Grants from the Center for Disease Control and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services are funding free classes for those with health conditions. The classes are designed to help people manage the challenges of arthritis, fibromyalgia, lupus, chronic pain, osteoporosis, diabetes, asthma, heart and other conditions. Having a…
It’s still the traditional blue, white and red colors associated with Cox Health Systems, but the newest ambulance purchased by the Ava Area Ambulance District is labeled a “green” vehicle because of its economy values. The Mercedes-Benz “Sprinter” vehicle is smaller than the ambulance boxes installed on a truck chassis,…
The Douglas County Health Department says it is important to remember to consistently follow certain safe food handling practices. The simple words Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill can serve as reminders to always handle food safely to reduce risk of illness for you and your family. Clean Bacteria can spread…
The Douglas County Health Department was recently spotlighted by the Center for Emergency Response and Terrorism. Following is the article as it was published in the Planners Update. “When a public health emergency occurs, the very nature of the word ‘emergency’ declares that time is of the essence. In a…
January is National Blood Donor month. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — With the beginning of a new year comes a fresh start. New Year’s resolutions are often made to form good habits and reach new goals. This New Year’s, the American Red Cross encourages people to resolve to help patients in…
Breastfeeding Month Proclamation Whereas, the people of Ava and Douglas County are deserving of good health; and Whereas, all available knowledge indicates that human milk optimally enhances the growth, development and well-being of the infant by providing the best possible nutrition, protection against specific infection and allergies, and the promotion…
From the Douglas County Health Dept. A bat sent to the State Public Health Laboratory this spring by the Douglas County Health Department tested positive for rabies. A follow-up investigation was conducted by the health department to identify any persons or animals that may have come in contact with the…
From the Douglas County Health Dept. In the United States, ticks are responsible for more human disease than any other insect. Tick-borne diseases are also known as zoonotic diseases. A zoonotic disease is an infectious disease that can be transmitted between animals and humans. Ticks are very effective transmitters of…
Although we have finally seen a break in the extremely hot weather, and even if you think you’re getting used to the triple-digit temperatures, you need to watch out for signs of heat-related illness. Forms of heat-related illness include heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, says Tammy Roberts, University…
Headquarters Will Be Relocated to O’Fallon West Plains- On Wednesday, June 13 Air Evac Lifeteam, a provider of air medical transportation for rural communities, announced that they plan to move their corporate office from West Plains to O’Fallon, moving 120 employees. “It is sad and frustrating to see them go,”…
People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies cannot properly cool themselves by sweating. Sweating is the body’s natural air conditioning, but when a person’s body temperature rises rapidly, sweating just isn’t enough. Heat-related illnesses can be serious and life threatening. Very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other…
Cat owners should keep cats indoors, use tick preventatives to reduce chance of disease COLUMBIA, Mo. —Lone Star ticks, which are notorious carriers of many diseases including cytauxzoonosis, or “bobcat fever,” have been spreading across the nation in recent years. As a result, cats across much of the country are…
This is a six-week class that is helpful for people with Arthritis, Asthma, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Chronic Respiratory Diseases, Depression, Osteoporosis, Fibromyalgia, Lupus and other chronic conditions. Topics include: pain management, stress management, exercise, sleep disorders, relaxation and communication skills. The program teaches self-management skills to manage common problems related…
Dr. Angela Ridgel, an assistant professor of exercise science/ physiology at Kent State University, is leading two new research projects to help individuals with Parkinson’s disease improve cognitive and motor function. Ridgel has been studying Parkinson’s disease for five years, and the two new research projects are bringing her closer…
Governments, communities, businesses, families and individuals can use tips to encourage older adults to achieve a healthy lifestyle VANCOUVER, BC – The International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), the professional association that leads, connects and defines the active-aging industry, searches health-and-wellness research studies every year to find the most relevant…
SPRINGFIELD – More than 200 secondary education teachers from Springfield Public Schools will meet at Kickapoo High School at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 9 to train on new health curriculum provided by Mercy. Mercy is providing schools in the four-state region it serves with HealthTeacher, a health literacy program that…
