San Joaquin Health Magazine May 2022 by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 - 2023 EDITION

SAN JOAQUIN’S

GUIDE TO A HEALTHY

YOU IN ‘22

THE MAGAZINE TO

HEALTH & WELLNESS IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY

Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

“Our Mission” Improve the lives of patients through excellent Cardiovascular education, prevention, and the highest quality care. • Complete cardiovascular care from prevention to intervention. • Recognized expert in sport cardiology in USA and internationally. • Cardiovascular leadership at State and National level.

N O W O P E N I N L O D I 1210 W Tokay St. 209.370.3580 S TO C K TO N : 2633 Pacific Ave. 209.944.5530 2

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Made for more adventures

You were made for more. More time outdoors. More long evenings. More exploration. And that’s why regular checkups with your primary care provider are so important. The key to a happier, healthier life is detection and prevention of long-term health issues. Your local Adventist Health provider can help each member of your family get the most out of life through regular exams, in person or virtually. If you haven’t seen a provider in the past year, our nearby healthcare experts are now accepting new patients.

Scan to schedule an appointment online or visit AdventistHealthLodiMemorial.org/PrimaryCare Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

Contents Features

HEALTH 2022

WHAT’S HERE 8 WHAT’S NEW IN HEALTH: 2022 Impress your friends with these hot tidbits 9 WILL I GET CANCER? Prevention and preparedness are key 10 AGING GRACEFULLY You don’t need to go under the knife 12 TOOTH WHITENING: MYTHS & TRUTHS Tips for a whiter smile

16 14 A DIET FOR YOUR MOUTH How to eat for healthy teeth 16 KEEP SPRING ALLERGIES AT BAY Testing and treatments to find relief 18 SUGAR SUBSTITUTES AND YOUR GUT Learn more about alternatives 19 WHEN SHOULD YOU USE A PERIOD TRACKER? These apps are versatile

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

20 STAYING ACTIVE WORKING FROM HOME How Will You Get Your Steps In? It’s possible, we promise 22 HOW TO SPOT SKIN CANCER Common and uncommon signs 24 A MEDITATION GUIDE FOR PEOPLE WHO SUCK AT SITTING STILL Meditation can be for you 26 HOW TO STOCK YOUR MEDICINE CABINET Safety is the number one priority 28 VIRTUAL HEALING Cardiologists turn to telehealth

22 30 NAVIGATING YOUR FIRST MAMMOGRAM Tips for your first time 32 HEALTHY HOSPITALS San Joaquin General Hospital 33 FEEDING A PICKY EATER WITH BRACES A local orthodontist tells all

34 HEALTHY HOSPITALS St. Joseph’s Medical Center 48 HEALTHY HOSPITALS Kasier 50 20/20 VISION Keep your peepers healthy

PUBLISHER’S NOTE 6

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Where the Good Life is YOUR Life. Discover a relaxed lifestyle that reflects this master planned community’s unique Delta location. Where collections of home styles are built among lakes, parks and trails. All set against a backdrop of the San Joaquin River. River Islands has its own charter schools, a lakeside restaurant and pub, sports fields, dog parks, and lots of room to put down roots and thrive. Homes are priced from the mid $500,000s to over $800,000. The Welcome Center is now open from 12-5 daily; closed Mondays, at 1401 River Islands Parkway in Lathrop.

RIVER ISLANDS

(209) 808-5168

RiverIslands.com

All neighborhood offerings, amenities and features are subject to change without notice. Prices effective as of deadline of publication.

from the publisher

A HEALTHY YOU IN 22 J

PUBLISHER | EDITOR

Tony Zoccoli EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR:

ust as health changed drastically in 2020 and again in 2021, 2022 seems to be more of the same, but for different reasons. As we find our footing in a new world of health, most of the health industry has normalized, with a few leftover trends lingering past the pandemic that we kind of love such as a focus on hygiene habits and available telehealth appointments. So, the shift we’re experiencing this year feels a more natural one—one of recovery, normalcy, and balance. We’ve stuffed our pages with real advice from real professionals, trends from those who live them, and stories that focus on physical, mental, and emotional health to treat our whole selves. In 2022, people have created kinships with plants, often naming them, as the obsession with house plants and their decorative pots picks up popularity. Meditation, yoga, and other ways to slow down the mind have also become more important this year as we all recover from a two-year (and counting) pandemic that, at times, was both anxiety- and depression-inducing. Telemedicine is here to stay, sober living as a lifestyle choice and not necessarily a necessity is more popular with plenty of zero-alcohol beverages emerging, and fitness-inspired gaming apps are taking over. Another favorite is the skew toward appreciating natural beauty and embracing natural aging instead of constantly chasing a more manufactured look. Even faux lashes, plastic surgery, and lip fillers can look natural, after all. Regardless of how your outlook on health has morphed this year, we’re sure it’s shifted at least a little in the last 12 months. But as you slowly move yourself away from the 24-hour news cycle of COVID-19 doom, remember to still stay informed on health news—perhaps with a more positive tone—so you can best take care of yourself for the year to come.

Nora Heston Tarte TRAVEL EDITOR: Nora

Heston Tarte

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2022 - 2023 EDITION

SAN JOAQUIN’S

GUIDE TO A HEALTHY

YOU IN ‘22

TONY ZOCCOLI

THE MAGAZINE TO

HEALTH & WELLNESS IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY

Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE 1463 Moffat Blvd, Suite 4, Manteca, CA 95336 Phone: 209) 833-9989

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moving forward

IN THE NEWS

What’s New in Health 2022  BY JESSICA ZIMMER

REGULAR LIGHT-TO-MODERATE DRINKING CAN HARM THE BRAIN. A study of over 36,000 adults found a significant link between drinking and reduced brain volume. The damage started when an individual consumed about half a beer per day and rose with additional drinking. Upping the intake from one to two drinks a day caused the brain to suffer an equivalent of aging two years. Heavier drinking took a more serious toll. POTTED PLANTS MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE IN INDOOR AIR QUALITY. Indoor plants help homes and offices reduce air pollution by removing nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a common pollutant, from the air. NO2 removal is not dependent on daylight and soil water content. In contrast, plants’ carbon dioxide (CO2) intake is highly dependent on these factors. 8

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

PATIENTS MAY GIVE MORE HONEST ANSWERS ON SELF-ADMINISTERED QUESTIONNAIRES THAN TO NURSING STAFF. Answering questions on a tablet computer instead of providing verbal responses may result in more accurate diagnoses. A tablet screening found twice as many patients with depression, fall risk, or intimate partner violence when compared with an in-person screening. COMMUNITIES WITH MORE RACIAL PREJUDICE HAVE WORSE HEALTH OUTCOMES. Combating racist behaviors on a community-wide level could lead to better health outcomes. These include less heart disease, fewer mental health problems, and lower overall mortality rates. ORGANS CAN HAVE DIFFERENT BIOLOGICAL AGES, DEPENDING ON THEIR INTERACTIONS. Healthy weight and high physical fitness help all organs stay healthy. Certain phenomena indicate differences between the organs. For example, having a more diverse gut microbiota indicated the gut was

young but the kidneys were older. This may be because multiple species of bacteria require the kidneys to do more work. INTERVENTIONS CAN KEEP YOUNG ATHLETES SAFER POST-CONCUSSION. Teams should work with an athletic trainer on neuromuscular training interventions that involve guided strength exercises and a focus on posture and landing stability. The effort can reduce the risk of new injuries. INFANTS BENEFIT WHEN EXPECTING MOTHERS COMPLETE MINDFULNESS PROGRAMS. An 8-week prenatal social program for mothers-to-be promoted healthier responses to stress in six-month-old infants. The ability to “bounce back” from stress is linked to better health outcomes later in life.

Information collected from ScienceDaily.com

prevention WELLNESS

Will I Get Cancer? THE KEYS TO CANCER PREVENTION  BY JESSICA ZIMMER / D

KAISER PERMANENTE OF THE CENTRAL VALLEY

wareness, information gathering, and communication are important tools for a patient concerned about cancer. Patients can get on the road to cancer prevention by improving daily diet and exercise habits, talking to family members about cancer diagnoses, and scheduling cancer screenings. “Patients who delayed cancer screenings because of the COVID-19 pandemic should schedule tests to detect warning signs early. That provides more potential to treat a cancer and with a higher rate of success,” says Dr. Megumi Tomita, oncologist with Kaiser Permanente Central Valley. Tomita adds breast cancer, colon cancer, cervical cancer, and lung cancer are among the more common cancers with regular screening options. Understanding cancer risks starts at know-

ing one’s family’s cancer history. Talking to family members to learn who has had cancer, what type or types they had, the age/s at which they were diagnosed, and ethnic backgrounds of those affected, help a patient determine their own risk. This information can also help a physician recommend appropriate screenings and frequency based on a patient’s specific health needs. Generally, women between ages 40 and 49 and over 75 should talk to their doctor about getting mammograms. For colon cancer, screening frequency depends on the type of test. A fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is an easy way to screen for colon cancer at home. For lung cancer, a heavy smoker is defined as someone with a smoking history of at least 20 “pack years,” a pack a day per year.

