MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'american academy'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:57:55 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5077691&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fswimming-may-not-be-as-safe-for-your-children-as-you-think%2F2011.07.28 As summer continues in North America, and for anyone who goes near the water during any time of year, prevention of drowning is very important. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) takes its responsibilities on this issue seriously, and in 2010 issued a policy statement on prevention of drowning. This is a remarkable and well-thought out document that addresses all of the important issues associated with risk for and prevention of drowning. The online version of the policy statement, along with updated information and services, is available on the web. The document points out that, historically, drowning has been the second leading cause of unintentional death in individuals aged one to 19 years, causing more than 1,100 deaths per year in the United States alone. The AAP defines drowni... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5077691 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 16:00:00 +0100 5077691 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968486&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fprimary-care-is-undervalued-what-should-be-done%2F2011.06.26 An article by Brian Klepper and Paul Fischer at Health Affairs has me all fired up. Finally these two health experts are calling it like it is. The Wall Street Journal, New York Times and EverythingHealth have written before about the way primary care is undervalued and underpayed in this country and how it is harming the health and economics of the United States. A secretive, specialist-dominated panel within the American Medical Association called the RUC has been valuing medical services for decades. They divvy up billions of Medicare and Medicaid dollars and all insurance payers base their reimbursement on these values also. The result has been gross overpayment of procedures and medical specialists and underpayment of doctors who practice primary care in internal medicine, family medi... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968486 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 16:00:00 +0100 4968486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4841671&cid=t_224443_113_f&fid=38236&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthcareitnews.com%2Fblog%2Fcustomization-key-successful-pediatric-emr-systems As my interest in electronic medical records, especially in the pediatric realm, has grown alongside the weight and height of my young children, I did a little digging to see just how large the pediatric-specific EMR market has become. A simple Google search of “pediatrics, EMR” brought up, suffice it say, results too numerous to dive into (550,000, to be exact).   No sticky read more (Source: Healthcare IT News Blog) Healthcare IT News Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4841671 Tue, 17 May 2011 13:38:09 +0100 4841671 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4813391&cid=t_224443_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F05%2Fdear-ceo-are-you-making-most-of-your_11.html Your hospital has a great website with lots of clever graphics, health calculators, videos, and flash presentations ! Your marketing department is very pleased that you now have a Youtube and Twitter channel and a Facebook page. However, if you are using your hospital website as just a branding tool or a digital hospital brochure , you are not getting most bang for your buck !You need to integrate Information Therapy as part of your medical workflow, so your doctors can provide better medical care to their patients; and your patients can have a hospital experience they can rave about !By using clever new applications based on the Healthwise Knowledgebase , you can marry Information Therapy with EMRs, patient portals and web 2.0 social media, to improve the care you provide to your patients... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4813391 Wed, 11 May 2011 03:15:00 +0100 4813391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4803282&cid=t_224443_113_f&fid=38236&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthcareitnews.com%2Fblog%2Fpediatric-emrs-getting-their-fair-share-hit-spotlight I was pleasantly surprised a few weeks ago when I walked into the office of my daughter’s pediatrician and saw a computer monitor and keyboard ready to be unwrapped and plugged in – presumably to an electronic medical record. Perhaps by our next visit, the doctor would already be familiar with my daughter’s trip to the emergency room in another town, and the results of a visit to a specialist a few weeks later.   No sticky read more (Source: Healthcare IT News Blog) Healthcare IT News Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4803282 Mon, 09 May 2011 12:23:30 +0100 4803282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653461&cid=t_224443_125_f&fid=37825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbibbynews.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F03%2F29%2Fcelebrate-the-root-canal%2F   What was the dentist doing in Panama? …Looking for the Root Canal  Root Canal Awareness Week The American Association of Endodontists has designated  March 27-April 2 as Root Canal Awareness Week. This event is a national effort to raise awareness of endodontists and to teach the public that root canals should not be [...] (Source: Bibby Library News and Tips) Bibby Library News and Tips blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653461 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 16:07:56 +0100 4653461 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4642673&cid=t_224443_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2F28%2Fpediatrics-gets-it-wrong-about-facebook-depression%2F You know it’s not good when one of the most prestigious pediatric journals, Pediatrics, can’t differentiate between correlation and causation. And yet this is exactly what the authors of a “clinical report” did in reporting on the impact of social media on children and teens. Especially in their discussion of “Facebook depression,” a term that the authors simply made up to describe the phenomenon observed when depressed people use social media. Shoddy research? You bet. That’s why Pediatrics calls it a “clinical report” — because it’s at the level of a bad blog post written by people with a clear agenda. In this case, the report was written by Gwenn Schurgin O’Keeffe, Kathleen Clarke-Pearson and the American Academy of... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4642673 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 19:05:36 +0100 4642673 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4636528&cid=t_224443_113_f&fid=38236&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthcareitnews.com%2Fblog%2Fafter-icd-10-will-coders-ever-regain-icd-9-efficiency-levels If anyone is suggesting that ICD-10 will not create a productivity drop in the days after compliance, they must be practicing silent protest. Most experts agree that come the flip-switch October 1, 2013 compliance deadline even seasoned, well-trained coders will take longer with the ICD-10 than they did with ICD-9. The overarching question is whether or not coders will master ICD-10 and, in so doing, resume ICD-9-era productivity? read more (Source: Healthcare IT News Blog) Healthcare IT News Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4636528 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 14:22:30 +0100 4636528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4622243&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2FylvsM-A6Df0%2F By Meryl Bloomrosen. “They” say that being a teenager is NOT easy.  Well, being the parent of a teenager is certainly isn’t easy either.  And it is usually the case that all of us will experience some bumps along the way.   Yet, to some such concerns and crises seem insignificant or trite in comparison to recent headlines such as those about the Tsunami, earthquake and nuclear reactor explosions in Japan; Haitian elections; social unrest and justice in Egypt and elsewhere; and attacks in Libya. Or the ongoing headlines about the economic meltdowns on Wall Street; bank, savings and loans failures; or the continuing high unemployment statistics; and plummeting real estate values.  Or even NCAA March madness. Although, there has been periodic news and media attention on teen ... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4622243 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 13:31:28 +0100 4622243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4570546&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwhat-to-do-about-fever%2F2011.03.10 Fever is often a part of life as a parent, particularly with young children in the winter time (read: six to 10 colds a year is the norm.) Although I sincerely don’t like it and do feel naturally uneasy when my boys have a fever, as a pediatrician I know to take fever as one of many symptoms they develop when responding to infection. I certainly use medications like Tylenol when my boys are feverish, refusing to eat, punked out, and exhausted. Thing is, it works! And often they respond beautifully, bouncing back, regaining energy, and improving their fluid intake and appetite. But I don’t treat every fever they have and I don’t recommend you run for the medicine cabinet when you feel that warm forehead. It’s not necessary to treat every fever. And it’s certainly not ideal to trea... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4570546 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 18:00:26 +0100 4570546 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4560273&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fibuprofen-parkinsons-study-few-news-organizations-report-on-it-accurately%2F2011.03.08 We’re delighted to see that USA Today, Reuters, and WebMD were among the news organizations that included what an editorial writer said about an observational study linking ibuprofen use with fewer cases of Parkinson’s disease. All three news organizations used some version of what editorial writer Dr. James Bower of the Mayo Clinic wrote or said: “Whenever in epidemiology you find an association, that does not mean causation.” “An association does not prove causation.” “There could be other explanations for the ibuprofen-Parkinson’s connection.” Kudos to those news organizations. And some praise goes to the journal Neurology for publishing Dr. Bower’s editorial to accompany the study. His piece is entitled, “Is the answer... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4560273 Tue, 08 Mar 2011 13:00:43 +0100 4560273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4536063&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fdr-ari-brown-on-dr-oz-a-very-inaccurate-view-of-vaccines%2F2011.03.01 Dr. Ari Brown, a pediatrician and author, was [recently] on The Dr. Oz Show. She was asked to join a discussion about autism. Dr. Brown is a board-certified developmental pediatrician, a mom of two, and an advocate for science. She is passionate and clear about what she believes. She is speaking all over the country about how to protect children from illness, particularly when making decisions about vaccines. She contributed ideas in my series in late 2010 entitled, “Do You Believe in Vaccines: Part I, Part II, and Part III.” On Dr. Oz, she was asked to contribute to a discussion about autism that ultimately focused on fears about vaccines. I worry that the discussion wasn’t a representation of most American families, and even Autism Speaks refused to join the show. Dr. Brown has s... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4536063 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 20:00:27 +0100 4536063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450291&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fear-infections-to-treat-or-not-to-treat%2F2011.02.08 Ear infections used to be a devastating problem. In 1932, acute otitis media (AOM) and its suppurative complications accounted for 27 percent of all pediatric admissions to Bellevue Hospital. Since the introduction of antibiotics, it has become a much less serious problem. For decades it was taken for granted that all children with AOM should be given antibiotics, not only to treat the disease itself but to prevent complications like mastoiditis and meningitis. In the 1980s, that consensus began to change. We realized that as many as 80 percent of uncomplicated ear infections resolve without treatment in three days. Many infections are caused by viruses that don’t respond to antibiotics. Overuse of antibiotics leads to the emergence of resistant strains of bacteria. Antibiotics cause ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450291 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 22:00:44 +0100 4450291 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4414519&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fdeep-brain-stimulation-a-new-treatment-for-hard-to-control-high-blood-pressure%2F2011.01.29 An unexpected discovery out of Frenchay Hospital in Bristol, UK showed that deep brain stimulation (DBS) can lower blood pressure, even in cases in which drugs are unsuccessful. The discovery reportedly occurred when a 55-year-old patient received a deep brain stimulator to treat his pain from central pain syndrome that developed after a stroke. At the time of the stroke, the patient was diagnosed with high blood pressure, which could not be controlled despite taking four different drugs. The deep brain stimulator was largely unsuccessful at controlling the patient’s pain, but amazingly it decreased his blood pressure enough that he could stop taking all four medications. Researchers confirmed the effects of the deep brain stimulator by turning it on and off over a three-year period,... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4414519 Sat, 29 Jan 2011 23:00:01 +0100 4414519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4394749&cid=t_224443_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F1ZHiWpuTtoc%2F A decade ago, the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry published a paper concluding the Paxil antidepressant, which is sold by GlaxoSmithKline, was “generally well tolerated and effective for major depression in adolescents.” But the study has since been discredited amid charges that primary and secondary outcomes were conflated, selective results were reported and ghostwriting was involved (background here and here). The details became known more than two years ago as documents emerged from investigations (see this) and lawsuits charging GlaxoSmithKline hid the risks of its Paxil pill. By then, the FDA required Glaxo to place a Black Box warning about suicidality in youngsters and UK regulators recommended the drug not be given to those under 18 years... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4394749 Mon, 24 Jan 2011 14:46:52 +0100 4394749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4377568&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhead-lice-fda-approves-new-treatment%2F2011.01.20 Good news for parents, teachers, pediatricians, and others engaged in the ongoing battle against lice: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just approved a new treatment for head lice in children age four and older. Called Natroba, it’s a liquid that is rubbed into the hair and allowed to sit for 10 minutes before being rinsed off. Natroba is a useful addition to the anti-lice arsenal, since some head lice have become resistant to permethrin and pyrethrins, the active ingredients in over-the-counter anti-lice products such as Nix and Rid. Head lice are tiny insects that go by the big name Pediculus humanus capitis. They thrive in the warm tangle of human hair, feeding off blood in the scalp and breeding with abandon. A female lays eggs called nits that she attaches to strands of hair.... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4377568 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 21:30:14 +0100 4377568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4372145&cid=t_224443_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fwill-cleaning-your-blood-help-when-ms-flares%2F Plasmapheresis (from the Greek for “taking away something molded”) is a process by which the blood is removed, filtered, and replaced over a period of one to a few hours. In the past half century, plasmapheresis has evolved in its technology but is still based upon the same theory with which it began as a late 19th century dairy separator. In the 1950s, with the advent of more advanced machinery, medical researchers began to look at how “cleaning” the blood might affect disease function. By the 1970s plasmapheresis had become one of the few treatments for muscular dystrophy (MD). This weekend, the American Academy of Neurology posted its recommendations that plasmapheresis be added to our arsenal as a “secondary treatment for severe flares in relapsing forms of MS…” It is imp... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4372145 Wed, 19 Jan 2011 22:58:26 +0100 4372145 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4281312&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhappiness-in-life-carrying-the-h-card%2F2010.12.22 The most moving speaker at the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) convention I went to in Denver a few months ago was a doctor with Stage 4 cancer who had survived well past all expectations for his disease. While talking about achieving happiness through balance in life, he pulled out of his wallet a card made for him by his daughter, a preschool teacher. “This is the C card,” he told us. “It says: ‘I have cancer. I can do whatever I want.’” What a great idea, I thought. As much as it resonated with me, though, I couldn’t help but feel there was more to it than that. Recently I was comforting a dear friend who had lost her mother. Remembering this handout from the AAFP, I held her close and said: “You’re a mourner now. You can do whatever you want.” I might a... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4281312 Wed, 22 Dec 2010 21:00:13 +0100 4281312 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4125130&cid=t_224443_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FVatlCX5Q93U%2F Conclusions The new Purdue findings suggest that even hits not leading to concussions can affect the brain. Although the results come from a very small number of players and will have to be replicated, they are quite concerning. The study involved young high-school players whose brain is not mature yet. Their brain is thus still very plastic and seem to recover quickly, after a few month without football. But what about older players’ brains that may have less ability to compensate for blows? Previous studies have linked repeated concussion to Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and dementia. For instance, Guskiewicz et al (2005) have found that retired professional players (average age of 53.8 years and an average football career of 6.6 years) with three or more reported concussions have a ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4125130 Mon, 01 Nov 2010 19:33:10 +0100 4125130 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4118938&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwhat-i-learned-at-the-american-academy-of-psychiatry-and-laws-annual-conference%2F2010.10.27 For new readers, it’s my tradition to put up posts summarizing tidbits I picked up at the annual American Academy of Psychiatry and Law (AAPL) conference. It’s random, it’s not explained in detail, but it’s stuff I thought was interesting. The conference started out with a keynote speech by AAPL President Stephen Billick. The title of his talk was “Be True To Psychiatry.” His point was that forensic psychiatrists are clinicians first, and that even a forensic evaluation can have therapeutic effects. He cited many examples in his practice in which a criminal or civil evaluation had potential beneficial “side effects” regardless of the forensic opinion. His main point: the forensic psychiatrist’s obligation to be neutral and objective doe... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4118938 Wed, 27 Oct 2010 20:00:00 +0100 4118938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4105671&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fshould-mom-share-her-bed-with-baby%2F2010.10.24 I’ve watched the pendulum swing back and forth on the wisdom of mom sharing her bed with a baby. The American Pediatric Society has come out against the practice, because of a higher incidence of sudden infant death. But nearly half of all British moms sleep with their baby at times, and one-fifth share a bed regularly during the first year. According to a British study published in [the October 2010 issue of] Pediatrics, the value of breastfeeding should be considered before advising mothers not to share  beds with their infants. The results showed that mothers who shared a bed with their newborns were better educated and of a higher socioeconomic status, and that those whose children routinely slept in their beds during the first 15 months of life reported a significantly gre... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4105671 Sun, 24 Oct 2010 19:00:00 +0100 4105671 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4065366&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fvideo-we-are-family-physicians%2F2010.10.13 This video was [recently] shown at the 2010 American Academy of Family Physicians annual meeting in Denver. The theme is simple: “We are here. We are listening. We are healing. We are family physicians.” People ask me all the time “what do you do?” There’s no easy way to explain all the things that I do as a family physician. In addition, each family doc in each community is unique. That’s kind of part of the difficulty of answering the question. But I believe this video does a good job of trying to encapsulate who we are as family physicians: *This blog post was originally published at Doctor Anonymous* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4065366 Wed, 13 Oct 2010 19:00:00 +0100 4065366 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4055715&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Femergency-medicine-who-should-set-the-standard-of-care%2F2010.10.11 According to the Standard of Care Project at EP Monthly: The Power of Agreement We can stop baseless malpractice suits before they get started. How? By having a majority of practicing emergency physicians go on record as to the baseline “standard of care,” beneath which is negligence. This has been rolling for a while, and I’ve been late to blog it. That does not in any way mean I’m not 100 percent FOR it. The idea is beautifully simple: The standard of care in emergency medicine (EM) should be set by practicing EM physicians, not case-by case in courts before lay juries with battling experts. (AAEM had the “remarkable testimony” series as a retrospective attempt to shame “experts” who gave, well, remarkable statements under oath, which to date has two ca... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4055715 Mon, 11 Oct 2010 14:00:31 +0100 4055715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4036645&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Faafps-2011-family-physician-of-the-year%2F2010.10.06 This video was recorded at the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) meeting in Denver last week. Hughes Melton, M.D., was awarded the “2011 Family Physician of the Year” award. The video below shares his story. I also encourage you to read more of his story from the news article on the AAFP website. I have always been inspired by hearing the stories of the “Family Physician of the Year.” One of my wild and crazy dreams is to achieve this award someday, but I know that I definitely have a long way to go. Congratulations, Dr. Melton! *This blog post was originally published at Doctor Anonymous* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4036645 Wed, 06 Oct 2010 19:00:00 +0100 4036645 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3946590&cid=t_224443_125_f&fid=37825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbibbynews.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F09%2F08%2Fbisphenol-a-and-dental-sealants-the-evidence%2F Researchers at Children’s Hospital in Boston recently conducted a systematic review examining the existence of Bisphenol A in dental materials and assessing potential health risks. This chemical is thought to cause problems with reproduction and development. The study, cited by sources such as CNN and HealthDay News recommends continued use of these dental products, with [...] (Source: Bibby Library News and Tips) Bibby Library News and Tips blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3946590 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 19:47:06 +0100 3946590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3942738&cid=t_224443_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F09%2F07%2Famerican-academy-of-pediatrics-on-sexy-tv%2F The American Academy of Pediatrics published a new statement on “Sexuality, Contraception, and the Media” in the September 2010 print issue of Pediatrics, and I can’t help applauding some of the organization’s recommendations, like this one: Pediatricians should urge schools to insist on comprehensive sex education programs (to counter the influence of sexually suggestive and explicit media) that incorporate basic principles of media literacy into their sex education programs…Federal money should be spent on comprehensive sex education programs but not on abstinence-only programs, which have been found to be ineffective. Yes, please. As somebody who both supports comprehensive (i.e., not “abstinence-only”) sex ed and is a librarian who supports media and ... Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3942738 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 00:42:09 +0100 3942738 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3943025&cid=t_224443_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FciVEK-I929s%2F Last December, the Senate Finance Committee’s Chuck Grassley sent letters 33 medical advocay groups, including the American Medical Association, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association and American Academy of Family Physicians for details about the money they and their board members received from drug and device makers (background here). The move came several months after Grassley and his staffers discovered that the National Alliance on Mental Illness received sizeable pharma donations while also conducting lobbying efforts with drug makers and pushing legislation that benefits these companies. Since then, NAMI has posted that sort of info on its web site (look here). But what about the others? Well, The Chronicle of Philanthropy has done an update by checking in wit... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3943025 Tue, 07 Sep 2010 15:14:41 +0100 3943025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3942837&cid=t_224443_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F09%2F07%2Fantipsychotics-are-not-appropriate-for-a-2-year-old%2F I remain astounded that psychiatrists and pediatricians think it’s occasionally appropriate to prescribe adult atypical antipsychotic medications — like Risperdal — to children younger than age 5. Last week, The New York Times covered the story of Kyle Warren, a boy who began risperidone (Risperdal) treatment at age 2. Yes, you read the right — age 2. He was rescued from this unbelievable prescription by Dr. Mary Margaret Gleason through a treatment effort called the Early Childhood Supporters and Services program in Louisiana. Dr. Gleason helped wean young Kyle off of the medications from ages 3 to 5, and helped understand that Kyle’s tantrums came from his stressful and upsetting family situation — not a brain disorder, bipolar disorder, or autism. Ima... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3942837 Tue, 07 Sep 2010 13:56:52 +0100 3942837 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3934552&cid=t_224443_123_f&fid=39035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.liddlekidzblog.com%2F2010%2F09%2Fback-to-school-back-to-stress.html You might be surprised at the reaction I receive whenever I tell parents and others that "Kids have stress, too!" Some people say, "I can see that. . ." and others look at me crossed-eye and say, "I wish I had their stress" (then huff & blow it off like kids do not have stress). Well, the reality is Kids do have Stress! According to Saturday's New York Times:Doctors say that frequent headaches and migraines are among the most common childhood health complaints, yet these problems get surprisingly very little attention. It is also noted that children complain more of headaches during the school year as opposed to the summer break.Many doctors note that the real issues behind these headaches may be changes in the child's sleep schedule, including getting up early for school and staying u... Liddle Kidz Infant and Pediatric Massage Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3934552 Sat, 04 Sep 2010 15:01:00 +0100 3934552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3929231&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fconcussions-in-younger-athletes-are-on-the-rise%2F2010.09.02 A study published earlier this week by the American Academy of Pediatrics states that “the number of sport-related concussions is highest in high school-aged athletes, but the number in younger athletes is significant and on the rise.” Why is this? Many believe this is from better recognition of the symptoms and the need to be medically evaluated. I did a couple of interviews with local TV news to talk about the subject (Video 1 and Video 2). In my research on this subject, I found an article from the Dayton Daily News stating that the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) passed a policy in May 2010: Any athlete who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion (such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion or balance problems) sh... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3929231 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:00:00 +0100 3929231 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3876654&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwater-safety-a-drowning-child-doesnt-scream%2F2010.08.17 This summer I learned a couple of very important lessons. Drowning kids don’t scream. Mothers have a sixth sense even when it’s not their own child. On a beautiful warm sunny day in San Diego, my family and our good friends were enjoying a well-deserved vacation. My five-year-old daughter was splashing around with her friends as their father and I observed them from the pool. Though he had to watch three kids, one was already on a swim team and the two younger children had followed their big sister in swim class. He also had some help. His wife was watching the kids from her chair.  