Adam DreamHealer’s Global Intention Heals Project proved that sending healing intentions changes the physiology of someone at a distance. Over 10,000 participants sent healing intentions at a time unknown to a volunteer who was monitored by a quantitative-EEG. The data was analyzed by world experts in the USA and Canada.
Vancouver, BC (PRWEB) November 25, 2009 -- Adam DreamHealer’s Global Intention Heals Project proved that sending healing intentions changes the physiology of someone at a distance. Over 10,000 participants sent healing intentions at a time unknown to a volunteer who was monitored by a quantitative-EEG. The data was analyzed by world experts in the USA and Canada.
On November 8 in Vancouver, B.C. Adam initiated the world’s largest intentional healing experiment. To focus intentions, Adam created a video clip of a specific visualization to be used by all participants, which consisted of lightning bolts creating activity in the subject’s brain.
The study found several intriguing differences when comparing quantitative EEG results in the 11-12 Hz range and in the 7.5-8 Hz range. The latter is an extremely interesting finding as these frequencies are referred to as Schumann Resonances, which have previously been hypothesized as being an aspect of the connectivity dynamic underlying remote or distant healing and are also associated with the Earth’s electromagnetic field as resonated by lightning strikes.
The 7.5 to 8 Hz frequency noted in the EEG at the time when participants sent intentions using lightning bolt visualizations is similar to actual lightning bolts. Participants created in the volunteer's brainwaves the same frequency as their visualized intention.
Intriguing Scientific Results from World's Largest Intention Healing Project: DreamHealer!!!!!!!!!!!
Seven-day event focuses on nuclear medicine, molecular imaging, nanomedicine and clinical tria!ls!!!!
SNM will hold its Conjoint Mid-Winter Meetings Jan. 27-Feb. 2, 2010, at the Albuquerque Convention Center in Albuquerque, N.M. This year, SNM joins its annual Mid-Winter Educational Symposium with the 2010 Annual Meeting and Educational Symposium of the American College of Nuclear Medicine (ACNM), the Nanomedicine and Molecular Imaging Summit and the Clinical Trials Network Community Workshop. The seven-day event offers participants an outstanding range of scientific content that covers nuclear medicine, molecular imaging, nanomedicine and clinical trials.
"The mid-winter meeting has grown to include more exceptional educational and scientific content," said Michael M. Graham, Ph.D., M.D., president of SNM. "Attendees will find that they have more opportunities than ever before to earn educational credit, network with colleagues and learn from the top educators and innovators in the field."
Leading molecular imaging and nuclear medicine physicians and scientists, radiologists, cardiologists, radiopharmacists and technologists representing the world's top medical and academic institutions and centers will lead sessions. Attendees will have the opportunity to earn up to 25 continuing education credits.
The ACNM Annual Meeting and Educational Symposium, which begins on Jan. 27, will feature lectures about the use of PET/CT in the brain and neck, genitourinary system, head and neck cancer and thyroid cancer.
SNM's Mid-Winter Educational Symposium, which begins on Jan. 30, will include numerous educational sessions, including the popular CT Case Review sessions, which include 100 cases and 16 credits. In a session titled "The Sharp Edges of Nuclear Medicine: See What's New," technologists will be introduced to the newest techniques in fusion imaging and imaging with a focus on patients with epilepsy.
Peter Herscovitch, M.D., chair of SNM's Scientific Program Committee, said, "We are very pleased about the quality of this year's educational program, which offers top-notch scientific content from some of the leaders in the field of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging."
SNM's Nanomedicine and Molecular Imaging Summit, which takes place Jan. 31-Feb. 1, will provide a thought-provoking setting in which to examine key issues related to the rapid growth and evolving science of nanomedicine. The summit will delve into the cutting-edge field of nanotechnology, offering five sessions, followed by a roundtable and panel discussions.
The SNM Clinical Trials Network Community Workshop will provide hands-on training to physicians and technologists through the clinical research imaging technologist certification curriculum; multi-site imaging challenges for investigational therapeutics clinical trials; site qualification via the SNM Clinical Trials Network phantom program; multicenter clinical trials production; and site inspections.
"With expanded offerings and more days to fit in activities, SNM's Conjoint Mid-Winter Meetings will certainly be a fulfilling event for all who attend," said Graham.
"The mid-winter meeting has grown to include more exceptional educational and scientific content," said Michael M. Graham, Ph.D., M.D., president of SNM. "Attendees will find that they have more opportunities than ever before to earn educational credit, network with colleagues and learn from the top educators and innovators in the field."
Leading molecular imaging and nuclear medicine physicians and scientists, radiologists, cardiologists, radiopharmacists and technologists representing the world's top medical and academic institutions and centers will lead sessions. Attendees will have the opportunity to earn up to 25 continuing education credits.
The ACNM Annual Meeting and Educational Symposium, which begins on Jan. 27, will feature lectures about the use of PET/CT in the brain and neck, genitourinary system, head and neck cancer and thyroid cancer.
SNM's Mid-Winter Educational Symposium, which begins on Jan. 30, will include numerous educational sessions, including the popular CT Case Review sessions, which include 100 cases and 16 credits. In a session titled "The Sharp Edges of Nuclear Medicine: See What's New," technologists will be introduced to the newest techniques in fusion imaging and imaging with a focus on patients with epilepsy.
Peter Herscovitch, M.D., chair of SNM's Scientific Program Committee, said, "We are very pleased about the quality of this year's educational program, which offers top-notch scientific content from some of the leaders in the field of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging."
SNM's Nanomedicine and Molecular Imaging Summit, which takes place Jan. 31-Feb. 1, will provide a thought-provoking setting in which to examine key issues related to the rapid growth and evolving science of nanomedicine. The summit will delve into the cutting-edge field of nanotechnology, offering five sessions, followed by a roundtable and panel discussions.
The SNM Clinical Trials Network Community Workshop will provide hands-on training to physicians and technologists through the clinical research imaging technologist certification curriculum; multi-site imaging challenges for investigational therapeutics clinical trials; site qualification via the SNM Clinical Trials Network phantom program; multicenter clinical trials production; and site inspections.
"With expanded offerings and more days to fit in activities, SNM's Conjoint Mid-Winter Meetings will certainly be a fulfilling event for all who attend," said Graham.
Young girls not influenced by thin, beautiful princesses in animated children's movies!!!
'The Princess and the Frog' and other movies can help parents start conversations with their children about weight, skin color and beauty
Even before they start school, many young girls worry that they are fat. But a new study suggests watching a movie starring a stereotypically thin and beautiful princess may not increase children's anxieties.
Nearly half of the 3- to 6-year-old girls in a study by University of Central Florida psychology professor Stacey Tantleff-Dunn and doctoral student Sharon Hayes said they worry about being fat. About one-third would change a physical attribute, such as their weight or hair color.
The number of girls worried about being fat at such a young age concerns Tantleff-Dunn because of the potential implications later in life. Studies have shown that young girls worried about their body image are more likely to suffer from eating disorders when they are older.
The encouraging news for parents is that taking their young daughters to see the new Disney film "The Princess and the Frog" isn't likely to influence how they perceive their bodies.
The UCF study, published online this week in the British Journal of Developmental Psychology, concluded that young girls' behavior or self-esteem did not appear to be influenced by video clips of the beautiful, thin princesses in animated children's movies. That's a sharp contrast to earlier studies showing how the self-esteem of older girls and women suffers after short-term exposure to thin, beautiful models on television and in the movies.
While the study found no short-term consequences for young girls, the media's portrayal of beauty likely is one of the strongest influences on how they perceive their bodies because children spend so much time watching movies and television, Tantleff-Dunn said.
That's why it's important for parents to use movies such as "The Princess and the Frog," which premieres Nov. 25 in New York and Los Angeles and Dec. 11 nationwide, to start conversations with their children about weight, skin color and their perceptions of beauty, she said. They can explain that princesses' tiny waists are not realistic for girls and that children don't need Cinderella's golden hair or Snow White's porcelain skin to look good.
"We need to help our children challenge the images of beauty, particularly thinness, that they see and idolize and encourage them to question how much appearance should be part of their self-worth," said Tantleff-Dunn, who directs UCF's Laboratory for the Study of Eating, Appearance and Health. "We should help them build a positive self-image with an appreciation for many different types of body attributes."
Criticism and teasing from parents, siblings and peers also shape how young girls perceive their bodies, Tantleff-Dunn said. And as their children's most important role models, parents also shouldavoid criticizing their own bodies.
During the study, each of the 121 girls was taken into a room with a "playmate" -- a trained research associate in her 20s who had experience working with children. After chatting for several minutes, the playmate asked each girl how she feels about the way she looks. Thirty-one percent indicated they almost always worry about being fat, while another 18 percent said they sometimes worry about it.
Half of the girls watched parts of animated children's movies such as Cinderella that featured young, beautiful characters and appearance-focused comments, such as Gaston telling Belle in Beauty and the Beast that she is "the most beautiful girl in town, and that makes her the best." The second group watched parts of animated children's movies such as Dora the Explorer and Clifford the Big Red Dog that do not contain any appearance-related messages.
In a room that featured a dress-up rack of costumes, a vanity, dinosaurs and more, children then spent about the same amount of time on appearance-related play activities, such as brushing their hair at the vanity, regardless of which set of movies they watched.
While older girls and women tend to compare their bodies to the models', younger children may be more likely to adopt the persona of the princesses while playing, the UCF researchers said.
Even before they start school, many young girls worry that they are fat. But a new study suggests watching a movie starring a stereotypically thin and beautiful princess may not increase children's anxieties.
Nearly half of the 3- to 6-year-old girls in a study by University of Central Florida psychology professor Stacey Tantleff-Dunn and doctoral student Sharon Hayes said they worry about being fat. About one-third would change a physical attribute, such as their weight or hair color.
The number of girls worried about being fat at such a young age concerns Tantleff-Dunn because of the potential implications later in life. Studies have shown that young girls worried about their body image are more likely to suffer from eating disorders when they are older.
The encouraging news for parents is that taking their young daughters to see the new Disney film "The Princess and the Frog" isn't likely to influence how they perceive their bodies.
The UCF study, published online this week in the British Journal of Developmental Psychology, concluded that young girls' behavior or self-esteem did not appear to be influenced by video clips of the beautiful, thin princesses in animated children's movies. That's a sharp contrast to earlier studies showing how the self-esteem of older girls and women suffers after short-term exposure to thin, beautiful models on television and in the movies.
While the study found no short-term consequences for young girls, the media's portrayal of beauty likely is one of the strongest influences on how they perceive their bodies because children spend so much time watching movies and television, Tantleff-Dunn said.
That's why it's important for parents to use movies such as "The Princess and the Frog," which premieres Nov. 25 in New York and Los Angeles and Dec. 11 nationwide, to start conversations with their children about weight, skin color and their perceptions of beauty, she said. They can explain that princesses' tiny waists are not realistic for girls and that children don't need Cinderella's golden hair or Snow White's porcelain skin to look good.
"We need to help our children challenge the images of beauty, particularly thinness, that they see and idolize and encourage them to question how much appearance should be part of their self-worth," said Tantleff-Dunn, who directs UCF's Laboratory for the Study of Eating, Appearance and Health. "We should help them build a positive self-image with an appreciation for many different types of body attributes."
Criticism and teasing from parents, siblings and peers also shape how young girls perceive their bodies, Tantleff-Dunn said. And as their children's most important role models, parents also shouldavoid criticizing their own bodies.
During the study, each of the 121 girls was taken into a room with a "playmate" -- a trained research associate in her 20s who had experience working with children. After chatting for several minutes, the playmate asked each girl how she feels about the way she looks. Thirty-one percent indicated they almost always worry about being fat, while another 18 percent said they sometimes worry about it.
Half of the girls watched parts of animated children's movies such as Cinderella that featured young, beautiful characters and appearance-focused comments, such as Gaston telling Belle in Beauty and the Beast that she is "the most beautiful girl in town, and that makes her the best." The second group watched parts of animated children's movies such as Dora the Explorer and Clifford the Big Red Dog that do not contain any appearance-related messages.
In a room that featured a dress-up rack of costumes, a vanity, dinosaurs and more, children then spent about the same amount of time on appearance-related play activities, such as brushing their hair at the vanity, regardless of which set of movies they watched.
While older girls and women tend to compare their bodies to the models', younger children may be more likely to adopt the persona of the princesses while playing, the UCF researchers said.
Breast Cancer News and Research!!!
Breast cancer is cancer that forms in tissues of the breast, usually the ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple) and lobules (glands that make milk). It occurs in both men and women, although male breast cancer is rare. When breast cancer cells spread to other parts of the body, they are called metastases. There are different kinds of breast cancer. The kind of breast cancer depends on which cells in the breast turn into cancer. Breast cancer can begin in different parts of the breast, like the ducts or the lobes.
Pennsylvanians at-risk for H1N1 flu receive H1N1 vaccination!!!
Governor Edward G. Rendell today announced that 100,000 Pennsylvanians at-risk for the H1N1 flu were vaccinated during the weekend at public health clinics held by the Department of Health and local health departments.
"With the federal government unable to provide accurate estimates and projections regarding the availability of H1N1 vaccine, distribution has been challenging," said Governor Rendell. "Overall, we are pleased with the H1N1 vaccine distribution process in Pennsylvania. Holding public clinics across the state over the weekend allowed us to provide vaccine to 100,000 individuals in the recommended priority groups who did not have previous access to the vaccine."
Staffing for 18 Department of Health clinics, which were held in easily accessible locations around the state, was provided through a well-organized collaboration that included more than 325 Department of Health staff, 150 emergency medical service providers and 200 community volunteers. Average wait time at these clinics was 12 minutes.
Delaware, Lancaster and Lehigh county clinics reached full capacity, with every available appointment scheduled. The Department of Health is holding additional clinics for individuals in the recommended priority groups in each of these counties today and tomorrow. Appointments can be made by calling 1-877-PA HEALTH.
In addition to the 18 clinics offered by the Department of Health, vaccine was provided to the state's 10 county and municipal health departments.
As of today, the Centers for Disease Control has allocated 2,097,100 doses of H1N1 vaccine to Pennsylvania - which is far less than what was anticipated based on early estimates provided by the CDC. The vast majority of this vaccine has been distributed to 1,451 certified providers including physician's offices, schools, and hospitals around the state to vaccinate individuals in the recommended target groups at highest risk of getting H1N1 or severe complications.
As vaccine becomes available, the department will continue to fill orders for certified providers and local and county municipal health departments. The agency will also make H1N1 vaccine available at all 60 state health centers across the commonwealth to ensure access to those in the recommended groups. Beginning Monday, Nov. 30, citizens in the recommended target groups who do not have access to the vaccine can go to www.H1N1inPa.com to make an appointment online or call 1-877-PA HEALTH to set up an appointment.
Priority groups for receiving the H1N1 vaccination include pregnant women; persons six months to 24 years old; healthcare providers and emergency medical services personnel; parents, household members or caregivers of children under six months; and those under 65 with certain underlying medical conditions.
If the federal projections hold true, within the next few weeks the Department of Health expects to be able to move beyond the five target risk groups and make vaccine available to every Pennsylvanian who wants it.
"With the federal government unable to provide accurate estimates and projections regarding the availability of H1N1 vaccine, distribution has been challenging," said Governor Rendell. "Overall, we are pleased with the H1N1 vaccine distribution process in Pennsylvania. Holding public clinics across the state over the weekend allowed us to provide vaccine to 100,000 individuals in the recommended priority groups who did not have previous access to the vaccine."
Staffing for 18 Department of Health clinics, which were held in easily accessible locations around the state, was provided through a well-organized collaboration that included more than 325 Department of Health staff, 150 emergency medical service providers and 200 community volunteers. Average wait time at these clinics was 12 minutes.
Delaware, Lancaster and Lehigh county clinics reached full capacity, with every available appointment scheduled. The Department of Health is holding additional clinics for individuals in the recommended priority groups in each of these counties today and tomorrow. Appointments can be made by calling 1-877-PA HEALTH.
In addition to the 18 clinics offered by the Department of Health, vaccine was provided to the state's 10 county and municipal health departments.
