Health

July 12, 2011

Health The Examiner

• TRACEY SHAFFER

Try a sweet summer treat | Page 4

KNOW THE RULES OF THE ROAD – PAGE 6

• LARRY JONES

Volunteering is good for you | Page 2

• NUTRITION 4 • CALENDAR 7 • WELLNESS 8

health

Page 2 Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Volunteer for health What can I do to help? There are many ways to volunteer around the city of Independence and to share your time making Independence a healthier place. The Independence Health Department’s Neighborhood Code Compliance Program is a great way for people to volunteer.

The NCCP was developed to assist in cleaning up our neighborhoods. The program began in November 2005, and has removed over 3 million pounds of trash and brush from our neighborhoods. Typically, eight neighborhoods are selected each year to clean up and take place during the months of April-November.

NCCP chooses a neighborhood/area that ranges in size from 300-600 homes, with an average size of 350.

Why should I volunteer? Cleaning up our neighborhoods is a big job but the impact on is equally large. Through the NCCP, the Code Compliance Division partners with neighborhood areas and volunteers through education, team building, and financial assistance to help make their neighborhood a healthier and safer place to live. However, every neighborhood has people who require extra assistance.

That’s where you come in.

Carmel Hills

Long Term Care Our long term care services are designed for individuals who need 24 hour nursing care. These residents may be chronically ill, frail, or experiencing a very slow recovery from an illness or injury. Our long term care units offer private and semi-private rooms including room furnishings, multiple common areas and dining lounges. We offer respite care or vacation care that allows families an opportunity to take a brief break from the demands of round- the- clock care giving.

The Jackson County Public Works/Environmental Health Division conducts inspections anywhere food is handled, prepared and served to the public for cities other than Independence.

Blue Springs

Larry Jones Larry Jones is director of the Independence Health Department.

What can I do? You can volunteer a few hours of your time to help at a neighborhood cleanup. Volunteers are used to unload items at the trash bin site and to assist with bringing items to the trash bin site for neighbors who are unable to get items to the cleanup location.

You probably know other people who may be interested in helping. You can help assemble a team or sign up your local organization or company to help.

How do I sign up? It’s simple. You can call 816-325-7427 or 816-325-7196 today and get details on the cleanups.

Renew at Carmel Hills Renew also offers services to refresh your mind and rejuvenate your spirit with a facial or massage in our Spa. Renew is located in a separate area with a private entrance, and equipped with state of the art equipment and furnishings that are geared towards enhancing each step of your recovery.

Food service inspections l Jackson County

A truly innovative concept in post-acute care, designed especially for women, doesn’t just meet the needs of those recovering from an acute illness, injury or exacerbation of a disease process.

Sunset Place

at Carmel Hills The dedicated Alzheimer’s Unit offers dedicated, caring and compassionate staff well trained to assist residents in living their lives to the fullest. We offer structured activities designed to maximize interaction with each resident.

Personalized behavioral management designed to encourage participation in a calm environment.

We provide semi private and private rooms, complimentary cable television, nutritionally balanced meals and rehabilitation services.

For those seeking short term medical and or rehabilitative services, we focus our efforts on working closely with patient and family and strive to achieve the most successful functional outcomes.

Our nursing team is support by licensed therapists who provide physical, occupational, and speech therapies. This dedicated team works together to design individualized care plans tailored to each patients specific needs. We believe our best results are achieved when we work together 810 E. Walnut • Independence, MO 816.461.9600

■ Adams Pointe Golf Club, 1601 R.D. Mize Road – On June 27, no detectable chlorine sanitizer was provided in the final rinse cycle of the dish machine;, corrected.

■ Pool Concession, 1900 Ashton – On June 28, an operator reported washing and rinsing food contact utensils and equipment with no sanitization step, corrected through proper ware washing demonstration. Spray bottles containing cleaning chemicals were stored beside paper plates; corrected.

■ 54th Street Bar & Grill, 1307 S.W. Missouri 7 – On June 29, inspectors found meats, cheeses and sour cream in the tall reach-in cooler at the end of the cook’s line and in one of the cook’s line prep coolers with internal temperatures of 48-53 degrees; discarded.

■ Country Club of Blue Springs, 1600 N. Circle Drive – On June 29, deli meats, eggs, cheeses and meat salads in the 19th Hole prep cooler were found with internal temperatures of 50-52 degrees; discarded.

