brownandtoland.com

HealthLinky o u r c o n n e c t i o n t o h e a lt h y l i v i n g | s p r i n g 2 0 1 6

hoMe cooking: tips froM chez panisse chefstanding desks: tiMe to adjust your workstation?allergies: how to get reliefrunning clubs: where to join and jog

BART and Bike to Natureget rollin’ to lovely local parks

About Brown & TolandWe’ve been providing personalized care to Bay

Area patients for more than 20 years. With a

wide network of acclaimed primary care physi-

cians and specialists practicing where you live

and work, we’re local care you can count on.

Get Your AnnuAl PhYsicAl exAm

Are you as healthy as you feel? Do you jump out of bed in the morning raring

to go, or are you tired and yearn for more energy?

Your annual checkup, sometimes known as an annual physical examina-

tion or an Annual Wellness Visit for those on Medicare, will let you know.

Your primary care physician or family doctor will take this opportunity to

review your health.

Your vital signs — your temperature, pulse, blood pressure — are

markers of whether your good health is improving, or they will let your

doctor immediately know if there is anything that needs further exploration.

The annual checkup and the senior Annual Wellness Visit are free and

thorough preventive office visits.

Don’t miss this opportunity for your doctor to assess your health. It will

either reassure you, or serve as an alert for your doctor to act on.

Like spring cleaning, now is a good time to clear the cobwebs regarding

your health, and assess what you can do to improve your wellness, or keep

chronic conditions at bay.

WhY Do elePhAnts rArelY Get cAncer?Researchers say the answer lies in the genes. Can humans devise a similar solution?

Elephants can boast a long list of credits to their fame: They’re the largest land-based animals

on Earth; their memory rivals that of dolphins, apes and humans; and most intriguingly, they

rarely get cancer. This last fact has puzzled scientists for decades, but now, they might have

an answer.

According to a study published recently in JAMA, elephants have 20 copies of a tumor-

suppressing gene called TP53. By comparison, humans have only one copy of the gene.

Practical application of this research is still far away, but the study’s findings are promis-

ing, researchers say.

“Nature has already figured how to prevent cancer,” says co-author Joshua Schiffman,

M.D., a pediatric oncologist at Huntsman Cancer Institute. “It’s up to us to learn how … we can

adapt those strategies to prevent cancer in people.”

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LINKUPS

✓ Your hands, wrists and forearms are straight, in line and

approximately parallel with the floor

✓ Your shoulders are relaxed and elbows close to your body

When you are standing, your legs, torso and head should be

roughly in line and vertical. Resting one foot on a low stool can reduce

pressure on your lower back. When selecting a sit-stand desk,

choose a model that’s easy to adjust between the two positions.

When setting up a treadmill desk, make sure you can safely place

your work surface over the treadmill. A recent study found that

people who were seated performed better on tests involving typing,

learning and concentration than people using treadmill desks. The

researchers concluded that the advantages of using a treadmill

desk likely outweigh any risks and suggested tasks such as phone

calls and looking over reports could be done on treadmills.

After hours, continue to watch your activity level. In another

recent study, people who stood more as a result of using sit-stand

workstations sat more when they were off duty.

Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians, American Heart

Association, American Occupational Therapy Association, Annals of

Internal Medicine, Berkeley Wellness, Harvard Health Publications,

LetsMove.gov, Mayo Clinic, Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise,

Occupational Safety & Health Administration, PLOS ONE

Bad news for those of us who work at a desk: Sitting can be risky

business. Time on your duff appears to slow down processes related

to breaking down sugars and fats — increasing risk of cardiovascular

disease and diabetes — while movement gets them going again,

researchers say. People who exercise are still at risk for sitting-

related health hazards; those who don’t exercise are at greater risk.

The key seems to be sitting less and moving more. Experts

recommend getting up and walking around at least once every

half-hour and adjusting your working position throughout the day.

If you need a reminder, set a timer or download an app to alert you

when it’s time to get up and move.

Consider asking your employer if alternative furniture, such as

a standing, adjustable sit-stand or treadmill desk, is an option. If

not, you can experiment with a high counter or table; search online

for DIY options; and seek other opportunities to get up out of your

chair, such as walking meetings and standing during phone calls.

Whether you’re sitting or standing, set up your monitor,

keyboard and mouse so your body maintains a neutral position,

meaning your joints are naturally aligned. When using your com-

puter, check that:

✓ Your torso, neck and head are approximately in line and vertical

✓ The top of your screen is at or just below eye level

Sit Less and Move More at WorkResearch shows too much sitting can lead to health problems

S p r i n g 2 0 1 6 3

HOW TO

What inspired you to write this particular

book this particular way — weaving

personal anecdotes with recipes?

