FALL 2007

A SPECIAL EDITION OF ON HEALTH

Motivate YourselfMotivate YourselfMotivate Yourself

FALL

Motivate Yourself

12Ways to Soothe

SpiritSpiritYour

SpiritYour

Spirit SpiritSpirit Spirit SpiritSpirit2008My YearOf Change

New Year,NEW You!

Here’s to yourhealth!

Dear Friend,It’s the start of a new year, and it can also be

the beginning of a whole new you. January 1

provides the perfect opportunity to leave

the bad habits in the previous year and start

fresh with a focus on living a better life. And

that’s exactly what we hope this edition of

On Health magazine will help you do. There

is a section for each month of 2008, so you

can keep the magazine around for information

and inspiration the entire year. In each month,

you’ll fi nd tips that will help you improve the

health of your mind, body, and spirit—all of

which are equally important. We hope that

2008 is your best year yet!

Your friends at Tift Regional Medical Center

Dear Friend,

Find the Hidden Logo to Win!Who doesn’t love to win cool prizes? How does a new i-Pod sound? Here’s how you can earn a shot at winning one of the latest additions to the world of technology. Throughout this edition of On Health magazine, there are hidden TRMC logos that look like this.

They are small and could be hiding out anywhere. Your job is to fi nd at least three of them. Then visit www.tiftregional.com,

click on the New Year, New You icon and tell us the three places you saw the TRMC hidden logos.

We’ll throw all the entries into a hat, and one lucky winner will receive a new i-Pod!

Here’s to yourhealth!

What’s InsideYou’ll fi nd helpful hints for a year of

good health in the pages of this special

issue of On Health!

January• Tips to help you keep your New Year’s resolutions• Top 5 health screenings you need this year

February• Cuddle up with these romantic movie classics• Healthy-heart hints for life

March• How to thrive during life’s changes• Preparing for motherhood

April• Pediatric asthma? How to tell• Pick the perfect plant for your lifestyle

May• Dreaming of a good night’s sleep? • Fight high blood pressure with your plate

June• Just in time for summer: Exercise tips to help you get in shape safely• Knowing the signs of stroke—and acting fast—can save your life

July• Save your skin with these sun safety tips• Take a day trip to one of these nearby fun and family-friendly sites

August• It’s here! The Annual Women’s Event at TRMC! • Ignite your child’s imagination through reading

September• Tailgating made easy—and healthy• What you need to know about prostate cancer prevention

October• Think pink! It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month!• 5 alternatives to trick-or-treating

November• New news about Alzheimer’s disease• Kick your nicotine habit today!

December• A stress-free holiday season? It is possible!• Celebrate the Tree of Life

4

January

According to CNN.com, about 30 percent of those who make New Year’s resolutions give up by February, and only about one in fi ve still stick to those resolutions come June. So why the failure? Experts believe it’s probably because people make unrealistic resolutions rather than attainable goals.

“The most successful New Year’s resolutions are those that are specifi c enough to allow us to mark progress, and realistic enough so we don’t give up after just a few weeks,” says Christina Rich, MD, internist on staff at Tift Regional Medical Center. “If you set attainable goals—and then get the support of family and friends—you’re more likely to meet them.”

Take these tips from Dr. Rich when making your resolutions this year:

Bad resolution: “I’m going to get in shape.” Recommended resolution: Take a more simplistic approach

and resolve to exercise at least three times each week. This way, you don’t have to join a gym or stick to a strict regimen, because you haven’t locked yourself in to an unrealistic goal. Instead, take small steps to incorporate exercise into your life. Take a bike ride after dinner. Walk with your friends at lunch. Swim with your kids on the weekends. The more fun you have, the more likely you’ll stick with it.

Bad resolution: “I’m going to lose 50 pounds.”Recommended resolution: Resolve to lose a healthy

average of one to two pounds per week. To lose one pound of weight, you have to cut about 3,500 calories from your diet, either by consuming fewer calories or burning more of the calories you eat. Join a formal weight-loss program or get a support system of friends in place to have the best chance of success.

Bad resolution: “I’m going to stop smoking.”Recommended resolution: Resolve to cut back by one

cigarette a day until you’re no longer dependent on nicotine. While 40 percent of smokers try to quit each year, fewer than 3 percent are actually successful. Increase your chances of success by signing up for a smoking cessation program or getting over-the-counter or prescription medication recommendations from your physician. (Check out “November” for more great tips on quitting smoking.)

“There’s nothing more satisfying than setting a goal to improve your health and appearance and then meeting it,” Dr. Rich says. “It can create a whole new positive perspective on your life.”

New Year, New You!It’s January, and that means it’s time to make—and usually break—your New Year’s resolutions. Start 2008 off right with realistic resolutions that will help keep you healthier and happier throughout the year.

To Do This Year:1. Try something new. 2. Take lessons in pottery.3. Go whitewater rafting.4. Learn Spanish…or Italian!

5

The best way to stay on top of your healthcare options is to be informed about what’s available. At Tift Regional Medical Center, you can do all your homework at one simple location—our newly redesigned web site.

At www.tiftregional.com, you can fi nd a physician or service; search our Health Guide Health Encyclopedia for information

about any injury, illness, or procedure; and look for potential drug interactions in our Drug Guide. You can also learn about events at Tift Regional, download pre-registration forms, and research clinical trials being performed locally.

To learn more about Tift Regional Medical Center, visit www.tiftregional.com.

By becoming informed about your options for medical treatment and being an active part of your healthcare team, statistics show you’ll fare better than a patient who is more passive.

Health Information at Your Fingertips

You must be the change you wish to see in the world.You must be the change you wish to see in the world.You must be the change

—Mahatma Gandhi

Top 5 Screenings You NeedThe following chart lists the standard recommendations for screenings. If you’re considered at high risk for these conditions, talk to your physician about beginning the screenings earlier or increasing their frequency.

Test Name What It Does When to Get It

Colonoscopy Detects colon cancer and precancerous polyps Every 10 years beginning at age 50

Mammogram Detects breast cancer in women Every year beginning at age 40

Digital rectal exam (DRE) or prostate-specifi c antigen (PSA) Detects prostate cancer in men Annually beginning at age 50

Pap smear Detects cervical cancer and pre-cancerous changes in women

Every year beginning at age 18 or at the onset of sexual activity

Blood glucose level Detects diabetes in men and women

At least every three years beginning at age 45

6

FebruaryFebruary is not only the month that helps keep card and candy stores in business—it’s also American Heart Month. As you prepare surprises for that special someone in your life, take a few minutes to check in on your heart’s health.