■ Dos Amigos, 214 N.E. Missouri 7 – On July 1, inspectors found ham, eggs, sour cream and cheese in the cook’s line prep cooler with internal temperatures of 55-58 degrees, discarded. There was no detectable sanitizer in the server area wiping cloth bucket; corrected.

Lee’s Summit

■ Garozzo’s Ristorante, 1547 N.E. Rice Road – On June 21, condensation leaking from the pipe under the walk-in cooler fan unit was observed dripping on to uncovered artichokes, artichokes were discarded. Shredded cheese, milk, and cheese ravioli were 50 to 60 degrees in the reach-in cooler at the end of the cook’s line, discarded. Lasagna and raw meat were 51 degrees in the drawer coolers under the grill. They were above 45 F for less than 2 hours and were allowed to cool to 41 degrees.

■ Applebee’s, 1501 N.E. Douglas St. – On June 23, an open can of black beans with plastic wrap covering the top was observed mixed in with the unopened cans of black beans. The beans in the open can appeared to be moldy and were discarded.

Various potentially hazardous foods were found between 56 and 60 degrees in the reach-in cooler across from the stove; discarded. Various potentially hazardous foods were found between 52 and 56 degrees in the drawer coolers under the grill; discarded. A repair man was on site and repaired both of the coolers, and they were repaired be for the inspection was over.

■ Gambino’s, 607 N.E. Woods Chapel Road – On June 27, inspectors noted there was less than 50 ppm chlorine in the final rinse of the dishwashing machine, and there was more than 400 ppm quaternary ammonium in the sanitizer solution coming out of the dispenser by the threecompartment sink.

■ Sakura Sushi, 860 N.W. Blue Parkway – On June 27, inspectors observed raw beef and chicken stored over ready-to-heat sauces in the reach-in cooler on the cooks line, corrected. A bottle of class cleaner was stored on the food production table located in the sushi station; corrected.

■ The Brewtop Pub & Patio, 700 N.E. Woods Chapel Road – On June 27, inspectors found various potentially hazardous foods in the reach-in cooler

across from the stove were 52-55 degrees. They were above 41 degrees for less than 2 hours and were allowed to be placed in the walk-in cooler.

■ Hy-Vee, 301 N.E. Rice Road – On June 29, inspectors found raw sausage stored next to cooked brisket in the catering kitchen walk-in. There were raw eggs stored over ready-to-eat pie filling. There was hand lotion stored on the food production counter in the seafood department. All violations were corrected.

■ Panda Cafe, 927 N.E. Woods Chapel Road – On June 29, inspectors observed liquid eggs, under no form of temperature control on the sauce cart, were 78 degrees; discarded. Wontons on a counter by the soup were 73 degrees. They had been above 41 F for less than 2 hours and the establishment was allowed to place them in the walk-in cooler.

■ Panera Bread, 1686 N.W. Chipman Road – On June 29, inspectors found a bottle of degreaser stored next to the panini press; corrected.

■ Chapel Ridge Banquet Center, 3640 N.E. Ralph Powell Road – On June 29, bottles of chemicals were observed on a shelf above napkins and straws in the back storage room; corrected.

■ Steak N Shake, 304 S.E. Missouri 291 – On June 29, inspectors observed an employee serving drinks was handling the top part of the glass where customer will drink from, corrected through discussion. Items in walk in cooler have day dots on them, but no date is written to know on which Tuesday an item is to be discarded; corrected.

■ The Westside Grill and Bar, 837 S.W. Lemans – On June 29, inspectors found various potentially hazardous foods in the walk-in cooler not properly date labeled; corrected. There was less than 50 ppm chlorine in the final rinse of the dishwashing machine. The bar hand sink was not connected to any drain lines and when used the waste water emptied directly on the floor.

■ Shanghi Boy, 510 W Third St. – On June 30, several employee drinks were observed in the kitchen without lids; corrected. Raw chicken and beef were stored in the same bus tub; corrected.

■ Full Stop (Valero), 1601 N.E. Douglas St. – On July 1, chemical spray bottles with no labels indicating the common name of the contents were observed on a shelf above the three-compartment sink and in the mop sink room; corrected.

■ Sorano’s, 419 Ward Road – On July 1, inspectors noted the hand washing sink in the kitchen would not drain; corrected.

■ Waldo Pizza, 1543 N.E. Douglas St. – On July 1, inspectors observed several employee drinks in the kitchen without lids and straws; corrected.

