Treating cramps with quinine associated with large number of adverse events.
The Los Angeles Times (2/23, Maugh) "Booster Shots" blog reported, "Surprisingly, there are no really good treatments for" cramps, which "can be an indicator of kidney or liver disease as well as neurological conditions...or complications of diabetes," according to "new guidelines issued Tuesday by the American Academy of Neurology in the journal Neurology." There is, however, one last resort "treatment that should be avoided" -- quinine. Research has suggested "that it can reduce the incidence and severity of cramps by one-third to one-half," however, "as many as one in 25 cases, quinine can produce serious adverse effects, including blood irregularities." The Food and Drug Administration also "warned against the use of quinine for treating cramps because of the large number of adverse event reports it had received."
Thursday, February 25, 2010
New Drug for Cystic Fibrosis
FDA clears drug to treat respiratory symptoms of cystic fibrosis.
The AP (2/24) reports that the Food and Drug Administration has approved for marketing Gilead Sciences, Inc.'s "drug Cayston [aztreonam for inhalation solution] as a treatment for respiratory symptoms of cystic fibrosis, the company said Tuesday." The company "said it plans to make the drug available by the end of next week."
The San Francisco Business Times (2/23, Leuty) reported that "Cayston, administered three times a day over a 28-day period, treats the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which causes mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive tract of cystic fibrosis patients," and which is also "the single greatest cause of death for CF patients."
The AP (2/24) reports that the Food and Drug Administration has approved for marketing Gilead Sciences, Inc.'s "drug Cayston [aztreonam for inhalation solution] as a treatment for respiratory symptoms of cystic fibrosis, the company said Tuesday." The company "said it plans to make the drug available by the end of next week."
The San Francisco Business Times (2/23, Leuty) reported that "Cayston, administered three times a day over a 28-day period, treats the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which causes mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive tract of cystic fibrosis patients," and which is also "the single greatest cause of death for CF patients."
More Flu?
WHO says H1N1 pandemic has yet to peak.
The AP (2/24) reports, "The World Health Organization says the swine flu pandemic still has not peaked" even though "cases have dropped dramatically in recent weeks in Western countries."
The "panel of experts convened" by the WHO "had been widely expected to say that the outbreak of pandemic H1N1 influenza had passed its peak and was now tailing off," the Los Angeles Times (2/23, Maugh) "Booster Shots" blog reported. The "experts cautioned, however, that the virus had only recently reached Africa and that another wave of illness is expected in the Southern Hemisphere in the next few months as fall and winter approach."
And "at the moment, it is still causing substantial outbreaks of disease outside the normal influenza seasons and affecting groups who are not normally affected by seasonal influenza," WHO spokesman "Gregory Hartl said by email," according to Reuters (2/23, Nebehay, Fox). "So as long as that continues, it does not behave like seasonal influenza," he added. What's more, the possibility of mutation still exists, and a number of scientists are concerned that H1N1 will partner up with H5N1. AFP (2/24) also covers the story.
The AP (2/24) reports, "The World Health Organization says the swine flu pandemic still has not peaked" even though "cases have dropped dramatically in recent weeks in Western countries."
The "panel of experts convened" by the WHO "had been widely expected to say that the outbreak of pandemic H1N1 influenza had passed its peak and was now tailing off," the Los Angeles Times (2/23, Maugh) "Booster Shots" blog reported. The "experts cautioned, however, that the virus had only recently reached Africa and that another wave of illness is expected in the Southern Hemisphere in the next few months as fall and winter approach."
And "at the moment, it is still causing substantial outbreaks of disease outside the normal influenza seasons and affecting groups who are not normally affected by seasonal influenza," WHO spokesman "Gregory Hartl said by email," according to Reuters (2/23, Nebehay, Fox). "So as long as that continues, it does not behave like seasonal influenza," he added. What's more, the possibility of mutation still exists, and a number of scientists are concerned that H1N1 will partner up with H5N1. AFP (2/24) also covers the story.
Autism Timeline
Signs of autism-spectrum disorders may appear in babies' first year.
The Los Angeles Times (2/23, Healy) "Booster Shots" blog reported that, according to a study of 50 babies published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, "the social disengagement that is the hallmark of autism-spectrum disorders begins to appear in the second half of a baby's first year of life," but "parents typically do not notice the decline in their child's behavior until well into his or her second year." An accompanying editorial "expressed surprise that so few parents of children who would go on to be diagnosed with autism observed the changes in their babies."