The summer before my oldest son left home

for college, he asked if the two of us could

cook together dishes he was fond of from

our own family’s repertoire — not restaurant

stuff, just home stuff. So we did. When he got

to school, he started calling for details, and I

thought I could write a little booklet he could

refer to. It started out as just a between-us

family book, but once I began writing, I real-

ized lots of people could use the advice. My

intention was for it to be encouraging and

eliminate barriers to cooking, to tell people,

“Go for it! ”

Why these particular recipes?

They represent some of my family’s favorite

dishes and also include some basic ingre-

dients and tools that can be combined and

used to make other things. The first chapter

is about toast, followed by one on eggs and

then beans and so on. My thinking is that

if you can make, for example, a really good

piece of toast with delicious beans and a

poached egg on top, that’s a great meal. I

also know that when you’re making food that

simple, how well you make it and the quality

of the ingredients really shows. I’ve had

plenty of overboiled eggs and undercooked

beans and rock-hard toast to know that not

everyone’s got it figured out.

Which recipe would you suggest the starving

student or adult wannabe chef begin with?

I’d say go get some good dried beans and

soak them overnight. It compels you to

actually cook them because you’ve already

soaked them. You’ll end up with something

you can use in many ways — straight up,

pureed, spread on toast, in a pasta dish. If you

start to think about cooking as a sort of serial

exercise, then it doesn’t become an incredible

hill to climb — it’s more natural.

In the book, you describe the breakable

rules of cooking — and one that’s unbreak-

able. What’s that one?

Taste everything and taste often. I’ve eaten

Twelve Recipes is a collection of tales and tips from Cal Peternell, co-chef of Berkeley’s famed Chez Panisse restaurant, about making some of his

homestyle favorites. It has won some rave reviews; author and food activist Michael Pollan says he gives the book to all of his pals who tell him they

can’t cook. No matter where you are on the culinary — or literary — spectrum, you’re likely to savor the offerings. Here’s a taste of what’s in store.

More Than Twelve Recipes

4 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

InSIder’S GuIde

What began as a guide for a Chez Panisse chef’s son turned into a how-to-cook book for a broad consumer audience

in a lot of restaurants where it’s clear that’s

not happening! The cooks aren’t cooking so

much as assembling according to the chef’s

design. I say get the best ingredients you

can get, but then taste as you go. Tasting

improves with time and experience and lis-

tening to people who have advice like me, and

cooking the dish again and again and again.

That’s what I do.

Speaking of the best ingredients — where

do you shop locally?

I cook quite a lot at home and end up doing a

lot of the shopping at the Monterey Market in

Berkeley. It’s an incredible market and works

with most budgets. I love their produce and

they source locally, including many of the

same farms we use for our restaurant — Full

Belly Farm and Riverdog Farms in Yolo County,

for example, and Knoll Farms.

Twelve Recipes also seems to be about why

and how to enjoy the results of cooking. True?

People often say they just don’t have time for

cooking and I get that, but those same people

are making time for other things. My feeling

is that time spent in the kitchen is worthwhile

and not just because the kitchen is a natural

gathering place for friends and family. Kids

that are involved in the growing and prepara-

tion of food are much more likely to eat what

they think they didn’t like. It’s also an easy

place to get the satisfaction of having made

something yourself — most people don’t

make much with their hands these days.

Sharing food is a primal activity. When you

cook food with intention and love, it can be

a catalyst for really good conversations, for

connections to be made or strengthened.

Magical things can happen.

More Than Twelve Recipes

S p r i n g 2 0 1 6 5

Peternell’s second cookbook, A Recipe for Cooking, published by William Morrow, is coming out in October 2016.

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Sneezing. Wheezing. Itchy eyes. Rashes

and hives. Allergies occur when the body’s

natural defense system goes into overdrive

upon coming into contact with dust, mold or

other substances. There is no cure for aller-

gies, but they can certainly be managed.

Following is a primer on the various types of

allergies, with strategies for keeping symp-

toms under control.

Hay Fever (nose)

Common CAuSeS: Dust mites, dried skin

flakes (dust), pet dander, indoor molds, pollen

SympTomS: Sneezing, congestion, or a

runny or itchy nose can be signs of allergic

rhinitis — allergic reactions in the nose — also

called hay fever. The body responds to the

allergen by pumping out histamine, which

causes symptoms.

