For many, this time of year is marked with holiday celebrations which are often filled with sharing, laughter and memories. But for a family impacted by Alzheimer’s or another dementia, the holidays can also bring stress, disappointment and sadness. To help you navigate the holidays, we’ve compiled a list of tips and ideas for engaging with family and friends while lessening stress and creating moments of joy. Before the celebrations begin, be sure to register to participate in one of our education programs with December offerings that include the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s, Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body, and more. We continue to offer virtual, in-person and on-demand options. And remember, the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900) is available to answer your questions, provide information or simply listen. You are never alone—during the holidays or ever. DECEMBER PROGRAMS Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors (virtual) Understanding Alzheimer’s... Read more →

For much of the world, there’s been a progressive nature to the legalization, regulation and production of cannabis, with many countries around the world have changed their stance to be more liberal when it comes to the consumption of the drug. However, reports coming out of the UK are bucking that trend, with senior figures in the government and police pushing forward recommendations that cannabis shouldn’t be legalized, but actually bumped up to a Class A drug. It comes at an interesting time for the nation and other addictive substances within society. With more people overdosing on opioids than ever before, whilst addiction counselling is becoming more common than ever before, many people are suggesting that the priorities of the government aren’t quite where they should be, and more focus should be given to these problem areas. Meanwhile, there are no recorded deaths of cannabis overdose worldwide. Compare that to... Read more →

Cooper University Health Care Credit Rating Improves to “A-“ Its Highest Rating (CAMDEN CITY, NJ) (CNBNEWSNET)– Cooper University Health Care’s credit rating for bonds issued by Camden County Improvement Authority was upgraded by S&P Global Ratings (S&P) to an “A-“ from “BBB+.” Cooper’s new credit rating is the highest it has been in its 135-year history. “This upgrade speaks to the remarkable turnaround Cooper University Health Care has made from near bankruptcy at the turn of the century to today’s strong financial position,” said George E. Norcross, III, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Cooper University Health Care. “This achievement is a testament to the commitment of the thousands of Cooper team members who work, day and night, to provide the best health care to our patients.” S&P cited Cooper management’s focus “on cost containment and revenue enhancement.” S&P also noted MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper has “boosted... Read more →

Have you ever bought anything unusual for yourself to eat? If your answer is no, it's time to buy weed edibles online right now. Could it even be that cannabis products are edible? Yes, and it's incredibly delicious. Such products are made using cannabis flowers or cannabis concentrates. Today there are too many products of different tastes on the market; sometimes, you can get stuck on the site for several hours to understand what you want to order. Cannabis Treats There are so many goods on the market: chewing worms, marmalades, and even pastries. Everything has been done so that a person can safely have fun and not bother about where to get weed and smoke. It's time to relax completely, isn’t it? The main advantage of gummies is that they don't need to be smoked, you won't smell bad, and the concentrates don't evaporate. You literally take a delicious... Read more →

94 new cases were identified Tuesday (Gloucester Township, NJ) – The Camden County Department of Health is announcing 75 new positive cases of COVID-19, which occurred Tuesday, Nov. 22. Additionally, there were 19 cases detected through antigen testing, bringing the total number of cases 94. The aggregate number of confirmed positive cases in Camden County to 130,100 and 1,734 total fatalities. The outcomes from these antigen tests, unlike the results from the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are probable positive cases. These daily numbers are added into our aggregated lab-tested PCR metrics. Of the 75 cases, 7 are among patients under 18 years old. The average age of the newly infected is 49 years old. Tuesday’s cases involve residents living in the following municipalities: Audubon 0 Audubon Park 0 Barrington 0 Bellmawr 4 Berlin Boro 0 Berlin Twp. 0 Brooklawn 1 Camden 14 Cherry Hill 11 Chesilhurst 0 Clementon 1 Collingswood... Read more →

Dorothy Philbin | CNBNewsnet Following up on last week's New Jersey Hospital Ratings article, here are the local hospital ratings and why they got the grade they got. Leapfrog*, the author of the study, does not say how two hospitals have the same problems but different ratings. The only conclusion is the number of incidents but that is an inference. Cooper Hospital - B. Problems were post-surgical infections and blood clots, unnecessary falls, and death from treatable complications. Jefferson (Cherry Hill) - A. Problems were objects left in the body after surgery, post-surgical infections, unnecessary falls, and death from treatable complications. Benefit was responsiveness. Jefferson (Stratford) - A. Problems were objects left in the body after surgery and death from treatable complications. Benefits were especially trained ER doctors and responsiveness. Jefferson (Washington Township) - A. Problems were objects left in the body after surgery, post-surgical infections, death from treatable complications... Read more →