By Alex Goldman Missouri law enforcement officials report an increase in use of illegal heroin in Missouri. Officials predict about 300 persons will have died in the state from heroin overdoses by the end of the year. Just six years earlier, in 2005, the state recorded 50 heroin fatalities. Marilyn…
The weight we gain from eating too much between Thanksgiving and New Year’s seems to get harder and harder to take off, despite our best resolutions. Saralee Jamieson, University of Missouri Extension human development specialist, offers some tips for eating lighter and healthier over the holidays: -Substitute nonfat milk or…
Free counseling available from CLAIM program JEFFERSON CITY –– With open enrollment for the Medicare prescription drug plan a month earlier than in previous years, the Missouri Department of Insurance is reminding consumers that it offers a free service to help them choose the Medicare plan that best fits their…
MILWAUKEE, Wi. – Healthy and Halloween are not often used in the same sentence. Halloween is usually seen as a time to get dressed up, gather sugary treats, and enjoy the spookiness of the season. TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the nonprofit weight loss support organization, provides tips…
Beginning Oct. 1, the Douglas County Health Department will be sponsoring a donation drive for Newborns In Need Inc. Southwest Missouri Chapter. The SWMO chapter provides baby essentials such as sleepers, blankets, diapers and wipes to local babies whose families are experiencing a medical or financial crisis. The items provided…
The annual free Flu Shot Clinic will be held at the Douglas County Health Department on Wednesday, Oct. 12, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon by appointment. Eligible clients include all Douglas County residents who are over 18 years of age and who are not pregnant. You are asked to…
Child Passenger Safety Week Is Sept. 18-24 JEFFERSON CITY – According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, three out of four safety seats are improperly installed. During Child Passenger Safety Week, Sept. 18-24, parents and other caregivers across Missouri can have certified child passenger safety technicians inspect their car…
Also gives state regulators more tools against dangerous doctors JEFFERSON CITY –– Under a new state law, Missouri consumers can now learn more about the educational history of their doctors. House Bill 265, signed by Gov. Jay Nixon, took effect this week and allows the State Board of Registration for…
By River Stillwood Dear Reader, How are you? Has life been treating you generously? Does happiness abound like late summer flowers blooming across the landscape of your days? I sure hope so! Here, everything is changed. Different. Incredibly wonderful. After one year, nine months, and twelve days, my cancer journey…
Committing nearly $1 billion to health of Joplin in next two years JOPLIN – Mercy announced plans Tuesday night to build a state-of-the-art hospital in Joplin, at I-44 and Main Street – along with plans to build additional health care services elsewhere in Joplin. In total, Mercy’s commitment to Joplin…
The school year has started – which means it’s time for homework, ball games, and hours spent within school walls. It also means that school employees have the opportunity to spend more time with our youngsters. Although it’s not their responsibility, this extra time means that school employees have a…
Tobacco cessation workshops sponsored by the Douglas County Health Department will include distribution of free nicotine replacement therapy products. Health Department Director Sandy Pueppke said the free workshops will be held from 5:00 to 6:15 p.m. for four Thursdays in September. The workshops will be taught by department staffers Sonya…
Looking for a better way to manage arthritis pain? Not all arthritis pain relief comes from a bottle. The Arthritis Foundation in partnership with University of Missouri Extension will be offering the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program. Designed especially for people with arthritis, this class helps participants maintain their fitness levels…
HLM NEWS SERVICE – This time of year often finds parents frantic while shopping for the newest shoes, coolest clothes and latest high-tech gadgets. For the parents of teens in Douglas County, vaccinations, like those for meningitis, should be added to their back-to-school supply list. Meningitis is a dangerous infection…
Last year, thousands of Missouri students raised funds for research and education in the fight against heart disease and stroke by participating in the American Heart Association’s Jump Rope for Heart and Hoops for Heart events throughout the state. In total, more than $1.2 million dollars were raised at almost…
University of Texas MD Anderson pediatric oncologists share tips on talking to teens about tanning bed dangers. HOUSTON — With fall on the horizon, many teens will soon look to tanning beds to maintain their summer tan. Pediatric oncologists from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center urge parents…
