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Livingwell

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HEALTHCARE NEWS YOU CAN USE FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILY

OCTOBER 2015

IN THIS ISSUE | 2 Veins 101 | 3 Food/drug interactions | 4-5 Top events and support groups | 6 Assistive dementia technology

Keep it clean! Germ-pros offer advice for steering clear of bad-boy bugs and bacteria By Meghann Finn Sepulveda

eeping hands and surfaces clean is the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs and keep yourself and others from getting sick, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Unfortunately, not everyone maintains those habits, increasing the risk for germs to be picked up at public places such as a restaurant, bank or grocery store. It’s well-known that germs are also found in some common household spots, but taking a few precautionary steps can help stop the spread of these bad-boy bugs and bacteria.

The office Besides the usual suspect — the bathroom — germs are often found in other areas of the home, including the office. “The computer area — including the keyboard, mouse and desktop — is probably one of the most overlooked areas of the home that contains the highest amount of germs,” said Charles Gerba, Ph.D., a microbiologist and professor in the Department of Environmental Services at The University of Arizona in Tucson. “It rarely gets wiped down, and most family members — including children — use the computer for work or play.”

The bathroom “Bar soap is a huge contaminant, along with hand-towels,” Gerba said. “E. coli bacteria can begin growing on towels within 24 to 48 hours.” Gerba recommends washing hands with liquid soap and changing towels daily or using disposable cloths. Other areas of the bathroom may also be overlooked. “People often forget to clean the very front of the toilet, the door handle, the light switch and the air freshener bottle,” said Linda Cobb, known as ‘the Queen of Clean®’. Cobb uses a microfiber cloth and a natural solution spray that consists of water, pure tea tree oil, white vinegar and liquid dish soap to clean surfaces as well as toilets and sinks.

The kitchen Surprisingly, the kitchen may contain even more bacteria. “There are 200 times more fecal bacteria on a kitchen cutting board than on a toilet seat,” Gerba said. “Many people just rinse a cutting board without properly washing off raw meat which contains salmonella.”

After seven months of participation in a pancreatic cancer study at the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at HonorHealth, Saundra DeMey-Forrest of Peoria says that her cancer marker — how doctors gauge the existence and severity of cancer in the body — is nearly normal. When she was originally diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer, her surgeon recommended getting her affairs in order. “My motto is now, ‘no cure, no hope, no problem,’ ” she said. She has resumed many of her favorite activities including gardening and golf.

TrialsandTriumphs Local cancer centers offer state-of-the-art services for patients, families and caregivers

BY D E B R A G E L B A R T | PHOTOS BY R I C K D ’ E L I A

hough she’d had a stomachache for more than four months late last fall, Saundra

DeMey-Forrest of Peoria kept thinking it was the result of stress and that it would soon go away. Finally, it was too difficult to ignore and she went to her doctor, who suspected pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas. A CT scan revealed, however, that she had pancreatic cancer. Then a surgeon discovered that her cancer was Stage 4 and, DeMey-Forrest said,

recommended “getting my affairs in order because I only had a few months to live.”

Investigational study After the doctor gave her the news, she decided to search for a clinical trial, an investigational study of new drugs or new combinations of drugs. Eligibility for participation is always very specific for clinical trials, but she was hopeful. She found a study through the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) and the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at HonorHealth, whose principal investigators were looking for Stage 4 pancreatic cancer patients who had not undergone any previous treatment. DeMey-Forrest enrolled in the study in February of this year. Just seven months later, her tumor marker — how doctors gauge the existence and severity of cancer in the body — is almost normal. Researchers attached to the study indicated that this result has been typical for 80 percent of the other participants in this clinical trial. DeMey-Forrest is feeling good, and except for fatigue, has had no side effects from her weekly regimen of intravenous administration of three chemotherapy drugs. “My motto is now ‘no cure, no hope, no problem,’” she said.

Cancer center designations Two local centers carry a National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation — the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center in Phoenix and The University of Arizona Cancer Center at

Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix — meaning they meet specific requirements established by the NCI including a residency program for cancer doctors-in-training and a laboratory-based (‘basic’) research program. Basic research is what precedes clinical research (the research that involves humans) ! CANCER, continued on page 7

! GERMS, continued on page 7

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2 | Livingwell a-z | Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Don’t be vain about your veins Varicose veins can be treated, managed and possibly even prevented By Debra Gelbart

YO U R H E A LT H H E A D T O T O E

aricose veins are veins that have become enlarged and unable to function properly, while spider veins are tiny red or purple dilated blood vessels that form when veins become enlarged and swollen with stagnant blood, said Terri Morrison, R.N., co-owner of the Morrison Vein Institute in Phoenix. Though smaller than most varicose veins, spider veins are often darker and more noticeable, she said, but varicose veins can be more uncomfortable and more harmful to your health than spider veins.

Watch for upcoming articles on the following topics as we provide information on your health — from head to toe. NOVEMBER: Feet | DECEMBER: Skin

 5 ways to manage varicose veins Unfortunately there is no cure for vein disease, Morrison said, but you can manage the disease once you seek treatment. These five practices can help: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Faulty valves Varicose veins, twice as common in women compared to men, are caused by the weakening of the vein walls from elevated pressure as well as a combination of genetic factors, explained Hassan S. Makki, D.O., an invasive cardiologist at Phoenix Heart Center and Valley Vein Center. Inefficient faulty vein valves don’t close properly, allowing blood to leak back with gravity and pool in the vein, Morrison said. “This causes the veins to bulge and stretch and results in many unpleasant side effects such as aching and throbbing pain; heavy, tired legs; and poor circulation.” Morrison said situations that can predispose someone to varicose veins include pregnancy, heredity, obesity, hormone therapy, injury and standing or sitting for long periods of time. Makki said most people with any type of vein problem also have what’s called venous reflux — elevated pressure in the larger superficial veins that causes them not to function well. This can often cause aching, swelling and discomfort in the legs. When the swelling becomes chronic, people can develop ulcers which can become infected and sometimes become life- or limb-threatening. They require immediate evaluation and treatment.

Livingwella-z

Varicose veins with incompetent valves

Incompetent valve

Treating diseased veins Patients no longer have to endure the “old, barbaric vein-stripping procedure,” Morrison said, adding that today, what’s called endovenous laser or radio-frequency ablation uses heat to shut down damaged veins. In addition, ambulatory phlebectomies remove visible surface varicose veins. The diseased veins are removed through micropunctures that don’t require stitches and provide excellent cosmetic outcomes, she said. Simple varicose veins are often treated with what is called sclerotherapy by which the vein is injected with a chemical that causes it to close down, Makki said. Sclerotherapy also can be used to treat spider veins, he said.

A dose of prevention

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October 2015 | Vol. 5, No. 10

Living Well A-Z publishes on the first Wednesday of the month. From A to Z, we tackle a broad range of health issues and offer resources to find more specific information. For questions concerning content in this publication, please contact Editor Paula Hubbs Cohen.