Raytown

■ McDonalds, 8909 E. Missouri 350 – On June 15, inspectors found the left compartment of the three-compartment sink was not connected to any drain lines and was draining on the floor. A plumber was on site and repaired the drain lines and reconnected them. Many house flies were observed around the establishment. Chemical bottles were observed in a cabinet next to food under the soda fountain and on shelves above and next to singleservice items in the outdoor storage room; corrected.

■ Jim G’s of Raytown, 6640 Raytown Road – On June 21, an employee was observed handling raw meat, and instead of washing his hands, wiped them on a cloth, and a cook was observed touching a hamburger bun with bare hands. Both were corrected through discussion and demonstration. No sanitizer was detected in the wiping cloth bucket; corrected.

– Jillayne Ritchie

Tuesday, July 12, 2011 Page 3

health

High-risk pregnancy needs extra care While pregnancy is an exciting time for families, it does come with risk. In fact, some 5 to 10 percent of pregnancies are termed “high risk.” Most high-risk pregnancies fall into three categories: women who have medical problems before becoming pregnant, women who develop medical problems during pregnancy and women with problems related to pregnancy.

Women having chronic medical conditions, those who expect multiples, or those who’ve had previous problem pregnancies, are among highrisk patients needing specialized care to ensure a good outcome.

Common conditions complicating pregnancies include: n Autoimmune disorders (such as lupus) n Cancer (past or present) n Diabetes (pre-existing or gestational) n Heart disease n High blood pressure n Kidney problems n Seizure disorders n Sexually transmitted diseases. n Thyroid Problems n Psychiatric disorders Women with chronic conditions should talk

Elaine Carroll, M.D. GUEST COLUMN Elaine Carroll, M.D., practices at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Blue Springs.

with their health care providers about how to minimize risk before getting pregnant. Once they are pregnant, they will have to be closely monitored.

Maternal age is another factor contributing to pregnancy risks. The chances of miscarriage, pregnancy-induced preeclampsia (high blood pressure) or gestational diabetes also increase. Ironically, pregnancies among early teenagers are also likely to come with complications. Mom’s height and weight also play a role. Women weighing less than 100 pounds are likely to deliver underweight babies.

Likewise, women who have experienced miscarriages, pre-term deliveries, stillbirths or neonatal deaths face additional risks without dedicated high risk care for the current pregnancy.

Other conditions can develop, regardless of a women’s health, including preterm labor and placenta previa, when the placenta obstructs the cervix. Preterm labor can be treated with medicines to slow contractions and with antibiotics to prevent infection. Cesarean deliveries are often performed in the case of placenta previa to reduce harm to the mother and baby.

While family history is beyond anyone’s control, there are many factors that a woman can control to have a smooth pregnancy and a healthy baby. Cigarette smoking, alcohol abuse, and drug abuse put both mother and child at risk, and can and should be managed.

Smoking often leads to low birth weight, with more severe complications including an increased risk for spontaneous abortions, fetal death, and premature births. A mother’s alcohol consumption can cause her child to have severe behavioral problems, and in some cases, mental retardation. Drug abuse is not only dangerous for a mother’s health, but also can cause prema-

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ture birth, stunted growth, mental retardation and/or drug addiction in her baby. It is important not to expose an unborn child to harmful substances while in the womb.

A high-risk pregnancy diagnosis shouldn’t automatically be cause for alarm. Under proper medical management, 90 to 95 percent of all high-risk pregnancies produce healthy babies.

Early detection is key and many risk factors can be identified well before becoming pregnant.

However, some pregnancies begin normally, but develop problems later on. Make sure you schedule regular visits with your doctor, before and after becoming pregnant. If you have a medical condition or post pregnancy problems, consultation with a perinatologist (high risk pregnancy doctor) should be considered prior to becoming pregnant, in order to outline a comprehensive plan of care of the future pregnancy.

Partnered with the University of Kansas Medical Center, St. Mary’s Medical Center Perinatology offers a full range of genetic testing procedures and services dedicated to high-risk mothers. This expertise is important because studies show experience in this arena is associated with fewer complications. Our goal is to get the best outcome for both mother and baby.

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Page 4 Tuesday, July 12, 2011

nutrition

Have some sweet fun; make popsicles Kids want cool treats on hot summer days, and parents always want activities for their kids so have some fun in the kitchen this summer by making healthy sweet treats.

