CNBNEWS.NET/Gloucester City

Jefferson Health’s Joe Devine Named Chairman of NJHA Board of Trustees

 

Joseph W. Devine, FACHE, President, New Jersey Division, and Chief Experience Officer at Jefferson Health, was named Chair of the Board of the New Jersey Hospital Association (NJHA), the state’s oldest and largest hospital and healthcare advocacy organization, at its 100^th Annual Meeting, held January 18^th at the Hyatt Regency Princeton.

Jefferson Health’s Dr. David Condoluci Receives NJ Hospital Assn’s Distinguished Service Award

 

 

David Condoluci, DO, MACOI, Senior VP and Chief Patient Safety & Quality Officer at Jefferson Health in New Jersey, was awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the New Jersey Hospital Association (NJHA) at its 100^th Annual Meeting at the Hyatt Regency Princeton. The Distinguished Service Award recognizes healthcare leaders who demonstrate strength, integrity, professionalism, and a relentless commitment to a New Jersey-based hospital or health system.

Jefferson Family Health Services Expands Behavioral Health Program

 

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (January 15, 2019)--A launch celebration was held at Jefferson Family Health Services (FHS) in Washington Township, NJ, for its expanded Behavioral Health program. Since 2017, Jefferson’s Family Health Services at Somerdale Square (Somerdale, NJ) has offered Behavioral Health screenings and treatment for thousands of area residents, services funded through a $225,000 grant from The Nicholson Foundation to implement the Cherokee Health Systems’ model for providing integrated Behavioral Health service in a primary care setting. That program has proven so successful that Jefferson has now been awarded an expansion grant from The Nicholson Foundation, for $140,000, to bring the same screening/treatment program to Family Health Services in Washington Township, Gloucester County, NJ.

How to Help a Child Who Is Overweight

 

 

Children's Hospital of Pennsylvania

PHILADELPHIA PA (January 14, 2019)(Childrens Hospital of Pennsy--Obesity is a critical and growing health problem in the U.S., and it starts at a young age. One in every 6 children and teenagers is obese (18.5 percent). That’s more than three times the rate found in the early 1970s.

January National Blood Donor Month; Make a Difference through Blood Donation

Every January, National Blood Donor Month provides people an opportunity to roll up their sleeves and donate blood or pledge to give blood at a time of the year when this lifesaving resource is typically in short supply.

Blood donations typically decrease due to unpredictable weather conditions that often result in blood drive cancellations. In addition, blood donations normally decline during the busy end-of-year holidays, so blood centers and hospital collection sites often face shortages at the beginning of the New Year.

Jefferson Health–NJ Radiation Oncology Nurse Kathleen Solari to Receive National Nursing Award

 

Kathleen Solari

Kathleen Solari, RN, BSN, OCN, Radiation Oncology Nurse Manager at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center – Washington Township, has been selected as the 2019 recipient of the Excellence in Radiation Therapy Nursing Award presented by the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS).

Gloucester County NJ’s First Baby of the New Year

Delivered at Jefferson Washington Township Hospital

Jefferson Washington Township Hospital welcomed Gloucester County NJ’s first baby of the #NewYear at 6:04 a.m. Tuesday, when little Salice Paris Woodley entered the world!

The newborn, the first child for Mays Landing residents Brianna Rodriguez and Dennis Woodley, weighed in at 7 pounds, 15 oz., and is 20 inches long. She was delivered by Jefferson Health - NJ OB/GYN Dr. Jennifer Hummel. 

Jefferson Stratford Hospital Surgical Services Cooks Meal for Organ Donation Patients, Families

at the Gift of Life Family House

 

The Gift of Life Family House stands as a place to stay for organ donation patients and their families coming into the Philadelphia area to receive life-saving transplant treatments.

To provide support, during what can sometimes be a trying time, the Gift of Life Family House sponsors the Home Cook Heroes Program. The program offers members of the community the opportunity to give back to those in need by cooking a special meal.

This past weekend, our Jefferson Stratford Hospital Surgical Services team purchased the ingredients and whipped up a special meal for the current residents.

If you are interested in taking part in the Home Cook Heroes program, click HERE!

STUDY: Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Pattern Linked to Higher Kidney Disease Risk

Highlight

• In a study of African-American men and women with normal kidney function, a pattern of higher collective consumption of soda, sweetened fruit drinks, and water was associated with a higher risk of developing kidney disease.

