Tray Bleaching To Improve The Oral Health Of The Elderly, Special-Needs Patients

A tooth-bleaching agent may improve the oral health of elderly and special-needs patients, say dentists at the Medical College of Georgia and Western University of Health Sciences. Standard oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, can be difficult or impossible for patients with mental challenges or impaired manual dexterity...

First Accurate Peak Heart Rate For Women Offered By New Formula

Women who measure their peak heart rates for exercise will need to do some new math as will physicians giving stress tests to patients. A new formula based on a large study from Northwestern Medicine provides a more accurate estimate of the peak heart rate a healthy woman should attain during exercise. It also will more accurately predict the risk of heart-related death during a stress test...

Minister Brady Launches Open Week ‘Keeping Active And Enjoying Life’ Organised By The National Rehabilitation Hospital, Ireland

Aine Brady, T.D., Minister for Older People and Health Promotion, yesterday officially launched an Open Week entitled 'Keeping Active and Enjoying Life' organised by the National Rehabilitation Hospital, in partnership with Ability Matters in Waterford...

Inner Workings Of The Brain Probed By Virus ‘Explorers’

Imagine an exceedingly complex circuit board. Wires often split -- seemingly at random -- and connect in strange and unexpected ways. This is how Princeton University researchers developing a new method for studying brain connectivity see the brain...

New Study Uncovers Key To How We Learn And Remember

New research led by the University of Leicester and published in a prestigious international scientific journal has revealed for the first time the mechanism by which memories are formed. The study in the Department of Cell Physiology and Pharmacology found one of the key proteins involved in the process of memory and learning...

Teaching Hospital Offers Good End-of-life Care

Teaching hospital offers high quality end-of-life care to patients, but there is a need to improve support and comfort for patients who are critically ill.

People Are Spending More Of Their Final Days In Hospitals; Milwaukee Hospital Reports Success With Treatment Guidelines

The Associated Press: "Americans increasingly are treated to death, spending more time in hospitals in their final days, trying last-ditch treatments that often buy only weeks of time, and racking up bills that have made medical care a leading cause of bankruptcies...

Failed ACL Repairs: More Common Than You May Think

Nick Van Erp, active in soccer since elementary school and lacrosse since junior high, tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee during a spring lacrosse game his freshman year of high school. His injury, caused by stepping into a pothole and hyper-extending his knee, required surgical repair, ending his season prematurely and the remainder of his high school sports career...

Older Adults Watch More TV Than Younger People, Enjoy It Less

We usually scold our children and teenagers for watching too much TV. It turns out that their grandmas and grandpas spend even more of their time watching TV, and it is not good for them either, according to researchers at the Stein Institute for Research on Aging and Rady School of Management at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine...

Getting Better With Age: Friendships, Family Relationships

Part of what makes those relationships so golden during the golden years is that people of all ages are more likely to forgive and respect one's elders, according to research from Purdue University...

Memory Problems Not The Only Predictor Of Later Mild Cognitive Impairment

Mild cognitive impairment is often seen as a transition stage between the cognitive decline of normal aging and the more serious problems of Alzheimer's disease...

Alzheimer’s Imaging Study Identifies Changes In Brain’s White Matter

Scientists at the University of Kentucky's College of Medicine have identified changes in the brains of normal individuals at high risk for Alzheimer's disease that could prove important for early detection of the disease...

Fung Wins GSA’s 2010 Baltes Foundation Award

The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) - the nation's largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to the field of aging - has chosen Helene Fung, PhD, of the Chinese University of Hong Kong as the 2010 recipient of the Margret M. and Paul B. Baltes Foundation Award in Behavioral and Social Gerontology...

Link Between Vitamin D And Mental Agility In Elders

At a time when consumer interest in health-enhancing foods is high, Agricultural Research Service (ARS)-funded scientists have contributed to a limited but growing body of evidence of a link between vitamin D and cognitive function. Cognitive function is measured by the level at which the brain is able to manage and use available information for activities of daily life...

News From The American Journal Of Pathology, July 2010

The following highlights summarize research articles that are published in the July 2010 issue of The American Journal of Pathology. Immune Cells and Atherosclerosis Dr. Einar Eriksson and colleagues at the Karolinska Hosptial, Stockholm, Sweden demonstrate that neutrophils may contribute to atherosclerosis...

ENS 2010: Dementia Study: New Insights Into Changes In The Brain Offer The Possibility Of Targeted Early Diagnosis And Prevention

The development of vascular dementia, the most common form of dementia after Alzheimer's dementia, may soon be able to be diagnosed before the first appearance of cognitive symptoms, and could be stopped or at least slowed down by targeted preventative measures...

Hallmark Alzheimer’s Disease Changes Found In Retinas Of Humans And Imaged In Live Animals

The nerve cell-damaging plaque that builds up in the brain with Alzheimer's disease also builds up in the retinas of the eyes - and it shows up there earlier, leading to the prospect that noninvasive optical imaging of the eyes could lead to earlier diagnosis, intervention and monitoring of the disease, according to new research...

Potential For Early Noninvasive Diagnosis Of Alzheimer’s Disease

The nerve cell-damaging plaque that builds up in the brain with Alzheimer's disease also builds up in the retinas of the eyes - and it shows up there earlier, leading to the prospect that noninvasive optical imaging of the eyes could lead to earlier diagnosis, intervention and monitoring of the disease, according to new research...

Survey Claims Care Homes In England Will Receive Just 0.5% More Funding Than Last Year – Alzheimer’s Society

A Laing & Buisson survey claims that local councils in England will provide care homes with on average just 0.5% more funding than last year - despite care home costs rising by an estimated 2.1%. There were clear variations in funding offered by councils around the regions. A total of 186 out of the 208 local councils with social services responsibilities in the UK responded to the survey...

Early Detection Of Soccer Penalty Kicks Revealed At Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

In the split second before foot meets ball, a soccer player's body betrays whether a penalty kick will go left or right, according to recent research in cognitive science at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. The findings could explain how some top goalkeepers are able to head off a penalty kick, diving in the correct direction in advance of the kick...

Iron Overload Linked To Macular Degeneration – Donating Blood Could Save Your Sight

The most common - and under-diagnosed - genetic disease in humans just may be a cause of the worst form of macular degeneration, Medical College of Georgia researchers report. They are pursuing a link between hemochromatosis, which results in iron overload, and the wet form of macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in people 60 and older...

Minister Brady At Age Action Ireland’s Annual General Meeting, 25th June 2010, Croke Park Conference Centre, Dublin

Aine Brady, T.D., Minister for Older People and Health Promotion, today (25th June 2010) spoke at the Annual General Meeting of Age Action Ireland. Age Action Ireland is the national independent organisation on ageing and older people. It acts as a network of organisations and individuals including older people and carers of older people...

Efforts To Make Medicine Cheaper, More Efficient Underway

The Minneapolis Star Tribune: "One of Minnesota's largest providers of supportive housing for seniors will begin testing telemedicine and sensor technology to help frail seniors stay healthier and delay institutional care under an $8 million grant announced Wednesday. It will be the largest project of its kind in the nation, involving about 1,600 clients in 40 rural cities...

Aerobic Exercise Safe And Effective For Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Cardio-Respiratory Aerobic Conditioning Improves Function; Lessens Joint Pain Researchers from the University of Grenoble Medical School in France determined that cardio-respiratory aerobic exercise is safe for patients with stable rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The team found that RA patients who exercised regularly had improved function, less joint pain, and greater quality of life...

Why The Wise Man Takes Up Juggling In Old Age

The elderly may be not be as good at playing football or remembering where they put the car keys. But they make up for loss of physical prowess and memory skills by developing greater wisdom - and that's official, a leading researcher on elderly cognition told the Royal College of Psychiatrists' International Congress in Edinburgh...