Store-bought popsicles can be pricey, sugary and filled with additives; making your own icy treats keeps you in control of the content. n Sugar Control – Use fresh fruit (pureed, or diced), low-fat plain yogurt or 100% fruit juice as the base to keep sugars natural and at a minimum. n Portion Control – You don’t have to buy the homemade popsicle kits; use plastic cups or even ice cube trays to keep portions at your liking. Cover the cups or tray with aluminum foil, and poke wooden sticks through foil before freezing.

Studies also suggest that eating habits form at an early age, while getting kids involved in the kitchen makes them more likely to eat the finished product. n Give kids “structured” options – Plan ahead and pre-set several flavors of all ingredients. If using low-fat plain yogurt, have several kinds of diced fruit to choose from.

great treat after summer sporting events. n Keep it fun – Kids will stay interested if it is fun. Make a friendly competition out of creating the craziest flavors! This is also a great way to get kids to try new foods!

Tracey Shaffer Food for Thought Tracey Shaffer, RD, LD, is a Hy-Vee dietitian at the Blue Springs location The information provided should not be construed as professional medical advice. Email her at 1033dietitian@hy-vee.com. n Be realistic – Don’t hide everything they love; just find healthy alternatives. If your child loves red Kool-Aid, puree red fruit or add a small amount of a red sports drink to make a

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Hypnosis works directly with the subconscious mind and replaces negative or unhealthy behavior with positive reinforcement and behavior.

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All you need 1 1/4 pounds ripe peaches (3 to 4medium), halved and pitted

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2. Divide the mixture among twelve 2-ounce or eight 3-ounce freezer-pop molds (or small paper cups). Freeze until beginning to set, about 1 hour. Insert frozen-treat sticks and freeze until completely firm, about 1 hour more. *To make ahead: Store in the freezer for up to 3 weeks.

Source: adapted from Eating Well, Inc. Nutrition facts per serving: 39 calories, 0g fat, 0g saturated fat, 0g monounsatured fat, 0mg cholesterol, 0mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate, 1g fiber, 0g protein, 89mg potassium.

Briefly l Health

Blood drive planned Thursday for Buckner, Levasy and Sibley

the second annual Ride to Defeat ALS will be donated to the Keith Worthington Chapter of the ALS Association, serving ALS patients and their families in Kansas, Nebraska, and WestThe communities of Buckner, Levasy and ern/Central Missouri.

Sibley are sponsoring a Community Blood The charity ride and poker run starts and Drive from 2:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday. ends at the Lake House Pub in Lee’s Summit, Last year, 28,000 people in our area received 27909 E. Colbern Road. Breakfast will be served a blood transfusion. Whole blood and its comat 8 a.m., registration opens at 10 a.m., and the ponents are required for many medical proceride begins at noon and will last until approxidures, treating patients suffering from traumately 4 p.m. There will also be music, raffle matic blood loss due to injury, as well as those prizes, T-shirts and patches for sale, and a 50/50 undergoing surgery or being treated for illness. jackpot (tickets $1 each). The cost is $30 per The recent disasters in southern Missouri have rider, $10 per passenger. For information about made the need for blood even more critical. sponsorship opportunities, contact Angie Read Donors must be at least 16 years of age, weigh at angie.read@fleishman.com. a minimum of 115 pounds, and must provide Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a deadly photo identification at the time of donation. disease that affects the motor neurons in a Community Blood Center must collect at least person’s brain and spinal cord. When the motor 580 pints of blood daily to meet the needs of neurons die, the muscles waste away. Gradually, area hospitals. a person is robbed of the ability to walk, speak, To schedule your appointment online, go to eat, and eventually breathe. All the while, the www.esavealifenow.org and enter sponsor code mind remains sharp and aware of the total pabslcomm, or contact Dolores Hirst at 816-650ralysis that is quickly setting in.

3763.

Upon diagnosis, doctors give the majority of ALS patients only two to five years to live. There is no known cause or cure for ALS. For more information or to join in the fight against ALS Motorcyclists from both sides of the state line will come together on Saturday to ride for a locally, visit www.alsa-midwest.org. great cause, the fight against ALS (also known – Jillayne Ritchie as Lou Gehrig’s Disease). All proceeds from

Motorcycle ride for ALS Saturday

Mike Schweder, CHt

Juice of 1 lemon 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice 1/4 cup sugar, or to taste 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Page 6 Tuesday, July 12, 2011

wellness

There’s etiquette involved in running events

Health watch kids’ health

8 percent of kids have food allergies A large national study of food allergies in the U.S. finds that more children have allergies, including severe allergies, than previously thought. The study found 8 percent of children under age 18 had a food allergy, or roughly 5.9 million children. Of those, 38.7 percent had a history of severe reactions, and 30.4 percent had multiple food allergies. The most common foods children were allergic to were peanuts (25.2 percent), milk (21.1 percent) and shellfish (17.2 percent). Black and Asian children had higher odds of having a food allergy compared with white stock.xchng children, and children from families with lower incomes were less likely to have food allergies than children from families with higher incomes.

