Patrick McCormack

More than a Resolution: Embrace Mini Habits for Year-Round Well-Being

by
couple jogging

Let’s be honest: most of our New Year’s Resolutions fizzle by February. Gym memberships gather dust,  the kale wilts in the refrigerator, and initiatives such as “Dry January” fade like a forgotten dream. But what if, instead of crash diets and drastic reforms, we embraced mini habits for lasting healthy change?

Forget the all-or-nothing approach. Tiny, sustainable tweaks to your daily routine can have a powerful cumulative effect on your physical and mental well-being. Think of it like building a brick wall; each small brick laid consistently contributes to a strong, lasting structure.

Here’s how to ditch the January-only mindset and cultivate healthy habits year-round

  1. Start Small, Start Specific: Don’t overwhelm yourself with ambitious goals. Begin with one tiny change you can realistically incorporate into your day. Instead of vowing for daily gym visits, commit to a 10-minute walk during your lunch break. Choose a habit that excites you, not one that feels like punishment.
  2. Track & Celebrate: Keep a simple habit tracker (bullet journal, app, etc.) to visualize your progress. Seeing those checkmarks adds up and fuels motivation. Celebrate your mini-victories, no matter how small. Reward yourself with a healthy treat, a relaxing soak, or anything reinforcing your positive choices.
  3. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection: There will be slip-ups. Don’t let them derail you! View setbacks as learning opportunities, not failures. Forgive yourself, recommit to your mini habit, and move forward. Remember, progress, not perfection, is the key to lasting change.

Simple Habit Ideas for Year-Round Wellness

  • Hydration Hero: Set reminders to sip water throughout the day. Infuse it with fruits or herbs for added flavor.
  • Movement Minute: Take the stairs, do some stretches during breaks, or park further away to add movement to your day.
  • Sleep Sanctuary: Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep.
  • Mindful Meals: Savor your food, chew slowly, and avoid distractions while eating.
  • Tech Timeout: Schedule times to disconnect from screens and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.
  • Gratitude Glow: Reflect on three things you’re grateful for daily. Start a gratitude journal to boost happiness.
  • Nature Nurture: Spend time outdoors, even just a few minutes in your backyard. Breathe in the fresh air and soak up the sunshine.

Remember, minor changes add up to significant results. Embrace the journey, celebrate your progress, and cultivate healthy habits that last a lifetime. You deserve to feel your best all year round!

 

RECALL ALERT: Children’s Rhinestone Silver Tiaras Found to Contain Lead

by

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced the recall of about 12,400 Yaomaio children’s rhinestone silver tiaras because they contain lead levels above the federal limit. The tiara with red rhinestones was sold in a package with three other tiara styles (blue, purple, and clear) that are not included in the recall. All four tiaras came in the same cardboard packaging marked “Yaomaio.” Amazon sold them between January 2021 and November 2023 for about $19 a package. Consumers should immediately take the recalled tiaras away from their children, stop using them, and contact LordRoadS for a refund. LordRoadS and Amazon are contacting all known purchasers.

recalled tiara

 

Name of Product: Yaomiao Children’s Rhinestone Silver Tiaras
Hazard: The rhinestones embedded in the recalled tiaras contain levels of lead that exceed the federal lead content ban. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
Remedy: Refund
Recall Date: January 25, 2024
Units: About 12,440

Flu Update: Nearly 80 New Influenza Cases Reported Last Week (Jan. 20)

by

78 new influenza cases have been identified in the 11 cities and towns of the Uncas Health District this flu season, according to January 20, 2024, data from the Connecticut Department of Health. This week’s reported numbers bring the flu season total to 347 cases in the district.

Those aged 18-49 years old represent the largest group for positive flu cases, comprising 117 of the 347 total cases reported.  5-17-year-olds and 50-64-year-olds each reported 70 cases, followed by 65+ (57 cases) and 0-4 (33 cases).

It is important to note that influenza cases are only reported if there is a hospitalization or if the positive test comes from a minor.

chart reporting 347 flu cases in the district this season

The colder months bring an increased risk of influenza, but getting vaccinated now can safeguard your health. The flu vaccine is essential for protecting individuals from potentially severe complications, especially for high-risk groups like:

  • People 65 and older
  • Individuals with chronic health conditions (heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, asthma)
  • Pregnant women
  • Children under 5
  • Those caring for or living with high-risk individuals

Flu vaccines are safe, effective, and proven to prevent millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and thousands of deaths annually.

