Hackensack Meridian Health has received twelve American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines&reg;&ndash;Stroke achievement awards for its proven commitment to following up-to-date, research-based stroke care guidelines that help improve patient outcomes, reduce hospital readmissions, and shorten recovery times. Heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 4 causes of death in the United States, respectively, according to the American Heart&#8239;Association&rsquo;s&#8239;2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Report. Studies show patients can experience better outcomes when care teams consistently follow evidence-based treatment guidelines. "We are incredibly proud to see so many of our hospitals recognized for excellence in stroke care,&rdquo; said Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH). &ldquo;These honors reflect the skill, teamwork and dedication of our physicians, nurses and team members who act quickly and decisively when every second matters. Across our network, we are committed to providing patients with seamless access to the full continuum of stroke care, from rapid diagnosis and emergency treatment to advanced interventions, recovery and rehabilitation. Most importantly, these recognitions demonstrate the impact of that commitment on the patients and communities we are privileged to serve.&rdquo; Get With The Guidelines puts the expertise of the AHA and ASA to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest science-backed guidelines. As a participant in the Get With The Guidelines programs, HMH qualified for the awards by demonstrating a sustained commitment to improving the quality of cardiovascular care. The following HMH medical centers, in Monmouth and Ocean counties, received 2026 American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Get With The Guidelines&reg;&ndash;Stroke awards: Bayshore Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll Jersey Shore University Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus, Advanced Therapy and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll Ocean University Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll Riverview Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll Southern Ocean Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll To receive the Gold Plus designation, hospitals must achieve at least 85% adherence to key stroke performance indicators for two consecutive years and demonstrate 75% or higher compliance with additional quality measures. Honor Roll Elite status is awarded to hospitals that meet time-to-treatment goals, including rapid administration of clot-busting medications. American Heart Association&rsquo;s Target: Type 2 Diabetes&trade; Honor Roll award. Target: Type 2 Diabetes aims to ensure patients with Type 2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for complications, receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke. HMH has three Comprehensive Stroke Centers and nine Primary Stroke Centers certified by the Joint Commission and licensed by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services. The three comprehensive stroke centers&mdash;Hackensack University Medical Center, JFK University Medical Center and Jersey Shore University Medical Center &mdash; hold the most advanced stroke care designations and are equipped to treat the most complex cases.

Monmouth County

New York City Metropolitan Area

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Jersey Shore University Medical Center...

Hackensack Meridian Health has received twelve American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines®–Stroke achievement awards for its proven...

Jersey Shore University Medical Center Nationally Recognized for Providing Advanced Stroke Care

As autumn arrives, bringing vibrant foliage and cooler weather, the transition into the &ldquo;fall&rdquo; season serves as a reminder for older adults to safeguard against a different kind of fall. With shorter daylight hours and wet, slippery leaves gathering outside, autumn is the right time to evaluate your living space for hazards.

Falls are the leading cause of injury for people over 65, and the statistics surrounding them are alarming. &ldquo;One in 4 people in the U.S. aged 65 and older fall each year due to preventable trips and slips, leading to emergency department visits, hospitalizations and trauma. These falls commonly include hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries, and falling just once doubles an older adult&rsquo;s chance of falling again,&rdquo; says Harry Kopolovich, M.D., MBA, chair of Emergency Medicine, Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center (JSUMC) &amp; K. Hovnanian Children&rsquo;s Hospital. &ldquo;The good news is with the right environmental and activity precautions, many of these emergency visits can be entirely avoided.&rdquo;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Securing your home is key to aging in place. &ldquo;Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults, so taking proactive, preventive measures is vitally important for seniors who want to maintain their independence and safety,&rdquo; explains Zeeshan Khan, M.D., chief of Geriatric Medicine at JSUMC. &ldquo;Even minor home modifications can significantly reduce fall risk and ease the caregiving responsibilities that might otherwise fall on family members.&rdquo;