Newswise — Washington, DC (December 27, 2018) — Higher collective consumption of sweetened fruit drinks, soda, and water was associated with a higher likelihood of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD) in a community-based study of African-American adults in Mississippi. The findings, which appear in an upcoming issue of the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology (CJASN), contribute to the growing body of evidence pointing to the negative health consequences of consuming sugar-sweetened beverages.

Dr. David Condoluci Honored with Teddy DePrince Award

CHERRY HILL, NJ (December 28, 2018) — David V. Condoluci, DO, MACOI, Senior Vice President and Chief Patient Safety & Quality Officer at Jefferson Health – New Jersey, was recently presented with the Teddy DePrince Award at the 29^th Annual HIV Medical Update in Cherry Hill, NJ, in recognition of his continued commitment and compassion in addressing the needs of patients living with HIV/AIDS.

The Teddy DePrince Award is named in memory of a South Jersey resident who died in 2004 at age 24 due to complications of HIV/AIDS, which he contracted in the 1980s while undergoing blood transfusions to treat his hemophilia. DePrince’s two brothers, also hemophiliacs, similarly acquired HIV/AIDS and died in the early 1990s. Dr. Condoluci cared for Teddy and his brothers until their deaths.

“Dr. Condoluci epitomizes this award,” said Jefferson Health - New Jersey’s Medical Director of Infectious Diseases, Dr. Todd P. Levin. “He was selected as this year’s Teddy DePrince Award recipient to thank him for all those he has helped over his illustrious career.”

This year’s HIV Medical Update, geared toward medical professionals throughout the region, was sponsored by Jefferson Primary & Specialty Care – Infectious Diseases, the François-Xavier Bagnoud (FXB) Center at Rutgers School of Nursing, and Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine.

A member of Jefferson Health - New Jersey’s Medical Staff since 1983, Dr. Condoluci is a national expert and leading proponent in the fight against HIV/AIDS. He helped establish the first South Jersey HIV Medical Update in 1989, aimed at helping the medical community effectively respond to the growing AIDS epidemic.

Up To A Third Of Knee Replacements Pack Pain And Regret

Danette Lake sits on her front porch after walking her dogs, Zoe and Chloe. A doctor told Lake that knee replacement surgery could reduce her arthritis pain by 75 percent. One year after the surgery, however, she’s still in extreme pain and unable to work. (Rachel Mummey for KHN)

Danette Lake thought surgery would relieve the pain in her knees.

The arthritis pain began as a dull ache in her early 40s, brought on largely by the pressure of unwanted weight. Lake managed to lose 200 pounds through dieting and exercise, but the pain in her knees persisted.

The Medical Minute: Screening for Hepatitis C can reduce chance of liver disease

 

Newswise — Hepatitis C is a good news, bad news kind of disease. The bad news is that many with the liver-attacking virus may not even know it. The good news is that once discovered, doctors can effectively treat and even remove it.

“We can eliminate the virus and keep people from developing liver disease,” said Dr. James Spicher, an internal medicine physician at Penn State Health. “But we can only do that if we find it. That’s why screening is so important. Otherwise, it’s a silent disease.”

 

 

Fatty Liver Disease Could soon be the No. 1 reason for liver transplantation

 

Newswise — More than 100 million Americans have potentially deadly fatty liver disease and most do not even know it. Overeating and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol this holiday season could put someone with the disease on the fast track to liver failure.

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Expands Community Asthma Prevention Program

 in Partnership with Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation

Published on Dec 17, 2018 in CHOP News

 

PHILADELPHIA PA (December 2018)--Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), in partnership with the Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC), today announced a new Community Asthma Prevention Program Plus (CAPP+) Home Repairs Program, developed to address the impact of unhealthy housing on pediatric asthma outcomes in West Philadelphia neighborhoods. CAPP+ is the pilot initiative of Healthier Together, CHOP’s new umbrella initiative that focuses on some of the most pressing health and economic needs in neighborhoods surrounding the hospital’s campus.

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Announces Endowed Chair in Pediatric Neuroblastoma Research

Published in CHOP News

 

Yael Mossé, MDPediatric oncologist and researcher Yael Mossé, MD, Director of the Neuroblastoma Development Therapeutics Program at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has been named the inaugural holder of the Patricia Brophy Endowed Chair in Neuroblastoma Research, established to support the discovery and development of new therapies for patients with neuroblastoma. 

