For Your Health

Don't Let One Setback Ruin Your Health
You don't have to lose health insurance because of divorce or separation. Under the law, divorced and separated women and their children can continue to receive the same health insurance coverage at the group rate. The only difference is that they have to pay the premium instead of the employer. For more specific information on this issue, send a self-addressed stamped envelope with a request for a copy of Health Insurance Continuation. Contact: National Displaced Homemakers Network (NDHN), 1625 K St., NW, Suite 300, Department H, Washington, DC 20006.

What Your Children Should Know
AIDS Prevention Guide is written for parents and other adults concerned about young people. It provides ideas to help adults start a conversation about AIDS. It presents the facts about AIDS, geared to elementary and junior and senior high school students, and offers common questions and accurate answers. It includes handouts for young people aged 10 to 20 years. Contact: National AIDS Information Clearinghouse, P.O. Box 6003, Rockville, MD 20850; 800-342-2437.

You Can Cure a Cold with Chicken Soup
Before grandma makes you take another spoonful, check out the facts with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There have been no studies done on the benefits of chicken soup, but common sense says that nutritious fluids and rest will help you recuperate. An FDA consumer article titled Surviving Cold and Flu Season, explains the difference between colds and flu, discusses the pros and cons of flu shots, and describes the different types of cold remedies available. For your free copy contact: Food and Drug Administration, Office of Consumer Affairs (HFE-88), 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857; 301-827-4420.

Think You Can't Get Pregnant Because You Have Endometriosis
Think Again. While the pregnancy rates for women with endometriosis remain lower than those of the general population, most women with this condition do not experience fertility problems. It is estimated that between 10 and 20 percent of American women of childbearing age have endometriosis. The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development conducts research to develop an optimal treatment for endometriosis. For a free booklet, Facts About Endometriosis, or for information on current research or other organizations for further assistance, contact: The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bldg. 31, Room 2A32, Bethesda, MD 20892; 301-496-5133.

Lead Poisoning is the Number One Preventable Childhood Disease
Childhood lead poisoning is one of the most common pediatric health problems in the United States today, and it is entirely preventable. New data indicate significant adverse effects of lead exposure in children at blood lead levels previously believed to be safe. For more information on lead poisoning, and a free copy of the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) Preventing Lead Poisoning in Young Children, contact the office listed below. Contact: Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 4770 Buford Highway, NE, F-42, Atlanta, GA 30341; 770-488-7330.

Down Syndrome, Mental Retardation, and Learning Disabilities
The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development conducts and supports research on the reproductive, developmental, and behavioral processes that determine the health of children, adults, families, and populations. Research for mothers, children, and families is designed to advance knowledge of fetal development, pregnancy, and birth; to identify the knowledge of fetal development through infancy to adulthood; and to contribute to the prevention and treatment of mental retardation. Some of the publications include: Facts About Down Syndrome, Facts About Dyslexia, Learning Disabilities: A Report to the U.S. Congress Contact: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Building 31, Room 2A32, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892; 301-496-5133.

Help For Handicapped and Gifted Children
ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center) Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education gathers and disseminates educational information on all disabilities and giftedness across all age levels. They have publications digests (2-4 page summaries of current topics), Research Briefs Issue Briefs Directories of currently funded research Topical INFO packets and Flyer Files Catalog of products and services available to the Special Educator They also have database searches and reprints. Two free digests available include Preschool Services For Children With Handicaps, which explains early intervention services, and Educating Exceptional Children which explains some of the terminology and trends. Contact: ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education, Council for Exceptional Children, 1920 Association Dr., Reston, VA 22091; 703-264-9474, 800-328-0272.

