Health at CVCC. “Our allied health programs here are classified as career technical education programs,” Dr. Lemons says. “There are four programs in the allied health area, including EMS/Paramedic, Medical Laboratory Technology, Radiologic Technology, and Respiratory Therapy Technology – all of which lead to a twoyear associate degree. Their core objective is to get someone employed immediately.” (Continued on page 44...)

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HEALTHCARE POSITIONS THAT REQUIRE

The following is a list of healthcare positions that can be obtained through completion of a certificate program at a community college or technical/trade school:

The following is a list of healthcare positions that can be obtained through completion of a diploma program at a community college, technical/trade school or hospital.

NON-DEGREE CERTIFICATES JOB TITLE

LENGTH OF PROGRAM

NON-DEGREE DIPLOMAS

JOB TITLE .

LENGTH OF PROGRAM

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).................four to twelve weeks

Cardiology Technologist........................................one to two years

Dental Assistant...................................................... one year or less

Health Care Documentation Specialist.....10 months to two years

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)........................... ten weeks

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).............................one to two years

Home Health Aide................................................... one year or less

Medical Assistant.........................................................nine months

Medical Coding Specialist....................................... one year or less

Medical Office Professional...................................one to two years

Medical Administrative Assistant.......... eight months to one year

Nursing Assistant...................................................one to two years

Medical Massage Therapist....................................one to two years

Ophthalmic Medical Technician...................... three to six months

Medical Receptionist............................................... one year or less

Pharmacy Technician.............................................one to two years

Patient Care Technician..............................................eight months Phlebotomist........................................................... one year or less Surgical Technologist..........................................................one year

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(Continued from page 42...)

HEALTHCARE POSITIONS THAT REQUIRE AN

ASSOCIATE DEGREE

The following is a list of healthcare positions that require an associate degree through an accredited two-year college or trade school.

JOB TITLE •

Dental Hygienist

•

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

•

Dispensing Optician

•

Electrocardiogram (EKG) Technician

•

Histologist

•

Medical Laboratory Technician

•

Medical Office Manager

•

Medical Transcriptionist

•

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

•

Occupational Therapy Assistant

•

Paramedic

•

Physical Therapy Assistant

•

Radiation Therapist

•

Radiologic Technician

•

Registered Nurse (RN)

•

Respiratory Therapist

•

Surgical Technologist

•

Ultrasound Technician

HEALTHCARE POSITIONS THAT REQUIRE A

BACHELOR'S DEGREE

The following is a list of healthcare positions that require a four year bachelor's degree at an accredited college or university.

JOB TITLE

Those four programs will also transfer to a four-year bachelor’s degree program in Healthcare Management at the University of Virginia (UVA), Lemons adds, through an articulation agreement that CVCC has with the University. And while at UVA, students can continue to work while completing their degree because the entire program is offered online. WHAT IS A BACHELOR’S DEGREE? Bachelor’s degrees are awarded by four-year colleges and universities and required for students pursuing additional education at the graduate level, such as medical school. Dieticians, athletic trainers, and anesthesia technicians are all examples of healthcare professions that require a bachelor’s degree. The fields of study, classes offered and programs available are often as unique as the college or university itself. Liberty University is just one example of an institution offering students a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree choices related to healthcare education and careers. Ralph Linstra, EdD, is the dean of the School of Health Sciences at Liberty University and explains that the university has a wide selection of fully accredited programs. “In addition to the Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) and the Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine (DO) graduate degrees, Liberty also offers bachelor’s degrees in athletic training, biology, chemistry, exercise science, and public health, as well as master’s degrees in biomedical science, exercise science and public health,” Dr. Linstra says. “There is also an associate degree in medical office assisting that is available exclusively through Liberty's online programs.” Lynchburg College and its School of Health Sciences and Human Performance have a similarly broad offering of healthcare education choices. Within the School of Health Sciences there are six healthcare-focused programs, says Jenna Lloyd-Fitzgerald, DNP, director of the nursing program: •

Nursing, both graduate and undergraduate

•

Health promotion

•

Exercise physiology

•

Anesthesia Technician

•

Athletic Trainer

•

Certified Nursing Home Administrator

•

Sports management

•

Dental Laboratory Technician

•

Athletic training

•

Dietician

•

Health and physical education

•

Exercise Physiologist

•

Health Educator

•

Kinesiotherapist

•

Medical and Health Services Manager

•

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist

•

Recreational Therapist

•

Speech-Language Pathologist

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Lynchburg College also offers graduate degrees in the science of nursing, in physical therapy, and in a physician’s assistant program. The types of career opportunities that await students upon graduation from Lynchburg College and other schools are as diverse as these fields of study and can include opportunities that some students may not have considered when evaluating healthcare-related careers, including working with insurance

companies or OSHA guidelines, in sports management, or within the public school system in a health and physical education role. For students searching for insight on the variety of careers available to them, Dr. Linstra recommends two books, “Introduction to the Health Professions” (Stanfield and Hui) and “The Health Professions: Trends and Opportunities in U.S. Health Care” (Chisolm). “These resources are valuable,” he explains, “because they educate the reader about the diversity of the careers in terms of number of years of required education and training; descriptions of the day-today work duties; salary expectations; potential work environments; certification and licensure requirements; employment trends; and job prospects.”