As of today, the Centers for Disease Control has allocated 2,097,100 doses of H1N1 vaccine to Pennsylvania - which is far less than what was anticipated based on early estimates provided by the CDC. The vast majority of this vaccine has been distributed to 1,451 certified providers including physician's offices, schools, and hospitals around the state to vaccinate individuals in the recommended target groups at highest risk of getting H1N1 or severe complications.
As vaccine becomes available, the department will continue to fill orders for certified providers and local and county municipal health departments. The agency will also make H1N1 vaccine available at all 60 state health centers across the commonwealth to ensure access to those in the recommended groups. Beginning Monday, Nov. 30, citizens in the recommended target groups who do not have access to the vaccine can go to www.H1N1inPa.com to make an appointment online or call 1-877-PA HEALTH to set up an appointment.
Priority groups for receiving the H1N1 vaccination include pregnant women; persons six months to 24 years old; healthcare providers and emergency medical services personnel; parents, household members or caregivers of children under six months; and those under 65 with certain underlying medical conditions.
If the federal projections hold true, within the next few weeks the Department of Health expects to be able to move beyond the five target risk groups and make vaccine available to every Pennsylvanian who wants it.
World's largest intentional healing experiment !!!
Adam DreamHealer's Global Intention Heals Project proved that sending healing intentions changes the physiology of someone at a distance. Over 10,000 participants sent healing intentions at a time unknown to a volunteer who was monitored by a quantitative-EEG. The data was analyzed by world experts in the USA and Canada.
On November 8 in Vancouver, B.C. Adam initiated the world's largest intentional healing experiment. To focus intentions, Adam created a video clip of a specific visualization to be used by all participants, which consisted of lightning bolts creating activity in the subject's brain.
The study found several intriguing differences when comparing quantitative EEG results in the 11-12 Hz range and in the 7.5-8 Hz range. The latter is an extremely interesting finding as these frequencies are referred to as Schumann Resonances, which have previously been hypothesized as being an aspect of the connectivity dynamic underlying remote or distant healing and are also associated with the Earth's electromagnetic field as resonated by lightning strikes.
The 7.5 to 8 Hz frequency noted in the EEG at the time when participants sent intentions using lightning bolt visualizations is similar to actual lightning bolts. Participants created in the volunteer's brainwaves the same frequency as their visualized intention.
Adam, best-selling author, states, "Intentions and thoughts influence health." As a molecular biologist and medical student, he wants to integrate the use of intentions into all modalities of healing, including allopathic medicine. This requires more scientific research, which Adam is proving to be a very achievable goal.
Since 2003 Adam has held large group healing sessions where the collective intention of the group creates the ideal environment for healing. Visualizations are powerful tools that help to focus intentions and they have helped thousands of people accelerate their own healing from around the world. This has inspired Adam to courageously pursue research through the Global Intention Heals Project.
To further understand the influence of group intention on human physiology, Adam plans to hold further Global Intention Heals Projects at his upcoming events, in addition to his two group healing sessions.
On November 8 in Vancouver, B.C. Adam initiated the world's largest intentional healing experiment. To focus intentions, Adam created a video clip of a specific visualization to be used by all participants, which consisted of lightning bolts creating activity in the subject's brain.
The study found several intriguing differences when comparing quantitative EEG results in the 11-12 Hz range and in the 7.5-8 Hz range. The latter is an extremely interesting finding as these frequencies are referred to as Schumann Resonances, which have previously been hypothesized as being an aspect of the connectivity dynamic underlying remote or distant healing and are also associated with the Earth's electromagnetic field as resonated by lightning strikes.
The 7.5 to 8 Hz frequency noted in the EEG at the time when participants sent intentions using lightning bolt visualizations is similar to actual lightning bolts. Participants created in the volunteer's brainwaves the same frequency as their visualized intention.
Adam, best-selling author, states, "Intentions and thoughts influence health." As a molecular biologist and medical student, he wants to integrate the use of intentions into all modalities of healing, including allopathic medicine. This requires more scientific research, which Adam is proving to be a very achievable goal.
Since 2003 Adam has held large group healing sessions where the collective intention of the group creates the ideal environment for healing. Visualizations are powerful tools that help to focus intentions and they have helped thousands of people accelerate their own healing from around the world. This has inspired Adam to courageously pursue research through the Global Intention Heals Project.
To further understand the influence of group intention on human physiology, Adam plans to hold further Global Intention Heals Projects at his upcoming events, in addition to his two group healing sessions.
Discovery of common trigger in cancer and normal stem cell reproduction!!!
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered, for the first time, a common molecular pathway that is used by both normal stem cells and cancer stem cells when they reproduce themselves.
In a paper to be published Aug. 7 in the journal Cell, Michael Clarke, MD, the Karel H. and Avice N. Beekhuis Professor in Cancer Biology, and his colleagues showed that breast cancer stem cells and normal breast stem cells turn down the creation of a specific group of cell signals when they are reproducing. Increasing the amount of one of these signals, called miR-200c, strongly suppressed the ability of both cancer stem cells and normal stem cells to divide and reproduce.
The discovery of a common regulatory pathway in both kinds of stem cells supports the idea that cancer stem cells and normal stem cells share fundamental properties. "This very strongly supports the cancer stem cell hypothesis," said Clarke, who is associate director of the Stanford Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Institute and a member of the Stanford Cancer Center. "A lot of people have speculated that there was this molecular link between these two kinds of cells (cancer stem cells and normal stem cells), but this is the first time we have actually identified it."
The cancer stem cell hypothesis states that cancers are a collection of many different kinds of cells, only a very few of which create and sustain the cancer. These are the cancer stem cells, which share many traits with normal stem cells.
While most cells in the body cannot reproduce themselves, stem cells have the ability to do so, and can also create the cells that mature into various tissues. Blood stem cells, for instance, which reside in the bone marrow, have the ability to create new blood stem cells and also to create all the different types of mature blood cells.
While the current discovery is important evidence of how cancer stem cells operate, it does not automatically lead to new cancer therapies. "The problem is that if we attack cancer using this mechanism, it is also going to affect normal stem cells which are essential for our survival," Clarke said. But understanding how cancer cells sustain themselves may in the future offer new ways of attacking the disease. "The hope is that we can find nuances that distinguish between how normal stem cells renew themselves and how cancer stem cells do so, and then use those differences to attack only the cancer," said Clarke.
The research also demonstrates the power of conducting studies that zero in on cancer stem cells rather than screen all cancer tumor cells. In the past, for instance, scientists tried to gain insight into how cancer cells reproduce by looking at molecular signals in all the cancer cells in a tumor. But this molecular detective work did not reveal cancer stem cells' use of the miR-200c pathway, probably because signals from cancer stem cells were lost in a crowd of molecular signals from the far more numerous non-stem cells.
Clarke and his colleagues therefore isolated the cancer stem cells first and then did the analysis. Clarke noted that it is technically challenging to isolate cancer stem cells, which can be outnumbered by generic tumor cells 100 to 1, but the rewards can be dramatic.
By analyzing only stem cells, the link between the molecular signals that control reproduction in cancer stem cells and normal stem cells became apparent.
"If you are looking at all the cells in a tumor, it's like looking for a crying child lost in an auditorium of cheering people," Clarke said. "You can't hear the child crying until you remove everyone else from the auditorium, and then the sound will pop out."
Other Stanford researchers involved in the project were Yohei Shimono, PhD; Maider Zabala, PhD; Robert Cho, MD; Neethan Lobo, PhD; Piero Dalerba, PhD; Dalong Qian, PhD; Acting Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncology Maximilian Diehn, MD, PhD; Huiping Liu, PhD; Sarita Panula, PhD; Eric Chiao, PhD; and Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology Renee Reijo-Pera, PhD.
The research was supported by the California Breast Cancer Research Program of the University of California, the Fundacion Alfonso Martin Escudero, the Fulbright Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the Morton Family Foundation and the Ludwig Foundation.
In a paper to be published Aug. 7 in the journal Cell, Michael Clarke, MD, the Karel H. and Avice N. Beekhuis Professor in Cancer Biology, and his colleagues showed that breast cancer stem cells and normal breast stem cells turn down the creation of a specific group of cell signals when they are reproducing. Increasing the amount of one of these signals, called miR-200c, strongly suppressed the ability of both cancer stem cells and normal stem cells to divide and reproduce.
The discovery of a common regulatory pathway in both kinds of stem cells supports the idea that cancer stem cells and normal stem cells share fundamental properties. "This very strongly supports the cancer stem cell hypothesis," said Clarke, who is associate director of the Stanford Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Institute and a member of the Stanford Cancer Center. "A lot of people have speculated that there was this molecular link between these two kinds of cells (cancer stem cells and normal stem cells), but this is the first time we have actually identified it."
The cancer stem cell hypothesis states that cancers are a collection of many different kinds of cells, only a very few of which create and sustain the cancer. These are the cancer stem cells, which share many traits with normal stem cells.
While most cells in the body cannot reproduce themselves, stem cells have the ability to do so, and can also create the cells that mature into various tissues. Blood stem cells, for instance, which reside in the bone marrow, have the ability to create new blood stem cells and also to create all the different types of mature blood cells.
While the current discovery is important evidence of how cancer stem cells operate, it does not automatically lead to new cancer therapies. "The problem is that if we attack cancer using this mechanism, it is also going to affect normal stem cells which are essential for our survival," Clarke said. But understanding how cancer cells sustain themselves may in the future offer new ways of attacking the disease. "The hope is that we can find nuances that distinguish between how normal stem cells renew themselves and how cancer stem cells do so, and then use those differences to attack only the cancer," said Clarke.
The research also demonstrates the power of conducting studies that zero in on cancer stem cells rather than screen all cancer tumor cells. In the past, for instance, scientists tried to gain insight into how cancer cells reproduce by looking at molecular signals in all the cancer cells in a tumor. But this molecular detective work did not reveal cancer stem cells' use of the miR-200c pathway, probably because signals from cancer stem cells were lost in a crowd of molecular signals from the far more numerous non-stem cells.
Clarke and his colleagues therefore isolated the cancer stem cells first and then did the analysis. Clarke noted that it is technically challenging to isolate cancer stem cells, which can be outnumbered by generic tumor cells 100 to 1, but the rewards can be dramatic.
By analyzing only stem cells, the link between the molecular signals that control reproduction in cancer stem cells and normal stem cells became apparent.
"If you are looking at all the cells in a tumor, it's like looking for a crying child lost in an auditorium of cheering people," Clarke said. "You can't hear the child crying until you remove everyone else from the auditorium, and then the sound will pop out."
Other Stanford researchers involved in the project were Yohei Shimono, PhD; Maider Zabala, PhD; Robert Cho, MD; Neethan Lobo, PhD; Piero Dalerba, PhD; Dalong Qian, PhD; Acting Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncology Maximilian Diehn, MD, PhD; Huiping Liu, PhD; Sarita Panula, PhD; Eric Chiao, PhD; and Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology Renee Reijo-Pera, PhD.
The research was supported by the California Breast Cancer Research Program of the University of California, the Fundacion Alfonso Martin Escudero, the Fulbright Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the Morton Family Foundation and the Ludwig Foundation.
High salt intake poses greater risk for stroke and cardiovascular disease!!!
High salt intake is associated with significantly greater risk of both stroke and cardiovascular disease, concludes a study published on bmj.com today.
The link between high salt intake and high blood pressure is well established, and it has been suggested that a population-wide reduction in dietary salt intake has the potential to substantially reduce the levels of cardiovascular disease.
The World Health Organization recommended level of salt consumption is 5 g (about one teaspoon) per day at the population level, yet dietary salt intake in most Western countries is close to 10g per day (and much higher in many Eastern European countries).
Collaborative research conducted by Professor Pasquale Strazzullo at the University of Naples, Italy and Professor Francesco Cappuccio at the University of Warwick, UK analysed the results of 13 published studies involving over 170,000 people that directly assessed the relationship between levels of habitual salt intake and rates of stroke and cardiovascular disease.
Differences in study design and quality were taken into account to minimise bias.
Their analysis shows unequivocally that a difference of 5 g a day in habitual salt intake is associated with a 23% difference in the rate of stroke and a 17% difference in the rate of total cardiovascular disease.
Based on these results, the authors estimate that reducing daily salt intake by 5 g at the population level could avert one and a quarter million deaths from stroke and almost three million deaths from cardiovascular disease each year. Furthermore, because of imprecision in measurement of salt intake, these effect sizes are likely to be underestimated, say the authors.
These results support the role of a substantial population reduction in salt intake for the prevention of cardiovascular disease, they conclude.
This study is a useful and welcome addition to the medical literature, and strengthens the case for population-wide salt reduction, says Professor Lawrence Appel from Johns Hopkins University, in an accompanying editorial.
The link between high salt intake and high blood pressure is well established, and it has been suggested that a population-wide reduction in dietary salt intake has the potential to substantially reduce the levels of cardiovascular disease.
The World Health Organization recommended level of salt consumption is 5 g (about one teaspoon) per day at the population level, yet dietary salt intake in most Western countries is close to 10g per day (and much higher in many Eastern European countries).
Collaborative research conducted by Professor Pasquale Strazzullo at the University of Naples, Italy and Professor Francesco Cappuccio at the University of Warwick, UK analysed the results of 13 published studies involving over 170,000 people that directly assessed the relationship between levels of habitual salt intake and rates of stroke and cardiovascular disease.
Differences in study design and quality were taken into account to minimise bias.
Their analysis shows unequivocally that a difference of 5 g a day in habitual salt intake is associated with a 23% difference in the rate of stroke and a 17% difference in the rate of total cardiovascular disease.
Based on these results, the authors estimate that reducing daily salt intake by 5 g at the population level could avert one and a quarter million deaths from stroke and almost three million deaths from cardiovascular disease each year. Furthermore, because of imprecision in measurement of salt intake, these effect sizes are likely to be underestimated, say the authors.
These results support the role of a substantial population reduction in salt intake for the prevention of cardiovascular disease, they conclude.
This study is a useful and welcome addition to the medical literature, and strengthens the case for population-wide salt reduction, says Professor Lawrence Appel from Johns Hopkins University, in an accompanying editorial.
JACR: Computerized support system provides solution to manage imaging utilization!!!!
Providing physicians with a computerized order entry/decision support system that provides immediate feedback regarding imaging appropriateness at the time of ordering may be an effective solution to managing imaging utilization, according to an article in the December issue of the Journal of the American College of Radiology, (JACR, www.jacr.org).
"Imaging exams are increasingly replacing more invasive, and often more costly, diagnostic techniques, and have redefined medical practice as a safer, less invasive and more accurate means of collecting diagnostic information," said Kathryn Keysor, Senior Health Policy Administrator for the American College of Radiology. "However, aside from this vast patient centered growth, imaging costs have been driven by the fact that many providers may not know which imaging exam is most appropriate for the patient indication they are observing or even when no scan should be performed at all. This, as well as incomplete patient histories and other factors, can lead to unnecessary and duplicate studies, which in turn drive up costs," said Keysor.
Many strategies have been employed to try to manage or decrease the utilization of imaging. "Strategies that offer the best return in the long run will be quality based and data driven and result in the continuous education of providers and patients," she said.
"A computerized provider order entry/decision support system that provides immediate feedback about appropriateness at the time of ordering is an education-focused method of utilization management. With this system, standardized indications are directed at each modality, symptom, and body part through the use of examination-specific "pick lists". An "appropriateness" score is presented to the requesting physician, along with scores for other imaging modalities that might be selected for the same indications. For examinations receiving very low scores, various barriers to ordering can be implemented. Physician performance with respect to appropriateness is tracked over time, and compared to his/her peers. Additionally, alerts about duplicative scans can avoid unnecessary patient radiation and other examination risks," said Keysor.
The radiology department at Massachusetts General Hospital uses a computerized order entry system. Their seven-year experience shows a reduction in the quarterly compound growth rate of 2.75 percent for outpatient CT, 1.2 percent for outpatient MRI, and 1.3 percent for outpatient ultrasound.
