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Back to school, better than ever

Setting the foundation for success with good study habits, healthy nutrition and more You send your children off to school with hopes you’ll get through the year without squabbles over homework, computer time, or nonstop snacking. Unfortunately good intentions aren’t enough. You need a concrete plan if you want your children to develop good study…
Tighter standards protect young athletes

From Concussions to weight management, sport safety is key Making sports safer for children is a big issue these days – from protecting athletes who suffer concussions to those attempting dramatic weight loss. “Concussions are things that are going to happen. You don’t let them go back to playing until that concussion is healed,” says…
Have fun in the sun while safeguarding from the heat

Steps to help prevent heat exhaustion and stroke The Sunshine state is known for its sandy beaches, adventurous theme parks, and cool swimming pools. But she is also known for her hot, muggy days. Being careful not to get overheated is the number one rule in Florida. As reported in an article from the Surgeon…

Editor’s Dose: A thank-you letter to nurses

FROM MID-FEBRUARY to about mid-April, my family was at the doctor’s office a lot. The late-spreading flu season (although none of us in our household ever actually caught the flu — thank goodness) must have carried with it many other viruses, because we’ve certainly experienced our fair share. In fact, a few nurses on staff…
Healthy Skin: May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month

“C’MON, DOC. What’s a little sunburn?” is a question I frequently hear from the public. The answer is, if you’re lucky, that’s all it is. But a little sunburn is one of the easiest skin cancer risk factors to avoid. If left untreated, skin cancer, or melanoma, can progress to the point that it’s disfiguring…
Cautions for two of your favorite summer activities

SPRING IS THE TIME OF YEAR in Florida when temperatures begin to warm and the weather is perfect outside. With the sun shining and a gentle breeze blowing, this beautiful weather also marks the beginning of swimming season for Polk’s residents. Swimming and boating are two of the most popular summer activities for people living…