The Los Angeles Times (2/23, Healy) "Booster Shots" blog reported that, according to a study of 50 babies published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, "the social disengagement that is the hallmark of autism-spectrum disorders begins to appear in the second half of a baby's first year of life," but "parents typically do not notice the decline in their child's behavior until well into his or her second year." An accompanying editorial "expressed surprise that so few parents of children who would go on to be diagnosed with autism observed the changes in their babies."
Hospitalization and Dementia
Hospitalization associated with dementia in older adults.
The Los Angeles Times (2/23, Kaplan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that, in a study published Feb. 24 in the Journal of the American Medical Association examining "the records of 2,929 senior citizens," researchers found that those "who were hospitalized for a noncritical illness were 40% more likely to develop dementia than their counterparts who were never hospitalized."
"Seniors hospitalized for a critical illness, such as shock or needing a mechanical ventilator to breathe, were also found to be at higher risk of dementia," WebMD (2/23, Hendrick) reported.
HealthDay (2/23, Preidt) explained that even though reasons for the study's findings were unclear, one of the authors theorized that "factors associated with acute illness, and to a greater degree with critical illness, may be causally related to cognitive decline." For example, some of the "possible mechanisms through which critical illness could contribute to cognitive decline" include "hypoxemia (decreased partial pressure of oxygen in blood), delirium, low blood pressure, glucose dysregulation, inflammation, and sedative and analgesic medications, the report indicated."
The Los Angeles Times (2/23, Kaplan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that, in a study published Feb. 24 in the Journal of the American Medical Association examining "the records of 2,929 senior citizens," researchers found that those "who were hospitalized for a noncritical illness were 40% more likely to develop dementia than their counterparts who were never hospitalized."
"Seniors hospitalized for a critical illness, such as shock or needing a mechanical ventilator to breathe, were also found to be at higher risk of dementia," WebMD (2/23, Hendrick) reported.
HealthDay (2/23, Preidt) explained that even though reasons for the study's findings were unclear, one of the authors theorized that "factors associated with acute illness, and to a greater degree with critical illness, may be causally related to cognitive decline." For example, some of the "possible mechanisms through which critical illness could contribute to cognitive decline" include "hypoxemia (decreased partial pressure of oxygen in blood), delirium, low blood pressure, glucose dysregulation, inflammation, and sedative and analgesic medications, the report indicated."
New Meningitis Vaccine
FDA approves Novartis meningitis vaccine for teens, adults.
The AP (2/23) reports, "Novartis AG said Monday that its meningitis vaccine Menveo has been approved for use in teenagers and adults by the US Food and Drug Administration." Menveo "is a vaccine against four common types of bacterial meningitis," and the FDA "approved the drug for people between 11 and 55, Novartis said." Novartis also "said it is continuing clinical trials for the use of the vaccine in other age groups." MedPage Today (2/22, Petrochko) noted that the vaccine covers "disease serogroups -- A, C, Y, and W-135."
The AP (2/23) reports, "Novartis AG said Monday that its meningitis vaccine Menveo has been approved for use in teenagers and adults by the US Food and Drug Administration." Menveo "is a vaccine against four common types of bacterial meningitis," and the FDA "approved the drug for people between 11 and 55, Novartis said." Novartis also "said it is continuing clinical trials for the use of the vaccine in other age groups." MedPage Today (2/22, Petrochko) noted that the vaccine covers "disease serogroups -- A, C, Y, and W-135."
New Melanoma Drug
Trials of melanoma drug candidate said to be yielding "impressive" results.
In the second of three articles, the New York Times (2/23, A1, Harmon) reports on the trials for PLX4032, a genetically targeted drug for melanoma patients, in a front-page story. Dr. Keith Flaherty, University of Pennsylvania oncologist, sees "impressive" results in the Phase 1 trial, and sought FDA approval for a Phase 2 trial. "The trial of PLX4032 offers a glimpse at how doctors, patients and drug developers navigate a medical frontier as more drugs tailored to the genetic profile of a cancer are being widely tested on humans for the first time," according to the Times. In the trials, researchers find side effects at the 1,120-milligram dose, but at lower doses, patients seem to be improving.
