Tips For Keeping Your Sobriety In Check Through The Holidays

Throughout the holidays, the pressures of the season along with the general festive atmosphere can be reasons why those in recovery succumb to consuming alcohol. But, there are alternatives, as given in the Mountainside Drug Rehab and Alcohol Treatment Center ‘s Holiday Survival Series that offers guidance on how to maintain your sobriety or help others to maintain their sobriety throughout the holiday season.

•  Stay away from situations that put your sobriety at risk. There’s an old adage that says, “If you keep going to the barber shop, you are bound to get a hair cut.” By putting yourself into an environment where there the alcohol is flowing steadily, you increase the chance of having “just one drink”. But, there’s no such thing as “just one drink”, as anyone struggling with alcoholism will tell you. Keep it simple and, if possible, avoid situations where alcohol will be served. While this may seem like an extreme measure for some, immersing yourself in the proper environment will prove to be far more beneficial to your lifelong sobriety than the few hours of celebration that you aren’t participating in.

•  As a family member or loved one, choose to just say, “no” to alcohol. If you are hosting a holiday celebration, make it a safe environment for everyone by having a no-alcohol policy.

•  Provide non-alcoholic drink alternatives. As a host or hostess you may find it impossible to have a no-alcohol policy; so, provide plenty of non-alcoholic drink alternatives for your loved one in recovery. In addition, offer your support by choosing to abstain from consuming alcohol as well.

•  Attend an Al-Anon meeting. The families or friends of a loved one struggling with alcohol addiction also need support. Attending an Al-Anon meeting can help you to gain the tools that will aid your loved one on their journey to recovery.

•  Stay sober. Make a choice to support your family member by personally staying sober throughout the holidays. Quietly let your loved one know that you admire their determination and that you are proud of their conviction. Let them know that you are there with them on their journey and that you’ll be staying sober during the celebrations as well.

Holidays can be one of the most challenging obstacles to a person in recovery, particularly those in early recovery. But, by offering loving, gentle support, you can help your loved one stay the course.

Mountainside Drug Rehab and Alcohol Treatment Center recognizes the struggles that addicted individuals and their families go through when battling various types of addiction. Their unique individualized recovery program is recognized as one of the most comprehensive and individualized in the treatment field. Mountainside assists clients and their families from the very beginning of their journey by offering professional intervention services should they be needed.

Mountainside Drug Rehab and Alcohol Treatment Center is a modern drug rehab facility that is skilled in serving a variety of clients with various addictions and in varying stages of addiction. The caring, compassionate team is made up of licensed and certified social workers and counselors who have extensive experience and specialty in the addiction treatment field. In addition, the staff includes a Nurse Practitioner, as well as a Registered Nurse, both of whom also have specializations and experience within the field of addiction treatment and alcohol rehab.

Mountainside also provides services for those individuals who come to them with dual diagnoses and require the services of a Psychiatrist to help conquer the unique challenges that dual diagnosis brings.

For the past 13 years, Mountainside has established itself as an innovator within the addiction treatment field, and the treatment modalities Mountainside utilizes are regarded as among the most cutting-edge approaches in helping individuals to get, and to remain, sober. As a result of their unique, innovative approaches to addiction treatment, Mountainside has become the model for the addiction treatment field.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Bupa partners with the Ramblers

Bupa, the leading healthcare group, has teamed up with the Ramblers to help people live healthier lives through walking.

The Ramblers is Britain’s Walking charity, working to help everyone realise the pleasures and benefits of walking, and to enhance and protect the places where people walk, whether rural or urban.

Walking can help people to reach the recommended healthy level of physical activity of 150 minutes of moderate exercise over a week in bouts of 10 minutes or more. The many benefits of regular walking include stress reduction, protecting against a number of illnesses and boosting fitness.

Sue Moore, Marketing and Customer Development Director, Bupa Health and Wellbeing said: “We are always looking for ways to help people live healthier lives, and we know that walking is an excellent way to do that. We hope that many of our members get involved with the Ramblers and start enjoying the benefits of walking.”

Robert McKinnon, Head of Marketing, the Ramblers said: “At the Ramblers we know that walking is a great way to keep in shape. We hope that Bupa members will join us and discover the friendship, fresh air and fitness that comes with getting outside and walking.”

Bupa members will be offered a 50% discount on Ramblers membership for the month of February. Ramblers members are also entitled to a special discount on Bupa health coverand Bupa health assessments.