WhAT To Do: Avoid allergens by trying to

remove them from your home. you may also

be able to reduce your exposure to airborne

triggers by washing out your nose with a

saline rinse using a neti pot or squeeze bottle.

When symptoms flare up, try using over-the-

counter medications such as nose sprays

(corticosteroids to reduce nasal swelling

and symptoms); antihistamines to reduce

sneezing, itching and runny nose; or decon-

gestants. See your physician if your allergies

are causing nasal congestion, wheezing

or coughing (especially at night or post-

exercise); breathing difficulties; or chronic

sinus infections. you should also schedule a

doctor’s appointment to discuss your allergy

symptoms if you have asthma. your physician

can develop a treatment plan, which might

include prescribing medicines such as oral

corticosteroids to reduce swelling and halt

severe allergic reactions.

Contact Dermatitis (skin)

Common CAuSeS: makeup, hair dyes,

jewelry, latex gloves, plants like poison ivy,

pesticides

SympTomS: When an allergen touches

the skin, it can cause a rash, or contact

dermatitis.

WhAT To Do: If you have a skin rash, wash

the area to remove the irritant completely. If

the rash doesn’t clear up within a few weeks,

see a dermatologist, who can prescribe a topi-

cal cream or ointment. In severe cases, your

doctor may prescribe an oral medication.

Allergy ReliefAllergies can be a mild annoyance or more serious and interfere with your daily activities. In some cases they can be deadly.

6 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

Anaphylaxis (various parts of the body at

the same time)

Common Causes: Insect sting, peanuts

or other food, medications

symptoms: anaphylaxis symptoms may

include vomiting or diarrhea, throat swelling,

trouble breathing, hives, a dangerous drop

in blood pressure or even unconsciousness.

symptoms tend to come on suddenly and

worsen quickly.

What to Do: anaphylaxis is rare but

can be life-threatening. at the first sign of

symptoms, go to the nearest emergency

room or call 911. If you are prone to serious

allergic reactions, your doctor may prescribe

epinephrine in a self-injectable device, which

you should use at the first sign of trouble.

S p r i n g 2 0 1 6 7

ALL ABOUT ALLERGIES

Keep your ChIlD safe at sChoolyou can help your child avoid allergens at home, but keeping him or her safe at school

takes some extra effort. follow these tips to keep your child safe:

• talk to your child’s teacher. Inform your child’s teacher — as well as school nurses,

coaches, bus drivers and others — about your child’s allergy.

• Complete the proper medical forms. If your child might need to take medication during

school, obtain medical authorization forms from the school, complete them and have

your child’s doctor sign them. If your child has a food allergy and will be eating meals

prepared by the school, also complete a special Dietary meals accommodation form.

• make sure your child has an emergency care plan on file at the school. this might

include a food allergy management or epinephrine plan. any school that receives

federal funding is required to work with parents to create a 504 plan (emergency care

plan) for various health conditions, including a life-threatening food allergy.

Immunotherapy: Is It rIght for you?some people with allergies can benefit from immunotherapy, a series of shots that can

boost their tolerance to allergens over time, reducing symptoms. this treatment can

work well for those who are allergic to dust, pollen, pet dander and stinging insects.

another form of immunotherapy, already in common usage in other countries,

involves placing a few drops of medication under the tongue. Called sublingual immuno-

therapy (slIt), experts say it’s safer and more convenient than immunotherapy shots.

Clinical trials are ongoing in the u.s. to learn more about slIt, consult an allergist.

BART and Bike to NatureMinimize your carbon footprint — and your waist size — with a BART-bike adventure to one of these Bay Area beauty spots

8 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

HEALTH AND FITNESS

BART and Bike to NatureAlameda Creek Trail and Coyote Hills Regional ParkSoar like a bird as you bike along the paved Alameda

Creek Trail to San Francisco Bay — and pick up pointers

from the many varieties of feathered friends for whom

this marshy waterway is known. Follow the trail on the

south bank of the creek (the north bank trail is intended

for horseback riding) to Coyote Hills Park, with a nectar

garden that attracts birds and butterflies and views of

the South Bay from the park’s hilltops.

How To GeT THeRe

Take BART to the Fremont station. Bike just about

a mile, starting on Mowry Avenue to Paseo Padre

Parkway, where you turn right. (Note: Mowry and

Paseo Padre are busy thoroughfares, so use the bike

lanes and be careful while riding.) Follow Paseo Padre

to Decoto Road and turn right again. Decoto Road

will take you to the Alameda Creek Trail. The bike ride

along the trail from Decoto Road to the entrance of

Coyote Hills Park is about 5 miles.

