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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…

Gaining a Better Understanding of Pacemakers and Defibrillators

Pacemakers and defibrillators have become so common. Everyone has questions and concerns about these. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers. What are pacemakers and defibrillators used for? Pacemakers are used when the heart rate is too slow or stops and the patient is symptomatic: dizziness or blackouts usually. Conversely, defibrillators are for the…
Use of Opioids as First-Line Treatment a Slippery Slope

What do Michael Jackson, Heath Ledger, and Chris Farley have in common? These are celebrities who developed dependence on prescription drugs that started with legitimate use after injuries or procedures. They subsequently developed an addiction, which culminated in their unfortunate and untimely deaths due to unintentional overdose. Just a few examples of other celebrities who…
Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-Related Macular Degeneration, AMD, is a leading cause of vision loss in adults over the age of 50. It destroys the macula, which is the small central area of the retina that provides detailed, central vision. With AMD, you lose the ability to see fine details, both close-up and at a distance. Due to the…