September is World Alzheimer’s Month. And recently, two new risk factors for the disease were identified. Dr. Caldwell said they’re not entirely sure why these two health issues could play a role in a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s. However, it’s possible vision loss could impact a person’s sensory input, meaning their brain is not processing as much information. Vision loss could also make it harder for an individual to exercise, socialize with family and friends, or do other stimulating activities. As for those with high levels of LDL cholesterol, Dr. Caldwell explains that it’s not good for our heart and blood vessels. Our brain has a lot of small blood vessels, so they can be more easily impacted by things like cholesterol.

A new Cleveland Clinic and Parade survey found 85% of adults polled have thought about their risk for developing a brain disease, like Alzheimer’s or dementia. Many of those same individuals are taking steps to help with prevention. However, the survey revealed they’re not as proactive when it comes to addressing any actual memory or brain issues. 36% of adults under the age of 50 agree they’re too afraid to talk to a doctor. Interestingly, the survey also shows there are some misconceptions about Alzheimer’s and dementia. For example, 44% of adults age 18 to 34 agree that you are guaranteed to get Alzheimer’s if a relative has it too. But that’s incorrect, Alzheimer’s is not always inherited. In addition, men and women polled both assumed the other gender was more at risk for Alzheimer’s.

Every 40 seconds in America, someone has a stroke and doctors say around 80% of all of them are preventable. So, as part of Stroke Awareness Month, Mercy Health-St. Rita's has created an online quiz to see if you are at a high or low risk of having a stroke. The quiz will ask for some general information like age and family history, and about some preventable factors, like smoking, activity level, and regular doctor checkups. Once you know your risk level, it will give you suggestions for your next step to lower or maintain your risk level.

Processed foods are convenient for a fast meal, but research continues to show how they can negatively impact our health.  Recently, a study revealed ultra-processed foods might increase colorectal cancer risk for some people.

The study found men who ate the most ultra-processed foods had a 29% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer when compared to men who ate the least. Dieticians say the study did not find the same association in women, and it's unclear why.

The Putnam County Health Department, Council on Aging, Homecare and Hospice, and the Meadows came together for their annual Fall Prevention Awareness Day. Doctor Jacinta Eickholt spoke to the group about the causes and prevention of falls.

In the first six months of 2022, Mercy Health – St. Rita’s has seen an above average of 14 suicide attempts per month, which is on pace to pass any yearly total since 2017. With September being Suicide Awareness Month, Mercy Health – St. Rita’s is reminding the community to take time to listen and reach out for help.

An outbreak of syphilis has been reported in Allen County. Allen County Public Health has reported a total of 18 syphilis cases during the month of June 2022.

Allen County Public Health is seeing an increased number of hospitalizations from COVID in the area. They have moved the community risk level from low to medium on July 1st, which means they are seeing an increase in hospitalizations for the month of June and increased spread. People who are either over 50 years old, obese, have diabetes, or have breathing problems may need to consult their doctors to see if they need to take extra precautions like wearing masks or getting an extra booster dose if they are eligible.

A reminder that you can safely dispose of unused or expired medications this weekend.

"His last act was heroic, but that is not what made him a hero." Those words spoken by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost were echoed by others throughout Bluffton University's Sommer Hall, where a funeral service was held for fallen Bluffton Officer Dominic Francis. In the morning hours of March 31st, Officer Dominic Francis, 42-years-old, was struck and killed by a vehicle during a pursuit. The three suspects who were in the car are currently in custody.