Fall 2015

A F A m i l y H e A l t H m A g A z i n e F r o m K . H o v n A n i A n C H i l d r e n ’ s H o s p i t A l

john cuttrell, 12, of Middletown

Peer Pressure in the Digital age

Page 13

Must-have

Medical Screenings for Women

Page 14

leaDing a healthy liFewith a rare genetic Disorder

Page 8

Meridian KidViews • Fall 2015 2

a reason to Smile: Pediatric Dentistry for every child Paving the Way for two Safe Deliveries

KidMazing: a Section for Kids

leading a healthy life with a rare genetic Disorder

ask our experts

Weathering the tween years

team up with your child's Doctor for the Best Diabetes care

help Kids handle Peer Pressure in the Digital age

Must-have Medical Screenings for Women

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12

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on the cover: learn how local pediatric specialists work together to provide personalized care for john cuttrell, 12. turn to Page 8.

inside

Gordon LitwinChairman, Meridian Health Board of Trustees

John K. LLoyd, FAChEPresident, Meridian Health

StEvEn KAiryS, M.d.Medical Director, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital

ChriSiE SCottVice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Meridian Health

ryAn younGErDirector of Marketing, Meridian Health

Photography: Jacki Kronstedt

Meridian KidViews is a free quarterly magazine prepared by the Marketing and Communications Team of Meridian Health. Inquiries or ideas can be addressed to kidviews@meridianhealth.com. The material provided in this magazine is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician or your child’s pediatrician. Always consult your physician or your child’s pediatrician for individual care. © 2015 Meridian Health

Fall 2015

A F A m i l y H e A l t H m A g A z i n e F r o m K . H o v n A n i A n C H i l d r e n ’ s H o s p i t A l

john cuttrell, 12, of Middletown

Peer Pressure

in the Digital agePage 13

Must-have Medical Screenings

for WomenPage 14

leaDing a healthy liFewith a rare genetic Disorder Page 8

Our fall issue is chock-full of more of the great health content you’ve come to expect from KidViews. As the busy school year sets in, you may find it more useful than ever to have information and resources on hand that can help you raise healthy, happy kids. For my kids, it’s the start of new schools — first grade for Dylan and nursery school for Gabriella. This issue, we’re featuring some key behavioral health topics. Have a tween at home? On page 11, read how you can help your child navigate a healthy transition into his or her teenage years. And on page 13, we’re giving you the lowdown on peer pressure in the digital age, highlighting some dangerous challenges and games that are spread through social media.

Another important part of this issue is dedicated to helping women live long, healthy lives. Preventive screening tests help catch diseases and health problems early, when they are most treatable. It’s essential for women to have knowledge of all the preventive health screenings they need, and at what ages. We offer a handy chart that outlines these details on page 15. I shared this important list with two important women in my life — my wife and mom.

As always, this issue features more outstanding pediatric success stories. On page 4, read how Meridian Dentistry for Children makes visits to the dentist’s office fun and comfortable for 11-year-old Bryana. And learn how personalized care from a group of local pediatric specialists is helping seventh-grader John live a healthy, active life with a rare genetic disorder. Flip to page 8 for his story.

While you can always expect fresh content from KidViews, our responsibility as part of the Meridian Health family stays the same — to improve the health of the communities we serve.

Sincerely,

to our readers

connect with usviSit our FaceBooK Page on octoBer 22 for a fall recipe that's

full of flavor: Mini Greek Kabobs.

Kenneth n. sable, m.d., mbA, FACepPresident,Jersey Shore University Medical Center and K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital

PoSt a healthy halloWeen treat or craFt this fall on our Instagram page at #HealthyHalloweenNJ and

#MeridianHealthNJ. Be creative!

health briefs

looK Both WayS Before letting Kids cross the

StreetYou’d probably like to think you can predict your children’s behavior — after all, you’ve known them their whole lives. A new study, however, finds kids take more risks than parents think when crossing the street.

For the study, 7- to 12-year-olds put on 3-D goggles and crossed a virtual intersection. The young pedestrians tended to cut it far closer when it came to oncoming traffic than their parents guessed they would.