The scene was certainly picturesque, serene, and unassuming. Children playing happily in the pool. Adults relaxing and talking. It was a great day to be away from home and work. Who would realize ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3876654 Tue, 17 Aug 2010 14:00:00 +0100 3876654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3866958&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fsports-physicals-for-kids-why-so-ducky%2F2010.08.14 Dear American Academy of Pediatrics, I think there is a mistake. Kids have recently started coming into the office with forms for sports physicals, and the form is different. See below: Someone added stuff to the form! Not only do we have to continue the inexplicable obsession with the hernia check (for maximum humiliation of boys, we try to use only female examiners for this), there’s a bunch of new stuff. (more…) *This blog post was originally published at Musings of a Distractible Mind* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3866958 Sat, 14 Aug 2010 21:00:28 +0100 3866958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726639&cid=t_224443_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F07%2F05%2Fvideo-games-and-tv-linked-to-decreased-attention-span%2F Probably of little surprise to anyone who has a child today, a new study out of Iowa State University suggests a correlation between time spent watching TV or playing video games, and having increased attention problems at school. The study looked at 1,323 middle-school aged children and followed their video game and television viewing habits over the course of 13 months. They also had teacher reports (from multiple teachers) of the child’s in-class attention span and performance. Using the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics of 2 hours/day as the maximum amount of time a child should be watching TV or playing video games, the researchers found those children who exceeded the maximum had more attention problems, as reported by their teachers. The middle school studen... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726639 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 16:32:02 +0100 3726639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3648494&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fmedical-journals-a-social-media-model-for-the-21st-century%2F2010.06.10 The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology is the official publication of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, and a good example for all medical and scientific journals about how they should embrace social media: Proper RSS feed (major element with peer-reviewed journals) Blog that serves as a journal club Twitter account Podcasts Facebook page *This blog post was originally published at ScienceRoll* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3648494 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:00:08 +0100 3648494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3633447&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Flet-kids-be-willy-nilly%2F2010.06.05 As a cardiologist and advocate for healthy living through exercise, the bleak news of rising childhood obesity hits me hard. But as an endurance athlete well versed in the inflammatory effects of excessive exercise, and a coach of middle school children, recent news reports on the overtraining of American youth is equally troublesome. The overtraining of the young American athlete has risen to the level of capturing the attention of the American Academy of Pediatrics.  I planned on letting this New York Times piece pass quietly, as yet another documentation of how adults are either explicitly or implicitly drilling out the young athlete — sacrificing fun at the alter of performance. Little League-like overzealousness is old news dating back to my era, I thought. But I just couldn&#... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3633447 Sat, 05 Jun 2010 20:00:00 +0100 3633447 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3494549&cid=t_224443_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Faw9XrFxnwoI%2F The Council of Medical Specialty Societies, which includes 32 physician groups with some 650,000 members, has adopted a new ethics code designed to limit the influence that drug and device makers have over patient care. Among the groups represented are the American College of Cardiology, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Physicians. In doing so, the CMSS addresses an issue that has roiled the pharmaceutical industry and attracted withering attention from consumer groups and government officials, who have increasingly complained that conflicts can skew patient treatment. In recent years, the concerns have led to scrutiny of freebies, continuing medical education, research grants and fees for speaking and consulting. In ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3494549 Thu, 22 Apr 2010 12:38:34 +0100 3494549 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3443860&cid=t_224443_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fccsvi-ms-breaking-news%2F This just in from the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and The National MS Society (NMSS) (I feel like such a reporter when things like this land in my in-box!) The AAN and NMSS will be co-sponsoring a live webcast on the topic of chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) next week, and we’re all invited! A panel of experts will include Dr. Paolo Zamboni himself (the founder of the CCSI/MS theory) as well as two North American researchers studying Dr. Zamboni’s theory along with the Director of the MS Center at Mount Siani. The program is slated to be 90-minutes and begin at 12:00, Noon (EDT) on Wednesday, April 14th. I’ve just registered and encourage all of you to do the same! For those of you unfamiliar with CCSVI, we’ve posted we’ve posted several entries on the ... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3443860 Tue, 06 Apr 2010 20:30:03 +0100 3443860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3424964&cid=t_224443_113_f&fid=38236&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthcareitnews.com%2Fblog%2Ftop-5-icd-10-myths-debunked Any time a transition is widely likened to Y2K, misconceptions are bound to crop up – and a number of myths typically sprout. ICD-10 is by no means exempt from such chaos. And so it's time to kill the most prominent of those myths at the root. Amid the din are plenty of obstacles, technical, cultural, educational, and otherwise, that will not be so easily dispelled. Here, then, are the five fables healthcare organizations can promptly disregard. (Source: Healthcare IT News Blog) Healthcare IT News Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3424964 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 13:16:37 +0100 3424964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3524051&cid=t_224443_85_f&fid=39183&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrbobbs.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F11%2F11%2Fstill-more-aafp-coca-cola-fallout%2F There is now a Facebook page entitled End the AAFP and Coca Cola Collaboration. From the Associated Press: Family doctors group loses members over Coke deal. And there’s an online petition: Family Doctors Against the AAFP-Coca-Cola Partnership. (Source: Dr. Bobbs) Dr. Bobbs blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3524051 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 05:29:00 +0100 3524051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2971985&cid=t_224443_123_f&fid=39035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.liddlekidzblog.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fus-health-care-best-in-world.html For many Americans there is an unfortunate notion that our health care is the best in the world, so, when I recently read an article entitled "The Epidemic of Medical Child Abuse, and what can be done", I had to share some statements and comment. Just read the first statement from author, Dana Ullman: The primary purpose of this article is to encourage a stronger commitment from doctors and parents to consider using safer medical care for infants and children FIRST before resorting to more dangerous treatments. I absolutely agree with this statement. It's not to say that there are not medical treatments which are necessary and lifesaving, but are there options. What are those options? Take constipation for example. I have seen numerous children hospitalized due to constipation. When if... Liddle Kidz Infant and Pediatric Massage Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2971985 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:30:00 +0100 2971985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2963193&cid=t_224443_113_f&fid=38236&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthcareitnews.com%2Fblog%2Fback-basics-toward-core-set-relevant-and-portable-personal-health-information In the cacophony of health IT issues, products, and goals that compete every day for our attention, it is easy to lose sight of the profound value that could come from the universal availability of a simple core set of relevant and portable personal health information in digital format.  (Source: Healthcare IT News Blog) Healthcare IT News Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2963193 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:35:07 +0100 2963193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3524054&cid=t_224443_85_f&fid=39183&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrbobbs.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F11%2F03%2Fthe-pause-that-refreshes%2F The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) continues to be the target of criticism in both the blogosphere and conventional media outlets for its partnership with the Coca-Cola company. From The Kansas City Star: [T]he American Academy of Family Physicians…represents about 94,000 doctors who struggle to get their patients to shed excess pounds. From across [...] (Source: Dr. Bobbs) Dr. Bobbs blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3524054 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 04:43:24 +0100 3524054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2950732&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2F6M5n_DTj85w%2F As our population ages the importance of one’s ability to remain independent as long as possible will become even more important than it is today. One of the leading causes for the placement of a frail adult in a nursing home is due to non-adherence to medication regimes. In fact, 10 to 25 percent of hospital and nursing home admissions annually are because of an individual’s lack of adherence. The American Academy of Nursing working with the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has published practice guidelines for nurses working with the older adults in the community on the management of their medication. There are many risk factors that affect the individual’s adherence from physical ability to depression and beyond. We know that nursing interventions and evidenced based tra... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2950732 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:03:11 +0100 2950732 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3524060&cid=t_224443_85_f&fid=39183&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrbobbs.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F10%2F09%2Fid-like-to-buy-the-world-a-coke%2F So, any reaction to that AAFP/Coca-Cola deal? The Skeptical OB says Family docs: Have a Coke and a bribe! The Radical Clarity Group says In one stroke, AAFP has indicated that it can be bought. The Newbie Vegetarian likens the deal to the sale of the AAFP’s soul. On a practical level, the money the [...] (Source: Dr. Bobbs) Dr. Bobbs blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3524060 Fri, 09 Oct 2009 05:05:22 +0100 3524060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862581&cid=t_224443_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FmkcsRIy-d70%2F Today, October 5, 2009, National Child Health Day in the United States. This year’s topic is Medical Home, providing all children with a medical home. What is a medical home? It is a continuous, comprehensive, family-centered, coordinated, compassionate, and culturally effective way of providing medical care. OK, that’s fine, but what does that mean to you as a parent, as a caregiver, or as a child? The American Academy of Pediatrics has made available PDF documents for you to learn more about medical homes. In the documents, you learn about what to expect from a pediatric team, how to make medical home improvements, and how to work with your medical team. Children can learn about their role in health care. Medical Home for Parents Medical Home for Kids Healthy Living The AA... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862581 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:37:50 +0100 2862581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2855577&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2FR7NgdQnAod4%2F As the President and CEO of the American Academy of Nursing, I am very interested in the direction and potential of HIT. Of course, the issue of meaningful use is at the center and of tremendous importance. But the definition as it currently stands does not go far enough. What follows are recommendations put together by a working group of the Academy’s technology and informatics experts for The Department of Health and Human Services. To Meet the Needs of Patients, the American Academy of Nursing Says we need to go Beyond Meaningful Use The American Academy of Nursing (AAN) is an advocate for improved patient safety, cost-effective care management of acute and chronic conditions, and the effectiveness of nursing and interdisciplinary care. The Academy strongly supports health care reform... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2855577 Fri, 02 Oct 2009 12:36:52 +0100 2855577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2820460&cid=t_224443_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Feuropean-multiple-sclerosis-news%2F Last month, the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) held its annual congress in Germany.  I haven’t even begun to pore over the information that was discussed at this important conference. This past spring, as you may recall, I blogged “live” from the American Academy of Neurology’s annual meeting here in Seattle.  Though a trip to Düsseldorf was kind of out of our budget range, I wanted to give you a link to someone who did make the trip and video blogged from the Congress for MS World. Dr. Daniel Kantor attended the conference and posted daily information.  I’ve found the audio quality a bit shaky on some parts of the videos but overall they are worth a look.  You may remember MS World from our “Tech Resources” posting from thi... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2820460 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 20:35:48 +0100 2820460 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2820219&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2Ffti3QBgoOn0%2F Join three Disruptive Women on Wednesday, September 23rd, from 12-1 pm for a free webinar on open dialogues in health. Wednesday, September 23, 2009 12:00pm – 1:00pm ET Fostering Open Dialogues in Health: Disruptive Women in Health Care Hot Topics in Genetics and Advocacy Register for this event here: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/764236011. Fostering open dialogues on hot topics in health presents unique challenges. Today, innovators are exploring the use of technology to generate multiple perspectives in these dialogues. The Disruptive Women in Health Care blog is an example of the rich and open dialogues happening online now. Hear about the model Disruptive Women in Health Care employed and their principles for fostering openness. Presenters will also outline health reform... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2820219 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 20:08:41 +0100 2820219 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2737688&cid=t_224443_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2FJcs61y3LLh8%2F In the midst of furious showdowns on health care reform at town hall meetings, a moment of peace surfaced in Montana when President Obama drew bipartisan applause after calling a mother heroic.  This mother of two had voiced her concern about the Medicaid program she relied on for her child who has multiple chronic conditions.  The president reassured her and went on to discuss how our disease-care system does not proactively manage chronic conditions. Children and young adults with chronic medical conditions and disabilities (CMCD) need proactive management now and for their entire lives.  Our health care system fails to serve the young people who need it the most. Children with CMCD are completely dependent on adults for their health care.  Poor health management negatively affects t... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2737688 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 11:58:44 +0100 2737688 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2702402&cid=t_224443_125_f&fid=37825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbibbynews.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F08%2F14%2Fpediatric-dental-residents-and-faculty%2F The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has updated the following policies and guidelines: Vending Machines in School Use of Dental Bleaching for Child and Adolescent Patients Infection Control Infant Oral Health Care Periodicity of Examination,Preventive Dental Services, Anticipatory Guidance, and Oral Treatment for Children Fluoride Therapy Use of Local Anesthesia for Pediatric Dental Patients Use of Nitrous Oxide for Pediatric Dental [...] (Source: Bibby Library News and Tips) Bibby Library News and Tips blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2702402 Fri, 14 Aug 2009 20:06:15 +0100 2702402 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2727126&cid=t_224443_106_f&fid=38876&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcosmeticsurgerybeat.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F06%2Fbruce-jenners-cosmetic-surgery-revision.html Even gold winning Olympic athletes desire to look young forever. Bruce Jenner is the representation that no matter how physically fit you may be, the aging process does catch up to you. Twenty five years ago, Bruce was ill-advised to have a partial facelift and rhinoplasty. The results from the procedures were not what Bruce desired and as a result he recently went in for a correctional surgery. This time he received a full facelift and is pleased with the results. Cosmetic surgery is not something to take lightly and patients and physicians should strive to get it right the first time. Many cosmetic surgeons have patients coming to them because they want to reconstruct previous work done by another physician. This could be potentially decreased if the lines of communication are open betwe... The Cosmetic Surgery Beat blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2727126 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:01:00 +0100 2727126 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2727127&cid=t_224443_106_f&fid=38876&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcosmeticsurgerybeat.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F06%2Fotoplasty-rising-among-teens.html So many classic childhood movies (Dumbo) and sing-a-longs (Do your ears hang low, do they wobble to and fro….) emphasize large and protruding ears. But it turns out that having protruding ears is often one of the most humiliating features for a teenager.According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery’s 2008 Procedural Survey, we found that 27.7% of otoplasties (a reshaping of the ear by placing small incision behind the ear then shaping or trimming the cartilage to define how and where the ear cartilage bends) are performed on those ages 13-19. Additionally, the survey found that otoplasty has the youngest mean age of both invasive and less invasive cosmetic procedures at 29.It is common for adolescents to worry about their appearance and not every adolescent is right for cosmeti... The Cosmetic Surgery Beat blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2727127 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 13:56:00 +0100 2727127 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2405780&cid=t_224443_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fthe-ms-walking-pill-coming-soon%2F There’s an old saying, “The job’s not finished until the paperwork is done.” And there are no sticklers for paperwork like the US Government.  