A Hackensack Meridian Health expert weighs in
Brick, N.J. - November 5, 2026 &ndash; As our bodies adjust to the recent time change, many of us are waking up feeling a bit groggy and reaching for an extra cup of coffee. But if you are one of the millions of people who take medication for an underactive thyroid, you might want to watch the clock before you take that first sip.
Coffee is a complex beverage filled with active compounds that can significantly alter how your body processes oral medications &ndash; especially levothyroxine. Levothyroxine is a synthetic hormone prescribed to treat hypothyroidism. It replaces thyroxine, an essential hormone that regulates your metabolism, energy levels, heart rate, and body temperature.
Because levothyroxine requires a very specific, highly acidic stomach environment to dissolve, drinking coffee shortly after taking it can lower the medication&rsquo;s absorption by up to 36 percent. That is a massive drop for a drug that relies on precise dosing.
How Coffee Hijacks Your Medication Coffee interferes with your thyroid medication in a few specific ways:
<ul><li>It speeds up digestion: Coffee stimulates your gastrointestinal tract. This increased movement rushes the pill through your system before it has enough time to properly absorb into your intestinal walls, meaning the drug is excreted as waste before it can work.</li><li>It acts like a chemical sponge: Coffee contains hundreds of plant compounds. These substances physically bind to levothyroxine molecules, trapping the medication and preventing it from entering your bloodstream. And because decaffeinated coffee contains these exact same plant chemicals, it blocks absorption just like regular coffee.</li><li>Dairy blocks absorption: If you add milk or creamer to your brew, the calcium binds directly to the hormone molecules. This forms a large, clunky, insoluble complex that is simply too big to pass through your intestinal walls and thereby preventing you from getting the full dose of the medication.</li></ul>
When your medication isn't fully absorbed, your body remains in a state of hormone deficiency. You might experience chronic fatigue, brain fog, unexplained weight gain, and a constant feeling of being cold. Long-term, poorly managed hypothyroidism can lead to elevated cholesterol, heart disease, and severe depression.
The good news? You absolutely do not have to give up your morning coffee. You just need to be strategic:
<ul><li>Wait at least 60 minutes. The easiest way to protect your medication is to take your pill with a glass of water the moment you wake up, then set a timer. Waiting a full hour gives your stomach the time it needs to dissolve the pill without interference.</li><li>Consider taking it at bedtime. If waiting an hour tests your morning willpower, ask your doctor about nighttime dosing. As long as your stomach is empty (meaning you haven't eaten for three to four hours), the medication can absorb while you sleep. You just need to take it at the same time every night.</li><li>Look into alternative formulations. Not all levothyroxine is the same. Liquid or soft gel-capsule forms dissolve much faster and are highly resistant to coffee interference. Keep in mind that these forms can be more expensive and may require insurance pre-approval, but they are worth discussing with your doctor if you are struggling with absorption.&nbsp;</li></ul>
Properly timing your thyroid medication makes all the difference in how you feel, ultimately keeping your metabolism &ndash; and your mornings &ndash; running smoothly.
Jennifer Cheng, D.O., is the Chief of Endocrinology at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center and an Associate Professor of Medicine, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine.
For additional information, visit <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/endocrinology-and-diabetes" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/endocrinology-and-diabetes</a>.&nbsp;
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(photo: vecteezy.com)

Ocean County

Karen Wall

New York City Metropolitan Area

Brick

New Jersey

Time Change Tiredness? Why Extra Coffee Could...

A Hackensack Meridian Health expert weighs in...

Time Change Tiredness? Why Extra Coffee Could Sabotage Your Thyroid Medication

Brick, N.J. - On Thursday, December 17, Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center is sponsoring a blood drive at the hospital in collaboration with Vitalant. The event will take place 11:30 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. in the hospital&rsquo;s Conference Room A - Basement, 425 Jack Martin Blvd., Brick. Donors must be at least 16-years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and haven&rsquo;t donated whole blood in the eight weeks prior to the appointment. To participate, donors are encouraged to<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://donors.vitalant.org/dwp/portal/dwp/appointment/guest/phl/timeSlotsExtr?token=gVXP*2FTKRVK6SlrFhW2IJ9P6BjRurPFO*2FdlGV4rrNxUc*3D__;JSUl!!HslpFqnNwYzYOafRKtc!e4HlxGXgxIa_l8DDnb9FU_0psSqzxa_C5A5MtbHKoCM4rwDkhczay6r1rgDdGFw8WrEZ-EwqTgt1PdkOrcmUd-_aW4R-%24" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> register for an appointment </a>visit donors.vitalant.org or by calling 877-258-4825 and must present identification upon arrival.&nbsp;

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(photo: vecteezy.com)

Blood Drive at Hackensack Meridian Ocean...