Guard Your HeartThis Valentine’s Day

What’s the best time to stop a heart attack? It’s not in the ambulance or even in an emergency department. Living a heart-healthy lifestyle every day is the key to helping prevent serious cardiac events such as heart attacks. You may already know that the overall pattern of choices you make counts the most toward protecting your heart, but do you know how to cut through the health news clutter and create a few key heart-healthy habits that stick? These tips from the American Heart Association (AHA) and specifi c advice from your physician can help.

Move MoreThe AHA recommends getting at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most—if not all—days of the week. If you can’t manage 30 minutes of brisk walking or other aerobic activities at a time, add up several 10-minute exercise sessions throughout the day. Regular exercise is central to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight as well as building cardiovascular fi tness.

Eat to LiveOn what types of foods and beverages do you spend most of your daily calorie allowance? You may list a few sodas, sweet tea, and fried foods. That’s okay, as long as you’re also getting a good

blend of vegetables, fruits, whole-grain products, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products. Choose lean meats and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like some fi sh, walnuts, fl ax seeds, olive oil, and winter squash) and keep alcohol, sodium, added sugar, and saturated and trans fats to a minimum.

Bounce BackIf you have experienced a heart attack or undergone a heart procedure, it’s essential that you rebuild cardio-vascular strength in an environment where medical professionals closely monitor your progress and safety. Fortunately, the Cardiac Rehabilitation department at Tift Regional Medical Center offers several phases of inpatient and outpatient exercise programs and educa-tional services to meet your individual needs.

“We provide heart patients and their families with important resources in the battle against cardiovascular disease,” says Darian Peavy, ATC/L, director of Cardiac Rehabilitation at TRMC. “Patients really appreciate our caring staff and comprehensive program. Most importantly, they learn that cardiac rehab is more than

just a program—it empowers people to take charge of their cardiovascular health for

a better quality of life.”For more information about Cardiac Rehab at TRMC,

call (229) 353-7796.

7

Top 5 Romantic FlicksStaying in on Valentine’s Day? Whether you’re happily coupled or looking for love, you can fi nd romance in some of the most timeless movies to grace the silver screen. Head to your local video store and check out these classics:1 Gone With the Wind (1939)2 Casablanca (1942)3 An Offi cer and a Gentleman (1982)4 Titanic (1997)5 The Notebook (2004)

It’s a Date!

Tift Regional Medical Center Foundation’s

“Hearts and Diamonds” Gala

Saturday, February 9, 7 p.m. to midnight

UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center

Call (229) 391-3310 for a $125 ticket and

a chance to win diamonds!

The best and most beautiful things in this world cannot be seen or even heard, but

must be felt with the heart. —Helen Keller

What Makes a Relationship Work?4 keys to keeping it togetherHappy couples are everywhere. Some offer proof that opposites often attract, while sparks fl y between others because of their similarities. Here are four secrets they may all have in common—and that may help you and your signifi cant other maintain a healthy, thriving relationship.

♥ Resist the urge to merge. Build togetherness with your partner through intimacy, but also preserve your independence. Also, spend some time apart from the families in which you grew up enough so your identities aren’t completely intertwined with those of your parents and siblings.

♥ Make home a safe haven. Keep your bond strong in the face of adversity by making each other feel comfortable sharing feelings of hurt,

anger, and frustration. Honor one another’s differences with respectful discussions instead of bottling emotions, name-calling, or belittling each other.

♥ Protect your partnership. Keep work-place and family obligations from intruding on your intimate relationship. If you have children, learn to balance your parental roles with the work of maintaining romance and privacy as a couple.

♥ Be hopeless romantics. Time inevitably introduces changes to a relationship, but it can deepen your connection if you face the realities of those changes while recapturing the early feelings of your romance. Laugh and use humor to help keep things in perspective, avoid boredom, and keep the spark alive.

8

MarchThrivingin Times of TransitionLife is full of changes. The moment you think your life is on a set course, an obstacle pops up and things get derailed. Whether the change is a natural one for your body or a major life adjustment, taking care of your health needs to be a top priority.

“Life changes can be stressful, and with stress comes an increased risk of illness,” explains David Johnson, MD, a

family practice physician on staff at Tift Regional Medi-cal Center. “No matter what stage of life you are in, it is important to take care of yourself by getting a good night’s sleep, eating right, and exercising regularly.”

From Puberty…Puberty can be a scary time for children—not

only are their bodies changing, their emotions are fl uctuating, too. As a parent, it’s important to explain to your child what puberty is and discuss some of the changes he or she can expect before these developments occur.

Children often hit puberty around 10 to 12 years of age, which can also be a good time to make sure your child’s immunizations are up to date. Continue to feed your child

well-rounded meals and encourage regular exercise.

…to Pregnancy…You’re having a baby! You’re likely happy, confused, or scared—or a combination of all of these. Take advantage of free childbirth classes, maternity fairs, and other educational resources to help you prepare for your little one’s arrival.

Once the baby arrives, make sure you have a strong sup-port network in place to help you care for the baby while your body heals.

… to Menopause…For women, menopause not only brings physical changes but emotional changes as well. You are likely experiencing the unwelcome side effects of menopause, such as hot fl ashes and disturbed sleep. Eat well, exercise regularly, and talk to your doctor about hormone replacement therapy to help alleviate some of these symptoms.

Mid-life also means it’s time for men and women to start blood glucose screenings for diabetes. Women need to schedule annual mammograms, and men should discuss prostate cancer with their doctor.

…and BeyondMany newly retired seniors become sedentary and less active, which can lead to an array of health problems. To keep your mental and physical abilities in top shape, get out and be active. Start a new hobby, organize a walking club, or take up golf. Make sure you are also staying on top of preventive health screenings. Your regular health screenings should also include a bone density test to check for osteoporosis and colorectal screenings for cancer.

