Arizona Mission of Mercy Event
Oral health is more than just a nice smile. Having good oral health improves a person’s ability to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew and eat. Tooth decay and gum disease have been linked with other serious health problems like heart disease, stroke and diabetes, as well as premature births. Given the potential link between oral diseases and other systemic [...]
Updated Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans
For the first time in 10 years, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has updated national physical activity guidelines with evidence-based recommendations for everyone ages three and up to get the physical activity they need to stay healthy. I am excited about these updated guidelines as they support actions outlined in the Arizona Health Improvement Plan: Healthy [...]
2018 State Heath Assessment
Did you know the average life expectancy can vary by as much as 14 years depending on where you live in Arizona? Did you know that Arizona has seen an 85% drop in teen pregnancy in the past decade? And did you know Arizona has lower rates of cancer and heart disease than the nationwide average? You can learn all [...]
Haven’t gotten your flu shot this year? It’s not too late!
Arizona’s last influenza season was record breaking. More than 35,000 people in Arizona were reported to be sick with flu – more people than during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic! Similarly, the rest of the country was hit hard last season with nearly one million Americans hospitalized and over 80,000 dying from flu. Getting your influenza vaccine is the best way [...]
Tips for Visiting Friends and Loved Ones in Long-term Care and Assisted Living Facilities During the Holidays
As the holidays approach, visiting friends and family residing in nursing homes and assisted living facilities is a top priority for many. The visits, while strongly recommended by those involved in health care and aging, are sometimes very emotional. We highly recommend that visitors plan ahead to ensure that the time spent together is as rewarding as possible for both [...]
Holiday Challenge: Maintain, Don’t Gain!
Did you know many Americans gain between one and five pounds each holiday season? That doesn’t sound like much, but most people never manage to lose those extra pounds. However, you can do something to enjoy holiday festivities without the weight gain. I am inviting you to join the 12th annual Eat Smart, Move More, Maintain, don't gain! Holiday Challenge. The free, seven-week [...]