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Family Health: Cold vs. flu

AS WE HEAD INTO the height of flu season, it can be difficult to tell if you have the flu or are simply experiencing symptoms of a common cold. While the symptoms can seem similar, a common cold generally resolves itself. The influenza virus, however, can lead to serious complications, requiring immediate medical attention. Here…
Getting a roadmap to clarity on women’s breast health

Local event addresses health concerns for new screening guidelines WHEN NEW GUIDELINES for breast cancer screening were released October 20 by the American Cancer Society (ACS), the public reaction was swift and concerned. Many women were alarmed — particularly those who had been diagnosed with breast cancer by way of early screenings.
Making senior health a walk in the park

A Q&A with Dr. Manuel Jain on prevention and safety as you age CENTRAL FLORIDA HEALTH NEWS (CFHN): What do you share with your senior patients about the importance of being physically active?

Editor’s Dose: Tips for minimizing back-to-school stress

IF YOU ARE LIKE ME, then come early July you were already thinking about preparations for the new school year. Parents and children in the community this year are getting ready extra early because Polk County public schools moved up their calendar by one week — day one of school is August 15.
Making the choice to breastfeed

THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH in Polk County (DOH-Polk) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) recognize August as Breastfeeding Awareness Month. This is a wonderful time of year to promote breastfeeding as a vital health activity and discuss the health benefits breastfeeding provides. Although every woman has their own…
Editor’s Dose: Keeping kids’ bodies and minds active this summer

WHEN I FIRST had the twins, my mom would say, “Have a schedule for them, or they’ll have a schedule for you.” Basically, she was cautioning that I’d better keep those little minds and bodies active, or chaos would inevitably ensue. Being a mother of eight children, I think she was speaking from personal experience.…