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This week: Appendectomies, tick-borne diseases, nutrition across the lifespan

For centuries, it was seen as a useless organ, but the appendix is now believed to play a role in the body's immune system -- and many doctors and patients are thinking twice before having the organ removed.

Sometimes when the appendix becomes inflamed, surgery is still recommended. Surgeon Moustafa Hassan explains how that is accomplished and what to consider before the operation in this week’s “HealthLink on Air.”

Also this week: tick-borne disease expert Brian Leydet talks about ticks and the illnesses they spread, and registered dietitian nutritionist Maureen Franklin gives advice for eating well across the lifespan.

Tune in this Sunday, January 6 at 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. on WRVO.

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