YOUR PCP: TAKE TIME TO CHOOSE WISELYTAI CHI: EXPLORE THIS ANCIENT MARTIAL ARTALZHEIMER’S: DOES GENDER PLAY A ROLE? brownandtoland.com

HealthLinkY O U R C O N N E C T I O N T O H E A LT H Y L I V I N G | FA L L 2 0 1 4

From Shore to ShoreBAY AREA BEACHES ARE GREAT OPTIONS FOR BIG FUN AND HEALTH-PROMOTING OUTINGS

About Brown & TolandWe’ve been providing

personalized care to

Bay Area patients for

more than 20 years.

With a wide network

of acclaimed primary

care physicians and

specialists practicing

where you live and

work, we’re local care

you can count on.

DOES HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE LEAD TO MEMORY TROUBLE?

High blood pressure (hypertension) doesn’t just increase your risk of heart

attack and stroke. It could also dull your memory, according to new research

published in the journal Neurology. Scientists compared the blood pressure

of more than 4,000 people in Reykjavik, Iceland, which was taken when they

were in their 50s, with readings taken again in their mid-70s. Brain scans

showed that those who had hypertension in middle age had less gray matter

and got 10% lower memory scores. Those who developed hypertension at an

older age were at risk for brain lesions.

You can get your blood pressure checked for free at St. Mary’s Medical

Center and at the Mission YMCA (offered by the Community Health Resource

Center). For more info, see page 14.

READY FOR MEDICARE?You’re almost 65, or perhaps you’re older, and planning to navigate Medicare may seem

overwhelming. Here are answers to a few questions to help you get started.

What is Medicare?

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 or older, or younger than 65 with certain

disabilities. It consists of four parts: Part A (hospital costs), Part B (doctor and outpatient care), Part C

(Medicare Advantage, which combines hospital, doctor, outpatient care and usually prescription drugs)

and Part D (prescription drugs only).

How do I know if I qualify?

Most people age 65 and older qualify for Medicare if they have made payroll contributions for 10 or more

years. If you’re already getting Social Security, you’ll automatically get Part A and Part B starting the first

day of the month you turn 65.

When can I enroll in Medicare?

The Medicare open enrollment period is Oct. 15–Dec. 7, effective Jan. 1 of the following year. For first-

timers, there is a seven-month initial enrollment period that starts three months before they turn 65, the

month they turn 65 and three months after their 65th birthday.

For more information on Medicare, please call Brown & Toland Physicians at 866.488.7088 or visit

www.brownandtoland.com/medicare.

2 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

LINKUPS

When you’re choosing a PCP, experts advise you to do your

homework and find someone who matches your preferences (train-

ing, bedside manner, gender, age, etc.). Other things to consider:

✓ Does the doctor belong to your health insurance plan?

✓ Is the practice conveniently located with ample parking?

✓ Which hospital(s) does the doctor use? Are you comfortable

with the possibility of being treated there if the need arises?

✓ Where are routine lab tests and X-rays conducted (in the office

or at an outside facility)?

✓ How long do you have to wait for an appointment after you call?

If you have an urgent need, can you be seen on the same day?

✓ Does a doctor or nurse return your call in a timely manner when

you have a question about your care?

✓ Who covers for the doctor when he/she is away? Where/whom

do you call about a problem after hours?

✓ Does the physician prefer to manage most of your care or does

he/she frequently refer patients to specialists?

For help finding a Brown & Toland primary care physician,

visit www.brownandtoland.com/get-care/find-a-doctor.

For PCP, search “Internal Medicine.” Sources: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus, www.mayoclinic.org,

www.webmd.com, www.everydayhealth.com

Did you know that Americans spend more time figuring out what

new car to buy than they do choosing a doctor? That was one of the

findings of recent research conducted by Harris Interactive, which

involved more than 7,600 U.S. adults in 27 metropolitan areas.

Everyone should have a primary care physician (PCP), experts

say, so don’t underestimate the importance of this decision. After

all, your PCP is your main healthcare provider for nonemergencies.

He or she teaches healthy lifestyle choices, provides counseling

and preventive care, treats common medical conditions, assesses

the urgency of your medical problems and, when necessary,

makes referrals to specialists.

Primary care providers include a variety of practitioners, such as:

Family practitioners—treat kids and adults of all ages; practice

may include obstetrics and minor surgery.

Pediatricians—treat kids of varied ages, from newborns to

adolescents.

Internists—treat adults of all ages for a wide range of medical

problems.

OB-GYNs—often are a PCP for women, especially those of child-

bearing age.

