TABLE OF CONTENTS A message from the Medical Officer of Health for Leeds Grenville and Lanark Eat Well with Canada’s Food Guide Manage your risk for sun safety Prenatal Class Invitation Your child’s first dental visit Hey dad! What do you want to do? Outdoor activities: smog matters ATV safety: ride to live Do you know about HPV? Do you love your job? ______________________________________ A Message from the Medical Officer of Health for Leeds, Grenville and Lanark Submitted by Ann O Carter MD, MHSc, FRCPC, Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer of the Leeds Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as the Medical Officer of Health for Leeds, Grenville and Lanark counties. The essence of public health is prevention so it tends to be invisible to the public when done well. Crises of recent years have raised the profile of the role of public health and its importance and caused the public to focus on the need for protection from communicable diseases when the major burden of illness in our society is from chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer as well as injury. We must protect the community from communicable diseases and also work to prevent the chronic diseases. In order to carry out our duties, we have a strategic plan to cover the years 2006-2010 entitled Moving Upstream. The title refers to the need to move upstream from the actual disease state to prevent disease or, even further upstream, to prevent the factors that lead to disease. These factors are often called the determinants of health and include lifestyle choices, the physical and socioeconomic environment and health care services. The Health Unit has programs dealing with all of these issues. Ultimately, public health is a team effort that succeeds only with cooperation in the community. The Health Unit staff and the Board of Health may be the prime movers in the public health sector but we could never succeed without our partner agencies and the broader community that we serve. I have started going out to meet with those working in our partner agencies to cement relationships and explore new partnerships. I look forward to working with our partners to protect and promote the health of our community. _____________________________________ Eat Well with Canada’s Food Guide Submitted by Meena Parameswaran MAN, RD, Registered Dietitian / Public Health Nutritionist A new version of Canada’s Food Guide was released on February 5, 2007. Eat Well with Canada’s Food Guide has a new look and specific number of servings suggested for various stages of life, including children, adults, older adults, and pregnancy. The new food guide includes information on physical activity, reading food labels, and is packed with messages on general healthy eating. The four food groups in Eat Well with Canada’s Food Guide are Vegetables and Fruit, Grain Products, Milk & Alternatives, and Meat & Alternatives. The Vegetables & Fruit group is now the most prominent food group. Dianne Oickle, Registered Dietitian, points out that “the basic messages of the new Canada’s Food Guide are the same as the previous version – eat more vegetables and fruits, choose high fibre grain products, choose low fat animal based foods, eat a variety of foods from all food groups, and limit foods with added salt, sugar, and fat.” One striking change is the specific number of recommended servings based on age and gender, and the inclusion of children as young as 2 years of age. “People at different stages of life need different amounts of food to meet their nutrient and energy needs,” adds Oickle. The focus on physical activity in Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide draws attention to the fact that eating well and being physically active go hand in hand. “We need to both eat healthy and be active in order to achieve and maintain a healthy weight,” says Oickle. “One won’t work without the other.” Since the new food guide was developed for the whole population, it may be challenging to figure out where an individual’s eating pattern fits within the four food groups. Use the new food guide as a basic tool to help you make healthy choices that you can build upon. The Health Unit will be working on resources to help individuals make healthy food choices that are less expensive, easy to prepare, accessible, and adapted to eating patterns and activity levels. If you would like free resources or more information on Eat Well with Canada’s Food Guide, food label reading, or making healthy lifestyle choices, contact the Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit’s Health Action Line at 1-800-660-5853 or 613-345-5685. You can also visit our website at www.healthunit.org/nutrition _____________________________________ Manage your risk for sun safety Submitted by Bonnie Schnittker R.N., P.H.N., Public Health Nurse, Health Promotion There has been an increase of over 20% in the number of skin cancers in the decade from 1992 to 2001 in Canada. The rates are still increasing. The economic burden of skin cancer was estimated (2004) to be $15 Million: direct (medical) cost and indirect (lost work, production, etc.) costs. The main risk factor for skin cancer is ultraviolet (UV) radiation – from natural sun or artificial sources such as in sunlamps and tanning beds. You have been trained in your job to manage job related risks. There are protective devices such as safety glasses, gloves, steel toe shoes, etc., plus policies and procedures to follow. Use the following tips to manage your risk of skin cancer. Reduce exposure to the sun’s UV radiation: -between 11 am and 4 pm -when the UV Index is 3 or more Seek shade or create your own shade -Work and take breaks in the shade. Where no shade exists, use temporary portable shade such as tents, canopies, roof overhangs, etc -Share outdoor tasks and rotate staff so the same person is not always out in the sun Slip! On clothing to cover your