"This is a time-efficient and cost-effective process that can be used in inpatient, outpatient and emergency care settings. CPOE with decision support has proven to be an effective approach to imaging utilization and should be explored further," she said.
The December issue of JACR is an important resource for radiology and nuclear medicine professionals as well as students seeking clinical and educational improvement.
"Imaging exams are increasingly replacing more invasive, and often more costly, diagnostic techniques, and have redefined medical practice as a safer, less invasive and more accurate means of collecting diagnostic information," said Kathryn Keysor, Senior Health Policy Administrator for the American College of Radiology. "However, aside from this vast patient centered growth, imaging costs have been driven by the fact that many providers may not know which imaging exam is most appropriate for the patient indication they are observing or even when no scan should be performed at all. This, as well as incomplete patient histories and other factors, can lead to unnecessary and duplicate studies, which in turn drive up costs," said Keysor.
Many strategies have been employed to try to manage or decrease the utilization of imaging. "Strategies that offer the best return in the long run will be quality based and data driven and result in the continuous education of providers and patients," she said.
"A computerized provider order entry/decision support system that provides immediate feedback about appropriateness at the time of ordering is an education-focused method of utilization management. With this system, standardized indications are directed at each modality, symptom, and body part through the use of examination-specific "pick lists". An "appropriateness" score is presented to the requesting physician, along with scores for other imaging modalities that might be selected for the same indications. For examinations receiving very low scores, various barriers to ordering can be implemented. Physician performance with respect to appropriateness is tracked over time, and compared to his/her peers. Additionally, alerts about duplicative scans can avoid unnecessary patient radiation and other examination risks," said Keysor.
The radiology department at Massachusetts General Hospital uses a computerized order entry system. Their seven-year experience shows a reduction in the quarterly compound growth rate of 2.75 percent for outpatient CT, 1.2 percent for outpatient MRI, and 1.3 percent for outpatient ultrasound.
"This is a time-efficient and cost-effective process that can be used in inpatient, outpatient and emergency care settings. CPOE with decision support has proven to be an effective approach to imaging utilization and should be explored further," she said.
The December issue of JACR is an important resource for radiology and nuclear medicine professionals as well as students seeking clinical and educational improvement.
Vicor Technologies announces implementation of ASP distribution model in cardiology practice!
David H. Fater, CEO of Vicor Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: VCRT), today announced the beta test installation of the company's application service provider (ASP) distribution model in a U.S. cardiology practice.
Vicor Technologies is a biotechnology company focused on the commercialization of innovative, non-invasive medical devices and diagnostics using its patented, proprietary PD2i® nonlinear algorithm and software to stratify patients at risk of sudden cardiac death and trauma victims in need of lifesaving intervention.
Vicor's ASP distribution model enables the seamless collection and transmission of patient ECG data to the Vicor server for analysis. Upon completion of analysis of the ECG data by Vicor's PD2i Analyzer™, the physician receives an electronic medical record and report of the PD2i Analyzer™ results. Additionally, the ASP distribution model records physician use to Vicor's website to enable automated monthly billing of physicians using its PD2i Analyzer™.
"The implementation of our ASP distribution model for beta test in an actual cardiology practice marks a milestone in our journey to commercialization," stated Mr. Fater. "This is the first step toward actual revenue generation from data analysis, as outlined in our strategic plan, and we are extremely gratified to have a major U.S. cardiology practice serving as our beta test site," Mr. Fater concluded.
Vicor anticipates completion in the near future of programming of a distribution model to be used in the collection of patient ECG data during paced exercise and controlled maneuvers, which use is reimbursable under existing CPT codes.
Vicor Technologies is a biotechnology company focused on the commercialization of innovative, non-invasive medical devices and diagnostics using its patented, proprietary PD2i® nonlinear algorithm and software to stratify patients at risk of sudden cardiac death and trauma victims in need of lifesaving intervention.
Vicor's ASP distribution model enables the seamless collection and transmission of patient ECG data to the Vicor server for analysis. Upon completion of analysis of the ECG data by Vicor's PD2i Analyzer™, the physician receives an electronic medical record and report of the PD2i Analyzer™ results. Additionally, the ASP distribution model records physician use to Vicor's website to enable automated monthly billing of physicians using its PD2i Analyzer™.
"The implementation of our ASP distribution model for beta test in an actual cardiology practice marks a milestone in our journey to commercialization," stated Mr. Fater. "This is the first step toward actual revenue generation from data analysis, as outlined in our strategic plan, and we are extremely gratified to have a major U.S. cardiology practice serving as our beta test site," Mr. Fater concluded.
Vicor anticipates completion in the near future of programming of a distribution model to be used in the collection of patient ECG data during paced exercise and controlled maneuvers, which use is reimbursable under existing CPT codes.
New study reveals that dentists can help detect patients with cardiovascular disease!!
Dentists can help to identify patients who are in danger of dying of a heart attack or stroke, reveals a new study from the Sahlgrenska Academy. Thanks to the study, six men who thought they were completely healthy were able to start preventive treatment in time.
"Dentists are really proud of their profession and feel no need to encroach upon doctors' territory," says senior dental officer and professor Mats Jontell at the Sahlgrenska Academy. "However, we wanted to find out if we as a profession could identify patients at risk of cardiovascular disease."
The study involved 200 men and women over the age of 45 who did not have any known cardiovascular problems. During a routine visit to their normal dentists in Borås and Gothenburg they were also checked out for known risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
"These risk factors are not normally manifested in the mouth, which is why the dentists went beyond their normal check-up routine," says Jontell. "They also took the patients' blood pressure and checked total cholesterol and blood sugar levels."
The risk of a fatal cardiovascular disease was calculated using a software known as HeartScore. The dentists felt that twelve men had a ten per cent risk of developing a fatal cardiovascular disease over the next ten years and advised them to see their doctors. Six of the twelve were subsequently prescribed medication to lower their blood pressure.
"Dentists regularly see a very large percentage of the Swedish population, and if there is sufficient interest they could also screen for cardiovascular risk factors which, untreated, could lead to a heart attack or stroke," says Jontell.
"Dentists are really proud of their profession and feel no need to encroach upon doctors' territory," says senior dental officer and professor Mats Jontell at the Sahlgrenska Academy. "However, we wanted to find out if we as a profession could identify patients at risk of cardiovascular disease."
The study involved 200 men and women over the age of 45 who did not have any known cardiovascular problems. During a routine visit to their normal dentists in Borås and Gothenburg they were also checked out for known risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
"These risk factors are not normally manifested in the mouth, which is why the dentists went beyond their normal check-up routine," says Jontell. "They also took the patients' blood pressure and checked total cholesterol and blood sugar levels."
The risk of a fatal cardiovascular disease was calculated using a software known as HeartScore. The dentists felt that twelve men had a ten per cent risk of developing a fatal cardiovascular disease over the next ten years and advised them to see their doctors. Six of the twelve were subsequently prescribed medication to lower their blood pressure.
"Dentists regularly see a very large percentage of the Swedish population, and if there is sufficient interest they could also screen for cardiovascular risk factors which, untreated, could lead to a heart attack or stroke," says Jontell.
Health-boosting tips from realbuzz.com!!!!
There are many ways you can improve your health, and just a few small changes can give big results. But there always seems to be conflicting advice concerning what is good for us, and the right ways to improve our health.
So, the realbuzz.com team has compiled a list of 25 health-boosting tips which we believe to be pretty much incontrovertible! Doing a combination of our suggested activities will boost your health and improve your lifestyle and well-being - so try them out.
1. Reduce your fat intake. The effects of fat on our arteries and general health are pretty well known, so you should try to reduce your fat intake by changing your cooking methods. Try grilling, baking, steaming or poaching, rather than frying.
2. Improve your sleep. If you're having trouble sleeping, try cutting out alcohol or caffeine and other stimulants before you go to bed, as this can help you to nod off and get a good night's sleep. Also, adding a few drops of lavender oil onto your pillow at night has been shown to have relaxing effects.
3. Cut down on your salt intake. To reduce the impact of salt on your blood pressure, cut down on your salt intake. We suggest using herbs and spices such as oregano, nutmeg and paprika to season your food, rather than always adding salt. You may eventually find that you don't need to add salt at all!
4. Enjoy a glass of wine. Drinking just one or two glasses of wine a day is thought to cut your risk of heart disease by up to a third. Make sure you go for red or rose variety, as they contain much higher levels of antioxidants than your average glass of white wine.
5. Be good to your bones. A diet high in calcium and vitamin D will lead to strong bones and healthy nerves and muscles. Good sources of calcium and vitamin D include egg yolk, broccoli, oily fish and direct sunlight.
To see the next 20 tips to improve your healthy lifestyle, head to http://bit.ly/5eUnl5
And that's not all; the realbuzz.com team has been delving deeper, looking at healthy ways to get the most out of your sex life. How many calories could you burn in a 20-minute sex session? Do you know what activity will increase the blood flow to your loins? What's the perfect libido boosting breakfast? What vegetable can contribute to a better sex life?
So, the realbuzz.com team has compiled a list of 25 health-boosting tips which we believe to be pretty much incontrovertible! Doing a combination of our suggested activities will boost your health and improve your lifestyle and well-being - so try them out.
1. Reduce your fat intake. The effects of fat on our arteries and general health are pretty well known, so you should try to reduce your fat intake by changing your cooking methods. Try grilling, baking, steaming or poaching, rather than frying.
2. Improve your sleep. If you're having trouble sleeping, try cutting out alcohol or caffeine and other stimulants before you go to bed, as this can help you to nod off and get a good night's sleep. Also, adding a few drops of lavender oil onto your pillow at night has been shown to have relaxing effects.
3. Cut down on your salt intake. To reduce the impact of salt on your blood pressure, cut down on your salt intake. We suggest using herbs and spices such as oregano, nutmeg and paprika to season your food, rather than always adding salt. You may eventually find that you don't need to add salt at all!
4. Enjoy a glass of wine. Drinking just one or two glasses of wine a day is thought to cut your risk of heart disease by up to a third. Make sure you go for red or rose variety, as they contain much higher levels of antioxidants than your average glass of white wine.
5. Be good to your bones. A diet high in calcium and vitamin D will lead to strong bones and healthy nerves and muscles. Good sources of calcium and vitamin D include egg yolk, broccoli, oily fish and direct sunlight.
To see the next 20 tips to improve your healthy lifestyle, head to http://bit.ly/5eUnl5
And that's not all; the realbuzz.com team has been delving deeper, looking at healthy ways to get the most out of your sex life. How many calories could you burn in a 20-minute sex session? Do you know what activity will increase the blood flow to your loins? What's the perfect libido boosting breakfast? What vegetable can contribute to a better sex life?
British Schoolgirl Dies After Receving HPV Vaccine!
A 14-year old British schoolgirl died on Monday shortly after receiving a vaccine against the human papilloma virus (HPV), the most common cause of cervical cancer.
The girl was a pupil at Blue Coat Church of England School and Music College in Coventry and was given the Cervarix anti-cancer jab as part of a national programme to immunise teenage girls against cervical cancer.
Dr Caron Grainger, Joint Director of Public Health for NHS Coventry and Coventry City Council, told the press that the girl was taken to Coventry's University Hospital shortly after she took ill, but sadly she died later that day.
"Our sympathies are with the girl's family and friends at this difficult time," said Grainger, explaining that although the incident happened shortly after the girl received the vaccine:
"No link can be made between the death and the vaccine until all the facts are known and a post mortem takes place."
Meanwhile, as a precautionary step, NHS Coventry have quarantined the batch of vaccine that was used, and the regulatory authority has been informed, said Grainger, adding that.
"We are conducting an urgent and full investigation into the events surrounding this tragedy."
In a letter to parents dated Monday, headteacher of the co-educational school, Dr Julie Roberts, wrote that during the vaccination session "an unfortunate incident occurred" and one of the girls suffered a "rare, but extreme reaction to the vaccine".
Roberts, who was newly appointed this term, wrote in her letter that a number of other girls "also reported being unwell and some were sent home", and urged parents of all girls who had received the vaccination to be "extra vigilant" of any signs or symptoms.
The most common adverse reaction after Cervarix is supposed to be a mild to moderate short lasting pain at the site of the injection, although other reactions may also include headache, muscle pain, fatigue and a low grade fever.
Roberts urged any parents who may be concerned about their daughter's reaction to the vaccine to contact their own GP.
Since September 2008 there has been a national programme in the UK to vaccinate girls aged 12 to 13 against HPV, and there is also a three-year catch up campaign that will offer the vaccine to 13 to 18 year olds.
The NHS said the plan is to deliver the vaccination, which comprises three injections over six months, mainly through secondary schools.
The HPV is one of a family of viruses that affects the skin and mucosa, the moist membranes that line the body, for example the cervix (the neck of the womb in a woman's body), the anus, mouth and throat.
There are more than 100 types of HPV, and of these about 40 affect the genital area, some high risk and some low. Some types of HPV that affect the genital area cause abnormal tissue growth (pre-cancerous lesions) that can lead to cancer. Other types can cause genital warts.
About 3,000 women are diagnsed with cervical cancer in the UK every year, and about 1,000 die from it.
The types of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer are transmitted sexually. Although Cervarix only protects against two strains of HPV, these are the two that cause more than 70 per cent of cervical cancers.
The vaccination is not compulsory, and according to a report from the BBC about a million girls are thought have received it safely in the UK.
When the NHS selected Cervarix many people were surprised, thinking they would opt for Gardasil, the vaccine used by most other countries, including the US.
The tragedy prompted Shadow Health Secretary Andrew Lansley to call for an urgent investigation into the tragic death, and repeat his urge to the government to reveal the results of the assessments comparing Cervarix and Gardasil that led them to choose the former when most other countries chose the latter.
Dr Pim Kon, the medical director at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) UK, the company that makes Cervarix, told the press that their deepest sympathies were with the family and friends of the young girl who died. According to a report from the BBC, Kon added that:
"We are working with the Department of Health and MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) to better understand this case, as at this stage the exact cause of this tragic death is unknown."
According to GSK, the vast majority of suspected adverse reactions to Cervarix have either been in connection with recognized side effects or due to the injection process and not the vaccine itself.
Sources: Coventry NHS, Blue Coat School, BBC News.
The girl was a pupil at Blue Coat Church of England School and Music College in Coventry and was given the Cervarix anti-cancer jab as part of a national programme to immunise teenage girls against cervical cancer.
Dr Caron Grainger, Joint Director of Public Health for NHS Coventry and Coventry City Council, told the press that the girl was taken to Coventry's University Hospital shortly after she took ill, but sadly she died later that day.
"Our sympathies are with the girl's family and friends at this difficult time," said Grainger, explaining that although the incident happened shortly after the girl received the vaccine:
"No link can be made between the death and the vaccine until all the facts are known and a post mortem takes place."
Meanwhile, as a precautionary step, NHS Coventry have quarantined the batch of vaccine that was used, and the regulatory authority has been informed, said Grainger, adding that.
"We are conducting an urgent and full investigation into the events surrounding this tragedy."
In a letter to parents dated Monday, headteacher of the co-educational school, Dr Julie Roberts, wrote that during the vaccination session "an unfortunate incident occurred" and one of the girls suffered a "rare, but extreme reaction to the vaccine".
Roberts, who was newly appointed this term, wrote in her letter that a number of other girls "also reported being unwell and some were sent home", and urged parents of all girls who had received the vaccination to be "extra vigilant" of any signs or symptoms.
The most common adverse reaction after Cervarix is supposed to be a mild to moderate short lasting pain at the site of the injection, although other reactions may also include headache, muscle pain, fatigue and a low grade fever.
Roberts urged any parents who may be concerned about their daughter's reaction to the vaccine to contact their own GP.
Since September 2008 there has been a national programme in the UK to vaccinate girls aged 12 to 13 against HPV, and there is also a three-year catch up campaign that will offer the vaccine to 13 to 18 year olds.
The NHS said the plan is to deliver the vaccination, which comprises three injections over six months, mainly through secondary schools.
The HPV is one of a family of viruses that affects the skin and mucosa, the moist membranes that line the body, for example the cervix (the neck of the womb in a woman's body), the anus, mouth and throat.
