Salud y Vida (Health and Life)
Funded by La Sociedad San Martin de Porres, Houston, Texas, this program focuses on educating the public about simple methods such as washing hands, using mosquito nets, and boiling water to improve health.

Episode 1
This program informs the audience about bacteria's role in illnesses, and techniques for avoiding stomach infections. It discusses the importance of washing hands before cooking, drinking clean water, and using latrines when relieving oneself. It also explains the symptoms of intestinal infections and how to treat and monitor stomach illnesses.

Episode 2
This episode discusses the importance of washing hands with clean water to avoid illness. It also instructs listeners to brush hair and teeth daily, and encourages menstruating women to bathe more frequently during their period. It also discusses the importance of using clean water and gives instruction on how to properly prepare and store boiled water, and how to clean water with chlorine if boiling is not possible.

Episode 3
Episode 3 discusses dengue fever: its symptoms, how it is contracted, and how to avoid mosquito bites during dengue season. The narrator also provides information on how to treat those people who are sick and avoid spreading the disease between people, including advice on proper eating and drinking habits, not using aspirin, cleanliness, and avoiding physical contact with infected people. He also distinguishes between hemorrhagic dengue and the less-serious version, but underscores the need to visit a doctor immediately in both cases.

Episode 4
The program starts and ends with a family scene. At the beginning, children and their mother discuss symptoms of hearing problems that the youngest child shows. The program continues with a conversation between an adult and medical consultant about types of ear problems and hearing loss that children are prone to. The medical consultant talks about symptoms to look for, what does and does not cause deafness, and what actions should be taken. The conversation between the two adults covers truths and myths about hearing problems in infants and children. It also emphasizes the importance of preventing child abuse, a leading cause of hearing loss in children. The end of the program switches back to the family scene. The mother and children now understand that the baby probably suffers from hearing loss and that they need to take her to a doctor.

Episode 5
The program begins with a scene of two brothers trying to figure out how to dislodge a coin from one of their ears. The solution they arrive at is to use a stick and remove it before their parents find out and get mad. A voice of reason comes in telling them to immediately find a medical center or their parents but never try to remove anything from their ear with a stick. A conversation follows between a medical consultant and an adult, who discuss what actions should be taken when a person has an object lodged in their ear, nose or mouth. In most circumstances, a doctor visit is recommended.. The program also discusses emergencies that arise when an object lodged in the mouth blocks the respiratory system. The medical consultant discusses that in these circumstances there is not time to transport the person to a doctor and goes through the basic steps of CPR that can be taken to help save a person's life. The program ends with the scene of the two kids who after getting advice about their problem decide to tell their parents that they need to see a doctor so as not to cause further damage to the ear.

Episode 6
The program begins with a scene of two parents discussing a medical condition that their baby seems to have. A voice of reason comes into their conversation telling them that the symptoms show it is probably an illness that they baby was born with. A conversation between a medical consultant and an adult follows, leading into a discussion of sexually transmitted diseases and the consequences they have for children. The program uses the example of human papilloma virus (HPV) as an example of how sexually transmitted diseases can have no symptoms for men but have serious consequences for women and the children they bear. The medical consultant discusses symptoms that women and children may show if they have an STD, and what actions they should take. The program also stresses the importance of safe sex and fidelity, as many sexually transmitted diseases have no cure. The program ends with a scene in which the two parents realize that their child is sick as a result of a sexually transmitted disease that they have, and that she will have to live with it the rest of her life. The program focuses on STD solutions and prevention, but it also brings up the responsibilities that come with having contracted one.

Episode 7
This episode begins with a family scene in which a child does not want to put on sunscreen before going outside. A voice comes in emphasizing why sunscreen is so important which leads into a discussion between a medical consultant and an adult. The program covers all varieties of skin problems that people face ranging from infections from poor hygiene to ticks and skin cancer. There are questions and answers about germs and infections that provide very useful information. In addition to covering how to prevent and care for skin problems, the medical consultant also discusses stereotypes that dissuade people from using skin care products like sun-block. The program ends with the same family scene where the child asks their parents for sun-block before going outside to play, enthusiastic and informed about how to care for their skin.

