Health Magazine

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March 17, 2010 Vol. 5, No. 6

Publisher

Bob Williams Executive Editor

Gary Metro Editor

Cara Recine Advertising Director

Abby Hatfield

618-351-5024 • abby.hatfield@thesouthern.com Marketing

Brian Flath

618-351-5027 • brian.flath@thesouthern.com Art Direction/Design/Production

Rhonda M. Ethridge

rhonda.ethridge@thesouthern.com Circulation/Database Marketing Coordinator

Kathy Kelton 618-351-5049

Online Coordinator

J. C. Dart

jennifer.dart@thesouthern.com

INDEX OF Advertisers

The Southern Health Magazine is a monthly publication of The Southern Illinoisan. Contact us via mail at 710 N. Illinois Ave., Carbondale, IL 62901, or at PO Box 2108, Carbondale, IL 62902. Copyright 2008 by The Southern Illinoisan. The Southern Illinoisan (USPS 258-980) is owned by Lee Enterprises, Inc. of Davenport, Iowa. All rights reserved. For more information call 618-5295454 or 618-997-3356, or visit us online.

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COVER STORY EVERY ISSUE Cover Story Every Issue

710 N. Illinois Ave. Carbondale, Illinois 62901 618-529-5454 • 800-228-0429 fax 618-529-3774 www.thesouthern.com/health

MARCHIn17, 2010 This Issue Tough enough? Men need to overcome reluctance to take care of their health

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SI Health News Upcoming Events Kids Health Boomer fitness Pet Health Senior Health His Health Her Health Health News

3 4 5 8 9 9 10 11 11

Beltone ____________________ 12 866-979-8993

Hughes Dental Arts Centre ______ 10 www.southernilsmilecenter.com • 618-993-3100

Dr. Daniel Brown _____________ 11 618-988-6034

Lavender Ridge _______________ 9 618-242-4050

Family Foot & Ankle Center _______ 5 618-942-3334

Rehab & Care of Jackson County ___ 10 618-684-2136

Heritage Woods of Mount Vernon __ 5 618-532-4590

Shawnee Christian Nursing Center _ 11 618-942-7391

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March 17, 2010

Welcome!

Most everyone has seen and heard it. A young boy playing baseball is hit by a wild pitch or knocked off his base by a runner. Someone screams from the sidelines. “Shake it off, be tough!” Could this be why these youngsters grow up to believe that caring about one’s health is a sign of weakness? “Men are taught to suppress vulnerability and any sign of weakness,” says Larry Jones, a Southern Illinois physician. “we Metro need to educate men that seeking health care reflects good judgment and intelligence.” If you’re male, a great place to take control of your health is the Men’s Health Conference Saturday at John A. Logan College in Carterville. The focus of this year’s conference is to encourage men to establish a relationship with a general practitioner and understand the importance their role is in their families. There are only a few participant spots left for the conference, Recine which will feature potentially life-saving screenings for everything from colon cancer to heart disease, skin cancer and prostate health, as well as routine screenings for hearing, dental, vision, fitness and your feet. There will also be break-out sessions on prostate health, male menopause, healthy eating tips, exercise information, alternative medicine, the importance of sleep, estate planning, improving your financial health, heart disease and ways to be a better husband and father. The day wraps up with lunch and a keynote panel discussion featuring Southern Illinois physicians Jones, Brian Mcelheny, Sam Stokes III and Gemilo Resaba. The conference takes place from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Registration is $35 and includes breakfast and lunch. Considering it could save your life or help you live a longer and healthier life, the cost in time and money is low. Call 618-985-9210 for information and special screening instructions, if needed. “You owe it to your family and friends to keep yourself in the best health possible in order to be the strongest man you can be for them; but more importantly, you owe it to yourself,” says Phil Anton, assistant professor of exercise physiology at SIuC. To read more about men and their health, see the cover story on Page 6. – Cara Recine

Comments and suggestions?

We look forward to hearing from you. Send an e-mail to HEALTH@thesouthern.com For the latest health and fitness news, pick up Tuesday’s Southern Illinoisan for Mind & Body news. Check out www.thesouthern.com/lifestyles for more features.

Southern Illinois Psychiatry_______ 7 www.southernillinoispsychiatry.com • 618-998-0888 The Olde Homestead ___________ 11 www.theoldehomestead.net • 618-246-1055 Vivatek Treatment Center ________ 3 www.vivatek.com • 618-997-5727

Advertise in the Health Magazine! 618-529-5454

SI health news Shawnee Health opens new center

Shawnee Health Service recently opened a new community health center at 400 S. Lewis Lane in Carbondale. Shawnee Health Care-Carbondale offers family medicine and general dentistry services under one roof. Medicaid, Medicare and most forms of insurance are accepted. Financial assistance is available to qualified patients in the form of fee discounts. For medical appointments, call 618-5199900. For dental appointments, call 618519-9901. More information is available at www.shsdc.org.

Diabetes support groups meets

University of Illinois Extension in cooperation with Franklin/Williamson Healthy Communities Coalition is hosting diabetes support groups at the following times and places: Franklin County: A group meets at 1:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every month at U of I Extension office, 1212 Illinois 14 West in Benton. Call 618-4393178. An evening group meets at 6 p.m. on the last Tuesday of every month at Franklin Hospital, 201 Bailey Lane in Benton. Call 618-439-0951. Williamson County: A group meets at 1:30 p.m. on the last Wednesday of every month at U of I Extension office, 1306 N. Atchison Ave., Suite A, in Marion. Call 618993-3304.

‘Parenting Again’ training sessions available

Anyone involved in an agency, organization, school or place of worship that works with grandparents who are raising their grandchildren is invited to one of the Parenting Again training sessions scheduled this spring. The Parenting Again training sessions will be conducted at University of Illinois Extension offices scheduled at these times and locations: 9 a.m. to noon March 30, 402 Ava Road, Murphysboro; 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. April 1, 34 Veterans Drive, Harrisburg; 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. April 21, 502 Oakley Lane, Mounds; and 6 to 9 p.m. April 22, 1212 Illinois 14 West, Benton. Cost is $65; however, a Brookdale Foundation Grant through the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Coalition of Southern Illinois provides the first 22 registrants to attend at $20 each. Cost for second or third persons attending from the same organization is $5. Registration is required. To register or for more information, call 618-453-5563 or visit http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/ carbondalecenter.