All 7th and 8th grade girls interested in playing volleyball this year are reminded that they must have their sports physical before the first day of school. Coach Ann Leonard says, “We will have practice on the first day of school, Wednesday, Aug. 17, right after school.” Practice will run…
To help keep kids safe this pool season, St. John’s Safe Kids Springfield recommends these precautions: Always actively supervise children in and around water. Don’t leave, even for a moment. Stay where you can see, hear and reach kids in water. Avoid talking or texting on the phone, preparing a…
The first week of August is International Breastfeeding Awareness Week. The Douglas County Health Department believes that breastfeeding is so important so we are dedicating the entire month of August to breastfeeding awareness. The Douglas County Health Department understands that deciding to breastfeed is a decision only you can make.…
MILWAUKEE, Wis. – With the surge of social media and smartphones over the years, some believe that the Internet and computer programs have encouraged inactivity – but what if these technological advances could actually help a person lose weight? Many people on the journey to wellness, including members of TOPS…
JEFFERSON CITY – Legislation sponsored by Rep. Chuck Gatschenberger, R-Lake St. Louis, that creates the Youth Sports Brain Injury Prevention Act was signed into law this week. The legislation (HB 300) received overwhelming approval from both the Missouri House and Senate during the 2011 legislative session. The legislation establishes the…
BUFFALO – Summer cookouts are a favorite way for many people to celebrate special occasions or even to unwind from a stressful week. But in order to make sure the event is all fun and no sickness, it is important to follow basic guidelines for safe grilling according to Christeena…
LAMAR – Eating breakfast benefits your body just like adding gas benefits your car according to Tammy Roberts, nutrition and health education specialist, University of Missouri Extension. “After several hours of not eating while we sleep, our bodies need a new supply of glucose or blood sugar,” said Roberts. The…
Some Microbes Can Survive for Days Even In Chlorinated Pools By Saralee Jamieson OSCEOLA –The chance of a swimmer in the U.S. being attacked by a shark is close to zero. But dangerous creatures do lurk in our waters, including lakes, ponds and even concrete swimming pools. Microbes such as…
With the hottest days of summer upon us, advocates for children’s safety want to reinforce the risks of leaving infants and young children in automobiles. The number of child deaths in cars nationally last summer, 2010, reached 41 by Sept. 1 – the most on record. John Peter, M.D., an…
As the Joplin area continues to recover from the May 22 tornado, EPA Region 7 recommends children and pregnant women keep away from work that could disturb lead-based paint. The Agency also urges persons working on construction surfaces that may contain lead-based paint to take precautions to prevent the spread…
JEFFERSON CITY – Whether or not Missouri should follow federal guidelines and enact a health insurance exchange will be the core focus of the Senate Interim Committee on Health Insurance Exchanges. Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer, R-Dexter, created the committee to study various insurance exchange proposals and their compliance with…
HOUSTON – Some people may be reconsidering plans to grill hot dogs and steak based on a new report supporting the link between red and processed meats, and increased colorectal cancer risk. But, experts at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center say that small changes to what —…
COLUMBIA, Mo. — The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) has honored Lila Pennington, DNP, APRN, FNP/GNP-BC, with the 2011 State Award for Excellence for Missouri. An assistant teaching professor with the University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing, Pennington will be recognized June 22, during the AANP’s 26th national…
Two students from Ava High School attended the two-day conference at Westminster College in Fulton to learn about the many facets of tobacco-free advocacy, including writing letters to newspaper editors and making public service announcements for local radio stations. The students, Jasmine Phillips and Bri Tiff, also had time to…
“Kids today are glued to the tube,” said Lynda Johnson, a University of Missouri Extension nutrition specialist. “Within the last 10 years or so, they’ve seen an increase in rickets among children.” Rickets, a crippling disease that softens bones, occurs when the body has insufficient vitamin D. It was huge…
Sixty-five people, ranging in age from 2 months to 84 years participated in the Seymour MS Walk on Saturday, April 30. A total of $8,895.51 was raised for the cause, according to Pearl Raymond, event chairman who has headed up the walk for the past 18 years. The Seymour Walk…
The next CBCO/FFA Blood Drive will be held Wednesday, June 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Ava High School gymnasium. The June theme is “Salute a Veteran.” Donors will receive a free patriotic t-shirt and a coupon for free ice cone from Ava Drug. In addition, the…
