11 Feb 2010

Green Tea and Vitamin D - Cancer Prevention at your Table?

By Rick Martin

MADISON, Wis. - While cancer prevention in the future may never be as simple as sipping green tea or eating watermelon, a researcher at the University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center (UWCCC) says that more specific study of nutrients and vitamins for cancer prevention is the next big frontier in cancer research.

"In our research on green tea and a nutrient in broccoli, we've discovered that both appear to have some beneficial effects on certain tissues, and that they are safe. But we're still studying whether either or both actually prevent cancer," says Dr. Howard Bailey, professor of medicine at the UW School of Medicine and Public Health. Bailey, also a practicing oncologist, is one of the main investigators for a multi-center National Cancer Institute study of soy products, green tea, vitamin D and a compound associated with certain fruits and vegetables.

Very few nutrients have been proven to have cancer-prevention characteristics, but a handful of drugs have shown promising results in clinical trials or have been proven to prevent certain cancers. Tamoxifen, originally developed to treat breast cancer, and raloxifene, first used to prevent osteoporosis, can reduce the risk of breast cancer for high-risk women. Another FDA-approved cancer-prevention drug is the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer.

While research on drugs for chemoprevention has made progress, Bailey says the study of nutrients lags behind. He says there are several theories about why there's so much to learn about potential disease-prevention characteristics of nutrients.

"Because we've been exposed to nutrients and vitamins for ages, any potential health advantage to consuming them is likely to be modest. Early on, we thought we could increase the effect by increasing the dose or amount of nutrient or vitamin taken. However, the old adage about 'too much of a good thing' may apply."

Bailey says he and other researchers will try to determine the level of nutrients or vitamins needed to be effective in prevention of specific cancers. He is currently researching the effective dosage of nutrients and vitamins like green tea and vitamin D for specific diseases, including bladder and prostate cancers.

He also plans to explore the idea that a one-time, large dose of vitamin D is safe and has prostate cancer-prevention properties. For more information on clinical trials at the UWCCC, go to www.uwhealth.org/cancertrials

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08 Feb 2010

HARKIN ANNOUNCES OVER $1.2 MILLION COMING TO IOWA TO PROMOTE HEALTHY LIVING

By Sen. Tom Harkin
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today announced that a total $1,236,175 will be coming to Iowa for public wellness efforts aimed at reducing obesity rates, decreasing smoking and promoting healthy living through increased physical activity and better nutrition.  The grants are being provided through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and were funded in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  Harkin worked to secure these funds through his role as a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, which wrote the Recovery Act.

"To improve our state's physical and financial health, reduce incidents of chronic disease and reign in rising health care costs, we must take steps to keep people well and out of the hospital in the first place," said Harkin.  "Today's funding shows that the Recovery Act continues to help Iowans on all fronts -- today making investments that encourage better health choices and help prevent the chronic diseases related to obesity and smoking."

Specifically, the funds will be used as follows:

$600,256 is being awarded for health policy and environmental change. Under direction of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Iowa will receive funding to promote state-wide policy and environmental changes that support good nutrition, physical activity, obesity control and reduce tobacco use.

$635,919 is being awarded for tobacco cessation. Iowa will receive the funding to expand Quitline Iowa (1-800-QUIT-NOW), and promote its use through expanded media campaigns.  Quitline Iowa provides free support and coaching to all Iowans who wish to quit smoking.
04 Feb 2010

February's American Heart Month Kicks off on National Wear Red Day Friday, Feb. 5, 2010

By Rick Martin

(IOWA)? February is American Heart Month, drawing attention to heart disease, America's No. 1 killer, and the strides being taken through research and education to raise awareness of risk factors and to decrease death rates.  Appropriately kicked off on National Wear Red Day (Feb. 5, 2010), the American Heart Association and its Go Red For Women movement urge everyone to support the fight against heart disease in women by wearing red that day.