“Dr. Yael Mossé is a proven innovator as a member of CHOP’s world-class neuroblastoma team, a global leader in bringing new treatments and potential cures to reality,” said Joseph St. Geme, MD, Physician-in-Chief, Chairman of the Department of Pediatrics, and holder of the Leonard and Madlyn Abramson Endowed Chair in Pediatrics at CHOP. “Dr. Mossé also has a special connection to Alex’s Lemonade Stand and founders Liz and Jay Scott, who have been longtime and valued supporters of the Division of Oncology. We are truly grateful for their commitment to making a difference in the outcomes of children with this challenging disease.”

WATCH:Teens using vaping devices in record numbers

 

Opioid misuse at record lows with marijuana use remaining stable.

 

America’s teens report a dramatic increase in their use of vaping devices in just a single year, with 37.3 percent of 12th graders reporting “any vaping” in the past 12 months, compared to just 27.8 percent in 2017. These findings come from the 2018 Monitoring the Future (MTF) survey of a nationally representative sample of eighth, 10th and 12th graders in schools nationwide, funded by a government grant to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. The annual results were announced today by the director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health, along with the scientists who lead the research team.

Reported use of vaping nicotine specifically in the 30 days prior to the survey nearly doubled among high school seniors from 11 percent in 2017 to 20.9 percent in 2018. More than 1 in 10 eighth graders (10.9 percent) say they vaped nicotine in the past year, and use is up significantly in virtually all vaping measures among eighth, 10th and 12th graders. Reports of past year marijuana vaping also increased this year, at 13.1 percent for 12th graders, up from 9.5 percent last year.

“Teens are clearly attracted to the marketable technology and flavorings seen in vaping devices; however, it is urgent that teens understand the possible effects of vaping on overall health; the development of the teen brain; and the potential for addiction,” said Nora D. Volkow, M.D., director of NIDA. “Research tells us that teens who vape may be at risk for transitioning to regular cigarettes, so while we have celebrated our success in lowering their rates of tobacco use in recent years, we must continue aggressive educational efforts on all products containing nicotine.”

The percent of 12th graders who say they vaped “just flavoring” in the past year also increased to 25.7 percent in 2018 from 20.6 percent in 2017. However, it is unclear if teens know what is in the vaping devices they are using, since the most popular devices do not have nicotine-free options, and some labeling has been shown to be inaccurate. There was also a significant jump in perceived availability of vaping devices and liquids in eighth and 10th graders, with 45.7 percent and 66.6 percent, respectively, saying the devices are “fairly easy” or “very easy” to get.

There is more information on the survey’s vaping findings in this week’s issue of The New England Journal of Medicine. In a letter to the editor(link is external) written by Dr. Richard Miech, the MTF study team lead. Dr. Miech points out that the one-year increases in the prevalence of nicotine vaping translate into approximately 1.3 million additional adolescents who vaped in 2018, as compared with 2017. The increase in vaping rates between 2017-2018 also aligns with the recently released CDC/FDA government funded National Youth Tobacco Survey(link is external).

Tobacco

This year’s survey shows regular tobacco is still at its lowest point in the survey since it began measuring it, with only 3.6 percent of high school seniors smoking daily, compared to 22.4 percent two decades ago. Smoking tobacco with a hookah is significantly lower than five years ago, at 7.8 percent in the past year among high school seniors, compared to 21.4 percent in 2013.

Opioids

The alarming news about vaping is in sharp contrast to the good news about teenage opioid use. The past year use of narcotics other than heroin (i.e., prescription opioids) is at 3.4 percent among 12th graders—a significant change from 4.2 percent in 2017. Only 1.7 percent of high school seniors report misuse of Vicodin in the past year, compared to a peak of 10.5 percent 15 years ago. It is also important to note that heroin use in all three grades remains very low with only 0.4 percent of 12th graders reporting past year use.

“With illicit opioid use at generally the lowest in the history of the survey, it is possible that being in high school offers a protective effect against opioid misuse and addiction,” said Dr. Volkow. “We will be focusing much of our new prevention research on the period of time when teens transition out of school into the adult world and become exposed to the dangerous use of these drugs.”