In the second of three articles, the New York Times (2/23, A1, Harmon) reports on the trials for PLX4032, a genetically targeted drug for melanoma patients, in a front-page story. Dr. Keith Flaherty, University of Pennsylvania oncologist, sees "impressive" results in the Phase 1 trial, and sought FDA approval for a Phase 2 trial. "The trial of PLX4032 offers a glimpse at how doctors, patients and drug developers navigate a medical frontier as more drugs tailored to the genetic profile of a cancer are being widely tested on humans for the first time," according to the Times. In the trials, researchers find side effects at the 1,120-milligram dose, but at lower doses, patients seem to be improving.
Genetically Altered Mosquitoes?
Aiming to curb dengue fever, scientists breeding genetically altered mosquitoes.
The AP (2/23, Press) reports that a research team "led by Luke Alphey of the University of Oxford in England" is "studying ways to reduce the spread of dengue fever" using "genetic engineering that results in wingless female mosquitoes." In a report published "in Tuesday's edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences," researchers suggest that if female mosquitoes -- who "do the biting" -- are not able to fly, "they can't zoom in on their victims" and "would be expected to die quickly on the ground."
The AP (2/23, Press) reports that a research team "led by Luke Alphey of the University of Oxford in England" is "studying ways to reduce the spread of dengue fever" using "genetic engineering that results in wingless female mosquitoes." In a report published "in Tuesday's edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences," researchers suggest that if female mosquitoes -- who "do the biting" -- are not able to fly, "they can't zoom in on their victims" and "would be expected to die quickly on the ground."
H1N1 Returning?
CDC officials concerned H1N1 might make comeback.
The Washington Post (2/23, HE1, Brown) reports, "Even as officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are announcing that the epidemic of the H1N1 flu is no longer widespread in any state, no disease expert is willing to say there isn't a third -- or fourth -- wave of swine flu in the country's future. Anne M. Schuchat, "who is leading the government's response to the H1N1 pandemic at the CDC," said, "We are not at all out of the woods because the virus continues to circulate, but the chances of a very large additional wave are very hard to predict."
H1N1 may have infected at least 63 million Americans last year. Bloomberg News (2/23, Gale) reports, "Swine flu may have infected at least 63 million people in the US last year, according to" a University of Pittsburgh study appearing in PLoS Currents. "Blood tests on Pittsburgh residents found 45 percent of people aged 10 to 19 years had antibodies against the new H1N1 flu strain," and nearly "22 percent of people across all groups developed immunity to the virus by early December." In addition, "a quarter of those born in the 1920s may have already had protective antibodies before the pandemic resulting from prior flu infection," all of which suggests that "a fresh wave of swine flu infections isn't likely unless the virus mutates or people become more susceptible to infection."
FDA committee says 2010-2011 seasonal flu shot to include H1N1 protection. Bloomberg News (2/23, Randall) reports, "Protection against swine flu will be added to the 2010-2011 seasonal influenza vaccine, putting an end to separate shots deployed against the pandemic, according to a US Food and Drug Administration advisory committee." Because the "previous strain of H1N1 'most likely poses a low risk in the forthcoming Northern Hemisphere season,'" the CDC's Nancy Cox "said...at the panel hearing" that a "new strain of H1N1 will be added."
The Washington Post (2/23, HE1, Brown) reports, "Even as officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are announcing that the epidemic of the H1N1 flu is no longer widespread in any state, no disease expert is willing to say there isn't a third -- or fourth -- wave of swine flu in the country's future. Anne M. Schuchat, "who is leading the government's response to the H1N1 pandemic at the CDC," said, "We are not at all out of the woods because the virus continues to circulate, but the chances of a very large additional wave are very hard to predict."
H1N1 may have infected at least 63 million Americans last year. Bloomberg News (2/23, Gale) reports, "Swine flu may have infected at least 63 million people in the US last year, according to" a University of Pittsburgh study appearing in PLoS Currents. "Blood tests on Pittsburgh residents found 45 percent of people aged 10 to 19 years had antibodies against the new H1N1 flu strain," and nearly "22 percent of people across all groups developed immunity to the virus by early December." In addition, "a quarter of those born in the 1920s may have already had protective antibodies before the pandemic resulting from prior flu infection," all of which suggests that "a fresh wave of swine flu infections isn't likely unless the virus mutates or people become more susceptible to infection."