There are more than 100 types of HPV, and of these about 40 affect the genital area, some high risk and some low. Some types of HPV that affect the genital area cause abnormal tissue growth (pre-cancerous lesions) that can lead to cancer. Other types can cause genital warts.
About 3,000 women are diagnsed with cervical cancer in the UK every year, and about 1,000 die from it.
The types of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer are transmitted sexually. Although Cervarix only protects against two strains of HPV, these are the two that cause more than 70 per cent of cervical cancers.
The vaccination is not compulsory, and according to a report from the BBC about a million girls are thought have received it safely in the UK.
When the NHS selected Cervarix many people were surprised, thinking they would opt for Gardasil, the vaccine used by most other countries, including the US.
The tragedy prompted Shadow Health Secretary Andrew Lansley to call for an urgent investigation into the tragic death, and repeat his urge to the government to reveal the results of the assessments comparing Cervarix and Gardasil that led them to choose the former when most other countries chose the latter.
Dr Pim Kon, the medical director at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) UK, the company that makes Cervarix, told the press that their deepest sympathies were with the family and friends of the young girl who died. According to a report from the BBC, Kon added that:
"We are working with the Department of Health and MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) to better understand this case, as at this stage the exact cause of this tragic death is unknown."
According to GSK, the vast majority of suspected adverse reactions to Cervarix have either been in connection with recognized side effects or due to the injection process and not the vaccine itself.
Sources: Coventry NHS, Blue Coat School, BBC News.
Updated Advaxis Phase I Survival Data Indicates Long-Term Immune Protection!
The Phase I trial of ADXS11-001, the lead vaccine candidate of Advaxis, Inc. (OTCBB: ADXS), the company that pioneered the live, attenuated Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) vaccine, has shown thirty-six (36) month survival in three (3) of the thirteen (13) evaluable patients treated with Advaxis' therapeutic cancer vaccine, indicating the possibility of persistent immune protection.
The patients had participated in the first human trial of a live Listeria vaccine for the treatment of advanced, recurrent, metastatic cervix cancer in women who have failed prior cytotoxic treatment. Advaxis is tracking the survival of these patients at three (3) month intervals.
These mortality figures substantially exceed the median survival rate established by the National Cancer Institute's Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG), which varies between 3.8 and 6.2 months in studies of patients who have failed prior cytotoxic treatment including chemotherapy with various agents (GOG Protocol #127).
Earlier this year, Advaxis published in the medical journal Vaccine the fact that four (4) of thirteen (13) evaluable patients, treated with ADXS11-001, experienced tumor reductions, two (2) patients had their lesions disappear and fifty-three percent (53%) survived more than one (1) year; thus, posting a median survival rate of 347 days. Although this trial was designed to assess safety, not efficacy or survival, three (3) of the thirteen (13) patients or twenty-three percent (23%) evaluable for efficacy are still alive at over 1,000 days, post-dosing with the study drug, as of September 29, 2009.
About the ADXS11-001 Immunotherapy
ADXS11-001 is a therapeutic vaccine, unlike currently marketed prophylactic vaccines, that treats women who have already developed cervical cancer as a result of human papilloma virus (HPV) infection; the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease in the US today.
Earlier this year, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted Advaxis an IND for a Phase II clinical trial in human papilloma virus- (HPV) caused cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), which is pre-cancerous and a precursor to cervix cancer. For further information on ADXS11-001, please visit:http://www.advaxis.com/lc.htm.
The patients had participated in the first human trial of a live Listeria vaccine for the treatment of advanced, recurrent, metastatic cervix cancer in women who have failed prior cytotoxic treatment. Advaxis is tracking the survival of these patients at three (3) month intervals.
These mortality figures substantially exceed the median survival rate established by the National Cancer Institute's Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG), which varies between 3.8 and 6.2 months in studies of patients who have failed prior cytotoxic treatment including chemotherapy with various agents (GOG Protocol #127).
Earlier this year, Advaxis published in the medical journal Vaccine the fact that four (4) of thirteen (13) evaluable patients, treated with ADXS11-001, experienced tumor reductions, two (2) patients had their lesions disappear and fifty-three percent (53%) survived more than one (1) year; thus, posting a median survival rate of 347 days. Although this trial was designed to assess safety, not efficacy or survival, three (3) of the thirteen (13) patients or twenty-three percent (23%) evaluable for efficacy are still alive at over 1,000 days, post-dosing with the study drug, as of September 29, 2009.
About the ADXS11-001 Immunotherapy
ADXS11-001 is a therapeutic vaccine, unlike currently marketed prophylactic vaccines, that treats women who have already developed cervical cancer as a result of human papilloma virus (HPV) infection; the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease in the US today.
Earlier this year, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted Advaxis an IND for a Phase II clinical trial in human papilloma virus- (HPV) caused cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), which is pre-cancerous and a precursor to cervix cancer. For further information on ADXS11-001, please visit:http://www.advaxis.com/lc.htm.
Baxter Receives EMEA Positive Opinion For CELVAPAN H1N1 Pandemic Influenza Vaccine!
Baxter International Inc. (NYSE:BAX) announced that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) granted its "positive opinion" for CELVAPAN H1N1pandemic vaccine using Baxter's Vero cell technology. This positive opinion confirms the acceptability of Baxter's regulatory submission to obtain final marketing authorization and licensure of the product.
CELVAPAN H1N1 is the first cell culture-based and non-adjuvanted vaccine to receive a positive opinion in the European Union. Initial quantities of vaccine have already been delivered to a number of countries, including the UK and Ireland, for use in their national vaccination programs, and are awaiting product release subject to final marketing authorization being granted by the European Commission.
Presently, Baxter is confirming the safety and immunogenicity of CELVAPAN H1N1 in clinical trials. The company is conducting two randomized trials in 400 healthy adults age 18 and over and in 400 children and adolescents to supplement the licensure post-approval with appropriate clinical data. These trials are evaluating the safety and immunogenicity of the vaccine at dose levels of 7.5µg and 3.75µg. Once countries initiate national vaccination programs using CELVAPAN H1N1, Baxter will also conduct a large-scale observational study with CELVAPAN in 9,000 people of different age groups, including children.
Preliminary safety data in adults and the elderly indicate that the vaccine is well tolerated in these age groups. The observed systemic and local reactions are similar to those generally experienced after vaccination with licensed seasonal influenzavaccines. Immunogenicity data from the first vaccination in adults are due later this month. The current dosing schedule, as specified in the EMEA mock-up licensure for CELVAPAN using another virus strain, calls for two 7.5 µg doses of vaccine to be given 21 days apart. Baxter expects the data from the trial of healthy adults to indicate whether a single dose may be possible for CELVAPAN H1N1. This study will also determine whether a lower dose, 3.75µg, is sufficient to induce the necessary immune response.
"We are pleased that the regulatory submission and the preliminary clinical trial data uphold the extensive work done by Baxter and the support received from key Ministries of Health in developing a pandemic vaccine," said Hartmut J. Ehrlich, M.D., vice president of global research and development for Baxter BioScience. "We are looking forward to analyzing the immunogenicity data for our cell culture-derived, non-adjuvanted vaccine to assess the potential of a one dose regimen."
About Baxter's Pandemic Vaccine Development
Earlier this year, the EMEA granted mock-up licensure for CELVAPAN using a different strain with pandemic potential, which was tested in five completed clinical trials worldwide in more than 1,300 people. In addition, more than 3,500 people have been vaccinated using the same strain during an ongoing Phase III study. Mock-up licensure is a regulatory pathway for pandemic vaccines that was created by the EMEA in 2004. This pathway allows for the development, evaluation and licensure of a company's pandemic candidate vaccine using an available influenza strain that has the potential to cause a pandemic. Once a pandemic is declared and the influenza virus strain causing the pandemic is identified, the mock-up licensure allows for fast track approval of a pandemic vaccine containing the actual pandemic strain.
Baxter received the H1N1 strain for testing and evaluation from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (a WHO Collaborating Center) in early May. The company then undertook pre-production testing and evaluation of the virus strain to assess its growth characteristics in the company's proprietary Vero cell culture technology.
Baxter initiated commercial production in early June, and made its first commercial product within 12 weeks of receipt of the virus. The company produces bulk CELVAPAN H1N1 vaccine at its large-scale commercial facility in Bohumil, Czech Republic, and then sends the vaccine to Vienna, Austria for the final formulation, fill and finish before distribution. Baxter completed production of the first batches of CELVAPAN H1N1 vaccine in late July and initiated its first delivery within two weeks. The company continues to deliver vaccine on an ongoing basis to national public health authorities.
Baxter initiated its license application for CELVAPAN H1N1 in July based on the EMEA published guidelines for pandemic vaccine marketing authorization. The company conducted rigorous testing of the H1N1 based vaccine and submitted additional data for vaccine development, product quality and manufacturing processes specific to that strain. Other non-E.U. countries may choose to evaluate the company's EMEA submission and licensure as the basis for their national health authority's authorization for use of the vaccine.
More information on CELVAPAN H1N1 clinical trials is available here.
CELVAPAN H1N1 is the first cell culture-based and non-adjuvanted vaccine to receive a positive opinion in the European Union. Initial quantities of vaccine have already been delivered to a number of countries, including the UK and Ireland, for use in their national vaccination programs, and are awaiting product release subject to final marketing authorization being granted by the European Commission.
Presently, Baxter is confirming the safety and immunogenicity of CELVAPAN H1N1 in clinical trials. The company is conducting two randomized trials in 400 healthy adults age 18 and over and in 400 children and adolescents to supplement the licensure post-approval with appropriate clinical data. These trials are evaluating the safety and immunogenicity of the vaccine at dose levels of 7.5µg and 3.75µg. Once countries initiate national vaccination programs using CELVAPAN H1N1, Baxter will also conduct a large-scale observational study with CELVAPAN in 9,000 people of different age groups, including children.
Preliminary safety data in adults and the elderly indicate that the vaccine is well tolerated in these age groups. The observed systemic and local reactions are similar to those generally experienced after vaccination with licensed seasonal influenzavaccines. Immunogenicity data from the first vaccination in adults are due later this month. The current dosing schedule, as specified in the EMEA mock-up licensure for CELVAPAN using another virus strain, calls for two 7.5 µg doses of vaccine to be given 21 days apart. Baxter expects the data from the trial of healthy adults to indicate whether a single dose may be possible for CELVAPAN H1N1. This study will also determine whether a lower dose, 3.75µg, is sufficient to induce the necessary immune response.
"We are pleased that the regulatory submission and the preliminary clinical trial data uphold the extensive work done by Baxter and the support received from key Ministries of Health in developing a pandemic vaccine," said Hartmut J. Ehrlich, M.D., vice president of global research and development for Baxter BioScience. "We are looking forward to analyzing the immunogenicity data for our cell culture-derived, non-adjuvanted vaccine to assess the potential of a one dose regimen."
About Baxter's Pandemic Vaccine Development
Earlier this year, the EMEA granted mock-up licensure for CELVAPAN using a different strain with pandemic potential, which was tested in five completed clinical trials worldwide in more than 1,300 people. In addition, more than 3,500 people have been vaccinated using the same strain during an ongoing Phase III study. Mock-up licensure is a regulatory pathway for pandemic vaccines that was created by the EMEA in 2004. This pathway allows for the development, evaluation and licensure of a company's pandemic candidate vaccine using an available influenza strain that has the potential to cause a pandemic. Once a pandemic is declared and the influenza virus strain causing the pandemic is identified, the mock-up licensure allows for fast track approval of a pandemic vaccine containing the actual pandemic strain.
Baxter received the H1N1 strain for testing and evaluation from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (a WHO Collaborating Center) in early May. The company then undertook pre-production testing and evaluation of the virus strain to assess its growth characteristics in the company's proprietary Vero cell culture technology.
Baxter initiated commercial production in early June, and made its first commercial product within 12 weeks of receipt of the virus. The company produces bulk CELVAPAN H1N1 vaccine at its large-scale commercial facility in Bohumil, Czech Republic, and then sends the vaccine to Vienna, Austria for the final formulation, fill and finish before distribution. Baxter completed production of the first batches of CELVAPAN H1N1 vaccine in late July and initiated its first delivery within two weeks. The company continues to deliver vaccine on an ongoing basis to national public health authorities.
Baxter initiated its license application for CELVAPAN H1N1 in July based on the EMEA published guidelines for pandemic vaccine marketing authorization. The company conducted rigorous testing of the H1N1 based vaccine and submitted additional data for vaccine development, product quality and manufacturing processes specific to that strain. Other non-E.U. countries may choose to evaluate the company's EMEA submission and licensure as the basis for their national health authority's authorization for use of the vaccine.
More information on CELVAPAN H1N1 clinical trials is available here.
Teleconference Discussion Of Results From Cocaine Vaccine Study!
What
Teleconference on newly released results from a National Institute on Drug Abuse sponsored trial of an anti-cocaine treatment vaccine
Who
NIDA Director Dr. Nora Volkow and lead investigator, Dr. Thomas Kosten, Baylor College of Medicine
When
Monday, October 5th
4:00 to 5:00pm Eastern Daylight Time
Where
Operator assisted live dial-in event at: 888-567-1602 (U.S. and Canada) or (201) 604-5049 (international callers).
Doctors Volkow and Kosten will discuss the findings of a study in the October issue of Archives of General Psychiatry evaluating the safety and efficacy of a vaccine to treat cocaine addiction. Currently there is no FDA-approved medication for treating cocaine addiction.
Source
The National Institute on Drug Abuse
Teleconference on newly released results from a National Institute on Drug Abuse sponsored trial of an anti-cocaine treatment vaccine
Who
NIDA Director Dr. Nora Volkow and lead investigator, Dr. Thomas Kosten, Baylor College of Medicine
When
Monday, October 5th
4:00 to 5:00pm Eastern Daylight Time
Where
Operator assisted live dial-in event at: 888-567-1602 (U.S. and Canada) or (201) 604-5049 (international callers).
Doctors Volkow and Kosten will discuss the findings of a study in the October issue of Archives of General Psychiatry evaluating the safety and efficacy of a vaccine to treat cocaine addiction. Currently there is no FDA-approved medication for treating cocaine addiction.
Source
The National Institute on Drug Abuse
New American Medical Association Video Answers Physicians' Health-Reform Questions!!!!!!
As health reform legislation moves forward in Congress, a new American Medical Association (AMA) online video aims to answer physicians' questions on leading elements of health reform important to patients and physicians.
"The new video aims to reach a wide audience of physicians by answering key questions about health reform," said AMA President J. James Rohack, M.D. "Throughout the summer, the AMA reached out to physicians in tele-town hall meetings to set the record straight on the benefits of health-system reform, and this video answers the frequently asked questions."
AMA board members - physicians elected by their peers - answered questions to help broaden physicians' understanding of the evolving health-reform issues in a format that would not add a burden to the many demands on physicians' time.
Many physicians expressed concern about Medicare cuts that threaten seniors' access to care, and AMA board members explain that repeal of the flawed Medicare physician payment formula is included in the House bill and must be a part of health reform. The AMA emphasizes its support of medical liability reforms that increase patient access and help slow health-care spending, and board members note that the administration has taken an important first step to address the cost of defensive medicine by allowing states to implement alternative reforms. Other topics addressed in the video include how to strengthen the physician workforce and optimize quality of care through health reform.
"Physicians are working for a better health system for their patients," said Dr. Rohack. "The AMA is committed to communicating with America's physicians and patients and providing critical information during this historic health-reform debate."
"The new video aims to reach a wide audience of physicians by answering key questions about health reform," said AMA President J. James Rohack, M.D. "Throughout the summer, the AMA reached out to physicians in tele-town hall meetings to set the record straight on the benefits of health-system reform, and this video answers the frequently asked questions."
AMA board members - physicians elected by their peers - answered questions to help broaden physicians' understanding of the evolving health-reform issues in a format that would not add a burden to the many demands on physicians' time.