Brick, N.J. - On Thursday, December 17, Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center is sponsoring a blood drive at the hospital in...

Blood Drive at Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center

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, oil tanks and contamination sites, 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. Since launching this spring it has handled more than 18,000 searches from every county in the state.
&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;
&ldquo;And it isn&rsquo;t only for buyers,&rdquo; Betancor added. &ldquo;With rates where they are, a lot of people are staying put. The house you already own has a paper trail too &mdash; an old oil tank, a flood zone change, a lead service line &mdash; and most owners have never seen it.&rdquo;
Alongside the main lookup, the site includes free single-purpose tools: a <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/contamination/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">contamination and tank lookup</a> showing known spill sites and registered tanks near any address, a <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/lead-pipes/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">lead water pipe check</a>, 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.
Permit &amp; Parcel carries no advertising and is funded entirely by Smart Choice Inspections, Betancor&rsquo;s Cedar Grove home inspection company. Readers who find the site useful and need an inspection can claim <a href="https://callsmartchoice.com/patch" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">$100 off a qualifying home inspection</a>, or learn more on <a href="https://callsmartchoice.com/leobetancor/?gift=credit100&amp;campaign=patch" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Betancor&rsquo;s page</a>.
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>. 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

Cedar Grove Home Inspector Builds Free Property...

An Essex County home inspector has built a free website that lets anyone look up the public records behind a New Jersey property — building permits...

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The following community events are offered through Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center in November (locations vary):
JACKSON - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is hosting a FREE lecture on Cancer Prevention: Lowering Your Risk on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 from 3 - 4 p.m. at the Ocean County Library - Jackson Branch, 2 Jackson Drive, Jackson. Join our nurse educator as she discusses the fundamental biology of cancer and identifies the primary risk factors behind its development. Gain a clear understanding of why specific lifestyle modifications are recommended by health professionals and learn about the importance of screenings for your personal health roadmap. For more information and to register, visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 information.&nbsp;
JACKSON - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is hosting a FREE lecture on What&rsquo;s In Your Medicine Cabinet? on Friday, November 6, 2026, from Noon - 1 p.m. at the Jackson Senior Center, 45 Don Connor Blvd., Jackson. Medications can improve health, but safe use is essential to avoid harm. This educational session helps participants take a closer look at what&rsquo;s in their medicine cabinet and learn how to use medications correctly. Join us for practical tips to prevent errors and ensure medications are used safely and effectively. For more information and to register, visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990.&nbsp;
BRICK - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is hosting FREE Wellness Screenings on Wednesday, November 6, 2026, from 1 - 3 p.m. at Ocean County Library - Brick, 301 Chambersbridge Rd, Brick. Our nursing team will be on hand to conduct blood pressure checks and share tips for maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle. Wellness screenings will include Blood Pressure, Pulse, BMI, Glucose, Cholesterol, and Stroke Risk Assessment. *Fasting is not required. Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information.&nbsp;
BRICK - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is hosting a FREE lecture on Navigating Diabetes During the Holidays on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. at Ocean County Library - Brick, 301 Chambersbridge Road, Brick.&nbsp; Join our health educator for an engaging and practical program designed to help you enjoy the holiday season while maintaining healthy eating habits. Learn simple strategies for making balanced food choices, managing portion sizes, and enjoying festive meals without guilt or deprivation. Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information.
TOMS RIVER - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is hosting FREE Wellness Screenings on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Fulfill, 1769 Hooper Avenue, Toms River. Our nursing team will be on hand to conduct blood pressure checks and share tips for maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle.&nbsp; Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information.&nbsp;
LAKEWOOD&nbsp; - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is hosting FREE Wellness Screenings on Friday, November 13, 2026, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Wellpoint, 100 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood.&nbsp; Join us on our Your Health on the Move Van as medical staff perform wellness screenings, which include blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol, and stroke risk assessments. Registration is encouraged but not required!&nbsp; Walk-ins welcome! *Fasting is not required. Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information.
BRICK - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is offering Angioscreen&reg; Vascular Screenings on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Community Outreach Conference Center, 1686 Route 88, Brick. Participants will learn their risk for heart attack and stroke, receive an instant color report, and have a private consultation with a registered nurse. Fee is $49.95. Registration is required. Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 to register.
TOMS RIVER - OCEAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER is hosting an information table on What&rsquo;s In Your Cabinet? Understanding Medication Safety on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Toms River Senior Center, 652 Garfield Avenue, Toms River. This educational session helps participants take a closer look at what&rsquo;s in their medicine cabinet and learn how to use medications correctly. Participants will gain practical tips to prevent errors and ensure medications are used safely and effectively. Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information.&nbsp;

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(photo by shadowkill at freeimages.com)

Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical...

