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Aging gracefully

What will your health look like in 40 years? Medical science has made inroads against major diseases that snuff short our lives. But by the time we reach 45, disease beats out accidents as the leading cause of death. The National Vital Statistics System shows cancer is the leading cause of death for 45 to…
Q&A on the most lethal form of dementia

Dr. Gordon J. Rafool shares the symptoms and treatment options of Alzheimer’s disease Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in America. In Polk, 11.8 percent of Medicare beneficiaries were treated for Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia in 2013, according to Healthy Tampa Bay. We interviewed Dr. Gordon J. Rafool, a geriatrician…
Pop Quiz: Establishing a solid oral care foundation

Will your child have a future Filled with healthy smiles? Teeth add to your smile, allow you to enjoy delicious foods, and rip apart that plastic wrap off your new DVD. However, as a parent, you might be wondering whether you’re setting up proper oral hygiene habits for your child, or if the little tike…

Family Health: Three reasons to visit urgent care

YOUR HEALTH is your most valuable commodity. Although medical problems are inevitable, you can control the way you respond to them. Urgent care has risen in popularity and is being chosen over traditional visits to the ER. Here are three reasons you should choose urgent care.
Healthy Smiles: Dental implants — a smile makeover solution

BEFORE THE DEVELOPMENT of dental implants, removable partial dentures or fixed bridges were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth. In some cases, implants can be used to attach dentures.
Senior Living: Understanding the difference

INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING ALSO KNOWN as retirement communities, independent senior living communities are designed for seniors 55 and older. They commonly offer apartment-style accommodations; however, some also offer cottages, condominiums, and single-family homes. Residents are seniors who do not require assistance with daily activities or 24/7 skilled nursing but may benefit from convenient services, senior-friendly…