Making simple lifestyle adjustments can help to reduce risk of developing some cancers, especially if you are at an increased risk. Kaiser Permanente has resources available to help get patients on the right track. “Kaiser Permanente offers programs that prioritize every patient’s total health experience. [We] can help with healthy eating, nutritional counseling, mental health, wellness services, drug and alcohol treatment, and recovery,” says Tomita.

WHEN TO SCREEN Women with an average breast cancer risk between 50 and 74 should get a mammogram every one to two years. People with average colorectal cancer risk should start screening for colon cancer at 45. Lung cancer screening is recommended for people 50 and older who are or were heavy smokers.

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2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

beauty AT-HOME CARE “For some individuals the use of products or facials with ingredients such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, and peptide serums can be beneficial,” says Nicole James from LUX Dermatology. Although, she does warn consulting a dermatologist is the best first step as no product is without risk. Nicole also recommends topical retinoid medications, available both as prescriptions and over the counter, to slow the wrinkling process. Avis Chiu, PA-C, from Golden State Dermatology says a daily routine focused on anti-aging products is important. She suggests using vitamins C and E, as well as ferulic serum in the morning and retinol in the evenings, in addition to daily sunscreen.

SKIN HEALTH

AGING GRACEFULLY NON-SURGICAL SOLUTIONS FOR MAINTAINING A YOUTHFUL GLOW  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

et’s face it—if we don’t want the signs of aging to appear on our face, we’re going to need to do something about it. While there is nothing wrong with aging and it isn’t something we should shy away from, there are ways to do it more gracefully. So, if you want to look young for as long as possible without going under the knife, follow these tips from local dermatologist offices. 10

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

PREVENTION Part of maintaining a youthful appearance is taking care of your skin. This includes plenty of sun protection. Always wear sunscreen and avoid harmful UV rays as much as possible. Hats, sunglasses, and other accessories can help when you’ll be outside during peak sunshine hours.

IN-OFFICE TREATMENTS For a little extra help, seek the care of an esthetician or dermatologist. Hydrafacials and microneedling every six to eight weeks will help maintain your skin’s elasticity and fight wrinkling. Needle-less treatments using a laser can also help. WHAT ABOUT BOTOX AND FILLERS? If you want a little more without going under the knife, Botox and fillers are two options that can be preventative and/or transformative. Patients as young as 18 walk into Golden State Dermatology for preventative Botox. For the best results, Dr. Chiu recommends getting injections every 3 to 4 months while Nicole at LUX says most injections last 6-9 months. “For filler, it’s an instant improvement of some small imperfections or to shape your face,” Dr. Chiu says. “Lips have been really popular for patients in their early 20s and face shaping methods have been more popular for 30s or older.” “The decision to start such treatments should be made on an individualized basis with the full understanding of the risks and benefits of each treatment,” says Nicole.

GOLDEN STATE DERMATOLOGY

Full Spectrum Dermatology Care

The Confidence to Be Your Best General Dermatology Cosmetic Dermatology Mohs Surgery for Skin Cancer Dermatopathology Plastic Surgery Skincare Products

Patient-Centered Care to Achieve a Lifetime of Confidence in Your Skin Golden State Dermatology is a leading and comprehensive dermatology group with over 20 locations and 60+ providers in California. We are committed to providing a team of highly-trained medical professionals in a welcoming environment. Our desire is to build trusting lifelong relationships, listen to your needs, and help you achieve confidence in your skin. We specialize in medical conditions of the skin, hair and nails, the treatment of skin cancer, as well as surgical and non-surgical cosmetic skincare, anti-aging, and body contouring. We are dedicated to providing excellent and personalized care to all of our patients.

Book an appointment online at GoldenStateDermatology.com or call one of our local clinics today! 801 South Ham Lane, Suite A Lodi, CA 95242 (209) 787-3074 Published by San Joaquin Magazine

200 Cottage Avenue, Suite 201 Manteca, CA 95336 (209) 353-9810

632 West 11th Street, Suite 219 Tracy, CA 95376 (209) 500-4102

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dental health

DENTAL

TEETH WHITENING: MYTHS & TRUTHS  BY JESSICA ZIMMER

hitening your teeth safely begins with basic oral hygiene. A combination of healthy practices and avoiding dangerous home remedies will lead to a brighter smile.

TRUTH: FLOSSING AND BRUSHING AFTER EATING LEADS TO WHITER TEETH. Removing bits of food ensures there will be less plaque on the teeth. If the meal contained something highly acidic like oranges, wait about 20 minutes to brush.

TRUTH: CERTAIN FOODS AND DRINKS ARE MORE LIKELY TO STAIN TEETH, INCLUDING NUTS, CHOCOLATE, COFFEE, TEA, COLA, AND RED WINE. 12

As a rule, sticky, sugary substances like caramel can damage teeth. Fibrous, natural foods like apples and celery help clean teeth. Tobacco stains teeth. It’s a good idea to brush after using tobacco products.

TRUTH: DRINKING CERTAIN LIQUIDS THROUGH A STRAW KEEPS TEETH WHITER.

TRUTH: CHEWING SUGAR-FREE GUM AFTER EATING CLEANS TEETH.

MYTH: APPLE CIDER VINEGAR (ACV) IS SAFE FOR CLEANING TEETH.

Xylitol, a key ingredient in many sugar-free gums, slows the growth of plaque and makes saliva less acidic.

TRUTH: AVOID STAINING FOODS AFTER A WHITENING TREATMENT. It helps to avoid foods like blackberries and sauces. Opt instead for raw foods like carrots that help remove food particles from teeth.

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

Keeping iced coffee, fruit juices, and dark sodas like root beer off teeth reduces the likelihood of staining.

ACV may remove bacteria from teeth but it’s also highly acidic and can erode tooth enamel. ACV can also damage the throat and have negative interactions with medications.

MYTH: AT-HOME WHITENING KITS RELY ON THE SAME TECHNIQUES AS DENTISTS. Dentists typically use a high-intensity light that makes a tooth

whitening bleach work faster. Home tooth whitening kits tend to include hydrogen peroxide. If products containing hydrogen peroxide are used incorrectly or too often, this can lead to tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. Gels in home whitening kits are also not as strong as the gels that a dentist uses.

MYTH: IT’S SAFE TO WHITEN TEETH OFTEN. Typically, two to four tooth whitening treatments in a dentist’s office per year are sufficient. More treatments can damage enamel. For best results, consider contacting a dentist about tooth whitening on a quarterly basis.

Published by San Joaquin Magazine

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strong teeth

DENTAL

A DIET FOR YOUR MOUTH WHAT TO EAT AND NOT TO EAT FOR STRONG TEETH  BY JESSICA ZIMMER

ating to ensure good dental and overall health is about balance and substitutions. Fibrous, natural ingredients are preferable, yet too many can make meals a chore. Make small changes for a big impact. Read on for ideas.

CHOOSE FRESH INGREDIENTS OVER PREPARED FOODS. Slice tomatoes and heat them until “melted” with garlic, herbs, and a bit of honey. This is a healthier option than jarred pasta sauce as many sauces contain a high amount of sugar. For salads, choose lemon and oil with salt or oil and vinegar with herbs. Avoid creamy dressings that contain added sugars. 14

BAKE FOODS THAT WON’T NEED ADDED SUGARS. Baked sweet potatoes, apples, pears, and squashes like acorn squash are healthy choices for dinner and dessert. These foods don’t necessitate adding sugar. Avoid topping such dishes with sticky, sugary substances including caramel or marshmallows and consider making light glazes that use cinnamon or nutmeg instead.

INCLUDE A CRUDITÉS PLATTER. A plate of raw green vegetables served with a dipping sauce is low in sugar, delicious, and good for the teeth. Ideal choices include green beans, snow peas,

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

broccoli florets, wax beans, and young zucchini. Peanut, ginger, soy, onion, and dill sauces are all good accompaniments.

HAVE FRESH FRUIT WITH, ON, OR INSTEAD OF DESSERT. Berries like strawberries and raspberries are fibrous and help clean the teeth and they typically require little to no added sugar. Think of desserts that contain whole or sliced fruits, like pieces of mango. These are usually healthier than desserts like mousses that contain fruit purees.