HEALTHCARE POSITIONS THAT REQUIRE

ADVANCED EDUCATION AND DESIGNATIONS

The following is a list of healthcare positions that require a four-year bachelor's degree in order to apply to a master degree program or go to a post graduate school, such as medical or dental school. These positions require advanced level degrees and can take up to ten years, depending on the position, degree, licensure or certification, internship and residency requirements.

JOB TITLE •

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

•

Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)

•

Doctor of Osteopathy (DO)

•

Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)

•

Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)

•

Doctor of Optometry (OD)

Choosing a school is a decision based on both feelings and facts. The easy part of the decision may be whether the student is pursuing a career that requires a certificate or diploma, or if he or she has plans to attend graduate school. These factors can help narrow the pool before others are considered.

•

Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM)

•

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

•

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

•

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

•

Medical Doctor (MD)

Dr. Linstra believes that research plays an important role in helping find the right school and program of study.

•

Mental Health Counselor

•

Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)

“Things to consider are not just price but quality of faculty and facilities, reputation, and practicality,” Dr. Linstra says. “Regarding practicality, for example, a student who wishes to be an RN can attend a two-year community college or a four-year college or university and achieve the same status of RN. Both programs prepare them for the national RN exam, but logically, the two-year program will be less expensive. However, a four-year BSN/RN degree is more likely to earn a higher salary than the two-year program.”

•

Nurse Practitioner (NP)

•

Pharmacist (PharmD)

•

Physician Assistant (PA)

With the variety of degrees and study tracks available, students may find that choosing the one that’s right for them can be just as challenging as selecting which school to attend.

HOW TO CHOOSE

THE RIGHT SCHOOL

“The student and his or her family should research the best colleges and universities within their budget, and apply to more than one.” – Dr. Ralph Linstra, Liberty University

Some students may already have plans to attend graduate school even before they enroll in an undergraduate program. For these students, it’s beneficial to determine what the path to graduate school looks like at the undergraduate school they’re considering, to seek guidance from the school, and then factor this information into their decision-making process.

read this edition of

on your tablet or smartphone

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“If the health profession career of choice – such as medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, etc., requires graduate level education in addition to a bachelor’s degree, the student and family need to assess the quality of the undergraduate science program,” Dr. Linstra says. “This can be done by asking for graduate school admission data from the science department chairman in addition to student scores on the national exams [e.g. MCAT, etc.] If a chairman hesitates to share this information or states it’s unavailable, the program is probably subpar and should be avoided.”

Jim Lemons, PhD is dean of the division of Business and Allied Health at Central Virginia Community College.

Dr. Lloyd-Fitzgerald says Lynchburg College is seeing more and more students entering school as undergraduates, already knowing they want to pursue a graduate degree later. For these students, Dr. Lloyd-Fitzgerald says, “I think it’s important when you are considering a program for your undergrad degree to look at things such as, ‘Is the school accredited? Is the program accredited?’ Because if you’re looking to go on to earn a graduate degree and the [undergrad] programs aren’t accredited, that’s going to impact your ability to get into a graduate program.” Using nursing as an example, she recommends students look at a school’s pass rates for their students sitting for national board exams and to talk with program directors to get an idea of student retention rates in the program. “Schools focused on success can tell you this,” Dr. Lloyd-Fitzgerald says. “Also look at what that graduate program requires to make sure the school you are entering has the prerequisites for the actual graduate program you want.”

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Cost is also an important consideration when it comes to choosing an undergraduate school, with in-state schools offering a potential cost savings to students. Cost information for a particular school is readily available online at each institution’s website. These costs can vary widely among community colleges and public and private institutions. Community colleges, for example, offer affordable, high-quality programs that attract a large number of exceptionally qualified applicants, many of whom are recent high school graduates or career switchers returning to school. At CVCC, Dr. Lemons says that students pursuing a two-year associate degree over four semesters will incur a total cost for tuition, books and associated fees of approximately $9,600*, with a cost breakdown per semester of $1,937 in tuition and fees and $478 in books. *Amount based on in-state tuition. Rates are subject to change.

Ralph Linstra, EdD is the dean of Liberty University’s School of Health Sciences.

“Students are eligible for federal financial aid---such as Pell grants---and loans, and there are a number of scholarships that they can apply for,” he adds. These aid packages can help defray the cost of education. Students should research and consider the sources of financial aid available to them. (Continued on page 49...)

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WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES

BETWEEN A SCHOLARSHIP, GRANT AND STUDENT LOAN?

•

SCHOLARSHIPS: Scholarships are usually merit based. This means that they are given to prospective recipients based on desired qualities such as athletic ability, academic achievement or involvement in a certain extracurricular activities. Scholarships can also be based on particular traits like ancestral background or group affiliation.

•

GRANTS: Grants tend to be need based and are available to students based on criteria such as family income. The federal and state government are the primary sources of grants. One of the most commonly known federal grants is the Pell Grant. State-funded grants ordinarily go to students pursuing an education in his or her respective state.