On National Wear Red Day, Friday, Feb. 5, 2010, thousands of people, employees at more than 10,000 companies, national and local news anchors and talk-show hosts across the country will wear red to support the cause.  Men and women across the state of Iowa are also encouraged to show their support by wearing red on Feb. 5.  The red dress and the color red symbolize one's support in the fight against heart disease.

Go Red For Women is the American Heart Association's promise to save women's lives.  Too many women die each year because they are unaware that heart disease is their No. 1 killer.  One in three women dies of this largely preventable disease - that's almost one woman every minute.  This year, Go Red is asking women to bring a voice to this silent killer: SPEAK UP TO SAVE LIVES.

WHY SPEAK UP?

* Cardiovascular disease kills approximately 450,000 women each year, about one every minute.

* More women die of cardiovascular disease than the next five causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer.

* Ninety percent of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease.

* Heart disease is largely preventable. In fact, 80 percent of cardiac events in women may be prevented if women make the right choices for their hearts, involving diet, exercise and abstinence from smoking.

Only 1 in 5 women believe that heart disease is her greatest health threat and that's why the communities in Iowa are trying to educate women by "Going Red" on Friday, Feb. 5, 2010.

Research shows that women who "Go Red" are more likely to make healthy choices. For example:

* More than one-third have lost weight.

* Nearly 55 percent have increased their exercise.

* Six out of ten have changed their diets.

* More than 40 percent have checked their cholesterol levels.

* One third have talked with their doctors about developing heart health plans.

Women and men interested in "going red" on Friday, Feb. 5th and joining the Go Red For Women movement should visit www.GoRedForWomen.org.

February has been celebrated as American Heart Month since 1963 to urge Americans to join the battle against heart disease.  A presidential proclamation pays tribute to the researchers, physicians, other public health education professionals as well as volunteers for their tireless efforts in preventing, treating, and researching heart disease. The observation also recognizes the critical importance of developing tools that will increase survival rates from heart attacks and cardiac arrest.  President George W. Bush entered his proclamation on Feb. 1, 2002, and the message continues to ring true today.

For more information about American Heart Month or National Wear Red Day please contact Ciara O'Brien Murray, communications director at (913) 652-1966 or Ciara.Murray@heart.org.

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01 Feb 2010

Genesis Health System A Top 100 Integrated Health Network

By Craig Cooper

DAVENPORT, Iowa - Jan. 29, 2010 - For the third straight year, Genesis Health System has been recognized by SDI as a one of the nation's Top 100 health systems for integrating services to improve quality and operate efficiently.

Genesis moved up from No. 93 in 2009 to No. 71.

"This ranking is recognition of the hard work and dedication of the staff, physicians, volunteers and leadership of Genesis Health System,'' said Doug Cropper, President and CEO, Genesis Health System. "This ranking also is recognition of the quality of care and financial stability of Genesis that allows us to continue to provide that quality care

The 2010 edition of the rankings from SDI identifies the top 100 Integrated Health Networks (IHNs) from a universe of 593 local and regional health networks in the United States that meet critical success factors.

The ratings are based on SDI's IHN Rating System, which evaluates each network's ability to operate as a unified organization in eight categories: integration, integrated technology, contractual capabilities, outpatient utilization, financial stability, services and access, hospital utilization, and physician participation.

SDI is a Pennsylvania-based healthcare analytics organization that provides innovative services that help the healthcare industry solve a wide range of business challenges.

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28 Jan 2010

The 28 Days of Fighting Heart Disease

By Ciara O'Brien Murray

February is American Heart Month, drawing attention to heart disease, America's No. 1 killer, and the strides being taken through research and education to raise awareness of risk factors and to decrease death rates. Appropriately kicked off on National Wear Red Day (Friday, Feb. 5, 2010), the American Heart Association and its Go Red For Women movement urge everyone to support the fight against heart disease in women by wearing red that day.

REASONS TO BELIEVE

  1. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women age 20 and over, but it is largely preventable. In fact, up to 80% of cardiac events in women may be prevented if women make the right choices for their hearts, including diet, exercise and not smoking.