– American Academy of Pediatrics

health tip

Resource to help manage diabetes New videos to help people make lifestyle changes and cope with the demands of diabetes were announced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Diabetes Education Program. The series of three- to five-minute videos, which can be found at www.

YourDiabetesInfo.org/HealthSense, address topics like: • Setting goals to improve your health • Managing type 2 diabetes • Living with type 2 diabetes.

– GateHouse News Service

By Carol Sponagle GateHouse News Service

F

or most first-timers, preparing to complete a runner’s road race is often the biggest factor to consider before competing.

But when you are running with possibly hundreds of other people, who all have different goals — beating the competition, achieving a personal best or just finishing the race at a walk — you should be aware that there is more to racing than speed, strategy and stamina. It also involves etiquette.

Tracy Dowell, sales associate at the Springfield Running Center in Illinois and a longtime member of the Springfield Road Runners Club, is an expert on race manners. As a race coordinator and winner of the SRRC Point Series, Dowell has seen the good, the bad and the ugly of race-day manners.

For example, Dowell says she doesn’t “like to see ‘bandits,’ people who run but don’t register and pay. Many of these races benefit a charity,

and they’re volunteer-staffed.”

Dowell says racers should be friendly, but when it’s time to run, don’t be chatty with other runners unless you’ve agreed to do so beforehand. If you’re going to chat while you run or walk, be aware of other participants and be prepared to let them pass.

“Some runners are more serious, and talking can be distracting,” Dowell said. “You can be serious, but be courteous to volunteers. When you grab water (from aid stations), thank the volunteers. Thank the police officers for blocking traffic.”

Allyson Strauch, academic adviser at Robert Morris University in Illinois and a race veteran, says following race rules and knowing proper etiquette before, during and after the race is important. Knowing your pace is helpful, too, Strauch says.

“Don’t be afraid to ask other runners ... their projected goal time ... or their average mile time. You do not want to start too close to the front, nor do you want to start in the very back and navigate your way around walkers.”

Before and during the race n Read the race entry form and follow the rules. Many races do not allow iPods, dogs, strollers or other items because of safety concerns.

n Register in advance so organizers can ensure adequate staffing and refreshments. n Arrive early. n Pin race number on the front of your shirt or shorts. n Walkers and slower runners should begin near the back of the line. n Walk or run only two abreast to allow faster runners to pass.

The aid station

n Approach the aid station on the right to grab fluids or snacks from volunteers. Move forward quickly, but don’t forget to thank volunteers. n If you need to walk, move to the side of the road to allow runners to pass.

n Throw your used cup or wrappers in a garbage can or on the ground near the aid station but away from the course. Do not throw cups that still contain liquid. Instead, drop them from below the waist to avoid spraying other runners.

n Report distressed runners to the nearest aid station. Note the runner’s race number and the mile marker.

The finish line

n Once you cross the finish line, keep moving to the finish chute. Stay in finishing order if the event is not electronically timed so the finish line volunteers can remove pull tags for scoring. n Return timing tags or chips before leaving the finish chute. n Once scoring is completed, exit the finish chute to make room for other runners.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011 Page 7

health

healthCALENDAR

Items for the Health Calendar may be e-mailed to jill.ritchie@examiner.net or mailed to: The Examiner, P.O. Box 459, Independence, Mo. 64051, attention Jill Ritchie. The following items are for July 13 through 19, unless otherwise stated.

Spotlights

Blue Springs FREE HYPNOSIS SEMINARS – Stop Smoking from 6:30 to 8 p.m. tonight; Weight Loss Management from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, A Healthy Change Hypnotherapy, 1133 W. Main St., Suite 203. These are informational seminars, not group hypnosis sessions. To register, call Mike at 816560-6903.

STRETCH-N-GROW – for ages 2 to 5, sponsored

by Blue Springs Parks and Recreation, 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Wednesdays July 13-Aug. 17, Vesper Hall.

Cost, $38. Call 228-0181 to register.

