Health, Wellness and Vitality Special Section

The Universal Health Care Foundation and Its Mission!

The Peoples Press recently had an on-line subscriber survey asking "What are your top 5 Health, Wellness Vitality concerns?" 98% of the folks who answered said that Health Insurance was a concern so we asked Juan A. Figueroa, Universal Health Care Foundation President, "What is the mission of the Universal Health Care Foundation, and why is it needed?"

The Foundations works with residents and diverse groups, including businesses and health care providers, to achieve a universal health care plan that means quality, affordable health care for everyone in Connecticut.More and more Connecticut residents are learning that our broken health care system hurts everyone.

Those without adequate insurance spend increasing amounts of their tight budgets to pay for the difference. The economy suffers as businesses cut other spending to cope with escalating health insurance costs.Every day, thousands of people with insurance face the risk of having affordable health care slip out of reach. Right now, more than 350,000 residents are uninsured. Everyone else pays for their care in some way. In 2005, that added $200 to the cost of an individual insurance policy premium and $585 to a family policy premium.

Universal health care is the right thing. It is the smart thing. And now is the time to make quality, affordable health care the reality for every Connecticut resident.


How a Healthier Environment Keeps Us All Healthy and What You Can Do To Help

By Mary Mushinsky, QRWA executive director

Edward O Wilson is not the first scientist to notice the inherent longing of people for certain elements of natural landscape: given complete freedom to choose, humans prefer to be on a height looking down, they like open, savannah-like terrain with scattered trees and clusters of bushes (with nearby sheltering woodland), and they want very much to be near a body of water. Real estate prices for mountain and shorefront property reflect these innate desires.

These preferences are probably a product of our long history as a species, when we had to forage in the wild and make our own way in little extended family groups. Today this unspoken longing for nature has been given a name: biophilia, or instinctively loving elements of nature (even if we live, work and study indoors most of the time). It explains the attraction of indoor fountains, our affection for our pets and why people enjoy sitting under the skylights in large buildings.Some of the elements of nature people instinctively crave (and which make them feel better and more contented) include colors of the natural world, water, moving air, sunlight, plants, animals, natural materials, views, landscapes, and fire-- a sign of comfort and warmth. A whole book has just been published about these human preferences and how to adapt buildings to answer these human cravings: Kellert, Heerwagen and Mador's Biophilic Design.Latest research findings suggest that children are happiest and most productive when allowed to directly experience nature. Their innate curiosity to explore with hands-on play expands their minds and contributes to their physical and mental health. Outdoor children are most prepared to fight the relatively recent developments of sedentary, indoor lifestyle and its effects, including obesity, slower cognitive development, attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity, and weaker immune systems. When given an opportunity to play outdoors--to get out of their institutions--kids thrive, develop, get sick less often and improve their physical and mental health.

In our densely populated Quinnipiac Valley, it becomes more of an effort each year to maintain the link between people and the natural world, but the benefits to all ages are worth it! Municipal planners and school boards can design green spaces to give people safe access to wild or semiwild nature, and to link these green spaces together with trails, open spaces and urban promenades, as recommended in city manager Roger Kemp's handbook, Cities and Nature. Municipalities across the country have revitalized old industrial centers by reintroducing biophilic elements to create inviting areas for people to mingle and enjoy the outdoors.

Meriden is poised to join them as the city prepares to recreate the Harbor Brook landscape that was hidden so long by the Hub.Wallingford, Meriden, North Haven, Southington, and Plainville citizens are designing and building a series of pedestrian trails that will one day all be connected, as long as planners keep the grand vision in mind.

These greenways are safer to walk or cycle, and offer a "ribbon of nature" for relaxation, short commutes, and physical health. Just 30 minutes of walking per day, plus good food choices, makes a world of difference to preventive health. And notice how many of your fellow residents are smiling and conversational while on the greenway!

Keeping intact the link between humans and nature will be critical in inspiring today's young generation to care about the future of our home planet, Earth. We need everyone to care about clean air, preservation of plants, wildlife and landscape. Young people who have connected with nature will be inspired to use their best technological genius to craft ways to move people and goods, heat and cool our homes, and feed our families in ways that protect the earth for our descendents. Here are some ideas everyone in Quinnipac Valley can try:

1. Walk, bike or carpool, and combine errands to make efficient use of your car;

2. Choose an energy efficient vehicle or public transit;

3. Increase energy efficiency and green design at home, school and work;

4. Eat lower on the food chain, try vegetables, whole grains and local produce!

5. Try mini-vacations to experience nature where you live, hike a land trust trail, catch a Quinnipiac trout, watch a wintering eagle, enjoy the view from West Peak, and plant your toes in the Mill River at Sleeping Giant when spring returns.

6. If you need help getting reacquainted with your natural self, join QRWA's spring activities we hike, paddle, birdwatch, fish and protect the environment using teams of people just like you!

As the impacts of urban growth and carbon use pose new challenges for us in the Quinnipiac Valley and beyond, it is a good time to rediscover our own human link to nature. As we step outside and restore our own health, so too will we be renewed and refreshed to protect the health of our planet.

To get outside, contact QRWA at (203) 237-2237 or qrwa@sbcglobal.net

THE SIMPLE DIET
(Start Introducing a More Powerful, Lifestyle and Eating habits)

Having and maintaining a healthy diet can be overwhelming today because of all of the different diet regimens, food products, and supplements out there in the market place. There is so much that it could make one’s head spin, and yet others may find it easier to just give up and eat what’s comfortable, whether that’s a frozen dinner or take out. But eating right doesn’t have to be hard, confusing, or even bland. It can be rather easy if you think of the word simple.

Foods that look simple, are simple to make, and have simple ingredients, are usually the best choices when it comes to eating right. They usually have only a few ingredients to them and usually don’t take long to cook. But how can you make simple choices in the complex world of food stores and restaurants? The best way to make these choices is to start with some research on the food. You can accomplish this by reading the labels of the products. Some people may find this time consuming when you are at a store with little ones, but it doesn’t have to be. Most products today are trying to go “organic”, “green”, or “all natural” and that part of the label will usually stand out somehow on the box or even in the aisles. Reading the contents of the package is also helpful when keeping your diet simple. I find as a general rule of thumb, that if that ingredient list is long, it’s probably not a simple food. A long list will most likely contain huge amounts of additives and preservatives that could be bad for you or even make you more hungry or thirsty, and that’s not great for any diet. The shorter the list, the better the food is for you, because it will have the vitamins you need naturally.

Now, I know what you must be thinking, so how do I accomplish a simple diet at a restaurant or fast food joint? Well, even these places have changed with the times and are listing simple foods on their menus as well as providing a list of how many ingredients, calories, and sodium is in the particular food of choice. Another general rule of thumb when scanning calories and sodium, is that less is best. Excessive sodium can not only make you thirsty, it can build up in your body and lead to an unhealthy heart or even cholesterol level. Excessive calories could lead to being over weight or at the very least, make you feel bloated.

Now, there is one very important thing to remember when it comes to eating right. You need to cheat on your diet every once in a while. Sweets, burgers with fries, and potato chips really do have a place in any diet, including a simple one. There is nothing terribly wrong with eating ice cream, unless you consume too much of it. Too much of anything isn’t good for anyone and if you keep every food in mind and realize that you can eat in moderation, your diet can be successful and healthy.

Each food that you eat should come from one of the basic food groups and sweets are in the basic pyramid. Fruits, vegetables, grains, meats and dairy are all important to a simple and healthy diet. If you have one of each of these groups in each of your meals, you are eating healthy. For instance, lasagna, could be prepared with all of the food groups in mind. Ground turkey, hamburger, or chicken can be browned and added to your pasta sauce for your meat group. The pasta sauce contains tomatoes, which are from the fruit group, and vegetables can be added to the sauce for your vegetable group. The cheese is part of the dairy group and the lasagna itself is part of the grains group. Even sweets can have several food groups in it, apple pie is a good example because of the fruit and grains it contains. Adding a scoop of ice cream will add the dairy group to the dish.

Another thing to consider in maintaining a healthy diet is to consider exercising to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Exercise can also be as complex or as simple as you want to make it. You don’t have to join a gym or get a trainer to get in some great exercise. For instance, you could take the stairs instead of the elevator, parking your car a little further away in the parking lot when you are shopping will encourage a brisk walk, using canned food in your cupboards as weights can build your muscles, or even playing in the park with a child.

Gyms are great if you want to exercise on a treadmill or even practice yoga. They can also be a great place to meet some new people that encourage your healthy lifestyle. This can be important to you because positive people tend to spread it around wherever they go. And that will only want you to do more for yourself. So that can’t be a bad thing. These are just a few ways to keep your diet simple to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Creativity is the best way to keep great eating habits and exercise in your life. Here’s to having a happy and simple lifestyle.
Kimberley Linstruth-BeckomFounder of Writers With Chronic DiseaseWriterswithchronicdisease-owner@yahoogroups.com

Author and Publisher Kimberley Linstruth-Beckom www.kimberleylinstruth-beckom.com




Don’t Hibernate This Winter:

Tips for Exercising During the Winter Holiday Months


Baby, it’s cold outside – but that shouldn’t stop you from staying active this winter! The Meriden Health Department’s Meriden Movers program encourages residents to keep active despite the cold weather. Exercising when it is cold outside may take a little extra motivation, and you may need to adjust your fitness goals as outside activity becomes limited. Sticking with your exercise program over the winter will make it much easier to pick up the pace again once the weather warms up.


Here are a few tips to make exercising easier as the weather gets colder:


Make sure you warm up by stretching or doing some light activity for at least 10 minutes before exercising, shoveling snow, or beginning a more strenuous physical activity. A warm-up will prepare your body for exercise and loosen tight muscles. Also, make sure to do at least a 10 minute cool down to prevent injury.