Episode 8
This episode of Health and Life begins with a scene in which a group of children make fun of a girl who has white blotches all over her body. Following this scene, a conversation between a professional medical consultant and adult clarifies what skin discoloration is and the difference between an albino and an individual with a skin disease. The medical consultant discusses this problem's causes and solutions, the age at which it usually appears, and its most common symptoms. An important part of the program is the discussion about the psychological damage that can occur when families and friends judge or mock children because of skin discoloration. The doctor recommends that individuals with this disorder take extra care when they are exposed to the sun. While she makes it clear that there is nothing to be ashamed of, she also mentions the option of covering up these marks with make-up if someone feels uncomfortable. The episode concludes with the same children accepting the girl in the game they are about to play because she tells them she is not contagious and can do the same things as a normal child.

Episode 9
This episode of Health and Life begins with a scene between two children, who are scratching at little bumps on their skin. A conversation between a medical consultant and adult follows. They discuss the four main types of skin irritations, their appearance and prevention, and myths and facts about their causes. Because children are most susceptible to them the medical consultant offers tips on bathing and cleanings kids and recommends that scratching be avoided. The medical consultant also talks about infections that can develop from a skin irritation, and what measures to take if this happens. The program concludes with the kids washing their hands to prevent infection and further skin irritation.

Episode 10
This episode of Health and Life begins with a scene between neighbors sharing pills to help a friend with a severe headache. A conversation between a medical consultant and adult follows. The two discuss the different types of pills prescribed by doctors: antibiotics, antihistamines, steroids, and others. The program mentions some specific medical problems, including diabetes, but focuses on the importance of taking prescriptions as directed and not giving them to friends or family without a doctor's approval. The medical consultant also talks about the consequences of overusing antibiotics, including bacterial resistance. The episode ends with the friend becoming ill from taking the wrong pill and going to a medical center to see a doctor.

Episode 11
This episode of Health and Life begins with a wife telling her husband that his cold sounds serious and him disagreeing, even though he can't stop coughing. A conversation between a medical consultant and adult follows that covers all aspects of colds, including fevers, coughs, and sinus problems. The program also discusses when people usually get colds, including the effects of changes in weather. The medical consultant describes the various types of coughs that people can get, and when they are serious enough to require medical attention. The program gives information about how antibiotics and liquids can help someone with a cold recover. The episode ends with the husband agreeing that he needs to get medical attention because his cough shows symptoms of being something more serious.

Episode 12
This episode of Health and Life focuses on the topic of diabetes. A medical specialist covers what diabetes is, its symptoms, its seriousness, how to prevent it, how to control it, and how it develops. The show also talks about the increased risk of diabetes for children whose parents have the disease. Finally, the medical specialist discusses the components of a healthy diet, and the importance of nutritionists.

Episode 13
This episode of Health and Life discusses blood pressure. A medical worker covers the difference between high and low blood pressure, debunks myths about blood pressure, and explains why low blood pressure is healthier. The medical consultant also talks about foods that can damage arties and cause high blood pressure, and emphasizes the ease and importance of checking your blood pressure as you get older.

Episode 14
This episode of Health and Life covers vestibular disorders. A medical worker says that vertigo and imbalance are in fact medical conditions, and discusses their symptoms. The show covers vertigo's causes, as well as how doctors and family members can help. The medical consultant explains how to tell the difference between a person who has this condition and someone who is drunk (the two are commonly mistaken for each other). The show also offers tips on treating less serious disorders, like car sickness.

Episode 15
This episode of Health and Life covers earaches and eye infections. A medical worker dispels myths about how to treat ear infections, explains how certain commonly practiced methods can make the situation worse, and emphasizes that some earaches are caused by infection and can be highly contagious. The medical consultant also discusses the need to treat ear infections before others contract them, and offers instructions on cleaning ears properly to prevent earaches. Care and prevention of eye infections is also discussed.