Perhaps you’ve just accepted a new job that has required you to move to another part of the country or maybe you’ve recently split from your husband or wife and are moving into your own place in the next few months. Whatever your reason for moving into a new place on your own, whether it’s indeed your decision or not, in an effort to combat loneliness, continue reading for some handy tips and techniques, just in case. Use Your Time to Learn a New Hobby As an adult, it should be virtually impossible, unless of course you’re suffering with your health and are unable to be fully mobile, that you can’t find anything to do with yourself and your time. However, if you do find yourself at a proverbial loose end, then you should have several different hobbies ready to start in case you do find yourself becoming bored and... Read more →

Jefferson Health’s Kellie Lytle — an administrative assistant for Clinical Education/Professional Development/Life Support Education and Clinical Excellence — was recently honored with a Beyond Expectations of Excellence (BEE) Award for Extraordinary Caregivers. The Westampton, NJ, resident was nominated for displaying a positive attitude, treating others with respect, placing patients and families at the center of all she does, and promoting a positive patient experience. "Kellie is proactive and extremely attentive to the smallest details," wrote the award nominator. "She goes above and beyond to coordinate programs and education sessions, and to ensure our departments run smoothly. Kellie always makes us smile." BEE honorees — nominated by patients, visitors, nurses, physicians, and employees — are non-nursing employees who work side-by-side with clinical nurses to provide exemplary patient care and improve the patient experience. This award complements the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, bestowed on nurses who make a profound difference in... Read more →

Voorhees, NJ November 16, 2022 – Jefferson Health’s three New Jersey hospitals – located in Cherry Hill, Stratford and Washington Township - each received an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group. This national distinction celebrates Jefferson Health – NJ’s achievements in protecting hospital patients from preventable harm and errors. “At a time when healthcare organizations are more vital than ever to the communities we serve, it is gratifying to be recognized for our ongoing commitment to safety,” said David May, MD, FACS, Jefferson Health – NJ’s Chief Patient Safety & Quality Officer. We are pleased to have our three New Jersey acute care hospitals again reach this level of achievement. And we are especially proud of our doctors, nurses, and other valued team members, who have put in place best practice systems and processes to achieve excellent clinical outcomes for our patients.” The Leapfrog Group is an independent... Read more →

The Year of “YES”: Husband & Care Partner Share Their Journey High school sweethearts Tony and Kori Gonzales, married 25 years, are facing Tony’s 2021 diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) together. “I choose to look at the rainbows and not the storms,” Tony says, “and live each day to the fullest.” They share their story during National Alzheimer's Awareness and Family Caregivers Month. A life-long resident of California, Tony enjoyed a 25-year career in radio broadcasting, known to his listeners as “Chief.” Today, he calls wife Kori, his care partner, the new “Chief of Staff.” Kori: I’m a planner. I was a special education teacher, very structured. When we received Tony's diagnosis, the world was flipped upside down; nothing made sense. You can either become bitter and ask “Why us? Why me?” or you can lean on your strengths, and your faith. Therapy has worked wonders for me, once... Read more →

Sewell, NJ (November 14, 2022) — Ryann Fountas, BSN, RN, a Radiation Oncology nurse at Jefferson Health's Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center - Washington Township, was recently honored with a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The Mays Landing, NJ, resident — a 33-year Jefferson employee — was recognized for providing compassionate care to a patient, decreasing his anxiety and putting his mind more at ease. "Ryann was extremely pleasant and thorough when she and Dr. Dane Cohen reviewed my uncle’s history, went over how to prepare, and what to expect with treatments," wrote a grateful family member. "They recommended another radiological study. By the time I got back to work, Ryann already called me with information about the appointment." Part of an international program, DAISY honorees are nominated by patients, family members, and colleagues. DAISY Award winners are chosen following a review of nominations by Jefferson’s Clinical Recognition Committee in New... Read more →

Dr. Shen has developed a non-invasive, inexpensive treatment for certain skin cancers. (NAPSI)—If you or someone you care for is among the 5 million people diagnosed with basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma every year in the U.S., here are a few facts it would be healthy for you to know. Skin Cancer Stats 1. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. 2. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma account for 95% of all skin cancers. 3. Your risk increases with age. Skin Cancer Signs A change in your skin is the most common sign of skin cancer, advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This could be a new growth, a sore that doesn’t heal, or a change in a mole. If you notice any of these, see your dermatologist. Nearly all skin cancers can be treated effectively if they are found... Read more →

An online pharmacy is a system for searching and purchasing various medicines. Among several thousand items, you can choose not only medicines but also personal hygiene items, medical cosmetics, dietary supplements, goods for children, and special food. All goods have quality certificates, which are provided to the customer upon request. Distinctive features of an online pharmacy Online Pharmacy provides an opportunity to purchase not only popular but also rare medicines at an affordable cost. To make it easier to find the funds you need, just use special filters. Since various medicines are available in one place, it will take much less time to search for them. Among the advantages of an online pharmacy are also: bonus system and periodic promotions, which allows you to save money; seasonal discounts on the most popular drugs: antihistamines - in summer, colds - in winter; the possibility of booking the necessary medicines; cash or... Read more →

