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 heart'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:58:12 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5169546&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fresearch-shows-decrease-in-time-from-hospital-arrival-to-heart-attack-treatment%2F2011.08.27 Heart attack patients are now being treated on average 32 minutes faster than they were five years ago, and medical societies are touting it as evidence of the success of national campaigns to treat heart attacks more quickly. The study, “Improvements in Door-to-Balloon Time in the United States: 2005-2010,” found that the average time from hospital arrival to treatment declined from 96 minutes in 2005 to just 64 minutes in 2010. In addition, more than 90% of heart attack patients who required emergency angioplasty in 2010 received treatment within the recommended 90 minutes, up from 44% in 2005. Also, the study reported that (more…) *This blog post was originally published at ACP Hospitalist* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5169546 Sat, 27 Aug 2011 18:15:00 +0100 5169546 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096195&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2FzXJoBE2ln2E%2F By Stephanie Mensh. We are bombarded with conflicting messages on food.  On one front, we have Michelle Obama railing against childhood obesity, and organizations like the American Heart Association and the federal government driving on diet-related diseases—diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and chronic conditions.  Countering these efforts all around us, are compelling mouth-watering advertisements for high calorie, high fat, high sugar foods.  Every activity—at work, at home, at the movies, at the mall, at the park, studying, watching TV—requires lots of food and sugary drinks. Resisting these omnipresent temptations requires an incredible amount of individual willpower or habits that go contrary to the average American routine.  Despite my active role in advocating for healthy ... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096195 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:15:28 +0100 5096195 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008201&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Famerican-heart-associations-registration-page-demonstrates-gender-and-sexual-orientation-bias%2F2011.07.06 This afternoon I sat in my chair, revitalized form my weekend trip to the Jersey Shore, where I can assure you I did not partake in any fist pumping, spray tanning, pickle eating, or felonious activities, when I received an email from the American Heart Association announcing new scientific findings. I like these emails and generally find them informative. This particular email announced the placement of the first completely lab-grown human vascular grafts. The email linked to a presentation from Todd N. McAllister of Cytograft Tissue Engineering Inc. These blood vessels were apparently engineered from donor skin cells and: (more…) *This blog post was originally published at On Becoming a Domestic and Laboratory Goddess* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008201 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 21:00:52 +0100 5008201 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968494&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwhen-is-it-appropriate-to-disregard-guidelines-in-medical-care%2F2011.06.24 Podcast: In an article appearing last week in the American Heart Journal, investigators concluded that if American doctors would prescribe for their patients with heart failure each of the six therapies which are most strongly recommended in current heart failure guidelines, 68,000 lives per year could be saved. The following (for the interest of the reader, and for the convenience of any attorneys who may follow DrRich’s offerings), is an ordered list of these six proven, life-saving heart failure therapies, along with the number of American lives that could be saved each year if only American doctors would stop grossly under-utilizing them in violation of published guidelines: aldosterone antagonist therapy – 21,407 lives beta blockers – 12,922 lives implantable defibrillators ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968494 Fri, 24 Jun 2011 21:00:47 +0100 4968494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997535&cid=t_353229_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FFAw3qq0vzrY%2F The AHA combine the acting skills of Ken Jeong, MD (trained physician and crazy-ass actor from the Hangover II) with the metronomic beat of Stayin' Alive to teach CPR rhythm. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997535 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 13:04:39 +0100 4997535 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653602&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FdtWgguerbvk%2F Yet another study has found a conflict of interest among doctors. This time, conflicts were reported by 56 percent of 498 docs who helped write 17 guidelines for the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology between 2003 through 2008, according to the study published today in the Archives of Internal Medicine (see the abstract). And this finding matters because these panels typically wield considerable influence. “Panels are the select groups of experts who are assigned to evaluate science independently and issue their advice to other doctors on what to do in clinical practice,” the researchers write. Guidelines “play an important role in synthesizing information for clinicians, as well as increasing uniform practice to certain standards and avoiding t... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653602 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:15:11 +0100 4653602 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4577904&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fmore-women-die-of-heart-attack-than-men-do%2F2011.03.12 Several studies have shown that women have a higher mortality rate than men if they have a heart attack. A study published in the American Heart Journal helps to explain why. The researchers looked at data from 2,542 women who had a heart attack. Compared to men, the women were older, less likely to be white, and less likely to smoke. They also had more serious health conditions than the men. They had diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), congestive heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We’ve known for a long time that women are about 10 years older than men at the time of their first heart attack. The authors believe that the reason women are more likely to die is because of these other conditions that are present. Women in the study were also m... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4577904 Sat, 12 Mar 2011 21:00:00 +0100 4577904 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4501588&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fdiet-soda-and-your-risk-for-heart-attack-or-stroke%2F2011.02.20 It tastes sweet. It’s pleasurably fizzy. And free of calories. What’s more, the FDA says NutraSweet (aspartame) is safe. So what’s not to like about diet soft drinks? A bunch. The ongoing debate about the healthiness of diet soft drinks reminds me of the old adage, “If something sounds to be true, it probably is.” Artificially-sweetened “diet” drinks get touted as healthy alternatives to sugary drinks because they contain no calories or carbohydrates. On paper it seems plausible to think they are inert, no more dangerous than water. The Coca-Cola Company sublimely strengthens this assertion by putting a big red heart on Diet Coke cans. But diet-cola news (Los Angeles Times) presented at the International Stroke Conference 2011 suggests otherwise. This widely-publ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4501588 Sun, 20 Feb 2011 14:00:45 +0100 4501588 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4459959&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthe-forecast-for-heart-disease-gloomy-with-a-strong-chance-of-boomers%2F2011.02.10 As a youngster, I loved being part of the baby boom — it meant there were dozens of kids on my block who were ready to play hide-and-seek or join mysterious clubs. Now that I’m of an AARP age, there’s one club I don’t want to join: The one whose members have bypass scars, pacemakers, or other trappings of cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association’s (AHA) gloomy new forecast on cardiovascular disease tells me it won’t be easy to avoid. The AHA foresees sizeable increases in all forms of cardiovascular disease (see table) between now and 2030, the year all of the boomers are age 65 and older. Those increases will translate into an additional 27 million people with high blood pressure, eight million with coronary heart disease, four million with stroke, and thr... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4459959 Thu, 10 Feb 2011 18:00:43 +0100 4459959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4441972&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fis-february-heart-marketing-month%2F2011.02.06 Heart disease and February: What relationship could be more cozy? From the scary risks of shoveling snow (yep, you could die, so be sure to lift a little at a time), Mercedes-sponsored red dress parades and government-sponsored National Wear Red Day®, to tips for identifying heart attacks in women (men, you need a different month I guess), February has all the important stories to improve your awareness. Such a polite term “awareness.” But I wonder, now that the Internet is upon us and people are seeing their insurance rates and co-pays skyrocket, if maybe we’re shooting ourselves in the foot with all this heart-month marketing hype. People are sick and tired of testing “just to be sure.” It’s starting to directly cost them a fortune, and people are fr... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4441972 Sun, 06 Feb 2011 22:00:00 +0100 4441972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4429017&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwere-overdosing-on-sodium-whose-responsibility-is-it%2F2011.02.02 I confess to loving Campbell’s tomato bisque soup. I mix it with 1 percent-fat milk and it’s hot and delicious and comforting, but one of the worst food choices I could make because one cup contains more sodium than I should have in a day. Knowing this, I have already relegated it to an occasional treat. But by the end of this blog post I will do more. We are overdosing on sodium and it is killing us. We need to cut the sodium we eat daily by more than half. The guidelines keep coming. The U.S. government has handed out dietary guidelines telling Americans who are over 50, all African Americans, people with high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease to have no more than 1,500 milligrams (mg) — or two thirds of a teaspoon — of sodium daily. That’s the majorit... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4429017 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4429017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4429019&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fnew-dietary-guidelines-offer-little-new-guidance%2F2011.02.02 There isn’t much new in the latest iteration of the “Dietary Guidelines for Americans.” Three years in the making, the 2010 guidelines (released a tad late, on January 31, 2011) offer the usual advice about eating less of the bad stuff (salt; saturated fat, trans fats, and cholesterol; and refined grains) and more of the good stuff (fruits and vegetables; whole grains; seafood, beans, and other lean protein; and unsaturated fats). I’ve listed the 23 main recommendations below. You can also find them on the “Dietary Guidelines” website. The guidelines do break some new ground. They state loudly and clearly that overweight and obesity are a leading nutrition problem in the United States, and that a healthy diet can help people achieve a healthy weight. They also r... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4429019 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 19:00:27 +0100 4429019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4424235&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fcardiovascular-care-costs-could-triple-by-2030%2F2011.02.01 Real total direct medical costs of cardiovascular disease (CVD) could triple, from $273 billion to $818 billion (in 2008 dollars) by 2030. Real indirect costs, such as lost productivity among the employed and unpaid household work, could increase 61 percent, from $172 billion in 2010 to $276 billion. Results appeared in a policy statement of the American Heart Association. CVD is the leading cause of mortality and accounts for 17 percent of national health expenditures, according to the statement. How much so? U.S. medical expenditures rose from 10 percent of the Gross Domestic Product in 1985 to 15 percent in 2008. In the past decade, the medical costs of CVD have grown at an average annual rate of 6 percent and have accounted for about 15 percent of the increase in medical spending... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4424235 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 18:00:00 +0100 4424235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4394746&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FYECv4Iz6fOk%2F Rise and shine, everyone. Another day is on the way. And here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, we are, once again, hustling those short people off to their school houses. Wish us luck. Meanwhile, we are also trying to brew a much-needed cup of stimulation - our flavor today is Southern Pecan - and scour the news of the world. And so here are a few tidbits. Hope your day goes well and drop us a line about anything interesting… J&J Sales Hurt By Product Recalls (Reuters) Amgen Buys A Cancer Drugmaker: Are More Deals Coming? (Bloomberg News) Wolters Kluwer Forms Joint Venture With China’s Medicom (Philadelphia Inquirer) Savient Pharma Hires Lilly Oncology Exec As CEO (Reuters) Cost Of Treating Heart Disease Will Triple By 2030 (Bloomberg News) Clinical Data And Its Antidepr... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4394746 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 13:02:18 +0100 4394746 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4253137&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fdecline-in-stroke-deaths-reinforces-brain-attack-prevention%2F2010.12.13 Stroke killed 2,000 fewer Americans in 2008 (the last year with complete numbers) than it did in 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said yesterday in its latest annual Deaths report. That dropped stroke from the third leading cause of death in the United States to the fourth. Good news? Yes and no. It’s always good news when fewer people die. The reduction suggests a payoff for efforts to prevent stroke and improve the way doctors treat it. Yet the drop from third to fourth place is due largely to an accounting change. The CDC reorganized another category, “chronic lower respiratory diseases” (mainly chronic bronchitis and emphysema), to include complications of these diseases such as pneumonia. The change substantially increased the number of deaths in this c... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4253137 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 13:00:25 +0100 4253137 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4214106&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhealthcare-transparency-patient-experts-at-medical-conventions%2F2010.11.30 We are invading their home turf. Increasingly, in among the thousands of doctors, scientists, and medical industry marketers at the largest medical conventions you are finding real patients who have the conditions discussed in the scientific sessions and exhibit halls. Patients like me want to be where the news breaks. We want to ask questions and — thanks to the Internet — we have a direct line to thousands of other patients waiting to know what new developments mean for them. I vividly remember attending an FDA drug hearing a few years ago and how there were stock analysts sitting in the audience, BlackBerries poised for the “thumbs up” or “thumbs down” on whether a proposed new drug would be recommended for approval. (At that session it was thumbs dow... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4214106 Tue, 30 Nov 2010 22:00:47 +0100 4214106 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4200610&cid=t_353229_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F11%2Flooking-for-patient-information.html HELP is India's largest patient education resource center. We want to establish patient education resource centers all over India, to promote Information Therapy. We are now looking to recruit doctors to spearhead this initiative. You will need to create India-specific relevant information for patients; build closer relationships with physicians, pharma and health insurance companies; and help to set up patient education centers at hospitals and train patient information officers.This is an exciting and unique opportunity with helps to Put Patients First !Please send your resume to : helplibrary@gmail.com (Source: The Patient's Doctor) The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4200610 Thu, 25 Nov 2010 05:17:00 +0100 4200610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4186905&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcovertrationingblog.com%2Fpodpress_trac%2Ffeed%2F1076%2F0%2Fobesity-mortgage-crisis.mp3 Q. What’s the difference between a public health expert and an incompetent doctor? A. An incompetent doctor tends to kill only one person at a time. The deep recession and jobless “recovery” which we have enjoyed in the U.S. for going on three years now was triggered by the bursting of the housing bubble. The housing bubble was created by lending practices that awarded “subprime” mortgages to people with bad credit ratings, and offered to people with good credit ratings adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) that enticed them to purchase more expensive homes than they could afford. Traditionally, banks were always reluctant to award mortgages, of any flavor, to people who obviously could not afford them, since doing so would wreck their businesses. The reason the banks began making bad... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4186905 Sat, 20 Nov 2010 18:00:06 +0100 4186905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4186907&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Flose-weight-and-save-your-heart%2F2010.11.19 On location at the American Heart Association’s “Scientific Sessions“ meeting in Chicago, Andrew Schorr discusses lowering your risk of heart disease and how weight affects your risk: Lower Obesity and Save Your Heart from Patient Power® on Vimeo. *This blog post was originally published at Andrew's Blog* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4186907 Fri, 19 Nov 2010 23:00:57 +0100 4186907 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4172059&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fheart-smarts%2F2010.11.16 From the American Heart Association’s “Scientific Sessions 2010” in Chicago (November 13-17): Chicago Heart Smarts from Patient Power® on Vimeo. *This blog post was originally published at Andrew's Blog* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4172059 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 19:00:39 +0100 4172059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4159506&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FUn-ROdfR8Lc%2F Good morning, everyone. Once again, the time has come to daydream, just a little, about the upcoming weekend. We envision long walks with the official Pharmalot mascots, entertaining our short people and, in the name of getting exercise, raking countless leaves shed by our towering pin oaks. What about you? How about a drive in the country? Some time with that special someone? Maybe a good book is in order. Whatever you do, have a great time and be safe. Meanwhile, here is the news of the world. See you soon… The AHA Meeting And Some Big Heart Drugs (Reuters) UK’s NICE Rejects Roche’s Avastin For Colorectal Cancer (Bloomberg News) J&J To Release Bloodthinner Results (The Wall Street Journal) Japan’s Otuska To Raise $2.8 Billion In Record IPO (Reuters) AstraZene... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4159506 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 12:54:49 +0100 4159506 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4082039&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2F205431%2F The New CPR Is C-A-B: The American Heart Association says that the most important part of CPR is the chest compressions. (via CNN) Post from: BlissTree (Source: Healthbolt) Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4082039 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 22:07:04 +0100 4082039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4031241&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthe-simple-truth-about-cholesterol%2F2010.10.05 The New York Times recently ran a piece that wondered if doctors were treating patients with cholesterol-lowering medication unnecessarily because a web-based calculator over estimated a person’s risk. The program was proudly sponsored by the pharmaceutical roundtable and was available at the American Heart Association. The implication was obvious. Simple tool determines an individual’s risk for heart attack or death from heart attack. It over estimates risk. Patients treated unnecessarily. To be also clear, the program did underestimate risk as well. Unfortunately, the article missed an important point. While the simplified calculator may not be as accurate as the more complex algorithm used by the National Cholesterol Education Program, the truth is doctors are likely to... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4031241 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100 4031241 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3943025&cid=t_353229_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=3929454&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FQuR3pp4IJdg%2F Did the American Heart Association’s Circulation journal publish a ghostwritten article about Avandia? There has been disagreement about this ever since the US Senate Finance Committee released a report in July about the controversy concerning the GlaxoSmithKline diabetes pill. Glaxo, you may recall, once ran a program aptly named Cassper, or Case Study Publications for Peer Review, which was designed to assist researchers with their articles. At the time, the committee sent a wad of documents to the FDA that contained emails and drafts of different manuscripts. One appeared slated for the American Journal of Cardiology and the lead author was Baylor College’s Steve Haffner (see this). Also included was a draft manuscript of a study destined for Circulation (see attachments H a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3929454 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 19:55:48 +0100 3929454 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3889082&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthe-heart-health-risks-of-being-a-couch-potato%2F2010.08.20 We’ve all made the excuses: You can’t face the drive to the gym, you’re too tired at night, getting up in the morning is a chore, or it’s too hot or cold outside. So you cozy up on the couch in front of the television. If you’re a couch potato, you’re a gambler — with your life. Unfortunately you’ll need a big sofa because you’re not the only one whose heart isn’t in physical activity. About 60 percent of adults in the U.S. are not getting the exercise they need, according to a report from the U.S. Surgeon General. It’s time to get up and face — or better yet, dance to — the music! Here are a few facts that may get you moving for your heart’s sake. (more…) *This blog post was originally published at Health in 30* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3889082 Fri, 20 Aug 2010 15:00:55 +0100 3889082 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3761627&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Ff0D61tLDo6E%2F Three years ago, Steve Haffner briefly gained notoriety when he leeked a meta-analysis of GlaxoSmithKline’s Avandia diabetes that was to be published in The New England Journal of Medicine. At the time, Haffner served as a peer reviewer and the breach allowed the drugmaker to respond very quickly to publication. But a recent US Senate Finance Committee investigation shows his ties to Glaxo were complicated - he was the lead author on an Avandia paper that was apparently ghostwritten before appearing in Circulation (back story here and here). A Glaxo spokeswoman has denied any ghostwriting took place and maintains Haffner authored the paper, providing “substantial input.” Moreover, she says the drugmaker follows accepted “authorship practices.” But Baylor Colle... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3761627 Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:53:03 +0100 3761627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3710794&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FKwcRo-0Wqew%2F Continuing medical education is always controversial, given concerns over undue industry influence on medical practice. But CME roared back into public view earlier this month when several leading policy makers and physicians – including the National Institutes of Health director – publicly objected to a rule promulgated by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education, which would prevent doctors from receiving needed credit for attending medical meetings where industry people talk about their drugs. The issue came up when the American Heart Association planned a “vigorous” appeal, although the two groups last week resolved their differences (see this). We spoke with Murray Kopelow, who heads the ACCME, about the latest flap and the CME controversy. This is an excerpt... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3710794 Tue, 29 Jun 2010 14:23:09 +0100 3710794 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3695808&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FFoSny4-5AJQ%2F The debate over industry funding of continuing medical education took a tense turn earlier this month when the American Heart Association promised to aggressively appeal a rule that would prevent doctors from receiving needed credit for attending medical meetings where industry people talk about their drugs (see background). Specifically, AHA president Clyde Yancy was incensed that the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education told him his organization shouldn’t have industry speakers at any scientific sessions at its upcoming annual meeting. The ACCME policy was set in 2004 and updated last year, but his vow to appeal undescored opposing views over industry influence on post-graduate medical education and whether it has gotten out of hand. The issue, in fact, will be de... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3695808 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 19:11:38 +0100 3695808 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3666222&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FCsHzfWRr9U4%2F Amid the controversy over financial conflicts of interest and academic researchers, the Advisory Committee to the National Institutes of Health director late last week included a lengthy discussion of the issue. NIH director Frances Collins, in fact, confirmed the agency may change a rule allowing academics to receive NIH grants after switching university jobs, even though sanctions were imposed on a previous university employer because of undisclosed financial conflicts. What followed, however, was equally interesting. Keith Yamamoto, executive vice dean of the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine, pointed out that the American Heart Association is being prevented from allowing pharmaceutical industry employees make any presentations duing the scientific sessions of... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3666222 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:19:40 +0100 3666222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3590339&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fusing-rap-to-teach-cpr%2F2010.05.22 Earlier this week we facetiously found out how sex is being used to teach CPR. Now the American Heart Association is turning to rap to teach CPR basics in its Be The Beat campaign: *This blog post was originally published at KevinMD.com* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3590339 Sat, 22 May 2010 18:12:45 +0100 3590339 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3588866&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fits-american-stroke-month%2F2010.05.22 May is American Stroke Month as designated by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association. As I talk about in this video, stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, and every 40 seconds someone in the United States suffers from a stroke. The key thing to recognize is that symptoms are sudden — whether it’s weakness on one side of the body, difficulty with talking, difficulty with walking, or other neurological changes. One of the important things to remember is that even subtle weakness or difficulty with speech can be an early sign. (more…) *This blog post was originally published at Doctor Anonymous* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3588866 Sat, 22 May 2010 14:00:00 +0100 3588866 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3585610&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fmedicine-and-the-wii%2F2010.05.20 This is shaping up to be a big week for the Wii in medicine — not only is the American Heart Association’s endorsement of Wii and new partnership with Nintendo making waves, but today is a day we’ve marked on our calendar for a while: Trauma Team for Wii was released [May 18th].  After years of trauma center releases focusing on surgery (some of which we’ve written about here), this is the first offering that lets gamers delve into emergency and pre-hospital care. Of course, the game runs counter to standard teachings (in one demo video we saw a practitioner abandon her airway procedures to tend to an abdominal wound) and is at least as unrealistic as prior offerings — but then again if we wanted more accuracy, we could just go to work… Product page: T... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3585610 Thu, 20 May 2010 18:00:20 +0100 3585610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3573719&cid=t_353229_105_f&fid=38964&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrwes.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fwii-now-aha-approved-for-price.html Which one's approved by the American Heart Association:Bicycles?No.Running shoes?No.Treadmills?No.Fried rice?Yep. (Courtesy of the California Walnut Commission).Nintendo's Wii? Yep. (Courtesy of another $1.5 million promotional fee).While I'm all for a healthy lifestyle, we should really ask ourselves if we're sending the right message. But then again, I guess it's okay to get money from our Heart Association logos as long as the money's not from a pharmaceutical company.-WesMusings of a cardiologist and cardiac electrophysiologist. (Source: Dr. Wes) Dr. Wes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3573719 Mon, 17 May 2010 19:37:00 +0100 3573719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3545439&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwhich-diet-fits-your-genes%2F2010.05.08 Why do some diets work better than others? Why can your best friend lose 10 pounds with a low-carb diet and your weight just hovers? Why can some people eat just about everything and still stay skinny? It’s all in the genes.  Mindy Dopler Nelson, Ph.D., of Stanford University reported the results of her study at the American Heart Associate Conference. She found that a single nuceotide polymorphism caused women to loose five times as much weight on the Atkins diet compared with women who didn’t have the gene. (more…) *This blog post was originally published at EverythingHealth* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3545439 Sat, 08 May 2010 16:00:00 +0100 3545439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3534042&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2010%2F05%2Ffive-foods-to-consider.html I don’t write much about food choices. But believe me, as a person with diabetes (and gluten intolerance), I struggle with them all the time. We PWDs are used to hearing the “generic” nutritional suggestions from our dietitians and CDEs: don’t eat too much sugar, eat lots of veggies, drink water, etc. But what about [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3534042 Wed, 05 May 2010 13:00:32 +0100 3534042 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3374378&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FqUrzDZcDUAE%2F While speaking at the American College of Cardiology yesterday, Steve Nissen criticized the American Heart Association for its financial relationship with Coca-Cola. Why? He said their ties influenced AHA statements that a tax on sugar-sweetened drinks needs more study and the findings of a study linking sodas to obestiy weren’t conclusive, the Associated Press reports. Nissen blamed the AHA position on Diet Coke’s involvement in the AHA’s red dress campaign to raise awareness of heart disease among women. “Our societies have been bought, and it’s time to draw the line,” Nissen said. “When you take the money, you better accept the taint that goes with it.” However, the AP points out Nissen had the wrong red dress. The campaign he cited is cal... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3374378 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:13:23 +0100 3374378 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3227953&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fits-heart-month.html It’s February. The month of sweet tarts and sweet hearts (and far too much candy being tossed around, if you ask me). Fittingly, it also happens to American Heart Month, a time to call attention to cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including stroke, which are our nation’s No. 1 killer (!)  A full 50% of people with diabetes [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3227953 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:00:04 +0100 3227953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3100825&cid=t_353229_105_f&fid=38964&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrwes.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fcan-website-teach-cpr.html The American Heart Association, in conjunction with a $1 million dollar grant from the Medtronic Foundation, thinks it can, especially if schools can win a thousand bucks for their effort promoting the idea:Through the Be the Beat campaign, the Medtronic Foundation is providing $1,000 grants for school staff to help fund CPR and AED training outreach programs within their school or community. The deadline for application is January 15, 2010. More information is available in the “Teachers and Administration” section of the Be the Beat Web site, BetheBeat.heart.org/schools.BetheBeat.heart.org engages 12- to 15-year-olds to learn the basics of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) through interactive games, videos and songs on the Web... Dr. Wes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3100825 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 11:30:00 +0100 3100825 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2995983&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FTgh2RcPPPmc%2Fheart-of-diabetes-vlog-2.php As a follow-up to this video, I recognize that some in the type 2 diabetes community do not believe that lipid panel results are that important; instead being in favor of glucose control, c-reactive protein, and expensive heart scans.   Nothing is certain to determine heart disease risk, so I'm not willing to leave out any possible tool, including lipid panel results.   ***In the interest of disclosure, I did receive compensation for travel, meals, and lodging. I will also be receiving an honorarium along with a Flip video camera (to record that Real Story) from the American Heart Association for my part in this project. That being said, all content in posts referring to the "Heart of Diabetes" Connected Council will be my own, with no expectations from the AHA, their PR fir... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2995983 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100 2995983 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2977568&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FBKf6UvLaxzA%2F The big drugmaker may encounter its third negative study result within two years for Vytorin and Zetia which, along with Zocor, is a component in the expensive cholesterol pill. The latest trial is scheduled to be presented this coming Monday at the American Heart Association meeting, and pits Merck’s drugs against Abbott Labs’ Niaspan, Bloomberg News notes. The results are likely to show that Niaspan unclogged arteries better than Vytorin, according to Leerink Swann analyst Seamus Fernandez and Wells Fargo Advisors analyst Larry Biegelsen, Bloomberg writes. If so, Vytorin and Zetia revenue may be reduced by $800 million yearly, or 20 percent, Fernandez forecasts. Since January, sales have declined $480 million, or 14 percent, to about $3 billion. A win by Niaspan may discourage ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2977568 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:42:12 +0100 2977568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2977498&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2009%2F11%2Ffamous-diabetes-friends-on-heart-health-vlogs.html Ooh, lucky me. I ran into two of my diabetes heroes at the Diabetes Technology Society Meeting late last week. More soon on the new developments I heard about there.  