Many physicians expressed concern about Medicare cuts that threaten seniors' access to care, and AMA board members explain that repeal of the flawed Medicare physician payment formula is included in the House bill and must be a part of health reform. The AMA emphasizes its support of medical liability reforms that increase patient access and help slow health-care spending, and board members note that the administration has taken an important first step to address the cost of defensive medicine by allowing states to implement alternative reforms. Other topics addressed in the video include how to strengthen the physician workforce and optimize quality of care through health reform.
"Physicians are working for a better health system for their patients," said Dr. Rohack. "The AMA is committed to communicating with America's physicians and patients and providing critical information during this historic health-reform debate."
National Community Pharmacists Association Applauds House Of Representatives For Passing Bill Maintaining Seniors' Access To Durable Medical!
The U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3663, a bill introduced yesterday by Reps. Zach Space (D-OH) and Lee Terry (R-NE) extending the accreditation deadline for pharmacies providing MedicarePart B Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics and Supplies (DMEPOS) from Sept. 30 to Dec. 31, 2009. The extension enables seniors to continue getting valuable health care supplies like diabetes testing strips from community pharmacies without disruption as Congress weighs separate legislative action to exempt pharmacists from the regulation. In response, Bruce T. Roberts, RPh, National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) executive vice president and CEO issued the following statement:
"Seniors are the real winners from this vote. This bill would allow seniors to continue relying on their pharmacists to help manage diseases like diabetes. "For community pharmacies today represents a clear line of demarcation. Some have become accredited suppliers of durable medical equipment. But for most independent community pharmacies, the accreditation requirements were far too expensive and time-consuming. It's all the more frustrating since nearly two dozen other state-licensed health care providers have already been exempted from the rule. "Unless this law is enacted, tomorrow morning thousands of community pharmacies will no longer be able to offer these supplies and patients will experience an unwelcome disruption in their health care regimen. The Senate must now act as quickly as possible so the President can sign it into law."
The accreditation requirements are time-consuming, costly and redundant for community pharmacists, who are already subject to regulation at the state level. NCPA has helped its members navigate the process. Those suggested actions can be found here. The regulations target perpetrators of DMEPOS fraud, which is not something associated with pharmacists. However, they are the only health care providers not yet exempted from the requirements. As a result, an exemption community pharmacy has been a primary focus of NCPA's efforts with Congress and with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
"Seniors are the real winners from this vote. This bill would allow seniors to continue relying on their pharmacists to help manage diseases like diabetes. "For community pharmacies today represents a clear line of demarcation. Some have become accredited suppliers of durable medical equipment. But for most independent community pharmacies, the accreditation requirements were far too expensive and time-consuming. It's all the more frustrating since nearly two dozen other state-licensed health care providers have already been exempted from the rule. "Unless this law is enacted, tomorrow morning thousands of community pharmacies will no longer be able to offer these supplies and patients will experience an unwelcome disruption in their health care regimen. The Senate must now act as quickly as possible so the President can sign it into law."
The accreditation requirements are time-consuming, costly and redundant for community pharmacists, who are already subject to regulation at the state level. NCPA has helped its members navigate the process. Those suggested actions can be found here. The regulations target perpetrators of DMEPOS fraud, which is not something associated with pharmacists. However, they are the only health care providers not yet exempted from the requirements. As a result, an exemption community pharmacy has been a primary focus of NCPA's efforts with Congress and with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
New Articles To Protect Vulnerable Populations During An Influenza Pandemic Published In Special Issue Of American Journal Of Public Health..!
New articles released outline the needs of vulnerable populations during an influenzapandemic, including children, people with disabilities and low-income communities. These articles, which were developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, appear in a special influenza preparedness issue of the American Journal of Public Health, published by the American Public Health Association.
Public health emergencies have made clear the necessity of taking into special consideration the challenges and risks that vulnerable populations present. The papers highlighted in the special issue were developed prior to the current H1N1 pandemic and for a potential severe influenza pandemic. Up-to-date information and guidance on H1N1 influenza can be found at http://www.flu.gov.
With an expected resurgence of the H1N1 virus in the United States this fall, these articles should help to minimize the risk and stem the spread of the virus in these communities, including the following vulnerable populations:
- Children - Children are a vulnerable segment of the population, dependent on others for providing their food, shelter, transportation and medical care. Those under the age of 18 years account for approximately 74 million residents of the United States.
- Racial and ethnic minority populations - Broad disparities in underlying health status and social factors such as socioeconomic disadvantages; cultural, educational and linguistic barriers; and lack of access to and use of health care contribute to why racial and ethnic minority populations are more vulnerable in the event of influenza pandemic.
- Public housing, single-parent and low-income families - Data suggest that poverty, in addition to exposing individuals to more acute and chronic stressors, weakens an individual's ability to cope with new problems and difficulties.
- People with disabilities - People with disabilities, particularly those who require personal assistance and those who reside in congregate care facilities, may be at increased risk during an influenza pandemic because of disrupted care or the introduction of the virus by their caregivers.
- Farmworkers - Whether working with livestock or crops, farmworkers may also be more vulnerable than the general population to human influenza pandemics as a result of living conditions, suboptimal access to health services and potential communication barriers resulting from language and culture.
- Local jails - Persons held in correctional facilities in the United States have high rates of infectious and chronic diseases, mental illness, substance dependency and homelessness prior to jail booking, than the general public. During an influenza pandemic, these health and socioeconomic issues would likely make jail inmates particularly vulnerable because of their compromised immune systems and possible diminished capacity to understand the importance of taking medication.
"Only when the nation is prepared to protect those who are most vulnerable will we be assured that we have in place an effective and efficient preparedness and response system," noted Dr. Sonja Hutchins of the CDC and guest editor of the special supplement. "These articles helped us shape our strategies to respond to and contain the H1N1 virus among vulnerable populations, but also may help to combat future pandemics and other public health emergencies."
In May, articles for pregnant women, home health care workers, tribal communities and immigrants and refugees, which are also included in this supplement, were made available in a special early release by the American Journal of Public Health.
Public health emergencies have made clear the necessity of taking into special consideration the challenges and risks that vulnerable populations present. The papers highlighted in the special issue were developed prior to the current H1N1 pandemic and for a potential severe influenza pandemic. Up-to-date information and guidance on H1N1 influenza can be found at http://www.flu.gov.
With an expected resurgence of the H1N1 virus in the United States this fall, these articles should help to minimize the risk and stem the spread of the virus in these communities, including the following vulnerable populations:
- Children - Children are a vulnerable segment of the population, dependent on others for providing their food, shelter, transportation and medical care. Those under the age of 18 years account for approximately 74 million residents of the United States.
- Racial and ethnic minority populations - Broad disparities in underlying health status and social factors such as socioeconomic disadvantages; cultural, educational and linguistic barriers; and lack of access to and use of health care contribute to why racial and ethnic minority populations are more vulnerable in the event of influenza pandemic.
- Public housing, single-parent and low-income families - Data suggest that poverty, in addition to exposing individuals to more acute and chronic stressors, weakens an individual's ability to cope with new problems and difficulties.
- People with disabilities - People with disabilities, particularly those who require personal assistance and those who reside in congregate care facilities, may be at increased risk during an influenza pandemic because of disrupted care or the introduction of the virus by their caregivers.
- Farmworkers - Whether working with livestock or crops, farmworkers may also be more vulnerable than the general population to human influenza pandemics as a result of living conditions, suboptimal access to health services and potential communication barriers resulting from language and culture.
- Local jails - Persons held in correctional facilities in the United States have high rates of infectious and chronic diseases, mental illness, substance dependency and homelessness prior to jail booking, than the general public. During an influenza pandemic, these health and socioeconomic issues would likely make jail inmates particularly vulnerable because of their compromised immune systems and possible diminished capacity to understand the importance of taking medication.
"Only when the nation is prepared to protect those who are most vulnerable will we be assured that we have in place an effective and efficient preparedness and response system," noted Dr. Sonja Hutchins of the CDC and guest editor of the special supplement. "These articles helped us shape our strategies to respond to and contain the H1N1 virus among vulnerable populations, but also may help to combat future pandemics and other public health emergencies."
In May, articles for pregnant women, home health care workers, tribal communities and immigrants and refugees, which are also included in this supplement, were made available in a special early release by the American Journal of Public Health.
FDA Transparency Task Force To Hold 2nd Public Meeting On Ensuring That Agency Information Is Useful, Understandable, Accessible..!
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration will seek comments on how to ensure that information on FDA activities and decision-making is useful, understandable, and accessible to the public, during a daylong public meeting on Nov. 3, 2009.
The meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the National Transportation Safety Board Conference Center, 429 L'Enfant Plaza, S.W., Washington, D.C., 20594. The purpose of the meeting is to receive detailed comments on three specific issues related to transparency at the FDA:
- Early communication about emerging safety issues concerning FDA-regulated products
- Disclosure of information about product applications that are abandoned, i.e., no work is being done or will be undertaken to have the application approved, or withdrawn by the applicant before approval
- Communication of agency decisions about pending product applications.
The FDA formed an internal Transparency Task Force in response to the Obama Administration's commitment to achieve "an unprecedented level of openness in Government." The Task Force is developing recommendations for making useful and understandable information about FDA activities and decision-making more readily available to the public in a timely manner and in a user-friendly format, while appropriately protecting confidential information.
The task force held its first daylong meeting in June 2009.
Those interested in attending the public meeting must register by 5 p.m. on Oct. 27, 2009. Submit electronic or written comments by Nov. 6, 2009. Submit electronic comments to http://www.regulations.gov. Submit written comments to the Division of Dockets Management (HFA-305), Food and Drug Administration, 5630 Fishers Lane, Room 1061, Rockville, MD 20852.
There is no fee to register for the meeting and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Seating is limited and early registration is recommended. Registration on the day of the public meeting will be permitted on a space-available basis, beginning at 7:30 a.m.
A media room with dial-up Internet access will be provided. Please note there is no wireless service within the NTSB Conference Center. Those who cannot attend the meeting can view it via live Webcast.
The Webcast will be archived and available for viewing on the FDA Web site.
For more information:
Advance Display of Federal Register Notice to publish Oct. 5, 2009
FDA Transparency Task Force
The meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the National Transportation Safety Board Conference Center, 429 L'Enfant Plaza, S.W., Washington, D.C., 20594. The purpose of the meeting is to receive detailed comments on three specific issues related to transparency at the FDA:
- Early communication about emerging safety issues concerning FDA-regulated products
- Disclosure of information about product applications that are abandoned, i.e., no work is being done or will be undertaken to have the application approved, or withdrawn by the applicant before approval
- Communication of agency decisions about pending product applications.
The FDA formed an internal Transparency Task Force in response to the Obama Administration's commitment to achieve "an unprecedented level of openness in Government." The Task Force is developing recommendations for making useful and understandable information about FDA activities and decision-making more readily available to the public in a timely manner and in a user-friendly format, while appropriately protecting confidential information.
The task force held its first daylong meeting in June 2009.
Those interested in attending the public meeting must register by 5 p.m. on Oct. 27, 2009. Submit electronic or written comments by Nov. 6, 2009. Submit electronic comments to http://www.regulations.gov. Submit written comments to the Division of Dockets Management (HFA-305), Food and Drug Administration, 5630 Fishers Lane, Room 1061, Rockville, MD 20852.
There is no fee to register for the meeting and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Seating is limited and early registration is recommended. Registration on the day of the public meeting will be permitted on a space-available basis, beginning at 7:30 a.m.
A media room with dial-up Internet access will be provided. Please note there is no wireless service within the NTSB Conference Center. Those who cannot attend the meeting can view it via live Webcast.
The Webcast will be archived and available for viewing on the FDA Web site.
For more information:
Advance Display of Federal Register Notice to publish Oct. 5, 2009
FDA Transparency Task Force
E Coli O157 In Surrey: Update, UK!
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) reports that the total number of cases of E. Coli O157 linked to Godstone Farm in Surrey is 88.
Three children remain in hospital all of whom are described by the hospital today as 'stable'.
The next update will be posted on the HPA website on Monday October 5.
Notes
- Escherichia coli (commonly referred to as E. coli) O157 bacteria usually causediarrhoea which settles within seven days without treatment. The diarrhoea may contain blood. Occasionally, serious kidney and blood complications can occur. Good hygiene is very important in preventing person-to person spread and small children should be supervised with hand washing after using the toilet and before eating.
- E. Coli O157 is a species of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. There are many different types of E. coli, and while some live in the intestine quite harmlessly, others may cause a variety of diseases. The bacterium is found in faeces and can survive in the environment.
- To avoid getting strains capable of causing intestinal disease people should avoid eating undercooked meat, in particular inadequately cooked minced beef and avoid drinking unpasteurised milk. Individuals working with uncooked meats or on farms should pay close attention to good hygiene practices, as should visitors to farms.
- It is important to always wash your hands with soap after going to the toilet and before and after handling food.
- Hand washing in young children should be supervised, especially after handling animals or their surroundings, for instance on a visit to a farm.
More information: http://www.hpa.org.uk/ecoliVTEC
Three children remain in hospital all of whom are described by the hospital today as 'stable'.
The next update will be posted on the HPA website on Monday October 5.
Notes
- Escherichia coli (commonly referred to as E. coli) O157 bacteria usually causediarrhoea which settles within seven days without treatment. The diarrhoea may contain blood. Occasionally, serious kidney and blood complications can occur. Good hygiene is very important in preventing person-to person spread and small children should be supervised with hand washing after using the toilet and before eating.
- E. Coli O157 is a species of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. There are many different types of E. coli, and while some live in the intestine quite harmlessly, others may cause a variety of diseases. The bacterium is found in faeces and can survive in the environment.
- To avoid getting strains capable of causing intestinal disease people should avoid eating undercooked meat, in particular inadequately cooked minced beef and avoid drinking unpasteurised milk. Individuals working with uncooked meats or on farms should pay close attention to good hygiene practices, as should visitors to farms.
- It is important to always wash your hands with soap after going to the toilet and before and after handling food.
- Hand washing in young children should be supervised, especially after handling animals or their surroundings, for instance on a visit to a farm.
More information: http://www.hpa.org.uk/ecoliVTEC
Urologic Oncology Services Expanded At Cancer Institute Of NJ...!
Urologic Oncology Services Expanded At Cancer Institute Of NJ
Keeping with its mission of offering a comprehensive array of services to patients, The Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ) has expanded its Urologic Oncology Program, which has gained formal recognition as a Section of Urologic Oncology under the Department of Surgery at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. The program provides highly specialized care for patients with tumors of the genitourinary tract including cancers of the prostate, testis, kidney, and bladder. CINJ is a Center of Excellence of UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
CINJ's Section of Urologic Oncology is a leader in laparoscopic renal procedures and has extensive experience with robotic prostatectomy, which boasts such patient benefits as shorter hospital stays, lower blood loss, and faster recovery. Leading this effort is Isaac Yi Kim, MD, PhD, associate professor of surgery at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, who is an expert in the area of robotic prostatectomy and developed the Athermal Intrafascial Robotic or AIR prostatectomy. The AIR procedure spares more nerves than the traditional method and leads to faster recovery of sexual function and bladder control. CINJ has developed a Center of Excellence for robotic surgery and Kim and colleagues have performed more than 550 robotic prostatectomies over the last four years alone.
In addition to its extensive prostate cancer focus, the Section of Urologic Oncology is also building on its excellence in bladder and kidney cancers, having just recruited a pair of urologic oncologists with special expertise in these areas. Michael E. Karellas, MD, is a urologic oncologist at CINJ and an assistant professor of surgery at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Dr. Karellas, who recently completed fellowship training at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), has a clinical interest in the treatment of bladder cancer. Thomas L. Jang, MD, MPH, is a urologic oncologist at CINJ and an assistant professor of surgery at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, who specializes in kidney cancer. Dr. Jang, who also just completed fellowship training at MSKCC, will be responsible for building the program's new prostate cancer database, which will link histological and clinical data from prostate cancer tumors in an effort to further facilitate translational research.
The Section of Urologic Oncology and the Dean and Betty Gallo Prostate Cancer Center offer a wide breadth of clinical trials for patients with tumors of the genitourinary tract as well as several trials studying the prevention of prostate cancer. In addition, the Dean and Betty Gallo Prostate Cancer Center provides a hub for basic and clinical research specific to prostate cancer and serves as a forum for prostate cancer outreach and education activities.