(NAPSI)—If you or someone you care for is ever among the 5 million people diagnosed with basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma every year in the U.S., here are a few facts it would be healthy for you to know. Skin Cancer Stats 1. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. 2. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma account for 95% of all skin cancers. 3. Your risk increases with age. Skin Cancer Signs A change in your skin is the most common sign of skin cancer, advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This could be a new growth, a sore that doesn’t heal, or a change in a mole. If you notice any of these, see your dermatologist. Nearly all skin cancers can be treated effectively if they are found early. Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to... Read more →

Kick-off Helps Mark Veterans Day on November 11 including free meals for vets and active military (MARLTON, NJ, November 10, 2022) – This Veterans Day, Virtua Health is honoring the military veterans and reservists on its staff in a lasting and impactful way. The not-for-profit health system is launching a colleague “affinity group” called WE Serve, which will focus on the needs and issues of present and former armed-forces members on its 14,000-member workforce. The new group, one of several “colleague communities” at Virtua, aims to foster conversation, build relationships, and organize events and community-service opportunities. (Colleague is Virtua’s preferred term for its employees.) WE Serve seeks to help the local military community, as well. In one of its first acts, WE Serve has organized free meals on Veterans Day at all five Virtua hospital cafeterias for any veteran or active-duty military member in the community or on Virtua’s staff.... Read more →

...More Media Support for Government Vaccine Promotion in Socially Unstable Nations These startling findings demonstrate the importance of original research to challenge conventional wisdom. ~Dr. John C. Pollock, Professor, Comm. Studies/Public Health, TCNJ EWING, NJ November 10, 2022 – A recent spike in COVID-19 cases in Europe. Fears of an upcoming virus surge this winter. And a lagging booster rate in the U.S. These signs spell trouble for the prospects of moving beyond the pandemic. Amid grim predictions, a new study from public health students and faculty in the newly rebranded School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) finds media outlets in socially unstable nations are more supportive of government vaccine efforts. Senior student-author Mia Gomes, Class of 2023, explains, “This cross-national study’s findings are surprising. Media in less socially stable (often developing) countries are notorious for often representing elite interests. Still, they... Read more →

Lucy's 76 Steak Sauce & Salt-Free Habanero are Available Now and Raise Funds for Philabundance Tom Hewell, left and Ted Ebert, the two friends behind Saint Lucifer Spice Co., have introduced two new delicious products to their Philly-based line of condiments that will kick up the heat and have your tastebuds craving for more! With demand for their products at a fever pitch, the fellas want to give back to the community in the only way they know how. Food. A portion of proceeds from both Lucy’s 76 Steak Sauce and Salt-Free Habanero Table Spice will go to Philabundance — an organization dedicated to feeding communities in our area. “We decided to collaborate with them to bring awareness to the hunger issue right here in our backyard,” said Ebert. “The salt-free product will be used in their prep kitchens for the thousands of meals the non-profit prepares daily. It’s a... Read more →

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (CNBNewsnet)The clinical staff at My Father’s House is a team of close-knit professionals providing comprehensive and individualized substance abuse and mental health treatment to residents of Camden County and the surrounding South Jersey areas. We strive to serve our consumers by instilling hope for sobriety, tools for change, and support where it is needed most. ​ We are dedicated to providing outpatient assessment, intervention, and treatment, including prevention and education, for the disease of addiction while facilitating spiritual recovery and personal growth for all adults and adolescents. WHO WE ARE A Shining Light My Father's House Inc. seeks to empower those struggling with addiction to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives. Our medically informed holistic addiction treatment works for those struggling with addiction and their loved ones who struggle with the ripple effects. At our center, we’ve created a warm and nurturing environment in which patients are encouraged... Read more →

(Marlton, N.J., October 27, 2022)….A record-setting 16 ambulatory surgery centers affiliated with Virtua Health are among Newsweek’s list of the best ASCs in the nation for 2023. ASCs are also known as same-day surgery centers, where people can have procedures that don’t usually require hospitalization – from colonoscopies to cataract removal to hernia repairs. Of the 30 New Jersey ASCs to receive this distinction, Virtua is affiliated with 14 — or nearly half. Four rank among the state’s top five, with the Surgical Center of South Jersey in Mount Laurel earning the number-one spot, and the Center for Ambulatory and Minimally Invasive Surgery in Eatontown ranking second. (See full list below.) In fact, the Surgical Center of South Jersey ranked third out of all 510 centers on the nationwide list (scoring 88.91%). The other two Virtua-affiliated centers recognized by Newsweek are in Huntington Valley, Pennsylvania, and Wilmington, Delaware. “Same-day surgical... Read more →