Find all things health at www.thesouthern.com/healthblog Clinic moves to a new location

Corley Chiropractic & Rehab Clinic in Murphysboro recently moved to a new location. The clinic is now inside of West County Medical Center at 19 E. Shawnee Drive in Murphysboro. Dr. John Corley, the treating physician, is a native of Murphysboro. For more information, call 618-684-5726.

Avery opens fitness studio

Tina Avery, a certified pole dancing fitness instructor, recently opened a new studio in the lower level of Great Shapes Fitness for Women, 2121 S. Illinois Ave. in Carbondale. For more information, call 618-713-3112 or e-mail letsgetpolefit@yahoo.com.

Third annual MS walk April 10 at SIUC

The third annual walk for Multiple Sclerosis will be April 10 at SIUC. Registration for the event will begin at noon at Campus Lake Boat Docks. The walk will kick off at 1 p.m. People are encouraged to form teams and raise funds. Also, there will be live music and face painting. The event is free, and lunch will be provided to all walkers and volunteers. This is the third year that Carbondale has hosted a Multiple Sclerosis charity walk. It started three years ago by members of SIU’s Public Administration Student Organization in honor of a professor, Keith Snavely, who has MS. PASO raised more than $15,000 the first year and donated it to Gateway MS Foundation, and the two organizations paired up to work together. For more information on this event, visit www.gatewayMSwalk.org or call 314-803-0422.

Two from medical school receive honors

Two from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine have recently received professional honors. Lisabeth F. DiLalla, professor in family and community medicine in Carbondale, has been selected as a charter fellow of the Midwestern Psychological Association, one of the largest psychological associations in the world. Selection is based on the member’s contributions to the field of psychology. Karen L. Reynolds, a nurse educator in education and curriculum, was elected to a two-year term as president of the Association of Standardized Patient Educators. ASPE is an international

organization for professionals in the field of standardized patient methodology,

Hospital ranks high in pneumonia care

Western Baptist Hospital is featured on a national health care quality Web site as one of the top-performing hospitals in the country in pneumonia care. It was chosen because it is among the top three percent in pneumonia care among 2,800 hospitals with 50 or more beds.

Hospital’s new addition expected to open in June

Western Baptist Hospital’s newest expansion, a $9.2 million addition to the Baptist Imaging Center, will be a one-stop shop for imaging services, including mammography at the outpatient center. The expansion, a 5,460-square-foot addition to the 5-year-old freestanding center on the campus’ west end, is expected to be completed in June. The entrance is at 28th Street and Kentucky Avenue, and visitors can park conveniently close to the door.

SIU Medical School receives grant

A faculty member at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield has been awarded a five-year federal grant from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a division of the National Institutes of Health. Victor V. Uteshev, assistant professor of pharmacology at SIU, is the principal investigator for the project. The study will focus on gaining a better understanding of the digestive process and has a total budget of $1,705,121.

Clark earns management credential

Mark Clark, vice president of operations at St. Mary’s Good Samaritan in Centralia, recently became a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, the nation’s leading professional society for health care leaders. Fellow status represents achievement of the highest standard of professional development. Only 7,500 health care executives have acquired this distinction.

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Local Doctor Receives Approval for New Back and Neck Pain Treatment International Therapeutic Machines the huge bio-technology giant headquarter in Reno, Nevada, recently approved Dr. Kevin Darnell as an Authorized Vivatek Treatment System Center for Marion, IL Vivatek is the new technology for treating back and neck pain as well as spinal disc bulges and herniations without surgery. This new procedure is called N.D.R. or Non-invasive Disc Rehabilitation. The Vivatek applies a new treatment called infra-sonic sonar. The Vivatek not only eliminates pain, but also reduces and eliminates bulging spinal disc. This is a non-invasive procedure which means it is totality safe and painless and has no side effects. Most back and neck pain begins by lifting a heavy object or a light object at a wrong angle. Whiplash from an automobile accident is another prime way neck and back pain begins. Symptoms can range from an annoyance to excruciating pain such as lumbago and sciatica. Whatever the cause back and neck pain is serious. Drugs and surgery were once the only remedy. Now medical technology has developed a totally new system for treating one of mankind's oldest and most debilitating conditions. This new treatment is so effective that most insurance companies provide 100% coverage. For more detailed information on this new procedure check the internet at www.backtolivingchiropractic.com or call Dr. Kevin Darnell at (618) 997-5727 for a brochure or an appointment.

Vivatek Treatment Center Dr. Kevin Darnell, D.C.

103 Airway Drive, Suite 2 • Marion, IL 62959 www.backtolivingchiropractic.com

618-997-5727 March 17, 2010

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upcoming events

Southern Illinois Workshops and Seminars University of Illinois Parenting Again Support Group Leader Training

For a good cause American Red Cross blood drives, Southern Illinois

March 22: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., SIuC Student Center, Carbondale March 22: 12:30-5:30 p.m., Marissa High School, Marissa March 22: 2-7 p.m., McKinley Avenue Baptist Church, Harrisburg March 23: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., SIH Systems office, university Mall, Carbondale March 24: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Anna-Jonesboro Community High School, Anna March 24: 2-6 p.m., American Legion 127, Murphysboro March 24: 2-6 p.m., Coulterville High School, Coulterville March 26: 9a.m.-2 p.m., Sparta High School, Sparta March 27: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Hickory Point Mall, Forsyth March 28: 8 a.m.-noon, First united Methodist Church, Marion March 29: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. SIuC College of Agriculture, Carbondale March 29: 12:30-6:30 p.m., First united Methodist Church, Herrin March 30: 2-7 p.m., whittington Church, whittington March 31: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Southeastern Illinois College, Harrisburg March 31: 2:30-6:30 p.m., Pittsburgh Freewill Baptist Church, Pittsburg March 31: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital, Mount Vernon March 31: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Southeastern Illinois College, Harrisburg April 1: 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Crossroads Community Hospital, Mount Vernon April 6: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., SIH Systems office, university Mall, Carbondale April 8: 1:30-6:30 p.m., St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Radom April 14: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital, Mount Vernon April 16: 2-6 p.m. Stonefort High School, Carrier Mills

Conferences and Workshops Super Colon Exhibit

When: 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, March 19 Where: St. Francis Medical Center, Heath and wellness Center Lobby, Cape Girardeau, Mo. Registration: 573-331-5877 The Super Colon exhibit is a 20-foot-long, eight-foothigh colon replica of the human colon. It allows visitors to walk through and get a firsthand look at colon tissue from healthy through the stages of cancer and disease. Physicians will give presentations at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Visitors will be given a resource guide based on the information presented at the event. Free.