FDA committee says 2010-2011 seasonal flu shot to include H1N1 protection. Bloomberg News (2/23, Randall) reports, "Protection against swine flu will be added to the 2010-2011 seasonal influenza vaccine, putting an end to separate shots deployed against the pandemic, according to a US Food and Drug Administration advisory committee." Because the "previous strain of H1N1 'most likely poses a low risk in the forthcoming Northern Hemisphere season,'" the CDC's Nancy Cox "said...at the panel hearing" that a "new strain of H1N1 will be added."
Exercise and Anxiety
Exercise may help chronic illness sufferers feel less anxious.
The Los Angeles Times (2/22, Roan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that, according to a review published Feb. 22 in the Archives of Internal Medicine, regular exercise may help those who suffer from a chronic illness "feel much less anxious." After analyzing "data from 40 studies" on 3,000 sedentary participants "who had chronic illnesses, but were still able to exercise in sessions of at least 30 minutes," researchers found that "the people who exercised had a 20% reduction in anxiety symptoms" compared to those who did not exercise at all. Notably, "exercise helped people no matter what kind of health problem they had: cancer, depression, heart disease, fibromyalgia."
The Los Angeles Times (2/22, Roan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that, according to a review published Feb. 22 in the Archives of Internal Medicine, regular exercise may help those who suffer from a chronic illness "feel much less anxious." After analyzing "data from 40 studies" on 3,000 sedentary participants "who had chronic illnesses, but were still able to exercise in sessions of at least 30 minutes," researchers found that "the people who exercised had a 20% reduction in anxiety symptoms" compared to those who did not exercise at all. Notably, "exercise helped people no matter what kind of health problem they had: cancer, depression, heart disease, fibromyalgia."
Acupuncture and Depression in Pregnancy
Acupuncture may help improve depressive symptoms during pregnancy.
The Wall Street Journal (2/23, D3, Wang) reports that, according to a study published Feb. 22 in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology, acupuncture appears to improve depressive symptoms in expectant mothers. For the study, Stanford University researchers randomized 150 depressed pregnant women to receive acupuncture specifically intended to treat depression, general acupuncture, or massage therapy. After eight weeks, the investigators found that 63% of the pregnant women who received acupuncture specifically to treat depression had fewer depressive symptoms.
Specifically, "the study found that women treated with depression-specific acupuncture had a 63 percent response rate compared to a 44 percent response rate in women treated with control acupuncture or massage," HealthDay (2/22, Gordon) reported.
The Wall Street Journal (2/23, D3, Wang) reports that, according to a study published Feb. 22 in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology, acupuncture appears to improve depressive symptoms in expectant mothers. For the study, Stanford University researchers randomized 150 depressed pregnant women to receive acupuncture specifically intended to treat depression, general acupuncture, or massage therapy. After eight weeks, the investigators found that 63% of the pregnant women who received acupuncture specifically to treat depression had fewer depressive symptoms.
Specifically, "the study found that women treated with depression-specific acupuncture had a 63 percent response rate compared to a 44 percent response rate in women treated with control acupuncture or massage," HealthDay (2/22, Gordon) reported.
Hospital Infection Statistics
Hospital infections linked to 48,000 deaths in 2006.
The Los Angeles Times (2/22, Kaplan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that research "published in Monday's edition of Archives of Internal Medicine estimates that 48,000 people died in 2006 after developing sepsis or pneumonia during their hospital stays."
AFP (2/23) reports that "the two hospital-acquired infections...account for about one-third of the 1.7 million infections US patients pick up every year while in hospital, the study...shows." Furthermore, "they are...responsible for nearly half of the 99,000 deaths a year from hospital-acquired infections reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)." The researchers "found that patients who underwent invasive surgery during their initial hospitalization were more likely to pick up a secondary infection while in hospital, and elective surgery patients were at even higher risk of nosocomial infection." The Wall Street Journal (2/22, Landro) "Health Blog," Reuters (2/23), WebMD (2/22, DeNoon), and Healthcare IT News (2/22, Monegain) also covered the story.
The Los Angeles Times (2/22, Kaplan) "Booster Shots" blog reported that research "published in Monday's edition of Archives of Internal Medicine estimates that 48,000 people died in 2006 after developing sepsis or pneumonia during their hospital stays."