Walk for at least 30 minutes each day. Elevate your feet in your daily environment as much as possible. At least once a day, elevate your feet above the level of your heart. Do 12 dorsiflexion exercises (toe raises) while seated throughout the day, once an hour. Although compression hose do not treat the cause of vein disease, they often provide relief from its symptoms by preventing blood from pooling in the leg veins, thereby helping overall circulation.

Maintaining a healthy weight and an active lifestyle go a long way to preventing varicose veins, Makki said. “If you have a job that requires long periods of standing, you should take frequent breaks every two to three hours where you can walk around and perhaps sit for a few minutes with your legs elevated.”

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You Are A Masterpiece Every patient is a masterpiece in their own right. You and your family deserve physical and emotional care every moment of every day. That’s why we are called Abrazo. It means to embrace all aspects of care for the community, from our top-tier physicians and nurses to leading medical advancements to that special smile and hug just when you need it. For more information on Abrazo Community Health Network, go to AbrazoHealth.com/Embrace or call 1-855-422-7296.

Abrazo Community Health Network. Embracing Care. Embracing Tomorrow. AR-0008454516-01

Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | Livingwella-z | 3

Be careful what you eat Why some foods don’t play nicely with certain medications By Alison Stanton

hen people take prescribed medications, they sometimes have to be careful about what they eat. Kal Stiles, Pharm.D., MBA, RPh, BCPS, director of pharmacy services at Abrazo Central Campus, said that foods, drinks and other nutritional substances can interact with medications in a number of different ways. “These interactions range from having minor implications such as a small increase or decrease in how much medication reaches the bloodstream, to having major implications such as dramatically increasing the impact that a medication can have on the body,” he said.

 How grapefruit juice affects some medicines When medicine is swallowed, it dissolves and the body absorbs it through cells in the small intestine. Grapefruit juice can interfere with this process, causing too much or too little medicine to be released into the body. proper dose enzyme overdose

Some medicines, like statins prescribed to lower cholesterol, are broken down in the body (metabolized) by proteins called enzymes in our small intestine. Grapefruit juice can block the work of enzymes, increasing the amount of medicine absorbed by the body and risking an overdose. proper dose

The perils of grapefruit One of the best-known examples of a food that should be avoided when taking certain medications, Stiles said, is grapefruit juice. “Believe it or not, grapefruit juice may interact on some level with nearly 70 percent of all medications. Some interactions are nearly irrelevant, but some could be life-threatening,” he said. Grapefruit is especially best known for interacting with statins which are a class of cholesterol medications, Stiles said. While not all statin medications interact with grapefruit juice, many of them do. “Grapefruit juice affects an enzyme that metabolizes the statin medications, thus the medications are essentially rendered more potent with respect to their side effects,” he said.

transporter reduced dose

Other medicines, like Allegra (fexofenadine) used for treating allergies, are moved into the body's cells with the help of proteins called transporters. Grapefruit juice can block the work of transporters, decreasing the amount of medicine absorbed by the body and reducing the medicine's effectiveness.

it can cause warfarin to not work as well. “Cranberry juice is often known to interact with warfarin and some statins, but the cause of this interaction is not well understood, can be unpredictable and is generally not a concern unless you are consuming large amounts of daily cranberry juice,” she said. Other food and drug no-nos In addition, Collins said that some Candyce Collins, Pharm.D., clinical cheeses and foods high in tyramine pharmacist, population health management can cause dangerously high levels of for Banner Health, said that dairy products medications called monoamine oxidase or calcium-enriched foods and beverages inhibitors, or MAOIs. “These medications can interact with a few types of antibiotics, are not used often and for those individuals including ciprofloxacin, and cause the drug taking MAOIs, dietary restrictions should to not work. be discussed with a doctor,” she advised. “Avoiding dairy and calcium-enriched food Stiles also said that people should be products for two hours before and two hours extremely careful when ingesting after an antibiotic dose should prevent most tyramine-containing foods as well as salt interactions of this type,” she said. substitutes and natural black licorice — Collins also said that many green which is called glycyrrhiza. “Speak to vegetables and foods high in vitamin K your pharmacist about which types of can cause changes in the effect of the foods contain these compounds and blood-thinner warfarin, adding that if which medications should be avoided,” someone eats more greens than usual, he said.

Reactions vary If someone accidentally consumes a food or beverage that is known to react with his or her medication, Stiles said the consequences will vary. If a person stops consuming a food that interacts with a drug, problems may also arise, he said. “It depends on the food and the drug. Some interactions are as minor as causing simple stomach upset, but range to complete elimination or substantial amplification of the medication’s effect which could potentially be fatal,” he said. For example, he said, a patient might forget to take a generic antibiotic with food — like amoxicillin with clavulanic acid. “Food helps both to increase the absorption of clavulanic acid and to prevent stomach upset. Thus this could be considered a relatively minor interaction if one were to forget to take a dose with food,” he said. However, if a patient taking warfarin who has historically eaten two to three servings per day of green leafy vegetables were to

suddenly stop all ingestion of such vitamin K-containing vegetables, Stiles said it might cause a life-threatening bleed because the warfarin anticoagulant will suddenly act in a much more potent manner. “Generally speaking, a one-time consumption of any food, regardless of what medications you are taking, should not result in significant harm,” Collins said. “However, changes in dietary habits that result in consistently eating a food that may interact with your medications can lead to an increased risk of medication side effects and toxicity or cause the medication to not work as well for you.”

The bottom line As with all healthcare decisions, be sure to discuss any potential food-drug interactions with your doctor and/or pharmacist. For more information, visit the Food and Drug Administration website at FDA.gov and search for ‘food and drug interactions’. Or, call 888-INFO-FDA (888-463-6332).

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4 | Livingwell a-z | Wednesday, October 7, 2015

OCTOBER Take advantage of opportunities to meet others with similar issues and learn more about various aspects of your health – from A to Z. All groups and events are believed, but not guaranteed, to be free unless otherwise stated. Every effort has been made to verify accuracy, but please call before attending to confirm details.