Trivia Night-Benefit Arthritis Foundation

When: 6 p.m. Friday, March 19 Where: American Legion, Murphysboro Registration: Call Second Act at SIH 877-480-4040 Join the Arthritis walk Team from Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) for its second annual trivia night. All proceeds will benefit the Arthritis Foundation. The cost per table is $100 in advance for up to eight people. There will be cash team prizes, a best decorated table award and a silent auction. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and play will begin at 7 p.m. Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and a cash bar will be available. Advance registration is preferred.

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When: 9 a.m.-noon, Tuesday, March 30, in Murphysboro or 1:30-4:30 p.m., Thursday, April 1, in Harrisburg Registration: 618-453-5563 or online at www.web. extension.uiuc.edu/carbondalecenter. Designed for advocates, agencies and schools, the training provides tips for facilitating a grandparenting support group. Cost is $65; $20 for the first 22 to register. Cost for second or third person attending from the same organization is $5 (no curriculum). Refreshments will be provided. If dietary or disability accommodations are needed please indicate when registering.

Carbondale MS Walk

When: noon Saturday, April 10 Where: Campus Lake Boat Docks, SIuC Campus, Carbondale Registration: 314-303-6793 or www.gatewaymswalk.org. Registration begins at noon and the walk at 1 p.m. People are encouraged to form teams and fundraise. The event is free, and lunch will be provided to all walkers and volunteers. There will be live music and face-painting. walk is approximately two miles.

Classes, Seminars and Events Visiting Nurse Association – Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Screenings When: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 18 Where: white County Senior Citizens Registration: 800-736-4862 Free

SIH Mended Little Hearts

When: 6 p.m. Thursday, March 18 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, Conference Room C Registration: Stephanie Hill 618-318-2863 Mended Little Hearts connects families in crisis with other parents who have survived the shock of learning a child has a heart problem, navigated the maze of medical decisions and procedures and mapped out a plan for the future. The group meets the fourth Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. Free.

“Drive Thru” - Free Colon Cancer Screening Kits

When: 11 a.m. -1 p.m. Friday, March 19 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, Herrin Hospital, St. Joseph Memorial Hospital in Murphysboro, Center for Medical Arts in Carbondale and Miners Memorial Health Center in west Frankfort. Registration: 866-744-2468 to reserve a kit. Colon cancer screening kits are available to individuals between the ages of 50 and 75. Participants can choose one of the five locations, drive up and receive a kit and a special pre-paid envelope to expedite the return to the laboratory for testing. Appointments are not necessary. Kit is free.

Saturday Morning Yoga

When: 9-10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 20, 27 and April 3, 10 Where: one o one Yoga, Carbondale Registration: Shanti Miller 618-457-7896 This yoga class cultivates the positive mind and heart already embodied in and through yoga practice. Learn precise alignment of the body and coordination of movement with the breath while exploring and

March 17, 2010

expressing the deeper attitudes of the poses from the inside out; $12 drop-in price. Packages available at discounted price.

SIH Big Kids and Babies Sibling Class

When: 10-11 a.m. Saturday, March 20 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and event Registration Center, 866-744-2468 Designed for children 3 to 7 years old, this class offers upbeat information on becoming a big sister or brother. Children develop an understanding of the special needs their new sibling will have. They are encouraged to bring a stuffed animal or doll so they can practice holding, diapering and being a good helper to mommy and daddy. Parents will want to bring a camera as the children have fun dressing up as a doctor or nurse.

Boot Camp for New Dads

When: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, March 20 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and event Registration Center, 866-744-2468 First-time dads learn the ins and outs of caring for babies from expert fathers. Facilitated by Sean Herron and Adam Benns, SIH employees, and Dan Dietz, the class helps men make the transition to fathering through activities and discussion. Veteran dads, who have three to 12 months experience bring their babies to class and share their experience with the expectant fathers. There are activities that allow the fathers-to-be to get some hands-on experience handling a baby.

Western Baptist Prepared Childbirth Class

When: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, March 20 Where: western Baptist Hospital, Paducah, Doctor’s office Bldg 2, Meeting Room A-B Registration: 270-575-2229 Class designed for expectant parents in second or third trimester.

St. Elizabeth’s Saturday Childbirth Class

When: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 20 and 27 Where: St. elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville Registration: 618-234-2120 ext. 2300 Classes teach relaxation techniques, controlled breathing, offer pain control options as well as an introduction to inductions and Caesareans. The class includes a discussion of infant care and a hospital tour of labor and delivery, postpartum and nursery. Comfortable clothing is recommended for participants. Call for more information and fee schedule.

Young Mothers Childbirth Class

When: 6-8 p.m. Monday, March 22-Monday, April 12 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and event Registration Center 866-744-2468 The class is designed specifically for the young pregnant woman. The young mother is welcome to bring her support person or people. Class content will include a tour of the birthing center, as well as a birth video. The young mother’s special needs will be addressed as well as other questions or concerns voiced by the participants. The class meets on Mondays for four weeks. Free.

St. Elizabeth’s Sibling Preparation Class When: 6:30-8 p.m. Monday, March 22 Where: St. elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville Registration: 618-234-2120 ext. 2300

Designed for children 3 to 10 years of age who are anticipating the arrival of a sibling, the class offers them an opportunity to develop positive feelings about a new sibling and to become familiar with the hospital setting. Parents are expected to attend with their children.

SIH Breastfeeding Basics Class

When: 6-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 23 and 3-5:30 p.m. wednesday, April 14 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and event Registration Center, 866-744-2468 Learn the benefits that breastfeeding provides to both baby and mother. A certified lactation consultant will share information and give suggestions to help get breastfeeding off on a good start. Free.

I Lost a Child Support Group

When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, March 23, 30 and April 6, 13 Where: Christian Covenant Fellowship Church, Carterville Registration: 618-549-0721 ext. 65291

Western Baptist Hospital Breastfeeding Classes

When: 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, March 23 or 9-11 a.m. Saturday, April 10 Where: western Baptist Hospital, Paducah, Doctor’s office Bldg 2, Atrium Classroom Registration: 270-575-2229 Class helps expectant mothers prepare for the breastfeeding experience. Free.

