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Pop Quiz: Is your teen at risk for dating violence?

A light push… A condescending statement… They may be just innocent moves by a person, but these could be telltale signs of teen dating violence. Is your teen at risk for being in such a relationship? Take our quiz to learn more about noticeable signs of teen dating violence, and what you can do as…
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…

Family Health: Hormone pellet implantation therapy for women

WOMEN WHO ARE going through menopause or are post-menopausal often turn to hormone replacement therapy as a way to improve libido, regulate mood, and improve bone density, as well as treat the other symptoms associated with decreased estrogen production. While synthetic hormones are often used, pellet implantation therapy is an effective alternative.
Medical Advice: It IS worse than a dog’s bark — Preventing animal bite wounds

DOGS OFTEN ARE referred to as man’s best friend. Most are known to be loyal, loving, and friendly. Though these pets can bring smiles to many faces, it is also important to protect yourself from the potential consequence of dog ownership — dog bites. Though most dogs don’t intend to be harmful, they are still…
Healthy Cook: Can the right diet help with clinical depression?

SOME DAYS you just don’t feel like doing much. That’s normal. If most days are like that, it’s not normal. You could have clinical depression. A visit to your doctor is in order for a proper diagnosis. Many diseases can have symptoms similar to depression and you or a well-meaning friend or relative are not…