Health

September 21, 2010

Health The Examiner

• Tracey Shaffer

Fight childhood obesity – Page 7

Total Patient John Borsa and other doctors at St. Mary’s vascular center examine the effects of disease on the whole body – Page 4

• Larry Jones

Prostate screenings detect cancer – Page 2

Wellness 2-3, 5 • CaLENDAR 6 • Nutrition 7

Page 2 Tuesday, September 21, 2010

wellness

Cut cancer risk with prostate screening Come by and ride a stairway lift at the Prime Time Senior Fair

Early detection is key to successful treatment September is Prostate Cancer awareness month. Sometimes I don’t think I spend enough time on men’s health, but today I want men to understand the importance of knowing the signs and symptoms of prostate problems, be it cancer or not, and get it checked.

The prostate gland is a walnut-shaped gland that produces seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men. It is a slow growing cancer that usually remains confined to the prostate. However, if not caught early, prostate cancer can spread.

About five to 10 percent of prostate cancers can be linked to heredity. Other causes of prostate cancer may also occur from higher levels of hormones. Although the cause of prostate cancer is still being studied, risk factors have been identified that make men susceptible to the disease. n Age is the strongest risk factor. Men reaching 50 years of age have a greater risk of developing prostate cancer. Two out of three

My Dentist

Saves You money!

Free Exam & Dental Insurance Analysis Reg. Price $165 Expires 9/30/2010 • New Patients Only Must Present Ad at First Visit

All Insurance Accepted

General Dentistry David Moyer, DDS & Associates www.MyDentistinc.com

14227 E. Highway 40 • Independence

816-398-8410

Cash Customers SAve Money! Go to PriceDoc.com and print out a coupon for our services!

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

prostate cancers are found in men 65 and older. n African-American men have a greater risk of developing prostate cancer than other races. The reason for this is still unclear. n Prostate cancer runs in families. It is important to know your family health history. n Obesity has not been associated with a higher risk of developing prostate cancer, but has been linked to a prevalence of more advanced prostate cancer when diagnosed. n These risk factors, like in other chronic conditions, don’t tell the whole story, since many men will have several risk factors and

never develop the disease. So there are many more questions than answers. That why it is important to know the symptoms and act early.

If you have trouble urinating, decreased force in the stream, bloody urine, bloody semen, swelling of the legs, discomfort in the pelvic area or bone pain, see your doctor and get screened. Prostate cancer is routinely found through these screenings.

There are many treatments for prostate cancer. Your doctor can make a sound recommendation based on screenings or the type of cancer. You will need to learn enough about prostate cancer to feel comfortable in making some treatment decisions yourself.

Learn as much as you can about your cancer and treatment options. When you have the knowledge to make better decisions, living with prostate cancer is more manageable.

Don’t forget to find a support group, whether it be family or other cancer survivors, or both.

Take care of yourself, increase your consumption of the fruits and vegetables and get plenty of exercise.

Prostate cancer may not be preventable, but certainly learning to reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer is will be well worth the effort.

healthSHORTS Free cancer screening

Health watch: Childhood eye care

Midwest Cancer Care at Research Medical Center will sponsor free cancer screenings from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 6 at the hospital.

Research, which has online cancer risk assessments to help people identify early warning symptoms, holds the screenings throughout the year.

The screenings will be for prostate, skin and colon cancers.

Also on Oct. 6, Research will offer a walk-in mammogram screening from 4 to 6 p.m. No appointment is necessary.

To register, call 816-751-3775.

Centerpoint Medical Center is hosting a 5K run/walk to raise funds for the Shared Care Free Clinic of Jackson County.

The event will start at 8 a.m. on Sunday and will both start and end at the hospital.

The clinic, formerly known as the Jackson County Free Health Clinic, received $5,500 from the event last year.

To participate, register at www.sportkc. org/centerpoint5k

Nothing stops children’s activities faster than vision problems. Kids can’t play or perform to the best of their abilities if they can’t see well. However, glasses can be cumbersome, and children may choose not to wear them.