AFP (2/23) reports that "the two hospital-acquired infections...account for about one-third of the 1.7 million infections US patients pick up every year while in hospital, the study...shows." Furthermore, "they are...responsible for nearly half of the 99,000 deaths a year from hospital-acquired infections reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)." The researchers "found that patients who underwent invasive surgery during their initial hospitalization were more likely to pick up a secondary infection while in hospital, and elective surgery patients were at even higher risk of nosocomial infection." The Wall Street Journal (2/22, Landro) "Health Blog," Reuters (2/23), WebMD (2/22, DeNoon), and Healthcare IT News (2/22, Monegain) also covered the story.
More Avandia News
FDA to assess cardiovascular risks with Avandia in patients with diabetes.
ABC World News (2/22, story 9, 0:30, Sawyer) reported that "the FDA said it is reviewing" diabetes drug "Avandia [rosiglitazone] for possible risk of heart attack. Over the weekend, a Senate report said the drugmaker, GlaxoSmithKline, knew of the possible danger for years. One report raised a possible connection to 83,000 heart attacks between 1999 and 2007."
The Senate report also "concluded that [Glaxo] had threatened scientists who tried to point out Avandia's risks," the New York Times (2/23, D1, Harris) reports. In one instance, Dr. Steven E. Nissen, a cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic, met with "four company executives" after Nissen "conducted a landmark study that suggested...Avandia raised the risk of heart attacks." Nissen "said...that the executives hoped to persuade him not to publish his study by suggesting that they had contradictory information they would share with him in a joint study."
Still, the FDA "said...that for now, patients should not stop taking" Avandia, USA Today (2/23, Rubin) reports. The agency "said it was reviewing data received in August from...a large, long-term, company-funded study designed to assess Avandia's cardiovascular risks in patients with type 2 diabetes." An advisory panel is expected to meet in July. But, Endocrine Society president Robert Vigersky said that "everybody's best interest would be served" if the meeting were held sooner. Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said, "We feel that it is time for a thorough evaluation of all the cardiovascular risks with that drug."
The Wall Street Journal (2/23, Mundy, Favole) reports that Vigersky questioned the agency's delay in reviewing data that it received last year. Meanwhile, Woodcock said that although "some individuals within the FDA continued to believe...that the drug should be withdrawn," the agency lacks any "new information that raises additional alarm about the drug."
The Forbes (2/22, Mintz) "The Science Business" blog noted that the FDA is reviewing data from a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology that "showed that when giving Avandia to patients with class 1 and 2 heart failure," the drug "did not statistically increase the rates of heart failure, death, or heart attack."
The Senate report "also pointed out...that FDA safety officers are under the control of officials who approve new drugs," CQ HealthBeat (2/23, Reichard) reports. Grassley said, "It doesn't make any sense to have these experts, who study drugs after they have been on the market for several years, under the thumb of the officials who approved the drug in the first place and have a natural interest in defending that decision." Reuters (2/23, Richwine), HealthDay (2/23, Mundell), MedPage Today (2/22, Walker), and Dow Jones Newswire (2/23, Favole, Munday) also covered the story.
ABC World News (2/22, story 9, 0:30, Sawyer) reported that "the FDA said it is reviewing" diabetes drug "Avandia [rosiglitazone] for possible risk of heart attack. Over the weekend, a Senate report said the drugmaker, GlaxoSmithKline, knew of the possible danger for years. One report raised a possible connection to 83,000 heart attacks between 1999 and 2007."
The Senate report also "concluded that [Glaxo] had threatened scientists who tried to point out Avandia's risks," the New York Times (2/23, D1, Harris) reports. In one instance, Dr. Steven E. Nissen, a cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic, met with "four company executives" after Nissen "conducted a landmark study that suggested...Avandia raised the risk of heart attacks." Nissen "said...that the executives hoped to persuade him not to publish his study by suggesting that they had contradictory information they would share with him in a joint study."
Still, the FDA "said...that for now, patients should not stop taking" Avandia, USA Today (2/23, Rubin) reports. The agency "said it was reviewing data received in August from...a large, long-term, company-funded study designed to assess Avandia's cardiovascular risks in patients with type 2 diabetes." An advisory panel is expected to meet in July. But, Endocrine Society president Robert Vigersky said that "everybody's best interest would be served" if the meeting were held sooner. Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said, "We feel that it is time for a thorough evaluation of all the cardiovascular risks with that drug."
