Health News

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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…

PCMA Letter: Matters of the heart

FEBRUARY is not just known for cupid and Valentine’s Day, but in the medical community, this time of year is set aside to emphasize another matter of the heart. Right now we are participating in a national initiative called American Heart Month. Plus, February 6 is National Wear Red Day, a part of the American…
Medical Advice: Find your ‘inner quitter’

WE ARE WELL ON OUR WAY into the new year and, as usual, many have begun their long list of New Year’s resolutions. Despite best intentions, some of those resolutions have probably fallen by the wayside. However, here is one that’s worth the extra effort this year — quit smoking.
Stay Fit Focused: Exercise tips for the New Year

THE HOLIDAY SEASON is special, but it is also a time when you can experience serious weight gain. November and December are jam-packed with parties, holiday activities, and get-togethers that minimize your time for exercise and also feature calorie-filled feasts, desserts, and candy.