In a recent study conducted by Fairfield Research among members of the Good Housekeeping Reader Advisory Panel, a significant amount of respondents were aware that their children were unhappy wearing glasses: n 42 percent of parents say that their children dislike wearing glasses. n 41 percent stress that their children do not always wear glasses when they should. n 50 percent state that their children would rather wear contact lenses.

The Contact Lenses in Pediatrics Study by the Ohio State University College of Optometry, New England College of Optometry and University of Houston College of Optometry reveals that 68 percent of children and 65 percent of teens noticed improved performance in activities after wearing contact lenses.

Today, there are vision correction options to meet every child’s needs, so take the time to schedule a visit to an eye care practitioner.

– Michael Glover

– GateHouse News Service

5K benefits Free Clinic

wellness

Tuesday, September 21, 2010 Page 3

26-year-old Jones is paramedic, semiprofessional climber When 13-year-old Mykael Ann Jones spied a sign for a local climbing gym while driving with her mother, she was intrigued and asked her mom to stop. She had never climbed before, but as they say, the rest is history. What started as a childhood adventure in Seattle, her native city, has taken Jones to climbing competitions all over the globe.

Jones likes excitement and excels under pressure. When she is not climbing, Jones is a proud Independence firefighter/paramedic.

Competitive climbing, what do you know?

Lori Boyajian O'Neill Sports and wellness Dr. Lori Boyajian-O’Neill can be contacted at lori.boyajian-oneill@hcahealthcare.com.

ficial rock walls. Jones trains at IBEX in Blue Springs 3 to 4 times each week. IBEX is affiliated with US Climbing and features programs for beginners and elite climbers.

“Climbing has shaped my life, and even brought me my husband,” Jones said.

IBEX is a special place for Ms. Jones 1. Climbing is an Olympic sport. because it is where she met her husband, 2. Most competitive climbing is outdoors.

Jason, two years ago.

3. US Climbing is the National Governing This weekend, the Joneses will compete as Body. a team in a 24-hour competition near Jasper, Ark. Dubbed “24 Hours of Horseshoe Hell,” it Jones quickly distinguished herself in local is in the rugged Ozark Mountains. The team and regional competitions, earning a spot on with the most climbs during the 24 hours wins the US Junior Climbing Team at age 15. From the competition.

2002-2009 she was a member of the US ClimbSimple. One year ago Jones and her husing Team. Her step-brother, Independence Fireband married there. Here’s hoping they return fighter Josh Carrick, was also a member of the still married.

US National Team.

At age 26, Jones has been climbing for 13 Last summer, Jones was named top female years, 7 as a semi-professional. climber in North AmerHer path may one day lead to the ica, and therefore, repreOlympic Games. Currently a demsented the continent at onstration sport, there are hopes the World Games in Tai■ IBEX is hosting a special that climbing will be a full sport in wan where she finished event on Halloween. For more the near future. As passionate and 14th. In 2009 she won the information, call 816-228-9988 or dedicated to firefighting as she is North American Speed visit www.climbibex.com. to climbing, Jones will obtain a Climbing ChampionBachelor’s Degree in Fire Science ship in Montreal. in 2011. She has distinguished “Climbing is an amazing sport and has herself as a World Champion climber and a given me opportunities to travel all over the respected firefighter/paramedic. The Indeworld,” she stated incredulously. pendence Fire Department and the citizens of Jones is a rock climber, not a mountain Independence are in good hands. climber. Her goal is not to ascend to a summit.

Rather, she will scale cliffs, or most often, artificial rock walls with her 5 foot 10 inch frame.

