The Great American Smokeout

Posted on November 15, 2022 by Andrew Rubin

Today is the Great American Smokeout, an annual event when the American Cancer Society encourages everyone to quit smoking. This event helps to make people aware of the dangers of using tobacco products as well as the tools that are available to help them quit smoking.

The Great American Smokeout started in 1970 in a small town in Massachusetts. People were asked to give up smoking for one day and to take the money that they would have spent on cigarettes and donate it to a local high school scholarship fund. The event spread to other cities both large and small and eventually led to legislation that bans smoking in workplaces, restaurants, and other public spaces both indoors and outdoors.

Smoking is responsible for one in five deaths in the United States today. Lung cancer is the leading cause of death in both men and women. Smoking is also the cause of cancer of the larynx, mouth, sinuses, throat, esophagus, and the bladder. The number of people who smoke has dramatically decreased in the United States since the anti-smoking campaigns began. In 1965 it was estimated that over 40 percent of the population were smokers and today that number is around 18 percent.

Smokers have the best chances of quitting if they use at least two of the following methods:

Smoking Cessation Groups
• Nicotine substitute products
• Support from family and friends
• Telephone quit lines
• Counseling
• Prescription medications that help to reduce the urge to smoke

If you would like more information about quitting smoking please call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345. If you would like to schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital to discuss smoking cessation, please call 718-206-8494.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

What is Dupuytren’s Contracture?

Posted on November 9, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition that affects approximately five percent of people throughout the United States. It causes nodules to develop in the layer of tissue under the skin of your palm over the course of years. This condition can affect both of your hands, though in most cases, one hand is affected more severely than the other.

In the beginning stages of Dupuytren’s contracture, the skin on the palm of your hand thickens. Later, this skin may appear puckered or dimpled and develop a firm lump that is tender when touched.

As nodules form over time, tough cords of tissue develop beneath the skin, rendering your fingers unable to completely straighten, resulting in a forced and constant bending of the fingers as they’re pulled toward your palm. This can make a large number of routine activities that require the use of your hands more difficult.

There is no clear cause for Dupuytren’s contracture, though certain factors may indicate that you are more likely to develop it. It is a hereditary disease, and men of Northern European descent are affected most frequently. It also typically only begins after the age of 50.

Certain lifestyle factors, such as tobacco and alcohol usage, are also associated with an increased risk of developing Dupuytren’s contracture, as well as people with diabetes and seizure disorders.

There is no cure for Dupuytren’s contracture, but surgical and non-surgical treatments are available. Anti-inflammatory steroid injections into the nodules that form beneath the skin may slow the progression of the condition, and in advanced cases, surgery can remove the cords that form in the hands to restore mobility.

Two types of surgical procedures are available for Dupuytren’s contracture: fasciotomy and subtotal palmar fasciectomy. During a fasciotomy, the cords in your hand are divided, not removed; during a subtotal palmar fasciectomy, these cords are removed, along with as much abnormal tissue as possible.

You can receive treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture from Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Orthopedic Surgery. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 206-6923.

Debunking Acne Treatment Myths

Posted on November 7, 2022 by Xavia Malcolm

We have all heard acne treatment myths at some point in our lives. Among the most common is the belief that toothpaste is an effective remedy for treating pimples. The opposite is true. While there are some ingredients in toothpaste that might seem effective in shrinking bumps, there are others that can do far more harm than good, and cause damage to the skin.

The myth that toothpaste could be used as a treatment for acne may have gained popularity when most products contained triclosan, an antifungal and antibacterial agent. Many manufacturers today no longer include this ingredient in toothpaste because studies suggest that it could negatively affect our health.

Triclosan has been removed from most toothpaste but there are still other ingredients included that prove beneficial for our teeth but harmful to our skin. These are:

Sodium lauryl sulfate
Menthol
Flouride
Sodium benzoate

Using these substances on the skin can make acne worse or result in allergic reactions that include swelling, redness, or itching.

