Health News

Features

Making African-American history in Polk

Alice Manley: A lifetime of service (above) Alice Manley stands with four generations of directors for the health department. From left to right: Dr. Ulyee Choe (November 2012-Present); Dr. Daniel Haight (July 1996-November 2012); Dr. William F. Hill (January 1967-June 1985); and Dr. Kevin Sherin (July 1988-October 1993). Photo courtesy of the Florida Department of…
Painting the town red with heart disease prevention

How Polk is taking steps to increase awareness and lower your risk Bill Mutz thought he was just going to help with a demonstration when he volunteered for an ultrasound at a Lakeland Leadership Cardiology group. But what he learned actually helped him: The ultrasound showed blood was not flowing properly through his heart’s mitral…
New year, New you!

How Polk County is Tackling Obesity and Residents are Making Healthier Lifestyle Choices Fifty-one year-old Ann Good topped 200 pounds last May. She lacked energy and was short of breath. Concerned about a family history of heart disease and diabetes, she decided to act. Today Good is 50 pounds lighter and breathing easier, in more…

Pediatric Partners: Water safety reminders for summer

WITH SUMMER almost here, families will be spending more time at the pool or beach. While wading through water provides relief from the scorching sun, it also poses dangers for your children. Here’s what you need to know about water safety.
Medical Advice: The battle against HPV

A CHILDREN’S CARTOON from the 1980s used to end each broadcast with the phrase, “Knowing is half the battle.” Of course, the other half of the battle is usually acting on the knowledge. In the world of healthcare, information abounds. It is important for patients to know their health status and attend regular checkups.
Healthy Smiles: What does an oral exam include?

MANY OF US don’t think twice about the oral exam. Some people just assume that the dentist is only looking for cavities. Well, there’s a lot more to the oral exam than that!