Avoid exercising in extreme cold temperatures or dangerous icy conditions. Instead, head inside for mall walking or pop an exercise video in your VCR.


If you exercise outside, dress in layers. Layering clothes under a windproof and waterproof jacket will help maintain body heat and can help you avoid frostbite and hypothermia.


Continue to wear sunscreen in the winter; the sun is still bright and can damage skin. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.


Remember to wear reflective gear at night if outside after dark.

Stay hydrated. Your body needs plenty of fluids during cold weather, too. Carry a water bottle when exercising.

When exercising outdoors, tell a family member or friend where you are going and what time they should expect you back. Consider carrying a cell phone in case of an emergency.

As always, if you've been sedentary or have health problems, check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

The Meriden Health Department’s Meriden Movers community walking program encourages all residents to walk for better health. For more information on the Meriden Movers program or more tips on exercising during the winter months please contact Lea Crown, Health Educator, at 630-4238.




MidState Medical Center’s Cancer Center Receives High Honors

MidState Medical Center’s Cancer Center is pleased to announce it has received a three-year approval award with commendations in five areas from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC). Receiving care at a CoC-approved cancer center ensures that patients will have access to comprehensive services from prevention to support, all delivered by a multidisciplinary team that specializes in superior care. Approval also reinforces we have the latest equipment and knowledge of ongoing clinical trials and new treatment options. It is a reminder that patients in our community will obtain excellent care, education and support close to home.

As Abbi Bruce, MidState’s Director of the Cancer Center puts it, “We have met the vigorous standards required for a high performing program with the focus on quality patient care in the areas of prevention, early diagnosis, state-of-the-art treatment, rehabilitation, psychosocial support and end of life care. This designation means that we have not only met all of the standards, but have exceeded in five areas.”

These five areas include offering three or more prevention or early detection programs each year and making two improvements that directly affect patient care.

Abbi credits her entire team for the accomplishment: “We were able to achieve this status because of the wonderful, committed members of our healthcare team, including the physicians and staff of the Cancer Center and Pavilion B.”

About The Cancer Center

MidState makes expert, comprehensive cancer care available close to home. Accredited by the American College of Surgeons as a Comprehensive Community Cancer Center, MidState's cancer care program offers a full range of diagnostic, treatment, education, and support services in one convenient location. Patients benefit from our integrated, patient-focused approach, which includes Weekly Cancer Conferences where physicians and other clinicians gather to discuss each patient’s needs and progress and decide on next steps.

In addition to advanced, comprehensive care with state-of-the-art technology, MidState Medical Center is committed to providing its cancer patients and their families with the highest level of personal support possible. For patients, caregivers, and other family members, we offer a number of programs designed to help overcome the challenges of cancer and assist patients in their return to wellness.

About MidState Medical Center

In quarterly patient satisfaction surveys (conducted by an independent, national research company), MidState consistently rates among the top hospitals in Connecticut and the nation. Conveniently located just minutes off Rte. 691 in Meriden, CT, MidState offers free and safe parking, as well as private inpatient rooms. Services include general surgery, emergency medicine, MidState Medical Group Walk-in Center for urgent care needs, and state-of-the-art care in centers dedicated to Cancer Care, Wound and Hyperbaric Care, Family Birthing, Sleep Care, Digestive Health, Pain Management, and Cardiac Care.

For information, call 203 694 8200, or visit www.midstatemedical.org. To find a MidState Doctor, call: 1 866 MMC 5678



JUAN A. FIGUEROA RECOGNIZED BY THE HARTFORD BUSINESS JOURNAL AS “HEALTH CARE HERO”

Before the year closed, the Hartford Business Journal, the region’s largest business publication, named Juan A. Figueroa, the president of Universal Health Care Foundation of Connecticut, as one of its 2007 “Health Care Heroes” for his contribution to the advancement of health care in our state (see Journal story attached).

Gail Lebert, publisher of the Hartford Business Journal, said, “"We are proud to recognize the contributions of Juan as one of the Hartford Business Journal's 2007 Health Care Heroes.” lauds

“As a champion of universal health care for all residents, he works tirelessly in promoting health care for all state residents, especially for the uninsured and the underinsured,” Lebert said.

Figueroa, a former state legislator, civil rights attorney and assistant attorney general, has led the foundation for the past five years. In that time, he and his staff have worked to include all state residents in the universal health care debate. As part of its work, the foundation has funded numerous Connecticut-specific studies to better inform that debate. And in 2007, the foundation awarded more than $2.5 million in grants for health care advocacy to diverse groups such as businesses, chambers of commerce, labor and faith- based organizations.

“In the end, everyone will have to come together to find a solution that meets the needs of all of Connecticut’s residents,” said Figueroa.

Universal Health Care Foundation was established in 2000. Its mission is to serve as a catalyst to engage people and communities in shaping a health system that provides universal access to quality health care and promotes health in Connecticut.



Help! I’m Sick. How do I handle my diabetes?

Runny nose. Upset stomach. Whatever illness it is, it can make you feel miserable. It is hard enough to be under the weather but it is even more difficult to handle being sick if you have diabetes.

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), people with diabetes who develop an illness are at risk for serious complications if they don’t take care of their diabetes. Blood glucose levels can increase or decrease to dangerous levels if left unchecked. Ketones, a waste product created when the body begins to use stored fat for energy, can build up, especially in those with type 1 diabetes, if a person does not take insulin at regular intervals. Left unmonitored, high ketone levels can lead to ketoacidosis, which can lead to coma or death.

“People with diabetes have special considerations when they are under the weather,” commented Robert Smith, Executive Director of the American Diabetes Association in Connecticut. “It is important to have a plan with your health care team in place before you become sick, to avoid getting worse. It is also critical to get a flu shot every year to potentially avoid getting sick all together”.

The American Diabetes Association offers tips to manage diabetes if you are under the weather:

·Check, please! – Check blood glucose levels every 3-4 hours. Also, if you have been instructed by your health care team, check for ketones in your urine every few hours.

·Don’t stop insulin or medications – Unless your health care provider tells you otherwise, continue taking insulin to balance out the battle your body’s stress hormones are fighting.

·Nourish a cold – Even if you have lost your appetite, it is important to try to eat. The ADA recommends 15 grams of carbohydrates every hour or so.

Stay hydrated – If you are vomiting or have diarrhea, or have a fever, try to drink a cup of fluid each hour to prevent dehydration. If your blood glucose level is too high, try sugar-free liquids like water, tea, or broth. If your blood glucose level is low, try drinking liquids with approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates in them, such as ½ cup of apple juice or 1 cup of milk.

·OTCs? – Talk to your health care team before taking any over-the-counter cold or flu medicines. Some medicines can raise your blood glucose or blood pressure levels.

·Call the Doctor – Contact your health care provider if there is a rise in ketones or if there are ketones in your urine for more than 12 hours; if you are vomiting or have diarrhea for more than six hours; if you have a fever that keeps going up or one that lasts more than a day; if you are having abdominal pain, or if you cannot control your blood glucose levels.
For more information, contact the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES or visit www.diabetes.org. Information is available in English and Spanish.



Application assistance for HUSKY

EAST WINDSOR, CT (January 24, 2008)—Application assistance for families interested in HUSKY insurance for their children is available from Allied Community Resources in East Windsor. HUSKY—Healthcare for UninSured Kids and Youth—is for children under 19. In some cases, parents or caregiver adults may also qualify for coverage.“Children in families at all income levels can qualify for HUSKY,” according to Michael Helechu, Allied’s HUSKY Outreach Program director. “In fact,” he notes, “more than 200,000 children in working families in Connecticut are covered by HUSKY.” In addition to working with families, Allied is reaching out to small employers across the entire state that may not be offering health insurance to their employees’ dependents. Anyone interested in more information about HUSKY should contact Allied Community Resources at (860) 749-8833, or toll-free at 1-877-HUSKY-01. There is no charge for this service and all contacts are strictly confidential. Foreign language assistance is available.For general information about HUSKY, visit www.huskyhealth.com or call 1-877-CT-HUSKY.



Cancer care is only a click away

The Cancer Center at MidState now has its own unique URL on the web. By visiting the new site, you’ll find detailed information on early cancer detection and diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and patient and family support programs. Best of all, everything you need to know can be found in this one convenient location. We are proud of our Cancer Center and its ability to offer our patients comprehensive cancer care close to home. Read about our integrated, patient-focused approach and our efforts in prevention, education, and outreach. Visit us today at www.midstatecancercenter.com.






Body. Mind. Spirit. MidState treats them all.

We believe in caring for more than just the physical. In addition to the traditional medical services we provide, MidState Medical Center also offers patients non-invasive complementary therapies designed to promote healing and speed recovery. Our complementary therapies include:

Soft Touch Relaxation Rubs
Provided by volunteers who are specially trained by a certified massage therapist, soft touch relaxation rubs to a patient’s hands and feet improve circulation, relieve anxiety, increase endorphins, and are simply soothing.

Reiki Therapy
This Japanese technique used to relieve pain, muscle tension, and overall stress works by releasing blocked energy and recreating the body’s natural state of balance. Offered on a requested basis, certified volunteers channel Universal Life Energy by placing their hands at various points of the body.

Pet Therapy
Trained and certified by the National Pet Therapy Organization, pet therapy dogs visit patients and provide comfort and support to those who may feel lonely or otherwise may have no visitors. Bestowed with the Canine Good Citizen Award, visits from these dogs can reduce anxiety, loneliness, and blood pressure and may help motivate withdrawn patients to be more involved in their treatment.