HAVE WATER BETWEEN DRINKS. When a dinner includes staining beverages like red wine or sug-

ary drinks like cocktails, offer guests water in addition to or between drinks. The clean wash of water lowers the acidity of saliva and encourages guests to consume less alcohol and sugar.

CUT THE SALT. Reduce the amount of salt in recipes and consider substituting herbs or pepper instead. Low sodium foods are healthier, especially for older guests, and they are less likely to reduce the amount of calcium in the body. Teeth depend on calcium to remain strong.

Our Community

Locations: 4368 Spyres Way 2431 W. March Lane, Suite 100 Modesto, CA 95356 Stockton, CA 95207 209.578.6300 209.477.6300

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Our Community’s longest standing accredited, Medicare and Medi-Cal certified hospice, palliative and support services organization. Community Hospice is committed to embracing individuals and families facing life-changing journeys, providing compassionate and personalized care since 1979.

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allergy relief

SEASONAL

Keep Spring Allergies at Bay TESTING AND TREATMENT ARE

HERE TO HELP!  BY JESSICA ZIMMER

ith May flowers come spring allergies, and that can mean coughing, nasal congestion and discharge, and itchy, watery eyes. Through diagnosis and medication, however, patients can find relief. According to Dr. Gregory Bensch, a doctor with Allergy Immunology & Asthma Medical Group, which has eight offices in Central California, frequent cleaning and equipment like dust mite covers for bedding can help ease allergy symptoms. “Spring and early summer are the most intense times for pollen. The San Joaquin Valley has some of the highest levels of grass pollen in the U.S. The agricultural region is also home to molds to which people have allergic reactions,” says Dr. Bensch. An allergy specialist usually starts with skin tests to determine the substances a patient is allergic to. “A patient should tell the doctor the conditions that cause them to suffer symptoms. For example, the time of day, location, and situation triggers,” says Dr. Bensch. The next step is determining which medicine might work for

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

the patient. “At this stage, the patient should advise their health care provider [about] the over-the-counter, prescription, and holistic medicines they may be taking. They should share their other medical conditions, like asthma or diabetes, smoking habits, and whether they have heartburn,” Dr. Bensch says. “Acid reflux can play a role in sinus health.” A patient who wants to reduce the effects of an allergy can look into immunotherapy. This consists of injections that desensitize the patient to their allergies. “Allergy immunotherapy is for patients with severe symptoms for whom medicines are not working or causing unwanted side effects,” Dr. Bensch says. Wearing a tightly sealed surgical mask like an N95 can also help reduce allergy symptoms. Understanding an allergy early also helps and sets the foundation for developing good habits for summer. “Closing doors and windows when there’s wildfires or smoke and replacing air filters on a regular basis is beneficial even for patients who take medicine regularly,” Dr. Bensch says.

Hospital in Long Island, NY residency training in Internal andMedicine subsequently Allergy and at NYU-Winthrop Immunology Wake Hospital in Fellowship Long Island,at NY Forest Medical Center and Baptist subsequently Allergy andin Winston-Salem, NC. Immunology Fellowship at Wake Dr. Balduzzi Board Certified Forest BaptistisMedical Center in Winston-Salem, NC.as well as a in Internal Medicine, Balduzzi is Boardin Certified BC/BEDr.trained specialist Adult Internal Medicine, as well as a andinPediatric Allergy, Asthma BC/BE trained specialist in Adult and Pediatric Allergy, Asthma

activities including, but not limitof Buffalo, Jeffrey continues to ed to; golfing, and alpine enjoy a variety fishing of recreational skiing. activities including, but not limitDr.’s George edPracticing to; golfing,with fishing and alpine Bensch, skiing. Gregory Bensch and Michael Balduzzi our George providers Practicing with Dr.’s Bensch, Gregory Bensch continue the utmost careand for your Michaelimmunology Balduzzi our providers allergy, & respiratocontinue ry needs.the utmost care for your allergy, immunology & respiratory needs.

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in the know

“The problem is, not all sugar substitutes are made equal, and some of them are too good to be true.”

SUGAR SUBSTITUTES and Your Gut

GUT HEALTH

IS REPLACING SUGAR REALLY GOOD FOR YOU?  BY NORA HESTON TARTE e’ve all heard the news; consuming too much sugar is bad for your body and can lead to serious issue including diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and tooth decay. There’s also risk of high blood pressure, inflammation, and fatty liver disease. But when we try to limit sugar, we often look to foods with common sugar substitutes to give us that sweet taste without the downside. The only problem is, not all sugar substitutes are made equal, and some of them are too good to be true.

is 200 times sweeter than regular sugar, which means much less can be used to achieve the desired effect. It’s also low in calories, like sucralose and saccharin, which is a positive for those trying to lose weight. However, these alternatives aren’t all rainbows and butterflies. The compromise is that aspartame and sucralose have been linked to inflammation, which can lead to diabetes and other health issues. When consumed frequently, aspartame may even have negative effects on the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys.

THE TRUTH ABOUT SUGAR SUBSTITUTES

THE GUT PUNCH

There are some upsides to common substitutes. Aspartame, which is found in diet sodas and low-fat and processed foods, 18

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

Here’s where it gets worse. Saccharin, sucralose, and aspartame—all artificial sweeteners used to replace sugar—can

lead to bad gut bacteria, souring beneficial bacteria in the gut. The problem is that sugar has a negative impact on gut health, as well, as diets high in added sugar can eliminate those same healthy bacteria that keep us feeling good. The imbalance then leads to increased sugar cravings, creating a never-ending cycle of stomachaches and other ailments.

THE BETTER OPTIONS Too much sugar of any kind is going to wreak havoc on gut bacteria, but there is a better way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Natural sweeteners, such as Stevia, Erythritol, Xylitol, Yacon syrup, agave, and monk fruit sweetener, will all fair better when consumed in moderation. Allulose is another alternative gaining popularity and it better mimics the taste of refined sugar. Honey, molasses, and maple syrup are other natural alternatives, but they are still high in sugar and best used in moderation.

family planning health

HEALTH TECH

WHEN SHOULD YOU USE a Period Tracker? PSST IT’S FOR MORE THAN

GETTING PREGNANT  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

racking your period may sound like the first step in trying to get pregnant, but the truth is, almost every woman (and their partners) can benefit from a period tracking app. Free downloads and features that allow you to set alerts and notifications make using the app and benefitting from its functions easy. So, when should you download a period tracking app? We say right now is a good time to start.

CONTRACEPTION Tracking your period has long been used to help women establish their most fertile days. This can aid in conception, but the reason it works is because it puts you in tune with your body. Many who use a period tracking app actually do so to avoid getting pregnant. It’s clearly not a replacement for birth control, but it is another tool available to signal when you’re ovulating and could get pregnant as well as when your period is expected to start. Period trackers do not, of course, protect against pregnancy or STIs.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOURSELF Whether your period runs like clockwork or is annoyingly unreliable, knowing what is normal for you can help users monitor overall health. Sometimes women get too busy to notice if their periods are irregular. They may also miss patterns. Using a period tracker that allows you to clock your cycle, including information on flow and other symptoms, can open the doors to better understanding your body, and signal if there is anything concerning you may want to contact a doctor about. There are also apps directed toward men, used to help them keep track of their partner’s period, allowing men to be involved in the TTC (trying to conceive) or trying NOT to conceive conversation, too.

WHICH ONE TO USE There are countless apps on the market so choosing one will likely be a process of trial and error. It can help to select an app that caters to your needs. For example, some are geared toward TTC users more than others. Others allow space to track symptoms and emotions, which can give further insight into your body and moods. From usability to design to ease of function, there is a lot to consider. And for others, it may be accessibility that makes the decision for you. Many smart phones, including iPhones, have a built-in health app that includes period tracking.

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

at home

HEALTHY YOU

STAYING ACTIVE WHILE WORKING FROM HOME DAILY MOVEMENT IS STILL POSSIBLE WITH THESE TIPS  BY ANGELA RUDOLPH

hen you work from home, it’s easy to get wrapped up in responsibilities and forget to take care of your physical health. You move from the bed to the table, to the couch, and your desk…. but that’s pretty much it. So, how do you beat the burden of convenience and get your steps in each day when you live in your office? Here are a few ways to stay in shape while working from home.

