Demographic trends may alter hospital staffing.
Modern Healthcare (1/28, Carlson) reports, "Despite all the ongoing efforts to expand the healthcare workforce, industry experts say it's time for employers to realize that demographic trends are not going to allow them to maintain their existing staffing patterns in coming decades, according to a new American Hospital Association study." Data indicate that "if current trends persist," there will be a shortage of "109,600 physicians by 2020, and...260,000 full-time-equivalent nurse positions by 2025." The report "says hospitals need to find ways to retain their existing workforces while attracting newly educated workers." The authors call on hospitals and health systems "to rapidly implement these strategies, learn early implementation insights, and share successful practices."
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Hospital Chaplains in Demand
Growing scarcity of hospital chaplains to offer last rites noted.
The AP (1/28) reports, "Finding a priest to be at the bedside of the dying is becoming harder and harder across the country. The shortage of priests has been a problem for years, but its implications become most clear at dire times for the ill." Notably, "New Orleans Archbishop Gregory Aymond says that across the country there are fewer priests and fewer young men who want to become priests." Data show that "hospital chaplains are now scarce: of the 23 hospitals in the Greater New Orleans Area, only five with Roman Catholic chaplains. And even in those hospitals, personnel are frequently unaware of the chaplains and don't call them."
The AP (1/28) reports, "Finding a priest to be at the bedside of the dying is becoming harder and harder across the country. The shortage of priests has been a problem for years, but its implications become most clear at dire times for the ill." Notably, "New Orleans Archbishop Gregory Aymond says that across the country there are fewer priests and fewer young men who want to become priests." Data show that "hospital chaplains are now scarce: of the 23 hospitals in the Greater New Orleans Area, only five with Roman Catholic chaplains. And even in those hospitals, personnel are frequently unaware of the chaplains and don't call them."
New Pregnancy Test
FDA approves new First Response pregnancy test.
The AP (1/28) reports that the Food and Drug Administration has given consumer products maker Church & Dwight Co. approval for a new pregnancy test. The company announced Wednesday that "its new First Response test can detect pregnancy up to six days before a woman misses her period -- one day earlier than other tests on the market." The First Response test can also detect hormones "at lower levels than older tests."
The AP (1/28) reports that the Food and Drug Administration has given consumer products maker Church & Dwight Co. approval for a new pregnancy test. The company announced Wednesday that "its new First Response test can detect pregnancy up to six days before a woman misses her period -- one day earlier than other tests on the market." The First Response test can also detect hormones "at lower levels than older tests."
Drug Abuse Guidelines Released
FDA releases draft guidelines for researching potential abuse of new drugs.
The Los Angeles Times (1/28, Zajac) reports that the FDA "is calling on pharmaceutical firms to give more attention to the potential for abuse of new drugs when subjecting them to pre-market testing." The agency released draft guidelines urging "researchers to look beyond traditional indicators such as whether a compound is addictive and consider other characteristics that could lead to abuse." The guidelines are intended "to assist drugmakers in figuring out which compounds should be placed under the Controlled Substances Act." FDA officials "said no specific event triggered release of the guidelines," but they "pointed to the anesthetic propofol as an example of a drug that might be flagged for restrictions if subjected to more rigorous consideration."
The Los Angeles Times (1/28, Zajac) reports that the FDA "is calling on pharmaceutical firms to give more attention to the potential for abuse of new drugs when subjecting them to pre-market testing." The agency released draft guidelines urging "researchers to look beyond traditional indicators such as whether a compound is addictive and consider other characteristics that could lead to abuse." The guidelines are intended "to assist drugmakers in figuring out which compounds should be placed under the Controlled Substances Act." FDA officials "said no specific event triggered release of the guidelines," but they "pointed to the anesthetic propofol as an example of a drug that might be flagged for restrictions if subjected to more rigorous consideration."
Fast Food Diet Update
Health experts question diet claims made by fast food chains.
The New York Times (1/28, Ellin) reports that many fast food companies "have jumped on the reduced-calorie bandwagon" recently, although Taco Bell "is one of the few to promote their low-fat offerings so widely." Several chains are said to have introduced lighter menu items without calling attention to them, including Dunkin' Donuts, Quiznos, Starbucks, and McDonald's. However, "the recent promotional activity surrounding the weight-loss potential of eating at places like Taco Bell and Subway has drawn the attention of experts, who have conflicting opinions on whether fast food is a healthy dieting tool."
The New York Times (1/28, Ellin) reports that many fast food companies "have jumped on the reduced-calorie bandwagon" recently, although Taco Bell "is one of the few to promote their low-fat offerings so widely." Several chains are said to have introduced lighter menu items without calling attention to them, including Dunkin' Donuts, Quiznos, Starbucks, and McDonald's. However, "the recent promotional activity surrounding the weight-loss potential of eating at places like Taco Bell and Subway has drawn the attention of experts, who have conflicting opinions on whether fast food is a healthy dieting tool."
Snacks in Schools
Boston Globe calls for standards on snacks, beverages in schools.
The Boston Globe (1/28) editorializes that Massachusetts' House of Representative should "take a step to improve children's nutrition by setting health standards for snacks and beverages sold in schools." The Globe praises the legislators for resisting pressure from the beverage industry. The paper concludes that "cracking down on the junk food children use to supplement or replace their school lunches is a no-brainer step in the right direction" in dealing with childhood obesity.
The Boston Globe (1/28) editorializes that Massachusetts' House of Representative should "take a step to improve children's nutrition by setting health standards for snacks and beverages sold in schools." The Globe praises the legislators for resisting pressure from the beverage industry. The paper concludes that "cracking down on the junk food children use to supplement or replace their school lunches is a no-brainer step in the right direction" in dealing with childhood obesity.
Running Barefoot May Limit Foot Pain
Running barefoot may avoid jarring impact.
The Boston Globe (1/28, Johnson) reports, "New research, led by Harvard scientists and published today" in the journal Nature, "shows that people who run barefoot or with minimal shoes -- as people have done for millions of years -- often land on their feet in a way that avoids a jarring impact." Whereas most shoe-clad runners strike the ground heel-first, jarring their bones, "barefoot runners tend to land on the ball or middle of their foot." Still, "researchers need to do followup studies to test whether less impact translates into fewer injuries."
HealthDay (1/27, Dotinga) reports, however, that study author Daniel Lieberman, a professor in Harvard University's Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, said that if you do tend to heel strike, it's probably best to wear shoes to cushion it.
The Boston Globe (1/28, Johnson) reports, "New research, led by Harvard scientists and published today" in the journal Nature, "shows that people who run barefoot or with minimal shoes -- as people have done for millions of years -- often land on their feet in a way that avoids a jarring impact." Whereas most shoe-clad runners strike the ground heel-first, jarring their bones, "barefoot runners tend to land on the ball or middle of their foot." Still, "researchers need to do followup studies to test whether less impact translates into fewer injuries."
HealthDay (1/27, Dotinga) reports, however, that study author Daniel Lieberman, a professor in Harvard University's Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, said that if you do tend to heel strike, it's probably best to wear shoes to cushion it.
Heart Disease and Omega 3
Omega-3 fatty acids said to reduce the risk of heart disease.
The Washington Post (1/28, Bell) reports that omega-3 fatty acids have received a recent "bump in popularity" as the result of heavy marketing and a 2004 FDA ruling which determined that foods containing them "may reduce the risk of one form of heart disease." The high profile "has made omega-3s the darling of the supplement world," although Benjamin Caballero, a professor at the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health warns that omega-3s can also "thin the blood," and "should not be used by stroke patients."
The Washington Post (1/28, Bell) reports that omega-3 fatty acids have received a recent "bump in popularity" as the result of heavy marketing and a 2004 FDA ruling which determined that foods containing them "may reduce the risk of one form of heart disease." The high profile "has made omega-3s the darling of the supplement world," although Benjamin Caballero, a professor at the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health warns that omega-3s can also "thin the blood," and "should not be used by stroke patients."
Supplement Update
Some physicians, nutritionists say healthy individuals should refrain from taking dietary supplements.
The Washington Post (1/28, Bell) reports that "the supplement craze has gone into overdrive," but "some nutritionists and doctors say you shouldn't be taking any of them." While for some, like people with diabetes or gastrointestinal problems, dietary supplements are recommended, any "healthy person with a healthy diet" should not take them, explained Benjamin Caballero, a professor at the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The Post notes, "Nutritionists and doctors emphasize that people concerned about their diet should vary their food, not their food supplements."
The Washington Post (1/28, Bell) reports that "the supplement craze has gone into overdrive," but "some nutritionists and doctors say you shouldn't be taking any of them." While for some, like people with diabetes or gastrointestinal problems, dietary supplements are recommended, any "healthy person with a healthy diet" should not take them, explained Benjamin Caballero, a professor at the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The Post notes, "Nutritionists and doctors emphasize that people concerned about their diet should vary their food, not their food supplements."
Female Athletes and Knee Injuries
Exercise programs said to reduce risk of ACL injuries in female athletes.
In the Washington Post (1/28, Bernstein) "Misfits" column, Lenny Bernstein writes that although young women athletes "are three to eight times as likely" to suffer an anterior cruciate ligaments injury, new research has found that "preventive measures can be quite effective if the right program is implemented in the right way." Some girls take part in special training programs designed "to keep their bodies stable under the stress of athletic competition" Trent Nessler, executive director of Baptist Sports Medicine in Nashville, "says girls who take part in such programs can reduce their chances of injury by as much as 88 percent compared with those who don't."
In the Washington Post (1/28, Bernstein) "Misfits" column, Lenny Bernstein writes that although young women athletes "are three to eight times as likely" to suffer an anterior cruciate ligaments injury, new research has found that "preventive measures can be quite effective if the right program is implemented in the right way." Some girls take part in special training programs designed "to keep their bodies stable under the stress of athletic competition" Trent Nessler, executive director of Baptist Sports Medicine in Nashville, "says girls who take part in such programs can reduce their chances of injury by as much as 88 percent compared with those who don't."
The Cost of Medicare
Increased Medicare copays may lead to fewer doctor visits, more and longer hospital stays.
The AP (1/28, Chang) reports, "Higher Medicare copays, sometimes just a few dollars more, led to fewer doctor visits and to more and longer hospital stays," according to a study appearing in the New England Journal of Medicine. The finding "confirms what many policymakers had feared: cost-shifting moves can backfire."
The Wall Street Journal (1/27, Mathews) "Health Blog" reported that Medicare enrollees residing in low-income areas and patients with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of heart attack were particularly impacted by higher copays.
The increased copays generated "an extra $7,150 in revenue for every 100 patients," but the study showed that "it would cost the plans an additional $24,000 in hospital costs in one year," the Boston Globe (1/27, Cooney) "White Coat Notes" blog reported.
The St. Petersburg Times (1/28, Martin) reports that the study concluded that "increasing the patient's share of the cost...may not reduce (or may even increase) total healthcare spending and may result in worse health outcomes." Experts noted that seniors "are more likely to have fixed incomes and to rely on market-vulnerable investment income." Experts also said that seniors "tend to suffer from chronic conditions that require constant medical care."
The AP (1/28, Chang) reports, "Higher Medicare copays, sometimes just a few dollars more, led to fewer doctor visits and to more and longer hospital stays," according to a study appearing in the New England Journal of Medicine. The finding "confirms what many policymakers had feared: cost-shifting moves can backfire."
The Wall Street Journal (1/27, Mathews) "Health Blog" reported that Medicare enrollees residing in low-income areas and patients with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of heart attack were particularly impacted by higher copays.
The increased copays generated "an extra $7,150 in revenue for every 100 patients," but the study showed that "it would cost the plans an additional $24,000 in hospital costs in one year," the Boston Globe (1/27, Cooney) "White Coat Notes" blog reported.
