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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…

Healthcare Buzz: Oral healthcare and your child — back to basics

FLOSSING is an important part of any oral care routine, and experts advise you do it at least once a day. However, many parents wonder when should their children should start flossing their teeth? The answer is much younger than you’d likely guess. The recommendation is that you should start flossing your child’s teeth as…
Healthy Cook: A fresh look at meals for Easter time

EASTER IS A TIME of rejoicing for Christians all over the world. It’s a time for rebirth and starting over. It’s spring for everyone, no matter what religion. And, it’s a time to take a fresh look at what we eat. Lent, traditionally 40 days of culinary sacrifice, leads to Easter. When I was a…
Health Facts: Tired … thinning hair . . . tearful? It may be your thyroid gland

THE THYROID GLAND is a butterfly shaped organ that sits in the lower front of the neck. It’s job is to make thyroid hormones, which are secreted into the bloodstream and taken to every tissue in the body. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, energy levels, and affect your appetite, body warmth, sleep, and mood. Symptoms may…