The problem with this mismatch? Parents might let kids walk unsupervised before they’re ready. "Make sure your child not only looks both ways, but also pays attention to traffic without distraction before allowing solo crossings," advises Anil Pawa, M.D., affiliated with Meridian Pediatric Network. Though that’s more important than age, government safety experts advise waiting until about age 10.

Anil pawa, m.d.Board certified in PediatricsJackson1-800-560-9990

Gardens aren’t the only things that require regular watering. Kids need plenty of H2O to grow, too. A surprising new study finds about half of them aren’t getting it.

Researchers took urine samples from more than 4,100 children ages 6 and older. A total of 54.5 percent of them showed evidence of dehydration. And no wonder — they reported drinking less than three glasses

of water the previous day, plus two servings of sugary beverages and one glass of milk.

"In general, kids and teens should drink about six to eight cups of water per day," notes Joel Edman, M.D., of Riverview Medical Center. "They should also eat plenty of hydrating fruits and vegetables."

Joel b. edman, m.d.Board certified in PediatricsRed Bank1-800-560-9990

vivien rizzuto, 8, of colts neck, always drinks lots of water throughout the day,

and her mom packs her healthy lunches.

halF oF u.S. KiDS aren’t hyDrateD enough

Post Your Healthy Halloween Treats!Calling all ghosts and goblins! We want to see photos of your healthy, Halloween-inspired snacks, like these spooky banana ghosts! Share them on Instagram at #HealthyHalloweennJ and #meridianHealthnJ.

See page 13 for tips to help kids

overcome peer pressure in today's

digital age.

KHovnanianChildrensHospital.com 3

Her brother, Johnny, 7, also looks forward to seeing Shea. “Johnny had root canals and fillings, and as long as Shea is there he doesn’t even need laughing gas,” Joh’ni says.

Meeting each Kid’s needsDr. Winokur and the other providers with Meridian Dentistry for Children consider each child’s unique needs to help them feel more at ease. “I’ve treated kids while sitting in the hallway if they were too nervous to come into the office. We’ll have children visit prior to the appointment and sit in the chair and play on their laptop or iPad to get used to the environment, and Shea is here to help kids feel safe,” Dr. Winokur says. “Every child who comes here is special to us.”

The result isn’t only that kids feel more comfortable — parents do, too. “I’m never afraid when Dr. Winokur treats Bryana, whether in his office or under anesthesia at Jersey Shore,” she says. “Knowing that we’re not going to have a problem with her teeth so she can continue eating the foods she enjoys to eat gives us so much peace of mind. I recommend him to everyone I know.”

Meridian KidViews • Fall 2015 4

a reason to Smile:

Pediatric Dentistry for Every Child

pediatric dentistry

donn H. Winokur, ddsLakewood1-800-560-9990

4

Taking your child to the dentist every six months is important for maintaining a healthy smile. For many kids, however, visiting the dentist isn’t exactly a highlight on their calendar. But it doesn’t have to be something worth dreading. Meridian Dentistry for Children, a pediatric dental practice, offers a different kind of dentistry.

“Comfort is everything for children,” says donn winokur, ddS, director of Meridian Dentistry for Children. “We do everything we can to decrease their stress and help them feel at ease here.” Meridian Dentistry for Children treats all kids from infancy through adolescence. There’s also a special focus on caring for children with unique health care needs such as autism, chronic medical conditions, and developmental delays.

comfort is KeyOne family has experienced first-hand the difference this level of care has made. Bryana Kimberlin, 11, has cerebral palsy and is quadriplegic. “It was a huge accomplishment that we taught her to eat so she doesn’t have to be tube-fed,” says her mom, Joh’ni.

However, cleaning Bryana’s teeth, especially in the back of her mouth, is very difficult. As a result, she’s experienced some decay. Dr. Winokur has performed root canals on some of Bryana’s teeth in the Operating Room at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital. To help minimize decay, Bryana visits Dr. Winokur’s office every three months for cleanings.

At each visit, there’s someone special waiting for Bryana to make her feel less anxious: Shea, the office’s pet therapy dog. Shea sits on Bryana’s lap while she has her teeth cleaned. Bryana isn’t the only one who

has benefited from Shea’s soothing presence.