BRAIN DANCE FOR CHILDREN, 10 to 10:30 a.m. for ages 2 to 4 p.m. ($30) 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. for ages 5 to 7 ($35), Fridays July 15-Aug. 5, Vesper Hall.

Children will learn movement patterns that wire the central nervous system. Call 228-0181 to register.

Buckner/Levasy/Sibley COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE, 2:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Thursday. Donors must be at least 16 years of age, weigh a minimum of 115 pounds and must have photo identification. To schedule an appointment online, go to www.esavealifenow.org and enter sponsor code bslcomm, or contact Dolores Hirst at 816-660-3763.

Independence COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE, 3 to 6 p.m. today, Westminster Hall, 417 W. Lexington Ave. Call Joy Young at 358-6133 for an appointment, walk-ins are also welcome, or online at www.esavealifenow.org.

For questions, call Ruby Smith, 373-5381 or David Wade, 252-6101.

DIABETES STORE TOUR, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 23rd Street Hy-Vee. Tour the store aisles with Dietitian Amanda and learn about healthy eating, carbohydrates, label reading and portion sizes. No registration required, meet at customer service desk.

KIDS’ COOKING CLUB, 6 to 7 p.m. July 20 or 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 21, 23rd Street Hy-Vee. Participants will make red, white and blue foods in honor of July 4. Registration and payment are due by July 19. Register at the customer service desk. For information, call 500-6778.

Bereavement groups

Blue Springs Widowed Persons support group, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, St. Mary’s Medical Center, Annex A. 224-0677 or 229-8093.

Independents Singles Ministry grief support group, 7 p.m. Tuesday, First United Methodist Church. 228-3788.

Adult Bereavement support group, sponsored by St. Mary’s Medical Center, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. several times throughout the year, Vesper Hall.

To register, 655-5490.

Lee’s Summit Grief discussion group, 7 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, Lee’s Summit Christian Church.

Other Infant loss group, sponsored by Carondelet Health. 655-5582.

Miscellaneous

Independence MATERNITY UNIT TOURS, Centerpoint Medical Center. Call 751-3000 for dates and to register.

Food handler/manager permit training classes, food handler classes, 3:30 p.m. Thursdays at Truman Memorial Building, 1 and 3:30 p.m.

Wednesdays, Independence Health Department.

There is a fee. To register, 325-7803.

Salvation Army Seeing Help (SASH), 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, The Salvation Army building. There will be games, speakers or descriptive video movies, plus a meal. 461-4869 or 373-3363.

Blue Springs

EMOTIONAL WELLNESS EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP, sponsored by Mental Health America of the Heartland, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, First Christian Church, 701 N.W. 15th St. Call 229-8400 or info@ fccbsmo.org.

Break Time Club, sponsored by Shepherd Center of Blue Springs, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Timothy Lutheran Church. For older adults with some physical and/or mental limitations.

A donation of $10 to the cost of the program is suggested. 228-5300.

Yourtake How often do you wear sunscreen?

Prenatal/Infant/Child programs

Independence WIC NUTRITION PROGRAM, for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or gave birth less than six months ago, 404-6460 or 257-2335.

Blue Springs WIC NUTRITION PROGRAM, for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or gave birth less than six months ago, 220-1007.

Blue Springs/Lee’s Summit Tough Love support group, for families dealing with unacceptable adolescent behavior, 7:30 to 9:40 p.m.

Tuesday, First Christian Church. 913-492-1200.

Moms & Moms-to-be prenatal and postnatal class, 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday, Family YMCA. 224-9620.

Natural family planning session, 7 p.m. Thursday, St. Mary’s Medical Center. Fee. For reservations, 913-384-1000.

Harrison Cato Independence “I wear it every time I go swimming. If I’m just outdoors and I’m not going to have my shirt off, I’m not worried about it. My arms and head are exposed to the sun on a normal basis.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Susan Corum Independence “Almost every time I go out. I don’t have sunscreen on now, so that’s why I’m in the shade.”

Addiction groups

Independence Straight Talk, Narcotics Anonymous, 7 p.m., Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, First Baptist Church.

Narcotics Anonymous Help Line: 531-2250.

Living Free – Al Anon meeting, 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 1723 Appleton Ave. 461-0039.

Blue Springs ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, meetings available daily, most sessions are closed, and there are beginner meetings also, 1428-B W. U.S. 40 (behind Betty’s Diner). There is a total of 29 meetings per week. For times, call 228-7921.