Ninety-five percent of competitions are on arti1. F 2. F 3. T

True or False

LEARNMORE

Answers

Photo by Viva Luma Photog rap hy

Local woman climbs high

Not Even a Stroke Could Stop Terri Gardner From Dancing at Her Daughter’s Wedding J ust two weeks remained before Terri Gardner’s oldest daughter, Amber, was to be married. It was a joyful time, but also stressful as Terri worked to ensure that the wedding would be perfect. Terri’s youngest daughter, Carrody, stepped in to help. But as mother and daughter chatted one Sunday morning, it quickly became apparent that something was terribly wrong: Terri could not finish her sentences.

Although she could see the words in her head, her efforts at speech were futile.

Without missing a beat, Carrody, an emergency department nurse at Saint Luke’s East-Lee’s Summit, called the hospital and told them that she was bringing her mother in with a possible stroke. Upon arrival, a CAT scan was done. But the results were inconclusive.

With effort, Terri managed to convey to the attending physician that she’d been experiencing some tingling in her hand for a few days but hadn’t thought much of it.

A quick decision was made to transport Terri to Saint Luke’s Hospital near the Country Club Plaza. A stroke team was waiting, and a higher-resolution CAT scan soon confirmed that she had, indeed, suffered a stroke. Unfortunately, the blood clots were too far back in the brain to address through mechanical intervention. Instead, Terri was given

powerful medications to improve the blood flow to her brain.

The medications worked, and by the following evening, Terri was talking normally. Within four days, she was heading home. And not too long after that, she was dancing at her daughter’s wedding.

“The care I received was just wonderful,” Terri said. “I really don’t know how it could have been any better.

They kept me informed and explained to me what they were doing and why. And they were always very kind and courteous and professional. Nobody wants to go through something like that, but all things considered, it was a pretty awesome experience.”

Hundreds of people across western Missouri and eastern Kansas have been given a second chance in life, thanks to the advanced stroke intervention capabilities of Saint Luke’s Health System. A national leader in acute stroke reversal, Saint Luke’s and its 11 regional partner hospitals bring the latest technology, medications and techniques to bear in the fight against strokes. So wherever you are in the area, remember that you’re never far from the region’s quality leader.

And if you need proof, just talk to Terri Gardner. Because she’s speaking just fine these days.

The Region’s Quality Leader To find a doctor who’s part of Saint Luke’s, call NurseLine at 816-932-6220 or go to saintlukeshealthsystem.org.

Page 4 Tuesday, September 21, 2010

cover

New vascular center improves patient care Borsa looks for blockages in peripheral parts of the body.

For example, Borsa would be doing a proceStreamlining care can save lives. dure in a patient’s leg who suffered from a disThat’s what is happening at the new endoease. But the patient could have the same probvascular center in St. Mary’s Health Center. lem in the heart, an area Borsa doesn’t treat.

Opened this spring, the center offers a team This could lead to a heart attack or stroke. of specialists who offer “They may or may not less invasive treatments have a problem in the heart, for many disorders like but I want to make sure that peripheral vascular disease, I didn’t fix someone’s leg cerebral vascular accident, and they go home and have aortic aneurysm and other a bad heart attack,” Borsa complicated conditions. said. “We started to look A team of specialists in at the patient as a whole interventional radiology instead of just looking at and cardiology, endocrinolotheir legs or just at their gy, podiatry and wound care heart.” and hyperbaric medicine A patient arrives at the are involved in the center. endovascular center and Dr. John Borsa is an they get screened for “all interventional radiologist at John Borsa the serious arterial diseases St. Mary’s Medical Center. and treat them accordingly,” interventional radiologist “When they come to said Borsa, who has been a the vascular center, their doctor since 1991. blood vessels from head to toe are looked after,” The patient typically comes in with sympBorsa said. “We’re looking for blockages and toms of soreness or severe pain in the legs, stuff like that.” hypertension (high blood pressure) or other symptoms. Another patient may arrive at the center who has a wound on the foot that hasn’t healed. The reason might be a narrowing of a blood vessel (stenosis) and the foot isn’t getting enough blood. A heart attack or stroke could be coming.