The Wall Street Journal (2/23, Mundy, Favole) reports that Vigersky questioned the agency's delay in reviewing data that it received last year. Meanwhile, Woodcock said that although "some individuals within the FDA continued to believe...that the drug should be withdrawn," the agency lacks any "new information that raises additional alarm about the drug."
The Forbes (2/22, Mintz) "The Science Business" blog noted that the FDA is reviewing data from a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology that "showed that when giving Avandia to patients with class 1 and 2 heart failure," the drug "did not statistically increase the rates of heart failure, death, or heart attack."
The Senate report "also pointed out...that FDA safety officers are under the control of officials who approve new drugs," CQ HealthBeat (2/23, Reichard) reports. Grassley said, "It doesn't make any sense to have these experts, who study drugs after they have been on the market for several years, under the thumb of the officials who approved the drug in the first place and have a natural interest in defending that decision." Reuters (2/23, Richwine), HealthDay (2/23, Mundell), MedPage Today (2/22, Walker), and Dow Jones Newswire (2/23, Favole, Munday) also covered the story.
Exercise Injuries
Injuries from exercise equipment, exercise games seen as common.
In the USA Today (2/22) Your Health column, Kim Painter observes, "People who hurt themselves with traditional exercise equipment or new exercise games" may "ignore or forget basic safety instructions or just plain overdo it." In the New England Journal of Medicine, British surgeon Karen Eley details "ways people have hurt themselves with the Nintendo" Wii Fit system. And, "in 2008, nearly 1,500 people found themselves in US emergency rooms after run-ins with treadmills, weights, elliptical machines, and other exercise equipment, according to the Consumer Products Safety Commission."
In the USA Today (2/22) Your Health column, Kim Painter observes, "People who hurt themselves with traditional exercise equipment or new exercise games" may "ignore or forget basic safety instructions or just plain overdo it." In the New England Journal of Medicine, British surgeon Karen Eley details "ways people have hurt themselves with the Nintendo" Wii Fit system. And, "in 2008, nearly 1,500 people found themselves in US emergency rooms after run-ins with treadmills, weights, elliptical machines, and other exercise equipment, according to the Consumer Products Safety Commission."
Chlamydia in Boys
Researchers say chlamydia screenings should also target boys.
The Washington Times (2/22, Wetzstein) reports that a study appearing in the Journal of Infectious Diseases by researchers at the Indiana University School of Medicine found that "screening all girls for chlamydia isn't enough; boys need to be treated too." Study author Dr. Byron Batteiger said, "If our goal is to reduce the prevalence of chlamydia in our young people...we're going to have to pay attention to finding and treating [their] partners." Researchers followed 400 teenage girls and found that chlamydia infection rates remained approximately the same despite regular screenings and treatment. "The reason for the persistently high prevalence rates was reinfection: Sixty-one girls acquired chlamydia a second time, and another 60 girls were reinfected three to nine times."
The Washington Times (2/22, Wetzstein) reports that a study appearing in the Journal of Infectious Diseases by researchers at the Indiana University School of Medicine found that "screening all girls for chlamydia isn't enough; boys need to be treated too." Study author Dr. Byron Batteiger said, "If our goal is to reduce the prevalence of chlamydia in our young people...we're going to have to pay attention to finding and treating [their] partners." Researchers followed 400 teenage girls and found that chlamydia infection rates remained approximately the same despite regular screenings and treatment. "The reason for the persistently high prevalence rates was reinfection: Sixty-one girls acquired chlamydia a second time, and another 60 girls were reinfected three to nine times."
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Update
New research finds no association between virus, chronic fatigue syndrome.
The Los Angeles Times (2/19, Maugh) "Booster Shots" blog reported that in October, researchers in Nevada "found a mouse virus called xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus, or XMRV, in blood from 68 of 101 patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, but in only eight of 218 healthy patients." Meanwhile, another group "reported that they found the virus in about a quarter of prostate cancer patients," and "it seemed science was moving toward finding a cause for the perplexing disorder."
But, in similar findings to another group of UK investigators, scientists at the London-based MRC National Institute for Medical Research "found no link between the condition and xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus," HealthDay (2/19, Dotinga) reported. "In a news release from" Retrovirology's publisher, the current study authors said their "tests were more sensitive than those used in the earlier research." They pointed out, however, that "chronic fatigue syndrome is probably made up of several diseases and may still be related to the virus."