There are a few things to keep in mind when looking for the best dispensaries in Chicago. First, make sure that the dispensary is licensed by the state of Illinois. Second, check to see if the dispensary has a good selection of products. Third, read reviews of the dispensary to see what other customers have to say. Below are a few of the best dispensaries in Chicago The Green Solution The Green Solution is a popular dispensary chain with locations all over Colorado. They recently opened up a shop in Chicago, and it's quickly become one of the city's most popular places to buy weed. They have a large selection of high-quality strains, edibles, and concentrates, and their staff is always happy to help you find the perfect product for your needs. They are committed to providing their customers with the best possible experience and strive to provide a safe... Read more →

November is National Family Caregivers and National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month Alzheimer’s Association offers guidance to America’s 11 million Alzheimer’s caregivers CHICAGO, November 1, 2022 — During National Family Caregivers and National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month in November, the Alzheimer’s Association is highlighting six essential terms that are important for Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers to know. Currently, there are more than 11 million caregivers across the country providing care to more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s. “November is a month in which we not only honor Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers, but highlight important elements of the caregiver experience,” said Beth Kallmyer, vice president, care and support, Alzheimer’s Association. “We’re sharing six essential terms with insights and resources that we think can help caregivers tremendously. These terms are commonly used in Alzheimer’s and dementia care, but not always familiar to family caregivers. It’s important that we not only increase... Read more →

Haddonfield, NJ -- Jefferson Health – New Jersey’s LGBTQ+ Affirming Medical Practice in Haddonfield, NJ, recently held a Fall Open House with a Halloween tailgate theme. This unique medical office – which opened in January 2021 – continues to grow, offering an array of services: primary care, infectious diseases, behavioral health, gynecology, medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT)/gender-affirming therapy, among others. To learn more, visit: JeffersonHealth.org/NJ_LGBTQ_Care. Shown at the recent Fall Open House event are members of the medical practice’s clinical and administrative team, several in Halloween garb. Read more →

...Language Access to Individuals with Limited English Proficiency Voorhees, NJ, October 31, 2022 -- Jefferson Health – New Jersey, part of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, has been awarded a $375,000 grant by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH) to increase language access services to patients throughout Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington counties. According to HHS, 26 million people across the U.S. have limited English Proficiency (LEP), and recent U.S. Census data shows nearly 31,500 LEP individuals across Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington Counties speak English “less than well” or “not at all.” Jefferson Health’s hospital is examining readmission data for acute care, and there is a need to improve language access, advocacy, and education for these community members. Jefferson Health is one of eleven grant recipients nationally. This three-year initiative will enable Jefferson to effectively promote equitable access to language services by: Increasing awareness... Read more →

Celebrate survivorship and tackle cancer at the Fox Chase Cancer Center Annual Celebration for Cancer Survivors! We are thrilled to be headed back to Lincoln Financial Field to cheer on YOU, and the Temple Owls football team as they take on the Cincinnati Bearcats. Date: Saturday, November 19, 2022 Time: TBD (Game time will be announced 10 days prior to the event) Location: Lincoln Financial Field Registration includes two complimentary tickets to the football game, and survivors and their guests will also be invited to a pre-game tailgate with food and soft drinks in Lot K. Additional information about parking, timing, and more will be distributed to registered attendees the week of the event. Click HERE for more details and to register for the celebration. The registration deadline is this Friday, November 4, 2022. If you have any questions, please email Survivors@fccc.edu. We hope to see you on November 19! Read more →

A COTA Family is Grateful for Their Three Sons and Two Bone Marrow Transplants November 1, 2022 -- November is an important month for the Kachur family of Findlay, Ohio, because it is National Marrow Awareness Month. It is a time to acknowledge those who have donated bone marrow and stem cells to save others’ lives. In the Kachur family’s case, their son, Caleb, is alive and doing great this year, thanks to their son, Colten, who donated life-saving bone marrow and stem cells to his little brother. Their youngest son, Crosby, is now recovering from his bone marrow transplant earlier this year in May -- thanks to a generous young donor from Poland. November is also a month focused on gratitude, which overflows from this family’s hearts. In January 2017, Kristin and Kevin Kachur were surprised when their six-month-old son, Caleb, had to be life-flighted to Nationwide Children’s Hospital... Read more →

