With spring in full swing, it can be difficult to identify the culprit of your runny nose, itchy throat and congestion. While colds and seasonal allergies share several symptoms, they have distinct differences that can help inform your approach to wellness. Seasonal allergies are triggered by environmental allergens like pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. If your symptoms come on quickly after spending time outdoors or being in a new environment, allergies may be the cause. Allergy symptoms persist as long as you're exposed to the trigger, which can mean weeks or even months of symptoms during peak pollen season. Cold symptoms, on the other hand, typically last 7–10 days and tend to worsen before they improve. Because the common cold is caused by a virus, the immune system follows a fairly predictable response. First, inflammation slows the virus down. Then, mucus production ramps up to flush it out. Finally, white blood cells move in to clear the infection. That shift to thicker, discolored mucus many people notice toward the end of a cold is actually a good sign that your immune system is doing exactly what it's supposed to do. Key signs of seasonal allergies: Itchy, watery eyes Persistent sneezing Clear, thin, watery nasal discharge throughout the entire episode No fever More typical for colds: Fever (can be mild or severe) Thick, yellow or green mucus as the illness progresses Body aches and fatigue Cough So, how can you resolve your symptoms and start feeling better? For the common cold, resting and staying hydrated are key to your treatment plan. Limit physical activity, use a humidifier to ease congestion, and drink fluids to help thin mucus and support your immune system. Over-the-counter remedies don’t cure a virus, but they can ease symptoms. Talk to your doctor about use of decongestants, antihistamines, pain relievers, saline sprays or cough suppressants or expectorants. Allergy symptoms can also be managed through over-the-counter or prescription medications, depending on the severity of symptoms. Because allergies are a chronic condition, reduced exposure to the trigger is an important component of long-term management. Limiting outdoor time and closing windows on high-pollen days and wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes are just a few ways to avoid irritation from environmental allergens. When to contact your provider: Symptoms last more than 10 days Symptoms worsen significantly You have a high fever (~103 F in adults) You need help deciding which medications are appropriate The Amoskeag Health team is available to answer questions, schedule appointments and guide you through the best course of action. We can help confirm whether allergies, a virus, or another condition is at play and recommend the right treatment plan for you. As always, if you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or chest pain, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room for evaluation and treatment. To schedule an appointment at one of our four office locations in Manchester, NH, please call 603-626-9500.

By: Laura Fry, MD January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month! Many of you know me as the “queen of everything cervical,” so with that title, let’s dive into some information that might help all of us work together to prevent and treat this disease. Why Does Cervical Cancer Awareness Matter? Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. On a global scale, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, with 604,000 new cases leading to 342,000 deaths annually. However, cervical cancer affects people around the world very differently. In 2020, almost 90% of the deaths occurred in countries with lower incomes due to delays in getting vaccines, screenings, and treatment. In the United States, there are about 11,500 new cervical cancer cases per year and 4,000 deaths linked to this cancer. Cervical cancer usually develops slowly over many years. Early signs of cervical cancer include abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix, which is not noticeable from the outside. However, these changes can be detected through tests at your doctor’s office. If abnormal cells are left untreated, they can progress to become cancerous. So, it’s important to be seen regularly by someone like me! What Causes Cervical Cancer? Nearly 100% of cervical cancer cases are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), mostly through sexual intercourse. HPV has many subtypes, and over 11 of them are considered “high risk” types. Globally, about 40% of women were unaware that HPV causes most cervical cancers. Can Cervical Cancer Be Prevented? YES! Primary prevention (preventing a disease before it occurs) can be done through HPV vaccines. These vaccines are given in the US to girls and boys preferably before the age of 15. Two doses are recommended. Secondary Prevention (identifying disease at its earlies stages) is done through a pap test and HPV testing. Testing should start at age 21 and be done every three years, with HPV added at age 30 and repeated every 5 years for women who do not test positive. Paps and HPV testing can detect pre-cancerous conditions, which can often be treated easily and can prevent progression to invasive cervical cancer. WHO’s Global Efforts to Reduce Cervical Cancer There is a global campaign from the World Health Organization (WHO) called “90-70-90” by the year 2030. This campaign has three goals: 90% of girls worldwide will be vaccinated against HPV by age 15. 70% of women will have been screened by a high-quality screening method at age 35 and 45. 90% of women with invasive or pre-invasive disease will receive treatment. Now, What Can You Do to Protect Yourself and Your Family from Cervical Cancer? If you have not been vaccinated and are below the age of 24 – GET IT DONE! There are some situations in which you can be vaccinated later than age 24. Talk to your provider at your next appointment about your options. Make sure your children are vaccinated. There are lots of parents who don’t think it’s needed, or they think that giving the vaccine will give their children permission to start having sex younger. This has been proven NOT to be the case! Get screening done for yourself if you’re assigned female at birth. Talk to any of the providers or nurses here at Amoskeag Health if you have questions. Spread the news and help us dispel myths and misinformation about vaccines, screenings, and treatment. Think about it this way: we have a cancer that is very effectively prevented through a vaccine! How cool is that? Let’s eliminate cancer one cervix at a time! If you’re interested in the HPV vaccine or are overdue for a screening, we can help! To schedule an appointment with an Amoskeag Health provider, please call 603-626-9500.

