caring for kids: Children's Medical Center at Summerlin Hospital
April 2009

Contents

 Home
 Out-Of-This World Emergency Care
 Caring for Kids Every Day In New Ways!
 Live Healthy This Spring
 Meet Leo:
Cancer Fighter and
Fun-Loving Kid
 FamilyPlace
Class Schedule
 Past Issues

www.summerlinhospital.org

 caring for kids: Children's Medical Center at Summerlin Hospital

caring for kids: Children's Medical Center at Summerlin Hospital


Live Healthy This Spring

Photo of a mother and infant
Safe Baby Bottles
You may have heard that plastic baby bottles aren't safe because they contain a dangerous chemical. Some studies have indicated that a common ingredient, bisphenol A (BPA), found in some plastic baby bottles may cause nerve and behavior problems in infants and children.

But don't panic. An expert panel says that there is some, but not severe, concern about developmental effects in children from BPA exposure. And the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not recommended that anyone stop using products with BPA.

The FDA says that products on the market containing BPA are safe and exposure levels are below those that may cause health effects.

If you feel it's better to avoid BPA until more research is complete, consider buying BPA-free baby bottles. Options include glass bottles and BPA-free plastic bottles. Plastic containers with the number 7 on the bottom usually contain BPA.

Photo of a flower
Keep Pollen in Its Place
Spring is the time for blooming things and birds that sing. For many people, it's also sneezing season, when noses run and itchy eyes water.

Try putting pollen in its place with these tips:

  1. Stay indoors from 5 – 10 AM and on windy days.
  2. Close your windows at night and while driving.
  3. Use air conditioners instead of window and attic fans.
  4. Avoid freshly cut grass as mowing releases pollen.
  5. Shower and wash your hair before going to bed.

Are You Smoke-Free?
The risks associated with smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke are well known. But what about the risk from smoke that gets into your clothing, furniture, carpet and other items?

Referred to as thirdhand smoke, this mixture of particles and gases includes carcinogens (cancer causing substances) and other potentially dangerous materials. While the exact effects are still unknown, some studies suggest that thirdhand smoke may be harmful. In addition to making your home and car smoke-free, help reduce your child's exposure by:


  • Wearing a jacket while smoking outside and removing it when you are done
  • Washing your hands after smoking
  • Supporting family and friends in making their homes smoke-free

Fast Fact
More than 750,000 children suffer middle ear infections each year in the U.S. as a result of secondhand smoke.
Source: American Cancer Society


Logo of Children's Medical Center at Summerlin Hospital 657 N. Town Center Drive
Las Vegas, Nevada 89144
www.summerlinhospital.org

caring for kids: Children's Medical Center at Summerlin Hospital
caring for kids: Children's Medical Center at Summerlin Hospital