For more information visit www.bupa.co.uk/ramblers.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Bupa Launches Its First Dental Insurance Product

Bupa is introducing a consumer dental insurance product for the first time, in response to high demand from customers.

Dental Cover 10 and 20 from Bupa allow customers to choose whichever dentist they want to visit. Dental Cover 10 offers customers a full refund for NHS treatment* and market-leading oral cancer cover up to £15,000 per person per year**.

Dental Cover 20 allows customers with a privately registered dentist to claim up to £150 a year of dental insurance for routine treatment such as check-ups, dental x-rays and scale and polish. For more expensive, non-cosmetic treatment such as fillings, root canals, extractions, crowns, bridgework and dentures, customers can claim up 75% of each bill, with up to £700 paid back per year. Cover also includes emergency dental treatment and treatment for dental injury***.

With no underwriting or pre-enrolment checks required****, set-up is quick and easy for the customer.

Previously Bupa dental cover was only available to individual customers as an option with the healthcare group’s adaptable health insurance product, Bupa By You.

Sue Moore, Marketing and Customer Development Director, Bupa Health & Wellbeing said: “Having listened to our customers, we have designed a product which gives people extensive cover when they visit the dentist, whether NHS or private. We know that our customers will value the peace of mind that this gives them.”

To obtain a quote, consumers can call 0800 600 500 or visit www.bupa.co.uk/dentalinsurance.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Huffman Family Dentistry Vow to Put the Shine Back into Anyone’s Smile

Wanting to change the confidence levels of even the world’s biggest smilers, Anchorage dentist, Huffaman Family Dentistry, have announced their flagship smile makeover service.

The cosmetic dentist Anchorage, AK service will come as a saving call to the millions of Americans who are not happy with their smile. Those living in the Anchorage area will be the lucky ones – finally able to change things for the better.

The process begins with a consultation – allowing patients to discuss what you like and dislike about their smile with one of Huffman Family Dentistry’s experienced dentists.

The dental professional will then perform a detailed examination to determine the level of oral health – allowing the dentist to then explain the options available to each patient.

The team at the clinic understand the needs of their patients:

“At Huffman Family Dentistry we accept the responsibility of providing you and your family with the best care that modern dentistry has to offer. Our dental professionals never stop learning. They continually update their skills to remain on the leading edge of dental technology and allow you to benefit from new discoveries” they say.

The service is sure to be the pride of local people – with such a comprehensive and cost effective service being available exclusively to them.

“Of course, we’d love to expand and stretch our services across more of the United States” says the Practice Manager. He continues “However, Alaskans have a special place in our hearts, and we are proud to be on hand to help them, and them alone”.

To find out more about the company and book your smile makeover today, please visit:
http://www.huffmanfamilydentistry.com/.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Oregon’s Apple Dental Shock the Dental World by Offering Best Deal Yet

Having already won the confidence of individuals and families in the North Bend and Coos Bay areas of Oregan, local dental clinic Apple Dental has further shocked the dental world – by offering a dental examination and X-Ray for just $49.

The clinic, known as one of the best in the region – with North Bend dentist and Coos Bay dentist offices, offers a full range of services including dental extractions, dental implants, Dentures, IV Sedation and a whole host of other Family Dentistry services.

Representatives of the company are proud to be offering such a great deal, and encourage anyone looking for elite dental care to contact them and take advantage of it:

“We are offering our best deal ever. We are targeting new patients that need dental care in North Bend and Coos Bay. We encourage all new dental patients to take advantage of this special promotion!” they say.

The clinic has already built up a sterling reputation for their focus on client relations – namely through the employment of highly qualified and friendly staff, who understand the needs of everyone.

Mike, who has been a patient at the clinic since it first opened, cannot speak highly enough of the service that they offer:

“I’ve had virtually everything you could image done at Apple Dental, including the extraction of two teeth, dental implants and most recently the fitting and development of some excellent dentures. The service they offer really is first class, and this $49 deal they have going on is not to be missed!” he says.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Dr. Just Smile Vows to Bring Smiles to Cincinnati – as the Ultimate Family Dentist

Bringing years of experience to the dentist chair, Steinmetz Michael S DDS and his team at Dr. Just Smile are proud to announce the launch of their new website.