Episode 16
This program engages in the issue of ear infections and ear care, particularly for children. Dona Teri's child Pedro has puss in his ear. In response, Dona Teri is going to clean it out with some hygienic paper, but Sanito stops her with the reminder that one should not put foreign objects into the ear canal. At a loss for other options, Dona Teri asks what to do for the puss. Sanito says that Pedro may have an ear infection, and that he must see a doctor to receive antibiotics or the infection may get worse, or possibly even turn into a case of meningitis. The doctor comes on the radio and discusses the symptoms, cures, and possible risks of ear infections. Dona Teri then takes her children to bathe, and Sanito reminds them that they should bathe but they should not submerge their ear under water because it will worsen the infection.

Episode 17
Episode 17 in the Health & Life series discusses allergies. Another of Dona Teri's children has been coughing for days, and normal remedies for the common cold have not helped. Sanito thinks that the child may have allergies, and Dona Teri, not knowing what allergies are and she listens attentively as he explains their symptoms and causes. The doctor comes on the radio, and further discusses the causes and effects of allergies, the differing medicines available for them, and how to best deal with them. Both Sanito and the doctor end by stressing the need to understand allergies and deal with them appropriately.

Episode 18
This program in the Health & Life series brings up the issue of gallstones. The dramatization features Dona Teri's sick mother, who feels abdominal pain and does not have much motivation to eat or to do anything. Sanito suggests that she rest for a day and not eat anything with grease in it, then go to the doctor's office the next day. The doctor on the radio goes on to explain how gallstones are formed, their symptoms, and how to find and treat them. In the end, Dona Teri's mother receives treatment for what the children call the "little stones" in her stomach.

Episode 19
This program talks about blood circulation and varicose veins. Dona Teri and her friend are discussing varicose veins and how they may have been formed. Sanito goes on to explain that one must exercise frequently and move one's limbs often in order to maintain good blood circulation. The doctor on the radio details the causes of varicose veins, reiterating the importance of exercise to avoid the condition. The doctor also mentions that varicose veins can be bettered with exercise but the condition will never be fully reversed.

Episode 20
This episode discusses that there is a difference between two types of intestinal illness "Ambioasis" and Cholera. Ambioasis is an intestinal illness from a microscopic parasite and you can get if from contaminated water or from coming into contact with it from another person. These parasites live in people and are transmitted between people or through contaminated water. Frequently, ambioasis occurs in people who live in rural areas or have visited rural or tropical areas. Symptoms include nausea, fever, stomach pain and diarrhea. One must see a physician and if they have parasites and a physician will prescribe antibiotics. Cholera is also an infection of the stomach with similar symptoms, but it is caused by bacteria that are often found in contaminated water. In severe cases it can cause death. One must replace their liquids to stay hydrated and should try to see a physician. The best way to prevent both illnesses is to maintain hygienic habits such as washing your hands and to avoid contaminated water.

Episode 21
This episode explains to Dona Teri that her son has lice and that is what is making his head itch terribly. Lice lives in one's hair and sometimes and ones eye lashes or hair. It is easy to pass from person to person with close contact or by sharing bedding and clothing. It often passes between children at school. It isn't a severe medical problem but rather uncomfortable. The doctor outlines how to treat the lice and advices that all the methods should be used repeatedly over a short period of time. One can suffer skin infections as a result of the itching and scratching caused by the lice. Do not share clothing or bedding with an infected person and if infected you should avoid school until the lice have been eliminated.

Episode 22
This episode describes the physical effects alcohol abuse. Highlighting the warning pregnant women should not drink alcohol because it will damage the baby; the doctor describes additional severe ailments that result from alcohol abuse such as cirrhosis. The episode also explains that the social consequences of alcohol are as bad as the physical ones, domestic abuse, and inability to maintain work. The episode ends with a few questions to help listeners determine if they or someone they know have an alcohol abuse problem.

