Items tagged with 'health'

Now is a good time to get a flu shot

flu shot being administered photo James_Gathany CDC

So, now is a good time to get a flu shot.

Maybe seem a little early? It's not, really. And even if it was, getting a flu shot early is a good thing. You can help yourself and others by getting the jab, which needs to be repeated each year because the mix of flu viruses in circulation changes each season.

Here's a website that can point you toward where to get the shot. Many pharmacies now offer the flu vaccine right in the store -- they have little waiting areas and everything -- and you often don't even need an appointment, but call ahead to make sure. And the flu shot is free under many health plans (be sure to bring your health plan card).

Getting the vaccine doesn't offer full protection, but if you do end up getting the flu it can lessen the severity. And this part is important: getting the shot can be beneficial not just to you, but also the people around you because it makes it less likely you'll spread the virus. Example: There have been multiple studies indicating that vaccinating young people -- kids, especially -- ends up being a good way of protecting seniors from the flu.

photo: James Gathany / CDC / Public Health Image Library

Gym options for downtown Albany / around the Empire State Plaza?

Empire State Plaza concourse 2018-May

Meredith reaches out to us via the electronic mail (links added):

I know that you've had questions about local gyms before, and I know that downtown Albany remains a gym desert, apart from a couple nice but decidedly diminutive downtown office-building options that offer community memberships (e.g. Omni Fitness). I keep hoping that before the weather again turns too crappy/cold for running outdoors to be palatable, some fitness entrepreneur will notice that there are actually a large and growing number of humans living in Center Square/downtown/surrounding areas, and that we, too, might like to have even a low-frills chain gym within walking distance, such as sprout like mushrooms in the suburbs. (Seriously, what is it about Albany? We used to have a couple Ys -- particularly awful ones, compared with the fitness temples in the 'burbs -- but even those have been gone for years now. Even wee little towns elsewhere have gyms; why not here?!)
But whining aside, here's my question for you: I heard rumors last year that a gym was coming back to the Empire State Plaza. The Times Union reported back in December that the rumors were true. ... [D]o you know anything?

We checked with the state Office of General Services for an update on gym developments at ESP, and a spokesman said there wasn't anything new to add to that report from late last year. It is worth noting that the ESP hosts outdoor post-work fitness classes ("Fitness on the Plaza"), though the current season just ended. And there are also lunchtime fitness classes run by Empower State Plaza Fitness weekdays in a rehearsal room at the Egg.

It's been about four years since the gym at the Steuben Club in downtown Albany closed. But the neighborhood has a growing residential population. And a lot of space there is currently in the process of being opened up and repurposed (including, potentially, the old Steuben building).

So... Maybe one of these developers can get together with one of the local chains or orgs and work something out. It sounds like there might be growing demand.

Got a suggestion for Meredith about gym options? Please share.

Checking out the Saratoga Ninja Lab

Saratoga Ninja Lab monkey bars

By Cristin Steding

If you've ever watched the television show American Ninja Warrior and thought "I could do that" -- -- here's your chance.

The show -- on which ultra-fit competitors run through a punishing obstacle course -- has inspired an entirely new type of workout, and now you can try it locally.

(there's more)

Bat in the house? Capture it.

A state Depatment of Health video about how to capture a bat in a home.

From the folder marked "flying mammals and did you just see that... no, over there... oh, crap" and an Albany County press release:

Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy today is reminding residents to protect themselves from rabies by safely capturing any bat found in their home and bringing it to the Albany County Department of Health to have it tested for the disease and avoid any unnecessary vaccinations.
The County Department of Health has received multiple calls in recent months from residents concerned about potential exposure to rabies due to contact with bats, which is typical during the spring and summer months. ...
County residents are encouraged to use the below steps to safely capture any bats in their homes so they can be tested for rabies in a lab. If you are unable to trap it, you should be vaccinated at the Albany County Department of Health at 175 Green Street, Albany, NY 12202.
• Use caution
• If indoors, close all windows, room and closet doors, turn on the lights and wait for the bat to land.
• While wearing heavy gloves approach the bat slowly and carefully and cover the bat with a pail, coffee can, or similar container.
• Slide a piece of cardboard or lid under the container to trap the bat inside and tape the container shut.
Residents can "batproof" their home with polypropylene bird netting, fly screening, sheet metal, wood or various caulking compounds to close or cover openings that allow entry for bats to roost. House bats can pass through crevices as thin as a pencil.

As the press release notes, a small percentage of bats have rabies, but it's hard to tell which ones do by appearance and the consequences can be serious.

(there's more)

There's a new type of tick in New York State

longhorned tick deer tick poppy seedsThere's a new type of tick in New York, the state Department of Health announced Tuesday: Haemaphysalis longicornis -- the "longhorned tick." DOH says it was found in multiple locations in Westchester County. From the press release:

While the longhorned tick has transmitted disease to humans in other parts of the world, more research is needed to determine whether this can happen in the United States. Regardless, New Yorkers should continue to take steps to protect themselves, their children and their pets against ticks and tickborne diseases that are present in New York State.
This tick is also a concern for the New York State agricultural industry and may pose a threat to livestock. Farmers should continue to work with their veterinarians to check their animals, particularly cattle, sheep and horses, for exposure to ticks and to ensure their parasite control plans are up to date and working. Symptoms of tick-borne disease in cattle include fever, lack of appetite, dehydration, weakness and labored breathing.

That photo on the right compares deer ticks (top) and longhorned ticks (bottom) with poppy seeds (middle) for scale. (Click on the photo for a larger version -- we figured no one needed to see that up close unless they wanted to.)

(there's more)

Scanning that New York State Department of Health report that argues the case for legalizing recreational marijuana

The New York State Department of Health released its report on regulated marijuana Friday -- and it argues for legalizing recreational marijuana. Here's a chunk for the report that largely sums up the argument:

The positive effects of regulating an adult (21 and over) marijuana market in NYS outweigh the potential negative impacts. Harm reduction principles can and should be incorporated into a regulated marijuana program to help ensure consumer and industry safety. Legalizing marijuana could remove research restrictions in NYS, which will enable the State to add to the knowledge of both the benefits and risks. In addition, NYS would be one of the largest regulated marijuana markets. As such, there is potential for substantial tax revenue in NYS, which can be used to help support program initiatives in areas such as public health, education, transportation, research, law enforcement and workforce development. Tax revenues can also support health care and employment. Finally, legalization of marijuana will address an important social justice issue by reducing disproportionate criminalization and incarceration of certain racial and ethnic minority communities.

Whatever the political machinations at work surrounding this report, it is a remarkable document. Pretty much anyone over the age of, say, 20, has grown up with government/law enforcement/schools warning against the dangers of pot. And in this report the state Department of Health essentially says, yeah, pot has some downsides, but they're probably not as bad as they've been made out to be and our society would be better off it we made it legal and kept an eye on it.

Anyway, we read through the report and pulled out handful of highlights -- about potential benefits, opioids, mental health, criminal justice, and tax revenue -- for easy skimming...

(there's more)

A booming global industry, human blood, and an Albany strip mall

Hannaford Plaza Albany empty space 2018-June

The blood coursing through all our veins -- or, specifically, a portion of that blood -- has become a key component in a booming industry.

Products made from blood plasma are worth more than $100 billion annually worldwide. Much of that plasma comes from the United States. It's used both here and abroad for all sorts of life-saving treatments.

Now that global industry is looking to expand to... a strip mall in Albany.

And that's prompted some concerns.

(there's more)

A good gastroenterologist?

stethoscope closeup

Anonymous emails:

I have a bad case of persistent acid reflux. I've tried the over-the-counter medicines and they help, but I'd like to see a gastroenterologist to put together a better long term plan. I also want to get checked out in case there's something even more serious going on. Can anyone recommend a good gastroenterologist? Thank you!

As with any health-related Ask AOA question that we get, we're always keen on hearing about doctors who are good listeners because that's a recurring theme in both questions and suggestions.

So, know of a good local gastroenterologist to suggest to Anonymous? Please share. And a sentence or two about why you're recommending that doctor can be a big help.

photo:Flickr user Adrian Clark (CC BY-ND 2.0)

A sharp turn for the flu season

NYSDOH flu surveillance graph week ending 2018-03-03

For a while this winter it felt like everyone was sick -- and the flu, especially, was really cranking.

But the path of this season's flu trend took a sharp turn in recent weeks. Check out the the graph above from the state Department of Health most recent influenza surveillance report (it covers up to the week ending March 3). The red line is the current flu season, compared to the three previous seasons.

After a sharp rise in lab-confirmed cases through January and the first part of February, the number has since sharply fallen. But as you can see, this season has still been intense, with about double the number of lab-confirmed cases as in recent years.

Influenza is still "widespread," according to DOH. So, you know the deal -- wash your hands, cover your cough (preferably not with your hand), and stay home if you're sick. (Let's hope the number cases keep falling -- every now and then there's a double-peak flu season.)

And this season has been a good reminder that it's worth making the effort to get a flu shot at the beginning of each fall. Getting the jab can not only help you avoid getting the flu, it can lessen the severity if do catch it, and it can help reduce the spread to the people around you.

Registration is now open for the 2018 Freihofer's Run for Women in Albany

Freihofers Run for Women 5k course map

The 5k course map.

This year's Freihofer's Run for Women is June 2 and registration is now open. The entry fee for the 5k is $25 for the first 500 registrants online. The fee increases by $5 increments monthly starting in April leading up to the race.

This is the 40th year for the Freihofer's Run for Women. It draws all sorts of runners, including some high-level competitors seeking the $10,000 first-place prize. Last year more than 3,200 women participated with times that ranged from 15:49 to 1:18:58.

The course for the 5k starts near Albany City Hall, heads up Washington Ave, winds through Washington Park, and then returns back on Washington to finish near the start.

Race day also includes a junior 3k (registration $15) and a free kids run.

Leading up to the race, there's also a training program with beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. It's a 10-week program and it starts in March. Registration for that is $55.

Yep, this flu season continues to be bad

new york state influenza cases 2018-02-08 report

That red line is the weekly number of lab-confirmed influenza cases reported in New York State this winter, compared to the previous three winters. / graph: NYS DOH

So the flu is kind of being a jerk this winter.

The number of lab-confirmed influenza cases in the State of New York continued to climb sharply during the most recent surveillance period*, the state Department of Health reported Thursday.

The Cuomo admin says the weekly number of lab-confirmed cases and hospitalizations for the flu was the highest on record since reporting began in 2004. The previous record had been... the week before.