Novel Radiotracer Shines New Light On The Brains Of Alzheimer’s Disease Patients

A trial of a novel radioactive compound readily and safely distinguished the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients from healthy volunteers on brain scans and opens the doors to making such imaging available beyond facilities that can manufacture their own radioactive compounds...

Neuropsychologist Says Most Concussions Deliver 95g’s

Head injury expert Kim Gorgens, a neuropsychologist at the University of Denver (DU), says that most concussions deliver 95 g's to the human body upon impact. G-force is a unit of force equal to the force exerted by gravity. In addition, the average football player receives 103 g's when hit during a game. In comparison, the average g-force experienced by military fighter pilots is nine g's...

Caregiver Could Be Happier By Active Involvement

Active involvement in the life of the disabled could bring a lot of cheer to the caregiver, says a new study led by University at Buffalo psychologist Michael Poulin, PhD.

Going Barefoot In Home May Contribute To Elderly Falls According To Institute For Aging Research Study

As summer rolls around, elderly people may want to think twice about taking their shoes off when they get home. Going barefoot in the home, or wearing slippers or socks with no shoes, may contribute to falls among the elderly, according to a new study from the Institute for Aging Research of Hebrew SeniorLife...

Caring For An Elderly, Sick Spouse Sometimes Has Positive Elements

Although long-term care of sick or disabled loved ones is widely recognized as a threat to the caregiver's health and quality of life, a new study led by University at Buffalo psychologist Michael Poulin, PhD, finds that in some contexts, helping valued loved ones may promote the well being of helpers...

Today’s OpEds: Eliminating Health Care Waste, Empowering Consumers To Save Money, Trouble Finding A Medicare Doctor, The Dangers Of Overtreatment

Making The Health Care Reform Law Work Roll Call When Congress passed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act this March, it took a health insurance system that was locked in a decades-long spiral of rising costs and shrinking security and set it on a new course...

Mass. Weighs Overhaul’s Effects; Conn. First State To Add Adults To Medicaid Under New Health Law

The Boston Globe: "In most states, the passage of the sprawling federal health care overhaul legislation means the poorest will have a better shot at affording health insurance. But in Massachusetts, the law might have the opposite effect. Senator John. F...

The Physics Of The ‘Bends’

As you go about your day-to-day activities, tiny bubbles of nitrogen come and go inside your tissues. This is not a problem unless you happen to experience large changes in ambient pressure, such as those encountered by scuba divers and astronauts. During large, fast pressure drops, these bubbles can grow and lead to decompression sickness, popularly known as "the bends...

Fuzzy Logic Predicts Cell Aging

The process of aging disturbs a broad range of cellular mechanisms in a complex fashion and is not well understood. Computer models using fuzzy logic might help to unravel these complexities and predict how aging progresses in cells and organisms, according to a study from Drexel University in Philadelphia and Children's Hospital Boston...

Compound Found In Red Wine Neutralizes Toxicity Of Proteins Related To Alzheimer’s

An organic compound found in red wine - resveratrol - has the ability to neutralize the toxic effects of proteins linked to Alzheimer's disease, according to research led by Rensselaer Professor Peter M. Tessier...

Forest And Merz Announce FDA Approval Of Namenda XR For The Treatment Of Moderate To Severe Dementia Of The Alzheimer’s Type

Forest Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: FRX) and Merz Pharmaceuticals GmbH announced that Namenda XR(TM) (memantine hydrochloride) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of moderate to severe dementia of the Alzheimer's type. Namenda XR is a 28 mg once-daily extended-release formulation of NAMENDA...

Ipsen: Encouraging Results Of GuidAge(R), Large Scale European Trial Conducted In The Prevention Of Alzheimer’s Dementia

Ipsen (Paris:IPN) (Euronext: IPN; ADR: IPSEY) announced top line results of GuidAge®, the longest (5 years) and largest (2,854 subjects) European study in the prevention of Alzheimer's Dementia (AD). This trial was conducted according to the most stringent international standards...

Lack Of Tracking Of Medical Devices’ Performance Raises Questions About Safety And Efficacy

The New York Times reports on a dispute between a surgeon and the medical device company he once worked for and promoted. "For years, Dr. Richard A. Berger designed surgical tools and artificial joints for Zimmer Holdings, trained hundreds of doctors to use its products and talked it up wherever he went. In return, Zimmer, an orthopedic implant maker, helped enrich Dr...

Health Reform Implementation: Risk Pool Nears Enrollment Date; Seniors Anxious About Medicare Changes; Benefits Reportable

The (Jacksonville) Florida Times-Union: As high-risk insurance pools are preparing to enroll the chronically ill July 1, officials should heed the Florida experience. "Plagued by exorbitant medical costs and skimpy revenue, the Florida Comprehensive Health Association, by order of the Legislature, stopped accepting new enrollees in 1991, eight years after it was created...

ENS 2010: Multiple Sclerosis, Migraine And Dementia: New Insights From Neuroimaging

"Innovative imaging techniques such as functional MRI or diffusion tensor imaging occupy an important place in modern neurology today. With their help we can better understand diseases such as multiple sclerosis, dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Alzheimer's disease," says Prof...

Exercise May Be An Effective And Nonpharmacologic Treatment Option For Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol abuse is highly disruptive of circadian rhythms, and circadian disruptions can also lead to alcohol abuse as well as relapse in abstinent alcoholics. Circadian timing in mammals is regulated by light as well as other influences such as food, social interactions, and exercise...

Dementia Prioritised In Revised NHS Framework, UK

A revised Operating Framework for the NHS brought hope to 750,000 people with dementia and carers as the new government acknowledged failures in dementia and promised action. PCTs and their partners will now have to publish plans for dementia, putting pressure on a third of PCTs who currently have no plans in place...

Alzheimer’s Society Appoints New Chief Executive, UK

Jeremy Hughes, currently Chief Executive of Breakthrough Breast Cancer, has been appointed as the new chief executive of Alzheimer's Society. He takes up his appointment in November. Making the announcement this morning, Alastair Balls, chair of Alzheimer's Society said, 'This is a critical time for the Society as we implement government sponsored dementia strategies...

Alzheimer’s Society Calls For An End To Dementia Care Postcode Lottery, UK

Alzheimer's Society comment on new findings revealing that a third of PCTs do not have plans in place to say how they will implement the National Dementia Strategy for England. Freedom of Information requests collected by GP newspaper found 38 of the 116 respondents did not have joint plans with local authorities...

The Elderly Left Without Carers Are A Serious Casualty Of The African AIDS Epidemic

The rise in AIDS death rates in sub-Saharan Africa has led to a burgeoning new category of neglected individuals - nearly a million orphaned elderly, or older adults living alone without the benefit of any caregivers, Stanford University School of Medicine researchers have found...

Make Your World Cup Injury-Free

The 2010 FIFA World Cup™ brings the biggest fans and the best soccer players together for an incredible month-long competition. And while these top athletes are competing in South Africa, people around the globe are playing soccer in leagues, schools, or just for fun...

Allowing Body Checking In Youth Hockey Associated With Increased Risk Of Injury, Including Severe Concussions

A comparison of hockey leagues in Canada for 11-12 year old players finds that compared with leagues that do not allow body checking, those that do have an associated 3-fold increased risk of game-related injuries, including severe injuries and severe concussions, according to a study in the June 9 issue of JAMA...

WSJ: Study On Eye Medicine Reveals Possible Savings For Medicare

The Wall Street Journal reports that Medicare could save $500 million a year by switching from one type of eye medicine to another, both made by Genentech, "according to a draft study by federal officials and a University of Miami eye doctor...

Sun-Sensitizing Medications, Sun Exposure Associated With Common Type Of Cataract

The use of medications that increase sensitivity to the sun, combined with exposure to sunlight, appears to be associated with the risk of age-related cataract, according to a report posted online that will appear in the August print issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals...