Dental Care, Tailored Just for Kids!Meridian Dentistry for Children, located at 71 Davis Avenue and next to K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. To make an appointment, please call 732-776-3560.

Meet SheaShea is the pet therapy dog at Meridian Dentistry for Children. Her job is to help kids feel safe and calm at the dentist's office. She visits with patients and sits on their laps while they get their teeth cleaned.

KHovnanianChildrensHospital.com 55

Bryana KiMBerlin, 11, enjoys going to the park and spending time with her family outdoors. She

loves swings and rollercoasters.

5KHovnanianChildrensHospital.com

6 Meridian KidViews • Fall 2015

Dr. Fernandez prescribed anticoagulation medication to reduce Jillian’s risk of developing blood clots. Dr. Vernon regularly monitored Jillian’s blood levels to make sure the medication was working while closely monitoring the progress of the pregnancies.

“They were always in constant communication with one another,” Jillian says. “It put me at ease knowing that everyone was always on the same page.”

For both deliveries, Jillian underwent an induction. “Since she was on anticoagulation therapy, we had to carefully time when she stopped the medication to reduce her risk of hemorrhage after delivery,” Dr. Vernon says.

Dr. Vernon highlights that Southern Ocean is able to care for high-risk OB patients like Jillian. “We followed the appropriate guidelines and her outcome was fantastic twice in a row,” she says.

“My mom and I have the same condition, but she was hospitalized for 20 weeks,” Jillian says. “Thanks to my treatment, I was able to work throughout my pregnancies without any complications to myself or my daughters.”

Jillian Spano, 27, is mom to two daughters, ages 2 years and 4 months. Despite a genetic condition that puts her at risk for complications, she’s had two healthy, full-term pregnancies. That’s thanks, in large part, to the care she received throughout her pregnancies from providers at Southern Ocean Medical Center.

Jillian carries a genetic mutation that puts her at risk for blood clots. Jillian’s mother developed a blood clot in her lung when she was pregnant with Jillian’s sister, putting her into labor at just 20 weeks and causing her to be hospitalized throughout the remainder of her pregnancy.

During both of her pregnancies, Jillian worked closely with her oB-Gyn of more than 10 years, Lisa vernon, M.d., FACoG, of Southern Ocean Medical Center, and Carlos Fernandez, M.d., a maternal-fetal medicine specialist affiliated with Meridian Health.

“The gene increases Jillian’s risk of developing blood clots, and during pregnancy women are more likely to form blood clots,” Dr. Fernandez says. “We wanted to prevent them in order to keep Jillian and her baby safe.”

obstetrics

Paving the Way for Two

Safe Deliveries

Connect with Other Moms Just Like You Join Meridian Momtourage to find free apps, podcasts, polls, and quizzes, and to converse with other moms on the Meridian Momtourage community page. Go to meridianmomtourage.com.

jillian anD WilliaM SPano, and daughters

Michaela, 2, and Madison, 4 months,

at island heights

lisa vernon, m.d.Board certified in Obstetrics-GynecologyForked River1-800-560-9990

Carlos o. Fernandez, m.d.Board certified in Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Obstetrics-GynecologyToms River1-800-560-9990

K HOvnanian CHiLDrEn’S HOSPiTaL

kIDmazinga c t i v e , a m a z i n g y o u!

KHovnanianChildrensHospital.com 7

Bella aShton, 13, of oakhurst

Lending a Helping HandBella Ashton, 13, of Oakhurst, likes helping out around her house and neighborhood. She just started to babysit, and is also helping let out her neighbor’s dogs and take them for walks.

a Kid’s view on health

health tiP

Get Cooking!Ready to help out in the kitchen? Remember these tips:

Learn at your own pace by doing, not just watching.

Did eggshells fall into the batter? Remember, mistakes aren’t disasters.

Fill a blank notebook with instructions for making your favorite meals. A special recipe book is something you can treasure for years to come.

matH maGnetsIt’s back-to-school time! Make math funky and fun with these colorful magnets.