Sudden Infant Death Hotline
The National Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Clearinghouse was established to provide information and educational materials on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), apnea, and other related issues. The staff responds to information requests from professionals, families with SIDS-related deaths, and the general public by sending written materials and making referrals. The clearinghouse maintains a library of reference materials and mailing lists of state programs, groups, and individuals concerned with SIDS. Their publications include bibliographies on SIDS and self-help support groups, a publications catalogue, and a newsletter. Some of their free publications include: What is SIDS? Sudden Infant Death: Some Facts You Should Know National Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Clearinghouse, 2070 Chain Bridge Rd., Suite 450, Vienna, VA 22182; 703-821-8955.

Parent Guides for Alcohol and Drug Information
Are you concerned that your child may have a problem with alcohol or drugs? Do you want to know what signs to look for? The National Clearinghouse for Drug and Alcohol Information can help and has the following free publications available, dealing with drug and alcohol use: A Guide for Teens: Does Your Friend Have an Alcohol or Other Drug Problem? Pointers for Parents Card. How Getting High Can Get You AIDS. Tips for Teens About Alcohol. Straight At Ya (video; $8.50). Be Smart! Don't Start!. If You Use Steroids, These Aren't the Only Things Stacked Against You. If You Change Your Mind Student Magazine. Teen Drinking Prevention Program. Contact: National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information, P.O. Box 2345, Rockville, MD 20847; 800-729-6686.

Programs for Children of Alcoholics
The Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information has a wealth of information regarding children of alcoholics. Risk and Reality: Teaching Pre-school Children Affected by Substance Abuse includes a 30-minute videotape, a teacher's guide, and a research review that identifies specific techniques teachers can use when working with these children ($8.50). Teaching Children Affected by Substance Abuse is a 30-minute videotape and teacher's guide for elementary school staff who work with children exposed to substance abuse ($8.50). Contact: National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information, P.O. Box 2345, Rockville, MD 20847; 800-729-6686.

Caring for Children with AIDS
AIDS is a scary topic, especially when it affects children. The National Maternal and Child Health Clearinghouse has several free publications concerned with AIDS and children. Some of the titles include: Pregnancy and HIV: Is AZT the Right Choice for You and Your Baby? Questions and Answers about HIV and AIDS in Children Surgeon General's Workshop on Children with HIV Infection and Their Families Report Contact: National Maternal and Child Health Clearinghouse, 2070 Chain Bridge Rd., Vienne, VA 22182; 703-821-8955, ext. 254.

There Is Help for Those Helping Low-Income Mothers
Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies - A Compendium of Program Ideas for Servicing Low-Income Women provides useful suggestions to healthers and children>h care providers who work with low income populations, and suggests program planning and policy directions for State and national organizations concerned with maternal and infant health. Contact: National Clearinghouse for Primary Care Information, 2070 Chain Bridge Rd., Vienna, VA 22182; 703-821-8955.

Call For The Answer. . . The Smoking Hotline
The Smoking Hotline can answer all your questions regarding cigarettes and stop smoking methods. They can provide fact sheets, pamphlets, posters and other publications, as well as information in response to inquiries. The Center can access information on the Combined Health Information Database, and its library and reading room are open to the public. Some of the free publications they have include: Don't Let Another Year Go Up In Smoke - tips to help you stop smoking. Out of the Ashes: Choosing a Method To Quit Smoking - outlines various methods of quitting. Office on Smoking and Health's Information Resources - outlines local and community resources. Smoking In the Americas: At A Glance - highlights problems of smoking and health. Contact: Office on Smoking and Health, Centers for Disease Control, 4770 Buford Hwy., Mail Stop K-50, Atlanta, GA 30341-3724; 770-488-5705.

Children and Mental Health
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) conducts research on depression and other mental disorders, distributes information, and conducts demonstration programs for the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of the mentally ill. NIMH has several publications which deal with mental health in children. These publications are available at no charge. Titles include: Plain Talk About Dealing With the Angry Child Plain Talk About Raising Children Plain Talk on Adolescence Contact: National Institute of Mental Health, 5600 Fishers Lane, Room 7C02, Rockville, MD 20857; 301-443-4513.

