October 2006 News

Granholm Recognizes November As Lung Cancer Awareness Month - October 31st

Michigan Receives "A" In Pain Management - October 30th

Michigan High School Students Plan for Healthier Schools - October 28th

Keep Safety In Mind This Halloween - October 27th

Applications Being Accepted For State Advisory Council On Aging - October 24th

MDCH Recognizes October 22-28 As Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week - October 20th

Granholm Awards $10.9 Million In Grants To Support Anti-Drug Efforts - October 18th

MDCH Employee Receives Honorable Straub Award - October 18th

MDCH Staff Instrumental In Stopping Identity Theft - October 18th

MDCH Urges Adequate Folic Acid Consumption To Prevent Birth Defects - October 18th

October 15 Marks Third Annual National Latino AIDS Awareness Day In Michigan - October 12th

Detroit Pharmacy And Pharmacist Lose Licenses - October 11th

Walter Reuther Nurse Recognized For Excellence - October 9th

Michigan Launches Healthcare Workforce And Health Careers Websites - October 9th

MDCH Releases Consultation On Little Black Creek - October 5th

Cutlerville Social Worker Has License Summarily Suspended - October 3rd

Granholm Recognizes October As National Breast Cancer Awareness Month - October 2nd

---

Granholm Recognizes November As Lung Cancer Awareness Month In an effort to bring awareness to the seriousness of lung cancer, Governor Granholm and the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) are observing November as Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related deaths in Michigan with the American Cancer Society estimating that in 2006, there will be 6,240 new cases of lung cancer and 5,810 lung cancer related deaths in Michigan. "Smoking is the number one cause of lung cancer. More than ninety-five percent of lung cancers that occur among current smokers were found to be a result of smoking and sadly, ninety percent of all smokers start using tobacco before the age of 18," said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. Non-smokers who breathe second-hand smoke can also develop lung cancer. Non-smoking spouses of smokers have a 30 percent greater risk of developing lung cancer than do spouses of non-smokers. Increasing age, a family history of lung cancer, and exposure to asbestos, radon, or other specific cancer-causing agents in the workplace or environment are also factors that increase an individual's risk of developing lung cancer. Though most forms of lung cancer do not cause symptoms until they are in advanced stages, the following symptoms should be reported to your physician if you are at risk: · A cough that does not go away · Chest pain, often made worse by deep breathing · Hoarseness · Weight loss and loss of appetite · Blood or rust-colored sputum (phlegm) · Shortness of breath · Recurring infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia · New onset of wheezing The best way to prevent lung cancer is not to smoke and to avoid people who do. The following free smoking cessation resources are available to help people quit for good: Telephone Services · Michigan Tobacco Quit Line: 1-800-480-QUIT · National Cancer Institute's Smoking Quit Line: 1-877-448-7848 Online Resources · Michigan Department of Community Health-Tobacco Resources: www.michigan.gov/tobacco · National Cancer Institute-Smoking and Cancer: www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/smoking · American Cancer Society-Tobacco and Cancer: www.cancer.org · American Lung Association's Freedom from Smoking Program: www.lungusa.org · Quit Net - Quit All Together: www.quitnet.com Materials · Tobacco cessation resource materials including the Michigan Smoker's Quit Kit and the Expectant Mother's Quit Kit are available through the Health Promotion's Clearinghouse online at www.hpclearinghouse.org or by calling 1-800-537-5666. · The Michigan Providers Tobacco Tool Kit is available through the Michigan Cancer Consortium's website at http://www.michigancancer.org/WhatWeDo/tob-providerstoolkit.cfm. While smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, the 2004 United States Surgeon General's report states that smoking causes diseases in nearly every organ of the body and conclusively links smoking to the development of other types of cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia and cancers of the mouth, larynx, pharynx, esophagus, cervix, kidney, pancreas, and stomach. Other chronic illnesses and major causes of death linked to tobacco include heart disease, stroke, abdominal aortic aneurysms, pneumonia, emphysema, sudden infant death syndrome, and premature delivery in pregnant women who smoke. In conjunction with Lung Cancer Awareness Month, the American Cancer Society will be hosting their annual Great American Smokeout on November 16. The event challenges people to stop using tobacco and raise awareness of the many effective ways to quit for good. For more information about the Great American Smokeout, please visit www.cancer.org. Back to Top