Investigating a “Complex and Grave Situation” by Katherine Eban, Vanity Fair, and Jeff Kao, ProPublica ProPublica is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative newsroom. Sign up for The Big Story newsletter to receive stories like this one in your inbox. Series: Coronavirus The U.S. Response to COVID-19 “A Secret Language of Chinese Officialdom” Toy Reid has always had a gift for languages — one that would carry him far from what he calls his “very blue-collar” roots in Greenville, South Carolina. In high school, Spanish came easily. At nearby Furman University, where he became the first person in his family to attend college, he studied Japanese. Then, “clueless but curious,” as he puts it, he channeled his fascination with the Dalai Lama into a master’s degree in East Asian philosophy and religion at Harvard. Along the way, he picked up Khmer, the national language of Cambodia, and achieved fluency in Chinese. But... Read more →

Robyn Mahon, RN, and Hannah Schwarzmann, RN — who respectively work at Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital (ICU) and Jefferson Washington Township Hospital (Medical-Surgical) — were each recently honored with a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. Also, Patient Care Technician Stephanie Streahle (Intermediate Care Unit, Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital) and Certified Medical Assistant Tyler Milane (Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center – Washington Township) were also presented with BEE awards for excellence in supporting nursing care. Mahon (of Turnersville, NJ); Schwarzmann (of Lumberton, NJ); Streahle (of Sewell, NJ); and Milane (of Monroeville, NJ) were recognized for establishing connections with patients and families through trust and emotional support, having a commitment to safety that puts patients and their families at the center of care delivery, providing dignity and respect to everyone they serve and encounter, and more. DAISY and BEE honorees are nominated by patients, visitors, family members, nurses, physicians, and other... Read more →

Sewell, NJ, October 28, 2022 -- CenteringPregnancy® – prenatal care that includes individual health checks with additional time and attention in a group setting – was recently launched at Jefferson Health – NJ’s Primary & Specialty Care OB/GYN office. A special open house event was held in October for patients and community members at the Sewell practice. The first group of CenteringPregancy maternity patients begins in December 2022, and a new cohort starts each following month. Pictured from left at the recent open house are: Jefferson Health – New Jersey President Brian Sweeney; Director of Women’s & Children’s Services Marilyn Mapp, DNP, RN, NEA-BC; Front Office Coordinator Jacqueline Holmes; Jessica Hayes, CNM; Victoria Asturrizaga, CNM; Medical Assistant Naisha Arroyo; Meredith Stein, CNM; Shari Tartaglia, CNM; Practice Manager Sarah Langenbach; Gina Radano, BSN, RN; and Owen Montgomery, MD, VP of Jefferson Health Women’s & Children’s Services. This initiative aligns with New... Read more →

In-person visits to supplement online encounters as needed October 26, 2022 - Virtua Health has opened a new primary care practice that offers a “telehealth first” approach to care. Virtua Primary Care Telehealth provides patients with access to board-certified primary care physicians who are experts in delivering care online. Patients of the practice can conduct the majority of their care encounters from the convenience of their home or location of their choosing.   “Virtua Health knows that we need to make the connection to health care easy for our patients. We want to meet our patients where they are—which is why the new Primary Care Telehealth Practice makes sense,” said Angela Skrzynski, DO, lead physician for telehealth services. “Our primary care physicians offer quality care in a flexible way, ensuring that everyone has easy access to a physician and the medical care they need.” Features of the practice include a range... Read more →

Register Today KUTZTOWN, PA (10/25/2022) The Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute will bring its mobile mammography coach to Kutztown University Monday, Oct. 31. Screenings will take place 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Student Recreation Center parking lot. The screening service will be offered to women over 40 years old who have not had a mammogram in the past year. The event is open to the entire community. Post-traditional and graduate students as well as staff, faculty and community members can benefit from this opportunity. No prescription is needed for women over the age of 40 who have not had a mammogram in the past year. There are also grant funding opportunities for those over 40 without insurance; those interested should contact the Lehigh Valley Health Network for more information. To schedule an appointment, call 888-402-5846. Please have your physician's contact information and insurance card available at the time... Read more →

The expansion and relocation of Maressa Center for MS Wellness at Jefferson Health – New Jersey was celebrated recently at a special event in Voorhees. The Maressa Center offers free comprehensive in-person and online sessions to enhance the quality of life for those living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Funded by the Maressa family, the Center has offered unique experiences and education since 2019 for people living with MS and their care partners. The Center recently relocated to Voorhees from Cherry Hill, and a special dedication event was held. The Maressa Center for MS Wellness aims to help those with MS increase mobility, improve mental health, and reduce pain through services that include acupuncture, art therapy, cooking demos, informational lectures, and massages. Jefferson Health – New Jersey’s specially trained clinicians and our guest speakers foster a caring, supportive and inclusive atmosphere that encourages participation. The Maressa Center for MS Wellness is... Read more →

