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HealthSouth East Valley Rehabilitation Hospital5652 E. Baseline Road Mesa, AZ 85206
480 567-0350 Fax 480 567-0352
healthsoutheastvalley.com
HealthSouth Scottsdale Rehabilitation Hospital9630 E. Shea Blvd. Scottsdale, AZ 85260
480 551-5400 Fax 480 551-5401
healthsouthscottsdale.com
HealthSouth Valley of the SunRehabilitation Hospital
13460 N. 67th Ave. Glendale, AZ 85304623 878-8800 Fax 623 334-5360
healthsouthvalleyofthesun.com
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rehabilitation hospital
Virginia G. Piper CancerCenter at ScottsdaleHealthcareVismodegib, a new skin cancer drugused for the first time in the world atthe Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center atScottsdale Healthcare, was recentlyhailed in the New England Journalof Medicine as the “greatest advancein therapy yet seen”.
Also at the Virginia G. Piper CancerCenter, studies are underway regardinga drug that delivers cancer-killingagents for pancreatic cancer. Preclinicalresults showing that INNO-206 inducedcomplete tumor remissions in thelaboratory were presented at a recentmeeting of the American Association forCancer Research. The Virginia G. PiperCancer Center Clinical Trials at ScottsdaleHealthcare is a partnership with theTranslational Genomics ResearchInstitute (TGen). Info: 480-323-1339;877-273-3713; [email protected]
Maricopa IntegratedHealth SystemBetsey Bayless, President and ChiefExecutive Officer of the MaricopaIntegrated Health System (MIHS),has been named to the ExecutiveCommittee of the National Associationof Public Hospitals and Health Systems.MIHS includes Maricopa Medical Center,the Arizona Burn Center, the ArizonaChildren’s Center, two psychiatrichospitals, 11 community-oriented familyhealth centers and an attendant careprogram. Info:mihs.org; naph.org
Banner Heart HospitalBanner Heart Hospital offers a free,five-minute online heart assessment atBannerHealth.com/BannerHeartAgeTest.The assessment calculates the risk ofdeveloping heart disease, prioritizesrisk factors and compares the user’sactual age to their heart’s biological age.Info: 480-321-4968; bannerhealth.com
Dignity HealthDignity Health, the parent organizationof Chandler Regional Medical Center,Mercy Gilbert Medical Center andSt. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center,announced plans to develop a 35-acremedical campus in Glendale. Anchoredby a 60,000-square-foot hospitalexpected to open in early 2014, thecampus will become the centerpiece ofDignity Health’s West Valley expansion.Info: dignityhealth.org
IN THIS ISSUE:COVER/06: CARBON MONOXIDEPOISONING02: SAFE POOL WATER03: DEHYDRATION04: SUPPORT GROUPS, EVENTS05: SUPPORT GROUPS, EXPERTS06: HEAT EMERGENCIES07: WATER SAFETY08: HEAT IN CARS
NEXT ISSUE:WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1
HEALTH-CARENews
Think of an Arizona summer as a kind of bootcamp. It’s not regimented or structured, but
it can be exhausting and intimidating and thereare plenty of obstacles to navigate and conquer.Outdoor activities can be more challenging thanwe imagined because we may misjudge how wellwe’re able to manage summer’s obvious dangersas well as more hidden threats.The risks we face during the summer are real
and should be regarded as formidable foes.According to the Arizona Department of HealthServices, nearly 1,400 Arizonans are stricken everyyear with a heat-related illness so serious theyend up in an emergency department,
and hundreds of them become so ill thatthey must be admitted to the hospital.But the heat and sun aren’t all we have
to worry about. On these pages, we’veassembled plenty of advice from professionalsabout how to stay healthy and safe during thehottest months of the year. Armed with tips onprotecting your skin, recognizing signs of heatillness, making sure kids are ‘water-worthy’,preventing dehydration and avoiding carbonmonoxide poisoning connected to boating,you’ll be able to happily survive the ‘bootcamp’ (or is that ‘cowboy-boot camp’?) that issummer in the Valley of the Sun.
Here’s to asun-sational summer!How to stay healthy and safe during our hottest months
By The NUMBERS
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning isthe most common cause of death
due to poisoning in the world, accordingto Bob Baron, M.D., emergency medicinephysician at Banner Good SamaritanMedical Center.He adds that CO poisoning is often
dubbed the ‘silent killer’ since you can’tsmell, taste or sense the poison.CO is found in combustion fumes,
such as those produced by boat engines,on-board stoves and more. The poisonbuilds up, and because the CO canblock oxygen from getting into thebody, victims quickly become ill, citesthe Centers for Disease Control andPrevention (CDC).
CO poisoning and boatingAs outdoor aficionados head out tonearby lakes to enjoy the water, Baroncautioned that everyone needs to remainaware of the potential for CO poisoningfrom boat motors.“They need to know where the exhaust
is on the boat, since some exhausts areabove and some are below the water
Tim Eiden, community education specialist for the Peoria Fire Department, cautionsboaters and swimmers to be very aware of the sources of carbon monoxide because itcan quickly overwhelm anyone in its vicinity, causing loss of consciousness and death.
RICKD’ELIA
Continued on page 6 CARBONMONOXIDE
HEALTH-CARE NEWS YOU CAN USE FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILYTHE ARIZONA REPUBLIC A SPECIAL PUBLICATION CREATED BY REPUBLIC MEDIA CUSTOM PUBLISHING Vol. 2, No. 7 July 2012HEALTH-CARE NEWS YOU CAN USE FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILYA SPECIAL PUBLICATION CREATED BY REPUBLIC MEDIA CUSTOM PUBLISHING
wellaz-az-JIM
CHRIST
YST
UDIO
Carbonmonoxide poisoning and boatingWhat you need to know before heading to the lake BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
SPECIALTOPICSUN,WATERANDHEATSAFETY
SPECIALTOPIC
SUN,WATERANDHEATSAFETY
113ºF RECORD HIGH (1995)
58ºF RECORD LOW (1973)
102ºF AVERAGE HIGH
76ºF AVERAGE LOW
89ºF MEAN TEMPERATURE
Source: TheWeather Channel, weather.com
—PAULA HUBBS COHEN
BUT IT’S A DRY HEATAVERAGE JULY TEMPERATURES IN PHOENIX:
ArizonaER.com
1-877-924-WELL (9355)
For information about wait times or to downloadour free mobile app, visit ArizonaER.com.
