Knowing your blood pressure numbers helps to ensure you are staying in a healthy range. Long-term elevated blood pressures can lead to damage of your blood vessels and organs, and can even contribute to stroke or heart attack. When you share your blood pressure numbers with your health care team, you partner with them to drive your wellness journey.

The population of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough has exploded in the past 10 years – growing over 20 percent in the last decade. With that growth came the need for health care improvements, modifications, and additional avenues of care for Alaska Native and American Indian people in the region.

Folate is a vitamin essential for pregnant mothers and women who may become pregnant as it has a critical role in fetal development. It can be found in foods rich in folate or folic acid, and as a supplement.

Alaskans celebrated Southcentral Foundation Senior Physician Stephanie Eklund’s leadership and positive impact at YWCA Alaska’s 2024 Women of Achievement Awards Luncheon Nov. 18.

Earlier this fall, Southcentral Foundation launched an expansion of pediatric endocrinology and diabetes services, now available to children from birth to age 18 across Alaska. Designed to support families statewide with hormone-related health needs, the expansion means more access to early diagnosis, specialized treatments, and ongoing management of complex endocrine conditions.

The winter season can be a challenging time to stay active, with colder temperatures and fewer daylight hours. Staying physically active is one of the best ways to improve your mental and physical health during these cold months.

Nelson enjoys living on his own and being active. However, he has been feeling dizzy lately and had a fall. Nelson shares this information with his primary care provider, and they discuss how the dizziness may be caused by his blood pressure medication. They work together with his integrated care team’s pharmacist to make changes.

Winter months offer many opportunities to celebrate together with tradition, recipes, and the warmth of family gatherings. However, sickness tends to spread more frequently in the winter months with increased time indoors. Don’t spend these precious moments away from family due to illness. Prevent and protect against respiratory illness by following these essential steps.

Colleen Anagick received the Alaska Federation of Natives 2024 President’s Award for Health at the AFN Convention Oct. 18.

As the winter season brings shorter days and colder weather, it is common for some people to experience changes in mood. When these changes occur around the same time each year, it may be a condition called seasonal affective disorder.