9Prepare for Motherhood with Baby Talk Classes

Never look down on anybody unless you’re helping him up.

—Jesse Jackson

T RMC Maternity Fair

Saturday, March 29, 9 a.m.

to noon at the UGA Tifton

Campus Conference CenterTop 5 Ergonomic Dangers at Work

Injury risk abounds on the job. Langston Cleveland, MD, and his staff

at WorkSmart Occupational Health—a service of Tift Regional Medical

Center—can help evaluate jobsites and make recommendations to

improve ergonomic comfort. Try these five tips to avoid injury:

• Warm up before lifting heavy loads.• Use proper lifting technique for heavy equipment (bend your knees,

not your back).• Place your computer monitor at a comfortable level to avoid

neck strain.• Ensure your chair supports your back. Your feet should also be able

to rest comfortably on the fl oor.• Place your computer mouse at a comfortable level to avoid straining

your wrist.

Baby Talk is a fi ve-week session of prepared childbirth classes to teach expectant women about breastfeeding and the childbirth process. Offered by Tift Regional Medical Center, the classes are free and open to the public.

“When it’s your fi rst child, you’re scared because you don’t know what to expect,” says Lori Tucker, certifi ed childbirth educator and Baby Talk instructor. “We give you information about what to anticipate throughout the delivery process. We also teach relaxation and breathing techniques, massage, and other labor support methods.”

Classes are taught by a lactation consultant and certifi ed childbirth educator on the second fl oor of the Women’s Pavilion. We recommend beginning the classes at 26 to 28 weeks. Class sizes are kept small to provide optimal per-sonal attention.

To register for Baby Talk classes and see a schedule of class times, visit the calendar of events section at www.tiftregional.com.

10

April

Smart Moves for Allergy Sufferers1. Know your allergens. If you’re allergic to trees such as oak,

ash, and hickory, watch out. These outdoor allergens peak in March and April, while others—such as Bermuda grass and ragweed—peak later in the summer.

2. Stay inside when pollen is heaviest—in the mornings between 5 and 10 a.m. and on windy days.

3. Minimize clutter inside, and dust thoroughly twice a week. 4. Place a piece of cheesecloth under the faceplate of the

bedroom heating vents to help fi lter out allergens, and change it often.

5. Vacuum and machine-wash or dry-clean draperies, slipcovers, blankets, and comforters frequently.

6. Wipe the inside of your refrigerator with vinegar to kill mildew.

7. Clean your air conditioner and change the fi lter according to the manufacturer’s directions.

8. Change clothes when you come inside, particularly after a day of yard work.

9. Shower before you go to bed to remove any pollen from skin and hair.

10. Check these web sites for daily pollen counts:• www.theweathernetwork.com• www.pollen.com• www.aaaai.org

Is It Allergies or Asthma?If your child’s springtime allergies sound more like wheezing than sneezing, the culprit could be asthma. Pediatric asthma is a chronic condition that affects 11 percent of Georgia children

and causes 5,500 deaths and 10.1 million lost school days each year nationwide.

Tift Regional Medical Center is conducting a com-munity outreach campaign to increase awareness about pediatric asthma and help fi nd ways to manage the condition.

“Asthma is one of the top three reasons for all pediatric inpatient admissions in Georgia,” says Chris Efaw, director of Outreach and Development for TRMC. “We will be working with our respiratory

care center, pulmonologists, pediatricians, and family physicians to help educate parents on the importance of

recognizing and treating asthma in children.”TRMC will hold a series of community lectures

and work with local schools to educate teachers. Other plans include a free pediatric asthma screening, developing asthma discharge kits for the emergency

room, and conducting a continuing education event for primary care physicians.

For more information about respiratory care at TRMC or upcoming pediatric asthma screenings, visit www.tiftregional.com.

Say Adieu to Springtime AllergiesFor almost 40 million Americans, the fi rst whiff of mowed grass brings sneezes, itchy, red eyes and other annoying allergic reactions. The good news is that you don’t have to spend all your time locked inside. Try these tips to help you get out of the house and enjoy the season.

11

Save the Earth This Year

1. Recycle newspapers, plastics,

and glass at Tifton Recycling:

(229) 382-1475

2. Plant a tree!

3. Conserve water by not doing laun-

dry on weekday evenings.3. Conserve water by not doin

g laun-

dry on weekday evenings.

It is never too late to give up your prejudices. —Henry David Thoreau

It is never too late to give

A Green Thumb’s Up for GardeningIf you’ve ever experienced relief from stress by planting fl owers or a release of frustration by pulling weeds, you know fi rst-hand the benefi ts of gardening and yardwork to promote health, wellness, and holistic healing.

Benefi ting the BodyDigging, planting, and weeding can burn up to an amaz-

ing 272 calories an hour, while raking the lawn burns almost 300 calories an hour (based on a 150-pound woman). The physical activity required by gardening contributes to im-proved health by reducing the risk of heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, stroke, and certain types of cancer.

Soothing the Spirit Had a stressful day? Spend some time in the garden to

relieve feelings of anxiety. While tending to the needs of your fl owers and plants, you can meditate, daydream, or plan—and enjoy a beautiful reward.

Picking the Perfect PlantDon’t have a green thumb? Don’t worry! These fi ve plants forgive—and thrive in spite of—even the most neglectful gardeners.

You have minimal light:Chinese Evergreen—withstands dark rooms and even fl uorescent lighting in offi ces

You forget to water: Christmas Cactus—fl owers in the winter but looks great year-round; moderate to bright light and bi-monthly watering required

You tend to over-water because you can’t remem-ber the last time you watered:Peace Lily—moderate to low light; they droop when they

need water

12

Aromatherapy for Sleep

q Add lavender to the rinse cycle.

q Spray bed with lavender scent.

q Place a sachet of dried lavender

under your pillow.

q Apply jasmine or lavender lotion

after showering.

May

A well-spent day brings happy sleep. —Leonardo Da Vinci

Achieving Inner C

alm

happy sleep.

5 Food Choicesto Fight High Blood Pressure

1 Look for no-sodium-added labels on canned vegetables and soups.

2 Choose unrefi ned carbohydrates such as brown rice, whole-wheat

pasta, and beans.