Nurse practitioners and physician assistants—in some prac-

tices, may be your key contact.

Choose Your Primary Care PhysicianHere’s useful info and a checklist to help you with this important decision

F a l l 2 0 1 4 3

HOW TO

4 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

INSIDER’S GUIDE

Tales of Tai ChiGet insights on health benefits of this ancient martial art from a Bay Area practitioner and author

Slow and dancelike, tai chi is a graceful way to relax, exercise and improve physical balance. To find out more about

this Chinese martial art, we spoke to Jan Diepersloot, Bay Area tai chi teacher and author of Masters of Perception

(www.warriorsofstillness.com), for a firsthand account of his development as a serious tai chi practitioner.

You’ve been a practitioner of tai chi since

the 1970s, taught classes of your own and

in hospitals and rec centers. What was your

initial attraction and what’s kept you at it?

From the very beginning, it was a very power-

ful experience. You feel relaxed, alert, you’re

in the present moment. A sense of well-being

is generated when you do it. It’s the antidote

to modern civilization. Our entire culture is

designed to get us going on constant adrena-

line. Practices like tai chi and yoga counteract

the stress of today’s culture.

How would you describe tai chi movements?

Tai chi, when it’s practiced in the old classical

style, is done very slowly. Meditation in motion

is a good way of describing it. It starts with the

postures, and you learn to move your body from

one posture to another. The movements are

very natural, harmonized with specific methods

of slow, deep breathing. As your breathing

becomes deeper, then it releases a lot of ten-

sion. One rule in tai chi is the faster you go, the

more force you use, the less you perceive. When

the practice is slow, you can put more emphasis

on the meditative aspect.

Some studies have shown tai chi can help

reduce falls in seniors and improve balance,

including in people with neurological prob-

lems such as Parkinson’s disease. How can

tai chi help improve balance?

I have had students make dramatic gains

in their ability to manage diseases of the

nervous system, such as Parkinson’s. Being

in balance begins with education and training

to regain and maintain proper posture. Once

mastered, a tai chi student should continue

education and training to maintain proper

posture while moving around and walking.

Some physicians say a fear of falling is

one of the biggest predictors of having a

fall. Can tai chi lessen a fear of falling?

Yes. By working consciously on balance skills,

the fear of falling can recede and diminish.

What’s the best advice you could give

someone who is considering tai chi?

Find the right teacher—someone you feel is

compassionate and is capable of explain-

ing things to you. And don’t sign up if they

emphasize really low postures. Your knees

could be injured because of the mistaken

notion that the postures and forms have to

be practiced low.

Currently, there are no certifications for

tai chi teachers. I recommend going online

and using Google to see what’s available.

Then call them up and visit, and pick the

teacher and class you resonate with.

At what age do people generally stop

doing tai chi?

Most people who do tai chi never have to

stop. Even if their movement becomes

impaired, they still have the knowledge of

working with their breath and principles of tai

chi relaxation and exertion to facilitate and

extend their abilities.

RESEARCH AND CAUTIONSMedical experts say tai chi is

generally safe and addresses key

components of fitness, including

flexibility, muscle strength and

balance.

“Scientific research is under way

to learn more about how tai chi may

work, its possible effects on health,

and chronic conditions for which it

may be helpful,” according to the

National Center for Complementary

and Alternative Medicine. One

NCCAM-funded review of published

research, for example, found that

tai chi reduced participants’ blood

pressure in 22 (of 26) studies. A

study published recently in the

New England Journal of Medicine

found tai chi led to the greatest

overall improvements in balance

and stability for patients with mild

to moderate Parkinson’s disease,

when compared to resistance train-

ing and stretching.

Thinking about practicing tai chi?

Experts advise you to check with

your doctor before you begin if you

are pregnant, have a medical condi-

tion or haven’t exercised in a while.

Don’t use tai chi as a replacement

for conventional care, cautions

NCCAM, or to postpone seeing a

doctor. For more info (and a video),

visit www.nccam.nih.gov/health/

taichi/introduction.htm#risks.

People of various ages and fitness levels

can explore the practice of tai chi.

F a l l 2 0 1 4 5

Tales of Tai Chi

The Female Factor

“There are two reasons why women are dis-

proportionately affected, although there may

be other reasons not yet fully understood,”

says Elizabeth Edgerly, Ph.D., chief program

officer of the Alzheimer’s Association,

Northern California chapter, in San Jose.

“Number one is that women live longer than

men. We develop Alzheimer’s more because

age is the number one risk factor for develop-

ing Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.”