1-877-351-WELL (9355) 1-877-351-WELL (9355)
EXPERTSDavid Glassman, D.O
With a special interest in laproscopic surgery,Dr.Glassman offers all aspectsof gynecologic care.He earned his medical degree at theArizona Collegeof Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ, beforecompleting his internship and residency at Banner Good Samaritan MedicalCenter in Phoenix.A board certified gynecologist, Dr.Glassman is activein a number of professional organizations and continues to teach medicalstudents at his alma mater.
GYNECOLOGY
Banner Health ClinicSpecializing in Gynecology4444 N. 32nd Street • Phoenix602.747.7026 • www.BannerHealth.com/BMG-32ndStreetGyn
CATARACT & REFRACTIVE SURGEON
Scott A. Perkins, MDAs a nationally recognized ophthalmologist with Barnet Dulaney Perkins EyeCenter, Dr. Perkins has performed more than 50,000 cataract surgeries and morethan 10,000 vision correction procedures such as LASIK and Implantable ContactLenses (ICLs).As an innovator in the field of ophthalmology, he has participated inover 25 clinical trials for both pharmaceutical and ophthalmic devices.
In addition, Dr. Perkins serves on the Board of Directors for ArizonaVisionaries,a donor driven non-profit organization providing cataract surgery and eyeglassfittings in third world countries. He is not only trusted for his surgical talents andmodest nature, but is also well known for his compassion and ability to connectwith and comfort patients.
Board Certified by the American Board of OphthalmologyMember of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive SurgeryFellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology
Locations throughout Arizona(800) 966-7000 / www.GoodEyes.com
Pooja Shah, MD
Dr. Shah specializes in low and high risk pregnancies, contraceptive options,in-office procedures and reproductive care. She enjoys providing education,treatment and continuity of care to both adult and adolescent women andbelieves in working in cooperation with them to provide compassionatehealth care. She completed her medical education and residency at theUniversity of Illinois School of Medicine in Chicago and is a member ofAmerican College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.Dr. Shah has been inpractice since 2009.
GYNECOLOGY/OBSTETRICS
Banner Health ClinicSpecializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology6553 E. Baywood Ave. Suite 210 • Mesa480.543.6754 • www.BannerHealth.com/BMG-BaywoodOBGYN
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VITAL Signs
There is nothing quite as inviting as asparkling pool on a hot day...which in
the Phoenix and Tucsonmetropolitan areas,is pretty much every summertime day.But keeping the water clean and safe
for swimmers doesn’t just happen by itself;it requires a combination of chemicalsand cleaning.
Sanitizers and acids“Sanitizer is the most important chemicalfor a pool since it kills bacteria, virusesand algae,” said Michael J. Dennis,chief executive officer of X-Pools, LLCin Scottsdale and a Certified ServiceProfessional, a professional designationgranted by the Association of Pool& Spa Professionals.The most common sanitizers are
halogens, chlorine and bromine, he said.
“With our water in the Valley, acid is usuallyrequired to keep a balanced pH whichhelps the sanitizers work effectively andcreates bather comfort.” The pH level isan indication of how acidic or basic thewater is.The second family of necessary
chemicals is balancers, said Mike Long,a manufacturer’s representative withThornburg Enterprises in Chandler. “Thesehelp to keep pH, total alkalinity andhardness levels in their proper range,”he said. “Chlorine and most other thingsintroduced into water — includingswimmers— alter the balance of thewater. Unbalanced water is irritating toswimmers and inhibits the efficiencyof chlorine. In addition, many times eyeirritation is blamed on chlorine, whenin fact it is a consequence of waterimbalance.”
Testing the watersTesting and balancing water chemistryfollows the old adage that you can neverdo it enough, Dennis said.“Pools, spas and water features are
dynamic devices, constantly changing withwind, sun, rain, temperature and usage,”
he said, adding that chemical demandchanges rapidly after a storm of any kind,meaning that the water should be testedand balanced as soon as possible aftersuch an event.Long noted that chlorine and pH levels
should be tested weekly when watertemperatures are below 70 degrees andtwice weekly when the weather warms up.“Many systems, like salt water pools, canget out of range in two to three days oncethe pool water gets above 80 degrees,”he said.
Keepingyour poolwatersafe forswimmingYes, it can be achore, but it’s betterthan shovelingsnow, right?BY ALISON STANTON
“Develop a goodrelationship with aswimming pool supplystore or pool servicecompany that you cantrust and let them guideyou through themazeof chemicals.”
— Mike Long,manufacturer’s representative,Thornburg Enterprises, Chandler
Seeing ‘green’Occasionally, algae can take over andonce-clean pool water can turn green,seemingly overnight.“A green pool is a sign that there is either
not enough sanitizer in the water or thatthe water balance is such that the chlorinecannot do its job,” Long explained. “It canalso be an indication that the pump orfilter is not working properly.”In the event of algae, Dennis advises
pool owners to empty all traps andbaskets, backwash if required, run the filterconstantly until the algae is gone, balancethe pH and alkalinity, brush the walls, thenshock with chlorine.