3 Eat raisins, prunes, bananas, and broccoli and drink milk.

4 Vary red meat with turkey, chicken, or fi sh.

5 Snack on a handful of almonds, walnuts, and sunfl ower seeds.

Practicing relaxation techniques does more than give you peace of mind. Learning to relieve your stress reduces the wear and tear on your mind and body. Relaxation can renew your spirit by providing more energy for daily activities, a greater ability to handle problems, and better concentration, while reducing emotional responses to anger or frustration.

Increasing AwarenessThere are several methods to achieve relaxation

that are equally benefi cial. The important thing is to practice relaxation techniques regularly.

Relaxing from within—autogenic relax-ation—uses imagery and body awareness to reduce stress. Imagining a peaceful place while

you focus on relaxed breathing helps slow your heart rate. Repeating a calming word can help reduce muscle tension and help you relax.

Progressive muscle relaxation involves tensing and relaxing each muscle in turn. Becoming aware of the difference in each sensation can help you relax. Start with your toes, tensing for fi ve seconds and relaxing for 30 seconds, and repeat, working your way to your head.

Visualization takes your body on a mental journey to a peaceful and relaxing time or place. Incorporating as many senses as you can, imag-ine the sights, smells, textures, sounds, and tastes of that calming destination.

13

Sleep It OffThe average adult needs seven to nine hours of sleep to allow the body to repair itself, preserve mental function, and boost the immune system. How much are you getting? If you’re like many Americans, the answer is likely not enough.

A restful night’s sleep is the foundation of good physical and mental health. Getting less than the required seven hours can result in impaired alertness, motor performance, and mood.

Fit-full SleepResearch from around the country is fi nding links between

adequate sleep and good health. Our bodies secrete hormones while we sleep that impact metabolic and endocrine functions, energy levels, and growth. Here are results from recent studies. • Young men who experience a decrease in slow wave sleep

also produce less growth hormone, which reduces the proportion of muscle to fat.

• Sleep-deprived people with lower levels of the hormone leptin, which causes the body to crave carbohydrates, tend to eat more than their well-rested counterparts.

• The effectiveness of fl u vaccinations is severely delayed in subjects sleeping less than four hours per night.

• Short- and long-term sleep loss has been linked to a higher risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Catching Your ZzzsIt is estimated that 70 million Americans are affected by sleep

disorders or have occasional trouble falling or staying asleep. A sleep study from the Sleep Center at Tift Regional Medical Center may help you get the rest you need.

If you are experiencing daytime sleepiness, have trouble remembering things, suffer from morning headaches, have been told you stop breathing during the night, or are often irritable or confused, talk to your doctor. Patients referred to the Sleep Center receive a complete evaluation for common sleep disorders, including:

Obstructive sleep apnea—the collapsing of a person’s windpipe as he or she sleeps causes restricted airfl ow and limited oxygen to the brain, and awakens him or her, sometimes hundreds of times a night

Narcolepsy—a chronic neurological disorder characterized by falling asleep suddenly and at inappropriate times

Restless leg syndrome—a condition characterized by pain and discomfort in the legs that can be relieved only by moving them

Insomnia—the inability to fall or remain asleep or waking feeling unrefreshed

“Our convenient location allows patients to be monitored overnight and be ready for work the next day,” says Jeff Robbins, director of Neurodiagnostics/Sleep Center at TRMC. “If a patient is diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, a follow-up study to properly fi t a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device will also take place at the Sleep Center to help prevent future apneic episodes.”

The Sleep Center can help diagnose your sleep disorder so you can sleep through the night. If you or your spouse snores regularly, you may want to consider a sleep study.

For more information onthe Sleep Center at TRMC, visit www.tiftregional.com.

14

JunePeople were made to move. The benefi ts of physical exercise have been proven countless times in studies around the world, yet over half of Americans don’t exercise regularly, putting them at risk for all kinds of health problems.

Why and How to Exercise

Exercise helps reduce blood pressure, cholesterol, and body fat and increases muscular endurance and metabolism. Exercise can lengthen your life by strengthening the heart and lungs and will give you more energy. It also plays an important role in reducing the onset of vascular disease and diabetes, reducing stress, and combating depression.

Injury Prevention “Exercise is essential for healthy liv-

ing, but remember there is a risk of injury involved with exercise,” says David Banks, MD, board-certifi ed orthopedic surgeon on staff at Tift Regional Medical Center, who practices with Georgia Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Clinic in Tifton. “Especially if you haven’t exercised in a while, choosing the right activities, utilizing proper form, and participating in adequate warm-up, stretch-ing, and cool-down sessions are important for keeping injuries at bay.”

Here are some additional ways to help avoid injury.

Speak UpTalk to your doctor before beginning any

fi tness routine to ensure you are perform-ing the exercises correctly. Your physician may be able to recommend certain exercises or sports to try based on your health and fi tness level.

Warm Up Always warm up before exercise. For exam-

ple, do three to 10 minutes of slow walking or jogging, easy cycling, or lifting lighter weights to get your muscles going and the blood fl ow-ing before moving to more intense activity.

Cool DownDecrease the intensity of your workout

and continue to exercise for fi ve to 10 more minutes. Cooling down helps your body readjust to its normal pace by decreasing your heart rate and blood pressure level and reducing the risk of muscle soreness.

Stretch OutStretch after your warm-up and before

moving to more intense exercise, and then again after your cool-down. Stretching increases fl exibility, which improves muscle balance around a joint and reduces the chance of injury in activity.

Wear Proper AttireIf it’s cold outside, don’t run in shorts!

Wearing the right clothing can help prevent a myriad of problems, such as overheating or hypothermia. Shoes should fi t well and be designed for the activity you are involved in to prevent blisters or problems like shin splints.

“There’s no reason anyone shouldn’t be able to get out and exercise,” says Dr. Banks. “If you haven’t exercised in a while, take it easy at the beginning and progress as you feel comfortable. You’ll begin feeling better and stronger before you know it.”