By: Katherine-Starr Goodwin Managing blood sugar levels is very important for overall health, especially for those with diabetes. The Glycemic Index (GI) is a valuable tool that helps us choose foods wisely to keep blood sugar stable. Here’s how you can use the Glycemic Index, along with portion control, to make healthier choices. What is the Glycemic Index (GI)? The Glycemic Index ranks foods based on how quickly they raise blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI (70 or more) cause a rapid spike in blood sugar, while those with a low GI (55 or less) cause a slower, more gradual rise. Using the Glycemic Index to Make Better Choices: Green (Go): Choose low GI foods (55 or less) most often. These include items like whole grains, legumes, and many fruits. See a list of low Glycemic Index foods here. Yellow (Caution): Moderate GI foods (56 to 69) should be eaten less frequently. These include some fruits, whole wheat products, and couscous. See a list of moderate Glycemic Index foods here. Red (Stop and think): High GI foods (70 or more) should be limited. These include white bread, sugary cereals, and some types of potatoes. See a list of high Glycemic Index foods here. By opting for more foods with a lower GI, you can help manage blood sugar levels more effectively, reducing the risk of complications from diabetes and promoting better weight management. Portion Control and Diabetes Management Watching portion sizes can help manage diabetes. We suggest a balanced approach to portioning meals: Fill half your plate with vegetables and fruits: Choose more vegetables than fruits, as most vegetables have less sugar. This helps control calorie intake and provides essential nutrients. Divide the other half of your plate: Distribute this portion between protein-rich foods and whole grains. Examples include lean meats, fish, beans, whole wheat pasta, and brown rice. Combining GI and Portion Control Understanding the Glycemic Index and practicing portion control can significantly impact your health outcomes, particularly if you have diabetes or are aiming for better overall well-being. By choosing low GI foods and controlling portion sizes, you can better manage blood sugar levels, support weight loss efforts, and improve your overall health. Remember, consult with a healthcare professional or Registered Dietitian to tailor these principles to your individual needs and health goals. Each small step towards healthier eating habits contributes to a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Low Glycemic Index (55 or less) Foods. Choose these most often! Grains and Starches Breads: Heavy Mixed Grain Breads Spelt Bread Sourdough Bread Tortilla (Whole Grain) Cereal: All-Bran™ Cereal Oat Bran Oats (Steel Cut) Grains: Barley Bulgur Mung Bean Noodles Pasta (Al Dente, Firm) Pulse Flours Quinoa Rice (Converted, Parboiled) Other: Peas* Popcorn Sweet Potato* Winter Squash* *Most starchy/sweet vegetables (e.g. peas, parsnip, winter squash) provide 15 g or more carbohydrate per 1 cup serving Fruits Apple Apricot (Fresh, Dried) Banana (Green, Unripe) Berries Cantaloupe Grapefruit Honeydew Melon Mango Orange Peach Pear Plum Pomegranate Prunes Milk and Milk Alternatives Almond Milk Cow Milk (Skim, 1%, 2%, Whole) Frozen Yogurt (An occasional food) Greek Yogurt Soy Milk Yogurt (Skim, 1%, 2%, Whole) * Milk, alternatives, and other beverages listed include flavored (e.g. chocolate), sweetened and unsweetened varieties Meat and Alternatives Baked Beans Chickpeas Kidney Beans Lentils Mung Beans Romano Beans Soybeans/Edamame Split Peas * Poultry and fish do not have a GI because they do not contain carbohydrates Moderate Glycemic Index (56 