Marijuana and Other Drugs

Close to 1 in 4 high school seniors report use of an illicit drug in the past month, led by marijuana use. Rates of overall marijuana use are steady, with 5.8 percent of 12th graders reporting daily use. Daily use of marijuana has been reported by high school seniors for the past 20 years at somewhere between 5.0 and 6.6 percent. Past year rates of marijuana use are generally steady among sophomores and seniors, showing as 27.5 percent for 10th graders and 35.9 percent for 12th graders. However, there is a significant five-year drop among eighth graders—from 12.7 percent in 2013 to 10.5 percent in 2018. There continues to be more 12th graders who report using marijuana every day than smoking cigarettes (5.8 percent vs. 3.6 percent) and only 26.7 percent of 12th graders think regular marijuana use offers great risk of harm.

Other illicit drugs, including cocaine, synthetic cannabinoids, and MDMA remain close to historic lows. Inhalants, the only drug category that is usually higher among younger teens, is reported at 4.6 among eighth graders, compared to a peak of 12.8 percent in 1995.

Alcohol

There is positive news related to teen drinking with just 17.5 percent of 12th graders saying they have been drunk in the past 30 days, down significantly from five years ago, when it was reported at 26 percent. Reports of binge drinking (five or more drinks in a row in the past two weeks) is down significantly among 12th graders, at 13.8 percent—down from 16.6 percent in 2017, and compared to 31.5 percent when the rates peaked in 1998. These findings represent the lowest rates seen for these alcohol measures since the survey began asking the questions.

“We are encouraged to see continued declines in a variety of measures of underage alcohol use,” said George F. Koob, Ph.D., director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. “The new data, however, underscore that far too many young people continue to drink at a time in their lives when their brains and bodies are quite vulnerable to alcohol-related harms. We remain committed to developing and improving strategies to prevent the onset of drinking among youth, so that more young people can be spared the consequences of alcohol misuse.”

The MTF survey releases findings the same year the data is collected. It has been conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor since 1975.

Overall, 44,482 students from 392 public and private schools participated in this year's MTF survey. Since 1975, the survey has measured drug, alcohol, and cigarette use and related attitudes in 12th graders nationwide. Eighth and 10th graders were added to the survey in 1991. Survey participants generally report their drug use behaviors across three-time periods: lifetime, past year, and past month. NIDA has provided grant funding for the survey since its inception. MTF is funded under grant number DA001411. Additional information on the MTF Survey can be found at www.drugabuse.gov/drugpages/MTF.html. The University of Michigan press release can be found at http://monitoringthefuture.org(link is external).

MTF is one of three major surveys supported by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that provide data on substance use among youth. The others are the National Survey on Drug Use and Health and the Youth Risk Behavior Survey.

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health, supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, is the primary source of statistical information on substance use in the U.S. population 12 years of age and older. More information is available at: http://www.samhsa.gov/data/population-data-nsduh(link is external).

The Youth Risk Behavior Survey, part of HHS's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System, is a school–based survey that collects data from students in grades nine–12. The survey includes questions on a wide variety of health-related risk behaviors, including substance abuse. More information is available at www.cdc.gov/HealthyYouth/yrbs/index.htm(link is external). Additionally, the National Youth Tobacco Survey, a school-based survey of U.S. students in grades six–12 conducted by the CDC in collaboration with the Food and Drug Administration, collects data on the use of multiple tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. More information is available at www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/surveys/NYTS/(link is external).

Follow MTF 2018 news on Twitter at @NIDANews(link is external) or join the conversation by using: #MTF2018. Additional survey results can be found at www.hhs.gov/news(link is external). Information on all the surveyed drugs can be found on NIDA's Web site: www.drugabuse.gov.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is a component of the National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIDA supports most of the world’s research on the health aspects of drug abuse and addiction. The Institute carries out a large variety of programs to inform policy and improve practice. Fact sheets on the health effects of drugs of abuse and information on NIDA research and other activities can be found at http://www.drugabuse.gov, which is now compatible with your smartphone, iPad or tablet. To order publications in English or Spanish, call NIDA’s DrugPubs research dissemination center at 1-877-NIDA-NIH or 240-645-0228 (TDD) or email requests to drugpubs@nida.nih.gov(link sends e-mail). Online ordering is available at http://drugpubs.drugabuse.gov. NIDA’s media guide can be found at http://drugabuse.gov/mediaguide/, and its easy-to-read website can be found at http://www.easyread.drugabuse.gov

About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation's medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.

NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health^®

Three Jefferson Health – NJ Physicians Leaders Speak at World Congress Physician Relations Summit

PHILADELPHIA, PA (December 18, 2018)--Three Jefferson Health – New Jersey physician leaders spoke recently at the 7th Annual World Congress Physician Relations Summit held in Philadelphia, December 11 – 12. Dr. Carman Ciervo, Chief Physician Executive (far right) and Dr. Anthony Wehbe, Chief Population Health Executive (left), spoke about how physician liaisons and senior leadership can work together to effectively communicate key messages to doctors in their network. Dr. Richardo Perez, Jefferson Health – New Jersey’s Chief Clinical Officer, presented about how healthcare organizations can enhance and create a competitive model for their physician recruitment process. The Physician Relations Summit, held annually, brings together hundreds of professionals working in the liaison, business development, and marketing to strategize and implement solutions that drive referrals, grow networks, and develop better teams. 

Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center - Washington Township Receives $60,000 Donation

 

from the Bill Bottino Cancer Foundation

 

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (December 11, 2018)(CNBNewsnet)--Representatives from the South Jersey-based Bill Bottino Cancer Foundation (BBCF) held a check presentation ceremony recently at Bottino’s ShopRite store in Vineland to donate $120,000 to two area healthcare care providers of cancer treatment, including the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center – Washington Township.

Some people uncomfortable discontinuing colorectal cancer screening

Study finds mixed feelings about using age, life expectancy and risk calculators to guide screening decisions

Newswise — ANN ARBOR, Michigan — Get screened. Screening saves lives. It’s a simple message, but as screening recommendations become more complicated, what happens when the message becomes “maybe get screened” or even “stop screening”?

Kicking Off the Holiday Season with the Gloucester County Mayors’ Prayer Breakfast

 

On December 6, members of our senior leadership gathered with business professionals, civic leaders and community members at the 27th Annual Gloucester County Mayors’ Prayer Breakfast.
As a gold sponsor, Jefferson Health supports the county and its goal of holding an event that stands as a positive way to mark the start of a festive holiday season.

This year’s breakfast featured Philadelphia Eagles Chaplain and Senior Pastor of Greater Exodus Baptist Church, Reverend Dr. Herbert H. Lusk II, who left his position as a running back for the Philadelphia Eagles after just three seasons to commit himself to serving those in need.

In photo from left to right: Dean Auer, Jefferson Health - New Jersey Director of Patient Experience; Russell Micoli, VP of Ambulatory Services; Amanda Kimmel, Assistant Vice President of Population Health; Lisa Morina, Vice President of Jefferson Health-New Jersey Marketing & External Relations; Alice Farrell, Corporate Director of Nursing; and Brian Duffy, Direction of Physical Therapy.

Past & Present Project Search Interns at Jefferson Health - NJ Associates Receive Recognition

Congratulations to Adham, Anthony, and Helaina, Jefferson Health - New Jersey former Project Search interns and current associates, for receiving the Samost Jewish Family and Children's Service (JFCS) of Southern New Jersey's Outstanding Employer Recognition Award at the 13th annual Dubrow Vocational Celebration Breakfast!

 

Members of the Jefferson Health - New Jersey Leadership Graduate from the Jefferson Leadership Academy

Congratulations to the four Jefferson Health – New Jersey Fall 2018 graduates of  Jefferson Leadership Academy. The Academy is a 9-month program for enterprise leaders who will work collaboratively to be “change agents” to drive Jefferson’s business strategy and organizational transformation.

The recent graduates are: Dr. Joseph Badalato, Chief Clinical Officer of Graduate Medical Education (2nd from left); Dr. Ricardo Perez, Chief of Medicine (3rd from left); Amanda Kimmel, AVP of Population Health (3rd from left); and Dr. Maryann Lauletta, VP of Medical Operations (5th from left). Also shown are (left to right): Jefferson Health - New Jersey Division President Joseph W. Devine; Chief Physician Executive Dr. Carman Ciervo; and Chief Population Health Executive Dr. Anthony Wehbe.

Cold Weather Woes and Dry Eyes

 

Newswise — BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — As cold winter months arrive, many people will live in dry, indoor conditions with the heat on all day, which contributes to the season’s being the most common time people complain about dry, itchy and watery eyes.

SKCC – Washington Township Helps Donate 260 ‘Blessing Bags’ to Local Homeless

 

Giving back to those in need is what makes the holiday season so special. Members of the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center - Washington Township team — led by Peggy Wight, BA, CTR, Director of Oncology Data Services — recently did just that.