TRACK YOUR ACTIVITY. Simply tracking a positive behavior by writing it down helps increase the behavior. By tracking how many steps you’ve taken or the crunches and 20

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squats you’ve done, you’ll naturally begin to do more of them. Either write them down or use an app or smart watch and see your healthy activity increase! CREATE A ROUTINE. Consciously decide that you’re going to start each day with a brisk walk or opt for five squats after each restroom break. When you routinize your healthy choices, they become habits. BLOCK OUT TIME ON YOUR CALENDAR. Physical health is tied closely to mental health. Put physical activity breaks as meetings on your calendar app and treat that time like an actual meeting! When that notification pops up and it’s time to exercise, follow through. CREATE A SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT. Choose furniture that supports a lifestyle full of movement. Make small changes like using a standing desk or an

office chair without arm rests. When you have an office chair without arm rests, you must use more of your abdominal muscles each time you stand. Over time those little movements add up to healthy benefits for your body. FIND AN ACCOUNTABILITY BUDDY. Make plans with a friend or neighbor. When you have someone to go on a walk around the block with, it makes it easier to stick to that plan and not skip your workout. SWITCH IT UP. Physical activity can get mundane if you do the same thing all the time. Find ways to change up your workouts like going for a bike ride or trying a new route for your walk. There are so many free home workout videos available on YouTube, you can do mat-Pilates one day and a boxing cardio session the next. Keep it interesting and your mind will be as happy as your body!

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Dermatology Medical Services:

Acne, Rashes, Scar Revision, Skin Cysts, Eczema, Fungal Nail Infections and Psoriasis

Amin Esfahani, M.D. Dermatologist

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Botox, Dermal Fillers, Skin Rejuvenation and Laser Hair Removal

Stephen Doggett, M.D. Non-Invasive Radiotherapy

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www.luxdermatologists.com Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

in the know

How To SKIN HEALTH

Spot

KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

kin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. In fact, numbers indicate that 1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, or AAD, 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer in the U.S. every day.

Skin Cancer

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RISK FACTORS Living in sunny states and spending a lot of time outside exposed to harmful UV rays make people more susceptible to skin cancer. Living in California encourages this type of lifestyle, so residents in the sunshine state may be more at risk than others. Surprisingly, however, California falls in the middle when it comes to states with the highest occurrence of skin cancer. Christian Jones, MD, from Golden State Dermatology, says a lot of the reason is diversity, and the characteristics that make someone more susceptible to skin cancer in the first place. For example, fair-skinned, natural

blondes and red heads are more likely to develop skin cancer than people with darker skin tones and hair colors. California is very diverse, which contributes to the rate of skin cancer in the state. States like Utah, Vermont, and New Hampshire actually have the highest rate of melanoma. “The lifetime risk of developing at least one form of skin cancer can be as high as 20-30% in those living in climates such as California,” says Nicole James with LUX Dermatology. “The rate of skin cancer for fairer-skinned Californians though, is quite high,” Dr. Jones says. “Education about skin cancer prevention is also important. Southern states are more likely to use proper sun protection after decades of educational activity by the dermatological community.”

Common Warning Signs

These are the major warning signs of skin cancer that everyone should be on the lookout for: Change in appearance of a mole or pigmented lesion Change in shape, size, or color Spots that are two or more colors Spots greater than a quarter-inch in diameter A spot that looks irregular or has asymmetric borders Spots that hurt, itch, bleed, ooze, or are ulcerated Sores that fail to heal or continue to bleed A sore or spot that will not go away Skin changes at the site a mole has been removed Scaly patches Any of the above should warrant a call to a dermatologist, and frequent self-checks as well as less frequent dermatologist exams are recommended. Those who are at a higher risk of skin cancer should see a dermatologist annually or as recommended for a full skin exam.

Warning Signs You May Miss

Some warning signs of skin cancer are more likely to go unnoticed. “A common misconception is that skin cancer is raised or a spot that is symptomatic,” Nicole says. “Skin cancer can be flat and completely symptom free.” Other uncommon symptoms include vision problems and changes in the fingernails or toenails. “Another common misconception is that skin cancer is brown or dark in color,” Nicole says. “In fact, the most common types of skin cancer are generally pink or red shiny spots.” The best rule is, if you’re in doubt, see a dermatologist. Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

meditation

MENTAL HEALTH

A MEDITATION GUIDE

for People Who Suck at Sitting Still  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

editation has a long list of benefits for our physical, mental, and emotional health—but we’ll be damned if sitting still for even 10 minutes sounds easier than a HIIT workout. Alyssa Marty, owner of Shine Yoga Studios, says those who struggle to sit still are exactly the people who should be meditating. “The sitting still part is definitely one of the biggest challenges for most of us, but that's an indicator that it's something we need to work on,” she says. “When it's difficult to sit quietly with our thoughts, we should identify that as normal and just take the steps to practice until it becomes a bit easier.”

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There is one common misconception that can make meditation feel less accessible, and that’s the understanding that you should be able to clear your mind completely. “Meditation doesn't have to be about ‘turning off your brain’ at all,” Alyssa says. “It's about re-directing your thoughts or learning to sit with your thoughts.” If thoughts do creep in, don’t ignore them. Instead, acknowledge what thought has popped into your head and then release it and allow your brain to move on. Instead of dwelling on the intruder, think about your breath. “The redirection of the thoughts can be incredibly powerful,” says Alyssa. “You don't need to be ‘thoughtless,’ you just need to be in control of the thoughts you have, how you process them,

and how you act on them.” If you want to incorporate meditation into your daily or weekly routine, remember to take baby steps and don’t be too hard on yourself. If using breath work isn’t enough to sideline intrusive thoughts, consider a guided meditation or visualization approach. These are easy to access either in yoga classes or using your own podcasts, apps, and YouTube videos at home. It also helps to find a quiet place that you can be still in. Remove distractions, turn off your phone, and move away from noise. You may even bring in elements that make the space more comfortable to you such as a favorite scent or a comfortable pillow. “Just a few minutes a day can make a huge impact,” Alyssa says.

FREE SHARPS & MEDICATION COLLECTION PROGRAM Protect Public Health and Safety

SAFELY DISPOSE OF MEDICAL SHARPS AND UNWANTED MEDICATIONS REMOVE INFORMATION Remove or black-out personal information from all prescription bottles and containers.

ACCEPTABLE SHARPS INCLUDE: Syringes, lancets, needles, auto-injectors and EpiPens. SHARPS MUST BE IN A CONTAINER No loose sharps allowed. FDA-cleared containers are recommended. Empty, heavy-duty, household containers that have puncture-proof lids with no leaks are acceptable.

SEAL ALL MEDICATIONS All medications must be in a container or sealed in a plastic bag. No loose medications! Keep all liquids, powders and ointments in original container.

TAKE CONTAINER TO A DROP-OFF LOCATION Once sharps are collected in an acceptable container, take to an authorized sharps drop-off location.

TAKE MEDICATIONS TO A DROP-OFF LOCATION Take medication to an authorized medications drop-off location.

FREE DROP-OFF LOCATIONS STOCKTON

San Joaquin County - Household Hazardous Waste Facility 7850 R.A. Bridgeford St. Stockton, CA 95206 (209) 468-3066

Tracy Police Dept. 1000 Civic Center Dr. Tracy, CA 95376 (209) 831-6550 Lodi Police Dept. 215 Elm St. Lodi, CA 95240 (209) 333-6727

Community Medical Center 1031 Waterloo Rd. Stockton, CA 95205 (209) 940-5600

Rx Express 711 E. Market St. Stockton, CA 95202 (209) 465-1001

RIPON El Dorado Drug Store 2005 E. Mariposa Rd. Stockton, CA 95205 (209) 464-7722

MANTECA

TRACY

LODI

Community Medical Center 701 E. Channel St. Stockton, CA 95202 (209) 944-4700

Stockton Police Dept. 22 E. Market St. Stockton, CA 95202 (209) 937-8377 Medications Only

Grant Line Pharmacy Inc. 2160 W. Grant Line Rd. Tracy, CA 95377 (209) 832-2999

Abala Pharmacy 550-B W. Eaton Ave. Tracy, CA 95376 (209) 832-7080

Reich’s Pharmacy 39 W. 10th St. Tracy, CA 95376 (209) 835-1832

LOCKEFORD

Manteca Police Dept. 1001 W. Center St. Manteca, CA 95337 (209) 239-8401

Ripon Police Dept. 259 N. Wilma Ave. Ripon, CA 95366 (209) 599-2101

Community Medical Center 200 Cottage Ave., Ste. #103 Manteca, CA 95336 (209) 624-5800

ESCALON

Young’s Payless IGA Markets Escalon Police Dept. Vineyard Pharmacy & Gifts 18980 N. Highway 88 2040 McHenry Ave. 1900 McHenry Ave., Ste. #202 Lockeford, CA 95237 Escalon, CA 95320 Escalon, CA 95320 (209) 838-0511 (209) 727-3762 (209) 838-7093 Sharps Only NOTICE: Collection locations are subject to change at any time. Please contact location prior to dropping off sharps and medications. Community Medical Center 2401 W. Turner Rd., Ste. #450 Lodi, CA 95242 (209) 370-1700

Fairmont Pharmacy 1121 W. Vine St., Ste. #13 Lodi, CA 95240 (209) 625-8633

Sponsored By The Communities Of San Joaquin County

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medications

reparation is the key to success, and that holds true for small emergencies and medical inconveniences, as well. We chatted with Dr. Amir Khan, owner of Hammer Lane Pharmacy in Stockton, to get an expert’s tips on how best to stock your medicine cabinet. Read on for his best advice, and then head to the pharmacy to optimize your own.