Music Therapy
Several times a week, musicians perform for patients, family members and visitors live in the hospital Galleria. Music therapy has been shown to alleviate patients’ pain, counteract depression, promote movement for physical rehabilitation, calm or induce sleep, reduce fear, lesson muscle tension, and encourage relaxation.

Art Therapy
Offered two times per month, the art therapy program helps people affected by cancer find strength, hope and peace through creative expression.

Pilates
To assist breast cancer survivors in their return to wellness, this modified exercise class is offered each Thursday to improve balance, coordination, breathing and circulation.

Focus on Healing
An effective therapeutic program of exercise and movement, this weekly dance program is open to anyone who has experienced breast cancer and is designed to help women experience total body movement and ease adjustment to a new body image.

Acupuncture
Practiced in Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years, board-certified medical acupuncturist, Jordan Goetz, M.D., offers acupuncture at the MidState Medical Group Walk-In Center to promote general well being and treat a variety of illnesses. Acupuncture improves the body’s functioning through natural healing by stimulating nerves, releasing the body’s natural painkillers, and modifying the way pain signals are received. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the Walk-In Center at 203-284-9099.



Clean your hands, Cover your cough

Clean hands are the single most important factor in preventing the spread of germs. And with flu season upon us, you need to protect yourself from getting sick. Alcohol-based handrubs are convenient when you can’t get to a sink or when your hands aren’t visibly dirty. When your hands are visibly dirty, performing a soap and water handwash is preferred.

Here is your step-by-step guide to performing an effective handwash:
Wet hands with water, apply soap and rub hands together vigorously for at least 15 seconds.

Rinse under a continuous stream of warm running water and dry with a disposable towel.

To turn off the faucet, a paper towel should be used as a barrier between the clean hand and the faucet handle.

Another simple but efficient way to prevent the spread of illness is by covering your cough. Doing this correctly can ward off influenza and other respiratory illnesses. Some tips to remember:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue every time you cough or sneeze.

Throw the tissue in a wastebasket.

If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve (elbow area). This minimizes the spread of germ-carrying droplets. Make sure to turn or step away from people when sneezing or coughing.

If you cough or sneeze into your hands or handle a tissue that is dirty, always clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.


MidState Ready

MidState Medical Center takes emergency preparedness seriously and thinks you should too. One of the most important things you can do to prepare for a potential disaster is organize an emergency supply kit. The United States Department of Homeland Security suggests that there be three days worth of supplies in your kit.

Some basic items for a kit include one gallon of water per person for each day (drinking and sanitation), non-perishable food and can opener, battery-powered or hand crank radio, flashlight and extra batteries, first-aid kit, whistle to signal for help, dusk mask to filter contaminated air, plastic sheeting and duct tape for shelter-in-place, moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation, wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, and local maps.

To learn more, visit MidState Ready at www.midstatemedical.org.



Blood Pressure Basics

Blood pressure is the measure of the force of your blood against the walls of your arteries. Ideal blood pressure should be below 140/90. If high blood pressure is left untreated, it can damage your blood vessels without you knowing or feeling it. Damaged blood vessels can lead to heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease.

Tips on how to lower high blood pressure:

Quit smoking

Lose weight—it is the best way to lower blood pressure

Make dietary changes by eating more fruits and veggies

Cut back on salt. Use spices, herbs, or lemon to flavor foods.

Limit alcohol intake

Take blood pressure pills when prescribed by your health care provider
Registered dieticians at MidState Medical Center can help you lower your blood pressure by working with you to customize a meal plan that best meets your needs. To schedule an appointment, call 694-8782.



Tips to Reduce GERD Symptoms

Frequent heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD in adults, and anyone experiencing heartburn more than twice a week may suffer from GERD. Other symptoms include dry cough, asthma-like symptoms, or trouble swallowing.

Medications and lifestyle changes may help reduce your symptoms. Tips include quitting smoking, losing weight, eating small meals, and avoiding lying down for three hours after a meal.

Common foods to avoid: Citrus fruits, Chocolate, Alcohol, Caffeine, Fried foods, Garlic and onions, Mint flavorings
Spicy foods,Tomato-based foods


If you’ve been using antacids for more than two weeks, it’s time to see your doctor. Contact the Digestive Health Center at MidState Medical Center, 694-8585 for expert, personalized care.



Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common, treatable lung disease that affects the air passages and makes breathing difficult. About 12 million Americans have it, and another 12 million may have COPD and not know it. Certain conditions raise the likelihood of getting COPD, such as:

Being a current or former smoker

Long term or heavy exposure to dusts, fumes, or chemicals that irritate the lungs

A genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency

Early detection and treatment can slow the progress of the disease and improve quality of life. Spirometry is one of the best and most common lung function tests. The test is done with a spirometer, a machine that measures how well your lungs function, records the results, and displays them on a graph for your doctor. Your doctor will read the results to assess how well your lungs are working and whether or not you have COPD.
Breast Cancer Awareness

American Cancer Society research published in The John Hopkins Medical Letter suggests that women with a high lifetime risk for breast cancer should get an annual MRI in addition to a mammogram.
Factors that increase risk include:
Strong family history, particularly a mother or sister with the disease
Mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
Parent, child, or sibling with a mutated BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
Hormonal, menstrual and childbirth histories
Results of a prior biopsy may suggest a higher risk
Radiation treatment to the chest for Hodgkin’s disease between the ages 10 and 30
Call 203-694-8984 to schedule your annual MRI at MidState.



Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is marked by impaired blood flow from the heart to the extremities’ muscles and organs. Arteries narrowed or blocked by fatty deposits (artherosclerosis) is the most prevalent cause of PAD. Pains in the thigh or calf are common symptoms and occur because the working muscles need more blood. Risk factors for PAD include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, cigarette smoking, and older age. However in many instances, it can be treated successfully.

Using Medications Correctly

Experts report that 50% of all patients make potentially dangerous mistakes when taking their medications. Here are some tips to follow. Keep track of the names (both generic and brand names) and dosages of any medications you take. If you need large print directions, ask. If the directions are confusing, ask your doctor or pharmacist for an explanation. Even if you don’t receive special instructions, avoid common medicine mistakes like crushing or chewing medications without checking with your doctor or measuring doses with a kitchen spoon instead of a measuring spoon. Ask about the potential for drug interactions. Even a glass of grapefruit juice can hinder the effectiveness of certain medication. Keep on the directed dosage schedule for best results.



Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States. Approximately 220,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. Prostate cancer is diagnosed by a blood test known as a PSA, or prostate specific antigen test. High PSA levels can indicate if there is potentially cancerous problem with your prostate.

There are several steps you can take to lower your risk of prostate cancer including eating a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables and getting moderate levels of exercise on most days of the week. Tomatoes, soy products, garlic, and green tea are some specific foods that may reduce your risk.

For men who have prostate cancer, MidState Medical Center offers a prostate cancer support group every other month. Men and their partners typically meet to discuss topics such as coping skills, nutrition, side effects of treatment, and sexuality. For more information on MidState’s prostate cancer support group, please call 203-694-8353.



Heart Disease Risk Factors


Heart disease is the leading killer of both men and women in the United States and slightly more women than men die of the disease each year. There are no “standard” symptoms for a serious cardiac event. In men, the signs can be chest pain or pressure, numbness, shortness of breath, dizziness, palpitations, nausea, and sweating, or sever indigestion. Women may have more atypical symptoms, such as indigestion or gas-like pain, unexplained weakness or fatigue, or discomfort or pain between the shoulder blades.

The Heart Center at MidState is a comprehensive program that coordinates the resources of the Hospital, the skills of our cardiologists, plus advanced procedures and technologies to meet new, national standards of treatment. The Heart Center offers our patients the highest levels of care in the more personalized setting of a community hospital.



Tips on Preparing for a Doctor’s Visit

The combination of limited appointments, complicated medical issues, and apprehension about doctors, tests, and illnesses can make any doctor’s visit stressful. That’s why, preparing ahead of time can optimize your appointment and help you receive the best care. First, prioritize. Cover the two to three most important topics or worries first, so you have enough time for a full discussion. Remind the doctor of any ongoing conditions or recent medical or life events that he or she should be aware of. Write down a list of questions and all the medications you take, and bring it with you. Ask the doctor how much time he or she has with you so you can respect his or her schedule.
Patient/Medication Safety

For your safety, always tell your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider about the products you are taking, including herbal remedies, non-prescription medicines, and prescription drugs. This is especially important if you are taking “blood thinning” drugs, or have cancer, HIV, or other life-threatening conditions.

MidState Medical Center offers wallet medication cards to help patients and community members track their medication use and dosage. Information regarding immunizations, doctors, allergies, and pharmacies can also be tracked. Call 203-694-8733 for a wallet medication card or visit our Web site at http://www.midstatemedical.org/HealthInformation/Medication.sdpx to print one at home.





SENIOR CENTERS ARE WELLNESS CENTERS!

The National Council on the Aging has used this slogan for many years to let people know that senior centers are a great place for fitness and wellness activities. Combined with our on-site LaPlanche Clinic, sponsored by MidState Medical Center, we put a strong emphasis on the value of regular exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle. Classes are offered free for Meriden seniors 55+ on the lower level of the Senior Center according to the following schedule:

Gentle Aerobics, Myrta Clark and staff Aerobics for seniors set to music.
Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 11:00 – 11:30 AM

Sit Down/Tone Up, Jennie Padick A videotape chair exercise program.
Monday 10:30 – 11:00 AM

Smart Choice Aerobics Aerobics for seniors set to music.
Tuesday, Thursday 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Yoga, Donna Sause Regular yoga for managing stress.
Friday, 9:30 – 10:15 AM

Physical Fitness, Rocky Gelonese Easy chair exercises suitable for all.
Tuesday, Friday 10:30 – 11:00 AM
Thursday 10:15 – 10:45 AM

Weight Training Fitness class using one and two pound weights.
Tuesday, 11:00 – 11:30 AM

Line Dancing, Jim Gregory Learn some dance steps and enjoy the music.
Tuesday, 1:30 – 2:15 PM

Tai-Chi Gong, Rich Hamel
Tuesday, Thursday, 1:30 – 2:15 PM

Flowing movements blend body and mind.