Another popular myth involves using ice to treat pimples. While applying ice may work in temporarily alleviating symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain in inflammatory types of acne; it has little or no effect on other types of pimples that are non-inflammatory such as blackheads or whiteheads.

It is also important to keep in mind that using ice does not treat the contents (oil, bacteria, debris, and dead skin) inside a pimple. Additionally, applying ice for long periods to the skin can lead to rosacea, dilated blood vessels, tissue damage, or frostbite.

Damage to our skin and other complications can be avoided by using dermatologist-approved products that are intended for skin care. They contain ingredients that have been tested and recommended by professional organizations such as the American Academy of Dermatology.

If you choose to use more natural remedies, speak with your dermatologist about their risks and benefits before applying them to your skin.

To schedule an appointment with a dermatologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001.

The Mako SmartRobotics Surgical Platform At Jamaica Hospital

Posted on November 7, 2022 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center is proud to introduce the innovative Mako SmartRobotics surgical platform to our Department of Orthopedic Surgery. This state-of-the-art advancement in joint replacement surgery transforms the way total knee, partial knee, and total hip replacements are performed, resulting in better outcomes for our patients.

Mako SmartRobotics uses 3D CT-based planning. To get a detailed three-dimensional model of the surgical area prior to surgery. This allows the surgeon to receive the most accurate images of the joint and surrounding area. “Through the use of 3D-CT-based planning, we know more about my patients prior to surgery than ever before. This increased knowledge allows our surgeons to make fewer and smaller incisions, resulting in less soft tissue damage for some patients or greater bone preservation for others.” stated Dr. Sanjit Konda, Chairman of Orthopedic Surgery at Jamaica Hospital “Mako’s 3D CT provides me the opportunity to create a personalized plan based on each patient’s unique anatomy before entering the operating room. During surgery, we can validate that plan and make any necessary adjustments while guiding the robotic arm to execute that plan. It’s exciting to be able to offer this transformative technology across the joint replacement service line.”

According to the American Joint Replacement Registry, over 2.2 million hip and knee replacement surgeries are performed in the United States every year and those numbers are projected to increase. The most common reasons someone receives either hip or knee replacement surgery include joint destruction due to arthritis, wear and tear, or a fracture due to injury. Unfortunately, the increase in joint replacement procedures coincides with a growing number of patients dissatisfied with the results of conventional hip and knee replacement surgery. Some of the most common complaints shared by patients are high levels of pain, increased hospital length of stay, a long rehabilitation process, and restricted flexibility. The Mako SmartRobotics surgical system addresses these issues as patients have reported experiencing less pain, less need for inpatient physical rehabilitation, shorter hospital stays, greater flexibility, and greater soft tissue protection.

The addition of the Mako system is the latest advancement for the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Jamaica Hospital. “We are proud to offer this highly advanced SmartRobotics technology in our area,” said Dr Konda. “This addition to our orthopedic service line further demonstrates our commitment to provide our community with the highest quality care.”

How to Prepare for the End of Daylight Saving Time

Posted on November 4, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Each year on November sixth, daylight saving time comes to an end, setting clocks back by one hour. This means an earlier sunrise in the morning and sunset in the evening, which may contribute to a few different types of health issues in many people throughout the United States.

When daylight saving time ends, sunlight is absent for a greater part of the day for most people. This can be disruptive to the body’s circadian rhythm (the cycle of physical, mental, and behavioral functions that operates on a 24-hour cycle). While the effects of this may often be as simple as feeling hungrier or drowsier at an earlier time of the day, it could also lead to more significant, long-lasting problems such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Seasonal affective disorder, also known as seasonal depression, is typically characterized by a lack of energy and motivation in many people, but can lead to symptoms as serious as suicidal ideation in some cases. It can last as long as five months and affects up to three percent of the United States population.

There are steps you can take to avoid symptoms of seasonal affective disorder and other adverse effects that accompany the end of daylight saving time. These include:

Adjusting your sleep schedule to increase sunlight exposure: Going to bed and rising earlier will allow more time spent during daylight. Be sure to get enough sleep each night and wake up at a set time each morning.

Focusing on a healthy diet and regular exercise: A balanced diet and exercise are beneficial for both your physical and mental health. This remains true when it comes to coping with an adjusted daily schedule, as both of these can improve your mood throughout the day and counter-act increased drowsiness and symptoms of depression.

Investing in a light box: Light therapy is an artificial means of providing your body with ultraviolet light. It can help with adjusting to a decrease in available sunlight. Before purchasing a light box, ensure that it’s designed to treat SAD, that it’s bright enough, that it protects your eyes, and that it can fit securely and comfortably within one or more spaces that you frequently occupy.

If you’re experiencing negative mental health symptoms as daylight saving time comes to an end, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Mental Health Clinic by calling (718) 206-5575.

What is RSV?

Posted on November 2, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a respiratory illness that is typically most prevalent during the fall, winter, and early spring seasons. Most children born in the United States will have experienced it at some point before their second birthday.

The virus often presents symptoms similar to those of a cold, including a runny nose, coughing or wheezing, fever, and decreased appetite. These symptoms usually appear approximately four to six days after infection, but may not appear all at once.

While it usually does not lead to hospitalization, RSV can be particularly dangerous to children if it causes bronchiolitis or pneumonia to develop; it’s the most common cause of both of these illnesses in children under the age of one. If an infant develops either of these conditions, becomes dehydrated, or experiences significant difficulty breathing, the situation could become more serious and require hospital care.

RSV can also be especially dangerous for older adults, accounting for approximately 177,000 hospitalizations in adults over the age of 65.

The virus is usually spread through:

Bodily fluids such as mucus, saliva, or droplets
Surfaces that have the virus on them
Direct contact such as kissing an infected person

The best way to decrease the risk of an older adult or infant developing RSV is to prevent as many means of transmission as possible and promptly get them medical care if their symptoms seem to be worsening.

People and children who are at risk of developing severe cases of RSV should:

Avoid close contact with infected people and, if possible, close-contact settings such as daycare centers where RSV can more easily spread
Frequently wash their hands with soap and water for 20 seconds and refrain from touching their face until after they’ve done so

If you are sick with RSV, you should:

Avoid close contact with non-infected people
Frequently clean surfaces you’ve touched with disinfectant
Wear a mask and/or cover coughs and sneezes with a sleeve or tissue
Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds

If you or someone you know has developed RSV symptoms that require medical attention, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 206-7001 now.

Foods That Are Rich in Probiotics

Posted on November 2, 2022 by Andrew Rubin

Probiotics are live bacterial organisms that can be consumed as dietary supplements and are also found in certain food items. They are considered to be good bacteria that can lessen the symptoms of a variety of bowel disorders. Probiotics may improve digestive health, reduce depression, and promote heart health.

Foods that are rich in probiotics are:

Yogurt
Kefir
Sauerkraut
Sourdough bread
Tempeh
Kimichi
Miso
Pickles
Traditional buttermilk
Natto
Some types of cheeses (Edam, Cheddar, Gouda, Provolone, Swiss)

Probiotics are beneficial and generally very safe to consume; however, as with any supplements, speak to your physician first before taking a probiotic in supplement form.

Halloween 2022 Safety Tips

Posted on October 28, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Halloween is a family-favorite holiday full of spooky fun and lots of candy. However, it can also present many opportunities for injury as kids take to the streets in pursuit of trick-or-treat goodies.

Statistics show that roughly four times as many children between the ages of five and 14 are killed while walking on Halloween evening compared to other evenings of the year. Injuries due to falls and other accidents are also common among children on Halloween.

Parents can help minimize the risk of children getting injured on this holiday by following these safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Safety Council.

On Halloween, children should:

Go only to well-lit houses.
Remain on porches without actually entering a house.
Travel in small groups accompanied by an adult.
Use flexible, non-sharp plastic props for costume pieces such as knives and swords.
When walking through neighborhoods trick-or-treating, use flashlights, stay on sidewalks, and avoid crossing yards.
Cross at appropriately-designated crosswalks and do not cross between parked cars.
Be sure to stop at all corners and stay together in a group before crossing.
Wear clothing or costumes that are bright, reflective, and flame-retardant.
Consider using face paint instead of masks that can obstruct a child’s vision.
Avoid wearing hats that will slide over children’s eyes.
Avoid wearing long, baggy, or loose costumes or oversized shoes that may cause kids to trip.
Be reminded to look left, right, and left again before crossing a street.

On Halloween, parents and adults should:

Supervise trick-or-treating for children under the age of 12.
Avoid giving choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys as treats to young children.
Ensure the safety of pedestrian trick-or-treaters.
Make sure children under the age of 10 are supervised as they cross the street.
Drive slowly.
Watch for children in the street and on medians.
Exit driveways and alleyways slowly and carefully.
Have children get out of cars on the side of the sidewalk, not the street.

Follow these tips to keep both your children and yourself safe this year. Have a happy and fun Halloween!

Employee Spotlight Shines on Andres Parra

Posted on October 26, 2022 by Andrew Rubin

This month, we are proud to shine our Employee Spotlight on Andres Parra, Reception and Information Desk supervisor. Andres began his career at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center eight years ago. He is a native of the Borough of Queens, having grown up in East Elmhurst and still resides in the borough.

Andres attended P.S. 148, John Bowne High School and received his BA in Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He likes to go to art exhibits, museums, art galleries, concerts, and restaurants. He also enjoys photography. Andres tells us that his favorite types of food are Asian and Latin. Some of the places that he has travelled to are the Dominican Republic and to see family in Miami and Colombia. He is a huge fan of baseball, football, soccer and Formula 1 auto racing. Andres was a DJ for 16 years and has an extensive knowledge of music. The genres he likes most are Latin, hip-hop, rock and house music.

Andres enjoys working at Jamaica Hospital because it gives him an opportunity to help patients and visitors on a daily basis. He takes great pride in knowing that his colleagues at the front desk are the face of the hospital as they are often the first encounter people have when they visit the building. Andres’ team stives to provide excellent customer service to the community.

We are very happy to have Andres as a member of our team and look forward to having him continue with us for many more years.

What is Baker’s Lung?

Posted on October 26, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

“Baker’s lung” refers to the high risk that bakers, grain millers, and similar professionals face of developing asthma due to regular exposure to certain workplace irritants. Baker’s lung is one of the most common forms of occupational asthma in the United States. Occupational asthma affects up to 25% of people with asthma throughout the country.

The substances that bakers and similar professionals are exposed to during their work day include flour, grains, bread additives, eggs or egg powder, yeast, nuts, and even other common allergens such as dust mites and mold. Taken together, these irritating substances create environments that make bakers one of the most high-risk professions for occupational asthma.

If you are a baker, you may need to work with your employer to ensure that your workplace is able to accommodate your health needs. Occupational asthma triggers can be controlled to reduce or prevent incidents of workplace asthma attacks in the following ways:

Using tools such as protective equipment, as well as allergy-friendly ingredients such as low-dust flour, to prevent the creation and inhalation of irritating dust.
Ensuring that your work area is properly ventilated.
Keeping an inhaler present in the workplace and make sure your employer and coworkers know where it can be found.
Ensuring that environmental checks are performed regularly to identify triggering substances in the workplace.

An important part of managing your asthma symptoms while working is ensuring that you’re receiving adequate medical care to control them. If you require a diagnosis or treatment, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 206-7001 now.