CHAPEL HILL AL-ANON, 6:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday; 9 a.m. Saturday, 1428-B W. U.S. 40 (behind Betty’s Diner).

BLUE SPRINGS ALATEEN, 3 to 4 p.m. Sunday, 1428-B W. U.S. 40 (behind Betty’s Diner).

Raytown NEW DAY AL-ANON, 10 a.m. Wednesday, Blue Ridge Trinity Lutheran Church. 353-5446.

Peggy Davidson Independence “Pretty much every time we’re outside for extended periods of time, from the morning hours until about 4 p.m. I put it on the kids, too. We try to reapply it every two to three hours when we’re out for extended periods.”

– Adrianne DeWeese

Page 8 Tuesday, July 12, 2011

health

Sickle cell has serious consequences for athletes The verdict came in on July 1, 2011. The University of Central Florida was found negligent in the death of Ereck Plancher, who died during football conditioning drills on March 18, 2008.

But the verdict among sports medicine physicians came in a long time ago – Ereck Plancher should not have died on that day; not that way; not from overexertion.

Ereck had sickle cell trait, a widely known risk factor for sudden death during extreme exertion. What can we learn from Ereck to make sports safer for our young athletes?

Sickle cell trait and exertion, what do you know? T or F? 1. Kids with sickle cell disease can play football.

2. Kids with sickle cell trait can play all sports.

3. There is medicine to treat sickle cell trait.

Sickle cell trait is an inherited condition where there is one normal and one abnormal gene for hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying component of red blood cells. The red cells of those with sickle cell trait have a normal shape.

In sickle cell disease, both hemoglobin genes are abnormal causing red cells to be sickle shaped. Those with sickle cell trait are carriers

Lori Boyajian O'Neill Sports and wellness Dr. Lori Boyajian-O’Neill can be contacted at lori.boyajian-oneill@hcahealthcare.com. for sickle cell disease in offspring and should receive family planning counseling, but otherwise they usually have no medical issues, unless engaged in rigorous physical stress in extreme heat.

Sickling collapse is a cascade of physiologic events leading to red blood cell sickling and cell death. Unusual fatigue and muscle cramping may occur early. Rapid breakdown of muscle tissue can lead to a condition called rhabdomyolysis. The blood becomes more acidic, potassium leaks out of dying cells into the blood

stream causing kidney failure, cardiac arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death.

This is what happened to Ereck.

Sickling collapse occurs during sustained exertion without rest for recovery, as in repeated sprints or gassers. Although rare, deaths from sickle cell trait are on the rise. Since 2000, there have been seven reported cases during football conditioning. There are no reported cases during competition because of the natural breaks in the game allowing for rest and hydration.

Although most common among those of original African descent, sickle cell trait has been detected in all races and ethnicities. According to the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, approximately 1 in 12 African Americans carry the sickle cell trait. About 1 in 500 has sickle cell disease.

Athletes with sickle cell trait can participate in all sports without restriction but must understand the risks. The NCAA recommends prevention strategies such as maintaining good conditioning year round and longer periods of rest and recovery between rigorous workouts.

Athletes, parents and coaches must understand signs and symptoms of exertional sickling including muscles cramps, fatigue, pain, swelling, weakness and difficulty breathing.

Athletes should be able to report symptoms and certified athletic trainers must have the authority to intervene without fear of punishment or reprisal from coaches who may be well-intentioned in their efforts to condition players but who may not understand the consequences of continued training.

Screening for sickle cell disease and trait has been part of the standard newborn health screen for about 30 years. All athletes should know their status, either from their newborn records or blood testing that costs about $35 through a physician’s office.

As part of the settlement in the case of a similar death involving a Rice University football player, all NCAA Division I schools are required to offer testing.

The son of Haitian immigrants, an honor roll student and Division I athlete, Ereck’s future was bright and his death senseless. If only he had received medical attention when symptoms worsened.

UCF has sustained a loss in reputation and finances, but it will recover. Ereck’s parents never will.

Elisabeth Tyler, 347-2491.

Arthritis and Fibromyalgia, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday, every other month, Lee’s Summit Hospital.

753-2220.

Kansas City EMPOWER KIDNEY DISEASE CLASSES, 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through 2011, at several area hospitals.

Call 842-0076 to register.

Love Me Slender, 1 p.m. Tuesday, Van Horn Health Source. 418-4070.

CEA-HOW (Compulsive Eaters AnonymousH.O.W.), 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Unity Church of Independence, 14304 E. 39th St. 1-800-672-6715.