At least I suspect that’s the way the folks at Acorda Therapeutics must have felt when their application for review of a new multiple sclerosis drug, Fampradine-SR was turned away for “formatting issues” on the application forms. The good news for people living with multiple sclerosis, released at the American Academy of Neurology’s meeting two weeks ago, is that Acorda has fixed the issue and the new drug is back on approval track. Fampradine-SR (4-aminopyridine or 4-AP) isn’t a disease modifying therapy (DMT) like the shots/infusions we take for our MS now.  It’s not one of the touted “Single Cell” drugs from pharma compa... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2405780 Wed, 13 May 2009 17:15:47 +0100 2405780 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2727129&cid=t_224443_106_f&fid=38876&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcosmeticsurgerybeat.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fbotoxs-new-rival.html Approximately 363,694 Botox procedures were done by members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery in 2008. That number will be sure to change with the introduction of Dysport in mid 2009.Dysport (also known as Reloxin) was recently approved by the FDA for cosmetic and therapeutic use in the United States. Dysport consists of the same basic ingredient as Botox, which is Botulinum Toxin A. In 2006, Medical News Today released information from a study outlining the difference between the two products. The study found that the migration of the two injections varied. Dysport and Botox were compared and even though the ingredients are the same, the migration differed as Dysport was found to spread further from the initial injection site. It is important to realize that even though they are... The Cosmetic Surgery Beat blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2727129 Tue, 12 May 2009 13:33:00 +0100 2727129 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2390146&cid=t_224443_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fthe-annual-aan-conference-wrap-up%2F If you don’t mind affording me the indulgence, I’d like to take a few moments today to reflect upon an exceptional past week at the annual American Academy of Neurology (AAN) conference. On Friday I sat in the nearly deserted press room which reeked of sterno-heated coffee and hard-boiled reporters.  I was surrounded by scores of press releases, conference schedules and course abstracts neatly stacked for the recycle bin. Last week thousands of medical professionals attended the AAN conference for us.  Whatever your opinion of the “western medical system” may be, being shoulder to shoulder in more than one standing room only session was a heartening experience. Sessions in which new findings on drug therapies were announced were so heavily attended that even event organizers were... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2390146 Mon, 04 May 2009 19:26:21 +0100 2390146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2382670&cid=t_224443_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Flive-from-the-aan-oral-drugs-for-ms%2F All this week, we’ve been blogging live from the American Academy of Neurology’s annual conference in Seattle, Washington.  Today, we take time for a brief look into the future of multiple sclerosis drug treatments. The question I hear from nearly every person living with MS (and one I ask myself often) is, “How long before oral MS drugs are on the market?”  With the announcement of two new studies on such oral therapies, one must assume it will be relatively soon.  Or maybe it would be more politically correct to say that application to the FDA will happen soon.  How long they take to approve the treatments is an unknown factor. Both Clabridine and Fingolimod are oral drugs which are in the concluding stages of Phase III clinical trials.  Both announced results of said studie... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2382670 Fri, 01 May 2009 22:27:00 +0100 2382670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2380991&cid=t_224443_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Faan-conference-update-new-info-on-old-ms-drugs%2F One of the most surprising (at least to me) bits of information I’ve gleaned thus far from the AAN conference has to do with our “old” MS drugs. For years we’ve heard that the interferons and glatiramer acetate drugs, known as “MS Platform Therapy” have been about 30 percent effective.  This number has to do with reduction in number, frequency and severity of MS attacks.  Come to find out, they’re much more effective than that! In one presentation I attended, the speaker made special note to pay attention to efficacy numbers as we looked at several treatment studies. In this presentation, the doctor was showing several new drug studies and how the new regimes are fairing in relation to both placebo and other MS therapy drugs.  There are many fac... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2380991 Wed, 29 Apr 2009 21:03:02 +0100 2380991 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2376482&cid=t_224443_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Faan-conference-update-how-important-is-the-mri%2F Yesterday at the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) conference, my focus was on the imaging technologies available to our neurologic team.  We all know about Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) but I had no idea of the other parts of MRI that are involved Tesla (magnetic ratings) of the MRI machines range from T-1 through experimental T-7 strengths.  Names like Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI), Functional MRI (FMRI), Magnetization Transfer Ratio (MTR), FLAIR, and 3-Dimentional Double Inversion recovery (3d DIR) lead me to believe that I might be on the verge of learning loads of new information about what that MRI can tell my docs. If anything a term new to me, “MRI/Clinical Paradox” seems to be enhanced, not reduced, by these deeper more clear looks inside our brains. This parad... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2376482 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 20:48:46 +0100 2376482 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2376483&cid=t_224443_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Flive-from-the-aan-conference-opening-weekend%2F Greetings from the American Academy of Neurology’s annual conference in Seattle, Washington! I hope everyone’s weekend was splendid. Mine was some kind of busy here. I spent the first half of opening day in the press room organizing my schedule for the week. Last Friday I wrote, “The volume of information on MS at this conference is staggering!” Boy, I had no idea! There are nearly 275 multiple sclerosis posters to be presented alone this week. Couple that with the great seminars, full & half day programs and informative speeches by research leaders. Wrap it up with a massive trade-show exhibition and I’ve got my work cut out for me. I’m not a stupid person but more than my fair share of information will be streaming over my noggin at any one time during this thing. Most in... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2376483 Mon, 27 Apr 2009 17:06:32 +0100 2376483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2365300&cid=t_224443_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fall-ms-all-the-time%2F The title refers to what several non-MS neurologists are calling the annual conference of the American Academy of Neurology, to be held next week in my hometown of Seattle, Washington.  They say that jokingly because multiple sclerosis is taking a prominent spotlight in this year’s event and you’ll be there!  Well, sort of… I’ll be attending the event this year with a press pass and reporting live from the conference all week long.  Our stalwart editor and community producer, Natalie, has agreed to the extra work of posting something from me every day during the event. There are hundreds of pages of event itinerary to be scanned for exactly which speeches, presentations and events I’ll want to attend.  The volume of information on MS in total is staggering! Also, and I’m ve... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2365300 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 20:47:35 +0100 2365300 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2294317&cid=t_224443_125_f&fid=37825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbibbynews.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F26%2Froot-canals-myths-vs-reality%2F Root Canal Awareness Week - March 29-April 4, 2009 Sponsored by the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), Root Canal Awareness Week aims to dispel myths about the procedure, reduce anxiety, and highlight the importance of endodontists. Patients need to understand that root canals actually relieve tooth pain and are much more comfortable today thanks to new [...] (Source: Bibby Library News and Tips) Bibby Library News and Tips blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2294317 Thu, 26 Mar 2009 16:48:27 +0100 2294317 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2258361&cid=t_224443_113_f&fid=34621&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FHealthcareGuy%2F%7E3%2FOyclg7RCyvI%2F492 This article focuses on the first two of these. Physical Interoperability What is interesting about the physical transport of critical information is that people outside of healthcare probably think that our industry is dominated by the electronic data transactions. I am not sure that is the case. One example of this is prescriptions. According to NACDS, of the 3.5 million prescriptions filed in 2007, only 2.1% were processed via electronic messaging. Keep in mind that the medication prescription area is one of the most advanced, in terms of electronic messaging, in healthcare. So, today, when we talk about physical interoperability, we are talking about transport mechanisms that include ‘sneaker-net’, faxing, file transfers as well as pure electronic processing. This works today becau... The Healthcare IT Guy blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2258361 Mon, 09 Mar 2009 01:55:12 +0100 2258361 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2240786&cid=t_224443_113_f&fid=34621&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FHealthcareGuy%2F%7E3%2FLoYGpik98o4%2F485 This article is the first in a series about the challenges of clinical interoperability in healthcare. The first thing we need to do is ask the question “What is clinical interoperability?” The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers or IEEE defines the term interoperability as follows: The ability of two or more systems or components to exchange information and to use the information that has been exchanged. I like this definition because it is short and sweet, but to truly understand interoperability, we need to go a little further. The first thing we need to do is add that clinical interoperability is about exchanging a specific type of information.  