HEALTH BRIEFS
Reduce cancer risk while at 'Dinner with the Doc'

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer found in both men and women in the United States. However, it is one of the most highly preventable cancer types. Knowing the risks for colon cancer and getting proper screenings can save lives.

Patrick Reilly, M.D., gastroenterologist, will be the guest physician presenter for the next "Dinner with the Doc" on Thursday, March 20. Dr. Reilly will provide important information about colon polyps and cancer, plus screening options and warning signs. The free presentation will be held at Baptist Medical Park Pensacola, located at University Parkway and Nine Mile Road. The event includes dinner at 5:30 p.m. with the program beginning at 6 p.m.

According to the American Cancer Society's Web site, the death rate from colorectal cancer has been decreasing over the past 15 years. Due to colorectal cancer screenings, polyps can be found and removed before they turn into cancer. Also, when colorectal cancer is found in the earliest stages, the survival rates are greater.

"Dinner with the Doc" is an ongoing Baptist Health Care initiative to improve health in the community through education and prevention.

Because seating is limited, reservations are required. Call 850-469-7897. 'Succeeding after a Stroke' in April

"Succeeding After Stroke," an information and support group provided by Sacred Heart Hospital's Regional Stroke Center, will meet Tuesday, April 1, from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Sacred Heart Hospital Conference Center on Ninth Avenue.

Randal Hamilton, a Sacred Heart Hospital registered nurse, will provide information on stress management and ways to cope with a serious health issue like stroke. From patients undergoing treatment for cancer to families with critically ill babies, Hamilton has worked with a variety of patients and families coping with serious illness and disease. He has served as a stress reduction program facilitator and has certification as a national certified hospice and palliative care nurse, as well as advanced bereavement facilitator training.

The group is designed for stroke survivors, their families and caretakers. Topics discussed will vary from month to month to including information regarding community services, resources, nutrition and more. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month.

For more information about the stroke support group, call 850-416-4794, or visit www.sacred-heart.org/strokecenter.

Red Cross holds swimming lessons

As the area heads into the summer season, the desire to combat the sun's rays with a splash in the pool, beach or pond will be an irresistible draw, especially for children. Yet for many, seeking the cool comfort of water can have tragic consequences.

Unless children receive proper water safety training and swimming lessons, pools, water parks and even bathtubs can be dangerous places. According to the latest study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for water-related injuries, the drowning rate in the US averages nine people per day. Moreover, in the state of Florida, 2005 statistics show that the drowning rate is 360 children and adults.

The American Red Cross is asking that you join in spreading the word about the need for swimming lessons and water safety. Learn water safety by taking a Red Cross Swimming course.

In every community across the country the Red Cross has a swimming program for all ages and skill levels. Whether you are 6 months old or 60 years old, it's never too early or too late to learn these lifesaving skills. With your help, the message of water safety can be heard by all.

Swimming lessons are now being schedule in Pensacola, Freeport and Santa Rosa Beach. To enroll in a Red Cross swimming course or learn more about water safety, contact the Northwest Florida Chapter at 1-800-773-7620 or www.northwestflorida. redcross.org.