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S p r i n g 2 0 1 6 9

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

Lafayette ReservoirHiking, jogging and even boating are on the menu here. Bliss

out with a leisurely 2.7-mile stroll and enjoy views of this tranquil

reservoir from the Lakeside Nature Trail; haul up the steeper

and longer (4.7 miles) Rim Trail; or rent a rowboat, paddleboat or

kayak to get a workout while enjoying classic Northern California

scenery from offshore.

How to Get tHeRe

take BARt to the Lafayette station. exit by taking a left onto

Deer Hill Road until it soon ends at Happy Valley Road, and

take another left. when Happy Valley Road quickly ends at Mt.

Diablo Boulevard, go right and follow it about half a mile to

the entrance of the reservoir, which is on the left.

wildcat Canyon Regional ParkIf you want to get a workout on your mountain bike, Wildcat

Canyon is the place to go. Offering stunning views as you wind

up, down and around its grassy, oak- and laurel-splotched hills,

this park features 25 miles of trails and colorful explosions of

wildflowers in spring.

How to Get tHeRe

take BARt to the el Cerrito del Norte station. then bike

northwest on the flat ohlone Greenway toward the signed

I-80 Bikeway, which will take you to McBryde Avenue, where

you will go right and then straight at the stop sign to continue

onto Park Avenue. the park entrance is a quarter-mile beyond

the stop sign.

San Bruno Mountain State & County ParkUp for a climb? This tranquil island of open space offers a moun-

tain summit of 1,300 feet, with panoramic views of San Francisco

and the central Bay Area — which translates into a delightful

venue for a hearty hike or mountain bike climb. Some trails are

steep, with more than a 50% grade. Visit in the spring to see a

carpet of wildflowers and in summer to spot one of the park’s

rare, endangered butterflies, which are found in few other places

in the world.

How to Get tHeRe

take BARt to the Colma station. then take e Street to where

it ends on Clark Avenue and go left. Follow Clark to Chester

Street and go right, and then take Chester all the way to

Royce way, which will be a left. Number 91 Royce way is a

trailhead into the park.

Anthony Chabot Regional ParkTwo hilly loops around Lake Chabot, a 9-mile loop for hikers

and a 15-mile loop for mountain bikers, make this regional park

an awesome place for some fresh air and exercise. If you’re

an angler, here’s your chance to reel in a big one — the lake is

stocked with big, healthy trout, catfish and bass. You can even

treat yourself to a guided kayak tour around the lake if you want

to work out that upper body as well.

How to Get tHeRe

take BARt to the San Leandro station. then take an easy

3-mile ride via bike lanes on estudillo Avenue to the start

of a bike path leading to Lake Chabot. Be sure to continue

left on estudillo after the 580 undercrossing, rather than

taking the right on Lake Chabot Road.

Bringing Your Bike on BARt

• Unless you have a folding bike, never board the first car of the train. During

rush hour (7–9 a.m., 4:30–6:30 p.m.), don’t board the first three cars.

• Only board cars that can comfortably accommodate you. If a train is too

crowded, wait for the next one.

• Keep your bike under control with a hand on it at all times.

• If possible, stack bikes next to each other in the “bike space” on each car.

• In the event of an evacuation, leave your bike on the train.

• Use BART elevators or stairs, not escalators, and enter and exit BART by

pushing your bike through the wide fare gates, which are orange.

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S p r i n g 2 0 1 6 1 1

CheCk this out

in Golden Gate Park. Regularly scheduled

events include runs ranging from 3 to 11-plus

miles; interval training; track workouts;

yoga sessions; and the Ready, set, Go guide

emphasizing running fundamentals.

nike.com/sf

Wednesday Night Run at Forward Motion

Sports (432 Hartz Ave., Danville)

Meet at 6:30 p.m. at Forward Motion sports,

which has hosted this free all-comers run for

more than 25 years. Year-round, runs start at

the store and continue on the paved iron horse

Regional trail — runners may stay on the trail or

access designated routes from it, including trail

runs of 5 miles or more in Las trampas Regional

Wilderness. track your miles and work toward

the 100-, 500-, 1,000-mile club and beyond.

forwardmotion.com

Tamalpa Runners (Marin)

tamalpa Runners helps runners train for local

races, including its own racing series and the

106th annual Dipsea Race from Mill Valley to

stinson Beach on June 12, but the main objec-

tive is promoting the joy of running. Attend

track workouts at san Rafael high on tuesday

evenings, College of Marin on thursday morn-

ings and Novato high on saturday mornings;

10-mile tempo runs on tuesday mornings;

and the New Members Run at Ross Commons

on saturday and sunday mornings. Plus, join

fellow members on informal runs.