SIH Epidural Class

When: 7-8 p.m. wednesday, March 24 Where: Carbondale Memorial Hospital Registration: SIH Physician Referral and event Registration, 866-744-2468 A video presentation will provide expectant mothers information about the procedure, benefits and risks of epidural pain relief during childbirth. Question and answer session with an anesthesia representative. Because of the size and nature of this class, children should not attend. This class is required for those planning to have the option of epidural anesthesia for childbirth.

Western Baptist Sibling Class

When: 5-6 p.m. Monday, March 29 Where: western Baptist Hospital, Paducah, Doctor’s office Bldg 2, Atrium Classroom Registration: 270-575-2229 This class helps prepare children ages 2 to 9 for the arrival of a new brother or sister.

SIH Childbirth Refresher Class

When: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, March 30 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and event Registration, 866-744-2468 For mothers and fathers who already have children but would like to brush up on their pregnancy and birthing skills. Free.

Franklin County Evening Diabetes Support Group When: 6 p.m., Tuesday, March 30 Where: Franklin Hospital, Benton Registration: 618-439-0951

Williamson County Diabetes Support Group When: 1:30 p.m. wednesday, March 31

Where: university of Illinois extension oďŹƒce, Marion Registration: 618-993-3304

Western Baptist Hospital’s Grandparenting Class

When: 10 a.m. Saturday, April 3 Where: The Breast Center, Carbondale Registration: 618-521-3915 or e-mail womenwithhope2000@yahoo.com. Support for women diagnosed with breast cancer.

When: 5-6 p.m. Thursday, April 8 Where: western Baptist Hospital, Paducah, Doctor’s oďŹƒce Bldg 2, Atrium Classroom Registration: 270-575-2229 Class provides grandparents and older caregivers with updated medical information, safety tips and a refresher on how to care for a baby. Free.

St. Elizabeth’s Evening Childbirth Class

Western Baptist Hospital Diabetes Class

Women with Hope

When: 6:15-8:45 p.m. Tuesdays, beginning April 6 Where: St. elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville Registration: 618-234-2120 ext. 2300 This six-week series teaches relaxation techniques, controlled breathing, oers pain control options. Included are an introduction to inductions and Cesareans, a discussion of infant care and a hospital tour of labor, delivery, postpartum and nursery. Comfortable clothing is recommended for participants. Call for more information and fee schedule.

Western Baptist Hospital’s Relaxing from Within

When: 5-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 6 Where: western Baptist Hospital, Paducah, Doctor’s oďŹƒce Bldg 2, Atrium Classroom Registration: 270-575-2229 Class designed to help expectant mothers become more familiar with relaxation techniques. Distraction methods, breathing, birthing positions, comfort measures and massage will be taught. Participants are asked to bring a blanket, pillow and support person. Free.

SIH Prepared Childbirth Course

When: 6-8 p.m. Tuesday April 6, 13, 20, 27, and 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, April 10 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and event Registration Center, 866-744-2468 Mothers and fathers will prepare both mentally and physically for participation, sharing and individual satisfaction in pregnancy, labor, birth and introduction to parenthood. Reservations required.

SIH Southern Illinois Parkinson’s Support Group

When: 1 p.m. wednesday, April 7 Where: SIH complex, university Mall, Carbondale Registration: 618-684-4282 For Parkinson’s disease suerers and their family, friends or caregivers. Group meets the ďŹ rst wednesday of every month. Free.

Ostomy Support Group

When: 3-4 p.m. Thursday, April 8 Where: Herrin Hospital, Conference Room 1C Registration: 618-942-2171

When: 1-4 p.m. Monday, April 12 and wednesday, April 14 Where: western Baptist Hospital, Paducah Registration: 270-575-2918 All classes are led by Kathy west, certiďŹ ed diabetes educator, and follow the American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines. Classes are free. Registration is suggested.

Western Baptist Hospital’s Smart Beginnings Childbirth Class

When: 4-6 p.m. Monday, April 12 and 19 Where: western Baptist Hospital, Paducah, Doctor’s oďŹƒce Bldg 2, Atrium Classroom Registration: 270-575-2229 Class speciďŹ cally designed for pregnant teens or the nontraditional family unit. Participants are encouraged to bring a partner, parent or friend but are welcome to attend alone. Topics cover anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, stages of labor and delivery, symptoms of labor, parenting and bonding, care and coping with a newborn and stressors of non-traditional pregnancy and childrearing.

Franklin County Diabetes Support Group

When: 1:30 p.m. wednesday, April 14 Where: university of Illinois extension oďŹƒce, west Benton Registration: 618-439-3178

Pitchers need to warm up before season begins High school pitchers who go full-speed the first day or week of spring training may be headed down the road to serious injury. “A large number of high school athletes take the winter off and just go out and start throwing as hard as they can,� said Matt Holland, a physical therapist with The Methodist Center for Sports Medicine in Houston. “The problem is that their arms are not in baseball shape and they open themselves up to serious shoulder and elbow injuries. “Pitchers should play catch for a few minutes every day for about six weeks leading up to the beginning of practice, starting from about 60 feet for 10 to 15 minutes and then gradually increasing it back to 90 feet.� Pitchers will also need to gradually increase the number of pitches they throw in a game during the first few weeks of the season. They should spend a great deal of time, especially if they did nothing

in the winter, working on their throwing mechanics and strengthening the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles, their core muscles (upper thighs, hips, buttocks, abdomen, hips and lower chest), legs and trunk area. This is where they gain most of their power, taking some of the pressure off the arm, he said. “Many kids believe that a big chest and big biceps will make you throw harder. However, it’s just the opposite,� Holland said. “Pitchers need strong, but flexible arms. If they are going to take part in a strength training program, it is imperative that they take part in low-weight, highrepetition exercises that focus on the muscles needed to throw a ball.� Research has shown that high pitch counts and too many curve balls at a young age, before the arm is properly developed, are big factors relating to shoulder and elbow pain for young pitchers. — Methodist Hospital, Houston

Health Fairs and Open Houses Healthy Lifestyles Fair

When: 8-11 a.m. Thursday, April 15 Where: west Frankfort Aquatic Center Banquet Hall, 1100 e. Cleveland St., west Frankfort Contact: 618-993-8111 ext. 216, 618-439-3178 Free screenings for blood pressure, bone density, cholesterol and glucose, pulmonary lung function, sleep problems, weight and Body Mass Index. Cholesterol and glucose screenings require a 12-hour fast and are limited to the ďŹ rst 50 participants. Participants must pre-register for this screening at 866-744-2468.