Even though it's later in the season, public health agencies are still urging people to get a flu shot if they haven't so far. Here's a site that can you help find a place to get the jab -- be sure to check before heading out, though, because supplies are running low at some places. There are some early indications this season's flu shot doesn't match up well with one of the main types of flu in circulation this year, but it's still better than nothing.

Beyond that:

+ Wash your hands.

+ Cover your mouth when you cough, preferably not with your hand.

+ If you're sick, stay home if you can. (This is an example of how paid sick time could help everyone.)

Influenza is kind of like weather -- there tend to be general trends, but it's hard to predict exactly what course it's going to take. Let's hope the pattern shifts soon.

Get a flu shot. Cover your cough. Stay home if you're sick.

nys flu surveillance 2018-01-27

This graph is from the NYS DOH's weekly influenza surveillance report.

This winter's flu season is continuing to crank up here in New York State.

The latest surveillance from the state Department of Health reports a 50 percent increase in the number of lab-confirmed flu cases during the week that ended January 27. Every region of the state showed an upswing in positive results for flu, and every county in the state is now pegged as having influenza activity in the highest category. (It's been a relatively strong flu season across the nation.)

That graph above depicts the number of lab-confirmed cases across the state this season (red line) compared to the previous three seasons. And, yep, the flu is taking a big swing at us this time up.

Influenza is kind of like the weather. There are general seasons and patterns, but it's hard predict exactly what course it's going to take. So it's still worth getting a flu shot -- even though it's February and even though it takes a few weeks for your body to fully respond to the jab.

Here's a site that can point you toward where to get the shot. Many pharmacies now offer the flu vaccine right in the store, but call ahead to make sure there are still supplies in stock. And it's free under many health plans.

Getting the vaccine doesn't offer full protection, but if you do get the flu it can lessen the severity. And getting the shot can be beneficial not just to you, but also the people around you because it makes it less likely you'll spread the virus.

And beyond the shot:
+ Wash your hands.
+ Cover your mouth when you cough (preferably not with your hand).
+ Stay home when you're sick, if you can. And employers should do the right thing in this regard, too.

The flu is cranking up in New York, and it's still worth getting a shot

New York State flu confirmed cases 2018-01-13

The number of lab-confirmed cases of influenza around the state this season (red) line compared to the last few seasons. / graph: New York State Department of Health

The number of influenza cases around New York has taken a sharp upswing in the last few weeks. And the state is asking people to take precautions. From a Cuomo admin press release:

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today called on all New Yorkers six months of age and over who have not yet received a flu shot to get vaccinated as soon as possible. According to the Department of Health, cases of influenza rose by 54 percent and new cases were diagnosed in all counties of the state over the past week. In addition, 1,606 New Yorkers have been hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed influenza, the highest weekly number since Department of Health reporting began in 2004.

Each winter requires a new flu shot because the versions of flu virus in circulation changes from season to season. It take about two weeks for your body's immune system to fully respond to the jab. And though the vaccine doesn't necessarily offer full protection, it can lessen the severity in people who do end up getting sick with the flu.

It's become easier in recent years to get a flu shot. You can get one at a primary care doctor's office, sure. But many pharmacies and clinics now offer them, too. And many health plans cover them so they're either free or low cost.

Getting a flu shot can be beneficial not just to you, but also the people around you. In fact, it's this group protection that might be one of the most valuable things about getting the jab. (There's a famous public health case study from Japan in which school children were vaccinated for influenza and it appears to have had a very large positive effect for elderly people.)

Also: Wash your hands regularly. Cough in your elbow. And if you're sick, stay home if you can.

There's still time to get a flu shot

NYS DOH flu seasons 2017

The number of confirmed flu cases in New York State by week for the last four flu seasons (including the current one). / chart: NYS DOH

There have now been confirmed cases of influenza in 54 of New York's 62 counties, the state Department of Health reported this week. That total includes all four of the core Capital Region counties.

It's still early in the flu season, and who knows for sure what direction it's going to take -- it's kind of like the weather that way. So it's still a good time to get a flu shot. (And a new shot is required each year because the flu changes from season to season.) From DOH:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducts studies each year to determine how effective the vaccine will be in protecting against influenza-related illness and while the effectiveness can vary from year to year, studies show that the vaccine remains the most effective way to protect public health. Additionally, studies show that the influenza vaccine can make the illness milder in certain cases where an individual was vaccinated but still contracted influenza.

(there's more)

Where to take a couples massage class?

massage tables by Flickr user Jason Bagley CC.jpgJessica asks:

My husband has requested a couples massage class for Christmas, but I'm having trouble finding one through the internet. Most searches only point me to Couples Massages, but not Classes. Can anyone on AOA recommend one? One we can do on the weekend is preferable.

We can see the knot to be worked out here, finding a class rather than a massage itself. But maybe some of the places of that offers courses in massage therapy also have classes for couples. (And if not, maybe there's an opportunity for a new class.)

So, got a suggestion for Jessica? Please share! And a sentence or two to go along with suggestion can be helpful.

Earlier: Ask AOA: A good acupuncturist and/or massage therapist?

photo: Flickr user Jason Bagley (CC BY-SA 2.0 - cropped)

A good acupuncturist and/or massage therapist?

acupuncture needles in back CCMelissa emails:

I would love to hear who the aoa community recommends in regards to body healing and mind healing.

We hear from Melissa that she's specifically interested in acupuncturists and massage therapists. (And for the mind healing part of her question, we had a question about therapists not too long ago.)

So, have a good person or place to recommend? Please share! And sentence or two about your recommendation can be helpful.

photo: Flickr user Marnie Joyce (CC BY 2.0)

Life expectancy in New York State by county

nys counties life expectancy 2014 map

New York counties by estimated life expectancy. Green is roughly the state average -- yellow below, blue above. (There are two clickable maps after the jump.)

Life expectancy at birth was a little more than 80.36 years in New York State in 2014, according to a new study out this week.

That was good for 6th best in the nation. And it's up 73.19 years in 1980.

Those estimates are from a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine this week looking at how life expectancy varies across counties in United States. And as the researchers reported, there was wide variation -- some 20 years of difference between the high and low ends.

Here's a good interactive map of the numbers. And here are a few articles in the popular press about the overall study -- at FiveThirtyEight and The Atlantic.

New York counties didn't exhibit such a wide range, but there were some differences.

(there's more)

How New York's House members voted on AHCA

US Capitol Martin Falbisoner CC

photo: Martin Falbisoner via Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 3.0)

The big national news on Thursday was the House of Representatives vote on the latest version of the American Health Care Act, the Republican plan to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. The bill narrowly passed 217-213.

When the day started, there was a little bit mystery about how the Capital Region's two Republican reps would vote. But first John Faso, and then Elise Stefanik, fell into line with the Republican leadership and voted in favor of for the bill.

Statements: Tonko | Stefanik | Faso.

The potential effects of the bill aren't entirely clear -- the Republican leadership in the House pushed it through before the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office could make its estimates -- but it's a big departure from the Affordable Care Act and probably means millions fewer people with health care coverage. [NYT] [Vox]

If you spent any time on Twitter Thursday, you probably saw people vowing political payback for Congress members who voted for the bill. John Faso, in particular, was catching a lot of heat of there. And considering his relatively narrow victory last fall -- he won 54-46 -- he's looking like a prime target for Democrats aiming to flip seats in 2018. Will all that anger and dissatisfaction translate into voter turnout and action next year?

Here's how New York's Congressional delegation voted, along with the percentage of the vote each member got during the 2016 general election...

(there's more)

Spring is back, and so are ticks (ugh)

lyme disease avg annual cases Northeast 2011-2015

The average annual number of reported Lyme disease cases by county between 2011-2015. (Please see the important notes below about these numbers.)

This part of the country -- the whole Northeast, really -- is a hot spot for Lyme disease. The map* above depicts the average number of Lyme cases** reported in each county each year between 2011-2015 -- the numbers are published by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

There's a larger, clickable national map after the jump if you'd like to explore further.

New York is tagged as a "high-incidence state" for Lyme by the CDC -- it had the 13th highest rate of confirmed cases per 100,000 people across the three years 2013-2015. (Vermont had the highest rate, and Massachusetts the fifth.)

Here's info from the state Department of Health of ways to lessen the risk of being bitten by a tick and what to do if you are. (And don't forget about taking precautions for your dog, too!)

(there's more)

Advice for finding mental health support groups?

meeting room tables chairsK emails:

Could anyone offer advice at finding mental health support groups? Or where various AA groups meet?

We're hoping that maybe there are some local orgs that serve as central hubs for this sort of information.

Have a suggestion for K? Please share. And a sentence or two explaining your suggestion can be a big help.

Saratoga County ranked as the "healthiest" county in New York State

RWJF 2017 Health Outcomes New York map

The state's counties coded by how the ranked for health outcomes in the rankings. / map: Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

Saratoga County is the "healthiest" county in the New York State, according to rankings out this week from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Specifically, Saratoga ranked #1 in health outcomes -- "how long people live and how healthy people feel while alive."

The rankings also look at factors that feed into health, and Saratoga ranked #3 overall for those.

Here's how the Capital Region core counties stacked up compared to to Saratoga and each other.

(there's more)

It's still flu season

NYS flu incidence graph 2017-February-25

Noted: Influenza continues to be "widespread" around New York State, according to the state Department of Health's latest weekly surveillance report. (It covers the week ending February 25.) All 62 counties reported cases, and almost all of them did so at levels that qualify for the highest activity category.

On the upside, the number of positive lab tests for flu cases from across the state peaked in early February and has been declining bit by bit the last few weeks. But the number of positive cases in sections of upstate -- including the Capital Region -- has continued to climb during February.

Influenza is kind of like the weather. It tends to follow some large-scale patterns, but ultimately you can never really be sure what's going to happen exactly. Last year's flu season in York State peaked in March, which is a bit on the late side. And the 2013-2014 season had two peaks: one in January and another in April.

And, of course, the flu is a very specific illness (or to be more precise, a specific group of viruses). It doesn't include colds, stomach bugs, and whatever the hell that cough was that once it got a hold of you wouldn't let go that seemed to be everywhere around the holidays.

So, uh, you know, keep washing your hands and coughing into your elbow. And if you're really sick and can stay home, do so.

Good physical therapist for back problems?

lower backJennifer emails:

Any chance you can ask your readers for suggestions on a good physical therapist for the lower back? I have been to a few different places around town over the years and seem to always get stuck with folks fresh out of school with little experience.

In addition to physical therapy, we're curious if there are other things -- like maybe specific yoga or other exercise classes in the area -- that people have have found helpful for back problems. (Of course, you'd always want to check with your doctor ahead of time to make sure any sort of other exercise wouldn't make the problem worse.)