To keep your home your safe haven, consider these research-backed upgrades from Dr. Khan and Dr. Kopolovich to age-proof your space:
<ul><li>Enhance Visibility and Clear Pathways As the days get shorter this season, good indoor lighting is essential. Studies show that adding lamps to living spaces improves the ability of older adults to perform daily tasks safely. Swap traditional switches for rocker-style switches, use touch-activated bedside lamps, or install voice-controlled smart devices so you never have to navigate a dark room. Keep living areas and hallways free of tripping hazards by removing throw rugs (or securing them with nonskid pads), tucking away electrical cords, and keeping floors clear of shoes and clothing.</li><li>Secure Your Steps Whether it&rsquo;s an indoor staircase or outdoor steps covered in autumn leaves, stairs require extra caution. Ensure all staircases have sturdy handrails on both sides that you can wrap your whole hand around. Add anti-slip treads or slip-resistant tape to uncarpeted steps, and mark the edges with bright or reflective tape. Keep the top and bottom of your stairs well-lit with rechargeable puck lights or motion sensors.</li><li>Upgrade Kitchen and Bath Accessibility Conditions like arthritis can flare up in colder months, making daily routines difficult. In the kitchen, use sharp, comfortable chef's knives and move frequently used items to lower shelves. To avoid reaching dangerously, use a step stool with a railing or a reacher-grabber tool. To prevent cooking burns, wear short sleeves and use silicone pot handle covers. In the bathroom, replace faucet knobs with easy-to-use levers or touchless sensors. Install a comfort-height toilet or a seat riser, and secure screw-mounted grab bars in your shower alongside a slip-resistant shower chair.</li><li>Safer Bedrooms and Outdoors If your bed is too high, use an adjustable frame or a sturdy step stool with handles. Place a bench in your room so you can sit while dressing. Outside, autumn means moving seasonal gear. Clear a wide, well-lit path through your garage, and upgrade to an automatic garage door with safety sensors. Finally, opt for wheeled garbage and recycling bins so you can easily roll them to the curb instead of lifting heavy loads.</li></ul>

By making these simple upgrades, you can confidently prevent falls and comfortably enjoy the fall season, and many more to come.JSUMC&rsquo;s emergency services include an accredited Geriatric Emergency Department, verified by ACEP, dedicated Pediatric Emergency Department, and New Jersey&rsquo;s first Level 1 Adult and Pediatric Trauma Center, verified by the ACS COT. The academic medical center also provides an ACS verified Geriatric Surgery program for older adults. For information, visit <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/jersey-shore-university-medical-center" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/jersey-shore-university-medical-center</a>. For a free physician referral, call 844-HMH-WELL.

‘Fall’ Safety Tips for Older Adults from...

As autumn arrives, bringing vibrant foliage and cooler weather, the transition into the “fall” season serves as a reminder for older adults to...

‘Fall’ Safety Tips for Older Adults from Monmouth County's Level 1 Adult & Pediatric Trauma Center