DIRectIONS:1. cut a thin piece of cardboard

into a small square.2. Place a small magnet on the back

of the square.3. cut a strip of duct tape that’s a

little bit longer than the cardboard square. Wrap the duct tape over the magnet and square as if you were wrapping a gift.

4. take a paint pen and draw a number on the front of the square. try adding some color, patterns, or glitter!

5. Stick the completed magnets to the fridge. As you learn about adding and subtracting in school, add those symbols to your collection. then use them to solve the problems on your homework!

123123

123

8 Meridian KidViews • Fall 2015

john cuttrell, 12, runs cross-country, does Karate, and

plays the trombone.

Leading a Healthy Life

with a Rare Genetic Disorder

oral and maxillofacial

surgery

9KHovnanianChildrensHospital.com

a Surprising DiagnosisDr. Haghighi found that John had cysts in all three bones that make up his jaw. “It was very unusual,” Dr. Haghighi says. He removed them in surgery at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital.

Based on the pathology of the cysts, Dr. Haghighi diagnosed John with a very rare genetic disorder called Gorlin syndrome. With Gorlin syndrome, the gene that prevents tumors from forming doesn’t function properly, so people with the condition have a higher risk of developing benign and cancerous tumors and cysts throughout their body. A blood test confirmed that John had the rare disorder.

experiencing top-notch care Since Gorlin syndrome affects the whole body, John requires frequent care from many different providers. In addition to seeing Dr. Haghighi, who has removed nearly a dozen cysts from John’s jaw bones, the Cuttrells also visit a dermatologist for skin checks and an ophthalmologist to look for tumors or cysts that could affect John’s vision.

“I know that I can call any one of our doctors and they’ll be willing to meet with us immediately whenever we have any problem,” Alyssa says. The care John receives at Dr. Haghighi’s office is especially

comforting. “Whenever he walks in the door, everyone is waiting with hugs and high fives,” she says.

Dr. Haghighi is impressed with the top-notch care John receives near his family’s Middletown home. “He’s receiving comprehensive care locally with specialists who are working together and provide a kind of personalized care that’s hard to find anywhere else,” he says.

With Gorlin syndrome, tumors can occur at any time. It’s in the same family as basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer, which means that John has to be vigilant about protecting his skin from the sun since he’s already at an increased risk for tumors.

Fortunately the care that John receives is helping him stay well and lead a happy life as a seventh-grader. He runs cross-country, plays the trombone, wrestles, and does Tae Kwon Do. “It isn’t always easy, but we take it day by day,” Alyssa says. “If anything happens, I know that we’ll be in good hands.”

When 12-year-old john cuttrell was 5, his mom, alyssa cuttrell, was concerned that he hadn’t lost any baby teeth. During a routine exam, his pediatric dentist took some X-rays. the scans showed that something appeared to be blocking john’s adult teeth. john's pediatric dentist referred them to Kayvon haghighi, DDS, M.D., FacS, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon affiliated with K. hovnanian children’s hospital at jersey Shore university Medical center.

Kayvon Haghighi, dds, m.d.Board certified in Dentistry/Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryRed Bank1-800-560-9990

online inSPiration: Teen Musician in a Jam Gets Quick SurgeryInstead of performing with her high school band in New York, Loretta underwent an appendectomy at Riverview Medical Center. Visit meridianpediatricnetwork.com to hear Loretta’s story in her own words.

heading home after a hospital Stay?

Your child is probably excited to go home after a stay in the hospital. There really is no place like home. But don’t rush out of the hospital too fast. It’s important to understand your child’s treatment plan before your family leaves. Following this advice can help keep your child happily at home.

Must-Know Medication infoMany readmissions are due to medication misunderstandings. Your child’s doctor or nurse should review your child’s medications with you before you head home. For each medication, make sure you know:• Common side effects• How to take the medication (for

example, with or without food)• How your child’s medications have

changed, if he or she was taking any before coming into the hospital

• The name of the medication and the dose (for example, 200 milligrams)

• What the medication is for• What to do if your child misses

a dose• When to take it

understand your treatment PlanBefore your child leaves the hospital, your doctor will give you a discharge summary. It should have all the instructions your child needs to follow when he or she gets home. Read it over carefully and ask questions if you don’t understand something. Ask the doctor who you should call if you have questions once you’re home.