So, got a a suggestion for Jennifer? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a specific therapist or program can be very helpful.

Indoor swimming for adults during the winter?

indoor pool bw flickr Thomas R StegelmannBrooks emails:

Could you help me find a place where adults can swim in the winter? I live in Colonie and I know about the Ciccotti Center, but it's way out of my price range.

Sometimes it's hard to get exercise during the winter because of the weather, but it's worth the effort -- you'll feel better for it, about yourself and about winter.

So, got a suggestion for Brooks? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be a big help.

photo: Flickr user Thomas R. Stegelmann (CC BY 2.0)

A good primary care practice or doctor?

stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeNate emails:

I have been living in Albany for nearly five years and still have yet to find a good primary care/family practice/internal medicine physician. I have gone to two different practices and still have yet to find a doctor who doesn't treat you like a filler in between appointments and whose office staff is not outright rude and hostile.
I have found that the PAs, nurses, and office staff in the office are as important as the doctor, especially since they are often tasked with important things such as prescription refills, something my current doctor's office has repeatedly made mistakes on.

We've had this question come up before, but we looked through the archive and it's been years since the last similar question about this type of doctor. And things change.

Also: It's worth highlighting Nate's point about the importance of the other health care providers and staff in a practice beyond the doctors. They can make a big difference.

So, got a doctor or practice to suggest to Nate? Please share! And just a reminder that a sentence or two about why you're recommending a practice or doctor (good listener, on-time appointments, and so on) can be a big help.

photo: Flickr user Adrian Clark (CC BY-ND 2.0)

New York State will soon exempt tampons from sales tax

one tamponThe Cuomo admin announced Thursday that Andrew Cuomo has signed a bill that will exempt tampons and other related items from state and local sales tax.

The bill passed earlier this past May after being sponsored by Linda Rosenthal (D-Manhattan) in the Assembly and Sue Serino (R-Hudson Valley) in the state Senate. From the bill memo:

New York State exempts certain items from state sales tax, including drugs and medicine, medical equipment and certain medical supplies as well as prosthetic aids. Feminine hygiene products, such as tampons, sanitary napkins and panty liners, are an undeniable necessity, yet they are subject to sales tax.
This bill would correct the fundamental imbalance that currently existing in New York State by exempting certain feminine hygiene products, including but not limited to, sanitary napkins, tampons and panty liners from sales and use tax.

The Cuomo admin figures the sales tax exemption will collectively save women in the state $10 million a year. It's set to take effect September 1.

There's been a push in many states recently to exempt tampons and similar items from sales tax. Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania have already done so, and Connecticut is scheduled to do so 2018. And a few other states are moving in that direction. [Providence Journal]

A gap of 10 years

Health Inequality Project map

The Albany area ranks #59 among the nation's 100 biggest commuting areas. / map from The Health Inequality Project

The life-expectancy for a 40-year-old person making $89,000 or more in Albany County is 85.6 years (and up).

The life-expectancy for a 40-year-old person making $33,000 or less in Albany County is 80.5 years (and down).

And the gap in life-expectancy for people in the highest and lowest 10 percent of the income range in Albany County: almost 10 years.

Those bits are from new work out this week in the Journal of the American Medical Association from a group of researchers at institutions such as Stanford, MIT, and Harvard that looks at differences in life-expectancy across the United States.

One of their findings is that high-income people pretty much have the same (high) life-expectancy wherever they live -- but there's a wide range for low-income people across different parts of the country. The map above depicts some of those differences.

(there's more)

Suggestions for a holistic medicine practitioner?

stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeAnonymous emails:

I'm wondering if the amazing AOA readers could recommend a holistic medicine doctor in the area. I've been working with a number of "real doctors" and haven't found them terribly helpful so I think it's time to look for some outside solutions.
Specifically I'm looking for assistance with autoimmune/thyroid issues (Hashimoto's) and some sudden food intolerances... if anyone has been treated holistically for similar issues that would be very much appreciated!

Here's a quick primer on holistic medicine.

We'd widen Anon's question just a little bit to include doctors who might not necessarily identify as "holistic" per se, but do maybe take extra time to learn about different aspects of a person's life and possibly include a wider range of treatment options.

So, got a suggestion for Anonymous? Please share. And as always, a line or two about why you're recommending that doctor -- good listener, smooth-running practice office, whatever -- is always helpful.

photo: Flickr user a.drian (CC BY-ND 2.0)

A good psychiatrist?

stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeAnonymous emails:

Over the last few months I've been having some major issues with anxiety and panic attacks. I've talked to my doctor about it and he suggested that I talk to a psychiatrist about things, and I think it's a good idea. The problem is, I don't know of any good ones in the area and the ratings I found on Google aren't helpful.
Would you mind asking the AOA community for some recommendations for a good psychiatrist in the Albany area? Preferably for someone who doesn't push pills unless it's a last resort.
I'm closer to the Schenectady area but don't mind driving for someone who is really good.

We have heard anecdotally that getting in to see a mental health professional -- whether they're a psychiatrist or psychologist or therapist of some sort -- can sometimes be difficult in this area because the demand for services exceeds the supply of providers. So if anyone has strategies or experiences about sorting through options, it'd be great to hear about those, too.

Got a suggestion for Anonymous? Please share. And as always, a sentence or two about why you're suggesting that provider can be a big a help.

photo: Flickr user a.drian (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Exercise classes with working parent-friendly schedules?

circus yoga circleJenna emails:

Is there a good drop-in place for exercise classes with evening and weekend hours near downtown Albany? Similarly, are there any baby and me type classes that do drop-ins and working-lady schedules?
Must get fit. Have no time. Or motivation.

A lot of people struggle to fit exercise in to their schedules. Add a kid to the mix, and it gets even harder.

So, have a place in/near Albany to suggest to Jenna? Or maybe some strategies for making the schedule work? Please share!

Fewer and fewer New Yorkers are smoking

cigarette against a blue sky Flickr user Fried Dough CC

How much does smoking have left? / photo: Flickr user Fried Dough (CC BY 2.0)

Will there be a day when virtually no one smokes?

We were thinking about that this week after the state Department of Health reported that the percentage of adults who smoke was 14.5 percent in 2014 -- that's the lowest rate on record. And it's the latest point is a long trend of falling smoking rates.

So, why's that happening?

(there's more)

Measles in New York, before and after the vaccine

graph of measles incidence in New York State 1928-2011

With all the news about the recent upswing in measles cases -- and the all discussions about kids not being vaccinated -- we had been curious about details regarding how a big a difference the measles vaccine made when it was introduced.

A recent Wall Street Journal data visualization illustrates this before/after across the country beautifully. It's based on numbers collected and organized by Project Tycho, a health data project at the University of Pittsburgh.

Project Tycho includes data for many states, including New York. So we pulled out the data for measles cases in New York State between 1928 and 2011. There's a graph above.

There's a bigger version after the jump, along with a few notes.

(there's more)

Not what it says on the label?

New York State attorney general Eric Schneiderman says his office is pressing GNC, Target, Walmart, and Walgreens to stop selling popular store-brand herbal supplements after lab testing of supplements bought at stores around the state found the products "could not be verified to contain the labeled substance, or which were found to contain ingredients not listed on the labels."

Press release blurbage:

The letters come as DNA testing, performed as part of an ongoing investigation by the Attorney General's Office, allegedly shows that, overall, just 21% of the test results from store brand herbal supplements verified DNA from the plants listed on the products' labels -- with 79% coming up empty for DNA related to the labeled content or verifying contamination with other plant material. The retailer with the poorest showing for DNA matching products listed on the label was Walmart. Only 4% of the Walmart products tested showed DNA from the plants listed on the products' labels.

The OAG's office says it tested products sold at the four retail chains from 13 regions around the state. (The list doesn't include the Capital Region.)

(there's more)

The flu is "widespread"

google flu trends national map 2015-01-04

The deeper the orange, the higher level of flu activity figured by Google Flu Trends.

Apparently on the list of New Year's resolutions for influenza: Be more active.

Public health surveillance reports are pointing to the flu being on the upswing in this area over the last week or two. The latest report from the state Department of Health (week ending December 27) has the flu pegged as "widespread" in the state, with 54 counties reporting cases. And Google Flu Trends has detected a similar upswing in the state, based on more recent data. (Flu Trends is also seeing an upswing for the Albany area in its experimental metro monitoring.)

In early December the CDC was projecting that this could be a potentially "severe" flu season, in part because one of the main flu virus variants in circulation appears to have changed enough to blunt the effectiveness of this year's flu shot. (The shot changes year to year in an attempt to provide protection against the strains forecasted to be in circulation -- sometimes the forecast misses, sometimes the virus changes. The flu is kind of like weather in that sense.)

So... while it would have been better to get a flu shot a month or so ago, it's not too late. And even if the jab is offering less-than-expected protection, it's still better than going without. It's become increasingly easy to get a flu shot -- many of the chain pharmacies now offer them in store, and many health plans cover them.

And, of course, there's also covering your mouth when you cough (elbow!) and staying home (if possible) when you're sick. But you knew that.

image: Google Flu Trends

A good gym in (or near) city of Albany?

weight roomAlison emails:

My gym is closing, Steuben Club, the only gym in a walkable neighborhood of Albany is shutting its doors this month. I'm looking for a good alternative, where I can easily get from my Center Square home, to my job at the capitol in the morning before work. Is this asking too much in Albany? What are the best gym choices for someone who lives and works downtown, and prefers to avoid strip malls?

There are plenty of gym options, so maybe there's something to fit what Alison's looking for.

Got a suggestion for her? Please share!

New York has one of the country's lowest adult obesity rates, but...

State of Obesity NY obesity rate 1990-2013

New York's adult obesity rate over the last few decades. From Trust for America's Health and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The State of Obesity 2014. (This chart does something it probably shouldn't -- explained below -- but because of most of us here aren't epidemiologists, we'll just over look that for the moment.)

New York was among the states with the lowest percentage of obese adults in 2013, according to figures recently out from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Empire State ranked #42 among the 50 states (and DC) for percentage of obese adults. (Or #10, depending on how you sort the rankings.)

That said, the CDC estimated that a little more than 25 percent of New York adults were obese in 2013, which, from a historical perspective, is not low. That's up from almost 21 percent in 2003, and about 9 percent in 1990.*

The CDC considers adults to be "obese" if their body mass index is 30 or higher. So someone 5 feet 8 inches tall weighing 200 pounds would be considered obese. (And that same person weighing 165 pounds or more would be considered overweight.)

There's a map depicting obesity prevalence rates by state after the jump.

(there's more)

A good plastic surgeon?