The St. Petersburg Times (1/28, Martin) reports that the study concluded that "increasing the patient's share of the cost...may not reduce (or may even increase) total healthcare spending and may result in worse health outcomes." Experts noted that seniors "are more likely to have fixed incomes and to rely on market-vulnerable investment income." Experts also said that seniors "tend to suffer from chronic conditions that require constant medical care."
The Cost of Heathy Food Choices
High cost of healthy eating said to be problematic for parents.
In a column in the Washington Post (1/29), Petula Dvorak writes about attempting to strike a balance between the "intimidating" holistic foods movement -- vis-à-vis providing for children -- and the more prevalent "fast food culture," noting that the extreme end of the health food spectrum takes significant time, effort and financial resources. Dvorak explores the options for working parents of limited means attempting to prevent obesity in their children, mentioning Michelle Obama's efforts to promote healthy eating.
In a column in the Washington Post (1/29), Petula Dvorak writes about attempting to strike a balance between the "intimidating" holistic foods movement -- vis-à-vis providing for children -- and the more prevalent "fast food culture," noting that the extreme end of the health food spectrum takes significant time, effort and financial resources. Dvorak explores the options for working parents of limited means attempting to prevent obesity in their children, mentioning Michelle Obama's efforts to promote healthy eating.
Genetic Testing Before Conception
Genetic test said to predict risk of having children afflicted with wide-range of inherited diseases.
On the front page of its Business Day section, the New York Times (1/29, B1, Pollack) reports that Counsyl is "selling a test that it says can tell couples whether they are at risk of having children with a range of inherited diseases, including cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs, spinal muscular atrophy, sickle cell disease and Pompe disease." Indeed, the idea is not novel, but other current tests focus on "certain ethnic groups" and a limited number of diseases, costing consumers "hundreds or even thousands of dollars." But the Universal Genetic Test "costs $349 for an individual or $698 for a couple." Some, however, say "that it is too soon to know how accurate Counsyl's test actually is, in part because neither the company nor any outside reviewer has published papers on its approach and results."
On the front page of its Business Day section, the New York Times (1/29, B1, Pollack) reports that Counsyl is "selling a test that it says can tell couples whether they are at risk of having children with a range of inherited diseases, including cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs, spinal muscular atrophy, sickle cell disease and Pompe disease." Indeed, the idea is not novel, but other current tests focus on "certain ethnic groups" and a limited number of diseases, costing consumers "hundreds or even thousands of dollars." But the Universal Genetic Test "costs $349 for an individual or $698 for a couple." Some, however, say "that it is too soon to know how accurate Counsyl's test actually is, in part because neither the company nor any outside reviewer has published papers on its approach and results."
Vitamin D and Asthma
Low levels of vitamin D may be linked to greater asthma severity.
The Los Angeles Times (1/28, Roan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that researchers at the National Jewish Health in Denver found that "adult asthma patients with the highest levels of vitamin D in their blood had better lung function compared with people with the lowest levels" in a study appearing in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.
"For every 1-ng/mL increase in serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D), forced one-second expiratory volume (FEV1) increased by 21 mL," MedPage Today (1/28, Gever) reported. The 54-patient study "also showed that airway hyperreactivity in those with serum 25-OH-D levels below 30 ng/mL -- defined as vitamin D insufficiency -- measured at almost twice the average levels seen in those with normal levels of 25-OH-D."
"Low vitamin D levels were also associated with a worse response to steroid therapy and increased production of the pro-inflammatory cytokine, TNF-alpha," HealthDay (1/28, Reinberg) reported. "This raises the possibility that low vitamin D levels are tied to increased inflammation of the airways." Nothing that the "heaviest participants had the lowest levels of vitamin D," the authors say that the "(lack of vitamin D) may be a factor linking" obesity and asthma.
WebMD (1/28, Warner) quotes lead investigator E. Rand Sutherland, MD, MPH, as saying, "The next question to answer is whether giving supplemental vitamin D will lead to clinical improvements in patients with asthma."
The Los Angeles Times (1/28, Roan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that researchers at the National Jewish Health in Denver found that "adult asthma patients with the highest levels of vitamin D in their blood had better lung function compared with people with the lowest levels" in a study appearing in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.
"For every 1-ng/mL increase in serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D), forced one-second expiratory volume (FEV1) increased by 21 mL," MedPage Today (1/28, Gever) reported. The 54-patient study "also showed that airway hyperreactivity in those with serum 25-OH-D levels below 30 ng/mL -- defined as vitamin D insufficiency -- measured at almost twice the average levels seen in those with normal levels of 25-OH-D."
"Low vitamin D levels were also associated with a worse response to steroid therapy and increased production of the pro-inflammatory cytokine, TNF-alpha," HealthDay (1/28, Reinberg) reported. "This raises the possibility that low vitamin D levels are tied to increased inflammation of the airways." Nothing that the "heaviest participants had the lowest levels of vitamin D," the authors say that the "(lack of vitamin D) may be a factor linking" obesity and asthma.
WebMD (1/28, Warner) quotes lead investigator E. Rand Sutherland, MD, MPH, as saying, "The next question to answer is whether giving supplemental vitamin D will lead to clinical improvements in patients with asthma."
Study Finds Overweight Adults May Live Longer
Overweight older adults may face lower risk of death.
The Los Angeles Times (1/28, Stein) "Booster Shots" blog reported that "a new study finds that" some "older people may be exempt from" the struggle to reduce one's waist line. After analyzing data on more than 9,000 individuals, researchers in Australia discovered that "men and women ages 70 to 75 had a lower mortality rate if they were overweight than if they were normal weight."
The "risk for death for overweight participants" was 13% lower "than for normal-weight participants," Medscape (1/28, Barclay) noted. The paper, appearing in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, also revealed that "across all levels of BMI, being sedentary doubled the mortality risk for women (HR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.79 - 2.41) but was associated with only a 28% greater risk for men (HR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.14 - 1.44)." The study authors said that "it may be time to reevaluate the system that determines who is overweight and obese," HealthDay (1/28, Dotinga) reported.
Along similar lines, Time (1/28, Song) points out that the new work "adds to the ongoing scientific debate over how to define ideal weight in adults and whether the widely used measure of weight categories -- body mass index (BMI), a measure of body fat based on a ratio of weight and height -- is equally useful for all age groups." AFP (1/28) and MedPage Today (1/28, Bankhead) also covered the study.
The Los Angeles Times (1/28, Stein) "Booster Shots" blog reported that "a new study finds that" some "older people may be exempt from" the struggle to reduce one's waist line. After analyzing data on more than 9,000 individuals, researchers in Australia discovered that "men and women ages 70 to 75 had a lower mortality rate if they were overweight than if they were normal weight."
The "risk for death for overweight participants" was 13% lower "than for normal-weight participants," Medscape (1/28, Barclay) noted. The paper, appearing in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, also revealed that "across all levels of BMI, being sedentary doubled the mortality risk for women (HR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.79 - 2.41) but was associated with only a 28% greater risk for men (HR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.14 - 1.44)." The study authors said that "it may be time to reevaluate the system that determines who is overweight and obese," HealthDay (1/28, Dotinga) reported.
Along similar lines, Time (1/28, Song) points out that the new work "adds to the ongoing scientific debate over how to define ideal weight in adults and whether the widely used measure of weight categories -- body mass index (BMI), a measure of body fat based on a ratio of weight and height -- is equally useful for all age groups." AFP (1/28) and MedPage Today (1/28, Bankhead) also covered the study.
Childhood Obesity Initiative
First Lady announces obesity initiative with Sebelius, Benjamin.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (1/29, Keefe) reports that, "as she prepares to formally launch a national campaign against childhood obesity in the next several weeks," First Lady Michelle Obama on Thursday said that "unless something is done to reduce childhood obesity, America's children are on track to live shorter lives than their parents for the first time in US history."
Also on Thursday, "Benjamin released a report that serves as an update to a 2001 surgeon general's report that was a call to action against obesity," the AP (1/29, Benac) notes in its coverage. Benjamin said, "Although we've made some strides since 2001...the number of Americans -- like me -- who are struggling with their weight and health conditions related to their weight, remains too high."
CQ HealthBeat (1/29, Norman) explains that Benjamin's report "outlined her 'vision for a healthy and fit nation.' Among its recommendations are creating healthy schools and work sites, better instruction on health from healthcare providers and improved individual choices when it comes to sugary or high-fat foods."
Reuters (1/29, Allen) reports that, as part of the obesity initiative, Sebelius explained that $650 million in funds from the economic stimulus package would go to programs to prevent obesity and to help people quit smoking.
Politico (1/29, Henderson) adds that "in Wednesday's State of the Union address, President Obama linked the first lady's efforts to healthcare reform, saying that she was starting a 'national movement to tackle the epidemic of childhood obesity and make our kids healthier.'" WJLA-TV Washington, DC (1/29, Gibson) also covers the story.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (1/29, Keefe) reports that, "as she prepares to formally launch a national campaign against childhood obesity in the next several weeks," First Lady Michelle Obama on Thursday said that "unless something is done to reduce childhood obesity, America's children are on track to live shorter lives than their parents for the first time in US history."
Also on Thursday, "Benjamin released a report that serves as an update to a 2001 surgeon general's report that was a call to action against obesity," the AP (1/29, Benac) notes in its coverage. Benjamin said, "Although we've made some strides since 2001...the number of Americans -- like me -- who are struggling with their weight and health conditions related to their weight, remains too high."
CQ HealthBeat (1/29, Norman) explains that Benjamin's report "outlined her 'vision for a healthy and fit nation.' Among its recommendations are creating healthy schools and work sites, better instruction on health from healthcare providers and improved individual choices when it comes to sugary or high-fat foods."
Reuters (1/29, Allen) reports that, as part of the obesity initiative, Sebelius explained that $650 million in funds from the economic stimulus package would go to programs to prevent obesity and to help people quit smoking.
Politico (1/29, Henderson) adds that "in Wednesday's State of the Union address, President Obama linked the first lady's efforts to healthcare reform, saying that she was starting a 'national movement to tackle the epidemic of childhood obesity and make our kids healthier.'" WJLA-TV Washington, DC (1/29, Gibson) also covers the story.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Migraines May Be Linked To Depression
Researchers explore genetic link between migraines, depression.
Time (1/20, Hamilton) reported that, according to a study published in Neurology, "there is a genetic predisposition by people with migraines to be depressed." In a study of "977 men and women from an extended family in the southwest of the Netherlands," Dutch researchers found that "about 25% of family members with migraines were depressed vs. just 12% of relatives without migraines." After adjusting for confounding factors, the investigators found that "overall, relatives with migraines are 1.4 times as likely to have migraine and depression together, rather than migraine alone," with "those suffering from migraine with aura" being "nearly twice as likely to suffer from depression."
Time (1/20, Hamilton) reported that, according to a study published in Neurology, "there is a genetic predisposition by people with migraines to be depressed." In a study of "977 men and women from an extended family in the southwest of the Netherlands," Dutch researchers found that "about 25% of family members with migraines were depressed vs. just 12% of relatives without migraines." After adjusting for confounding factors, the investigators found that "overall, relatives with migraines are 1.4 times as likely to have migraine and depression together, rather than migraine alone," with "those suffering from migraine with aura" being "nearly twice as likely to suffer from depression."
Michelle Obama Launches Obesity Initiative
First lady to launch anti-obesity initiative.
USA Today (1/21, Hellmich) reports that at a meeting of the US Conference of Mayors, "first lady Michelle Obama said Wednesday that she would launch a major initiative next month to combat" obesity in children, calling the condition "an epidemic and one of the greatest threats to America's health and economy." Her "initiative will involve the federal government working with local officials and leaders in the business and non-profit sectors...to provide more nutritious food in schools, allow more opportunities for kids to be physically active, and give more communities access to affordable, healthful food."
The Washington Post (1/21, Givhan) reports that the initiative is intended to emphasize that "better eating habits, improved nutrition and a more physically fit America do not have to come with a high price tag and all are imperative to this country's economy, its future productivity and the well-being of the next generation of children." The AP (1/20, Superville), the Chicago Tribune (1/20, Skiba), and Politico (1/20, Henderson) also covered this story.