Pool chemicals• Ideal ranges for pH are 7.2 to 7.8
• Ideal ranges for total alkalinityare between 80 and 120 ppm
Source: Michael J. Dennis, chiefexecutive officer, X-Pools, LLC, Scottsdale
Pool resourcesAmerican Red Crossand National Swimming PoolFoundation (online training coursefor home pool and hot tub owners):homepoolessentials.org
Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention:cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/resources/posters.html
2 | LIVING WELL A-Z | WEDNESDAY, July 4, 20122 | LIVING WELL A-Z | WEDNESDAY, July 4, 2012
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It’s natural to feel afraid when you receive a cancer diagnosis. Research your options for cancer care and choose theright place first. The place that can help you beat cancer and put it in your past. MDAnderson Cancer Center, ranked #1in cancer care by U.S.News and World Report’s “America’s Best Hospitals” survey, has teamed up with Banner Healthto create Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. But here we do everythingpossible to turn your fear into hope.
If you’re ‘dying of thirst,’ you’redefinitely more than just thirsty –
you’re probably dehydrated.In fact, most of us are mildly
dehydrated, but we don’t realize it andsimply go about our day, according toKarla Birkholz, M.D., medical director ofWellness Elements, a wellness centerfor John C. Lincoln Physician Network.The National Weather Service reports
an average of 110 days per year withtemperatures in the Valley above100 degrees. With an estimated 30 to50 Arizonans dying annually due tothe scorching summer heat (ArizonaDepartment of Health Services, azdhs.gov/phs/oeh/pdf/heat_brochure.pdf ),recognizing the symptoms of heat-related dehydration and taking actioncan be the difference between lifeand death.
Signs of dehydration“Thirst is generally the first symptom ofdehydration, but it also is a key indicatorthat you have passed the point at whichyou should have started drinking water,”Birkholz said.Other signs that the body may not
be properly hydrated include dark-colored urine, less frequent urinationand symptoms of heat exhaustion suchas nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weakness,headache, dizziness, excessive sweatingand muscle cramps with activity.
Key factor in heat illnessMichael Kaplan, M.D., regional medicaldirector of NextCare Urgent Care, saidthat dehydration is a key factor in a broadspectrum of heat-related illnesses thatrange from heat exhaustion to the moresevere and potentially deadly heat stroke.Kaplan added that mild to moderate
dehydration in the context of a heatillness can usually be treated at home byfinding shelter from the sun, removingappropriate clothing, getting near a fanand/or in air conditioning, drinking waterand consuming sports beverages toreplenish depleted electrolytes. Symptomswill generally improve within about15 to 30 minutes.
Safeguarding kidsInfants and young children are particularlysusceptible to dehydration and heat illnessbecause they lose fluids quickly, fail torecognize their symptoms and are oftenunable to explain how they feel.Kaplan noted that stimulant medications
like Adderall and Ritalin, which arecommonly used to treat attention deficitdisorder (ADD) and attention deficithyperactivity disorder (ADHD), canincrease the likelihood of heat illness.
When to visit the ER“If, after attempting to managedehydration, a person is still excessivelythirsty or weak, treatment in an urgent
care or emergency room setting maybe beneficial,” Kaplan stated.Prolonged shortness of breath,
rapid pulse, confusion or agitation, atemperature at or above 104 degreesFahrenheit, passing out, or no longersweating despite being very hot aredangerous signs of heat stroke. Medicalcare typically entails oral and intravenous(IV) hydration, cold baths and bloodtesting to evaluate electrolyte levels andcheck for signs of muscle breakdown.Birkholz emphasized that prevention is
the most important step when it comes todehydration and heat illness. “Drink plentyof fluids regardless of whether you’rethirsty, particularly during the summermonths,” she said.
High temps drive dehydrationDon’t wait until thirsty to drink up BY KRISTINE BURNETT
Dehydrationandheat illness resourcesAmerican Academy of FamilyPhysicians: aafp.org; familydoctor.org
American Academy of Pediatrics:aap.org; healthychildren.org
Arizona Department of HealthServices: azdhs.gov
Centers for Disease Control andPrevention National Center forHealth Statistics: cdc.gov/nchs
National Institutes of Health:nih.gov
6 ways to avoiddehydrationand heat illness
1 Limit outdoor activitybetween 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
2 Ensure adequate fluid intakeby drinking six to eight glassesof water daily when indoorsand two to four glasses ofwater hourly when workingor playing outdoors
3 Alternate between waterand electrolyte drinks whenactive outdoors
4 Avoid alcohol, caffeineand sugary beverages
5 Drink water while swimming
6 Allow time for acclimatization;it takes approximatelyfour to 14 days for adultsand 10 to 14 days for childrento adjust to the heat
WEDNESDAY, July 4, 2012 | LIVING WELL A-Z | 3
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MEDICATION CHECKSJuly 11, 10–11 a.m.St. Luke’s1800 E. Van Buren St., PhoenixRegister: 877-351-WELL (9355)
SUMMER COOKINGDEMO & TASTINGJuly 11, noon–1 p.m.St. Luke’s1800 E. Van Buren St., PhoenixRegister: 877-351-WELL (9355)
MEDICATION CHECKSJuly 20, noon–1 p.m.Tempe St. Luke’s1500 S. Mill Ave., TempeRegister: 877-351-WELL (9355)
SUMMER COOKINGDEMO & TASTINGJuly 20, noon–1 p.m.Tempe St. Luke’s1500 S. Mill Ave., TempeRegister: 877-351-WELL (9355)
All groups and events are believed,but not guaranteed, to be free unlessotherwise stated. Every effort has beenmade to verify accuracy, but please callbefore attending to confirm details.