10 Meridian KidViews • Fall 2015 10

What drew you to developmental pediatrics? It is challenging, and involves teamwork with psychologists, learning consultants, speech and occupational/physical therapists, and families.

What do you want families to know about developmental pediatrics or autism? With appropriate intervention, children can make a lot of progress. how did you discover your passion for developmental pediatrics? During training I became interested in child development. It is fascinating that children are always changing.

What's most rewarding about your field? Watching children reach their potential. What drew you to jersey Shore university Medical center? The opportunity to grow. When you're not in the hospital, how do you spend your free time? Being with family and friends, running, reading, and cooking. What is the most memorable place you have visited? It’s a tie between Rome and Paris.

ask our experts

My child uses earbuds all the time. Do I need to worry about hearing damage? A: Thanks to constant earbud use and booming live concerts, hearing loss now affects more teens than obesity does. Parents should recognize the danger and discuss the risks of loud noise with their children.

Teens often lose the ability to hear high-pitched sounds first. If they continue to listen to loud music, they may develop a temporary or permanent ringing and feeling of fullness in their ears. Eventually voices may sound muffled or distorted. If you notice these signs in your teen, talk with his or her doctor. The doctor — or an audiologist — can test your child’s hearing and discuss treatment.

Sounds louder than 85 decibels pose a risk for noise-induced hearing loss, experts say, but some headphones can max out at 110 decibels. Tell your teen to set the volume at about 60 percent. You shouldn’t be able to hear the music coming out of your child’s headphones — and he or she should still be able to hear you.

How can I keep my child’s screen time safe?A: Given the realities of modern life, the question for parents isn’t so much whether they should give their children access to smartphones or tablets, but at what age and with what safeguards. Here’s some food for thought on technology and various age groups:• infants and toddlers. The American

Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends children younger than age 2 not have access to anything with a screen, including TVs, computers, tablets, and smartphones. The AAP states that very young children learn better when engaging with people and the world around them rather than with two-dimensional screens.

• elementary school-age children, preteens, and teens. The average 8- to 10-year-old spends as much as eight hours a day interacting with media, including TV, cellphones, and tablets. And children in middle and high school spend an average of 11 hours a day viewing media. While the AAP acknowledges that these age groups can benefit from information and connectedness that cellphones and tablets provide, it suggests parents be aware of the Web sites and social media platforms their kids are using. Parents should also set rules regarding their children’s use of texting and social media.

samuel H. engel, m.d.Board certified in OtolaryngologyNeptune1-800-560-9990

brian truxal, m.d.Board certified in PediatricsWest Long Branch1-800-560-9990

Board certified in Pediatrics, Neurodevelopmental Disabilities, and Pediatric Development/Behavior Neptune1-800-560-9990

physician spotlight Denise aloisio, M.D.

KHovnanianChildrensHospital.com 11

The transition into the teenage years can be difficult and confusing for children — and their parents. Understanding what your son or daughter is going through can help you give guidance during these critical years.

Starting around age 9 or 10, new hormones surge through your preteen’s body. These potent chemicals affect body, brain, and personality.

changing Minds and BodiesAlmost yesterday, your little one was in diapers. Now, a mature young man or woman will develop. As body changes occur, your child may start to wonder if his or her body is normal. Assure your child that he or she is OK the way he or she is. Watch for weight loss or other signs of body image or eating problems.

“If your child shows signs of puberty before age 7 for girls or age 9 for boys, or hasn’t developed at all by age 15 or 16, you may want to consult a doctor,” says Marilyn Loh Collado, M.d., an oB-Gyn affiliated with Riverview Medical Center. “Most cases of early or late puberty are no cause for concern, but sometimes another medical problem can affect timing.”