USA Today (1/21, Hellmich) reports that at a meeting of the US Conference of Mayors, "first lady Michelle Obama said Wednesday that she would launch a major initiative next month to combat" obesity in children, calling the condition "an epidemic and one of the greatest threats to America's health and economy." Her "initiative will involve the federal government working with local officials and leaders in the business and non-profit sectors...to provide more nutritious food in schools, allow more opportunities for kids to be physically active, and give more communities access to affordable, healthful food."
The Washington Post (1/21, Givhan) reports that the initiative is intended to emphasize that "better eating habits, improved nutrition and a more physically fit America do not have to come with a high price tag and all are imperative to this country's economy, its future productivity and the well-being of the next generation of children." The AP (1/20, Superville), the Chicago Tribune (1/20, Skiba), and Politico (1/20, Henderson) also covered this story.
Alternative Medicine Opinion
Most medical students say Western medicine would benefit by incorporating CAM therapies.
The Los Angeles Times (1/20, Roan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that "future doctors appear much more open" to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). According to a study appearing in the journal Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, "three-quarters of [medical] students think conventional Western medicine would benefit by integrating more CAM therapies." Such treatments include "massage, herbal medicine, yoga, acupuncture, and meditation." But, researchers found "some hesitation," noting that "few students said they would recommend or use these treatments in their practice until more scientific evidence is gathered."
The Los Angeles Times (1/20, Roan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that "future doctors appear much more open" to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). According to a study appearing in the journal Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, "three-quarters of [medical] students think conventional Western medicine would benefit by integrating more CAM therapies." Such treatments include "massage, herbal medicine, yoga, acupuncture, and meditation." But, researchers found "some hesitation," noting that "few students said they would recommend or use these treatments in their practice until more scientific evidence is gathered."
Neglected Disease Research Funding
Novartis to boost funding for neglected diseases.
Bloomberg News (1/22, Bennett) reported, "Novartis AG wants to raise about $1 billion annually for 10 years to fund development of drugs against neglected illnesses including guinea-worm disease, malaria...tuberculosis," and "sleeping sickness, a malady spread by flies in Africa that can cause psychiatric disorders, seizures and death." Nearly "one billion people worldwide suffer from neglected diseases," but "between 1975 and 2004, only 1.3 percent of the 1,556 drugs approved were developed specifically for overlooked diseases." However, Paul Herrling, head of corporate research, said, "The Fund for Research and Development in Neglected Diseases would grant money to companies researching promising drugs against 10 neglected diseases."
Bloomberg News (1/22, Bennett) reported, "Novartis AG wants to raise about $1 billion annually for 10 years to fund development of drugs against neglected illnesses including guinea-worm disease, malaria...tuberculosis," and "sleeping sickness, a malady spread by flies in Africa that can cause psychiatric disorders, seizures and death." Nearly "one billion people worldwide suffer from neglected diseases," but "between 1975 and 2004, only 1.3 percent of the 1,556 drugs approved were developed specifically for overlooked diseases." However, Paul Herrling, head of corporate research, said, "The Fund for Research and Development in Neglected Diseases would grant money to companies researching promising drugs against 10 neglected diseases."
Counterfeit Alli Pills
FDA warns of "serious health risk" represented by counterfeit Alli pills.
On its website, CNN (1/24) reports Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, warned consumers last week that "counterfeit capsules of the diet drug Alli that are sold online can pose a serious health risk to some users." The counterfeit pills "contain excessive amounts of sibutramine, a prescription drug and controlled substance that can place people with cardiovascular disease at risk for higher blood pressure, heart attack or stroke." According to Woodcock, the FDA has received "about two dozen calls" from people complaining of heart palpitations, sleeplessness, anxiety, dry mouth, nausea and shakiness.
According to the Wall Street Journal (1/25, Dooren), FDA spokeswoman Elizabeth Miller said the agency is continuing to investigate the source of the fraudulent pills. In the meantime, drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline said they were "working closely with both the FDA and eBay to remove the fake product from auction sites" and to alert consumers about the discrepancies between the counterfeit and legitimate versions. Reuters (1/25, Richwine) and WTVY-TV Dothan, AL (1/25) also reported on this story.
On its website, CNN (1/24) reports Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, warned consumers last week that "counterfeit capsules of the diet drug Alli that are sold online can pose a serious health risk to some users." The counterfeit pills "contain excessive amounts of sibutramine, a prescription drug and controlled substance that can place people with cardiovascular disease at risk for higher blood pressure, heart attack or stroke." According to Woodcock, the FDA has received "about two dozen calls" from people complaining of heart palpitations, sleeplessness, anxiety, dry mouth, nausea and shakiness.
According to the Wall Street Journal (1/25, Dooren), FDA spokeswoman Elizabeth Miller said the agency is continuing to investigate the source of the fraudulent pills. In the meantime, drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline said they were "working closely with both the FDA and eBay to remove the fake product from auction sites" and to alert consumers about the discrepancies between the counterfeit and legitimate versions. Reuters (1/25, Richwine) and WTVY-TV Dothan, AL (1/25) also reported on this story.
New Drug for MS Patients
FDA approves dalfampridine to improve walking for patients with MS.
The AP (1/23, Perrone) reported that the FDA has approved Acorda Therapeutics' Ampyra (dalfampridine) "to improve walking in patients multiple sclerosis." Side effects "reported in clinical trials included: insomnia, urinary tract infections, dizziness, headache, nausea and throat pain, according to the FDA."
The Wall Street Journal (1/23, Dooren) pointed out that the FDA said the drug can cause seizures when given at higher than the recommended dose of 10 milligrams twice a day and shouldn't be used in patients with moderate to severe kidney disease.
Bloomberg News (1/22, Lopatto) noted that the drug also "helped MS patients achieve faster walking speeds in clinical trials than those who didn't receive it." Ampyra "may be combined with Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.'s Copaxone [glatiramer] or Biogen's Avonex [Interferon beta-1a], injectable therapies used to reduce relapses and prevent the disease from getting worse." AFP (1/25), CNN (1/25, Caruso), the Los Angeles Times (1/25, Dennis) "Booster Shots" blog, MedPage Today (1/22, Petrochko), WebMD (1/22, DeNoon), Medscape (1/22, Jeffrey) and Reuters (1/22) also covered the story.
The AP (1/23, Perrone) reported that the FDA has approved Acorda Therapeutics' Ampyra (dalfampridine) "to improve walking in patients multiple sclerosis." Side effects "reported in clinical trials included: insomnia, urinary tract infections, dizziness, headache, nausea and throat pain, according to the FDA."
The Wall Street Journal (1/23, Dooren) pointed out that the FDA said the drug can cause seizures when given at higher than the recommended dose of 10 milligrams twice a day and shouldn't be used in patients with moderate to severe kidney disease.
Bloomberg News (1/22, Lopatto) noted that the drug also "helped MS patients achieve faster walking speeds in clinical trials than those who didn't receive it." Ampyra "may be combined with Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.'s Copaxone [glatiramer] or Biogen's Avonex [Interferon beta-1a], injectable therapies used to reduce relapses and prevent the disease from getting worse." AFP (1/25), CNN (1/25, Caruso), the Los Angeles Times (1/25, Dennis) "Booster Shots" blog, MedPage Today (1/22, Petrochko), WebMD (1/22, DeNoon), Medscape (1/22, Jeffrey) and Reuters (1/22) also covered the story.
Teenagers and High Cholesterol
CDC study finds abnormal lipid levels in many US teens.
CQ HealthBeat (1/23, Reichard) reported that a CDC study released last week "found that one of every five American youths ages 12 through 19 had at least one abnormal lipid level, a major risk factor for America's leading killer, cardiovascular disease." The CDC "urged doctors to be aware of the guidelines issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics for screening for abnormal lipids." Ashleigh May, an analyst in CDC's Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, said, "The current epidemic of childhood obesity makes this a matter of significant and urgent concern."
ABC World News (1/23, story 6, 2:10, Berman) also noted the study, reporting, "In medical news, the CDC reports that 20 percent of all teenagers have unhealthy cholesterol levels. It's not all because of obesity. 14percent of teens with normal body weight have high cholesterol, too."
CQ HealthBeat (1/23, Reichard) reported that a CDC study released last week "found that one of every five American youths ages 12 through 19 had at least one abnormal lipid level, a major risk factor for America's leading killer, cardiovascular disease." The CDC "urged doctors to be aware of the guidelines issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics for screening for abnormal lipids." Ashleigh May, an analyst in CDC's Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, said, "The current epidemic of childhood obesity makes this a matter of significant and urgent concern."
ABC World News (1/23, story 6, 2:10, Berman) also noted the study, reporting, "In medical news, the CDC reports that 20 percent of all teenagers have unhealthy cholesterol levels. It's not all because of obesity. 14percent of teens with normal body weight have high cholesterol, too."
School Cafeteria Food and Obesity
School cafeteria food seen as possibly contributing to increasing rate of childhood obesity.
The New York Times (1/24, A27, Weintraub) reported, "Federal nutrition guidelines require subsidized school lunches to meet benchmarks on calories and fat, but they do not require that foods be whole, local, truly nutritious or good to eat. As a result, the standard cafeteria fare is doing little to curb the nation's rising rate of childhood obesity and might even be contributing to it." The Times profiles Kristin Richmond and Kirsten Tobey, the founders of Revolution Foods Inc., which "adopted higher standards than the government requires for school meal programs" and now "serves more than 30,000 lunches a day, mostly in low-income communities, and [is] still growing."
Psychologist argues obesity "epidemic" may be linked to increased use of psychiatric medicines. In an op-ed in the Boston Globe (1/24) Paula J. Caplan, a clinical and research psychologist at Harvard University, wrote that an "overlooked" primary cause of "America's obesity epidemic" is the increased use of psychiatric medicines, as many of them "cause weight gain -- often of the rapid and massive sort." Caplan suggests that this link is not well known possibly due to the power of the pharmaceutical industry or clinicians not knowing other treatments. Caplan argues against listing obesity as a mental illness, as it can be caused by "physical problems that are often undiagnosed." Caplan also says that doctors should "explore other non-drug ways to treat emotional problems."
The New York Times (1/24, A27, Weintraub) reported, "Federal nutrition guidelines require subsidized school lunches to meet benchmarks on calories and fat, but they do not require that foods be whole, local, truly nutritious or good to eat. As a result, the standard cafeteria fare is doing little to curb the nation's rising rate of childhood obesity and might even be contributing to it." The Times profiles Kristin Richmond and Kirsten Tobey, the founders of Revolution Foods Inc., which "adopted higher standards than the government requires for school meal programs" and now "serves more than 30,000 lunches a day, mostly in low-income communities, and [is] still growing."
Psychologist argues obesity "epidemic" may be linked to increased use of psychiatric medicines. In an op-ed in the Boston Globe (1/24) Paula J. Caplan, a clinical and research psychologist at Harvard University, wrote that an "overlooked" primary cause of "America's obesity epidemic" is the increased use of psychiatric medicines, as many of them "cause weight gain -- often of the rapid and massive sort." Caplan suggests that this link is not well known possibly due to the power of the pharmaceutical industry or clinicians not knowing other treatments. Caplan argues against listing obesity as a mental illness, as it can be caused by "physical problems that are often undiagnosed." Caplan also says that doctors should "explore other non-drug ways to treat emotional problems."
Breastfeeding and Body Mass Index
Breastfeeding decreased as BMI rose among white women in new study.
The Los Angeles Times (1/25, Stein) reported that "some very obese women may not breastfeed as much or for as long as their normal-weight counterparts." According to a paper appearing in Obesity, "a greater number of white women (67.2%) than black women (41.2%) initiated breastfeeding, and white women breastfed for longer periods compared with black women." Yet, "among white women, breastfeeding was highest among those who were normal weight and went down as their pre-pregnancy body mass indexes rose, with very obese white women having lower odds of beginning breastfeeding than normal-weight white women." However, "BMI was not a factor in beginning to breastfeed" among black women.