If you haven’t already, prioritize getting vaccinated, especially if you fall into a high-risk group. It’s not too late to protect yourself and others from the flu’s impact.

Vaccination is a proactive step towards a healthier community. Choose prevention and navigate the winter with greater resilience. Let’s work together to minimize the flu’s impact this season.

Find Our Mobile Health Team

 

Flu Update: Sharp Rise in Cases Among School-Aged Children (Jan. 13)

by

269 influenza cases have been identified in the 11 cities and towns of the Uncas Health District this flu season, according to January 13, 2024, data from the Connecticut Department of Health. This week’s reported numbers mark a sharp increase in cases from the reporting period ending January 6, 2024.

A majority of reported cases were among those aged 18-49 and 5-17.

It is important to note that influenza cases are only reported if there is a hospitalization or if the positive test comes from a minor.

The colder months bring an increased risk of influenza, but getting vaccinated now can safeguard your health. The flu vaccine is essential for protecting individuals from potentially severe complications, especially for high-risk groups like:

  • People 65 and older
  • Individuals with chronic health conditions (heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, asthma)
  • Pregnant women
  • Children under 5
  • Those caring for or living with high-risk individuals

Flu vaccines are safe, effective, and proven to prevent millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and thousands of deaths annually.

If you haven’t already, prioritize getting vaccinated, especially if you fall into a high-risk group. It’s not too late to protect yourself and others from the flu’s impact.

Vaccination is a proactive step towards a healthier community. Choose prevention and navigate the winter with greater resilience. Let’s work together to minimize the flu’s impact this season.

Find Our Mobile Health Team

Winter Safety: Tips for Snow Removal and Cold Exposure

by
man shoveling snow

Winter has fully arrived in Eastern Connecticut — making it important to understand that shoveling snow requires proper precautions to prevent health consequences. By adopting safe practices and remaining vigilant about potential hazards, you can navigate the season safely and comfortably.

Protecting Yourself from Overexertion:

Shoveling is strenuous: Recognize that clearing snow is a physically demanding activity, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Don’t underestimate the strain it can place on your cardiovascular system.

Pace yourself: Avoid attempting to tackle the entire snowfall at once. Take frequent breaks, even if it’s just for a few minutes, to catch your breath and rehydrate. Listen to your body and stop if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.

Warm-up and cool down: Don’t shovel on an empty stomach or immediately after waking up. Engage in light stretches and movements to warm up your muscles beforehand. Similarly, after shoveling, take some time to cool down gradually before entering a warm environment.

Ensuring Proper Attire:

Layering is key: Opt for multiple layers of clothing to trap and retain body heat. Choose breathable base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a windproof and waterproof outer shell. Don’t forget your extremities – thick socks, waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat are essential.

Avoid cotton: Cotton absorbs moisture and loses insulating properties when wet. Opt for synthetic or wool materials that wick away sweat and keep you warm even if they get damp.

Cover vulnerable areas: Pay particular attention to protecting your ears, nose, fingers, and toes. These areas are susceptible to frostbite due to their limited blood circulation.

Recognizing and Addressing Cold-Related Emergencies:

Hypothermia: Be aware of the warning signs of hypothermia, such as shivering, slurred speech, confusion, and drowsiness. If you suspect someone is experiencing hypothermia, seek immediate medical attention. Move them to a warm environment, remove wet clothing, and cover them with blankets.

Frostbite: Tingling, numbness, and white, waxy skin are indicators of frostbite. Seek medical attention promptly. Do not rub the affected area, as this can worsen the injury.

Additional Safety Measures:

Choose your shovel wisely: A lightweight, ergonomically designed shovel can significantly reduce strain on your back and shoulders.

Push, don’t lift: Whenever possible, push the snow instead of lifting it. This minimizes the risk of back injuries.

Stay hydrated: Even in cold weather, dehydration can impact your health. Regularly sip warm fluids to maintain proper hydration levels.

Check on vulnerable neighbors: Be mindful of elderly residents or individuals with disabilities who may require assistance with clearing snow.

Flu Update: Influenza Cases Continue to Rise as New Year Begins (Jan. 6)

by

Nearly 200 influenza cases have been identified in the 11 cities and towns of the Uncas Health District this flu season, according to January 6, 2023, data from the Connecticut Department of Health. This week’s reported numbers mark an increase of 29 cases from the reporting period ending December 30, 2023 — and a total of 196 cases over the entire flu season.

A majority of reported cases were among those aged 18-49 and 65+.