Wearing A Facemask To Limit Air Pollution Exposure Lowers Blood Pressure And Improves Heart Rate Variability During Exercise

Wearing a facemask during exercise to limit exposure to outdoor air pollution reduces symptoms and is associated with objective improvements in myocardial ischemia, blood pressure and heart rate variability in people with coronary heart disease (CHD), according to new data presented at the World Congress of Cardiology (WCC) Scientific Sessions in Beijing, China today...

Early Stages Of Age-Related Macular Degeneration Associated With Smoking, Cholesterol Levels

Early-stage age-related macular degeneration appears to be related to modifiable risk factors, including smoking and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL or "good" cholesterol), according to a report in the June issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. The condition appears uncommon before age 55 but the risk increases with age thereafter...

Feared Side Effect Of Alzheimer’s Drugs Is Unlikely

The first trial of a new model for testing Alzheimer's treatments has reassured researchers that a promising class of drugs does not exacerbate the disease if treatment is interrupted. Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and Merck & Co. Inc studied the effects of a class of drugs known as gamma secretase inhibitors...

Improving Understanding Of Protein Folding

Physicists at UC Santa Barbara have created a microscopic device to assist biologists in making very fast molecular measurements that aid the understanding of protein folding. This development may help elucidate biological processes associated with diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's...

Physical Fitness May Help Reduce Chronic Disease Risk In College Students

Staying in shape may bolster the metabolic profiles of college students, even in those with higher than desirable body fat percentages...

10 Top Tips For Aging Well With The AGS Foundation For Health In Aging New Health Guide

Aging well doesn't mean simply living longer-it means staying healthy and active so that you can continue doing what you love for as long as possible. Now, a growing body of research suggests that the key to healthy aging is in our hands, and tells us that it's never too late to make the vital lifestyle changes that will help ensure a longer, more vibrant life...

Race Is On For Money For Early Retirees; Insurers Prepare For Health Law’s New Customers

Consultants are pushing big companies to apply quickly for money from a $5 billion fund to help cover retiree health costs as part of the new health law, The Wall Street Journal reports. "Big employers shaped the health overhaul bill to tap a $5 billion fund to offset the cost of health benefits for early retirees. Now, some companies worry the early-retiree fund will be exhausted quickly...

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Associated With Dementia Among Older Veterans

Older veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) appear more likely to develop dementia over a seven-year period than those without PTSD, according to a report in the June issue of Archives of General Psychiatry, one of the JAMA/Archives journals...

Study Evaluates Association Between Genetic Factors And Brain Imaging Findings In Alzheimer’s Disease

By investigating the association between genetic loci related to Alzheimer's disease and neuroimaging measures related to disease risk, researchers may have uncovered additional evidence that several previously studied genetic variants are associated with the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease and also may have identified new genetic risk factors for further st...

Proteins That Modulate Life Span In Worms Identified By Stanford Study

Researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine have identified a new group of proteins involved in determining the life span of laboratory roundworms. Blocking the expression of one member of the group can extend the worm's life span by up to 30 percent...

Researchers Identify Symptoms Of Male Menopause

European researchers have for the first time identified the symptoms of late-onset hypogonadism, also termed "male menopause", a condition that follows reductions in the male hormone testosterone in older men, and suggest that unlike the female menopause it is quite rare. You can read about these findings in the 16 June online issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, NEJM...

Problematic Blood Clotting Contributes To Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer's disease has long been studied primarily as a disease of neurons. But researchers have now shown how the disease may be damaging the brain by choking off blood flow...

Dramatic Rise In The Proportion Of Older Americans Admitted For Substance Abuse Treatment From 1992 To 2008

A new study reveals that between 1992 and 2008 the proportion of substance abuse treatment admissions involving older Americans (aged 50 and older) nearly doubled -- from 6.6 percent of all admissions in 1992 to 12.2 percent in 2008...

Low Back Pain Is No Reason To Stay In Bed

For much of the 20th century, "rest"- which generally meant a few days to a week in bed - was the standard prescription for acute low-back pain. In recent decades, however, doctors started counseling patients to stay as active as they could...

Parkinson’s Patients Aided Through Spinal Cord Stimulation

High frequency stimulation of spinal cord may benefit Parkinson's patients, a new study claims. Ming Cheng, MD, is a neurosurgeon at Rhode Island

Parkinson’s Risk Raised By Genes and Pesticide Exposure

Researchers have found that genetic mutations and exposure to insecticides in workplaces interact to increase the risk of Parkinson's disease, especially in men.

UC San Diego Researchers Say Over-Abundant Protein Shuts Down Cell Communications, Helps Cause Dementia

In diverse neurodegenerative diseases ranging from Parkinson's to Alzheimer's, researchers have long noted accumulations of a little-understood neuronal protein called α-synuclein...

Government To Review Plans To Introduce Safeguarding Scheme – Alzheimer’s Society

Early reports today suggest that the government is to halt plans to roll-out the Independent Safeguarding scheme (ISA) until a comprehensive review has been carried out. The scheme, which would require anyone wanting to work with children or vulnerable adults to be vetted, was due to be introduced next month. Existing checks will remain in place...

Transcatheter Valve-In-Valve Implantation Provides Option For High-Risk Elderly Patients

Doctors at the University Heart Center in Hamburg, Germany successfully used transcatheter valve-in-valve implantation in elderly patients with degenerated bioprostheses in aortic and mitral position. This minimally invasive procedure was used as an alternative treatment option for patients who were at high surgical risk...

Adults Take Their Physical Activity On The Road

New public health research by a Purdue University professor could help shed light on how the environment can influence physical activity, especially when it comes to where people live. "We are not just measuring physical activity, but we are linking it to a location using small activity monitors and global positioning system devices," said Philip J...

New Oral Solution Formulation Of Antiepileptic Drug Vimpat (Lacosamide) (C-V)

UCB has announced the availability of an oral solution formulation of Vimpat® (lacosamide) C-V, an antiepileptic drug (AED) for add-on treatment of partial-onset seizures in people with epilepsy age 17 years and older. Vimpat 10 mg/mL solution is now available in U.S. pharmacies...

Certain Benefits Seen In Alzheimer’s Patients Following Consumption Of Apple Juice

Apple juice can be a useful supplement for calming the declining moods that are part of the normal progression of moderate-to-severe Alzheimer's Disease (AD), according to a study in American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias (AJADD), published by SAGE...

Study Claims Apple Juice Could Help Reduce Agitation And Anxiety In People With Dementia

Apple juice could help reduce behavioural and psychotic symptoms associated with dementia according to study published in the American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias. Researchers added two 4oz glasses of apple juice a day to the diets of 21 people with dementia with moderate to severe dementia...

For Better Health – Please Don’t Stop The Music!

Musicians say music soothes the soul; health researchers believe music heals the sick. There's a growing field of health care professionals who use melodies to promote relaxation, treat depression, and relieve anxiety and stress...

Texas Prepares For Health Reform’s Changes Despite Opposition To New Law; Other States Brace For Federal Funding Cuts

Stateline.org: "When Congress approved the sweeping federal health care overhaul in March, Texas Governor Rick Perry was one of the loudest critics. He blasted the initiative as unconstitutional, a government takeover of health care and an unfunded federal mandate on the states. ...

Radiation Scans Cause Increased Scrutiny

The Associated Press: "Americans get the most medical radiation in the world, even more than folks in other rich countries. The U.S. accounts for half of the most advanced procedures that use radiation, and the average American's dose has grown sixfold over the last couple of decades. Too much radiation raises the risk of cancer...

Health Overhaul Skirmishes Simmer Over Government Fliers, Drug Benefits

Republicans are complaining that, while the IRS sent out 4 million fliers to publicize $40 billion in tax credits for small businesses, the agency did not make a similar effort to inform tanning salons and their customers about a new 10 percent tax on their services, Politico reports...

