By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA The Great American Smokeout Twitter Chat presented by Sharecare was ongoing spirited conversation for five hours filled with valuable information. The Hashtag #quitforgood led the chat. Every third Thursday in November The American Cancer Society marks the Great American Smokeout. First, thank you to all the participants. Thank you to all the smokers who were involved in the conversation. Whether you recently quit smoking, were looking for information on…
Read More...Sharecare Presents: The Great American Smokeout Twitter Chat
By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 43.8 million people (18 years or older), in the United States smoke cigarettes. What’s even more astounding is that cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Every year in the United States more than 440,000 deaths occur. Smoking causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, and lung diseases (including emphysema, bronchitis, and chronic airway obstruction)….
Read More...Are Doctors Writing Prescriptions for Fruits and Vegetables?
Fresh produce program gains momentum in weight-loss fight By Christine S. Moyer More doctors are writing prescriptions for a proven weight-loss treatment with no negative side effects — fresh vegetables and fruits. The initiative, known as the Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program, was started by the Connecticut-based nonprofit Wholesome Wave in 2010. The organization aims to improve access and affordability of fresh, locally grown produce to underserved communities. The program targets overweight and obese children…
Read More...Flu Season-Insights from the ER
Flu Season is here; a quick vaccine reference to avoid an Emergency Room Visit. By Justin S. Larkin, MD As the sun sets on summer and the fall weather is now here, this means one thing in the Emergency Departments around the world, Flu Season. Flu related chief complaints during the winter months place a large strain on Emergency Departments around the country. Often the wait times to be seen and overcrowding of the department…
Read More...Health: Online Health by the Numbers
By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA Digital Technology has changed the landscape in health care, and it has changed the role of the consumer, patient, caregiver and health care professional. The internet has empowered patients and consumers to take charge of their health and to be proactive. Consumers and patients are active participants in their health care. The Pew Internet and American Life Project explores the impact of the internet and “provides information on the…
Read More...