The newest research shows the brain continues to grow and develop through the teenage years. As your child approaches adolescence, he or she will probably express emotions more clearly, develop deeper friendships, and voice a stronger sense of right and wrong. Self-esteem will help your child ride out the rough patches, and much of your child’s confidence is based on how you treat him or her. Be open and honest in your communication. Praise when your child shares, forgives, or apologizes.

tweens and teens getting less exercise than ever BeforeToday’s adolescents spend more than seven hours per day plugged in to TVs, cellphones, computers, and video games. And less than 25 percent of 12- to

not a child, not yet an adolescent: Weathering the Tween Years

KHovnanianChildrensHospital.com

behavioral health

marilyn loh Collado, m.d.Board certified in Obstetrics- GynecologyTinton Falls1-800-560-9990

15-year-olds exercise at least an hour every day, a new survey says.

Government guidelines say youth should get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity daily. Only about 30 percent of boys and a little more than 20 percent of girls meet that benchmark, the survey found.

“Physical activity improves children’s mental and physical well-being, resulting in improved self-esteem and concentration,” says Dr. Loh Collado. “Exercise builds strong bones. It also lowers the risk for obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.”

a virtual Health Guide for Your Family Kids don’t come with an owner’s manual. But the next best thing might be a free, personalized e-newsletter delivered monthly to your inbox. You can add information about your family members to customize the news and health reminders you receive. To sign up, visit

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SaMantha SellMan, 12, plays travel soccer in

Brick. She started playing soccer when she

was 8 years old.

Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. Do your part by making and keeping all your child’s scheduled appointments. At quarterly visits, be sure your child’s doctor checks your child’s:• A1c test• Growth (height and weight)• Body mass index (BMI)• Blood pressure• Injection sites• Self-testing blood sugar records• Emotional well-being

“Once each year, your child should have a dilated eye exam and a urine test to check kidney health,” adds Dr. Eapen.

months. To make the most of your visits, use these tips to communicate clearly: • Share information freely. Don’t wait to

be asked a question.• Don’t hold back information that you or

your child might feel embarrassed about.• Be specific when talking about

symptoms. Tell your child’s doctor what the symptom is, when it began, when it occurs, what makes it better or worse, and if it interferes with activities.

• Ask your child’s doctor to explain anything you don’t understand. Repeat back important information in your own words to make sure that you understood it.

Schedule checkups and tests“Seeing your child’s doctor regularly is the best way to catch problems early,” says Santhosh Eapen, M.d., a pediatric

endocrinologist affiliated with K. Hovnanian Children’s

Meridian KidViews • Fall 2015 12

pediatricdiabetes

Diabetes resources are Just Clicks awayAt our Online Wellness Center you’ll find a wealth of diabetes-related resources — everything from videos and podcasts to tips for healthy living. Visit WellnessCenter.meridianHealth.com/diabetes.

DyMiere grant, 14, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2011. he is a freshman at neptune high School and enjoys reading.

team up with your child’s Doctor for the Best Diabetes careParents of kids with diabetes want to do all they can to keep them healthy. By working with your child’s doctor, you’ll be able to create a manageable care plan for your child.

To work well, your child’s diabetes care plan must fit with your child’s life. Let your child’s doctor know the factors that might affect the plan, such as your child’s school schedule, activity level, favorite and least favorite foods, and other medical concerns.

5 Questions to askAs your child grows, check in with your child’s doctor and ask these questions:1. Is my child’s diabetes under control?2. How can I help my child manage

diabetes?3. Are my other children at risk for

diabetes?4. What foods are healthy or to be

avoided?5. When can children manage

more of their own care?

communicate openlyYou and your child will visit your child’s diabetes doctor about every three

santhosh eapen, m.d.Board certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Endocrinology Neptune1-800-560-9990

feeling when the pressure is released. It can lead to serious injury and death. Signs that your child could be involved include unexplained bruising, frequent headaches, or red marks on the throat.

• neknominate. In this challenge, people rapidly consume alcohol and post the video on social media sites. They then nominate another person to drink even more or consume a more extreme mixture, which may contain bizarre and dangerous ingredients such as eggs, insects, motor oil, and more.

• ice and salt challenge. Participants sprinkle salt onto their skin and press an ice cube into the salt. The “winner” is the one who’s able to keep the ice on the longest. The combination of salt and ice on the skin can cause severe frostbite. Keep an eye out for purple or reddish marks on the palm of the hand.