WELLNESS & MORE AVOIDING COLD & FLU Various dates, times & locations 623-277-3013 CignaMedicalGroup.com COOKING FOR HEALTH Various dates, times & locations By Cancer Support Community 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org MEDICATION CHECKS Call to schedule a personal meeting St. Luke’s, 1800 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix Tempe St. Luke’s, 1500 S. Mill Ave., Tempe Register: 877-351-WELL (9355) WALKING GROUP Various dates & locations By Humana; 480-325-4707 JOINT PAIN Oct. 7, 7–8 p.m. Barnes & Noble 10500 N. 90th St., Scottsdale 623-580-5800; HonorHealth.com COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR Oct. 10, 8–11 a.m. Dignity Health Peoria North 7727 W. Deer Valley Rd., Peoria 623-773-7137; PeoriaAZ.gov FLU SHOT CLINIC Oct. 12, 9–1 p.m. Oct. 22, noon–4 p.m. Humana Guidance Center 5943 W. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707 Must show proof of insurance ACID REFLUX (GERD) Oct. 13, 6 p.m. Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa MVMedicalCenter.com 877-924-WELL (9355) HOMEOPATHY Oct. 15, 1–2 p.m. Civic Center Auditorium 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale 623-580-5800; HonorHealth.com BENEFITS OF IMMUNIZATION Oct. 19, noon By Tempe St. Luke’s Tempe Public Library 3500 S. Rural Rd., Tempe Register: TempeStLukesHospital.com OSTEOPOROSIS SUPPORT Oct. 21, 9–10 a.m. Scottsdale Shea Medical Center 9003 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale 623-580-5800; HonorHealth.com WHY SO TIRED? Oct. 21, 7–8 p.m. Barnes & Noble 10500 N. 90th St., Scottsdale 623-580-5800; HonorHealth.com TOBACCO RECOVERY GROUP Oct. 27, 9–9:45 a.m. Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert Appointment required: 480-256-5177 TALKING TO YOUR DOCTOR Oct. 29, 1–2 p.m. Civic Center Auditorium 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale 623-580-5800; HonorHealth.com OVERCOME PAINFUL JOINTS Oct. 29, 6–7:30 p.m. Seville Golf and Country Club 6683 S. Clubhouse Dr., Gilbert Register: MVMedicalCenter.com 877-924-WELL (9355)

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Oct. 12 (for time: 602-406-6688) St. Joseph’s Outpatient Rehab 114 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Oct. 14, 2:30 p.m. Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa MVMedicalCenter.com 877-924-WELL (9355) CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Oct. 16, 9–11 a.m. By Benevilla at Sun City West Office 13576 W. Camino Del Sol, Sun City West 623-584-4999 CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Oct. 20, 12:30–2 p.m. Fellowship Square Mesa 6945 E. Main St., Mesa 602-839-6850

GRIEF SUPPORT GRIEF SUPPORT GROUPS Various dates, times & locations By Banner Hospice Rev. Cindy Darby cindy.darby@BannerHealth.com 480-657-1167; BannerHospice.com GRIEF SUPPORT Various dates & times Dignity Health St. Joseph’s 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 602-406-3275 GRIEF SUPPORT Various dates, times & locations By Hospice of the Valley HOV.org/Grief-Support-Groups 602-530-6970 GRIEF BEFORE LOSS Oct. 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2–3 p.m. Benevilla; 623-584-4999 16752 N. Greasewood St., Surprise GRIEF & BEREAVEMENT Oct. 8 & 22, 2 p.m. By Benevilla at Sun City West Office 13576 Camino Del Sol, Sun City West 623-584-4999 GRIEF SUPPORT Oct. 13 & 27, 3–4:30 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321; HonorHealth.com GRIEF SUPPORT NEXT STEPS Oct. 13 & 27, 4:30–6 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1100; HonorHealth.com CHILD LOSS SUPPORT Oct. 19, 6–8 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-3878; HonorHealth.com GRIEF SUPPORT Oct. 26, 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. Humana Guidance Center 5943 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707

WOMEN RECIPES FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH Oct. 7, 10 a.m.–noon Humana Guidance Center 5943 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707 WOMEN’S HEALTH SEMINAR Oct. 14, 10–11 a.m. Humana Guidance Center 5943 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707 MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SUPPORT Oct. 24, 10 a.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 480-829-6563

CAREGIVERS

HEART/STROKE

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Various dates, times & locations By Duet; 602-274-5022; DuetAZ.org CANCER CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Various dates & times By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org

STROKE CHECK Various dates, times & locations 480-882-4636; HonorHealth.com STROKE SUPPORT Oct. 7, 5:45–7 p.m. HonorHealth Outpatient Therapy 3134 N. Civic Center Plaza, Scottsdale 480-882-6821; HonorHealth.com

a-z T O P E V E N T S Please call to confirm reservations and cost (if any).

OCT. 7, NOV. 4, DEC. 2 MINI-MED SCHOOL WHAT: A glimpse of what medical students are learning. WHERE: Virginia G. Piper Auditorium, 600 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix WHEN: 5:30–7 p.m. PARTICIPANTS: For high schoolers to retirees; can sign up for one or more sessions PRESENTED BY: The University of Arizona College of Medicine Phoenix COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: 602-827-2024; phoenixmed.arizona.edu/ mini-med

OCT. 10 SUPER SEALANT SATURDAY WHAT: Free dental care for children ages 4-18. Cleanings, screenings and molar sealants. WHERE: Midwestern University Dental Institute, 5885 W. Utopia Rd., Glendale WHEN: 7:30 a.m.–1 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine COST: Free; registration required INFO/REGISTER: 623-806-7150; MWUClinics.com/AZ/Sealant

OCT. 10 OPTIMISM RACE FOR PARKINSON’S DISEASE WHAT: 5K race, 5K walk and 1-mile fun walk with proceeds benefitting the American Parkinson’s Disease Association (APDA). WHERE: Midwestern University, 59th Ave. and Utopia Rd., Glendale WHEN: 10 a.m.–1 p.m. PRESENTED BY: APDA, Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, MWU Student Physical Therapy Club COST: $12–$25 INFO/REGISTER: AZOptimism.org

WEDNESDAYS, OCT. 14NOV. 18

OCT. 15, OCT. 22, OCT. 29 HIP & KNEE HEALTH WHAT: Learn ways to keep your joints healthy, the latest on arthritis and the newest procedures and treatment options for treating joint pain. Free. OCT. 15: • WHERE: Kiva Club at Trilogy at Vistancia, 27980 N. Trilogy Blvd., Peoria • WHEN: 1–2 p.m. • PRESENTED BY: Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital • INFO/REGISTER: TempeStLukesHospital.com OCT. 22: • WHERE: Hilton Phoenix Chandler, 2929 W. Frye Rd., Chandler • WHEN: 6–7 p.m. • PRESENTED BY: Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital • INFO/REGISTER: TempeStLukesHospital.com OCT. 29: • WHERE: Grayhawk Golf Club, 8620 E. Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale • WHEN: 2–3 p.m. • PRESENTED BY: St. Luke’s Medical Center • INFO/REGISTER: StLukesMedCenter.com

OCT. 15 SUCCESSFUL AGING WHAT: Learn how successful aging is affected by gender, education, geography and what you know. WHERE: 35 W. Brown Rd., Mesa WHEN: 1–2 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Fellowship Square Historic Mesa COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: 480-290-7025; AZFS.org

OCT. 15

MINDFULNESS TRAINING FOR CAREGIVERS WHAT: Stress release for caregivers

FAMILY CONNECT WHAT: Monthly support program for families experiencing cancer that have children 5–18 years old.