The major web overhaul is set to position Dr. Just Smile as the dominant family dentist in the region, as well as poise them as the ultimate cosmetic dentist Cincinnati has to offer.

The clinic offers everything from elite dentistry services through to laser dentistry, cosmetic dentist services, Pediatric services and many more.

“We are deeply committed to providing our clients with convenient and accessible dental health screenings and procedures that will leave them and their family with confidence and the healthiest smiles possible” says Dr. Michael Steinmetz – who owns and operates the practice.

Among their many services, the team at Dr. Just Smile place a special focus on dentistry services that the whole family can benefit from – as Dr. Michael Steinmetz explains:

“We regard our own team as a small family, so certainly know how to treat our patients the same way. Every patient knows out names and we’re always available help and assist with any questions or concerns that they may have. We want everyone to smile together!” he says.

In all, there’s an impressive range of services available to patients of Dr. Just Smile, positioning them as one of the most experiences family, emergency and pediatric dentist Cincinnati can boast.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

NHS Criteria Crisis? Will The Change In VAT Finally Move The NHS To Review Their Qualification Of Candidates For Cosmetic Procedures?

There have been several reports in the media in recent months suggesting that the government is to add VAT to cosmetic surgery procedures. If this is true patients will be charged an extra 20% on the procedures that they undergo. However, the picture is even more worrying for the NHS which, under certain circumstances, offers cosmetic surgery for free. If the VAT rumours are true then the NHS will find itself under financial pressure at a time when it can ill afford to be so. In this article we will look in depth at the government proposals on taxing cosmetic procedures and their effect on the NHS. We will then decipher whether the NHS will ultimately be forced to review their qualification for candidates undergoing cosmetic surgery.

HM Revenues and Customs
In autumn 2011 HM Revenues and Customs stated that they wanted to clarify the existing legislation on which types of cosmetic surgery attract VAT. They claim that any cosmetic surgery carried out for medical reasons is not taxable. However, surgery simply carried out to improve appearance should be taxed. The department said this had always been the case and new legislation had not actually been introduced. Cosmetic surgeries disagreed arguing that this tax had never been enforced so if it was now suddenly going to be enforced law it was, in effect, a new law. However, the boundaries between cosmetic surgery for medical and aesthetic reasons are not always as easy to define as, say the difference between rhinoplasty surgery to help alleviate problems with breathing and liposuction to tackle a pesky “muffin top”.

A surgeon could argue that a female requesting breast enlargement surgery needs it to combat depression, a medical condition. Breast enlargement would traditionally be seen as an aesthetical procedure but in this instance it may be passed as medical. Indeed, HM Revenues and Customs admit that each case needs to be judged on its individual merits.

So where does this leave the NHS?
Under current guideless the NHS only offers cosmetic surgery when it is deemed medically necessary. Therefore, the new legislation on VAT has no impact on the NHS. The health service will not have to foot additional bills whilst they continue to offer medical cosmetic procedures. It seems the NHS will have no reason to review their qualification of candidates for cosmetic procedures. In fact there are less likely to do so as any review may lead to non-medical procedures being carried out which would result in the service incurring the VAT charge.

There remains much confusion over the proposal of adding VAT to cosmetic procedures. The government themselves claim that some procedures are, and also have been, taxable. They claim they have not changed their policy but are simply clarifying the existing rules. It is clear, however, that the majority of cosmetic surgeries have not been charging their clients VAT for any procedures and the law has not been enforced. The outcry in the cosmetic industry reflects the panic felt by surgeons who worry potential patients may desert the UK for cheaper surgery abroad. The NHS, however, remains unaffected by this change or clarification because all the procedures carried out by the health service are for medical purposes so they will never attract VAT. It remains to be seen whether the government enforces the VAT on some cosmetic procedures but it is clear that the NHS will not be affected and therefore is under no pressure to review its candidates for surgery.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Alaska Center for Dentistry Launch Gleaming (Just Like your Teeth!) New Website

Wanting to make an impact in the world of online Dentistry, Anchorage-Based Alaska Center for Dentistry has launched a brand new website.

Coupled with this exciting new website launch are a range of special offers for new patients, making high-quality and elite dental care even more affordable.

The center’s Practice Manager explains more:

“We have launched a large promotion targeting new patients in need of quality dental care at affordable prices. With that, we are offering some rather large special offers including free teeth whitening for new patients” he says.