The Los Angeles Times (1/25, Stein) reported that "some very obese women may not breastfeed as much or for as long as their normal-weight counterparts." According to a paper appearing in Obesity, "a greater number of white women (67.2%) than black women (41.2%) initiated breastfeeding, and white women breastfed for longer periods compared with black women." Yet, "among white women, breastfeeding was highest among those who were normal weight and went down as their pre-pregnancy body mass indexes rose, with very obese white women having lower odds of beginning breastfeeding than normal-weight white women." However, "BMI was not a factor in beginning to breastfeed" among black women.
Driving and Text Messaging
Group launches campaign against distracted driving.
NBC Nightly News (1/24, story 6, 2:20, Holt) reported that although "19 states and DC ban texting while driving," and some "six states and DC ban driving while using a handheld cell phone," the "National Safety Council estimates 1.6 million accidents, or 28% of all crashes in 2008, were attributable to cell phones, both handheld and hands-free, and texting while driving, 6,000 deaths, half a million injuries." As a result, Mothers Against Drunk Driving has "launched Focus Driven," calling for a "total ban" across all states. Notably, the "Transportation Secretary says he's also for a total cell phone ban."
NBC Nightly News (1/24, story 6, 2:20, Holt) reported that although "19 states and DC ban texting while driving," and some "six states and DC ban driving while using a handheld cell phone," the "National Safety Council estimates 1.6 million accidents, or 28% of all crashes in 2008, were attributable to cell phones, both handheld and hands-free, and texting while driving, 6,000 deaths, half a million injuries." As a result, Mothers Against Drunk Driving has "launched Focus Driven," calling for a "total ban" across all states. Notably, the "Transportation Secretary says he's also for a total cell phone ban."
Financial Assistance Update
Nonprofit programs said to be offering financial assistance for specific medical conditions.
The Wall Street Journal (1/25, McQueen) said that a number of programs are being offered by nonprofit and charitable groups to provide financial aid to anyone who has been diagnosed with specific life-threatening or chronic diseases. The Journal spotlights the CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation, which now boasts seven different cancer diagnoses as being eligible for assistance. The program is said to reject less than 7% of applicants, with most of the rejections stemming from people who do not meet the income requirements.
The Wall Street Journal (1/25, McQueen) said that a number of programs are being offered by nonprofit and charitable groups to provide financial aid to anyone who has been diagnosed with specific life-threatening or chronic diseases. The Journal spotlights the CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation, which now boasts seven different cancer diagnoses as being eligible for assistance. The program is said to reject less than 7% of applicants, with most of the rejections stemming from people who do not meet the income requirements.
Drug Abuse in Massachusetts
Massachusetts urged to strengthen efforts against prescription-drug abuse.
The Boston Globe (1/25) editorializes East Boston's efforts to curb a "disproportionate abuse of OxyContin in the neighborhood" by visiting every house "with information on the prevention and treatment of drug abuse" does not go far enough. Massachusetts officials should "fix the inadequate Massachusetts Prescription Monitoring Program, which should be the best weapon against so-called 'doctor shopping' by addicts," according to the Globe. "Hospitals and medical schools must also be more mindful of their role in stopping sloppy prescribing practices." To that end the Globe suggests "lectures, case studies, and workshops" offered by the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
The Boston Globe (1/25) editorializes East Boston's efforts to curb a "disproportionate abuse of OxyContin in the neighborhood" by visiting every house "with information on the prevention and treatment of drug abuse" does not go far enough. Massachusetts officials should "fix the inadequate Massachusetts Prescription Monitoring Program, which should be the best weapon against so-called 'doctor shopping' by addicts," according to the Globe. "Hospitals and medical schools must also be more mindful of their role in stopping sloppy prescribing practices." To that end the Globe suggests "lectures, case studies, and workshops" offered by the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Hospice Care on the Rise in the US
Growing number of Americans choosing hospice care.
The Los Angeles Times (1/22, Aschwanden) reported, "Over the last 25 years, the number of Americans turning to hospice for end-of-life care has climbed dramatically -- from 25,000 in 1982 to 1.45 million in 2008, as more and more people choose to spend their final days in the comfort of home, or a patient facility with a home-like environment rather than in a hospital pursuing aggressive treatments." In addition, over the past 10 years, "Medicare reimbursements for hospice have also risen, allowing more hospices to open without relying on fundraising for survival, says Christy Whitney, chief executive of Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Colorado in Grand Junction." Still, experts say that the "decision to stop curative treatment and enter hospice is never easy, and it comes at a stressful time."
The Los Angeles Times (1/22, Aschwanden) reported, "Over the last 25 years, the number of Americans turning to hospice for end-of-life care has climbed dramatically -- from 25,000 in 1982 to 1.45 million in 2008, as more and more people choose to spend their final days in the comfort of home, or a patient facility with a home-like environment rather than in a hospital pursuing aggressive treatments." In addition, over the past 10 years, "Medicare reimbursements for hospice have also risen, allowing more hospices to open without relying on fundraising for survival, says Christy Whitney, chief executive of Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Colorado in Grand Junction." Still, experts say that the "decision to stop curative treatment and enter hospice is never easy, and it comes at a stressful time."
New Diabetes Drug
FDA approves liraglutide to treat type 2 diabetes.
The AP (1/26) reports that the FDA "on Monday approved Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk's once-daily injection for treating type 2 diabetes," called Victoza (liraglutide), "but said more safety studies are needed before it can be cleared as a first-line treatment for the disease." The FDA "said it approved the drug...to help lower blood sugar levels when coupled with diet, exercise and other diabetes medicines."
Dow Jones Newswire (1/26, Shwiff) notes that the FDA is requiring a study to evaluate the cardiovascular safety of the drug in a higher-risk population, as well as a five-year epidemiological study that will use a health claims database to gauge cancer risks and risks for low blood glucose levels, pancreatitis and allergic reactions. Reuters (1/26, Geller) and Bloomberg News (1/26, Cortez, Larkin) also cover the story.
The AP (1/26) reports that the FDA "on Monday approved Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk's once-daily injection for treating type 2 diabetes," called Victoza (liraglutide), "but said more safety studies are needed before it can be cleared as a first-line treatment for the disease." The FDA "said it approved the drug...to help lower blood sugar levels when coupled with diet, exercise and other diabetes medicines."
Dow Jones Newswire (1/26, Shwiff) notes that the FDA is requiring a study to evaluate the cardiovascular safety of the drug in a higher-risk population, as well as a five-year epidemiological study that will use a health claims database to gauge cancer risks and risks for low blood glucose levels, pancreatitis and allergic reactions. Reuters (1/26, Geller) and Bloomberg News (1/26, Cortez, Larkin) also cover the story.
New Colon Cancer Drug
Experimental colon cancer drug may delay progression, improve overall survival.
Dow Jones Newswire (1/25, Solsman) reported that, according to Keryx Biopharmaceuticals Inc., a midstage trial of patients with advanced colon cancer showed that its experimental cancer drug, KRX-0401, or perifosine, helped delay disease progression and improve overall survival. When given in combination with capecitabine, the drug also increased the percentage of participants with stable disease for two weeks or longer.
Reuters (1/25) reported, however, that patients also experienced a higher incidence of adverse events, including anemia and hand-foot syndrome.
Dow Jones Newswire (1/25, Solsman) reported that, according to Keryx Biopharmaceuticals Inc., a midstage trial of patients with advanced colon cancer showed that its experimental cancer drug, KRX-0401, or perifosine, helped delay disease progression and improve overall survival. When given in combination with capecitabine, the drug also increased the percentage of participants with stable disease for two weeks or longer.
Reuters (1/25) reported, however, that patients also experienced a higher incidence of adverse events, including anemia and hand-foot syndrome.
New York City Addresses Salt Intake
New York City launches effort to reduce sodium intake.
Following his high-profile efforts to initiate smoking bans and fight against obesity, the New York Times (1/26, D7, Brody) reports that New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg (I) is now calling "on restaurant chains and food producers to lower the amount of salt in their products by 25 percent over the next five years." Bloomberg hopes "to reduce the incidence of high blood pressure...strokes and kidney disease." If the plan proves successful, "other cities and states may follow New York's example, if for no other reason than to control rapidly rising public health costs." The health advocacy group Center for Science in the Public Interest has been urging the FDA for three decades to "regulate salt as a food additive that requires proof of safety for the amounts used."
Following his high-profile efforts to initiate smoking bans and fight against obesity, the New York Times (1/26, D7, Brody) reports that New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg (I) is now calling "on restaurant chains and food producers to lower the amount of salt in their products by 25 percent over the next five years." Bloomberg hopes "to reduce the incidence of high blood pressure...strokes and kidney disease." If the plan proves successful, "other cities and states may follow New York's example, if for no other reason than to control rapidly rising public health costs." The health advocacy group Center for Science in the Public Interest has been urging the FDA for three decades to "regulate salt as a food additive that requires proof of safety for the amounts used."
Vitamin Value Questioned
Benefits of multivitamins called into question.
The Washington Post (1/26, Butler) reports that despite the multitude of varieties of multivitamins available, there is "little evidence that any of these products actually result in better health." A study published last February in the Archives of Internal Medicine "tracked more than 161,000 post-menopausal women over eight years and found that multivitamins had no effect whatsoever in 10 health-related categories, from the rate of the most common cancers, heart attack and stroke to overall mortality." Myrtle McCulloch, a clinical assistant professor of nutrition at Georgetown University, says that without FDA regulation, "manufacturers don't have to prove their effectiveness," which "makes an independent stamp of approval from the nonprofit U.S. Pharmacopeia essential to guarantee a certain level of quality."
The Washington Post (1/26, Butler) reports that despite the multitude of varieties of multivitamins available, there is "little evidence that any of these products actually result in better health." A study published last February in the Archives of Internal Medicine "tracked more than 161,000 post-menopausal women over eight years and found that multivitamins had no effect whatsoever in 10 health-related categories, from the rate of the most common cancers, heart attack and stroke to overall mortality." Myrtle McCulloch, a clinical assistant professor of nutrition at Georgetown University, says that without FDA regulation, "manufacturers don't have to prove their effectiveness," which "makes an independent stamp of approval from the nonprofit U.S. Pharmacopeia essential to guarantee a certain level of quality."
Can High Blood Pressure Cause Dementia?
NIH study to look at hypertension-dementia link.
The AP (1/26, Neergaard) reports that "a flurry of new research" suggests that "controlling blood pressure just might be the best protection yet known against dementia." In fact, "the evidence is strong enough that the National Institutes of Health soon will begin enrolling thousands of hypertension sufferers in a major study to see if aggressive treatment...better protects not just their hearts but their brains." Participants in NIH's SPRINT study "will be screened for dementia, and a subset will undergo repeated cognitive testing and MRI scans to tell if lowering blood pressure also protects against a slide toward dementia."
The AP (1/26, Neergaard) reports that "a flurry of new research" suggests that "controlling blood pressure just might be the best protection yet known against dementia." In fact, "the evidence is strong enough that the National Institutes of Health soon will begin enrolling thousands of hypertension sufferers in a major study to see if aggressive treatment...better protects not just their hearts but their brains." Participants in NIH's SPRINT study "will be screened for dementia, and a subset will undergo repeated cognitive testing and MRI scans to tell if lowering blood pressure also protects against a slide toward dementia."
New Fungi Treatments
Advances seen in bug and fungi treatments.