• eraser challenge. Participants rub a pencil eraser against their skin to see who can withstand the pain the longest.

13

Help Kids Handle Peer Pressure in the Digital Age

behavioral health

As kids become teens, their peer group can have a more powerful influence on their choices. This can lead to risky behaviors. As a parent, it’s helpful to know the sources of peer pressure so that you can watch for signs of negative peer pressure.

Pressure to Drink and SmokeFeeling pressure to try cigarettes, alcohol, or other drugs is nothing new, but it’s still worrisome. Most adolescents who abuse drugs or alcohol started using those substances due to peer pressure. Nearly 90 percent of cigarette smokers first tried smoking by age 18. And 28 percent of eighth-graders and 68 percent of 12th graders have tried alcohol.

Peer Pressure in the Social Media ageThrough social media, dangerous trends can spread rapidly. Kids may view and post videos of harmful challenges to YouTube and Twitter. “Social media can also lead to peer pressure in the form of cyberbullying through online shaming if someone doesn’t complete a dare,” says ramon Solhkhah, M.d., affiliated with Meridian Behavioral Health.

These four popular challenges and games can have harmful consequences:• choking game. Participants are

choked in an effort to achieve a “high”

KHovnanianChildrensHospital.com

santhosh eapen, m.d.Board certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Endocrinology Neptune1-800-560-9990

The friction can create burns on the skin that may lead to tissue loss or scarring. Look for eraser-sized burns on your child’s nondominant hand or wrist.

If you think your child is using drugs or alcohol, or participating in these challenges, have a discussion with them. Tell them what you’ve observed, ask questions, and listen to their answers. The goal is to figure out together how you can help your teen make smarter decisions and healthier choices.

“Also be sure to schedule an annual wellness visit with your child’s pediatrician,” adds Dr. Solhkhah. “This is an opportunity for your child’s doctor to discuss risky behavior and the consequences of engaging in harmful activities.”

ramon solhkhah, m.d.Board certified in Psychiatry Neptune1-800-560-9990

Our Expert Outlines Bullying red FlagsDr. Solhkhah offers tips for parents to help head off bullying. Read the article at meridianmomtourage.com/bullying.

Women have something better than a fountain of youth to help them live long and well: preventive screening tests. these help catch diseases and problems early, when they are most treatable.

The following is a chart of important screenings for women, based on the recommendations of major health organizations and U.S. government agencies, and also recommended by Evelyn Minaya, M.d., affiliated with Riverview Medical Center. “Talk with your doctor to find out which tests and what schedules are best for you,” says Dr. Minaya. The screenings you need, and when you need them, may change depending on your family history.

During last May's Paint the town Pink event, Meridian health broke the world record for the longest pinky promise chain when 685 participants promised to get their annual mammograms.

healthy life, youthful looks

Signs of aging show up mostly in the skin. Healthy, naturally aged skin is smooth and thin, and has light wrinkles. But pollution, tobacco smoke, malnutrition, stress, and the sun’s ultraviolet rays can add years to your skin, potentially making it look deeply wrinkled, leathery, and spotted.

Researchers say many plants and plant extracts can improve the skin’s elasticity and firmness. Look for lotions for your skin that contain some of the following: •Ethanol extract of licorice

(Glycyrrhiza glabra L) •Basil, oregano, and thyme

essential oils •Cinnamon extract •Aloe vera

“Enjoy plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially ones that help safeguard your skin, such as pomegranate or wild yams,” adds monica bais, m.d., internal medicine physician affiliated with Riverview Medical Center and Bayshore Community Hospital.

Exercise improves blood flow, which helps move key nutrients and oxygen to your skin's surface. And sweating works to remove dirt from your pores. Aim for one hour of physical activity that gets you breathing hard every day.

What i've Learned at 40Professional soccer player Christie Rampone shares her feelings on turning 40 and personal health and happiness tips. To read her blog post, visit meridianmomtourage.com and search "Christie Rampone."

MoMS

Moms, Your Health is important, TooMeridian Momtourage is your one-stop source for women’s health topics. Find content on diet and exercise, preventive care, and more at meridianmomtourage.com/WomensHealth.