Welcome Home!

We are pleased to be able to offer adults 65 and older a wonderful residential alternative to a nursing home or to struggling alone at home.

Synergy Therapeutic Group Open House When: 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, April 13 Where: 417 S. 34th St., Suite 201, Mount Vernon Refreshments and gift bags will be available for attendees. For more information visit www.curefms.com.

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Are you

tough enough

Men need to overcome reluctance to take care of their health

to test?

BY JoDI HAwKInS Charles Dickens may have hit the nail on the head when he said, “There is something in sickness that breaks down the pride of manhood.” Could that be why so many men hesitate to get medical treatment or preventative testing? Do they see illness as a threat to their masculinity? “Men are taught to suppress vulnerability and any sign of weakness,” said Dr. Larry Jones, family practice physician in Harrisburg and Carbondale. “We have all witnessed a slightly injured young man at, say, a Little League baseball game, being encouraged to “Shake it off ” and “Be tough.” Men tend to hide illnesses and allow a problem to progress before seeing a physician. We need to educate men that seeking health care reflects good judgment and intelligence.”

Good hearted

“By far, the most common lifethreatening health problem facing men today is cardiovascular disease,” Jones said. In fact, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services reports that one in five American men has heart disease. Because men tend to develop this condition 10 to 15 years earlier than women, the American Heart Association reports that they’re more likely to die of it while in the prime of life. But a few simple blood tests can go a long way toward improving these odds. “Cholesterol screening is one that they should have done frequently, especially if there’s a strong family history of coronary artery disease,” said Dr. Varadendra Panchamukhi, cardiologist from Prairie Cardiovascular in Carbondale. “Those patients should get cholesterol

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checked earlier in their life. Maybe as early as their 20s or 30s.” He said men should also be checked for diabetes and high blood pressure. “It’s important to understand who high-risk patients are,” Panchamukhi said. “These are patients who have a history of high blood pressure, diabetics and smokers.” He noted those who are obese or live sedentary lifestyles should also pay particular attention to having tests done. Some studies have even suggested that calcium scoring and C-reactive protein screenings could estimate risk and predict a cardiovascular event. Staying heart healthy is about more than just being tested when necessary. Like other disease prevention measures, it includes faithfully adhering to a lifestyle of good diet and regular exercise. That may sound like a broken record prescription, but considering what other health problems often follow a heart attack, it’s more than worth the effort. Panchamukhi said once the heart muscle dies from an attack, it doesn’t regenerate and, therefore, isn’t functional anymore. “The pumping function of the heart is compromised and patients become very symptomatic and start developing symptoms of congestive heart failure,” he said. Surprisingly, erectile dysfunction could also be a warning sign of increased risk for heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems, according to the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. It’s even possible to have high cholesterol at no fault of your own. Sometimes bad genes are to blame. “It’s important that no matter n

March 17, 2010

how healthy of a lifestyle you maintain, don’t assume that it can’t happen to you,” Panchamukhi warned. “You always want to catch the problem before you end up with a heart attack. It’s never too late to modify the lifestyle, but it’s never early enough to start modifying it so that you don’t contribute to the risks you could be prone to.”

ART SeRVICeS

Don’t put it off: Screenings men need Even though many men don’t feel that being tested for illness is always necessary or even manly, the benefits far outweigh the reasons for waiting. When screening tests reveal health problems in early stages, they’re much easier to treat. That’s why the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (Agency for Healthcare and Quality) suggests that men talk to their doctors about which tests they may need. They list the following nine items to be tested for the sake of prevention: Body Mass Index: Your body mass index, or BMI, is a measure of your body fat based on your height and weight. It is used to screen for obesity. Log on to www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi to find your BMI. Cholesterol: Once you turn 35, have your cholesterol checked regularly. High blood cholesterol is one of the major risk factors for heart disease. Blood pressure: Have your blood pressure checked every two years. High blood pressure increases your chance of getting heart or kidney disease and for having a stroke. If you have high blood pressure, you may need medication to control it. Colorectal cancer: Once you turn 50, start having tests for colorectal cancer. You and your doctor can decide which test is best. How often you’ll have the test depends on which test you choose. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need to be tested before you turn 50. Other cancers: Ask your doctor if you should be tested for prostate, lung, oral, skin or other cancers. Sexually transmitted diseases: Talk to your doctor to see whether you should be tested for gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia or other sexually transmitted diseases. HIV: Your doctor may recommend screening for HIV if you: • Had unprotected sex with multiple partners • Have used injected drugs • Pay for sex or have sex partners who do • Have past or current sex partners who are infected with HIV • Are being treated for sexually transmitted diseases • Had a blood transfusion between 1978 and 1985 Depression: If you have felt “down” or hopeless during the past two weeks or have had little interest in doing things you usually enjoy, talk to your doctor about depression. Depression is a treatable illness. Abdominal aortic aneurysm: If you are between the ages of 65 and 75 and have smoked 100 or more cigarettes in your lifetime, ask your doctor to screen you for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. This is an abnormally large or swollen blood vessel in your stomach that can burst without warning.