In 2023, Jenna Werner of Middletown, N.J., met plastic surgeon <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/fares-samra/1315459" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Fares Samra, M.D., FACS</a>, after her oldest son was under his care following an accident. The positive experience left a lasting impression on the family. Fast forward to September 2025: the healthy 38-year-old registered dietitian and mother of three felt the time was right to undergo a breast augmentation. Confident in her choice of surgeon, she called Dr. Samra&rsquo;s office and scheduled the procedure for Feb. 2026.
Little did she know, a routine preoperative appointment shortly before the surgery would change the course of her life. The plastic surgeon noted that Jenna did not have a baseline mammogram on file. Despite being under 40 and having no family history of breast cancer, Samra required her to get one before proceeding with the surgery.&nbsp;
"Whether I&rsquo;m addressing a cosmetic or reconstructive surgery patient, my number one priority is always the patient's overall health and safety," explains Samra, who is affiliated with a number of Hackensack Meridian Health hospitals. "I take care of a lot of patients with breast cancer, and as a result I have long had a policy of requiring mammograms on any patients undergoing any form of breast surgery over the age of 35. Breast augmentations, lifts, and reductions can all change the architecture of the breast, so having a good baseline beforehand ensures we aren't masking an underlying issue." In Jenna&rsquo;s case, this precaution was life-saving.&nbsp; After taking care of Jenna, and discussing this further with our multidisciplinary breast team, I&rsquo;ve now changed that threshold to any patient above 30." Jenna received her mammogram that same day. The initial screening revealed she had very dense breast tissue, but she was not considered high-risk.
Jenna's medical situation rapidly evolved. Within just a few days from that initial screening, she was called back for a follow-up mammogram and an ultrasound &ndash; and then was told she needed a biopsy. Before that procedure, <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/harriet-beth-borofsky/1923482" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Harriet Borofsky, M.D</a>., medical director of breast imaging at RMC, pointed out three concerning spots on her scans, which were confirmed by the biopsy to be ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a highly treatable, non-invasive form of breast cancer that starts inside the milk ducts. According to the ACS, <a href="https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/about/types-of-breast-cancer/dcis.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">DCIS accounts for about 20%</a> of all new breast cancer diagnoses.
"Jenna had very dense breast tissue, which can sometimes mask early cancers on a standard mammogram, making additional imaging crucial," explains Dr. Borofsky. "Screening guidelines have recently shifted, with organizations like the <a href="https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/breast-cancer-screening" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">USPSTF now recommending</a> women start biennial screening at age 40, while <a href="https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/american-cancer-society-recommendations-for-the-early-detection-of-breast-cancer.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">others suggest 45</a>. Because of these differences, and because breast density plays such a huge role in cancer detection, it is imperative for women to have a conversation with their doctor to determine a personalized screening cadence that is right for them."
After cancelling the breast augmentation surgery, Samra immediately referred Jenna to surgical oncologist <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/roshani-raman-patel/2121022" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Roshani Patel, M.D., FACS,</a> medical director of breast surgical oncology at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. Jenna&rsquo;s initial meeting with Dr. Patel was emotionally challenging.&nbsp; "While DCIS is technically considered an early-stage cancer, Jenna's case was quite extensive," says Patel. "Given the extent of disease relative to her breast size, a mastectomy was the most effective course of action to ensure we removed all the disease and mitigated her future risk."
Before surgery, Jenna also underwent genetic testing. Between 5 and 10% of all breast cancers are caused by hereditary factors &ndash; genetic abnormalities or mutations passed from parent to child. The results revealed a mutation in the CHEK2 gene, a gene that<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12594018/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow"> increases the risk </a>of developing breast cancer. This discovery prompted her mother and cousins to get tested as well; her mother's positive result meant her father was spared from unnecessary testing.
&ldquo;The BRCA 1 and 2 genes are the ones most people associate with breast cancer, but there are other gene mutations that increase the risk of breast cancer including CHEK2,&rdquo; notes Patel.&nbsp; Just sixteen days after her diagnosis, Jenna underwent a double mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. Prior to surgery, Patel reviewed the breast imaging in detail with Borofsky and Samra. As there was disease close to the chest wall and skin, Patel was able to map out the area successfully to achieve clean margins. Thanks to the seamless, collaborative care within the HMH ecosystem, Jenna underwent a successful procedure and spent just one night in the hospital before being discharged home. After a six-week healing period, Jenna's second-stage breast reconstruction was scheduled. To learn more about breast cancer screening, risk factors, and treatment options, visit <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care/breast-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care/breast-cancer</a>.

A Pre-Op Mammogram Saved Her Life: Why One 39...

In 2023, Jenna Werner of Middletown, N.J., met plastic surgeon Fares Samra, M.D., FACS, after her oldest son was under his care following an...

