health 'issues'

A medical organization in town has organized a women's health "issues" clinic to take place over a four week period during the doldrums of winter. The topics of the different "clinics" (which will occur in hour-long sessions) were selected by a PR team, lead by a director with questionable motives.

The "issues" that will be discussed over the four week period include urinary incontinence, heart disease, obesity, and ... cosmetic surgery? Yes. cosmetic surgery.

I understand how "body dismorphic disorder" could be a health issue - a mental health issue, or breast cancer - a legitimate health concern, but cosmetic surgery?

"Is it time for a fresh look?" the flyer asks. "This lecture offers a brief look at the history of facial rejuvenation and the evolution of state-of-the-art treatments, both surgical and non-surgical."

Aging.

I don't doubt that it is not fun - and not just in the ways it changes your appearance. I've seen its affects on those I love and soon enough I will feel it myself. However, let's not pretend that it is a 'disease' to be included in a clinic addressing real health issues. Cosmetic surgery is just that - cosmetic.