Health

By Karen L. Kier, Pharmacist on behalf of the ONU Healthwise Team 

The idiom known as a big fish in a small pond explains a person who is important or powerful within a small group, but not necessarily known in a larger population.  This is a good example of our local officials or citizens versus the Hollywood famous.  

Recent science has identified a benefit with omega-fatty acids such as those found in fish.  The study was completed in a smaller pond of individuals.  The evidence was in a small pond of individuals over the age of 70 years.  

Some fish and marine life contain omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).  Omega-3 fatty acids are considered to be the good fats with benefits for your eyes, brain and heart health.  Previous studies have shown a beneficial effect of omega-3 fatty acids in reducing the progression of cognitive decline. The omega-3 fatty acid known as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is found in plants. 

KENTON __ On April 22, the OhioHealth North Market Mobile Mammography Unit will be stationed at Home Run Memorial Park, at 13625 OH 292 Kenton. The mobile unit will be operating from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., which overlaps with the scheduled food distribution event from noon-2:00 p.m. 

The North Market Mobile Mammography Unit aims to eliminate barriers for women who need access to vital healthcare screenings by bringing mammography technology directly into communities like Kenton. This upcoming event is thanks to support from the Ohio Northern University student group, ONU Rural Scholars Project–Pharm D.

Allen County Public Health and the Ohio Department of Health confirmed the first pediatric flu-related death of the 2024-2025 flu season occurred in Allen County. The deceased individual was a teenager under the age of 18 from Allen County. This tragic loss underscores the seriousness of the flu and the importance of prevention, especially with flu activity at very high levels at this time. 

By Danielle Castle, APRN-CNP, Carey Medical Center

An estimated 10 million Americans suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a condition that can significantly impact daily life, mood and overall well-being. Winter-patterned SAD is more common due to shorter daylight hours. Therefore, this disorder is especially prevalent in individuals living in northern regions, where daylight is limited for extended periods and is less common in those residing in sunnier climates such as Florida. 

By Karen L. Kier, Pharmacist for ONU Healthwise

Let it Go was written for Disney’s Frozen.  The original song was performed by Idina Menzel, but a shorter version was recorded by Demi Lovato for radio. The original Frozen film was inspired by the Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale The Snow Queen.  

Even though we have had some freezing days over the weeks, the weather is not dampening the spread of infections. 

Ohio is one of many states experiencing a quad-demic.  These four viral infections are COVID-19, influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and norovirus.  COVID-19, flu, and RSV are all respiratory viruses, but norovirus is a gut virus. 

By Andrius Giedraitis, MD

Pain management has become one of the most challenging aspects of modern medical care. In the wake of the well-publicized opioid crisis, we, as physicians, must balance effective pain treatment with responsible prescribing practices, especially when it comes to opioid medications.

A balanced approach to pain management is essential. While opioid medications play an important role in treating certain types of pain, they represent just one tool in our comprehensive treatment arsenal. Modern pain management incorporates multiple therapeutic approaches, including non-narcotic medications, physical therapy, and interventional procedures.

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