to 69) Foods. Choose LESS often! Grains and Starches Breads: Chapati (White, Whole Wheat) Flaxseed/Linseed Bread Pita Bread (White, Whole Wheat) Pumpernickel Bread Roti (White, Whole Wheat) Rye Bread (Light, Dark, Whole Grain) Stone Ground Whole Wheat Bread Whole Grain Wheat Bread Cereal: Cream of Wheat™ (Regular) Oats (Instant) Oats (Large Flake) Oats (Quick) Grains: Basmati Rice Brown Rice Cornmeal Couscous (Regular, Whole Wheat) Rice Noodles White Rice (Short, Long Grain) Wild Rice Other: Beets Corn French Fries (An occasional food) Parsnip Potato (Red, White, Cooled) Rye Crisp Crackers Fruits Banana (Ripe, Yellow) Cherries (Bottled) Cherries (Fresh) Cranberries (Dried) Figs (Fresh, Dried) Grapes Kiwi Lychee Pineapple Raisins Meat and Alternatives Lentil Soup (ready-made) Split Pea Soup (ready-made) *Poultry and fish do not have a GI because they do not contain carbohydrates High Glycemic Index (70 or more) Foods. Choose LEAST often! Grains and Starches Breads: Bread (White, Whole Wheat) Naan (White, Whole Wheat) Cereal: All-Bran Flakes™ Cereal Corn Flakes™ Cereal Cream of Wheat™ (Instant) Puffed Wheat Cereal Rice Krispies™ Cereal Special K™ Cereal Grains: Jasmine Rice Millet Sticky Rice White Rice (Instant) Other: Carrots Potato (Instant Mashed) Potato (Red, White, Hot) Pretzels Rice Cakes Soda Crackers Fruits Banana (Brown, Overripe) Watermelon Milk and Milk Alternatives Rice Milk *Milk, alternatives, and other beverages listed include flavored (e.g. chocolate), sweetened and unsweetened varieties Want to learn more to help manage your blood sugar and feel your best? Schedule an appointment with an Amoskeag Health provider today by calling 603-626-9500.

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer that affects both men and women. With routine screening and early detection, we are able to significantly reduce the risk that you might develop colorectal cancer in the future. New Recommendations for Screening New guidelines recommend starting colorectal cancer screening at 45 years old. If you’re 45 or older and have not been screened or referred for screening, talk to your healthcare provider about one of several screening options. Screening Options There are several screening tests available, a couple of which are painless and non-invasive. Depending on your insurance status, family history or other risk factors, one of these tests may be appropriate for you. Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Collect a stool sample at home and it will be evaluated for blood which could be indicative of cancer. This test is good for a year. Cologuard® Multi-Targeted Stool DNA Test: Collect a stool sample at home to check for cancer-related DNA changes and blood. This test is good for three years. Colonoscopy: A gastroenterologist uses a camera to examine the colon and rectum for polyps and cancer and is able to biopsy any polyps or changes that are found during the procedure. If normal, this may be sufficient for ten years. Symptoms to Watch For Be aware of these potential symptoms of colorectal cancer: Unexplained abdominal pains Blood in your stool Changes in bowel habits Unexplained weight loss If you are currently experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider immediately. Don’t Wait for Symptoms Don’t wait for symptoms before getting screened. By the time symptoms appear, cancer may be more advanced and harder to treat. Routine screening can catch problems early, potentially preventing cancer and if found it may be more treatable. Take Action Don't wait, get screened! Is it time to schedule your colorectal screening? Schedule an appointment with an Amoskeag Health provider by calling 603-626-9500.