Michigan Receives "A" In Pain Management Michigan Department of Community Health Director Janet Olszewski announced today that Michigan has been recognized for its efforts to provide appropriate pain management. "Michigan was one of only two states to receive an "A" grade for our progress in helping to alleviate suffering in patients who have pain," said Olszewski. "By creating a policy environment where physicians and patients can carefully address pain management, we hope to enhance the quality of life for our citizens." The University of Wisconsin Pain and Policy Studies Group (PPSG) recently issued their national report, Achieving Balance in State Pain Policy: A Progress Report Card (Second Edition), which evaluates the progress states are making in adopting proactive pain management policies. The American Cancer Society, the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF), and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation jointly funded the report with a goal of encouraging government agencies to continue to recognize the need to remove regulatory barriers while encouraging appropriate pain management. The PPSG report card grades each state from A to F. Michigan was recognized for repealing restrictive and ambiguous policy, adopting several recommendations of the End of Life Commission, and for having strong collaboration between its Boards of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacy and Nursing in adopting these policies. Michigan was also recognized for following the Federation of State Medical Boards of the United States Medical Practice Act and Model Policies, and for requiring regulatory agencies to educate licensees about pain management issues. "Patients' access to appropriate pain medication is a balancing act. While opioid pain medications have a well-recognized role in managing pain, they also have a potential for abuse. We have established a system in Michigan that controls diversion and abuse, while also making these treatment options medically available," Olszewski stated. Nationally, there is increasing recognition that improving pain management for patients with cancer, HIV/AIDS, sickle cell anemia and other chronic diseases will result in improved quality of life. To review the national report, please visit http://www.painpolicy.wisc.edu/Achieving_Balance/PRC2006.pdf. Back to Top

Michigan High School Students Plan for Healthier Schools Michigan high school students gathered today at Lakeview High School in Battle Creek for the first-ever Michigan Steps Up Youth Leadership & Advocacy Summit hosted by Michigan Surgeon General Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom and Lakeview School District as part of a statewide initiative to create healthier schools and healthier communities. "Students and teachers spend much of their day at school and should have a healthy environment in which to learn and work," said Wisdom. "While many schools around the state have already taken steps toward a healthier school environment, today is the start of something even bigger for our state." Teams of students in grades 9-12 from high schools around the state assembled to learn about making a personal commitment to a healthy lifestyle and becoming advocates for environmental and policy change in their schools to support healthy lifestyles. They spent the afternoon creating a healthy school action plan to implement in their school during the 2006-2007 school year, addressing physical inactivity, unhealthy eating, and/or tobacco-use or exposure to secondhand smoke. Wisdom and Lakeview School District Superintendent Cindy S. Ruble are optimistic that this pilot program will be replicated year after year in different regions around Michigan and perhaps nationally. They believe that this program will motivate youth to demand and play a key role in creating healthier schools. "You can feel the energy and excitement as students realize their potential for leading community change," Ruble said. "What a tremendous experience for our youth as they carry forward the quest for a healthier Michigan." The following schools, districts, and school-based organizations were represented at the Summit: · Albion High School · Arts Academy in the Woods (Fraser) · Battle Creek Area Math & Science Center · Britton-Macon Area Schools · Cass Technical High School (Detroit) · Central High School (Grand Rapids) · Dakota High School (Macomb) · Denby Tech & Prep High School (Detroit) · Detroit Public Schools · Detroit School of Arts · Eaton Academy (Eastpointe) · Finney High School (Detroit) · Golightly Educational Center (Detroit) · Grosse Pointe North High School (Grosse Pointe Woods) · Harper Creek Community Schools · Harper Woods High School · Lakeview School District · Marshall High School · Michigan Parent, Teacher, Student Association · Michigan State University Extension · Novi Community Schools · Olivet High School · Pennfield Schools · Renaissance High School (Detroit) · Southeastern High School (Detroit) · Traverse City West High School · University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy · Warren Mott High School (Warren) · William E. Miller School (Farmington Hills) Keynote speakers Dr. Ronald Davis, President-Elect of the American Medical Association, and Dr. David Katz, Director of the Yale Prevention Research Center and ABC News and O, The Oprah Magazine Contributor spoke about the nation's growing obesity epidemic, tobacco use and the importance of prevention. Michigan's First Gentleman Daniel G. Mulhern moderated a leadership, advocacy, grassroots action and health professions panel. State Senator Mark Schauer; Mayor Michael Sessions of Hillsdale; Dr. Mahesh Karamchandani, a Battle Creek physician and school board member; and Miss Calhoun County Kristine Crummel. Other event highlights included student presentations; activities led by City Year Detroit corps members, and an evening lock-in at Full Blast Entertainment Center courtesy of the City of Battle Creek. Michigan Surgeon General Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom was appointed in 2003 by Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. Wisdom launched the Michigan Steps Up healthy lifestyles initiative in 2004 after identifying healthy lifestyle promotion and disease prevention as the State's top strategic priority in the Prescription for a Healthier Michigan report. For more information about Michigan Steps Up and healthy school efforts, visit www.michiganstepsup.org. Established in 1921, Lakeview School District in Battle Creek, Michigan has a rich history of academic excellence, school spirit and community partnerships. Today, Lakeview offers educational opportunities and programming for students, staff and community members as driven by their mission to develop knowledgeable, healthy, socially responsible citizens in the global community. In April 2006, Lakeview High School was honored by the Michigan Department of Community Health as a "Hometown Health Hero" for making student health a top priority and increasing access to healthy food and beverages for students. Back to Top