Men’s conference March 20 There are still a few spots available at the Southern Illinois Men’s Health Conference, which is 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 20, at John A. Logan College in Carterville. The $35 registration fee includes breakfast and lunch. There will be blood and health screenings, breakout sessions and phyisician panels. Call 618-985-9210 or visit www.SIMensHealth.org for more information. Registration is required. The Big C

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists cancer as the second leading cause of death in men. Lung cancer is the most common, followed by prostate and colorectal cancers. Approximately 90 percent of lung cancer is caused by the modifiable risk factor of cigarette smoking, which can be eliminated by giving up the habit. Other risk reducers include testing your home for radon gas and eating foods high in lycopene (like tomatoes and citrus fruits). Prostate cancer has a tendency to begin without presenting symptoms, so men are

typically urged to begin testing at age 50. “If there is a strong history of prostate cancer in the family (meaning father, brothers, etc.) it would be 40 to 45,” said Dr. Apinan Thitipraserth, urologist with Heartland Regional Medical Center in Marion. He further said that patients who fall into that category should continue being tested every six months to one year. Fortunately, prostate cancer comes with an encouraging success rate when it’s found early. Perhaps that’s why Thitipraserth believes that some men are less reluctant to being tested than they once were. “I think it’s less common now because they’re more aware of it from all of the education that we provide,” he said. Screening for colorectal/colon cancer may also offer men some priceless health benefits. Two years ago, colon cancer crept up on Mark Riffel of Lick Creek. “I started to experience stomach pain that I’ve never felt before in that way,” Riffel said. “It got to the point where I couldn’t stand it. In hindsight, I had some other symptoms that were pointing to a problem, but it wasn’t enough to motivate me to get a colonoscopy.” When his diagnosis followed shortly after having that test, Riffel underwent surgery and chemotherapy. What makes his case unusual is that his lifestyle was always very healthy. “I was in pretty good physical condition up until this happened,” Riffel said. Yet, unbeknownst to him, there was a family

history of the disease. In the summer of 2008, Riffel enrolled in the Strong Survivors program, where he found help and hope. “It gave me the support, encouragement and the possibility of a quality of life that maybe a lot of people think isn’t possible once they have cancer,” Riffel said. He continues to participate in the program by working out twice a week at John A. Logan Community Health Education Complex in Carterville. “We do our own workout routines, and they’re there to help us if we need it,” Riffel said. “Strong Survivors uses exercise as a therapeutic tool to help both survivors and caregivers regain their quality of life by improving their muscle strength, balance/ agility, cardiovascular capacity, flexibility and body composition, as well as reducing fatigue,” said Phil Anton, assistant professor of exercise physiology at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Riffel also received a lot of support from family and friends. Today, he’s cancer-free and maintains a remarkable attitude about his past health challenges. “Cancer served me in so many ways that I have no regrets or negativity at all about the experience,” he said. “It was a huge shock to me physically and a really difficult and painful recovery, but the changes in my life and the benefits from it have been so profound that the cancer was a gift. Everything that I thought mattered before didn’t matter at all.”

Because his cancer brought about such an awakening, he’s even compared it to a quote from “A New Earth” by Eckhart Tolle: “Life will give you whatever experience is most helpful for the evolution of your consciousness.” Riffel said cancer never really felt like a battle to him. Instead of concentrating on winning the war against it, he turned to a higher power. “My prayer, every time before chemo, was that the drugs served their intended purpose and allowed the cancer cells an exit from my body,” Riffel shared. “That’s not a fight; it’s just saying, ‘This is what I’ve got. Let’s see if we can give it an opportunity to leave now.’”

Stopping the stigma Thankfully, it appears guys are finally getting the message about the importance of medical testing. The American Cancer Society reports that decreases in deaths from lung, prostate and colorectal cancers have accounted for nearly 80 percent of the decline in death rates among men. But there still seems to be many who aren’t as proactive about their physical well-being. “In general, we men do very poorly in taking care of our own health,” Jones said. “Our society is too fat, too sedentary and too complacent regarding known health risks.” Anton agreed. “No matter what their age, men tend to be under the false pretense that they’re relatively see tough / page 10

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Boomer fitness

Over 40? You might need to rethink your exercise regimen BY Joanna Gray At 56, West Frankfort resident Debby Bandera needs a lot of energy and stamina to be on her feet for many hours in her job as a registered nurse at Herrin Hospital. After work, she also needs to maintain her strength for some fun activities, too, like gardening — but especially for riding her Harley Davidson Sportster motorcycle. That’s why this Baby Boomer stays faithful to daily exercise, a practice she began in her 40s. “I think exercise helps keep you young, and if you keep the weight off of your joints you won’t get as sore and achy,” Bandera said. “I personally feel that, psychologically, exercise helps me feel better and to keep going. I just want to take care of my body the best I can.” The Baby Boomer generation — those 77 million babies born between 1946 and 1964 — has never been one to sit on the sidelines and watch life go by. That’s why, in spite of health care challenges that threaten aging bodies, 54 percent of the Baby Boomers responding to a survey by the American Association of Retired Persons said they try to exercise regularly and expect to be healthier than people of their age in previous generations. While committing to exercise is a positive step, adults older than 40 need to take precautions before taking off for that five-mile run, especially if they have been leading a sedentary lifestyle. First, persons of any age should consult with their doctor before starting an exercise program, even if it’s as simple as walking. Then seek out an exercise regimen that is safe and focuses on maintaining strength. Make it fun, too, to stay motivated for a lifetime of fitness.

Stay safe

According to Kyle Davis, a certified Adventure Boot Camp instructor and a certified strength and conditioning specialist, the most important thing that Baby Boomers can do is make sure that their exercise routine is safe. “As crazy as the fitness world is right now, there are a lot of programs that promise a quick fix, and those are the programs that Baby Boomers

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need to stay away from,” said Davis, who directs the Fitness Boot Camp for Women in Carbondale. “They need to make sure they’re exercising in the old-fashioned way, so to speak, meaning that they need to focus on preventing injuries and moving correctly. It’s not just about how many calories they can burn and how fast.” Davis recommends an exercise regimen that allows a slow progression from one level of fitness to the next. A personal trainer can help, especially if someone is just starting to exercise after many years of being sedentary. “I always joke with my clients that I need a personal trainer myself,” Davis said. “There are so many benefits to having a personal trainer, including motivation, instruction in proper form for doing each exercise, and proper fitness testing such as body fat assessment.” Baby Boomer-age participants in Davis’s Fitness Boot Camp for Women learn firsthand how individualized training can help them work out safely and effectively right alongside the 25-year-olds. “The most important thing for me is to make sure there are modifications for every workout and every exercise movement,” Davis said. “We have five or more different ways we can do one exercise, just to make sure that everybody can work that specific muscle group safely.”

