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 'chronic disease'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:54:15 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182066&cid=t_107510_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FcHHww-Xin4g%2F (Editor’s note: Pathways responsible for higher-order thinking in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), or executive center of the brain, remain vulnerable throughout life—during critical early-life developmental windows, when the PFC fully matures in the early 20s, and finally from declines associated with old age. At all ages, physical activity and PFC-navigated social connections are essential components to maintaining brain health. The Experience Corps, a community-based social-engagement program, partners seniors with local schools to promote purpose-driven involvement. Participating seniors have exhibited immediate short-term gains in brain regions vulnerable to aging, such as the PFC, indicating that people with the most to lose have the most to gain from environmental enrichment.) Over ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182066 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 14:18:19 +0100 5182066 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5169561&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F08%2Fthe-challenge-of-obesity.html For those interested in epidemiology, chronic disease, and obesity. This week's edition of the Lancet has a series of four articles and several commentaries that review the economics, epidemiology, social, and policymaking issues affecting obesity that are well worth reading in full. The take away message is that this is an extremely complicated area. There is an emphasis by the authors and commentators that correction of obesity will take government action. Government action in this area tends to resolve around police actions, and taxation. Taxation policies have worked to a significant extent in reducing tobacco consumption in Europe. However, smoking is not a survival necessity whereas eating is. We have to be very careful about the use of police power for public health policy with the ... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5169561 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 17:05:04 +0100 5169561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159078&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F08%2Fpreserving-the-bodys-bugs.html An interview today in TheScientist magazine, with Martin Blaser of New York University school of medicine, discusses the hypothesis that the overuse of antibiotics is affecting the normal flora of the gut, which in turn may be may be affecting the likelihood of development chronic diseases. While the theory is not new, the research discussed is and should be watched with interest by everyone in the public health field. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159078 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 16:39:59 +0100 5159078 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159079&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F08%2Fpainless-intervention-for-tooth-cavities.html I am sure there are others who, like me were traumatized as children from painful dental care, although this occurs far less today. From ScienceDaily today is news from the University of Leeds in the UK. Their pioneering treatment promises to transform the approach to filling teeth forever. It is a totally natural non-surgical repair process. The 'magic' fluid was designed by researchers in the University of Leeds' School of Chemistry, and it contains a peptide known as P 11-4 that -- under certain conditions -- will assemble together into fibers. When applied to the tooth, the fluid seeps into the micro-pores caused by acid attack and then spontaneously forms a gel. This gel then provides a 'scaffold' or framework that attracts calcium and regenerates the tooth's mineral from within, prov... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159079 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 15:25:46 +0100 5159079 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159082&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F08%2Fhealthy-behaviors-will-help-you-live-longer.html Researchers looked at long-term data from Americans aged 17 and older and found that those who embraced four healthy behaviors -- not smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity and avoiding excessive alcohol use -- were 63 percent less likely to die early from any cause than those with none of those healthy habits. Comment: one more piece of confirmatory data that are health relies more behaviors. The problem is that despite many repeated similar studies of population behaviors do not change. Instead of wasting money repeat the same old research. Why not develop methods to change population? If this is much not possible, which I suspect, perhaps we should stop funding ineffectual research. [http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2011/p0818_living_longer.htm ] (Source: Dr.... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159082 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 15:26:38 +0100 5159082 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159084&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F08%2Fdogs-can-detect-lung-cancer.html The study, carried out by researchers from Schillerhoehe Hospital in Germany, is the first to find that sniffer dogs can reliably detect lung cancer. This method relies on identifying volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are linked to the presence of cancer. The dogs successfully identified 71 samples with lung cancer out of a possible 100. They also correctly detected 372 samples that did not have lung cancer out of a possible 400. [European Respiratory Journal, 2011; DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00051711] Comment: Dogs really man’s best friend. Compared to other screening methods the sensitivity and specificity are better.           (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159084 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 15:22:51 +0100 5159084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096252&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F08%2Fwasted-research-funds.html According to a story on research in ScienceDaily today, “With Regular Exercise, People with Inactive Lifestyles More at Risk for Chronic Diseases”. I first read about research on this topic when the Alameda study on behavior among men was published in the 1960s. Similar research has been repeated hundreds of times in the intervening years yet the behaviors with which we are all familiar continue. It is high time that those who fund research stop funding issues that have been confirmed and either direct their funds for transitional research that shows that change in behavioral outcome is possible and effective. There have been many behavioral research studies that have shown the ability to change behavior for a few weeks, none that show long-term changes. It is high time to star... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096252 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 16:16:56 +0100 5096252 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5077719&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F07%2Fhow-should-we-define-health.html The British Medical Journal today contains an interesting analysis of the term "Health". Some 14 commentators are concerned that the WHO definition is restrictive and absolute. The authors are also concerned that the current definition leads to medicalization of society and particularly in the US to an inappropriate increase in treatments that produce little benefit a t great cost. This interesting discussion suggests that “health” be a social contract that accepts the current aging society and increases in chronic diseases in functional rather than biologically. This discussion is well worth reading. (BMJ 2011; 343:d4163). (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5077719 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 16:04:12 +0100 5077719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069475&cid=t_107510_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwhat-is-the-most-costly-healthcare-expenditure%2F2011.07.27 The National Institute for Healthcare Management Foundation is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization focused on healthcare. The foundation just published an excellent report on the distribution of  healthcare costs in the population. The results indicate that reducing healthcare cost is all about reducing and managing chronic diseases. U.S. healthcare spending has sharply increased between 2005 and 2009 by 23 percent from $2 trillion to $2.5 trillion per year. This is a result of a combination of factors. Chief among them is the increasing incidence of obesity. Who spends the money? (more…) *This blog post was originally published at Repairing the Healthcare System* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069475 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 12:00:54 +0100 5069475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062267&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F07%2Fscreening-for-breast-cancer.html This week a number of media outlets have been explaining the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology's push for increased screening below the age of 50 and at the same time noting in a critical manner the recommendations of the US Task Force on Preventive Services. This reminds me of the push by urologists for more screening for prostate cancer without concern for potential side effects. Earlier screening for breast cancer has more to do with politics and economics than science. The Task Force's recommendations are based on good epidemiology but unfortunately the way in which the data was presented to of the public did more harm than good and caused a lot of misunderstanding. We should be very careful when any special interest group, but the medical or political make recommendations ... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062267 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 15:46:12 +0100 5062267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008234&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F07%2Fradicals-and-cancer.html A paper reviewed in TheScientist magazine today states that unstable molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS) have long been thought to promote cancer by causing DNA damage and activating oncogenes, but new data suggests they may actually suppress tumor growth, according to a paper published this week in Nature. The finding suggests that antioxidants, which clear ROS from a cell and are used as a treatment for cancer, may be doing more harm than good—causing complications instead of preventing disease. Comment:for years we have been inundated by stories about the danger of free radicals and the wonders of anti-oxidant diets. Now we have a paper suggesting that all these wonders of antioxidants may be a figment of the imagination. Clearly more research is needed befor... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008234 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:32:09 +0100 5008234 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008235&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F07%2Fpatient-care-in-rural-hospitals.html In this week’s JAMA there’s an interesting article looking at the quality of care delivered in rural hospitals when Medicare patients are treated for heart attacks, congestive heart failure and pneumonia. It appears the rural hospitals with emergency access provide worse care than those seen in large cities with tertiary care hospitals. This is not particularly surprising considering the cost of a fully staffed the emergency room is often greater than the cost of an entire rural hospital. the issue should not be whether rural hospitals should be closed, but whether transportation should be provided to centers more capable of treating the serious conditions. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008235 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:30:13 +0100 5008235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008508&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FkdB_uXaZ2bI%2F It’s no secret that Americans have an obesity problem, but since we’re awfully skilled at looking away from the scale and towards our next drive thru, it can’t hurt to take a moment to check in with the numbers: According to an annual report from the Trust for America’s Health, adult obesity rates have gone up in 16 states between 2008 and 2010 (and gone down in none). Which puts over two-thirds of U.S. states at obesity rates of over 25 percent, while only one state — Colorado — has a rate lower than 20 percent. You could roll your eyes and tell me you’ve heard it before; you could question all these studies’ definitions of “obese.” But if I told you that 25% of the population had AIDS, you’d be frantic. Everyone would freak out. T... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008508 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 22:29:07 +0100 5008508 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008509&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2Fu6iLUvhK3-w%2F You know how you can sometimes get a feel for what kind of bugs are going around your city, school or social circle from tweets or Facebook status updates? Sickweather can too. The still-in-beta site —s ure to be a hypochondriac’s new favorite URL — aggregates illness-related data from social networks to produce real-time “weather maps” of flus, fevers and other reported symptoms like some sort of digital epidemiologist. Is this cool or creepy? Sickweather boasts that it can “forecast the movement of everything from stomach bugs to chronic illness and other sickness, including depression.” Someone should inform its copywriter that reflecting is not the same thing as ‘forecasting,’ which implies some sort of prescience with concern to mood disorders, as in, ‘Watch ou... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008509 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 20:55:16 +0100 5008509 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008237&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F07%2Fhealthy-lifestyle-makes-women-less-likely-to-die-suddenly.html Medpage Today tells us that women who adhered to a healthy lifestyle had as much as a 90% reduction in the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) as compared with those with a high-risk profile, data from the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS) showed. The risk of SCD declined linearly as the number of these attributes increased, ranging from a 46% reduction for a woman who had one to 92% for those who had all four. Comment: these results are not surprising as the Alameda study showed more than 40 years ago where health behaviors were studied for some 11 conditions showing a significant increase in longevity for those who followed more than half of them. We have many studies that show that change in behavior can significantly improve health. The problem is we still don’t know how... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008237 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 15:28:49 +0100 5008237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992723&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F07%2Fdrug-side-effect-linked-with-increased-health-risks-for-over-65s-1.html More than 13,000 men and women aged 65 and over from across the UK were included in the two-year study from the University of East Anglia. Around half were found to use a medication with potential anticholinergic properties.In the study, each drug taken by the participants was given a ranking based on the strength of its anticholinergic activity, or AntiCholinergic Burden (ACB) - 0 for no effect, 1 for mild effect, 2 for moderate effect and 3 for severe effect.The key findings were:• Twenty per cent of participants taking drugs with a total ACB of four or more had died by the end of the two-year study, compared with only seven per cent of those taking no anticholinergic drugs - the first time a link between anticholinergics and mortality has been shown.• For every additional ACB point ... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992723 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 19:56:41 +0100 4992723 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992724&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F07%2Ftext-messaging-in-smoking-cessation-the-txt2stop-trial.html From today's Lancet: As with many such trials, the continuous abstinence rate at 6 months in the intervention group, although statistically significant as compared with the control group, was low (10•7%). Data were also missing due to withdrawals and non-completion of self-reported smoking status. However, robust sensitivity analyses were done to account for these losses to follow-up with multiple imputation techniques based on important predictors of missingness, and also by assuming that individuals with missing self-reported smoking status were smokers. Finally, as the investigators acknowledge, to ascertain the mechanism by which the txt2stop intervention actually increased continuous abstinence is difficult. Nonetheless, the abstinence rates in the txt2stop intervention group are br... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992724 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 19:55:18 +0100 4992724 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992729&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F07%2Fdrug-side-effect-linked-with-increased-health-risks-for-over-65s.html More than 13,000 men and women aged 65 and over from across the UK were included in the two-year study from the University of East Anglia. Around half were found to use a medication with potential anticholinergic properties.In the study, each drug taken by the participants was given a ranking based on the strength of its anticholinergic activity, or AntiCholinergic Burden (ACB) - 0 for no effect, 1 for mild effect, 2 for moderate effect and 3 for severe effect.The key findings were:• Twenty per cent of participants taking drugs with a total ACB of four or more had died by the end of the two-year study, compared with only seven per cent of those taking no anticholinergic drugs - the first time a link between anticholinergics and mortality has been shown.• For every additional ACB point ... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992729 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 16:13:07 +0100 4992729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4984610&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F3uQnB31DzeI%2F Whether you were a pothead in college, enjoy an occasional toke, or are straight-laced and never touch the stuff, you’ve probably taken part in at least one debate about medical marijuana. Recently, during a girls’ night out, my fellow ladies and I somehow got onto this subject. What struck me as funny listening to everyone opine about the issue was not so much which side they were on, it was the fact that we were debating it over cocktails. So here we were saying whether or not someone with a serious illnesses should be allowed to get high when we were in fact getting high ourselves. Kind of ironic, I thought. There is a general acceptance in this country that people can consume as much alcohol as they want (providing they are over 21 and don’t drink and drive, of course... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4984610 Wed, 29 Jun 2011 18:13:15 +0100 4984610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4976111&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2Fn5t1eQczI5w%2F You probably know him best as “Mr. Big,” but Chris Noth is putting his star power behind something other than Carrie Bradshaw these days in a new Diabetes Awareness campaign. The actor, who’s starred in Law & Order and The Good Wife, in addition to Sex and The City, told Huffington Post that “[diabetes] is a disease that’s way too much under the radar. We’re trying to get ahead of the game with people; … encouraging [them] to call [their] doctors and get a blood test.” According to recent CDC statistics, 25.8 million Americans, or just over eight percent of the population, is living with diabetes, which can be a life-threatening disease. If caught early, however, complications can be prevented or delayed, and all it takes to screen for diabetes is a simp... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4976111 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 21:57:30 +0100 4976111 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4976058&cid=t_107510_129_f&fid=36036&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fkelly-building-a-crohns-disease-community%2Fmanaging-job-stress-and-crohns%2F Well…I think that, once again, I am facing a change in my career. Actually, I am not certain where my career is going, but I do know that I cannot continue working in my current position. During October of last year, I was transitioned onto a ‘Proposal Tiger Team’ within my corporation and have been struggling with my work-life balance ever since. The job is intense, stressful, and one of those occupations where, to succeed, you have to give up your personal life and give everything you have to the company. I cannot do that — nor do I want to. Having a chronic disease further limits how much I can afford to give. I actually told my management that I have Crohn’s disease (a career first for me!) and that I cannot afford to work 10- to 11-hour days every day of the week (for w... Life with Crohn's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4976058 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 15:09:21 +0100 4976058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4976112&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FqyMhgUbUfzA%2F We were hoping that even though we spend the majority of our working hours tethered to our computer, the fact that we exercise each morning would negate the consequences of sitting all day. But, according to the release of a 13-year study, even us athletes-by-morning, desk-jobbers-by-day have a higher risk of death than slackers who don’t exercise yet don’t sit all day either. Pardon??? You mean, running, swimming and biking all those miles each morning aren’t buying us extra time? According to the study published in the latest American Journal of Epidemiology, no. Researchers from the American Cancer Society reported that those of us who sit for more than six hours a day have an increased risk of death over those who don’t sit as much — even if we exercise. A... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4976112 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:03:20 +0100 4976112 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968761&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FT0Ftzoyx8Z8%2F As soda and potato chips spread through the world, so does diabetes. An international study published today in The Lancet found that as of 2008, 347 million adults have diabetes; far more than previously thought (other studies have placed estimates around 285 million), and more than double the number of adults with diabetes in 1980. The study, which was funded by the World Health Organization and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, also found that average blood pressure and cholesterol levels actually dropped during the same time period, things that researchers say would actually be much easier to manage than diabetes. In 1980, data indicates that 153 million adults had diabetes; today’s numbers indicate a global epidemic. While they attribute 70% of the rise in diabetes rates to ... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968761 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 15:33:31 +0100 4968761 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934646&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FDwssmUnlML8%2F Photo Via Ragesoss When men are diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia, the first thing doctors usually do is check for internal bleeding. When women are diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia, they’re given an iron supplement and told to eat more broccoli. Why the discrepancy? The main cause of iron deficiency in men is upper-gastrointestinal bleeding, so it makes sense for doctors to rule this out first. However, a 1999 study on anemia in women found that “on women for whom a gynecological source was diagnosed by a specialist” — i.e., women whose anemia was blamed on their periods — 86 percent actually had a gastrointestinal disease. “The majority of the women in that study were bleeding internally, and no one had figured it out until then because they had periods,” writes Pr... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934646 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 16:35:04 +0100 4934646 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934234&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F06%2Flarge-differences-in-mortality-rates-and-life-expectancy-in-homeless-people.html Research published in the Lancet this week shows that homeless men and women have mortality rates some six times higher than the general population. Comment: why do need another study based on data from a small Scandinavian country to validate what researcher has shown for at least 40 years? There is nothing new or startling about the fact that people whose behavior is inimical to health have poorer outcomes in life. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934234 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 14:36:04 +0100 4934234 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934343&cid=t_107510_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2Fna5reMeRs38%2F URL: http://askjan.org/The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is the leading source of free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. Working toward practical solutions that benefit both employer and employee, JAN helps people with disabilities enhance their employability, and shows employers how to capitalize on the value and talent that people with disabilities add to the workplace. For: Anyone, Consumers, Researchers, Anyone, ConsumersTopics: Abnormal, Attachment, Behaviour Management, Foundation Website, Personality disorders, Relationships, Sexual Assault, Aspergers, Autism, Bipolar, Chronic Disease, Foundation Website, Mental Health, Social SupportFeatures: Articles, Collaborative News, Conferences, Information, Links, Research, Res... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934343 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:00:05 +0100 4934343 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921649&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2Fixas8kAPlD8%2F Alice Pyne is 15 years old and has been battling Hodgkin’s lymphoma for four years. As the cancer that attacks white blood cells began to spread, her mother encouraged her to write a bucket list of things she’d like to accomplish before the cancer wins the fight. It was only three days ago that she set up Alice’s Bucket List, but her brave face, and inspirational goals (which include increasing bone marrow donorship) have ignited social media sites, and her name has become a trending topic on Twitter. “I thought that I was just doing a little blog for a few friends!” she wrote, after the media caught wind of her blog and her name was mentioned across some of Britain’s most popular discussion and news shows. Her fast-spreading worldwide support has also i... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921649 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 21:13:25 +0100 4921649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911527&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F06%2Fheadache-experts-call-for-more-migraine-research-funding.html Migraine specialists attending the American Headache Society meeting in Washington last weekend said they believe more government money for migraine research holds the most promise for winning the battle against the disease." Notably, "40 percent of those attending the conference said increased public funding is more important than understanding basic aspects of the disease.  Comment:  There is little evidence that throwing money at a problem solves it. There is too much research being conducted, without accountability. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911527 Wed, 08 Jun 2011 18:23:48 +0100 4911527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911528&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F06%2Flaw-on-end-of-life-care-rankles-doctors.html Jane e. Brody-NYT-6-8-2011. Doctors object to laws telling them how to practice medicine, as does New York State’s new Palliative Care Information Act. Vehemently opposed by the Medical Society of the State of New York, the law passed last summer by a two-thirds majority of the Legislature and took effect in February. The legislation was written in collaboration with Compassion and Choices of New York, an organization that advocates for informed choices and greater physical and emotional comfort at the end of life. Comment: Laws on applied practice of medicine are inappropriate, but expect more of the same in states like NY & California which are becoming public health police states. Nannyism is rampant. While the concept of laudable is should be part of the standards of practice... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911528 Wed, 08 Jun 2011 18:22:34 +0100 4911528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911734&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FNyEgYB8ud2E%2F Post from: BlissTree Sinus Headaches Are Just An Old Wives’ Tale (You Probably Have a Migraine) (Source: Genetics and Health) Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911734 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 14:30:20 +0100 4911734 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893500&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F06%2Fcalif-senate-bans-under-18-use-of-tanning-beds.html California lawmakers voted Wednesday to limit the use of tanning booths by teens, warning that the bronzed glow they create comes from radiation and raises the risk of skin cancer. The state Senate voted 24-9 to ban indoor tanning by anyone under age 18, even if they have permission from an adult. The bill next goes to the Assembly. California already bans the use of tanning booths by those under 14, but older teens could use them with permission from a parent or guardian. Comment: This law needs to be extended nationwide as teens have little self-control when it comes to their skin. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893500 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:32:07 +0100 4893500 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4853082&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FeFt62KIBwHU%2F There’s a book floating around the more “eccentric” health care circles called The Second Brain: A Groundbreaking New Understanding of Nervous Disorders of the Stomach and Intestine. Colon therapists quote it, and raw food fanatics cite it as proof that we should all be noshing on sprouts and probiotics; and lately, even functional medicine gurus draw on the same theory and research: Our brains are controlled by our stomachs, they say; things like depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders hinge on what we eat, and maintaining healthy gut bacteria is a far better treatment for mental health than Wellbutrin or Prozac. Of course, most people have yet to swap their chemical uppers for sprouts, but a recent study linking stomach bugs to Parkinson’s might make some people ... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4853082 Mon, 23 May 2011 18:30:49 +0100 4853082 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4847980&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F05%2Fcdc-identifies-10-public-health-achievements-of-first-decade.html The 10 domestic public health achievements are published in today's issue of CDC's MMWR. “Americans are living longer, healthier, and more productive lives than ever before thanks in part to extraordinary achievements in public health over the past decade," said CDC Director Thomas R. Frieden, M.D., M.P.H. The United States has saved billions of dollars in healthcare costs as a result of these achievements. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4847980 Fri, 20 May 2011 15:52:41 +0100 4847980 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4841523&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F05%2Fweekly-doses-of-antibiotic-cocktail-may-cure-latent-tb-in-three-months.html Treating "latent tuberculosis normally requires nine months of daily pill-taking," a much shorter "course of medication...works just as well," according to findings presented at the American Thoracic Society meeting. The study compared the typical "daily dose of the drug isoniazid for nine months" with a once-weekly regimen that included taking a higher dose of isoniazid combined with rifapentineor for three months. Over three years, among approximately 8,000 volunteers, there were "seven cases of active TB among those taking the short course and 15 among those taking the traditional one. ... 'This is the biggest breakthrough in the treatment of latent TB since the 1960s,'" said Kevin Fenton, M.D., director of CDC's National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention in a... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4841523 Tue, 17 May 2011 15:00:47 +0100 4841523 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4828934&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F05%2Fearly-treatment-with-antiretroviral-therapy-prevents-hiv-transmission.html A UNC-led research study showed the study, which spans nine countries, involved more than 1,700 couples, in which one partner was HIV-positive and the other was not. Each couple was randomly assigned to one of two study groups. In the first group, the partner with HIV began receiving antiretroviral drugs as soon as they enrolled in the study; in the second group, the infected partner started antiretroviral treatment once their CD4+ count — a key measure of immune system health — fell to between 200 and 250 cells/mm3.  However, data gathered so far clearly revealed the benefits of early treatment, prompting health officials to release the results now. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4828934 Sat, 14 May 2011 14:44:07 +0100 4828934 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4828935&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F05%2Fas-time-goes-by-it-gets-tougher-to-remember-new-information.html ScienceDaily:  The older we get, the more difficulty we seem to have remembering things. We reassure ourselves that our brains' "hard drives" are too full to handle the new information that comes in daily. But a neuroscientist now suggests that our aging brains are unable to process this information as "new" because the brain pathways leading to the hippocampus become degraded over time. As a result, our brains cannot accurately "file" new information. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4828935 Sat, 14 May 2011 14:18:32 +0100 4828935 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4803171&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F05%2Fevidence-contravenes-nuke-plant-leukemia-link.html Children living within 5 kilometers of a nuclear power plant are not at an increased risk for developing leukemia, according to an analysis released last week by an independent government advisory committee in the United Kingdom. The report covered a period of 35 years and studied the incidence of the cancer in children under the age of 5 living in close proximity to the UK’s 13 nuclear power stations. Comment: With all the current anxiety about radiation exposure, this  very long study is well worth waiting for. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4803171 Mon, 09 May 2011 22:15:38 +0100 4803171 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4794954&cid=t_107510_129_f&fid=36036&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fkelly-building-a-crohns-disease-community%2Fmay-2011-how-is-your-crohns-today%2F Hello Everyone! I hope that you are doing well today! It is time for us to have another edition of How Is Your Crohn’s Today?. For those of you who are new to the blog, every now and then I like to check in with everyone for updates and your Crohn’s is holding up. I’ll tell you how I am doing, and you reply in the comments section about your current status. I finally went to see my rheumatologist and did my yearly bone scan. I was reluctant to go because I was so afraid that my bone density would be worse and I have been anxious about taking the Reclast medication again. As I wrote in a previous blog, I have been worried about some of the side effects of the medication. The bone scan actually showed that my bone density improved by 7.2 percent, which is really a lot if you think abo... Life with Crohn's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4794954 Fri, 06 May 2011 17:59:30 +0100 4794954 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4794872&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F05%2Fcheap-drug-is-as-good-at-treating-eye-disorder-as-more-expensive-product-trial-shows.html Numerous news stories this week focused on the results of an eagerly awaited trial which has shown that millions of dollars a year could be saved through the use of an anticancer drug to treat the neovascular or "wet" form of age related macular degeneration (wet AMD). The trial showed that bevacizumab (marketed as Avastin) is as effective in improving sight as ranibizumab (Lucentis), at a fraction of the cost. COMMENT: Neither the FDA nor CMS have made any recommendation to use the newer cheaper drug and limit the spiralling cost of medical care.. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4794872 Fri, 06 May 2011 15:57:00 +0100 4794872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4789492&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FEBRdSm55Mm0%2F Did you know that it’s North American Occupational Health and Safety Week? Neither did we, so don’t feel too badly. Even though we don’t happen to work in an inherently dangerous industrial factory, mine, on a construction site, or an oil rig, sometimes going to work can be a real pain. Meaning that, aside from the normal stresses that can surround our daily job, where and how we toil can actually cause serious chronic pain. And because most of us spend an inordinate amount of time at work, we’d prefer it to be a pleasant, rather than painful experience. So how can we avoid developing physical pain in the workplace? (Besides not tripping over that power cord.) For answers, I turned to Charles Friedman, a Florida-based doctor who specializes in pain management issues... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4789492 Thu, 05 May 2011 16:32:44 +0100 4789492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4789285&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F05%2Fblood-test-for-alzheimers-study-identifies-procedure-that-detects-early-stages.html ScienceDaily (May 4, 2011) — A new blood test that will diagnose Alzheimer's disease may soon hit the market, thanks to an innovative study from the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC). Their findings have characterized a unique biochemical diagnosis, which identifies patients with this devastating disorder. "Until now, there has been no definitive diagnostic tool for Alzheimer's, other than postmortem analysis of brain tissue," says senior author Dr. Vassilios Papadopoulos, director of the MUHC Research Institute. "Our clinical study shows that a non-invasive blood test, based on a biochemical process, may be successfully used to diagnose Alzheimer's at an early stage and differentiate it from other types of dementia." Comment. Diagnosis without an inter... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4789285 Thu, 05 May 2011 15:01:30 +0100 4789285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4789286&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F05%2Fage-alone-should-be-used-to-screen-for-heart-attacks-and-strokes.html ScienceDaily - Using age alone to identify those at risk of heart disease or stroke could replace current screening methods without diminishing effectiveness, according to a groundbreaking study published in the open access journal PLoS ONE. Age screening alone using a cut off of 55 years had an 84 per cent detection rate and a 24 per cent false-positive rate. This is equivalent to correctly identifying 84 per cent of all the people in a population who will have a stroke or heart attack, while incorrectly identifying 24 per cent who will not. Current screening methods can achieve the same 84 per cent detection rate with a false-positive rate that is only slightly less -- 21 per cent. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4789286 Thu, 05 May 2011 14:58:57 +0100 4789286 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4789287&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F05%2Fhiv-drug-could-prevent-cervical-cancer.html A widely used HIV drug lopinavir selectively kills HPV-infected, non-cancerous cells, while leaving healthy cells relatively unaffected,” said Dr Ian Hampson, from Manchester’s School of Cancer and Enabling Sciences. “This is a very significant finding as these cells are not cancer cells but are the closest thing to being like the cells found in a pre-cancerous HPV infection of the cervix. In addition we were also able to show that lopinavir kills these HPV-infected cells by re-activating a well-known antiviral system that is suppressed by HPV.” (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4789287 Thu, 05 May 2011 14:55:40 +0100 4789287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4775415&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F05%2Fmedical-costs-for-youth-with-diabetes-more-than-9000-a-year.html "Young people with diabetes face medical costs that are six times higher than their peers without diabetes," said Ann Albright, Ph.D., R.D., director of CDC's Division of Diabetes Translation. "Most youth with diabetes need insulin to survive and the medical costs for young people on insulin were almost 65 percent higher than for those who did not require insulin to treat their diabetes." Comment: Early diagnosis and intervention can iimit the cost but this is a lifetime issue for these children. For families without insurance this cost may be insurmountable. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4775415 Mon, 02 May 2011 13:36:34 +0100 4775415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4762778&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F04%2Fdiet-exercise-sufficient-to-reduce-triglycerides.html While cholesterol control is often balanced between statins and lifestyle changes, reducing triglycerides can usually be accomplished with diet and lifestyle changes alone, according to a new scientific statement from the American Heart Association. For those outside the normal range of triglycerides, Miller and colleagues recommend limiting: ·         Added sugar to less than 5% to 10% of calories consumed -- about 100 calories per day for women and 150 calories per day for men ·         Fructose from both processed foods and naturally occurring foods -- less than 50 to 100 grams per day ·         Saturated fat to less than 7 percent of total calories ·  &... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4762778 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:51:35 +0100 4762778 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4762779&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F04%2Few-diagnostic-criteria-for-alzheimers.html The guidelines published today were "extensively revised" from those presented last summer, Creighton H. Phelps, director of the Alzheimer's Disease Centers Program at NIA, told reporters during a press teleconference Monday. "The revised guidelines that we're presenting today address particularly the difference between information that can be used in clinical practice and that which is intended for use only in research settings," Dr. Phelps said. "They also present a distinction between the underlying disease process and clinically observable disease states." (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4762779 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:49:48 +0100 4762779 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4762781&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F04%2Fvegetarians-may-be-at-lower-risk-of-heart-disease-diabetes-and-stroke.html Vegetarians experience a 36 percent lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome than non-vegetarians, suggests new research. Because metabolic syndrome can be a precursor to heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, the findings indicate vegetarians may be at lower risk of developing these conditions (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4762781 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:45:09 +0100 4762781 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4747649&cid=t_107510_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F25%2F10-tips-for-healthy-living%2F Health psychologists have a dual mission: to help prevent mental and physical illness and disease and to promote healthy living. From cancer to diabetes, health psychologists deal with a wide variety of issues underlying physical illness and chronic disease. According to Maureen Lyon, Ph.D, clinical health psychologist and associate research professor in pediatrics at George Washington University, health psychologists use their knowledge to “enhance the quality of life of individuals.” Interestingly, much of what health psychologists teach (deep breathing, mindfulness, stress reduction, etc.) works for everyone. Our fast-paced life and increased dependency on technology often results in disconnection, stress and lack of sleep, which all wreak havoc on our health. Fortunately, there are... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4747649 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 11:30:19 +0100 4747649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4723872&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F04%2Fdartmouth-researchers-release-report-on-end-of-life-care.html The New York Times (4/12, A22,) reports, "At the end of life, people with chronic diseases like cancer get more aggressive medical care in the New York area than anyplace else in the country, continuing a trend going back decades, according to a report released on Monday by researchers at Dartmouth College." The researchers, who "looked at federal data from 2007, the most recent year available, found that 46 percent of chronically ill patients in the Manhattan hospital region, which also covers most of Brooklyn and Staten Island, were being treated at hospitals when they died, as opposed to dying at home or in hospices or nursing homes. That rate was the highest in the country." (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4723872 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 22:00:41 +0100 4723872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4723873&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F04%2Fchildhood-obesity-peaks-between-ages-7-and.html The key finding of a new study by researchers from shows that British children are most susceptible to becoming overweight and obese during mid-late childhood (age seven to 11 years). The researchers tracked the body weight and height of nearly 5,000 children taking part in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children from birth until the age of 15. They found that the number of children who changed from a healthy weight to being overweight and obese was much higher between the ages seven to 11. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4723873 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 21:57:25 +0100 4723873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4723874&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F04%2Fnearly-20-of-lung-cancer-patients-continue-smoking-1.html HealthDay reported, "Many patients diagnosed with lung cancer -- as well as their family caregivers -- continue to smoke," according to a study sponsored by the National Cancer Institute and published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. The researchers reviewed data on "742 cancer patients and caregivers at multiple sites and found that 18 percent of smokers with lung cancer failed to quit after their diagnosis." (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4723874 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 21:54:22 +0100 4723874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4704692&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F04%2Fhookah-use-widespread-among-college-students-study-reveals-mistaken-perception-of-safety-in-potentia.html ScienceDaily Despite a growing number of cities instituting smoking bans across the country, hookah bars are cropping up everywhere -- from chic downtown cafes to locations near college campuses, where they've found a loyal customer base in young adults. Hookah Use Widespread Among College Students; Study Reveals Mistaken Perception of Safety in Potential Gateway Drug  The researchers found that 40.3 percent -- more than one-third of the students surveyed -- reported having ever smoked tobacco from a hookah, while only a slightly higher percentage (46.6) reported having ever smoked a cigarette. Nearly 25 percent of students reported being current smokers of cigarettes, and 17.4 percent said they actively use hookahs. Also.freshmen and males were more likely to use hookahs, and that th... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4704692 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 18:23:50 +0100 4704692 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4684570&cid=t_107510_129_f&fid=36036&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fkelly-building-a-crohns-disease-community%2Ffinding-a-work-life-balance-with-crohns%2F Ever since I took this new position within my company, I am having a real problem with my work-life balance. The type of work that I am doing now leads to periods of high intensity followed by a lull, or low-intensity work. My problem arises, of course, when I am in the midst of insane deadlines and mountains of work that has to be done to impossibly high standards of quality. I have no problem doing the work and think that I am becoming quite good at it. The problem is that I give too much to do it. If I had more time to work within a reasonable schedule, then I would love this job and may even want to do it forever. But, it’s not like that. Up until now, I have managed to keep a low profile by doing all of the detailed, difficult work in the background and letting others take the lea... Life with Crohn's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4684570 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 21:22:21 +0100 4684570 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653331&cid=t_107510_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fahrq-healthcare-access-and-racial-disparities-not-improving%2F2011.03.29 According to American Medical News, the U.S. health system is demonstrating better performance on most measures of health care quality, but it’s failing to improve access to care or cut racial and ethnic health disparities, according to two reports released in February by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.  “Quality of care continues to improve, but at a slow rate,” said Ernest Moy, MD, leader of the team at AHRQ that produced the reports.  ”In contrast to that, focusing on issues of access to care, not much has changed.  Focusing on disparities in care, not much changed…Those are bigger problem areas than overall quality of care.”  Measures related to hospital quality are showing the most improvement.  For example, in 2005, just 42% of patients with heart att... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653331 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:00:25 +0100 4653331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4642859&cid=t_107510_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FFUMWS8Uelqo%2F A large part of my teenage years was spent curled into a painful little ball. I used to get cramps that were so debilitating, I couldn’t do anything but lie in the fetal position and whimper. Not ever having known anything different than incredibly painful periods, I honestly didn’t think much of it. I was also having really heavy periods — like Fort Knox wouldn’t have protected me kind of heavy. At the time I didn’t realize what I was experiencing was unusual; I just thought that’s how every girl’s period was. When I went to college and shared close quarters with other girls, I started to get a clue that something was wrong. When I worked up the nerve to discuss it with a doctor, all of my symptoms were dismissed with a shrug and a prescription for Motrin. I probably should ... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4642859 Sat, 26 Mar 2011 16:30:59 +0100 4642859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4636462&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fus-global-health-strategy-promoting-healthy-development.html A commentary in this week’s JAMA discusses the importance of improving health among the world's populations. The WHO notes that while expansion of middle classes in China and India dominate the population expansion, 20 million individuals joined middle-class outside these countries, the fastest rate in 30 years. The author notes that control of communicable disease, maternal and child health, and nutrition are largely responsible for the increase associated with greater longevity. The 10 top risk factors for death in low-income countries include hypertension, hyperglycemia, tobacco use, physical inactivity, and high lipid levels yet only a minor portion is an aid to foreign countries for health purposes is devoted to areas where prevention might make significant improvement of health... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4636462 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 15:43:06 +0100 4636462 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4636463&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fassociation-of-episodic-physical-and-sexual-activity-with-triggering-of-acute-cardiac-events.html In JAMA today a meta-analysis is reported that seems appropriate considering all the ads about the dangers of sexual activity and death. Comment: like most meta-analyses the various studies have significant differences, definitions and methodologies. The results from these limited studies suggest that the absolute risk increase associated with 1 hour of additional physical or sexual activity per week was estimated as 2 to 3 per 10 000 person-years for MI and 1 per 10 000 person-years for sudden cardiac death. These outcomes for any individual are rare. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4636463 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 15:37:13 +0100 4636463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4636464&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fobesity-problems-fuel-rapid-surge-of-type-2-diabetes-among-children.html The KFF reports, "As recently as the mid-1990s, type 2 diabetes was almost exclusively a disease of adults." Now, "apparently fueled by the childhood obesity epidemic, cases in people younger than 20 have ramped up from virtually zero to tens of thousands in the United States in little more than a decade." In fact, "today, about 3,700 Americans [under] 20 receive a diagnosis annually of what used to be called 'adult-onset' diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention." This is a disturbing trend, because diabetes "costs the US health-care system $174 billion a year, according to the National Institutes of Health." (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4636464 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 15:32:33 +0100 4636464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4636465&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fobesity-gastric-bands-lagb-may-cause-more-complications-than-weight-loss.html From the Archives of Surgery as “Based on a follow-up LAGB for  12 years or longer nearly 1 out of 3 patients experienced band erosion, and nearly 50% of the patients required removal of their bands (contributing to a reoperation rate of 60%), LAGB appears to result in relatively poor long-term outcomes.“.  Comment: while larger studies are needed, this small study suggests that gastric bands and probably other interventions for weight loss should be limited in time and that personal behavioral modification should be emphasized so weight loss can be continued after bands are removed. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4636465 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 15:24:25 +0100 4636465 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4615140&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Faltered-gene-protects-some-african-americans-from-coronary-artery-disease.html ScienceDaily (Mar. 17, 2011) — A team of scientists at Johns Hopkins and elsewhere has discovered that a single alteration in the genetic code of about a fourth of African-Americans helps protect them from coronary artery disease, the leading cause of death in Americans of all races. Specifically, the study showed that otherwise healthy African-American men and women with the alternative genetic code had a fivefold reduction in the likelihood that their arteries would narrow or clog. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4615140 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 16:25:10 +0100 4615140 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4615142&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fbenefits-of-bariatric-surgery-may-outweigh-risks-for-severely-obese-study-suggests.html Bariatric surgery is a viable option for patients who are severely obese and are safe surgical candidates who have failed medical therapy for losing weight. When indicated, bariatric surgery often leads to long-term weight loss and significantly improved health. While there are risks, bariatric surgery is considered a relatively safe procedure, especially in centers that perform many of the procedures (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4615142 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 16:21:48 +0100 4615142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4615143&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fmany-with-borderline-hypertension-may-never-develop-life-threatening-problems-1.html The New York Times (3/9, Parker-Pope) "Well" blog reported, "Millions of people who have been told they are on the path to hypertension may never develop life-threatening problems," according to a study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine. After reviewing 20 years' worth of blood pressure data on some 20,000 adults, researchers found that people with borderline hypertension, that is, blood pressure slightly above 120/80, "are not any more likely to die prematurely than those with lower blood pressures." The study's lead author stated, "If we intervene with these people who don't have a lot of risk, maybe we're going to cause more harm than benefit." Comment: it is important to keep re-examining our current beliefs about medical care as more and more evidence appears about... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4615143 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 16:19:26 +0100 4615143 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4615144&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fhigh-volume-portable-music-players-may-impair-ability-to-clearly-discriminate-sounds.html Listening to loud music through earphones for extended periods in noisy surroundings can cause neurophysiological changes related to clear discrimination of sounds, even if the hearing threshold is normal, new research shows. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4615144 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 16:16:53 +0100 4615144 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4615145&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fan-alzheimers-vaccine-in-a-nasal-spray-1.html Scientists are working on a nasal vaccine that repairs vascular damage in the brain caused by stroke, restoring cognitive impairment and preventing brain tissue damage. In early pre-clinical studies, results show that it also has a prophylactic effect against many strokes associated with Alzheimer's. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4615145 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 16:15:00 +0100 4615145 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4615146&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fdoctors-urge-indoor-tanning-ban-for-minors-1.html U.S. tanning salons should close their doors to minors to protect them from skin cancer, a group of 60,000 pediatricians said Monday in a new policy statement. With the move, the American Academy of Pediatrics joins the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Academy of Dermatology and other groups that are already pushing for a ban. Since 2009, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a part of the WHO, has classified tanning beds as cancer-causing. Research shows people who start going to tanning salons before age 35 have a 75-percent increase in their chances of developing melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4615146 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 15:54:42 +0100 4615146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4605938&cid=t_107510_129_f&fid=36036&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fkelly-building-a-crohns-disease-community%2Fprayers-to-japan%2F I just want to take a few minutes away from our usual Crohn’s disease blog topics to send some prayers to the people of Japan. I can’t even imagine what they are going through and hope that it gets easier soon. I also want to send special prayers to anyone who has a chronic disease and has been impacted by the earthquake, tsunami, or nuclear evacuation. It is especially hard for you when you don’t have what you need to be healthy, and I will pray for you and everyone who is suffering. Actually, let’s just take a moment to pray for anyone, anywhere who is suffering! Please, Crohn’s bloggers, send your prayers! Take care, Kelly Support Japan Relief Efforts With Everyday Health and AmeriCares (Source: Life with Crohn's) Life with Crohn's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4605938 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 14:06:37 +0100 4605938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4592398&cid=t_107510_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhow-your-medication-list-makes-you-the-perfect-pharma-target%2F2011.03.14 Give me your medication list and I’ll tell you your health problems. It happens every day in emergency rooms across the country as confused elderly patients present for an acute problem unable to describe their past medical history, but equipped with a list of medications in their wallet: Metformin = Type-2 diabetes Synthroid = Hypothyroidism Lipitor + Altace + Lasix + Slo-K = Ischemic cardiomyopathy Lexapro = A little anxious or depressed Viagra = Well, you know… I bet I’d be right better than 90 percent of the time. Now, imagine you’re a pharmaceutical company wanting to target people with those chronic diseases. Where might you find them? No problem. Just pay the insurers to provide you patients’ drug lists. No names need be exchanged in keeping with HIPA... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4592398 Mon, 14 Mar 2011 19:00:00 +0100 4592398 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4570563&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fmany-with-borderline-hypertension-may-never-develop-life-threatening-problems.html The New York Times (3/9, Parker-Pope) "Well" blog reported, "Millions of people who have been told they are on the path to hypertension may never develop life-threatening problems," according to a study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine. After reviewing 20 years' worth of blood pressure data on some 20,000 adults, researchers found that people with borderline hypertension, that is, blood pressure slightly above 120/80, "are not any more likely to die prematurely than those with lower blood pressures." The study's lead author stated, "If we intervene with these people who don't have a lot of risk, maybe we're going to cause more harm than benefit." Comment: it is important to keep re-examining our current beliefs about medical care as more and more evidence appears about... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4570563 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:36:25 +0100 4570563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4570564&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fan-alzheimers-vaccine-in-a-nasal-spray.html Scientists are working on a nasal vaccine that repairs vascular damage in the brain caused by stroke, restoring cognitive impairment and preventing brain tissue damage. In early pre-clinical studies, results show that it also has a prophylactic effect against many strokes associated with Alzheimer's. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4570564 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:34:39 +0100 4570564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4570565&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fyoung-adults-with-chronic-illnesses-have-poorer-educational-vocational-and-financial-outcomes.html Most young adults who grow up with chronic illness graduate high school and have employment, but those with cancer, diabetes, or epilepsy are significantly less likely than their healthy peers to achieve important educational and vocational milestones, according to a report in the March issue of Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4570565 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:29:22 +0100 4570565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4570566&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F03%2Fdoctors-urge-indoor-tanning-ban-for-minors.html U.S. tanning salons should close their doors to minors to protect them from skin cancer, a group of 60,000 pediatricians said Monday in a new policy statement. With the move, the American Academy of Pediatrics joins the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Academy of Dermatology and other groups that are already pushing for a ban. Since 2009, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a part of the WHO, has classified tanning beds as cancer-causing. Research shows people who start going to tanning salons before age 35 have a 75-percent increase in their chances of developing melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4570566 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:24:58 +0100 4570566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4522125&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F02%2Fhigh-blood-pressure-in-young-people-and-premature-death.html From today’s BMJ High blood pressure in younger people most commonly manifests as a raised diastolic pressure, and the relation between baseline diastolic pressures and subsequent total mortality and cardiovascular mortality was strikingly positive. The risk of death rose sharply above a diastolic pressure of around 90 mm Hg. It is remarkable that a single supine blood pressure measured in adolescence shows such a monotonic and positive association with risk of premature death.( BMJ 2011; 342:d1104) (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4522125 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 15:54:55 +0100 4522125 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4522126&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F02%2Fstatins-for-primary-prevention-of-cardiovascular-disease-as.html From today’s BMJ an editorial suggests that statins are not needed for people at very low risk and should be tailored to individual risk in everyone else. Comment: this editorial is worth reading because once again it reminds us that there are dangers in medicalizing an entire population. (BMJ 2011; 342:d1048) (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4522126 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 15:52:15 +0100 4522126 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4512501&cid=t_107510_129_f&fid=36036&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fkelly-building-a-crohns-disease-community%2Fanxiety-about-testing-medicine-and-doctors%2F It’s that time of year again — time for my yearly bone density check. I am really dreading the bone scan this year, but it is not because the test is hard. It is pretty much one of the easiest procedures that we, as Crohn’s patients, have to take. I am dreading the scan, because I am dreading the results. I just don’t want any more bad news. I don’t want to have to take the Reclast infusion again, and I know that if my test comes out worse, the rheumatologist is going to insist that I do. Recently, the FDA has begun studying drugs like Reclast, Boniva, and Fosamax due to signs that the drugs can cause abnormal heart rhythms. There is also some controversy about whether or not these drugs can actually increase the chance of thigh bone fracture after five years or more. My gen... Life with Crohn's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4512501 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 22:36:24 +0100 4512501 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4489699&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F02%2Fobesity-and-knee-osteoarthritis-shorten-healthy-years-of-life.html Boston, MA - An estimated 10 million Americans suffer from knee osteoarthritis (OA), making it one of the most common causes of disability in the US. Due to obesity and symptomatic knee OA, Americans over the age of 50 will together lose the equivalent of 86 million healthy years of life, concluded researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH), who investigated the potential gains in quality and quantity of life that could be achieved averting losses due to obesity and knee OA. These findings are published in the February 15 issue of Annals of Internal Medicine. Comment:  Is it not the obesity that leads to osteoarthritis? Was this research or a need to publish for tenure? (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4489699 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 16:03:27 +0100 4489699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4489701&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F02%2Fhigh-fiber-diet-may-reduce-risk-of-dying-from-chronic-diseases.html a study reported online in the Archives of Internal Medicine, based on data from "388,000 adults," who participated in a study conducted by NIH and AARP, found that people who met the national dietary guidelines for fiber intake "were less likely to die during a nine-year follow-up period."  the 20% who "ate the most fiber (29.4 grams per day for men and 25.8 grams for women) had a 22% lower risk of dying compared with those who ate the least amount (12.6 grams per day for men and 10.8 for women)." Diets high in fiber were linked with a "lower risk of death from all causes, as well as death from cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases and respiratory diseases in men and women. ( Arch Intern Med. Published online February 14, 2011) (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4489701 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 15:57:26 +0100 4489701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4455282&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F02%2Finsurance-coverage-for-pain-management-treatment-often-inadequate.html The New York Times reported that "given the prevalence of chronic pain -- often defined as recurrent pain that lasts more than three to six months -- you might expect that by now medical science would have figured out how to alleviate it and that health insurers would routinely cover its treatment." Unfortunately, insurance coverage for many types of "pain management treatment is often inadequate, say advocates and physicians who treat it." Medication and interventional therapies are "more likely to be routinely covered than physical or behavioral therapy." Moreover, pain management is "complicated, and patient response to therapies varies considerably." (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4455282 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 16:16:02 +0100 4455282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4455283&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F02%2Fchildhood-chronic-illness-affects-future-income.html As a group, children with long-term illness are "are at very high risk of educational and vocational problems," said Maslow, a primary care research fellow at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a pediatrician at the Duke University Medical Center. The study found significant differences as participants reached adulthood -- ages 24 to 32. Children with chronic illness were less likely to graduate from high school, attend college or graduate from college. Only 52.5 percent were employed, compared with 67.5 percent of those with no illness or adult-onset illness. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4455283 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 16:13:57 +0100 4455283 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4455284&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F02%2Fhope-for-stroke-victims.html ScienceDaily (Feb. 8, 2011) — Much of the devastation of stroke and head trauma is due to damage caused the overproduction of a substance in the brain called glutamate. Preventing this damage has been impossible, until now, as many drugs don't cross the so-called blood-brain barrier, and those that do often don't work as intended. But a method originally devised at the Weizmann Institute of Science may, in the future, offer a way to avert such glutamate-induced harm. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4455284 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 16:11:30 +0100 4455284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4436764&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F02%2Fthree-lifestyle-changes-may-significantly-reduce-cancer-rates.html Approximately "340,000 cancer cases" in the US could be prevented "each year if more Americans ate a healthy diet, got regular exercise and limited their alcohol intake," according to the World Cancer Research Fund. The WCRF said such lifestyle changes could lead to "significant reductions in particularly common cancers such as breast (38% fewer cases per year), stomach (47% fewer) and colon (45% fewer). ... 'Physical activity is recommended for people of all ages as a means to reduce risks for certain types of cancers and other non-communicable diseases,'" said Dr. Tim Armstrong of World Health Organization. The research "was released Feb. 3 to mark World Cancer Day." Comment: This might give second thought to activists who want to blame the environment for disease rather than their own b... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4436764 Fri, 04 Feb 2011 15:14:35 +0100 4436764 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4433206&cid=t_107510_129_f&fid=36036&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fkelly-building-a-crohns-disease-community%2Four-bodies-are-only-our-vessels%2F I finally watched the movie Avatar the other night – what an excellent movie it was! I don’t know if you have seen it yet (and I don’t want to spoil the movie for you), but in the future, scientists use Na’vi-human hybrid bodies called avatars. They are operated by genetically matched humans to explore the world of Pandora and to learn about the natives. The main character of the movie is a paraplegic who was offered the opportunity to take his twin brother’s place as one of the avatar controllers. When he first took over the avatar’s body and was able to walk and run again, I could empathize with his joy and elation. What a gift for him to have what he thought he would never have again – even if it was only pretend. As I was watching, I couldn’t help think about my own... Life with Crohn's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4433206 Thu, 03 Feb 2011 22:48:43 +0100 4433206 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4429120&cid=t_107510_129_f&fid=36036&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fkelly-building-a-crohns-disease-community%2Four-bodies-are-only-are-vessels%2F I finally watched the movie Avatar the other night – what an excellent movie it was! I don’t know if you have seen it yet (and I don’t want to spoil the movie for you), but in the future, scientists use Na’vi-human hybrid bodies called avatars. They are operated by genetically matched humans to explore the world of Pandora and to learn about the natives. The main character of the movie is a paraplegic who was offered the opportunity to take his twin brother’s place as one of the avatar controllers. When he first took over the avatar’s body and was able to walk and run again, I could empathize with his joy and elation. What a gift for him to have what he thought he would never have again – even if it was only pretend. As I was watching, I couldn’t help think about my own... Life with Crohn's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4429120 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 14:55:51 +0100 4429120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419136&cid=t_107510_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthe-hot-spotters-is-better-care-for-the-neediest-patients-the-answer-to-lower-healthcare-costs%2F2011.01.31 Author-physician Dr. Atul Gawande has done it again with a well-written article in The New Yorker magazine entitled, “The Hot Spotters.” It deals with the fact that 5 percent of people with chronic illness make up over 50 percent of all healthcare costs. If we can zero in on providing better preventive care for those people, we can finally get our arms around runaway healthcare costs. How great that you don’t even have to have a New Yorker subscription to read it. Here are a few cliff notes until you get to it: – In Camden, New Jersey, one percent of patients account for one-third of the city’s medical costs. By just focusing attention on the social and medical outpatient needs of those people, they not only got healthier but costs were cut in half. &#8... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419136 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4419136 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4355740&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F01%2Ftaking-more-steps-every-day-can-help-ward-off-diabetes.html ScienceDaily (Jan. 14, 2011) — Simply taking more steps every day not only helps ward off obesity but also reduces the risk of diabetes, finds a study published on the British Medical Journal website. While several studies have shown that physical activity reduces body mass index and insulin resistance -- an early stage in the development of diabetes -- this is the first study to estimate the effects of long-term changes in daily step count on insulin sensitivity.  A popular guideline is to do 10,000 steps every day, though a more recent recommendation is 3,000 steps, five days a week.  The research, by the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, involved 592 middle aged adults who took part in a national study to map diabetes levels across Australia between 2000 a... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4355740 Sun, 16 Jan 2011 16:19:28 +0100 4355740 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4355741&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F01%2Fwhy-coffee-protects-against-diabetes.html Researchers discover molecular mechanism behind the drink's prophylactic effect. Coffee, that morning elixir, may give us an early jump-start to the day, but numerous studies have shown that it also may be protective against type 2 diabetes. Yet no one has really understood why. Now, researchers at UCLA have discovered a possible molecular mechanism behind coffee's protective effect. A protein called sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) regulates the biological activity of the body's sex hormones, testosterone and estrogen, which have long been thought to play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes. And coffee consumption, it turns out, increases plasma levels of SHBG. Comment: there have been numerous studies about the dangers and value of coffee over the years, most which were based... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4355741 Sun, 16 Jan 2011 16:13:28 +0100 4355741 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4337935&cid=t_107510_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwhat-if-all-patients-were-this-engaged-in-their-health%2F2011.01.12 This video is an excellent testimony of what a truly engaged and knowledgable patient with diabetes looks and sounds like. Kudos to the Mayo Clinic for sharing this wonderful piece about shared decision making. Pay particular attention to the fact that the patient in the video was treated for diabetes by her primary care physician for eight years before being referred to a clearly “patient-centered” endocrinologist. Also note her belief that a patient-centered approach to chronic disease management probably results in shorter, more productive visits in the long run. *This blog post was originally published at Mind The Gap* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4337935 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 20:00:14 +0100 4337935 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4337981&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F01%2Flifetime-risk-of-adult-rheumatoid-arthritis-determined.html Mayo Clinic researchers have determined the lifetime risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis and six other autoimmune rheumatic diseases for both men and women. The findings appear online in “Arthritis and Rheumatism.” "Prevalence and incidence rates existed, but prevalence figures underestimate individual risk and incidence rates express only a yearly estimate." The adult lifetime risk in the United States of having some kind of inflammatory autoimmune disease is 8.4 percent for women and 5.1 percent for men. Based on year 2000 population figures, that means one woman in 12 and one man in 20 will develop one of the conditions in their lifetime. The authors consider that a substantial risk and say their findings should encourage more research on the value of early diagnosis and... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4337981 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:49:33 +0100 4337981 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4331036&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F01%2Frevisiting-old-research-may-be-worthwhile.html (ScienceDaily today).The "Often we think only of designing new studies with the latest technologies, but there are treasures buried in our past," says study author Paul Williams of the U.S. Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. In the 1950s, when Berkeley Lab's John Gofman used an analytic ultracentrifuge at Berkeley Lab to separate and measure the different lipoproteins. He was the first to propose that high-density and low-density lipoprotein particles play a role in heart disease. His Livermore cohort study collected dust until 1988, when Williams discovered the study's punch cards at the University of California, Berkeley's Donner Hall. Realizing he had found an epidemiological goldmine, Williams verified the cards' A 29-year follow-up uncovered 363 cases of cor... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4331036 Tue, 11 Jan 2011 14:24:28 +0100 4331036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4322530&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F01%2Fusing-cassava-to-address-vitamin-a-deficiency.html In ScienceDaily today:  The roots of cassava (Manihot esculenta) serve as the primary source of carbohydrates in the diets of people in many arid regions of the world, including more than 250 million people in sub-Saharan Africa. A collaborative effort led by Professor Peter Beyer from Freiberg University in Germany, studied a naturally arising variant of cassava with yellow roots in order to understand the synthesis of provitamin A carotenoids. This work beautifully combines genetics with biochemistry and molecular biology to deepen our understanding of carotenoid biosynthesis. "It paves the way for using transgenic or conventional breeding methods to generate commercial cassava cultivars containing high levels of provitamin A carotenoids, by the exchange of a single amino acid alrea... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4322530 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 19:15:32 +0100 4322530 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4322531&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2011%2F01%2Froutine-blood-test-may-identify-people-with-pre-diabetes-cutting-later-treatment-costs.html ScienceDaily (Jan. 6, 2011) — Approximately 60 million Americans, one-third of the adult population, are pre-diabetic. Thirty percent of these individuals will develop Type 2 diabetes in less than a decade, yet most don't know they are at high risk for the disease.  A study published in the January 2011 issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine reports that the hemoglobin A1c test, a common blood test that can be quickly administered in a physician's office, accurately and easily identifies pre-diabetics. It is estimated that currently only 7 percent of all Americans with pre-diabetes have been tested and are aware of their status. The A1c test measures average blood glucose level over the past 8 to 12 weeks and does not require a person to return for additional testi... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4322531 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 19:14:28 +0100 4322531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4302142&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F12%2Fshould-everyone-take-aspirin.html I thought that the issue had been beaten to death but today's editorial in the BMJ should remind all of us about the need to examine the data and epidemiology of the issue carefully. Aspirin can cause fatal bleeding even when used in small doses. The course should be to select those who can really benefit from its use rather than urging its use across the entire population. Activists can do more harm than good. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4302142 Fri, 31 Dec 2010 16:32:59 +0100 4302142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4302143&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F12%2Fyour-genome-in-minutes.html From Sciencedaily  Scientists from Imperial College London are developing technology that could ultimately sequence a person's genome in mere minutes, at a fraction of the cost of current commercial techniques. The research suggests that scientists could eventually sequence an entire genome in a single lab procedure, whereas at present it can only be sequenced after being broken into pieces in a highly complex and time-consuming process. Fast and inexpensive genome sequencing could allow ordinary people to unlock the secrets of their own DNA, revealing their personal susceptibility to diseases such as Alzheimer's, diabetes and cancer. Medical professionals are already using genome sequencing to understand population-wide health issues and research ways to tailor individualised treatme... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4302143 Fri, 31 Dec 2010 16:02:21 +0100 4302143 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4300570&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F12%2Fprotein-involved-in-cystic-fibrosis-also-plays-role-in-emphysema-chronic-lung-disease.html A team of Johns Hopkins Children’s Center researchers has discovered that a protein involved in cystic fibrosis (CF) also regulates inflammation and cell death in emphysema and may be responsible for other chronic lung diseases. The findings, published online in the December issue of The Journal of Immunology, pave the way toward new treatments to prevent lung damage caused by infections or cigarette smoke in emphysema. The protein, called CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator), is already well known for its role in transporting chloride in and out of cells. In CF, the protein’s chloride-carrying ability is absent due to genetic mutations, resulting in the buildup of thick sticky mucus in the lungs, which causes lung infections and breathing problems. Commen... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4300570 Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:05:44 +0100 4300570 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4265791&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F12%2Fe-cigs-less-dangerous.html ScienceDaily (Dec. 16) — In a new report that bucks the concerns raised by the Food and Drug Administration, a Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) researcher concludes that electronic cigarettes are much safer than real cigarettes and show promise in the fight against tobacco-related diseases and death. The review, which will be published online ahead of print this month in the Journal of Public Health Policy, is the first to comprehensively examine scientific evidence about the safety and effectiveness of electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes, said Michael Siegel, professor of community health sciences at BUSPH. “Taking these products off the market would force thousands of users to return to cigarette smoking," Siegel said. "Why would the FDA and the... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4265791 Fri, 17 Dec 2010 19:21:20 +0100 4265791 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4258893&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F12%2Fhdl-cholesterol-associated-with-reduced-risk-of-alzheimers.html According to a study published Dec. 14 in the Archives of Neurology, HDL cholesterol may reduce the "risk of developing Alzheimer's disease later in life." In a study of 1,130 senior citizens, researchers found that, "compared to those with the lowest levels of high-density lipoprotein...volunteers with the highest levels were 60% less likely to be told they had a probable or possible case of Alzheimer's." Comment: it appears serendipitously, that enhancing HDL to prevent heart disease may also reduce the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease. This is a good ”two for one” if other research supports this. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4258893 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 17:20:55 +0100 4258893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4237914&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F12%2Fheart-attack-risk-increases-rapidly-after-rheumatoid-arthritis-is-diagnosed.html The risk of having a heart attack is 60 per cent higher just a year after a patient has been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, according to research published in the December issue of the Journal of Internal Medicine. Swedish researchers followed 7,469 patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) between 1995 and 2006, together with 37,024 matched controls without RA to determine the risk of ischemic heart disease, with particular reference to myocardial infarction (heart attack). Comment: results coming out of Sweden apply only to the Swedish population which is relatively small and homogeneous and in no way compares to the US population all that of most other countries. This research needs to be replicated in the US before we start prescribing aspirin which itself can cause strok... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4237914 Tue, 07 Dec 2010 17:55:50 +0100 4237914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4214146&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F11%2Fmajor-breakthrough-in-the-treatment-of-high-blood-pressure.html Researchers from the University of Glasgow have piloted a new technique which can dramatically reduce blood pressure in patients. The study showed that, after six months, patients treated in the study experienced significant reduction in blood pressure than those treated with standard methods. The new procedure, similar to angioplasty, uses a catheter inserted into the upper thigh and then fed up to the renal artery at the kidney. The procedure selectively silences the renal nerves using radio frequency energy. By accessing and disabling these nerves, the over activity of which is associated with hypertension, the procedure aims to lower blood-pressure. The treatment is minimally invasive and does not involve a permanent implant, allowing patients to recover quickly and soon return to thei... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4214146 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 19:41:05 +0100 4214146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4214147&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F11%2Felderly-to-outnumber-children-by-2050.html ScienceDaily (Nov. 27, 2010) — The fact that the world population is growing older will not only affect our pensions. In just a few decades there will be more elderly people than children in most parts of the world (with the exception of Africa). Comment: this information should give pause falls to those legislators who think that medical costs can be reined in by giving everyone access to health insurance but being unwilling to require that all care be evidence-based. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4214147 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 19:37:01 +0100 4214147 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4197096&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F11%2Fstudy-finds-daily-pill-lowers-risk-of-hiv-infection.html         On its front page, the New York Times (11/24, A1, McNeil) reports, "In the study, published Tuesday by the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers found that the men taking Truvada, a common combination of two antiretroviral drugs, were 44 percent less likely to get infected with the virus that causes AIDS than an equal number taking a placebo." The "results are the best news in the AIDS field in years, even better than this summer's revelation that a vaginal microbicide protected 39 percent of all the women testing it and 54 percent of those who used it faithfully." Comment: the biggest problem with access to this drug is a several thousand dollar cost per your which will put it outside the means of many of those infected with HIV. It is unf... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4197096 Wed, 24 Nov 2010 17:44:36 +0100 4197096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4164525&cid=t_107510_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2F5-tips-on-how-to-be-a-healthcare-survivalist%2F2010.11.13 There are plenty of “survivalists” out there who stock their basements with canned goods, getting ready for some unexpected (and unlikely) apocalypse. Meanwhile there are things that are much more likely to happen to you — like getting sick — which many of us don’t prepare for at all. So to help you get started, here are five important tips on how you can become a healthcare survivalist: 1.  Take care of your chronic conditions. Whether it’s high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, depression, asthma or any other kind of ailment, do what it takes to manage your own care. Take your medications and follow your doctors’ instructions. Why? Because if you don’t, your condition can get worse and lead to even more serious problems. As much of a pain as it may (... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4164525 Sat, 13 Nov 2010 22:00:47 +0100 4164525 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4162937&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F11%2Fthe-promise-and-pitfalls-of-a-cancer-breakthrough.html A number of news media in the last 24 hours have reported about a "breakthrough" in early identification of lung cancer which leads to fewer deaths. In the Journal of Science today is a summary of the issues by Eliot Marshall that should be required reading for all of us. The NCI sponsored this $250 million study and noted a significant decrease of about 20% among those screened and treated. What most of the media excerpts don't tell us is that the positive results contained from 96 to 98 % false positives. This means that were this procedure provided to 20 to 22% of the general population who are currently smoking, let alone those who have smoked in the past but quit, hundreds of thousands of people would be told they have a deadly disease which they did not have. Then you have problems o... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4162937 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 20:28:03 +0100 4162937 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4151821&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F11%2Fmyth-of-a-germ-free-world.html ScienceDaily (Nov. 9, 2010) — Killing microorganisms has become a national obsession. A pair of antimicrobial compounds known as triclosan and triclocarban are lately the weapons of choice in our war of attrition against the microbial world. Both chemicals are found in an array of personal care products like antimicrobial soaps, and triclosan also is formulated into everyday items ranging from plastics and toys to articles of clothing. Antimicrobials have become a billion dollar a year industry and these chemicals now pervade the environment and our bodies. Levels of triclosan in humans have increased by an average of 50 percent since 2004, according to newly updated data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Triclosan and triclocarban are present in 60 percent of... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4151821 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 17:29:38 +0100 4151821 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4118992&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F10%2Fheavy-smoking-in-midlife-and-long-term-risk-of-alzheimer-disease-and-vascular-dementia.html As if we didn't need one more reason to quit smoking or never start, a new article from the archives of internal medicine published online yesterday concludes that in a cohort of 5367 people during a mean follow-up of 23 years heavy smoking in midlife was associated with a greater than 100% increase in risk of dementia, AD, and VaD more than 2 decades later. These results suggest that the brain is not immune to long-term consequences of heavy smoking. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4118992 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 16:09:27 +0100 4118992 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4097988&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F10%2Fepidemiology-of-chronic-disease.html In the Journal Science today is an interesting article from the school of public health at UC, Berkeley about environment and disease risks. The article suggests that the current epidemiologic approach to analyzing the course and possible intervention for chronic diseases focuses on nature rather than nurture and recommends that genetic studies should also be accompanied by better environmental assessments. At the same time this week's Journal Lancet, has several articles dealing with the validity and usefulness of the current state of personal genome assessments. The articles in both journals are worth reading as they complement each other, however the one from Berkeley seems to be founded more on political bias than biological credibility. With all the knowledge developed for interventio... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4097988 Fri, 22 Oct 2010 19:36:29 +0100 4097988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4098063&cid=t_107510_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FnufKesuz-Xo%2F URL: http://www.growthhouse.org/Growth House, Inc., gives you free access to over 4,000 pages of high-quality education materials about end-of-life care, palliative medicine, and hospice care, including the full text of several books. We provide education both for the general public and for health care professionals. For: Anyone, Consumers, ConsumersTopics: ADHD, Anxiety, Aspergers, Behaviour Management, Child and Adolescent, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Eating Disorders, Emotional Health, General Psychology, Life, Lifestyle, Mental Health, Mental Health Promotion, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Personality disorders, Attachment, Clinical Decision Making, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Fitness, Common Factors, Developmental, Health and Social Services, Life, Lifestyle,... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4098063 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:00:32 +0100 4098063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4086288&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F10%2Fgrowth-in-us-life-expectancy-continues-to-fall-behind-that-of-other-countries.html This study provides stark evidence that the U.S. health care system has been failing Americans for years,” said Commonwealth Fund President Karen Davis. “It is unacceptable that the U.S. obtains so much less than should be expected from its unusually high spending on health care relative to other countries.” Comment: hopefully, as the new Health Care Legislation develops, with an emphasis on enhanced primary care and preventive interventions we will finally have a coordinated health care system that produces as good population outcomes in those found in most other developed countries.  We need place more emphasis on population outcomes than on individual specialty technology. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4086288 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 15:37:53 +0100 4086288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4074262&cid=t_107510_129_f&fid=36036&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fkelly-building-a-crohns-disease-community%2Fnew-job-same-old-crohns-worries%2F A while back, I wrote about the possibility of losing my job. Well, I lost my job – with my client – but my company has decided to keep me and has already put me into another position. My company is a consulting firm, and one of our major clients is having a lot of problems with their budget. They had to lay off about 75% of their contractors, and I am one of them. My company has put me in another position for the next year hoping that, by this time, my old job will be available again and I can just slip back into it – If I want to, of course. I may actually like this new position better and want to stay in it forever. We will see. So far, it has been quite a whirlwind. Immediately after I left my old position, I had to travel for training for my new job. I am still not certain that... Life with Crohn's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4074262 Fri, 15 Oct 2010 14:12:02 +0100 4074262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4074153&cid=t_107510_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FW1uEEVFqOUI%2F URL: http://www.alz.org/index.aspThe Alzheimer’s Association is the leading, global voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care and support, and the largest private, nonprofit funder of Alzheimer research. For: Anyone, Consumers, Anyone, AnyoneTopics: Behaviour Management, Clinical Decision Making, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Depression, Diagnosis, Educational Psychology, Emotional Health, General Psychology, General Science, Life, Lifestyle, Mental Health, Self-help, Attachment, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive, Emotional Health, General Psychology, Life, Lifestyle, Personality, Relationships, Chronic Disease, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Depression, Diagnosis, Emotional Health, General Psychology, General Science, Health Promo... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4074153 Thu, 14 Oct 2010 17:00:32 +0100 4074153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4055717&cid=t_107510_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fbasic-health-education-not-so-basic%2F2010.10.10 The past two weeks I’ve been the “dayfloat” resident on the cardiology inpatient service. With the 30-hour-shift work “restrictions” placed on medical residents, there has been a need for new systems of care to ensure the safety of newly admitted patients and cardiology dayfloat is one of them. My job is to round with the post-call team, help them get out of the hospital on time, and then take care of their patients through the end of the work day. It’s a fairly easy rotation, as they go, though because I “float” from one team to another without patients of my own, it’s also not the most satisfying. Towards the end of my two week rotation, I was paged by a nurse because a patient’s husband wanted an update on his wife’s condition. Glancing at my “signout” — a on... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4055717 Sun, 10 Oct 2010 20:00:29 +0100 4055717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4040564&cid=t_107510_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fdiabetes-lessons%2F2010.10.07 As doctors, sometimes the biggest lessons that we learn about disease pathology are those that we learn from the people that have that disease. Diabetes is one such disease. I recently gave a show-and-tell lecture about insulin pumps to the new interns and residents as well as the 3rd-year medical students on their pediatric clerkship with the inpatient endocrine service. We discussed different types of pumps (point A on the picture) and they got to push the buttons and send a bolus or change a basal rate. They also looked at real time CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitors, points C and D on the picture) sensors used to check glucoses levels every five minutes. (more…) (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4040564 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 14:00:04 +0100 4040564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4022913&cid=t_107510_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fquality-of-life-and-the-importance-of-shay-days%2F2010.10.01 As a medical professional who often treats children with chronic diseases, my patients turn to me not only for treatment advice but often for advice on how to improve their quality of life. I often have difficulty addressing the latter as there is a paucity of research on quality of life outcomes as compared to biomedical outcomes. However, preliminary data from DR Walker et al. (1) have shown that comprehensive disease management improves quality of life and thereby reduces medical costs for some common chronic illnesses. Recently, a patient shared a story with me that was written by an anonymous author which demonstrates the powerful effect of seemingly small efforts on the quality of life of a disabled child. (more…) (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4022913 Fri, 01 Oct 2010 15:00:25 +0100 4022913 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4018195&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F09%2Fdiabetes-pollution.html A report, published in the October issue of Diabetes Care, is among the first large-scale population-based studies to link diabetes prevalence with air pollution. It is consistent with prior laboratory studies finding an increase in insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes, in obese mice exposed to particulates, and an increase in markers of inflammation (which may contribute to insulin resistance) in both the mice and obese diabetic patients after particulate exposure. Like the laboratory studies, the current study focused on fine particulates of 0.1-2.5 nanometers in size (known as PM2.5), a main component of haze, smoke and motor vehicle exhaust. The investigators, led by John Pearson and John Brownstein, PhD, of the Children's Hospital Informatics Program, obtained county-by-county ... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4018195 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 16:01:15 +0100 4018195 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3999013&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F09%2Fin-usa-today-comments-from.html In USA Today Comments from Europe: Obesity rates have skyrocketed since the 1980s in almost all the countries where long-term data is available, says the report from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), which works on policies to promote better economies and quality of life. Countries with the fastest obesity growth rates: the United States, Australia and England.   (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3999013 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 15:57:48 +0100 3999013 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3987149&cid=t_107510_129_f&fid=36036&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fkelly-building-a-crohns-disease-community%2Fthe-frustrating-search-for-crohns-friendly-foods%2F On my recent trip to Hawaii, I visited the Polynesian Cultural Center. It is a really great place to go if you are ever in Oahu — they teach you a lot about the Polynesian culture and have plenty of great activities for both children and adults. We went there after lunch, and for some reason I didn’t bring any of my Crohn’s-friendly food with me. Big mistake! Always be prepared when you go out by bringing foods that you know that you can eat. Around 5:30, I started to get really hungry and regretting not bringing anything to eat. None of the stands had anything healthy or plain that I could eat, so we started to look for a restaurant that may have something. After looking around for a while, we ended up at this snack shop. By this time, my family was getting really hungry and... Life with Crohn's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3987149 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 20:43:19 +0100 3987149 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3957928&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F09%2Fhealthcare-spending-for-obese-adults-grew-by-111-from-1987-to-2007.html A Congressional Budget Office report says that healthcare spending per capita grew by 65 percent between 1987 and 2007 for adults of normal weight. But for obese adults, spending increased by 111 percent in those two decades. This means that “by 2007, per capita spending for obese adults was far higher than spending for normal-weight adults." The CBO says that "if Americans continue to gain weight, healthcare costs will expand as well," and noted that while "per capita health spending on all adults was $4,550 in 2007," should "current obesity trends continue, per capita health spending would increase to $7,760 by 2020, because of both the costs associated with obesity and rising healthcare costs overall."  Comment: It is time to discount the obesity activists who say that being ... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3957928 Fri, 10 Sep 2010 17:16:07 +0100 3957928 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3935825&cid=t_107510_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FhmDWyIEvhcM%2F URL: http://www.quackwatch.com/Quackwatch has grown considerably. To help visitors with special areas of interest, we maintain 22 additional sites for autism, chiropractic, dentistry, multilevel marketing, and many other hot topics. For: AnyoneTopics: Academia, Behaviour Management, Bipolar, Chronic Disease, Clinical Decision Making, Clinical Psychology, Counselling, Depression, Diagnosis, General Psychology, General Science, Health Promotion, Health and Social Services, Life, Lifestyle, Medicine, Mental Health, Mental Health Promotion, Self-helpFeatures: Articles, Case Studies, Clinical Tools, Collaborative News, Community and Social Networking, Group Management, Information, Links, Networking, Newsletter, Research, Research Tools, ResourcesQuackwatch has grown considerably. To help visit... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3935825 Sun, 05 Sep 2010 17:00:04 +0100 3935825 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3920967&cid=t_107510_129_f&fid=36036&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fkelly-building-a-crohns-disease-community%2Fhow-is-your-crohn-august-2010%2F Hello everyone! How are you feeling today? I hope that you are well and that your Crohn’s isn’t being a pain in the rump. In case you are new to the blog, I will explain the topic of today’s blog. Every month I like to check in with everyone to see how you have been doing. Everyone writes in and tells how they have been feeling and what has been going on with their Crohn’s or with anything else. It is a great way for us to share and to vent. Since I write the blog, I get to go first. Right now my Crohn’s is not doing too badly. I just went down to 28 mg of prednisone and hope to continue weaning. I am craving carbohydrates like crazy and can’t seem to stop thinking about waffles, bread, coffee with milk, and pretty much anything bad for me that is full of starch. I wrote a blo... Life with Crohn's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3920967 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:06:01 +0100 3920967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3915033&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F08%2Fno-magic-bullet-against-alzheimers-disease.html From the NYT: The National Institutes of Health appointed a jury of 15 medical scientists with no vested interests in Alzheimer’s research. The studies included research on nearly everything proposed to prevent the disease: exercise, mental stimulation, healthy diet, social engagement, nutritional supplements, anti-inflammatory drugs or those that lower cholesterol or blood pressure, even the idea that people who marry or stay trim might be saved from dementia. And they included research on traits that might hasten Alzheimer’s onset, like not having much of an education or being a loner. The outcome: so far, nothing has been found to prevent or delay this devastating disease, despite the hundreds of studies sponsored by various interest groups.  Comment; part of the proble... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3915033 Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:35:28 +0100 3915033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3902918&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F08%2Fmenu-labeling-provisions-of-section-4205-of-the-patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act-of-2010.html For chain retail food establishments, the provisions that became requirements immediately upon enactment of the law include: (1) Disclosing the number of calories in each standard menu item on menus and menu boards, (2) Making additional written nutrition information available to consumers upon request, (3) Providing a statement on menus and menu boards about the availability of the additional nutrition information, and (4) Providing calorie information (per serving or per food item) for most self-service items and food on display, on a sign adjacent to each food item.   Who would have thought that the recently passed health care program would include instructions for restaurants on the content of their menus? There's probably little doubt that providing calorie values will be helpful... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3902918 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 16:14:29 +0100 3902918 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3899420&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F08%2Ffrank-talk-about-care-at-lifes-end.html From today’s NYT Last week, over the objections of New York State’s medical society, Gov. David A. Paterson signed into law a bill — the New York Palliative Care Information Act — requiring physicians who treat patients with a terminal illness or condition to offer them or their representatives information about prognosis and options for end-of-life care, including aggressive pain management and hospice care as well as the possibilities for further life-sustaining treatment. last week, a study in The New England Journal of Medicine reported that among 151 patients with newly diagnosed metastatic lung cancer, those who received palliative care, which is care focused on symptoms, along with standard cancer therapy had a better quality of life, experienced less depress... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3899420 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:54:35 +0100 3899420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3889305&cid=t_107510_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-is-alcoholism-3%2F Alcoholism is a primary, chronic, progressive disorder that has a predictable course; with inherited, physical, psychological and environmental risk factors; and is fatal if not treated and its progress arrested. A Disease of the Brain Alcoholism is also a brain disease because alcohol changes the brain—it changes its structure, how it works and how it thinks. These brain changes can be long lasting, and lead to the harmful behaviors seen in people who are alcoholic. Primary Alcoholism is not the result of another disorder but it is a causative factor in other disorders. Chronic Alcoholism is a chronic condition that continues over a long time, progresses consistently or intermittently, and can be managed. Progressive and Predictable As an addictive drug, alcohol use over time ca... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3889305 Fri, 20 Aug 2010 18:15:00 +0100 3889305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3880887&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F08%2Fhearing-loss-in-us-teens-increased-in-prevalence-in-the-previous-15-years.html Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital determined that hearing loss in adolescents has increased over the past 15 years. The findings are published in the August 18 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. Comment: occupational health experts have known for decades that loud noises are injurious to hearing. In the military those exposed to repeated loud noises such as artillery, without a hearing protection, develop hearing loss as do workers in heavy industry and the road work. This is not a new finding and has been reported for at least three decades since the effect of loud music on adolescent hearing has been evaluated. Along with low-level lead poisoning these two problems may be significant enough to lower educational attainment of many young people. (Sour... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3880887 Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:35:01 +0100 3880887 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3872584&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F08%2Fcan-obesity-prevention-begin-before-birth.html David Ludwig’s research from Children's Hospital, Boston found that women who gain excessive weight during pregnancy tend to give birth to heavier infants.  For example, women gaining 44 to 49 pounds were 1.7 times more likely to have a high birth weight baby than those gaining just 18 to 22 pounds. Women who gained more than 53 pounds were 2.3 times more likely to do so. Because our study involved comparisons of infants born to the same mother, we can be confident that this effect is not due to genetics. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3872584 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 16:32:19 +0100 3872584 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3845122&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F08%2Ftattooing-may-be-the-rage.html But, researchers from the University of British Columbia reviewed and analyzed 124 studies from 30 countries, including Canada, Iran, Italy, Brazil and the United States, and found the incidence of hepatitis C after tattooing is directly linked with the number of tattoos an individual receives. The findings are published in the current issue of the International Journal of Infectious Diseases. Other risks of tattooing identified by the study include allergic reactions, HIV, hepatitis B, bacterial or fungal infections, and other risks associated with tattoo removal. Comment: Public health experts have been aware of this problem for years and while trying to publicize it have found that and the establishment individuals like to express their views with multiple tattoos. Unfortunately this cr... Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3845122 Sun, 08 Aug 2010 16:01:14 +0100 3845122 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3813001&cid=t_107510_99_f&fid=35342&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.vcu.edu%2Fcbuttery%2F2010%2F08%2Fnano-fix-for-diabetes.html Nanoparticles coated with islet-specific peptides and major histocompatibility complex trigger expansion of a select population of immune cells, which then help reverse autoimmunity and cure type 1 diabetes in mice. S. Tsai et al., Immunity, 32:568-80, 2010. Eval by E. Charles Snow, Univ. of KY Med. Center; Peter Van Endert, Inst. National de la Sante et de la Recherche Med. ID: 3060957 Comment:  Now if we can move the experiment form micec to people we will eb in business. (Source: Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG) Dr. Buttery's Public Health BLOG blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3813001 Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:32:28 +0100 3813001