WELLNESS
BARIATRIC INFO SESSIONSVarious dates & timesBanner Gateway1900 N. Higley Rd., Gilbert480-543-2606
WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY SEMINARVarious dates, times & locationsSt. Luke’s, PhoenixTempe St. Luke’s, Tempe800-248-5553
FALL PREVENTIONJuly 11, 1–2 p.m.By Scottsdale Healthcareat Appaloosa Library7377 E. Silverstone Dr.,ScottsdaleRegister: shc.org/events;480-882-4636
HEALTHYMEALS IN30MINUTES OR LESSJuly 11, 6–7:30 p.m.Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center atScottsdale Healthcare10460 N. 92 St., ScottsdaleRegister: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636
STEPS TO A HEALTHIER YOUJuly 12, 1–2 p.m.By Scottsdale Healthcareat Civic Center Library3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd, ScottsdaleRegister: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636
PHOENIX EARLY STAGESUPPORT GROUPJuly 12 & 26, 9–10 a.m.By The Alzheimer’s Associationat Parkway Community Church1752 E. Maryland Ave., PhoenixRegister: 602-528-0545
SUN LAKES EARLY STAGESUPPORT GROUPJuly 12 & 26, 9–10 a.m.By The Alzheimer’s Associationat Sun Lakes UnitedMethodist Church2958 E. Riggs Rd., Sun LakesRegister: 602-528-0545
CREATINGMEANING & HAVING FUNJuly 13, 10:30 a.m.–noonBy Banner Alzheimer’sat Musical InstrumentMuseum4725 E. Mayo Blvd., PhoenixRegister: 602-230-CARE
ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP(lunch provided)July 15, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.St. Joseph’s Huger Mercy Living Center2345W. Orangewood Ave., Phoenix602-406-5600
ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVERSJuly 19, 1:30–3 p.m.Tempe St. Luke’s1500 S. Mill Ave., Tempe877-351-WELL (9355)
PLANNING AHEADCLASS FOR CAREGIVERSJuly 30, 10 a.m.–noonBanner Gateway1900 N. Higley Road, GilbertRegister:[email protected];602-839-6850
PARKINSON’S
EXERCISE CLASSES; TAI CHI;QIGONG &MEDITATIONVarious dates, times and locationsBy theMuhammad Ali Parkinson Centerat St. Joseph’s602-406-6903
PARKINSON’S DANCE—ARCADIAJuly 5, 12, 19 & 26, 1:30–3 p.m.By theMuhammad Ali Parkinson Centerat St. Joseph’sBrick’s Studio4550 E. Indian School Rd., PhoenixRegister: 602-406-6903
EASTSIDE TREMBLE CLEFS(singing program)July 5, 12, 19 & 26, 4–6 p.m.By theMuhammad Ali Parkinson Centerat St. Joseph’sGranite Reef Senior Center1700 N. Granite Reef Rd., ScottsdaleRegister: 602-406-3840
PARKINSON’S DANCE—PARADISE VALLEYJuly 6, 13, 20 & 27, 1:30–3 p.m.By theMuhammad Ali Parkinson Centerat St. Joseph’sElizabeth KeithMovement Education16620 N. 40 St., PhoenixRegister: 602-406-6903
WESTSIDE TREMBLE CLEFS(singing program)July 11, 18 & 25, 10 a.m.–noonBy theMuhammad Ali Parkinson Centerat St. Joseph’sShepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church11025 N. 111 Ave., Sun CityRegister: 602-406-3840
Take advantage of over 100 opportunities for youto meet others with similar issues and learn moreabout various aspects of your health – from A to Z.
July 7Children’s ImmunizationClinic (Free)WHAT: Free immunizations.Parent or guardianmustaccompany each child andbring immunization records.No appointment necessary.WHERE: Scottsdale HealthcareOsbornMedical Center,Community Health Office,3634 N. Drinkwater Blvd, Ste. 100,ScottsdaleTIME: 8 a.m.–noonINFO: 480-882-4317
July 14Safe Babysitting ClassWHAT: Taught by an RN, thiscourse provides information aboutCPR and first-aid, infant and childcare, what to do in an emergency,activity planning andmore. Forages 11 and older.WHERE: Banner Desert,1400 S. Dobson Rd., MesaTIME: 12:30–4:30 p.m.COST: $35REGISTRATION REQUIRED:602-230-CARE (2273)
July is UV Safety Month. More info: Prevent Blindness America, preventblindness.org
TOP Events
THINKS
TOCK
July 14CPR CertificationWHAT: The American HeartAssociation (AHA) CommunityHeart-Saver CPR course preparesattendees for providing CPR, AED(automated external defibrillator)and choking relief for infants,children and adults. A first-aidcourse is taught immediatelyafter the CPR class.WHERE: Banner Del E. WebbMedical Center, 14502W.MeekerBlvd, Sun CityWestTIME: 1–5 p.m.COST: $45 for both classes; $35 forCPR alone (must take CPR in orderto take first-aid)REGISTRATION REQUIRED:800-230-CARE (2273)
July 21Women’s Clinic (Free)WHAT: This clinic will includewell-womanexams, familyplanningservices, STD information andmore. Health Choice Arizonawillalso be available for assistanceand possible eligibility.WHERE: Arizona AssociatesforWomen’s Health,4135 S. Power Rd., Suite 113, MesaTIME: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.REGISTRATION REQUIRED:480-257-2700
July 21Heart Risk AssessmentWHAT: Assessment includes testof cholesterol levels, blood sugarand blood pressure. In addition, a10-year coronary risk assessment(the likelihood of having a heartattack in the next 10 years) isprovided that takes into accounthealth and lifestyle informationincluding age, gender, cholesterol,blood pressure andmore.WHERE: Arizona Heart Hospital,1930 E. Thomas Rd., PhoenixTIME: 7–9 a.m.COST: $10REGISTRATION REQUIRED:855-292-9355; azhealthyhours.com
July 1–August 31Free Junior GolfWHAT: Accompanied by a paidadult, junior golfers (ages 17 andyounger), can enjoy free golf atany of the three City of Phoenixnine-hole courses. Program runsthrough August 31.WHERE: Aguila Par 3,8440 S. 35th Ave.;Encanto Short 9,2300 N. 17th Ave.;Palo Verde 9,6215 N. 15th Ave.COST: Free for one youth-golferper paid adult; if only one adult ispresent, additional kids’ roundsare $5.INFO: 602-262-5088; 866-865-GOLF (4653); phoenix.gov/golf
4 | LIVING WELL A-Z | WEDNESDAY, July 4, 2012
