RCAHD Health Updates Newsletter  06.28.23

Health updates for residents of the Roanoke City & Alleghany Health Districts (RCAHD) Forwarded from a friend? Subscribe here

Chronic disease: What can we do to protect health where health begins?

Earlier this spring, readers of this newsletter ranked “chronic disease” as their third highest public health concern, after mental health and substance abuse. Chronic diseases are health conditions that are persistent or long-lasting in their duration and generally slow in their progression. Chronic diseases are extremely common, making them a leading public health concern. Across the country, six out of every 10 American adults have a chronic disease, and four in 10 have two or more. The main types of chronic disease are: cardiovascular diseases (such as heart attacks and stroke) cancers (these will be covered in a future column) respiratory diseases (such as chronic obstructed pulmonary disease and asthma) kidney disease diabetes dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease

How do rates of some chronic illnesses in RCAHD residents compare to rates of illness in the rest of the state?  Researchers know medical care alone is not enough to make people healthy. How can communities support health before illness sets in? Supporting health before illness starts in the latest RCAHD Community Column

June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month...

Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia, an umbrella term for diseases characterized by a decline in memory, language, and other thinking skills. Besides Alzheimer's, other common forms of dementia are: Vascular Lewy Bodies

Normal aging may include some age-related memory changes, such as occasionally misplacing car keys. Signs that may point to the need for screening include: Getting lost in a familiar neighborhood Using unusual words to refer to familiar objects Forgetting the name of a close family member or friend Forgetting old memories Not being able to complete tasks independently A healthcare provider can perform tests on attention, memory, problem solving and other cognitive abilities to see if there is cause for concern. A physical exam, blood tests, and brain scans such as a MRI can help determine an underlying cause. (Learn more from the CDC)

RCAHD Health Situation Update More dashboards at vdh.gov

News You Can Use: Summer Grilling Season is Here!

Making a July 4th shopping list? Check out safe storage recommendations before you checkout at the grocery store. These short but safe time limits will help keep refrigerated foods at home free of bacteria that cause foodborne illness.   Bookmark this page for a full list: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/refrigeration#13

Grill Like a Pro! Don't rely on grill marks! Instead use a food thermometer!

Are you the parent or caregiver of a teen? Your feedback could be worth $$!

We are hosting virtual and in-person Listening Sessions to better understand the needs of teens and young adults, ages 13-25. Participants will receive a $25 store gift card for giving us their feedback. We want to hear from you on topics such as: Sexual health of young adults Accessibility of resources Having conversations with friends, family and medical providers We're looking for input from teens and young adults, and caregivers of teens. Visit the RCAHD Listening Sessions page to learn more and sign up!

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