Health News

Features

Getting You On the Right Path

Behavioral Health Navigators Steer Polk Residents to the Right Resources by TERESA SCHIFFER The first step toward overcoming a mental health or behavioral problem is acknowledging the problem and seeking treatment. Unfortunately, finding the right resources that can provide that help can be challenging. Peace River Center has introduced a new program providing guidance for…
Paving the Way for the Future

BayCare Polk Teaming Up With Local Colleges to Provide Immersive Experience by TERESA SCHIFFER Aspiring nurses must be dedicated to their education before they enter the field professionally, but classroom instruction alone will not prepare them for the daily duties of nursing. That’s why BayCare Health System’s Polk Region is now partnering with several local…
The Power of the PSA Test

Prostate Cancer Survivors Emphasize Importance of Crucial Screening Tool by TERESA SCHIFFER Among men in the U.S., prostate cancer is the second most common cancer. When it was first discovered by surgeon J. Adams at The London Hospital in 1853, it was considered “a very rare disease.” It took about 50 years for doctors to…

Lymphedema Swelling a Common Ailment

Lymphedema is swelling caused by obstruction or reflux in the lymphatic vessels and is one of the most common conditions affecting humans. The lymph vessels are long, thin-walled tubes that form a very intricate network in the arms and the legs. In some cases, these lymph vessels are absent or are damaged or destroyed, and…
Happiness Happens… in the Sun!

by COURTNEY BEAUMONT, OD Despite the recent rain, we residents of the Sunshine State still make time to enjoy the Florida sunshine. Nothing says happiness like a day at the lake with family and friends. But, while we all know that the sun can cause damage to our skin in the form of sunspots and…
The Importance of Wearing Sunglasses

by EDITH WEPPELMANN, OD Do you enjoy watersports, fishing, golfing, hiking outdoors, or going to the beach? Sunglasses are not only a fashion accessory. They keep you looking good by preventing wrinkles, and more importantly, they protect your eyes from the development of various diseases. Your shades work to protect your vision health and maximize…