$30/year for individuals (special rates for

families), tamalparunners.org

Dolphin South End Runners (San Francisco)

Looking for some friendly competition? this

primarily volunteer-run organization hosts

low-cost, low-key races of 2 to 6-plus miles on

most sundays of the year, as well as half-mile

kids Races and free training runs. Most races

are $3 for members, $5 for nonmembers, and

free for children 12 and younger. Walkers are

welcome and encouraged to start before the

scheduled race time.

$25/year for individuals, $30 for families;

dserunners.com

These local training groups, which are open

to runners of all levels, will help you get

ready this spring or summer — and intro-

duce you to new friends.

Team In Training –

Greater Bay Area Chapter

support the Leukemia & Lymphoma society

through fundraising and training for a mara-

thon or half-marathon (run or walk), triathlon,

hiking or cycling event. teams are based all

over the Bay Area, including in san Francisco,

Marin, the North Bay and the east Bay. A

professional coach leads weekly workouts

and recommends additional workouts to do

individually or with teammates. Registration

for the fall season opens in April.

teamintraining.org/gba

Nike+ Training Club (San Francisco)

Nike san Francisco offers a variety of free

runs and workouts on most days of the week

out of its retail locations at 278 Post st. and

2071 union st., as well as at kezar stadium

Join the (Running) ClubPlanning to run the Bay to Breakers or another popular race?

SAN FRANCISCO AND EAST BAY ACTIVITIES

diabetes

Living Well with Diabetes Education ClassesThis class offers information on living with diabetes, what to eat and why to check blood sugar.Mondays, 4–5 p.m.St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St., San Francisco, Mercy Conference Room, Level CCall 415.750.5513.

LiViNG WitH CaNCeR

Look Good, Feel BetterThe American Cancer Society, in partnership with Alta Bates Summit Medical Center (ABSMC), offers this class for women who are receiving cancer treatment. Come and receive free instruction on coping with the appearance-related side effects of your treatment. A licensed beauty professional will teach makeup, skin care tips and suggestions for using wigs and headwear. June 13, Aug. 15, 1:30–3:30 p.m. ABSMC, Summit Campus, 350 Hawthorne Ave., Oakland, Markstein Cancer Education & Prevention Services Two business days advance notice.

Preregistration required; Please call the American Can-cer Society at 800.227.2345.

seRViCes

Health Insurance Counseling The service provides unbiased assistance with Medicare problems and health insurance. Call 800.434.0222 for an appointment or 415.677.7520 for San Francisco County residents.

COMMUNitY HeaLtH eVeNts

Smoking Cessation A smoking cessation course free to smokers. This course helps individuals become “nonsmokers” by addressing both the physical and psycho-logical sides of smoking. Saint Francis Memorial Hospital, 900 Hyde St., San Francisco, Lower Level, Radia-tion Oncology LibraryFor dates and times, call 415.353.6780.

Stroke Education Course (Chinese interpreter at each class)Learning more about prevention and warning signs of stroke can greatly increase the chances of full recovery. Caregivers, stroke survivors, persons at risk for stroke and health professionals are welcome.

Part 1: First and third Sundays, 1–2 p.m.: Causes, Prevention and ManagementPart 2: Second and fourth Sundays, 1–2 p.m.: Stroke Recovery and Caregiver Issues Saint Francis Memorial Hospital, 900 Hyde St., San Francisco, 7th Floor

Mindful Eating Class Series (FREE for Brown & Toland members) A four-week class series, led by a registered dietitian. Learn how to take food risks, plan successful eating strategies and make changes to improve health. Series 1: Wednesdays, June 1–22, 6–7:30 p.m.Series 2: Wednesdays, Oct. 5–26, 6–7:30 p.m.Community Health Resource Center, 2100 Webster St., San Francisco, Suite 100 $240 fee for the series; FREE for Brown & Toland membersAdvance payment/enrollment is required. Registration for full series is required; unable to accommodate registration for a single class. Intake interview is required prior to start date. Call 415.923.3155 in advance to learn more.

Update on Breast Health Learn about the new standards for mammography and the latest information on minimally invasive breast surgery and reconstruction techniques from Anne Peled, M.D. Wednesday, April 6, 5:30–7 p.m. Saint Francis Memorial Hospital, 900 Hyde St., San Francisco, 2nd Floor, Hoffman RoomCall 415.353.6755 to register.

