Health News

Features

The importance of UV-blocking sunglasses

American Academy of Ophthalmology survey confirms need for more eye protection BEACH, THE POOL, the lake; Central Floridians will be headed outdoors for fun and relaxation this summer. While most will remember to lather on the sunscreen and shield their skin from harmful UV rays, how many will be watching out for their eyes as…
Parker plays his part to help his fellow man

Raising awareness at Walk to Cure Arthritis Tampa event, and beyond PARKER LENTINI, a local 16-year-old with a different story to tell, was an active kid who enjoyed sports. When he started experiencing severe aches and pains in his bones and joints, many around him chalked it up to growing pains. When fevers, rashes, and…
A survivor’s take on prostate cancer

New technologies, support, and awareness give hope ONCE A MONTH, a small group of men meet at the Watson Clinic Cancer & Research Center. They all have one thing in common: they were each diagnosed with prostate cancer. “It’s a total shock when you hear that you have cancer,” says Vic Ingargiola, the support group…

Ask a Nurse: Popping pain pills?

Americans make up ~4.6 percent of the world’s population, yet have been consuming 80 percent of the global opioid supply and 99 percent of the global hydrocodone supply1! According to the CDC in 2008, 14,800 died of an opioid overdose… more than heroin and cocaine COMBINED2. Opioids like morphine, codeine, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, oxycodone, oxymorphone, and fentanyl…
PCMA Letter: Don’t let an active lifestyle be a chore this summer

It’s fairly common amongst the general population to want to live a long, healthy, and happy life. Remaining physically fit is imperative to this way of life. Staying in shape helps you live longer and prevents illnesses. This is why the doctors of the Polk County Medical Association (PCMA) bring you the fitness edition this…
Publisher’s Note: Some of the healthcare legislation recently passed

Like any other year, the 2014 Florida Legislative Session saw a lot of action for health and safety-related bills. Some of them passed with flying colors, while others failed—but, just in case you aren’t aware—I’d like to summarize three important pieces of legislation that are being made into law: SB 1030 During the legislative session,…