BOSOM BUDDIES/AHWATUKEE CHANDLERJuly 14, 10 a.m.–noonMorrison Building (next to ChandlerRegional Medical Center)1875W. Frye Rd., Chandler480-893-8900
SUPPORT GROUPJuly 14, 10 a.m.–noonVirginia G. Piper Cancer Centerat Scottsdale Healthcare10460 N. 92 St., ScottsdaleRegister: [email protected];480-323-1990
BLACKS AGAINST BREAST CANCERJuly 15, 3–5 p.m.TheWellness Community360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix602-320-0502
BIRTH PARENTJuly 24, 6–8 p.m.St. Joseph’s350W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix888-818-4454
BRAIN TUMORJuly 24, 6–8 p.m.St. Joseph’s350W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix623-205-6446
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (WOMEN)July 28, 10 a.m.St. Joseph’s350W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix480-829-6563
CAREGIVERS
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUPJuly 9St. Joseph’s Outpatient Rehabilitation114W. Thomas Rd., PhoenixCall for time: 602-406-6688
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUPJuly 11, 2:30–4 p.m.Mountain VistaMedical Center1301 S. Crismon Rd., MesaRegister: 877-924-WELL (9355)
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUPJuly 25, 2:30–3:30 p.m.St. Luke’s1800 E. Van Buren St., PhoenixRegister: 877-924-WELL (9355)
LGBT CAREGIVER GROUP (DUET)Aug. 6, 9–10 a.m.One Voice Community Center4442 N. Seventh Ave., Phoenix602-274-5022
PRESENTEDIN SPANISH
SUMMER PAINTINGWORKSHOPFOR PARKINSON’S PATIENTSJuly 5, 19 & 26, 3–5 p.m.By theMuhammad Ali Parkinson Centerat St. Joseph’sDesert Cross Lutheran Church8600 S. McClintock Dr., TempeRegister: 602-406-6131
SUMMER PAINTINGWORKSHOPFOR PARKINSON’S PATIENTSJuly 6, 20 & 27, 9:30–11:30 a.m.By theMuhammad Ali Parkinson Centerat St. Joseph’sChurch of the Beatitudes555W. Glendale Ave., PhoenixRegister: 602-406-6131
CANCER SUPPORT GROUPJuly 10, 6–7:30 p.m.Banner Desert1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa480-412-HOPE (4673)
UNA REUNION(Latino Cancer Outreach Task Force)July 17, 6–7:30 p.m.St. Joseph’s Cancer Center500W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix602-567-7640
Question:What is Valley Fever andhow can it be treated?ANSWER: Valley Fever is thenickname for coccidioidomycosis,the infection caused by the fungusCoccidioides. This fungus lives inthe desert soil in the southwesternUnited States and is also seenin northernMexico and parts ofCentral and South America. Peopleacquire Valley Fever by breathingthe fungal spores from the air;there is no person-to-personspread.Over half of those infectedwith
Valley Fever have no symptoms,while themajority of people withsymptoms have one ormore ofthe following: fever, night sweats,headache, muscle and joint aching,fatigue, rash, cough, shortness ofbreath, and/or chest pain. ValleyFevermay be easy to identify inpeople who have all symptoms,but can bemore difficult torecognize when someone only hasone or two symptoms.Fluconazole or itraconazole are
themost commonly prescribedmedications,while Amphotericin Bis an intravenousmedicationreserved for infections that aresevere and rapidly progressing.Since the body can often conquerthe infectionwithout treatment,many people do not need to betreated, but for those who dorequire treatment, the treatmentsometimes needs to continue forweeks, months or even longer.JANIS E. BLAIR,M.D., INFECTIOUSDISEASES SPECIALIST, MAYO CLINIC,ARIZONA
Question:What is the prevalenceof hearing loss?ANSWER:Most people believethat hearing loss affects only ‘olderpeople’, while actually 65 percentof people with hearing loss areyounger than age 65. More than6million people in the U.S. betweenthe ages of 18 and 44 have hearingloss issues with nearly 1.5millionof them being school-age. Anestimated 31.5million people inthe U.S. report hearing difficulty,or approximately 10 percent ofthe nation’s population.People with hearing loss are often
embarrassed because they thinkthey are different or that they havea rare condition, but if you suspecthearing loss, please understand thatyou are not alone.Here are some general guidelines
regarding the incidenceofhearing loss:• 3 in 10 people over the ageof 60 have hearing loss
• 1 in 6 baby-boomers havea hearing problem
• 1 in 14 Gen-Xers alreadyhave hearing loss
• at least 1.4million childrenunder the age of 18 havehearing problemsIf you suspect youmay be having
problems hearing or understandingwhat people are saying, get yourhearing checked by a licensedhearing health-care professional.It could change your life!ROBERT BABER, BOARD-CERTIFIEDHEARING INSTRUMENT SPECIALISTANDOWNEROF 21MIRACLE-EARCENTERS LOCATED THROUGHOUTARIZONA
Question:Is there a ‘safe’ tanin childhood?ANSWER: There is no ‘safe’sunburn or tan in childhood.There is good evidence that sunexposure during childhood seemsparticularly damaging. In fact,individuals who have had five ormore severe sunburns in childhoodor adolescence have an estimatedtwo-fold greater risk of developingmelanoma (skin cancer).We know thatmelanomas tend
to be associatedwith intense,intermittent sun exposure andsunburns, and they frequentlyoccur in areas exposed to the sunonly sporadically. There is a lotof discussion inmedical circlesabout howmuch sun exposureis beneficial andwhen the riskfor melanoma begins. The use oftanning beds should always bestrongly discouraged.This does notmean, of course,
that you have to keep your childinside all summer. Vitamin Dproduction in our bodies is helpedby sun exposure and is importantto develop strong bones.Wearing protective clothing,