As the temperatures rise this summer, it’s important to know how to protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of extreme heat. Extreme heat can lead to serious health issues, but with a few simple precautions, you can stay safe and healthy. Here’s what you need to know. Understanding Extreme Heat Extreme heat occurs when temperatures are much hotter than average for your location. High humidity can make it feel even hotter, making it difficult for your body to cool down. This can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Who Is at Risk? Some groups and conditions make you more likely to get heat-related illnesses. Knowing these risks can help you take precautions, especially when it's hot outside. Groups at Higher Risk: Older adults Young children People with chronic illnesses Individuals on certain medications Outdoor workers and athletes Factors Increasing Vulnerability: Things like high humidity, obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, and sunburn increase your risk to heat-related illnesses. While they don't guarantee heat-related illness, these factors mean you should take extra care when it's hot. Symptoms of Heat-Related Illnesses It’s very important to recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses early. Heat Exhaustion Symptoms Heat exhaustion is a common heat-related illness that can occur when the body becomes overheated. Recognizing the early signs can prevent it from escalating into a more serious condition. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include: Heavy sweating Weakness or fatigue Dizziness or lightheadedness Nausea or vomiting Cool, moist skin If you're experiencing these symptoms, first move to a cooler area. Loosen tight clothing and cool yourself down by applying wet cloths or taking a cool bath. Sip on water to stay hydrated. It's important to seek medical help immediately if you're vomiting, if your symptoms worsen, or if they persist for more than an hour. Heat Stroke Symptoms Heat stroke is a medical emergency. It occurs when the body can't regulate body temperature, and it can be life-threatening. Symptoms of heat stroke include: High body temperature: A body temperature of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher is a key indicator of heat stroke. Hot, dry skin Rapid pulse Confusion or loss of consciousness If you suspect heat stroke, call 911 immediately because it's a medical emergency. Move the person to a cooler area and help lower their temperature by using cool cloths or a cool bath. Do not give them anything to drink until medical help arrives to avoid worsening the condition. Tips to Stay Cool and Safe Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol as they can dehydrate you. Stay Cool Indoors: Use air conditioning if possible. If you don’t have AC, go to public places like libraries or shopping malls. Limit Outdoor Activities: Try to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). If you need to be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade. Wear Light Clothing: Dress in lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothes to help your body stay cool. Check on Others: Keep an eye on those at higher risk, especially older neighbors or relatives. By following these tips, you can enjoy the summer while staying safe and healthy. For more detailed information, visit the CDC’s Extreme Heat page. Stay cool and take care! If you have conditions that increase your risk for heat-related illness, we can provide personalized advice on staying safe this summer! To schedule an appointment with an Amoskeag Health provider, please call 603-626-9500.

By: Jillian Peabody, OD If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you may be wondering: Why does my primary care doctor require me to get an annual eye exam? The reason is that diabetes can lead to a condition called "diabetic retinopathy," which can cause blindness if left untreated. In fact, diabetic retinopathy is responsible for 12% of new cases of blindness annually. It's also the number one cause of new vision impairment in Americans aged 20-74. Fortunately, treating diabetes properly can lower the risk of getting diabetic retinopathy by up to 76%. So, What Exactly is Diabetic Retinopathy? Similar to other organs in the body, the eye has a vast network of blood vessels, particularly in the visually sensitive area of the eye called the retina. When someone has uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes and their glucose (sugar) levels are high, the glucose damages the walls of our blood vessels and creates small holes. Then, the vessels start to leak blood; this is diabetic retinopathy. Thankfully, We Can See the Signs in Your Eyes! This vessel damage can happen in all organs of the body, but the eye is the only organ that can be seen easily from the outside through a dilated eye exam, which we can perform at Amoskeag Health. If there are signs of diabetic retinopathy in the eye, the chances are high that blood vessels in other vital organs are also leaking. An eye doctor will relay this information to your primary care doctor so they can work with you to better control your diabetes and prevent further damage to your body. In this way, the eyes are truly a window into the health of the body! Similar to other sight-threatening diseases, diabetic retinopathy often has no symptoms to the patient in early stages. The only way to properly diagnose diabetic retinopathy is through a dilated examination of the eye. Therefore, it is very important for those with diabetes, and those without, to have an annual dilated eye exam. Have you had a dilated eye exam recently? It's okay if the answer is 'no!' We can schedule an appointment today, just call our main office: 603-626-9500.

By: Jillian Peabody, OD Inside of our eyes, we have a gel-like substance called "vitreous." Within the vitreous, tiny clumps called "floaters" can form and cause us to see little things that may look like flies, cobwebs, or strings. While most floaters are totally harmless (but quite annoying!), there are some serious eye conditions that can present with floaters. So, if you notice any, it's very important to see your eye doctor for an eye exam; we can tell whether they're harmless or not. At the exam, the doctor will look at the entire eye and determine if the floaters are harmless or if they are a symptom of a more serious condition, such as detachment of the retina (the highly sensitive wall of the back of your eye that's responsible for vision). Oftentimes, serious eye conditions associated with floaters will have additional symptoms like flashes of light or a large number of floaters seemingly “raining down” in your vision. If any of these symptoms occur, or if you experience new floaters, you should see an eye doctor right away. We can help treat them! If the floaters are harmless, there is no medication or treatment that can easily get rid of them. Fortunately, our brain learns to forget them, so that's why you don’t see them all day. Either way, it's important to check any floaters and make sure that you closely monitor any changes in your vision. Is it time to schedule an eye exam? Simply call our office: 603-626-9500!

