GERD Lecture Slated for Feb. 7

WARE — Most people get heartburn once in a while. If you have heartburn two or more times a week, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a term used to describe chronic heartburn.

Community members are invited to join Dr. Matthew Brackman from Baystate Medical Practices – Mary Lane Surgery on Feb. 7 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. for a lecture about GERD and the latest news about antireflux surgery. The program will be held at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital in the Main Conference Room located on the second floor.

“Anyone can have GERD,” said Sue Fontaine, senior coordinator of Loyalty Programs at Baystate Health. “Dr. Brackman will discuss treatment options for GERD, which can include lifestyle changes, over-thecounter remedies, prescription medications, and/or surgery.”

Brackman is board-certified in general surgery and a member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. He has extensive training in managing many surgical problems and diseases, and has special interest in laparoscopic surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, and endocrine surgery.

The lecture is sponsored by Baystate Health Senior Class and offered at no cost. Healthy refreshments will be served. Registration is required by calling Baystate Health Link at (413) 967-2488. For more information, visit www.baystatehealth.org/seniorclass.