The Washington Post (1/26, Hambleton) reports that lice, scabies, pinworm ringworm and fungi are very common and "can be contagious" amongst both grown-ups and children. Treatments for the bugs and fungi are said to have changed over the years, with the once common agricultural pesticide Lindane now being recommended by the FDA as "a choice of last resort because of its toxicity." Karen Franco, who picks lice nits out of hair professionally, recommends the benzyl alcohol product Ulesfia as an alternative, which "is supposed to paralyze the breathing pores of the lice so that they stay open, and the bugs succumb to the combination of oil and alcohol." As for getting rid of scabies, "most doctors will prescribe Elimite, a topical cream containing permethrin."
The Washington Post (1/26, Hambleton) reports that lice, scabies, pinworm ringworm and fungi are very common and "can be contagious" amongst both grown-ups and children. Treatments for the bugs and fungi are said to have changed over the years, with the once common agricultural pesticide Lindane now being recommended by the FDA as "a choice of last resort because of its toxicity." Karen Franco, who picks lice nits out of hair professionally, recommends the benzyl alcohol product Ulesfia as an alternative, which "is supposed to paralyze the breathing pores of the lice so that they stay open, and the bugs succumb to the combination of oil and alcohol." As for getting rid of scabies, "most doctors will prescribe Elimite, a topical cream containing permethrin."
Exercise Can Improve Cognitive Function
Study links exercise to increased cognitive function in older women.
The New York Times (1/26, D6, Rabin) reports that a new study from researchers in British Columbia has determined that "older women who did an hour or two of strength training exercises each week had improved cognitive function a year later." The study "randomly assigned 155 women ages 65 to 75 either to strength training with dumbbells and weight machines once or twice a week or to a comparison group doing balance and toning exercises," and found that the strength training group demonstrated "an enhanced ability to make decisions, resolve conflicts and focus on subjects without being distracted by competing stimuli."
The New York Times (1/26, D6, Rabin) reports that a new study from researchers in British Columbia has determined that "older women who did an hour or two of strength training exercises each week had improved cognitive function a year later." The study "randomly assigned 155 women ages 65 to 75 either to strength training with dumbbells and weight machines once or twice a week or to a comparison group doing balance and toning exercises," and found that the strength training group demonstrated "an enhanced ability to make decisions, resolve conflicts and focus on subjects without being distracted by competing stimuli."
"Normal Weight" Obesity
Normal weight obesity may affect many Americans.
The Wall Street Journal (1/26, Winslow) reports on normal weight obesity, a phenomenon when a person of normal weight has a high enough percentage of body fat to create heart risks. Dr. Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, and colleagues recently studied normal weight obesity, and estimate that up to 30 million Americans may fall into the category, most without realizing it.
The Wall Street Journal (1/26, Winslow) reports on normal weight obesity, a phenomenon when a person of normal weight has a high enough percentage of body fat to create heart risks. Dr. Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, and colleagues recently studied normal weight obesity, and estimate that up to 30 million Americans may fall into the category, most without realizing it.
Dietary Update for New Mothers
Study determines that food restrictions in maternity wards are often unnecessary.
The New York Times (1/26, D5, Rabin) reports that "a systematic review" of previous studies has determined that there is "no evidence" that the restrictions maternity wards place on women in labor not being allowed to eat or drink "have any benefit for most healthy women and their babies." The restrictions, which were originally put in place to reduce the risk of Mendelson's syndrome, are said to have become increasingly irrelevant as the use of general anesthesia during labor has decreased. However, "anesthesiologists were critical of the review, saying none of the studies were large enough to evaluate the impact of eating on risks during general anesthesia," and the authors "acknowledged that they found relatively little evidence to analyze."
The New York Times (1/26, D5, Rabin) reports that "a systematic review" of previous studies has determined that there is "no evidence" that the restrictions maternity wards place on women in labor not being allowed to eat or drink "have any benefit for most healthy women and their babies." The restrictions, which were originally put in place to reduce the risk of Mendelson's syndrome, are said to have become increasingly irrelevant as the use of general anesthesia during labor has decreased. However, "anesthesiologists were critical of the review, saying none of the studies were large enough to evaluate the impact of eating on risks during general anesthesia," and the authors "acknowledged that they found relatively little evidence to analyze."
Are Adults Still Healthy?
US health report finds percentage of Americans reporting excellent health declined since 1998.
The New York Times (1/26, D7, Bakalar) reports in "Vital Statistics" that a report (pdf) issued last month by the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) "on the health of Americans in the first half of 2009" contains "some good news," but "ample bad news, too." While "Americans report that they have been exercising more," the study found that the "percentage of people who reported having excellent or very good health declined to 66.6 percent in the 2009 period, from 69.1 percent in 1998." NCHS statistician Jeannine S. Schiller added, "Flu vaccines were up for people 18 to 49 years old, leisure-time activity was up, and the failure to attain needed medical care due to cost went up significantly in one year. ... Diabetes is also up over the short term."
The New York Times (1/26, D7, Bakalar) reports in "Vital Statistics" that a report (pdf) issued last month by the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) "on the health of Americans in the first half of 2009" contains "some good news," but "ample bad news, too." While "Americans report that they have been exercising more," the study found that the "percentage of people who reported having excellent or very good health declined to 66.6 percent in the 2009 period, from 69.1 percent in 1998." NCHS statistician Jeannine S. Schiller added, "Flu vaccines were up for people 18 to 49 years old, leisure-time activity was up, and the failure to attain needed medical care due to cost went up significantly in one year. ... Diabetes is also up over the short term."
Physician Volunteers to Haiti
The AMA/NDLS™ Disaster Volunteer Physician Registry provides an easy and convenient means to facilitate and coordinate the deployment of physicians who are willing to volunteer with federal and private sector response organizations. The information you provide will be used specifically for disaster response deployment to Haiti, but it may also be employed should future disasters occur around the world.
Remember, the health care infrastructure in Port-au-Prince and other areas affected by the Jan. 12 earthquake and subsequent aftershocks have suffered significant damage. This environment isn’t one that many of us have ever seen before. It’s physically challenging, austere and resource-constrained. Therefore, we must be self-sufficient and able to work independently.
Remember, the health care infrastructure in Port-au-Prince and other areas affected by the Jan. 12 earthquake and subsequent aftershocks have suffered significant damage. This environment isn’t one that many of us have ever seen before. It’s physically challenging, austere and resource-constrained. Therefore, we must be self-sufficient and able to work independently.
Morphine Approved for Chronic Pain
FDA approves morphine sulfate solution for opioid-tolerant patients.
The AP (1/26) reported that the FDA "says it has confirmed the safety of a widely-used formulation of morphine that was previously unapproved." Regulators "approved Roxane Laboratories' Morphine Sulfate oral solution for patients with moderate to severe chronic pain." The agency "issued warning letters to Roxane and eight other drugmakers" last March "ordering them to stop distributing their morphine drugs."
MedPage Today (1/26, Petrochko) reported that Roxane's drug "is indicated for opioid-tolerant patients with moderate-to-severe acute and chronic pain, as well as end-of-life care." Opioid-tolerant patients are those who use "60 mg of an opioid per day, Sharon Hertz, MD, deputy director of the Division of Anesthesia, Analgesics, and Rheumatoid Products at the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said." To gain approval, Roxane Laboratories "needed to establish a safety profile...to address the risks of morphine misuse, abuse, and overdose."
The AP (1/26) reported that the FDA "says it has confirmed the safety of a widely-used formulation of morphine that was previously unapproved." Regulators "approved Roxane Laboratories' Morphine Sulfate oral solution for patients with moderate to severe chronic pain." The agency "issued warning letters to Roxane and eight other drugmakers" last March "ordering them to stop distributing their morphine drugs."
MedPage Today (1/26, Petrochko) reported that Roxane's drug "is indicated for opioid-tolerant patients with moderate-to-severe acute and chronic pain, as well as end-of-life care." Opioid-tolerant patients are those who use "60 mg of an opioid per day, Sharon Hertz, MD, deputy director of the Division of Anesthesia, Analgesics, and Rheumatoid Products at the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said." To gain approval, Roxane Laboratories "needed to establish a safety profile...to address the risks of morphine misuse, abuse, and overdose."
Teen Pregnancy Update
New study finds dramatic increase in teen pregnancies.
An alarming analysis from the Guttmacher Institute regarding the rate of teen pregnancy received national attention yesterday, with a total of more than three minutes combined devoted to the subject on the nightly news broadcasts. ABC World News (1/26, story 5, 0:30, Sawyer) reported, "Teen pregnancies are on the rise again, after several years of decline." The teen pregnancy rate "rose 3% in 2006," which "means about 7% of American teenage girls got pregnant in that year." NBC Nightly News (1/16, story 7, 0:30, Williams) reported, "The rate was up among all ethnic groups with the rate for black and Hispanic teenagers significantly higher than for whites." The CBS Evening News (1/26, story 5, 2:15, Couric) interviewed researcher Lawrence Finer, who "blame[s] the uptick on sex education in the classroom or the lack of it." Finder notes that the increase occurred "at the same time that we've seen a substantial increase in funding for abstinence-only education programs." CBS also covered the story on their website.
Finer's claim was echoed by Heather Boonstra, a Guttmacher senior public policy associate. According to Time (1/27, Luscombe), Boonstra pointed to "a strong body of research" which demonstrated that "these programs do not work." She added that the "heyday of this failed experiment" had been defeated by "the enactment of a new teen pregnancy prevention initiative that ensures that programs will be age-appropriate, medically accurate and, most importantly, based on research demonstrating their effectiveness." However, as the Orange County Register (1/27, Hall) points out in their "Healthy Living" blog, the Senate version of the healthcare reform bill contains "$50 million a year for abstinence-only programs, a provision tucked in even after the Obama administration had hacked out funding for abstinence-only programs in favor of other teen pregnancy-prevention programs."
An alarming analysis from the Guttmacher Institute regarding the rate of teen pregnancy received national attention yesterday, with a total of more than three minutes combined devoted to the subject on the nightly news broadcasts. ABC World News (1/26, story 5, 0:30, Sawyer) reported, "Teen pregnancies are on the rise again, after several years of decline." The teen pregnancy rate "rose 3% in 2006," which "means about 7% of American teenage girls got pregnant in that year." NBC Nightly News (1/16, story 7, 0:30, Williams) reported, "The rate was up among all ethnic groups with the rate for black and Hispanic teenagers significantly higher than for whites." The CBS Evening News (1/26, story 5, 2:15, Couric) interviewed researcher Lawrence Finer, who "blame[s] the uptick on sex education in the classroom or the lack of it." Finder notes that the increase occurred "at the same time that we've seen a substantial increase in funding for abstinence-only education programs." CBS also covered the story on their website.
Finer's claim was echoed by Heather Boonstra, a Guttmacher senior public policy associate. According to Time (1/27, Luscombe), Boonstra pointed to "a strong body of research" which demonstrated that "these programs do not work." She added that the "heyday of this failed experiment" had been defeated by "the enactment of a new teen pregnancy prevention initiative that ensures that programs will be age-appropriate, medically accurate and, most importantly, based on research demonstrating their effectiveness." However, as the Orange County Register (1/27, Hall) points out in their "Healthy Living" blog, the Senate version of the healthcare reform bill contains "$50 million a year for abstinence-only programs, a provision tucked in even after the Obama administration had hacked out funding for abstinence-only programs in favor of other teen pregnancy-prevention programs."
Sunday, January 24, 2010
New Hope for Hearing Loss
GenVec teams with Novartis to develop hearing-loss product.
The Washington Post (1/20, Musgrove) reports Maryland-based drugmaker GenVec "announced Tuesday that it has inked a deal with Swiss drugmaking giant Novartis to license its early-stage work aimed at reversing hearing loss." According to the agreement, "Novartis will acquire $2 million of GenVec's stock and will pay the biotech company an initial $5 million to take over research and development of a potential hearing-loss remedy." For now, the company is said to be focusing on its pancreatic cancer-treatment product TNFerade, which the FDA granted "orphan drug" status last November.