ACL (knee) Injuries: Rehab or RepairLearn more from Robert J. Purchase, M.D., about ACL (knee) injuries and the options available to treat this painful knee ligament tear. Wednesday, April 20, 5:30–7 p.m. Saint Francis Memorial Hospital, 900 Hyde St., San Francisco, 2nd Floor, Hoffman RoomCall 415.353.6755 to register.

COMMUNitY aCtiVities

Gentle YogaThe class is good for seniors and those who are new to yoga. Thursdays, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.; 1–2:30 p.m.2255 Hayes St., San Francisco, St. Mary’s Hall, Room H2-07 Call 415.750.5800.

Your HealthA guide to health and wellness programs

As a Brown & Toland or Alta Bates Medical Group member, you have a doctor who listens to your needs, respects your choices and provides you with the highest-quality care you can find. You also have access to some of the finest community health resources in the Bay Area. Some of these classes are free, and others require a nominal fee or donation. Call the listed telephone numbers for more information.

1 2 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

CALENDAR - SPRINg 2016

Senior Movies Free, full-length and newly released movies.First and third Tuesdays of every month, 1:30 p.m.2255 Hayes St., San Francisco, St. Mary’s Hall, Room H2-07Call 415.750.4849.

Mall WalkersThursdays, 9–10 a.m.Stonestown Galleria, 3251 20th Ave., San Francisco, Center CourtCall 415.564.8848 or 415.750.5800.

Healing Yoga for CancerJoin a nurturing community in a practice of gentle yoga for well-being. This class integrates mindful movement, breathing techniques and meditation to promote healing and enhance stress resiliency. Thursdays, 11 a.m.–noon ABSMC, Herrick Campus, 2001 Dwight Way, Berkeley, Comprehensive Cancer CenterDrop-ins welcome. For more information, please call the Niroga Institute at 510.451.3004.

Qi GongMedical qi gong is an internal Chinese meditative practice that uses slow graceful move-ments and controlled breath-ing techniques to promote the circulation of qi within the body and enhance overall health. This class is lead by Dr. Alex Feng, PhD, OMD, LAc, a renowned qi gong master and teacher.Tuesdays, 6:30–8 p.m.ABSMC, Herrick Campus, 2001 Dwight Way, Berkeley, Comprehensive Cancer CenterDrop-ins welcome. For more information, please call Chel-sea Hacker at 510.204.4785.

HEALTH SCREENINGS

Free Blood Pressure ScreeningsHigh blood pressure can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure and kidney failure. High blood pressure usually has no symp-toms, so regular screenings should be an important part of your healthy living plan. First Thursdays, 9:30–11 a.m.Saint Francis Memorial Hospital, 900 Hyde St., San Francisco, Cafeteria, 2nd Floor

SuppoRT GRoupS

Support groups are open to individuals, their caregivers and families seeking advice and support.

“Us TOO” Prostate Cancer Support GroupUs TOO serves as a resource of volunteers with peer-to-peer support and educational materials to help men and their families/caregivers make informed decisions about prostate cancer detection, treatment options and related side effects. First Wednesdays, 6–7:30 p.m.Saint Francis Memorial Hospital, 900 Hyde St., San Francisco, Lower Level, Radia-tion Oncology LibraryCall 415.353.6780.

Breast Cancer Support Group (Newly Diagnosed/ In Treatment)This class offers support from a special group of women who have had breast cancer and can share experiences with others.Tuesdays, 5–7 p.m.St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St., San Fran-cisco, 6th Floor, Room T6-30Call 415.750.5775.

Breast Cancer Support Group (Cancer Veterans/Metastatic Diagnosis)The class offers support from a special group of women who have had breast cancer and can share experiences with others.Wednesdays, 5–7 p.m.St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St., San Fran-cisco, 6th Floor, Room T6-30Call 415.750.5775.

Traumatic Brain Injury Support GroupThird Thursday of every month, 3–4:30 p.m.St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St., San Fran-cisco, 3rd Floor, 3 East Confer-ence RoomCall 415.750.5805.

Weight Loss Surgery Support GroupThis is an informative seminar for prospective patients and postoperative bariatric patients.Second Wednesday of every month, 6 p.m.St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St., San Francisco, Cafeteria, Level BCall 415.668.3200.

Burn Support GroupThe Burn Support Group is a resource for burn survivors, their loved ones and profes-sionals in the burn community to provide a safe and support-ive environment for people to share and explore issues related to burn injuries.Last Thursdays, 11:30 a.m.– 12:30 p.m.Saint Francis Memorial Hospital, 900 Hyde St., San Francisco, 5th Floor, Bothin Burn Center Day Room Call 415.353.6255.