The second factor influencing Alzheimer’s

in women is genetics. Even when research-

ers statistically control for life span, it

appears that women are still at a slightly

greater risk than men. Experts aren’t sure

why, but it appears that certain genes might

play a role. “One gene associated with

Alzheimer’s—called the APOE e4 gene—is a

risk factor gene, meaning that if you inherit

one or two copies of that gene, you’re at

higher risk,” Edgerly explains.

“What is interesting,” she adds, “is that

men with the APOE e4 gene are at higher risk,

but their risk is not as high as with women. It is

possible that there are interactions related to

gender and genetics.”

There’s also some suspicion that meno-

pause—particularly the accompanying decline

of estrogen—may play a role. “Estrogen is a

wonderful fountain of youth in many ways,

including potentially in the brain,” Edgerly

says. “This is not proven, but it could be

another factor. More research is needed to

fully understand the role estrogen may play in

the brain and its relationship to Alzheimer’s."

Understanding Alzheimer’sResearchers are tracking gender’s role and exploring possible new treatmentsYou probably know that Alzheimer’s disease can make it difficult for people to remember names,

events and even recent conversations. They may forget where they are—and how they got

there—or struggle with tasks, like balancing their checkbook, which used to be a breeze. But did

you know that almost two-thirds of Americans who have Alzheimer’s are women?

6 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

Alzheimer’s and dementia are not the same

but are related. “Dementia is a broader term

that refers to a progressive cognitive decline

that affects your daily life,” Edgerly says. “To

have dementia, the person has to have prob-

lems with memory and have another type of

difficulty, like trouble with language, judgment

or reasoning. Between 60% and 70% of cases

of dementia are caused by Alzheimer’s.” Other

types of dementia include vascular demen-

tia, which results from small strokes, and

Lewy body dementia, which resembles both

Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Current and Future Remedies

While more women than men get Alzheimer’s,

there don’t appear to be any differences

in the way the disease behaves in women,

Edgerly says. Medications like Aricept, Exelon,

Razadyne and Namenda may help patients of

either gender boost their function for a longer

period of time and potentially remain more

independent for a year or so, but they can also

lead to complications. “The tricky part is that

about 20% to 25% of people don’t respond well

to them,” Edgerly says. “We certainly encourage

families to research them and work with their

doctor to see if it’s a good option.”

Exercise can also help rejuvenate the brain,

although experts aren’t sure why. “One view is

that when you exercise, you release a chemi-

cal called brain-derived neurotrophic factor

[BDNF],” Edgerly says. “Multiple studies have

shown that those who exercise regularly have

a larger hippocampus, which is the brain’s

memory center.”

Researchers are working to better under-

stand and treat Alzheimer’s. Some research

studies are now using specific blood and

cerebrospinal fluid proteins, as well as brain

images, for example, to predict and track the

progress of the disease. In the past two years,

the National Institutes of Health has directed

more than $500 million toward Alzheimer’s

research into genetics, drug discoveries and

clinical trials, including investigation into ther-

apies like exercise and mental stimulation.

As research continues, Edgerly encour-

ages people to use local resources so they

can learn to adapt and cope with the disease’s

gradual changes.

“A lot of people go through this alone,

and it breaks my heart because there’s a

community of support out there,” she says. “I

encourage people to contact the Alzheimer’s

Association—we offer support groups,

24-hour consultation services and classes—as

well as other community groups. Get informa-

tion, and don’t wait for a crisis to happen.”

FIND OUT MORE• Alzheimer’s Association (Northern California), www.alz.org/norcal/

• Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Centers, http://www.sfhsa.org/387.htm

F a l l 2 0 1 4 7

UPDATE ON ALZHEIMER'S

Hit the BeachHEALTHY OUTINGS

Believe it or not, now’s the best time of the year to go coastal

Fall in the Bay Area typically offers a big treat: beautiful beach weather! So get out there and enjoy. Take a gorgeous coastal hike at Muir Beach in Marin, bike along the bay at Crown Memorial Beach in Alameda, or go horseback riding on the sandy shore near Half Moon Bay. Remember to stock a cooler with delicious fruits, veggies, lean meats, whole-grain bread and nuts—and plenty of water—so you can follow your outdoor exercise with a nutritious picnic on the sand. What could be better than an active, healthy day by the water?

1 Muir Beach HikeTake a big, relaxing breath as you gaze out over the stunning ocean views along a trail heading

south from Muir Beach in Marin County. As you follow the Coastal Trail, enjoy the sound of

the crashing surf below, and try to spot sea lions. In fall, when there is often little or no fog, you can

enjoy seeing an expanse of ocean stretching all the way to the horizon.