GENERAL TIPS:

●Always pay attention to age restrictions. Many ailments have multiple medications that will help, but not all work for all ages. Read the labels to ensure you have a solution fit for everyone in your household. ● Keep important numbers handy. The phone number for poison control is an important one (we’ll save you the time of looking, here it is: (800) 222-1222). You may also want to include a doctor’s number or other contacts needed in an emergency. RESOURCE

How to Stock Your Medicine Cabinet

TIPS FROM A LOCAL PHARMACIST  BY NORA HESTON TARTE 26

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

●The items you can leave out of your medicine cabinet are those that don’t need to be accessed quickly. Consider keeping those under the bathroom sink instead.

EVERY MEDICINE CABINET SHOULD HAVE THE FOLLOWING: Something for pain and fever, either Tylenol, Advil, or Aleve. Something for nausea, such as meclizine, Dramamine (original) formula for those under the age of 12, and cola syrup. Something for diarrhea. Options include Pepto Bismol, Kaopectate, or Immodium. Something for an allergic reaction. Consider keeping both an oral application such as Oral Liquid Benadryl, as well as a topical option, such as hydrocortisone cream. Something for topical infections like Polysporin or Neosporin. Rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide for cleaning cuts and scrapes. Pedialyte for dehydration. A basic first aid kit that includes items such as adhesive bandages, burn cream, gauze, etc.

ANYTHING ELSE? Aloe vera is important to have on hand, especially during summer, but it works best when kept in a refrigerator instead. Other tools such as a pair of small scissors, tweezers, cotton balls, etc. are good items to have available, but may already be included in your first aid kit.

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heart health

HEALTH TECH

Virtual Healing

HEART HEALTH DONE OUT OF OFFICE  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

irtual appointments have long been available at medical offices for a variety of ailments, and the trend saw a substantial rise in popularity during the COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns. With many patients afraid of traveling to and from the doctor, offices including Manshadi Heart Institute and Stockton Cardiology started inviting patients to remote visits. The appointments also benefit elderly patients with orthopedic issues or those who may not always have transportation to and from their appointments. At Stockton Cardiology, Usha Vyas, a nurse practitioner, says telehealth often allows patients to be seen faster in their office. During the call, patients may review 28

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medication changes, vital signs, and take a chief complaint before they are transferred to a specialist who can collect a detailed medical history and review symptoms. Even a physical examination can be performed using a forward-facing camera and the provider can discuss pertinent diagnostic test results and formulate a plan with the patient without stepping foot into the office. Dr. Manshadi says another benefit is that after a telehealth appointment, patients can come into the clinic for required testing without the need for a full appointment. While telehealth is an important part of cardiology offerings, it’s not always the best option. While it’s great for follow-up appointments and more routine “visits,”

those with moderate symptoms or those who need an electrocardiogram should come into the office for care. “Sometimes for more complicated patients, it is better to have them in office [so] we can have a better picture overall,” Dr. Manshadi says. “Sometimes a patient may have a complex medical diagnosis with multiple different diagnosis, then we need to have them in person.” The best way to ask if telehealth is appropriate for your heart needs is to call the medical office. After reviewing symptoms and availability, a decision can be made on what kind of appointment will best fit the individual’s needs.

Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

prevention

WOMEN’S HEALTH

NAVIGATING YOUR FIRST MAMMOGRAM  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

nnual mammograms are recommended by The American Cancer Society beginning at age 45, and sometimes earlier depending on an individual’s personal and family medical history. On a woman’s 45th birthday, the impending doom of that first time may feel overwhelming, but in reality, the process isn’t as bad as it sounds and it’s a necessary component to screening for breast cancer. “Trust us, we understand how nerve wracking it can be to come in for that first mammogram,” says Jamie Clays, a mammography tech for Valley MRI & Radiology. “I can tell you as a mammography tech for the last five years, I was nervous and hesitant to get my first

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mammogram... As much as I kept thinking how silly I was for being so nervous, especially when I tell my first-time patients daily that it won‘t be as bad as they are expecting, nothing can fully prepare you for the experience.” Keep in mind that every woman is different. Everyone has different pain tolerances so the rumors that it’s “very painful,” may not hold up. Instead of psyching yourself out, try to go into the appointment with a level head. For many women, the process is simply uncomfortable, and even if it does hurt, it’s done in less than five minutes. The annual mammogram is important because it’s the best way to catch the beginning

stages of breast cancer. “When you get your mammogram every year, the radiologists are able to compare the prior year or years exam to the most current set of imaging,” Jamie explains. “As we get older, our breast tissue changes, and because of this, radiologists are constantly training in breast imaging to be able to identify which changes are normal and which are concerning.” In addition to annual mammograms starting no later than age 45, women should also conduct their own monthly self-exams to look for lumps or changes. Those with a strong family history of breast cancer can do more, adding an ultrasound or MRI to the annual routine if necessary. All in, no one is pretending a mammogram is a fun experience, but it is one that can keep you healthy and prevent serious disease. “It was a little uncomfortable, lots of pressure, but nothing was painful,” Jamie says. I think the worst part was having to hold my breath while the pictures were taken.”

A MORE COMFORTABLE MORE ACCURATE MAMMOGRAM.

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• Established in the 1950’s we continue to serve San Joaquin, Calaveras and Tuolumne Counties • Comprehensive heart and vascular program • Invasive and non-invasive evaluations • Complex coronary and peripheral endovascular interventions • Disease management, pacemakers, internal defibrillators • Venous ablation for venous insufficiency (Stockton and Manteca)

“Our greatest reward is to see our patients smile again after a challenging health event.” Published by San Joaquin Magazine

Dr. Punjya

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Stockton Cardiology Locations: Stockton: 415 East Harding Way, Suite D • 209-944-5750 Tracy: 1530 N. Bessie, Suite 101 • 209-832-0343 Manteca: 1148 - 3 Norman Drive • 209-824-1555 San Andreas: 704 Mt. Ranch Rd., #101 • 209-754-1012

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

healthy hospitals

SJGH BRINGS TALENT TO SJC WITH RESIDENCY PROGRAM HEALTH

EDUCATION

SERVE GENERAL SURGERY, INTERNAL MEDICINE, AND FAMILY MEDICINE DISCIPLINES  BY JAMES RAIA

an Joaquin General Hospital has maintained an esteemed yearly medical education streak for 90 years. Since then, it has sponsored successful residency programs in general surgery, internal medicine, and family medicine. Fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, the programs provide community-based education and comprehensive training in inpatient and outpatient services and procedural skills to serve the diverse San Joaquin County patient population. The intent of the Hospital’s Graduate Medical Education program is to bring experienced specialty physicians to work in the communities of San Joaquin County. Many of the physicians practicing locally were trained at San Joaquin General Hospital.

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"Since 1932 we have been at the center of medical education in the area,” says Syung Min Jung, MD, program director of the Internal Medicine residency program who is also a graduate of the program. "I have benefitted firsthand from many of the program's excellent teachers and mentors. It's now my utmost privilege to work with the facility and the resident of our program." The Hospital’s residency programs are affiliated with the University of California, Davis Medical Center. Hospital residents also receive training and education through Dignity Health-St. Joseph’s Hospital and UCSF Medical Center. The Graduate Medical Education program is overseen by Sheela Kapre, MD, SJGH’s designated institutional officer and chief medical officer. "We are family here," says Elyas Parsa, DO,

program director of the Family Medicine residency program. "It takes all of us to get the job done and to care for our patients. We have three years to train the best physicians. When you see them on the podium when they're graduated, that's what keeps me here. I see the growth and development of an excellent physician." Medical physicians seeking a specialty through education at San Joaquin General see a wide range of medical conditions. The hospital trains medical graduates with advanced medical technologies such as robotic surgery and state-of-theart medical science practices. "Without a doubt, the ultimate goal of the San Joaquin Residency Program is to prepare its residents to practice in any environment," says Parsa, board certified in Family Medicine. "This has translated into teaching our residents how to do everything within the scope of family medicine.”

