 |
|
Keeping Up to Date
Health in the News
‘Welcome to Medicare’ ExamIf you’re newly covered (or about to be) by Medicare Part B, you’re entitled to a free physical exam within the first six months of your coverage. The exam includes a review of your health, a basic checkup including a vision test, and advice on screenings and other preventive services. For more information, call 610-402-CARE or click here.
Do You Need This Screening?If you’re a man age 65-75 who’s a current or former smoker, the government recommends you be screened for a potentially deadly abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). "It is often undetected because there are mild or no symptoms," says family physician Brian Stello, M.D. Most common in men ages 40-70, an AAA is a bulge in the aorta that can rupture. To get screened, call your doctor for a referral to a radiology center. For more on AAA, call 610-402-CARE.
The New Food PyramidThe USDA has just released the “MyPyramid Food Guidance System.” Unlike the former one-size-fits-all food pyramid, the new web-based version asks you to enter your age, gender and activity level, and voilà! Out comes an eating plan designed just for you. The new version also stresses regular activity and suggests specific numbers and sizes of food servings, rather than vague ranges.
A Fast, Free HIV TestThe new OraQuick Advance test (from OraSure in Bethlehem) involves only a swab of the gums, not drawing blood, and you get the results in 20 minutes. "HIV is spread by sexual contact with an infected partner. Men and women are both at risk," says infectious disease specialist Tim Friel, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. "If you've ever had unprotected sex or have had another sexually transmitted disease, you should be tested."
The AIDS Activities Office at Lehigh Valley Hospital—17th and Chew is one of a few sites in the state offering the test. It’s free and confidential, and bilingual counselors are available. Walk-in hours are 1:30-3 p.m. Tuesdays, 10-11:30 a.m. Thursdays.
This page last updated 2/12/08 04:08 PM
|
July August 2005
Eating Healthy
Staying Fit
Caring for Mind and Body
Just for Women
Just for Men
Raising a Family
Heart of Healthy You
Protecting Your Health
Coping with Illness
Aging Well
Keeping Up to Date
Weight Control
|
|
‘Welcome to Medicare’ Exam