Minister Brady Launches “Open Your Eyes” The Health Service Executive’s Elder Abuse Media And Public Awareness Campaign, Ireland

Ms Aine Brady TD, Minister for Older People today (Wednesday, 15th June) launched "Open Your Eyes" - the Health Service Executive's Elder Abuse Media and Public Awareness Campaign. Marking World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Minister urged people to follow up on any concerns they may have in relation to abuse of older people...

Retiring Health Care Professionals May Strain An Overburdened System

News outlets report on challenges and opportunities within the health care workforce. The Washington Post: "Since the passage of the health-care law in March, much has been said about the coming swarm of millions of retiring baby boomers and the strain they will put on the nation's health-care system. That's only half the problem...

Researchers Explore Potential Interventions In A Special Issue Of The Journal Of Alzheimer’s Disease

Although effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been slow to emerge, there has been substantial progress in identifying AD risk factors and developing treatments that might delay or prevent onset of the disease...

Towards Clinical Trials In Very Early Alzheimer Disease – Before Symptoms Appear

On the 9 June 2010, 119 participants from industry, academia, and related stakeholder communities in the U.S. and Europe joined Alzforum for a Webinar, "Treating Before Symptoms-ADCS Invites Ideas for Clinical Trials in Very Early AD," presented by Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study (ADCS) director Paul Aisen, MD. In the webinar, Dr...

Researchers Uncover Biochemical Pathway By Which Harmful Molecule May Raise Alzheimer’s Risk

A molecule implicated in Alzheimer's disease interferes with brain cells by making them unable to "recycle" the surface receptors that respond to incoming signals, researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have found. The harmful molecule, called APOE4, is present in about one out of every six people, the researchers said...

News From Annals Of Internal Medicine: June 15, 2010, Issue

Early Online Releases: 1. Insufficient Evidence to Suggest Lifestyle or Medical Interventions Can Delay or Prevent Alzheimer's or Cognitive Decline in Later Life Experts Say 'Promising' Research on Medication, Diet, Exercise, and Cognitive Engagement May Offer New Insights Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60 to 80 percent of all dementia cases and may affect as many as 5...

Parents Ill-Prepared To Reduce Kids’ Concussion Risks

With growing media attention to concussions among athletes young and old, and recent actions of the National Football League to reduce dangers from multiple concussions among its players, the spotlight is now on what schools are doing to protect their student-athletes. Do parents feel that their kids are safe, and do parents agree with school policies? The latest C.S...

Endurance Sports Can Leave Women Running On Empty

Female endurance sports athletes may be at risk for serious health issues, according to physicians at Loyola University Health System. Excessive exercise and inadequate nutrition can lead to problems such as low energy, menstrual irregularity, fertility issues, stress fractures and osteoporosis...

HHS Secretary Sebelius Urges Vermont Governor Douglas To Maintain Current Benefits For Vermont’s Seniors

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius urged Vermont Governor Jim Douglas to reconsider plans to reduce state benefits to seniors who are enrolled in the state's VPharm supplemental prescription assistance program, in response to the new Medicare Part D rebate checks...

Scammers Use Promise Of Medicare Rebate Checks To Steal Personal Info

The Illinois Attorney General is warning that scammers are trying to trick Medicare-eligible seniors into revealing personal information in order to get a rebate check, The Associated Press reports. "The first $250 rebate checks are being mailed this week to seniors in Medicare's drug coverage gap, known as the 'doughnut hole...

Dems To Seniors: The Medicare Checks Are In The Mail

The Obama administration began mailing $250 checks Thursday to seniors who hit the Medicare prescription drug doughnut hole - a notorious gap in coverage - as part of the health overhaul, The Columbus Dispatch reports...

More Help to Protect Yourself from Scams and Fraud

Study Into Telomere Length May Improve Understanding Of The Development Of Disease

A new study at the University of Leicester is examining a sequence of DNA- known as telomeres - that varies in length between individuals. This follows evidence that these structures shrink in length over an individual's lifetime and that this may contribute to several diseases including those commonly associated with ageing and, perhaps most importantly, the development of cancer...

Alzheimer’s Society Comment On New Research Into The Effects Of Amyloid On Blood Clots In Alzheimer’s

Research published in the journal Neuron has shown that the amyloid protein, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, increases the likelihood of the formation of blood clots. The study worked with mouse models of the disease to determine how the presence of the amyloid protein affected accumulation of fibrinogen, a key component of blood clots...

The NHS Is Calling On All Trusts To Back Men’s Health Week, UK

Health Week 14-20th June 2010 - Mike Farrar is backing the Men's Health Forum's drive to encourage government, the NHS, local government, sports organisations, charities and others to work together to help one million more men aged 35-64 in England achieve the Chief Medical Officer's minimum recommended levels of physical activity by 2012...

Getting Men Over 35 Back Into Exercise Through Football (soccer), United Kingdom

Even though demand for over-35s football (soccer) is in clear demand, and with the average male having ever-growing time commitments, there is concern over their stamina, fear of injury and the qualities of the facilities in question. Consequently, not-so-young men tend to drop out of 11-a-side football...

An Evidence-based Perspective On Traumatic Brain Injury In Professional Football

Experts from Johns Hopkins Medicine hosted a press conference following a continuing medical education program on the epidemiology of head injury in professional football. The program was an evidence-based review of traumatic brain injury in the sport...

Dying Patient’s Illness Experience Shared by Family Carers

A new study has said that family caregivers who attend to dying patients often share whole illness of their loved ones and need support just as much.

New System Developed For Early Diagnosis Of Alzheimer’s Disease

Researchers of the University of Granada have developed a new computer program that allows early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease through processed images. This new system has enhanced successful early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease up to 90%, which is an important progress within this area of study...

Role Of Gene That Causes Early Onset Alzheimer’s Revealed

Researchers in the US have discovered how mutations in the presenilin 1 gene that causes early onset familial Alzheimer's Disease disrupt an essential process for recycling protein, thus allowing toxins to build up and kill brain cells...

Being Physically Fit Reduces Risk of Seniors Taking a Tumble

What can lower a senior's risk of falling resulting in injury, a new research suggests, is physically fitness and a regular exercise routine. Although

Milestone For Research On Neurodegenerative Diseases

Representatives of the German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), the UK Medical Research Council (MRC) and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) today signed a cooperation agreement that aims to establish and apply harmonised guidelines and technologies for research on neurodegenerative diseases...

Mechanism Links Abnormal Blood Clots With Alzheimer’s Disease

New research suggests that abnormalities in the process of blood clot formation may contribute to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The study, published by Cell Press in the June 10 issue of the journal Neuron, advances our understanding of the link between vascular pathology and AD and proposes a new therapeutic strategy aimed at slowing cognitive decline...

Common Alzheimer’s Medication Helps Skills Necessary For Safe Driving

A promising study from Rhode Island Hospital demonstrated that cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEI), a type of medication often prescribed for Alzheimer's disease (AD), improved some cognitive skills in patients with mild AD - skills that are necessary for driving...

Smarter Spending Would Help To Contain Cost ‘Timebomb’ – Alzheimer’s Society, UK

Alzheimer's Society is supporting a call by national charity Counsel and Care to spend smarter to help the financial crisis. Counsel and Care want government and local councils to use social care funding more wisely to deliver better care for Britain's ageing population...

Progression Of ALS May Be Slowed By Exercise

University of Alberta researchers are looking at exercise as a new way to slow the degenerative processes of ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Dr. Kelvin Jones, a recipient of this year's ALS Canada Discovery Grant, has been pioneering research in this field for four years, using mice genetically altered to present familial ALS...