STROKE SURVIVOR SUPPORT Oct. 8, 2:30–4 p.m. Dignity Health Chandler Regional 1955 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414 MENDED HEARTS SUPPORT Oct. 8, 6:30–8 p.m. John C. Lincoln Medical Center 9202 N. Second St., Phoenix 602-870-6368; HonorHealth.com

Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert 3555 S. Val Vista Dr., Gilbert 480-728-5414 UNDERSTANDING HEART FAILURE Oct. 28, noon Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa MVMedicalCenter.com 877-924-WELL (9355)

HEALTHY HEART LIVING Oct. 16, 6–7 p.m. Dignity Health Chandler Regional 1955 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414

HEARING LOSS SUPPORT Oct. 8, 12:45–2:30 p.m. Ed Robson Library 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes 602-652-3000; HearingLoss.org reggiefaith@gmail.com HEARING LOSS SUPPORT Oct. 13, 1:30–3:30 p.m. First Presbyterian Church 12225 N. 103rd Ave., Sun City 301-657-2248; HearingLoss.org melanie.orourke@gmail.com

CARDIOLOGY CLASS Oct. 19, noon By St. Luke’s at Burton Barr Library 1221 N. Central Ave., Phoenix Register: StLukesMedCenter.com PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE (PAD) Oct. 20, noon By St. Luke’s at Burton Barr Library 1221 N. Central Ave., Phoenix Register: StLukesMedCenter.com STROKE SUPPORT Oct. 21, 1 p.m. Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa MVMedicalCenter.com 877-924-WELL (9355) STROKE CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Oct. 22, 2:30–3:30 p.m.

A million dollar smile for a fraction of the price. CALL TODAY AND GET

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HEARING LOSS

DIABETES MANAGING DIABETES Various dates, times & topics Dignity Health Center for Diabetes 1760 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert 480-728-3535 DIABETES SUPPORT Oct. 12, 3 p.m. Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa MVMedicalCenter.com 877-924-WELL (9355)

Dinner provided from 6–6:30 p.m. followed by separate support groups for parents, teens and kids. WHERE: 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix WHEN: 6–7:30 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Cancer Support Community Arizona COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: 602-712-1006; ejarboe@cscaz.org

OCT. 17 OKTOBERFEST FOR PARKINSON’S WHAT: Live music & games, German food, local ales and fine wines to support Banner Neuro Wellness and the Muhammad Ali Center in Phoenix. WHERE: 5315 E. High St., Phoenix WHEN: 5–9 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Baehr Challenge for Parkinson’s Research COST: $20 general admission; $75 VIP INFO/REGISTER: BaehrChallenge.org

OCT. 17 MULTIPLE HEREDITARY EXOSTOSES LECTURE WHAT: Advancements in developing a pharmacological approach for multiple hereditary exostoses. WHERE: Bluewater Grill, 1720 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix WHEN: 6–7:30 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Cancer Support Group COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: 602-527-3776

OCT. 21 DEMENTIA DIALOGUE WEBINAR WHAT: Experts in dementia care offer this monthly online seminar. This month’s topic: How and when to execute powers of attorney. WHERE: Online; BannerSHRI.org WHEN: noon–1 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Banner Alzheimer’s Institute COST: Free; registration required INFO/REGISTER: 623-832-3248; BannerHealth.com/ ResearchOnlineEdu

WHEN: 8 a.m.–1 p.m. PRESENTED BY: MWU Chapter of American Optometric Student Association (AOSA) COST: $25 INFO/REGISTER: Midwestern.edu/SightDay5k

OCT. 24 TEEN HEALTH EVENT WHAT: Teens ages 13-17 and their parent/guardian are invited to learn about internet safety, STDs, drug addiction, distracted driving and self-esteem. Lunch provided. WHERE: Banner Estrella, 9201 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix WHEN: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Banner Health COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: Registration required; 602-230-2773

OCT. 3031 COLON CANCER SURVIVORSHIP CONFERENCE WHAT: Conference for colorectal cancer patients, survivors and their family members to hear presentations from national experts on the latest advances in colon cancer treatment and survivorship. WHERE: Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel, 50 E. Adams St., Phoenix WHEN: Oct. 30, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. & Oct. 31, 8 a.m.–noon PRESENTED BY: Colon Cancer Alliance COST: $50 INFO/REGISTER: 202-628-0123, x141; ColonCancerConference.org

NOV. 24

WORLD SIGHT DAY 5K WHAT: 5K run and 1-mile fun run/walk raising proceeds to benefit Optometry Giving Sight, providing glasses and eye care to developing countries. WHERE: Midwestern University, 59th Ave. and Utopia Rd., Glendale

PEDIATRIC DISASTER PLANNING CONFERENCE WHAT: Experts will offer education and resources for treating injured children during mass casualty disasters. Open to physicians, nurses, first-responders, educators, community planners and others; continuing education credits available. WHERE: Camelback Inn, 5402 E. Lincoln Dr., Scottsdale WHEN: 7 a.m.–4 p.m. PRESENTED BY: National Pediatric Disaster Coalition COST: $685 INFO/REGISTER: 480-861-5722; NPDCConference.org

DIABETES OVERVIEW Oct. 14, 5:30–7:30 p.m. HonorHealth Medical Group 6320 W. Union Hills Dr., Glendale 623-561-3103; HonorHealth.com

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT Oct. 10, 10 a.m.–noon Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321; HonorHealth.com

OCT. 24

DIABETES NUTRITION & ACTIVITY Oct. 28, 5:30–7:30 p.m. HonorHealth Medical Group 6320 W. Union Hills Dr., Glendale 623-561-3103; HonorHealth.com

BREAST CANCER BOSOM BUDDIES SUPPORT GROUPS Various dates, times & locations Ahwatukee/Chandler: 602-739-8822; 602-318-8462 East Valley: 480-358-0198; 480-969-4119 Sun City (Banner Boswell): 623-547-2206; 623-236-6616 West Valley: 602-531-9123; 623-979-4279

PARKINSON’S PARKINSON’S EDUCATION, EXERCISE & SUPPORT GROUPS Various dates, times & locations By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center 602-406-3840; 602-406-4921 CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Various dates, times & locations By Duet; 602-274-5022; DuetAZ.org PARKINSON’S SUPPORT Oct. 20, 3–4:30 p.m. By Benevilla Shepherd Hills Methodist Church 13658 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West 623-584-4999

MEDICARE

CIRCLE OF HELP ADVANCED BREAST CANCER Meets as needed Info: Becky Chase, 623-236-6616 or Teresa Hill, AdvancedBreastCancer@gmail.com

MEDICARE SEMINAR Oct. 12, 3–4 p.m. Oct. 21, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Humana Guidance Center 5943 W. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707