Keep Safety In Mind This Halloween The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) and Safe Kids Michigan, today reminded parents and caregivers to ensure the safety of children participating in trick-or-treating this Halloween. "It is extremely important to take extra safety precautions on Halloween," said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. "Children are four times more likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than any other night of the year, so all the usual rules of pedestrian safety must still apply on Halloween. Walk, do not run. Cross the street only at a crosswalk or corner, after looking both ways, and never dart out into the street." To ensure drivers see them, costumes and candy bags should be decorated with retro-reflective tape and, if possible, made of light colors. Kids can carry glow sticks or flashlights to be more visible. An adult should accompany children under the age of 12. "Naturally, kids will be excited, and they'll need active supervision," said Jeff Spitzley, Safe Kids Michigan Coordinator. "Older kids who have demonstrated the maturity and good judgment to go trick-or-treating with friends without adult supervision should stick to a predetermined route with good lighting." There are also things drivers can do to help prevent accidents. Drivers are encouraged to do their part in preventing accidents by being especially careful in residential neighborhoods and by slowing down and looking for kids at intersections, on medians, and on curbs. Other Halloween hazards and precautions include: Falls · Costumes should be short enough to avoid tripping, and shoes and headgear should fit properly. · Instead of masks, choose face paint and makeup because they do not restrict vision. · Toy weapons and other props should be flexible so they do not present an injury hazard if the child falls. · Children should not cut across yards, where stones, lawn ornaments, and other hazards may be hard to see in the dark. · Keep doorsteps and porches clear and well lit. Burns · Make sure store-bought costumes and accessories are labeled "flame resistant". · Use flame resistant material when making costumes. · Avoid baggy, flimsy or billowing costumes. · Keep lit jack-o'-lanterns away from doorsteps and walkways, and consider using glow sticks instead of candles. Choking · Parents should inspect candy and treats before allowing kids to eat them to make sure they are sealed and have no signs of tampering. · Children under age six should not be given hard candy or other small, round items. Lead · Toy jewelry may contain lead and pose a serious health risk should a child or teenager put the jewelry into their mouths. · Lead is commonly used in costume and children's jewelry made in China and sold in vending machines, dollar stores, and stores that sell primarily to new immigrant communities. · Lead can affect the brain development of young children and in high enough levels, can even cause death. Children who have possibly been exposed to lead should be seen by a pediatrician to receive testing. For more information about pedestrian safety, falls, burns, or airway safety, please visit www.safekids.org. The Michigan Department of Community Health is the lead agency for Safe Kids Michigan. For more information, please visit www.michigansafekids.org. Back to Top

Applications Being Accepted For State Advisory Council On Aging The Michigan Commission on Services to the Aging and the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging are accepting applications for membership on the State Advisory Council on Aging. The 40-member Council, appointed by the Commission on Services to the Aging, studies aging issues and recommends policy to the Commission. Council members represent a diverse cross section of older adults, advocates and professionals in the field of aging. They also advise the Office of Services to the Aging on programs and issues of concern for older persons throughout Michigan. "The State Advisory Council on Aging serves a vital role in Michigan's aging network," said Sharon L. Gire, Director of the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging. "Membership on the Council offers persons with a concern about aging issues to provide input and guidance on the future of aging services and policies. I urge persons with an interest or expertise in aging to consider devoting their time to this worthwhile organization." The Council meets six times each year in Lansing. Membership is for either a one or two-year term, beginning May 2007. Applications are due to the Office of Services to the Aging no later than 5:00 p.m. on January 26, 2007. Application forms are available by contacting the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging at 517-373-8230 or by visiting www.miseniors.net. Back to Top

MDCH Recognizes October 22-28 As Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) is raising awareness by joining other states in the annual observance of National Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week from October 22-28. "I urge all citizens to educate themselves on the sources of lead poisoning and to take action to prevent exposure," said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. "Public health professionals, landlords, and caregivers must all continue to form partnerships within their communities to help eliminate sources of lead poisoning to protect the health and welfare of Michigan citizens." Lead poisoning remains the number one environmental health problem facing children. Children under age six are most often poisoned by dust from lead paint in older homes, especially those built before 1950. One in every three homes in Michigan was built before this time. Dust is created by opening and closing windows, and by remodeling or renovating. Lead dust then settles on floors and windowsills, and is ingested when infants and toddlers put their hands or toys into their mouths. Most of the time, children do not show signs that they have been poisoned by lead. However, recent research has linked lead poisoning to violent crime, a lowered level of intelligence, learning disabilities, and aggressive behavior. A blood lead test is the only way to be certain that a child has not been poisoned by lead. Parents should ask their health care provider about blood lead testing. Several simple things can be done in any home to prevent poisoning from taking place: · Keep lead dust to a minimum. Surfaces should be kept wet while sanding or scraping old paint. Floors and windowsills can be kept dust and dirt free by wet mopping with detergent. · Wash children's hands (specifically before meals and bedtime), pacifiers, and toys frequently with soap and water. · Feed young children healthy foods, rich in calcium and iron, and low in fat, to prevent lead from being absorbed by their bodies. · Have your home checked by a professional lead assessor to detect any presence of lead paint, identify other dangers for children, and to obtain information on how to fix the problem areas. The Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention and Lead Hazard Remediation programs at the Michigan Department of Community Health are coordinating statewide activities, such as community displays by local health departments and qualified health plans. Elementary schools are encouraged to educate young children and their families (especially parents with young children still at home) about preventing lead poisoning in the home and in daycare/babysitting settings. For more information regarding childhood lead poisoning or the Lead Hazard Remediation Program, please visit www.michigan.gov/leadsafe or call (517) 335-9390. Back to Top