arms and legs -Choose lightweight, closely woven material and loose fitting to keep cool in the heat -Shirts should have collars -Cover as much skin as possible Slap! On a wide-brimmed hat -A hat should shade your face, ears and neck -If wearing a hardhat or helmet, use a brim attachment and a legionnaire cover Slide! On some sunglasses -Your eyes can be damaged by the sun’s UV radiation -Wear close fitting, wrap around style sunglasses -Lenses should state they protect from both UVB and UVA rays Slop! On a Sunscreen with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) #15 or higher -No sunscreen provides complete protection, so never rely on sunscreen alone -Choose sunscreen that is a broad spectrum for both UVB and UVA -Apply generous amounts to all exposed skin areas 20 minutes before UV exposure -Check expiry date of your sunscreen By following these tips you are now well on your way to managing your risk of skin cancer. For further information contact the Health Action Line at 1-800-660-5853 and speak with a Public Health Nurse. Remember: -use these six steps together for the best protection -only you can take action against skin cancer -it takes only a few minutes each day _____________________________________ YOU ARE INVITED WHO: Pregnant women and partners/support person WHAT: Prenatal Classes WHEN: Weeknight & weekend classes offered throughout the year WHERE: Brockville, Gananoque, Kemptville,Smiths Falls, Perth, Carleton Place, Almonte WHY: To learn about labour and delivery, nutrition, lifestyle changes, infant feeding, exercise, relaxation, newborn care, etc. BONUS: Newly Revised Content New Videos New Handouts Register early to give your baby the best start possible! Almonte (613) 256-1203 Brockville (613) 345-5685 Gananoque (613) 382-4231 Kemptville (613) 258-5941 Smiths Falls (613) 283-2740 Health Action Line 1-800-660-5853 _____________________________________ Your child’s first dental visit Submitted by Jill Hicks, RDH, Registered Dental Hygienist Parents are often unsure when they should take their child for their first dental visit. Should you wait until your child has all of their teeth? Should you wait until you detect a problem or your child reports discomfort? The answers to these questions are no. The Canadian Dental Association recommends that infants have a dental examination by one year of age. The reason for this timing is prevention – the child can visit the dentist before there is a problem, and parents can learn how to care for their children’s teeth. No matter what your child’s age, parents should prepare their children for their first dental experience. Parents should encourage excitement about the visit, and avoid instilling fear or anxiety. Here are some ways that you can help make your child’s first dental appointment a great one: -find a dental office that provides a kid-friendly environment with patient and caring staff -schedule a “fun” visit to the office prior to the examination for your child to take a tour of the office, a ride in the dental chair, and see the dental equipment the dental team will use to check their teeth -take your child to one of your dental hygiene appointments so they can watch -read them a story about going to the dentist -play dentist at home – take turns counting each others teeth with a flashlight -bring a favourite teddy to the appointment so the dentist can count and check their “teeth” first -explain everything that is going to happen, and avoid using words that may scare your child -avoid caffeine and sugary foods before a dental appointment -schedule short appointments (15-30 min) to build trust and avoid boredom and fussiness -never force your child to do something they are not comfortable with – reschedule the visit and try again at a later date A big part of preparing your child for the first appointment is knowing what to expect yourself. At the age of one year, the examination is usually quite simple. The main goal is to have a look at the teeth and gums. The dentist or dental hygienist will use a bright light and mouth mirror to count and check the teeth. They will be looking for any signs of Early Childhood Caries (tooth decay). This first visit provides a great opportunity to teach parents how to lift the lip at home to check for cavities, brush and floss, and make food choices for healthy teeth. The use of fluoride may also be discussed. Do not worry if your child is hesitant at the first visit. Just remember that you have the power to create positive dental attitudes for a lifetime. Starting with good oral hygiene from birth, matched with the first dental visit by age one, there is no question you will be making good decisions for your child’s oral health. For more inquiries about your child’s dental health, and programs to help families requiring financial assistance for dental treatment, contact the Dental Department of the Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit at 613-345-5685 or 1-800-660-5853. _____________________________________ Hey dad! What do you want to do? Submitted by Danielle Shewfelt B.N.Sc., R.N., Public Health Nurse Hey Dad! Are you looking for something to do with your kids? Why not explore the local trails? Getting active with your kids will teach them that physical activity is a fun social event that is also good for their health. What can you do on the trails? -Walk/Hike -Bike -Run -Rollerblade -Horseback ride -Canoe -Kayak -Snow shoe -Cross Country Ski What different kinds of trails are there? -Natural rustic trails -Boardwalks -Village trails -Paved pathways -Water routes (lakes and rivers) -Rocky and mountainous trails -Conservation areas -Historical trails To find out what trails there are near you check out our website at www.healthunit.org or pick up a free Try Our Trails trail guide that highlights 20 local trails in Leeds Grenville and Lanark. They are available at your nearest Health Unit office or you can call 1-800-660-5853 