The Alaska Center for Dentistry has two locations – One in Wasilla and another in Anchorage, allowing the company to stretch their dentistry services over as wide a range as possible.

The center is also supporting the community over the Holiday season, and last month collected donations for the Food Pantry at their Wasilla office, and donations for the Food Bank of Alaska at their Anchorage dentist location.

During December, toy donations will be made to the Mat Su Special Santa at the Wasilla clinic, and for Toys for Tots in Anchorage.

As the practice say, beyond their excellent value services and high-quality care, dedication to the community is important:

“We feel it is vital to give something back. We’re doing extremely well with our two clinic locations and flashy new website as well as our IV Sedation Anchorage service– so we felt it necessary to help others at the same time” they conclude.

To visit the new website and find out more about the Alaska Center for Dentistry, please visit: alaskacenterfordentistry.com.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Anchorage’s Mint Dental Offers New Patients a Whopping $150 off Services

Mint Dental, known throughout the Anchorage region as being the only Anchorage Dentist to positively welcome emergency treatment, have blown a huge hole in the local dentistry world by announcing a great new promotion – $150 off their services!

It’s all in an effort to celebrate the launch of Mint Dental’s new website, as well as the opening of their new office at 3606 Rhone Circle in the city.

“Our staff is of the highest quality you will find in Anchorage. We offer more services than most dental practices, allowing our patients to get more done in a single visit rather than going somewhere lest for other needed services like root canals” they say.

Of course, all of the services above as well as the myriad of others listed on their website can now be accessed by new patients at a fraction of their original cost.

The clinic is certainly an attractive prospect for anyone needing dental treatment – they offer same day appointments, are open on Saturdays, bill directly to insurance companies, offer IV sedation to nervous patients and even offer extended hour appointments.

Interested parties are asked to turn their attention to their new website for more information. The new dentist Anchorage portal, which has been developed recently by a team of online development experts, offers an expansive wealth of information on the clinic, its staff and even details of special offers and location maps.

It can be found online at: http://www.mintdentalalaska.com.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Med-Q Introduces Tool to Reduce Medication Errors

When Lee DeMar was running a Phoenix-based nursing agency, he constantly heard his nurses voice their frustration over the fact that many of their older clients were not taking their medications when they should and as a result cycling back to the ER (the nurses worked exclusively at hospitals). Known as medication non-compliance (or non-adherence), it is the failure to take prescription medication on time and in the dosages prescribed.

Medication non-compliance — which has been called America’s “other drug problem” by The New York Times — results in an estimated $290 billion in emergency room visits and other avoidable medical expenses and health crises. These medication errors account for 10 percent of all hospital admissions, and is attributed to at least 125,000 deaths annually, according to the New England Healthcare Institute.

DeMar immediately recognized the urgency of this growing problem and through his company, Med-Q, developed the Med-Q Pillbox, an innovative solution to the challenges of medication non-compliance. The unit retails for $49.95 and is being launched at a special introductory price of $39.95.

Featuring a unique modern design, the Med-Q Pillbox is unlike any pill organizer on the market. It is a self-contained, “all-in-one” electronic weekly organizer, reminder and dispenser. According to DeMar, “The Med-Q Pillbox features a user-friendly design and multipurpose functionality to assist a wide range of individuals taking daily medications and vitamins.”

The Med-Q Pillbox consists of 14 days’ worth of roomy, individualized compartments to accommodate once a day (for 14 days) or twice a day (for 7 days) medication regimens. Each individual compartment is specially fitted with large flip-up tabs for easy opening and can hold the equivalent of up to 30 regular-size aspirins. Additionally, each compartment can be removed from the pillbox base eliminating the potential to spill pills from other compartments that may not be closed securely. An extra large LED makes it easier to program and see the day, time and “next alert.”

Med-Q’s electronic dual reminder system, according to DeMar “is a technology and design breakthrough for individuals and families trying to adhere to daily medication regimens and live a medically-independent life.”

Powered by two AA batteries, the Med-Q Pillbox combines advanced audio and visual alarms, and may be programmed to fit any schedule. The audio alarm, available in one- or two-beep options, cascades in volume and is loud enough to be heard through a nightstand drawer. The visual alarm utilizes LED-Lightbox Technologyâ„¢ to illuminate individual compartments with a flashing light and indicates which pills to take.