A Pre-Op Mammogram Saved Her Life: Why One 39-Year-Old Woman Urges Screening

The freedom of riding a bike, e-bike, or e-scooter is a childhood joy, but it comes with important safety responsibilities. As these wheeled activities grow in popularity, injuries are on the rise. In fact, children 14 and younger account for about 36% of all bike and scooter-related injuries, with fractures being the most common diagnosis.
"Our pediatric emergency and trauma care teams are equipped to handle the most severe injuries, but our goal is to prevent these incidents from ever happening," says <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/margaret-m-mcguire/2291164" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Margaret McGuire, M.D.</a>, Pediatric Trauma medical director, Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center (JSUMC) &amp; K. Hovnanian Children&rsquo;s Hospital. "We want to see children enjoying their freedom on wheels, but we also want them to do it safely and return home without a trip to the emergency department."
The most critical piece of safety equipment is a properly fitted helmet, which can reduce the risk of head injury by at least 45%. Yet, less than half of children typically wear one. A helmet should sit level on the head and low on the forehead, one or two finger-widths above the eyebrows. The side straps should form a "V" under the ears, and the chin strap should be snug enough that no more than one or two fingers fit between the chin and the strap.
"When you wear a helmet, your child is more likely to wear one too," says Patricia Bonatakis, PT, DPT, Pediatric Trauma Injury Prevention coordinator. "It's also essential to teach them the rules of the road, like riding on the right side with traffic, using hand signals, and stopping at all stop signs and intersections." Before each bike ride, have your children check the ABCs: make sure the Air in the tires is sufficient, the Brakes are working correctly, and the Chain is secure.
Make sure the bike or scooter is the right size for your child; they should be able to sit and place the balls of both feet on the ground. Always supervise younger children, ensure riders wear bright colors for visibility, and strictly forbid riding at dusk or after dark. Distractions like headphones should be avoided. By modeling safe behavior and teaching your children these rules, you empower them to make smart choices that can prevent a life-altering injury.
JSUMC provides the community with adult and pediatric emergency department care and Monmouth &amp; Ocean counties&rsquo; only Level 1 Pediatric and Adult Trauma Centers. The E.D. achieved the 2026 ENA Lantern Award from the Emergency Nurses Association, recognizing advanced patient care and innovative care performance. For information, visit <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/jersey-shore-university-medical-center" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/jersey-shore-university-medical-center</a>.

Protecting Childhood Fun through Safe Biking...

The freedom of riding a bike, e-bike, or e-scooter is a childhood joy, but it comes with important safety responsibilities. As these wheeled...

Protecting Childhood Fun through Safe Biking and Scooting

(Roger &amp; Joanne above)&nbsp; For 73-year-old Joanne Dunn, a retired hospice social worker, the phrase &ldquo;timing is everything&rdquo; is much more than a clich&eacute;&mdash;it&rsquo;s the reason she is alive today.
In 2024, Joanne underwent a major procedure at Riverview Medical Center to remove a third of her left lung due to a severe, aggressive bacterial infection. Later, as she was recovering in her hospital room and eating lunch, the unthinkable happened.
Joanne picked up a cup of coffee and suddenly spilled it all down her front. She began fumbling with her utensils and losing control of her speech. Her husband of 47 years, Roger, was sitting right beside her and instantly knew something was terribly wrong.
&ldquo;One minute she was fine,&rdquo; Roger recalled. &ldquo;Next minute I saw she was drooling a little bit... she was fumbling with her utensil. She was trying to speak but she was mumbling. She got a droop in her chin and her mouth, and she was rapidly losing control of her speech. I jumped up and ran out to tell the nurse, &lsquo;Something&rsquo;s wrong, you&rsquo;ve got to come in.&rsquo;&rdquo;
A rapid response team was immediately called, and Joanne was rushed to <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/jersey-shore-university-medical-center" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Jersey Shore University Medical Center (JSUMC)</a>&mdash;home to world-class neuroscience experts who specialize in complex, life-saving stroke interventions.
The suddenness of the event was a shock to the family, a harrowing reality that <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/laura-cathryn-risley/2640207" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Laura Risley, M.D., a vascular neurologist</a> at Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute at JSUMC who is now part of Joanne's care team, sees often.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Stroke can be traumatic because it&rsquo;s so sudden,&rdquo; Dr. Risley noted. &ldquo;In an instant&mdash;one second you&rsquo;re fine and the next second you&rsquo;re not. It&rsquo;s a lot to process for our patients and families.&rdquo;
At JSUMC, a neurosurgeon immediately performed an emergency thrombectomy, a highly specialized procedure to surgically remove the blood clot from Joanne&rsquo;s brain. Emergent intervention is needed to restore blood flow and oxygen delivery, preventing brain cell death and minimizing the permanent impact of the stroke.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Once she got to Jersey Shore, it was amazing how fast they took care of her,&rdquo; Roger said.&nbsp;Following the successful procedure, the neurosurgeon came out to the waiting room and showed Roger a picture of the nearly inch-long blood clot he had just removed. &ldquo;He saved her life. Thank God we got her down there as fast as we did.&rdquo;

