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…

Dr. Narmo Ortiz Offers Advanced Treatments for Infected Wounds

A festering wound on the leg or foot can result in amputation, but advanced treatments are helping to save limbs. Davenport Foot and Ankle Specialist Dr. Narmo Ortiz has completed a fellowship to learn these advanced procedures. “They can help with limb salvage for a diabetic person, for someone with a foot and ankle deformity,…
Tips for Helping Relieve Your Child’s Pet Allergy in the Home

Everyone loves the family pet, especially children. Dogs, cats, birds, ferrets, fish, whatever the friend may be, pets become beloved family members. They provide comfort, companionship, and so much more. Unfortunately, some children have pet allergies. This can be a disappointing situation, especially if the allergy is severe enough to cause an asthma attack. If…
A Reason to Celebrate: We’re Here to Help Seniors Lead Healthier Lives

As I write this column, our grand opening party is just around the corner, and I couldn’t be more excited to share this news with you. Peak Annual Wellness Center will be holding this Launch Event to share with our community what an annual wellness visit can do to help patients lead healthier lives. What…