The goal of the Med-Q Pillbox is to reduce medication errors. For more information or to purchase the Med-Q Pillbox, please visit www.medqpillbox.com or call 480-648-4977.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Mountainside Drug Rehab’s Tips For Staying Sober Through The Holidays

Any previously addicted individual who has successfully maintained their sobriety for any length of time will attest to the fact the holiday season is one of the most challenging times of the year to stay on the recovery path. In addition, their successes also show that staying sober is indeed possible by following the guidelines below.

1.  Utilize your sponsor. You aren’t alone in your quest to stay sober during the holiday season. Your sponsor has experience in this area – lean on him or her and ask how to handle what you feel will be the most challenging aspects for you during the holiday season. Drug Rehab is an on-going process.

2.  Regularly check-in. Whether you decide to check-in with your sponsor at regular intervals, or with someone else in recovery, just make sure that you do so! Don’t wait until you are in a precarious situation to check-in. Staying in regular contact with a sober individual can help you as you navigate difficult situations.

3.  Attend an Alka-thon. An Alka-thon is an all day, 24 hour, 12-step based meeting event which is typically scheduled during the holidays. Those in recovery can come and get support from others who have been where they are.

4. Bring a sober person with you to a party. If you have been invited to a holiday gathering where alcohol will be served: first: determine if this is a good idea for you to go; second: if you do go, bring with you another sober person who is working their recovery program.

5.  Bring your own drinks. Make certain that you have a viable alternative to alcohol at a party. Bring your own sparkling water, sparkling cider or other favorite non-alcoholic beverage to insure that you have something to drink while others are imbibing.

While the holidays can be a difficult time to maintain sobriety, it is indeed possible with a little pre-planning and forethought. Don’t be afraid to lean upon family and friends during this holiday season!

Mountainside Drug Rehab and Alcohol Treatment Center recognizes the struggles that addicted individuals and their families go through, particularly during the holidays. Their unique individualized recovery program is recognized as one of the most comprehensive and individualized in the treatment field. Mountainside assists clients and their families from the very beginning of their journey by offering professional intervention services should they be needed.

Mountainside Drug Rehab and Alcohol Treatment Center is a modern drug rehab facility that is skilled in serving a variety of clients with various addictions and in varying stages of addiction. The caring, compassionate team is made up of licensed and certified social workers and counselors who have extensive experience and specialty in the addiction treatment field. In addition, the staff includes a Nurse Practitioner, as well as a Registered Nurse, both of whom also have specializations and experience within the field of addiction treatment and alcohol rehab.

Mountainside also provides services for those individuals who come to them with dual diagnoses and require the services of a Psychiatrist to help conquer the unique challenges that dual diagnosis brings.

For the past 13 years, Mountainside has established itself as an innovator within the addiction treatment field, and the treatment modalities Mountainside utilizes are regarded as among the most cutting-edge approaches in helping individuals to get, and to remain, sober. As a result of their unique, innovative approaches to addiction treatment, Mountainside has become the model for the addiction treatment field.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

The Harley Medical Group Crown Their ‘Find The Face Of 2012′ Winners

In September, the UK’s leading cosmetic surgery and non-surgical solutions company, The Harley Medical Group, launched a social media campaign to “Find the Face” to front its 2012 advertising campaign. This is the first time ever that the Group has taken to Facebook and asked the British public to submit suggestions of why they should be chosen to feature in the new adverts.

The Harley Medical Group has 31 clinics across the UK and Ireland, and having treated over 500,000 patients in its 28 year history celebrates its patients’ new found confidence through a variety of marketing activities.

The Facebook campaign, which ended on 31st October announced the winners to be, Jamie-Lee Williams and Trevor Ventour. The winning pair have received a £1,000 cash prize each, as well as the opportunity to be featured in The Harley Medical Group’s TV and print adverts.

Louise Braham, Marketing Director at The Harley Medical Group, says: “The ‘Find the Face of’ competition is a fantastic way of finding real men and women who have discovered their inner confidence. Launching the competition on Facebook meant there could be a wider scope of people who could apply and join in. As Facebook connects 29.9 million people in the UK , it was a great way to ensure full visibility and inspire people to have the confidence to look and feel great.”

Winner, Jamie-Lee Williams aged 25 from Ostwestry in North Wales, previously underwent a Breast Englargement procedure. Jamie-Lee says, “I have travelled the world taking part in many beauty pageants. I have always naturally been an extrovert, but was always self-conscious of my breasts. After having my procedure I felt I was able to go on and actually win my beauty pageants.”