•

STUDENT LOANS: A student loan (taken out by the student or parent) can be subsidized or unsubsidized and both need to be repaid. A subsidized loan does not accrue interest until the student ends his or her education, by graduating or withdrawal. The repayment begins about six months later. An unsubsidized loan begins to accrue interest as soon as the loan is disbursed and is to be repaid starting six months after graduation.

•

BOTH GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS usually have requirements that must be met in order to continue to receive funding, such as maintaining a certain GPA. It’s important that recipients understand these requirements so that they do not find themselves without expected aid.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

(Continued from page 47...)

SUCCESS FACTORS

Many factors contribute to a student’s success in undergraduate school, including the course load they take, their school-work balance if they’re working while enrolled, the grades they achieve, and communication with school faculty.

“It’s important for students to understand that their education is a partnership with us.” – Dr. Jenna Lloyd-Fitzgerald, Lynchburg College

Dr. Lloyd-Fitzgerald says she wants students to know that getting organized and staying focused help lead to academic success. “The culture here regarding student success is paramount – Lynchburg College does an amazing job at developing different programs to help facilitate student success and I think it’s important for students to engage in those programs,” she explains. “Teams of faculty, staff, and students are working on behalf of students, and from a student’s standpoint, they really have to engage in those activities and be a part of what’s going on in the classroom as well as in the community. Connections are important, and it’s important that students, when they come on campus, feel that connection to their peers, to the College and surround themselves with positive energy and people.”

Jenna Lloyd-Fitzgerald, DNP, APRN-BC, MSMIT is the Director of Nursing Program and Assistant Professor of Nursing at Lynchburg College.

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EXPERT CONTRIBUTERS Jim Lemons, PhD is dean of the division of Business and Allied Health at Central Virginia Community College. Ralph Linstra, EdD is the dean of Liberty University’s School of Health Sciences. Jenna Lloyd-Fitzgerald, DNP, APRN-BC, MSMIT is the Director of Nursing Program and Assistant Professor of Nursing at Lynchburg College.

At CVCC, Dr. Lemons says they help students succeed before they are even admitted to a program. That careful evaluation involves looking at a variety of factors: •

High school GPA--particularly in math, chemistry, physics, biology, medical terminology (if applicable), and English

•

attendance record

•

Writing sample or essay that demonstrates their knowledge of a particular field of interest

•

A self-appraisal

•

An interview

•

Answers to questions related to their community involvement and leadership abilities

Students who achieve academic success by completing their designated course of study---whether it’s earning a certificate, diploma, associate degree or bachelor’s degree---and begin a healthcare career shouldn’t assume that their education is over. Healthcare professionals often return to school to further their career opportunities by earning an advanced degree, which for many means entering graduate or medical school.

NEXT IN OUR SERIES

Part III of OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside magazine’s four-part series How to in Healthcare examines the steps necessary to prepare for graduate school, on-the-job clinical training through residency and/or fellowship training. Be on the lookout for Part III in the August/September 2016 edition!

ON THE WEB

More at ourhealthlbss.com 50

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Photos courtesy of Woody G. Watts, Watts Creative Studios.

YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day,

recently held at the Jamerson Family YMCA on Saturday, April 30, is part of a nationwide initiative to motivate families and children to make healthy lifestyle choices. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the event helps youth discover their full potential – their WOW, their COOL, their SUPER. Kids and families were able to participate in fun physical and learning activities throughout the day, including nutrition education from the Virginia Department of Health, hands-on STEM activities such as coding and center of gravity/movement experiments, impromptu dance classes and information from local libraries on summer programs. Healthy snacks were included as well, offering delicious and easy-to-prepare options for everyone’s appetite. Children were encouraged to share their future goals and aspirations at the “Zoe for President” booth – a YMCA initiative aimed at developing children from cradle to career. Kids at the YMCA want to become gymnasts, dentists, teachers, crime scene investigators, the President, police officers, authors, soldiers, preachers, inventors, doctors, astronauts and veterinarians. Fun games were provided by the YMCA on Wheels activity bus and several fitness class demos were held, including Zumba, Cardio Funk and Kids Cross Fit.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

ON THE WEB

More at ourhealthlbss.com

www.OurHealthlbss.com

S T I B T I F words | DEIDRE

WILKE

GET TO

ND TH A HEAL N SS O FITNE O THE G

Deidre Wilkes, AFAA, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer Deidre is the resident fitness specialist for OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside.

THE 'C

ORE' O

F YOUR

It’s the new buzzword – work your ‘core’. Everybody is

WORK

OUT!

talking about it, there are classes devoted to it, people talk about it in the gym – "I want to work my core." But, where is that mysterious body part, and how exactly am I supposed to work it?

Your ‘core’ is the midsection of the body and it involves all the muscles in that area including the front, back and sides. These muscles work as stabilizers for the entire body. Core training is simply doing specific exercises to develop and strengthen these stabilizer muscles. So, why is this type of exercise getting so much attention these days? Simple—Americans are getting more and more sedentary. Prolonged sitting and no exercise weakens the muscles in your midsection. This can lead to problems like low back pain and protruding waistlines.