“They don’t all (have heart attacks or strokes) but they might,” Borsa said. “If they have a disease in part of the body, they might have it – and often do – in other parts of the body. We’re going to make sure that if the person has significant disease in the body that they don’t have disease elsewhere.”

Officially, the center started in April but the Providing comprehensive, compassionate hospital has been informally practicing the and superior hearing care! streamlined care for more than a year.

“It’s going on the assumption that this disWe can help you hear your best. ease doesn’t just happen in part of the body,” he said. “If you have a patient you’re looking at in one part of the body, we must not forget about the rest of the body. Let’s get the right people together who can look at this and fix it if it needs fixing.”

The center is an excellent example of a “good collaboration” between various speTawna Noftzger, Receptionist

By MICHAEL GLOVER

michael.glover@examiner.net

Specializing in trauma, reconstructions and disorders of the hand, elbow and shoulder.

816.303.2400

Centerpoint Medical Center 19550 E. 39th Street, Suite 410 Independence, MO 64057 Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30-5:00

Paul F Nassab, MD

“If they have a disease in part of the body, they might have it – and often do – in other parts of the body.”

All the latest hearing aids with expert fitting and advice by experienced licensed audiologists

Charles E. Hare, M.S., CCC/A Roberta Beile, M.A., CCC/A

Jackson county audiology 816-373-7900

The ScoTTSdale cenTer 17020 e. 40 hwy., SuiTe 9 independence, Mo 64055

The Examiner/ADAM VOGLER A 17 cm stint, the line on the right, in a patient’s right thigh can be seen in this image. The vascular center at St. Mary’s opened in April and focuses on treating the whole patient. cialists who work together, said Jennifer McClaran, a registered nurse and head nurse of radiology who works in the center.

What happened to patients before the center?

“Some fell through the cracks,” Borsa said.

Advances in the medical field are saving lives and the center is an example of improved care by doing things differently.

Lillian Rose went to her family physician in Blue Springs. She had signs of peripheral artery disease (PAD), according to a report in a St. Mary’s publication.

Rose had severe pain in her legs. She was referred to Borsa, who confirmed she had PAD. Borsa performed an ultrasound at the center that revealed extensive disease, according to the report. Borsa placed six stents, mostly in her left leg, to open the artery. During the treatment, Borsa also found an abdominal aortic aneurysm. It’s small and doctors are monitoring it.

GLOSSARY ■ Endovascular: It’s a surgical procedure in which a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel to treat vascular disease.

■ Interventional radiology: Image-guided surgery commonly done with needles and narrow tubes called catheters. The tools are guided

through disease-affected areas. Usually done with the most minimally invasive techniques possible.

■ Peripheral artery disease (PAD): A common circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to a person’s limbs.

– Michael Glover

wellness

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Page 5

Protect yourself from season flu

Flu season begins as early as October

Autumn brings football season, harvest season and before we know it, flu season. A little protection now will help keep you healthy for several months. In fact, a flu vaccination is the single-most effective step you can take for flu prevention—and September is the perfect time to get it.

It’s estimated that 36,000 people die from flu every year and hundreds of thousands more are hospitalized. Flu outbreaks can start as early as October and usually peak around January. A flu shot given today will protect you throughout the flu season, so the earlier you get it, the more protection you’ll have.

You’ll recall last year H1N1 was grabbing all the attention. Fortunately, things were not as bad as some health experts feared and last month, the World Health Organization declared the H1N1 pandemic officially over.

But don’t let that make you complacent. No one believes we’ve seen the last of it and the vaccine used this year protects against the H1N1 plus two other strains. The viruses in the vaccine change each year based on which strains scientists believe will circulate in that year.

About two weeks after vaccination, the antibodies providing the protection are developed.

Just about everyone should get a flu vaccination. Many people do not realize that children also benefit from flu shots. In fact, this year, the CDC expanded the recommendation to include those six months of age and older.

Anyone allergic to chicken eggs, or has had a severe reaction to a past flu shot should consult a physician before being vaccinated.And if you are already sick or have a fever, wait until symptoms clear.