Chair Dancing, Ellie Dessureau
Thursday 10:45 – 11:15 AM
Chair exercises with music.

Strength and Tone for Seniors, Karen Zeoli
Thursday, 12:45 – 1:30 PM Active fitness class using weights and music.


Learn how “Senior Centers are Wellness Centers” and join us for some of these fitness classes this week. No pre-registration is required and class participants must be residents of Meriden age 55+. See how the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center can help you get fit and be healthy in 2008! For further information or any questions you may have just give us a call at 237-0066. We hope to see you here soon!




Air Pollution

By Eloise Hudd, Wallingford Health Department

There are many activities that can have adverse effects on the air we breathe. These activities include driving cars, trucks and buses; burning coal, oil, and wood; and manufacturing chemicals. Air pollution can even come from smaller, everyday activities such as dry cleaning, filling your car with gas, and degreasing and painting operations. These activities add gases and particles to the air we breathe. When these gases and particles accumulate in the air in high enough concentrations, they can harm us and our environment.

Air pollution is a concern for all of us. The average adult breathes over 3,000 gallons of air every day. Children breathe even more air per pound of body weight and are more susceptible to air pollution. Many air pollutants, such as those that form urban smog and toxic compounds, remain in the environment for long periods of time and are carried by the winds hundreds of miles from their origin. Many people live in areas where urban smog, very small particles, and toxic pollutants pose serious health concerns. People exposed to high enough levels of certain air pollutants may experience burning in their eyes, an irritated throat, or breathing difficulties. Long-term exposure to air pollution can cause cancer and long-term damage to the immune, neurological, reproductive, and respiratory systems. In extreme cases, it can even cause death.

Air Quality Index - Actions to Protect You and Your Family

The AQI is an index for reporting daily air quality. It tells you how clean or polluted your air is, and what actions you should take to decrease your chance for potential health effects. The AQI suggests various changes in your daily activities (for example, exercise) depending on the level of pollution and your health status.

The AQI is calculated based on levels of five major air pollutants regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency under the Clean Air Act: ground-level ozone, particle pollution (also known as particulate matter), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.

Particulate Matter (PM) Air Pollution

Particle pollution, also called particulate matter or PM, is a complex mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets in the air. When breathed in, these particles can reach the deepest regions of the lungs. Exposure to particle pollution is linked to a variety of significant health problems, ranging from aggravated asthma to premature death in people with heart and lung disease. Fine PM is more of a health concern than coarse PM because fine particles can easily reach the deepest parts of the lungs. Sources of fine particulate matter include diesel-powered vehicles, wood-burning stoves, outdoor wood-burning furnaces, power plants, and home heating oil combustion.



The Meriden- Wallingford branch of the American Red Cross

American Red Cross programs and services are not just about the pints of blood we collect, the numbers of classes we run, the number of medical transportation rides we provide, or the bags of food we collect and distribute. They are created and implemented for the people that they serve, and that is why so many wonderful people take their time to volunteer here.

Training in First Aid, CPR, and AED is about being prepared to save a life in an emergency, just as seven USPS workers did in Wallingford on July 21, 2007 when a manager collapsed after an onset of cardiac arrhythmia. In addition to CPR and First Aid training, we run a swim program for Wallingford residents at the Wallingford Community Pool every summer, as well as Babysitter’s Training classes for youth ages 11-15.

The worth of each donated pint of blood became fully understood by a local Red Cross volunteer when her husband needed 4 pints of blood after becoming severely anemic. The need for blood donors is crucial and constant.

A Food Pantry is located at the Wallingford/Meriden office at 144 South Main St. in Wallingford. Residents of Wallingford who are experiencing a need for this assistance may be eligible to register for this service by presenting a photo ID, as well as proof of residency in Wallingford, (i.e., a current utility bill showing their name and address). Clients can then receive bags of non-perishable food every 30 days. Last year 331 families were served a total of over 6,000 bags of food. Nearly all of the food distributed from here comes from donations. The Pantry is open Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information, contact Judy Namnoum, Community Services Coordinator at (203) 265-6721.

The Medical Transportation program based at the Wallingford/Meriden office serves only residents of Meriden and Wallingford, if they have no other means of transportation to get to their medical appointments. (This does not include any dental or therapy appointments.) Last year our group of over thirty volunteer drivers had driven 174 individuals for a total of 1,085 trips. Riders must be able to get in and out of a car by themselves, and wear a seat belt. All of the vehicles used are Red Cross insured and identifiable. There is no fee for this service. However, any and all donations are welcomed. For more information or to enroll with this service, contact Judy Namnoum at (203) 265-6721

Red Cross disaster relief focuses on meeting people's immediate emergency disaster-caused needs. When a disaster threatens or strikes, the Red Cross provides shelter, food, and health and mental health services to address basic human needs.



WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SWIMMING AND WATER EXERCISE?

Water is an essential part of life: both for our bodies and the earth. Water can also be a terrific way to become fit, regain mobility, strengthen muscles, build endurance, cross-train, and just plain have fun.

The Wallingford Family YMCA offers three main ways to get the benefits of water. Swim lessons aren’t just for kids, they are also for adults and teens who never learned to swim, or had a bad experience in the water they want to overcome. The YMCA has financial assistance available so that every child and adult has the chance to learn to swim. Swim lessons are offered in seven week sessions year- round with summer lessons also being offered twice a week. Connecticut has numerous lakes, ponds, rivers and the Long Island Sound for water recreation, and knowing how to swim opens up many opportunities to enjoy Connecticut waterways. Drowning of adults continues to be in the news; many of these drowning victims either didn’t know how to swim or overestimated their ability. Learning to swim will help prevent some of these drownings from happening this summer. And will make your time on the water safer and more enjoyable!

Lap swimming is another way to get the benefit of swimming. Regular lap swimming builds endurance and muscular strength as well as building cardiovascular fitness. The Wallingford Family YMCA opens its lap pool at 5AM Monday through Saturday, and many days there are four to five swimmers waiting for the lifeguard to arrive! There are lap lanes available throughout most of the day with dedicated times for adults from 11:30AM-1:15PM and from 5:30-6:30PM on the weekdays. The CRAZY Masters is a group of lap swimmers connected to the Y who meet three times a week and swim regular competitive swimming workouts designed by each other. Lap swimmers can compete in USA Masters Swim meets if they become affiliated with that organization. Often lap swimmers are triathletes working on this portion of their race. Camaraderie develops with lap swimmers who come at the same time.

Water Exercise classes are the third way to get the benefit water offers. Water exercise can be non-threatening and the participant does not need to know how to swim to get the benefits. Because the body is supported by the buoyancy of the water, it is a great medium for persons suffering from a variety of joint pains to begin to exercise. Water provides resistance so that even small movements will improve muscle tone. For persons with chronic illnesses, or who are just beginning to exercise, a water exercise class offers the chance to build a social network as well as build an exercise routine. The Wallingford Family YMCA offers four different water exercise classes. Each class has its own personality and emphasis; one class more geared to flexibility and stretching, another more aerobic, some are set to music. Classes are offered both in the daytime and in the evenings. The instructors are well trained and know how to help someone adapt the exercises to fit their specific needs. Water exercise can be as strenuous as the person doing it wants it to be. So check our website www.wallingfordymca.org, for details on class time and descriptions. Anyone may try these classes with the purchase of a guest pass, or they can sign up for a seven week set of water exercise classes. These classes are free to Wallingford Family YMCA members.

Whenever the YMCA swimming pools are open, a certified lifeguard is on duty. The benefits of swimming and water exercise are numerous – both physically and socially. So hurry up, find your swim suit and join the fun!
Pam VanderWeele, Aquatic Director, Wallingford Family YMCA.



Services of the Wallingford Health Department

When Andy first told me he wanted to do a newsletter dedicated to health and Wellness, I thought what a terrific idea! Of course then I realized that I would have to write LOTS of info to make sure we covered everything that we do and naturally we always think we have more time so why do it now. UGH! Big mistake on my part! So now I’m going to tackle the subject by topic matter. But first I included a summary chart of who we are and what we do.

Who are we: WALLINGFORD HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Where are we: 45 S. Main St., Rm. 215
How to reach us: Phone: 203-294-2065

Fax 203-294-2064
Email: wlfdhealth@sbcglobal.net

The Health Department provides all services required by the CT General Statutes and enforces both CT State Regulations and Local Ordinances governing public health and local environmental health. Public Health, as the title implies, are issues in the community that have the potential to impact the general public. By definition Public Health is the community assessment of physical, mental, and social well being and not merely the absence of disease. The table below is a summary of the services we provide:

Environmental Health Functions
- Food Protection, Licensing and Food Handler Education
- Subsurface Sewage (Septic) Inspections and Permitting
- Private Well Water Permitting and Approval
- Lyme Disease, Rabies and zoonotic surveillance
- General Nuisance Complaints
- Public Swimming Pool Registration and Inspections
- Beauty/Barber/Nail Salon Registrations and Inspections
- Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention and Risk Assessment

Health Statistics, Surveillance and Monitoring
Public Health Preparedness Activities
Contract Services Provided by Wallingford VNA

Confidential Communicable Disease Education and Surveillance
Women Infant and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program
Pediatric Dental Health
Immunizations and Well Child Clinics
Blood Lead Screening
Community Support Groups


The Health Dept. is available to provide educational presentations upon request

OK, so now that you have the readers digest version of who we are, I’ll attempt to explain in further detail.