LEARN & SUPPORT Oct. 8 & 22, 6–8 p.m. Breast Health and Research Center 19646 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix 623-780-4673; HonorHealth.com

MEDICARE 101 Oct. 29, 10–11:30 a.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Ln., Phoenix 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org

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Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | Livingwella-z | 5

a-z I N F O R M AT I O N O N L I N E ABRAZO COMMUNITY HEALTH NETWORK: AbrazoHealth.com; 602-674-1400; Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital; Abrazo Arrowhead Campus; Abrazo Central Campus; Abrazo Maryvale Campus; Abrazo Scottsdale Campus; Abrazo West Campus BANNER CHILDREN’S-CARDON CHILDREN’S: BannerChildrens.com; 480-412-KIDS (5437) BANNER HEALTH: BannerHealth.com; 602-747-4000; Numerous hospitals and medical centers BANNER POISON AND DRUG INFO CENTER HOTLINE: 800-222-1222 BARROW NEUROLOGICAL INSTITUTE: TheBarrow.org; 877-602-4111 DIGNITY HEALTH CHANDLER REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER: DignityHealth.org/chandlerregional; 877-728-5414 DIGNITY HEALTH MERCY GILBERT MEDICAL CENTER: DignityHealth.org/mercygilbert; 877-728-5414 DIGNITY HEALTH ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER: DignityHealth.org/stjosephs; 877-602-4111 DIGNITY HEALTH ST. JOSEPH’S WESTGATE MEDICAL CENTER: DignityHealth.org/westgate; 877-602-4111 HONORHEALTH (formerly Scottsdale Healthcare): HonorHealth.com; 623-580-5800; HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea; HonorHealth Scottsdale Thompson Peak; HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn HONORHEALTH DEER VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER: HonorHealth.com; 623-580-5800 HONORHEALTH JOHN C. LINCOLN MEDICAL CENTER: HonorHealth.com; 623-580-5800 MARICOPA INTEGRATED HEALTH SYSTEM: MIHS.org; 602-344-5011 MAYO CLINIC: MayoClinic.org; 800-446-2279 MOUNTAIN VISTA MEDICAL CENTER: MVMedicalCenter.com; 480-358-6100 MUHAMMAD ALI PARKINSON CENTER: TheBarrow.org; 602-406-6262 PHOENIX CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL: PhoenixChildrens.org; 602-933-1000 ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL CENTER: StLukesMedCenter.com; 602-251-8100 TEMPE ST. LUKE’S HOSPITAL: TempeStLukesHospital.com; 480-784-5500 VALLEY FEVER CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE: vfce.arizona.edu; 602-406-8253

ALZHEIMER’S/DEMENTIA ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Various dates, times & locations By Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter 602-528-0545; ALZ.org/DSW ALZHEIMER’S & MEMORY SUPPORT Oct. 13, 20 & 27, 10–11:30 a.m. By Benevilla at Faith Presbyterian 16000 N. Del Webb Blvd., Sun City 623-584-4999; Benevilla.org PRESCOTT ALZHEIMER'S WALK Oct. 17, 9 a.m. Courthouse Plaza, Prescott 928-771-9257 PrescottAlzheimersWalk.org WEST VALLEY ALZHEIMER'S WALK Oct.17, 9:30 a.m. Beardsley Recreation Center 12755 W. Beardsley Rd., Sun City West 602-528-0545 WestValleyAlzheimersWalk.org ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT Oct. 18, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Dignity Health Huger Mercy Center

2345 W. Orangewood Ave., Phoenix Lunch provided; 602-406-5600 ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT Oct. 19, 1:30–3 p.m. Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa MVMedicalCenter.com 877-924-WELL (9355)

CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS CANCER SUPPORT COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Info: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org • CANCER SUPPORT Various dates & times • PROSTATE CANCER Oct. 8, 6–7:30 p.m. • LYMPHOMA Oct. 10, 10–11:30 a.m. • PANCREATIC CANCER Oct. 10, 10–11:30 a.m. • CARCINOID Oct. 10, 1–2:30 p.m. • LUNG CANCER Oct. 10, 1–2:30 p.m. • COLORECTAL CANCER Oct. 17, 10–11:30 a.m. • OVARIAN CANCER Oct. 17, 10–11:30 a.m.

IRONWOOD CANCER & RESEARCH CENTERS SUPPORT GROUPS 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: 480-340-4013 IronwoodCRC.com • BREAST CANCER Oct. 12, 2–4 p.m. • METASTATIC CANCER Oct. 12, 2–4 p.m. • PROSTATE CANCER Oct. 12, 7–9 p.m. • HEAD & NECK CANCER Oct. 13, 2–3:30 p.m. • GYNECOLOGICAL CANCER Oct. 14, 6–7:15 p.m. • PANCREATIC CANCER Oct. 15, 2–3:30 p.m. • COLON CANCER Oct. 15, 6–7 p.m. • CAREGIVERS Oct. 17, 10 a.m.–noon • HEAD & NECK CANCER Oct. 19, 3–4:30 p.m. • PROSTATE CANCER Oct. 19, 4–5:30 p.m. • LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA Oct. 21, 3–4:30 p.m. • MULTIPLE MYELOMA Oct. 26, 2–4 p.m. • METASTATIC CANCER Oct. 28, 3–4:30 p.m. LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER By the American Cancer Society Various dates, times & locations 800-ACS-2345 LookGoodFeelBetter.org LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER By Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers Various dates, times & locations 480-855-2224; IronwoodCRC.com LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER Oct. 7, 5–7 p.m. Banner Thunderbird 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale Register: 602-865-5450 CANCER SURVIVOR SUPPORT Oct. 7, 5:30–6:30 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321; HonorHealth.com LIVING WITH LOSS Oct. 13 & 27, 1–2:30 p.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org PANCREATIC CANCER SUPPORT Oct. 13, 4–5:30 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10510 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321; HonorHealth.com COPING WITH CANCER Oct. 14 & 28, 6:30–8 p.m.

