Approaching milestones presents opportunities for reflection. Such is the case with Dr. Ahner.

As he reviews his tenure in the healthcare industry, he is enthusiastically looking forward to the new millennium with knowledge that his dedicated research combined with the work of his respected colleagues, will continue to bring exciting advances that enable patients to enjoy good health and enhanced quality of life.

In 1982, Dr. Ahner opened his Jupiter, Florida-based medical practice. At this time, his focus encompassed standard American medicine with the addition of nutrition, natural hormone replacement and chelation therapy. This period marked the early years of alternative/complementary medicine, and the term "holistic" was the emerging topic of the day.

During this time, free radicals and their effect upon cells was initially and eloquently described by Dennon Harmon, M.D. The use of nutritional supplements was becoming popular, and the application of specific elements, such as CO enzyme Q10, which are now taken for granted, were just emerging. Laboratory evaluation for free radicals and cellular damage was virtually nonexistent, and many treatments at that time were based on empirical knowledge.

The old adage, "the more things change, the more they stay the same," reflects how Dr. Ahner views his clinical practice. He learned early in his medical studies to recognize and value the unique individuality of each person.  As we learn more about cellular biology, environmental influences and free radicals, we understand the concept of biochemical individuality must be preserved.

In 1982 vascular disease was the number one killer of adults. Unfortunately, with the approach of the year 2000, vascular disease is still the predominate killer of adults. With advanced medical treatments, including bypass surgery and balloon angioplasty, it is curious that the rate of this disease has increased, and is becoming more prevalent in younger patients.

Knowledge about free radicals and cellular damage has progressed to the point it is now known that vascular disease is a free radical induced inflammatory disorder. Dr. Ahner began using chelation therapy for vascular disease in 1982, and has continued this practice with his ever-growing patient base. Initially, there were approximately 12 doctors in Florida that incorporated chelation therapy into their practices. Today, that number stands at more than 120.