St. John’s and the Southwest Missouri Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association are collaborating to host the Seniors Caregiver Conference. The conference will be 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. June 18 at St. John’s Hospital Patient Tower, 1235 E. Cherokee in Springfield. Focusing on Alzheimer’s disease and other memory loss issues,…
Less than a week after an EF5 tornado blew through St. John’s Regional Medical Center on May 22, St. John’s Mercy Hospital is open for business. “The building is not St. John’s. St. John’s is the people who worked in that building. And they’re going to be the people in…
JUNE 01 WIC (by appointment): 8:15-11:30 a.m. and 1-5 p.m. 02 Blood Pressure & Blood Sugar Screening: Redbud 8-9 a.m.; Community Center, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Office Closed: 12:30-1:15 p.m.-Staff Development. 03 WIC (by appointment): 8:15-11:30 a.m. and 1-3:45 p.m. 06 11 WIC (by appointment): 8:15-11:30 a.m. and 1-3:45 p.m. 07 Office…
HOUSTON –– A subset of breast cancer patients who have tumors overexpressing a protein called the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2 positive) may benefit from a combination of targeted treatments and may not need chemotherapy, said researchers from the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College…
Grants from the Center for Disease Control and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services are funding free classes for those with health conditions. The classes are designed to help people manage the challenges of arthritis, fibromyalgia, lupus, chronic pain, osteoporosis, diabetes, asthma, heart and other conditions. Having a…
With gasoline prices already high and predicted to continue to climb, bicycling in Missouri is on the increase and that inspires an excellent reason to celebrate May as National Bike Month, Missouri Bike & Pedestrian Federation Executive Director Brent Hugh announced Tuesday. The Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation is a…
When exploring how diversity positively impacts our economic development we also need to include the disability community. Approximately one in five Americans have a disability; one in ten have a severe disability. We are the largest historically excluded group that anyone can become a member of at any time. As…
BRANSON – Temperatures are warming up steadily, which means two-wheeled drivers will be taking to the roads. “Riding a bike is great cardiovascular exercise and easy on the joints,” says Dr. Peter Marcellus, Skaggs HealthcareFamily Medicine. “The key is not to overdo it, start with short distances as you build…
Rebecca Smotherman was the speaker in Sharon Marler’s EDU 360 (Classroom Management) Drury class on April 14. She wanted the Drury students to be aware of situations that might be happening in a child’s life that might lead them to try to commit suicide. Many of Mrs. Marler’s Drury students…
SPRINGFIELD — Registration is under way for the four-session “Eat Well, Be Well with Diabetes” program beginning April 26 in Springfield. Classes will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., April 26, April 28, May 3 and May 5 at the Greene County Extension Center inside the Springfield-Greene County…
Ava High School FFA and Community Blood Center of the Ozarks will host a blood drive in Ava on Wednesday, April 20. Donors will be received at the Ava Performing Arts Center from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. CBCO has issued a Code Yellow Alert for Type O Negative blood,…
The American Heart Association joins the world in mourning the loss of film legend Elizabeth Taylor, who passed away March 23, at age 79, due to congestive heart failure. In conjunction with her death, the American Heart Assn. offers the following information about congestive heart failure. Heart Failure Heart failure…
Think Twice Before Tanning for Prom Season NEW YORK – Despite a link between indoor tanning bed use and an increased risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, 2.3 million teenagers visit tanning salons every year. In the spring, many tanning salon patrons are college students getting ready…
SPRINGFIELD – You can save lives and fulfill your own by becoming a volunteer for your American Cancer Society. With more than 3 million volunteers nationwide and a presence in more than 3,400 communities across the United States, the American Cancer Society is one of the nation’s oldest and largest…
The Douglas County Health Department is participating in a program called the Early Childhood Asthma Initiative which provides asthma education services and materials for parents and caregivers of children up to 5 years of age, as well as environment assessments for child care centers. Under this program the Health Department…
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks will accept blood donations at two locations in Ava on Tuesday, March 8. From 9 to 10:30 a.m., CBCO will be set up at Missouri Ozarks Community Health (MOCH), 504 NW 10th Ave., to accept blood donors. Then from 1 to 5 p.m., the…
