Flu season is just around the corner and, this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is recommending that anyone over the age of 6 months get the flu vaccine. Many providers and local pharmacies at popular corner drug stores are already making the vaccine available. Get the facts about the flu and the 2010-2011 flu vaccine.

Two new studies have found that exercise and vitamin D can help prevent Alzheimer’s Disease. In a 20 year study of 1,200 residents of Framingham, MA, people who regularly did moderate to heavy exercise were 40% less likely to have Alzheimer’s. Those who did the least physical activity were 45% more likely to develop the disease, of which severe memory loss is a key symptom. In the second study, British researchers found that vitamin D deficiency made subjects 42% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s. While vitamin D is naturally produced in the body, studies have shown that many older Americans don’t have enough of it because the body’s ability to produce the vitamin wears down. These people could benefit from taking vitamin D supplements. Read more.

New research shows that eating healthy is not only good for your heart, it can also be good for your vision. In a recent study of 1,800 women aged 50-79, researchers at the University of Wisconsin found that healthy diets may reduce the chances of developing cataracts by 37%. Elements of a healthy diet that supports general health and eyesight include ample fruites, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins (such as beans, fish, and eggs) and little fat and salt. Avoiding tobacco products lowered the chances of developing cataracts even further. The study also found that certain medications may slightly increase the risk of cataracts for people who are sensitive to sunlight. Read more.

March is colon cancer awareness month. In a statewide show of force against colorectal cancer, American Cancer Society volunteers and advocates will gather Thursday, March 4 in Baton Rouge, Monroe, Alexandria, Shreveport and New Orleans to ask the legislature to continue funding the FIT Colon Project, a program that provides colorectal cancer prevention and early detection screenings to uninsured and underinsured Louisianans. These events are open to the public and all attendees are encouraged to wear blue. For more information or to find an event in your area, email Andrew Muhl at andrew.muhl@cancer.org. To get updates about these activities on Facebook, visit the Louisiana Supports Colon Cancer Prevention Facebook fan page. For more information about colon cancer and risk factors, visit this page.

An aortic aneurysm is a bulging area in the aorta, the main vessel  that carries blood away from the heart to all parts of the body.  Because the aorta is our body’s main supplier of blood, an aortic aneurysm that ruptures can be life-threatening.  Learn more about abdominal aortic aneurysms and free aortic aneurysm screenings taking place in Alexandria, Louisiana December 10 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

High cholesterol greatly increases the risk for heart disease and heart attacks. Following simple nutrition and fitness guidelines and getting a cholesterol blood test every five years beginning at age 20 can help manage cholesterol build up in the body and prevent a heart attack. Learn about what you can do to manage your own cholesterol levels.

The seasonal flu normally begins in September or early October and runs into the spring, but the seasonal flu made an early arrival this year by showing up in August.  While the H1N1 (swine flu) virus vaccine is not yet available to the public, health professionals are advising citizens not to wait to get the seasonal flu shot. Contact your local Office of Public Health to find out where to get the seasonal flu shot or visit www.flula.com for The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals’ Emergency News page for flu related issues. Photo: Inkyhack on Flickr

A medical home offers patients a higher degree of personalized care, as well as continued managment of their health needs. On Saturday, June 13 twelve health clinics in New Orleans will be offering a variety of health screenings and information for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, HIV/AIDS and other conditions to encourage New Orleanians to find a medical home, a crucial component to maintiain good health and manage chronic disease. View the list of participating New Orleans clinics.

Cell phones might not seem like hazardous objects, but when used excessively they may actually produce nerve damage and loss of dexterity. This disorder, officially termed “cubital tunnel syndrome,” can potentially inhibit fine-motor ability. Since the disease is relatively unknown, one woman mistakenly thought her symptoms were merely the result of old age. Learn how to recognize the symptoms of cell phone elbow.      

“Evidence suggests that people who spend long stretches of their days, three hours and more, engrossed in some mental health activities like playing cards may be at reduced risk of developing dementia.” Read the full story from the New York Times.