wide-brimmed hats and usingsunscreen are all advisable whenoutside on sunny or even cloudydays. Use a sunscreenwith SPF 15or greater as aminimal levelof protectionwhen exposed tosunlight. Remember to reapplysunscreen as directed. Enjoy thesun, but be sun smart!JOHN SEWARD,M.D., FAAP,PEDIATRICIAN, BANNERHEALTHCENTER,MARICOPA
LivingWell a-z invites readers to submit questions to a panel of health-care experts. The short
questions and answers will offer readers a little more information about hot topics in medicine so you
know what to ask your own health-care providers. If you would like your question to be considered
for the August 1, 2012 issue of LivingWell a-z, please write to editor: Paula Hubbs Cohen,
[email protected] or c/o The Arizona Republic, 200 E. Van Buren St., CA22, Phoenix, AZ 85004
ABRAZO HEALTH CARE(Arizona Heart Hospital,Arizona Heart Institute, ArrowheadHospital, Maryvale Hospital,Paradise Valley Hospital, PhoenixBaptist Hospital, West ValleyHospital): abrazohealth.com
BANNER HEALTH:bannerhealth.com
CARDON CHILDREN’S MEDICALCENTER: bannerhealth.com
SCOTTSDALE HEALTHCARE:shc.org
ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITALANDMEDICAL CENTER:stjosephs-phx.org
ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL CENTER,PHOENIX: stlukesmedcenter.com
TEMPE ST. LUKE’S:tempestlukeshospital.com
THEWELLNESS COMMUNITY AZ:twccaz.org
INFOOnline
ASK An Expert
WEDNESDAY, July 4, 2012 | LIVING WELL A-Z | 5
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Call 602-814-0072www.Miracle-Ear-Phoenix.comNot a medical exam.Audiometric testto determine proper amplification needs only.Good only from participating Miracle-Earproviders. See store for details.
Cognitive Engagement forPeople with Dementia
Musical Instrument Museum4725 E. Mayo Blvd.Friday, July 13
Wyatt Decker, Vice President and CEO, Mayo Clinic in ArizonaGregg Thomas, Chief Administrative Officer, Mayo Clinic in Arizona
Growing with theValley for 25 yearsAt Mayo Clinic the needs of our patients have always come first.This year,Mayo Clinic is proudto celebrate 25 years of providing care to patients inArizona and is committed to serving ourcommunity in the years ahead.
Mayo Clinic is the first and largest integrated, not-for-profit group practice in the world.Internationally renowned for patient care, research and medical education,we emphasize a teamapproach to health care.
Mayo’s roots inArizona run deep, beginning with the Mayo brothers traveling here in the wintermonths during the 1930s. Founders Drs.Will and Charlie Mayo fell in love with the desert and bothbought property inTucson.
More than one million patients have received care at Mayo Clinic inArizona since we opened ourdoors in Scottsdale in 1987.While many patients come from within our region, individuals fromnearly every state visit Mayo Clinic inArizona each year.Additionally, since our opening, patientshave come from more than 150 countries, with the highest numbers from Canada and Mexico.As we mark this important milestone in our history, we want to thank our employees, ourcollaborative partners, our generous benefactors, our elected officials and all of our friends inthis wonderful community for making Mayo Clinic inArizona what it is today – an organizationdedicated to helping people who need us most, our grateful patients.
BARIATRIC PROGRAMHear aboutmedical& surgical
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THURS., JULY 12:6-6:45PM
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environment then have them drink cool,non-alcoholic beverages and take a coolshower or bath.Heat stroke can be a true medical
emergency. If you or someone elseexhibits the following signs, medicalattention should be sought promptly:• body temperature above 103°F• red, hot and dry skin (no sweating)• throbbing headache• dizziness• nausea• confusion• unconsciousnessWhile waiting for medical help to arrive,
the CDC says, cool the person rapidly.Immerse them in a tub of cool waterand/or place them in a cool shower. Ifthe humidity is low, wrap them in a cool,wet sheet and fan them vigorously.The Arizona Department of Health
Services (DHS) has developed a statewideHeat Emergency Response Plan to addressexcessive heat watches and warnings.“In an extreme situation,” explained
Diane Eckles, chief of DHS’s Office ofEnvironmental Health, “such as severaldays in a row of excessive temperatures,we make sure that counties, cities andtribes have operational plans to provideshelters and water stations for those whodon’t have access to air conditioningor adequate hydration.”
when someone feels the symptoms andwaits too long.”Eiden said some preventative steps
include:• Be aware of the sources of CO (suchas boat engines) and avoid those areas
• Always wear a life jacket• Have a designated person keep an eyeon others
• Watch for signs of CO poisoningin yourself and others
• Avoid sitting at the back of the boatand be aware of where other boatsare located
level,” he said. “Whilethe boat is running, keeppeople away. It’s theresponsibility of the boatoperator tomake surethe engine is off and thatswimmers stay safe.”Swimmers and
boaters should also bewary of spending timeon platforms becausethey are often locatedat the back of theboat where exhaustfumes are prevalent,advised Tim Eiden,community educationspecialist for the PeoriaFire Department,the governmentalorganization thatprovides fire protectionand emergencymedicalresponse for LakePleasant.Unfortunately, Eiden
said that many peoplewill become unconsciousbefore they feel any ofthe less severe symptoms of CO poisoning,which can lead to death from inhalationor drowning.