Library for the Blind and Print DisabledDo you have a friend or a loved one who’s

an avid reader but is facing loss of vision

or having trouble physically holding a

book or magazine? The San Francisco

Library for the Blind and Print Disabled

(LBPD) is here to help! Located in the San

Francisco Public Library’s main branch

at the Civic Center, the LBPD offers a

collection of more than 100,000 audio

books and magazines featuring classics

along with recently published bestsellers,

all read by professional readers and all for

free. LBPD also rents out for free a grow-

ing collection of audio-described movies.

For more information, call 415.557.4253

or visit sfpl.org/lbpd.

S p r i n g 2 0 1 6 1 3

Emotional Eating Support GroupA 12-week program, led by a behavioral specialist. The program combines therapeutic meal experience with cognitive behavior work to help partici-pants change the way they look at food and eating in stressful or emotional situations.Thursdays, Sept. 1–Nov. 17, 6–7:30 p.m.Community Health Resource Center, 2100 Webster St., San Francisco, Suite 100 $720 fee for the series; FREE for Brown & Toland membersAdvance payment/enrollment is required. Registration for full series is required; unable to accommodate registration for a single class. Intake interview is required prior to start date. Call 415.923.3155 in advance to learn more.

Breast Cancer Support GroupThe Breast Cancer Support Group provides a safe place for emotional support where women can discuss their fears, talk about treatment suc-cesses and relationships, and listen to one another.Second and fourth Mondays, 6–8 p.m.ABSMC, Summit Campus, 3100 Summit Street, Oakland,

Carol Ann Read Breast Health CenterPreregistration required. Please call Gale Uchiyama, LCSW, at 510.655.4000, ext. 4980.

Breast Cancer Support Group for Younger WomenAs a younger woman with cancer, your breast cancer experience differs from those of later life stages. Because of that, this group offers a safe place for you to share about how your cancer affects specific ar-eas of your life and how to cope with these areas of concern.Second and fourth Tuesdays, 10–11:30 a.m.ABSMC, Summit Campus, 3100 Summit Street, Oakland, Carol Ann Read Breast Health CenterPreregistration required. Please call Gale Uchiyama, LCSW, at 510.655.4000, ext. 4980.

General Cancer Support GroupOngoing support group for individuals interested in shar-ing issues involved in living with any type of cancer. This group is a safe place where members can speak honestly and learn from each other’s experiences while developing strong, caring, supportive

bonds with one another.Second and fourth Wednesday, 3–4:15 p.m.ABSMC, Summit Campus, 350 Hawthorne Ave., Oakland, Markstein Cancer Education & Prevention ServicesPreregistration required. Please call Carrie Evenden, PsyD, at 415.793.9643.

Metastatic Cancer Support GroupAs someone with advanced illness, your experience differs from that of others with cancer. This group offers ongoing support for individuals interested in sharing issues involved in living with ad-vanced illness.Wednesdays, 1–2:30 p.m.ABSMC, Herrick Campus, 2001 Dwight Way, Berkeley, Comprehensive Cancer CenterPreregistration required. Please call Shellie Hatfield, LCSW, at 510.599.1886.

Prostate Cancer Discussion GroupFacilitated by a prostate cancer survivor trained by the American Cancer Society, this group is a peer discussion group for men with prostate cancer who may have signifi-cant quality-of-life concerns about sexuality and intimacy, managing work, parenting, or financial responsibility issues.Second Tuesdays, 6:30–8 p.m.ABSMC, Summit Campus, 350 Hawthorne Ave., Oakland, Markstein Cancer Education & Prevention ServicesPreregistration required. Please call Markstein at 510.869.8833.

Caring for the Cancer Caregiver Support GroupCancer family caregivers can feel challenged to assume complex and multiple respon-sibilities including medical and financial decision making, activities of daily living and emotional support. Yet who cares for the caregiver? This group is dedicated to your needs.First and third Wednesdays, 3–4:15 p.m.ABSMC, Summit Campus, 350 Hawthorne Ave., Oakland, Markstein Cancer Education & Prevention ServicesPreregistration required. Please call Carrie Evenden, PsyD, at 415.793.9643.Fourth Wednesday of each month, 5:30–7 p.m.ABSMC, Herrick Campus, 2001 Dwight Way, Berkeley, Comprehensive Cancer CenterPreregistration required. Please call Kathy Orsini, MSW, at 510.204.4330.