Food Protection Program: Currently we have 265 licensed and inspected food establishments in Wallingford. This number includes school cafeterias and community organizational and non-profit kitchens. Each facility is classified based on the amount of food handling that occurs. For example, a convenience store with prepackaged food and coffee is considered a Class I and is inspected one time per license year. A full scale restaurant is considered a Class IV and is inspected four times per year.

In addition to our routine unannounced inspections, we will conduct an investigation if we receive a complaint. Complaints may involve persons suspected of getting sick, which basically means a lot of work for us to try to determine if in they did get sick from food consumed at the food establishment. Most people think of the last place they ate as the culprit, but when we get a phone call involving a potential food related illness, we have a questionnaire that includes getting a 3 day food intake history. Can you remember what you ate (including snacking) 2 days ago? It can be very complicated trying to unravel the mystery of what you ate, where you ate, when you ate, and who else ate the same thing! Of course, we also use laboratory samples of both food and stools to try to confirm if in fact the illness was food related.

Unfortunately, we also get calls from disgruntled employees that try to get us involved when we really don’t need to be involved. We also get some complaints that even the best comedy writer couldn’t make up! I received a call from someone saying that a certain restaurant we capturing pigeons and serving them as chicken! So I went to the restaurant (unannounced) and spoke with the owner. Needless to say, he was shocked! But he understood why the person might have called and he was very embarrassed by the misinterpretation of what they saw. He went on to show me a pigeon that had a broken wing. He found it by his dumpster, so he scooped it up, made a brace out of a Popsicle stick, and actually had the pigeon in a pet carrier in his office trying to nurse it back to health. You know what they say, no good deed goes unpunished! So I told him to take the pigeon home or contact wildlife rehab professional. Even though his intentions were good, his actions probably cost him a customer.

As you can see by the example, it’s very important that we have caller identification when we receive complaints. It’s important not only for our follow-up (what if there really is a food related issue) but also so we can contact the caller after our investigation. Names of the complainants are never released. In fact, we have legal authority not to release the persons name who called us as violations of the CT Public Health Code are criminal misdemeanors, which we means we are acting with police powers and must protect the complainant from possible retaliation or retribution. This works both ways in that we also can not legally release information involving a foodborne outbreak UNLESS it serves to protect the public. What does that mean? For example, if we are investing an outbreak and think that others may have been exposed that require treatment or medical attention, or if we suspect that the public may have food from the establishment (similar to all the recall notices from the FDA) we will announce it to the public. We also can’t release data for the purpose of legal action on behalf of either the restaurant or someone who may have gotten ill. Our role is to protect the public, not assist in legal action.


Subsurface Sewage: When I teach students, I always ask them if they know where does the waste go when they flush a toilet. Does it go to a waste water treatment facility or do you have your own treatment system, AKA on-site septic? Our department permits and inspects on-site septic systems. I actually enjoy this part of the job as it can be challenging especially when dealing with a repair system on a difficult lot. What? Let me explain in a bit more detail. Septic systems are living filters, formed with anaerobic bacteria that actually process the wastes and break them down, or in simple terms, they act as filters. Septic systems consist of a septic tank (a hollow chamber that hold the solid wastes) and leaching fields (the liquid or effluent trickles out of the tank into the fields). Most people don’t realize that they need to treat their system as a living system or they can cause a premature failure. I’ll give you an example. Howe many loads of laundry to do you wash at one time? Do you wash a week’s worth or just one or two loads? If you have a septic system, you really need to do only one or two loads at a time. It’s like drinking a gallon of water. You can drink a gallon of water over the course of a day, but can you drink a gallon of water all at one time? Probably not, if you did, you would feel like you were going to explode!


When we do site investigations for septic systems, we do deep test pits and perc tests. Again you ask what? Basically, an excavator will dig a test hole about 7 feet deep so we can observe the soil characteristics to determine if the area is suitable for septic. In other words, do you have a high water table or ledge (solid rock)? If you put a septic system in ground water, you’re going to have a big bath tub or if you install it too close to ledge, the soils won’t have time to treat the bacteria before it seeps along the ledge and maybe into your well. A perc test tells how fast the liquid or effluent will absorb into the surrounding soils. We use both the deep test pit and perc data to determine how large of a system you need and also how to design the system so that it works as intended (to filter and treat your household waste). Probably more information then you needed to know. We have septic guide books available for home owners so you can read in more detail how your system works and the do’s and don’t to make sure it continues to work. Septic systems can be very costly, so it’s worth your effort to educate yourself. A properly functioning septic system is very important when it comes to protecting the ground water from contamination. What a perfect transition to the next topic of what we do.


Private Wells: There are many areas in town that are not served by public drinking water. It’s important that when you need a well, that it’s properly located. There are specific separating distances required to protect the well from known contaminates (like a septic system or oil tank). Our department has many pamphlets for homeowners concerning issues surrounding wells. One important topic is Bacteria in Well Water and Well Water Treatment Systems. It’s hard to explain that trying to find the source of water contamination (especially e.Coli) is like trying to find a needle in a hay stack! Your well draws water from an aquifer, not surface water. It’s possible that the aquifer is impacted from activity a half mile or more away. The most important things to know about your well are: Location, is water-tight well cap installed, is the well cap above grade, and test your well yearly for bacteria. The Health Department also has a video describing how wells are installed so you can be an educated consumer.
OK, time for another humorous story on water. We received a phone call from a resident very upset because the “Town turned off her hot water”. Yup, that’s what I said. She still had water but she only had cold water. Hopefully you see the humor as well. The Town doesn’t supply hot water. Water is heated by your own water heater.

Lyme Disease, Rabies and zoonotic surveillance

You don’t have to live in the woods or have deer in your backyard to get Lyme Disease. Lyme Disease is caused by the bite of an infected deer tick. Ticks prefer the deer but they will “travel” on the white footed mouse or feed on birds. That’s how they can get to your yard without ever seeing a deer! The latest research indicates that the tick needs to feed or stay attached to you for up to 24 hours in order to transmit Lyme Disease. Have you heard the saying “happy as a fat tick on a dog”? The just means the tick is well fed (and apparently content but I don’t know that for sure). If you find a tick on you, remove it with tweezers, put it in a baggy with a blade of grass, and bring it to us. We’ll have it tested by the CT Agricultural Experiment Station to see if it actually has the spirochete that causes Lyme Disease. I have heard some folks say to remove the tick with a lit match or cover it in Vaseline. Do you know what happens if you do either of those things? Well first you’ll burn yourself and the second method will result in a shiny slick tick. We have tick removal kits and tick identifications cards free for residents.


Rabies and zoonotic surveillance? Zoonotic means that the illness is able to be transferred from animals to people. If you have a dog or cat, you need to make sure it’s current on rabies vaccine. rabies is a deadly virus. It’s important to teach children not to pet a dog/cat unless the owner tells them it’s OK. I know most people will feed a stray (myself included) but it’s really not a good idea as we don’t know what illness they may carry. One of my favorite move lines is from the Pink Panther. Inspector Cluseau asks a man if his dog bites (said with an English accent), and the man says “No”. So the Inspector reaches down to pet the dog and dog attacks his hand! The inspector said to the man, “I thought you said your dog doesn’t bite” and the man said “I did, but that’s not my dog”. Classic. Our department coordinates with Animal Control, local Veterinarians and medical providers concerning potential rabies expose by animal bites.

General Nuisance Complaints:

I’m sure most of us have our own definition what a nuisance is, but the Public Health Code lists items that are a Public Health nuisance, things that have the potential to impact the general public. The regulation also gives us broad authority in defining a nuisance. The first thing we ask residents when they call is if they talked with their neighbor to try to resolve the issue. I’m always amazed how little we talk to our neighbors. I guess we would rather adopt the adage that “fences make good neighbors” as opposed to “love they neighbor”, but that’s another topic for discussion!


Seriously, if you have an issue that can’t be resolved and it’s creating a public health issue for you, please call. One example would be the neighbor that refuses to put their garbage out for removal and instead will save it for a month on the side of their house. Eventually it will start to smell and attract strays or rats. However, if your neighbor decides to place an old toilet in the front yard and use it as a planter, it maybe in bad taste, but bad taste isn’t against the public health code. I know this as we previously received a phone call involving a potted potty and a neighborhood dispute. My advice, you don’t have to “love thy neighbor” but at least be civil!

Public Swimming Pool Registration and Inspections

If you live at a condo with a pool, by definition, its a public pool. A public pool is a pool that is used by more than one private home. We register and inspect public pools for the safety of the public. We make sure that proper safety equipment is available pool side and that the water chemistry is safe for swimming. OK, another true and somewhat humorous story. Years ago, I was inspecting a condo pool on the Friday before July 4th, and it was really hot so there we LOTS of kids in the pool. As I was getting ready to hand my inspection form to the pool attendant, a kid came up and announced that someone had used the pool as a potty. Sure enough, it was like the scene from Caddy Shack and the floating candy bar, but it wasn’t a candy bar! I had no choice but to close the pool. Of course the pool staff used a mega phone to tell everyone to get out as the Health Dept was closing the pool. I thought I was going to need a body guard to get out of there! The pool had to be super chlorinated and allowed to go through one complete filtration cycle (usually 8-10 hours), which means the pool is closed for the rest of the day. Now did I mention it was the Friday before July 4th? Well someone needed to come back on the 4th to verify the chemical levels in order to reopen the pool, but since it was the 4th, the department would not authorize the over time, and the pool stayed closed until Tuesday! Now that was a phone ringing experience! Moral of the story, no diapers are allowed in public pools due to potential leakage. Prevention is the key to good public health (and a healthy swim).