Free Open Gym Night for Families is scheduled for Friday, March 11, from 6 – 8:30 p.m. at the MOCH Wellness Center. The event is being hosted for youth and their families; however, children 8-years-old and under, must be accompanied by an adult. The evening will be filled with various…
Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are small, flat, parasitic insects that feed solely on the blood of people and animals while they sleep. Bed bugs are reddish-brown in color, wingless, range from 1mm to 7mm (roughly the size of Lincoln’s head on a penny), and can live several months without a…
Grants from the Center for Disease Control and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services are funding free classes for those with health conditions. The classes are designed to help people manage the challenges of arthritis, fibromyalgia, lupus, chronic pain, osteoporosis, diabetes, asthma, heart and other conditions. Having a…
The Wright County Children’s Home is excited to announce that it is beginning a push to further improve the nutritional content of the meals served at the home. Not only will this improve the overall health and well-being of the children, but recent studies have shown that good nutrition also…
Dear EarthTalk: What is “BPA” used in plastics, and why should I worry about it? Are there certain household items or food containers to avoid because of BPA? -- Tina Sillers, via e-mail According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Bisphenol A (also known as BPA)…
All-Rounded Kids A mentally stimulating school is important for kids. So is preschool and home life. At the University of Texas, Robert Crosnoe tracked some 1,300 children in low and advantaged socio-economic backgrounds from preschool into fifth grade. Crosnoe says they did best with stimulating preschool, school and home environments:…
JEFFERSON CITY –– The Missouri Department of Social Services’ Rehabilitation Services for the Blind is tops in the nation among state vocational rehabilitation agencies that exclusively serve the blind. RSB was the only agency of its kind to meet or exceed all performance standards in the most recent evaluation of…
Our bodies are made for activity, but modern conveniences have caused us to become more inactive. Physical inactivity can place our health at risk for many diseases. Here’s some good news! We have something fun planned to get you up and moving! The Stay Strong program is based on simple,…
Grants from the Center for Disease Control and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services are funding free classes for those with health conditions. The classes are designed to help people manage the challenges of arthritis, fibromyalgia, lupus, chronic pain, osteoporosis, diabetes, asthma, heart and other conditions. Having a…
HLM News Service—Kathy Windmoeller was just an ordinary Missouri woman preparing for a vacation. She had her equipment, her family was packed, and everyone was ready for a ski trip to Canada. Although Windmoeller had never been skiing, she looked forward to the challenge and adventure awaiting her and her…
South central Missouri organizations interested in improving health care in their communities are invited to upcoming meetings hosted by the Missouri Foundation for Health (MFH). The meetings are an excellent opportunity for attendees to hear about MFH grant funding available in 2011, and learn more about the foundation, which awards…
HOUSTON – The relationship between diabetes and heart disease should not be ignored, according to an expert at Baylor College of Medicine. “Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in patients with diabetes, and diabetes is the leading cause of heart disease in America,” said Dr. Alan Garber, professor…
NEWTOWN, Conn. –– Strict new rules from the EPA for lead-safe remodeling, enforced with steep fines for non-compliance, are going to significantly change the way remodeling contractors work. While contractors will be required to pass a certification course before proceeding with work on houses that contain lead paint, the new…
Grants from the Center for Disease Control and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services are funding free classes for those dealing with health conditions. The class, Living a Healthy Life, is designed to help people manage the challenges of arthritis, fibromyalgia, lupus, chronic pain, osteoporosis, diabetes, asthma, heart…
Damaging your skin can be a year-round activity. As summer sun fades and we head toward fall, people might head toward tanning salons as a way to keep the glow going. Skin cancer experts say that’s a bad idea. At the National Cancer Institute, dermatologist John DiGiovanna points out the…
The annual flu shot clinic will be held at the Douglas County Health Department on Thursday, Oct. 7, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon, by appointment. You are asked to call 417-683-4174 to schedule your appointment time. Eligible clients include all Douglas County residents who are over 18 years of…
Stuttering is a frustrating and embarrassing problem for millions of people, but it can be especially tough on elementary school-age children. Help is available for parents, teachers, and speech-language pathologists at most public libraries including Douglas County Public Library, in Ava, in the form of a DVD designed to help…