After climbing a series of wooden stairs on the Coastal Trail, you’ll experience an all-in-one

panorama of the Pacific Ocean, the blue lagoon of Tennessee Valley, Bolinas and Point Reyes,

and the San Francisco skyline. To the east you will see the rolling hills of the Golden Gate National

Recreation Area. Drink it all in and then head back to your picnic on the beach.

How to: The Coastal Trail can be reached from the left side (as you’re facing the water) of the

Muir Beach parking lot, near the restrooms. Walk across a footbridge over a marsh to the sign for

the Coastal Trail, where you’ll take a wide fire road to the right. Keep to the right along the coast.

More info: www.nps.gov/goga/planyourvisit/muirbeach.htm

8 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

Hit the BeachBelieve it or not, now’s the best time of the year to go coastal

F a l l 2 0 1 4 9

2 Crown Memorial Beach BikingTake a leisurely bike ride along San Francisco Bay at a spot that

feels like a different world. Often uncrowded in autumn, with

an old-timey feel, Crown Memorial State Beach surprises with its vast,

open skyscape and long, gentle curve of shoreline.

Enjoy a swim after your bike ride. The water at Crown Memorial is

shallow—and warm, unlike most Northern California beaches.

How to: Park at the beach lot and pedal southeast along the paved

bike path. Follow the path for 2.5 miles along the shore, or head over the

bicycle drawbridge to Bay Farm Island for more fresh air and fun.

More info: www.ebparks.org/parks/crown_beach

3 Horseback Riding at Half Moon Bay Ever dreamed of riding a horse on the beach? At Sea Horse

Ranch in Half Moon Bay, your dream can easily become a reality.

Explore a guided trail ride down the bluffs to long stretches of sand,

where you can experience the sea air and unobstructed ocean views as

you and your horse skirt the water’s edge.

How to: Morning rides are beautiful, when the beach is deserted and

the horses are well-rested. Be sure to make a reservation.

More info: www.seahorseranch.org

Beach and Water SmartsPlan on having fun at the beach—and staying safe. Some tips:

• Never swim alone or intoxicated. And even if you’re

confident about your swimming skills, make sure you have

enough energy to swim back to shore.

• Have inexperienced swimmers wear life jackets in and

around the water. Pay especially close attention to children

and elderly people.

• Check for depth and obstructions before diving, and

always go in feet first the first time.

• Avoid patches of plants, and leave animals alone. Water

plants and animals may be dangerous.

• Frequently reapply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF

of 30 or above.

Sources: American Red Cross, American Cancer Society,

American Academy of Dermatology

HEALTHY OUTINGS

1 0 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

F a l l 2 0 1 4 1 1

TO

PH

ER

BU

CK

LE

Y

CHECK IT OUT

Arata's Pumpkin Farm in Half Moon Bay.

Mind-Boggling Mazes, Bay-Area StyleGet those neurons working in your brain and gain a new perspective on cool ways to have fun

Sometimes getting lost is entertaining! And there’s no better way to get disoriented than to step into a maze. As the weather

changes, opportunities abound for this out-of-the-ordinary activity, with seasonal mazes popping up throughout the Bay Area.

So gather the crew and check out some of these local mazes, which are sure to pose a challenge for kids and adults alike.

A’Mazing Corn Maze (Petaluma)

At the Petaluma Pumpkin Patch, test your

sense of direction at the A’Mazing Corn

Maze, a sprawling four-acre maze with walls

made of corn stalks more than 10 feet tall.

And if you mastered the maze last year,

be forewarned: Farmer Jim devises a new

design every year. On your way out, pick up

a pumpkin or two from the pumpkin patch.

Maze opens Sept. 26; closes Oct. 31.

www.petalumapumpkinpatch.com

Minotaur’s Labyrinth Hay Maze

(Half Moon Bay)

At Arata’s Pumpkin Farm in Half Moon Bay,

you’ll find the Minotaur’s Labyrinth Hay

Maze, two acres of twisting corridors with

walls made of hay bales. If you manage

to find your way out, head to the Haunted

Barn, join a hayride, or visit the petting zoo.