The following community events are offered through Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center in November (locations vary):...

Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center November Events

Brick, NJ &ndash; October 15, 2026 &mdash; Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center is among 12 Hackensack Meridian Health facilities to have received <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/professional/quality-improvement/get-with-the-guidelines/get-with-the-guidelines-stroke/get-with-the-guidelines-stroke-recognition-criteria" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines&reg;&ndash;Stroke</a> achievement awards for their 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;<a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001412" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Report</a>. Studies show patients can experience better outcomes when care teams consistently follow evidence-based treatment guidelines.
&ldquo;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. &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 American Heart Association and American Stroke Association 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, Hackensack Meridian Health qualified for the awards by demonstrating a sustained commitment to improving the quality of cardiovascular care.
The following Hackensack Meridian Health medical centers received 2026 American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Get With The Guidelines&reg;&ndash;Stroke awards:
<ul><li>Bayshore Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Hackensack University Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus, Advanced Therapy and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>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</li><li>JFK University Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus, Advanced Therapy, and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Ocean University Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Palisades Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Raritan Bay Medical Center &ndash; Old Bridge &ndash; Stroke Silver Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Raritan Bay Medical Center &ndash; Perth Amboy &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Riverview Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Southern Ocean Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Mountainside Medical Center: Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Pascack Valley Medical Center: Stroke Silver Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li></ul>
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.&nbsp;
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.
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(photo: vecteezy.com)

Brick, NJ – October 15, 2026 — Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center is among 12 Hackensack Meridian Health facilities to have...

Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center Recognized for Stroke Care

A Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center expert weighs in
Brick, N.J. - October 14, 2026 - As autumn progresses, bringing vibrant foliage and cooler weather, the transition into the season serves as a reminder for older adults to safeguard against a different kind of fall. With shorter daylight hours and slippery leaves gathering outside, now is the perfect time to evaluate your living space for hazards.
According to the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/falls/about/index.html" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a>, falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among people over 65. In fact, one in four older adults in the U.S. experiences a fall each year.
 <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/bradley-lee-pulver/1319147" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Bradley Pulver, MD</a>, medical director of the Emergency Department at OUMC, says, &ldquo;With a few simple actions, older adults can preserve their independence, ease caregiving responsibilities for their families, and avoid unnecessary visits to the hospital."
To keep your home a safe haven this season, consider these simple, proactive steps:
<ul><li>Enhance Visibility and Clear Pathways: As days get shorter, good indoor lighting is essential. For ease, use touch-activated lamps or install voice-controlled smart devices. Keep hallways free of tripping hazards by removing throw rugs and tucking away electrical cords.</li><li>Secure Your Steps: Whether indoors or outdoors, stairs require extra caution. Ensure all staircases have sturdy handrails on both sides. Add anti-slip treads to uncarpeted steps, and keep the top and bottom of your stairs well-lit.</li><li>Upgrade Kitchen and Bath Accessibility: Keep frequently used kitchen items on lower shelves and use a reacher-grabber tool to avoid dangerous stretching. In the bathroom, install easy-to-use lever faucets, a comfort-height toilet, screw-mounted grab bars, and a slip-resistant shower chair.</li><li>Create Safer Bedrooms and Outdoors: If your bed is too high, use an adjustable frame or sturdy step stool with handles. Place a bench in your room so you can sit while dressing. Outside, clear a wide path in your garage and use wheeled garbage bins so you can roll them to the curb instead of lifting heavy loads.</li></ul>
By making simple modifications, you can confidently prevent falls and comfortably enjoy the autumn season.
For additional information about Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center, visit<a href="http://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/ocean-university-medical-center" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/ocean-university-medical-center</a> or call 844-HMH-WELL.
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Age-Proof Your Home: Essential Fall Prevention...

A Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center expert weighs in...