  1. Go Red BetterU is a FREE 12-week online nutrition and fitness program that can makeover your heart. Each week will focus on a different area and provide step-by-step guidance. You'll have access to everything from daily expert tips and an online journal to a downloadable BetterMe coaching tool.  Visit www.GoRedforWomen.org for more information.

  1. While 1 in 30 American women die of breast cancer, 1 in 3 women die from cardiovascular disease.

  1. Cardiovascular disease kills approximately 450,000 women each year, which is about one each minute.

  1. FEBRUARY 5th: Today is National Wear Red Day! Join dozens of women, as well as companies and organizations in Iowa and cities across America by wearing red today. It's a simple, powerful way to raise awareness of heart disease and stroke.

  1. Overweight children are more likely to have abnormally thick heart muscle tissue when they become an adult, which increases the risk of heart attack and heart failure. Learn how to get your kids on the right track at www.heart.org.

  1. Visit www.GoRedForWomen.org and join the online discussion about heart health.

  1. If you or someone you know shows signs of heart attack or stroke, call 9-1-1 right away. An Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team can begin treatment when it arrives. That means treatment can begin sooner than it would if the patient arrived at the hospital by car. What's more, the EMS team is also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped, which can save hundreds of lives each year.

  1. Children of mothers who smoke during pregnancy have more damage to their arteries in young adulthood than offspring of non-smokers and the association is even stronger if both parents smoke.

 

  1. Choose to speak up, not remain silent. Support legislation that would improve the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease and stroke in women at www.yourethecure.org.

  1. Too many lives have and will be cut short from heart disease and its risk factors; however, early detection, lifestyle changes, and other intervention can improve certain conditions.

  1. Plan meals in advance - visit www.heart.org for recipes from a number of heart-healthy cookbooks and use the online grocery list builder to quickly identify heart-healthy products to add to your grocery list.

13. Schedule a doctor's appointment each year and get a complete blood screen. Visit www.GoRedForWomen.org and download "What to Know BEFORE Your Doctor Visit." Only 1 in 5 women believes that heart disease is her greatest health threat.

  1. This year about 1.2 million Americans will have a first or repeat coronary attack. About 452,000 of them will die. Coronary heart disease is our nation's leading cause of death.

  1. Nearly 8 million Americans age 20 and older have survived a heart attack (myocardial infarction). About 8.9 million have angina pectoris (chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood supply to the heart).

  1. An estimated 25.1 million men and 20.9 million women increase their risk of heart attack and stroke by smoking cigarettes.

  1. One of the best ways to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease is to start getting regular, moderate exercise, at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.

  1. Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, causing someone to gasp dramatically, clutch her heart and drop to the ground. No one has any doubts about what's happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often the people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help.

  1. The American Heart Association dedicates more monies to research than any

other voluntary health organization. Only the federal government funds more cardiovascular research.

  1. Start thinking about your heart. By adding one hour of regular, vigorous physical activity, adults may gain up to two hours of life expectancy. Start by including more physical activity into your daily routine. Take a walk, ride a bike or take the stairs.  Visit www.StartWalkingNow.org for some free tools and tips.

  1. About 36.6 million American adults have cholesterol levels of 240 or higher ? the point at which it becomes a major risk factor for coronary heart disease and stroke. Your total cholesterol should be below 200, and your HDL (good) cholesterol should be 40 or higher.

  1. Americans think they are in better heart health than they really are. According to a recent American Heart Association survey, nearly 40 percent thought they were in ideal heart health, when in reality less than 1 percent of Americans have an ideal profile.

 

  1. To find out how healthy you are, the American Heart Association developed a new health assessment tool, called My Life Check, at www.heart.org/mylifecheck. It will give you an overall health score and create an action plan to move you closer to your individual health goals. No matter what you score, any healthy change can help you live a longer, better life.

  1. During a heart check up, your doctor takes a careful look at your "numbers," including your cholesterol and triglyceride levels, your blood pressure and more. Knowing your numbers is an important part of keeping your heart-healthy. It can help you and your doctor know your risks and mark the progress you're making toward a healthier you.