Beauty/Barber/Nail Salon Registrations and Inspections

The CT General Statutes requires that we inspect salons at least annually for general cleanliness. Serious infection may occur if clean tools are not used, especially if there is an accidental cut to the finger or toe area during a manicure or pedicure. Dirty equipment could cause Hepatitis or a systemic bacterial infection. We use a standard checklist during the inspection and verify that those cutting hair are licensed. Did you know CT doesn’t require a license for folks who perform only pedicures or manicures? Or course tattoo and body piercing facilities also don’t require a license or exam. So bottom line is, make sure you are comfortable with the salon, does it look clean, do you they reuse emery boards or towels, do they completely clean the foot basins after every use? Stop by your health department and ask to view the most recent sanitary inspection for the salon. If you’re not comfortable speaking to the manager or worker, pick another salon.


Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention and Risk Assessment

There have been MANY toy recalls this past month for lead in paint. Why are we concerned with lead? Lead has been around since the Roman times. The problem is that lead impacts every organ of the body and can cause serious health concerns. Generally speaking, all homes built before 1978 have the potential to have lead-based paint. However, it is only when the paint becomes defective that it presents an increased risk for lead poisoning. It is imperative that good housekeeping and proper nutrition occur in order to reduce the hazards of lead-based paint and dust. The presence of intact lead-based paint does not automatically mean that your child will be lead poisoned. The CT DPH requires that all children be screened for lead in the blood. There is no “safe” level of lead in the blood, but high levels in young children can impact their ability to learn and develop. If we receive notification from the laboratory or a doctor that someone has an elevated level of lead, we will send educational material and offer to do a free home assessment to help reduce additional exposure. The CT DPH website has lots of information on lead and lead poisoning prevention. The most common areas in the home to have lead-based paint are: kitchen, window areas and exterior paint, especially on the old large front porches. That’s because lead was added to paint to increase its shine and durability (or to make the paint job last longer). Our role is to help identify the source of the lead and protect the child from additional exposure. Homeowners should make all renovations in a lead-safe manner to prevent accidental exposure. Lead-safe manner simply means avoid creating a dust issue such as dry sanding or scraping and make sure all paint chips are removed from the work area and surrounding ground (if you’re doing outside work). Remember, most homes built before 1978 have lead-based paint. You don’t have to chew on paint to get lead poisoning.



Digestive Health

Diagnosing GERD just got easier

Diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) at MidState’s Digestive Health Center is about to get easier for patients this year with the arrival of the Bravo pH Monitoring System, an advanced technology that makes diagnosis more accurate and comfortable.

In order to make a definitive diagnosis for GERD, pH testing of the esophagus is necessary, but many patients avoid testing due to the discomfort of the traditional procedure, in which catheters are inserted through the nose and down the esophagus. The Bravo system is a welcomed alternative that causes patients generally no distress.
Additionally, patients are able to maintain a normal diet and activity level during testing, leading to increased compliance.

“The Bravo system essentially makes testing quicker and easier for patients,” said Gary Cohen, MD, medical director of MidState’s Digestive Health Center.

David Sack, MD, gastroenterologist, explained the procedure: “A probe is briefly inserted into the esophagus and a small pH capsule is attached to the lining. The capsule then sends back radio signals via a pager-sized receiver worn by the patient. Data from the receiver is uploaded to computer software, which allows us to measure acid exposure in the esophagus and determine if symptoms are due to reflux. The capsule falls off after two or three days, and patients naturally pass it.”

The patient-friendly system allows physicians to monitor pH levels for 48 hours, the preferred time frame for classification of GERD. “About one-third of our patients come to us with upper GI issues. This technology adds to our ability to properly diagnose acid problems.”

This year the Digestive Health Center will also acquire new scopes. Likened to a high-definition television, Dr. Sack said, the new scopes will offer better views of the GI tract: “The wider angle views allow us to do procedures more comfortably and efficiently. They’ll be particularly helpful in recognizing colon polyps and changes related to Barrett’s esophagus. ”

Dr. Cohen agrees, “The new scopes increase sensitivity for the detection of small of lesions.”

For more information on the Digestive Health Center, call 203-694-8585.


The Responsibilities of a School Nurse

By Kathy Neelon, RN, School Nurse Coordinator Wallingford School System

Twenty or so years ago you may or may not have had a school nurse in your school, and if you had a school nurse you probably never knew her. These days it would be very unusual to not know your school nurse. The school nurse sees all students at some time throughout the school year. The school nurse’s responsibility is not just to give out band-aids and cough drops, although they do give out plenty of both! School nurses are responsible for developing and implementing individual medical care plans for students with complex medical conditions, educating parents and students about disease management, evaluating and assessing sick and injured students, providing support and referrals for emotionally troubled students, administering medications and assessing the students response to those medications. In addition, they are required to complete State required eye and scoliosis screenings and obtain State required physical exams and sport physicals. All of the above requires tremendous coordination, documentation and keeping track of the proper paperwork from physicians, parents and students. Students must have the proper physicals and immunizations to attend school and participate in sports. When the paperwork is not complete or unclear the nurse spends many, many hours trying to clarify and get the corrected information necessary to keep students safe in school.

The school nurse needs to be a master of multitasking and problem solving. On an average day the school nurse may see 20, 40 or even more students. Breaking down that number translates to seeing a student every 10-15 minutes during the school day. Of course students rarely come in one at a time and there may be 3-6 or more coming in at the same time. The nurse needs to assess the students quickly and determine who needs to be attended to first. The more serious issues get attended to first and then less serious student issues are provided care. This is similar to the triage done at an emergency department. Much time is spent on phone calls trying to contact parents informing them about something that has happened to a student or trying to contact the parent to come pick up an ill student. The school nurse cannot diagnose specific medical conditions but they can make recommendations to physicians and parents based on utilizing their clinical assessment skills.

A clinical assessment is done in response to a specific student complaint(s) or injury. In order to complete this assessment, the nurse may check a student’s temperature, pulse, respirations, blood pressure, listen to the student’s lungs, check blood sugar level, evaluate pupils reaction to light, check ears, assess skin for color, bruising, rashes, lesions and overall appearance. These are only some of the many assessments a school nurse may make to evaluate a student. Based on the clinical assessment of a student, the nurse will decide to either let a student rest, send a student back to class, home, or the emergency department.

The school nurse needs the help of parents to keep students in school healthy. Proper hand washing is the most important intervention that parents can teach their children to decrease the spread of infection. In addition, when children become sick they spread infections easily. Below are some symptoms that would require your child to remain at home until they are symptom free for 24 hours.

Fever: Fever is defined as having a temperature of 100 degrees F or higher. The child must be fever free for a minimum of 24 hours before returning to school.

Vomiting: Two or more times in 24 hour period.

Diarrhea: Runny, watery or bloody stools. The child should be diarrhea free for a minimum of 24 hours before returning to school.

Body Rash With Fever: Body rashes in children can be common. However, if the rash is accompanied by a fever, the child should remain home until the rash is diagnosed or resolves.

Sore Throat: If your child is diagnosed with Strep Throat, the child must be on antibiotics for a minimum of 24 hours before returning to school.

Eye Discharge: Thick mucous or pus draining from the eye, or “Pink Eye”.

Runny Nose And/or Cough: If your child has think yellow or green discharge, or has an excessive uncontrollable cough the child should remain home.

When in doubt regarding an illness, we encourage the student to remain home for the day. This will aid in decreasing illness among all of the school children. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call your school nurse. She is always available to help you or your child and to answer questions. Your school nurse thanks you for your support.


You Can Find Comprehensive Cancer Information All In One Place

The Cancer Center at MidState now has its own unique URL on the Internet. By visiting the new site, you’ll find detailed information on early cancer detection and diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and patient and family support programs. Everything you need to know can be found in this one convenient location. We encourage you to visit the site and read about our integrated, patient-focused approach and our efforts in prevention, education, and outreach. Visit us today at www.midstatecancercenter.com.



Diabetes Management

There are currently 20.8 million adults in the U.S. with diabetes—and nearly one-third of them do not even know it! The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles. The risk for diabetes increases with age, weight gain, high blood pressure and family history. You can take a free risk assessment by visiting http://www.diabetes.org/risk-test.jsp.

If you have diabetes, the Diabetes and Nutrition Center at MidState can give you personalized instruction and support to help you manage your disease effectively. The center is staffed by experienced nurses, dieticians and other health professionals who are Certified Diabetes Educators.

Your diabetes educator will work with you to develop an education plan tailored to your needs, and schedule sessions as needed. You’ll get information you need to take good care of yourself, including how to monitor your blood sugar, plan your meals, use medication properly and more.

To enroll in our diabetes program, you’ll need a written referral from your physician or other health care provider. Services are covered by most insurance plans. Please call us at 203-694-8782 for more information about what we can offer you.


MidState Heart Center

It’s never too early to know your risk for heart disease

A Heart Attack Can Happen When You Least Expect It

“I’m a statistic.” Those were the words of 39-year-old Elmer Gonzalez, a local Meriden resident who suffered a heart attack early last year. Aside from being a diabetic with a family history of heart disease, Elmer was a young, active male of normal weight, who was not the typical heart attack patient.

“The family history was there, but I never thought it would happen to me. I knew what it was like for my parents, so I stayed fit and did what I could to avoid it,” said Elmer.