The U.S. Never Banned Asbestos. These Workers Are Paying the Price. by Kathleen McGrory and Neil Bedi, photography by Rich-Joseph Facun, graphics by Haisam Hussein ProPublica is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative newsroom. Sign up for The Big Story newsletter to receive stories like this one in your inbox. Henry Saenz remembers when he first learned what even the tiniest bit of asbestos could do to his body. He was working at a chemical plant where employees used the mineral to make chlorine, and his coworkers warned him about what could happen each time he took a breath: Tiny fibers, invisible to the eye, could enter his nose and mouth and settle into his lungs, his abdomen, the lining of his heart. They could linger there for decades. Then, one day, he might develop asbestosis, a chronic disease that makes the lungs harden, or mesothelioma, a vicious cancer that ends the... Read more →

Remember when your parents told you never to take candy from a stranger? Well, now it’s time to tell them not to click on a link from a stranger. The FBI recently released a report that shows American citizens aged 50 and older have lost over 3 billion dollars to cybercriminals. The numbers are generally increasing, but seniors seem to be the prime target for online scams. Romance scams, tech support pretenders, and investment fraud Looking for love online used to be treated with distrust. How do you know that the person on the other side is real? That’s what parents used to say to kids. Now, thanks to apps like Tinder and Bumble, the social stigma behind online dating is gone. However, that’s not to say that you should trust everyone online. The Tinder Swindler is a prime example of how scams can happen, and it looks like seniors... Read more →

(NAPSI)—More than 50 million* Americans suffer from allergies each year and for many of them, there are some added anxieties. For example, many people don’t realize allergies can be deadly. Or that eating local honey, living in a dry climate or avoiding cut flowers won’t cure allergies or prevent an allergic reaction. And these days, there’s often the question: Is it allergies or is it COVID-19? Fortunately, there are tests doctors can perform that can help them make that distinction. Here are a few facts that can help you, too. What To Look For Allergy symptoms can include: • Watery Eyes • Congestion • Runny Nose • Itchy Eyes • Vomiting and/or stomach cramps • Wheezing • Shortness of breath • Dizziness or feeling faint • Pale or blue skin • Weak pulse • Hives • Repeated cough • Tight, hoarse throat, trouble swallowing, swollen tongue What is an Allergy?... Read more →

NIH study finds Black women may be more affected due to higher use. Women who used chemical hair straightening products were at higher risk for uterine cancer compared to women who did not report using these products, according to a new study from the National Institutes of Health. The researchers found no associations with uterine cancer for other hair products that the women reported using, including hair dyes, bleach, highlights, or perms. The study data includes 33,497 U.S. women ages 35-74 participating in the Sister Study, a study led by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), part of NIH, that seeks to identify risk factors for breast cancer and other health conditions. The women were followed for almost 11 years and during that time 378 uterine cancer cases were diagnosed. The researchers found that women who reported frequent use of hair straightening products, defined as more than four... Read more →

Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital recently unveiled its new, state-of-the-art Molecular Virology Laboratory. Established through a $4.7 million pandemic preparedness grant from the NJ Department of Health, the new laboratory will provide PCR-based testing for SARS-CoV-2, as well as other common viruses, using an instrument capable of performing more than 3,000 tests in 24 hours. Working in collaboration with the Jefferson Health Genomic Laboratory in Philadelphia, the new lab also has the capability to develop new PCR tests for both known and emerging pathogens, and will help with community preparedness for any future pandemics. Guests at a special open house event Thursday were able to tour the new facility. Shown here, left to right: Lisa Dutterer, VP of Operations at Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital; Judith M. Persichilli, NJ Commissioner of Health; Dr. Zi-Xuan Wang, Jefferson Cherry Hill Molecular Virology Lab Project Director; Cherry Hill Mayor Susan Shin Angulo; and Louis D.... Read more →

ALS Association Invested $2.2 Million Raised by Grassroots Social Media Movement into the Development and Trial of AMX0035 Washington, D.C., October 16, 2022 – The ALS Association, the country’s largest nonprofit committed to making ALS livable and finding a cure, today celebrated the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval of AMX0035, a new treatment for people living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurodegenerative disease. The Association invested $2.2 million of funds raised through the 2014 ALS Ice Bucket Challenge into the development and trial of AMX0035, and led the years-long advocacy campaign that pushed the FDA to approve the treatment before completing an ongoing phase 3 trial. “We thank the millions of people who donated, participated, and enabled us to invest in promising therapies like AMX0035 that will immediately help people living with ALS,” said Calaneet Balas, president and CEO of the ALS Association. “This is a victory... Read more →