The Washington Post (1/20, Musgrove) reports Maryland-based drugmaker GenVec "announced Tuesday that it has inked a deal with Swiss drugmaking giant Novartis to license its early-stage work aimed at reversing hearing loss." According to the agreement, "Novartis will acquire $2 million of GenVec's stock and will pay the biotech company an initial $5 million to take over research and development of a potential hearing-loss remedy." For now, the company is said to be focusing on its pancreatic cancer-treatment product TNFerade, which the FDA granted "orphan drug" status last November.
Aging and Omega 3 Fatty Acids
High levels of omega-3 fatty acids may be linked to lower rate of biological aging.
The Los Angeles Times (1/19, Roan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that, according to findings appearing in the Journal of the American Medical Association, "people with heart disease who had high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood had a lower rate of shortening of telomere length -- a marker for aging -- compared with similar heart patients who had the lowest levels of omega-3 fatty acids."
The Wall Street Journal (1/20, Burton) reports that the study of 608 heart patients targeted marine omega-3, which is found in fish, rather than omega-3 fatty acids typically in certain vegetable sources. But, researchers did not differentiate between patients who ate meals with fatty fish and those who took fish-oil supplements.
The study showed that "as blood levels of omega-3 went up, the rate at which telomeres shortened decreased," HealthDay (1/19, Gardner) reported. Furthermore, "to the extent that" the rate of shortening of telomeres "is a marker of biological aging, the rate of biological aging went down."
WebMD (1/19, Doheny) reported, however, that the researchers remained uncertain over whether the "effect of omega-3 fatty acids on telomere length is present in those without coronary heart disease," suggesting that telomere shortening may occur in everyone.
The Los Angeles Times (1/19, Roan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that, according to findings appearing in the Journal of the American Medical Association, "people with heart disease who had high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood had a lower rate of shortening of telomere length -- a marker for aging -- compared with similar heart patients who had the lowest levels of omega-3 fatty acids."
The Wall Street Journal (1/20, Burton) reports that the study of 608 heart patients targeted marine omega-3, which is found in fish, rather than omega-3 fatty acids typically in certain vegetable sources. But, researchers did not differentiate between patients who ate meals with fatty fish and those who took fish-oil supplements.
The study showed that "as blood levels of omega-3 went up, the rate at which telomeres shortened decreased," HealthDay (1/19, Gardner) reported. Furthermore, "to the extent that" the rate of shortening of telomeres "is a marker of biological aging, the rate of biological aging went down."
WebMD (1/19, Doheny) reported, however, that the researchers remained uncertain over whether the "effect of omega-3 fatty acids on telomere length is present in those without coronary heart disease," suggesting that telomere shortening may occur in everyone.
Newspaper Questions Antidepressant Efficacy
Boston Globe urges doctors to pause before prescribing some treatments.
The Boston Globe (1/19) editorialized that a "surprising new analysis indicates that for some patients with mild and moderate depression, certain drugs work no better than placebos." While the study "remains controversial, it should give doctors pause not just about which treatments they order for depression, but also how they decide when to prescribe all manner of drugs."
The Boston Globe (1/19) editorialized that a "surprising new analysis indicates that for some patients with mild and moderate depression, certain drugs work no better than placebos." While the study "remains controversial, it should give doctors pause not just about which treatments they order for depression, but also how they decide when to prescribe all manner of drugs."
Disability Insurance
More workers purchasing disability insurance on their own.
The Wall Street Journal (1/20, Mathews) reports that more and more workers are purchasing disability insurance on their own since fewer employers are providing the benefit. Data show that only 48% of firms provided the benefit in 2009, compared to 59% in 2002. As a growing number of consumers purchases disability insurance, experts caution that the policies can be confusing, and urge workers to read the fine print carefully to ensure that certain conditions, such as mental illness, are covered.
The Wall Street Journal (1/20, Mathews) reports that more and more workers are purchasing disability insurance on their own since fewer employers are providing the benefit. Data show that only 48% of firms provided the benefit in 2009, compared to 59% in 2002. As a growing number of consumers purchases disability insurance, experts caution that the policies can be confusing, and urge workers to read the fine print carefully to ensure that certain conditions, such as mental illness, are covered.
Office Access in California
California rules limit HMO wait times.
The AP (1/20) reports that California is "poised to become the first state to set time limits for doctors to see patients" under regulations released by the state's Department of Managed Health Care. The rules will "require family practitioners in HMOs to see patients seeking an appointment within 10 business days." The deadline "for specialists is 15 days," and patients seeking "urgent care that does not require prior authorization" must be seen "within 48 hours." The NPR (1/20, Costello) "Planet Money" blog reports that "telephone calls to doctors' offices will have to be returned within 30 minutes, and physicians or other health professionals will have to be available 24 hours a day." The USA Today (1/20, Winter) "On Deadline" blog reports similar details.
The Los Angeles Times (1/20) reports that the new rules also stipulate that mental healthcare patients "must be treated within 10 business days." Additionally, "X-rays, lab tests, acupuncture and other ancillary services must be provided within 15" business days, and "urgent dental care must be provided within 72 hours," while "non-urgent dental services within 36" business days.
The new rules, reports the New York Times (1/20, A14, Archibold), are "meant as a big step toward speeding care for the state's 21-million HMO members, who often endure long waits for basic service."
On its website, KTLA-TV Los Angeles (1/20) reports that the regulations "have been in the works for much of the last decade. ... A 2002 state law mandated timely access to medical care, and the specifics were worked out in years of negotiations with doctors, hospitals, HMOs and consumer groups." Supporters say the new rules "will give patients better access to medical care, and will cut down unnecessary use of the emergency" department.
According to the Santa Rosa (CA) Press-Democrat (1/20, Espinoza), HMOs have "until Sept. 1 to come up with a plan for complying with the new rules. After that, they have until Jan. 17, 2011 to fully implement the new deadlines."
The AP (1/20) reports that California is "poised to become the first state to set time limits for doctors to see patients" under regulations released by the state's Department of Managed Health Care. The rules will "require family practitioners in HMOs to see patients seeking an appointment within 10 business days." The deadline "for specialists is 15 days," and patients seeking "urgent care that does not require prior authorization" must be seen "within 48 hours." The NPR (1/20, Costello) "Planet Money" blog reports that "telephone calls to doctors' offices will have to be returned within 30 minutes, and physicians or other health professionals will have to be available 24 hours a day." The USA Today (1/20, Winter) "On Deadline" blog reports similar details.
The Los Angeles Times (1/20) reports that the new rules also stipulate that mental healthcare patients "must be treated within 10 business days." Additionally, "X-rays, lab tests, acupuncture and other ancillary services must be provided within 15" business days, and "urgent dental care must be provided within 72 hours," while "non-urgent dental services within 36" business days.
The new rules, reports the New York Times (1/20, A14, Archibold), are "meant as a big step toward speeding care for the state's 21-million HMO members, who often endure long waits for basic service."
On its website, KTLA-TV Los Angeles (1/20) reports that the regulations "have been in the works for much of the last decade. ... A 2002 state law mandated timely access to medical care, and the specifics were worked out in years of negotiations with doctors, hospitals, HMOs and consumer groups." Supporters say the new rules "will give patients better access to medical care, and will cut down unnecessary use of the emergency" department.
According to the Santa Rosa (CA) Press-Democrat (1/20, Espinoza), HMOs have "until Sept. 1 to come up with a plan for complying with the new rules. After that, they have until Jan. 17, 2011 to fully implement the new deadlines."
Steroids in Dietary Supplements
Company pleads guilty to adding steroids in products marketed as dietary supplements.
The New York Times (1/21, B2, Schmidt, Singer) reports sports nutrition company VMG Global "pleaded guilty on Wednesday to selling products under the guise of dietary supplements that had been illegally spiked with steroids, according to court documents." The company "pleaded guilty to one charge of introducing unapproved drugs into interstate commerce with the intent to defraud and mislead, according to a plea agreement filed Wednesday." VMG Global "agreed to pay penalties of up to $500,000," and will "destroy its remaining inventory of the two products."
The New York Times (1/21, B2, Schmidt, Singer) reports sports nutrition company VMG Global "pleaded guilty on Wednesday to selling products under the guise of dietary supplements that had been illegally spiked with steroids, according to court documents." The company "pleaded guilty to one charge of introducing unapproved drugs into interstate commerce with the intent to defraud and mislead, according to a plea agreement filed Wednesday." VMG Global "agreed to pay penalties of up to $500,000," and will "destroy its remaining inventory of the two products."
Savella Update
FDA urged to ban sales of fibromyalgia treatment.
The AP (1/21, Perrone) reports the consumer advocacy group Public Citizen has asked the Food and Drug Administration "to pull Savella off the market, almost exactly a year after it was cleared to treat fibromyalgia." Savella, which is co-marketed by Forest Laboratories Inc. and Cypress Bioscience Inc., came under scrutiny after "company studies of the drug showed 20 percent of patients taking Savella had hypertension, or high blood pressure." The FDA is said to have already cleared two other fibromyalgia treatments.
Dow Jones Newswire (1/21, Shwiff) reports Public Citizen said the drug had already been rejected by European regulators who found the benefits to be "marginal." Sidney Wolfe, director of Public Citizen's Health Research Group, said the drug posed "serious safety risks that outweigh the benefits," according to Bloomberg News (1/21, Thomas).
The AP (1/21, Perrone) reports the consumer advocacy group Public Citizen has asked the Food and Drug Administration "to pull Savella off the market, almost exactly a year after it was cleared to treat fibromyalgia." Savella, which is co-marketed by Forest Laboratories Inc. and Cypress Bioscience Inc., came under scrutiny after "company studies of the drug showed 20 percent of patients taking Savella had hypertension, or high blood pressure." The FDA is said to have already cleared two other fibromyalgia treatments.
Dow Jones Newswire (1/21, Shwiff) reports Public Citizen said the drug had already been rejected by European regulators who found the benefits to be "marginal." Sidney Wolfe, director of Public Citizen's Health Research Group, said the drug posed "serious safety risks that outweigh the benefits," according to Bloomberg News (1/21, Thomas).
Anti Inflammatory Medications and Menstrual Cramps
NSAIDS may be more effective than acetaminophen for dysmenorrhea.
The Los Angeles Times (1/20, Dennis) "Booster Shots" blog reported that investigators at the Cochrane Library analyzed studies "on pain relief for dysmenorrhea," concluding that "non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) seem to be more effective at controlling such pain than paracetamol, known by most North Americans as acetaminophen."
Medscape (1/20, Barclay) reported that the study, based "on 73 randomized controlled trials meeting selection criteria," also found that "NSAIDs were significantly more effective for pain relief than placebo among women with primary dysmenorrhea," but were also "associated with significantly more overall adverse effects than placebo." In addition, the comparison "of various NSAIDs vs. other NSAIDs showed limited evidence that any individual NSAID was superior for either pain relief or safety."
The Los Angeles Times (1/20, Dennis) "Booster Shots" blog reported that investigators at the Cochrane Library analyzed studies "on pain relief for dysmenorrhea," concluding that "non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) seem to be more effective at controlling such pain than paracetamol, known by most North Americans as acetaminophen."
Medscape (1/20, Barclay) reported that the study, based "on 73 randomized controlled trials meeting selection criteria," also found that "NSAIDs were significantly more effective for pain relief than placebo among women with primary dysmenorrhea," but were also "associated with significantly more overall adverse effects than placebo." In addition, the comparison "of various NSAIDs vs. other NSAIDs showed limited evidence that any individual NSAID was superior for either pain relief or safety."
MS Oral Medication
Two oral MS treatments show promise, adverse side effects in studies.
The AP (1/21, Stobbe) reports, "Tests of the first two oral drugs developed for treating multiple sclerosis show that both cut the frequency of relapses and may slow progression of the disease, but with side effects that could pose a tough decision for patients." The studies testing Merck Serono's Cladribine (leustatin) and Novartis' Fingolimod (FTY720) "found that patients on the pills were about half as likely to suffer relapses of symptoms as those who took dummy pills or a commonly prescribed shot for MS." Still, "both drugs significantly lowered immune defenses that allowed latent herpes viruses to rage in some patients -- in one study, two people died of unchecked herpes infections."
