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Pop Quiz! Celebrating Cervical Cancer Awareness Month With the Facts

Do you know what type of cancer used to be the leading cause of cancer death for women? The answer is cervical cancer. Thankfully, an increase in awareness and testing has led to a dramatic reduction in deaths from cervical cancer, but it is still a big enough threat that every woman should know how…
A Nose for COVID-19

Central Florida Company Trains Canines to Detect Virus by JULIE GMITTER In 2020, many people adapted to the changing health crisis — whether it meant conducting business differently, working from home or virtual learning with their kids. F1K9, a Central Florida canine scent detection training school, is one of many businesses refocusing their efforts in…
Transformation

Winter Haven Operating Room Technician Opens Up About Her Weight Loss Surgery and Journey by TERESA SCHIFFER photos by APRIL SPAULDING Elizabeth Lawhorne was living a life of frustration and poor health before she made a decision that would change her life forever. Lawhorne was 356 pounds with serious health issues, including high blood pressure,…

A Guide to Over-the-Counter Artificial Tears for Dry Eye

by Chelsea Hollier, O.D. Dry eye disease, also known as Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, is a prevalent condition characterized by insufficient tear production (aqueous deficient dry eye) or poor tear quality (evaporative dry eye). It affects millions worldwide, leading to discomfort and irritation. Fortunately, over-the-counter (OTC) artificial tears provide relief and aid in managing symptoms. Dry eye…
3 Options for Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Management

In the previous two columns, I discussed aneurysms that occur in the aorta situated in the chest cavity. In this article, I will explain the various types of treatment options available for those thoracic aortic aneurysms. In general, outcomes favor endovascular repair over open repair as open repair is associated with higher rates of morbidity…
Doc, What Are These Floating Things I Am Seeing?

by DANIELA FERNANDEZ, O.D. Floaters are small specks or particles that float within the vitreous humor, which is the gel-like substance that fills the back portion of the eye. These floaters can appear as dots, circles, lines, or cobweb-like shapes that move or drift around as your eyes move. They are particularly noticeable when looking…