Page 2 - Halifax Regional Health System | Life & Health | Fall 2012

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The maximum percentage of a child’s body weight that can be safely carried on
his or her back. Backpacks that are too heavy or are worn incorrectly can injure
muscles and joints. Make sure your child’s backpack ts well over both shoulders
and at the waist.
Source: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
The proportion of American adults who don’t get any
leisure-time physical activity. Adults should aim for
at least 2½ hours of moderate aerobic exercise each
week. It’s best to spread activity throughout the week
in bouts of at least 10 minutes.
Source: American Heart Association
The number of pet dogs in the U.S. Just like
you, your canine friend needs regular checkups
and immunizations to stay well. Visit the vet
with your dog at least once a year.
Source: AmericanVeterinaryMedical Association
Free prostate
screenings
Tuesday, Sept. 18
6 to 8:30 p.m.
Halifax Urology Associates
Physicians Pavilion
2232Wilborn Ave., South Boston
Prostate cancer is the most common
cancer a ecting men. In 2012, it is
estimated that 241,740 new cases of
prostate cancer will occur, resulting in
28,170 deaths.
If you are a man over 50, you are encour-
aged to come to Halifax Urology Associates
for a free prostate screening. Screenings will
include a digital rectal exam and prostate-
speci c antigen (PSA) blood test. Registra-
tion is required. To make an appointment,
call
434-517-8893
.
Men eligible for the free screening
should:
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not have had a PSA test in the last
12 months
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be between the ages of 50 and 75 for
Caucasians or between 40 and 75 for
African Americans and men with a family
history of prostate cancer
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have a life expectancy of at least 10 years
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have no personal history of prostate
cancer.
Source: American Cancer Society
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form
of dementia, is not a normal part of aging.
Here are the facts:
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5.4 million Americans are living with
Alzheimer’s disease.
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1 in 8 older Americans has Alzheimer’s
disease.
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Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading
cause of death in the United States and the
only cause of death among the top 10 that
cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed.
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Nearly half of the people age 85 and
older have it.
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Nearly 200,000 people under age 65
are facing the challenges of early-onset
Alzheimer’s disease.
You can help.
The community is invited
to meet at The Woodview on Thursday,
September 13, 5 p.m., for a walk to support
people facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s
disease. Your donations support the work
of the Southeastern Virginia Chapter
of the Alzheimer’s Association and the
assistance they provide right here in our
community.
Gather together your family and friends,
collect money for the cause and, most
important, walk with us to show your sup-
port for those facing the di cult task of
navigating the puzzle that is this unrelent-
ing illness. For more information, call Dawn
Emerson at
434-517-7534
.
Fighting Alzheimer’s disease step by step