The Los Angeles Times (2/19, Maugh) "Booster Shots" blog reported that in October, researchers in Nevada "found a mouse virus called xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus, or XMRV, in blood from 68 of 101 patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, but in only eight of 218 healthy patients." Meanwhile, another group "reported that they found the virus in about a quarter of prostate cancer patients," and "it seemed science was moving toward finding a cause for the perplexing disorder."
But, in similar findings to another group of UK investigators, scientists at the London-based MRC National Institute for Medical Research "found no link between the condition and xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus," HealthDay (2/19, Dotinga) reported. "In a news release from" Retrovirology's publisher, the current study authors said their "tests were more sensitive than those used in the earlier research." They pointed out, however, that "chronic fatigue syndrome is probably made up of several diseases and may still be related to the virus."
Music Therapy for Stroke Victims
Music therapy may help patients with impaired speech after stroke to communicate.
The Wall Street Journal (2/22, Wang) reports that at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, researchers reported that a treatment called melodic intonation therapy may help teach patients with impaired speech after a stroke to communicate. Patients learn to sing words while tapping a rhythm with their hands, and ultimately change their singing into speech.
The AP (2/21, Schmid) reported that the researchers said, "Music making is a multisensory experience, activating links to several parts of the brain." Nina Kraus, director of the Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory at Northwestern University, "reported that new studies show that musical training enhances the brain's ability to do other things," such as "detecting patterns in sounds."
The Wall Street Journal (2/22, Wang) reports that at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, researchers reported that a treatment called melodic intonation therapy may help teach patients with impaired speech after a stroke to communicate. Patients learn to sing words while tapping a rhythm with their hands, and ultimately change their singing into speech.
The AP (2/21, Schmid) reported that the researchers said, "Music making is a multisensory experience, activating links to several parts of the brain." Nina Kraus, director of the Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory at Northwestern University, "reported that new studies show that musical training enhances the brain's ability to do other things," such as "detecting patterns in sounds."
Pediatric Food Labels
Pediatrician group urges warning labels about choking for certain foods.
USA Today (2/22, Szabo) reports that "the American Academy of Pediatrics wants foods like hot dogs to come with a warning label -- not because of their nutritional risks, but because they pose a choking hazard to babies and children." USA Today adds, "Better yet, the academy would like to see foods such as hot dogs 'redesigned' so their size, shape, and texture make them less likely to lodge in a youngster's throat." Altogether, "more than 10,000 children under 14 go to the emergency room each year after choking on food, and up to 77 die, says the new policy statement, published online...in Pediatrics."
The AP (2/22, Tanner) reports that FDA "spokeswoman Rita Chappelle said the agency will review the academy's analysis and recommendations. She said the FDA also would continue consulting with the Consumer Product Safety Commission on assessing choking hazards associated with food and take action on a case-by-case basis."
USA Today (2/22, Szabo) reports that "the American Academy of Pediatrics wants foods like hot dogs to come with a warning label -- not because of their nutritional risks, but because they pose a choking hazard to babies and children." USA Today adds, "Better yet, the academy would like to see foods such as hot dogs 'redesigned' so their size, shape, and texture make them less likely to lodge in a youngster's throat." Altogether, "more than 10,000 children under 14 go to the emergency room each year after choking on food, and up to 77 die, says the new policy statement, published online...in Pediatrics."
The AP (2/22, Tanner) reports that FDA "spokeswoman Rita Chappelle said the agency will review the academy's analysis and recommendations. She said the FDA also would continue consulting with the Consumer Product Safety Commission on assessing choking hazards associated with food and take action on a case-by-case basis."
Avandia Update
Senate report links Avandia to increased risk of heart attacks, death.
In a front-page story, the New York Times (2/20, A1, Harris) reported, "Hundreds of people taking Avandia [rosiglitazone], a controversial diabetes medicine, needlessly suffer heart attacks and heart failure each month, according to confidential government reports." A Senate Finance Committee review cites internal FDA documents that highlight a dispute among regulators that "has been brewing for years but has been brought to a head by disagreement over a new clinical trial."
The Wall Street Journal (2/22, Mundy) reports that the Senate committee concluded that Glaxo was aware of the risks, but minimized the issue and attempted to suppress concerned physicians. The FDA's documents also indicate that agency scientists said the drug should be pulled from the market in 2008, but FDA chiefs rejected the recommendations. Now, agency commissioner Margaret Hamburg is expected to meet "with FDA scientists and outside experts to gain a full understanding...of all of the data and issues involved," a spokeswoman said.
