WHAT'S HAPPENING IN HEALTH

Fall allergy season is upon us

Ragweed and other environmental pollens are making for a miserable fall this year as people struggle with runny noses, water, burning eyes and endless sneezing. Nevin Wilson, M.D., chair of the School of Medicine pediatrics department in Reno and an allergy specialist, can offer tips on reducing one's misery during this late-year allergy season.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, urging the public to become informed and aware of the significance of breast cancer. Annabel Barber, M.D., and Daniel Kirgan, M.D., associate professors of surgery, can discuss surgical options for those fighting breast cancer while Sanford Barsky, M.D., chair of pathology, can discuss his research that looks at why breast cancer often returns after a two-month to 10-year absence called latency. If latency could be extended forever, this cancer could be cured.

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

As well as being physically abusive to those who have been victimized, domestic abuse can cause severe psychological and emotional stress to those in danger and their families. Ole J. Thienhaus, M.D., chair of psychiatry and Amy Elwood, of the family and community medicine department, can discuss the short- and long-term effects caused by domestic violence and abuse.

Talk About Prescriptions Month

Talk About Prescriptions Month encourages people to be informed of proper prescription drug use through communication between patient and physician. Although prescription drugs can be very helpful, they can also be very hurtful if not taken as prescribed. Iain I.O. Buxton, Pharm.D., professor of pharmacology, is available to talk about the importance of correct prescription drug use and informing one's physician of all prescription medications one is taking.

EVENTS

Student Outreach Clinics
Family Medicine Center, University of Nevada, Reno

The University of Nevada School of Medicine's Student Outreach Clinics for October have been announced for the following dates: a children's clinic will be held October 9 from 8 a.m. to noon., a general clinic will be held October 16 from 8 a.m. to noon and a women's clinic will be on October 25 from 6 to 9 p.m.

No appointment necessary; patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis. Spanish translators are available.

Clinics are held at the Family Medicine Center, located on the University of Nevada, Reno campus just north of Mackay Stadium off of North Virginia Street. Take RTC bus route 7 to North Virginia Street or the free Sierra Spirit bus.