braces DENTAL HEATH

FEEDING A PICKY EATER WITH BRACES THOSE EATING RESTRICTIONS AREN’T AS BAD AS YOU THINK  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

o, you have a picky eater? That in and of itself comes with a slew of parenting complications. However, when your picky eater gets braces and some of their (few) favorite foods become forbidden, the task of feeding your particular child becomes even more difficult. It isn’t, however, impossible. “The most common ‘can't have’ foods are those that are chewy, including hard and sticky candies, gum, and beef jerky,” says Dr. Mickey Samra, an orthodontist at Samra Orthodontics. “There are certain crunchy or hard foods that should also be avoided, including nuts, chips, popcorn, corn on the cob, apples, and pizza crust.” That being said, there are ways to get around some of these stipulations. For example, Dr. Samra ensures eating pizza as long as you avoid the crust is safe and corn can be enjoyed off of the cob. For apples, simply slice them before consuming. The biggest hurdle is avoiding items that can get lodged in the braces and become painful or move the brackets from their intended spot. The impending doom of food restrictions often sounds more daunting than it really is. “You can eat most foods without a problem as long as you brush after eating to get rid of any food that Published by San Joaquin Magazine

“You can eat most foods without a problem as long as you brush after eating to get rid of any food that might be stuck in the braces.” - Dr. Samra

might be stuck in the braces,” Dr. Samra says. “You can also cut up your food into smaller pieces so that it's easier to consume.” Another common myth Dr. Samra has heard is that you cannot have any sugary foods or soft drinks with braces. While too much sugar is bad for your teeth, it’s not really about the braces. “Just make sure to brush and clean the braces after eating,” Dr. Samra says. While the rules aren’t as restrictive as they sound, it is still imperative to follow them. “Some foods can increase

the chances of bracket breakage and extend the amount of time you're receiving orthodontic care,” Dr. Samra warns. Other concerns are sticky, chewy foods that get stuck in braces and cause cavities and foods that stain, causing obvious contrasts between the bracketed and non-bracketed areas when braces are removed. For those with serious concerns about the limitations, Invisalign is an option. Since Invisalign is removed when eating, this keeps kids’ favorite foods available to them, but there are pros and cons to each option. Consult an orthodontist to learn more.

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

healthy hospitals St. Joseph’s has provided high-quality cardiac care to the community for the past 50 years.

WELLNESS

FIXING A BROKEN HEART

ST. JOSEPH’S MEDICAL CENTER RECEIVES RECOGNITION FOR HEART SURGERY PROGRAM

here is no need to head out of town to receive the star treatment when it comes to your health. A San Joaquin Valley Hospital has achieved a highly coveted ranking for excellence in its heart surgery program. St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Stockton has earned two distinguished three-star ratings from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) for its patient care and outcomes in both Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) and Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR) surgeries. The STS rating system is one of the most sophisticated and highly regarded overall measures of quality healthcare. Only the most elite programs in the United States and Canada garner a three-star rating. “This recognition highlights the commitment of our entire cardiac team to provide patientfocused care at the highest level,” says Joann Marks, director of Cardiac Services at St. Joseph’s 34

Medical Center. “It goes to show that patients don’t have to travel far from home to receive nationally recognized cardiac care.” The STS grading system is one of the most scientifically validated systems for heart surgery. It involves a huge amount of data that focuses on raw outcomes of patient survival, as well as pre-operative conditions that may make certain cases a much higher risk. To be considered for this toprating, St. Joseph’s submitted data regarding more than 725 surgeries and outcomes over a three-year period, from July 2018 to June 2021. The STS analyzed the data compared to 906 other cardiac surgery programs to produce scientifically validated results. Overall, St. Joseph’s ranked in the top 21% of hospitals for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) and in the top 4% of sites for Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR).

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Marks says this accomplishment is evidence of the dedication of the entire cardiac care team and a testament to the program’s commitment to quality and safety across the patient journey. “Our hospital has provided high-quality cardiac care to the community for the past 50 years,” says Marks. “I believe what makes our doctors, nurses, and support staff so focused is their deep compassion for patients. It’s always our goal to help our patients return to a healthy lifestyle and these procedures can greatly improve their quality of life.” Many people have put off check-ups, screenings, and even avoided emergency rooms due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes have gone unchecked. But experts warn that delaying needed medical care can take a serious toll on your health. “Do not delay care when it comes to your heart,” says Marks. “If you need a cardiac procedure, it is not elective and the longer you delay the higher the risk of permanent damage.”

SJMC Cardiothoracic Surgical Team: Members of the cardiothoracic surgical team at St. Joseph’s Heart & Vascular Institute are dedicated to delivering the highest quality cardiac surgical care to our community.

St. Joseph’s Medical Center’s heart surgery program is nationally recognized for excellence in cardiac care.

This is love before first sight. Having a baby is the one time in your life when it’s perfectly acceptable to say, “It’s all about me.” This is your moment. You should get to decide where you’re going to have your baby. We believe it, and we’ll make it come true. We have the resources, the people, the experience, and...a special love for moms. Learn more at dignityhealth.org/stockton/maternity.

HEALTH

Professional PROFILES

Ramin Manshadi, MD, FACC

| Manshadi Heart Institute, Inc.

r. Manshadi’s philosophy parallels the true art of medicine taught and practiced by the father of medicine, Hippocrates: “To treat patients with kindness and compassion” utilizing the latest in medical knowledge and technology. To schedule an appointment please call (209) 944-5530.

FELLOWSHIP TRAINING: UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, Calif. INTERNSHIP AND RESIDENCY: California Paciﬁc Medical center in Affiliation with UCSF San Francisco, Calif. MEDICAL EDUCATION: Medical Doctor, UHS/ The Chicago Medical School, Master of Science in Physiology, UHS/The Chicago Medical School Bachelor of Science in Physiology, UC Davis. AWARDS: Future Leader Award, CA,

American College of Cardiology Young Physician Award, San Joaquin Medical Society, Americas Top Doctors, Castle Connolly Top Doctors. CERTIFICATIONS: ABIM; Internal Medicine, ABIM; Cardiovascular Medicine, ABIM; Interventional Cardiology. PRESENT AND PAST POSITIONS: Past President, American College of Cardiology, California Chapter, Team Cardiologist, Sacramento Republic professional Soccer Team Past President, San Joaquin Medical Society, Clinical Professor, UC Davis. EXPERTISE: Sport Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology, Trans Aortic Valve Replacements Lipids, Congestive Heart Failure, Venous Ablations for Varicose veins. MANSHADI HEART INSTITUTE, INC. Stockton: 2633 Pacific Ave., Stockton Lodi: 1210 W Tokay St., Lodi (209) 370-3580, DrManshadi.com

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HEALTH

Professional PROFILES

Manjeet Samra, DDS |

Orthodontics

t Samra Orthodontics, we truly believe our purpose is to make sure you live, smile, and laugh every single day – we just happen to straighten teeth. We use top-notch technology including digital impressions for Invisalign or Braces to help craft your perfect smile. No matter the treatment option you choose, rest assured we will always treat you with kindness, respect, and excitement. Come visit us and see for yourself.

SAMRA ORTHODONTICS

1110 W Robinhood Dr., Stockton (209) 478-4666 LiveSmileLaugh.com Published by San Joaquin Magazine

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HEALTH

Professional PROFILES

Golden State Dermatology

olden State Dermatology is proud to have three locations serving the San Joaquin Community: Lodi, Manteca, and Tracy. Across these clinics, we have four board-certified dermatologists, Dr. Christian Jones, Dr. Mariam Amin, Dr. Minh Dang, and Dr. Abdallah Khourdaji. Dr. Dang and Dr. Khourdaji also specialize in Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer. Our group, Golden State Dermatology, is a leader in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with multiple locations in the Central Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area. GSD offers state-of-the-art treatments for everything from acne to skin cancer treatments, as well as popular cosmetic services including Fraxel, BOTOX® and fillers, laser hair and tattoo removal, esthetician services, prescription-grade skin care products, and much more. Our physicians also want to remind everyone to have any skin changes checked and a full, skin cancer screening by a board-certified dermatologist at least once a year. .

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

LODI 801 South Ham Ln., Ste. A Lodi, CA 95242 209.787.3074

MANTECA 200 Cottage Ave., Ste. 201 Manteca, CA 95336 209.353.9810

TRACY 632 West 11th St., Ste. 219 Tracy, CA 95376 209.500.4102

HEALTH

Professional PROFILES

Hugh L. Vu, MD, MPH, FACS

| Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

oard-Certified and San Joaquin magazine reader-celebrated, Dr. Hugh L. Vu treats his plastic surgery patients like they are members of his own family. He meticulously plans and customizes every procedure to give his patients beautiful, natural-looking results. Dr. Vu specializes in facial rejuvenation, body contouring, and all breast procedures, while his Skin & Laser Center offers advanced medical grade services such as laser hair reduction, Botox, collagen remodeling, cellulite treatments, microdermabrasion, and much more. In addition to cosmetic surgery, Dr. Vu brings to Stockton his reconstructive surgery expertise from his teaching career at UC Davis and as senior plastic surgeon at Sacramento’s Shriners Hospital for Children. Dr. Vu’s commitment to safety and excellence has earned him the confidence of patients and colleagues in Northern California and internationally. Thank you for voting Dr. Vu “Best Cosmetic Surgeon” for 15 Years in a row. We look forward to serving you in 2022!