The AP (1/21, Stobbe) reports, "Tests of the first two oral drugs developed for treating multiple sclerosis show that both cut the frequency of relapses and may slow progression of the disease, but with side effects that could pose a tough decision for patients." The studies testing Merck Serono's Cladribine (leustatin) and Novartis' Fingolimod (FTY720) "found that patients on the pills were about half as likely to suffer relapses of symptoms as those who took dummy pills or a commonly prescribed shot for MS." Still, "both drugs significantly lowered immune defenses that allowed latent herpes viruses to rage in some patients -- in one study, two people died of unchecked herpes infections."
H1N1 and Teens
New study suggests teenagers are most at risk from H1N1.
Bloomberg News (1/21, Gale) reports a recent study has supported the World Health Organization's July analysis that "the median age of those infected with the H1N1 virus is 12 to 17 years." The study, which "analyzed antibody levels in blood-serum samples collated by a Health Protection Agency program in August-September and in 2008 across England in six age groups," determined that children younger than 15 were the group "most likely" to have been infected with the swine flu. The finding also means that "ten times as many children in London probably caught swine flu as doctors' records suggest."
Bloomberg News (1/21, Gale) reports a recent study has supported the World Health Organization's July analysis that "the median age of those infected with the H1N1 virus is 12 to 17 years." The study, which "analyzed antibody levels in blood-serum samples collated by a Health Protection Agency program in August-September and in 2008 across England in six age groups," determined that children younger than 15 were the group "most likely" to have been infected with the swine flu. The finding also means that "ten times as many children in London probably caught swine flu as doctors' records suggest."
Anti Obesity from the White House
First lady to launch anti-obesity initiative.
USA Today (1/21, Hellmich) reports that at a meeting of the US Conference of Mayors, "first lady Michelle Obama said Wednesday that she would launch a major initiative next month to combat" obesity in children, calling the condition "an epidemic and one of the greatest threats to America's health and economy." Her "initiative will involve the federal government working with local officials and leaders in the business and non-profit sectors...to provide more nutritious food in schools, allow more opportunities for kids to be physically active, and give more communities access to affordable, healthful food."
The Washington Post (1/21, Givhan) reports that the initiative is intended to emphasize that "better eating habits, improved nutrition and a more physically fit America do not have to come with a high price tag and all are imperative to this country's economy, its future productivity and the well-being of the next generation of children." The AP (1/20, Superville), the Chicago Tribune (1/20, Skiba), and Politico (1/20, Henderson) also covered this story.
USA Today (1/21, Hellmich) reports that at a meeting of the US Conference of Mayors, "first lady Michelle Obama said Wednesday that she would launch a major initiative next month to combat" obesity in children, calling the condition "an epidemic and one of the greatest threats to America's health and economy." Her "initiative will involve the federal government working with local officials and leaders in the business and non-profit sectors...to provide more nutritious food in schools, allow more opportunities for kids to be physically active, and give more communities access to affordable, healthful food."
The Washington Post (1/21, Givhan) reports that the initiative is intended to emphasize that "better eating habits, improved nutrition and a more physically fit America do not have to come with a high price tag and all are imperative to this country's economy, its future productivity and the well-being of the next generation of children." The AP (1/20, Superville), the Chicago Tribune (1/20, Skiba), and Politico (1/20, Henderson) also covered this story.
Low Salt Diet and Heart Disease
Lower salt consumption may cut cases of heart disease, stroke.
ABC World News (1/20, story 9, 0:30, Sawyer) reported that "new research says" cutting salt consumption to "no more than one rounded teaspoon...every day in everything" would "prevent up to 120,000 heart disease cases, 66,000 strokes and save 92,000 lives in this country every single year."
The New York Times (1/21, A18, Belluck) reports that for the study, appearing in the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers used "a computerized model that analyzed previous studies to estimate the benefits of salt reduction." They found that although "everyone would benefit from less salt...people at higher risk for heart problems -- blacks, people with hypertension, and people over 65 -- would benefit most."
The study showed that a national program to lower salt consumption could save between $10 billion and $24 billion in health costs each year, the Wall Street Journal (1/21, Wang) reports. The researchers noted that for each dollar spent on such a program, the federal government could save $6 to $12 in Medicare health expenditures, Reuters (1/21, Emery) reports.
Bloomberg News (1/20, Thomas) reported, "The researchers estimated that lowering daily salt intake by three grams would have health benefits at least as large as reducing smoking by 50 percent or using statin drugs to treat people with a low or intermediate risk for heart disease."
ABC World News (1/20, story 9, 0:30, Sawyer) reported that "new research says" cutting salt consumption to "no more than one rounded teaspoon...every day in everything" would "prevent up to 120,000 heart disease cases, 66,000 strokes and save 92,000 lives in this country every single year."
The New York Times (1/21, A18, Belluck) reports that for the study, appearing in the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers used "a computerized model that analyzed previous studies to estimate the benefits of salt reduction." They found that although "everyone would benefit from less salt...people at higher risk for heart problems -- blacks, people with hypertension, and people over 65 -- would benefit most."
The study showed that a national program to lower salt consumption could save between $10 billion and $24 billion in health costs each year, the Wall Street Journal (1/21, Wang) reports. The researchers noted that for each dollar spent on such a program, the federal government could save $6 to $12 in Medicare health expenditures, Reuters (1/21, Emery) reports.
Bloomberg News (1/20, Thomas) reported, "The researchers estimated that lowering daily salt intake by three grams would have health benefits at least as large as reducing smoking by 50 percent or using statin drugs to treat people with a low or intermediate risk for heart disease."
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Narcotic Overdose Risks
Higher prescribed doses of opioids may increase overdose risk.
Bloomberg News (1/19, Tirrell) reports that a paper published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reveals that "more doctors are prescribing oxycodone, morphine, and other opioid painkillers for back pain, arthritis, and headache." According to an accompanying editorial, written by A. Thomas McLellan, PhD, of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, "opioids are the most commonly prescribed class of medication in the US, with use of some such as methadone, increasing as much as 800 percent in the last 10 years." Aiming to understand the ramifications of that trend, researchers at the Seattle-based Group Health Research Institute "looked at pharmacy files for adults with chronic pain who had been given at least three opioid prescriptions over three months."
Bloomberg News (1/19, Tirrell) reports that a paper published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reveals that "more doctors are prescribing oxycodone, morphine, and other opioid painkillers for back pain, arthritis, and headache." According to an accompanying editorial, written by A. Thomas McLellan, PhD, of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, "opioids are the most commonly prescribed class of medication in the US, with use of some such as methadone, increasing as much as 800 percent in the last 10 years." Aiming to understand the ramifications of that trend, researchers at the Seattle-based Group Health Research Institute "looked at pharmacy files for adults with chronic pain who had been given at least three opioid prescriptions over three months."
Testosterone and Anti Aging
Testosterone, HGH treatments gaining popularity for anti-aging uses.
The Los Angeles Times (1/18, Worth) reported that "increasing numbers of men...are turning to testosterone and human growth hormone (HGH)" in an effort to "look younger, be healthier, and feel more vital later in life." Testosterone prescriptions in the US "jumped to 3.3 million" in 2008, from 64,800 in 1999. However, "it is unclear whether the issues associated with aging in men -- decreased sex drive, less energy, cognitive impairment, and reduced muscle mass -- are due to a decrease in testosterone or to other changes that come with aging," researchers say. The National Institute on Aging says more research is needed on testosterone treatment for most issues, and the institute "cautions against using growth hormone therapy for anti-aging purposes."
The Los Angeles Times (1/18, Worth) reported that "increasing numbers of men...are turning to testosterone and human growth hormone (HGH)" in an effort to "look younger, be healthier, and feel more vital later in life." Testosterone prescriptions in the US "jumped to 3.3 million" in 2008, from 64,800 in 1999. However, "it is unclear whether the issues associated with aging in men -- decreased sex drive, less energy, cognitive impairment, and reduced muscle mass -- are due to a decrease in testosterone or to other changes that come with aging," researchers say. The National Institute on Aging says more research is needed on testosterone treatment for most issues, and the institute "cautions against using growth hormone therapy for anti-aging purposes."
Controversial Autism Treatment
Industrial chemical promoted as alternative autism treatment.
The Chicago Tribune (1/17, Tsouderos) reported that an industrial chemical which was developed to help separate heavy metals from polluted soil and mining drainage "is being sold as a dietary supplement by a luminary in the world of alternative autism treatments." The supplement OSR#1 "is described on its website as an antioxidant not meant to treat any disease," although "the site lists pharmacies and doctors who sell it to parents of children with autism, and the compound has been promoted to parents on popular autism websites." The Tribune noted that the Food and Drug Administration said the manufacturer "had not submitted sufficient information" regarding the safety of the supplement.
The Chicago Tribune (1/17, Tsouderos) reported that an industrial chemical which was developed to help separate heavy metals from polluted soil and mining drainage "is being sold as a dietary supplement by a luminary in the world of alternative autism treatments." The supplement OSR#1 "is described on its website as an antioxidant not meant to treat any disease," although "the site lists pharmacies and doctors who sell it to parents of children with autism, and the compound has been promoted to parents on popular autism websites." The Tribune noted that the Food and Drug Administration said the manufacturer "had not submitted sufficient information" regarding the safety of the supplement.
Multiple Sclerosis Research
Researchers exploring ways to boost myelin production in patients with MS.
In the Wall Street Journal (1/18) Lab Journal column, Thomas Gryta and Jon Kamp wrote that in patients with multiple sclerosis, myelin, a substance that protects nerve fibers, is damaged by attacks from the immune system. Now, researchers are investigating ways to help patients create new myelin before the damage has advanced beyond repair. Patients' bodies typically regenerate the substance at a slower rate than the damage, and some researchers caution against unexpected side effects of artificially increasing myelin production.
In the Wall Street Journal (1/18) Lab Journal column, Thomas Gryta and Jon Kamp wrote that in patients with multiple sclerosis, myelin, a substance that protects nerve fibers, is damaged by attacks from the immune system. Now, researchers are investigating ways to help patients create new myelin before the damage has advanced beyond repair. Patients' bodies typically regenerate the substance at a slower rate than the damage, and some researchers caution against unexpected side effects of artificially increasing myelin production.
Women with Thinning Hair
Women with thinning hair should see dermatologist, columnist advises.
In the New York Times (1/16, B6) Patient Money column, Lesley Alderman discussed the causes of hair loss in women. Women worried about thinning hair should "see a dermatologist who specializes in hair loss right away" who "will take your medical history, run blood tests, and may even do a scalp biopsy" to determine "whether the hair loss is genetic, inflammatory, infectious, or due to an unusual physical or emotional shock to the system," according to dermatologist Marc Avram, MD. Dermatologists can also suggest appropriate treatments for women with "androgenetic alopecia, a hereditary condition that causes the hair follicles to get progressively thinner over the years."
In the New York Times (1/16, B6) Patient Money column, Lesley Alderman discussed the causes of hair loss in women. Women worried about thinning hair should "see a dermatologist who specializes in hair loss right away" who "will take your medical history, run blood tests, and may even do a scalp biopsy" to determine "whether the hair loss is genetic, inflammatory, infectious, or due to an unusual physical or emotional shock to the system," according to dermatologist Marc Avram, MD. Dermatologists can also suggest appropriate treatments for women with "androgenetic alopecia, a hereditary condition that causes the hair follicles to get progressively thinner over the years."
Strokes in Children
Stroke said to be sixth leading cause of death in infants, children.