to order a copy. What are some tips to follow when on the trails? Common Sense -Know the trail rules and regulations -Respect signage and property -Stay on the trail -Know when to Yield- motorized yield to non-motorized, cyclists yield to other non-motorized users (unless cyclist is climbing a hill) and hikers yield to horses -Travel on the right and pass on the left Communication -Make others aware of your presence with a friendly greeting -Warn others of trail dangers or conditions Courtesy -Get owners permission when on private land -Avoid trails when wet and muddy (protect natural vegetation) -Leave wildlife and plants where they are -Bring out what you bring in (e.g., paper, food wrappers, cans) -Avoid causing environmental damage -Keep pets on a leash and stoop and scoop Safety -Wear reflective clothing and carry a whistle -Be aware of your surroundings -Wear an insect repellent, a hat and sunscreen -Wear appropriate clothing and safety gear for your activity -Carry a map and ID -Bring water and a snack -Stay together, know your limits and your kids’ limits _____________________________________ Outdoor activities: smog matters Information from Ontario Ministry of Health and Environment   Physical exercise and smog don’t mix.  Protect your health when air quality is poor. While air pollution is a year-round problem, smog levels are generally highest during hot, sunny days from May to September - when we most spend time outdoors. Staying healthy is important, and exercising outdoors when air quality is good is a great way to stay fit. You should be aware of some of the risks of exercising when air quality is poor and plan your routine accordingly. Smog affects your body.   Smog can affect everyone’s health, but health risks may increase during high smog levels for those who play sports or exercise outdoors such as cyclists, runners, and others active outdoors. When you exercise outdoors, you breathe harder than normal, inhaling more polluted air into your lungs. This can lead to the following symptoms even in healthy, active people such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness and coughing, headache, eye, nose and throat irritation, aggravation of respiratory diseases (such as asthma), and low energy.  In addition to those who play sports or exercise outdoors, other groups may experience adverse health effects at lower levels of air pollution i e. people with lung diseases and heart conditions, children, pregnant women, people with asthma, seniors, and smokers. How do we staying active during smog days? Listen and watch for smog alerts on the radio or TV especially during traditional smog season (from May to September). You can also subscribe to Ontario’s Smog Alert Network at www.airqualityontario.com and receive free smog notifications by e-mail. If a Smog Advisory is issued in your community, consider tailoring your activities accordingly: Avoid or reduce strenuous physical outdoor activities when smog levels are high, especially during the late afternoon. Do not exert yourself outdoors. Shift from vigorous activity levels (i.e. jogging outdoors) to moderate or light activity levels (e.g., brisk or slow pace walking). Consider exercising indoors in a smoke-free environment. Avoid congested streets and rush hour traffic, sources of air pollution. Anyone experiencing respiratory symptoms should reduce their level of activity. If you experience any breathing difficulties or respiratory complications, contact your physician or go to the nearest hospital. If you have a heart or lung condition, talk to your health care professional about additional ways to protect your health when smog levels are high. To find the current air quality in your community go to www.airqualityontario.com or call 1-800-387-7768 (English). Reduce Smog, Reduce the Risk Whenever we burn fuel, we create the pollutants necessary to form smog. We burn oil and gas to power our cars and to heat and cool our homes. It is important to remember that much of Ontario’s electricity is generated by burning fossil fuels, so reducing your energy consumption helps prevent smog. Here are some actions you can take to reduce smog: At home,  You can conserve electricity by adjusting the heat or air conditioner and turning off lights you are not using, and limit the amount of wood you burn in your fireplace or wood stove. When burning wood, use only the dry, seasoned variety.  Avoid letting your car, or any other engine idle for long periods.  Restrict your use of gasoline-powered equipment.  Avoid mowing the lawn when air quality is poor.  Don’t use oil-based products such as paints, solvents or cleaners if you can avoid them. They contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to smog. Get engine tune-ups and car maintenance checks as advised by the car manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. At work, If possible take public transit or walk to work.  If you use a car, don’t travel alone; encourage and facilitate carpooling. Avoid traffic congestion.  Consider teleconferencing, instead of travelling to meetings. For more information on the impacts of smog on your health, visit www.health.gov.on.ca/english/public/pub/pubhealth/smog.html Ministry of Health of Ontario [Online]. Outdoor activities: smog matters. 2005 June {cited 2005 June 22?]; [2 screens]. Available from: URL:http://www.ene.gov.on.ca/envision/air/smog/pdfs/5097e.pdf _____________________________________ ATV SAFETY: RIDE TO LIVE All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) have increased in popularity in Ontario with retail sales between 1997 and 2001 more than tripling (Ontario Trauma Registry Analytic Bulletin-December 2003). This rapid growth of ATV use has led to an increase in injuries, the majority of these occurring in males (smartrisk, 2004). Alcohol, lack of safety helmet, speed, and inexperience are all factors leading to an increase in injuries. Most injuries are predictable and can be prevented by following these messages developed by the SMARTRISK Foundation (www.smartrisk.ca). Look First -Ride in designated areas only. Be respectful of the environment and landowners. -Be courteous to other trail users and yield appropriately. -Take extra care on rough terrain. Be aware of rollover hazards. -Be cautious at all railway crossings Wear the Gear -Always wear a government approved helmet, eye protection (goggles or face shield) and protective -clothing (boots, gloves, pants, long sleeves). -Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for passengers. -Bring a cell phone for emergency use. Get Trained -Take an approved ATV driver's training course. -Know Ontario's Legislation and Regulations. (http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/orv.htm) -Keep your ATV well maintained. -Drive responsibly and follow the area bylaws and speed limits. Stay Sober -Alcohol, drugs, medications, fatigue and distractions impair your judgement, coordination, and reaction time. Be fully attentive to the demands of ATV driving. -For more information on the legal consequences of impairment and operating an off-road vehicle, refer to this website: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/orv.htm By following these clear, simple, positive messages, more people will be able to enjoy exploring the outdoors while staying safe! _____________________________________ Do You Know About HPV? Submitted by Martina Flanagan R.N., B.Sc.N., Public Health Nurse What is HPV? The human papillomavirus or HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world today. Some types of the HPV virus are considered “low risk” and can cause genital and anal warts. Other types of HPV are considered “high risk” and can cause pre-cancerous lesions and cancer in the cervix and anus. How do you get HPV? The HPV virus can infect anyone who has ever had a sexual encounter. The most common transmission is by skin-to-skin contact with scrotum, vagina, vulva or anus of an infected person. Kissing or touching genitals with the mouth can also transmit the HPV virus. Although using a condom is an excellent method of protection against all sexually transmitted infections, condoms cannot cover all of the skin surfaces around the genitals and anus. It does not guarantee complete protection against HPV. Also, the more sexual partners you have, the higher the risk of contracting HPV. How do you know if you have HPV? Most people do not have any signs or symptoms and will never know they have been infected by the HPV virus. There is also no test to confirm the presence of the HPV virus. When a person learns that they have genital warts, they then know that they have contracted the virus. If the virus persists, especially the high risk types of HPV, the person may develop pre-cancerous lesions of the cervix or cancer. For women, the Pap test is an effective way to detect any changes in the cervix before it becomes cancer. Can you prevent HPV? _____________________________________ Do you love your job? Submitted by Ginny Ferguson, R.N., B.Sc.N., Public Health Nurse Chances are, if you enjoy your work, and feel respected and appreciated, probably your workplace is promoting comprehensive workplace heath in your workplace. Comprehensive workplace health promotion (CWHP) focuses on enhancing and supporting the health of employees, and the organization as a whole. Current evidence supports comprehensive workplace health promotion as the key to an effective, efficient and healthy workplace. Benefits abound to both the employees and employer. To be most effective, this comprehensive approach must involve staff at all levels including management. Initiatives should respond to the expressed needs of the employees and the priorities of the organization. The three main components which ensure a comprehensive approach are: occupational health and safety, organizational change, and healthy lifestyle practices. What are the benefits to the employee and the organization? -Improved productivity -Fewer injuries -Fewer insurance claims -Reduced absenteeism -Reduced staff turnover / increased employee retention -Increased staff morale -Increased ability of staff to cope with organizational change -Increased health and wellness of employees -Enhanced recruitment of new staff, and -Enhanced community profile Comprehensive workplace health promotion is a win – win situation for both the employee and the employer. Do you want a happier and healthier and more productive workplace? Then invest in and promote a comprehensive workplace health program in your workplace. For further information on comprehensive workplace health promotion contact the Health Communication Unit at www.thcu.ca or the National Quality Institute at www.nqi.ca or contact your local Health Unit or call 1-800-660-5853. -You will not be infected by HPV if you have never had any sexual skin-to-skin contact. -You will limit your exposure to HPV virus if you have had skin-to-skin sexual contact with only one person. -The risk of getting HPV virus increases when you have more than one sexual partner. -Using condoms will provide some protection against HPV. Since condoms do not cover all the skin around the genitals, there is some risk. -Vaccination can prevent infection with some “high risk” types of HPV, thereby protecting against cancer of the cervix, vulva and vagina. What about the vaccine Gardasil? In July 2006, Health Canada approved a vaccine that protects against four high risk strains of HPV. The vaccine is currently for females between 9 and 26 years of age. Three doses are needed over a six month period. The vaccine offers protection for at least five years. Until the vaccine is publicly funded, patients must pay for the vaccine, which costs $400 - $500 for the three doses. For more information, go to www.hpvinfo.ca and “Spread the word … not the disease”. _____________________________________