Treatment and preventionFor someone poisoned by carbonmonoxide, the treatment is 100 percentoxygen, Baron said.If you’re out on the lake and start to
feel symptoms of CO poisoning, Eidensuggested moving to fresh air and seekingmedical attention. “Carbon monoxidepoisoning is 100 percent curable andavoidable,” he said. “The damage happens
CARBONMONOXIDEContinued from cover
Sun and heatresourcesAmerican Red Cross: redcross.org
Arizona Department of HealthServices: azdhs.gov
Centers for Disease Controland Prevention: cdc.gov
Somesun-protectiveclothing options:Solartex Sun Gear: solartex.com
Solumbra: sunprecautions.com
SPF Store: spfstore.com 6 signs and symptomsof CO poisoning
1 Feeling light-headed
2 Nausea and vomiting
3 Loss of balance
4 Dizziness and confusion
5 Seizures
6 Becoming unconscious
Source: Bob Baron,M.D., emergencymedicinephysician, Banner Good SamaritanMedical Center
Staying sun-healthy during anArizona summer is at least a two-part
proposition: guarding against sunburnand preventing heat emergencies.
Always cover upWearing sun-protective clothing and/orsunscreen is one of the most importantthings you can do to protect your skin.If you’re going swimming, sunscreen
applied on all exposed skin is imperative.A spray or cream formulation with a sunprotection factor (SPF) of at least 30 willhelp you avoid sunburn, but be sure toreapply it at least every two hours. It’salso important to choose a product thatprotects against both UVA and UVB rays.The Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) recently approved new regulationsregarding sunscreen labeling. StartingDec. 17, 2012, sunscreen labels will berequired to indicate whether the productprotects against both A and B ultravioletrays by using the term ‘broad-spectrum’.Only broad-spectrum sunscreens with anSPF of at least 15 can claim to reduce therisk of skin cancer and early skin aging.Otherwise, the label can only say theproduct ‘helps prevent sunburn’.
Also under FDA rules, after Dec. 17,manufacturers cannot make claims thatsunscreens are ‘waterproof’ or ‘sweatproof’or identify their products as ‘sunblocks’.Instead, labels must indicate whether theproduct is ‘water-resistant’ for either 40 or80minutes after swimming or sweating.
Heat emergenciesHeat illness takes three forms: heatcramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.Heat cramps, according to the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),are muscle pains or spasms in the abdomen,arms or legs that may occur with strenuousactivity and sweating, which can depletethe body’s salt andmoisture.Heat exhaustion can develop after
exposure to high temperatures andinadequate or unbalanced replacementof fluids. Signs of heat exhaustion includeheavy sweating, paleness, fatigue,weakness, dizziness, headache, nauseaand fainting. Get the person sufferingthese symptoms to an air-conditioned
Stay healthy in the heatHow to avoid sunburn and heat emergencies
BY DEBRAGELBART
Install andmaintain CO alarms insideyour boat, do not ignore any alarm andreplace alarms as recommended bythe alarmmanufacturer.
Source: U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Resource Center,uscgboating.org/safety/co_protect.aspx
Centers for Disease Controland Prevention: cdc.gov/co
Double Angel Foundation(a non-profit dedicated to raisingawareness about CO poisoning):doubleangel.org
Peoria Fire Department:peoriaaz.gov/fire
U.S. Coast Guard Boating SafetyDivision: uscgboating.org
BAD IDEA! Experts, including Tim Eiden with the Peoria FireDepartment, warn water aficionados to never swim, deck-surfor horse around near a source of carbon monoxide.
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We’re proud to announce that Banner MediSun,your locally based Medicare Advantage plan, earneda 4.5 out of 5 Star rating from the Centers forMedicare & Medicaid Services for 2012. We earned this based on our customer service, ourability to help keep members healthy and how well we resolve problems.
What makes us more proud is that we’ve made an impression for things that matter to ourmembers—commitment to care and attention to service. For the 20,000-plus people who puttheir trust in us, we’ll strive to be your homemade Medicare Advantage plan that always risesto the occasion.
When it’s so hot outside, mosteveryone enjoys a refreshing dip
in the pool. However, as news reportsshow us far too often, a day of fun canquickly turn tragic if certain safety issuesare not addressed.Fortunately, with a good old-fashioned
combination of advance preparation,diligence and vigilance, swimming poolscan be a place of delight and not disaster.
Never too late to learnThe connection between swimminglessons and water safety has beenstrengthened in recent years, said LindaKirby, injury prevention specialist forthe Phoenix Fire Department. “Watersafety professionals have always stronglyencouraged parents to ensure their kidsknow how to swim,” she said. “But there isno magic age at which a child should learnto swim. That is decided by the parentsand the pediatrician.”Adults who have never learned to swim
should not feel they are too old to try,said Kristina Campbell, aquatics directorfor the Southwest Valley Family YMCAin Goodyear.“It is definitely possible and we have
seen it done here repeatedly,” she said. “Alot of it has to do with howmotivated anddedicated the participant is, the reasonfor them wanting to learn— for example,
fitness, health, wanting to swim with kidsand/or grandkids— or it may even bea long-time personal goal of theirs.”
What about floaties?Although many parents outfit their youngchildren with colorful ‘floaties’, Kirby isadamantly opposed to their use.“Floaties give parents a false sense
of security, but they don’t hold a smallchild’s head up above the water,” shesaid. “The heads of small children aredisproportionately larger than their bodies.Kids have drowned wearing floaties.”
The idea of using life jackets for youngchildren is relatively new, Kirby said, butshe believes it should be as routine asusing a car seat or bike helmet for safety.