While an annual vaccine is your best protection against the flu, there’s no guarantee you won’t get sick. The vaccine offers no pro-

Steve gialde Steve Gialde is a family practitioner at Oak Grove Medical Clinic. He can be reached at 816-690-6566. tection against the common cold.

If you do get sick, how do you know if it’s the cold or the flu? The flu usually starts suddenly with a headache and dry cough. It causes fever (sometimes very high), shaking chills, body aches, fatigue and eye muscle pain. These symptoms can last as long as five days, after which you may have a dry cough and fatigue for another week or so.

You are usually sicker, longer with the flu than with most colds, but both are viruses. The at-home treatment of the two are similar: eat if you’re up to it and get plenty of liquids to avoid dehydration; treat the symptoms with over-thecounter medications; rest; and stay home from school or work. If your symptoms get worse, you get an extremely high fever, or fever lasting more than three days, get medical help. The flu can lead to other illnesses like pneumonia.

Another important point to remember all year round, whether you’re sick or feeling great: wash your hands, frequently and thoroughly. It’s a simple task that has big dividends for your health. A quick rinse under the water doesn’t do it. Use warm water, use friction and cover all areas. Some suggest singing the ABC song or Happy Birthday to be sure you’re washing long enough. Personally, I don’t care what you sing – but scrub for at least 15 seconds.

5K Run/Walk

‹Â?…‡ ʹͲͲͲǥ –Š‡ Šƒ”‡† ƒ”‡ ”‡‡ Ž‹Â?‹… ‘ˆ ƒ…Â?•‘Â? ‘—Â?–› Č‹ÂˆÂ‘Â”Â?‡”Ž› Â?Â?‘™Â? ĥ –Š‡ ƒ…Â?•‘Â? ‘—Â?–› ”‡‡ ‡ƒŽ–Š Ž‹Â?Â‹Â…ČŒ Šƒ• ’”‘˜‹†‡† ’”‹Â?ƒ”› Â…ÂƒÂ”Â‡ÇĄ …Š”‘Â?‹… †‹•‡ƒ•‡ Â?ƒÂ?ƒ‰‡Â?‡Â?–ǥ ƒÂ?† ‘Â?nj•‹–‡ †‹•’‡Â?•ƒ”› •‡”˜‹…‡• ˆ‘” —Â?‹Â?•—”‡† ƒ†—Ž–• ™‹–Š …Š”‘Â?‹… ‹ŽŽÂ?‡••Ǥ Š‡ …Ž‹Â?‹…ǯ• ‰‘ƒŽ ‹• –‘ ’”‘˜‹†‡ ’ƒ–‹‡Â?–• ™‹–Š –Š‡ ‡†—…ƒ–‹‘Â?ÇĄ •Â?‹ŽŽ• ƒÂ?† ‡Â?…‘—” ƒ‰‡Â?‡Â?– –‘ –ƒÂ?‡ …Šƒ”‰‡ ‘ˆ –Š‡‹” Š‡ƒŽ–Š ƒÂ?† –‘ ’”‡˜‡Â?– –Š‡ …‘Â?’Ž‹…ƒ–‹‘Â?• ‘ˆ —Â?–”‡ƒ–‡† …Š”‘Â?‹… …‘Â?†‹–‹‘Â?•Ǥ ‘ ƒ••‹•– –Š‡ Ž‹Â?‹… ™‹–Š –Š‡‹” Â?‹••‹‘Â?ÇĄ ‡Â?–‡”’‘‹Â?– ‡†‹…ƒŽ ‡Â?–‡” ™‹ŽŽ Š‘•– –Š‹• ͡ —Â?Č€ ƒŽÂ? –‘ ”ƒ‹•‡ ˆ—Â?†• ˆ‘” ƒÂ?† ƒ™ƒ”‡Â?॥ ‘ˆ –Š‡ Ž‹Â?‹…Ǥ

Sunday, October 3, 2010 • 8 a.m.

