Colorectal cancer rises in adults under age 50
Each year, nearly 500 Montanans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and an increasing number of them are under age 50. Sheri Pope, a prevention health specialist with RiverStone Health, shares tips to prevent colorectal cancer and stresses the importance of regular screening starting at age 45.
New defenses against RSV for vulnerable seniors, babies
Respiratory syncytial virus , a common illness that can affect people of all ages, can be more serious for older adults, pregnant individuals and babies. Dr. Courtney Honken of RiverStone Health encourages anyone who may be at a higher risk for RSV to talk to their provider about prevention tools available.
Education empowers teens to reject vaping
Did you know vapes are an aerosol containing many cancer causing chemicals including formaldehyde? Hillary Schafer, a prevention health specialist at RiverStone Health, educates parents and teens in this column. For more information about tobacco prevention, call 406-247-3305.
Keep yourself and your Valentine healthy
In this Billings Gazette column, Stacie Pannell, RiverStone Health nurse manager, encourages all people who are now or have ever been sexually active to prioritize their well-being by seeking testing that includes screening for syphilis. That disease has increased about 1,000% (yes, one thousand percent) in our community since 2021. For information about confidential STI testing and treatment, call RiverStone Health at 406.247.3305.
Tips for keeping your kids’ teeth cavity free
Untreated cavities can cause pain and infections that may lead to problems with learning, eating and speaking. RiverStone Health Dental Clinic encourages parents to help their children have good oral health habits and keep up with regular dental care. To make an appointment at the RiverStone Health Dental Clinic, call 406.247.3333.
Don’t risk your family’s health, beware of radon
Radon, a gas that occurs naturally in the soil in some places in every state, is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the USA. Radon can seep into homes and other buildings through the soil in Montana. The only way to know whether your home has unhealthy levels of radon is to test for it.
How to defend yourself against winter germs
Reduce your risk of being sickened by seasonal viruses by boosting your emotional and physical well-being. In this Billings Gazette column, Dr. Jacalynn Kim, a family physician at RiverStone Health Clinic, offers tips for staying well this winter. For an appointment at RiverStone Health Clinic, call 406.247.3350.
Change your mindset to reach New Year’s goals
Changing your mindset about nutrition can be a powerful tool in achieving your New Year’s resolution. Think about food as fuel, make small changes and learn from failures, says Callie Miller, a registered dietitian with RiverStone Health Women, Infants and Children. To learn about eligibility for WIC nutrition assistance and other benefits, call 406.247.3370.
Start planning for healthy baby before pregnancy
Every pregnancy is different. That is why having proper ongoing counseling and medical management is essential for protecting your health and your baby’s health, says Dr. Matt Lopiano, RiverStone Health family physician. Read more of his prenatal advice in this Billings Gazette column. For a prenatal appointment, call RiverStone Health Clinic at 406.247.3350.
Know what you are drinking
Alcoholic drinks have a wide range of alcohol content, so stay informed about the types of alcohol you’re consuming and how much, says Jenna Solomon, RiverStone Health prevention specialist. As she explains in a Billings Gazette column, medication, genetics and medical conditions may vary your reaction to alcohol consumption.