FIND A CORE CLASS: Check out these local facilities that offer core classes and training: *membership and/or class fees may be required

Iron and Grace Lynchburg | 434.944.8633 www.ironandgraceva.com

Peakland Pilates Lynchburg | 434.384.5354 www.peaklandpilates.com

Okay, so that explains it, now how do I accomplish it?

Jamerson Family YMCA

The good news is that core training is for EVERYONE! And, better yet, there are a variety of group core classes that take the guesswork out of selecting exercises and are fun! Plus, most classes dedicated to core workouts are generally only 30 to 45 minutes, so there isn’t a big time commitment!

Lynchburg | 434.582.1900 www.ymcacva.org

WORKOUT STATS: MODERATE INTENSITY LOW

MODERATE

HIGH

CORE

STRENGTH

U SCL E S

ENDURANCE BALANCE

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DOCTORS The Newton Family in Lagun, Curacao.

Dr. Richard Newton words | SUSAN BRANDT

A Close-Up View of the Interplay of Life A radiologist and a scuba diver, Richard Newton, MD, lives in a world most people never have a chance to see. As a diagnostic radiologist, he spends his workdays carefully examining detailed high-resolution images of patients' functioning organs, vessels and muscles. He uses high-tech imaging to rule out or pinpoint abnormalities, diseases, tumors and other disorders. As a scuba diver with nearly 500 dives, he has experienced countless face-to-face encounters with vibrant marine life — from thriving pristine coral and colorful schools of fish to sharks and poisonous predators. Dr. Newton thrives on exploring and researching the interrelationships of life. “Something inside me makes me want to see other places,” he says. “We live in an incredible world. I get to watch the interplay and interconnection of life up close. I am astounded when I think of all we can do in imaging today, and seeing God’s gifts under the water is stunning. I am blessed to be part of all of this.”

Inspired by the Unlikely As a teenager growing up in central Mississippi, Dr. Newton loved off-road motocross racing. Plowing through muddy paths, steering into tight turns and soaring over 56

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major jumps fueled his love for speed and adventure. “It was exhilarating, and I was an adrenaline junkie,” he says. However, his life took a dramatic turn as a 17-year-old high school senior. He had just sold his bike to help pay for his first semester at the University of Denver, and he was taking one last road ride. The car in front of him stopped. He maneuvered over and expertly laid his motorcycle down in a drainage ditch — an easy move for a motocross racer. But the driver turned the car, smashing the bumper into his knee and leg. His injuries were life-altering and life-threatening. A passerby saved his life by tightly gripping his hands around Dr. Newton’s thigh. His actions stopped the profuse bleeding until an ambulance crew arrived. The hospital was still 25 miles away. Soon he would see on his hospital X-ray that the bones in his lower leg were not anywhere close together. His leg would never heal. For the next year, he spent weeks in and out of the hospital battling infection after infection in his leg. He had no choice but to have his leg amputated below his knee. “It was pretty obvious that my leg needed to go because it wasn’t healing,” he says. “It would heal a little bit and then get infected again.” He graduated from high school in a wheelchair and struggled to adapt to his prosthesis at college that fall. His hospital stays helped him decide to pursue a medical degree. He wanted to be a surgeon, but as he learned more about how radiology plays an important role in nearly every part of the body, he changed his focus to radiology.

Life Renewed As a college freshman with mobility struggles, he didn’t get out to socialize often. Then he met Grace. Grace rejuvenated his love for adventure, and she opened his eyes to new sports and physically challenging endeavors. She encouraged him to learn to snow ski through a nationally recognized amputee ski program in Colorado.

“I was at that crucial age of 18, and I wanted to be normal,” Dr. Newton says. “Grace showed me all the possibilities, and I became determined to learn to snow ski. I was adamant that if I was going to ski, I was going to be on two skis. I started down the slope, twisted my knee, and had to be brought down on the back of a snowmobile. It was humiliating. Grace convinced me to try again with three skis — one ski and two little outrigger skis on a crutch — and I was successful.” Not only did he succeed, but he also gained the confidence he needed to regain a life of high adventure. Today, they are married and Grace Newton, MD, is a Lynchburg dermatologist. The couple has always included their two children in their scuba diving, snow skiing, water skiing and other sports. International diving and skiing are family sports that have helped unite them. Now grown, their daughter, Anna, is a dive master, and their son, Alex, is a dive instructor. Last summer, Anna worked with wounded warriors at Patriot Scuba in Northern Virginia, teaching and assisting them with diving. She www.OurHealthlbss.com

“In the past we would have discovered the lesion and sent her straight to surgery, and that would have been that. Our survival [rate] is better. And I like to think pain and suffering is less because we were able to do a needle biopsy rather than sending the patient to surgery.” – Richard Newton, MD

also drafted the disabled diver certification manual. In college, Alex hosted tank dives, known as bubble parties, for middle school students. The Newtons passed on their love for medicine too. Anna is earning her master’s degree in public health, and Alex is completing his podiatry residency. Family time can easily turn into discussions about evolving healthcare trends, new surgical techniques and advances in medical technology. “We always joke that Alex will join our ranks and take call, and Anna will do policy and tell us all what to do,” Dr. Newton says.