Fewer than 50 in the United States. (VOORHEES, NJ)….Two renowned health systems are bringing the most advanced form of radiation treatment to cancer patients in South Jersey with the creation of the Penn Medicine |Virtua Health Proton Therapy Center in Voorhees, N.J. The $45 million facility will be the first proton therapy center in South Jersey and among fewer than 50 in the United States. On the Virtua Voorhees Hospital campus, this suburban site will provide local patients the added convenience of being nearer to home and loved ones while undergoing treatment and recovery. The technology can seem like science fiction – involving the acceleration of sub-atomic, cancer-eliminating particles to about 450 million miles per hour. In reality, though, this leading-edge facility will bring a new pathway to care to people with cancer from across the region. “Proton therapy offers new hope for people with complex or recurring cancers, and... Read more →

Dr. Hess of Medford, NJ, graduated in 2007 with a bachelor's degree from the college. WESTMINSTER, MD (10/05/2022) McDaniel College has named Dr. Theresa Anne Hess of Medford, NJ, as the young alumni of the year. Presented during McDaniel's Homecoming, the young alumni of the year award recognizes graduates of the last 15 years who exemplify the McDaniel spirit through their professional, community and college service achievements. Dr. Hess graduated summa cum laude with departmental honors in biochemistry and biology from McDaniel in 2007. She played all four years for the Green Terror women's basketball team during which time the team made three NCAA tournament appearances and a Sweet 16 appearance. She was also involved as a peer mentor and as a member of the Beta Beta Beta, Gamma Sigma Epsilon, Omicron Delta Kappa and Trumpeters honors societies, as well as Catholic Campus Ministries. After graduating from McDaniel, she went... Read more →

(MARLTON, N.J..…To best meet the care needs of its community, Virtua Health’s Pride Primary Care practice – dedicated to the health needs of LGBTQ+ people and allies – now offers the monkeypox vaccine. The vaccine can prevent the illness in those deemed at high risk for exposure to the virus. And it can lessen symptoms in those with a confirmed diagnosis – especially when given quickly after the appearance of symptoms, ideally within four days. The vaccine is provided at no cost to recipients. CNBNews graphic “Virtua Pride Primary Care is a place where people can receive compassionate, quality health screenings and services in a judgment-free environment,” said Dr. Sam Weiner, chief medical officer for Virtua Medical Group. “Offering the monkeypox vaccine is a new way we can demonstrate that commitment to personalized, inclusive care.” Anyone can contract monkeypox, regardless of age, race/ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation, according to the... Read more →

(Camden, NJ) – The Center for Critical Care Medicine at Cooper University Health Care has received national recognition for its outstanding extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) program, an advanced lifesaving system used for critically ill patients. The Cooper team was named a Silver Level Center on the Path to Excellence in Life Support program by the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO). The Excellence in Life Support Award recognizes centers that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to evidence-based processes and quality measures, staff training and continuing education, patient satisfaction, and ongoing clinical care. The award also recognizes and honors extracorporeal life support (ECLS) programs that reach the highest level of performance, innovation, satisfaction, and quality. “We are honored to be the recipient of such a prestigious award. We were able to help countless patients due to the vision of our administration and the tireless efforts our physicians, nurses, perfusionists, and respiratory therapists. Dr.... Read more →

Football Season is Back! (MARLTON, NJ, October 3, 2022) Last week, football fans everywhere watched as Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa left a game by stretcher – a haunting yet familiar image. According to several sources, the professional athlete suffered head and neck injuries, including a concussion. As a sports medicine physician with Virtua Orthopedics & Spine, Dr. Eric Requa knows the many health risks associated with football, particularly concussions. In fact, he was the team doctor for the Philadelphia Soul arena football team and has treated both collegiate and high-school players at Virtua Health, South Jersey’s largest health system. Concussions are one of the biggest concerns for athletes in contact sports, he says. An estimated 300, 000 sports-related traumatic brain injuries, predominantly concussions, occur annually in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In a study of high school athletes, the CDC reports that about... Read more →

A healthy gut is vital for so many reasons. Here are tips to improve yours. HENDERSON, Nev., Sept. 28, 2022 – Gut health has indeed skyrocketed to the top of health and wellness concerns, but if it didn’t happen on social, then it didn’t happen, right? Well, it has happened on social. Enter the latest trending hashtag on TikTok: #Guttok. More than a billion posts on this platform highlight gut (a.k.a. the gastrointestinal tract) problems and potential solutions. Rather than wade through all those posts, here are some insights and valuable tips from Nutrishop, a national retail nutrition franchise specializing in dietary and nutritional supplements, vitamins, and wellness. First, it’s important to know that the bacteria in your gut play a huge role in your well-being. They are responsible for your digestive system and affect everything from metabolism and mood to brain function and the immune system. In fact, your... Read more →