Banner Thunderbird 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale Register: 602-865-5450 PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT Oct. 15, 3 p.m. Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 602-230-2273 NON-HODGKIN’S LYMPHOMA SUPPORT Oct. 15, 6–8 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321; HonorHealth.com ORAL, HEAD & NECK CANCER Oct. 15, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321; HonorHealth.com CANCER SURVIVORS CELEBRATION Oct. 17, 8–11 a.m. Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers 8880 E. Desert Cove Ave., Scottsdale 480-855-2224; IronwoodCRC.com MULTIPLE MYELOMA SUPPORT Oct. 19, 1–2:30 p.m. Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 602-230-2773 CHEMOTHERAPY CLASS Oct. 20, 3–4 p.m. Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 602-230-2773 ORAL, HEAD & NECK CANCER Oct. 21, 4:30 p.m. Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 602-230-2273 CAREGIVERS & FAMILY SUPPORT Oct. 21, 5:30–6:30 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321; HonorHealth.com LYMPHEDEMA SUPPORT Oct. 26, 6–8 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321; HonorHealth.com

GASTROINTESTINAL OSTOMY SUPPORT Oct. 13, 6 p.m. Elite Home Healthcare Services 2140 W. Greenway Rd., Phoenix 602-246-8221 OSTOMY SUPPORT Oct. 15, 12:30 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Church 6300 E. Bell Rd., Scottsdale 623-580-4120

RESPIRATORY BETTER BREATHERS/ COPD SUPPORT Various dates, times & locations By the American Lung Association 602-429-0005; BreatheEasyAZ.info GET PAST ASTHMA Oct. 8, 6:30–8 p.m. Deer Valley Medical Center 19841 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix 623-879-5452; HonorHealth.com

BRAIN/NEUROLOGICAL EPILEPSY EMPOWERMENT Various dates, times & locations 602-406-3581; EpilepsyAZ.org PROGRESSIVE SUPRANUCLEAR PALSY SUPPORT Oct. 10, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Pyle Adult Recreation Center 655 E. Southern Ave., Tempe 480-966-3391; aludwig@asu.edu PEDIATRIC EPILEPSY Oct. 10, 2–4 p.m. Harvest of Tempe 710 W. Elliot Rd., Tempe 480-777-2100 YOUNG ADULT BRAIN INJURY Oct. 14, 6–7:30 p.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 602-996-1396; 602-406-6688 HUNTINGTON’S SUPPORT Oct. 18, 6–8 p.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 602-402-1774 BRAIN ANEURYSM SUPPORT Oct. 21, 6–8 p.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Kimberly@JoeNiekroFoundation.org 760-333-7658 BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT Oct. 22, 6–7:30 p.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 602-508-8024; 602-406-6688 BRAIN TUMOR SUPPORT Oct. 26, 6–8 p.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 623-205-6446

PARENTING BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT Various dates, times & locations By Dignity Health 480-728-5414; 602-406-4954 GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN Various dates, times & locations By Benevilla 623-207-6016; Benevilla.org

GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN Various dates, times & locations By Duet; 602-274-5022; DuetAZ.org MOMS ON THE MOVE Various dates, times & locations By HonorHealth 480-323-3878; HonorHealth.com POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION SUPPORT Oct. 7, 14, 21 & 28, 1–2:30 p.m. Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert 1760 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert 480-728-5414 T.E.E.N.S. 4 TEENS SUPPORT Oct. 8, 15, 22 & 19, 6–7 p.m. Dignity Health Chandler Regional 1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414 INFANT BRAIN DEVELOPMENT Oct. 10, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Tempe St. Luke’s 1500 S. Mill Ave., Tempe Register: 480-784-5588 BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT Oct. 12, 19 & 26, 1 p.m. Banner Estrella 9201 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 602-230-2273

SENIORS HORMONES & OSTEOPOROSIS Oct. 7, noon Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa MVMedicalCenter.com 877-924-WELL (9355) REASONS WE FALL Oct. 14, noon Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa MVMedicalCenter.com 877-924-WELL (9355) COPING WITH PSORIASIS Oct. 19, noon Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa MVMedicalCenter.com 877-924-WELL (9355) FALL PREVENTION Oct. 28, 11:15 a.m.–12:45 p.m. Humana Guidance Center 5943 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707

BARIATRIC SURGERY SEMINARS BANNER HEALTH BannerHealth.com; 480-543-2606 HONORHEALTH BariatricSurgeryAZ.com; 480-882-4636 ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL CENTER BridgesAZ.com; 800-248-5553

In the U.S. News & World Report rankings of top hospitals, Mayo Clinic in Phoenix is the #1 hospital in Arizona and is nationally ranked in 12 medical specialties. Our world-class experts work together, across disciplines, to provide you with whole-person care that meets your exact needs.

Learn more at MayoClinic.org/TopRanked

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6 | Livingwell a-z | Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Low tech brings high benefits For people with dementia and their caregivers, assistive technology can increase safety, reduce stress By Susan Lynne Fuchs

aring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging. But creative use of assistive technologies can reduce caregivers’ stress while increasing loved ones’ safety and happiness. Best of all, most assistive devices are low-tech, easy to use and inexpensive. Unfortunately, “there’s no ‘one-sizefits-all’ in assistive technology,” said Pierre Tariot, M.D., director of the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute in Phoenix. “What works for one person may not work for another. One of the rewarding parts of providing care for a person with dementia is playing Sherlock Holmes, figuring out which support will be most effective.” Many local medical and community organizations offer help and information about technical assistance devices and systems, he said.

Activities of daily living Dementia impairs a person’s ability to conduct activities of daily living. “Being oriented in time and place is essential for a daily routine,” explained James Fitzpatrick, program and advocacy director of the Desert Southwest Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. “In the later stages of dementia, people lose their ability to distinguish day from night,” added Suzanne L. Northey, MS, LMFT, director of generations at Mountain Vista Medical Center in Mesa and St. Luke’s Medical Center in Phoenix. “They wake up and feel like going for a walk and don’t realize it’s 2 a.m. and they should wait for morning,” she said. “Bright clocks that show the time and whether it’s day or night can be very helpful.” “Electronic clocks, calendars and tablets with alarms, or automated voice messages on smart phones can be programmed to assist in getting ready for appointments, visitors or other planned activities,” Fitzpatrick said. Clocks can also help make sure people know when it’s mealtime, Northey said. “Advanced dementia patients lose their appetite and don’t think about eating unless they have a programmed reminder or gentle urging from a caregiver.” In addition, clocks can remind people when it’s time to take medicine, Fitzpatrick noted. In early degrees of dementia, correct dispensing may be aided with a simple pill box or one with separate compartments for days of the week and times of day. Locked pillboxes prefilled at the pharmacy that automatically dispense appropriate medications at preset intervals may help people in more advanced stages. These can be programmed to sound an alarm or send an electronic message to a caregiver if medication is not taken on schedule. In later stages of the disease, when people are losing control over their physical abilities, modified eating equipment and incontinence products can make life easier for everyone, Fitzpatrick said.

What is dementia? Dementia describes a range of symptoms that reduce one’s ability to perform everyday activities including difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language, as well as memory loss. However, not all memory loss is the result of dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association says dementia occurs when brain structure and chemistry become damaged by diseases. Alzheimer's is the most common dementia, but there are many other less common types. All dementia is progressive; mental abilities decline over time. However, the rate of progression varies; each person experiences dementia in his or her own way.

