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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…

Word of Mouth: Good tricks to know and treats you should keep to a minimum

FROM HALLOWEEN to the New Year, it seems as though both our mouths and our waistlines are bombarded with treats, sweets, and high-calorie foods. If you do nothing else this time of year, it should be to take care of your oral hygiene and be careful not to over indulge, but that’s easier said than…
Hospice Help: Raising awareness about hospice

AN UNFOUNDED misconception by most people is the following: Hospice care only occurs within the last 72 hours in the life of a person who has a life-limiting disease. NOT TRUE! Awareness to address this falsehood is one of many reasons why November is designated as National Hospice and Palliative Care Month.
Healthy Smiles: Alternatives for missing teeth

THIS MONTH we are sharing some information on dentures. No matter the reason for missing teeth (trauma, periodontal disease, etc.), missing teeth can affect the way you eat or speak. Loss of teeth can also impact your appearance and self-esteem. There are many choices available to replace missing teeth, including dental implants and dentures. A…