Northampton winner Trevor Ventour aged 26 has previously had Rhinoplasty – the medical term for nose reshaping surgery. Trevor says, “I suffered from low self-esteem due to the look and shape of my nose – it resulted in shying away from cameras and constantly feeling insecure. After surgery I feel infinitely more confident and have never looked back.”

You can now follow The Harley Medical Group on Facebook at:www.facebook.com/theharleymedicalgroup
And on YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/harleymedicalgroup.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Blue Water Spa, a Raleigh NC Spa and Laser Hair Removal Center Donates $107,000.00 to Boys and Girls Clubs of Wake County

Blue Water Spa, a Raleigh laser hair removal center, donates $108,000 to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Wake County. Kile Law, president and founder of Blue Water Spa in Raleigh, NC attributes the donations to the loyalty and generosity of the clients and staff at Blue Water Spa.

“The Boys and Girls Clubs is an amazing organization. They need support of the community to continue their wonderful work,” says Kile Law. “We are a small business, but I know when we work together Blue Water Spa clients can do great things. The average donation was $37.11, but we all gave together to reach $100,000.00.” Blue Water Spa raised money by offering spa and laser hair removal in Raleigh at a redued price for people who donate to charity.

Blue Water Spa has been voted best medical spa in America for three consecutive years by American Spa Magazine. Raleigh Spa Specials at Blue Water Spa provide an opportunity for people who serve the community and/or donate time or funds to charity to receive luxury spa treatments at reduced prices. Blue Water Spa www.bluewaterspa.com is the top provider of Botox and Juvederm in the Raleigh area and was recently designated an Allergan Black Diamond Provider. In 2011 Blue Water Spa supported over 120 local charities and non-profits. Blue Water Spa has donated more than 150,000 pounds of food to the Interfaith Food Shuttle of NC.

The North Raleigh spa provides luxury spa services in a beautiful lush atmosphere. Blue Water Spa laser center provides laser hair removal, laser skin tightening and laser vein therapy.

Kile Law is president and founder of Blue Water Spa, Kile has been recognized as Humanitarian of the Year in the Aesthetics industry by Aesthetics International. Under Kile Law’s leadership, Blue Water Spa has been voted best place to work in the Triangle by the Triangle Business Journal. Kile Law leads the spa’s philanthropic endeavors. In 2010 she was recognized by the Interfaith Food Shuttle of NC for a gift of 100,000 pounds of food to the Interfaith Food Shuttle.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Recession Frown Lines Drive Injectables Bookings

One of the UK’s leading cosmetic surgery providers has revealed a rise in bookings of injectable treatments, as patients tackle recession frown and worry lines. The Harley Medical Group, with 31 clinics nationwide, has reported a 9% increase in bookings for Botox® and Dermal Fillers amongst the 35+ age group for women, however the gap is lessening between genders, with more males making bookings. The majority of bookings being made are for treatments on the forehead and around the eyes.

Lisa Littlehales, Leading Nurse Counsellor at The Harley Medical Group, says: “Repetitive facial expressions can lead to deep wrinkles and lines developing on the skin, resulting in a ‘permanent’ expression on the face. Constant frowning, creasing of the brow when thinking, and rubbing the forehead all result in lines and wrinkles appearing. Patients often tell us people have commented that they look angry or upset because of their frown and worry lines, and this has inspired them to book in.

“Frown lines appear vertically between the brows, and are usually between 1.5 – 2 inches long. Depending on how deep the line is, we would usually treat this area with two or three injections of Dermal Filler, plumping out the skin giving an overall smoother look. Worry lines appear horizontally across the forehead and often patients can have multiple lines. Botox® and Fillers injected along the length of the lines will help to rejuvenate the skin, and create a more youthful appearance.”

Sally Taber, who manages the Standards and Training principles for TreatmentsYouCanTrust.co.uk, which is the only scheme to register appropriately qualified and regulated providers of cosmetic injectables, also comments on the ‘recession treatment trend’, saying: “We’ve heard from many providers on the register that Dermal Fillers have been very popular this year, with many consumers looking to tackle their worry lines. It still remains of paramount importance that consumers choose a provider wisely – these popular treatments are safe and deliver excellent results if carried out by providers with a clinical background and in a clinical environment.”