Stay strong

Although Bandera has not worked with a personal trainer, she started out slowly on her own with walking a few days a week in her 40s on the advice of her late brother, who had a keen interest in physical fitness. She also did her own research by talking to friends in her age group who led a healthy lifestyle and reading the latest books about fitness and nutrition. Bandera walks outdoors 30 minutes a day, either at the city park, down West Frankfort’s Main Street or around her neighborhood. When she can’t get outdoors, she “walks” inside using a Gazelle fitness machine. Bandera’s brother had also encouraged her to start strength training, by using free weights or barbells, in addition to walking. n

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“Just walking won’t cut it,” Davis said. “It’s no secret that the older you get, the more muscle or strength you automatically lose. If you do only cardiovascular exercise, like walking, biking or running, all the time, you might be losing pounds, but you’ll be losing both fat and muscle. That’s why it’s so important to do strength training.” Bandera uses free weights and sometimes uses the weight machines at the gym in West Frankfort Aquatic Center. “I want to stay strong so I can continue to ride my motorcycle, which is very heavy,” Bandera said. “Also, even gardening can really wear you out if you don’t have the strength to dig and chop down weeds. For me, it’s all about feeling good so I can continue the activities I love to do.” Davis noted that a person in the Baby Boomer generation can improve fitness by doing 30 to 45 minutes of cardiovascular exercise just three days a week. He recommends a minimum of 30-minute sessions two times a week for strength training. When doing cardiovascular exercise on the same day as strength training, Davis advises doing the cardio activity after working with the weights. Always do five to 10 minutes of warm-up exercises before strength training. That can be walking on a treadmill or riding a recumbent bike, or be as simple as doing dynamic range of motion exercises such as wide arm circles. “Strength training should also be functional for Baby Boomers,” Davis said. “Your body functions as a whole in everyday life as you go about your job and daily activities. So if you’re carrying 20 or 30 pounds of groceries in one hand and you drop your keys, you need to know the proper way to squat down and pick up your keys without putting stress on your lower back. Also, you should know the best way to walk up stairs or get in and out of your car to avoid any injuries.”

Have fun and be creative

Strengthening one’s core — the abdominal muscles — is also important as one ages, according to Claire Shelton, physical therapist assistant at Anna Rehab Unlimited.

Paul Newton / THE SOUTHERN Fitness trainer Kyle Davis pulls back on an exercise band, increasing the resistence, while working with a client in Murphysboro. “In our work with older patients, one thing we pay close attention to is their core strength,” Shelton said. “The abdominals are the basis for everything, so when someone loses strength in their core, they’re more likely to experience back problems, balance issues, as well as weakened pelvic floor muscles and incontinence.” Doing abdominal exercises may sound painful and boring, but Shelton and the staff at Anna Rehab Unlimited make it fun. Shelton uses video games such as bowling on the Wii system to help older patients overcome balance issues. She also has patients do some core challenging exercises using the Wii while sitting on a large exercise ball. “Obviously, we have to hold on to them to make sure they are safe while doing the exercises, but once they learn how to use the Wii controller, they really like it,” Shelton said. “We also use the Wii for our Fit for Work program, which helps people recover from work-related injuries. One of our staff members brings in her own Wii Fit program to use with her patients, and the patients really like it. It’s fun and keeps them motivated when they’re going through a long course of therapy.” Although Shelton uses the Wii games for exercise to complement therapy, people like Bandera and members of her family use it to

have fun with exercise. “We have Wii bowling tournaments and my 82-year-old dad even plays,” Bandera said. Bandera also finds creative ways to get in some extra exercise while at work. Although her job as a registered nurse in same-day surgery at Herrin Hospital keeps her on her feet constantly, she still takes the stairs instead of the elevator if time allows. She also walks laps around the hospital floor when she’s working late at night and needs a break. “I just do what I can to get in 10,000 steps a day, which is one of the fitness programs for employees at Herrin Hospital,” Bandera said. “The hospital does a lot to help us stay physically fit.” It’s clear that the Baby Boomer generation can tap into many ways to achieve better fitness. But Davis cautions that they should want to exercise for the right reasons and in the right way. “Baby Boomers need to make sure that they’re exercising to achieve improvement of health rather than just improvement of looks,” Davis said. “Many of them suddenly realize that their fitness just isn’t where it needs to be and now they just want to feel better. So, I don’t think we have to push Baby Boomers to exercise, because the interest is already there, but I just want to make sure they’re doing everything right and safely.”

senior health

pet health Fighting aggression between household cats

There are several reasons that cats might not get along. The most common is undersocialization, a lack of pleasant experiences with other cats early in life. If your cat grew up as the only cat, with little or no contact with other felines, she might react strongly when introduced to another cat because she’s afraid of the unknown, lacks feline social skills and dislikes the disruption to her routine and environment. Cats tend to prefer consistency over change. This is especially true if the change involves a newcomer to your cat’s well-established territory. Two unrelated males or two unrelated females may have a particularly hard time sharing space. Another cause of strife may be a feline personality clash. Cats usually don’t get to pick their housemates, and sometimes we humans just don’t select the right match. Here are some suggestions for managing your fighting cats: Never let the cats “fight it out.� Cats don’t resolve their issues through fighting,

and the fighting usually just gets worse. Interrupt aggression with a loud clap of your hands, spray from a water gun or a burst of compressed air (no noise). Neuter the cats. Intact males are particularly prone to aggressive behavior. Separate their resources. Reduce competition between the cats by providing multiple, identical food bowls, beds and litter boxes in different areas of your house. Provide additional perches. More hiding spots and perches will allow your cats to space themselves out as they prefer. Don’t try to calm or soothe your aggressive cat. Leave her alone and give her space. If you come close, she could turn and redirect her aggression toward you. Reward desired behavior. Praise or toss treats to reward your cats when you see them interacting in a friendly manner. Try pheromones. FeliwayTM, a product that mimics a natural cat odor (which humans can’t smell), may reduce tensions. Use a diffuser while the aggression issue is being resolved. Please see our article, Pet Pheromones, for more information. — ASPCA

Find more information about senior health at

Purposeful life might stave o Alzheimer’s

thesouthern.com/ health

People who say their lives have a purpose are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease or its precursor, mild cognitive impairment, a new study suggests. As the population ages and dementia becomes a more frequent diagnosis, there’s increasing impetus to determine the causes of the disease, associated risk factors and how to prevent it, explained study co-author Dr. Aron S. Buchman, an associate professor in the department of neurological sciences at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. “There has been a lot of interest in psychosocial factors and their association with cognitive decline and dementia in later life,� he said. The study looked at the positive aspects of life and their possible effect on keeping dementia at bay, “looking at happiness, purposefulness in life, wellbeing and whether those kind of concepts are associated with a decreased risk of dementia,� Buchman explained.