Race Starts and Ends at Centerpoint Medical Center

Runners/walkers will enjoy a great course that will circle around the hospital and then into the neighborhood to the north of the hospital.

In addition, participants will enjoy: • A certified course • Chip timing • 100% cotton shirts • Awards and food at the end

Register online at www.sportkc.org/centerpoint5K For more information, visit www.centerpointmedical.com

Thank You To Our Sponsors: Presenting Sponsors:

Gold Sponsor: +HDUWODQG 3RGLDWU\ 3& 'U $UWKXU :HLVPDQ 'U 5\DQ )UDQN

Silver Sponsors:

Bronze Sponsors:

Food Inspections l Independence The City of Independence Environmental Health Division conducts inspections anywhere food is handled, prepared and served to the public within city limits. Critical violations must be handled within 72 hours. ■Steak ‘N Shake, 13621 E. U.S. 40 – On Sept.

13, inspectors observed a lot of flies, especially in dish washing area and area close to the rear entry door.

Keep drive through window tightly closed between customers. Stored trash at back door could be contributing factor, along with dirty grease receptacle stored in that area. Grease receptacle needs regular cleaning. – Jillayne Ritchie

19600 E. 39 St. • Independence, MO 64057 • 816-698-7000

Page 6 Tuesday, September 21, 2010

calendar

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 Sept. 22 through 28, unless otherwise stated.

Spotlights

Blue Springs STRETCH-N-GROW: Fitness fun – for ages 2 to 5, 11:30 a.m. to noon Wednesdays, Sept. 29 through Nov. 10. Vesper Hall. Cost, $38. Call 228-0181 to register.

Leawood FREE TO BREATHE 5K RUN/WALK AND KIDS’ DASH, Sunday, Zepi’s Pizza and Pub. All proceeds support the National Lung Cancer partnership’s research, education and awareness programs. To register, visit www.FreetoBreathe.org.

Addiction groups

Independence Straight Talk, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 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 471-7229.

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.

Bereavement groups

Blue Springs Widowed Persons support group, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, St. Mary’s Medical Center, Annex A. 2240677 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.

Grief support group for children, 7 p.m.

Thursday, St. Mary’s Home Care Services office.

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

Fitness

Independence Gentle Tai Chi for those 50 and older, 6 p.m.

Monday, The Palmer Center. Free. 325-6200.

Interval training/step aerobics class, 4 to 4:50 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Sermon Center. Cost, $25 for six week session. To register, 325-7370.

LOW IMPACT EXERCISE, 9 a.m. Mondays, Wednesday, Friday, Fairmount Community Center.

254-8334.

Wake Up Workout, 9 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, The Palmer Center. Cost, $2. 325-6200.

Walk to the Beat, 8 a.m., Monday-Friday, Fair-

mount Community Center. 254-8334.

PEPPI exercise classes, 10:15 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, The Palmer Center. Free. To register, 325-6200.

PEPPI exercise classes, 9 to 10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Fairmount Community Center. To register, 254-8334.

Move to the Beat for ages 12 to 16, 7:10 to 7:50 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Sermon Center. Each six-week session costs $25 for a teen; $35 if you bring a parent. 325-7370.

Parent Tot-ercise for ages 3 to 5, 9:30 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sermon Center. Cost, $15 for each parent/child unit per month; $17.50 if there are five Tuesdays. 325-7370.

PAVEMENT POUNDERS 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. Tuesday, Friday, The Palmer Center. 325-6200.

SITTIN’ FIT chair exercises class, 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Thursday, The Palmer Center. Free. 325-6200.

STRETCH AND TONE, 9 a.m. Tuesday, Thursday, The Palmer Center. Cost, $1. 325-6200.

ZUMBA GOLD, dynamic workout to Latin and international rhythms, 10 a.m. Wednesday, Palmer Center. Cost, $2. 325-6200.

TAI CHI by the Three Dragons Way, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sermon Center. Cost, $35 for a fourweek session; $40 for a 5-week session. 325-7370.