FOR A MORE COMPLETE LISTING OF HEALTH EDUCATION CLASSES AND EVENTS, VISIT THE FOLLOWING WEBSITES:

Alta Bates Summit Medical Centeraltabatessummit.org

California Pacific Medical Center and CPMC St. Luke’s Campuscpmc.org

Chinese Community Health Resource Center cchrchealth.org

Community Health Resource Center chrcsf.org

Saint Francis Memorial Hospital saintfrancismemorial.org

Seton Medical Center setonmedicalcenter.org

St. Mary’s Medical Center stmarysmedicalcenter.org

© 2016 by Brown & Toland Physicians

Richard AngeloniExecutive Editor P: 415.972.4307 F: 415.833.4255rangeloni@btmg.com

Lorna FernandesSenior Editor P: 415.972.4250F: 415.833.4255lfernandes@btmg.com

HealthLink is published by Brown & Toland Physicians as a community service and is not intended for the purpose of diagnosing or prescribing. Produced by DCP

HealthLink

1 4 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

CALENDAR - SPRiNG 2016

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Reprinted with permission from William Morrow.

Ribollitaexcerpt from Twelve Recipes by Cal peternellLike many soups, ribollita and her summer cousin, pappa al pomo-

doro, just keep on getting better as they age. Ribollita is good the

day you make it and great the next and the next for about four days.

S p r i n g 2 0 1 6 1 5

ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 1 carrot, diced small

• 2 celery stalks, diced small

• 1½ teaspoons salt

• 2 garlic cloves, chopped

• Chopped leaves from 1 rosemary or sage sprig, or chopped

leaves from ½ sprig each

• ½ cup chopped tomato

• 1 bunch lacinato (or other) kale, leaves stripped from the

stems, washed, drained, and chopped

• 6 cups chicken stock or water

• 2½ cups cooked white or brown beans, with their liquid

(1 cup dried)

• ½ loaf stale bread, torn or chopped into chunks

• Your best extra-virgin olive oil

preparation

Heat a soup pot over high heat. add the oil and then the

onion, carrot, celery, and 1 teaspoon of the salt. stir, lower

the heat, and cover the pot. Check and stir after a few min-

utes, letting the liquid on the lid drip back into the pot to

keep things steamy. lower the heat if there is any browning

going on, and re-cover. Cook like this until the vegetables

are very tender, about 20 minutes. Uncover and add the

garlic and rosemary. stir for a couple minutes, raise the

heat, and add the tomato. Cook, stirring occasionally, for

a few minutes, and then add the kale, the remaining ½

teaspoon salt, and the stock. add the beans, turn the heat

to high, and bring to a low boil. lower the heat to keep the

soup at a simmer and cook for another 20 minutes. Turn

off the heat, add the bread, and stir well. let the ribollita sit

for at least 15 minutes before eating with lots of your best

olive oil poured over.

Ribollita really does gain something from being allowed to

cool, then reheated. The name, meaning “reboiled,” refers

to this. if your ribollita is very thick the next day, you can

thin it a little, or if it’s very solid, slice off a slab instead to

pan-fry for the best crusty, molten lunch.

leave out the bread and this is minestrone.ed

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SAN FRANCISCO CA 94188

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brownandtoland.com

Urgent Care and After Hours Care When You Need It

When It Can’t Wait Until Tomorrow, After Hours and Urgent Care Is Here TodayWe don’t always get sick during normal business hours. That’s why we’ve created an After Hours and

Urgent Care Network. With evening and weekend hours to treat many non-life-threatening injuries

and illnesses, our network makes it easier for you to receive care when you need it.

For a complete listing and details about locations, visit brownandtoland.com/afterhourscare.If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 immediately.

City Health Urgent Care

13690 E. 14th St., Suite 100, San Leandro,

CA 94578

Phone: 510.984.2489./ Open every day,

except holidays

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.; weekends, 9 a.m.–

5 p.m.

Direct Urgent Care

3095 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley, CA 94705

Phone: 510.686.3621 / Open every day,

except holidays

Hours: 10 a.m.–8 p.m. — serves adults and

children

Night Owl Urgent Care

425 Gregory Lane, Suite 203, Pleasant Hill,

CA 94523

Phone: 925.288.3600 / serves children.

Call for pediatric hours. Adult care is by

appointment only.

Pediatric Evening Referral Clinic (PERC)

5700 Telegraph Ave., Suite 100, Oakland, CA

94609

Phone: 510.486.8344 / Hours: Monday to

Friday, 6 p.m.– 9:30 p.m. ; weekends and

holidays, 8:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. — serves

children only, appointment required