Parents of Disabled Children Are Not Alone
The National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities helps parents of handicapped children and disabled adults locate services and parent support groups, focusing on the needs of rural areas, culturally diverse populations, and severely handicapped people. This center also provides information on vocational/transitional issues, special education, and legal rights and advocacy. It provides fact sheets on specific disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, hearing impairments, Down syndrome, epilepsy, learning disabilities, mental retardation, physical disabilities, speech and language impairments, spina bifida, and visual impairments. The materials designed especially for parents include: Parents' Guide to Accessing Programs for Infants, Toddlers, Preschoolers with Handicaps Parents' Guide to Accessing Parent Programs, Community Services, and Record Keeping A Parent's Guide: Accessing the ERIC Resource Collection A Parent's Guide to Doctors, Disabilities, and the Family A Parent's Guide: Planning a Move; Mapping Your Strategy A Parent's Guide: Special Education and Related Services: Communicating Through Letter Writing Contact: National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities, P.O. Box 1492, Washington, DC 20013; 800-695-0285.

Does Your Child Have Asthma?
The Asthma Clearinghouse is a new clearinghouse, providing publications, reports, resources, and referrals to experts in the field of asthma. One report, the Expert Panel Report: Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma, explains the diagnosis, therapy, and other considerations for those that suffer from asthma. Asthma Education Materials and Resources lists sources of information for patients and their families. The Clearinghouse can answer your questions or can direct you to those who can. For more information, contact: National Asthma Education Program, 7200 Wisconsin Ave., P.O. Box 30105, Bethesda, MD 20824; 301-251-1222.

Illegal Drug Use in Youth
The Coordinating Council is a group of 16 Federal agencies who held a workshop to develop interagency initiatives to combat the juvenile drug problem. They produced Juvenile Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse: A Guide to Federal Initiatives for Prevention, Treatment, and Control which will serve as a resource for State, local, and private agencies and individuals working to combat juvenile drug and alcohol abuse. Contact: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, P. O. Box 6000, Rockville, MD 20850; 800-638-8736.

A Wealth of Family Planning Information
The Office of Population Affairs Clearinghouse provides information on family planning, adolescent pregnancy, and adoption. The primary audience consists of federally supported service agencies, but it also provides information to family planning service providers, educators, trainers, and consumers throughout the U.S. A free publications list is available which includes: Information for Men Your Sterilization Operation Information for Women Your Sterilization Operation Many Teens are Saying "NO" Family and Adolescent Pregnancy Your Contraceptive Choices: For Now, For Later Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines Contact: Office of Population Affairs Clearinghouse, P.O. Box 30686, Bethesda, MD 20824; 301-654-6190.

Special Health Care Needs
Parents whose children have special health care needs are often overwhelmed and isolated because of their child's condition. But help is just a phone call away. The Clearinghouse has an extensive list of free publications concerned with children with special health care needs. Two of the publications are resource guides: Children with Special Health Care Needs - Resource Guide, and Circles of Care and Understanding: Support Programs for Fathers of Children with Special Needs. Contact: National Maternal and Child Health Clearinghouse, 2070 Chain Bridge Rd., Vienna, VA 22182; 703-821-8955.

What the Experts Say about How to Quit Smoking
Want to stop smoking, but aren't sure how? Clearing the Air is a free booklet by the National Cancer Institute that is full of tips for breaking the smoking habit. Why Do You Smoke? contains a self test to determine why people smoke and suggests alternatives and substitutes that can help them stop. For physicians who are trying to get patients to stop smoking for the sake of their health, How To Help Patients Stop Smoking: A National Cancer Institute Manual For Physicians is a free smoking cessation guide for physicians and medical office staff. Give them a call to get you started on the road to good health. Contact: National Cancer Institute, Bldg. 31, Room 10A18, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892; 800-4-CANCER.

