Technology used to promote better health and cancer prevention statewide

North Carolina’s length, breadth and socioeconomic diversity creates challenges for promoting the healthy behaviors necessary to minimize cancer risk and ensure the best possible quality of life. That’s why five new projects are looking at ways to harness interactive communications technologies to prevent cancer or reduce cancer risk; increase access to cancer screening, prevention and treatment services; and to improve quality of life for those living with cancer.

The potential of these relatively new technologies has not been thoroughly explored, and researchers want to know if they can be effective in reaching people who would otherwise lack access to information, services or expertise.

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The recent increase in recommended vitamin D intake from the Food and Nutrition Board may prompt some to seek more summer sun. But, experts at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer say there’s no safe amount of time people can stay in the sun without increasing skin cancer risks.

People tend to think of sunshine when they think of vitamin D — and for good reason. When UV rays come in contact with the skin, it triggers the creation of vitamin D.

“Some people may absorb enough vitamin D from their routine outdoor exposure,” says Susan Y. Chon, M.D., assistant professor in MD Anderson’s Department of Dermatology. “However, the benefits of UV exposure may be limited because they can lead to increased risks of developing skin cancer.”

Angel Medical Center announces the appointment of a third Hospitalist to its staff, Dr. Jignesh Patel. Dr. Patel comes to AMC from Sanford, N.C., where he served as a Hospitalist at In Compass Health at Central Carolina Hospital, and prior to In Compass, Dr. Patel served at Kinston Community Health Center in Washington DC.

Dr. Patel received his MD from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine in St. Martin, NA and received his board certification from the American Society of Clinical Pathology- CT.

Hospitalist is one of the newest medical sub-specialties who have dedicated their training and their careers to providing team-based, patient centered care that helps achieve quality outcomes. The Hospitalist has a consistent in-hospital presence, providing availability not only to the patient, but also the patient’s family, and being available to the healthcare team who cares for the patient.

Angel Medical Center announces the addition of Jennifer Hollifield to the management team as the Director of Volunteer Services/Employment Coordinator.

Hollifield has been an active member of the Franklin Community, living in this area for the past 20 years.

Hollifield grew up and went to school in Morganton and moved to Franklin after college.