Maze opens mid-September; closes Oct. 31.

www.aratapumpkinfarm.com

Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze

(San Francisco)

This mind-bending maze at Pier 39 in

Fisherman’s Wharf is a labyrinth of mir-

rored walls, corners and dead ends, with

undulating neon lights to further trick the

eye. Open year-round.

www.magowansinfinitemirrormaze.com

Maniac Maze (Hollister)

At Swank Farms, test your wits in the

Maniac Maze, with 27 hidden spots to

be found on your game map. Only the

brave should enter the maze after dark

for “Terror in the Corn: Alien Invasion,” a

haunted event that Swank Farms warns

is not for sissies. Young tykes can try the

Spookley Maze, with fun activities like a

hay jump and a chalkboard house. Maze

opens Oct. 3; closes Nov. 1.

www.swankfarms.com

Cornfield Maze (Livermore)

Every year, families head to G&M Farms to

wander the property’s six-acre corn maze,

which has been featured on Late Show

With David Letterman. Afterward, kids can

pick their own pumpkin from the pumpkin

patch, take a pony ride or ride the Cow

Train. Maze opens Oct. 1; closes Oct. 31.

www.gmfarms.com/mazeandpatch.php

COMMUNITY HEALTH EVENTS

Stress ManagementBy learning to identify the stressors in your life, you can begin to develop healthy cop-ing strategies that contribute to long-term mental health. Learn ways to reduce negative effects of stress with research-based stress management/tension-reducing techniques, tips and exercises. Presented by Scott Plymale, LCSW, Ph.D.Monday, Oct. 20, 12:30–2 p.m.CPMC Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan St., Level A Confer-ence RoomCall 415.923.3155, email info@chrcsf.org, or visit www.chrcsf.org.

Understanding FibroidsFibroids are a common tumor—eventually almost half of the female population will have them. These tumors are a leading cause of heavy bleed-ing, painful cramps or difficulty getting pregnant. This lecture will provide an overview and discuss options for dealing with them. Presented by Heidi Wittenberg, M.D.Thursday, Nov. 6, 5–6:30 p.m.CPMC Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan St., Enright Room Call 415.923.3155, email info@chrcsf.org, or visit www.chrcsf.org.

LIVING WITH CANCER

Lung Cancer: Insights and InformationLung cancer is character-ized by coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain and repeated respiratory infections. Interestingly, lung cancer is increasing among nonsmokers. During this lecture, learn about the symp-toms and treatment options.Thursday, Nov. 13, 5–6:30 p.m.CPMC Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan St., Level A Confer-ence RoomCall 415.923.3155, email info@chrcsf.org, or visit www.chrcsf.org.

Ovarian and Reproductive Cancer Recovery ProgramThis program provides compassionate care for physi-cal, emotional and spiritual healing to women undergoing treatment for uterine, ovar-ian, cervical, vaginal, vulvar and peritoneal cancers. The program offers free education and support services, which are individualized and tailored to meet patients’ needs. CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 Califor-nia St., Lobby LevelFor more info or to register, call 415.600.0500 or visit www.cpmc.org/whrc. FREE for all women.

SERVICES

FacialsSign up for a session focused on preserving, protecting and nourishing your skin. Patrisha, WHRC’s Licensed Estheti-cian, specializes in esthetics for oncology patients, those with sensitive or other health challenged skin. Each session is customized for your specific needs and includes a shoulder, neck and décolleté massage.Cost: $85 for 75 min.; $100 for 90 min.CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 Califor-nia St., Lobby LevelFor more info or to register, call 415.600.0500 or visit www.cpmc.org/whrc.

WHRC Lending Library and Internet The center’s online computer system provides access to the Internet for personal search-es of nationwide databases. Check out books on various women’s health topics such as nutrition, mental health, eating disorders, osteopo-rosis, menopause, cancer and gynecological health. A library membership (annual fee $20) allows materials to be checked out. CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 Califor-nia St., Lobby LevelCall for an appointment: 415.600.0500.

AGING WELL

Savvy Caregiving TrainingBased on research by experts in caregiving techniques, this six-week course from the Alzheimer’s Association will provide clinical-level training for family caregivers. Wednesdays, 12:30–2:30 p.m.Oct. 15–Nov. 19 CPMC Davies Campus, 45 Castro St. (at Duboce) Participants must commit to attending all six sessions; registration is required. Contact Mandi Thomas at 415.600.5566 or email thomasMS@sutterhealth.org.

Macular DegenerationGet an overview of macular degeneration, the most common cause of vision loss in patients over age 50 in the United States. Information about the early signs of macu-lar degeneration, risk factors, the examination process for a proper diagnosis and treat-ment options will be discussed. Presented by Ali Zaidi, M.D., an ophthalmologist specializing in disease of the retina.Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2–3:30 p.m.CPMC Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan St., Level A Confer-ence Room Call 415.923.3155, email info@chrcsf.org, or visit www.chrcsf.org.

