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Curtailing diabetes

Essential Tips for Better Disease Management Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. It is a major cause of heart disease and stroke as well as the leading cause of kidney failure, non-traumatic lower-limb amputations, and new cases of blindness among adults. In Polk County, the incidence of diabetes is…
Warning signs of bullying

Putting a Stop to It Before It Causes the Most Damage When children complain about a headache or stomachache, parents may seek immediate relief with over-the-counter painkillers or antacids. But when the symptoms recur, over and over again, a trip to the family doctor may reveal a sinister reason: Bullying. “They don’t want to necessarily…
Replacing candy with better-for-you snacks

Healthy Options Headed for Local School Vending Machines Fat-free and soy yogurts, granola bars, fruit and grain bars, and soy crisps may become standard fare at some Polk County public schools this upcoming school year. The snacks will be offered under a new contract with Central Florida Healthy Vending in Orlando. Some 200+ healthy snacks…

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.