  1. Smoking is the single most preventable cause of premature death in the United States. If you smoke cigarettes (or cigars), you have a higher risk of illness and death from heart attack, stroke and other diseases. So if you don't smoke, don't start. If you do smoke, love your heart and quit today. Need more motivation? Visit www.heart.org for help quitting smoking.

  1. Uncovering family history can help you to better understand your risk for heart disease. If you have a blood relative with heart disease or a risk factor for genetic heart disease, your risk for developing it significantly increases.

  1. More women die of cardiovascular disease than the next five causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer.

  1. Ninety percent of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease.  Learn about your risk factors and how to reduce them at www.GoRedForWomen.org.
25 Jan 2010

We're back! Monthly Labyrinth walks resume

By Pat McLaughlin

Take a stroll for body, mind, and soul--walk a labyrinth!
Peace Walks

 

Martin Luther King Center
630 Martin Luther King Drive (9th Street)
Rock Island, Illinois
Sat., February 6
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Join us for the monthly Peace Walk at the Martin Luther King Center in downtown Rock Island. This walk will feature the 11- circuit Chartres labyrinth. Continuous 5-minute introductions are available for first-time walkers by Certified Labyrinth Facilitator Pat McLaughlin.

For those who prefer a quiet environment, we have designated the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. as Contemplative Time. Families with children are welcome to walk between 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Adults are also welcome during this time if they are not disturbed by playful activity on or around the labyrinth.

We invite you to discover the peacemaking path of the labyrinth at a Peace Walk. Dates, times, and locations for the Peace Walks are posted on our online Events Calendar at www.qclabyrinth.org. So stay tuned, and visit our Web site often! To host a Peace Walk in your neighborhood, contact Pat at qclabyrinth@aol.com.

Cost: Free! Donat ions are gratefully accepted.
Directions to Martin Luther King Center
19 Jan 2010

Progressive Baptist Church Blood Drive

By Sharee Hoegerl

Progressive Baptist Church is holding a Blood Drive on Saturday, February 6, 2010 from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.  Progressive Baptist Church is located at 1302 East 12th Street in Davenport.

Appointments: to donate, call Dorothy Steverson at 563-386-1884.  The public is invited to give blood at this Blood Drive!

New Donors Needed: Healthy people are needed to give blood every day. Blood donation is a safe, simple procedure that only takes about an hour.  Donors must be at least 16 years old, in good health and weigh at least 110 pounds.  A Blood Donor card or other photo I.D. is required to donate; 16 year old donors must present a signed parental consent form, available from the Blood Center or by download at www.bloodcenter.org.  There is no risk of contracting a disease by giving blood.  Controlled high blood pressure and diabetics are acceptable.  If you have a question regarding your eligibility to donate blood, call the Blood Center at 800-747-5401.

"Blood is needed every day - not just in times of disaster.  Let's make sure blood is on the shelves at all times so we're prepared for anything.  It's the blood on the shelf that saves lives," encourages David Green, MVRBC President and CEO.

- end -

18 Jan 2010

Grants available to improve public health in the QC

By Nicole Freise

The Independent Physicians of the Quad Cities Fund is looking for local nonprofit organizations that are seeking funding for projects designed to improve public health in the local community. Grants area available for up to $5,000 and will be awarded based on a program's impact on public health.

Consideration will be given to projects that:

  • Monitor health status to identify community problems
  • Inform, educate and empower individuals about health issues
  • Link those in need to personal health services
  • Assure a competent public health and personal health care workforce
  • Research new insights and innovative solutions to health problems

The Independent Physicians Association of the Quad Cities Fund is now accepting grant applications. Visit www.cfgrb.org to download an electronic version of the application, guidelines and budget form. All applications must be received by the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend by February 28, 2010.

If you are interested in learning more, contact Community Foundation of the Great River Bend Program Associate Pat Miller at 563-326-2840 or patmiller@cfgrb.org.

