New Session of Mini-Med School Opens at Health Science Center Oct. 5

This fall's session of the State University of New York Health Science Center's Mini-Medical School, which opens Oct. 5, features classes on asthma, prostate cancer, sleeplessness and ulcers, among others. Classes, which are open to everyone, will be held Tuesday evenings from 7 to 9:15 through Nov. 9 in Medical Alumni Auditorium of Weiskotten Hall. Each session includes two 45-minute classes, a refreshment break and Dr. Robert Richman's Top Ten List of breaking medical news. A registration fee of $35 includes course materials. For more information or to register, call (315) 464-4304.

This year the Health Science Center's Mini-Medical School classes will be offered via live interactive video to sites in Binghamton, Canton, Watertown and Saranac Lake.

"Mini-Med School is a terrific opportunity for the public to hear from top scientists and physicians about what ails us and why," said Richman, Mini-Medical School director and a professor of pediatrics at the Health Science Center. "It's also the closest one can get to being a medical student without wearing a lab coat."

Richman said the classes are suitable for everyone, even those without a science or medical background. "Don't worry if you don't know your femur from your clavicle," he said. "The program is designed to educate all."

Below is a list of subject areas and presenters:

Oct. 5 Shoulder to Shoulder, Barry Berg, Ph.D. Wheezing While You Work, Ran Anbar, M.D.

Oct. 12 Sleepless in Syracuse, Russell G. Durkovic, Ph.D. Pulling the Diagnostic Rabbit out of the Hat, Steve V. Allen, Jr., M.D.

Oct. 19 Snake Oils and Elixirs, Peter D. Holoban, Ph.D. Don't Bug Me I'll Get an Ulcer, David G. Heisig, M.D.

Oct. 26 What the Diet Gurus Won't Tell You About Metabolism, John Lucas, Ph.D. Beyond Bumps and Bruises, Gary A. Johnson, M.D.

Nov. 2 Mammography and Breast Care, Elinor Spring-Mills, Ph.D. Looking into the Brain, Gerard S. Rodziewicz, M.D.

Nov. 9 (Class begins at 6:45 p.m.) Blood: The River of Life, Ira Ames, Ph.D. Mischief in the Prostate, Gabriel P. Haas, M.D.

This class will conclude with a graduation ceremony hosted by Health Science Center President Gregory L. Eastwood., M.D.