Two Premature Infants Die Associated With Bacterial Infection Outbreak in University Hospital

NEWARK, NJ (November 27,2018)(CNBNewsnet)--As part of an ongoing outbreak investigation of a bacterial infection in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of University Hospital in Newark, the New Jersey Department of Health learned late yesterday that two premature infants with confirmed cases of A. baumannii died last week.

3 Jefferson Health NJ Associates to be Honored at Dubrow Vocational Celebration Breakfast

In a celebration of empowerment, independence, and seeing the “full light” of their potential, three Jefferson Health - New Jersey associates — Adham Baghdadi, Anthony Goodson, and Helaina Sohn —will be honored at the Samost Jewish Family and Children's Service (JFCS) of Southern New Jersey’s 13th annual Dubrow Vocational Celebration Breakfast on Friday, November 30.

Jefferson Health - New Jersey Celebrates National Philanthropy Day

Celebrated each year on November 15, National Philanthropy Day helps showcase the impact that generosity and giving back has on enhancing the quality of life in communities across the United States. 

Jefferson Health - New Jersey recently celebrated National Philanthropy Day with a gathering of key stakeholders, board members, and donors. One of Jefferson Health - New Jersey’s key donors, The Bill Bottino Cancer Foundation, based in Bridgeton, NJ, was recognized for its generous support of the Patient Assistance Fund at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center - Washington Township. The Patient Assistance Fund provides support to assist with patients’ financial needs during treatment (i.e., housing, utility bills, transportation, etc.).

Shown here, from left, are: Joe Devine, President of Jefferson Health - New Jersey; Deb and Rich Cifelli, representing the Bill Bottino Cancer Foundation; Michelle Gollapalli, Executive Director, Kennedy Health Care Foundation; and Joanne Sabatini, Assistant Director of Donor Relations, Kennedy Health Care Foundation. 

 

Additional Exposures Associated with Ocean County Measles Outbreak

 

The New Jersey Department of Health is warning residents of additional exposures associated with an outbreak of measles— a highly contagious disease—in Ocean County.

A highly suspect case of measles associated with the Ocean County outbreak has potentially exposed individuals in Passaic County. This Passaic County resident could have exposed others to the infection while in Passaic County between November 17 and November 18.

Eyes of CJD patients show evidence of prions

 

Finding could help early diagnosis, raise concern for eye exams and transplants.

 

Ocular tissues tested by real time quaking-induced conversion.Ryan Kissinger, NIAID

What

National Institutes of Health scientists and their colleagues have found evidence of the infectious agent of sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) in the eyes of deceased CJD patients. The finding suggests that the eye may be a source for early CJD diagnosis and raises questions about the safety of routine eye exams and corneal transplants. Sporadic CJD, a fatal neurodegenerative prion disease of humans, is untreatable and difficult to diagnose.

Allowing Kids to Drink at Home is Encouraging Addiction Say Experts

 

CNBNewsnet (November 24, 2018--The Health Service Executive in Ireland has issued a stark warning to parents who encourage their underage kids to drink at home. Whilst many progressive parents believe it’s sensible to introduce their kids to alcohol in a safe, inclusive environment, experts say that exposing children to alcohol at a young age can increase the likelihood that a child will develop a full-blown addiction later in life.

 

Royalty Free Photo

It has become increasingly acceptable to offer children alcoholic drinks in the home. Parents often assume that allowing their child to drink small amounts at home is a good thing. They think it teaches their child to drink responsibly. In fact, this is far from the truth.

Drinking is Socially Acceptable

Being exposed to alcohol in the home gives the child a message that drinking outside the home is perfectly acceptable. Experts say this makes a child far more likely to drink ‘in a harmful manner’.

Children who smoke cannabis at a young age are four times more likely to have an addiction problem by their mid-twenties. The same is true for alcohol. Alcohol, like cannabis, has a damaging effect on the adolescent brain. It affects their cognitive development, behavior, and coping mechanisms. Children who start drinking in their teens are far more likely to develop mental health problems in later life. Ideally, a child shouldn’t be introduced to alcohol until they are at least 18-years-old.

Set a Positive Example

Jefferson Cherry Hill Same-Day Surgery Dept. Gives Back to Fellow Hospital Associates

Showing coworkers tokens of appreciation can go a long way, especially during the holiday season.

The Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital Same-Day Surgery (SDS) Department did just that through their ‘Friendsgiving’ luncheon on November 19, as part of their monthly employee engagement get-together. SDS staff cooked and provided a Thanksgiving meal for their fellow Surgical Services associates in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) and Operating Room.