Medicine Today As a radiologist at Radiology Consultants of Lynchburg for three decades, Dr. Newton has a unique front row seat to the rapidly changing landscape in healthcare and the technological advances in imaging.

“It’s a whole different ballgame,” he says. “I came out of medical school at a time when CTs were just beginning to be needed. MRIs were just around the corner. When our first MRI was installed, I thought it would never catch on. It takes too long. It’s too expensive. Now you can’t live without it, so usage continues to be on a steep incline.” Dr. Newton marvels at today’s newer, faster CT and MRI scanners. Early MRIs required a lot of time to perform, and the images were filled 58

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with artifacts. When he images a wrist today, he can peer between the delicate wrist bones to see tiny ligaments. CT scans are clearer too. Advanced CT scanners have led to clear images of moving vessels like the heart, making the detail in the fine heart blood vessels significantly more visible.

on your tablet or smartphone

In today’s medical-lawsuit-driven climate, a major part of Dr. Newton’s role is helping physicians make certain they don’t miss something in their diagnoses. Physicians have to be more concerned with doing too little than doing too much. Who knows how much is enough? Dr. Newton says that’s why the American College of Radiology has developed a series of guidelines to assist referring physicians and other healthcare providers in making the most appropriate imaging or treatment decisions. “It gives you a decision tree,” he says, “and that’s important, especially in emergency medicine.” The latest technology has made sharing his findings with other physicians faster and easier. “I call the referring physician about a case. We look at the images together and discuss the patient. It is instantaneous. I dictate my report, hit a button, and it’s in the hands of another doctor. It takes about 20 minutes to image a patient and 20 minutes to reconstruct the images and scroll through them carefully with a critical eye. That’s at least half the time it would have taken before. One CT study may contain hundreds to a thousand images.” Dr. Newton recently found a nodule on a woman’s chest X-ray. That led to her having a rapid CT, a biopsy and a PET scan, which turned up a liver lesion and created the need for a liver MRI. “In the past we would have discovered the lesion and sent her straight to surgery, and that would www.OurHealthlbss.com

have been that,” he says. “Our survival [rate] is better. And I like to think pain and suffering is less because we were able to do a needle biopsy rather than sending the patient to surgery.” Dr. Newton lectures at the Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine, and he enjoys sharing his radiology expertise with students. “It’s pretty cool to be able to look at all the functioning muscles, vessels and organs,” he says. “When I lecture at Liberty University, I get excited. When I show a set of images, students get wide-eyed. I love to open this world to someone else.”

Share Your Story Dr. Newton says he finds great reward in encouraging people and sharing what he has learned from his life experiences. “It’s the concept of paying it forward,” he says. “Whether or not that person helps you out, you get it back.”

After his accident, Dr. Newton was a major recipient of this “paying it forward’ concept. A Vietnam veteran amputee who heard about his injury began visiting him in the hospital. “He sought me out and stayed with me,” Dr. Newton says. “Someone told him it wasn’t looking good for me. He encouraged me by sharing his experiences. He helped me understand that my life was not over. I was going to get married. I was going to have kids. I was going to have a life. It was going to be OK. He gave me the basis I needed.” On a dive trip to a small fishing area in the Dutch Caribbean, Dr. Newton says his experiences came full circle. He pulled on his diving equipment and put on his artificial leg — a pipe with a foot. A family drove up and parked nearby. “I see this family getting out of the car,” he recalls. “Then I see a very sad young boy on crutches having trouble getting out of the back seat. I know he is a recent below-the-knee amputee because I can see the suture lines. He is so sad that I can tell he is where I was 40-some years ago. He’s thinking his world is over. “I look back. The family looks like they are in a time machine. They all stare. I stop and wave. Then I head to the water, put on my fin and swim away.

“That’s the cool thing. Even without words you can pass on an important message to someone else. Nothing I have done is remarkable. It’s 60

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the people around me who have helped me and supported me who are remarkable. I want to share my experiences so others can use what I’ve learned and move on with their lives. For me, that’s what constitutes happiness.”

About Richard Newton, MD Richard Newton, MD, a board-certified radiologist, is a partner in Radiology Consultants in Lynchburg with more than three decades of experience. He is a physician and family practice residency proctor for Centra, and he lectures at Liberty University. Dr. Newton is a Fellow of the American College of Radiology, one of the highest honors in the country for radiologists. He received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and completed his internship and residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Denver.

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the 2016 OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside Primary Care Series: an issue-by-issue overview

+++ february

| march

KNOW YOUR CARE:

T PAR

understanding your health and how to maintain it

III

+++ april

| may

DO YOUR CARE: taking action with your health

+++ june

| july

SHARE YOUR CARE:

SHARE YOUR

care words | GERI ASTON

Your Healthy and You Know It and You’re Proud to Show It!