Because of the rapid response of her husband and the world-class clinical intervention by the JSUMC neurosurgical team, Joanne&rsquo;s recovery was nothing short of miraculous. Rather than facing long-term debilitating deficits, Joanne, who lives in Middletown, woke up the very next morning able to walk, talk, and feed herself.
This rapid recovery is the ultimate, if uncommon, best-case scenario for stroke specialists. &ldquo;Almost all of Joanne&rsquo;s deficits were resolved after intervention,&rdquo; said Dr. Risley. &ldquo;It is unfortunately rare to be able to walk out soon; we approach every stroke patient with the hope that we can give everyone results like Joanne, but time is the enemy with stroke.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The intervention window is only hours and too many patients don&rsquo;t get to us fast enough. It is estimated that 2 million brain cells are lost every minute during a stroke; so every second makes a difference.&rdquo;
HMH&rsquo;s hospitals are proudly designated as Primary and Comprehensive Stroke Centers, creating a unified network of world-class neurological care. With Primary Stroke sites such as RMC working in lockstep with Comprehensive Stroke Centers like JSUMC, rapid transport and advanced treatments happen in a matter of minutes. HMH&nbsp;stands ready with specialized interventions, expert teams, and seamless protocols in place to take care of you quickly and effectively. <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/neurosciences" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"></a>
Without that swift action, Joanne&rsquo;s future would have looked drastically different.&nbsp; &ldquo;The natural progression of the stroke, if&nbsp; left untreated, would have been left -sided paralysis, visual loss on her left side, facial droop, difficulty with swallowing and possible feeding tube, and living in a nursing home with 24-hour care,&rdquo; Dr. Risley explained. Instead, just two days after suffering a life-threatening stroke, Joanne was discharged.



&ldquo;I like to say I have the A-Team at Jersey Shore taking good care of me,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;I am so grateful for my medical team. They are just top-notch, and I wouldn&rsquo;t consider going anywhere else. They&rsquo;re not just skilled clinically; they&rsquo;re such compassionate, empathetic people. I never leave anyone's office there without getting a hug.&rdquo;For information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/neurosciences" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/neurosciences.</a>

Jersey Shore University Medical Center’s...

(Roger & Joanne above)  For 73-year-old Joanne Dunn, a retired hospice social worker, the phrase “timing is everything” is much more than a cliché...

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Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH), in partnership with the NJ Department of Health, is bringing essential immunizations closer to home with upcoming vaccination clinics. These events will offer flu shots for kids and adults, as well as childhood vaccines.
Mixed messages about immunizations have left many parents confused about what is safe and necessary for their children. Hackensack Meridian Children&rsquo;s Health experts are actively reassuring families that the safest route remains the <a href="https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/AAP-Immunization-Schedule.pdf?_gl=1*qkpf54*_ga*OTI2MzE5MDU4LjE3OTAyODA0MzM.*_ga_FD9D3XZVQQ*czE3OTAyODA0MzMkbzEkZzEkdDE3OTAyODEzMDAkajYwJGwwJGgw" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">comprehensive immunization schedule </a>recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).&nbsp;
"Across our health network, we review the data and the science continually, and our consensus remains unwavering: the AAP&rsquo;s recommended immunization schedule is safe, necessary, and highly effective. For flu in particular, a recent study in <a href="https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/158/2/e2026076453/208191/Influenza-Vaccine-Effectiveness-Against-Pediatric?redirectedFrom=fulltext" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Pediatrics</a> shows flu vaccination reduced the risk of flu-related deaths in U.S. children and adolescents by a staggering 80% between the 2016 and 2025 flu seasons. Our care teams are here to educate families and give confidence in the care that keeps our schools and communities safe,&rdquo; says <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/melissa-carrie-wallach/1319843" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Melissa Wallach, MD, FAAP</a>, pediatrician at Hackensack Meridian K. Hovnanian Children&rsquo;s Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center and Vaccine Steering Committee co-lead for HMH.&nbsp; To help families stay protected, the following clinics will be held locally:

Flu Vaccine Clinic (Neptune City)
<ul><li>Date &amp; Time: October 17, 2026 | 9 a.m. &ndash; 2 p.m.</li><li>Location: Jane H. Booker Family Health Center, 1828 West Lake Avenue, Neptune City, New Jersey</li></ul>
Flu &amp; School-Aged Childhood Vaccination Clinic (Eatontown)
<ul><li>Date &amp; Time: October 24, 2026 | 9 a.m. &ndash; 2 p.m.</li><li>Location: HMH Health &amp; Wellness Center, 135 NJ-35, Eatontown, New Jersey</li><li>Note: This event includes fun, kid-friendly learning while you and your child get 2026 flu shots and/or age-related vaccines.</li></ul>
What Families Need to Know:
<ul><li>Who is Qualified: Vaccinations are available for all ages, including adults, babies (6 months+), and children.</li><li>What to Bring: Adults must bring a form of ID. Please bring your insurance card and your child's insurance card if you have them, but they are not required.</li><li>Registration: Participants can register by visiting: <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/vaccine" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/vaccine</a>.</li></ul>

Hackensack Meridian Health Hosting Vaccination...

Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH), in partnership with the NJ Department of Health, is bringing essential immunizations closer to home with upcoming...

Hackensack Meridian Health Hosting Vaccination Clinics in Eatontown & Neptune City

When actress Olivia Munn revealed her breast cancer diagnosis in 2024, it sparked a massive, much-needed public conversation about early detection. Munn was just 43, had a clear routine mammogram, and tested negative for the well-known BRCA genetic mutations. Her aggressive cancer was only caught because her doctor calculated her Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Score, which flagged her for a life-saving MRI.
Hackensack Meridian Health experts say Munn&rsquo;s story highlights growing confusion surrounding breast cancer screening guidelines. With various health organizations shifting their recommendations recently, many women are left completely unsure about when to start screening, how often they need to go, and whether a standard mammogram alone is actually enough to protect them. The urgency to clear up this confusion and establish personalized risk has never been greater. According to the <a href="https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/breast-cancer-facts-figures.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">American Cancer Society</a>, breast cancer incidence rates have steadily risen over the past decade, with a steeper increase of 1.4% per year among women under 50.

Different health organizations offer slightly different guidance on mammograms. Here is the current breakdown for average-risk women, simplified:
<ul><li>U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF): In April 2024, the USPSTF updated their guidelines, lowering the recommended age to start mammograms from 50 to 40. However, they recommend screening biennially (every other year) through age 74. (Source: <a href="https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/breast-cancer-screening" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">USPSTF</a>)</li><li>American Cancer Society (ACS): Recommends women have the choice to start annual screening at 40, but strongly recommends starting annual mammograms at age 45. At age 55, women can transition to every other year or continue annually. (Source: <a href="https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/american-cancer-society-recommendations-for-the-early-detection-of-breast-cancer.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">American Cancer Society</a>)</li><li>American College of Radiology (ACR): Recommends annual screening starting at age 40. Additionally, the ACR urges all women to have a formal breast cancer risk assessment by age 25 to determine if they need to start screening even earlier. (Source: <a href="https://www.jacr.org/article/S1546-1440(21)00383-5/fulltext?_gl=1*1so45xq*_gcl_au*ODgzMDAwNTYwLjE3ODc2ODg3MDc.*_ga*NjIwMjg0NzU5LjE3ODc2ODg3MDg.*_ga_K9XZBF7MXP*czE3ODc2ODg3MDckbzEkZzEkdDE3ODc2ODg4NTIkajU1JGwwJGgw" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">American College of Radiology</a>)</li></ul>
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) and American College of Gynecologists (ACOG) also recommend that women at average risk start annual mammograms at age 40. For women at elevated risk, screening may begin earlier and include MRI.
"The varying screening guidelines often focus on 'average-risk' women, which unfortunately causes many to overlook their own hidden risks, like genetic mutations. While BRCA 1 and 2 are the most well-known, mutations like CHEK2 are also very common and drastically increase breast cancer risk. As a breast surgeon, I urge women to establish their baseline risk early. Catching cancer early through appropriate, individualized screening doesn't just save lives &ndash; it gives patients far more options for less invasive surgeries and treatments," notes <a href="https://doctors.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/roshani-raman-patel/2121022" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Roshani Patel, M.D., FACS,</a> medical director, Breast Surgical Oncology, Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
Common Questions Women Have (And How to Approach Them)
<ul><li>When should I actually start? While guidelines vary slightly on frequency, medical consensus now agrees that age 40 is the baseline to begin mammograms. However, women should talk to their doctors by age 25 to establish their personal risk.</li><li>What if I have "dense breasts"? Dense breast tissue is common but makes it harder for radiologists to spot tumors on standard mammograms. Thanks to a recent FDA update that took effect in late 2024, all mammogram facilities are now required to inform patients if they have dense breasts so they can seek supplemental screening like an ultrasound or MRI.</li><li>Are mammograms covered by insurance? Yes. Under the Affordable Care Act, screening mammograms are covered without copays starting at age 40.</li><li>I have no family history. Do I still need to worry? Yes. In fact, most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no known family history.</li></ul>
&rdquo;With the recent shift in screening guidelines, women may not be clear on when to start mammograms and how often to get them. Age is only one part of the equation. Women with dense breast tissue should know mammograms are an essential part of their screening because most (about 80%) of breast cancers form calcifications, which are detectable only on mammograms regardless of tissue density. But mammograms alone may not be enough. Additional (supplemental) screening with ultrasound, contrast enhanced mammography, or MRI may be indicated, based on risk. This is why risk assessment (starting at age 25) and personalized screening recommendations are crucial,&rdquo; shares <a href="https://doctors.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/harriet-beth-borofsky/1923482" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Harriet Borofsky, M.D.</a>, medical director, breast imaging, Hackensack Meridian Riverview Medical Center.