Thumbnail image for stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeAnonymous emails:

I am beginning to do research into breast reduction surgery, and am wondering whether anyone in AOAland has had this or a similarly invasive plastic surgery and has any recommendations about which local surgeons to talk to and which to stay away from.

Have a suggestion? Please share. And please include a sentence or two about why you're recommending that doctor or practice.

photo: Flickr user a.drian (CC BY-ND 2.0)

A good trainer for people with medical issues?

Albany Strength gym.jpgAmelia emails:

My friend is looking for a personal trainer in the capital region that deals with individuals with training people with medical issues like insulin resistance or other medical conditions. Anyone know of a personal trainer in the area who is holistic and understanding? Thanks.

Got suggestion for Amelia and her friend? Please share.

A good allergist?

stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeAnonymous writes:

I have allergies, to dust and maybe something seasonal as well. And I've managed to get by with over-the-counter medication. But in recent years, it seems like my symptoms have gotten worse. So I'm thinking about seeing an allergist in order to get tested and figure out better treatment. Any suggestion for good allergists in the area?

Got a suggestion for Anonymous? Please share. And, as with any question like this, non-redeemable bonus points for a sentence or two about why you like that doctor -- good listener, figured out a tough case, smooth-running office, or whatever.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: A good dermatologist?
+ Ask AOA: A good ENT doctor?
+ Ask AOA: A good sleep doctor?
+ Ask AOA: A good doctor to treat Lyme disease?
+ Ask AOA: Suggestion of a doctor for migraines?
+ Ask AOA: A good doctor, preferably female?

photo: Flickr user a.drian (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Good spinning classes?

spinning class bikes by Flickr USAG-HumphreysCaitlin emails:

I'm trying to find reliably good spin classes here in the Capital Region, and I find it's hard to search for lots of this stuff. Where do AOAers go to spin?

A straightforward question, and it's a good time of year for this sort of thing -- what with ongoing icy grip of winter making exercising outside less than enjoyable.

So... got a suggestion for Caitlin? Please share!

photo: Flickr user USAG- Humphreys (cc), cropped

A good boxing gym?

Sarah Kuhn at the bagSunny asks via Twitter:

Anyone have recommendations for a #boxing gym in the Capital Region?

We asked if Sunny was looking for boxing that was more fitness oriented, or for actual competitive boxing:

It's for serious fitness I guess--not looking for a foo-foo gym with boxing classes, but not to compete nec. either.

There seem to be a fair a number of gyms that offer some sort of boxing program, but we're guessing they include a wide range -- from the "foo-foo" (as Sunny puts it) all the way up to yep-we're-going-to-hit-someone-in-the-face programs.

So, got a suggestion for Sunny? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: A few years back we talked with pro boxer Sarah Kuhn (that's her in the pic), who had gotten into the sport because she was looking for a better way to get in shape.

A good couples therapist?

female and male cardinals by flickr user noshaKathy emails:

I was wondering if readers of your blog had any recommendations for couples/marriage counselors. My husband and I would like to work out some major communication issues. I have trusted AOA reader recommendations for so many things, and this is one of those areas where I'd like a solid recommendation. I looked and didn't see any posts on AOA about this. Thanks so much for the help.

Know of a good therapist or counselor you can suggest to Kathy? Please share.

photo: Flickr user nosha (cc)

To do: Get a flu shot

nys flu surveillance map week ending 2013-12-14

Something to think about doing soon: getting a flu shot.

The latest influenza surveillance report (a week old) for New York State has the flu now designated as "widespread" in the state. That is, there have been lab-confirmed reports of flu in many counties around the state -- 34 plus New York City. The Capital Region core counties are part of that group.

This year's flu season is yet cranking like last season, which saw a big surge in cases around the end of December and beginning of January. But the number of cases in the official state health department report is trending upward a bit statewide, and Google Flu Trends is reporting a similar upward trend for the state and the Albany area.

So, it's still not a bad time to get a flu shot. It takes the body a week or two ramp up its immune response to the jab. Here's the CDC's page with info about the flu vaccine, including a flu shot finder. Finding a place to get the vaccine is a lot easier now than it was just a few years ago -- many pharmacies now offer right in the store (and your health plan might even cover it).

map: NYS DOH, retrieve 2013-12-20

Indoor tracks for running?

indoor track meet runningEllie asks via Twitter:

Hey @alloveralbany do you know of any cheap indoor tracks for running? Free would better, or no contact if paid membership needed.

It can be hard to stay active during the winter. And while running on a treadmill can be OK, it's not the same as actually running and getting somewhere -- even if you're just running in circles.

So, got a suggestion for Ellie? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Owning Winter: Running in the cold

Where to get eye glasses?

eye glasses on a table closeupJames asks via a comment:

Where is a good place to get eye glasses & eye tests & the whole shabang? New to the Clifton Park area & need to find a reasonable priced option.

On one hand, glasses can be very expensive. On the other, you're probably going to get a lot of use out of them and they become a core feature of your appearance. However you look at it (ha, walked right into that one), it's worth seeking out a place that has frames that you can afford and like.

So even though James is in Clifton Park, it could be worth it for him to go wherever in the immediate Capital Region -- even if that means getting his eyes checked one place, and taking the prescription for glasses somewhere else.

So... got a suggestion for James? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: A good eye doctor?

Prenatal classes?

baby bottleReader emails:

I'm writing in search of prenatal classes - yoga, dance, workout, etc - held in the evening or on the weekend. I'm in downtown Albany, but could travel to other nearby locales. Do your readers have any good ones to recommend?

It sounds Reader's looking for prenatal movement/exercise classes. But we'll expand Reader's question just a bit to also include prenatal classes on topics such as newborn care or breastfeeding.

Got a suggestion? Please share! Non-redeemable bonus points for a sentence or two about why you liked the class you're suggestion.

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: A good obstetrician?

photo: Flickr user nerissa's ring (cc)

Work Week: My job as an EMT

work week EMT

It's Work Week on AOA. We'll be talking with people about their jobs and working. Part of that includes anonymous conversations with people about what it's like to do their jobs.

Next Up: The EMT.

This Capital Region EMT talks about gray areas, problem drivers, and being woken up in the middle of the night...

(there's more)

A good dentist for people afraid of going to the dentist?

woman at the dentistA asks via Twitter:

I have real, severe, serious fear of the dentist. But I have to go. Recommendations [for] who will treat me accordingly?

It's been a few years since we've had a question about dentists. And A is looking for someone who can help ease her anxiety about being in the dental chair. (Sometimes the right person and a little bedside manner can make all the difference.)

So... know of good dentist for A? Please share. Non-redeemable bonus points will be awarded for answers that include a bit of explanation about what makes that dentist/dental office good.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: A good dentist? (2010)
+ Ask AOA: A good oral surgeon? (2010)

photo: Flickr user Betsssssy (cc)

"I'm probably the most normal crazy guy you know..."

Update 2014-01-27: Collins has pleaded guilty to attempted kidnapping.
____

It was one of the most bizarre -- and scary -- local stories of the past week: UAlbany police say a man attempted to abduct two women at a bus stop near the university's downtown campus. And in one of the incidents, they allege the man had a knife -- thankfully another student intervened and no one was hurt. [YNN] [News10]

One of the things about crime stories is that so often the people involved -- both perpetrators and victims -- end up being portrayed as one-dimensional characters. And while there are understandable reasons why that happens -- time, space, limited resources, limited attention -- it also sometimes makes it hard to remember these events are happening to real people. And maybe it also makes it harder for us to understand how and why these things happen.

The man accused in the alleged abduction attempts is 54-year-old Anthony Collins. As it happens, Collins is the subject of a documentary project by UAlbany student Shannon Straney. In the short doc, Collins talks about being diagnosed with mental illness, and Straney's project is aimed at better understanding how the condition has affected his life. Part 1 of the project is embedded above.

We got in touch with Straney this week to ask her a few questions about the documentary project, and how it's prompted her to look at the alleged incident from the past week. Here's a quick Q&A...

(there's more)

A good ENT doctor?

stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeErin asks via Twitter:

Can any of you recommend a good ENT specialist in the area? ... I need to see someone soon ish

As you probably know, ENT = ear, nose, and throat.

Know of a good doctor for Erin? Please share! Bonus points for being specific about why you like that doctor.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: A good sleep doctor?
+ Ask AOA: A good doctor to treat Lyme disease?
+ Ask AOA: Suggestion of a doctor for migraines?
+ Ask AOA: A good doctor, preferably female?

photo: Flickr user a.drian (cc)

More Lyme disease -- a lot more

cdc national lyme disease map animation 2001-2011

Reported cases, year by year, from 2001-2011. Maps: CDC.

This is sobering: The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had reported that the national number of Lyme disease cases had been about 30,000 per year over the last few years. But this week it reported that preliminary estimates based on new research indicate the number is around 300,000.

So... that's a lot more.

From the CDC press release:

This early estimate is based on findings from three ongoing CDC studies that use different methods, but all aim to define the approximate number of people diagnosed with Lyme disease each year. The first project analyzes medical claims information for approximately 22 million insured people annually for six years, the second project is based on a survey of clinical laboratories and the third project analyzes self-reported Lyme disease cases from a survey of the general public.
Each year, more than 30,000 cases of Lyme disease are reported to CDC, making it the most commonly reported tick-borne illness in the United States. The new estimate suggests that the total number of people diagnosed with Lyme disease is roughly 10 times higher than the yearly reported number. This new estimate supports studies published in the 1990s indicating that the true number of cases is between 3- and 12-fold higher than the number of reported cases.

CDC says the three studies are still ongoing and it continues to analyze the data to "refine the estimates and better understand the overall burden of Lyme disease in the United States."

In 2011, the latest year for which the numbers are online, New York State had 3118 confirmed cases of Lyme (and 1372 more "probable" cases), according to the CDC. That amounted to 16 confirmed cases per 100,000 people -- the 12th highest rate in the nation. If the actual number of cases is something like 10x that reported count, New York is looking at a rate of 160 cases per 100,000 people.*

(there's more)

A good doctor to treat Lyme disease?

deer tick closeup cdcLaura asks via Facebook:

My husband was just diagnosed with Lyme disease after the ER doctor who saw him last week (when his temp reached nearly 105!!) spotted a tick bite that neither of us or his primary care physician noticed. We weren't such great fans of his PCP to begin with, but now we really want to find a better one. Not looking for infectious disease specialists, but a really good primary care or internal medicine physician who is especially Lyme literate would be a dream. ...
Anyone with Lyme have a doctor they really love?