“One of the hardest parts of the disease for loved ones and caregivers is the personality change that frequently accompanies its progression,”

said Suzanne L. Northey, MS, LMFT, director of generations at Mountain Vista Medical Center in Mesa and St. Luke's Medical Center in Phoenix. “People who have always been pleasant or considerate of others may begin to say unkind things, especially to loved ones,” she said. They may also exhibit aggression, combativeness, destructiveness and sexual acting out, sometimes complicated by poor impulse control, paranoia and hallucinations. “If this happens,” Northey said, “it’s important for caregivers to remember that it’s not intentional; it is a result of the disease. However, at some point, these symptoms can pose a danger for the caregiver so it is important to be aware of changes over time and to seek professional help when necessary.”

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Safety issues “Electronics can sound an alert when a stove is left on, when an outside door is unlocked or water is left running,” Tariot said. “Governors can control faucet water temperature.” Other safety devices, he said, include motion sensors, or touch- or soundresponsive lamps and bed alarms to reduce the chances of falling at night. “GPS has come of age,” said Anne Paulus, director of Desert Mission’s Adult Day Health Care Center in Phoenix. That’s because not only can it find lost items, it can save lives by locating lost people. However, Paulus said that because people can deliberately remove GPS bracelets, belt

Mood enhancement

! Help and more info Area Agency on Aging aaaphx.org; 602-264-4357 Alzheimer’s Association, Desert Southwest Chapter alz.org/dsw; 602-528-0545 Banner Alzheimer’s Institute banneralz.org; 602-839-6900 Desert Mission Adult Day Health Care desertmission.com; 602-870-6374 attachments or lapel pins, a new product that works by hiding a GPS device in a shoe insert is proving popular.

Stress-reducers include simpler remote controls and phones that auto-dial when photos are touched. “Lavender and other soothing air fresheners often calm and improve overall mood,” Northey said. Similarly, classic movies and music can work wonders. “Although dementias impact short-term memory, long-term memory is less affected,” she said. “Older movies and music reminds them of their younger days.” Dolls can also enhance mood, Fitzpatrick said. “Just holding a baby doll triggers muscle memory and gives some people with advanced dementia a sense of purpose; it’s calming, soothing and uplifts their spirit.”

Detergent pods entice kids, can lead to serious harm Protect young children from ingesting this dangerous household item

! Safety precautions ! Always keep detergents locked up and out of the reach of children. ! Follow the specific disposal instructions on the label. ! If you think a child has been exposed to a laundry detergent packet, call your local poison center at 800-222-1222 immediately.

By Meghann Finn Sepulveda

hey are small, brightly colored and resemble candy. Detergent pods, made by popular manufacturers, combine concentrated amounts of detergent (and possibly stain remover and/or bleach) in one package surrounded by a thin, film shell. When a small child accidentally ingests or is exposed to a laundry pod, it can be extremely damaging.

Source: American Association of Poison Control Centers, aapcc.org

! Number of detergent pod exposures reported to Banner Poison and Drug Information Center 2012: 42 2013: 146 2014: 130 2015 to date: 123

A growing health concern In 2014, Banner Poison and Drug Information Center reported receiving 130 calls related to laundry pod incidents. As of Sept. 28, 2015, officials at the Center said they had already seen 123 cases. “When a small child ingests one, “Kids see laundry pods and are immedithe saliva in their mouth causes the ately drawn to them because of their shape and appearance,” said Frank LoVecchio, laundry pod to break down, affecting D.O., medical toxicologist and co-medthe central nervous system. The packet ical director, Banner Poison and Drug Information Center. “When a small child disintegrates over the esophagus and ingests one, the saliva in their mouth causes could cause burning or erosion.” the laundry pod to break down, affecting Frank LoVecchio, D.O., the central nervous system. The packet medical toxicologist and co-medical director, disintegrates over the esophagus and could Banner Poison and Drug Information Center cause burning or erosion.” child is taken to a nearby health care facility to be observed, but sometimes parents Slow progressing symptoms can monitor their child from home. If a When a child ingests a laundry pod, the child is showing any signs of respiratory damage doesn’t always happen instantly. “It could take up to 30 minutes for you to distress, call 911.” Typically a child will become drowsy, notice a change in your child’s behavior,” which is the result of a chemical reaction LoVecchio said. “We usually recommend a

Source: Banner Poison and Drug Information Center, 800-222-1222

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similar to the effects of alcohol consumption or use of a sedative drug. Other children have symptoms of vomiting, skin irritation and eye damage. “Of the more severe cases we’ve seen, children have suffered acid burns, erosions and lesions in the esophagus and have needed a respirator for breathing assistance,” LoVecchio said.

Modified packaging Many manufacturers use clear tubs or bags filled with brightly colored laundry pods to market the product. When stored at home,

these containers attract curiosities in small children. About two years ago, Proctor & Gamble, the manufacturer of Tide, announced the redesign of packaging for all laundry detergent pods. The plastic tub now has a double latch on the lid to make it more difficult for children to access, along with an opaque tub so the pods can’t be seen. Other manufacturers are being pressured to childproof their packaging, but ultimately parents need to protect their children from household dangers. “Parents must make sure laundry pods and other potentially harmful poisonous household items are stored at least two feet higher than the child’s reach, preferably in a locked cabinet,” LoVecchio said.

Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | Livingwella-z | 7

Cancer  continued from the cover and basic is often prohibitively expensive for medical centers, meaning that a number of well-regarded cancer centers don't include it as part of their focus. As a result, fewer than 70 centers in the nation are NCI-designated out of 1,400 facilities accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons. “We believe we can ensure academic rigor, leverage our partnerships and offer comprehensive services without necessarily being NCI-designated,” said Mark Slater, Ph.D., vice president of research at the HonorHealth Research Institute which oversees all clinical trials at the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center. “There is value in having both NCI-designated and undesignated cancer centers in a community, bringing with them all kinds of expertise and talent that benefit patients.”

Finding an oncologist If you or someone you care about is newly diagnosed with cancer and you’re wondering how to find an oncologist (cancer specialist), you may want to start by asking who your primary care provider (PCP) recommends. “Your PCP can be an excellent resource,” said Mary Cianfrocca, D.O., a breast cancer specialist with Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center in Gilbert. “He or she may know who is most appropriate for your type of cancer.” The Washington, D.C.-based Advisory Board published the results of a national survey of cancer patients that asked what the most important factors were in choosing a cancer provider, explained Peter Lance, M.D., interim deputy director of The University of Arizona Cancer Center – Phoenix. The most frequent response was that they look for a doctor who is a specialist in their particular type of cancer, while the second most important factor was state-of-the-art technology, he said. An advantage to seeing an oncologist affiliated with a hospital-based comprehensive cancer center is the “breadth and depth of the team,” said Alan Bryce, M.D., director of genomic oncology at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale. “For most patients, cancer isn’t their only medical issue, so it’s easier for them if they can see a gastroenterologist, cardiologist, surgeon or another specialist in the same location as their primary oncologist.”