Unfortunately, Elmer could not avoid the disease that had affected his family for years. After suffering from weeks of what he described as an acid reflux feeling in his chest, he decided to visit his doctor. Several tests revealed that Elmer had severe blockages in three arteries and scar tissue in his lower heart chamber, evidence that a minor heart attack had occurred without him even knowing it. Doctors recommended he undergo an intense five-vessel bypass surgery, the only option to treat his condition.

Our Heart Center Can Get You Back on Track

While his surgery was successful, Elmer still had a long road to recovery. That’s where the expertise of our Heart Center’s cardiac rehabilitation program comes in. For three days per week for 12 weeks, Elmer learned how to manage his heart disease. He and a specially trained nurse started with goal setting, which for Elmer, consisted of continuing education, modifying his diet, and increasing his physical activity.

His program was comprehensive and completely personalized to reflect his needs. Of major concern was his diabetes, which until he came into contact with cardiac rehabilitation, he never monitored correctly. “I took some diabetes classes here and learned to control what I eat, which plays a big factor in heart disease,” explained Elmer.

MidState’s Diabetes Center is part of the Heart Center and specialized advanced practiced registered nurses develop specific education plans to help patients make therapeutic lifestyle changes for their ongoing health and wellness.

Elmer continued, “I also spent one hour a day on the cardio equipment doing the treadmill and bike, lifting light weights, and stretching. In the last three to four months, I’ve lost 25 pounds.”

During Elmer’s workouts, cardiac nurses monitored his heartbeat, blood pressure and other vital signs. Additionally, he was taught how to monitor himself to achieve long-term success.

Elmer graduated from the Heart Center’s program in late October, and while he always did routine walking, he now works out five days per week on his equipment at home.

He attributes MidState’s cardiac rehabilitation program as a major player in his speedy recovery: “I worked with a phenomenal team of nurses who were instrumental in my care. I couldn’t ask for a better group of individuals. When I was going through this, everything was unknown. I thought, one day you’re vibrant and alive, and in a matter of seconds, hours, or days, that could change. The nurses were extremely supportive during my difficult time. I rate them an A+.”

The Heart of the Matter is Prevention

According to MidState cardiologist and medical director of the Acute Coronary Syndrome program, George Spivack, MD, there are a number of factors that can increase your risk of heart disease, including hypertension, smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and as in Elmer’s case, a family history of heart attack and diabetes.

In fact, as Dr. Spivack puts it, “Diabetes is increasingly becoming the single most important risk factor for heart disease in this society. When we look at the cause of death in many diabetes patients, it usually stems from heart disease.”

Yet the general population of people, and even those who have diabetes, doesn’t fully understand the relationship between the condition and heart disease, and how imperative it is to keep diabetes under control. In a recent study, Dr. Spivack said, people with controlled diabetes received tests to assess their risk, and one-fourth of them were completely unaware they had significant heart disease.

These patients and others at general risk need to take greater efforts to prevent the development of coronary artery disease. Director of MidState’s Cardiac Service Line and cardiologist, William Farrell, MD, says, “It all boils down to diet and exercise. Eating non-processed foods that are high in fiber and low in fat makes a difference.” And regular exercise can also offset your risk. What does the term “regular exercise” mean? It means dedicating a specific time of day for working out, above and beyond physical activity that occurs during the course of your normal day.

“Your physical activity doesn’t have to be very aggressive for the purpose of preventing heart disease. It’s dependent on age. If you are young, then moderate exercise should be intense, but if you’re older, moderate may simply mean walking,” stressed Dr. Spivack.

Many heart disease risk factors are silent, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, so if you are concerned with these issues, the important thing to do is see your doctor for a physical.

Specific tests, such as stress tests, can assess the condition of your heart and arteries. Dr. Farrell notes, “Stress tests are a good way to pick up heart artery disease if it’s severe, but the vast majority of heart attacks occur when arteries are only 20% blocked. To pick up artery blockage early, there are non-invasive techniques that allow us to look around the bend of the road and figure out where you’ll be in 10 years.” One of these techniques is a CT scan that measures the calcium content of the arteries, which ultimately has a correlation with the degree of heart disease. A very specific ultrasound can also check the carotid arteries in your neck.

The American Heart Association provides a comprehensive online risk assessment that serves as a stepping-stone in prevention efforts. By age 40, everyone should know their general risk and assess it every five years. To take the assessment, visit www.americanheart.org/riskassessment.


Health and Wellness Education at MidState

MidState Medical Center has a firm commitment to promote healthy living and disease prevention in the communities we serve. We frequently offer free community-wide programming at the hospital or at surrounding organizations. Our health and wellness education includes:

A variety of lectures, support groups, classes and screenings

Providing speakers to area groups

Partnering with businesses, churches, schools, municipalities and community organizations

Taking part in community festivals and events

Specific topics include weight loss surgery seminars, cancer care programs, infant parenting classes, healthy lifestyle education, diabetes management, heart healthy lectures and much more. To view MidState Medical Center health and wellness programming, visit our website at www.midstatemedical.org and click on Upcoming Events.



Find MidState Medical Center in Your Community

MidState Medical Center has offices in Meriden, Cheshire, Wallingford, and Southington to make access to quality health care convenient for our patients. Below are our locations:
MediQuick in Meriden

Part of MidState’s Emergency Services, MediQuick is a walk-in center able to care for minor illnesses and injuries such as sore throat, earache, sinus pain, minor burns, rashes, back pain, the flu or a minor sports injury. In most cases, you can be treated by a doctor and be on your way in less than 35 minutes.

MediQuick is located at 883 Paddock Avenue. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily, except for holidays. Call 203-630-5290.
MidState Medical Group Walk-In Center in Wallingford The MidState Medical Group Walk-In Center offers treatment for a wide range of conditions and illnesses: colds and sore throats, sinus pain and headaches, earaches and fevers, cuts and bruises, muscular aches and pains, sprains and minor fractures, rashes and minor burns, and other conditions. In addition to meeting minor urgent care needs, services include continuing care of chronic diseases, complete annual physicals, pre-operative physicals, and school/camp/sports physicals. Naturally, if you have a major medical emergency, we recommend that you seek treatment at the MidState Medical Center Emergency Department.

The Walk-In Center is conveniently located at 60 Church Street in Wallingford. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday-Friday and 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday. Call 203-284-9099.
MidState Medical Group in Southington

Located at 51 North Main Street, James Seely, MD, and Christina Plantier, PA, provide medical oversight at our Southington office. New patients are welcome and most insurance is accepted. To schedule an appointment, call 860-621-6704.

Diagnostic & Specialty Center of Cheshire Our Diagnostic & Specialty Center is located at 680 South Main Street.

Diagnostic & Specialty Center of Southington
Our Diagnostic & Specialty Center is located at 991 South Main Street.
MidState VNA & Hospice MidState VNA & Hospice offers comprehensive services in homecare, community health, and end-of-life care. Call 203-235-5714 for more information.



Open MRI Makes Diagnosis Comfortable and Efficient


Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional images of the head and body. Doctors use these detailed, clear images to identify and diagnose a wide range of conditions:

Brain tumors, strokes and chronic disorders of the nervous system

Brain abnormalities in people with dementia

Diseases of the pituitary gland

Eye or inner ear tissue abnormalities

Damage caused by heart attack or heart disease

Blood vessel plaques and blockages

Bone and joint damage

Bone and joint infections, injuries, degenerative disorders and tumors

Tumors and functional disorders in organs such as the lungs, liver, pancreas, kidney and spleen

Breast cancer

Reproductive system and bladder problems


Currently, MidState is utilizing an open MRI machine—a new state-of-the-art piece of equipment that make diagnosis faster, more comfortable, and more accurate than traditional MRI technology. What does this mean for our patients? It means they never have to second-guess the quality of their care.


Whereas many dated MRI machines are cramped and make for an uncomfortable procedure, our new advanced mobile open MRI machine can accommodate patients of all shapes and sizes while eliminating the fear of tight spaces and enhancing overall patient comfort.

Acquired last June, the open MRI provides patients with nearly one foot of surrounding free space without comprising image quality. Now a patient up to 550 pounds can receive an MRI that produces clear and detailed images comparable to machines with narrower openings.

In addition to the added accuracy and comfort, MidState’s new open MRI also increases patient convenience. Unlike traditional open MRI machines, our high-field strength open MRI can produce images in 15-20 minutes, not one hour.

The open MRI also becomes a timesaver when considering that some claustrophobic patients need to be sedated for the procedure. An estimated 20% of patients undergoing an MRI deal with some level of discomfort during the scan, and an additional 10% cannot proceed with the MRI due to extreme fear. The open MRI can eliminate the fear of closed-in spaces and the inconvenience associated with sedation, resulting in a faster procedure time for the patient.



The Wallingford Senior Center and What It Offers You!