15

5 Stroke Signs to KnowIf you or a loved one experiences the following symptoms, call 911, as it may be stroke:• sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm,

or leg, especially on one side of the body• sudden confusion or trouble speaking

or understanding• trouble seeing in one or both eyes• sudden diffi culty walking, dizziness, or loss of

balance or coordination• sudden severe headache with no known cause

Whazzzup Doc?Men are notorious for avoiding their doctors’ visits. After all, unless there’s a noticeable problem, why bother with a doctor? This thinking, of course, doesn’t include the value of preventive medicine, which is what that annual check-up is all about. Here are some reasons you should schedule an ap-pointment with your doctor.• Do you know what your cholesterol level is? Blood pres-

sure? These numbers are important indicators of health.• Do you carry extra weight? Just 15 or 20 extra pounds can

place you at an increased risk for Type 2 diabetes.• Do you have a history of heart attacks in your family? What

about cancer?• Have you had a prostate exam recently? From age 40

onward, men should have an annual prostate exam.• Are you a smoker? Inactive? Both are risk factors for

heart attack.

To fi nd a list of physicians on staff at Tift Regional Medical Center, please visit www.tiftregional.com or call (229) 353-6318 to have a physician directory sent to you free of charge.

Try not to become a man of success but rather to become a man of value.—Albert Einstein

Try not to become a man of success but

A Month for Men

Attend Tift Regional

Medical Center’s Men’s

Event on Saturday,

June 14, 9 a.m. to noon

at the UGA Tifton Campus

Conference Center

July

Cover Up This SummerReady for the beach? Pack some sunscreen—and use it! With more than 1 million cases of skin can-cer diagnosed annually, make sure your family’s skin is protected this summer—and all year long.

July

Many of us like to spend July by a pool, lake, or river—anywhere that involves cold water and relief from the heat. However, these places often involve lots of sun and hot tem-peratures, which can be a dangerous combination for your skin.

“Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in America, but it’s also one of the most preventable and treatable,” says Kenneth Wurtz, MD, oncologist on staff at Tift Regional Medical Center. “It’s imperative that

people educate themselves about skin cancer and practice safe

sun habits.”

Types of Skin Cancer

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and is easiest to treat. Squa-mous cell carcinoma is

more likely to spread than

basal cell but can still be easily treated if caught in the early stages.

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, leading to more than 8,000 deaths annually. Melanoma can occur in an existing mole that turns cancerous or it may appear elsewhere on healthy skin, although it is most commonly found on the back and face.

Mole WatchingThe key to treating skin cancer is

catching it early. Both basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma have high suc-cess rates if caught in the early stages. In order to protect yourself, conduct monthly self-exams of your skin to check all moles and skin lesions for pos-sible cancerous cells.

To detect cancerous moles, remember your ABCDs. Moles might be cancerous if they have the following characteristics:• Asymmetrical. The shape of the mole is irregular.

• Border. The mole’s edges are not clearly defi ned or are scalloped.• Color. There are uneven color changes on the mole.• Diameter. The mole is greater than a quarter of an inch.

PreventionReducing your risk of skin cancer is

easy. Just follow these rules: 1. Avoid the sun during its strongest hours—between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. 2. Seek shady spots when you’re out-side for long periods of time.3. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day, and reapply every two hours.4. Wear a broad-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses when outdoors.5. Conduct monthly self-exams, and see your primary care physician annually to discuss any changes in your skin.

Check out TRMC’s web site at www.tiftregional.com for a list of free skin cancer screenings in your area.

Nourish Your Spirit This SummerFind a quiet bench at the park to sit

and journal, make time each morning for

prayer, get a group of friends together

for a weekly devotion, or join a yoga class

that focuses on relaxation and meditation.

Setting aside a daily time to care for your

soul can help make sure you don’t lose your

spirit this summer.

Whether you think you can or whether you think you can’t,

you’re right. —Henry Ford

Top 5 Educational Day TripsWant to get away for a day and keep your children’s brains stimu-lated during the summer? These destinations are all less than three hours away. 1 Challenger Learning Center in Tallahassee, Florida. Explore the

world of space through an IMAX theatre, digital planetarium, and space mission simulator program.2 Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge in Charlton, Ware, and

Clinch counties, Georgia. One of the oldest (7,000 years old) and most

well-preserved freshwater areas in the nation encompasses more than

438,000 acres. Take a boat tour along the Seminole Indian Waterways

or a train ride through the wetlands.3 Agrirama in Tifton, Georgia. If your children haven’t experienced

the time-traveling sensation of exploring Agrirama, take time this sum-

mer to visit the Museum of Agriculture and Living History. They’ll learn

about everyday life on an 1890s farmstead, ride a steam engine logging

train, and visit the drugstore or schoolhouse in town. 4 Flint RiverQuarium in Albany, Georgia. The RiverQuarium features a 175,000 gallon, 22-feet deep blue hole spring, where you can fi nd more than 100 creatures, including fi sh, turtles, and alligators.

You can also learn about the six types of poisonous snakes in Georgia

and how to treat a spider bite. 5 Museum of Arts and Sciences, Macon, Georgia. Explore the uni-

verse in the museum’s huge planetarium, visit the Mini-Zoo where you’ll

fi nd more than 70 animals, and tour the gardens on the nature trail.

Basil Grilled Shrimp KebabsAdd these nutritious and delicious shrimp kebabs to your Fourth of July barbecue.

Marinade:2 tablespoons lemon juice1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil½ tablespoon fi nely grated lemon zestsalt and pepper to taste

Kebabs:24 large shrimp, peeled1 bunch fresh basil (24 large leaves)2 bell peppers (red, yellow, and/or green), cut into 1-inch squares

Directions:Mix marinade ingredients and pour over shrimp. Marinate for 15 to 20 minutes. Preheat grill to high. Thread shrimp through skewers, placing a basil leaf and slice of bell pepper between each, alternating color of peppers. Season with salt and pepper. Grill kebabs until shrimp are pink and peppers are cooked, about two minutes on each side.

Nutritional Information:Calories: 231 Fat: 7g Protein: 35g Carbohydrates: 6g Source: www.foodfi t.com

August

There is nothing impossible

to him who will try.—Alexander the Great

5 ClassicsYou MUST Read1 A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens 2 Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen 3 To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee4 War and Peace, Leo Tolstoy5 The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald

In the words of Victor Hugo, the author of The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Les Misérables, “To learn to read is to light a fi re; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark.” Once you start reading, there’s nowhere you can’t go and there’s nothing you won’t be able to do. Reading provides us with a means of being more than ourselves, and allows us to believe that we can achieve anything we aim for. It even changes our biology.