Littlehales continues: “It’s not only injectables that patients are turning to, to help achieve a smooth and youthful appearance. Skin peels are very effective treatments in helping to rejuvenate the skin and help reverse the signs of ageing. The Agera Skin Peel and the Obagi Blue Peel both help to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which helps the skin to bounce back into shape and prevents lines and wrinkles from forming.”

Natasha Boast, a patient who has had fillers at The Harley Medical Group, says: “Looking in the mirror and seeing yourself age radically in a year is not good for morale, especially when your work situation is precarious and you are juggling paying family bills.

“I started to look permanently cross as well, as my frown line between my eyes was so strong and my children started asking why Mummy was angry. I decided to have Fillers and am so pleased I did. I feel happier and more positive and don’t feel miserable when I catch myself in the mirror.”

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Bupa Health Foundation and Alzheimer’s Australia Announce UK Availability Of Brain Health App

The Bupa Health Foundation and Alzheimer’s Australia have announced the UK launch of a world-first brain health app, the latest digital tool to help in the fight against dementia.

Based on latest research that links brain health and a reduced risk of dementia, to a healthy heart and cardiovascular system, ‘BrainyApp’ is the first dementia risk reduction iPhone app designed to help people monitor and improve their brain-heart health.

The new app, which was designed by Alzheimer’s Australia and Bupa Health Foundation, has already knocked Facebook off the number one spot in the Australia and New Zealand Top Free Apps list and has clocked up more than 130,000 downloads down under.

Now available to people in the UK, ‘BrainyApp’ helps users monitor and improve the physical, mental, dietary and social aspects of their lifestyle.

There are currently 750,000 people living with dementia in the UK and this is predicted to rise to over a million by 2021. Delaying the onset of dementia by just five years would reduce deaths directly attributable to dementia by 30,000 a year.

Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive, Alzheimer’s Society, said: “Most people know how to reduce their risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke but they don’t realise that the same healthy lifestyle choices may also lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s diseaseand other kinds of dementia. The idea is that what is good for the heart is also good for the brain.”

‘BrainyApp’ allows users to take a brain-heart health survey about their diet, exercise patterns and lifestyle. It then provides suggestions and ideas about how to make improvements to each. It also includes all-new brain games, and encourages users to build brain-heart points by staying physically and mentally active, socialising with friends and family, and sharing their progress on Facebook.

One of the brain games – ‘Word Tennis’ – requires players to unscramble anagrams in order to move a paddle and hit a ball back to their opponent.

Director of dementia care for Bupa Care Services, Dr Graham Stokes, said: “There is evidence to show that keeping the mind exercised can stave off the onset of dementia but ‘BrainyApp’ highlights that good physical health also has a part to play. Best of all it’s good fun.”

‘BrainyApp’ is available as a free download for users of iPhone, iPod and iPad devices from the App Store. There are plans to develop an Android version in early 2012.

More information about BrainyApp is available at www.bupa.co.uk/brainy-app.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

The Harley Medical Group Busts Cosmetic Surgery Myths

The UK’s leading cosmetic surgery group, The Harley Medical Group, have today revealed research findings which bust some of the industry’s biggest myths and uncover what motivates people across the UK to have cosmetic surgery.

In the first ever survey of its kind, conducted across the Group’s 31 clinics nationwide on over 20,000 patients, the results challenge many of the longstanding myths that surround the cosmetic surgery field revealing over 85% of UK patients opt for surgery due to a confidence issue and that 95% will think about having a procedure for more than two years before they go ahead.

Lisa Littlehales, Lead Nurse Counsellor at The Harley Medical Group, says: “Patients who are looking into surgical options have lots of questions about their procedure and it is important that they are properly informed.

“We decided to do the survey as people often people have assumptions about cosmetic surgery, which in reality are completely untrue. One of the biggest myths is that cosmetic surgery is purely about vanity, when in actual fact it is most often a confidence issue which the patient has not been able to resolve through other means.”

Top Myths Revealed by The Harley Medical Group

All facts are according to The Harley Medical Group

MYTH
Having cosmetic surgery is addictive and most people go on to have multiple procedures after their first.

FACT
95% of patients will only have one procedure that they’ve been thinking about for several years. It’s a confidence thing with many people.

MYTH
Women who have breast enlargement surgery look fake and just want to have big breasts like Jordan.