Granholm Awards $10.9 Million In Grants To Support Anti-Drug Efforts Governor Jennifer M. Granholm has awarded more than $10.9 million in grants for criminal justice initiatives in Michigan with funding from the federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG) Program. State and local governmental entities will receive this competitive funding for a one-year period, which began October 1, 2006. "These grants help to ensure that communities across Michigan continue to run programs that combat drug abuse and violence," Granholm said. "With these competitive grants, many agencies are able to treat addiction, run drug courts, counsel juveniles, and build stronger communities." Grants for this program focus on areas such as: Community Policing Juvenile Intervention Family and Domestic Violence Strategies Local Correctional Resources Multijurisdictional Drug Task Forces Drug Treatment Courts Criminal Justice Records Improvement The Byrne JAG Program allows states and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime and to improve the criminal justice system. In Michigan, the Office of Drug Control Policy, located within the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH), administers the program in Michigan. "Michigan has made great strides in providing assistance to those addicted to drugs and in reducing the number of drug-related crimes," said Don Allen, Director of the Office of Drug Control Policy. "These grants help ensure the continued support for and success of the various programs throughout the state." The State Court Administrative Office has received $1.8 million in Byrne JAG funds for the continuation of 11 priority population drug courts throughout the state. Priority population drug courts have jurisdiction over those offenders who have substance use disorders and are likely to be prison bound based upon their sentencing guidelines score. Please click on any of the following for a complete listing of awardees by region: Greater Tri-Cities Region (Clare, Gladwin, Isabella, Midland, Bay, Gratiot, Genesee, Lapeer, Sanilac, Huron, Tuscola & Saginaw Counties) Mid Michigan Region (Clinton, Shiawassee, Ingham, Jackson & Eaton Counties) Northern Michigan Region (Emmet, Cheboygan, Otsego, Alcona, Arenac, Mason, Oceana, Manistee, Kalkaska, Oscoda, Iosco, Wexford, Presque Isle, Montmorency, Charlevoix, Alpena, Antrim, Grand Traverse, Ogemaw, Lake, Osceola, Benzie, Crawford, Missaukee, Leelanau & Roscommon Counties) Southeast Michigan Region (Hillsdale, Lenawee, Monroe, Wayne, Washtenaw, Livingston, Oakland, Macomb & St. Clair Counties) Southwest Michigan Region (Berrien, Cass, St. Joseph, Branch, Calhoun, Van Buren, Allegan, Barry & Kalamazoo Counties) Upper Peninsula Region West Michigan Region (Mecosta, Muskegon, Ottawa, Kent, Newaygo, Montcalm & Ionia Counties) Back to Top

MDCH Employee Receives Honorable Straub Award MDCH Employee Receives Honorable Straub Award Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) Director Janet Olszewski today announced that employee Linda Scott has received the distinguished Curtis H. "Butch" Straub award from the center for Homeland Defense and Security (CHDS) at the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in Monterey, California. "Linda's dedication to protecting Michigan and its citizens is evident by this award," Olszewski said. "She continues to impress us with her goals concerning homeland security." Scott, who is Manager of the Bioterrorism Development and Operations Section at the Office of Public Health Preparedness (OPHP) within MDCH, completed an eighteen-month online and in-residence program at NPS through collaborating with homeland security officials from across the nation on current policy, strategy, and organizational design challenges. She also completed research papers and wrote a thesis on "Hurricane Katrina: Utilization of Private, Non-Governmental Health Professionals Time for New Strategies". The award is presented to the graduate student with an exemplary academic and citizenship record who has written an outstanding thesis while demonstrating outstanding leadership within the CHDS Master's Program. Since 2002, CHDS has conducted a wide range of programs focused on assisting current and future leaders in homeland defense and security to develop the policies, strategies, programs and organizational elements needed to defeat terrorism in the United States. The degree program features faculty from around the world and an innovative curriculum developed by experts from a variety of disciplines. The experience and education Scott received through CHDS will assist her within her position at OPHP as efforts are continually made by staff to protect the health of Michigan citizens against chemical, biological, and radiological threats. OPHP focuses on minimizing the threat to health from terrorist acts, accidents and other incidents and collaborates with local, state, and federal authorities to stay ahead of forces that threaten the health of Michigan citizens. For more information on OPHP, please visit www.michigan.gov/ophp. Back to Top