Mental Health and You
Are you feeling troubled and looking for help? There seem to be more types of therapy than there are breakfast cereals. How do you know what to choose or even look for? The Consumers Guide to Mental Health Services is a free booklet which explains the different types of services available, questions you should ask, and more. Contact: National Institute of Mental Health, 5600 Fishers Lane, Room 7C02, Rockville, MD 20857; 301-443-4513.

Clearinghouse on Disability Information
Wondering if your company complies with the American Disabilities Act? What about trying to find programs to help you? The Clearinghouse responds to inquiries on a wide range of topics. You can find out about programs serving individuals with disabilities, Federal legislation, and Federal funding for special programs. Two free publications to get you on your way include: A Summary of Existing Legislation Affecting People With Disabilities provides a history and description of all relevant Federal laws Pocket Guide to Federal Help for individuals with disabilities is a summary of benefits and services available to individuals with disabilities. Contact: National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities, P.O. Box 1492, Washington, DC 20013; 800-695-0285.

Lifetime Membership Expire when Your Health Spa Closed a Year Later?
Are you having some trouble with your health spa? Do you feel you were ripped off when you joined? The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a free publication, Health Spas: Exercise Your Rights, which explains things to consider when you join a health spa, as well as what to do when you have a complaint. The Consumer Protection Division of your State Attorney General's Office can handle complaints against health spas. You can fill out a complaint form and usually within two weeks a representative of the Attorney General's Office will investigate and, hopefully, resolve any differences. Contact: Federal Trade Commission (FTC), 6th & Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20580; 202-326-2222.

The Pain People
Find out whether the pain is of the acute or chronic variety, and then get some helpful suggestions on pain reducing strategies. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke has a free publication, Chronic Pain: Hope Through Research which describes causes, research, and treatment of pain, as well as where to go for more help and information. Contact: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, P.O. Box 5801, Bethesda, MD 20824; 800-352-9424.

Second Surgical Opinion Line
Just maybe you don't need a hysterectomy or your gall bladder removed. If you are on Medicare or Medicaid, you can get help finding a physician to give you a second opinion. Keep in mind that studies now show that 30% of all operations are not necessary. Contact: Health Care Financing Administration, 6325 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21207, 800-638-6833.

Medical Care: Free and Low-Cost
Under the Hill-Burton law, many low-income individuals qualify for free health care at over 2,500 health facilities. You can contact this hotline to find out which county and state facilities are "Hill-Burton facilities", as well as eligibility standards and procedures. Contact: Division of Facilities Compliance, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 5600 Fishers Lane, Room 11-03, Rockville, MD 20857, 800-638-0742, 800-492-0359 (MD).

Cerebral Palsy in Children
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke has information about the latest developments on this disorder as well as a free 26-page pamphlet titled Cerebral Palsy: Hope Through Research. They also can provide you with articles, a bibliography, and other resources on this topic. Contact: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, P.O. Box 5801, Bethesda, MD 20824; 800-352-9424.

ADD Doesn't Mean New Math
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is being talked about in every magazine and on every news show, but is it only one condition or many? What about the treatment options? This condition is usually characterized by an inability to focus attention, as well as impulsiveness, distractibility, and intrusiveness. It is estimated that 3 percent to 5 percent of children are effected. The National Institute of Mental Health has a brochure titled Learning Disabilities, which discusses ADD and other learning disabilities, as well as providing addresses and phone numbers to other resources and organizations. For your copy contact: National Institute of Mental Health, 5600 Fishers Lane, Room 7C-02, Rockville, MD 20857; 301-443-4513.

Don't Run with Scissors
Want to know how many children under the age of five are injured while playing with toys? Want to learn about the safety of all-terrain vehicles? The National Injury Information Clearinghouse maintains a database of detailed investigative reports of injuries associated with consumer products. You can find the victim's background, including age, race, injury diagnosis, consumer product involved, and more. The Clearinghouse distributes documents and will fulfill search requests usually at no charge. Contact: National Injury Information Clearinghouse, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 4330 East-West Highway, Washington, DC 20207; 301-504-0424.