"I am thrilled to welcome Drs. Karellas and Jang to New Jersey's only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center," said Dr. Kim. "Their experience complements an already strong team with varied and unique expertise and will help us grow the program even more."
Additional information about CINJ's Urologic Oncology Program can be found at:http://www.cinj.org/treatment/urologic.html.
CINJ's Section of Urologic Oncology is a leader in laparoscopic renal procedures and has extensive experience with robotic prostatectomy, which boasts such patient benefits as shorter hospital stays, lower blood loss, and faster recovery. Leading this effort is Isaac Yi Kim, MD, PhD, associate professor of surgery at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, who is an expert in the area of robotic prostatectomy and developed the Athermal Intrafascial Robotic or AIR prostatectomy. The AIR procedure spares more nerves than the traditional method and leads to faster recovery of sexual function and bladder control. CINJ has developed a Center of Excellence for robotic surgery and Kim and colleagues have performed more than 550 robotic prostatectomies over the last four years alone.
In addition to its extensive prostate cancer focus, the Section of Urologic Oncology is also building on its excellence in bladder and kidney cancers, having just recruited a pair of urologic oncologists with special expertise in these areas. Michael E. Karellas, MD, is a urologic oncologist at CINJ and an assistant professor of surgery at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Dr. Karellas, who recently completed fellowship training at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), has a clinical interest in the treatment of bladder cancer. Thomas L. Jang, MD, MPH, is a urologic oncologist at CINJ and an assistant professor of surgery at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, who specializes in kidney cancer. Dr. Jang, who also just completed fellowship training at MSKCC, will be responsible for building the program's new prostate cancer database, which will link histological and clinical data from prostate cancer tumors in an effort to further facilitate translational research.
The Section of Urologic Oncology and the Dean and Betty Gallo Prostate Cancer Center offer a wide breadth of clinical trials for patients with tumors of the genitourinary tract as well as several trials studying the prevention of prostate cancer. In addition, the Dean and Betty Gallo Prostate Cancer Center provides a hub for basic and clinical research specific to prostate cancer and serves as a forum for prostate cancer outreach and education activities.
"I am thrilled to welcome Drs. Karellas and Jang to New Jersey's only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center," said Dr. Kim. "Their experience complements an already strong team with varied and unique expertise and will help us grow the program even more."
Additional information about CINJ's Urologic Oncology Program can be found at:http://www.cinj.org/treatment/urologic.html.
Fight Diabetic Non-Healing Wounds Lying Down..!
More than 18-million people in the United States, or 6.3% of the population, have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Unfortunately, when someone becomes diabetic, chronic non-healing wounds often develop, most often in the legs and feet. These wounds can be uncomfortable and even life-threatening.
There are many types of treatments. One of the most painless and successful is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a specialized medical treatment inside a pressurized chamber, in which a patient breathes 100 percent oxygen at greater than normal atmospheric pressure.
The Center for Wound Care at Northwest Hospital in Randallstown, Maryland uses HBOT to treat stubborn, non-healing diabetic ulcers.
When the oxygen, which is delivered into the bloodstream, it helps fight certain infections and stimulates the growth of new blood vessels, which generally improves circulation.
"Patients receiving HBOT can see dramatic results as early as two weeks from the start of treatment. "Another big benefit is that this therapy is noninvasive," says Alan S. Davis, M.D., F.A.C.S, director of the Center for Wound Care and HBOT at Northwest Hospital. "If standard wound therapies prove to be inadequate within a certain time frame, HBOT should be considered and can be done at the same time patients are receiving other treatment."
Once the patient is comfortably positioned inside the HBOT chamber, air pressure is gradually increased.
A patient may experience fullness in the ears as a result. However, a technician instructs him or her about how to help clear the pressure and relieve any discomfort.
Most treatment sessions in the chamber last approximately two hours. During this time, patients watch TV or videos, relax or sleep.
In addition to treating diabetic wounds, HBOT also treats osteomyelitis, post-radiation complications and compromised skin flaps, among other things.
The HBOT program at Northwest Hospital has earned accreditation from the influential Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society. Fewer than 100 programs in the United States have achieved this designation.
Unfortunately, when someone becomes diabetic, chronic non-healing wounds often develop, most often in the legs and feet. These wounds can be uncomfortable and even life-threatening.
There are many types of treatments. One of the most painless and successful is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a specialized medical treatment inside a pressurized chamber, in which a patient breathes 100 percent oxygen at greater than normal atmospheric pressure.
The Center for Wound Care at Northwest Hospital in Randallstown, Maryland uses HBOT to treat stubborn, non-healing diabetic ulcers.
When the oxygen, which is delivered into the bloodstream, it helps fight certain infections and stimulates the growth of new blood vessels, which generally improves circulation.
"Patients receiving HBOT can see dramatic results as early as two weeks from the start of treatment. "Another big benefit is that this therapy is noninvasive," says Alan S. Davis, M.D., F.A.C.S, director of the Center for Wound Care and HBOT at Northwest Hospital. "If standard wound therapies prove to be inadequate within a certain time frame, HBOT should be considered and can be done at the same time patients are receiving other treatment."
Once the patient is comfortably positioned inside the HBOT chamber, air pressure is gradually increased.
A patient may experience fullness in the ears as a result. However, a technician instructs him or her about how to help clear the pressure and relieve any discomfort.
Most treatment sessions in the chamber last approximately two hours. During this time, patients watch TV or videos, relax or sleep.
In addition to treating diabetic wounds, HBOT also treats osteomyelitis, post-radiation complications and compromised skin flaps, among other things.
The HBOT program at Northwest Hospital has earned accreditation from the influential Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society. Fewer than 100 programs in the United States have achieved this designation.
New Study Evaluates Surgical Masks Vs. N95 Respirators For Preventing Influenza Among Health Care Workers!
Surgical masks appear to be no worse than, and nearly as effective as N95 respirators in preventing influenza in health care workers, according to a study released early online today by JAMA. The study was posted online ahead of print because of its public health implications. It will be published in the November 4 issue of JAMA.
Influenza is the most important cause of medically attended acute respiratory illness worldwide and the authors write there is heightened concern this year because of the influenza pandemic due to the H1N1 virus. "Data about the effectiveness of the surgical mask compared with the N95 respirator for protecting health care workers against influenza are sparse," the authors provide as background information in the article. "Given the likelihood that N95 respirators will be in short supply during a pandemic and not available in many countries, knowing the effectiveness of the surgical mask is of public health importance."
Mark Loeb, M.D., M.Sc., from McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, and colleagues conducted a randomized controlled trial of 446 nurses in eight Ontario hospitals to compare the surgical mask with the N95 respirator in protecting health care workers against influenza. The nurses were randomized into two groups: 225 were assigned to receive surgical masks and 221 were assigned to receive the fitted N95 respirator which they were to wear when caring for patients with febrile (fever) respiratory illness. The primary outcome of the study was laboratory-confirmed influenza. Effectiveness of the surgical mask was assessed as non-inferiority of the surgical mask compared with the N95 respirator.
Between September 23, 2008 and December 8, 2008, "influenza infection occurred in 50 nurses (23.6 percent) in the surgical mask group and in 48 (22.9 percent) in the N95 respirator group (absolute risk difference -0.73 percent)," indicating non-inferiority of the surgical mask the authors report. Even among those nurses who had an increased level of the circulating pandemic 2009 H1N1 influenza strain, non-inferiority was demonstrated between the surgical mask group and the N95 respirator group for the 2009 influenza A(H1N1).
"Our data show that the incidence of laboratory-confirmed influenza was similar in nurses wearing the surgical mask and those wearing the N95 respirator. Surgical masks had an estimated efficacy within 1 percent of N95 respirators," the authors write. "That is, surgical masks appeared to be no worse, within a prespecified margin, than N95 respirators in preventing influenza."
In conclusion the authors state: "Our findings apply to routine care in the health care setting. They should not be generalized to settings where there is a high risk for aerosolization, such as intubation or bronchoscopy, where use of an N95 respirator would be prudent. In routine health care settings, particularly where the availability of N95 respirators is limited, surgical masks appear to be non-inferior to N95 respirators for protecting health care workers against influenza."
Influenza is the most important cause of medically attended acute respiratory illness worldwide and the authors write there is heightened concern this year because of the influenza pandemic due to the H1N1 virus. "Data about the effectiveness of the surgical mask compared with the N95 respirator for protecting health care workers against influenza are sparse," the authors provide as background information in the article. "Given the likelihood that N95 respirators will be in short supply during a pandemic and not available in many countries, knowing the effectiveness of the surgical mask is of public health importance."
Mark Loeb, M.D., M.Sc., from McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, and colleagues conducted a randomized controlled trial of 446 nurses in eight Ontario hospitals to compare the surgical mask with the N95 respirator in protecting health care workers against influenza. The nurses were randomized into two groups: 225 were assigned to receive surgical masks and 221 were assigned to receive the fitted N95 respirator which they were to wear when caring for patients with febrile (fever) respiratory illness. The primary outcome of the study was laboratory-confirmed influenza. Effectiveness of the surgical mask was assessed as non-inferiority of the surgical mask compared with the N95 respirator.
Between September 23, 2008 and December 8, 2008, "influenza infection occurred in 50 nurses (23.6 percent) in the surgical mask group and in 48 (22.9 percent) in the N95 respirator group (absolute risk difference -0.73 percent)," indicating non-inferiority of the surgical mask the authors report. Even among those nurses who had an increased level of the circulating pandemic 2009 H1N1 influenza strain, non-inferiority was demonstrated between the surgical mask group and the N95 respirator group for the 2009 influenza A(H1N1).
"Our data show that the incidence of laboratory-confirmed influenza was similar in nurses wearing the surgical mask and those wearing the N95 respirator. Surgical masks had an estimated efficacy within 1 percent of N95 respirators," the authors write. "That is, surgical masks appeared to be no worse, within a prespecified margin, than N95 respirators in preventing influenza."
In conclusion the authors state: "Our findings apply to routine care in the health care setting. They should not be generalized to settings where there is a high risk for aerosolization, such as intubation or bronchoscopy, where use of an N95 respirator would be prudent. In routine health care settings, particularly where the availability of N95 respirators is limited, surgical masks appear to be non-inferior to N95 respirators for protecting health care workers against influenza."
Childhood Cancer Survivors Exercise Less, Increasing Diabetes Risk..!
In a study of adults who survived cancer as children, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital investigators found that many survivors lead sedentary lifestyles and are more likely to be less physically active than their siblings. Childhood cancer survivors are at greater risk ofdiabetes, obesity and heart disease than the rest of the population.
Cancer treatments such as cranial radiation can damage the hypothalamus and pituitary; the result is an abnormal metabolism, which increases the risk of obesity and diabetes. Also, chemotherapy with the drug anthracycline increases the risk of heart disease; and radiation to the body can cause blood vessels to become less pliant.
"Physical activity is a key step that survivors can take to reduce the health risk of these effects," said Kiri Ness, Ph.D., of the Epidemiology and Cancer Control department at St. Jude. "Medical center programs to encourage physical activity in adult survivors could help significantly. However, one problem is that researchers have not firmly established the factors that affect cancer survivors' participation in physical activity."
To understand those factors, Ness and her colleagues drew data from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS), a St. Jude-led consortium of 30 centers in the United States and Canada. The study gathers extensive data from the participating centers on more than 20,000 childhood cancer survivors who received diagnoses between 1970 and 1986.
The researchers analyzed 9,301 CCSS participants' answers to questions about their physical activity; as a comparison, the scientists also analyzed the same answers given by 2,886 siblings. The investigators compared those answers with information on physical activity obtained from a massive health survey database maintained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Because of the cohort's large size, the researchers explored the relationships between health and exercise in all the different types of cancer. Also, because the cohort is older, Ness and her colleagues were able to investigate adult behaviors and relate them back to the data on their childhood cancers.
"Thus, we could identify who has the highest risk of having an inactive lifestyle," Ness said. "Knowing this makes it possible to begin to design interventions that will address the problems that put survivors at most risk."
The researchers found that the cancer survivors showed significant deficits in physical activity compared to their siblings. Survivors were less likely than their siblings to meet physical activity guidelines and more likely to report inactive lifestyles.
"It was particularly striking that 23 percent of the survivors reported that they were completely inactive over the previous month, compared with 14 percent of their siblings," Ness said.
The researchers' analysis revealed that survivors of medulloblastoma, a type of brain tumor, and osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, reported the most inactive lifestyles. Also associated with inactivity were treatments with cranial irradiation or amputation as well as other factors, including gender, race, age and education level. If survivors smoked, were underweight or obese or had suffered from depression, they were also prone to inactivity.
Ness hopes the findings will spark more research on the role of fitness in cancer survivors' quality of life, as well as the design of facilities and programs to encourage good fitness in survivors.
"For instance, if we know that patients with medulloblastoma who received cranial irradiation are at a high risk for having inactive lifestyles as adults, we might design a rehabilitation program they can undergo while they are still children to encourage physical activity as they age," she said.
Ness and her colleagues plan to investigate whether programs to encourage exercise in both children and adult childhood cancer survivors can help them avoid obesity, diabetes and other health problems.
Experts Available:
Kiri Ness, Ph.D., is an assistant member is the St. Jude Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Control. Ness' research focuses on cancer survivors, working with children and adults, many of whom have chronic diseases as a result of the cancer or its treatment. Ness can offer expertise on topics such as clinical and population measurement of physical performance and disability; exercise and physical activity intervention for chronic disease in childhood; the impact of disability on quality of life and life satisfaction; and obesity and metabolic syndrome in long-term cancer survivors.
Les Robinson, Ph.D., is chair of the St. Jude Epidemiology and Cancer Control department and co-leader of the Cancer Prevention and Control Program at St. Jude, a multi-disciplinary team endeavor to conduct cancer-related research on outcomes and interventions among pediatric and adolescent populations. He is an expert on the epidemiology and etiology of childhood cancer; cancer survivorship; outcomes research and clinical trials in cancer prevention and control. Robinson is a principle investigator with the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study.
Cancer treatments such as cranial radiation can damage the hypothalamus and pituitary; the result is an abnormal metabolism, which increases the risk of obesity and diabetes. Also, chemotherapy with the drug anthracycline increases the risk of heart disease; and radiation to the body can cause blood vessels to become less pliant.
"Physical activity is a key step that survivors can take to reduce the health risk of these effects," said Kiri Ness, Ph.D., of the Epidemiology and Cancer Control department at St. Jude. "Medical center programs to encourage physical activity in adult survivors could help significantly. However, one problem is that researchers have not firmly established the factors that affect cancer survivors' participation in physical activity."
To understand those factors, Ness and her colleagues drew data from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS), a St. Jude-led consortium of 30 centers in the United States and Canada. The study gathers extensive data from the participating centers on more than 20,000 childhood cancer survivors who received diagnoses between 1970 and 1986.
The researchers analyzed 9,301 CCSS participants' answers to questions about their physical activity; as a comparison, the scientists also analyzed the same answers given by 2,886 siblings. The investigators compared those answers with information on physical activity obtained from a massive health survey database maintained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Because of the cohort's large size, the researchers explored the relationships between health and exercise in all the different types of cancer. Also, because the cohort is older, Ness and her colleagues were able to investigate adult behaviors and relate them back to the data on their childhood cancers.
"Thus, we could identify who has the highest risk of having an inactive lifestyle," Ness said. "Knowing this makes it possible to begin to design interventions that will address the problems that put survivors at most risk."
The researchers found that the cancer survivors showed significant deficits in physical activity compared to their siblings. Survivors were less likely than their siblings to meet physical activity guidelines and more likely to report inactive lifestyles.
"It was particularly striking that 23 percent of the survivors reported that they were completely inactive over the previous month, compared with 14 percent of their siblings," Ness said.
The researchers' analysis revealed that survivors of medulloblastoma, a type of brain tumor, and osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, reported the most inactive lifestyles. Also associated with inactivity were treatments with cranial irradiation or amputation as well as other factors, including gender, race, age and education level. If survivors smoked, were underweight or obese or had suffered from depression, they were also prone to inactivity.