Primary care physicians are our partners on the road to good health. They urge us to get our vaccinations and preventive health screenings. They’re the ones reminding us to eat healthy and exercise. But sometimes it’s easier to get on and stay on the path to good health when we have company on the journey. Then once we’ve adopted a healthy lifestyle, we can set a good example for others and perhaps inspire them to join us. This article, the third in a yearlong OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside series about primary care, focuses on “sharing your care.” With the advice of primary care physicians, we’ll provide ideas for how to work healthy practices into your daily life and possibly motivate others to do the same.

setting good examples for others to learn and live by

+++ august

| september

INSPIRE YOUR CARE: keeping creative with fresh care ideas

+++ october

| november

MEASURE YOUR CARE:

tracking your efforts to ensure you’re on the right path

+++ december

| january

CELEBRATE YOUR CARE:

rejoicing the rewards realized from taking good care of yourself

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Slim Down

and Move Around

Grocery and garden: Tools to share for healthy eating

1. Do not bring home junk food. The person who does the food shopping can do a lot to help the whole family eat healthier. Simply not bringing home junk food and sweetened drinks makes it harder for you and your family to give in to temptation. They might get it elsewhere on their own, but at least you’re not enabling bad choices.

2. Switch to diet soda. Replace regular soda with diet, and if you make sweet tea, start cutting back on the sugar you use.

3. Buy frozen fruits and veggies. Doctors remind us to eat more fruit and vegetables, but adding more fresh produce to your family’s diet can be difficult when you’re on a tight budget. Frozen fruits and vegetables can be good, less-expensive alternatives, and fruits canned in water are healthier than fruits canned in syrup.

4. Plant a vegetable garden. If you have a yard with a sunny patch, planting your own vegetable garden can boost your supply of vegetables and maybe even get your kids excited about eating them. As an added benefit, gardening gets you up, active and outside.

One of the most significant health issues in the Lynchburg region, and indeed the country, is the obesity epidemic, says Jarrett Dodd, MD, a family physician with Central Virginia Family Physicians in Forest. A recent analysis of his patients found that more than 70 percent of them fell outside of the healthy weight range for their height. "Obesity contributes to many of the chronic health problems that are common today, including high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, degenerative arthritis and heart disease. This makes it critical that patients address their weight problems," Dr. Dodd says. He refers many of his patients who are trying to achieve a healthier weight to Weight Watchers. Dr. Dodd prefers the program because it teaches people to make good buying choices among foods they see in their own grocery store as opposed to purchasing prepackaged meals from a diet plan. “This helps the patient continue with healthy habits even when they are no longer involved in the program,” he says. Another big plus is that Weight Watchers meetings provide accountability and moral support for patients as they struggle to lose weight. Dr. Dodd encourages his patients to attend the meetings. “If they can go with a friend, all the better,” he adds. Exercise is another important part of weight loss and of healthy living in general. The recommended amount of exercise for the average adult is at least 150 minutes a week of moderate activity. As a rule (Continued on page 66...)

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"Obesity contributes to many of the chronic health problems that are common today, including high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, degenerative arthritis and heart disease. This makes it critical that patients address their weight problems."

Jarrett Dodd, MD, is a family physician with Central Virginia Family Physicians in Forest. Dr. Dodd is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Many older individuals will share with their provider, family or friends what they would have done differently, but also how they are proud of the healthy choices they have made, for example quitting smoking or staying physically active."

Lorna Nissen, NP sees patients at Centra Medical Group-Village in Moneta. www.OurHealthlbss.com

(Continued from page 64...)

of thumb, moderate activity means exercise you can do while carrying on a conversation without getting out of breath. Walking is one of the best exercises. It’s free and is good for people in any age group. But walking is just one option. Physicians recommend you find something you like to do that doesn’t involve sitting. Doctors also suggest making exercise social, not just for your own health and happiness, but to motivate yourself and others. Both exercise and socializing ease anxiety and depression, so it’s good to combine the two. For example, instead of walking by yourself, walk with your spouse or join or start a walking group. Invite a friend to a yoga class, find a workout buddy or ask a friend to walk a 5K (just over three miles) with you.

Sharing Health

Across the Age Divide Lora Nissen, a nurse practitioner at Centra Medical Group-Village in Moneta, suggests that people of different generations can help each other on the road to healthy living. A younger person can share his or her healthy lifestyle with older family members and friends to encourage them to adopt healthy behaviors that will improve their health. For example, a younger person could ask an older friend to participate in a new activity or show the older person how to track food intake and exercise on a smart phone or computer. Or a younger person could invite their older family members and friends to attend classes in their community or school about disease prevention and health promotion. Likewise, older family members and friends can help younger folks by sharing their past experiences. These stories can help younger people learn how the choices they make today can affect their health in the future, Nissen says. The older generation can also share knowledge about how to find a healthy balance throughout the different stages of life. “Many older individuals will share with their provider, family or friends what they would have done differently, but also how they are proud of the healthy choices they have made, for example quitting smoking or staying physically active,” Nissen says. “Hearing this can provide encouragement for the younger person to make these same healthy choices and see the benefits.” (Continued on page 69...)

DRIVING SAFELY:

MODELING HEALTHY CHOICES Living a healthy lifestyle involves more than going to the doctor, taking your medicine and exercising. Everyday choices impact our health, and making good choices can inspire friends and loved ones to do the same.