Two New Studies Reveal Well-Being Over A Lifetime And The Well-Being Challenges Faced By Caregivers

Studies published by Healthways Center for Health Research (CHR) in its May 2010 publication of Outcomes & Insights provide new knowledge of the impact of age on well-being, and the effect of caregiving on the well-being of the 52 million Americans providing care for an adult who is ill or disabled...

Research Shows Delaware Embraces Physical Activity And Nutrition Standards In Child Care

A study conducted by the nonprofit health research organization Altarum Institute suggests that Delaware's first-in-the-nation guidelines for nutrition and physical activity in child care are broadly accepted by both child care providers and parents, and that challenges to implementing the policies can be overcome with support...

The Athletic Performance Of Collegiate Football Players Improved By Extra Sleep

Getting extra sleep over an extended period of time improves athletic performance, alertness and mood, according to a research abstract presented Tuesday, June 8, 2010, in San Antonio, Texas, at SLEEP 2010, the 24th annual meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC...

Study Links Long Sleep Duration To An Increased Risk Of Metabolic Syndrome In Older Adults

Long sleep duration is associated with an elevated prevalence of metabolic syndrome in older adults, according to a research abstract presented Tuesday, June 8, 2010, in San Antonio, Texas, at SLEEP 2010, the 24th annual meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC...

Recent Study Documents The Spread Of A Disease Process Thought To Signal The Onset Of Alzheimer’s Disease

Research unveiled at SNM's 57th Annual Meeting shows that scientists are drawing closer to documenting the progression of a disease process believed to cause Alzheimer's disease. This research could eventually lead to life-saving preventative measures for millions of patients who suffer from this chronic neurodegenerative disorder...

Long Sleep Duration Elevates Metabolic Syndrome Risk in Elderly

A new research has established a link between long sleep duration and elevated prevalence of metabolic syndrome in older adults. The study has been

Cardiovascular Health Awareness Program (CHAP) Reduces Rates Of Heart Disease And Stroke In Communities

A community-based health promotion program delivered by over 500 peer volunteers significantly reduces heart disease and stroke in seniors, Canadian Stroke Network researcher Dr. Janusz Kaczorowski told the Canadian Stroke Congress...

Will Caregivers Pay For Time To Themselves?

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University used comparable studies to show that caregivers are willing to pay for the Tailored Activity Program (TAP) which is designed to reduce caregiver burden. Caregiver programs often fall outside the scope of health care benefits, so researchers used a unique approach to examine the value of TAP to dementia patients and their families...

Hospitals To Face Financial Penalties For Readmissions, UK

Alzheimer's Society comment on Andrew Lansley's announcement that hospitals will face financial penalties if patients are readmitted as an emergency within 30 days of being discharged. In his first major speech as the new health secretary, Lansley said that hospitals in England will be paid for initial treatment but not paid again if a patient is brought back in with a related problem...

Brain Imaging Technique Can Track Build-Up Of Plaques Associated With Early Stages Of Alzheimer’s Disease

Research revealed at SNM's 57th Annual Meeting is furthering efforts to use molecular imaging as a means of early detection of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers are striving to detect the disease as early as possible by imaging the formation of a naturally-occurring protein in the brain called beta-amyloid, which is thought to be closely linked to disease onset...

Healthy Diet Could Slow Or Reverse Early Effects Of Alzheimer’s Disease

Patients in the early to moderate stages of Alzheimer's Disease could have their cognitive impairment slowed or even reversed by switching to a healthier diet, according to researchers at Temple University...

New Molecular Imaging Agent May Provide Early Diagnosis Of Alzheimer’s Disease

A multinational clinical trial revealed at SNM's 57th Annual Meeting presents a novel imaging agent that could be the next major breakthrough for the early detection of Alzheimer's disease - a slow but fatal neurodegenerative disease...

HHS, CMS And The Administration On Aging Launch Fraud Prevention Education Campaign

As eligible seniors who have entered the Medicare Part D donut hole this year begin to receive their tax-free, one time rebate check for $250 starting this Thursday, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and senior officials from the Administration on Aging and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services launched a national education effort to ensure that...

Lithium Therapy Improvement By Reduction Of Its Toxicity

Lithium is the most effective treatment for bipolar disorder. However, its use is limited because of neurological side effects and a risk for overdose-induced toxicity. Many of the beneficial effects of lithium are mediated by its inhibition of GSK-3 proteins, but whether this is the mechanism underlying its negative effects has not been determined...

States To Curb Retiree Benefits In Search Of Savings

States are seeking savings in public employee retiree benefits to close sprawling budget gaps, Bloomberg Businessweek reports. "New Jersey and 20 other states are urging early retirements, cutting benefits and demanding employees contribute more in the face of what the Pew Center on the States says is a $1 trillion gap between available assets and what's owed workers." States had only $2...

Obama Sets Town Hall Meeting With Seniors To Tout Medicare Rebate Checks

The New York Times Blog: President Barack Obama has scheduled a televised town hall meeting Tuesday in Wheaton, Md., "to trumpet one of the most popular provisions of his landmark health care bill: a $250 rebate to help Medicare beneficiaries pay for prescription drugs. ...

Minister For Older People And Health Promotion, Aine Brady TD, Emphasises Need For Vigilance In Relation To Elder Abuse, Ireland

Ms Aine Brady TD, Minister for Older People and Health Promotion, said that people must be alert to the risk of elder abuse and to take the necessary action if they have suspicions. The Minister was commenting on the launch of the HSE Elder Abuse Service Report 2009...

Another Exercise Benefit: You Won’t Fall As Much

Remaining physically fit and sticking to a regular exercise routine could lower your risk of taking a tumble, finds a new research study. About 19,000 people die each year in the United States from falls and about 8 million undergo treatment in emergency rooms...

Keep Aging Relatives Cancer-Free

Family members can help reduce an aging relative's risk of cancer by encouraging healthy lifestyle changes, according to experts at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. "Thanks to modern medicine, more people are living longer," said Therese B. Bevers, M.D., medical director of MD Anderson's Cancer Prevention Center. "But a longer life doesn't always equal a healthier one...

Medicare Advantage Is Reducing Preventable Hospital Readmissions For Seniors

A new analysis of federal and state government data provides further evidence that seniors in Medicare Advantage have lower risk-adjusted hospital readmission rates than patients in Medicare's traditional fee-for-service (FFS) program, according to a report released by America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP)...

College Athletes Take Risks With Alcohol And Energy Drinks

Among 401 NCAA athletes at a major Division-I university, more than one-third reported mixing alcohol and energy drinks in the previous year, according to a study presented at the American College of Sports Medicine's 57th Annual Meeting in Baltimore. Conrad Woolsey, Ph.D...

University Of Pittsburgh Professor Honored For His Work With Early Detection In Alzheimer’s Disease

Chester A. Mathis, Ph.D., director of the PET facility in the department of radiology at the University of Pittsburgh, has been named as this year's recipient of the prestigious Paul C. Aebersold Award. Mathis was presented the award by SNM - a leading molecular imaging and nuclear medicine society - during its 57th Annual Meeting, June 5, in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Paul C...

Walk A Hound And Lose Some Pounds

When beginning a new exercise program, many people decide to recruit an "exercise buddy" to keep each other accountable. According to a study presented at American College of Sports Medicine's 57th Annual Meeting in Baltimore, another type of friend can help increase physical activity - man's best friend...

Common Knee Pain In Runners Effectively Reduced, Eliminated By Hip Exercises

A twice weekly hip strengthening regimen performed for six weeks proved surprisingly effective at reducing -- and in some cases eliminating -- knee pain referred to as patellofemoral pain (PFP) in female runners...