Therapy is for everyone. One of the most common misconceptions about mental health is that only the most severe or complex experiences warrant professional support. Counseling is a space where all concerns are valid, whether you’re navigating a major life transition or simply feeling overwhelmed by the accumulation of everyday stress. There is no issue too big or too small for therapy. In fact, addressing challenges early can prevent them from growing into something more difficult to manage over time. At Amoskeag Health, our therapists often see patients who have been carrying stress, anxiety, or emotional burdens for longer than they realized. Day-to-day pressures like work demands, family responsibilities, financial concerns, or health issues can gradually build into a mental load that feels unmanageable. Because these stressors may not seem “serious enough,” many people delay seeking support. However, early intervention is one of the most effective ways to protect and improve your mental health. Our team of mental health clinicians has supported patients through a wide range of concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, mood disorders, trauma, substance use, relationship challenges and life transitions. Everyone’s experience is unique, and we are committed to meeting you where you are. Beginning counseling can feel like a big step, and it’s natural to feel uncertain or nervous. We aim to make the process as smooth and welcoming as possible. Our clinicians are highly trained professionals who are also real people: compassionate, attentive, and dedicated to hearing your story without judgment. If you’ve been considering counseling, you might be wondering what comes next. Understanding the process can help reduce uncertainty and make it easier to take that first step. Step 1: Schedule Your First Appointment You may be referred by your primary care provider, or you can contact our office directly to schedule an appointment at one of our Manchester locations. Our administrative team will guide you through the process, gather basic information, and help you find a time that fits your schedule. Step 2: Attend Your Initial Assessment Your first session is an opportunity for you and your counselor to get to know each other. During this appointment, your counselor will ask about what brought you in, your personal and medical history, and what you hope to gain from therapy. This is also your time to ask questions, share concerns, and get a sense of whether the therapist feels like a good fit for you. It’s important to remember that counseling is collaborative. You are an active participant in your care, and feedback is encouraged. Open communication helps ensure that your therapy experience aligns with your needs and goals. Step 3: Develop a Personalized Treatment Plan After your initial assessment, you and your therapist will work together to create a treatment plan tailored specifically to you. This plan may include how often you meet, the goals you want to focus on, and the therapeutic approaches that may be most effective for your situation. Our clinicians are trained in a variety of evidence-based therapies. Some of the approaches we commonly use include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):  This approach focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. CBT is used to treat anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions, and it helps patients build practical coping strategies they can apply in everyday life. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT):  DBT is a skills-based therapy designed to help individuals manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and develop techniques for mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotional regulation. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR):  EMDR is a structured therapy that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences by using guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation. Solution-Focused Therapy:  This goal-oriented approach emphasizes strengths and progress rather than focusing primarily on problems. It helps individuals identify what is already working in their lives and build on those successes to create meaningful change. Motivational Interviewing:  This collaborative, person-centered approach supports individuals in exploring and strengthening their motivation for change. As therapy progresses, remember that change takes time. Building trust and learning new skills are gradual processes. Some sessions may feel more productive than others, and that’s completely normal. Consistency and openness are key components of progress. If you’ve read this far and feel that counseling might be right for you, we encourage you to take the next step. To schedule an appointment with one of our Behavioral Health Clinicians in Manchester, NH, please call 603-626-9500 or visit our Mental Health webpage for more information. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and help you get started.   If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it is important to seek imme diate help. You can call or text 988 , the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, for free, confidential support 24/7. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911  or go to your nearest emergency room. You are not alone, and help is always available.