You can set a good example by wearing your seatbelt, not texting or talking on the phone while driving and not drinking and driving.

LIMITING SCREEN TIME: Balancing screen time with time outside is not just good for kids, but also for adults.

NOT SMOKING: Studies show that children whose parents smoke are more likely to take up the habit. Primary care doctors can help smokers who want to quit. Nicotine replacement products such as lozenges, gum, patches and inhalers make it easier. Your success might encourage others.

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Cancer Screenings Breast cancer (women) 40-49 Discuss with your doctor or nurse. 50-64 Starting at age 50, get screened every two years. 65 and older Get screened every two years through age 74. Age 75 and older, ask your doctor or nurse if you need to be screened.

SHARE YOUR CARE WHEN IT COMES

Cervical cancer (women) 18-39 Get a Pap test every three years if you are 21 or older and have a cervix. If you are 30 or older, you can get a Pap test and human papillomavirus (HPV)* test together every five years.

TO CANCER

40-49 Get a Pap test and HPV test together every five years if you have a cervix.

SCREENINGS

50-64 Get a Pap test and HPV test together every five years if you have a cervix.

Once you reach age 50, doctors recommend several cancer screenings. If you have a family history of early cancers, your physician might suggest screening before 50. These tests could detect lethal diseases before they become lethal, says Jarrett Dodd, MD, a family physician with Central Virginia Family Physicians in Forest.

65 and older Ask your doctor or nurse if you need to get a Pap test.

Although most cancer screenings have a degree of invasiveness to them, they reduce mortality and help to lessen the need for expensive medical treatments later on. “These are very compelling reasons to undergo the temporary discomfort and embarrassment and get these tests done, and to encourage your loved ones to do so as well,” Dr. Dodd says.

Colorectal cancer (men and women) 40-49 You might be screened if you have a strong family history of colon cancer or polyps or if you have risk factors, such as a history of inflammatory bowel disease or polyps. 50-64 Starting at age 50, get screened for colorectal cancer. Talk to your doctor or nurse about which screening test is best for you and how often you need it. 65 and older Get screened for colorectal cancer through age 75.

Lung cancer (men and women) 50-64 Starting at age 55, get an annual screening if you have a 30 pack-year smoking history** and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. 65 and older Get screened through age 80.

Prostate cancer (Men) 50-64 Men should discuss prostate cancer screening with their doctor starting at age 50, or younger for African-American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer in a close relative younger than age 65. Prostate examinations are no longer routinely done on men with no symptoms. 65 and older Talk with your doctor about prostate cancer screening. * Human papillomavirus (HPV) – A type of virus that can cause abnormal tissue growth and other changes to cells. Long-term infection with certain types of HPV can cause cervical cancer. ** Smoking history pack-year – A way to measure the amount a person has smoked over a long period of time. It is calculated by multiplying the number of packs of cigarettes smoked per day by the number of years the person has smoked. For example, one packyear is equal to smoking one pack per day for one year, or two packs per day for half a year. Source: National Institutes of Health, www.nih.gov.

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(Continued from page 66...)

Dig into Your

Health Roots Knowing your family history and sharing it with other family members enables you and your family to be proactive about making lifestyle choices that could affect whether some illnesses with a hereditary component will develop.

EXPERT CONTRIBUTERS Jarrett Dodd, MD, a family physician with Central Virginia Family Physicians in Forest. Lora Nissen, a nurse practitioner at Centra Medical Group-Village in Moneta.

“Having a conversation with your family members about their health is a gateway to learning more about how you can manage and possibly even prevent life-altering medical conditions like cancer, heart disease and diabetes,” says Lora Nissen, a nurse practitioner at Centra Medical Group-Village in Moneta. “The sooner you have this conversation about hereditary conditions, the more the chances of you living a healthier life increase.” Education is key to disease prevention and health promotion, Nissen adds. Your family's health history is part of that education.

Next in our Series Part IV of OurHealth magazine’s six-part series “The Bridge to Better Health Starts with Primary Care” examines creative ways to stay inspired to focus on your health. This is the halfway point in the series, and the halfway point of your new health plan. Now, is the perfect time to help inspire (or re-inspire) the path to your goals. Be on the lookout for Part IV in the August/September 2016 edition!

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words | JENNIFER HELLIER

As the months heat up, it’s time to make sure you’re taking care of your skin! According to the American Cancer Society, the number of skin cancer cases per year in the US has been on the rise. At OurHealth, we care about helping you stay healthy, so we’ve come up with a list of ten dermatologist-approved tips you can use to protect your skin.

2. Protect your skin even on cool or cloudy days. While you may not be able to see the sun on cloudy days, UV rays are always present. In fact, the American Cancer Society says cloudy days are when you’re most likely to get sunburned. Be sure to protect your skin.

1. Do Not Burn. Our first tip seems like a bit of an understatement. The Skin Cancer Foundation says that tanning alone can indicate damage to your skin, but a burn means you’ve gotten too much sun.

3. Seek shade, especially during the sun’s peak hours. If you do happen to be outdoors, an umbrella or a nice, shady tree can be welcome relief from the sun’s harsh rays, and the perfect place to relax and enjoy being outside.