FIT FRIENDS CLASS for ages 18 and older, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Sermon Center. Cost, $25 per each session. 325-7370.

WALK TO THE BEAT, 2 to 3 p.m. Friday, The Palmer Center. Free. 325-6200.

| Yourtake | What is your favorite healthy food?

Bella Hughes Independence

“Apples. I really like how they taste.”

Juliana Diaz Independence

“I like to eat lots of different fruits because they are really good.”

Claire Anello Independence

“Whatever my mom tells me to eat.”

– Kelly Evenson

Blue Springs Swimnastics, 9 to 10 a.m. and 8 to 9 p.m. Monday, Wednesday; 9 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Friday, Centennial Pool-Plex. Cost, $3.75 per visit. 228-0188.

Therapeutic swim, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m., Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Centennial Pool-Plex. Cost, $3.75 per visit. 228-0188.

Crosstrainer aerobics, 9 to 10 a.m., Monday, Wednesday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $2.50 per class.

228-0181.

Prenatal and postnatal exercise classes, 9:45 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 300 N.W. Mock Ave. 655-5400.

Weight room for ages 50 and older, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Tuesday, Thursday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $10 per month; $2 per visit; $96 for a year. 228-0181.

Yoga — For beginners and beyond, 2 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $2.50 per session. 228-0181.

YOGA-GENTLE FLOW, 6:45 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $8 per visit, $48 for six classes. 228-0181.

Tai Chi, 8:30 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $2.50. 228-0181.

Swimnastics, 9 to 10 a.m. Tuesday and Friday, Centennial Pool-Plex. Cost, $3.75 per visit. 228-0188.

Stretching exercise, 10 to 11 a.m., Tuesday, Thursday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $1.50. 228-0181.

ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION EXERCISE PROGRAM for older adults, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Wednesday and Friday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $1 per session. 228-0181. weight room orientation, 10:15 a.m.

Wednesday, Vesper Hall. Free. 228-0181.

Stretch AND TONE, 9 to 10 a.m. Friday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $2.50. 228-0181.

Raytown Tai Chi, 11 a.m. Thursday, Elliott Place Retirement Community. Free. 313-6800.

Kansas City WALK AND TALK, 7 to 10 a.m. Monday-Friday, Ascension Lutheran Church, 4900 Blue Ridge Blvd.

358-1919.

PACE (People with Arthritis Can Exercise), 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, Thursday, Truman Medical Center-Lakewood. 373-4415, Ext. 1175.

Miscellaneous

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

VISITING NURSE Friday, Fairmount Community Center. They will check blood pressure, glucose levels and answer general health questions for seniors. 2548334.

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; manager classes, 9 a.m. second Monday; 1 p.m. fourth Monday.

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

Blue Springs 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.

Free legal advice for seniors, 10 a.m. to noon Monday, Vesper Hall. Legal advice provided by Cochran, Oswald & Roam, LLC. To set up an appointment, 228-0181.

– Jillayne Ritchie

nutrition

Tuesday, September 21, 2010 Page 7

Fighting childhood obesity begins at home In the past 40 years, obesity rates have soared. The most affected by this increase are our youth. There has been a fourfold increase in obesity rates in children ages 6-11, and more than 23 million children and teenagers in the United States ages 2-19 are considered obese or overweight. Medical and health experts consider this statistic an epidemic. These children are at early risk for Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. These diseases aren’t normally seen until adulthood.

By Presidential proclamation and Congressional action, September 2010 has been declared the first Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. In February 2010 Michelle Obama launched the Let’s Move campaign to help combat the childhood obesity epidemic. Access the website at www.letsmove.gov to find ways to get involved to help prevent childhood obesity.

What can you do as a parent to help combat childhood obesity? Check out these recommendations to get started. n Decrease Screen Time. Screen time refers to anything that involves looking at a screen. It includes television, computers, video games, etc. Kids should have no more than two hours per day of screen time. Children under the age of 2 should not have any screen time.