KANSAS CITY –– The Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation plans to roll out the BikeMobile; a mobile bicycle education station. They have the bikes, they have the educators, they have the will. But they need a vehicle. “The BikeMobile’s maiden voyage will be this fall when we begin our Bicycle…
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Researchers have discovered that women, female monkeys and female mice have major similarities when it comes to how bisphenol A (BPA) is metabolized, and they have renewed their call for governmental regulation when it comes to the estrogen-like chemical found in many everyday products. A study published…
St. John’s is urging parents and caregivers to make sure their child safety seats are properly installed in their vehicles during the fourth annual “National Seat Check Saturday,” on Saturday Sept. 25. Certified child passenger safety technicians will be available to provide hands-on instruction on installing car seats and booster…
ST. LOUIS –– Several important elements of the Affordable Care Act go into effect on Thursday, Sept. 23. Key provisions include: End to coverage denials for children with pre-existing conditions. Employer-sponsored plans and new individual policies can no longer refuse coverage to children under 19 because of a serious medical…
Stanley Bronstein age 51, aka the “Warrior Walker”, visits the 19th state of his 50 state USA walking tour when he walks on the campus of the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri on Tuesday, September 14, 2010. Bronstein, an attorney CPA, embarked upon this tour on August 10, 2010…
Ozarks Medical Center Rehabilitation Services will host a Falls Prevention Day, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 23 at the Shaw Medical Building, 1111 Kentucky Avenue in West Plains. This event will feature balance and fall risk screens along with safety education for Falls Prevention. “Falls and fall-related injuries are…
BRANSON –– More than 217,000 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed and another 32,000 men will die from prostate cancer in 2010, according to the American Cancer Society. Modern methods of detection and treatment, such as regular prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood screenings, mean that many prostate cancers…
Products Sold In Ava, Sparta and Tecumseh If you recently bought cheese at Jean’s Heathway in Ava, or Seasons Harvest in Sparta, or East Wind in Tecumseh, you may have purchased a recalled cheese product. Local consumers need to know Morningland Diary of Mountain View, Mo. is recalling all products,…
The Douglas County Health Department will be holding its annual flu vaccination clinic this fall at a date to be announced. The vaccine is free and is offered to all adult Douglas County residents. The Health Dept. is currently accepting phone calls from those wanting to be placed on a…
Southern Missouri Bluegrass, along with The New Kentucky Colonels, will do a benefit concert in West Plains this Friday night for the Alzheimer’s Association. The concert precedes a walk for the Springfield-based Alzheimer’s Association on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Pleasant Valley Manor in West Plains. Eric Lewis, of Missouri Bluegrass,…
School has started here. And one of the coveted traditions of many children is picking out a special backpack to take to school. Some start as early as first grade, and as they grow and weigh down their backpacks with sports and school supplies, it can quickly become a serious…
Last year, thousands of Missouri students raised funds to fight heart disease and stroke through research and education by participating in the American Heart Association’s Jump Rope for Heart and Hoops for Heart events throughout the state. In total, more than $1.1 million dollars were raised at more than…
After many locals participated in the Ava Drug 60th Anniversary American Red Cross Blood Drive, here are a few facts and tidbits of information about the American Red Cross that may be of interest. Less than 5 percent of the population in America donates blood, but someone needs blood every…
Our bodies are made for activity, but modern conveniences have caused us to become more inactive. Physical inactivity can place our health at risk for many chronic diseases. Here’s some good news! We have something fun planned to get you up and moving! A grant from the University of Missouri…
“No Gym, No Excuse” By Josh Drummond, DPT, ATC I’ll be the first one to tell you that I am not the best about following my own advice regarding diet and exercise. I love a great dessert and have a difficult time fitting in a trip to the gym. One…
Hands First Hand Sanitizer Hits The Market Aug. 24 A school teacher and a hospital unit nurse gave St. John’s Medical Research Institute Medical Director Dr. Roger Huckfeldt the idea for Hands First, a new alcohol free hand sanitizer developed by the Institute’s team of scientists. The product will be…
Heat wave impacts donor response – less than a two-day supply exists for most types The excessive heat that has enveloped the Ozarks over the past two weeks has been hard on everyone. Meteorologists are forecasting that this summer could easily become one of the hottest on record. Unfortunately, the…