Seniors on Social Security Lost 24 Percent of Their Buying Power Since 2000

Exercise Is Good Medicine For Preventing And Reducing An Angry Mood

Numerous studies have examined the positive effects of exercise on improving mood. However, little research has been designed to investigate the effect of exercise on feelings of anger. A recent study presented at American College of Sports Medicine's 57th Annual Meeting in Baltimore discovered that exercise might have a beneficial affect on anger in men...

Study: Strength Training Improves Flexibility, Too

While conventional wisdom says static stretching improves flexibility over resistance training, a study presented today at the American College of Sports Medicine's 57th Annual Meeting in Baltimore calls that into question. Researchers compared the two techniques' effect on flexibility of the same muscle/joint complexes in a five-week intervention...

Pneumatic Drill/Speeding Train Ringtones: Elderly Are Game

Ringtones as loud as a pneumatic drill or a speeding train is catching up with the elderly. The Geemarc Clearsound CL8200,which has a top volume

Edmonton Commits to ‘Age-Friendly’ Environment

Edmonton in Canada has become the first city in the country to vow to work towards a more "age-friendly" environment and to make things easier for senior citizens.

Inspiratory Muscle Training And Endurance Sport Performance

An Indiana University study found that strengthening inspiratory muscles by performing daily breathing exercises for six weeks significantly reduced the amount of oxygen these same breathing muscles required during exercise, possibly making more oxygen available for other muscles...

Key Nutrient In Maternal Diet Promises ‘Dramatic’ Improvements For People With Down Syndrome

A nutrient found in egg yolks, liver and cauliflower taken by mothers during pregnancy and nursing may offer lifelong "dramatic" health benefits to people with Down syndrome ...

Gene Related To Aging Plays Role In Stem Cell Differentiation

A gene shown to play a role in the aging process appears to play a role in the regulation of the differentiation of embryonic stem cells, according to researchers from the Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine and the Department of Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University...

Don’t Rely On Water Alone When Exercising In Heat

Water is essential when exercising in the heat but it might not be enough to keep you healthy in Houston summers. "Ten or 15 years ago we told everyone to drink as much water as possible to replace fluids. Now we know that is not such a good idea," said Dr. James Muntz, an internist with The Methodist Hospital in Houston. "Water is important, but sports drinks, might be more important...

Hit The Treadmill-Not Just The Books-To Boost Grades

Many college students sweat before finals, but those who also sweat through exercise may have an edge, according to a study presented at the American College of Sports Medicine's 57th Annual Meeting in Baltimore...

Injuries In Emerging Sports Call For Improved Medical Understanding

Two of the fastest growing sports in the United States, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and Roller Derby, share a reputation as violent exhibitions with frequent injuries. As interest in these ruff and tumble bouts grows, the number of injuries is likely to grow as well...

Studies Prove Multiple Benefits Of Worksite Health Programs

Two separate worksite health interventions significantly improved employees' health and fitness levels, as presented in a pair of studies at the American College of Sports Medicine's 57th Annual Meeting in Baltimore. In the first study, 12 overweight or obese, sedentary office workers volunteered to have treadmill workstations installed in their offices for nine months...

Study Gauges Seniors’ Calorie Burn Playing Active Video Games

While video games take heat for contributing to a generation of sedentary youth, some types of games may help older adults become more physically active, according to a study presented at the American College of Sports Medicine's 57th Annual Meeting in Baltimore. Researchers found that playing Nintendo's Wii can help healthy, overweight seniors burn calories...

Scientific Study Proves Efficacy Of EA SPORTS Active Digital Fitness Programs

A new study conducted by Dr. John Porcari from the University of Wisconsin concludes that using EA SPORTS Active™ and EA SPORTS Active™ More Workouts from Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS) passed fitness guidelines for an effective workout put forth by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)...

Drinking Chocolate Milk After A Workout Offers Advantages For Post-Exercise Performance And Muscle Repair

One of the best post-exercise recovery drinks could already be in your refrigerator, according to new research presented at the American College of Sports Medicine conference this week. In a series of four studies, researchers found that chocolate milk offered a recovery advantage to help repair and rebuild muscles, compared to specially designed carbohydrate sports drinks...

Palliative Care Research To Improve Care Of Seriously Ill Patients To Benefit From $1.8 Million Award

The American Cancer Society and the National Palliative Care Research Center (NPCRC) are awarding $1.8 million in research grants to researchers at 12 institutions for studies aimed at reducing suffering for seriously ill patients and their family caregivers. The studies will be conducted over the next two years...

Major Canada-US Differences in People in Middle Age Highlighted

An Alberta researcher says that middle-aged Canadians are much less worried about the future than their American counterparts, some of whom are close to panic.

A Possible Connection Between Tidy House And Fitter Body

An Indiana University study that examined the relationship between physical activity and a range of variables involving urban residents' homes and neighborhoods found that the inside of study subjects' homes had more to do with higher physical activity levels than the sidewalks, lighting and other elements considered...

Major Canada-US Differences In People In Middle Age Highlighted At Congress Of The Humanities And Social Sciences

Middle-aged Canadians are much less worried about the future than their American counterparts, some of whom are close to panic, says an Alberta researcher who has just finished a survey in both countries. And she says the differing attitudes today may foreshadow growing differences between the two countries as that cohort move into old age...

Cardiorespiratory Fitness Found To Predict Stroke Risk

Men with low levels of cardiorespiratory fitness are 60 percent more likely to die of stroke than men who are moderately fit or highly fit, according to a study presented today at the American College of Sports Medicine's 57th Annual Meeting in Baltimore. While men who were physically active had fewer strokes, cardiorespiratory fitness was shown to be a more reliable predictor of stroke risk...

Delaying Gallbladder Removal Could Prove Fatal In Elderly

Delaying gallbladder removal could prove fatal in elderly, according to a new study. Gallstone disease is the most costly digestive disease in the United

Sports, Exercise Associated With Decreased Depression In Black U.S. Adults

The ability of physical activity to ease symptoms of depression has been studied frequently in Caucasian individuals. Research presented at the American College of Sports Medicine's . 57th Annual Meeting in Baltimore shows that African-Americans and Black Caribbeans may also enjoy a boost from exercise or participating in sports...

New Guidelines Strongly Recommend Exercise For Cancer Patients, Survivors

Cancer survivors - including those currently undergoing treatment - can experience a multitude of benefits from exercise, according to a new roundtable statement from the American College of Sports Medicine. The recommendations were presented at ACSM's 57th Annual Meeting in Baltimore...

Study: Doctors Not Talking About Strength Training With Patients

Although strength training is a key component of fitness, physicians and other health care providers aren't routinely discussing it with patients, according to a study presented at American College of Sports Medicine's 57th Annual Meeting in Baltimore. Teresa Merrick, Ph.D., surveyed 171 adults over age 40 about their recent visits to health care providers...

Cognitive Ability, Not Age, Predicts Risky Decisions

Just because your mother has turned 85, you shouldn't assume you'll have to take over her financial matters. She may be just as good or better than you at making quick, sound, money-making decisions, according to researchers at Duke University. "It's not age, it's cognition that makes the difference in decision-making," said Scott Huettel, Ph.D...

Physical Activity For Children With Hypertension

Children and adolescents are encouraged to engage in non-competitive physical activity to reduce the risk of hypertension. Individuals with hypertension, the most common cardiovascular condition seen in competitive athletes, can suffer complications when exercise causes their blood pressure to rise too high...

Firms Chase Opportunities In Online Medicine

General Electric Co. chief executive Jeffrey Immelt urged Japan, at a conference in Tokyo Monday, to use health information technology to improve home-based health care as a hedge against the strains of an aging population, The Wall Street Journal reports. Japan's over-65 population is growing, and could top 30 percent by 2030...

With Congress On Recess, Health Reform Politics Emerge On Homefront

The Associated Press: While Americans remain divided over the new health reform law, "they aren't clamoring for its repeal. ... Instead, the public seems willing to listen to candidates who would give the overhaul a chance and fix or improve it as needed. That's the signal from some surveys and a congressional race in a bellwether Pennsylvania district...