Age-Proof Your Home: Essential Fall Prevention Tips for the Autumn Season 

Brick, N.J. - October 12, 2026 - A disturbing social media challenge known as "Benny Tripping" is gaining alarming traction, encouraging teenagers to consume toxic doses of Benadryl (diphenhydramine) to induce hallucinations. As recently reported in the <a href="https://patch.com/new-jersey/barnegat-manahawkin/s/kttax/nj-teen-hospitalized-in-benny-tripping-trend-officials-warn?utm_source=local-update&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=alert&amp;user_email=d51ff29c9f0e89e88ddae8b535ba1205e502d54c79a7523caba9bbbe1bc7c375&amp;user_email_md5=ec5c745fd3489e46622810e3a201ec1f&amp;lctg=665f4d5a457c373103076e04" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news</a>, this dangerous misuse of common over-the-counter (OTC) medication has already hospitalized at least one New Jersey teenager with confusion, disorientation, and slurred speech.
The statistics surrounding pediatric and teen OTC poisoning over the past three years paint a worrying picture:
<ul><li>Nationally: According to the National Poison Data System via <a href="https://poisoncenters.org/news-alerts/13642335" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">America's Poison Centers</a>, diphenhydramine exposure cases among teens ages 13&ndash;19 surged 31.9% from 10,068 cases in 2024 to 13,284 cases in 2025. The trend has only accelerated into 2026, with 7,292 teen diphenhydramine-only cases recorded in just the first half of the year&mdash;nearly double the rate from the same period last year.</li><li>In New Jersey: The<a href="https://www.njpies.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow"> New Jersey Poison Control Center</a> reports managing <a href="https://rutgershealth.org/news/new-jersey-poison-center-data-shows-suicide-attempts-among-teenagers-are-high" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">some 1,500</a> intentional self-poisoning attempts among preteens and teens annually, repeatedly citing OTC medications like Benadryl, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen as the most common culprits.</li></ul>
Hackensack Meridian Children&rsquo;s Health experts weigh in on the medical risks associated with this trend:
"From a pediatric standpoint, prevention and open communication are our best tools against these trends. Parents should lock up all medications, including common allergy pills, and have honest, direct conversations with their teenagers &ndash; and even pre-teens &ndash; about the severe risks hidden in social media challenges before they ever reach the hospital doors." &mdash; Moses Olorunnisola, MD, pediatrician, K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center
"When teens attempt the 'Benny Tripping' challenge, they aren't just risking a bad high. They are risking their lives. In the emergency department, we see the severe consequences of diphenhydramine poisoning, which can rapidly escalate from flushing and confusion to dangerous heart arrhythmias, seizures, and even fatal cardiac arrest. An over-the-counter label does not mean the drug is safe at any dose." &mdash; David Bergamo, MD, Associate Director, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center

Essential practices to stop the misuse of household medications:
<ul><li>Keep drugs under lock and key: Store all medications in a secure, locked location so that children, curious teens and young adults cannot get to them.</li><li>Supervise all doses: An adult should always be the one in charge of dispensing medication. Minors should never be allowed to take medicine on their own.</li><li>Clean out your medicine cabinet: Routinely clear your home of any leftover or out-of-date drugs, including both over-the-counter and prescription products.</li><li>Dispose of drugs responsibly: Bring your unwanted pills to a community medication disposal kiosk, or safely hand them over during National Prescription Drug Take Back events, which happen twice a year in April and October.</li></ul>
If you suspect your child has ingested a toxic amount of medication, immediately contact the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or call 911. For more resources visit <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/childrens-health" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Hackensack Meridian Children&rsquo;s Health</a>.
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(photo: vecteezy.com)

Hackensack Meridian Children's Health Experts...

Brick, N.J. - October 12, 2026 - A disturbing social media challenge known as "Benny Tripping" is gaining alarming traction, encouraging teenagers...

Hackensack Meridian Children's Health Experts weigh in on Dangerous Social Media Trend

Hi Brick Neighbors,&#8203;I am a local off-market acquisitions specialist purchasing single-family properties directly in Brick and throughout Ocean, Mercer, and surrounding NJ counties.&#8203;We specialize in helping homeowners dealing with: &#8203;Pre-foreclosures &amp; back tax liens &#8203;Inherited / estate properties requiring full cleanouts&#8203; homes needing heavy repairs or cosmetic updating&#8203;We buy 100% as-is, cover all closing costs, pay off outstanding municipal liens/mortgages at closing, and require ZERO real estate agent commissions or open house showings.&#8203;If you or someone in your family is looking for a clean, hassle-free cash sale, reach out today for a no-obligation cash offer.&#8203;Contact: Call/Text: [848-469-3684] | Email: [eleutwri38@gmailcom]

Local Brick / Ocean County Cash Home Buyer – As...

Hi Brick Neighbors,​I am a local off-market acquisitions specialist purchasing single-family properties directly in Brick and throughout Ocean,...

Local Brick / Ocean County Cash Home Buyer – As-Is Purchases

Neptune, N.J. - October 9, 2026 - 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.
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>
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(photo: vecteezy.com)

Hackensack Meridian Health to Host Vaccination...

Neptune, N.J. - October 9, 2026 - Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH), in partnership with the NJ Department of Health, is bringing essential...

Hackensack Meridian Health to Host Vaccination Clinics

Hackensack Meridian Health experts weigh in during this Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Brick, N.J. - October 9, 2026 - 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.
The Root of the Confusion: Competing Guidelines
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>

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; ### 
(photo: vecteezy.com)

Navigating the Confusing Maze of Breast Cancer...

Hackensack Meridian Health experts weigh in during this Breast Cancer Awareness Month...

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