Reflection Pond at Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital Dedicated to Board Chairman Albert E. Smith

 

Cherry Hill, NJ, November 21, 2018 – Jefferson Health – New Jersey Board Chairman Albert E. Smith was recently honored for his years of dedication at a recent ceremony at Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital.

Secondhand Marijuana Smoke Causes Asthma Symptoms in Child Allergic to Cannabis

 

Newswise — SEATTLE (November 16, 2018) – It’s well established that secondhand smoke from cigarettes is a risk to anyone who suffers from asthma. New research being presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting shows it’s possible for both children and adults with uncontrolled asthma to find their symptoms worsening due to cannabis allergy and exposure to marijuana smoke.

Action Wellness Presents: Action Heroes Wear Red

AmeriHealth Caritas Proudly Joins Campaign to Raise Awareness About HIV on the 30th Anniversary of World AIDS Day...World AIDS Day - Saturday, December 1, 2018
 

Philadelphia, PA (November 2018) - On Saturday, December 1, 2018, Action Wellness will observe World AIDS Day in partnership with AmeriHealth Caritas.  As a part of their annual campaign “Action Heroes Wear Red”,  friends and allies are asked to wear red, or a red ribbon, on this day to raise awareness for World AIDS Day. This day is an opportunity for people to unite in the fight against HIV and to commemorate those who have died from AIDS-related illness.

Two Jefferson Health – NJ Nurses Receive March of Dimes ‘Nurse of the Year’ Awards

 

Two Jefferson Health - New Jersey nurses were honored with March of Dimes Nurse of the Year awards at a special event held in Old Bridge, NJ. The program recognizes NJ-based nurses in 12 different categories who exemplify an extraordinary level of patient care, compassion and customer service. Jefferson Health was honored to have 10 nominees this year, three of whom moved into finalists in their respective categories.

Jefferson Health – New Jersey’s March of Dimes “Nurse of the Year” winners are:

12th Case Identified in Ocean County Measles Outbreak

 

 

The New Jersey Department of Health is warning residents that a twelfth case of measles — a highly contagious disease — has been confirmed in Ocean County. This individual could have exposed others to the infection while in Ocean County between November 6 and November 9.

Anyone who visited the following locations may have been exposed to measles:

RAIN- A Tribute to The Beatles in Atlantic City on November 17th to Benefit Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson Health

 

 

ATLANTIC CITY NJ (November 2018)(CNBNewsnet)-RAIN – A Tribute to The Beatles presented by The B.A.C. Cancer Transportation Fund will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the release of The Beatles Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band by bringing its Broadway show to Atlantic City’s Ovation Hall at Ocean Resort and Casino on Saturday, November 17. One hundred percent of the proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Jefferson Health’s Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center and cancer research in Philadelphia.

5 Cases of Ocean County Measles Outbreak

The New Jersey Department of Health is warning residents that 5 additional cases of measles — a highly contagious disease — have been confirmed in Ocean County.  This brings the total to 11 confirmed cases. These individuals could have exposed others to the infection while in Ocean County on November 1.

Anyone who visited the following locations may have been exposed to measles:

Kennedy Health Care Foundation, Joe Devine Dedicate ‘The Barsky Family Surgical Suite’ at Jefferson Washington Township Hospital

 

 

Sewell, NJ – The Barsky family has had a long history with Jefferson Health in New Jersey. The late Dr. Paul Barsky played an integral part in the planning, construction, and 1972 opening of Jefferson Washington Township Hospital (which, for many years, was part of the then-Kennedy Health system). His son, Dr. Robert Barsky, a Jefferson Health – New Jersey urologist and longtime board member, has shown support for the health care organization’s continual growth and progress over more than three decades. Now, the Barsky family name is forever imprinted within the hospital.

Jefferson Health UPCOMING Wellness Community Programs (November/December)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hosts FREE Bariatric Weight Loss Seminars

VOORHEES, NJ (Nov. 12, 2018) – Gain a better understanding of the different surgical weight loss options by attending one of Jefferson Health - New Jersey’s FREE weight loss seminars hosted by its bariatric surgeons. These seminars will help prospective bariatric patients feel more at ease and confident to begin a new, healthier chapter in their lives.