Additional information on breast cancer screening, risk factors, and treatment options is available at: <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care/breast-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care/breast-cancer</a>.&nbsp;

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As the leaves begin to change and children settle back into classrooms, parents are bracing for the inevitable return of sniffles, coughs, and fevers. But while many view the seasonal flu as just a "bad cold," the reality of the virus is far more severe for young, developing immune systems.&nbsp;

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the 2024-2025 flu season claimed the lives of<a href="https://www.aha.org/news/headline/2025-05-05-pediatric-flu-deaths-hit-15-year-high" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> 216 children</a> in the U.S. &ndash; the highest toll in 15 years for a non-pandemic season. Despite these alarming statistics, pediatric vaccination rates have been steadily dropping since 2021. To unpack why this immunization is more critical than ever, <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/moses-f-olorunnisola/1314727" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Moses Olorunnisola, M.D.</a>, pediatrician at Hackensack Meridian K. Hovnanian Children&rsquo;s Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center and Southern Ocean Medical Center, shares more.

The Life-Saving Power of the Vaccine
A <a href="https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/158/2/e2026076453/208191/Influenza-Vaccine-Effectiveness-Against-Pediatric?redirectedFrom=fulltext" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">recent study</a> in Pediatrics examining the effectiveness of the flu vaccine paints a clear, undeniable picture of its benefits &ndash; showing that the influenza vaccination reduced the risk of flu-related deaths in U.S. children and adolescents by a staggering 80% between the 2016 and 2025 flu seasons.

The research revealed that protection was robust across the board, reducing the risk of death by 77% for children with underlying medical conditions, and by 87% for children without underlying health conditions. Tragically, out of more than 1,200 laboratory-confirmed pediatric flu deaths during the study period, only 18% of the children were fully vaccinated.

Breaking Down the Basics and Dispelling the Myths
Despite the proven efficacy of the vaccine, misinformation and post-pandemic "vaccine fatigue" have been driving pediatric vaccination rates down. Many parents skip the shot because they mistakenly believe healthy kids don't need it, or because it may mean more frequent trips to the doctor.

Here are the basic facts parents need to know:
<ul><li>Who is eligible: Everyone 6 months of age and older should receive an annual flu vaccine, barring a specific medical reason not to.</li><li>Dosing: Most kids need one shot per season. However, children aged 6 months through 8 years who are receiving their first flu shot (or haven't had enough previous doses) require two doses spaced at least four weeks apart.</li><li>How it works: The vaccine isn't an instant shield. It takes about two weeks for immunity to develop. While it won't prevent other respiratory bugs like RSV, COVID-19, or the common cold, its primary role is to drastically reduce the severity of illness, hospitalization, and ICU admission if a child does catch the flu.</li></ul>

What Parents Should Look Out For
Because young children have immature immune systems, they are exceptionally vulnerable to the flu virus. Even completely healthy children can become critically ill. In fact, 52% of the pediatric flu deaths in the<a href="https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/158/2/e2026076453/208191/Influenza-Vaccine-Effectiveness-Against-Pediatric?redirectedFrom=fulltext" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> recent study </a>occurred in children with no known high-risk medical conditions.