MDCH Staff Instrumental In Stopping Identity Theft Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) Director Janet Olszewski today praised the MDCH Vital Records and Health Statistics office for their effective work at stopping an identity theft from occurring when a convicted sex offender tried to fraudulently obtain a birth record in order to conceal his identity. Bradford Storti of Rock, Michigan was charged today in Lansing's 54-A District Court. Storti is a registered sex offender in Michigan. He was trying to obtain the birth record of John Slapp, an infant who died in 1972. "We have been vigilant when it comes to the security of vital records and have taken great steps to protect the birth and death records of the citizens of the State of Michigan," said Olszewski. In 2004, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm signed the Identity Theft Protection Act, Public Act 452, which made it a felony for those who would attempt to fraudulently obtain birth records. This act makes it a felony to use or attempt to use personal identifying information of someone else with intent to fraudulently or illegally obtain a vital record. The crime is punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine up to $25,000. In addition to a violation of the Identity Theft Protection Act, the Attorney General charged Storti with other felonies with sentences up to 14 years. "We work diligently to detect when people are attempting to get records they should not have access to and routinely refer these cases to the Attorney General's office for prosecution," said Olszewski. "We are extremely pleased that this case has moved forward." Staff working in MDCH Vital Records and Health Statistics received a request from Storti in August 2005 for John Slapp's birth certificate. This request was refused because Storti was not authorized to receive the record. In January 2006, MDCH received a signed petition for John Slapp's birth record from a person claiming to be John Slapp. When staff in Vital Records and Health Statistics discovered that Slapp had been deceased since 1972, they provided their investigative findings to the Attorney General's office for continued investigation with the Michigan State Police. "Our employees take their responsibilities and duties to protect vital records very seriously," said Olszewski. "In this case, their hard work has meant that a convicted sex offender will not be able to assume a new identity and prey upon others." Back to Top

MDCH Urges Adequate Folic Acid Consumption To Prevent Birth Defects In recognizing October as Spina Bifida Awareness Month, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) is urging all women of childbearing age to get the proper amount of folic acid every day to help reduce the risk of the serious birth defect. Spina bifida, a neural tube defect (NTD), and anencephaly, are serious birth defects of the spine and brain that can occur in any family. More than 1,000 Michigan babies have been born with an NTD since 1992. Despite advances in medical treatment, approximately 1 in 10 children born with spina bifida do not survive their first year of life. "The data suggests that taking 400 micrograms of folic acid - a B vitamin necessary for cell growth - before and during very early pregnancy can help prevent neural tube defects by up to 70 percent," said Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom, Michigan Surgeon General. "To get enough folic acid every day, women should take a daily multivitamin containing folic acid and eat a variety of foods, including fortified grains, as part of a healthy diet." With the support of a March of Dimes Chapter Community Grant, MDCH is working to ensure that women receive enough folic acid. Multivitamins containing folic acid are being distributed free of charge to low-income women of childbearing age living in counties with a higher than average rate of NTDs. The target counties include Branch, Hillsdale, Ionia, Jackson, Kent, Mecosta, Oceana, Ottawa, St. Joseph, and Wexford. The vitamins are distributed through WIC and Planned Parenthood centers. Emerging research shows that folic acid may also reduce the risk of other birth defects, such as cleft lip, cleft palate, and heart defects. Folic acid also plays a role in promoting general health and may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers, as well as protect the brain from Alzheimer disease and Parkinson disease. In light of these promising research findings, Wisdom encourages men and women of all ages to take 400 micrograms of folic acid every day. For more information about folic acid, please visit the Michigan Genetics Connection website at www.MIgeneticsconnection.org, the National Council on Folic Acid at www.folicacidinfo.org, the March of Dimes at www.marchofdimes.com, or the Spina Bifida Association of America at www.sbaa.org. Back to Top