VU PLASTIC & COSMETIC SURGERY

1617 St. Marks Plaza, Ste. E & F, Stockton (209) 476-7074, VuPlasticSurgery.com Published by San Joaquin Magazine

Over 55 years of Vision Care

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HEALTH

Professional PROFILES

Pankaj K. Patel, DMD Shailesh K. Patel, DDS Salida Surgery Center- A Family Owned and Operated Pediatric Dental Surgery Center

n 1998 while helping establish the Central California Dental Surgery Center in Atwater, California, Dr. Pankaj Patel had been building his private practice and found a desperate need for pediatric dental surgery centers in the Central Valley. With profound ambition, Dr. Pankaj Patel started developing and building Salida Surgery Center in 2004. This led to eventually opening the doors in 2005 with his business partner and brother Dr. Shailesh Patel, whom already had over 13 years of successful dental offices in the Los Angeles area. Together over the last 17 years, they have taken a hand in caring for over 35,000 pediatric patients in the Central Valley alone. Their family-owned pediatric dental surgery center provides full mouth dental restoration for children ranging from 1 ½ years old up to 12 years old. Salida Surgery Center is reliant on a tightknit referral network with local Dental offices throughout California. With the facility being easily accessible off of highway 99, it makes Salida Surgery Center an ideal care center for patients coming from long distances. Salida Surgery Center provides the pediatric community with safe and ethical dental treatment under general anesthesia with their professional team of Dentists, Dental Anesthesiologists, Registered Nurses, and Dental Assistants. SALIDA SURGERY CENTER

5712 Pirrone Road Salida CA 95368 209-543-9299 www.salidasurgerycenter.com

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

HEALTH

Professional PROFILES

Zeiter Eye Medical Group, Inc.

| Vision Is Our Passion

or more than 55 years, the Zeiter family has been providing residents of San Joaquin County the gift of sight. The practice started

with Henry Zeiter, who founded Zeiter Eye Medical Group and opened the first office in downtown Stockton in 1962. At that time, it consisted of one ophthalmologist practicing in downtown Stockton. During the past four decades, Zeiter Eye Medical Group has grown to include seven ophthalmologists and six optometrists practicing in seven Northern California locations, including Stockton, Lodi, Tracy, Manteca, and Sonora. Zeiter Eye also provides its patients the convenience of a state-of-the-art Ambulatory Surgical Center. Among the seven ophthalmologists are physicians with special training in the fields of: glaucoma, retina, cornea, and ophthalmic plastic surgery. Some of the diverse services offered at Zeiter Eye include: state-of-the-art cataract surgery, glaucoma and diabetic treatment, macular degeneration management, laser vision correction (LASIK), and cosmetic and functional eyelid surgery. The practice offers a full range of contact lens services and a retail optical filled with the latest eyewear fashion offering the highest quality at a competitive price. Zeiter Eye’s dedication to leading edge technology is surpassed only by its commitment to personal patient care. The ophthalmology practice was built on Dr. Henry Zeiter’s vision of always exceeding patients’ expectations by providing unprecedented medical and surgical eye care in addition to respect and consideration for each patient. Our team of eye care professionals pride themselves on carrying on Dr. Zeiter’s vision by offering all our patient’s quality care with state-of-the-art equipment in a comfortable, caring environment.

ZEITER EYE MEDICAL GROUP

Over 55 years of Vision Care

Multiple locations throughout San Joaquin County | (209) 466-5566 | ZeiterEye.com

Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

HEALTH

Professional PROFILES

LUX Dermatology

he expert dermatology team at LUX Dermatology believes in nourishing the health and look of each person’s skin. At our offices in Stockton and Manteca, the doctors and staff offer medical and cosmetic dermatology services to help people achieve healthy and youthful-looking skin. LUX Dermatology physicians and staff specialize in skin cancer detection and treatment. The practitioners offer annual skin cancer screenings and treatment when they find precancerous actinic keratosis. If a patient has skin cancer, the highly-trained dermatologists apply the latest technology and treatment to assist in recovery. Skin cancer therapies include both Mohs Surgery and Electronic Brachytherapy. Our staff are experts in the treatment of dermatological issues, like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. The practice also has a genuine passion for skin care, offering services like acne care, Botox, and dermal fillers. If you desire a brighter, fresher appearance, the providers at LUX Dermatology are ready to help. LUX DERMATOLOGY STOCKTON

LUX DERMATOLOGY MANTECA

5757 Pacific Avenue, Suite 228 Stockton (209) 490-5050

296 Cottage Avenue Manteca (209) 624-7006 LuxDermatologists.com

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

We offer an array of services to the residents of the greater Mante

HEALTH

Professional PROFILES

Yusuke Suzuki, DMD & Associates |

Family Dentistry

e are committed to providing you with the personalized, high quality dental care that you deserve. Dr. Suzuki and Benedictson stay up to date on the latest advancements in dentistry to provide our patients with the most current treatment options. If you hate going to the dentist because your past experiences left you scared, fearful, or downright terrified, there is a solution. Dental sedation helps you achieve the smile of your dreams with ease once more. Our sedation technique allows several treatments to be performed in a single visit. For many, the beauty of this sedation is how easy it is to wake up and remember very little to nothing at all about your visit. We help heal a lifetime of compromising dental disease, replace missing teeth, brighten your smile, and restore function along with creating the gorgeous smile you’ve always dreamed of. We provide Cosmetic dentistry such as crowns, veneers, and whitening; orthodontics with clear braces and 6 Months Smile short term system; dental implants for missing teeth. At the core of our dental practice is a friendly team of professionals that are dedicated to your utmost comfort and optimal oral health. We view each patient as a unique individual, and tailor each treatment to your specific needs. As part of our commitment to providing close, personalized attention to every patient, we want to encourage patient communication. Please know that we are here to provide outstanding patient care, and that we value the trust you have placed in us. Visit our website which contains a library of videos related to the dental procedures and treatment options we offer. SuzukiDMD.com. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment. 801 S. Ham Ln., Ste. L, Lodi, (209) 334-0630, SuzukiDMD.com

Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

HEALTH

Professional PROFILES

Charles A. Stillman, D.O., F.A.C.R. Radiology

harles A. Stillman DO is the Owner, CEO, and lead radiologist at Valley MRI & Radiology Inc. Valley MRI specializes in diagnostic medical imaging in the heart of San Joaquin County, California.

Their facilities currently serve a population of over 700,000 people with locations in Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, and Modesto. Valley MRI strives to provide the best medical imaging results to their patients and referring physicians as well as outstanding service simply because you matter and because quality matters. Valley MRI & Radiology is the first and only facility in to offer the GENIUS 3D Mammography exam and SmartCurve breast stabilization system, which is clinically proven to deliver a more comfortable mammogram without compromising image quality, workflow, or dose. The SmartCurve system features a proprietary curved surface that mirrors the shape of a woman’s breast to reduce pinching and allow better distribution of force over the entire breast. These innovations come as part of our ongoing commitment to superior breast cancer detection and providing an improved mammogram experience for our patients.

SPECIALTIES:

STOCKTON (Pine St) - MRI/CT/XRAY/ULTRASOUND/FLUOROSCOPY LODI - MRI/CT/XRAY/ULTRASOUND/2D MAMMOGRAPHY/FLUOROSCOPY (NEW) STOCKTON (Brookside) - 3D MAMMOGRAPHY+SMARTCURVE/ULTRASOUND (NEW) MANTECA - ULTRASOUND (NEW) MODESTO – ULTRASOUND VALLEY MRI & RADIOLOGY INC. 546 E. Pine St., Stockton (209) 467-1000 ValleyMRI.com

Community Hospice

s the oldest and largest nonprofit hospice provider in the Central Valley, Community Hospice has embraced individuals and families facing life-changing journeys for more than 40 years. Community Hospice believes no one should face their journey alone, providing community members an array of services and programs that focus on enhancing quality of life for all. Programs go beyond the original concept of Hospice Care, offering palliative care for those with a serious illness. Grief support services and a crisis response team are also available to the community at no cost, providing education, support, and resources. Community Hospice also specializes in grief support for children through their school based program and Camp Erin® of the Central Valley—a free residential bereavement camp for grieving children and teens ages 6-17. Service and programs are provided in Stanislaus, San Joaquin, Merced, Calaveras, Mariposa, Tuolumne, and parts of Contra Costa, Sacramento, Alameda, and Santa Clara counties.