Ness hopes the findings will spark more research on the role of fitness in cancer survivors' quality of life, as well as the design of facilities and programs to encourage good fitness in survivors.
"For instance, if we know that patients with medulloblastoma who received cranial irradiation are at a high risk for having inactive lifestyles as adults, we might design a rehabilitation program they can undergo while they are still children to encourage physical activity as they age," she said.
Ness and her colleagues plan to investigate whether programs to encourage exercise in both children and adult childhood cancer survivors can help them avoid obesity, diabetes and other health problems.
Experts Available:
Kiri Ness, Ph.D., is an assistant member is the St. Jude Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Control. Ness' research focuses on cancer survivors, working with children and adults, many of whom have chronic diseases as a result of the cancer or its treatment. Ness can offer expertise on topics such as clinical and population measurement of physical performance and disability; exercise and physical activity intervention for chronic disease in childhood; the impact of disability on quality of life and life satisfaction; and obesity and metabolic syndrome in long-term cancer survivors.
Les Robinson, Ph.D., is chair of the St. Jude Epidemiology and Cancer Control department and co-leader of the Cancer Prevention and Control Program at St. Jude, a multi-disciplinary team endeavor to conduct cancer-related research on outcomes and interventions among pediatric and adolescent populations. He is an expert on the epidemiology and etiology of childhood cancer; cancer survivorship; outcomes research and clinical trials in cancer prevention and control. Robinson is a principle investigator with the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study.
Baylor Health Care System To Transform South Dallas Recreation Center Into New Diabetes Institute!..
South Dallas residents are 30 percent more likely to be admitted to a hospital due todiabetes or a diabetes-related condition than other city residents. In fact by 2010, 13 percent of those living in South Dallas will be diabetic.
Baylor Health Care System is reaching out to the traditionally underserved neighborhood, transforming a local recreation center into the area's first and only diabetes health and wellness institute. Baylor will invest $15 million in the project with the mission of saving lives through improved diabetes care, education and research. The new institute is expected to open in Spring 2010.
The focus of the Diabetes Health and Wellness Institute at Juanita J. Craft Recreation Center (Institute) will not only be on treatment, but prevention as well.
The Institute will provide:
- Full-time, on-site physician and nurse practitioner*
- Visiting medical specialists*
- Referral coordinator for specialty and ancillary care
- Diabetes management educator
- Affordable diabetes medications
- Nutrition and healthy cooking classes
- Exercise programs including running and walking clinics and weight training
More About Diabetes In Texas
- According to the Texas Diabetes Council, the prevalence of diabetes in Texans (18 and older) rose to 10.3 percent in 2007
- More than 1.8 million adults in Texas are diabetic, 460,000 are believed to be undiagnosed
- Diabetes is slightly more common in women than men (10.8 percent vs. 9.9 percent)
- Diabetes rates are higher among African Americans (12.9 percent), Hispanics (12.3 percent) and other minorities (11.8 percent) than Whites (8.5 percent)
- The prevalence of diabetes increases with age (2.7 percent for people under 30, 32.2 percent for people 65 and older)
- Diabetes rates decrease as education levels increase (15.8 percent among those without a high school diploma, 6.9 percent among those who attended college)
- One-of-every-five health care dollars is spent caring for someone with diagnosed diabetes
Baylor Health Care System is reaching out to the traditionally underserved neighborhood, transforming a local recreation center into the area's first and only diabetes health and wellness institute. Baylor will invest $15 million in the project with the mission of saving lives through improved diabetes care, education and research. The new institute is expected to open in Spring 2010.
The focus of the Diabetes Health and Wellness Institute at Juanita J. Craft Recreation Center (Institute) will not only be on treatment, but prevention as well.
The Institute will provide:
- Full-time, on-site physician and nurse practitioner*
- Visiting medical specialists*
- Referral coordinator for specialty and ancillary care
- Diabetes management educator
- Affordable diabetes medications
- Nutrition and healthy cooking classes
- Exercise programs including running and walking clinics and weight training
More About Diabetes In Texas
- According to the Texas Diabetes Council, the prevalence of diabetes in Texans (18 and older) rose to 10.3 percent in 2007
- More than 1.8 million adults in Texas are diabetic, 460,000 are believed to be undiagnosed
- Diabetes is slightly more common in women than men (10.8 percent vs. 9.9 percent)
- Diabetes rates are higher among African Americans (12.9 percent), Hispanics (12.3 percent) and other minorities (11.8 percent) than Whites (8.5 percent)
- The prevalence of diabetes increases with age (2.7 percent for people under 30, 32.2 percent for people 65 and older)
- Diabetes rates decrease as education levels increase (15.8 percent among those without a high school diploma, 6.9 percent among those who attended college)
- One-of-every-five health care dollars is spent caring for someone with diagnosed diabetes
Alcohol ups men's sexual performance!
 According to News.com.au , the boffins believe that the latest finding will reassure blokes who worry about the affects of drinking on their sex lives. Until now, it has been widely believed that boozing could cause erectile dysfunction, commonly called ‘brewer's droop'. However, the latest study of 1580 Australian men has shown the reverse may be true – since drinkers reporting as many as 30 per cent fewer problems than teetotalers. In fact, binge drinkers had lower rates of erectile dysfunction than those who never drank, although this type of drinking can cause other health problems. According to lead researcher Dr Kew-Kim Chew, of Western Australia's Keogh Institute for Medical Research, who told The Sunday Telegraph, men who drank within safe guidelines appeared to have the best erectile function. "We found that, compared to those who have never touched alcohol, many people do benefit from some alcohol, including some people who drink outside the guidelines,'''' Dr Chew said. | ||
Provectus Initiates Phase 1 Trial Of PV-10 For Liver Cancer!
Provectus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (OTC BB: PVCT), a development-stage oncology and dermatology biopharmaceutical company, has initiated a Phase 1 study of PV-10 for liver cancer. The study will enroll up to six subjects with cancer metastatic to the liver or with recurrent liver cancer. PV-10 is the company's lead oncology drug candidate that is also currently undergoing Phase 2 study for metastaticmelanoma.
The primary objective of the open-label study is to determine the safety and tolerability of a single intralesional injection of PV-10 in patients with cancer of the liver. Additional objectives are to assess the distribution and retention of PV-10 in the injected lesion, tumor response and viability, and plasma pharmacokinetics of PV-10 following intralesional injection. In each of two planned dose cohorts there will be three subjects. Dose escalation will occur following assessment of safety and tolerability in the first cohort. Dr. Paul Goldfarb, M.D., of Sharp Memorial Hospital in San Diego, will be the Principal Investigator for the study, which is expected to begin enrolling subjects within the next several weeks.
Dr. Craig Dees, PhD, CEO of Provectus said, "Patients with liver cancer currently have very little choice and a terrible prognosis if the cancer cannot be fully removed through surgery, as the disease is usually deadly within months. We hope to demonstrate that PV-10, which has shown excellent selectivity for melanoma, will be a viable therapeutic for liver cancer and cancers metastatic to the liver."
Malignant lesions in the liver arising from primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or metastases from a wide range of cancers represent an ongoing treatment challenge for oncologists. HCC is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, and its incidence is rapidly increasing in the United States. The liver is a common site of metastases from solid tumors, particularly those arising in the gastrointestinal tract. Other tumors, such as lung and breast cancer and melanoma, also readily spread to the liver.
About PV-10
PV-10 is a proprietary, injectable formulation of Rose Bengal, a compound that has been in use for nearly thirty years by ophthalmologists to assess damage to the eye. It has also been used as an intravenous diagnostic to detect ailments of the liver. Rose Bengal has an established safety history, a short half-life in the bloodstream, and is excreted via the liver and kidneys. Provectus has discovered a novel use for Rose Bengal based on the observation that it is selectively toxic to cancer calls via a process called chemoablation whereby cells undergo a form of cell death that mimics both features of necrosis and apoptosis.
The primary objective of the open-label study is to determine the safety and tolerability of a single intralesional injection of PV-10 in patients with cancer of the liver. Additional objectives are to assess the distribution and retention of PV-10 in the injected lesion, tumor response and viability, and plasma pharmacokinetics of PV-10 following intralesional injection. In each of two planned dose cohorts there will be three subjects. Dose escalation will occur following assessment of safety and tolerability in the first cohort. Dr. Paul Goldfarb, M.D., of Sharp Memorial Hospital in San Diego, will be the Principal Investigator for the study, which is expected to begin enrolling subjects within the next several weeks.
Dr. Craig Dees, PhD, CEO of Provectus said, "Patients with liver cancer currently have very little choice and a terrible prognosis if the cancer cannot be fully removed through surgery, as the disease is usually deadly within months. We hope to demonstrate that PV-10, which has shown excellent selectivity for melanoma, will be a viable therapeutic for liver cancer and cancers metastatic to the liver."
Malignant lesions in the liver arising from primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or metastases from a wide range of cancers represent an ongoing treatment challenge for oncologists. HCC is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, and its incidence is rapidly increasing in the United States. The liver is a common site of metastases from solid tumors, particularly those arising in the gastrointestinal tract. Other tumors, such as lung and breast cancer and melanoma, also readily spread to the liver.
About PV-10
PV-10 is a proprietary, injectable formulation of Rose Bengal, a compound that has been in use for nearly thirty years by ophthalmologists to assess damage to the eye. It has also been used as an intravenous diagnostic to detect ailments of the liver. Rose Bengal has an established safety history, a short half-life in the bloodstream, and is excreted via the liver and kidneys. Provectus has discovered a novel use for Rose Bengal based on the observation that it is selectively toxic to cancer calls via a process called chemoablation whereby cells undergo a form of cell death that mimics both features of necrosis and apoptosis.
Healthy pregnancy diet!
When a woman gets the news of her pregnancy, she also gets a lot of advices regarding the diet during pregnancy, what to eat and what not to eat. As the mother is responsible for the health of the unborn baby, so the most important things are healthy pregnancy diet that concerns the well being of the mother and her baby.
For the proper development and growth of the unborn baby a healthy diet is very important. To make sure that the baby has a trouble free journey into the world, it is important to follow a nutritious and healthy diet regime. From her regular diet, a pregnant woman must consume more than 300 calories. For whole nine months, eating and digesting so many calories a day can be a tedious task at first glance but at least she can do it for her baby, thinking about the welfare of her baby.
With proper consultation with the dietitian, diet for healthy pregnancy must be planned. For the betterment of your ‘happy days’, try to have a balanced diet. Pregnancy exercises and timely medical examinations are very important factors for a healthy pregnancy. Pregnant woman has to keep her mood always happy as it will help in the development of her child’s mental health and it is as important as the physical health. To ensure and safeguard a happy and healthy pregnancy, take healthy diet during pregnancy.
Healthy Pregnancy Diet:
During the first trimester of the pregnancy, the signs of morning sickness and cravings are experienced by a pregnant woman. For the health of unborn baby, a balanced diet must be maintained. The foods that must be a part of the daily diet of a pregnant woman are following.
High Fiber Diet:
A pregnant woman must include fiber rich foods in her daily diet. Fiber rich foods are the best source for all the requirements of unborn baby. Food products like whole wheat breads, rice, whole grains, raw fruits, cereals, loads of green leafy vegetable and cooked beans are the high fiber diet. During pregnancy, these foods are a great source of energy. A pregnant woman must include around 5-10 servings of high fiber diet in the daily diet and Meat, fish dairy and poultry in adequate quantity as well.
Calcium and Vitamins:
In the healthy diet during pregnancy Calcium rich foods and those high in vitamin and minerals should be included. To avoid any complications in the pregnancy, decent levels of vitamin D and folic acid must be maintained. Fish, fruits and vegetables must be eaten by the pregnant woman to maintain the Protein levels, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C levels. For healthy blood circulation, Iron rich food must be consumed. Pregnant woman can opt for calcium and vitamin supplements on the doctor’s advice.
Distribution of Meals:
During pregnancy, a better way is that distribution of the meal into equal 5-6 mini meals rather than 3-4 whole meals. Expecting mother must consume at least 3 servings of dairy products, 27 mg of iron, 1200 mg of calcium, 70 mg of vitamin C and vitamin A (less than 1000 IU) each day. At least 6 to 8 glasses of water must be consumed everyday, it is important.
Things to Avoid During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, there are some things that must be avoided, as they might cause trouble to the health of the mother as well as the child. Raw meat items, soft cheeses fishes which are high on mercury levels, and deli meats are the Foods which are avoided during pregnancy. To prevent food poisoning during pregnancy, these foods must be avoided. In order to safeguard the health of the child and the mother-to-be, along with these food items, alcohol and smoking must be completely avoided.
Premature babies, mental retardation and low weight in the newborn babies are held by drinking alcohol, so Stop drinking alcohol. Pregnant woman has to control the intake of coffee, chocolates and cola drinks to minimize the daily caffeine intake to maximum 300 mg a day. For weight loss or any such purposes, do not try to follow a diet.
For more information of healthy pregnancy diet see
10 Ways to Beat Back Pains.......?
10 Ways to Beat Back Pain
Eighty percent of all men suffer from back pain. Feel better faster with our guide to preventing injury, standing taller, and looking leaner—instantly.
1. Aim for a Dozen Crunches Every Day
Seventy-five percent of all lower-back problems can be prevented by building your abs muscles. When your abs are weak, the muscles of your butt and the backs of your legs have to work harder to keep your spine stable.
2. Change Posture Frequently
This varies the location of the stress on your spine, instead of focusing all of it on the same area. Try putting your feet up or leaning your chair back, while maintaining the natural arch in your back.
3. Squeeze Your Butt Muscles When You Lift Weights over Your Head
You'll force your body into a position that automatically stabilizes your spine, which lowers your risk of back injuries.
4. Leave Work at 5 p.m.
A University of Massachusetts study found that men who worked overtime had a 61 percent higher risk of an on-the-job injury than those who punched out after 8 straight hours, with back pain topping the list of complaints.
5. Trade Your Office Chair for a Swiss Ball
Use it instead of a desk chair for 15 to 20 minutes every hour. Not only will the ball keep you in perpetual motion, but it'll also strengthen your core muscles, alleviating another side effect of too much sitting: back pain.
6. Drink a Glass of Milk
Not only does research show that low levels of D can increase your risk of osteoporosis by as much as 300 percent, but a recent study found that 80 percent of back-pain sufferers were light on vitamin D.
7. Adjust Your Car Seat
If you recline the seat so far back that you have to crane your neck to see in front of you, you're putting a dangerous strain on the lower neck. You should be able to see a full view of the road with your head against the headrest.
8. Readjust Your Pillows
If you're a side sleeper, draw your legs up toward your chest and place a pillow between your knees. If you sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees to save 8 hours of back stress. And if you like sleeping on your gut, stuff a small pillow under your abdomen to keep your lower back from sagging.
9. Lose the Wallet
Sitting on a thick billfold can put pressure on your sciatic nerve, the major nerve running through the buttocks.
10. See Your Tailor
Your aching back may be due to one of your legs being shorter than the other. Even a short imbalance can cause the spine to curve to the short side when you walk or run. Ask your tailor for a quick measurement, and if necessary, see your doctor.
Eighty percent of all men suffer from back pain. Feel better faster with our guide to preventing injury, standing taller, and looking leaner—instantly.
1. Aim for a Dozen Crunches Every Day
Seventy-five percent of all lower-back problems can be prevented by building your abs muscles. When your abs are weak, the muscles of your butt and the backs of your legs have to work harder to keep your spine stable.
2. Change Posture Frequently
This varies the location of the stress on your spine, instead of focusing all of it on the same area. Try putting your feet up or leaning your chair back, while maintaining the natural arch in your back.
3. Squeeze Your Butt Muscles When You Lift Weights over Your Head
You'll force your body into a position that automatically stabilizes your spine, which lowers your risk of back injuries.
4. Leave Work at 5 p.m.
A University of Massachusetts study found that men who worked overtime had a 61 percent higher risk of an on-the-job injury than those who punched out after 8 straight hours, with back pain topping the list of complaints.