In an article on the front of the New York Times (1/19, D1) Science Times section, Jonathan Dienst, a reporter with WNBC-TV in New York, discusses pediatric stroke and recounts his child's treatment for and recovery from stroke. Dienst writes that "stroke, by some estimates, is the sixth leading cause of death in infants and children." Some "experts say doctors and hospitals need to be far more aggressive in detecting and treating it." Dienst adds that "Dr. Rebecca N. Ichord, director of the pediatric stroke program at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia...said that while conditions like migraines and poisoning could cause similar symptoms, 'front-line providers need to have stroke on their radar screen as a possible cause of sudden neurologic illness in children.'"
In an article on the front of the New York Times (1/19, D1) Science Times section, Jonathan Dienst, a reporter with WNBC-TV in New York, discusses pediatric stroke and recounts his child's treatment for and recovery from stroke. Dienst writes that "stroke, by some estimates, is the sixth leading cause of death in infants and children." Some "experts say doctors and hospitals need to be far more aggressive in detecting and treating it." Dienst adds that "Dr. Rebecca N. Ichord, director of the pediatric stroke program at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia...said that while conditions like migraines and poisoning could cause similar symptoms, 'front-line providers need to have stroke on their radar screen as a possible cause of sudden neurologic illness in children.'"
Maintaining Weight Loss with a Supplement
Leptin may play role in weight-loss maintenance therapy.
Bloomberg News (1/19, Waters) reports that, according to a review published online Jan. 19 in the Annals of Internal Medicine, "synthetic versions of the hormone leptin...may yet hold promise for helping obese people keep off weight they manage to lose." In fact, "recent studies have shown bioengineered versions of the hormone may help people who have low levels of it, including those who have lost weight." And, "while most obese and overweight people aren't leptin deficient, the hormone may help them avoid regaining weight if they're able to lose some, said" the study authors.
Bloomberg News (1/19, Waters) reports that, according to a review published online Jan. 19 in the Annals of Internal Medicine, "synthetic versions of the hormone leptin...may yet hold promise for helping obese people keep off weight they manage to lose." In fact, "recent studies have shown bioengineered versions of the hormone may help people who have low levels of it, including those who have lost weight." And, "while most obese and overweight people aren't leptin deficient, the hormone may help them avoid regaining weight if they're able to lose some, said" the study authors.
Childhood Obesity Guidelines
US task force issues new guidelines to fight childhood obesity.
The AP (1/18, Tanner) reported that the US Preventive Services Task Force on Monday issued new guidelines that say "school-aged youngsters and teens should be screened for obesity and sent to intensive behavior treatment if they need to lose weight -- a move that could transform how doctors deal with overweight children." Task Force Chairman Dr. Ned Calonge said the recommendations showed what type of programs can work, but "not whether or not those services are currently available."
USA Today (1/18, Hellmich) added that the USPSTF reviewed "more than a dozen studies" and concluded that obese children "who participated in moderate to high-intensity weight-management programs (frequently with their parents) for 25 or more hours over a six-month period often had improvements in their weight." Reuters (1/19), the Los Angeles Times (1/18, Dennis) "Booster Shots" blog, and the Baltimore Sun (1/18, Brewington) also covered the story.
The AP (1/18, Tanner) reported that the US Preventive Services Task Force on Monday issued new guidelines that say "school-aged youngsters and teens should be screened for obesity and sent to intensive behavior treatment if they need to lose weight -- a move that could transform how doctors deal with overweight children." Task Force Chairman Dr. Ned Calonge said the recommendations showed what type of programs can work, but "not whether or not those services are currently available."
USA Today (1/18, Hellmich) added that the USPSTF reviewed "more than a dozen studies" and concluded that obese children "who participated in moderate to high-intensity weight-management programs (frequently with their parents) for 25 or more hours over a six-month period often had improvements in their weight." Reuters (1/19), the Los Angeles Times (1/18, Dennis) "Booster Shots" blog, and the Baltimore Sun (1/18, Brewington) also covered the story.
Gastric Bypass Prolongs Life
Gastric bypass may increase life expectancy for most patient subgroups.
The Los Angeles Times (1/18, Roan) "Booster Shots" blog reported, "Weight-loss surgery is becoming more popular, as reported earlier this month in the Los Angeles Times." Now, researchers at the University of Cincinnati say they have evidence "that the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks for many severely obese people." Specifically, "gastric bypass increases life expectancy for most patient subgroups," the team pointed out in their Archives of Surgery paper.
Using a mathematical model, the Cincinnati Enquirer (1/18, O'Farrell) reported, "researchers led by Daniel Schauer, an assistant professor of medicine at UC, found the surgery added three years to the life expectancy of the average morbidly obese gastric bypass patient -- a 42-year-old woman with a body mass index (BMI) of 45." A "44-year-old man with the same BMI would gain 2.6 years of life," HealthDay (1/18, Edelson) reported. "'The patients who benefit the most are younger patients who have a lower risk of dying from the surgery and a higher BMI,' Schauer said." Conversely, those "who benefit the least are older patients with a higher surgical risk because of a combination of age and comorbidities."
The Los Angeles Times (1/18, Roan) "Booster Shots" blog reported, "Weight-loss surgery is becoming more popular, as reported earlier this month in the Los Angeles Times." Now, researchers at the University of Cincinnati say they have evidence "that the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks for many severely obese people." Specifically, "gastric bypass increases life expectancy for most patient subgroups," the team pointed out in their Archives of Surgery paper.
Using a mathematical model, the Cincinnati Enquirer (1/18, O'Farrell) reported, "researchers led by Daniel Schauer, an assistant professor of medicine at UC, found the surgery added three years to the life expectancy of the average morbidly obese gastric bypass patient -- a 42-year-old woman with a body mass index (BMI) of 45." A "44-year-old man with the same BMI would gain 2.6 years of life," HealthDay (1/18, Edelson) reported. "'The patients who benefit the most are younger patients who have a lower risk of dying from the surgery and a higher BMI,' Schauer said." Conversely, those "who benefit the least are older patients with a higher surgical risk because of a combination of age and comorbidities."
Weight Loss Drug Caution
FDA says counterfeit version of Alli may harm consumers.
CNNMoney.com (1/18, Rooney) reported, "A counterfeit version of the over-the-counter weight-loss product Alli being marketed online could be harmful to dieters, the US Food and Drug Administration warned." The agency "said the counterfeit Alli was sold in 60 mg capsules as part of a 120 count refill kit." Alli manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline "said tests showed the falsely packaged and labeled products contained a controlled substance called sibutramine."
The Wall Street Journal (1/19, Dooren) reports that sibutramine is the active ingredient in Abbott Laboratories' prescription weight-loss treatment Meridia. The FDA said that "sibutramine...should not be used in certain patient populations or without physician oversight." Glaxo noted that while patients should take Alli three times a day, Meridia should only be taken once daily.
The agency said the fake products is missing a "'Lot' code on its cardboard packaging," MedPage Today (1/18, Petrochko) reported. In addition, the counterfeit has "an expiration date that includes month, day, and year...instead of month and year," and contains "plain foil inner seals as opposed to the genuine article's printed, 'SEALED for YOUR PROTECTION.'"
CNNMoney.com (1/18, Rooney) reported, "A counterfeit version of the over-the-counter weight-loss product Alli being marketed online could be harmful to dieters, the US Food and Drug Administration warned." The agency "said the counterfeit Alli was sold in 60 mg capsules as part of a 120 count refill kit." Alli manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline "said tests showed the falsely packaged and labeled products contained a controlled substance called sibutramine."
The Wall Street Journal (1/19, Dooren) reports that sibutramine is the active ingredient in Abbott Laboratories' prescription weight-loss treatment Meridia. The FDA said that "sibutramine...should not be used in certain patient populations or without physician oversight." Glaxo noted that while patients should take Alli three times a day, Meridia should only be taken once daily.
The agency said the fake products is missing a "'Lot' code on its cardboard packaging," MedPage Today (1/18, Petrochko) reported. In addition, the counterfeit has "an expiration date that includes month, day, and year...instead of month and year," and contains "plain foil inner seals as opposed to the genuine article's printed, 'SEALED for YOUR PROTECTION.'"
Skin Cream Controversy
Skin-lightening creams may cause severe side effects, dermatologists say.
On its front page, the New York Times (1/16, A1, Saint Louis) reported that across the US, dermatologists "are seeing women of Hispanic and African descent, among others, with severe side effects...from the misuse of skin-lightening creams, many with prescription-strength ingredients, which are sold in beauty shops and bodegas and online." Dermatologist Eliot F. Battle Jr., MD, noted that "he treats side effects from lightening creams 'not only containing corticosteroids, but mercury,'" throughout "the entire broad spectrum of women of color." While some "are seeking to lighten dark spots caused by acne" or melasma, other users "seek to lighten their entire face or large swatches of their body, a practice common in developing countries...as a way to elevate one's social standing."
On its front page, the New York Times (1/16, A1, Saint Louis) reported that across the US, dermatologists "are seeing women of Hispanic and African descent, among others, with severe side effects...from the misuse of skin-lightening creams, many with prescription-strength ingredients, which are sold in beauty shops and bodegas and online." Dermatologist Eliot F. Battle Jr., MD, noted that "he treats side effects from lightening creams 'not only containing corticosteroids, but mercury,'" throughout "the entire broad spectrum of women of color." While some "are seeking to lighten dark spots caused by acne" or melasma, other users "seek to lighten their entire face or large swatches of their body, a practice common in developing countries...as a way to elevate one's social standing."
Over the Counter Drug Recall
J&J issues recall of over-the-counter drugs.
The New York Times (1/17, Singer) reported that "McNeil Consumer Healthcare, a division of Johnson & Johnson, announced the recall of several hundred batches of popular over-the-counter medicines" after "receiving consumer complaints about moldy-smelling bottles of Tylenol Arthritis Relief caplets." According to a warning letter from the FDA, the move "came 20 months" after the company "began receiving the complaints." Consumers have since "also reported temporary digestive problems like nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain, the agency said."
The AP (1/18) reported that the recall "includes some batches of regular and extra-strength Tylenol, children's Tylenol, eight-hour Tylenol, Tylenol arthritis, Tylenol PM, children's Motrin, Motrin IB, Benadryl Rolaids, Simply Sleep, and St. Joseph's aspirin." The products include "caplet and geltab products sold in the Americas, the United Arab Emirates, and Fiji." The odor "is caused by small amounts of a chemical associated with the treatment of wooden pallets, [J&J] said."
CQ HealthBeat (1/16, Norman) reported that the FDA "criticized McNeil Consumer Healthcare for failing to act more quickly to expand" the recall following consumer complaints. The warning letter from the agency cited "multiple violations of current good manufacturing practice requirements, and said the company didn't report quality problems to the agency." The Wall Street Journal (1/16, Favole, Dooren) also covered the story.
The New York Times (1/17, Singer) reported that "McNeil Consumer Healthcare, a division of Johnson & Johnson, announced the recall of several hundred batches of popular over-the-counter medicines" after "receiving consumer complaints about moldy-smelling bottles of Tylenol Arthritis Relief caplets." According to a warning letter from the FDA, the move "came 20 months" after the company "began receiving the complaints." Consumers have since "also reported temporary digestive problems like nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain, the agency said."
The AP (1/18) reported that the recall "includes some batches of regular and extra-strength Tylenol, children's Tylenol, eight-hour Tylenol, Tylenol arthritis, Tylenol PM, children's Motrin, Motrin IB, Benadryl Rolaids, Simply Sleep, and St. Joseph's aspirin." The products include "caplet and geltab products sold in the Americas, the United Arab Emirates, and Fiji." The odor "is caused by small amounts of a chemical associated with the treatment of wooden pallets, [J&J] said."
CQ HealthBeat (1/16, Norman) reported that the FDA "criticized McNeil Consumer Healthcare for failing to act more quickly to expand" the recall following consumer complaints. The warning letter from the agency cited "multiple violations of current good manufacturing practice requirements, and said the company didn't report quality problems to the agency." The Wall Street Journal (1/16, Favole, Dooren) also covered the story.
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