COMMUNITY HOSPICE

2431 W. March Lane, #100, Stockton (209) 578-6300 Hospiceheart.org

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SJMAG.COM

| SEPTEMBER 2021 44

HEALTH

Professional PROFILES

Hammer Lane Pharmacy

r. Amir Khan is a Stockton native and has been serving his community as a pharmacist for over 23 years. Amir is an alumni of the University of the Pacific (UOP), where he received his Doctorate of Pharmacology. Aside from working as a community pharmacist,

Amir has served as an adjunct professor with UOP for over 18 years, helping future pharmacists gain experience in the practice of community pharmacy.

To serve the community better, Amir opened Hammer Lane Pharmacy in 2018. It is located next to Sutter Gould in the Food Source Shopping Center. Combined with Amir’s experience, knowledge, expertise and an amazing staff, the entire crew at Hammer Lane Pharmacy provides patients with a genuine caring attitude and superior service. Here, patients feel valued and taken care of. Hammer Lane Pharmacy has been recognized, for a third year in a row, as the Winner of the Best Independent Pharmacy for 2019, 2020 and 2021 by San Joaquin Magazine. The entire team is very proud and thankful for their award. The team at Hammer Lane Pharmacy feels what separates them from their competition is personalized service, short wait times, offering curbside pick-up, free local home delivery, being open 7 days a week, accepting all insurances, and having many immunizations to be offered including COVID-19 as well pneumonia, Shingrix, Tdap, flu shots plus all other immunizations in stock and administered in a private room. They also offer compliance packaging and, not to mention, carry many OTC and home healthcare products. HAMMER LANE PHARMACY 2339 W. Hammer Ln., Suite J., Stockton (209) 477-7100 HammerLanePharmacy.com

Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

HEALTH

Professional PROFILES

Allergy, Immunology & Asthma Medical Group

llergy, Immunology & Asthma Medical Group is committed to the health and safety of our patients. Therefore, our office continues to practice social distancing and offers virtual doctor appointments to provide the utmost care. Voted the Best Allergist four years in a row and celebrating 48 years of high-quality patient care in the Central Valley, Dr. George Bensch, Dr. Gregory Bensch, Dr. Michael Balduzzi, and Dr. Jeffrey Balduzzi continue to deliver the best allergy and immunology care. AIAMG specializes in the evaluation and treatment of environmental, food, drug, insect sting allergies, hay fever, sinus disease, anaphylaxis, chronic respiratory conditions, asthma, and allergic skin conditions such as hives and eczema. We have eight convenient office locations in the Central Valley. Our office staff are eager to help with all your appointment needs. AIAMG accepts all insurance plans. Learn more by visiting our website at AllergyImm.com or call the office at (209) 951-5353. ALLERGY, IMMUNOLOGY & ASTHMA MEDICAL GROUP 4628 Georgetown Pl., Stockton, (209) 951-5353, AllergyImm.com A L L E R GY I M M UNOLOGY & A S T HM A MEDICAL GROUP

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

Hospice of San Joaquin

ospice of San Joaquin is one of the most trusted Hospice Providers in San Joaquin County, providing quality hospice care that allows their clients to live life to the fullest. With the first and only Hospice House for hospice patients in the county, the Hospice House offers 24-hour nursing care, meals, laundry, activities, and all the amenities necessary to make their patients feel comfortable and at home. Their wide variety of programs at Hospice of San Joaquin include Camp Caterpillar for children who are experiencing grief and support groups for adults. Hospice of San Joaquin’s Pacific Palliative Care Program is for those who aren’t quite ready for Hospice Care. Hospice of San Joaquin’s mission is to honor life by ensuring patients and their caregivers are given the care and freedom they need to enjoy and live their lives fully.

HOSPICE OF SAN JOAQUIN

3888 Pacific Ave., Stockton (209) 957-3888 HospiceSJ.org

The Gentle Dentist for Children While They Sleep!

SALIDA SURGERY CENTER 5712 Pirrone Rd. Salida, CA, 95368

Ask your child’s dentist for a referral

(209) 543-9299 www.salidasurgerycenter.com @salidasurgerycenter Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

healthy hospitals

KAISER PERMANENTE MODESTO INFANT CARE

NICU CARES FOR THE AREA’S EARLIEST ARRIVALS  BY JORDAN SCOTT

hile it typically takes about 40 weeks for new babies to fully develop before they are ready to join the world as a newborn, there are some little ones who just can’t wait that long. For those early birds who may need a little extra assistance getting off to a healthy start, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Kaiser Permanente Modesto Medical Center is equipped to take care of babies born as early as 24 weeks. “The 24-week mark represents the earliest a premature baby can be cared for in a traditional NICU setting,” says Kaiser’s Director of Perinatal Services Lorena Acevedo, MSN, RN, NE-BC. “It not only means we can care for the babies, but we can also attend to the high-risk moms who need any specialized care before their delivery.” A baby born at 24 weeks is about the size of an ear of corn and weighs just 1.3 pounds. It is at this stage of development when a baby starts to breathe on its own, its hearing 48

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becomes more acute, and physical growth accelerates. At this early stage, a baby can face any number of health challenges. Without the ability to provide adequate care for such a level of prematurity, patients likely to give birth earlier would otherwise need to look beyond the Central Valley, such as Kaiser Permanente facilities in Roseville and Santa Clara. With proper resources and a highly trained team of neonatologists and supporting personnel at the Modesto NICU, parents can remain close to their home, families, and support network, and eliminate unnecessary stress. “Our Neonatologists have been specially trained to treat babies born at this early stage of pregnancy and are dedicated to providing the highest level of care for our most vulnerable,” says Kaiser’s Chief of Inpatient Pediatrics Yeseli Arias, MD. “Their passion and commitment to caring for our littlest patients is evident every day in the work that they do.”

WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER. At Kaiser Permanente, we don’t see health as an industry. We see it as a cause. And one that we very much believe in. During this extraordinary time we are especially thankful to the heroism of our frontline workers. And, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to all of our outstanding care teams and individuals who deliver on the Kaiser Permanente mission each day to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We are here to help you thrive. Learn more at kp.org.

Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

vision

EYE HEALTH

20/20 Vision THE BASICS OF EYE HEALTH  BY JESSICA ZIMMER

s we age, our eyesight tends to wane, but there are steps we can take to continue seeing sharp for as long as possible. To maintain good eye health, it’s important to not strain the eyes, take breaks from screen time, and wear sunglasses in sunny conditions. It is also helpful to eat foods high in vitamin A (like carrots) and get enough sleep. To avoid straining your eyes, it helps to wear the appropriate glasses or contact lenses for tasks like

reading, according to the Mayo Clinic. You should also not work in front of a screen for over two hours at a time or drive long distances for prolonged periods. Reducing eye strain can involve taking frequent breaks, using artificial tears, and lowering the brightness of screens or lights. A person can tell their eyes are strained if they experience frequent headaches or their eyes are tired, dry, or sore. The eyes contain many blood vessels so foods that

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

help with blood flow benefit the eyes. Healthy choices include green, leafy vegetables like kale and Swiss chard, as well as garlic, berries, nuts, and citrus fruits. Quitting smoking also has benefits for the eyes. Smoking increases a person’s risk of developing age-related eye diseases, including macular degeneration. Alcohol use is less problematic, but excessive alcohol use dehydrates the body and can lead to dry eyes and double vision. A person should visit an ophthalmologist or optometrist, eye doctors who diagnose and treat eye problems, if they experience blurred or double vision, acute (short and intense) or chronic (long-lasting) eye pain, or frequent headaches. They should also see an eye doctor if they develop a sudden sensitivity to light or have consistently itchy eyes. Usually, a few lifestyle changes can improve their eye health for years to come, but genetics play a role. If you have a family history of eye issues like macular degeneration, tell your eye doctor when you make an appointment.

Imagine seeing life more clearly!

Over 60 years of Vision Care

Published by San Joaquin Magazine

2022 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

San Joaquin Health Magazine May 2022

Articles inside

HEALTHY HOSPITALS

20/20 VISION

HEALTHY HOSPITALS

NAVIGATING YOUR FIRST MAMMOGRAM

TOOTH WHITENING MYTHS & TRUTHS

A DIET FOR YOUR MOUTH

STAYING ACTIVE WORKING FROM HOME

WHAT’S NEW IN HEALTH: 2022

A MEDITATION GUIDE FOR PEOPLE WHO SUCK AT SITTING STILL

SUGAR SUBSTITUTES AND YOUR GUT

HOW TO SPOT SKIN CANCER