It is important to note that influenza cases are only reported if there is a hospitalization or if the positive test comes from a minor.

flu numbers week 1 flu by age

As we enter the colder winter months, we may see a rise in cases of the influenza virus. However, there’s still time to bolster your defenses and keep yourself healthy.

The flu vaccine remains a crucial tool in protecting individuals from the potentially severe complications of influenza. Its importance is particularly amplified for those at higher risk, including:

  • Individuals 65 years of age and older
  • Those with chronic health conditions like heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or asthma
  • Pregnant women
  • Children under five years old
  • Individuals who live with or care for those at high risk

Fortunately, flu vaccines are both safe and effective. With their ability to prevent millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and thousands of deaths each year, according to the CDC, they represent a powerful line of defense against the virus.

Therefore, we encourage everyone, especially those in the aforementioned high-risk groups, to prioritize getting vaccinated if they haven’t already. It’s not too late to shield yourself and those around you from the potential impact of the flu.

Remember, vaccination is a proactive step towards a healthier community. Let’s collectively choose prevention and navigate the winter months with greater resilience.

Find Our Mobile Health Team

 

 

 

January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month — What You Need to Know

by
woman with cervical cancer ribbon

January marks National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. The American Cancer Society estimated there will have been about 13,960 new cases of invasive cancer diagnosed, and about 4,310 women will have died from cervical cancer in 2023. The 2020 CDC data for Connecticut shows there were 96 cases reported, equaling a cervical cancer rate of 4.8 per 100,000 women.

Anyone with a cervix is at risk for cervical cancer, increasing in people over the age of 30. Certain types of HPV are the main cause of cervical cancer. Screening tests and the HPV vaccine can help reduce the risk of cervical cancer. Click here to see more information about cervical cancer risk.

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer starts in the cells lining the cervix — the lower part of the uterus (womb).

The cervix connects the body of the uterus (the upper part where a fetus grows) to the vagina (birth canal). Cancer starts when cells in the body begin to grow out of control.

The cervix is made of two parts and is covered with two different types of cells.

  • The endocervix is the opening of the cervix that leads into the uterus. It is covered with glandular cells.
  • The exocervix (or ectocervix) is the outer part of the cervix that can be seen by the doctor during a speculum exam. It is covered in squamous cells.

The place where these two cell types meet in the cervix is called the transformation zone. The exact location of the transformation zone changes as you get older and if you give birth. Most cervical cancers begin in the cells in the transformation zone.

Cervical Cancer Symptoms

Cervical cancer may not present with signs or symptoms in its early stages. Advanced cervical can cause bleeding or discharge from the vagina that is not normal for you. The best way to reduce risk is to see your doctor regularly, comply with screening recommendations, and report anything to your doctor that is not normal for you. See the attached documents for more detailed information.

Types of Treatment

If you are diagnosed with cervical cancer, you will be referred to a gynecologic oncologist to develop a treatment plan. Cervical cancer is treated in several ways. It depends on the kind of cervical cancer and how far it has spread. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

  • Surgery: Doctors remove cancer tissue in an operation.
  • Chemotherapy: Using special medicines to shrink or kill the cancer. The drugs can be pills you take or medicines given in your veins, or sometimes both.
  • Radiation: Using high-energy rays (similar to X-rays) to kill the cancer.

 Insurance and Income: For those who are concerned they cannot afford care

Screening and treatment are covered under most insurance policies. But what if you, or someone you know, is uninsured or underinsured and cannot afford care? In Connecticut, the DPH has the Connecticut Early Detection & Prevention Program (CEDPP).

The CEDPP is an integrated program that brings breast and cervical cancer screening together with the WISEWOMAN, Colorectal Cancer, and Comprehensive Cancer programs, which helps promote healthy lifestyles for Connecticut Residents in order to decrease breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers, heart disease, hypertension, and other avoidable diseases. If you, or someone you know, needs to receive screening but cannot afford it, please go to the Early Detection and Prevention Program website to determine eligibility.

Cervical Cancer Facts

 

Flu Update: Reported Cases Exceed 160 Before Year-End (Dec. 30)

by

163 influenza cases have been identified in the 11 cities and towns of the Uncas Health District this flu season, according to December 30, 2023, data from the Connecticut Department of Health. This week’s reported numbers mark an increase of 30 cases from the reporting period ending December 23, 2023.

A majority of reported cases were among those aged 18-49 and 50-64.