“When I had very little money and very little insurance, Amoskeag Health really helped me by allowing me to come in for free," shares Liz, a patient who received financial assistance through Amoskeag Health's Sliding Fee Scale Program in 2025. Liz had come to Amoskeag Health for a routine checkup, just hoping to stay on top of her health, but her visit quickly became even more valuable than she expected. “My experience was a favorable one when I arrived there,” she said. “I was seen in a prompt manner, and the staff was friendly and courteous.” After living most of her life in New York City with limited access to quality health care services, she described the experience as “a welcome change.” For Liz, accessible care meant more than open appointment times and friendly staff. It meant she didn’t need to delay taking care of herself due to a financial barrier. When she expressed a need for financial assistance, Amoskeag Health connected Liz with a dedicated Case Manager, who helped her navigate the application process for the Sliding Fee Scale Program. Offering five levels of adjusted fees based on patient household size and income, this system grants a discount for use at all Manchester locations. "Being able to be seen by competent medical personnel means I can sleep at night, due to less anxiety,” Liz shared. That sense of ease drives Amoskeag Health’s mission of making high-quality health care available to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Liz was especially struck by how the team treated her at her first visit. “What stood out for me was the way staff made me feel welcome and respected, and the staff seemed to be well-informed about my medical issues.” Her experience speaks to the kind of compassionate, integrated care Amoskeag Health aims to provide for every person who comes through its doors. For patients facing similar financial burdens, case management services and low-cost prescription programs are also available. Liz hopes others in the community will be proactive in seeking care with Amoskeag Health. “I would want anyone else in the community who doesn't have much money or medical insurance to not hesitate to call or come in for treatment,” she said. “They will help set you up with an appointment, and it will be done with care and concern.” Click here to learn more about Amoskeag Health's financial assistance services, including the Sliding Fee Scale Program, Low-cost Prescription Program, health insurance navigation and coordination of government assistance benefits like TANF, WIC, food stamps, and Social Secruity.

Amoskeag Health Receives Grant From The Pearl Manor Fund April 1, 2026 L-R: Kelli Rafferty, Elliot Health System VP & Chief Philanthropy Officer; Nicole Clark, Amoskeag Health Manager of Social Services; Kat Sutton Amoskeag Health Older Adult Case Manager Amoskeag Health is excited to announce that it has received a major grant from the Pearl Manor Fund to support its work dedicated to older adults. “Within our Case Management Department, we have a dedicated Older Adult Case Manager (OACM) who works to help our patients navigate challenges and access services they need to enjoy healthy, independent lives, said Kris McCracken, President/CEO of Amoskeag Health, “This kind gift from the Pearl Manor Fund helps us strengthen our programs which focus on the specific needs of older adults.” Part of the Mary and John Elliot Foundation, the Pearl Manor Fund provides annual grants to local nonprofits for the specific purpose of providing assistance, comfort, care, and treatment for the elderly population of Manchester and surrounding communities. According to Kat Sutton, an Older Adult Case Manager at Amoskeag Health, the health center has seen a 33% increase in the number of older adults served since the pandemic. “In addition to chronic care needs, older adults are often impacted by social isolation which is a risk factor in and of itself,” she said. “Our dedicated team meets with patients and their families to evaluate and assess living conditions, transportation needs, and connections to social service programs, as well as the patient’s health needs.” Sutton added that this grant funding is critical in that many of the supportive services offered by Amoskeag are not covered by insurance but are vital in reducing cost of care. McCracken noted that over the past year, Amoskeag Health has cared for over 15,000 patients from infants to older adults and that more than half of those patients live at or below the federal poverty line. “Thanks to the support from the Pearl Manor Fund, we are able to continue to create and support healthier pathways for older adults,” she said.