The Science of Reading Research has found that reading to young

children actually changes their brain structure. Sophisticated brain studies show that when a child is read to thousands of brain cells are activated—strengthening old connections and leading to the formation of new cells that will last throughout the child’s life.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has suggested that pediatricians reinforce the importance of reading to children when they speak to parents during well-child visits. Why the emphasis? When children enter school, those who have not already developed fundamental literacy skills are three to four times more likely to drop out before graduating.

“Reading is essential for a child’s developmental progress and success later in life,” says Tania Smith, MD, pediatrician on staff at Tift Regional Medical Center. “The best way to nurture a love of reading is to read to your children daily and to be a reader yourself. When a child grows up being read to and seeing his or her parents read, he or she will accept books as a natural part of life.”

Building a Strong FoundationIn adults, reading increases your vocabulary and improves your chances of success in an increasingly technologically and word-based business culture.

The skills that come with reading, including subject comprehension and critical analysis, will only increase in demand as our society continues to progress and becomes more sophisticated.

More Than WordsLet’s not forget that reading is also

fun—sometimes magical. How else can you experience Italy without leaving the United States, feel heartache when you haven’t been in love, or learn about a historical fi gure who lived 100 years before you were born?

It may be summer, but that’s no excuse to take a break from learning. Reading not only educates your children, it can also transport them—and you—to new worlds.

Engaging the Mind

There is nothing impossible

to him who will try.—Alexander the Great

An Ounceof PreventionChildren no longer get polio or smallpox, and millions of lives have been saved thanks to the introduction of vaccines. As a parent, here is what you need to know. The Old Standards

This chart features vaccines that have been around for years and is specifi cally for healthy children. If your child has a compromised immune system, a chronic lung condition, or another chronic illness, consult with his or her pediatrician regarding an individual vaccine schedule.

Vaccine Protects Against Doses Ages

HepB hepatitis B 3

birth

1–2 months

4 months

DTaP diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis 4*

2 months

4 months

6 months

15–18 months

HibHaemophilus Infl uenzae Type b, meningitis

3

2 months

4 months

12–15 months

MMR measles, mumps, and rubella 1 12 months

Infl uenza fl u 1 6 months

* Required

New and ImprovedAlong with the above vaccines, new ones continue to fl ourish. Here are

the top four to be aware of.1. Varicella—the chicken pox vaccine—is a one-dose vaccine given to your child after turning 1 year old.2. Prevnar guards against pneumonia, blood infections, and meningitis. Your child should receive a fi rst dose between 2 and 6 months, and then two additional doses 8 weeks apart. A booster is required between 12 and 15 months.3. MCV4 is for 11- to 12-year-old children and protects against meningitis.4. Gardasil fi ghts HPV and cervical cancer. It’s recommended for 11- to 12-year-old girls but can be given to girls as young as 9 years old and up to age 26.

It’s here! TRMC’s 11th

Annual Women’s Event!

Saturday, August 16,

9 a.m. to noon

UGA Tifton Campus

Conference Center

• pain or burning while urinating• chronic hip or back pain• blood or pus in urine

Prostate CancerAwareness

SeptemberSeptemberSeptemberSeptemberBetter to do something imperfectlythan to do nothing fl awlessly. —Robert Schuller

The prostate is a walnut-shaped gland that is part of the male reproduc-tive system. It wraps around the urethra—the tube that carries urine out of the body—and can interfere with regular urination if cancer is present.

According to the American Academy of Physicians, symptoms of pros-tate cancer include:• diffi culty starting to urinate• less force to the stream of urine• dribbling after urination• frequent urination

Early Detection, Early CureTurning 50? It’s time to consider a prostate cancer screening. If you

have a family history of prostate cancer, however, you are considered at higher risk and should talk to your doctor about screenings in your 40s.

Two screenings can monitor the health of your prostate:Digital rectal exam (DRE). Your physician will examine your prostate for hard spots that may indicate cancer.Prostate-specifi c antigen (PSA) test. Men with prostate cancer have a higher level of PSA in their blood. The PSA test may be followed by a bi-opsy—the examination of a small tissue sample—if results are abnormal.

Treating Prostate Cancer“Watchful waiting may be a good option for older patients with slow-

growing cancer,” says Jeffry Peters, MD, urologist on staff at Tift Regional Medical Center. “Older patients who choose this method may live as long as those who have had treatment with a potential for a better quality of life. Younger men, or those with more aggressive forms of the disease, often benefi t from surgery, radiation, and medication.”

In honor of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in September, check out www.tiftregional.com for dates of screenings.

Don’t wait for the symptoms of prostate cancer to put you on the sidelines. Regular screenings for prostate cancer can help detect the disease in its earliest, most treatable stages.

Ideas for Safekeep

ing Memories

1 Make a scrapbook with phot

os,

newspaper clippings,

letters, and cards

.

2 Maintain a daily jou

rnal.

3 Store mementos in

a box or chest.

4 Record an audio or

video

personal history.

MunchieMakeovers

Traditional football party foods—hot dogs, hamburgers, chili, and barbecue—are not typically the leanest fair. Seeking out healthy versions of your favorites can help trim calories, but not the fun of tailgating.

Try these simple changes to your rooting routine to help keep those pre-game pounds in check:✔ Fill up on fruits, vegetables, or a light sandwich before you go.✔ Bring a new, low-fat, and taste-fi lled fi nger- food dish.✔ Look for low-fat hot dogs made with turkey or chicken.

✔ Use whole-grain buns to boost your fi ber intake.✔ Make chili and hamburgers with lean ground beef (8 percent fat or less).✔ Have your barbecue without the bun and top with slaw for a veggie serving.✔ Eat only half a hamburger and hold the cheese or mayonnaise.✔ Choose lighter sides, such as salads, fruit, or pretzels.✔ Keep plenty of water and low-calorie soda on hand.

Know When to CheerWant to keep up when the football game’s on?

Here are the fi ve ways players score points in a

football game.