4. Wear Sun Protective Clothing. "Wear long sleeved rash guards, wide-brimmed hats and other sun protective clothing. Clothing labeled “UPF+” will reflect UV rays, and is an easy and convenient way to protect broad areas of skin from the sun."

Samantha E. Hill, MD, FAAD

RidgeView Dermatology www.ridgeviewdermatology.com

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Dermatology Centers Aesthetic Surgery of Virginia A variety of aesthetic services are offered, including surgical and non-surgical facial and body procedures, as well as medical grade skin care and laser skin therapy. 3505 Brambleton Avenue, SW | Roanoke 540.994.7408 | www.silberblatt.com

Blue Ridge Aesthetics Center Medical skin care services include acne treatment, botox, microdermabrasion, laser hair reduction, laser veintreatment and more. 102 Annjo Court | Forest 434.455.7546 | www.blueridgeaesthetics.com

Centra Medical Group Healthy Skin Care Center In office procedures include botox, fillers, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser treatment for hair, vein and brown spot removal, and more. Oak Vassar Medical Building 1330 Oak Lane, Suite 103 | Lynchburg www.centramedicalgroup.com

Central Virginia Dermatology Board certified dermatologists offer diagnosis and treatment of acne, moles, psoriasis, rashes, rosacea, skin cancers, warts, and wrinkles. 2203 Graves Mill Road, Suite A | Forest 434.385.1982 | www.centralvaderm.com

Central Virginia Oral & Facial Surgery Cosmetic facial procedures include brow and forehead lifts, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), botox, treatment of facial wrinkles, and more. 1509 West Third Street, Suite 203 | Farmville 434.394.2329 | www.cvofs.net 101 Archway Court | Lynchburg 434.832.8040 | www.cvofs.net

Dermatology Consultants Board certified dermatologists provide services related to general and cosmetic dermatology as well as skin cancer. General dermatology services include full-body skin exams as an essential method of screening for benign or cancerous lesions, treatment for acne, age spots, allergic skin conditions, eczema, fungal infections, rosacea, moles, sun damage, and more. Cosmetic dermatology services include non-invasive skin rejuvenation, sclerotherapy (for the treatment of varicose and spider veins). Identification, diagnosis, and treatment of skin cancers including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and actinic keratosis is provided by trained and experienced dermatologists. 1330 Oak Lane, Suite 101 | Lynchburg www.lynchburgdermatology.com

RidgeView Dermatology Board certified dermatologists offer a full array of services including chemical peels, dermabrasion, fillers, treatment of cysts, moles, veins, and wrinkles, as well as identification, diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers. 101 Candlewood Court | Lynchburg 434.363.4190 | www.ridgeviewdermatology.com

CAUTION

5. Use extra caution near water, snow, and sand. Water, snow, and sand all have a high albedo, which means these surfaces reflect harmful UV rays and increase your chances of getting sunburned while near them. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen!

6. Avoid intentional tanning and tanning beds.

While tanning can give you that skin tone you’re aiming for, lots of exposure to UV rays can really increase your chances of getting skin cancer down the road. It’s important to take care of your skin!

7. Try to schedule your outdoor activities to avoid peak times a of sun.

Peak times can range from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Scheduling any activities for before and after these times can really save your skin.

Grace Newton, MD, FAAD

Grace A. Newton, MD, Dermatology www.dermatologylynchburg.com

Vitamin D

Vi ta m in

a Vit

Vita

D in amVita t i min D V

min D

8. Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet or vitamin supplements. It can be difficult to get vitamin D without getting sun damage. Luckily, there are safe, healthy alternatives. For instance, WebMD suggests vitamin D rich foods like fatty fish (e.g. tuna, mackerel, salmon), egg yolks and cheese. Vitamin supplements are also an easy way to get vitamin D into your diet.

MAR

MAY

APRIL

9. Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. "Applying sunscreen at least 15 minutes before getting wet or sweating will allow it to absorb into your skin, giving you better protection. Reapplying every two hours or so can help ensure that your skin doesn’t burn. Make sure to cover all skin that will not be covered by clothing — don’t forget the top of your head, tops of your ears and feet, and the back of your neck!"

Soni Carlton, MD

JUNE

JUL

10. Carefully examine all of your skin once a month.

Dermatology Consultants www.lynchburgdermatology.com

Detecting melanoma early can save your life. If you find a new or growing spot on your skin, have it examined by a professional dermatologist immediately.

Sources

American Cancer Society - www.cancer.org National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention - www.skincancerprevention.org The Skin Cancer Foundation - www.skincancer.org WebMD - www.webmd.com

Expert Contributors Samantha E. Hill MD FAAD RidgeView Dermatology | www.ridgeviewdermatology.com Soni Carlton, MD Dermatology Consultants | www.lynchburgdermatology.com Grace Newton MD FAAD Grace A. Newton, MD, Dermatology | www.dermatologylynchburg.com

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closer LOOK

Can you identify which local practice the image belongs to?

E E R AF

n N o I i W ript

c h s t b l u a S e H r u ! e O n o i T agaz M

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