March is Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Awareness Month, an opportunity to shine a light on the risks associated with this increasingly common disease. Kristin Schmidt, Certified Physician Associate at Amoskeag Health, shares more insight into what we can do to prevent, catch and treat colorectal cancer. Research on colorectal cancer is constantly evolving. What recent findings are most relevant for the general public? The most striking finding in 2026 is the "two-speed" trend in the United States. While rates continue to decline among adults 65+, they are rising in people under 65, particularly those in their 40s. Recent data shows that 75% of colorectal cancers in adults under 50 are being diagnosed at an advanced stage. However, the 5-year survival rate for local-stage disease is 95%, highlighting that "late discovery" is the primary hurdle, not the disease's treatability. What are the common symptoms of colorectal cancer? Many people with CRC have no symptoms in the early stages. When they do appear, they often include: Changes in bowel habits: diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool that lasts more than a few days Rectal bleeding: bright red blood or very dark/tarry stools Abdominal discomfort: persistent cramping, gas, or pain Incomplete emptying: lack of relief and continued urge to have a bowel movement after using the bathroom Unexplained weight loss and fatigue: feeling weak or losing weight without trying What steps can people take to reduce their risk of colorectal cancer? The most effective "prevention" step is for getting screened CRC because it allows doctors to find and remove polyps before they ever become cancerous. Beyond screenings, over 50% of colorectal cancers are linked to modifiable lifestyle choices : Diet: limit red meats (beef, pork, lamb) and processed meats (hot dogs, lunch meats). Focus on fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Weight and activity: maintain a healthy weight and aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. Limit alcohol and tobacco: avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake significantly lowers risk. Who is most at risk for developing colorectal cancer? CRC can affect anyone but those in the following categories are at higher risk: people age 45 and older; Black Americans ; and people with a personal or family history of certain genetic or colorectal conditions . Black Americans have the highest incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer of any racial group in the United States and should receive routine preventative screenings. H ereditary conditions like Lynch Syndrome or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP), as well as a f amily history of polyps, CRC or inflammatory bowel diseases (like Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s) indicate a need to get screened earlier. Data shows colorectal cancer rates are rising among people ages 45–49. What might be driving this trend? Because the recommended screening age was lowered to 45 in 2021, more people in this group are finally getting tested, leading to increased detection and a "catch-up" in diagnosed cases. Additionally, research suggests that changes in the gut microbiome (due to ultra-processed foods, antibiotic use early in life, and sedentary lifestyles) are causing a genuine biological increase in rectal and distal colon cancers in younger generations. What colorectal cancer screening options does Amoskeag Health offer? Are there additional services—either through Amoskeag Health or other resources—that you recommend for prevention or treatment? Right now there are two methods that we generally recommend to patients who are due for screening. The screening method used depends on a person’s risk factors. Stool-Based Tests (Non-Invasive) : These tests look for signs of cancer in your stool. They are more convenient as they can be done at home, but they are required more frequently. FIT (fecal immunochemical test ): looks for blood in the stool that could be an earlier indicator of cancer; repeated annually if negative Cologuard test : looks for blood in the stool and for DNA mutations that could suggest cancer; repeated every three years if negative Colonoscopy: This procedure is performed by a gastroenterologist at a local facility. After doing a colon cleaning preparation at home and fasting, a camera is used to examine the entire colon using a flexible tube while you are sedated, looking for any findings that could suggest risk for colon cancer. If negative, this test is repeated every ten years. There are newer screening methods involving blood samples that require more research. As we learn more about these options, we may expand our screening recommendations to include additional screening methods. What is the most important message you want people to remember about colorectal cancer? The benefits that result from being screened early greatly outweigh the discomfort of the screening tests. While a colonoscopy is not necessarily the most pleasant experience, early detection of CRC leads to a higher probability of successful treatment outcomes . Last year, one of my patients elected to take one of the non-invasive stool-based screenings, which came back positive for signs of cancer. We then referred her for a colonoscopy, which detected stage 1 colon cancer. She received surgery to remove the cancer, and one year later she is doing great and living a cancer free life. Colorectal cancer is preventable and treatable, but without early detection through routine screenings, options for treatment become more limited. If you would like to discuss your options for colorectal screening, or to schedule an appointment with an Amoskeag Health provider, please call 603-626-9500.

February 4, 2026 L-R- Ken Darby, General Manager, Revo Casino and Social House in Manchester, Darlene Estevez-Community Outreach and Engagement Manager-Amoskeag Health, and Chris Dugan-Director of Donor Relations-Amoskeag Health. Amoskeag Health is excited to announce that it has received over $95,000 in charitable gaming proceeds following its run at Revo Casino and Social House in Manchester. “This wonderful donation directly supports our mission of providing quality, compassionate care to every patient who walks through our doors, regardless of their ability to pay, “said Kris McCracken, President/CEO of Amoskeag. “It also helps reduce barriers to care by providing transportation, translation services, or care management programs to those in need.” McCracken noted that over the past year, Amoskeag Health has cared for over 15,000 patients from infants to older adults and that more than half of those patients live at or below the federal poverty line. During 2025, Revo contributed over $15,000,000 to more than 350 NH non-profits in support of their work. Revo’s “Rebel With A Cause” program is committed to making a difference by helping local non-profits care for some of the state’s most vulnerable populations that depend on their services. “Thanks to Revo’s kind contribution, our communities are stronger and healthier,” added McCracken.