1 Touchdown—six points when the ball is car-

ried across the goal line or is caught inside the

opposing team’s end zone

2 Extra point—one point when you kick the

ball through the uprights after a touchdown

3 Two-point conversion—two points when the

ball is carried across the goal line or is caught

inside the opposing team’s end zone, rather

than kicking an extra point

4 Field goal—three points for kicking the ball

through the uprights, rather than attempting

a touchdown

5 Safety—two points when you tackle the op-

posing team’s quarterback in his end zone

October

Top 5 Alternativesto Trick-or-TreatingTrick-or-treating not your thing? These alternatives can help you still enjoy Halloween—just withoutthe treats.1 Carve a family of pumpkins.2 Create your own family tradition—visiting a corn maze or decorating spooky cookies. 3 Hand out treats and see all the great costumes.4 Read ghost stories during a scary sleepover with your child’s friends. 5 Host a haunted house.

Make Time for a

Screening This M

onth

October is National B

reast Cancer Aw

areness Month—

a great time to re-

evaluate your bre

ast health.

Help detect breas

t cancer in its

earliest, most

treatable stages

by following thes

e three steps.

✔ Self-exams—At age 2

0, a woman should begin

performing regu

lar self-exams. If you no

tice

any abnormal lumps or br

east swelling, contact

your physician.

✔ Clinical breast exa

m—Between the ages of

20

and 39, women shoul

d receive clinica

l breast

exams every three ye

ars. If 40 and older,

women should receiv

e annual clinical

exams.

✔ Mammograms—According to Am

erican Cancer

Society recom

mendations, women 40 and old

er

should have a sc

reening mammogram every y

ear.

Women at high risk

under age 40 should

contact their ph

ysician to determ

ine

earlier screening

s.

Think of all the beauty still left

around you and be happy.—Anne Frank

Clear Your Mind with EaseAt some point, you may have considered attending a support group.

If you didn’t go, there’s something you should know: Support

groups use humor, compassion, and friendship to offer members posi-

tive ways to cope with diffi cult situations.

For women with breast cancer, support groups can

also offer reassurance, education, and a

shoulder to lean on.

In one study led by Stanford Uni-

versity researchers, women with breast

cancer who attended support groups in

addition to medical intervention reported

feeling less anxious, depressed, and both-

ered by pain than the women who didn’t

attend meetings but received medical care.

Join the TRMC cancer support group

every fourth Tuesday of the month at the

TRMC Oncology Center. Registration is

encouraged, but not required. Register

online at www.tiftregional.com or

call (229) 386-1300.

Breast cancer affects one woman in eight over a lifetime. Awareness, early detection, proper treatment, and prevention are the keys to beating breast cancer. Here’s what you need to know.

Be AwareMonthly breast self-exams are vital to help

you detect the following symptoms or warning signs of breast cancer:

• discharge from the nipples • changes in feel or color of any area of the breast or surrounding tissue• lumps or thickening in the breast or underarm areas• changes in breast shape or size

Practice PreventionA healthy diet and regular physical activity

can go a long way in decreasing the risk of breast cancer in certain women.

Eat fi ve or more servings of fruits and vegeta-bles daily, choose whole grains, and reduce your intake of red meat. Exercising—such as walking briskly—45 minutes on fi ve or more days of the week has been shown to further reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Schedule Your MammogramAlong with knowing what to watch for and

maintaining a healthy lifestyle, mammograms beginning at age 40 are essential. If you have risk factors for breast cancer, such as a family history of the disease, talk to your doctor about scheduling your mammogram earlier.

“Mammograms have saved many lives in our community,” says Darrell Jordan, MD, OB/GYN on staff at Tift Regional Medical Center. “With today’s technology, mammograms can detect lumps up to two years before they can be felt. I encourage all women over age 40 to schedule an annual screening mammogram.”

Consider Further TestingWomen with a family history of breast cancer

may consider genetic testing to determine if they have the specifi c cancer genes BRCA1 and BRCA2. Studies have found that women with a mutation in either of these genes have an 85 percent lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.

Women at high risk can also have magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and ultrasounds to help detect possible early stages of the disease.

“New research on breast cancer is constantly becoming available, and women everywhere are surviving breast cancer one day at a time,” says Dr. Jordan. “The best thing you can do for yourself is increase your knowledge of the disease—and then do all you can to fi ght it.”

For more information on TRMC’s state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, visit www.tiftregional.com. To schedule a mammogram, call (229) 353-7685.

Fight Backagainst Breast CancerApproximately 178,480 women in the United States were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, it’s time to fi ght back.

November

Learning More about Alzheimer’sabout Alzheimer’sabout Alzheimer’sabout Alzheimer’sIn 1906, a German physician, Alois Alzheimer, fi rst described the brain disorder that now affects about 5 million Americans. A little

more than a century later, we know quite a bit about Alzheimer’s disease and why it occurs.

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, you know every day

brings new challenges. Fortunately, new research offers hope for treat-

ing, preventing, and managing the condition. Here are a few of the

latest fi ndings.

It’s happening earlier. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that

as many as 64,000 Americans, ages 55 to 64, are affected by early

onset Alzheimer’s.

“Diagnoses of Alzheimer’s are coming at earlier ages, which is alarm-

ing, as Alzheimer’s is typically considered a disease that doesn’t set in

until age 65,” says Anthony Giatras, MD, neurologist on staff at Tift

Regional Medical Center. “This can make it diffi cult for younger patients

to get appropriate diagnoses or the treatments they need to properly

manage their conditions.”

If someone you love—regardless of what age he or she may be—begins

to show the symptoms of Alzheimer’s (forgetfulness, confusion, diffi culty

communicating, etc.), talk with a physician regarding your concerns.

Friends can help fi ght off Alzheimer’s. New research shows that

loneliness can contribute to the onset of Alzheimer’s.

During a recent study, 823 individuals were followed for nearly four

years. Participants were 81 years of age on average, and none had any

form of dementia prior to the beginning of the study.

Every year, participants were assessed for loneliness based on a

fi ve-question survey that asked if they had enough friends, often felt

abandoned, or experienced a sense of emptiness. A score of 5 indicated

the highest level of loneliness, and most participants scored around 2.3.

Through the duration of the survey, 76 participants developed symptoms

of Alzheimer’s, with loneliness being the only consistent link.