The large NIH-funded study included participants in North America and Europe. A large international study has confirmed the findings of a previous U.S. study that linked COVID-19 vaccination with an average increase in menstrual cycle length of less than one day. The increase was not associated with any change in the number of days of menses (days of bleeding). Funded by the National Institutes of Health, the new study included data from nearly 20,000 people from Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, Europe and other parts of the world who received any of nine different vaccines. For most study participants, the increase resolved in the cycle following vaccination. The study’s principal investigator was Alison Edelman, M.D., M.P.H., of Oregon Health & Science University in Portland. It appears in the BMJ Medicine. “These findings provide additional information for counseling women on what to expect after vaccination,” said Diana Bianchi, M.D.,... Read more →

Thanks to a partnership with the Delaware County Health Department, free COVID-19 vaccinations will be available on the last Wednesday of each month through December 28 at SEPTA’s 69th Street Transportation Center. All individuals ages 6 months+ are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccines. The clinic will be open this Wednesday, September 28 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Grand Hall (Main Lobby). The vaccinations are free with no appointment, ID, or health insurance required. 69th Street Transportation Center is located at 6901 Market Street in Upper Darby, Pa. Those with questions about getting the vaccination should contact the Delaware County Health Department Wellness Line at 484-276-2100 or visit delcoPA.gov/vax Read more →

(Washington, DC) – Judicial Watch announced today that it received 115 pages of records from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) revealing previously redacted locations of COVID-19 vaccine testing facilities in Shanghai, China. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) claimed the testing facilities' name and locations were protected by the confidential commercial information exemption of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The records were obtained through a September 2021 FOIA lawsuit filed after the FDA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Disease failed to respond to a June 7, 2021, FOIA request for all biodistribution studies and data for the COVID-19 vaccines (Judicial Watch v. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (No. 1:21-cv-02418)). The newly unredacted documents reveal the following Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine studies’ locations: A document with the filename “ s_r_IND 19736 0 105 2.6.5 pharmkintabulated-summary” identifies... Read more →

10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's Share or Print this page Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a symptom of Alzheimer's or other dementia. Alzheimer's is a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. There are 10 warning signs and symptoms. If you notice any of them, don't ignore them. Schedule an appointment with your doctor. Subscribe to our e-newsletter to learn how you can help those affected by Alzheimer's. 1 Memory loss that disrupts daily life One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s disease, especially in the early stage, is forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events, asking the same questions over and over, and increasingly needing to rely on memory aids (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on their own. What's a typical age-related change?... Read more →

Bridgewater, NJ September 15, 2022 – JOGO Health Inc., a New Jersey-based, privately held digital therapeutics company focused on the development and commercialization of treatments for chronic pain and neuromuscular (NM) conditions, today announced that it will present positive data on using its signature solution, JOGO-Gx, to treat patients with non-specific low back pain at the 19th World Congress on Pain held at the Metro Toronto Convention Center in Toronto from September 19-25, 2022. Non-specific low back pain is one of the most common reasons Americans miss work or leave jobs entirely. A professional organization estimates 200 million US productivity hours are consequently lost every year and nearly 40 million workers suffer from non-specific low back pain. Addressing a reduced quality of life while lacking an understanding of treatment options, clinicians and patients are often tempted to rely on medication alone. Unlike most chronic pain studies relying on subjective numerical... Read more →

(NAPSI)—More than 50 million* Americans suffer from allergies each year and for many of them, there are some added anxieties. For example, many people don’t realize allergies can be deadly. Or that eating local honey, living in a dry climate or avoiding cut flowers won’t cure allergies or prevent an allergic reaction. And these days, there’s often the question: Is it allergies or is it COVID-19? Fortunately, there are tests doctors can perform that can help them make that distinction. Here are a few facts that can help you, too. What To Look For Allergy symptoms can include: • Watery Eyes • Congestion • Runny Nose • Itchy Eyes • Vomiting and/or stomach cramps • Wheezing • Shortness of breath • Dizziness or feeling faint • Pale or blue skin • Weak pulse • Hives • Repeated cough • Tight, hoarse throat, trouble swallowing, swollen tongue What is an Allergy?... Read more →

Don’t Let Flu Season Sneak Up On You Flu shots are available at CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations nationwide. (NAPSI)—Get the facts, not the flu. For many people, the start of fall means busier schedules and longer to-do lists, but you shouldn’t let your annual flu shot fall to the bottom of that list. What You Can Do About The Flu With flu season approaching and COVID-19 cases still prevalent, Sandra Leal, PharmD, MPH, FAPhA, offers the following tips to help you fight the flu this season: •Get your annual flu shot as soon as possible: Getting your flu vaccine is the best way to help prevent the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting your vaccine early in the fall, ideally before the flu season begins. Not only can you help protect yourself from getting sick but you can help protect your family, friends and... Read more →