Blue Springs TOPS Mo. 772, 10 a.m. Tuesday, First Baptist Church West Annex. 350-1554.

Lee’s Summit Overeaters Anonymous, 7 p.m. Monday, Unity Village, Administrative Building, Room 221. Call Lisa, 833-2636.

CEA-HOW (Compulsive Eaters AnonymousHOW Concept), 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, First Presbyterian Church. Call Lisa at 679-7009 or visit www.ceahow. org.

Other Overeaters Anonymous, a 12-step program for compulsive eaters. 913-383-5933 or www. overeatersanonymous.org.

WEIGHT LOSS CHALLENGE, 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.

Tuesdays, or 7 to 7:45 p.m. Thursdays. Cost, $35 for 12-week class, with $25 going in the pot for top three losers. To register, 800-262-2152.

Answers: 1. F; 2. T; 3. F

healthCALENDAR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 Kansas City WIC NUTRITION PROGRAM, for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or gave birth less than six months ago, 404-9740 or 923-5800.

Screenings/Immunizations

Independence Blood pressure for those 50 and older, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Palmer Center. Free. 3256200.

Blood pressure checks for those 50 and older, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Palmer Center.

Free. 325-6200.

Support groups

Independence Domestic violence group for men, 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Family Conservancy of Eastern Jackson County. 373-7577.

Parkinson’s, 3 p.m. Tuesday, The Fountains at Greenbriar. Call Desiree Rogers at 257-5100.

Caregivers SUPPORT GROUP, 2 p.m.

Thursday, Centerpoint Medical Center Cafeteria, private dining room. Call 698-7584 to register.

CHADD – Parents of Children with Attention Deficit Disorder, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Trails West Library. Call Teresa, 796-3659.

Caring Communities Divorce and Step Family, 6:30 p.m. once a month, days vary, Blue Hills Elementary School. 796-6290.

Blue Springs Overcomer’s Outreach 12-step, 7 to 8 p.m.

Monday, Blue Springs Assembly. 229-3298.

CANCER support group, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, First United Methodist Church, Room 100. Call 2298108.

Caregivers, sponsored by Shepherd Center of Blue Springs, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Timothy Lutheran Church. 228-5300.

Alzheimer’s, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, St. Mary’s Manor. 228-5655.

PARENTS OF NICU BABIES, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, St. Mary’s Birthing Center. Moms delivering at other facilities are welcome. 655-5574, option 5.

Breastfeeding, offered by St. Mary’s Medical Center, 10 a.m. Thursday, 206 Mock Ave., Suite 101.

655-5574.

Holding on to Hope, for parents who have had a child die, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, every other month, Timothy Lutheran Church. Call Nancy Nowiszewski, 228-5300, Ext. 320.

CHRISTIAN 12-STEP RECOVERY PROGRAM, 7 p.m. Friday, Blue Springs Christian Church. Call Steve, 229-7311, Ext. 243.

Lee’s Summit Stroke, 1 p.m. Wednesday, Lee’s Summit Hospital. 969-6900.

Diabetes, sponsored by Lee’s Summit Hospital Health Connection, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Lee’s Summit Christian Church. 524-9416 or 347-0147.

Alzheimer’s and dementia, 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Village Care Center Conference Room. Call

Weight Management

Independence TOPS Mo. 291, 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. Monday, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. 461-0811.

TOPS Mo. 251, 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, Maywood Baptist Church. 478-0723 or 252-2392.

TOPS Mo. 331, 5 p.m. Tuesday, College Park Community of Christ. 254-7075.

TOPS Mo. 24, 9 a.m. Thursday, New Walnut Park Church. 373-6146 or 650-5262.

TOPS Mo. 100, 9 a.m. Thursday, Farview Restoration Branch. 356-5278.

TOPS MO 0062, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Northeast Baptist Church. 254-9455.

TOPS Mo. 892, 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church. 356-9219.

TOPS Mo. 482, 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Calvary Presbyterian Church. 452-3029.

Healthy Reflections, 10 a.m. Thursday, Sermon Center. 325-7370.

Overeaters Anonymous, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Monday, Maywood Baptist Church. Handicap accessible. Call Wanda G., 833-2632.

Women’s Issues

Blue Springs Mom to Mom Lunch Club, a support group for new moms, 1 to 2 p.m. Tuesday, St. Mary’s Medical Center Professional Building, 300 Mock Ave. 655-5585.

– Jillayne Ritchie