Germs

After participating in a clinical trial for Stage 4 pancreatic cancer, Saundra DeMey-Forrest has resumed "being a groupie” for the band her husband Jeff plays in.

Advancements in treatment Two important pillars of new treatments, said Bryce, are genomic oncology — understanding the genetics of individual tumors — and immunotherapy, essentially partnering with the immune system to deliver more effective, targeted medicines. One medication based on immunotherapy is Yervoy, a drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2011, Bryce said. It has shown dramatic results in patients with late-stage, metastasized melanoma. More than 20 percent of patients who received Yervoy in a clinical trial (before it received FDA approval) lived at least 10 years, Bryce said, compared to a previous time when few late-stage melanoma patients lived longer than five years. “With what we have learned about the genomics of melanoma on the one hand and how we can safely utilize the immune system on the other, we have had three new genetically targeted drugs and three new immunotherapy drugs to treat metastatic melanoma introduced since 2011,” Bryce said. “Now, the two newest immunotherapy drugs appear to be even more effective than Yervoy. These two drugs, Opdivo

and Keytruda, are being tested in many tumors,” he said. “Melanoma and kidney cancer are two tumor types where immunotherapy is particularly promising,” Lance said, “but there is justifiable optimism that immunotherapy approaches will in the end lead to major advances in many types of cancer. Our mission is to prevent and cure cancer and the way to achieve this goal is through clinical trials.”

Supportive programs and services The American Cancer Society (ACS) is available to assist cancer patients, their families and caregivers through every aspect of their cancer journey. ACS offers many different patient programs and services free of charge, said Brittany Conklin, a senior consultant with the Phoenix chapter of the ACS. “Our patient navigators meet with newly diagnosed cancer patients and help them through the cancer experience by assisting with cancer information, community-based resources, transportation, lodging, nutritional information, clinical trials and free wigs,” Conklin said.

 American Cancer Society For information on services: cancer.org; 602-224-0524 or 800-227-2345

 Clinical trials For information, type ‘clinical trials’ in the search bar on each institution’s website. Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center bannerhealth.com/mdanderson; 480-256-6444 Mayo Clinic Cancer Center mayo.edu; 855-776-0015 National Cancer Institute cancer.gov; 800-4-CANCER The University of Arizona Cancer Center at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center dignityhealth.org/uacc 602-406-8222 Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at HonorHealth honorhealth.com; 480-323-1339

Health risks

Public germ-factories Shopping malls, restaurants, gyms and other high-traffic public areas have a greater incidence of germs, but there are other places that are also susceptible. “Grocery carts can carry salmonella because raw meat often leaks and can touch other items that are placed in the cart,” Gerba said. “High-chairs in restaurants are also full of germs because they are used by children who may be sitting in a dirty diaper.” In addition, mass transit venues — such as busses and trains — along with elevators, ATM machines and indoor play areas are all common public areas for germs to gather and grow.

Even though some germ exposure is inevitable, experts say that there are some simple, proactive ways to keep germs at bay. Here are just a few suggestions from our germ-pros: • “If you can’t wash your hands with soap and water, hand sanitizer that contains 70 percent alcohol is an effective cleaning measure,” Gerba said. • Hot water is recommended when washing clothes and dishes. • “Clean toothbrushes with hydrogen peroxide, rinse well and stand up to dry to prohibit the growth of mold and mildew,” Cobb, the 'Queen of Clean', said. “And you only need a good microfiber mop — washed and dried after each use — and hot water to clean floors. You’ll never have any residue or buildup and your floors will be sparkling and germ-free.”

Matthew Lynch, MD A graduate of University of Wisconsin Medical School, Dr. Matthew Lynch completed his internship and residency at Rush University-Cook County Hospitals in Chicago. Dr. Lynch is Board Certified and specializes in breast disease, GERD evaluation, hernias, gall bladder disease, general surgery, diverticular disease, colon cancer, skin disorders, thyroid and wound care. AR-0008455825-02

Proactive advice

GENERAL SURGERY

Brandon Roberts, DO A graduate of Kansas City University, Dr. Brandon Roberts completed his internal medicine internship and residency at Valley Hospital Medical Center in Las Vegas. Dr. Roberts specializes in internal medicine, geriatrics and primary care and also speaks Spanish and Portuguese.

James Smith, MD A graduate of Hahnemann University (now called Drexel University) in Philadelphia, Dr. James Smith completed his internship at Harlem Hospital/Columbia University in New York and his residency at Mercy Catholic Medical Center in Philadelphia. Dr. Smith is Board Certified and specializes in internal medicine and management of obesity.

Abrazo Community Health Network is launching a 30-day health challenge for Valley residents. Called ‘Artistry of You’, the program kicks off on Nov. 1. The challenge will take place online where participants can find health tips and can sign up for a series of free wellness events from yoga and meditation sessions to cooking classes and other activities.

Abrazo is now offering online scheduling for routine screening mammograms. Women can book their annual screening mammogram appointments at Abrazo Arrowhead Campus (formerly Arrowhead Hospital), 18701 N. 67th Ave in Glendale and at Abrazo Central Campus (formerly Phoenix Baptist Hospital), 2000 W. Bethany Home Road in Phoenix.

More info: AbrazoHealth. com/ArtistryOfYou

More info: findMammotime.com

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Mammogram scheduling

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Banner Health Center 21772 S. Ellsworth Loop Rd., Queen Creek (480) 512-3700 www.BannerHealth.com/HealthCenterQueenCreek

INTERNAL MEDICINE

a-z H E A LT H C A R E B R I E F S Abrazo: The 'Artistry of You'

Banner Health Center 14420 W. Meeker Blvd., Suite 200, Sun City West www.BannerHealth.com/ClinicSCWSurgery 623 524-8960

INTERNAL MEDICINE

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 continued from the cover To avoid the spread of this dangerous bacteria, Gerba, the microbiologist and UA professor, says to clean the cutting board with a disinfectant that contains bleach and to designate a cutting board for raw produce and a separate one for raw meat to avoid cross-contamination. He also suggests changing or washing sponges weekly. “Sponges are wet and moist and create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria growth,” Gerba added. Sinks and refrigerator door handles should also be wiped down regularly with a disinfectant.

Germs can lead to the common cold or flu, a foodborne illness and even a life-threatening skin infection such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). “MRSA is the biggest one to worry about because the infection can go deep into the skin and reach the bone which could lead to serious complications, hospitalization and even death,” Gerba said. “MRSA can be associated with health clubs, but staph can be found anywhere including hospitals and schools.”

Banner Health Center 13640 N. Plaza del Rio Blvd. Floors 2 and 3, Peoria www.BannerHealth.com/HealthCenterNWPrimaryCare (623) 876-3800

STAY HEALTHY AND LIVE WELL!! Make an appointment to visit any one of these quality health experts. AR-0008453378-01

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