It is about exchanging clinical information about a patient that allows our ‘partner’ to leverage what we alread... The Healthcare IT Guy blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2240786 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 12:55:37 +0100 2240786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2158029&cid=t_224443_125_f&fid=37825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbibbynews.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F04%2Fdoes-treating-gum-disease-reduce-the-incidence-of-preterm-birth%2F Previous research has suggested a link between periodontal disease and premature birth.  Consequently, pregnant woman have been encouraged to undergo periodontal treatment to reduce these risks. However, recent studies conducted at the Univeristy of North Carolina’s School of Dentistry revealed no significant differences in pregnancy outcomes when study participants received treatment, as compared to those participants [...] (Source: Bibby Library News and Tips) Bibby Library News and Tips blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2158029 Wed, 04 Feb 2009 15:45:37 +0100 2158029 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2138951&cid=t_224443_125_f&fid=37825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbibbynews.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F27%2Flearn-about-the-link-between-heart-disease-and-oral-health%2F February is American Heart Month.  What does this have to do with dentistry?  Come to find out, alot! Research suggests a significant link between oral and cardiovascular health. In particular, periodontal health seems to play a major role.  Read what the American Academy of Periodontology has to say about periodontal disease and the heart. You may also [...] (Source: Bibby Library News and Tips) Bibby Library News and Tips blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2138951 Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:21:20 +0100 2138951 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2153835&cid=t_224443_113_f&fid=38236&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthcareitnews.com%2Fblog%2Fhealthcare-blog-connected-medical-home-health-20-says-hello-medical-home-model The concept of participatory medicine is taking hold, fueled, at least in part, by what we see as two complementary forces, these being the patient-centered medical home (PCMH) and Health 2.0. Health 2.0 is very much a grass roots phenomenon, dominated by a small but significant group of patients who are testing the hypothesis that the wisdom of the crowd can rival the wisdom of physicians. The PCMH is a concept, not new, but gaining tremendous traction in the provider sector now as a best-try effort by some providers to be truly patient centric in their approach. (Source: Healthcare IT News Blog) Healthcare IT News Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2153835 Sun, 04 Jan 2009 23:39:44 +0100 2153835 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1985548&cid=t_224443_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F462979024%2F Like all psychiatric disorders, ADHD is diagnosed based on the presence of particular behavioral symptoms that are judged to cause significant impairment in an individual's functioning, and not on the results of a specific test. In fact, recently published ADHD evaluation guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) explicitly state that no particular diagnostic test should be routinely used when evaluating a child for ADHD. While most ADHD experts would agree that no single test could or should be used in isolation to diagnose ADHD, there are several important reasons why the availability of an accurate objective test would be useful. First, many children do not receive a careful and comprehensive assessment for ADHD but are instead diagnosed with based on evaluation procedure... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1985548 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 17:11:23 +0100 1985548 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1980533&cid=t_224443_125_f&fid=34820&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dentalblogs.com%2Farchives%2Fadministrator%2Fmini-dental-implant-concerns-implant-course-for-dentists%2F Mini implants are thin implant posts that can be placed in the jaw in a 30-minute procedure. Placing four mini implants to anchor a denture takes about an hour. Dentists can attend weekend-long courses held by implant manufacturers to learn how to place mini implants, but some professionals don’t think the short training is enough. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry supports more extensive training for mini implants, as is required for traditional implant dentists. Former AAID President Dr. Kim Gowey states that dentists should be “well versed in implant dentistry before using mini implants,” in an article at www.marketwatch.com. She goes on to explain that there aren’t shortcuts for learning how to properly place implants, whether traditional or mini. Knowle... dental blog for dentists about dentistry blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1980533 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 14:39:41 +0100 1980533 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1911656&cid=t_224443_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fmultiple-sclerosis%2Flife-with-ms%2Fcampath-reverses-ms-symptoms-why-are-we-just-now-hearing-about-this%2F Did your e-mail box fill up like mine did this past weekend about the news on Campath? I guess it is proof of two things; the power of a press release and the longing for the next “big thing” in multiple sclerosis research. Starting on the 22nd of the month, I began to get notes from friends with MS about a BBC press release touting the success of a “new” MS drug. Usually these kind of emails are from friends and family in the “community” not people living with MS. The generic name of the drug is called alemtuzumab with brand name of Campath. Campath has been in multiple sclerosis trials for a while now. In fact, I was surprised at the attention everyone was paying the release when results from the study were first announced in April of this year at the ... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1911656 Mon, 27 Oct 2008 20:32:47 +0100 1911656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1883684&cid=t_224443_117_f&fid=36026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fzimney%2Fvitamin-d-recommendations-doubled-for-infants-children-and-adolescents%2F This post is important for all pregnant women, mothers who are breast feeding their babies and for parents of infants, children and adolescents (please forward it to your family, friends and others as appropriate). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has revised their recommendations for vitamin D supplementation of the diets of all newborns, infants, children and adolescents. The new recommendations (detailed below) basically double the amount of vitamin D recommended from 200 IU/day to 400 IU/day. The AAP’s recommendations were described in an October 13, 2008 press release as well as in a more detailed free online Clinical Report. The new recommendations come at a time when the importance of vitamin D in maintaining health and preventing disease, and the near ubiquity of vita... Dr. Z's Medical Report blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1883684 Thu, 16 Oct 2008 21:34:16 +0100 1883684 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1873841&cid=t_224443_167_f&fid=37833&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnutrition.edublogs.org%2F2008%2F10%2F14%2Fchildren-need-vitamin-d%2F The American Academy of Pediatrics has recently revised recommendations for Vitamin D based in new information indicating that children need twice as much Vitamin D as originally thought. In the new clinical report, “Prevention of Rickets and Vitamin D Deficiency in Infants, Children, and Adolescents,” published in the November issue of Pediatrics, it is recommended that all children receive 400 IU a day of vitamin D, beginning in the first few days of life. The previous recommendation, issued in 2003, called for 200 IU per day beginning in the first two months of life. The New Recommendations include: Breastfed and partially breastfed infants should be supplemented with 400 IU a day of vitamin D beginning in the first few days of life. All non-breastfed infants, as well as ... Nutrition and Wellness Biology 50 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1873841 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 16:47:51 +0100 1873841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1761395&cid=t_224443_125_f&fid=37825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbibbynews.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F04%2Fperiodontology-board-exams-study-resources%2F The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has provided a list of exam study materials on its  website.  Some of the materials are accessible online only to AAP members. Other suggested resources include: A list of AAP’s clinical and scientific position papers. Annals of Periodontology: ~ print issues from 1996-2003 are available at Bibby library ~ electronic issues from 2003-present are [...] (Source: Bibby Library News and Tips) Bibby Library News and Tips blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1761395 Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:20:07 +0100 1761395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1668703&cid=t_224443_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F350657867%2F First, the American Heart Association says children taking ADHD pills should have electrocardiagrams to screen for heart problems. The move was after an FDA review found reports of 19 sudden deaths in children treated with ADHD drugs and 26 reports of other problems including strokes and fast heart rates between 1999 and 2003. Now, though, the American Academy of Pediatrics says most children taking ADHD drugs don’t need an EKG, and the new policy is certain to inflame the debate over the safety of these pills, which are powerful stimulants. More than half of the 4 million kids in the US who are diagnosed with ADD or ADHD are being treated with these pills, the Associated Press reminds us. The issue is that, while ADHD drugs such as Ritalin, Adderall and Concerta can help children f... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1668703 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 16:43:28 +0100 1668703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1660994&cid=t_224443_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F348411763%2F More kids appear to be taking adult meds for such ailments as high blood pressure, cholesterol, acid reflux and diabetes, although some docs worry the recent rush to write prescriptions for children belies a failure to emphasize changes in exercise and diet, according to The New York Times. The paper writes that the numbers, which were provided by Medco Health Solutions, Express Scripts and Verispan, suggest hundreds of thousands of children may be taking adult meds, a concern underscored by a controversial recommendation by the American Academy of Pediatrics that kids as young as 8 years old should be given cholesterol pills. “I think a lot of people in pediatrics, myself included, are struggling with what is the right management to do for these kids,” Russ Rothman, an assistant profe... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1660994 Mon, 28 Jul 2008 13:57:25 +0100 1660994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1657383&cid=t_224443_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F346544708%2F The debate over vaccine safety continues unabated and CBS Evening News ran a brief piece to say the American Academy of Pediatrics, Every Child By Two, and pediatrician Paul Offit - which the news program calls “some of the most trusted voices in the defense of vaccine safety” - have financial ties to the drugmakers whose vaccines “they promote and defend.” (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1657383 Sat, 26 Jul 2008 11:49:08 +0100 1657383 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1240220&cid=t_224443_133_f&fid=35089&url=http%3A%2F%2Faspiefamily.org%2Fdad%2Famerican-academy-of-pediatrics-asks-autistics-and-parents-of-autistics-for-help%2F As part of the welcome addressing of the needs and concerns of the real autism and autistic community in regards to science and as part of their efforts to address the pseudo-science and quackery of the agenda of anti-vaccine groups such as Generation Rescue et. al, the AAP are looking for some rational parents to help them. I am offering them my details and I would urge any parent of an autistic child who is sick of hearing the unscientific and self-serving agenda of such groups -– groups who not only readily belittle autistic people but also gladly place the health and well being of others at risk for absolutely no purpose to contact the AAP to offer their details also. If you wish me to pass on your details, please either leave your name and email address in the comment section of thi... Aspie Dad blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1240220 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 07:14:00 +0100 1240220 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1191604&cid=t_224443_117_f&fid=36026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fzimney%2Feli-stone-abc-drama-premieres-misleading-program-linking-vaccines-and-autism%2F In a move that has already ignited a firestorm of criticism from doctors’ groups, ABC still plans to premiere its new legal drama “Eli Stone” tonight (January 31, 2008) in which a mother, whose child allegedly developed autism after receiving a mercury-containing vaccine, wins a $5.2 million dollar lawsuit against a fictional drug company. The show’s premise is based on a long-standing belief held by childhood immunization critics that thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative, formerly used in vaccines, is a primary cause of autism in children. There are just two basic problems with this. First, countless medical studies have failed to show any link between vaccination and autism. But let’s say you don’t care about scientific studies or just don’t believe them. Well, the ... Dr. Z's Medical Report blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1191604 Thu, 31 Jan 2008 19:39:32 +0100 1191604 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1128773&cid=t_224443_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F210596380%2F UW launches study to treat infants without symptoms, reports the January 2nd Seattle Post-Intelligencer in an article by Paul Nyhan: The University of Washington launched one of the nation’s first studies on preventing autism in infants Wednesday and will spend the next four years exploring the benefit of intensive and early therapy on the mysterious disorder. The university’s Autism Center is now looking for 200 local families to join the study of autism, which is diagnosed in 1 out of 150 children, according to the latest study by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The study is unusual because autism research and treatment has typically focused on treating or reversing but not preventing the neurological disorder. Autism often emerges when a child i... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1128773 Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:32:46 +0100 1128773 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1108782&cid=t_224443_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F203672507%2F After two months of anger and controversy, Genentech has struck a deal with opthamologists over distribution of the cancer med, which many docs use to treat wet macular degeneration, even though it was never approved for that use. The agreement comes shortly after US Sen. Herb Kohl, a Democrat from Wisconsin, called for an investigation into Genentech’s decision to halt supplies to compound pharmacies over concerns Medicare costs could rise by $3 billion annually. (Here’s the Genentech statement). The backdrop: Genentech planned to restrict sales to compounding pharmacies, citing FDA concerns about contamination when an Avastin vial is split into smaller doses and repackaged for docs. Opthalmologists complained that would hurt patients, because the alternative treatment is Gene... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1108782 Thu, 20 Dec 2007 22:58:05 +0100 1108782 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1040118&cid=t_224443_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F188002827%2F Last night CNN had a one-hour special on autism, and yesterday morning the CBS Early Show aired the first of four segments about Jacob Allen in its Autism: A New Frontier series. Another Early Show segment on a “medical history of autism” was shown this morning and tonight brings another  CNN special on adults; tomorrow (Wednesday) brings a report on schools and education for autistic children; Friday offers another, longer showing of CNN’s program; and Monday, a final Early Show segment on adults and autism. Topics discussed have ranged from what it’s like live with autism from the perspectives of autistic persons; the American Academy of Pediatrics‘ recently issued guidelines for universal autism screening in young children; theories linking au... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1040118 Wed, 21 Nov 2007 00:24:26 +0100 1040118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1007324&cid=t_224443_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F180352192%2F I learn that someone I’ve known for a long time has just had a baby and, after sending off a “congrats and hope you’re all well!” email and going throughout the day (waiting for Charlie’s bus, loading up the car with the materials for his home ABA program and heading to the office for a meeting, picking up my parents at the train, dashing to Walgreen’s before the pharmacy closes), a number creeps into my head: 18 to 24 months. That’s the ages that young children are now to be screened for autism, per the American Academy of Pediatrics‘ call for universal autism screening, as announced one week ago. I guess it will be noted (I hope it will) that there’s someone with autism in the family. I wonder what it would be like if Jim and I were n... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1007324 Tue, 06 Nov 2007 03:11:10 +0100 1007324 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=968445&cid=t_224443_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F173288742%2F Why? The Portsmouth, Va., school board sent a flyer to parents, warning them about the “harmful effects” of the drugs. Apparently, much of the info was taken from the Internet, including a web site run by a group funded by the Church of Scientology, according to The Virginian Pilot. A ruckus ensued - six national organizations and eight local groups sent a letter asking the school board to retract the flier and send a new one stating that ADHD is a disease that requires treatment. The groups include the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, the Virginia chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and a local chapter of Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, or CHADD, which receives funding from pharma. The flier was sent “to in... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=968445 Mon, 22 Oct 2007 12:24:40 +0100 968445 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=943173&cid=t_224443_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F168379317%2F Major drugmakers plan to stop selling some versions of OTC cough and cold meds aimed at children younger than 2 years old, a move that comes as the products are under scrutiny from federal regulators, The Wall Street Journal reports (subscription required). The Consumer Healthcare Products Association, a trade group that represents OTC makers, is expected to announce the voluntary change as soon as today, the paper writes. In documents submittted previously to the FDA, the group had only supported new warnings that would say “do not use” in children younger than 2. Among the meds likely to be affected are the infant version of Johnson & Johnson’s Tylenol Plus Cold, Novartis’ Triaminic Infant & Toddler Thin Strips Decongestant, and one product sold by Wyeth... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=943173 Thu, 11 Oct 2007 10:56:18 +0100 943173