Risk of Elevators Still High for Senior Adults

A recent study has opined that elevators can prove dangerous to senior adults, even though they are considered one of the safest forms of transportation today.

Canadian Teens Will be Taught About Safe Sex by Wonder Vag, Captain Condom

A new way to teach youngsters about safe sex has been devised by the Middlesex-London health authority in Canada. It has come up with a sex-ed game, Adventures in Sex City.

Alzheimer’s Risk Linked to Untreated Poor Vision in Elderly

A University of Michigan Health System study says that lack of adequate vision coverage of older adults may put them at increased risk of Alzheimer's disease - the most common form of dementia.

Make Aged Care an Entitlement Like Medicare: CHA

Aged care should be made an entitlement available to every person who needs it, according to a community aged care policy blueprint released today by

Hospitalization and Cognitive Decline Linked In Older Adults

Older patients hospitalized for acute care or a critical illness are more likely to experience cognitive decline compared to older adults who are not

20-min Revolutionary Op for Ageing Eyes

Restoring near-perfect vision for age-related problems, in a 20 minute operation, has been developed by scientists. The 20-minute operation involves

Pharmacists Could Help Combat Osteoporosis

Pharmacists could help combat osteoporosis, as they are easily accessible and are playing a greater role in health promotion and disease prevention , say Canadian researchers.

No Consensus in Definitions of ‘had Sex’

No uniform consensus existed when a representative sample of 18- to 96-year-olds was asked what the term "had sex" meant to them, a new study from the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University has found.

‘You’re Only As Old as You Feel’: Age Explained

How you think about your age may affect how you age, that's the conclusion of a research from Purdue University. "How old you are matters,

Cerebral Plaques Lead to Neurodegeneration

In a new study on how Amyloid-Beta found in cerebral plaques, typically present in the brain of Alzheimer's patients, it has been shown to lead to neurodegeneration.

Minister Moloney At Laying Of Foundation Stone In 100 Bed Unit In St Mary’s Care Centre, Mullingar, Ireland

Mr. John Moloney, T.D, Minister for State with responsibility for Disability and Mental Health was in Mullingar for the Laying of the Foundation Stone Ceremony in St Mary's Care Centre. The development comprises 52 beds for older persons which will replace the beds in St. Mary's, and 48 beds for the Psychiatry of Old Age, to replace those beds in St. Loman's...

Education Helps Against Dementia

Researchers have discovered that education not only delays the early symptoms of dementia, but can also slow down the development of the disease a finding that could result in faster diagnosis and treatment of dementia, reveals a thesis from the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden...

More Support Needed For Doctors Working In Aged Care, Australia

The AMA today called for more Government support for doctors to provide medical care to frail, elderly residents in aged care facilities. AMA President, Dr Andrew Pesce, said that he is not surprised by the alarming reports of poor care being delivered in some residential aged care facilities and that our senior citizens deserve better...

Let Nurses Fix Aged Care – Australian Nursing Federation

The Australian Nursing Federation Assistant Secretary Lee Thomas said newly emerged claims of nursing home neglect highlighted the importance of continued government reform in the aged care sector. "Reform has begun, but these disturbing allegations are a harsh reminder that it is imperative Australia acts quickly to protect its most vulnerable citizens," Ms Thomas said...

Sinusitis Natural Cures for Sinusitis

Sinusitis is the name given to the swelling of the lining of the sinuses — the mucous membranes — that can result in obstruction of drainage and subsequent infection. The fluid produced by the inflammation and blockage feeds bacteria, which can lead to an infection. The most common predisposing factor to acute bacterial sinusitis is viral upper respiratory infection (the common cold).

A dental infection can be the cause 25% of the time when sinusitis affects primarily the maxillary sinuses (the sinuses of the cheek). In chronic cases, low immune function as well as hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and food allergies are often important factors.

Although antibiotics are the dominant therapy for acute and chronic bacterial sinusitis, it is of limited value. In fact, there is considerable doubt that most antibiotics provide any benefit at all. A detailed analysis to determine the evidence for the effectiveness of antibiotics in acute sinusitis in adults concluded: “The effectiveness of antibiotics in acute maxillary sinusitis in a general practice population is not based sufficiently on evidence.” The same can be said about chronic sinusitis. In other words, there is no evidence that antibiotics provide any benefit.

Nevertheless, in severe or unresponsive cases antibiotics may be appropriate. Newer, more powerful antibiotics (e.g., lactam antibiotics) appear to be more effective than penicillin, amoxicillin, and other less powerful antibiotics.

In children, there is even less evidence that antimicrobial agents are of some benefit. Overuse of antibiotics to treat children who have sinusitis or otitis media is a growing concern, as it is leading to antibiotic-resistant strains of bacterial pathogens. According to a 1997 review article, no studies that show antibiotics to be effective have been published.

Clearly, addressing the underlying cause of chronic sinusitis (e.g., low immune function and respiratory or food allergens), along with supportive therapy (e.g., saline nasal sprays, immune-enhancing herbs, and natural decongestants), appears to be the most rational approach.

Helicobacier pylon

An interesting study involved asthma and eczema patients who had symptoms of peptic ulcer and the presence of Helicobacter pylon—the bacteria linked to ulcers. Elimination of H. pylon (using antibiotics) resolved allergy symptoms, including chronic sinusitis, in a significant number of these patients.8 If you have chronic sinusitis, we recommend asking your doctor to screen for H. pylon.

Bromelain

Bromelain is a group of sulfur-containing enzymes, obtained from the pineapple plant (Ananas comusus), that digest protein (proteolytic enzymes or proteases). Patients with acute sinusitis have responded to bromelain therapy. In one study, good-to-excellent results were obtained in eighty-seven percent of bromelain-treated patients, compared with sixty-eight percent of the placebo group.

In cases of acute sinusitis, the therapeutic goals are to reestablish drainage and to clear the acute infection. Various measures can be used: local application of heat, local use of volatile oils and botanicals with antibacterial properties, and immune system support.

Allergy and Respiratory Tract Irritants

Individuals with chronic sinusitis should avoid environmental and food allergens. Studies have shown that between twenty-five and seventy percent of people with allergies have sinusitis. Environmental control requires the use of air-filtering vacuum cleaners and installation of an air cleaner with a HEPA filter. Some particularly sensitive people may need to have all pets removed from the home, along with carpeting and feather bedding.

In addition to allergens, chemicals in the environment that irritate the respiratory tract can often be a problem for patients who have chronic sinusitis. A small portable air purifier as well as live plants may help purify the air.

Medicare ‘Doughnut Hole’ Rebate Checks Are In Mail, Obama Administration Announces

The Los Angeles Times: "Senior citizens who hit the so-called doughnut hole in Medicare's drug benefit will begin getting $250 rebate checks in two weeks, the Obama administration announced Thursday - providing one of the first tangible benefits of the recently enacted healthcare law...

Planned Parenthood President Responds To New York Times Column On Global Family Planning

Nicholas Kristof's recent New York Times column on challenges to family planning in developing nations "rightly prescribes more than just dispensing birth control pills in helping women make informed reproductive choices," Planned Parenthood Federation of America President Cecile Richards writes in a letter to the editor...

Universal Language Of Rhythm To Aid World Cup Success

A song promoting a 'rhythm for success,' to inspire footballers to score more goals during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, has been composed by a Durham University researcher using a new 'language' for African drums...

What Is Metatarsalgia? What Causes Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia, also known as stone bruise, is a type of pain and inflammation that occurs in a part of the foot known as the metatarsal (ball of foot). It often occurs in the metatarsal heads - where the three middle toes meet the ball of the foot. It is a common problem which can affect the bones and joints of the metatarsals...