This is an important question -- not only for Laura and her husband, but also because this region is part of zone along the East Coast where Lyme is particularly prevalent. And Lyme can be tricky to treat. (Chris Gibson is part of a group of elected officials pushing for increased federal funding for research and better testing for Lyme disease.)

Have a suggestion for Laura and her husband? Please share.

Earlier on AOA: The spread of Lyme disease

photo: CDC/Anna Perez

Low-cost healthcare options?

stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeFloyd emails:

Making barely enough to pay the rent, and having no health insurance, I don't have any money to go to see a doctor about some health issues. Are there any cheap or low cost doctors or clinics for us working poor living in the Capital District? I would appreciate it if maybe somebody had some suggestion.

This is an important question. For Floyd, of course -- but there are roughly 60,000 people in the Albany metro area who don't have health insurance, according to Census Bureau estimates. And the large majority of those people are adults (often younger adults) in the workforce who don't get health coverage through their job and/or can't afford it.

Provisions of the Affordable Care Act (AKA, Obamacare) aim to address this issue by extending the eligibility of Medicaid and using a sliding scale based on income that caps insurance premiums. Those provisions don't kick in until 2014.

That doesn't help Floyd now. So we've gathered together a few resources after the jump. We're hoping that you'll also have some suggestions and ideas, because this topic is complicated -- too complicated -- and it's important.

So, have some insight? Please share.

(there's more)

Well, Albany metro area

gallup-healthways state rankings map 2012

New York's didn't fare too well in these rankings. But it's not West Virginia.

The Albany-Schenectady-Troy metro area ranked #58 nationally in the annual Gallup-Healthways "Well-Being Index" for 2012 (out of 189 metros). That's a big jump from 2011, when it ranked 101. And it was the top score in the state (take that, Rochester).

The report surveys people across the country, asking them questions in six categories: life evaluation (current and the in the future), emotional health (happiness, sadness, worry), physical health, healthy behavior, work environment, and basic access to things like healthcare and healthy food.

The Albany metro's rise in the rankings appears to be attributable to big jumps in two categories: life evaluation (67 from 117) and work environment (74 from 128).

This metro's lowest ranked category was emotional health (#138), as it was in 2011 (#151). The emotional health category is based on questions about topics that include: smiling or laughter, being treated with respect, enjoyment, happiness, worry, sadness, anger, stress, learning or doing something interesting, depression.

The index also ranks states -- New York was #30. And two of its metros were near the very bottom of the rankings: Binghamton (176) and Utica-Rome (179).

The top ranked state in 2012 was Hawaii -- for the fourth straight year. West Virginia was last.

The top ranked metros, by size category: Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV (large), Lincoln, NE (mid-size), Burlington-South Burlington, VT (small).

The report for New York State is post jump.

(there's more)

Woman bitten by potentially rabid fox in Cohoes

Thumbnail image for gray fox us fwsThe Albany County Department of Health reported today that a woman in Cohoes was bitten by a potentially rabid grey fox this morning (area map). The fox got away, and officials are urging people to keep an eye out for wild or stray animals that are acting strangely -- and call 911 if one is sighted.

Update: A fox -- maybe the fox -- was shot by Cohoes police later in the day. Update update: The fox that was shot tested positive for rabies, Cohoes police say. [TU] [@CBS6Jennifer]

Rabid foxes turn up now and then in this area. Three foxes tested positive for rabies between January and October of 2012 -- one each in Albany, Rensselaer, and Saratoga counties -- according to the most recent data posted by the state DEC. There were also three positives in 2011 -- two in Saratoga County, and one in Schenectady County. Statewide that year there were 26 positive tests for rabies in foxes, 21 of those in grey foxes.

Back in 2010 a man was bitten by a rabid fox in Greenwich, in a scene that sounds like something from a B movie. From the Daily Gazette:

Richard Leddy, 40, said he was lying on the town beach reading when he heard someone in the water say, "Oh look, there's a fox."
"I thought they meant on the other bank, but then I heard a snarl and looked over to see the fox in mid-leap," Leddy said. "Next think I knew he'd sunk his teeth into my arm."

Yikes.

The animals that most often turn up with positive rabies tests in the state, at least over the last few years, are raccoons and bats. In 2011, there were 162 raccoons that tested positive, and 64 bats. (That's just a raw count of positive tests by the state lab, not a measure of prevalence within the population of those animals compared to other animals.)

In fact, the last two people to die of rabies in New York State -- in 1995 and 1993 -- got it from a bat, according to the state's Wadsworth Center.

Earlier on AOA:
+ "Pet" gray fox on the loose in Troy
+ Fox stalking

photo of a grey fox (*not* the grey fox in Cohoes): US Fish and Wildlife Service via Wikipedia

Shoo, flu, shoo

google flu trends albany 2013-01-30

The Google Flu Trends graph for the Albany area through January 29.

There are indications the tide has turned for the flu season. The number of positive lab tests and emergency room visits are both down sharply in the state Department of Health flu surveillance report posted today (for the week ending January 26). And Google Flu Trends is also showing a recent decline in activity for both the state and the Albany area.

That's not to say the flu wave has completely passed us by. DOH reports the flu is still "widespread" in the state, with lab-confirmed reports in 53 counties. And Google Flu is still reporting "high" activity. It's just that things appear to be calming down in what's been the most severe flu season since 2009-2010.

And, of course, there's other stuff in circulation beyond the flu. There's that cold that so many people seem to have right now. And there's also the norovirus, the current media favorite for scaring the crap out of people.

In other news: wash your hands.

graph: Google Flu Trends

Capital Region hospitals tightening visitation guidelines because of flu

Thumbnail image for albany medical center exteriorHospitals around the region announced temporary visitation guidelines Friday because of widespread flu activity. From the joint press release:

Patient units of Albany Medical Center; Ellis Medicine acute care hospitals including Bellevue Woman's Center and Ellis Hospital; Glens Falls Hospital; St. Peter's Health Partners acute care hospitals including Albany Memorial Hospital, Samaritan Hospital, St. Mary's Hospital (Troy), St. Peter's Hospital, and Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital; and Saratoga Hospital will request that visits be restricted by:
+ children 12 and under (who are more likely to have and transmit respiratory infections);
+ any visitor with respiratory symptoms (fever, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath) a rash or diarrhea; and,
+ only two visitors will be permitted in a patient's room at one time.
The hospitals are also urging all visitors to use hand-washing stations before entering and upon leaving a patient's room. Hand sanitizers are available at many hospital entrances and at many other locations throughout these hospitals, including the doorways of many patient rooms.

Full release post jump.

As if the flu wasn't bad enough this year, the dreaded norovirus also seems to be in circulation. Headline no one wants to read: "Is it the flu or norovirus? How to tell the difference". Followed closely by: "Want to avoid spewmageddon? Here's a simple guide" [Boston Globe] [Guardian]

We'll say it again: If you're sick, please stay home if possible. Please cough into your elbow. And please wash your hands.

Earlier: Someone finally sticks it to Andrew Cuomo. (It being a flu shot -- and you should think about getting one, too.)

(there's more)

Someone finally sticks it to Andrew Cuomo

andrew cuomo flu shot 2013-01-10

And it turns out that person was Dr. Nirav Shah, the state's health commissioner. He jabbed the governor with a flu shot Thursday.

The best line probably came from Jimmy Vielkind on Twitter: "I think this entire thing was an excuse for Andrew Cuomo to have a picture of his biceps in the newspapers."

As mentioned, this is turning out to be a rather active year for the flu. The recent wave prompted Boston to declare a public health emergency this week -- the city was robocalling people urging them to get flu shots. [AOA] [Google Flu Trends] [AP/ABC] [Boston Globe]

While it would have been better to get the jab a few weeks back (or earlier), it's still not a bad idea to roll up your sleeve for one. They're super easy to find this season -- you can walk into pretty much any Walgreen's/CVS/Rite Aid and get one at the pharmacy. It costs about $30 for the regular flu shot (it might be covered by your health plan). Sure, it takes a week or two for your body to build up immunity from the shot, but the flu could continue to be active for months.

And while you might think, "Eh, I'm relatively young and healthy, I'll be fine" -- that may be true, but if you pick up the virus you could end up spreading it to people who are not so young and/or healthy. There have been multiple studies indicating that vaccinating young people -- kids, especially -- ends up being a good way of protecting seniors from the flu.

Also: getting the flu -- the real flu, not just a cold -- sucks.

Here's a bunch of info about flu shots from the CDC (there are a few options, including a version that doesn't involve getting stuck with a needle). The health agency recently reported that this season's shot (it changes each year) is a pretty good match for what's been circulating.

In other news: We'll say it again, cover your mouth when you cough. Wash your hands.

photo: Cuomo admin Flickr

Flu season in full force

google flu trends ny albany 2013-01-03

Intense.

The graphs above from Google Flu Trends (explained). The latest surveillance report from the NYS Department of Health is showing similar activity -- including positive tests in the last week from all but one county in the state.

Yep, the flu season is in full force.

It could still be worth it to get a flu shot. The season lasts into the early spring. And the CDC says this season's vaccine has been a good match for the variants of the flu virus that appear to be in circulation. It takes a week or two post-jab for your body's immune response to get with the program. Unlike in some years past, flu shots are plentiful and easy to get. They're available at many pharmacies now.

We'll say it again: Please cough into your elbow. And wash your hands.

graphs: Google Flu Trends

Suggestion of a doctor for migraines?

stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeAnonymous asks:

Over the last few years I've been getting recurring migraines. My primary care doctor gave me some basic advice (stay away from red wine, for example), but that hasn't really helped. Can anyone recommend a good neurologist, or other type of doctor, in the Albany area for migraines or headaches?

Got a suggestion for Anonymous? Please share.

photo: Flickr user a.drian (cc)

A good doctor, preferably female?

Thumbnail image for stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeJen asks via email:

I'm a fairly new transplant to the Albany area and am looking for a primary care doctor. Can your readers recommend a smart, compassionate, preferably female doctor in the Albany or Troy area?

We've had a similar question before, but it came up more than 2.5 years ago. Things change. And Jen's preference narrows the field a bit. (Also: we heard from Jen that she called a few of the doctors from that old post and they weren't taking new patients.)

So, have a suggestion for Jen? Please share! And, as always, bonus points for explaining why you like that doctor.

photo: Flickr user a.drian (cc)

Viral news

google flu nys albany 2012-12-11

From Google Flu Trends.

The flu is now "widespread" in New York State, the state Department of Health reports. What's that mean? There have been lab-confirmed reports in more than half the counties in the state (48, to be exact). For the latest report, that includes Albany, Saratoga, and Rensselaer counties.

The DOH bases its reports on samples sent to the Wadsworth Lab here in Albany for testing, as well as surveillance reports from healthcare providers about the number of people coming in with influenza-like illnesses.

But many people who get the flu don't end up going to a healthcare provider. So to get a sense of the picture that includes those people, we can look to Google Flu Trends, which uses search data to monitor flu activity (and there's research it actually works pretty well). Google Flu is reporting a recent upswing in flu activity into the "high" level in New York State.

Somewhat oddly, Google Flu reports the Albany area still has relatively low levels of flu activity. But nearby cities -- including Syracuse (corroborated by the DOH report) and New York City -- are at high levels. That could mean the wave has yet to arrive -- or maybe we'll get lucky. (The flu can be hard to predict -- it's kind of like the weather.)

Bottom line: It's still worth it to get a flu shot. The season lasts into the early spring. And it takes a few days post-jab for your body's immune response to get with the program. Unlike in some years past, flu shots are plentiful and easy to get. They're available at many pharmacies now.

In other news: Wash your hands.

graphs: Google Flu Trends

A good podiatrist?

bottom of bare footNaomi emails:

Can any of your readers recommend a good podiatrist?

So, can anyone lend Naomi a hand (or, uh, foot) on this one? Please share!

And if you have a recommendation, please include why you're recommending that doctor.

Huge cancer prevention study looking for participants in Albany

albany medical center exteriorFor a long time there was this popular notion that someday there would be "The Cure For Cancer." As with most things, the problem is a lot more complicated (there are many types of cancer) and difficult than most people probably realize. But research keeps moving ahead, and bit by bit answers are shaking loose.

Now here's a way you can help. The American Cancer Society is currently looking to sign up people in the Albany area for a huge study called, appropriately, Cancer Prevention Study 3 (CPS-3). It's the latest version of a series of large studies that first started in the 1950s and have helped established knowledge such as the link between smoking and cancer, and the effect of being overweight on the risk of developing cancer.

ACS is looking to sign up hundreds of thousands of people nationwide. And here in the Capital Region it's partnering with Albany Med to hold a series of sign up events (after the jump). It's looking for "men and women between the ages of 30 and 65 years who have no personal history of cancer to join this historic research study. The ultimate goal is to enroll at least 300,000 adults from various racial/ethnic backgrounds from across the U.S." About the signup process:

At your appointment, you will be asked to sign an informed consent form, complete a brief survey, as well as provide a waist circumference measurement and a small blood sample (similar to a doctor's visit). The blood sample will be taken by a certified, trained phlebotomist. Your appointment should last approximately 20 - 30 minutes.

Here's an extensive FAQ about participating in the study, and an explanation of the measures being taken to protect confidentiality.

These sorts of large, longterm studies can be tremendously helpful for understanding disease. A famous example is the Framingham Heart Study, which has followed three generations of people in Massachusetts -- and has been instrumental in helping researchers understand the factors involved in heart disease.

(there's more)

A good obstetrician?

baby bottleAnonymous Soon-to-Be Father emails:

My wife and I just found out that she was pregnant. So recent, in fact, that it's too soon to tell our friends + family (shh!). We were hoping some of your readers could help us find a reputable doctor to catch our first baby. We're not daring enough for a home-birth and we like the idea of avoiding c-sections as much as possible.
Doula recommendations are also welcome! We're probably [not looking for] midwives, under the assumption that their services are more geared towards home-births. However, I've heard of midwives that will operate (no pun intended) out of hospitals sometimes...
In any event, we're looking to have the baby in a hospital (including or between Albany + Schenectady), have someone more knowledgeable than I in the room with us, and continue down the road toward natural child-birth (avoiding c-section) as long as possible.

Congrats! And important question! Maybe everyone can help Soon-to-Be Father and his wife sort out some of the local options.

Got a suggestion, or just a tip on how to go about finding the right provider? Please share! And please explain why you like that person, or why you chose that option.

photo: Flickr user nerissa's ring (cc)

New York is among the least obese states

state obesity cdc brfss 2011

Prevalence of adult obesity by state in 2011, according to the CDC. (see notes below) Arkansas is now the buckle of the Butter Belt.

New York State ranks 42nd in the nation for the prevalence of adult obesity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (It's tied with Connecticut and Nevada for that spot.)

The CDC figures that 24.5 percent of adults in New York were obese last year.* Nationwide about 35.7 percent of adults are obese. State-by-state rankings are post jump.

The CDC defines obese as a person having a body mass index of 30 or higher. A healthy weight is considered to be in the 18.5 to 24.9 BMI range.

While New York is in relatively good shape -- it shouldn't exactly be patting itself on the back (unless that counts as exercise). Only 10-14 percent of adults in the state were obese 20 years ago.**

* Data are from the CDC's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) which relies on self-reported data from phone surveys.
** The CDC changed some of the ways it collects the BRFSS data, so the 2011 figures are necessarily comparable to the 2010-and-before numbers.

(there's more)

NYPIRG: St. Peter's tops state for patient visiting policies

st peters hospital wideSt. Peter's Hospital is one of the top-ranked hospitals in a new NYPIRG report on hospital visiting policies around the state.

The report surveyed the policies at 99 acute care hospitals in the state with 200 or more "staffed beds." NYPIRG says it found "significant, unexplained variations in":

+ Visiting hours and restrictions on visitation;
+ Consistency with the patient's legal right to choose priority visitors whether or not they are members of the patient's "immediate family"; and
+ Transparency and clarity of website communications.

St. Peter's scored a 10 (on a 1-10 scale) for "visiting hours flexibility" and an 8 for "website visiting info availability." Three other hospitals also received a 10 in that first category -- St. Peter's had the highest combined score of any hospital.

The report includes scores for five Capital Region hospitals -- the scores are post jump.

The whole NYPIRG report includes recommendations and a lot of detail. For patients, it can probably be boiled down to: Contrary to how it may sometimes appear, hospital patients often have a fair amount of discretion in who can visit them (even people who are not technically "family") and when. If in doubt, be sure to ask.

(there's more)

The spread of Lyme disease

cdc national lyme disease map animation 2001-2010

Reported cases, year by year, from 2001-2010.

Mappage: We came across this CDC map of reported Lyme disease cases over the last decade (ending in 2010). The CDC site allows you to switch from year-to-year -- we piled all those years into the animation above.

The thing that struck us about the map is the way it illustrates how Lyme has spread from the coast and the very central part of the Hudson Valley to the entire Northeast (as well as Wisconsin and Minnesota).

As it happens, the number of reported cases in New York was down noticeably in 2010, the last year for which the data's posted by the CDC. The state's incidence rate that year -- confirmed cases per 100,000 people -- was 12.3 that year (12th highest in the country). It was 21.2 in 2009, and 29.5 in 2008.

Delaware led the nation in 2010 with a rate of 73.1. Vermont's rate was 43.3 that year, and Massachusetts' 36.3.

Earlier this spring a research org in the Hudson Valley -- the Cary Institute for Ecosystem Studies -- reported the "northeastern U.S. should prepare for a surge in Lyme disease this spring." And the reason wasn't the mild winter. Rather, researchers based their projections on mice and acorns:

(there's more)

Where to go for sports massage?

face through massage tableGraham asks via Twitter:

I'm looking to find a good place in the capital district to get a sports massage... maybe a slight preference to the east side of the Hudson (Troy, Greenbushes)

We were curious what separates sports massage from non-sports massage -- it appears it just means there's a specific emphasis on improving athletic performance and injury rehab.

Got a suggestion for Graham? Please share!

photo: Flickr user alaina.buzas

"It's like bad cottage cheese..."

Updated

Planned Parenthood Mohawk Hudson launched a new campaign this week to raise awareness about STD testing. The TV spot is funny -- the longer, "uncensored" web version is embedded above (it's still pretty tame) -- but the message is simple and straightforward: get tested.

"Some people are embarrassed about the topic... this is a way to break down barries," says Linda Scharf, the director of communications for Planned Parenthood Mohawk Hudson, about the humor in the spots. She says they're intended to get people to talk about the topic, and move more people to get tested. The spots were produced by local marketing company Zone 5.

Also as part of the campaign Planned Parenthood Mohawk Hudson has posted a "rejection letter" (it looks like an email) it says it got from a transit org in the region that refused to run its original campaign because of "the image it projects in our community."

Scharf wouldn't say which transit org balked at the campaign. "The topic of sex is sensitive to some folks, so that's what you see there."

We've heard from a different source related to the campaign that the transit org was not CDTA.

New York State's teen birth rate continues to drop

national teen birth rate 2010 cdc

Teen birth rates across the nation in 2010. (Here's a state-by-state table.)

Updated Thursday morning

New York State has one of the lower teen birth rates in the nation, according to numbers out this week from the National Center for Health Statistics.

The Empire State's rate was 22.6 births per 1000 women ages 15-19 in 2010. Only eight states had lower rates (check out the map above). The national average was 34.3. The lowest state was New Hampshire (15.7), the highest Mississippi (55.0).

Teen birth rates have been dropping across the country since the early 1990s. Some perspective: New York State's rate was 45.5 in 1991 -- it's dropped almost every year since (source).

Nationally, he NCHS says "fewer babies were born to teenagers in 2010 than in any year since 1946." And the national rate is the lowest it's been in the seven decades that reliable numbers are available.

So, why's this happening? From the report:

The impact of strong pregnancy prevention messages directed to teenagers has been credited with the birth rate declines (9-11). Recently released data from the National Survey of Family Growth, conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), have shown increased use of contraception at first initiation of sex and use of dual methods of contraception (that is, condoms and hormonal methods) among sexually active female and male teenagers. These trends may have contributed to the recent birth rate declines (12).

Curious about the Capital Region, we looked up the rates for the local core counties...

(there's more)

Flu season fizzle?

google flu trends albany 2012-04-02

The dark blue line is the current season.

Now that spring is here, we're nearing the end of the traditional flu season.* And much like this past winter, this flu season has been something less than formidable (thankfully).

The graph above is Google Flu Trends track of flu-related search data for the Albany area this season, compared to previous seasons. (Google says the city specific tracking is still experimental -- here's the graph for New York State.) The state Department of Health's reports also point to a mild season around the state -- visits to sentinel providers are down a lot compared to last season, the number of hospitalized patients for flu is way down, and the percent of emergency room visits for flu has been more or less flat for the season.

But... Interestingly, there's been a recent uptick in the number of positive flu tests -- the week of March 24 had the highest number of positive reports all season. And the number of hospitalized patients is on the upswing. Let's hope that doesn't continue to develop.

On tracking bugs: More than flu this season, we noticed (anecdotally, online and off, whatever that's worth (not a whole lot)) many more people complaining of The Cold That Just Won't Quit (early winter) and the Stomach Bug from Hell (over the last month). It'd be great if someone could develop a way to glean this kind of stuff from Twitter and Facebook, and then provide reports. "Hello, we've noticed a recent increase in the number of your friends reporting being sick..."

* If you talk with flu researchers, they'll tell you the "flu season" is often neither typical nor traditional. For example, in 2008-2009, some of the highest activity months in New York State were May and June. The flu is the like weather -- you can make reasonable guesses based on patterns, but you never really know until it happens.

graph: Google Flu Trends

Which gym do you go to?

running on treadmillAlex emails with question that a lot people seem to have around the first of the year:

Could you do one of those things where you post a question, and then people comment on what gyms they've been to? [I'm looking for a new gym to join.]

So, which gym do you go to? And what do you like/dislike about it?

Please share!

photo: Flickr user eccampbell

Slow start for the flu -- and then there's whatever the other thing is

google flu trends albany 2011-11-20

The results for Albany from Google Flu Trends' experimental cities model. The dark blue is this year, the light blue lines are previous years.

We've been noticing what seems like a lot of coughing and sickness going around recently, so we had a look at Google Flu Trends to get a sense of how this year's flu season is shaping up.

And the answer so far: it's been slow (here's New York State's graph, which based on a model that's been tested against previous years). The state Department of Health's official reports, which lag about a week, also are reporting a slow start.

The takeaway here: there's still time to get a flu shot. And the sooner the better, since it takes your body some time to build resistance based on the vaccine. Compared to some of the seasons in the past decade that were marked by shortages and crushes at doctors offices, flu shots have become almost ridiculously easy to get. Most of the major pharmacies are now offering them.

Flu experts will tell you there's no such thing as a "typical" flu season -- the pattern of these things is just something we don't really have a good handle on. So just because things have started out slowly doesn't really mean much. Things could change quickly. Or not.

That other sickness
While the flu doesn't appear to really be kicking yet this year, something else does seem to be going around (anecdotally). We've noticed a handful of people who've come down with a cough that just won't quit. Mrs. Greg finally broke down and went to the doctor recently after about three weeks of it, a few better days, and then a relapse. The doctor told her he's been seeing a bunch of people with the same pattern: cold and cough for weeks, better for a few days, then a relapse before getting better again.

Just a reminder that the microbes own this world -- we're just living here.

graph: Google Flu Trends

A good pediatrician?

stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeSara emails:

I have two boys, ages 2.5 & 6. We all currently visit a very popular family practice in Slingerlands, and while we like a couple of the practitioners there, it's a hike for us to get there, we wait forever once we are there, they don't answer the phones between 11:30AM-12:30PM, etc.
We'd like to hear about some good practices or specific doctors, whether they are pediatricians, internists, and/or general practitioners. We live in Wynantskill, and our preference is within 15-20 minutes drive. Pleasant office staff, realistic scheduling, thorough doctors (NP's or PA's are also fine)...
Thank you! I really appreciate the input of AOA readers.

Showing up at the doctor's office on time and having to wait seemingly forever is frustrating. Having to do it with a sick kid? Eek.

Got a suggestion for Sara? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+ A good doctor near Saratoga?
+ Know of a good doctor near Albany?
+ A good eye doctor?
+ A good dentist?
+ A good oral surgeon?

photo: Flickr user a.drian

A good acupuncture place?

acupuncture needles in backRight to the point, Nina emails:

I'm thinking of trying acupuncture. Any recommendations for practitioners?

While we can't vouch for quality, there's a place in Troy that has a most appropriate url: stuckintroy.com.

Clever domain names aside, anyone have suggestions for Nina? Please share!

photo: Flickr user marniejoyce

Cough. Wheeze. Call.

We were flipping through the channels the other night when we hit one of the new anti-smoking ads from the state Department of Health. The spot shows a guy gasping for breath as he suffers from smoking-induced emphysema. And... yow.

The commercial is embedded above. There's something so visceral and squirm-inducing about hearing the guy wheeze and gasp -- which is the point.

Doctors and researchers say these kinds of ads do spur people to call smoking quitlines. As Dr. Michael Cummings, who heads up a cancer prevention research division at Roswell Park in Buffalo, said last year while introducing a different set of anti-smoking spots: "People call the quitline when they get motivated, and you gotta get in their heads and get them moving, shake them up a little bit." [YouTube]

The state DOH has three spots currently running -- the one above, plus two others featuring a man talking through an electrolarynx about how throat cancer has kept him from swimming and his dream of being a major league umpire. (It appears that no children were made to cry this time.) The spots are scheduled to run until almost the end of September. [MSNBC] [Buffalo News]

A little more than 15 percent of adults in New York State were currently smokers in 2010, according to the data from the CDC. That's down from more than 21 percent in 2000. In that time, the state reports there has been a large decline in smoking among high school students -- 12.6 percent reported being current smokers in 2010 versus 27.1 percent in 2000. [CDC] [NYSDOH]

New York's smoking quitline is 866-NY-QUITS (866-697-8487).

Earlier on AOA: New York State has the highest cigarette taxes in the nation

A low-cost health clinic?

stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeLooking to help a friend, Steph emails:

I have a friend who is headed back to school in the fall for the first time in a while. The problem is, the school requires a physical for enrollment, and said friend doesn't have health insurance. Are there any Capital District clinics that provide lower-cost physicals, or any similar resources?

Got a suggestion for Steph's friend? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+ A good doctor near Saratoga?
+ A good eye doctor?
+ Know of a good doctor?

photo: Flickr user a.drian

Good evening yoga classes?

people doing yoga@sozepiggytails asks via the Twitter:

Say, can I get a recommendation for best yoga? Live in Albany, work in Schdy, has to be after 5pm. Gracias!

A similar question came up about a year ago, but things change.

Got a suggestion? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Hot yoga: Feeling the burn, and loving it

photo: Flickr user enfad

A good eye doctor?

eye doctor phoropterDaniel B. emails:

Mrs. Fussy needs to be fitted for contact lenses and could probably use a new pair of glasses too. She's looking for an eye doctor, and was hoping to get some recommendations. Given the bespectacled nature of the AOA staff and readership, I thought you all would be good people to ask.

It's a well established fact that the most beautiful women wear glasses, so Mrs. Fussy is in good company.

Know of a good eye doctor? Please share!

photo: Flickr user schrierc

St. Peters + Northeast Health + Seton Health

st peters health partners logo

Any guesses on the typeface?

The merged health care group being formed by St. Peter's, Northeast Health, and Seton Health announced today that it's adopting a new name: St. Peter's Health Partners.

You'll start seeing that name all over. Once the merger is official, St. Peter's Health Partners will join Albany Medical Center as the two big hospital players in this area.

The group says the official roll-out of the new branding won't be until 2012. The major hospitals in the group -- St. Peter's, Albany Memorial, Samaritan, and St. Mary's -- will keep their names (example, "St. Peter's Health Partners: Albany Memorial Hospital").

The new logo for SPHP is above. It kind of has a NEJM thing going for it. The group released documents explaining how it arrived at the name. (Were there consultants? You know it. Short story: St. Peter's had the most name recognition in surveys.) If you're a branding or design nerd, you might find them interesting. They're embedded after the jump.

(there's more)

A good doctor near Saratoga?

stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeLooking to help her mom, Sara emails:

One of my favorite AOA tags is "good to know". I need to tap into the collective brains of AOA readers to find a new primary care doctor for my mom. She's in her 50's, lives east of Saratoga, and for various reasons, requires the care of medical professionals more than the average patient. It seems too obvious to say that the doc (must be an MD or DO, not a PA or NP) should not be patronizing, or in the habit of scolding their patients, but that is the problem that leads to this question in the first place!

It's hard enough navigating the medical system without having a doctor who's not a good communicator or condescending or just a wrong fit personality-wise.

Know a good doctor who might be right for Sara's mom? Please share! And if you do, please include a comment or two about why you like that doctor.

Earlier on AOA: Know of a good doctor near Albany?

photo: Flickr user a.drian

Minus four teeth -- and happy about it

woman at the dentistLast fall Shannon asked about finding a good oral surgeon -- and people had a lot of suggestions. (Who knew people were so passionate about oral surgery?)

Well, Shannon -- now minus four teeth -- emailed us today with an update:

Way back in October, I wrote to All Over Albany to ask readers for recommendations on area oral surgeons. To my surprise, I received a lot of great suggestions and not any "Whatever you do, don't go to _______ !". Well, I finally took the plunge and I am now minus four wisdom teeth. Overall, the experience was much less painful than I expected. I just wanted to express my thanks to All Over Albany and its many readers who provided suggestions. This is one of several cases where AOA has helped guide me to trustworthy local establishments or service providers.
FYI - Many readers suggested the doctors at Capital District Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, and that is what I went with. Dr. Beck and the nurses were all very nice and they explained things well. It's only been 4 days, but I seem to be healing well and haven't had any unusual problems, so I'd strongly recommend Dr. Beck to others as well!

Stories like this make us happy. Thanks, Shannon!

photo (not of Shannon): Flickr user Betsssssy

CircusYoga

circus yoga christine hoop

By Liz Clancy Lerner

A few years ago Christine Carpenter had a bit of an epiphany -- that as an adult, play could, and should, be a part of her everyday life. That epiphany came while practicing something called CircusYoga.

No, it's not doing a downward dog on the tight rope, or the sun salutation while holding onto a trapeze, or balancing on elephants. CircusYoga is about incorporating the fun and play of the circus -- think hula hoops and juggling -- with the consciousness of traditional yoga.

And Carpenter is now teaching it around the Capital Region.

(there's more)

Hot yoga: Feeling the burn, and loving it

heater temp

It starts off at 90. It gets hotter.

By Akum Norder

"Every single part of your body is strong."

The yoga instructor intoned it in a soothing voice. What a lovely thought. But by the fifteenth downward facing dog it sure didn't feel true. Everyone looking backwards between their own legs could see me on my haunches, sitting this one out.

Still, there's something nice about a good sweat. I could feel it beading and rolling down the side of my face. It felt clean, somehow.

Okay, water bottle down. Back into pose.

I'm not much of an exerciser. And working in a room upwards of 90 degrees made this workout especially rigorous. (A few days later, I would still be feeling it.) It was my first experience with hot yoga. And you know what? It was great.

(there's more)

How you helped me stop my hands from getting all dry and cracked this winter

dry hands fix hand

Allow me to give you a hand.

By AOA Greg

A few months back I asked everyone if they had tips on how to keep my hands from getting all dry and cracked this winter. And you did! There were a bunch of suggestions (you might even call it a handful).

Well, it's mid-February now and I'm happy report that my hands are in good shape -- the best they've been in many winters. And I have you to thank. So give yourself a hand!

In the spirit of lending a hand (last one, probably), here's what's worked for me...

(there's more)

Albany Crossfit

Albany Crossfit composite

Crossfitters: people, dogs, the Kool-Aid Man.

By Liz Clancy Lerner

At Albany Crossfit there is a mural of the Kool-Aid man on the wall.

It's not there because it's the gym's recovery drink of choice; it's a reference to the drinking the Kool-Aid, cult-like following that often surrounds the gym.

In its simplest form, Crossfit is a strength and conditioning program with varied, intense workouts. Its athletes are encouraged to follow the WODs (or, Workouts Of the Day) and eat a strict Paleolithic diet . They see results -- and that, according to Albany Crossfit founder Jason Ackerman, is why its members are so passionate.

Nationally, Crossfit has been around since the late 90s. Albany Crossfit was created almost four years ago - before many other cities caught on.

AOA sat in on a workout recently and talked with Jason. We covered topics ranging from throwing up during a workout, to eating like a caveman, to Marley -- their three-legged mascot.

(there's more)

New York is feeling fluish

google flu trends 2011-01-04

The bright blue line is this year. The light blue lines are previous years.

New York is one the states currently listed as having "widespread" flu activity, according to the CDC's latest report (which is a little old at this point). And Google Flu trends -- which often is a bit ahead of the official reports -- also has NYS pegged as a "high" activity state for the flu.

But get this: most of the flu activity seems to be in New York City. It appears that upstate is just beginning to see the wave (if it ever arrives -- the flu is weird and hard to predict). In fact, Google Flu's experimental city report has the major upstate cities -- including Albany -- listed as "low" (NYC is "high").

There's still time to get a flu shot. The CDC has a helpful flu jab finder.

Of course, these reports don't cover whatever the cough/cold it is that seems be circulating in the Capital Region right now (anecdotally).

So, uh, wash your hands. And cough into your arm.

graph: Google Flu Trends

Capital Region gym deals

weights at gym

Looks painful.

If you don't already feel enough pressure to get fit this New Year, here's some more:

The Capital Region has a whole load of gyms to choose from and many of them are having deals for the New Year. If you work these sales right, it's likely you can fill the month of January with free classes and gym time galore.

Not bad if saving money is also a resolution.

(there's more)

A good dentist?

woman at the dentistJulie emails:

I'm one of many people in this area who don't have dental insurance and i just paid $221 for my 6 month cleaning and bitewing xrays. My previous dentist, who recently retired, was significantly less expensive, so I'm wondering if any of your readers know of a dentist in this area who isn't quite so expensive and isn't retiring soon?
Or do I need to just start saving now for my next cleaning in 6 months?

Julie's in the Saratoga area, so she's interested in dentists there. We'll also open this up to (good/affordable/combo of both) dentists around the Capital Region (we've had a few people ask this question).

So, know of good dentist? Please share?

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: A good oral surgeon?

photo: Flickr user Betsssssy

There's still time for a flu shot

google flu ny 2010-11-15

Flu activity in New York State as tracked by Google Flu Trends over the last handful of season. The dark blue line is the current year. That big early spike was 2009.

The feverish state one of the editors was in yesterday had us thinking about the flu. So we checked out Google Flu Trends to see how this season is shaping up so far.

Flu experts will tell you there's no such thing as a "normal" flu season, but we don't appear to be off to anything you might consider a weird start. As you can see from Google's graph above, last year's flu season included a big early season spike.

Google's formula is based on search activity, not actual reported lab or doctors' office data. It appears to do a good job, though. (Both the New York State Department of Health and the federal Centers of Disease Control track the official data.) It would be interesting to see Twitter and Facebook updates folded in somehow.

Google is also now experimenting with data for metro areas -- here's Albany. Last year's data indicated Albany experienced an "intense" flu wave in early November.

All this is to say, if you haven't gotten a flu shot, there's still time to do so. Here's a flu shot finder.

Earlier on AOA: RPI's "beer pong" flu: a highly transmissible story

graph: Google Flu Trends

A good oral surgeon?

woman at the dentistShannon emails:

I need to look into having my wisdom teeth removed but know nothing about area oral surgeons. My dentist gave me a list of recommended surgeons, but a list of names doesn't mean much to me. I've visited some websites searching for feedback with little luck.
I'm hoping readers may be able to suggest some surgeons for wisdom teeth removal (or let me know which ones to avoid!). This is not really a minor thing so I'd like to not go into this blindly.

Totally understand the desire to go into this eyes open (well, and mouth, too).

Got a suggestion for Shannon? Please share!

photo: Flickr user Betsssssy

Good yoga classes?

people doing yogaCourtney emails:

I'm not new to the area but I'm newly interested in yoga! I've heard about a bunch of great studios but I'm specifically looking for a studio that hosts a Friday or Sunday beginners class. I just can't seem to find a beginners class that works with my schedule and I don't want to be stuck doing those lame follow along dvds!

Courtney is in East Greenbush, but we'll expand this to good yoga classes/teachers all over the Capital Region.

Know of a good one? Please share!

photo: Flickr user enfad

New York's least-smoky counties

The Capital Region's four core counties have some of the lowest adult smoking rates in the state, according to data distributed by the state health department today.

The full rankings are after the jump. Among Capital Region counties, Albany County had the lowest smoking rate at 16.5 percent.

We were also curious about how smoking rates might associate with income -- so we whipped the two sets together. The result is also in there.

Eww: The DOH released this data as part of push to get people to stop smoking. Part of the campaign: two new TV spots of which a DOH officials says: "Some viewers may complain the ads are too graphic or emotional..." The one embedded above is pretty gross. Here's the other.

(there's more)

Know of a good doctor?

stethoscope and ophthalmoscopeLaura asks via Facebook:

I'm still somewhat new to the Albany area and having a difficult time finding a really good doctor. I'm looking for a general practitioner or even better, an internist. ...
Anyone have any thoughts? Any doctors they love and would recommend? Thank you!

This has always seemed like a hard question to us. Obviously, you want a doctor who's skilled -- but it also helps to find a physician with whom you feel comfortable.

So, anyone have suggestions for Laura? Please share! And if you could include a little bit about what makes the doctor good, that would be helpful (example: "good listener").

Also: here's New York State's doctor profile database, which includes info about all licensed doctors who are registered to practice in the state. And the state's Office of Professional Medical Conduct also has an online database of all physicians, physician assistants and specialist assistants who have been disciplined since 1990.

photo: Flickr user a.drian

Body building at Albany Strength

Albany Strength exterior.jpg

They want to pump -you up.

By Erik Dollman

Hidden on Central Ave. in Albany, between a pizza shop and Ichiban, there lurks a gym.

This is not any old gym. Albany Strength is home to world class power lifters, bodybuilders, and dozens of other athletes who don't work out. They train.

In short, it's a goldmine for anyone who's serious about getting big, strong, and conditioned.

(there's more)

Addicted to tanning?

tanning bed interior

Can't stop?

A paper published today in the Archives of Dermatology reports that of 229 UAlbany students surveyed who were tanners, almost 40 percent could be considered to have an "addiction" to tanning.

The study was conducted by Sharon Danoff-Burg, an assistant professor at UAlbany, and Catherine E. Mosher, a research fellow at Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in NYC. In 2006, they surveyed a pool of more than 400 students at UAlbany. [HealthDay] The students were evaluated for indoor tanning addiction using two measures -- a modified questionnaire that's usually used for screening for alcoholism and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria for substance-related disorders.

Danoff-Burg and Mosher report that of the 229 student who reported going to tanning salons, 39.3 percent met the DSM criteria and 30.6 the questionnaire criteria for addiction to indoor tanning (about 22 percent met the criteria for both screens). [Reuters] Of those scored as being tanning-addicted, 78 percent said they tried to cut down but couldn't. [LAT]

The authors write: "Further research should evaluate the usefulness of incorporating a brief anxiety and depression screening for individuals who tan indoors. Patients with anxiety or depression could be referred to mental health professionals for diagnosis and treatment."

A small study in 2004 reported that tanning appears to have mood-altering effects. And a 2006 study reported that it appeared that the younger a tanner started, the harder it was to quit.

Earlier on AOA: Dan Nester reported in the Daily Beast that there are more than 800 tanning salons in the greater Capital Region.

[via @UAlbanyNews]

* HealthDay reports it was UAlbany -- the study's abstract simply says it was "a large university (approximately 18 000 students) in the northeastern United States" (that's UAlbany's enrollment). We're checking to confirm. Yep, it was UAlbany. We confirmed it with the university.

photo: Flickr user Evil Erin

Saratoga County is healthy

A new set of county-by-county health rankings out this week pegs Saratoga as the second "healthiest" county in New York State.

Here are how the Capital Region counties stack up in the New York rankings, as compiled by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin:

There are 62 counties in New York.

In this case, health outcomes refers to mortality (specifically premature death) and morbidity (people in poor physical health). Each county has its own page, which lists the the stats that contribute to the rankings.

Here are a few things that caught our eye when looking through the details for the Capital Region...

(there's more)

The Scoop

For a decade All Over Albany was a place for interested and interesting people in New York's Capital Region. It was kind of like having a smart, savvy friend who could help you find out what's up. AOA stopped publishing at the end of 2018.

Recently on All Over Albany

Thank you!

When we started AOA a decade ago we had no idea what was going to happen. And it turned out better than we could have... (more)

Let's stay in touch

This all feels like the last day of camp or something. And we're going to miss you all so much. But we'd like to stay... (more)

A few things I think about this place

Working on AOA over the past decade has been a life-changing experience for me and it's shaped the way I think about so many things.... (more)

Albany tightened its rules for shoveling snowy sidewalks last winter -- so how'd that work out?

If winter ever gets its act together and drops more snow on us, there will be sidewalks to shovel. And shortly after that, Albany will... (more)

Tea with Jack McEneny

Last week we were fortunate enough to spend a few minutes with Jack McEneny -- former state Assemblyman, unofficial Albany historian, and genuinely nice guy.... (more)

Recent Comments

My three year old son absolutely loving riding the train around Huck Finn's (Hoffman's) Playland this summer.

Thank you!

...has 27 comments, most recently from Ashley

Let's stay in touch

...has 4 comments, most recently from mg

A look inside 2 Judson Street

...has 3 comments, most recently from Diane (Agans) Boyle

Everything changes: Alicia Lea

...has 2 comments, most recently from Chaz Boyark

A few things I think about this place

...has 13 comments, most recently from Katherine