Required barriersIn Phoenix, three types of barriers arerequired by code, Kirby said. Other citiesand towns have individual requirements;check your local city’s website for specificinformation. But barriers are only onelayer of pool safety, Kirby stressed, addingthat multiple layers of barriers and otheractions, most importantly constant andthorough supervision, help complete thepicture of a safe water environment.
“Installing barriers,securing doggie-doorsand learning CPR arelayers that help buytime, but if childrenare unsupervised, theywill figure out a way toget into the pool. Themost important thing isconstant supervision.”
— Linda Kirby, injury preventionspecialist, Phoenix Fire Department
Water safetyresourcesAmerican Red Cross Grand CanyonChapter: arizonaredcross.org
Arizona Department of HealthServices: azdhs.gov
Centers for Disease Control andPrevention: cdc.gov
National Institutesof Health Medline Plus:nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus
AdultswimminglessonsAdult private lessons are offered atmany places, including most of theValley of the Sun’s YMCA locations.“Many adult students are true
beginners, while others are looking forhelp with stroke technique or buildingup endurance,” said Kristina Campbell,aquatics director for the SouthwestValley Family YMCA in Goodyear.“Once they learn to swim and
feel comfortable in the water,some move onto our adultmasters swim team.It is such a reward tosee the transition frombeing terrified in thewater to swimminglaps on an adultswim team.”
More info:valleyymca.org;602-404-9622
sonssleAdmaVa
beheup
Tips to keep you and your family safe this summer BY ALISON STANTON
RICK
D’ELIA
Southwest Valley YMCA swimming instructor CindyMooney works with PaiwanWhitaker in an individualized swim lesson at the YMCA’s pool in Goodyear.
Maricopa and Pinal counties,1-1-12 through 6-25-12:
•87water-related incidents• resulting in21 deaths•9 of them children
Source: ChildrenSafetyZone.com
Water safety
Free pool fencesThe Fulton Homes Fence Patrol, apartnership between Fulton Homes,Ironman Pool Fence and radio stationKMLE, has given away and installedeight pool fences so far this summer.
For more information or to nominatesomeone for a free pool fence, visitkmle108.com, click on ‘contests’,then on the Fence Patrol icon, orgo to fultonhomes.com and click onthe Fulton Foundation link.
Deadline for nominations isAug. 7, 2012.
Sobering statistics
WEDNESDAY, July 4, 2012 | LIVING WELL A-Z | 7
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estimate that almost one-third of childrenwho die from being overheated in cars letthemselves into the vehicle.“When you are at home, always lock
your car and always have your keys withyou,” Taaffe emphasized. “Remind yourkids that the car is not a toy for them toplay with.” She also noted that this is ayear-round problem, not something toonly worry about during the summer.
Last year, 33 children across thenation died after they were left in
hot vehicles. Meanwhile, in 2010, 49 kidsperished from what’s known as ‘vehicularheat stroke’, according to KidsAndCars.org.“These are all preventable deaths,” said
Sue Taaffe, public information officer forthe Tempe Transportation Division and FireDepartment.
Scorching heat in minutesTaaffe believes that many caregiverssimply don’t realize how hot it can getinside of a car parked in the sun. To drivethe point home, the Tempe fire andpolice departments recently conducted ademonstration to showcase exactly howhot it can get inside a vehicle.“What we found was that, on a day when
it was about 102 degrees outside, theinternal temperature of the car reached135 degrees in about 10 minutes,” she said.“Just imagine how hot it would get nowthat it’s 110 degrees or more outside.”
Young childrenmost at riskWhile older children can be more vocaland noticeable, Taaffe explained thatinfants and toddlers are the most likelyto accidently be left in a vehicle. “Seventypercent of these incidents happen to those2-years-old or younger,” she said.“If you leave a child in a car when it’s
90 degrees outside,” said Phoenix PoliceDepartment public information officerJames Holmes, “it will be 100 degrees inyour car in two or three minutes, evenwith the windows partially opened. Afterjust a fewminutes in 100 degrees, a childcan begin to exhibit the initial stages ofheat exhaustion.” Children and pets aremuch more susceptible to heat injury thanhealthy adults, he said.
Defenses against dangersTaaffe said one of the best defenses toaccidently leaving your child in the caris to be aware of your surroundings andpost simple reminders in your car. Anexample of a reminder could be a note onthe steering wheel or placing your purse,laptop, briefcase or wallet in the backseat.Another dangerous aspect of cars and/or
heat in cars is children going out to play inthe car and accidently locking themselvesinside. Researchers at KidsAndCars.org
Deadly heat in carsProtect your kids and pets this summer— and all year round BYMICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
A division of The Arizona Republic.200 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix, AZ 85004
Look for Livingwell a-z on thefirst Wednesday of each month!Each month, we bring you local health information you canuse to keep you and your family living well. From A to Z,we tackle a broad range of health issues and offer tips forkeeping your health-care costs in check. This publicationis produced by Republic Media Custom Publishing.For questions concerning any content included in thispublication please contact: Editor Paula Hubbs Cohen,[email protected] or call 602-444-8658.
Advertising: RHONDA PRINGLE, 602-444-4929,[email protected]. For general advertisinginquiries, contact Republic Media at 602-444-8000.
CommunityremindersThis summer, when travelers stop at
any Valley QuikTrip, they will see signsreminding them not to leave their kidsor pets in the car. These remindersare thanks to a partnership betweenQuikTrip, the Phoenix Fire Department,Arizona Humane Society and SRP’sSafety Connection.“There has been an increase lately in
people leaving their kids and pets in carsandwewanted tomake peoplemoreaware,” said Dorian Jackson, a captainwith the Phoenix Fire Department,adding that this is not only a dangerouspractice, but that it is illegal to leave achild in the car unattended.
“If you accidently lockyour child or pet in thecar, call 911 right away.”