But for today, please enjoy these video testimonials on diabetes & heart health. First, from Francine Kaufman, MD, a world-renown pediatric endocrinologist at USC, former ADA president, [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2977498 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:00:08 +0100 2977498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2972016&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FRkyZkbO3GoE%2Fdo-you-know-diabetes.php I keep thinking about the Heart of Diabetes initiative that the American Heart Association has been working on.  The more I think about it, the more I believe in what they are doing.  This is a large national nonprofit organization working very hard to help better overall heart health. You might think "why is that important here, at diabetesdaily.com?"  - and it is a fair question!  It is important because the statistics around diabetes and heart disease are scary.  Yet many of us don't really think much about heart health.  I know I don't give it as much thought as I do the other scary complications.  Yet it is more dangerous AND more likely than all of the other complications.We talked a bit about why that is, but I'd love to hear all of your thoughts o... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2972016 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:40:51 +0100 2972016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2908835&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fmy-first-vlog-from-the-heart.html I was tempted to call this post, “I’m better in writing.” I really don’t like seeing myself on film. But I know, it’s time to get with the program. That, and the American Heart Association provided the members of its Heart of Diabetes Connected Council group with free Flip video recorders - pretty cool! See Scott Johnson’s [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2908835 Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:00:17 +0100 2908835 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2899148&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FxYCY8Q76SP0%2Ftalking-the-talk-and-walking-the-walk.php While our focus at the American Heart Association Connected Council meeting was on the "Heart of Diabetes", those of us participating were treated to a tour of the headquarters at the end of our day.  We saw a quilt in memory of those lost to stroke and "Go Red for Women" red dress sculptures decorated by artists dedicated to the cause.Most notably was the Start! program in action.  The fundraising walks put on by local affiliates are now called Start! walks, and there is a workplace component of the program.  This provides an opportunity for companies to begin wellness programs by encouraging walking and eating right.  They will provide a corporate leader the tools to lead such a program and provide copies of the Start! newsletter for each company involved.  ... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2899148 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:52:31 +0100 2899148 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2894716&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FVTKLzZ6xS9o%2Fdiabetes-heart-disease-a-quick-post-trip-vlog.php David Mendosa was also scheduled to attend, but was unfortunately not able to make it.  It sounds like we will be working with David on this project as it matures though.  I value David's input, insights, and experiences, so I'm glad that he will be involved.* Disclosure: In return for my participation in the connected council meeting I was paid a small honorarium, and given a Flip video recorder to participate in the "Real Stories" initiative.  My travel, primary meals, and lodging were also paid for.  That does not mean my support and belief in this AHA Project was purchased.  Following the food chain up a step, this particular AHA project is currently sponsored by Takeda. All content is that of the author and not reviewed or approved by the American Heart Associ... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2894716 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 06:51:04 +0100 2894716 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2886664&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fpreventing-heart-attacks.html I’m off to Dallas today to take part in a special patient advisory council* for the American Heart Association, which is desperately trying to reach out to people with diabetes about heart health. They’ve created a program called Heart of Diabetes (sponsored by Takeda Pharmaceuticals) and are busy gathering patient stories in video format. Now they’re [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2886664 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:00:48 +0100 2886664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2730302&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FvEf9HM438uM%2Fits-better-than-nothing---news-from-the-american-heart-association.php The American Heart Association has recommended new guidelines for sugar consumption, hitting the processed food and beverage industry hard.  While the experts at the AHA don't want to condemn any one food group for the increase in obesity-related diseases, they do acknowledge many studies that have found a correlation between high intake of sugary/syrupy beverages and such diseases.  These new recommendations aren't ideal, as they do allow for some added processed sugar in a person's day (25 g for women, 37.5 g for men).  Also, it is important to note that they did not consider complex carbohydrates or naturally occurring sugars in these particular recommendations.  Not everyone is going to hear about these guidelines and not everyone is going to want to follow these gu... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2730302 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:45:00 +0100 2730302 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2657601&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F07%2Fbloggers-can-spread-word-just-not-about.html The internet, social media, web 2.0 etc have changed how important health care issues are discussed. So, it is not surprising that big health care organizations are trying to use these new media to promote their messages. New media, however, are no more immune from the effects of conflicts of interest than are old media.An article from corporate communications company Ragan.com about how the American Heart Association (AHA) is using bloggers to get people interested in a heart-healthy diet and exercise program illustrates how even "civilian" bloggers can get caught up in the web of conflicts of interest that pervades health care. The background is:Keeping track of the conversations on the array of social media networks can gobble up your workday. So why not find someone else to do it for y... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2657601 Thu, 30 Jul 2009 19:56:00 +0100 2657601 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2405097&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fcpr-works-best-with-more-compressions%2F How long ago did you first start learning CPR? Were your CPR instructors strict about the number of compressions and breathes to do? Did they stress the need for ‘x’ number of compressions followed by ‘x’ number of breathes? Did you have trouble finding the carotid pulse? Difficulty getting the breathes in? Well, you can relax. Things have really changed since the early days of CPR training. Why? Well, it turns out that the frequent stopping to breath air into the victim isn’t actually best action. Research has shown that even a second of pausing in compressions can cause a 1% reduction in the likelihood of getting the heartbeat to return. So if you haven’t updated your CPR knowledge lately, it might be time to do so. Start by checking out the new first aid guidelines that the ... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2405097 Tue, 12 May 2009 21:44:21 +0100 2405097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2290613&cid=t_353229_117_f&fid=36026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fzimney-health-and-medical-news-you-can-use%2Fwalking-is-good-medicine%2F I’ve written about the benefits of walking before, but there’s a few new reasons to talk about it again. First is a newly published study that figured out how fast you need to walk in order to achieve a “moderate” level of intensity. That’s important because the current recommendation is that you should get 30 minutes of “moderate intensity” exercise five times per week. But if you didn’t know what “moderate intensity” was that recommendation wouldn’t be of much help. More details below. The second newsworthy item is that April 8 is National Start! Walking Day.  According to the American Heart Association (AHA), “On this day, employees are encouraged to wear sneakers to work and take at least 30 minutes out of their day to get up and walk. It’s pretty simple ... Dr. Z's Medical Report blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2290613 Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:36:51 +0100 2290613 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1924709&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F437306919%2F A forthcoming AstraZeneca study could dramatically increase the market for cholesterol-lowering drugs, otherwise known as statins, which are already pharma’s biggest success story, Forbes writes. Known as Jupiter, the study tested the theory that Crestor combats lower artery inflammation, which can cause cholesterol plaque to burst into heart-attack-causing clots. Some 18,000 people were tested with low levels of LDL, but high levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), which could indicate that the arteries are inflamed, the mag writes. In March, the study was stopped early because of “unequivocal” benefit, and now, some scientists hope for blowout results when the full data are presented on November 9 at the American Heart Association meeting, Forbes says. And by the way, sinc... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1924709 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:31:21 +0100 1924709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1671895&cid=t_353229_117_f&fid=36026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fzimney%2Fcalifornia-bans-trans-fats-a-scambuster-follow-up%2F On Friday July 25, 2008, California became the first U.S. state to ban trans fats (from restaurants beginning in 2010 and from baked goods in 2011). Similar bills are pending in more than 12 other states and are already on the books in several cities including Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore. But while banning trans fats is a good idea, it is only a partial fix as it is likely that they will be replaced by other hidden fats, which, while they may be less bad than trans fats, are nonetheless bad. In order to help you understand this complex but important issue, I am reprinting my April 3, 2008 piece on this subject: Most people know that foods containing trans fats are bad, which is good. But not everyone realizes that foods containing no trans fats are not necessarily good, wh... Dr. Z's Medical Report blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1671895 Thu, 31 Jul 2008 21:15:36 +0100 1671895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1668703&cid=t_353229_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=1386912&cid=t_353229_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F274284850%2F Kids, parents, adults, advocates, researchers, heart and stroke survivors will make a personal plea on capitol Hill for lawmakers to help them save lives…You’re the Cure! You’re the Cure advocates call on Congress to step up the fight against heart disease and stroke. Nearly 600 advocates, including American Heart Association President Daniel W. Jones, M.D., President-Elect Tim Gardner, M.D. and other officers wearing red will meet their representatives in Congress on Capitol Hill on April 28-29 to boost funding for heart and stroke research and prevention programs. If you want to join American Heart Association’s You’re the Cure network please do so. You do not have to be a doctor or nurse to help save a life. Tags: american heart association, capitol hill, ... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1386912 Sun, 20 Apr 2008 22:38:43 +0100 1386912 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1386914&cid=t_353229_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F274287012%2F There is a great service offered by the American Heart Association, Heart Profilers. You or a loved one can become more involved in your care by reviewing treatment options, possible side effects, success rates and questions to ask your healthcare provider. You also have access to medical journal articles and research studies written in an easy-to-understand format. It is a personal ‘game plan’ and easy to understand info that pertains to your unique situation and treatment plan. It only takes about 20 minutes to really get going. Great tool- if anyone uses it or gives it a try please let me know. Tags: american heart association, diabetes, heart profiles, heart-attack, mi, online service, strokeShare This (Source: A Hearty Life) A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1386914 Sun, 20 Apr 2008 19:53:18 +0100 1386914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1382618&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F272896287%2F In times of crisis, companies often turn to communications specialists to craft messages, deflect damage and hone images. And that’s what Schering-Plough is doing to cope with the Vytorin controversy, which has ravaged its stock price, prompted Congressional scrutiny, caused massive layoffs and, in general, sullied its corporate reputation. Among those the drugmaker has recently asked for help is Gil Bashe, who works at Makovsky & Co., a well-known public relations firm based in New York. Bashe, however, also serves as a board member on the New York chapter of the American Heart Association, as does Brent Saunders, a compliance expert who runs Schering-Plough’s consumer healthcare business. You may recall that there is yet another connection between the drugmaker and the n... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1382618 Fri, 18 Apr 2008 13:44:22 +0100 1382618 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1373680&cid=t_353229_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F270632720%2F I received a lot of feedback on my last post about new guidelines for resistant hypertension. And I thank you for that! So this morning I am going to take a few of the simpler questions that came across, tie them together and do a little Dear Hearty Life of sorts. Is resistant high blood pressure resistant to exercise and diet regimens and can it be genetic? Resistant hypertension is high blood pressure that does not respond to treatment. It is defined as blood pressure that remains elevated above treatment goals despite administration of a three drug regimen usually including a diuretic. It can not be diagnosed in full until the treatment has failed. The most common cause of resistant hypertension, and the most difficult to treat is non- compliance of the patient. The term ‘patient... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1373680 Tue, 15 Apr 2008 11:02:19 +0100 1373680 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1369141&cid=t_353229_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F269468338%2F For the first time, the American Heart Association has set guidelines in the diagnosis and treatment of resistant high blood pressure. Resistant hypertension is if a person’s blood pressure remains above the goal despite taking three medications to lower as well as high blood pressure that is under control using four or more medications to treat it. It is important to note that there is a huge difference between uncontrolled and resistant blood pressure. Uncontrolled is when the treatment is not effective and there needs to be more lifestyle changes or more adequate adjustments. There are many underused types of medications and treatments that hypertension specialists would have a leg up on. Diuretics are often underused in people with resistant hypertension, and some patients may be... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1369141 Sun, 13 Apr 2008 14:42:07 +0100 1369141 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1352239&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F264283956%2F Here is a scary one for you… The Journal of the American Heart Association is reporting that people with diabetes have the same high risk for a heart attack or stroke as persons who have had a heart attack previous. When people with diabetes do have heart attacks, they are also twice as likely to die as a result. It is so important that we take care of ourselves and our blood sugars. I know you know this or you wouldn’t be here reading this. Sometimes it scares me. Being a nurse is both a blessing and a curse, I wish I didn’t know so much sometimes, but that isn’t the answer either. Researchers said “the major finding of this study is that all patients age 30 and older who require glucose-lowering treatment are at a particularly high risk of cardiovascular dea... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1352239 Sat, 05 Apr 2008 00:01:46 +0100 1352239 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1344322&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=35052&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FWomensBioethicsBlog%2F%7E3%2F262025709%2Famerican-heart-association-endorses.html In a shift away from the decades old recommendation that CPR include mouth-to-mouth resuscitation as well as chest compressions, the American Heart Association endorsed "hands-only" CPR in the latest... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Women's Bioethics Blog) Women's Bioethics Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1344322 Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:20:29 +0100 1344322 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1322382&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=35052&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FWomensBioethicsBlog%2F%7E5%2F257007627%2Fh45UrpBsCKI%26hl%3Den Perhaps not the best centerpiece for the next family gathering (unless your family is like mine, in which case it'll be a competition to see who can get the display open first to see how the heart... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Women's Bioethics Blog) Women's Bioethics Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1322382 Mon, 24 Mar 2008 12:27:19 +0100 1322382 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1268659&cid=t_353229_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F243294724%2F The greatest month ever, at least in the last two years since I have been blogging full-time. Here in this blog alone, I was off to a slow start because I got back from a real vacation on 4th Feb. You know what happens after a vacation even how short. You end coming back on the job but wishing you can extend the break for one more week. Then there was Valentine’s Day and the Theme Day. Not to mention that February is also the other official heart month: American Heart Month. And who can forget the frustrating downtimes here and network-wide?! All those, on top of some wonderful, amazing stuff that has been happening in my life all the once right now. This is a month or many firsts! Generally good, putting me in the right cheerful, chirpy mode. The only problem is that, it put my time... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1268659 Fri, 29 Feb 2008 12:32:53 +0100 1268659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1253247&cid=t_353229_145_f&fid=35710&url=http%3A%2F%2Fstoryofhealing.com%2F2008%2F02%2F25%2Fmedia-in-medicine-the-big-guns-are-on-it%2F Before I share the main course for today, let me first touch base with the chosen labels for our endless babble involving technology’s role in potentially enhancing or carrying medicine and health care to the next better level—Media, Medicine 2.0 and Health 2.0. I initially have veered away from the latter term in my previous posts as I would like to apply my time more on Media (being mostly new media) and Medicine 2.0. These are more tangible to my focus at this point. I wanted to alleviate the great confusion these digital surnames bring us all. Though further on, I also realized that I too have to be educated on what these terms entail. The differences in detail between the two are also important. We could all learn something new everyday. That said, what is Medicine 2.0 and Hea... the story of healing blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1253247 Mon, 25 Feb 2008 08:51:32 +0100 1253247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1240303&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FBreastfeeding123%2F%7E3%2F237223090%2F Breastfed babies are less likely to have certain cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in adulthood than their bottle-fed counterparts, researchers reported at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2007. “Breastfeeding babies offers them long-term heart-health benefits,” American Heart Association news, November 5, 2007. Tags: American Heart Association, American Heart Month, breastfeeding, cardiovascular disease, heart, heart-health, lactation, scientific studiesShare This (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1240303 Mon, 18 Feb 2008 22:53:31 +0100 1240303 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1236249&cid=t_353229_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F235942227%2F  AlzheimersNotes.com Take time during February, American Heart Month, to think of your own health, as well as that of your Alzheimer’s patient.  The physical and emotional strain you endure can put a strain on your heart.  Your patient, who may have heart health issues, as well as disability from Alzheimer’s. Can you help both of you?  Kendra James, at A Hearty Life, reminds us High Blood Pressure Among Women on the Rise - Rapidly!  She also asks readers, in a questionnaire, “When was the last time you had your blood pressure checked?” Also, if you’re a male caregiver of an Alzheimer’s family member, have you taken time to take care of yourself and have your blood pressure checked?  So often, we as caregivers, get so busy that we neglect caring fo... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1236249 Sat, 16 Feb 2008 06:00:11 +0100 1236249 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1232083&cid=t_353229_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F235024111%2F In lieu of February being the American Heart Month, I would like to contribute this post (not cancer related!) in the b5media Science and Health Channel Theme Day. The month of February has Valentine’s Day too right (that’s today!) and the American Heart Month reminds the American public that cardiovascular diseases (including stroke) are the nation’s No. 1 killer. Makes you wonder how so. But it just makes sense, since the modern word and living on the fast lane bit is truly bad for the heart. We tend to eat the wrong foods, have bad eating habits and have sedentary lifestyles — not only in our homes but our offices too. We tend to be always on a hurry, even when eating. Most of us eat on the go. Even eating in front of your computer (like I often do!) is I guess w... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1232083 Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:53:33 +0100 1232083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1175042&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F222473058%2F The Republican from Iowa, who is the ranking member of the US Senate Finance Committee, is asking Schering-Plough and Merck to explain when they first unblinded their controversial Enhance study data, and to account for sales and payments made for the cholesterol drug to Medicaid. “In Iowa City, generic (Zocor) costs $54.54 for a month’s supply while Vytorin costs $112.46. It’s fair to assume the public would have benefited from knowing that a less expensive drug works just as well. Instead, people in Iowa and elsewhere paid more for nearly two years, while industry leaders sat on a scientific study that would have revealed this information,” he says in a statement. Like the House Energy & Commerce Committee, Grassley is responding to the scandal over the two-year delay in rel... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1175042 Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:03:17 +0100 1175042 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1173448&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F222079820%2F You may recall that shortly after last week’s release of the controversial Vytorin study results, the American Heart Association quickly released a statement saying the cholesterol med isn’t ‘unsafe’ and that patients and docs shouldn’t panic. The study found no statistical difference between Vytorin and Zocor, and that Vytorin didn’t reduce the amount of arterial plaque build-up in the carotid arteries. The AHA statement followed Steve Nissen’s suggestion that Vytorin become a drug of last resort as well as criticism over the poor handling of the long-delayed study by Merck and Schering-Plough. The next day, however, Health Care Renewal pointed out that the AHA receives substantial funding from Merck and Schering-Plough, and that AHA president Dan... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1173448 Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:35:17 +0100 1173448 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1156044&cid=t_353229_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F217702175%2F The counteroffensive is gaining steam. Last night, the American College of Cardiology issued a statement urging docs and patients not to panic over the results of the controversial Vytorin trial released - two years late - by Merck and Schering-Plough, and the widely publicized remarks by the Cleveland Clinic’s Steve Nissen that Vytorin (and Zetia, which is one-half of the med) should be used only as a last resort. The trial compared Vytorin with Zocor, the other drug in the combo. This morning, the American Heart Association issues a similar statement, prompting Tim Anderson, an analyst at Sanford Bernstein, to write that “the two biggest organizations representing cardiovascular medicine have now weighed in on the matter, in support of Vytorin. This should help to quell the h... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1156044 Wed, 16 Jan 2008 15:57:07 +0100 1156044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1132237&cid=t_353229_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F01%2Famerican-heart-association-free.html At the American Heart Association the free Caregiver's Journal starts with a quotation for caregivers by Carolyn Joy Adams. "You are here for a reason...perhaps the very specific challenges faces you right noware truly invitations to expand your capacity to be patient, courageous, flexible, forgiving, to make wise choices...and to become more fully...the beautiful soul you are meant to be."The Caregiver's Journal also includes pages for the following."Caregiver's RightsCaregiver Health ChecklistBe Realistic, Think PositiveRefresh YourselfReplenish Your Body and MindReach OutHandy ChartsHow to Cope with Change"The American Heart Association Caregiver's Journal is a place for caregivers to keep track of their health and needs. Caregivers often forget about looking after their self-care when ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1132237 Sun, 06 Jan 2008 22:31:00 +0100 1132237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=932719&cid=t_353229_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F166159993%2F Do you watch American Idol? Come on… admit it, you do. I know you secretly enjoy Simon Cowell’s rudeness, Paula Abdul’s craziness and Randy Jackson’s “dawgpound”. And did you know that Randy Jackson is a type 2 diabetic? I actually didn’t until I ran past an email this morning. Mr. Jackson has paired up with the American Heart Association and Takeda Pharmacueticals North America for a program called The Heart of Diabetes. With the launch this week of its own Web site, the initiative is designed to encourage people to pay attention to possible diabetes symptoms so that if they do have the disease, they can begin treating and managing it early, significantly reducing their risk for cardiovascular disease. The Heart of Diabetes program of... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=932719 Sat, 06 Oct 2007 14:06:28 +0100 932719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=845687&cid=t_353229_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F9%2F6%2Fwelcome-to-health-care-wonk-review-september-6-2007.html Brian Klepper This week TDWI is delighted to take our turn hosting Health Care Wonk Review, a collection that highlights some of health policy's best observers. The quality of these 14 posts is very high, and well worth your time.As HWR has gained visibility and popularity, the number of submissions has risen. We couldn't publish them all, so chose the ones we thought were must-reads across industry sectors. (Apologies to those we didn't include this time.)Before we begin, a quick announcement. Envision Solutions, LLC and Trusted.MD Network have launched the second annual global survey of healthcare bloggers.  The companies are producing this poll to shed additional light on why people blog about health-related subjects.  Click on the link to learn about and take the survey.&nbsp... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=845687 Thu, 06 Sep 2007 12:41:21 +0100 845687 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=749662&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F07%2F22%2Faha-says-heart-patients-may-benefit-from-lifting-weights%2F Filed under: ExerciseHave you suffered a cardiac event and would like to make your way back to exercise? The AHA recently announced a new recommendation that said that strength training may be acceptable exercise for those with heart conditions after all, as long as certain guidelines are followed. Previously, patients were eased back into aerobic exercise, but strength training wasn't always encouraged. Not only is strength training good for your health, but stronger muscles will also make day-to-day life easier.Obviously, heart patients shouldn't start any new fitness routine without first talking to their doctor. But once you get the ok, consider these tips when getting started.Read | Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments (Source:... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=749662 Sun, 22 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100 749662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=726222&cid=t_353229_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F7%2F11%2Fwhat-medicine-can-learn-from-the-progress-in-military-strate.html By William Bestermann MDMany professionals in positions of leadership today were educated in the 60s, opposed the Vietnam War, and viewed military intelligence as an oxymoron. But my oldest son, a West Point graduate, has taught me lessons that have changed my life and are relevant to the major conundrum facing medical practice today.West Point places a primary stress on technical adaptation.  These young cadets are taught “Tactics Lag Technology.”  That is to say if the officer applies tactics appropriate to the last war in the face of more deadly weaponry in the current war, he will likely be responsible for the deaths of hundreds if not thousands of his personal friends, team mates, and countrymen.  Military officers, in their movement upward in rank and respo... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=726222 Wed, 11 Jul 2007 01:43:43 +0100 726222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=658879&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F06%2F04%2Fmission-lifeline-to-battle-the-deadliest-heart-attacks%2F Filed under: American Heart AssociationThe deadliest form of heart attack, which involves total blockage of a heart artery and is called an ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), is hopefully about to get a little less deadly. The American Heart Association is planning to launch a new community-based program called "Mission Lifeline" specifically designed to improve treatment times for patients suffering from this type of heart attack. The plan will focus both on teaching patients to recognize the symptoms of a heart attack sooner and call 911, and on establishing reliable speedy systems to transport the patients in need to appropriately equipped hospitals.Read | Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments (Source: The Cardio Blog) The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=658879 Mon, 04 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100 658879 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=628959&cid=t_353229_85_f&fid=34692&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpolitedissent.com%2Farchives%2F1658 Given recent events, I thought it was a good time to take a look at another American Heart Association PSA, this one celebrating its volunteers. Click on the image to the right for the full ad. The American Heart Association has a long history of comic book PSAs, from small single-frame ads hidden among the advertisements to larger full page ads. They’re always black and white, but usually quite eye-catching and memorable. Other notable American Heart Association PSAs include: The Big Heart Commissioner Gordon’s Heart Attack Tags: comics medicine psa heart american heart association (Source: Polite Dissent) Polite Dissent blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=628959 Tue, 22 May 2007 22:10:46 +0100 628959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=629137&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F05%2F21%2Fonline-education-program-for-heart-patients%2F Filed under: American Heart Association, Heart Centers Online, Women Heart Health, Men Heart Health, Aging Heart HealthHave you been recently diagnosed with heart disease? If so, take a moment to check out the American Heart Association's online program Heart Profilers. A recent study found that patients who used the program were more likely to have a good understanding of their disease, were more knowledgeable about their medications, and were more likely to ask their doctors questions and discuss treatment options.The program was especially beneficial for those dealing with conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure. Knowledge is power, and both knowledge and empowerment, say experts, can reduce complications from... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=629137 Mon, 21 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100 629137 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=511244&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F03%2F30%2Fchocolate-may-reduce-the-risk-of-blood-clots%2F Filed under: Diet, Prevention, ResearchLooking back on some recent posts, I realized that there has been too much negativity going on. While I do feel it is important to pass along research related to heart-related complications and dangers, I sometimes feel like a purveyor of doom. So, in efforts to 'add some heart' to this blog, I thought I'd mention something sweet. Well, semi-sweet, anyway. Yet another study -- this time conducted at Johns Hopkins Univeristy -- has found dark chocolate to be highly beneficial to circulation and overall heart health. The research, presented at a recent American Heart Association meeting, revealed a clear connection between the consumption of chocolate and the reduced risk of blood clots. The flavonoids in chocolate affect how effectively platelets clum... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=511244 Fri, 30 Mar 2007 04:00:00 +0100 511244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=461129&cid=t_353229_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F3%2F9%2Fbest-not-to-get-really-sick-on-a-saturday.html When I doing my internal medicine residency, we all knew it was best not to be admitted to a teaching hospital in June and July when freshly minted MDs start their internship.  Now, a new study published in the journal, Stroke:  Journal of the American Heart Association, finds that it is better not to have a stroke on the weekend.  It turns out people admitted to the hospital with a stoke on a Saturday or Sunday have a higher mortality rate than those who get admitted on a weekday.  The American Heart Association issued the following statement about the study:"After adjusting for age, gender and other medical complications, researchers found that patients admitted on the weekend had a 14 percent higher risk of dying within seven days of admission com... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=461129 Fri, 09 Mar 2007 19:53:07 +0100 461129 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=479190&cid=t_353229_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F03%2F08%2Fadult-children-of-smokers-at-higher-risk-of-stroke-and-heart-att%2F Filed under: Smoking, Children Heart HealthThe Surgeon General's warning on the side of cigarette packs spells it out: Smoking during pregnancy is stupid (well, I'm paraphrasing here, but that's basically the gist of it). Research backs this assertion, pointing to various side-effects nicotine can have on an unborn child. Now added to that list of complications is permanent vascular damage in children -- increasing their risk of stroke and heart attack. Speaking at the Annual Conference on Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, researchers from the Netherlands presented information on this association between smoking moms and consequential heart problems in their kids. And, not only were these problems detected in the children's early years, but they were also detected in youn... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=479190 Thu, 08 Mar 2007 05:00:00 +0100 479190