Minister Brady Consults With Older People In The Midlands, Ireland

The Minister for Older People and Health Promotion Aine Brady TD met with over 130 older people, service providers and personnel from voluntary and community bodies working with older people in the Midlands...

Consider Teen Activity Options When Choosing Where To Live

Choosing a neighborhood that has places to walk to and safe routes to get there can help your child maintain a healthy weight during adolescence. A new Journal of Adolescent Health study correlated the incidence of obesity in students grades eight through ten with options for physical activity in their immediate environment...

University Launches Rugby Research Project To Tackle Scrum Injury

The University of Bath has received funding from the International Rugby Board to launch a major study of the scrum that will that drive best practice player welfare policy in this critical area of the game...

What Is My Ideal Weight? How Much Should I Weigh?

To determine how much you should weigh (your ideal body weight) several factors should be considered, including age, muscle-fat ratio, height, sex, and bone density. Some say your Body Mass Index (BMI) is the ideal way to calculate whether your body weight is ideal. Others say BMI is faulty as it does not take into account muscle mass, and waist-hip ratio is better...

Statement By Minister Harney – Strategy For A Stable, Community Rated Health Insurance Market, Ireland

The Minister for Health and Children, Mary Harney, T.D., today gave further details about the set of strategic actions approved by the Government to ensure the effective operation of community rating in health insurance market so as to protect older and sicker customers...

2 Glasses Of Milk A Day Tones Muscles, Keeps The Fat Away In Women, Study Shows

Women who drink two large glasses of milk a day after their weight-lifting routine gained more muscle and lost more fat compared to women who drank sugar-based energy drinks, a McMaster study has found. The study appears in the June issue of Medicine and Science in Sport and Exercise...

Deep-Brain Stimulation: Calms PD Shakes-What About The Mind?

A surgical treatment that stimulates distressed neural networks through electrodes threaded directly into a person's brain has quietly made a difference in the lives of tens of thousands of people with Parkinson disease, essential tremor, and dystonia over the course of the past decade...

Chilled To Death: Heart And Stroke Deaths Peak In Winter

Rates of cardiovascular disease increase dramatically in Australian winters because many people don't know how to rug up against the cold, a Queensland University of Technology (QUT) seasonal researcher has found...

Study Reveals The Way Capillaries Spit To Clear Blockages And How Process Slows In Aging Brain

Spitting can be a good thing when it comes to blood vessels. Scientists at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine have discovered capillaries have a unique method of expelling debris, such as blood clots, cholesterol or calcium plaque, that blocks the flow of essential nutrients to brain cells...

‘Chemical Snapshot’ Of The Effects Of Exercise Provided By Detailed Metabolic Profile

Using a system that analyzes blood samples with unprecedented detail, a team led by Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) researchers has developed the first "chemical snapshot" of the metabolic effects of exercise...

Pelosi, ‘We Passed Health Reform To Improve Medicare And Ensure Seniors Can Count On It Now And For Generations’

Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, Barbara Kennelly of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, and Dr. Ben Williamowsky of Silver Spring, Md., a Medicare recipient, held a news conference to discuss benefits of and misconceptions about the Affordable Care Act and Medicare...

Exercise Appears To Reduce Cellular Aging Caused By Stress

Researchers in the US found that brief vigorous exercise can reduce cellular aging by preventing the shortening of telomeres due to stress. You can read about the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) study in a paper published online in the open access journal PLoS ONE on 26 May...

High-Strain Tendons Repair Less Frequently

In a discovery that seems counterintuitive, a study appearing in the May 21st Journal of Biological Chemistry has found that tendons in high-stress and strain areas, like the Achilles tendon, actually repair themselves less frequently than low-stress tendons. This study sheds some light on the increased susceptibility of certain tendons to injury during aging...

New Book By UCSB Author Offers A Formula For Alzheimer’s Disease Management And Prevention

With the aging of nearly 80 million baby boomers, Alzheimer's disease is an impending epidemic that requires a new approach to prevention as well as management of the disease, according to a UC Santa Barbara professor who has co-authored a new book on the topic. "The Alzheimer's Solution, How Today's Care is Failing Millions and How We can Do Better," by Kenneth S...

Journal Of Alzheimer’s Disease Annual Award For Outstanding Contribution 2010

Rudy J. Castellani, Jr., MD, has been chosen as recipient of the 2010 Alzheimer Award presented by the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease in recognition of his outstanding work, "Reexamining Alzheimer's Disease: Evidence for a Protective Role for Amyloid-β Protein Precursor and Amyloid-β," (J Alzheimers Dis 18, 447-452, 2009) by R.J. Castellani et al...

Falls in Active Older Adults can be Cut by Single-Lens Distance Glasses

New research says that older adults should replace multifocal glasses with single lens distance glasses to reduce their chances of suffering falls. Experts

Hospital Stays For Pneumonia Patients Cut By Hands-On Osteopathic Treatment

Older patients battling pneumonia spent less time in the hospital when treated using osteopathic manipulative medicine - a drug-free form of hands-on medical care focusing on increasing muscle motion - in addition to conventional care, recently published research shows...

Today’s OpEds: States Must Take On Public Health Challenges; Placing Blame For High Health Costs

Out With Rationing, In With Price Controls The Wall Street Journal Britain's 'reform' will do little to improve access to life-extending drugs (5/25)...

Older Active People Fall Less Often With Single Lens Distance Glasses

Older individuals who wear multifocal glasses and who regularly take part in outdoor activities are less likely to suffer falls if they are provided with single lens distance glasses, say Australian researchers. However, the authors of a report which appeared in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) today warn that this strategy may not be appropriate for frailer people who spend more time indoors...

HHS ‘Special Mailing’ On Health Law’s Immediate Medicare Benefits Sparks GOP Grumbles

CQ HealthBeat: "Education or propaganda? Or 'beyond propaganda?' The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced Monday that it will soon send Medicare beneficiaries a special mailing on 'the immediate benefits they may see' from the health care overhaul law...

Clue To Treatment For Alzheimer’s Provided By Mutant Gum Disease Bacteria

A defective, mutant strain of the bacterium that causes gum disease could provide a clue to potential treatments for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and a number of other diseases. Researchers from the University of Florida College of Dentistry report their findings today at the 110th General Meeting of the American Society for Microbiology in San Diego...

Should We Focus On Tackling Physical Inactivity Instead Of Obesity?

What is the best way to tackle the obesity crisis? There appears to be some disagreement among experts in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) today...

‘Obese’ BMI Does Not Harm Current Health Of Young Adults

A study examining the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and illness suggests that a BMI of 30 or above, a signal of obesity according to federal health standards, does not translate into current illness among adults under age 40...

Genetic Mutation Associated With Famous Alzheimer Patient May Have Been Identified

Writing the latest pages of an anthropological mystery, scientists propose in this month's Archives of Neurology that it is highly possible that Auguste Deter, the first identified Alzheimer disease patient, carried the N141I presenilin-2 mutation-the same one as in present-day U.S. families descended from German emigrants who settled near the river Volga in Russia...

Minister Brady Launches The Older Persons Strategy Of The Respond! Housing Association, Waterford, Ireland

Aine Brady, T.D., Minister for Older People, launched the Older Persons Strategy of the Respond! Housing Association...

Protein Regulates Enzyme Linked To Alzheimer’s Disease

Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine have zeroed in on a protein that may play a role in the progression of Alzheimer's disease. The team found that increasing levels of the protein (called GGA3) prevented the accumulation of an enzyme linked to Alzheimer's. The strategy may lead to new treatments for the neurodegenerative disease...

‘Stress’ Protein Could Halt Aging Process, Say Scientists

HSP10 (Heat Shock Protein), helps monitor and organise protein interactions in the body, and responds to environmental stresses, such as exercise and infection, by increasing its production inside cells...

« Previous Page — Next Page »