Oral Health for SeniorsThis lecture will cover the reasons why the need for dental care increases with age, the mouth-body link (how dental problems contribute to increased risk for heart attack, stroke, diabetes and pneumo-nia), dental problems seniors face, access to care issues for seniors, and resources for caregivers. Presented by Lisa Buda, DDS.Wednesday, Dec. 3, 4–5:30 p.m.CPMC Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan St., Enright RoomCall 415.923.3155, email info@chrcsf.org, or visit www.chrcsf.org.

Arthritis and Flexibility— Fit at Any AgeAppropriate exercise reduces pain and increases flexibility in those who suffer from arthritis. Come listen to a CPMC physi-cal therapist to learn tips and skills—and get relief. Presented by Brynne Duty, P.T.Wednesday, Dec. 10, 4:30–6 p.m.CPMC Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan St., Enright RoomCall 415.923.3155,email info@chrcsf.org, or visit www.chrcsf.org.

Your HealthA guide to health and wellness programs

As a Brown & Toland member, you have a doctor who listens to your needs, respects your choices and provides you with the highest-quality care you can find. You also have access to some of the finest community health resources in San Francisco. Some of these classes are free, and others require a nominal fee or donation. Call the listed telephone numbers for more information.

1 2 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

CALENDAR - FALL 2014

FITNESS AND EXERCISE

Arthritis Exercise ProgramJoin us for the Arthritis Foun-dation’s low-impact physical activity program proven to reduce pain and stiffness. Classes may be done seated or standing and include gentle ROM exercises that are suit-able for all fitness and mobility levels. Tuesdays and/or Fridays, beginning week of Nov. 4, 10–11 a.m. CPMC Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 Califor-nia St., Lobby Level For more info or to register, call 415.600.0500 or visit www.cpmc.org/whrc. (Registration deadline is two days prior to event date.) Cost: $60, six-week session

Gentle Yoga for WomenThis series is intended to teach a gentle yoga practice to support overall wellness and the healing process. The class is intended for beginners and those with chronic health conditions, such as cancer, diabetes and arthritis. Each sequence will include basic principles of movement, align-ment and breathing aware-ness. Six-week session. Tuesdays, beginning Nov. 4, 4:30–5:30 p.m. OR Saturdays, beginning Nov. 8, 10–11 a.m. CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 Califor-nia St., Lobby LevelFor more info or to register, call 415.600.0500 or visit www.cpmc.org/whrc. (Registration deadline is two days prior to event date.) Cost: $60, six-week session

PREGNANCY AND PARENTING

CPMC Newborn ConnectionsA great resource for expectant parents: Whether you are contemplating having a baby or have recently given birth, Newborn Connections offers the support and education you need through pregnancy and early parenthood. Part of CPMC’s Women & Children’s Center, Newborn Connections provides ongoing prenatal classes, support groups, breastfeeding and baby sup-plies, and lactation services. CPMC Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 Cali-fornia St. To register or for more information, visit www.cpmc.org/newbornconnections, call 415.600.2229, or email cpmcnewborn@ sutterhealth.org.

Seton Medical CenterSeton offers classes for expectant parents. The Childbirth Education Series is a comprehensive six-week series that covers vital topics such as preparation for labor and delivery, newborn care and breastfeeding techniques. The hospital also offers a four-week course on preparing for labor and delivery, a one-session class on baby care basics and a one-session class on breast-feeding. The Infant CPR and Child Safety class instructs parents and caregivers on how to perform lifesaving skills on their children.Seton Medical Center, 1900 Sullivan Ave., Daly CityFor cost, dates and times, call 650.991.6345.

St. Luke’s Women’s CenterSt. Luke’s offers resources and classes for expectant parents and new mothers. The Childbirth Preparation Class is a one-day Saturday

course that covers physical changes during pregnancy and labor, relaxation techniques, breathing techniques based on the Lamaze method, cesarean birth and anesthesia during childbirth. The Women’s Center also offers free prenatal and postpartum yoga classes. CPMC, St. Luke’s Campus Women’s Center, 1580 Valen-cia St., 5th Floor, Suite 508For information on classes and hospital tours (in English and Spanish), call 415.641.6911. Open only to St. Luke’s patients.