Meridian KidViews • Fall 2015 14

monica bais, m.d.Atlantic Highlands1-800-560-9990

Must-Have Medical Screenings for Women

evelyn minaya, m.d.Board certified in Obstetrics- GynecologyTinton Falls1-800-560-9990

15

your health

KHovnanianChildrensHospital.com

Must-Have Medical Screenings for WomenScreening Who needs it Whenheart Disease

Blood Pressure Test Women ages 20 and older At least once every two years based on resultsCholesterol Test Women ages 20 and older Every four to six years, or more often for high-risk individuals

Diabetes

Blood Sugar Test Women ages 45 and older who are overweight; pregnant women at high risk1

Once at age 45, then every three years; during pregnancy, if needed

cancer

Pap Test Women ages 21 to 65 The United States Preventive Services Task Force suggests that most women should get a Pap test once every three years. Women ages 30 to 65 can choose to instead have a Pap test once every five years along with a human papillomavirus (HPV) test. Women older than 65 who have had normal screenings and do not have a high risk for cervical cancer do not need Pap tests. Talk with your doctor about what is best for you.

Clinical Breast Exam Women ages 20 and older Every three years for women ages 20 to 39; yearly from age 402

Mammography (Breast X-ray)

Women ages 40 and older Every one to two years3

Guaiac-based Fecal Occult Blood Test (gFOBT)

Women ages 50 and older Every year

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy4 Women ages 50 and older Every five years Colonoscopy5 Women ages 50 and older Every 10 years Double Contrast Barium Enema (Colon and rectum X-ray)

Women ages 50 and older Every five years if not having colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy

1 Pregnant women at risk for gestational diabetes include those who are older than age 25, have had the condition before, or have a family history of diabetes.

2 The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends annual clinical breast exams (CBEs) for women ages 40 and older. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), however, believes there is not enough evidence to assess the value of CBEs for women ages 40 and older. Women should talk with their doctors about their personal risk factors and make a decision about whether they should have a CBE.

3 Currently, the ACS recommends yearly screening for all women ages 40 and older. The USPSTF recommends screening every two years for women ages 50 to 74. Women should talk with their doctors about their personal risk factors before making a decision about when to start getting mammographies or how often they should get them.

4 Some doctors may recommend FOBT plus sigmoidoscopy.5 While colonoscopies can be done every 10 years, you should receive one every five years if you have a family history of colon cancer.

upcoming eventsFall 2015

• at meridian health •

1350 Campus ParkwayNeptune, NJ 07753

Non-profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDMeridian Health

10291M

Visit us on the Web at MeridianHealth.com.

Bryana KiMBerlin, 11, looks forward to seeing a special friend at the dentist's office. See Page 4.

are you getting a good night's Sleep?october 15, 11:00 A.m. – noonriverview medical Centertwo river Conference suiteSPEAKER: Adrian Pristas, M.D.october 15, 11:00 A.m. – noonmeridian Health village at Jackson, Conference Centeroctober 21, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at manahawkinoctober 27, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.Jersey shore University medical Centerbrennan rooms 104/105

healthy Bones: Learn the signs, symptoms, causes, and treatment options for osteoporosis.october 26, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at manahawkinSPEAKER: Lisa Kassenoff, D.O.october 27, 11:00 A.m. – noonmeridian Fitness and Wellness Center at HazletBone density screenings to follow lecture.

Meridian Movement Learn about bone health and treatment options for joint surgery. october 22, 11:00 A.m. – noonocean medical Center Community roomSPEAKERS: Karl Blum, M.D., and Christopher Passariello, M.D.

24th annual Women's health nightGather your friends and spend an evening devoted to your personal wellness. Meet our physicians and take part in free health screenings, interactive displays, and giveaways.

Lipid screenings will be done ahead of time, on October 26, 7:00 – 9:00 A.M., and results will be provided at the event. You must fast for 12 hours before being screened.october 28, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.southern ocean medical Center

Bringing the celebration home

On July 28, Meridian Health welcomed home christie rampone,

captain of the U.S. Women's Soccer Team and spokesperson for

K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital. The event recognized her

achievements and the World Cup Champions!