vision who visited an ophthalmologist at least once for an examination were 64 percent less likely to develop dementia. The study appears online ahead of print in the American Journal of Epidemiology and may draw a new picture of poor vision as predictor of dementia rather than as a symptom after the diagnosis. “Visual problems can have serious consequences and are very common among the elderly, but many of them are not seeking treatment,� says lead author Mary A.M. Rogers, Ph.D, research assistant professor of internal medicine at the U-M Medical School and research director of the Patient Safety Enhancement Program at the U-M Health System and the Ann Arbor VA Medical Center. — National Institutes of Health

— U.S. Centers for Disease Control

Buying a puppy? Ask for the facts

Whether you’re looking for a Norwegian Buhund, a Pyrenean Shepherd or any other breed of dog, doing a little bit of homework can save you years of heartache, a Tufts University veterinarian advises. All breeds have varying risk factors for diseases ranging from hip dysplasia to heart troubles. Responsible breeders test for these genetic conditions, share their findings with potential buyers and work with their breed organizations and parent clubs to breed these diseases out, said Jerold Bell, DVM, clinical associate professor of clinical sciences at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. “By asking for the results of simple genetic tests of the puppy’s parents, people can be better informed consumers — and create a higher demand for responsibly bred dogs,� says Bell. “If genetic test results are not available, then there has been no quality control for genetic health. I would strongly recommend finding a different breeder.� Genetic testing — some as simple as a cheek swab and as inexpensive as $65 — can reveal, for example, a chance of bleeding disorders in Dobermans, extreme drug sensitivity in Collies, and heart, eye, and skeletal disorders in many breeds. Testing for these disorders helps reduce the chance of producing affected dogs, Bell says. Specific tests for each breed are listed at the Canine Health Information Center, established by the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation and the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (www.caninehealthinfo.org/ breeds.html). These tests should be performed on both parents before their first breeding. Your veterinarian can assist you with these tests, Bell adds. — Tufts University

Untreated poor vision in elderly linked to dementia

Elderly people with visual disorders that are left untreated are significantly more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, according to a University of Michigan Health System study. The study used Medicare data and shows that those with poor

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his health Testosterone therapy: Can it help older men feel young again? The possibilities of testosterone therapy are enticing — increase your muscle mass, sharpen your memory and mental focus, boost your libido and improve your energy level. As you get older, testosterone therapy may sound like the ultimate anti-aging formula. But health benefits from testosterone therapy aren’t quite so clear-cut. Before you buy into the tempting claims, find out what’s known — and not known — about testosterone therapy so that you can make the best decision for your long-term health. Men’s bodies produce the hormone testosterone in their testes. In men, testosterone helps maintain bone density, fat distribution, muscle mass, muscle strength, red blood cell production, sex drive and sperm production, Your doctor can prescribe a synthetic version of testosterone. Testosterone therapy using testosterone replacement medications may be necessary for men who

have very low levels of testosterone (hypogonadism). Testosterone therapy medications are available as injections, patches and gels. It’s not clear that naturally falling testosterone levels cause any signs and symptoms in men. Studies of men who have very low levels of testosterone due to diseases and treatments may offer some clues to the role testosterone plays in a man’s body as he ages. According to those studies, testosterone deficiency can have several effects on the body, including decreased sexual function, loss of bone density, loss of muscle mass, increase in fat mass, reduced muscle strength, memory loss and mood changes and depression. Some men experience these signs and symptoms, but don’t have unusually low levels of testosterone. Others may have low levels of testosterone, but don’t experience any signs and symptoms that would prompt them to seek treatment. — Mayo Clinic

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TOUGH: Men need to take care of their health from page 7 invincible,� he said. “This thought seems to fade somewhat as men age, but there’s always an element of it there. It leads them to think that they can somehow survive anything that might come their way. Add to that the stereotype that still prevails today that admitting a health problem is somehow a sign of weakness, and you have a lot of men who will avoid going to see a physician until the last possible moment.� Even though Riffel was urged by a physician to have a colonoscopy long ago, he admits that he delayed the test for three more years. Now he wants all men to heed his advice.

“Whatever the doctor recommends, just do it,� he said. “There’s nothing to be afraid of except waiting too long.� Whether it’s out of fear, shame or unawareness, the number of men still steering clear of doctors needs improvement. So how can they overcome such mindsets? For starters, Anton recommends shifting their focus elsewhere. “Stop clinging to these antiquated thought processes and stereotypes and take advantage of all the advancements in medical technology, both preventative and treatment oriented, that have occurred in recent years,� he said.

her health

health news

Dermatologists can help women win the fight against common forms of hair loss

Maalox mixup can cause problems The packages say Maalox Advanced and Maalox Total Relief, and consumers might justifiably think that they’re simply two versions of the same product. They’re not, and mixups have resulted in at least five reports of serious adverse reactions, the Food and Drug Administration announced. Maalox Advanced Regular Strength and Maalox Advanced Maximum Strength are antacids containing aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide. Maalox Total Relief is an upset-stomach reliever and antidiarrhea medicine; its principal ingredient is bismuth subsalicylate, which is related to aspirin. Like aspirin, it can cause stomach bleeding. It should not be used by people with a history of gastrointestinal ulcer disease or a bleeding disorder, nor by children or teens recovering from a viral infection. It is also not for patients taking oral antidiabetic drugs, blood-thinning drugs and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

For many women, unexplained hair loss can take a significant psychological toll on their overall quality of life. From altering their hairstyle to hide a thinning part to scaling back their hair care regimen in an effort to halt further hair loss, women try countless ways to cover up this problem – and the results are often lukewarm at best. A better option is to see a dermatologist, a physician trained in the care of skin, hair and nails, who can diagnose and, in many cases, successfully treat hair loss in women. Speaking recently at the 68th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), dermatologist Mary Gail Mercurio, MD, FAAD, associate professor of dermatology and program director of dermatology residency at the University of Rochester in Rochester, N.Y., discussed common forms of hair loss in women and available treatment options. “In the past, many women experiencing hair loss would suffer in silence, not knowing where to turn for help and trying their best to hide the problem,” Mercurio said. “But now, I see more and more women in my practice seeking treatment for hair loss and actively addressing this condition. That’s encouraging, as the sooner hair loss is diagnosed, the better our chances of successfully treating it.”

— National Institutes of Health

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— American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)

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