Parents should be vigilant and monitor their children closely, as influenza infection can rapidly escalate. Look out for the following severe complications:
<ul><li>Dehydration: High fever, vomiting, and a reluctance to drink fluids can quickly become a medical emergency in young children.</li><li>Pneumonia &amp; Respiratory Failure: If a child is struggling to breathe, breathing rapidly, or wheezing, the flu may have progressed to the lungs, requiring immediate medical or ICU intervention.</li><li>Encephalitis: Unrelenting lethargy, confusion, or seizures can be a sign of inflammation of the brain, a rare but life-threatening complication of the flu virus.</li></ul>

When it comes to flu protection, timing is everything. September and October are the ideal months to get vaccinated. However, even if you miss that early window, getting the shot between November and January is still highly worthwhile, as the flu often circulates well into the spring.&nbsp;

For additional information, talk to your child&rsquo;s pediatrician or visit: <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/childrens-health/vaccine-facts" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/childrens-health/vaccine-facts</a>.&nbsp;

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An Essex County home inspector has built a free website that lets anyone look up the public records behind a New Jersey property &mdash; building permits, flood zones, fire history, property taxes, and more &mdash; by typing in an address.
The site, <a href="https://oprasearch.app/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Permit &amp; Parcel</a>, covers all 564 New Jersey municipalities and brings together records from official sources, including state and county databases, FEMA flood maps, and the towns&rsquo; own municipal codes. No account or email is required, and there&rsquo;s no cost.
&ldquo;I kept watching buyers fall in love with a house before anyone checked the paper trail &mdash; the open permits, the flood zone, what the town actually requires when a home changes hands,&rdquo; said Leo Betancor, a Certified Master Inspector based in Cedar Grove and the founder of the site. &ldquo;All of that is public record. It just wasn&rsquo;t in one place anyone could actually use.&rdquo;
Alongside the main lookup, the site includes free single-purpose tools: a <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/lead-safe/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">lead-safe inspection lookup</a> showing which of the two state-required inspection methods each town uses under New Jersey&rsquo;s lead paint law, a searchable <a href="https://oprasearch.app/lead-contractors/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">directory of DCA-certified lead evaluation and abatement contractors</a> sorted by distance, a <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/fire/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">fire-incident map</a> built from more than 40 years of state fire records, and a <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/radon/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">radon map</a> covering every municipality.
Homeowners can also <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/tax/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">look up property taxes and assessments</a>, <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/hvac-age/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">check the age of a furnace, air conditioner or water heater</a> using its serial number, and <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/co/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">find their town&rsquo;s certificate-of-occupancy requirements</a> before selling or renting a home.
A companion site, <a href="https://njflood.zone/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">njflood.zone</a>, gives instant FEMA flood-zone answers for any New Jersey address &mdash; built after the federal government shutdown left FEMA&rsquo;s own map site unreliable &mdash; running on the site&rsquo;s own servers with the complete flood map data for the state loaded locally.
As an added benefit for homebuyers, Permit &amp; Parcel users can receive $100 off a qualifying home inspection with Smart Choice Inspections, Betancor&rsquo;s North Jersey home inspection company.
The project was recently featured in <a href="https://www.tapinto.net/towns/east-hanover-slash-florham-park/columns/at-home-with-holly/articles/deep-dive-conversations-what-the-house-won-t-tell-you" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">TAPinto.</a>&nbsp;Both sites are free at <a href="https://oprasearch.app/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">oprasearch.app</a> and <a href="https://njflood.zone/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">njflood.zone</a>.

Essex County

Eric Kiefer

Montclair

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Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care Farmingdale is offering a free Health &amp; Wellness Fair Saturday, September 26, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at HMH Primary Care, 402 Colts Neck Rd., Farmingdale, NJ.&nbsp; The fair includes free wellness screenings, health information, giveaways and more. Screenings include blood pressure, pulse, Body Mass Index (BMI), total cholesterol (fasting not required), glucose, and a stroke risk assessment.

HMH Primary Care Farmingdale offers evening &amp; Saturday appointments, personalized primary care, specialized women&rsquo;s health services focused on perimenopause, hormonal and endocrine-related concerns, as well as education sessions on important health topics. Call 848-308-4615 to make an appointment. For more information on services, visit <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/hmh-primary-care-farmingdale" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/hmh-primary-care-farmingdale</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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