HHS Releases Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition

 

Federal physical activity guidance updated for the first time since 2008

(Chicago) – Today, Adm. Brett P. Giroir, M.D., assistant secretary for health, announced the release of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ second edition of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions meeting. The second edition provides evidence-based recommendations for youth ages 3 through 17 and adults to safely get the physical activity they need to stay healthy. There are new key guidelines for children ages 3 through 5 and updated guidelines for youth ages 6 through 17, adults, older adults, women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, adults with chronic health conditions, and adults with disabilities.

JeffSTAT Helicopters become First in NJ to Carry Blood For Emergency Transfusions

 

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP NJ (November 13, 2018)(CNBNewsnet)--On Monday, November 12, Jefferson Health’s JeffSTAT helicopters became the first health system transportation service to carry units of lifesaving blood for emergency transfusions. This new service is the result of a collaboration between JeffSTAT – the helicopter program that routinely transports acutely ill and injured patients – Jefferson’s New Jersey hospital-based blood bank, and the New Jersey Department of Health.

Hemorrhage is the leading cause of death in trauma victims, and early transfusions of red blood cells have been known to reduce the chance of death. A University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons (JACS), which reviewed five years’ worth of data, determined that airlifted trauma victims who receive blood transfusions in a helicopter before arriving at a trauma center have a higher chance of survival.

Trumpeted New Medicare Advantage Benefits Will Be Hard For Seniors To Find

CNBNews graphics file

by Susan Jaffe

published here with permission of Kaiser Health News

For some older adults, private Medicare Advantage plans next year will offer a host of new benefits, such as transportation to medical appointments, home-delivered meals, wheelchair ramps, bathroom grab bars or air conditioners for asthma sufferers.

But the new benefits will not be widely available, and they won’t be easy to find.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Patients Have Higher Rates of All Non-Liver-Related Cancers

  

image courtesy of https://kashmirreader.com

 Newswise — SAN FRANCISCO – Preliminary data from a new study presented this week at The Liver Meeting^® – held by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases – found that rates of malignancy occurring outside of the liver were higher in adults with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease than among adults across most types of cancers.

Rushing Children to Specialize in One Sport May Not Be Best Path to Success

Newswise — It may be tempting for parents or coaches to urge young children to specialize in one sport early on to help maximize their chance at making it to the big leagues, but that might not be the best path to success.

The Food Bank of South Jersey Honors Jefferson Health with the Champion Against Hunger Award

The Food Bank of South Jersey (FBSJ) will honor longtime partner Jefferson Health (NJ) with the “Champion Against Hunger Award” at its annual Viva South Jersey Gala for the healthcare system’s steadfast commitment to fighting hunger in South Jersey.

 

Jefferson Health ‘Tree of Lights’ Event Nov. 15 at Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center - Washington Twp.

 

SEWELL, NJ (November 8, 2018)(CNBNewsnet)--Area residents have the opportunity to honor, remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones who have battled cancer and/or gone through dialysis treatment by symbolically illuminating a light and placing an ornament on Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center - Washington Township’s annual “Tree of Lights” celebration, this year set for Thursday, November 15^th.

Heart Drug Spotlights Troubling Trends In Drug Marketing

 

Shefali Luthra, Kaiser Health News

At the end of September, Amarin Corp. teased some early findings for Vascepa, its preventive medicine for people at risk of heart disease. The claim was astounding: a 25 percent relative risk reduction for deaths related to heart attacks, strokes and other conditions. Headlines proclaimed a potential game changer in treating cardiovascular disease. And company shares quickly soared, from $3 a share to about $20.

Total of 28 adenovirus cases at Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation

 

HASKELL NJ (November 1, 2018)(CNBNewsnet)--Laboratory tests have confirmed another medically fragile child with adenovirus as part of an ongoing outbreak investigation at the Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Haskell.

To date, a total of 28 confirmed pediatric cases have been associated with this outbreak. In addition, a staff member at the facility — who has since recovered — also became ill as part of the outbreak.  There have been 10 deaths associated with this outbreak.

 The most recent date of illness onset was on Oct. 30.

Adenovirus Outbreak at Voorhees Pediatric Facility

 

Department of Health Awaits CDC Lab Results; Preliminary Results Rule Out Type 7

 

The Department of Health is awaiting additional laboratory test results from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding four confirmed cases of adenovirus among pediatric patients at Voorhees Pediatric Facility in Voorhees. But, preliminary test results have ruled out Type 7, which caused the severe outbreak at the Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation.