Secondhand Smoke Exposure Linked to Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes

Roswell Park/University at Buffalo study finds significant risk for women who never smoked

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Secondhand smoking is linked with pregnancy loss, including miscarriage, stillbirth and tubal ectopic pregnancy, according to new research from scientists at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) and the University at Buffalo (UB). The study findings, published online by the journal Tobacco Control, mark a significant step toward clarifying the risks of secondhand smoke exposure.

“This study demonstrated that pregnancy outcomes can be correlated with secondhand smoking. Significantly, women who have never smoked but were exposed to secondhand smoke were at greater risk for fetal loss,” says the study’s lead investigator, Andrew Hyland, PhD, Chair of RPCI’s Department of Health Behavior.

While there was previously some evidence that smoking during pregnancy was associated with the three outcomes of fetal loss studied here — spontaneous abortion or miscarriage (loss of a fetus before 20 weeks of gestation), stillbirth (loss of a fetus after 20 or more weeks of gestation) and tubal ectopic pregnancy — such evidence for secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure had been limited. This study is significant in two ways: One, it considered lifetime SHS exposure rather than only during pregnancy or reproductive years, taking into consideration smoke exposure in participants’ childhood and adult years. Two, the comparison group of never-smokers was limited to women without any SHS exposure, producing a truer control group compared to previous studies.

The large sample size and comprehensive assessment of SHS exposure added strength to the findings. Historical reproductive data, current and former smoking status, and details about SHS exposure over lifetime were collected from the Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study. This allowed for a study group of 80,762 women.

“The statistical power gained from the large cohort of women that was available is noteworthy,” added co-author Jean Wactawski-Wende, PhD, Professor in the Departments of Social and Preventive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Vice Provost for Research Advancement and Strategic Initiatives at UB. “As a result of the Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study, participants came from a broad range of geographic areas and had multiple ethnic, educational and socio-economic backgrounds. This allowed for a comprehensive assessment of detailed information on exposures, outcomes and potential confounders.”

Women with the highest levels of SHS exposure — despite never having smoked themselves — had significantly greater estimates of risk for all three adverse pregnancy outcomes, and these risks approached the risk seen among women who smoke (those who smoked more than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime). The highest levels of lifetime SHS exposure were defined by childhood exposure for longer than 10 years, adult home exposure for more than 20 years and adult work exposure for more than 10 years.

“This study offers new information for women regarding the lifetime impact secondhand smoke can have on reproductive outcomes and their ability to successfully bring a pregnancy to full term,” says Dr. Hyland. “The strength of the study also provides public-health professionals and others with information upon which to base health guidelines about the significant consequences of secondhand smoke.”

Sled Hockey for Veterans

Ice times are announced for Veterans to learn skills for sled hockey and participate on a Veterans only team that has regular practices and games. The Buffalo Sabres Sled Vets are looking for Veterans to participate on team as part of VA Western New York Healthcare System’s recreation therapy program. The program will assist Veterans of all abilities to learn sled hockey skills necessary to play the sport. Previous hockey experience is not required and Veterans do not have to be disabled to participate. The program is made possible through a donation from the Buffalo Sabres, Buffalo Sabres Foundation and National Fuel.

Upcoming ice times are as follows:

Saturday, February 22, Riverside Bud Bakewell Rink, 8:00 p.m. - 8:50 p.m.

Saturday, March 1, Riverside Bud Bakewell Rink, 2:30 p.m. - 3:50 p.m.

Saturday, March 8, Cazenovia Rink, 7:00 p.m. - 7:50 p.m.

Thursday, March 13, Cazenovia Rink, 6:30 p.m. - 7:50 p.m.

Tuesday, March 18, Riverside Bud Bakewell Rink, 6:30 p.m. - 7:20 p.m.

Saturday, March 29, Cazenovia Rink, noon - 12:50 p.m.

Saturday, April 5, Riverside Bud Bakewell Rink, 5:00 p.m. - 6:20 p.m.

Sunday, April 6, Cazenovia Rink, noon - 1:20 p.m.

Veterans interested in participating can contact Pamela Kaznowski at 862-6814 or Pamela.Kaznowski@va.gov to learn more.  Veterans must be enrolled in VA health care and can do so online at https://www.1010ez.med.va.gov/sec/vha/1010ez/ or in person at VA Western New York Healthcare System, 3495 Bailey Avenue Buffalo. 

Rink locations: Riverside Rink, 2607 Niagara Street, Buffalo 14207; Cazenovia Rink, 25 Cazenovia Street, Buffalo 14220.   

                                                                     

Univera Healthcare Awards Hospitals $24.5 Million for Quality Improvements

Thank you Univera Healthcare!

Forty-seven upstate New York hospitals and health centers last year earned $24.5 million in quality improvement incentive payments from Univera Healthcare and its Rochester-based parent as part of the health insurer’s Hospital Performance Incentive Program (HPIP). In the past ten years quality performance incentives have exceeded $169 million.

“With all the changes in health care brought about by the Affordable Care Act, we applaud our hospital partners for continuing to focus on improving the quality of care and patient safety,” said Carrie Frank, vice president of quality and health informatics at Univera Healthcare. 

Participating in this program in 2013 were fifteen Western New York hospitals and health centers, including Catholic Health System (3 sites), Eastern Niagara Health System (2 sites), Erie County Medical Center (ECMC), Kaleida Health (4 sites), Mount St. Mary’s Hospital, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, United Memorial Medical Center, Women’s Christian Association (WCA) Hospital and Chautauqua Integrated Delivery System. 

"People shouldn't have to look very hard to find out how their health-care providers are performing," said Anthony Picone, MD, PhD, MBA, Medical Director of Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI). "Programs like Univera Healthcare's Hospital Performance Incentive Program allow hospitals and providers to see how their care measures up at the same time that they give families the resources they need to make informed, proactive decisions about their health care."

Launched in 2004, the HPIP program evaluates participating hospitals on over 250 performance measures. In 2013, hospitals achieved 89 percent of all target quality levels. In addition to required clinical and patient safety measures, other nationally-endorsed measures and target outcomes are jointly agreed upon by each hospital and the health insurer using benchmarks established by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) , The Joint Commission (TJC) , the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), and others.

Areas targeted for improvement include:

• Clinical Processes of Care – Focused on improvements in heart attack care, heart failure, pneumonia, and surgical care

• Patient Safety – Centered on reductions in hospital-acquired infections, falls, pressure ulcers, readmissions, and other adverse events or errors that affect patient care

• Patient Satisfaction – Using the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey, which is the first national, standardized, publicly-reported survey of patients’ perspectives of hospital care

"Univera Healthcare has continued to reward improvements in quality through our contracts with hospitals,” said Frank. “These improvements also have the effect of lowering the costs of care, which is critical to hospitals in this environment.” 

Relevance in upstate New York 

Univera Healthcare's Spring 2013 Fact Sheet on Hospital Acquired Infections in upstate New York revealed that in 2010, New York State reported about 108,000 hospital-acquired infections, including 24,000 in upstate New York. Those hospital-acquired infections led to an estimated 5,000 New York state deaths, 1,100 of which were in upstate New York.

If upstate New York hospitals could lower the number of hospital-acquired infections by even 20 or 40 percent, there would be an estimated 5,000 to 10,000 fewer infections and 200 to 400 fewer associated deaths, the Univera Healthcare report concludes. That would also save upstate New York state hospitals an estimated $68 million to$137 million annually.

Mercurio Promoted to McGuire Group President

The McGuire Group

560 Delaware Ave., Suite 400, Buffalo, NY  14202

(716) 826-2010

BUFFALO, NY – The McGuire Group, Inc., operator of six nursing and rehabilitation facilities in New York State, announces the appointment of Stephen M. Mercurio, RNMS, LNHA, CAS, of Hamburg as president of the company. Prior to this, he held the position of vice president for more than 15 years. The company’s current president and chief executive officer, F. James McGuire will continue to lead the company as the CEO.

In this capacity, Mercurio will be responsible for the oversight, management and direction of services for the group’s 2,100 employees and six facilities including Autumn View Health Care Facility in Hamburg, Garden Gate Health Care Facility in Cheektowaga, Harris Hill Nursing Facility in Williamsville, Northgate Health Care Facility in North Tonawanda, Seneca Health Care Center in West Seneca and Brookhaven Health Care Facility in East Patchogue.

The McGuire Group facilities provide services to more than 1,100 residents and patients including subacute and outpatient rehabilitation, 24-hour skilled nursing care, memory care, Journeys palliative care, hospice services and respite/short-term care. More than 4,500 individuals receive subacute rehabilitation at a McGuire facility annually.

Mercurio is a member of the American College of Health Care Administrators and was past president of NYSHFA (New York State Health Facilities Association), district 10. He received a master’s degree in health care administration from the University at Buffalo and a bachelor of science degree in nursing from D’Youville College. He is also a New York State licensed nursing home administrator.

“Steve has played an integral role in The McGuire Group, Inc. and all of our facilities since joining the company in 1992,” stated F. James McGuire, CEO. “His commitment to quality, to the patients and residents that we serve, and to our staff, exemplifies the culture that we strive for. His continued contributions to the leadership of our organization will help us to navigate the tremendous and ongoing challenges our industry faces.”

For more information, visit www.mcguiregroup.com or call 826-2010.

Battin Promoted to President of McGuire Group Pharmacy

The McGuire Group Pharmacy

2355 Union Road, Suite 200, Cheektowaga, NY  14227

(716) 631-2433

CHEEKTOWAGA, NY – The McGuire Group Pharmacy, Inc., provider of institutional pharmaceuticals for the health care industry, has promoted Jennifer L. Battin, R.Ph., CGP, to president of the company. Prior to this, she served as vice president for more than 15 years. The McGuire Group Pharmacy is an affiliate of The McGuire Group, Inc., operator of five skilled nursing and rehabilitative facilities in WNY.

As president, Battin is responsible for the day-to-day management of all pharmaceutical operations as well as a staff of more than 50 pharmacists and technicians. In addition, she researches and integrates technology to accurately service and communicate with McGuire’s clients. This includes automated patient-specific packaging systems, document management systems, electronic medication and treatment administration, compliance and billing information, survey preparation, case management and quality review.

Battin is a certified geriatric pharmacist and is experienced in meeting the special needs of the frail elderly while adhering to the ever-changing federal and state regulations that govern the long-term care industry.

She is a member of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) and Pharmacists Society of the State of New York (PSSNY). She holds a bachelor of science in pharmacy from Albany College of Pharmacy.

She resides in Buffalo with her husband Paul and has two children, Meredith and Isabelle.

“Jennifer’s professionalism, knowledge of health care codes and years of pharmaceutical experience are incomparable,” stated F. James McGuire, CEO of The McGuire Group Pharmacy. “Our organization, and the residents we serve, benefits tremendously from her expertise.”

The McGuire Group Pharmacy has been providing institutional pharmaceutical services since 1990. Professionals within the organization also serve as resources by providing related programs and development opportunities to peers in the health care field. For more information, visit www.mcguirepharmacy.com or call 826-2010.                  

                                                                                                                              

Schobert Promoted to Vice President of Reliant Medical

Reliant Medical Equipment & Supply

2365 Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY 14227

(716) 809-1621

CHEEKTOWAGA, NY – Reliant Medical Equipment & Supply, a division of The McGuire Group Pharmacy, has appointed Meghan Schobert as vice president of the company. Prior to this, she served as director of business development for the past five years.

In this capacity, Schobert is responsible for the management and coordination of daily operations with a focus on business development, marketing and customer service. This includes team building and development, strategic planning, inventory control, and resource allocation to effectively meet monthly and annual goals.

Reliant Medical Equipment began more than four years ago under Schobert’s direction as a division of The McGuire Group’s institutional pharmacy. It caters to health care facilities, hospitals and in-home users with thousands of items including orthotic products, mobility devices, bath safety items, wound and skin care products, medical and specialty equipment, assistive devices, and first aid supplies. The company currently operates in a store-front at 2355 Union Road in Cheektowaga and will be expanding to a 9,000-square-foot newly renovated store and pharmacy at 4114 Union Road in Cheektowaga by mid-March.

Schobert holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing and business administration from Carthage College in Wisconsin. She resides in Lancaster with her husband Matthew and has four children: Connor, Dylan, Devin and Morgan.

“Meghan has been directly responsible for the positive growth of our organization over the last five years and has an intrinsic desire to help people remain safe and mobile through the use of proper medical equipment,” stated F. James McGuire, CEO of The McGuire Group. “This promotion reflects the contributions she’s made and will continue to make in our company and our community.”

For more information, or to shop online, visit www.reliantmedicalequipment.com or call 809-1621.

American Heart Association says lives will be saved by CPR in Schools bill

Local families applaud Senator Grisanti for championing lifesaving legislation

Buffalo, NY –Today the American Heart Association applauded Senator Mark Grisanti for introducing legislation that holds the power to create a generation of lifesavers in New York: the CPR in School bill.

The bill ensures all students learn bystander CPR before they graduate, preparing them to respond to sudden cardiac arrest, whose victims usually die before Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) arrive because nobody administered CPR.

For two local families, the bill has special meaning. Suzy McCarthy and her family advocate in honor of their daughter and sister, Madison Lee. Madison was just five years old when she suffered cardiac arrest while attending kindergarten. Annette Adamczak is dedicated to teaching hands-only CPR to high school students across Western New York, in memory of her daughter, 14 year-old Emily Rose. Both moms have helped many families and students in Western New York with CPR trainings and cardiac screenings. But they won’t stop there. They are determined to help families across the state by advocating for CPR training prior to graduation.

“It took 18 minutes for first responders to arrive and start CPR for Madison,” Suzy McCarthy said. “Time matters, and if everyone in New York can respond in a cardiac emergency, lives can be saved. I’m proud to be Senator Grisanti’s constituent and it means so much to our family that he has championed this bill.”

“Perhaps if we had started CPR immediately, or had an AED on hand, the outcome may have been different,” Adamczak said. “That is the reason for our family's passion to bring CPR into schools. One of these young adults that are learning Hands-Only CPR may save the life of someone they know; maybe a friend, maybe their coach, or maybe your child. I have now taught many students that reside in the senator’s district.”

“Schools prepare students with essential life skills, and CPR skills are among the most critical lifesaving skills that make our communities safer, year after year. Twelve states are now ensuring students learn CPR prior to graduation and it’s time to add New York to the list,” said Senator Mark Grisanti (R,I-Buffalo). “I’m honored to sponsor the CPR schools legislation in the New York State Senate and I am proud to work in partnership with advocates like Suzy, Annette and their families to help make this bill become a law."

Approximately 400,000 people have sudden cardiac arrest outside of a hospital every year, and only about 10 percent of them survive, most likely because they don’t receive timely CPR. Given right away, CPR doubles or triples survival rates.

“Having a new generation of lifesavers will benefit everyone, and CPR in Schools will be the key, said Anthony Balester Jr., General Manager of the Orchard Park Fire District. “Teaching students bystander CPR could save thousands of lives by filling our communities with young adults trained to give cardiac arrest victims the immediate help they need to survive until EMTs arrive.”

“Why wouldn’t we teach our kids CPR and how to act in an emergency? Teaching CPR to students is incredibly easy and inexpensive,said Joe Biondo, instructional leader of health and physical education at Orchard Park High School. “It can be taught in just one or two class periods. But the benefits are priceless. The bill also provides flexibility for schools by allowing CPR to be taught in either health or physical education class.”

Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when electrical impulses in the heart become rapid or chaotic, which causes the heart to suddenly stop beating. It is most often caused by coronary heart disease, but it can also be caused by trauma, an overdose, or drowning. Within a few, sudden seconds, the victim’s heart stops beating; blood stops circulating; oxygen stops flowing to the brain; and the victim stops breathing. Five minutes is the difference between life and death. If no CPR is provided or no defibrillation occurs within 3 to 5 minutes of collapse, the chances of survival drop.

The CPR in Schools legislation S6402/A6240 is sponsored in the Assembly by Assemblymember Harvey Weisenberg, D-Nassau County. The bill is currently before the Education Committees in both houses.

To join the American Heart Association’s work to teach students CPR, go to www.supportcprinschools.org.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – America’s No. 1 and No. 4 killers. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies, and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit www.heart.org or call any of our offices around the country.

To learn more call Jennifer Pratt at 716-614-1999 or Jennifer.Pratt@heart.org

AMHERST CENTER FOR SENIOR SERVICES OPEN SATURDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2014

Open to the Public: 8:00 am – 3:45 pm

Amherst, New York – The Amherst Center for Senior Services will be open on Saturday, February 22, 2014 from 8:00 am – 3:45 pm. The Saturday opening replaces the once-per-month Wednesday evening opening. All activities are open to the public but please make reservations.

Activities for the day include:

■ 9:30 am - Retirement Planning presented by Davis Financial. Please make a reservation at 636-3055 ext. 3108.

■ 10:00 – 11:00 am - Mind Teasers

■ 11:00 am - CPR Training Learn how to do CPR for non-rescuers and how to use a defibrillator. RSVP to 636-3055 ext. 3108

■ 12:00 Noon - Lunch Broccoli Soup, Grilled Cheese, Dessert & Milk

■ 12:30 pm – Movie “Captain Phillips”

■ 12:30 p.m. - Scrabble

■ 1:00 pm - Band Stretching

The Billiard and Card Rooms will be open for member use. The Gift Shop will also be open from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm. TheAmherst Center for Senior Services is located at 370 John James Audubon Parkway in Amherst, behind the Audubon Library. Call 636-3050 for more information on classes and membership.

Contact:

Mave B. Milligan, Public Relations Coordinator

Amherst Center for Senior Services

370 John James Audubon Parkway

Amherst NY 14228

Office: 636-3055, ext. 3122

Cell: 698-5747

Calling All Employers! Eat Well Live Well Challenge

With the New Year upon us, what better time is there to start making positive changes in and around your worksite? Please consider a resolution to attain a healthier and more productive workforce. The Wellness Institute of Greater Buffalo, a public benefit corporation focused on improving community health, shares your concern for improving your employee’s well being. To this end we are contacting you regarding the “Eat Well Live Well Challenge,” an employee wellness program promoted by the Institute. We are inviting your organization to participate in the Spring 2014 Challenge.

This result focused wellness program, provided to employers by Wegmans Markets; challenges participants to increase their physical activity and make good nutrition choices. These choices enable individuals to improve their health and lower their risk of chronic illnesses and unnecessary medical expenses, while improving health and productivity in the workplace. One critical benefit of an employee wellness program is that it’s a proven tool to help manage medical spending. Research has shown that it only takes one percent reduction in health risks to save as much as a hundred dollars annually in medical costs per person.

The Spring edition of the award-winning Eat Well Live Well Challenge is around the corner with local information and training sessions to facilitate your company’s participation. Enclosed in this email is an invitation letter with information about the Challenge. Furthermore, we have provided you with a registration form that you or a representative can fill out and return to us when you decide to participate in the Challenge training, (we would like to kindly remind you that space is limited and training spots fill up quickly so please RSVP soon).

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our Director of Health Promotion Initiatives, Jennifer Hark, at (716) 851-4052 or by email at BeActive@city-buffalo.org.

Sponsored by:
The Wellness Institute of Greater Buffalo & Western New York, Inc.
65 Niagara Square Room 607, Buffalo, New York 14202
Phone: 716-851-4052 * Fax: 716-851-4309
Email: wellness@city-buffalo.org
www.HealthyCommunityNetwork.com

Community Invited to Assist Those in Need

WEST SENECA, NY – Employees and residents at Seneca Health Care Center, 2987 Seneca Street, West Seneca, are hosting a basket raffle February 3-12 to benefit families living in the Lexington Green subdivision whose homes were damaged when the Buffalo River flooded in January.

Community members are invited to take part in the event. Tickets are currently on sale at the facility with prices ranging from three tickets for $1 to 20 tickets for $5. More than 15 baskets are on display in the facility’s solarium with themes including: wine, chocolate, Valentine’s Day, massage therapy, cosmetics, home goods, movies and more.

Many of the baskets have been donated by Seneca’s employees, along with a number from local families and organizations including: Eden Heights of West Seneca, ALD Embroidery of Clarence Center and MAS Life Massage Therapy.

For more information on ticket sales, or to donate a basket, call 828-0500.

Seneca Health Care Center is owned by The McGuire Group and provides 24-hour skilled nursing care and Journeys palliative care. For more information, visit www.mcguiregroup.com.

University of Toledo Professor Kim E. Nielsen Joins Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series

Presentation to focus on the importance of disabilities throughout history

As part of its Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series, the Museum of disABILITY History will host author and professor, Kim E. Nielsen. The presentation, entitled “Disability History is Our History,” will take place on Friday, February 21, 2014 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 3826 Main Street in Buffalo.

The event will focus on stories of historical figures with disabilities, as well as changing definitions of disability over the course of time. Additionally, Nielsen will emphasize disability in law, culture and why the history of people with disabilities is important to all.

Kim E. Nielsen, who earned her Ph.D. in History from the University of Iowa, is professor of Disability Studies at the University of Toledo, where she also teaches courses in History and Women’s and Gender Studies. Dr. Nielsen’s newest book, A Disability History of the United States, is the first book to place the experiences of people with disabilities at the center of the American narrative. It covers U.S. history from pre-1492 to present. Other works from Nielsen include Beyond the Miracle Worker: The Remarkable Life of Anne Sullivan Macy and Her Extraordinary Friendship with Helen Keller (Beacon, 2009) and The Radical Lives of Helen Keller (NYUP, 2004).

The Dialogues on disABILITY event is $5 for adults and $2.50 for seniors, students and human service employees. The event fee includes admission to the gallery space of the Museum of disABILITY History. For more information or to register, call 716-629-3626.

The Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and display of artifacts relating to the history of people with disabilities. The mission is to tell the story of the lives, triumphs and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society’s reactions. The Museum of disABILITY History, located at 3826 Main Street in Buffalo, NY, offers educational exhibits, programs and activities that expand community awareness.

Health Foundation for Western and Central New York awards grant to new Get Well/Stay Well program

Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center has been awarded a two-year $156,000 grant by the Health Foundation for Central and Western New York to support Get Well/Stay Well, an innovative program to serve Niagara County seniors.

The program, which will begin July 1, will be offered at the Summit Family Health Center and operate in collaboration with The Dale Association, a well-known provider of mental health and elderly services in Niagara.

“Too many seniors unfortunately go without the services they need to get well and stay well,” Memorial Vice President & Chief Operating Officer Sheila K. Kee said. “This program will remove obstacles to care by making it convenient for them to address all their physical and behavioral health and social needs in a single location.”

“Seniors suffering from isolation and depression often fall through the cracks,” Health Foundation President Ann F. Monroe said. “We are pleased to be able to support a project like Get Well/Stay Well that will help address the multiple issues confronted by seniors living in our community and get them the care they need in order to stay physically and mentally healthy.”

“Healthcare research shows that service integration produces many positive benefits for older adults,” Memorial President & CEO Joseph A. Ruffolo said. “Niagara Falls Memorial is grateful for the Health Foundation for Central and Western New York’s support for this important program.”

Kee said Get Well/Stay Well will take a patient-centered whole person approach to provide seniors with care and support that integrates primary care with mental health counseling and senior support services at the Summit site.

“Seniors will get the tools and information they need to stay healthy and well,” Ms. Kee said.

According to a study published by researchers from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the number of older adults with major psychiatric illnesses in 2030 will be more than double that seen in 2000. Mental illnesses among older adults are associated with functional disability, cognitive impairment, compromised quality of life, increased health care utilization and costs, barriers to preventive care and poor health outcomes. However, mental illnesses among older adults are often unrecognized, untreated, or undertreated.

Nonetheless, few seniors connect to mental health services to address those issues.

Judi Nolan Powell, a member of the medical center’s board of directors and the chair of Memorial’s Cardiac Stroke Campaign, said Get Well/Stay Well also addresses another critical community need.

“Get Well/Stay Well not only epitomizes Memorial’s transformation toward health care management for the underserved in our market but it is the best route for reaching our large elderly population who are most at risk for cardiac disease and stroke,” she said.

Funding for Get Well/Stay Well includes a previously announced $500,000 grant from the New York State Office of Mental Health. Initial staff training for Get Well/Stay Well will be provided by the nationally recognized University of Washington AIMS Center. Housed within the Division of Integrated Care & Public Health, the AIMS Center is an interdisciplinary group of clinicians and scientists dedicated to improving the health of populations by advancing effective, integrated behavioral health care.

“AIMS Center experts will instruct Memorial's physicians, residents and staff on best practices for delivering integrated care,” Ms. Kee said. “This is a tremendous opportunity for us to improve and refocus the way we deliver health care to our seniors.”

This Valentine’s Day avoid heartaches by keeping your heart healthy

February is all about the heart—and not just because of Valentine's Day. It is also American Heart Month and February 9-15 is Cardiovascular Professionals Week. It is also a good opportunity to remind the public to pay close attention to cardiovascular health.

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the country for men and women. While routine testing with your doctor is the best way to monitor your risk for heart problems, also follow these five tips to help keep your heart in shape at any age.

Get regular exercise. Ages 18–65 should be getting at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity activity five days of the week, according to the American Heart Association.

Eat a balanced diet. Choose whole fruits that offer high levels of fiber. Check for whole grains in cereal. Eggs, fish and almonds are all good options.

Do not smoke. Cigarette smokers are two to three times more likely to die from coronary heart disease than nonsmokers.

Manage your stress. Whether from work or personal life, take time to relax to ensure a healthy heart.
Get plenty of sleep. According to the Harvard Medical School, poor sleep habits can contribute to heart disease, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, heart failure, heart attack and stroke, diabetes and obesity.

In addition to these tips above, regular visits to the doctor are important. A doctor should perform a variety of tests to determine your heart’s ability to maintain a normal rhythm or regulate blood flow. These tests sometimes begin as early as age 35 for those who are considered high risk but usually start around age 40.

As a Valentine’s gift to yourself, start taking the steps to building and maintaining a strong, healthy heart.

Buffalo Sabres to Host Expected Record Breaking Blood Drive at First Niagara Center

Unyts, WNY’s only organ, eye, tissue and community blood center, along with the Buffalo Sabres, will host a community blood drive at the First Niagara Center on Monday, February 10^th. Unyts supplies 60% of the blood for WNY hospitals, including ECMC and Kaleida Health.

WHO:             Blood donors (age 17 and older. Those 16 years of age can donate with parents consent), Buffalo Sabres alumni throughout the day.

                        Danny Gare

9:00 AM—Harry Neale

10:00 AM—Darryl Shannon

11:00 AM—Derek Smith

12:00 PM—Andrew Peters

1:00 PM—Adam Mair

2:00 PM—Ric Seiling

WHERE:       First Niagara Center, 1 Seymour Knox III Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14203

WHEN:          Monday, February 10^th from 9AM-5PM

WHY:             Because the need for blood is constant, and all blood donated with Unyts stays here in WNY to help local patients in local hospitals.          

Those donors who sign up and keep their blood donation appointment will receive two tickets to an upcoming Sabres game at First Niagara Center. All donors will receive an exclusive locker room tour.

Due to this exciting promotion ALL APPOINTMENTS HAVE BEEN FILLED!

Become an Organ, Eye, Tissue & Community Blood Donor Today! It Does Matter.

www.unyts.org

*Unyts now operates under d/b/a Unyts. We are no longer Upstate NY Transplant Services.*

Roswell Park Researchers Present Findings of 2 E-Cigarette Studies at SRNT Meeting

Studies provide new evidence on ‘thirdhand’ exposure to nicotine, accuracy of product labels

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Scientists from Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) have conducted two recent studies to evaluate the nicotine content and thirdhand nicotine exposure from electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). Maciej Goniewicz, PhD, PharmD, of the Department of Health Behavior at RPCI is presenting the findings of both studies at the annual meeting of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco, which continues through Saturday, Feb. 8 in Seattle, Wash.

E-cigarette users inhale a vapor containing addictive nicotine and other products through a battery-operated device that looks similar to a traditional cigarette. The sales of e-cigarettes in the U.S. have doubled each year since 2008.

“The public health community agrees that more scientific inquiry is needed to understand the potential health impact of e-cigarettes,” said Dr. Goniewicz. “These studies add to the growing body of scientific evidence that will help to define and delineate a product that is broadly used indoors and is advertised and sold without restrictions.”

Thirdhand Nicotine Exposure from E-Cigarettes

In the first study, “Assessment of Thirdhand Exposure to Nicotine From Electronic Cigarettes” (abstract POS1-6), the Roswell Park team evaluated levels of nicotine released from e-cigarettes and deposited on surfaces. This residue left on indoor surfaces by tobacco smoke is often referred to as “thirdhand smoke.”

Researchers analyzed three brands of e-cigarettes filled with varying nicotine concentrations. The e-cigarettes were smoked, or “vaped,” with a syringe in an exposure chamber. Nicotine levels on five surfaces of the smoking chamber were measured. The surfaces included glass, floors, walls, windows, wood and metal.

Three out of four experiments showed significant yet varying increases in nicotine found on the five surfaces. The floor and glass windows had the greatest increases in nicotine residue. Dr. Goniewicz and colleagues concluded that future research should explore the risks of exposure to carcinogens posed by third-hand exposure from e-cigarettes.

E-Cigarette Nicotine Labels

Currently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate e-cigarettes. A second study by the Goniewicz team, “Consistency of Labeled Nicotine Content in Electronic Cigarettes: Regulatory Challenges” (abstract POS2-40), measured nicotine concentrations in 32 e-cigarette refill solutions. The researchers then compared the quantity of nicotine in the refills to the amount specified on the product labels.

The study found that labeling of nicotine content on e-cigarette refill solution was accurate in most cases. However, they also found e-cigarette packaging that may be misleading to consumers and can cause involuntary exposure to high doses of nicotine. One in four products differed in nicotine concentration by more than 20% from the value indicated on product labels. And nicotine was found to be present in some refill solutions labeled as nicotine-free.

“Research conducted by Roswell Park scientists provides a valuable contribution and insight into the content and marketing of e-cigarettes,” noted Andrew Hyland, PhD, Chair of RPCI’s Department of Health Behavior. “This science can inform health policy organizations as they determine e-cigarette regulations, which can and should include smoke-free policies and standards for accurate labeling.”

Dr. Goniewicz is also co-moderator of a panel discussion on dual use of electronic and tobacco cigarettes.

The Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco (SRNT) is an association of nicotine and tobacco researchers, with more than 1,000 members in 45 countries. Its mission is “to stimulate the generation and dissemination of new knowledge concerning nicotine and tobacco in all its manifestations, from cell to society.” For more information on the SRNT, visit the organization’s website, www.srnt.org.

‘Power Walls’ of Tobacco Products, Ads Attract Both Smokers and Nonsmokers

Roswell Park study used mobile eye tracking to record where shoppers look, and for how long

BUFFALO, N.Y. — New research from Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) demonstrates that the walls of tobacco marketing and products located behind the counter in many convenience stores, referred to as “power walls,” are an effective way to attract the gaze of most shoppers. Maansi Bansal-Travers, PhD, a Research Scientist in RPCI’s Department of Health Behavior, is presenting the findings at the annual meeting of the Society on Research for Nicotine and Tobacco, which continues through Saturday, Feb. 8 in Seattle, Wash.

In this study, “Through the Eyes of the Consumer: Attention Paid and Recall of the Tobacco Power Wall Display in a Store Through Mobile Eye-Tracking” (abstract POS1-49), researchers used mobile eye-tracking equipment to record and analyze the location and duration of where and what smokers and nonsmokers observed while inside convenience stores. Participants ages 18-30 were asked to make one of three purchases: a candy bar, a candy bar and a specific cigarette brand, or a candy bar and a cigarette brand of their choosing. Real-time video recorded each participant’s retail visit.

Overall, 72% of the participants fixated on the power wall of tobacco products behind the counter during their purchase. Fixations were particularly likely on tobacco ads and cigarette displays. Nonsmokers and smokers viewed the ads for the same duration of time.

“This novel research allows scientists to examine the impact and influence of tobacco marketing inside the retail environment from the point of view of the smoker and nonsmoker,” said Dr. Bansal-Travers. “The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the eye-catching tobacco marketing and pack displays found in the retail environment, which make tobacco appear normal, interesting and accessible.”

According to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission’s Cigarette Report, cigarette companies spent more than $8.8 billion marketing their products in 2011, the most recent year for which data is available. Other studies have concluded that the more cigarette marketing teens are exposed to in retail stores, the more likely they are to smoke.

Andrew Hyland, PhD, Chair of the Department of Health Behavior at RPCI, added: “Innovative research such as this study conducted by scientists at Roswell Park provides a solid, evidence-based foundation for policymakers as they adopt regulations regarding tobacco marketing and product displays.”

The Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco (SRNT) is an association of nicotine and tobacco researchers, with more than 1,000 members in 45 countries. Its mission is “to stimulate the generation and dissemination of new knowledge concerning nicotine and tobacco in all its manifestations, from cell to society.” For more information on SRNT, visit the organization’s website, www.srnt.org.

Memorial wears read for women’s heart health

Members of the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center family gathered inside the hospital’s main entrance today (Feb. 7) to show their support for National Wear Red/Go Red for Women Day. The annual observance is dedicated to raising awareness and funds to battle heart disease in women. One in four women dies from heart disease in the United States, making it the leading cause of death among women.

ECMC Cleve-Hill Family Health Center earns NCQA “Patient-Centered Medical HomeTM Recognition”

BUFFALO, NY; February 7, 2014—Erie County Medical Center (ECMC) Corporation today announced that the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) informed ECMC that its Cleve-Hill Family Health Center has achieved recognition status for “Patient-Centered Medical Home™ (PCMH™), Recognized – Level 3.”* The effective dates of this Recognition begin December 23, 2013 and expire December 23, 2016.

“The NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home is a model of 21st century primary care that combines access, teamwork and technology to deliver quality care and improve health,” said NCQA President Margaret E. O’Kane. “NCQA’s PCMH 2011 Recognition shows that the Cleve-Hill Family Health Center has tools, systems and resources to provide patients with the right care at the right time.”

The Patient-Centered Medical Home program reflects the input of the American College of Physicians (ACP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Osteopathic Association (AOA) and others in extension of the Physician Practice Connections Program. It was developed to assess whether physician practices are functioning as medical homes and recognize them for these efforts. The Patient-Centered Medical Home standards emphasize the use of systematic, patient-centered, coordinated care that supports access, communication and patient involvement.

ABOUT NCQA: NCQA is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations. It also recognizes clinicians and practices in key areas of performance. NCQA is committed to providing health care quality information for consumers, purchasers, health care providers and researchers. NCQA recognizes the vital role clinicians play in advancing quality. The Recognition Programs assess whether clinicians and practices support the delivery of high-quality care. The Recognition Programs are built on evidence-based, nationally recognized clinical standards of care. The official NCQA directory of Recognized Clinicians can be accessed at http://recognition.ncqa.org

*Patient-Centered Medical Home™ (PCMH™) is a trademark of the National Committee for Quality Assurance.

ABOUT ECMC: The ECMC Corporation includes an advanced academic medical center (ECMC) with 550 inpatient beds, on- and off-campus health centers, more than 30 outpatient specialty care services and Terrace View, a 390-bed long-term care facility. ECMC is the regional center for trauma, burn care, behavioral health services, transplantation, and rehabilitation and is a major teaching facility for the University at Buffalo. Most ECMC physicians, dentists and pharmacists are dedicated faculty members of the university and/or members of a private practice plan. More Western New York residents are choosing ECMC for exceptional patient care and patient experiences—the difference between healthcare and true care™.

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Dr. Tobias A. Mattei, Neurosurgeon, joins the Brain and Spine Center, InvisionHealth in the Spring of 2014.

Dr. Mattei, is joining the Brain and Spine Center, InvisionHealth in the Spring of 2014. Dr. Mattei has strong clinical and research interests in complex spine and deformity surgery, oncological spine surgery and minimally invasive spine surgery. He is also an expert in skull base neurosurgery, cerebrovascular neurosurgery, neuro-oncology and pituitary tumors.

Originally from Brazil, he earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of São Paulo, the most renowned medical school in South America, having graduated cum laude for the best curriculum vitae of his class. He completed his neurosurgery residency training at the Institute of Neurology of Curitiba, an international center of excellence in skull base surgery, where he was appointed chief-resident. Dr. Mattei received additional specialized training in complex spine and deformity surgery at the University of Illinois at Peoria. He also completed an additional fellowship in oncological spine surgery at the Ohio State University, where he gained further expertise in complex resections and reconstructive operations for patients with spinal cancer, having being appointed clinical instructor of the department of neurological surgery.

Dr. Mattei was approved at the written and oral boards by the Brazilian Society of Neurosurgery with special honors for having achieved a score among the five best of the country. He is also board-certified by the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies, the official academic organization responsible for certifying neurosurgical training worldwide. Dr. Mattei is an active member of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the North American Spine Society (NASS), the American Medical Association and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He is fully licensed in medicine and surgery in the State of New York.

Besides being an active neurosurgeon, Dr. Mattei is also a prolific researcher, having published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles in basic and clinical research in neurosurgery and spine surgery. He is ad-hoc reviewer of more than 20 academic periodicals as well as member of the editorial board of more than 10 scientific journals in neurosurgery, including The Spine journal, the highest impact journal in spine surgery worldwide and World Neurosurgery, the official journal of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies.

Due to his frontline basic science research which has already led to the development of several new biomedical devices and technologies in neurosurgery, Dr. Mattei has been invited to become a member of the Clinical Neurophysiology, Devices, Neuroprosthetics and Biosensors Panel of the Center for Scientific Review of the National Institute of Health (NIH), providing scientific analysis and technical recommendations regarding funding proposals in applied neuroscience. Due to his broad academic expertise in neurosurgery he has also provided consulting services to several international scientific and governmental organizations including the Innovation and Technology Commission of the Hong Kong SAR Government. Dr. Mattei is an international speaker and his research have already been presented in several national and international congresses.

Dr. Mattei speaks more than 5 languages including English, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Greek and Hebrew and his office provides special assistance and individualized care to patients from international locations.

For more information regarding InvisionHealth, Diagnostic Imaging Associates, the Brain and Spine Center, Madonna OB GYN, Suburban OB/GYN, Spa400, and the InvisionHealth Foundation, please visit www.invisionhealth.com or call 716-631-3555.

VA Western New York Healthcare System Hosts Veterans Creative Arts Festival

Nationwide, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities use the creative arts as one form of rehabilitative treatment to help Veterans recover from and cope with physical and emotional disabilities. Across the country each year, Veterans treated at VA medical centers compete in local creative arts contests. This competition includes 53 art categories, ranging from oil painting to leatherwork to paint-by-number kits. In addition, there are 120 categories pertaining to all aspects of music, dance, drama and creative writing. The creative writing division is a more recent addition to the competition and includes original works in poetry, essay, short story, and personal experience writing.

VA Western New York Healthcare System’s Buffalo site, 3495 Bailey Avenue, will host a winter Veterans Creative Arts Festival on Thursday, February 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Freedom Hall (Room 301). Veterans who would like to participate have until February 10 to submit their artwork to the Recreation Therapy department. The public is invited to attend the local festival and enjoy a wide variety of creative art forms displayed by local Veterans, including poetry, music and art.

Local winning entries will be submitted to the national selection committee which chooses first, second and third place winners among all of the entries. Select winners will be invited to attend the 2014 National Veterans Creative Arts Festival from October 27 to November 2 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, hosted by Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center. Approximately 120 Veterans will exhibit their artwork or perform musical, dance, dramatic or original writing selections in a gala variety show.

Too afraid to do yoga because of risk of injury? Try therapeutic yoga

Buffalo Spine and Sports wants everyone to know about their unique therapeutic yoga classes, that are more specific to people with back pain and other injuries. They would like everyone to know about these classes which are held on an ongoing basis, and specifically want people to know about openings as follows:

Yoga for a Healthy Back, Joints and Bones
Thursday, Feb. 6th-Mar. 13th from 9:00-10:00 AM
Williamsville: 100 College Parkway, Suite 100
6 sessions; $100

Yoga for a Healthy Back, Joints and Bones
Saturday, Feb. 8th – Mar. 15th from 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Williamsville: 100 College Parkway, Suite 100
6 sessions; $100

Register online: http://www.buffspine.com/therapeutic-yoga/yoga-class-schedule