It is important to note that influenza cases are only reported if there is a hospitalization or if the positive test comes from a minor.

flu cases increase flu cases by age

As we enter the new year, we may unfortunately see a rise in cases of the influenza virus in the coming weeks. The increase is often attributed to increased social interactions and travel during this period. However, there’s still time to bolster your defenses and keep yourself healthy!

The flu vaccine remains a crucial tool in protecting individuals from the potentially severe complications of influenza. Its importance is particularly amplified for those at higher risk, including:

  • Individuals 65 years of age and older
  • Those with chronic health conditions like heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or asthma
  • Pregnant women
  • Children under five years old
  • Individuals who live with or care for those at high risk

Fortunately, flu vaccines are both safe and effective. With their ability to prevent millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and thousands of deaths each year, according to the CDC, they represent a powerful line of defense against the virus.

Therefore, we encourage everyone, especially those in the aforementioned high-risk groups, to prioritize getting vaccinated if they haven’t already. It’s not too late to shield yourself and those around you from the potential impact of the flu.

Remember, vaccination is a proactive step towards a healthier community. Let’s collectively choose prevention and navigate the winter months with greater resilience.

Check Out Our Events Page

Flu Update: 133 Reported Cases in District This Flu Season (Dec. 23)

by

133 influenza cases have been identified in the 11 cities and towns of the Uncas Health District this flu season, according to December 23, 2023, data from the Connecticut Department of Health. This week’s reported numbers mark an increase of 19 cases from the reporting period ending December 16, 2023.

It is important to note that influenza cases are only reported if there is a hospitalization or if the positive test comes from a minor.

It is likely that we will experience an increase in reports over the next week or so that will likely be related to holiday gatherings and travel. If you have not yet received your flu vaccine, it’s not too late.

Flu vaccination is especially important for people who are at high risk for complications from the flu, such as:

  • People 65 years of age and older
  • People with chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or asthma
  • Pregnant women
  • Children younger than five years old
  • People who live with or care for people at high risk for complications from the flu

Flu vaccines are safe and effective. The CDC estimates that flu vaccination prevents millions of flu illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and thousands of deaths each year.

 

 

Power Down: Your Guide to Staying Safe When the Lights Go Out

by
gas generator in garage with gas cans

When the power goes out, and you’re left in the dark; a trusty generator can save the day. However, before firing up this powerful machine, remember that generators, while helpful, require careful use and caution. Neglecting safety can lead to serious health hazards and even death.

Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer

One of the biggest threats posed by generators is carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless gas produced by combustion. Inhaling CO can be deadly, silently sneaking into your home through open windows or doorways, replacing oxygen in your bloodstream, and robbing your body of vital energy.

Safety Tips:

  • Never run a generator indoors, in garages, basements, or any enclosed space.

  • Place the generator at least 20 feet away from your house, downwind if possible.

  • Install battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors in your home, near bedrooms and living areas.

  • Test your CO detectors monthly and replace batteries regularly.

  • If you experience dizziness, headache, nausea, or weakness, seek fresh air immediately and call emergency services.

Electrocution: Shocking Dangers

Generators generate electricity, and that means potential for shock. Improper use can lead to serious injury or even death.

Safety Tips:

  • Only operate the generator on a dry, level surface.

  • Keep the generator dry and avoid running it in rain or wet conditions.

  • Do not touch the generator with wet hands.

  • Use properly grounded, heavy-duty extension cords specifically designed for outdoor use.

  • Never connect a generator directly to your home’s electrical system. This can back feed electricity to the grid, endangering utility workers and others.

Beyond the Generator: General Power Outage Precautions

While safety during generator use is paramount, don’t forget additional precautions while the power is out:

  • Fire Safety: Use flashlights or battery-powered lamps instead of candles. Keep fire extinguishers close at hand.

  • Food Safety: Refrigerated and frozen food may spoil quickly. Keep coolers on hand and pack them with ice to preserve perishables.

  • Medical Needs: If you rely on medical equipment requiring electricity, have a backup plan in place, such as battery-powered devices or alternative care arrangements.

  • Communication: Stay informed about the outage and potential restoration times through battery-powered radios or online sources accessible on your phone.

Remembering these safety tips and general precautions can help you navigate power outages with confidence and keep yourself and your loved ones safe. When darkness descends, let common sense and caution guide your way until the lights come back on.

Bonus Tip: Invest in a generator transfer switch installed by a qualified professional. This allows you to safely connect your generator to your home’s electrical system, providing backup power without the risk of backfeeding.

Stay safe, stay informed, and remember, even when the lights are out, knowledge is your brightest power source.

Learn more about Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from the CDC.

Skip to content