October 15 Marks Third Annual National Latino AIDS Awareness Day In Michigan Michigan will recognize October 15 as the fourth annual National Latino AIDS Awareness Day (NLAAD) in Michigan. The national theme for this year’s Latino AIDS Awareness Day is "Saber es Poder. Infórmate. Hazte la Prueba del VIH/Knowledge (Power. Get the Facts. Get tested for HIV."). The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) and Michigan's Latino AIDS Advisory Committee once again call on community-based organizations and local health departments to work together to prevent the further spread of HIV/AIDS. The HIV/AIDS epidemic has had a disproportionate impact on Latinos. In Michigan, as of July 1, 2006, Latinos comprise approximately 3 percent of Michigan's general population, yet they represent 4 percent of those living with HIV or AIDS. MDCH estimates 610 Latinos currently live with HIV/AIDS in Michigan. While this number may seem relatively small, it is spread out among a small population. The prevalence rate for Latinos is 188 per 100,000 compared to 74 per 100,000 for whites. As of April 1, 2006, five counties in Michigan have a prevalence rate for Hispanics that are higher than the overall statewide rate of 115 per 100,000: Ingham (148), Kent (184), Oakland (148), Washtenaw (158), and Wayne (197). These rates are higher than the previous year. "There is an estimated quarter of a million Americans who are infected with HIV but do not know it," said Jean Chabut, Deputy Director of the Public Health Administration, MDCH. “Knowing their status could save their lives. With communities of color being disproportionately represented in this epidemic, and with Latinos having the second highest HIV/AIDS case rate in Michigan (with African Americans being the first), it is critical that we educate and encourage Latinos to get tested for HIV.” In Michigan, there are over 71,000 people who are tested for HIV every year at testing sites funded by MDCH, and approximately 550 of those tested are positive for HIV. Yet only 5 percent of those tested each year are Latino/a. “With Latinos being two and a half (2 ˝) times more likely to be infected with HIV than whites and, with Latinos continuing to get tested later in their illness than whites, it becomes extremely important to reach out to the Latino community and encourage them to get tested,” said Loretta Davis-Satterla, Director of the Division of Health, Wellness, and Disease control, MDCH. “We recognize that the Latino community faces a set of unique challenges in their fight against HIV/AIDS. Issues such as stigma, lack of access to adequate preventive care, and high poverty levels have contributed to the impact of HIV/AIDS. Prevention education along with encouraging realistic lifestyle and behavioral changes are still our best weapons to eradicate this disease.” Activities in Michigan began September 15th with a kick-off meeting and luncheon held at the University of Michigan – Flint. Activities planned this year include: bi-lingual HIV counseling and testing, distribution of bi-lingual HIV prevention materials, health fairs, display tables, and State and local proclamations. Lillian Piersante of AIDS Partnership Michigan serves as the chair of the State of Michigan’s Latino AIDS Advisory Committee. A complete list of events is attached. For more information regarding NLAAD events, please contact Robin Orsborn at (517) 241-5936. Michigan residents, who want to join the Latinos AIDS Awareness campaign, can get additional ideas on what to do in their community from the National Latino AIDS Awareness Day website, http://www.nlaad.org/. Back to Top

Detroit Pharmacy And Pharmacist Lose Licenses The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has summarily suspended the pharmacist license of Ziad Nagia, R.Ph. and the pharmacy license of Mo-Town Pharmacy Inc. in Detroit. Mo-Town Pharmacy is owned by Mr. Nagia. The MDCH Bureau of Health Professions orders a summary suspension when it believes that the public’s health, safety, and welfare warrant emergency action. The suspension was a result of an investigation conducted by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation, which revealed that Mr. Nagia had been selling Soma, without physician authorization, from his pharmacy in large quantities to an individual who was re-selling the medication on the streets for profit. On October 2, 2006, MDCH issued two separate orders immediately suspending Mo-Town's pharmacy license and Mr. Nagia’s pharmacist license pursuant to the Public Health Code. An administrative hearing will be scheduled to address the status of these licenses. For more information on disciplinary actions taken by the health professional licensing boards within MDCH, please go to http://www.michigan.gov/mdch, and click on Health Systems and Licensing. Back to Top

Walter Reuther Nurse Recognized For Excellence Patricia Brooks, a Registered Nurse at the Walter P. Reuther Psychiatric Hospital, has been named to the Michigan Institute for Nursing Excellence, Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) Director Janet Olszewski announced today. “We are extremely proud that Patricia has been recognized by the Institute for her tireless efforts on behalf of her patients,” Olszewski said. “She is an excellent example of the great work being done at the hospital.” Each year, 30 individuals are chosen from a large field of nominees. Sponsored by the Michigan Center for Nursing, the Institute focuses on developing nursing leadership and recognizes applicants displaying leadership skills within their positions. “Ms. Brooks epitomizes the kind of nurse we want to invest in for future leadership,” said Jeanette Klemczak, Michigan’s Chief Nurse Executive. “She brings excellence in patient care, quality and safety to the state’s mental health system.” The Institute for Nursing Excellence is a 3 ˝ day retreat-style program designed to reward excellent direct-care nurses, retain them in the profession, enhance their ability to be role models, and help them to attract others into the field of nursing. Attendees at previous institutes speak positively of the experience, and infuse a spirit of positive change among their colleagues. Ms. Brooks began her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant and then went on to attend Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) School. In 1990, she began working for the State of Michigan as an LPN at the Southgate Regional Center. While working there, she attended Henry Ford Community College, and in 1998, she received her Associate’s Degree in Nursing. Now an RN, Ms. Brooks worked at Mound Road Correctional Facility before transferring to the Walter P. Reuther Psychiatric Hospital. Ms. Brooks was recommended for this honor by Dr. Cynthia Archer-Gift. Located in Westland, the Walter P. Reuther Psychiatric Hospital is an accredited facility for the care of severely mentally ill adults. Ms. Brooks is a member of the National Black Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, and the Michigan Nurses Association. She is also a First Lieutenant and serves in the US Army Nurse Corps Reserves Back to Top