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. E-mail her at 1033dietitian@hy-vee.com. n Expose Kids to Healthy Foods. Kids like what they are used to eating. If you expose them to lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins they will learn to like them and prefer them over less healthy foods. n Encourage Daily Physical Activity.

Healthcare you can

Trust.

At Blue Springs Pediatrics, your child’s health is top priority for us.

Our mission is to provide quality, efficient and effective medical care for your children. Schedule an appointment today for a new patient consultation, and together we’ll look after your child’s health and well-being.

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Blue Springs Pediatrics A division of Lee’s Summit Physician’s Group

816.554.6520

1600 NW South Outer Rd., Blue Springs, MO www.bluespringspediatric.com

Your child doesn’t have to be the soccer star, but whether it is organized sports or just oldfashioned biking around the neighborhood, kids need to stay active. Have them find an activity that they love and do it with them.

Kids can earn their Presidential Active Lifestyle Award (PALA) by documenting active exercise 30 minutes per day, five days a week, for six weeks. Go to www.fitness.gov to start logging your activity. n Stay informed. Use websites that reference science-based nutrition information.

Some good websites are www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org, www.mypyramid.gov and www.wecannhlbi.nih.gov.

Below is a recipe for a healthy after-school snack

Bookworm apple bark All you need: 1 Granny Smith Apple 1 tablespoon peanut butter 2 ½ tablespoons golden or black raisins 1 ½ tablespoons dried sweetened cranberries 1 small bunch of fresh chives or fresh parsley (optional plate garnish)

All you do: Cut apple into four quarters, starting at the stem. Remove the core by cutting away to leave a flat surface on the apple quarter. Be careful not to cut too much of the edible portion of the apple away.

Drop and slightly spread the peanut butter on apple quarters. Mix together the raisins and dried cranberries then sprinkle on peanut butter. Cut chives into one inch pieces and garnish.

Nutrition Information per Serving: Calories: 136 Total fat: 0.8 grams Percent of calories from fat: 25% Protein: 3 grams Carbohydrates: 25 grams Dietary fiber: 3 grams Sodium: 40 grams Recipe was developed for Produce for Better Health Foundation by Chef Mark Goodwin, CEC, CNC. This recipe meets PBH and Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) nutrition standards that maintain fruits and vegetables as healthy foods. From “Cool Fuel Cookbook for Kids.”

Congratulations to the

2010 Healthy KC Award Winner The Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City is pleased to award Lori Ross with the 2010 Healthy KC Award. The Healthy KC Award is the third in a series of awards given throughout the HCF service area to recognize leaders who are working toward eliminating barriers to quality health for the uninsured and underserved in their community.

Although all of the nominees for the Healthy KC Award were exceptional, Lori Ross embodied all the criteria for which this award was developed.

HCF congratulates Lori Ross and all the 2009 nominees for the Healthy KC award.

Steve Roling, Health Care Foundation of GKC presenting award to Lori Ross 2010 Healthy KC Nominees • Angie Knight, Marian Hope Center for Children’s Therapy • Leslie Banning, RN, Swope Health Services • Katherine Kelly, Kansas City Center for Urban Agriculture • Donnie Wilson, restart • Dr. Rex Archer, Kansas City MO Health Department • Sherri Moore, Discover Vision and volunteer, Jackson County Free Health Clinic • Society of St. Andrew • Karen Streeter, Sheffield Place • Robert Zornes, Mother’s Refuge • Coalition of Hispanic Women Against Cancer • Marchea Jennings, Duchesne Clinic • Margaret Pender, St. Peter CME and volunteer, Communities Creating Opportunity (CCO) • Truman Medical Center Hospital Hill Infectious Disease Clinic • Bill Kyles, Comprehensive Mental Health Services • Terry Edwards, volunteer Tri-County Mental Health Services • Peter Zevenbergen, Wyandot Center

www.healthcare4kc.org