Accredited by the National Institute of Senior Centers (NISC) a constituent unit of the National Council on Aging (NCOA), located at 238 Washington Street, Wallingford, CT 06492 PHONE 203 265-7753 FAX 203-284-9953 Email: office@wlfdseniorctr.com WEBSITE: www.wlfdseniorctr.com

Administered by the non-profit 501(c)(3) Wallingford Committee on Aging, Inc. with primary funding by the Town of Wallingford, we are open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and for other special events. This beautiful 20,000+ square foot facility, newly opened in 2001, features numerous programs, classes and special events. Services include: Transportation: Two accessible mini-buses for pick up and local trips for qualified elderly Wallingford residents, donations appreciated, advanced reservations required; Health & Wellness: An R.N. from the Wallingford VNA is available daily from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Additional clinics, screenings, and lectures are also offered; Food Services: A nutritious hot lunch, provided by the Elderly Nutrition Project (ENP) is served daily at 11:45 a.m., donation requested, reservations required, call 265-3508. The Lake View Café opens daily from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., fare includes breakfast items and home-style soups and sandwiches, no reservations required. Social Services: Our full-time Social Worker provides information on caregiving and family support; outreach to the homebound; referrals to other agencies; benefits applications for energy assistance, and other available assistance programs. Call for an appointment. Daily Activities for Independence (DAI): This unique program meets three days each week and is designed to serve seniors with mildly reduced cognitive, physical, or psycho-social function by providing support, therapeutic activity, and companionship in a small structured environment. A small fee is charged. Please call our Therapeutic Recreation Director for information and assessment. Fitness: A wide variety of classes including strength training, various dance styles, and other forms of exercise are offered at various times each week. Educational: A variety of discussion groups, lectures, and workshops are offered on self-improvement, consumer, legal and financial issues, current events, and other topics. Recreational: An extensive array of individual and group sports; arts and crafts classes; computer courses; musical sessions; group tours; holiday and special events; inter-generational programs; performances, demonstrations and movies are offered on a regular basis.

Please call for information, visit our website, or stop by for a visit and pick up a copy of “Prime Times” our monthly newsletter. Membership is open to residents of Wallingford, age 60 and over; some events and programming are free and open to the public; others available at a non-member fee.
Meriden Health Department Services
Walk Your Way to Fitness in 2008
Walking is perhaps the most understated form of exercise someone can do! No matter what your age or fitness level, walking could be your first “step” to a healthier you in 2008.

A pedometer can help you start and stick with your walking program. This little machine clips to the waistband of your pants and tracks every step you take throughout the day. Research has found that the key to sticking with your walking program is to wear a pedometer AND record how many steps you take every day in a walking log.
Participants in the Meriden Health Department’s community walking program, Meriden Movers, proved this to be true. Between September and December 2007, members wore their pedometers and tracked their distances– to the tune of over 5 million steps, well, “stepped”! This program will start up again in March. Free pedometers and walking logs will be available to a limited number of participants, and evening group walks will be held. Check out www.meridenhealth.com for an archive of weekly newsletters from the fall session.
Don’t want to wait until March to get started? The Meriden Health Department has 25 free pedometers and walking logs available now to Meriden residents. Please call Lea Crown, Community Health Educator, at 630-4238 to arrange for the pick-up of your pedometer or for more information on the Meriden Movers program. The hardest part in any physical activity program is just getting started – and with a walking program, all you have to do is put one foot in front of the other and you are on your way!

Women - W.I.S.H.H. for a Healthy Heart
Cardiovascular disease.
Ladies, if the term is not familiar to you, it should be. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for both men - and women - in Connecticut. Stroke, another form of cardiovascular disease, is the third leading cause of death. Most women still have the misperception that cardiovascular disease is a “man’s disease” and they are not at risk. What’s more surprising is that in Connecticut only 13% of adults know all the proper heart attack signs and only 19% know all the signs of stroke.
That’s why the Meriden Health Department is starting a community-wide women’s healthy heart program called W.I.S.H.H. – Women Interested in Staying Heart Healthy. With funding from the Connecticut Department of Public Health, and with the help of many community partners, the Meriden Health Department will address women’s misperceptions about heart disease and stroke, as well as lifestyle changes to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Here are some highlights of the upcoming program:
Pedometers and walking logs will be distributed to encourage physical activity;
A healthy heart cookbook will be developed, with input from residents and local restaurants, and will be distributed;
Free or low-cost blood pressure and blood cholesterol screenings will be offered throughout the city; and
A variety of presentations on the risk factors for heart disease and stroke and CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED) demonstrations will be offered.
Programming will start in February. A complete list of activities will be on the Meriden Health Department’s website – www.meridenhealth.com. For more information, please contact Lea Crown, Community Health Educator, at 630-4238.

Special Needs Registry Q & A
The Office of Emergency Management and the Meriden Health Department have developed a Special Needs Registry for individuals that may need help in the event of an emergency.
What is the Special Needs Registry?
The Special Needs Registry is a voluntary registry of individuals who would require assistance in the event of an emergency. This assistance could be as simple as advising a person of a situation near their residence to those who need evacuation assistance in the event of a natural or man-made disaster. This registry alerts first responders (Police, Fire, Health Department staff) as to a resident’s address and gives them the vital information they need to better meet the resident's needs.
Why Should I Register?
To ensure that you will be located by First Responders as quickly as possible.
To best help you, and meet some of your requirements during a disaster requiring evacuation.

All information gathered for the Registry will remain confidential.
You can obtain a copy of the Special Needs Registration Form by calling 630-4240 or visiting the Meriden Health Department website at www.meridenhealth.com. If you have any questions please contact Michael Pirro, Public Health Emergency Response Coordinator, at 630-4240.



Simple Solutions for Independent Seniors
The Center for Successful Aging and MidState’s LaPlanche Clinic will be jointly sponsoring a presentation titled “Simple Solutions for Independent Seniors” on February 26, 2008. The presentation will be held from 10:30-11:30am in the mezzanine of the Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Center, located at 22 West Main Street in Meriden.
Linda Worden, Director of Clinical Services for Senior Whole Health, will be the presenter. She will discuss ways to stay healthy, the importance of health screenings, and home safety tips.
This presentation is free and open to the public. For more information please call Rita Kowalchik at the Meriden Health Department, 630-4222.


Meriden Health Department Offers HIV Services
Do you know your HIV status? If not, the Meriden Health Department is pleased to offer HIV testing at our office, located at 165 Miller Street in Meriden.
Testing is confidential and can be done anonymously. The bilingual HIV Counselor uses a rapid HIV test, which gives results in 20 minutes. Testing hours are 9:00am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday. Please call Abby at (203) 630-4176 for an appointment.
Want to learn more about HIV and AIDS? Educational materials are always available at the health department. Materials are available in English and Spanish.


Meriden School Readiness Program
There is a way to help prepare your children for school. It’s affordable. It’s accessible. It’s Meriden School Readiness!
School Readiness gives young children the ability to transition to school with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes to be successful students. This includes language, basic concepts, social skills, physical development, curiosity and positive attitudes about learning. On a long-term basis, children that have attended School Readiness programs are more likely to progress without the need for special education, remediation or grade retention.
The Meriden School Readiness Program has created numerous new preschool openings for our community. Affordable, quality child care slots are available for three and four year old Meriden residents, and fees are based on a sliding fee scale. Meriden School Readiness not only focuses on the young child, but the parent and caregiver as well - through funding, parents and caregivers are equipped with the knowledge, skills and resources necessary to maximize their child’s early school success.
Meriden School Readiness has 9 locations throughout the city. Full day and part day programs are available. All sites are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), Head Start, or other similar programs determined by the State Department of Education.
Each family’s weekly fee varies. The family fee is based on income and family size and ranges between 2% and 10% of your family’s gross annual income. Families receiving state cash assistance (TFA) who are not employed are not required to pay a family fee. The weekly family fee may be reduced if the family has more than one child that needs child care services.
For more information on the Meriden School Readiness Program please call Jessica Stewart, School Readiness Facilitator, at 630-4236.
The benefits of walking are countless. A regular walking program can help lower blood pressure and blood cholesterol, and can help you lose or maintain weight. Walking gets you out and about in your community, and it’s a great way to socialize with friends. Ideally we should walk 10,000 steps a day for better health, or roughly 5 miles a day. Most people have to work up to this amount; you can set your own personal goals for your program.


Radon Awareness
Wallingford Health Department Urges Residents to Test for Radon Gas
Have you tested for radon gas in your home? Radon gas is a radioactive gas that you cannot see, taste, or smell. Radon comes from rocks and soils in the ground and enters your home through small cracks and other openings in your basement. When you continuously breathe in radon gas, it damages your lungs. Long-term exposure to radon increases your risk of getting lung cancer. So much so, that public health officials have found that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind cigarette smoking. Radon is also considered to be the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers in the U.S.
Scientists and researchers estimate that radon gas causes 15,000 to 22,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the U.S. If you smoke cigarettes and have radon in your home, then your risk of getting lung cancer is even greater.
Many Connecticut homes have high radon level, yet very few people are testing for radon in their homes. According to a regional survey, less than one third of the homes in Connecticut have been tested for radon.
The only way to find out if your home has radon is to test for it. The Department of Public Health urges Connecticut residents to test for radon in their homes.
The Wallingford Health Department has a limited number of test kits. You can also purchase a test kit by calling the American Lung Association of Connecticut directly at 1-800-LUNG USA or by going online at www.alact.org.
For additional information on radon, contact the Wallingford Health Dept or the Connecticut Department of Public Health Radon Program at (860) 509-7367 or visit our website at http://www.dph.state.ct.us.


The Senior Buddy Readers Program Seeks Volunteers
The Senior Buddy Readers intergenerational mentoring & literacy program is currently seeking volunteers to help finish out the 2007-2008 school year. Active retirees are needed to help first and second grade students improve their reading skills. The program runs from the end of September through May and takes place in Meriden’s elementary schools. We are currently looking for volunteers in these following schools:
Nathan Hale Tuesday 9:30-10:30
Ben Franklin Wednesday 9:30-11:00 (retired teachers only)
Casmir Pulaski Wednesday 9:30-10:30
Thomas Hooker Thursday 1:30-2:30
Hanover (recruiting for 2008-2009 school year)
Anyone interested in sharing one hour a week mentoring a child is invited to call the office of Meriden Children First Initiative at 630-3566. Make a difference in the life of a child…become a Senior Buddy Reader volunteer!
(The Senior Buddy Readers program is sponsored by nonprofit Meriden Children First Initiative and is supported financially through foundation grants and local business donations.)