DIABETES

CPMC Center for Diabetes Services (FREE for Brown & Toland members)CPMC’s Center for Diabetes Services offers a comprehen-sive diabetes management and education program for adults. Our nurse educators, clinical dietitians and clinical social workers are Certified Diabetes Educators. We offer individually tailored and group education sessions for type 1 and type 2 diabetes self-management, including blood sugar (glucose) monitoring, nutrition counseling and meal planning, medication manage-ment, insulin adjustment and lifestyle change. Diabetes adult education programs include Diabetes BASICS (type 2), Intensive Management and Advanced Carbohydrate Counting (type 1), Continuous Glucose Monitoring, Adult Dia-betes Clinic (endocrinology) and a pre-diabetes course. 3801 Sacramento St., 7th Floor For dates and times, visit www.cpmc.org/services/ diabetes or call 415.600.0506. Physician referral required.

Seton Medical Center’s Living Healthy With DiabetesThese classes provide comprehensive diabetes self-management training. Evening and morning classes available.Call 650.991.6607.

St. Luke’s Diabetes CenterIf you have diabetes, St. Luke’s Diabetes Center works to-gether with you and your physi-cian to help keep your diabetes under control for a lifetime. We provide state-of-the-art training and care so you can maintain your best health and avoid complications. The center offers complete adult

and child outpatient services, including screening, individual care instructions, diet and meal planning, and resources for supplies and services. CPMC, St. Luke’s Campus, 3555 Cesar Chavez St., Room 230Call 415.641.6826 or email cpmcdiab@sutterhealth.org.

St. Mary’s Diabetes Group Classes (FREE)This eight-week series covers all aspects of taking care of your diabetes, including how to measure blood sugar, what foods to eat, and how to maintain weight and healthy cholesterol levels. You don’t

Oral Health for SeniorsThis lecture will cover the reasons why

the need for dental care increases with

age, the mouth-body link (how dental

problems contribute to increased risk

for heart attack, stroke, diabetes and

pneumonia), dental problems seniors

face, access to care issues for seniors,

and resources for caregivers. Presented

by Lisa Buda, DDS.

Wednesday, Dec. 3,

4–5:30 p.m.

CPMC Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan

St., Enright Room

Call 415.923.3155 or visit www.cpmc.

org/whrc.

F a l l 2 0 1 4 1 3

need to start with Week 1—you are welcome to start with any of the classes. Guests are welcome too. No registration is required. Mondays, 4–5 p.m. (not of-fered during holidays) St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St.Call 415.750.5513.

HEALTH SCREENINGS

Blood Pressure Screening (FREE)St. Mary’s Medical Center offers free blood pressure screenings to all community members. Mondays, noon to 1 p.m. No appointment necessary. Dignity Health–Sr. Mary Philippa Health Clinic, 2235 Hayes St. (at Shrader St.), 5th FloorCall 415.750.5959.

Mission YMCAThe Community Health Resource Center is offering free health screenings at the Mission YMCA. The screenings rotate and include glucose, cholesterol, body mass index and blood pressure. This service is made possible by a generous contribution from Genentech Labs.Every second Friday,

10 a.m.–noon • Oct. 10: Bone density • Nov. 14: Cholesterol• Dec. 12: Blood pressure/ BMI Mission YMCA, 4080 Mission St., San Francisco Call 415.586.6900.

Additional Health Screenings—Cost BasedCost-based screenings are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is not required.Cholesterol, body mass index and blood pressure screenings are offered on each date listed.Every 1st and 3rd Thursday, 9–11 a.m.Community Health Resource Center, 2100 Webster St., Suite 100, San FranciscoThe cost for all three health screenings is $25; individual screenings are $10 each.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Support groups are open to individuals, their caregivers and families seeking advice and support. Refreshments provided; no cost to attend. All listed groups take place in San Francisco. To register for a group or for more information, call 415.923.3155.

Stroke SurvivorsThis group is designed to aid the recovery of stroke survivors at any stage by providing a safe and supportive atmosphere where individuals are able to share their experiences. Made possible by the generous funds of Home Instead Senior Care of San Francisco.First Thursdays, 1–2:30 p.m.CPMC Pacific Campus, 2100 Webster St., Room 106Call 415.600.1209 to register.

Liver CancerThose living with liver cancer, family members, loved ones and caregivers are invited to participate in this group. Its purpose is to provide emotional and social support, education, and shared experi-ence in an open, accepting environment. Second Tuesdays, 2–3:30 p.m.CPMC Pacific Campus, 2351 Clay St., Deikel Room 137Call 415.600.1209 to register.

Cancer Buddy ProgramThis program connects trained volunteer cancer survivors with patients who are within the first year of a cancer diag-nosis. The program is a forum for individuals to speak openly with someone who under-stands cancer from personal experience. Facilitated by Scott Plymale, LCSW, Ph.D. Community Health Resource Center, 2100 Webster St., Suite 100, San FranciscoTo request a buddy or to vol-unteer, call 415.923.3155.