Episode 23
This episode of Health and Life discusses the loss of vision as a result of cataracts in the eyes. As people age their eyesight may deteriorate as a result of cataracts often developing between the ages of 65-75. Although not painful, little by little one goes blind because of clouding in the eyes. Cataracts also develop because of exposure to toxins, or an eye injury, in children cataracts can present shortly after birth as a result of a congenital defect or because of an infection during the pregnancy. Symptoms include diminishing vision, loss of night vision, sensitivity to light or the sun, double vision, the ability to see shadows is also lost. Treatment of cataracts consists of the use of glasses or surgery to remove the cataracts.

Episode 24
Lencho goes to visit Dona Teri in this episode of Health and Life and her children are making fun of Lencho because he has what looks like mud on his face. It is actually acne, an inflammation of the skin resulting from dirt and oil clogging the pores in the skin. The doctor explains how to prevent and treat acne and that it is not a severe or life threatening condition.

Episode 25
This episode considers the loss of hair most often in occurring in men. As men grow older they often begin to lose their hair and this is a very natural occurrence and has to do with the levels of hormones changing. Hair loss can occur in a small area or over most of the head and might affect one's ability to grow a beard or eyebrow hair. Women may also suffer from thinning of hair following menopause.

Episode 26
This episode of Health and Life concerns excessive levels of stress. Stress is a normal part of everyone's life. In moderate levels Sanito explains that it can even motivate you to be more productive. Stress is explained as a feeling of nervousness or frustration. In high levels it isn't good has consequences to one's health such as heart problems, high blood pressure and even cause a heart attack. The episode explains some symptoms of too much stress such as trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite as well as impotence. The doctor discourages smoking, use of drugs and alcohol to cope with the stress. A doctor can also be consulted if the stress is constant problem. The doctor recommends that one discuss or write down the situations or problems that are causing the excessive stress and explains that one could also seek support in the form of a group.

Episode 27
Episode 27 explains the rare condition of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system actually attacks itself. This affects the joints of the body and often occurs in women more frequently than men. Symptoms include joint stiffness and pain the severity of which varies. Affected persons should rest and refrain from stressful physical activity if it makes their pain worse. A doctor can recommend prescriptions to minimize the discomfort.

Episode 28
Dona Teri's baby isn't gaining weight the way her other children did and is very skinny. Sanito, Dona Teri and her husband are talking about how her child is too skinny even though she feeds him Episode discusses the differences between breast feeding and formula. Mothers should eat plenty of vegetables and protein. The doctor outlines appropriate servings of each food group. Babies rarely have a reaction.

Episode 29
Episode 29 of Health and Life explains that Dona Teri is going through menopause even though she insists that she is much too young. Sanito explains to Dona Teri that being a woman has its advantages and disadvantages and that menopause is a natural occurrence in all women. After menopause women no longer menstruate and cannot become pregnant. Changes in levels of the hormone estrogen cause menopause and its symptoms. The doctor explains that there are some hormone therapies that can relieve the symptoms of menopause and that it is important that women continue to visit their doctors regularly after menopause.

Episode 30
This episode of Health and Life explains that Dona Teri's newborn's skin appears to be the color yellow. Sanito assures her that this is a fairly common illness in newborns but can also occur in adults. The doctor explains that the condition is jaundice and high levels of billiruben make the skin turn yellow often occurs in children less than one week old. Jaundice can also indicate Hepatitis, which is more serious and a doctor should be consulted.

Episode 31
This episode of Health and Life discusses insomnia. Insomnia is the chronic inability to sleep. People should be able to sleep around 8 hours a night until the age of about 60. The older people get the more likely their sleep patterns are to be disrupted. Medications are not recommended because they do not always allow for quality sleep; people also develop tolerances as well as dependencies when using sleep medications for an extended period of time. Sometimes insomnia is a symptom of depression. The doctor offers techniques to fall asleep such as taking a bath or listening to calming music in order to relax. In children the insomnia can be a result of fear or stress. Medications should be the last course of action to treat insomnia. People having lots of trouble sleeping should consult their physician.

Episode 32
This episode of Health and Life discusses the effects of AIDS on the people of Guatemala. It encourages friends to make each other aware of the dangers of AIDS so it can be minimized.