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Pop Quiz! Photosensitivity Can Spell Trouble for Skin in the Sun

Many medications have side effects, and unfortunately for those residing here in the Sunshine State, one of those side effects can be an increased sensitivity to the sun. Called drug-induced photosensitivity, it accounts for 8 percent of side effects, though it’s believed to be underdiagnosed and underreported. Take our quiz to learn more about drug-induced…
Care for All

United Way of Central Florida’s Community Wellness Initiative Helps Polk’s Uninsured and Underserved by RYAN MILEJCZAK One of the biggest struggles Americans face is the cost of healthcare, particularly for underserved populations. Here in Polk County, many of our residents face this very challenge, due to factors like low income, lack of access to health…
A Survivor’s Tale

Hap Hazelwood on Early Detection and Unwavering Faith in the Face of Prostate Cancer by REBEKAH PIERCEphotos by JESS McDONALD In a world where health often comes into focus only after it starts to fade, stories like that of Hap Hazelwood are worth paying attention to. Hazelwood, along with his wife, Chris, have both navigated…

A healthier future for you and your children

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and, while this disease is serious and at times life threatening, it should not be looked at with fear. We at the Polk County Medical Association (PCMA) are here to help educate and equip the members of our community to live healthier lives, and subsequently, hopefully prevent serious illnesses…
Steps for a breast self-exam

About one in eight U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. There are a few things that can be done for early detection, such as an at-home breast self-exam. This exam helps women know what is normal for them. They can then report any changes to their healthcare provider.…
Healthy Cook: Awareness is served

Pink is the color of the day— every day in October— to raise awareness of breast cancer. National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the United States started in 1985. The original aim was to increase early detection of breast cancer by encouraging women to have mammograms. The pink ribbon, which had been used to symbolize…