Breast Cancer Support GroupReceive support from a special group of women who have had breast cancer. Share experiences with others to help answer your questions and ease any worries. Friends and family are also invited. Facilitator: Diane Scott, Ph.D. Every Tuesday, 5–7 p.m. (newly diagnosed or in treatment)Every Wednesday, 5–7 p.m. (cancer veterans/metastatic diagnosis)St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St., 6th Floor, Room T6-30Call 415.750.5775.

Traumatic Brain Injury Support GroupSt. Mary’s Medical Center and the San Francisco Traumatic Brain Injury Network sponsor this support group for people living with traumatic brain injuries.Third Thursdays, 3–4:30 p.m. St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St., 3rd Floor, 3 East Conference RoomFor schedule and more infor-mation, call Nicole Jacobson at 415.750.5899.

FOR A MORE COMPLETE LISTING OF HEALTH EDUCATION CLASSES AND EVENTS, VISIT THE FOLLOWING WEBSITES:

Alta Bates Summit Medical Centerwww.altabatessummit.org

California Pacific Medical Center and CPMC St. Luke’s Campuswww.cpmc.org

Chinese Community Health Resource Center www.cchrchealth.org

Saint Francis Memorial Hospital www.saintfrancismemorial.org

Seton Medical Center www.setonmedicalcenter.org

St. Mary’s Medical Center www.stmarysmedicalcenter.org

© 2014 by Brown & Toland Physicians

Richard AngeloniExecutive Editor P: 415.972.4307 F: 415.972.4179rangeloni@btmg.com

Lorna FernandesSenior Editor P: 415.972.4250F: 415.972.4179lfernandes@btmg.com

HealthLink is published by Brown & Toland Physicians as a community service and is not intended for the purpose of diagnosing or prescribing. Produced by DCP

HealthLink

1 4 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

CALENDAR - FALL 2014

✃

CLI

P A

ND

SAV

E

Source: www.healthyeating.org

Chicken Vegetable Soup With GingerComfort food goes healthyGinger makes this soup especially warming. Packed with the nutri-

tion of fresh veggies, this easy dish is low in fat and a good source of

fiber, with corn adding texture. If you can find fresh corn, simply saw

it off the cob and throw it into the soup with the chopped chicken at

the very end of your cooking time.

F a l l 2 0 1 4 1 5

Ingredients

• 6 cups canned, low-salt chicken broth

• 1 large russet potato, peeled, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 large yam (red-skinned sweet potato), peeled, cut into

1-inch pieces

• 1 large onion, coarsely chopped

• 2 large carrots, peeled, cubed

• 2 cups broccoli florets (from about 1 large stalk)

• 1 large celery stalk with leaves, chopped

• 1 tablespoon chopped, peeled fresh ginger

• 1 10-ounce package frozen corn kernels

• 2 cups diced cooked chicken

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Preparation

Bring chicken broth to a simmer in heavy large pot or

Dutch oven over high heat. Add potato, yam, onion, car-

rots, broccoli, celery and ginger and bring to boil. Cover

pot, reduce heat to medium and simmer soup until all

vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes.

Puree soup in batches in blender until it has a chunky

consistency. Return soup to pot. Add corn and cooked

chicken and simmer until corn is tender, about 5 min-

utes. Season soup to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be

prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Rewarm soup

over low heat before serving.)

Ladle soup into bowls, sprinkle with chopped parsley

and serve.

Calories: 224

Total fat: 3 g

Saturated fat: 1 g

Polyunsaturated fat: 1 g

Monounsaturated fat: 1 g

Sodium: 443 mg

Carbohydrates: 31 g

Protein: 21 g

Fiber: 6 g

Vitamin A: 6,364 IU

Vitamin C: 63 mg

Calcium: 61 mg

Iron: 2 mg

Nutrition InformationNUMBER OF SERVINGS: 6. EACH SERVING PROVIDES:

Brown & Tolan d Physic iansP.O. B ox 6 4 0 4 69S an Fran cisco, CA 9 416 4-0 4 69

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPermit #183

SAN FRANCISCO CA 94188

When you select a Medicare Advantage planthat includes Brown & Toland Physicians, youhave access to hundreds of board-certifieddoctors and the city’s best hospitals, all in aneighborhood near you. brownandtoland.com

Choose a doctor. See your neighbor.

LET'S LIFT THE FOG ON YOUR MEDICARE CHOICE.