The Missouri Department of Transportation (MODOT) and the Children’s Trust Fund (CTF), Missouri’s Foundation for Child Abuse Prevention, have joined forces to remind parents and caregivers that children should never be left alone in a car – not even for a minute. MODOT has placed posters supporting CTF’s Not Even…
Dear EarthTalk: I always thought eating fish was healthy, but now I’m concerned about mercury in tuna and other fish. Are there any fish that are still safe to eat? — Brit Brundage, Fairfield, CT You should be concerned about contaminants in certain fish, including some kinds of tuna. The…
HOUSTON –– Even though it is students who will be taking the field as extracurricular school activities begin, doctors at Baylor College of Medicine’s Baylor Clinic say parents play an important role in keeping their kids safe. “When we perform student sports physicals we are looking for health issues like…
MILWAUKEE, WI – Busy schedules, including work, school, extracurricular activities and more, often cause healthy eating to fall to the wayside. Kids can end up munching on pizza, snacks, and junk food too frequently, instead of freshly prepared, well-rounded meals. As the school year approaches, it’s important to consider nutritious…
HLM News Service—It’s back-to-school time, and with it comes updating outgrown clothes with new ones. As many Ava moms think about where to find the best deals, health officials say your family may also need to update their shots against whooping cough before that first bell rings. Across the United…
HOUSTON – Parents may urge their children to pack their lunch to lighten their own load during the busy school year but it also helps teach kids important lessons about nutrition and responsibility, said a Baylor College of Medicine expert. “Allowing children to pack their own lunch provides a great…
Dear EarthTalk: I know that local food has health and environmental benefits, but my local grocer only carries a few items. Is there a push for bigger supermarkets to carry locally produced food? – Maria Fine, Somerville, MA By eating locally sourced foods, we strengthen the bond between local farmers…
AUGUST 02 WIC (by appointment): 8:15 -11 a.m. and 1-3:45 p.m. 03 Office Closed: 8-10 a.m. 04 WIC (by appointment): 8:15-11:30 a.m. and 1-5 p.m. 05 Blood Pressure & Blood Sugar Screening: Redbud 8-9 a.m.; Blood Pressure & Blood Sugar Screening: Community Center 9:30-10:30 a.m. 06 WIC (by appointment): 8:15-11:30…
COLUMBIA – If your drinking water comes from a private well, it’s important to test water annually and inspect your well regularly for possible contamination, said a University of Missouri Extension water quality specialist. “Well water can become contaminated from various sources. There are no federal or state monitoring regulations…
Have you every thought about becoming an EMT? If so, the Ava/Douglas County EMA Office will be holding the next EMT class starting Sept. 9. The cost of the class is $750, which includes: book, shirt, insurance, ID badge, one practical test, and one NREMT test. The office has just…
SPRINGFIELD — The Ozark Mountains are no challenge for bikers participating in the third annual American Cancer Society Bike to Battle Cancer taking place Saturday, July 31, at Finley River Park, Ozark, Mo. This noncompetitive bike ride features three distance levels so the entire family can participate at their comfort…
Residents living in and around the Ava community can be screened to reduce their risk of having a stroke. The complete screening package now includes a new heart rhythm screening, checking for irregular heartbeat, which is a major risk factor for stroke. St. Leo’s Catholic church is pleased to host…
Whereas, the people of Ava and Douglas County are deserving of good health; and Whereas, all available knowledge indicates that human milk optimally enhances the growth, development and well-being of the infant by providing the best possible nutrition, protection against specific infection and allergies, and the promotion of maternal and…
In celebration of World breastfeeding Week, Aug. 1-7, Mayor Leon Harris has signed a proclamation declaring August Breastfeeding Month. More mothers in Missouri are breastfeeding their babies, but officials at the Douglas County Health Department are hoping more women in Ava and the surrounding area will choose breastfeeding and breastfeed…
NEW YORK — A recent study from the St. Louis University Medical School revealed that nearly 53 percent of skin cancers in the US occur on the left, or drivers’ side of the body. Researchers believe the increase in left-sided skin cancers may be from exposure to UV (ultraviolet) radiation…
Marijuana is the most commonly abused illicit drug in the U.S., however few consider the real threat with smoking marijuana. Marijuana can be habit forming and often leads the user to other drugs. Narconon drug treatment addresses marijuana use. Addicts coming into Narconon commonly have used marijuana and this led…
HLM News Service—Think that box of cereal labeled “whole grain” and “healthy” is good for you? You might want to take a second look. It turns out many foods in Ava grocery stores hold a tasty, but hidden danger that’s bad for your heart: salt. Snack chips may be obvious…