Michigan Launches Healthcare Workforce And Health Careers Websites The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth (DLEG) today announced the launch of two websites designed to address the supply and demand of health professionals in Michigan and to improve access to healthcare workforce related information and resources. “The healthcare industry is crucial to Michigan’s health, well-being, and economic stability,” said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. “As the demand for health professionals grow, the Health Careers website serves as a great starting point for those interested in pursuing a career in healthcare.” “These two sites work together to provide the most current healthcare industry workforce information,” said Robert W. Swanson, DLEG Director. “Through our partnership with MDCH and leaders in healthcare and education, we will continue to address workforce shortages to ensure we have a skilled workforce available for Michigan employers.” The Health Careers website, www.michigan.gov/healthcareers, provides comprehensive information on various healthcare related fields of employment, licensing requirements, and the skills and education required to pursue a career in healthcare. The site also lists which healthcare related certificates and degrees various Michigan colleges and universities offer. It offers video profiles on more than 40 healthcare positions and information on in-demand occupations. The Michigan Healthcare Workforce Center website, www.michigan.gov/mhwc, serves as a clearinghouse for information and data regarding healthcare workforce development at the state and national level. The site offers information on statewide workforce initiatives, data on supply trends, and provides links to employment and educational resources. Given current and anticipated workforce shortages, access to this information greatly facilitates the identification and implementation of strategies to address those shortages.” Michigan has placed a high priority on bringing new people into the healthcare industry while retaining the current healthcare workforce. Healthcare is Michigan’s leading job provider and the industry holds great potential for current and future employees with over 200 different jobs in the healthcare field. The demand for health professionals will continue to increase dramatically as the use of technology accelerates and the population continues to live longer. Back to Top

MDCH Releases Consultation On Little Black Creek The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has released a Public Health Consultation regarding soils next to Muskegon County’s Little Black Creek. Exposure to the soils poses no apparent public health hazard. MDCH, along with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), sampled floodplain soils along areas of the Little Black Creek that could be easily accessed by the public. MDCH recommended floodplain soil sampling to determine if flooding events had transferred unsafe levels of contaminated sediments to surrounding soils. The soils were tested for PCBs, pesticides, volatile and semivolatile organic compounds, and metals. The concentrations found are not expected to cause adverse health effects. Copies of the Public Health Consultation are available at three branches of the Muskegon County library: •Norton Shores branch, 705 Seminole, Muskegon •Egleston Township branch, 5428 E. Apple Avenue, Muskegon •Muskegon Heights branch, 2808 Sanford Street, Muskegon Heights Copies are also available at the city offices for Norton Shores, Muskegon Heights, and Muskegon Charter Township. The document is available electronically at http://www.michigan.gov/mdch-toxics under “Health Assessments and Related Documents.” The MDCH Division of Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology conducted the Public Health Consultation for the Little Black Creek sediments under a cooperative agreement with the federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). Information concerning the human health effects of exposure to environmental contaminants can be found on the ATSDR web page at http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html. Back to Top

Cutlerville Social Worker Has License Summarily Suspended The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has summarily suspended the license to practice as a licensed bachelor's social worker of Artiss Reginald Williams, L.B.S.W., based on his felony convictions in the 17th Judicial Circuit Court, Grand Rapids. On February 6, 2006, Williams was convicted of Attempted Sexual Intercourse Under Pretext of Medical Treatment, a felony. The conviction was the result of Williams engaging in sexual relations with female clients while he was employed as a substance abuse and relationship counselor. As a result, Williams was sentenced to jail for six months, placed on probation, with terms, for 60 months, and ordered to pay costs and fees totaling $2,220. On or about March 14, 2006, Williams was convicted of Sex Offender-Failure to Register, Second Offense, a felony. The conviction was based on Williams’ failure to register and maintain a current address with the Michigan Sex Offender Registry for his 1989 felony rape conviction in Cook County, Illinois. On September 19, 2006, Williams was charged with two felony counts of First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct. The charges were based on allegations that Williams sexually assaulted two females. The criminal matter remains pending. On September 25, 2006, MDCH issued an order summarily suspending Williams' license pursuant to the Public Health Code, which provides for the mandatory summary suspension of a health professional’s license upon the conviction of a felony. An administrative hearing will be scheduled to address the status of Williams’ license to practice as a licensed bachelor’s social worker. For more information on disciplinary actions taken by the health professional licensing boards within MDCH, please go to http://www.michigan.gov/mdch, and click on Health Systems and Licensing. Back to Top