FACT
Most women only go up by one or two cup sizes and the average size is a C cup. Women are now wanting a more natural look opting for a tear-drop shaped implant rather than the traditional round high contour.

MYTH
Cosmetic surgery is now so commonplace; most people view it as just another beauty treatment.

FACT
Research shows that on average patients think about their surgery for two to three years before going ahead with it.

MYTH
More men are now having cosmetic surgery than women!

FACT
There’s been a huge growth in men having surgery, but they still only make up 17% of patients at The Harley Medical Group.

MYTH
People have cosmetic surgery to stand out.

FACT
Most cosmetic surgery patients don’t have a procedure to stand out; they have treatment to help them fit in.

MYTH
Most people that book in for surgery are young girls who are over critical about their appearance.

FACT
45% of all female patients who enquire and have surgery at The Harley Medical Group are mothers looking for treatments to help combat the effects of pregnancy and regain their confidence. The Harley Medical Group have also seen a 17% increase in patients over 65, across their 31 clinics, in the UK and Ireland, between 2005 and 2010.

MYTH
Plastic surgeons can make you look like your favourite celebrity.

FACT
Each patient is individual and a surgeon will work with a patient’s existing factors in order to produce a desired result – it is not possible to make one person look exactly like another.

MYTH
If you are overweight you can just have liposuction to make you slim

FACT
Liposuction is not a weight loss technique and produces best results on patients that have lost weight and are looking to remove small pockets of stubborn fat. Also, it’s not just women that opt for Liposuction, 25% of Liposuction patients are male.

MYTH
If you’re standing in the supermarket queue, chances are someone in that queue has had cosmetic surgery of some sort.

FACT
Only about 1% of the population have had surgery.

MYTH
Most people go abroad for surgery because it’s cheaper.

FACT
Many people feel uncomfortable about travelling so far away from home when having a major operation and feel it’s more risky.

MYTH
You’ll only meet sales people when you go to a big cosmetic surgery provider.

FACT
Reputable providers only use medically trained staff. Patients should always meet with a medically trained professional nurse counsellor to discuss their procedure and will always meet their surgeon before the operation.

MYTH
Cosmetic Surgery Industry will be one of the first things to be hit by a credit crunch as it’s a vanity led industry and not essential.

FACT
Most patients think about and plan their surgery for many years. They are unlikely to want to put it off and instead consider it an investment. The Harley Medical Group is currently reporting a 29% YOY increase in demand for surgery, defying the credit crunch.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases

Bupa International Releases Health Guides To Hong Kong And Singapore

Bupa International has published two new health guides for expatriates in Hong Kong and Singapore. The guides include information on vaccinations, medical insurance and emergency healthcare.

Expatriate health information is increasingly sought after as a growing number of people relocate to foreign countries for work. Information on healthcare in the East Asian region is particularly needed, as the area’s many booming industries have drawn a large number of foreign workers in recent years.

Expatriates already living in Hong Kong or Singapore and those who are planning to move to either country can access the health guides via the Bupa International website.

The Hong Kong health guide discusses vaccinations and the various infectious diseases that expatriates in Hong Kong may be susceptible to. For those wondering whether to take anti-malarial medicines prior to their move, the health guide explains that this is unnecessary, as the mosquito-transmitted disease is not found in Hong Kong.

However, though malaria is not found in Singapore, the Singapore health guide suggests that expatriates take measures to prevent mosquito bites, as dengue fever and chikungunya have both been reported on the island.

The two health guides also provide information on international health insurance options that expatriates in Singapore and Hong Kong can benefit from and give an overview of the healthcare systems in both city-states, such as the availability of specialist care, the number of hospitals and the nature of primary care.

“Moving and living abroad can be daunting, particularly when it comes to the subject of health,” said Dr Sneh Khemka, medical director for Bupa International. “These health guides will help people to prepare for their move to Singapore or Hong Kong and offer them detailed information about hospital and treatment options there.

“Healthcare systems can vary enormously from one place to another so it’s vital to be prepared for any eventuality before you move or travel abroad. These health guides give an overview of the situation in Singapore and Hong Kong but you should always seek advice from an expert if you have a serious medical condition.”

Bupa International’s website also includes expatriate guides to other countries. The guides offer advice on culture and cost of living in various countries as well as other information such as how people can ship their belongings when relocating to a foreign country.

Via EPR Network
More Healthcare press releases