11 Jan 2010

Quad City Health Initiative Elects Board Members

By Nicole Carkner

The Quad City Health Initiative (QCHI) has elected the following individuals as new Board members with terms beginning January 2010:
  • Major Mike Brown, Scott County Sheriff's Office
  • Mr. Alex Calder, Alcoa
  • Mr. Thad DenHartog, Mel Foster Co.
  • Ms. Sharon Hodson, Deere & Company
  • Dr. Ed Littig, St. Ambrose University
  • Dr. Ed Littig, St. Ambrose University

The following individuals were elected or promoted to serve on the Executive Board beginning January 2010:
  • Dr. Fred Burnham, Dentist
  • Mr. Jim Horstmann, Community Member
  • Mr. Jerry Lack, Illowa Construction Labor and Management Council
  • Ms. Anne McGlynn, Mid American Energy

Ms. Denise Bulat, Bi-State Regional Commission was elected Chair of the QCHI Board and Mr. Jim Horstmann was elected Vice-Chair beginning January 2010. Dr. Bud Phillis was appointed to the honorary position of Past Board Chair.

The Board also extends gratitude to the following retiring Board members:
  • Ms. Karen Dowsett, Community Member
  • Mr. Jerry Jones, City of Rock Island Martin Luther King Center
  • Ms. Jill McLaughlin, Community Member
  • Dr. Bud Phillis, Community Member

The Quad City Health Initiative is a community partnership working to create a healthy community. A 35-member community Board that was established in 1999 oversees the organization. The Initiative seeks to be our community's recognized leader for creating collaborative action on health and abides by the core values of commitment, collaboration and creativity. Major financial support of the Quad City Health Initiative is currently provided by the generous direct and in-kind investments of Genesis Health System and Trinity Regional Health System. In 2010, additional financial support is provided by St. Ambrose University and the McLaughlin Family Foundation. Support is also provided by QCHI Board members including the following member organizations: QC Medical Societies, Community Health Care, Rock Island County Health Department, Scott County Health Department and United Way of the Quad Cities Area.

For more information or to join the efforts of the Quad City Health Initiative, please call 563-421-2815 or visit our website at www.qchealthinitiative.org.

 

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30 Dec 2009

Scott Co. Residents Wanting to Quit Tobacco Can Receive Double the Amount of Free Nicotine Patches and Gum from Quitline Iowa

By Scott Co. Public Information Office

Smokers in Scott County committed to quitting tobacco in the new year and who are also affected by the economic downturn now have a valuable tool for quitting. With the typical pack-a-day Iowa smoker now spending nearly $1,900 per year on cigarettes, Quitline Iowa (1-800-QUIT-NOW) is doubling the amount of nicotine patches and gum available to callers during the month of January.

"The cost of smoking is high, both physically and financially. Quitline Iowa, a free resource, is making it easier for Iowans and Scott County residents to quit," said Brooke Barnes, Community Health Consultant, Tobacco-Free QC. "With many Iowans committing to quit their tobacco use in the new year, Quitline Iowa wil make it easier to stick to that resolution."

In Iowa, cigarettes cost $5.18 per pack on average, or about $36.00 per week for a pack-a-day smoker. Iowans can call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) to receive a free four-week supply of nicotine patches, gum or lonzenges. Quitline Iowa also has specially trained quit coaches who help make individualized quit plans and offer ongoing support through follow-up calls. After January 31, Quitline Iowa will resume offering callers the two-week supply available throughout the year.

According to the most recent data from the Iowa Department of Public Health, about 15 percent of Iowans living in urban counties such as Scott County currently smoke. Among them, 85 percent say they wish to quit, mainly for health reasons. Nearly 20 percent, however, say their main reason for wanting to quit is the cost.

For more information, call 1-800-784-8669 (1-800-QUIT-NOW). To calculate how much tobacco costs you based on your brand and the amount you smoke, visit www.quitlineiowa.org. Help is also available for users of chewing tobacco.

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