After reviewing the results, study leaders stated that individuals could

feel socially isolated even when surrounded by friends and family. The dif-

ference between an individual’s likelihood of feeling lonely and therefore

being at higher risk for Alzheimer’s was whether he or she had a number

of meaningful relationships.

New treatment options are available. In addition to fi ve med-

ications already on the market to offer relief from the symptoms of

Alzheimer’s disease, researchers are testing new medications to determine

how to better treat the disease.

Two promising medications include nonsteroid anti-infl ammatory

drugs (NSAIDs) and ginkgo biloba. Minor improvements in mental func-

tion have been found with NSAID use, and for centuries Asian cultures

have used ginkgo biloba for memory improvement. Neither medication

is currently endorsed to treat Alzheimer’s, however, so talk to your doc-

tor prior to use.

For a referral to a physician on staff at Tift Regional Medical Center,

visit www.tiftregional.com.

The highly successful Smoking

Cessation Class is offered for

members of the community who want

to quit. For upcoming dates and times,

visit www.tiftregional.com.

Smoking Cessation Classes at

Tift Regional Medical Center

Stop Smoking Today!Want to quit smoking and improve your health? Try one—or a combination—of these tools to help you quit. 1 Redirect your craving.

A craving lasts about fi ve minutes. Replace your craving for cigarettes with healthy snacks such as celery or carrots, or nibble on straws, toothpicks, or sugar-free mints. 2 Exercise.

In a recent National Cancer Institute study, women who walked every day for 45 minutes after quitting gained less than 3 pounds.3 Take a smoking cessation class. See the article on this page to learn about classes at Tift Regional Medical Center. 4 Patch it up.

Nicotine replacement products like gum or patches help curb cravings and decrease weight gain. 5 Medicate it.

Talk to your doctor about new medications, such as the FDA-approved Naltrexone, to help you stop smoking.

The secret of health for both mind and bodyis not to mourn for the past, worry about thefuture, or anticipate troubles but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly. —Buddha

Playing for Keeps Your brain is a muscle that, like any in your body, needs to be used to stay strong. Playing games that challenge your memory and mind are some of the best ways to help prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, but you can also eat your way to improved mental fi tness.

Don’t know where to start? Check out these fun ways to keep your mind active.• Play with words. Work a crossword puzzle, compete against people across the world in an online Scrabble game, or play along with Jeopardy! to stimulate yourself intellectually and boost your memory. • Get moving. Exercise improves blood fl ow to the brain and helps it stay sharp. • Berries on the brain. Foods rich in antioxidants that boost brainpower include blueberries and strawberries. Try a strawberry smoothie or add blueberries to your cereal. • Take a class. Whether you’re interested in world history or pottery, taking a class from the local community college is a great way to keep learning, which keeps your brain working. • Join a book club. Reading is great exercise for your brain; refl ecting on what you’ve read with others is even better!

DecemberDecemberDecemberDecemberDecemberDecemberEnjoy More, Eat Less

It may be the end of the year, but that doesn’t mean you should let go of your New Year’s resolution to eat healthy and stay fi t. Enjoy your holidays without losing your waistline by fol-lowing these simple tips.• Don’t splurge. At holiday parties and family dinners, sample foods without overdoing it. One way is to decide what you are going to eat prior to the gathering and then stick to it.• Exercise. Plan a family walk after meals or park further from the shopping mall entrance to keep the unwanted pounds off this season.• Avoid alcohol. Just because it is a time for celebration does not mean alcohol is the only beverage of choice around the holidays. Instead, try drinking water with lemon. It will help keep the extra pounds off, as well as help you from binge eating at the dinner table.

Tree of Life

The Annual Tree of Life c

elebration

at Tift Regional Medical Center

Thursday, December 11 at 6 p

.m.

Call (229) 386-1300 for

more information.

Tips for Stress-FreeHoliday ShoppingCleanse your spirit this holiday season by following

these fi ve tips to help you shop stress free.1 Figure out a budget—and stick to it.2 Mail gifts by December 10 to

avoid lines at postal centers.3 Shop during off-peak hours, such

as weekdays.4 Skip the mall with online shopping.

Many sites offer free shipping.5 Wrap your presents as you purchase them.

And in the end it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.

—Abraham Lincoln

“Holidays represent a time full of holiday dinners and family gatherings,” says Greg Senters, LMSW, MSM, professional social worker at Tift Regional Medical Center. “It is a time for loved ones to get together, and when a certain loved one is no longer there, the family rituals can be painful.”

How to CopeThe following are some ways to help you deal with the grief of a lost

loved one during the holiday season.Start with a plan. Be aware that additional stress can take its toll

on you mentally, emotionally, and physically. As the holiday season approaches, begin thinking about what you can handle this year. For example, you may not really feel up to doing as much holiday shopping or dragging out the Christmas decorations.

Do something different. While many traditions can be a comforting reminder of your loved one, you may want to do some things a little dif-ferently this year. For example, you may choose to get out of town for the holiday or open gifts on Christmas Eve.

Consider the needs of others. Remember that many of your friends

and family members may also be grieving. Consider their thoughts and feelings and try to come to a compromise on any events or activities you’re planning together.

In addition, doing something for someone else (such as making a donation to a good cause in honor of your loved one or even baking cookies for a friend) can help you feel better.

Know that you aren’t alone. Take this time to talk about your feelings with family members, friends, or someone who has gone through a similar experience.

For 20 years, TRMC has offered a support group, Refl ections, to help those in the community who have lost a loved one. The group meets the fi rst and third Monday of each month.

“Within the support group, we do different projects to remember our loved ones,” Senters says. “Last year we constructed a memory quilt. It allowed closure for people who participated and was also therapeutic. People went through a huge healing process during this period.”

For more information about the Refl ections support group at TRMC, call (229) 353-6330 or toll free at (800) 704-1403.

Put the “Happy”Back in Happy HolidaysHolidays are meant to be a time full of joy and celebration. However, for some, the holidays can be a sad reminder of lost loved ones.

Tift Regional Medical Center

would like to wish you and yours

a healthy, happy 2008.

Here’s to your health!

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAIDLynchburg, VA Permit No. 830

This publication in no way seeks to serve as a substitute for professional medical care. Consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.

901 East 18th StreetTifton, GA 31794www.tiftregional.com