Granholm Recognizes October As National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm is again recognizing October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, bringing additional awareness to a disease that is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in thousands of Michigan women annually. “Early detection of breast cancer is the key to survival,” said Janet Olszewski, Director of the Michigan Department of Community Health. “With regular screening, breast cancer is more likely to be detected at an earlier age, when it is most treatable.” Breast cancer ranks third among cancer deaths in Michigan women (after lung and colon cancer) and second in the nation (after lung cancer), and it is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among Michigan women. The American Cancer Society estimates that 7,070 Michigan women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006, with 1,360 women expected to die from the disease. “Since National Breast Cancer Awareness month began, mammography rates have more than doubled for women age 50 and older and breast cancer deaths have declined,” said Olszewski. “However, there are still women who do not take advantage of early detection. We must continue to stress just how important it is to receive screening mammograms and clinical breast exams at regular intervals.” Those at greatest risk of not receiving regular mammograms and breast exams include: · Women age 65 and older-They are less likely to get mammograms than younger women, even though breast cancer risk increases with age. · Hispanic women-They have fewer mammograms than Caucasian women and African American women. · Women below poverty level-They are less likely than women at higher incomes to have had a mammogram within the past 2 years. During October, women are encouraged to get screened for breast cancer. The Michigan Cancer Consortium recommends that women get an annual clinical breast exam and mammogram starting at age 40. “If all women age 40 and older took advantage of early detection methods-mammography plus clinical breast exam-breast cancer death rates would drop up to 30 percent,” said Max Wicha, MD, Director of the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center and Co-Chair of the Michigan Cancer Consortium’s Breast Cancer Advisory Committee. Although every woman is at risk of developing breast cancer, some factors increase a woman’s likelihood of developing breast cancer. These risk factors include: · Increasing age · Early menarche (before age 12) or late menopause (after age 55) · Never giving birth or having a first child after age 30 · Use of hormone replacement therapy for more than 5 years · History of radiation exposure for Hodgkin’s Disease or radiation of the thymus · Decreased level of physical activity, increase alcohol use (2-5 drinks/day), obesity, or high fat diet · History of previous abnormal breast biopsies · Strong family history that includes: o Two or more relatives (on the same side of the family) diagnosed with breast cancer at any age o One relative diagnosed with breast cancer before age 50 or ovarian cancer at any age o A male relative diagnosed with breast cancer o Being a known or suspected carrier of either BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations Free breast cancer screening and diagnostic services are available to underserved women in Michigan through the Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (BCCCP). Since the program began in 1991, more than 114,000 women have been screened through the program with nearly 1,900 breast cancers diagnosed. To be eligible for the BCCCP, a woman must: · Have an income <250% of the federal poverty level · Be uninsured or underinsured · Be age 40-64 for breast/cervical cancer screening and for diagnostic follow-up of breast/cervical abnormalities · Be age 18-39, have been identified with a cervical abnormality through the Title X/Family Planning Program, and referred to the BCCCP for cervical cancer diagnostic follow-up For more information on the BCCCP, please call 800-922-6266 or visit www.michigancancer.org/bcccp. For more information about breast cancer, please visit the following websites: · American Cancer Society –www.cancer.org · Michigan Cancer Consortium – www.michigancancer.org · Michigan Department of Community Health – www.michigan.gov/cancer · National Cancer Institute – www.cancer.gov Related Content • MDCH Releases Consultation On Little Black Creek • Cutlerville Social Worker Has License Summarily Suspended • Granholm Blueprint To Prevent Unintended Pregnancies Making Progress • State Recognizes Value Of Older Workforce • Michigan Surgeon General And Lakeview School District Announce Health-Focused Summit For High Schools • HAPIS Awards $2 Million To HIV Prevention Programs • MDCH, Altarum Partner To Enhance Michigan's Disease Surveillance Systems • Michigan Debuts New Emergency Preparedness Web Site • State Celebrates Drug Discount Card's Second Birthday • State Issues Warning On Foodborne E.coli Outbreak • MDCH Offers Identity Theft Protection To Study Participants After Data Apparently Stolen • Marquette Social Worker Loses License • State Honors Grandparents Day • Granholm Awards $2.4 Million In Discretionary Grants To Support Anti Drug Efforts • MDCH Recognizes National Alcohol And Drug Addiction Recovery Month • Granholm Recognizes September As Prostate Cancer Awareness Month • State Officials Warn Of Misleading Hand Washing Flyers • Flint Nurse Has License Summarily Suspended • Lautzenheiser Awarded Senior Citizen of the Year • Oliver Awarded Senior Citizen of the Year Back to Top