5. Trade Your Office Chair for a Swiss Ball
Use it instead of a desk chair for 15 to 20 minutes every hour. Not only will the ball keep you in perpetual motion, but it'll also strengthen your core muscles, alleviating another side effect of too much sitting: back pain.
6. Drink a Glass of Milk
Not only does research show that low levels of D can increase your risk of osteoporosis by as much as 300 percent, but a recent study found that 80 percent of back-pain sufferers were light on vitamin D.
7. Adjust Your Car Seat
If you recline the seat so far back that you have to crane your neck to see in front of you, you're putting a dangerous strain on the lower neck. You should be able to see a full view of the road with your head against the headrest.
8. Readjust Your Pillows
If you're a side sleeper, draw your legs up toward your chest and place a pillow between your knees. If you sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees to save 8 hours of back stress. And if you like sleeping on your gut, stuff a small pillow under your abdomen to keep your lower back from sagging.
9. Lose the Wallet
Sitting on a thick billfold can put pressure on your sciatic nerve, the major nerve running through the buttocks.
10. See Your Tailor
Your aching back may be due to one of your legs being shorter than the other. Even a short imbalance can cause the spine to curve to the short side when you walk or run. Ask your tailor for a quick measurement, and if necessary, see your doctor.
Scientists Create Wireless Heart Pump...
Scientists in New Zealand have announced the development of a wireless heart pump that could prove to be an effective alternative to heart transplant surgery.
"We would very much like for it to be the preferred choice for patients to be able to choose this type of pump over a heart transplant, said David Budgett of the University of Auckland.
Scientists said the wireless pump uses magnetic fields to transfer power through a person’s skin rather than using wire cables. This allows for continuous power.
The pump was created through collaboration between scientists from The University of Auckland’s Bioengineering Institute, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Department of Physiology.
Scientists also said they created a new company, called TETCor, that will market the new technology.
“This new wireless heart pump weights only 92 grams and measures just seven centimeters by three centimeters,” said TETCor CEO Dr Simon Malpas.
“It uses a coil outside a person’s body to generate a magnetic field. A second coil placed inside a person’s body, near the collar bone, picks up the signal from this field and creates power for the pump.”
“These wireless heart pumps could be implanted in about 50,000 people each year around the world within 10 years. It’s probably the most extreme implantable medical device you can get. If these pumps stop, you only have about one minute to live.”
TETCor has licensed the technology to the US medical company MicroMed, creating a joint partnership that will combine the power transfer technology with the pump technology, and plan to begin patient trials within 24 months.
"We would very much like for it to be the preferred choice for patients to be able to choose this type of pump over a heart transplant, said David Budgett of the University of Auckland.
Scientists said the wireless pump uses magnetic fields to transfer power through a person’s skin rather than using wire cables. This allows for continuous power.
The pump was created through collaboration between scientists from The University of Auckland’s Bioengineering Institute, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Department of Physiology.
Scientists also said they created a new company, called TETCor, that will market the new technology.
“This new wireless heart pump weights only 92 grams and measures just seven centimeters by three centimeters,” said TETCor CEO Dr Simon Malpas.
“It uses a coil outside a person’s body to generate a magnetic field. A second coil placed inside a person’s body, near the collar bone, picks up the signal from this field and creates power for the pump.”
“These wireless heart pumps could be implanted in about 50,000 people each year around the world within 10 years. It’s probably the most extreme implantable medical device you can get. If these pumps stop, you only have about one minute to live.”
TETCor has licensed the technology to the US medical company MicroMed, creating a joint partnership that will combine the power transfer technology with the pump technology, and plan to begin patient trials within 24 months.
Current Life Expectancy Trends And Challenges: Will We Live To Be 100 Years?
A review in this week's edition of The Lancet discusses the challenges of an aging population. If current life expectancy trends continue, more than half of babies born in rich nations today will live to 100 years. Not only are we living longer, but those added years are spent with less disability and fewer limitations on daily life than in the past. In addition, preliminary evidence suggests shortened working weeks over extended working lives might further extend increases in life expectancy and health. The review is the work of Professor Kaare Christensen, of the Danish Ageing Research Centre, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark, and colleagues.
During the 20th century, enormous increases in life expectancy of more than 30 years have been seen in most developed countries. Death rates in nations with the longest life-expectancy, such as Japan, Sweden, Spain suggest that, even if health conditions do not improve, three-quarters of babies will live to see their 75th birthdays. If life expectancy continues to improve at the same rate, most babies born in rich nations since 2000 can expect to live to 100 years. Consequently, disease and disability rates in old age will have an increasing effect on the sustainability of modern society. The increases in life expectancy in rich countries, apparent since 1840, show no signs of slowing.
The authors explain: "The linear increase in record life expectancy for more than 165 years does not suggest a looming limit to human lifespan. If life expectancy were approaching a limit, some deceleration of progress would probably occur. Continued progress in the longest living populations suggests that we are not close to a limit, and further rise in life expectancy seems likely."
In rich nations, mortality in people older than 80 years is still declining. According to data from more than thirty developed countries, in 1950 the probability of survival from age 80 to 90 years was on average 15 to 16 percent for women and 12 percent for men. In 2002, these values were 37 percent and 25 percent. Since the death rates of children and young adults are very low in these nations, additional increases in life expectancy will be achieved through further improvements in the oldest age groups.
The authors use Germany as a case study. They demonstrate how the German population will be significantly older and smaller than it is now, in 2050. This prediction is as well representative of other developed nations.
Due to more people living longer, overall cancer incidence is rising. Other chronic diseases such as diabetes and arthritis are also rising. Cardiovascular disease prevalence is also increasing. This is attributed to the fact that cardiovascular mortality is decreasing. As a result more people are alive with it since less are dying from it, in any particular age group. The answer to quality of life in old age is functional ability, and how it affects the activities of daily living (ADL). The activities that are central to self-care are called basic ADL. They are:
• bathing or showering
• continence
• dressing
• feeding
• transferring from bed and chair
Disability in instrumental ADL refers to disabilities affecting a broad range of activities such as:
• doing laundry
• handling drugs
• housekeeping
• managing finances
• preparation of food
• shopping
• telephone use
• using transport
After measuring these indicators, there is increasing evidence suggesting that disability prevalence has been declining.
A common indicator of disability-free life expectancy is being developed by the European Health Expectancy Monitoring Unit. It is named healthy life years (HLY). Time trends are available for 14 European countries between 1995 and 2003. Individuals who answer to the European Community Household Panel question "Are you hampered in your daily activities by any physical or mental health problem, illness or disability?" by "moderate" or "severe", are defined as disabled. On the basis of this measure, differences in HLY in European countries are large, even among countries with similar yearly rates of increase in life expectancy.
Some countries show a rise:
• For men: Austria, Belgium, Italy, Finland, and Germany.
• For women: Belgium, Italy and Sweden.
Some countries show stagnation:
• For men: France, Greece, Ireland, and Spain.
• For women: Austria, Denmark, UK, Finland, France, Spain, and UK.
Some countries show reduction:
• For men: Denmark, Portugal, Netherlands, Sweden, and UK.
• For women: Germany, Greece, Ireland, Netherlands, and Portugal.
This is estimated in the proportion of years spent disability-free at ages 65 years and older. Inequalities in HLY are even greater if all 25 countries of the EU are considered.
A series of studies has reported larger improvements in disability-free life expectancy than in life expectancy. A comparison of four health surveys in France concludes that gains in life expectancy over recent decades might have added years with moderate difficulties but not years with severe difficulties. This finding is corroborated by German and Belgian research. The authors explain: "Continued improvement of health trajectories depends on improvement in elderly people, although the foundation for this progress might partly be based on enhanced living conditions and lifestyle early in life. Progress towards improvement of health is likely to depend on public health efforts to - for example, combat smoking, obesity, low levels of exercise, poor diets, and excess drinking, and to provide improved living conditions and care for elderly people with several ailments."
The issue is whether we are not only living longer, but also better. For people younger than 85 years, most of the evidence suggests a postponement of limitations and disabilities. This is despite an increase in chronic diseases and conditions. This apparent contradiction is at least partly accounted for by early diagnosis, improved treatment, and amelioration of prevalent diseases so that they are less disabling. People younger than 85 years are living longer. Generally, they are capable to manage their daily activities for longer than were previous cohorts.
The situation is not as obvious for people aged older than 85 years. There is little information. Also, there is widespread concern that exceptional longevity has grim results both for individuals and for societies. The authors debate on the "common view in clinical medicine and among some gerontologists that the substantial rise in proportion of exceptionally long-lived individuals in successive birth cohorts is the result of help given to an increasing proportion of frail and ill people into advanced old age, with huge personal and societal costs."
According to Danish research, the proportion of independent individuals is similar in those aged 100 to those aged 92 to 93 years. Consequently, the fact that more people live longer puts a greater burden on society as a whole. But exceptional longevity does not mean exceptional levels of disability. However, it is the overall financial burden of aging populations that is causing most concern to developed nations. The old-age dependency ratio is the number of people aged over 65 years divided by those of working ages (15 to 64 years). In Germany, for every 100 people aged 15 to 64 years, the number aged 65 and over has gone from 16 in 1956 to 29 in 2006, and is expected to reach 60 by 2056.
The authors recommend a redistribution of employment as a possible strategy to cope with the economic implications of aging. They remark: "If people in their 60s and early 70s worked much more than they do nowadays, then most people could work fewer hours per week than is currently common - if they worked correspondingly more years of their longer lives. ...Preliminary evidence suggests that shortened working weeks over extended working lives might further contribute to increases in life expectancy and health. Redistribution of work will, however, not be sufficient to meet the coming challenges. Even if the health of individuals at any particular age improves, there could be an increased total burden if the number of individuals at that age rises sufficiently."
They write in conclusion: "Increasing numbers of people at old and very old ages will pose major challenges for health-care systems. Present evidence, however, suggests that people are not only living longer than they did previously, but also they are living longer, with less disability and fewer functional limitations."
"Ageing populations: the challenges ahead"
Kaare Christensen, Gabriele Doblhammer, Roland Rau, James W Vaupel
Lancet 2009; 374: 1196-208
The Lancet
During the 20th century, enormous increases in life expectancy of more than 30 years have been seen in most developed countries. Death rates in nations with the longest life-expectancy, such as Japan, Sweden, Spain suggest that, even if health conditions do not improve, three-quarters of babies will live to see their 75th birthdays. If life expectancy continues to improve at the same rate, most babies born in rich nations since 2000 can expect to live to 100 years. Consequently, disease and disability rates in old age will have an increasing effect on the sustainability of modern society. The increases in life expectancy in rich countries, apparent since 1840, show no signs of slowing.
The authors explain: "The linear increase in record life expectancy for more than 165 years does not suggest a looming limit to human lifespan. If life expectancy were approaching a limit, some deceleration of progress would probably occur. Continued progress in the longest living populations suggests that we are not close to a limit, and further rise in life expectancy seems likely."
In rich nations, mortality in people older than 80 years is still declining. According to data from more than thirty developed countries, in 1950 the probability of survival from age 80 to 90 years was on average 15 to 16 percent for women and 12 percent for men. In 2002, these values were 37 percent and 25 percent. Since the death rates of children and young adults are very low in these nations, additional increases in life expectancy will be achieved through further improvements in the oldest age groups.
The authors use Germany as a case study. They demonstrate how the German population will be significantly older and smaller than it is now, in 2050. This prediction is as well representative of other developed nations.
Due to more people living longer, overall cancer incidence is rising. Other chronic diseases such as diabetes and arthritis are also rising. Cardiovascular disease prevalence is also increasing. This is attributed to the fact that cardiovascular mortality is decreasing. As a result more people are alive with it since less are dying from it, in any particular age group. The answer to quality of life in old age is functional ability, and how it affects the activities of daily living (ADL). The activities that are central to self-care are called basic ADL. They are:
• bathing or showering
• continence
• dressing
• feeding
• transferring from bed and chair
Disability in instrumental ADL refers to disabilities affecting a broad range of activities such as:
• doing laundry
• handling drugs
• housekeeping
• managing finances
• preparation of food
• shopping
• telephone use
• using transport
After measuring these indicators, there is increasing evidence suggesting that disability prevalence has been declining.
A common indicator of disability-free life expectancy is being developed by the European Health Expectancy Monitoring Unit. It is named healthy life years (HLY). Time trends are available for 14 European countries between 1995 and 2003. Individuals who answer to the European Community Household Panel question "Are you hampered in your daily activities by any physical or mental health problem, illness or disability?" by "moderate" or "severe", are defined as disabled. On the basis of this measure, differences in HLY in European countries are large, even among countries with similar yearly rates of increase in life expectancy.
Some countries show a rise:
• For men: Austria, Belgium, Italy, Finland, and Germany.
• For women: Belgium, Italy and Sweden.
Some countries show stagnation:
• For men: France, Greece, Ireland, and Spain.
• For women: Austria, Denmark, UK, Finland, France, Spain, and UK.
Some countries show reduction:
• For men: Denmark, Portugal, Netherlands, Sweden, and UK.
• For women: Germany, Greece, Ireland, Netherlands, and Portugal.
This is estimated in the proportion of years spent disability-free at ages 65 years and older. Inequalities in HLY are even greater if all 25 countries of the EU are considered.
A series of studies has reported larger improvements in disability-free life expectancy than in life expectancy. A comparison of four health surveys in France concludes that gains in life expectancy over recent decades might have added years with moderate difficulties but not years with severe difficulties. This finding is corroborated by German and Belgian research. The authors explain: "Continued improvement of health trajectories depends on improvement in elderly people, although the foundation for this progress might partly be based on enhanced living conditions and lifestyle early in life. Progress towards improvement of health is likely to depend on public health efforts to - for example, combat smoking, obesity, low levels of exercise, poor diets, and excess drinking, and to provide improved living conditions and care for elderly people with several ailments."
The issue is whether we are not only living longer, but also better. For people younger than 85 years, most of the evidence suggests a postponement of limitations and disabilities. This is despite an increase in chronic diseases and conditions. This apparent contradiction is at least partly accounted for by early diagnosis, improved treatment, and amelioration of prevalent diseases so that they are less disabling. People younger than 85 years are living longer. Generally, they are capable to manage their daily activities for longer than were previous cohorts.
The situation is not as obvious for people aged older than 85 years. There is little information. Also, there is widespread concern that exceptional longevity has grim results both for individuals and for societies. The authors debate on the "common view in clinical medicine and among some gerontologists that the substantial rise in proportion of exceptionally long-lived individuals in successive birth cohorts is the result of help given to an increasing proportion of frail and ill people into advanced old age, with huge personal and societal costs."
According to Danish research, the proportion of independent individuals is similar in those aged 100 to those aged 92 to 93 years. Consequently, the fact that more people live longer puts a greater burden on society as a whole. But exceptional longevity does not mean exceptional levels of disability. However, it is the overall financial burden of aging populations that is causing most concern to developed nations. The old-age dependency ratio is the number of people aged over 65 years divided by those of working ages (15 to 64 years). In Germany, for every 100 people aged 15 to 64 years, the number aged 65 and over has gone from 16 in 1956 to 29 in 2006, and is expected to reach 60 by 2056.
The authors recommend a redistribution of employment as a possible strategy to cope with the economic implications of aging. They remark: "If people in their 60s and early 70s worked much more than they do nowadays, then most people could work fewer hours per week than is currently common - if they worked correspondingly more years of their longer lives. ...Preliminary evidence suggests that shortened working weeks over extended working lives might further contribute to increases in life expectancy and health. Redistribution of work will, however, not be sufficient to meet the coming challenges. Even if the health of individuals at any particular age improves, there could be an increased total burden if the number of individuals at that age rises sufficiently."
They write in conclusion: "Increasing numbers of people at old and very old ages will pose major challenges for health-care systems. Present evidence, however, suggests that people are not only living longer than they did previously, but also they are living longer, with less disability and fewer functional limitations."
"Ageing populations: the challenges ahead"
Kaare Christensen, Gabriele Doblhammer, Roland Rau, James W Vaupel
Lancet 2009; 374: 1196-208
The Lancet
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