The AP (2/21, Ortutay) reported that the Senate committee is asking the FDA "why it allowed a clinical trial of Avandia to continue even after the agency estimated that the drug caused 83,000 heart attacks between 1999 and 2007." Glaxo agreed to an FDA request for "a six-year study between its drug and" the Pfizer diabetes drug Actos [pioglitazone] "to give a definitive picture of Avandia's safety."
But, the FDA's internal documents showed that "safety officers...said that a medical trial comparing Avandia with Actos that was being planned would be 'unethical and exploitive' because it would expose patients to unwarranted risks," Bloomberg News (2/21, Waters) reported. Sens. Max Baucus (D-MT) and Charles Grassley (R-IA) sent a letter to Hamburg "asking what steps the agency was taking to protect patients in the...trial and demanded a response to their concerns by March 4."
CNN (2/21) reported, "The Senate committee investigation stems from concerns that Avandia and other high-profile drugs put 'public safety at risk because the FDA has been too cozy with drugmakers and has been regularly outmaneuvered by companies that have a financial interest in downplaying or under-exploring potential safety risks,' the report states." HealthDay (2/20, Mundell) and Reuters (2/21, Richwine) also cover the story.
In a front-page story, the New York Times (2/20, A1, Harris) reported, "Hundreds of people taking Avandia [rosiglitazone], a controversial diabetes medicine, needlessly suffer heart attacks and heart failure each month, according to confidential government reports." A Senate Finance Committee review cites internal FDA documents that highlight a dispute among regulators that "has been brewing for years but has been brought to a head by disagreement over a new clinical trial."
The Wall Street Journal (2/22, Mundy) reports that the Senate committee concluded that Glaxo was aware of the risks, but minimized the issue and attempted to suppress concerned physicians. The FDA's documents also indicate that agency scientists said the drug should be pulled from the market in 2008, but FDA chiefs rejected the recommendations. Now, agency commissioner Margaret Hamburg is expected to meet "with FDA scientists and outside experts to gain a full understanding...of all of the data and issues involved," a spokeswoman said.
The AP (2/21, Ortutay) reported that the Senate committee is asking the FDA "why it allowed a clinical trial of Avandia to continue even after the agency estimated that the drug caused 83,000 heart attacks between 1999 and 2007." Glaxo agreed to an FDA request for "a six-year study between its drug and" the Pfizer diabetes drug Actos [pioglitazone] "to give a definitive picture of Avandia's safety."
But, the FDA's internal documents showed that "safety officers...said that a medical trial comparing Avandia with Actos that was being planned would be 'unethical and exploitive' because it would expose patients to unwarranted risks," Bloomberg News (2/21, Waters) reported. Sens. Max Baucus (D-MT) and Charles Grassley (R-IA) sent a letter to Hamburg "asking what steps the agency was taking to protect patients in the...trial and demanded a response to their concerns by March 4."
CNN (2/21) reported, "The Senate committee investigation stems from concerns that Avandia and other high-profile drugs put 'public safety at risk because the FDA has been too cozy with drugmakers and has been regularly outmaneuvered by companies that have a financial interest in downplaying or under-exploring potential safety risks,' the report states." HealthDay (2/20, Mundell) and Reuters (2/21, Richwine) also cover the story.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Botox and Migraines
Botox may help prevent some types of migraines.
Bloomberg News (2/16, Ostrow) reports, "Allergan Inc.'s Botox [botulinum toxin type A], given in the doses used to reduce facial wrinkles, may stop certain kinds of migraines that patients describe as crushing or 'eye-popping' more than other types," according to research published in the Archives of Dermatology. The company "has filed for approval with the [FDA] to market Botox as a treatment for chronic migraines...said" a spokeswoman for Allergan.
HealthDay (2/15, Reinberg) reported that the study of 18 patients showed that 13 "saw a reduction in migraine pain," from "almost seven days a month to less than one day a month." Researchers speculated that Botox "may work by blocking pain receptors or reducing inflammation." MedPage Today (2/15, Bankhead) also covered the story.
Bloomberg News (2/16, Ostrow) reports, "Allergan Inc.'s Botox [botulinum toxin type A], given in the doses used to reduce facial wrinkles, may stop certain kinds of migraines that patients describe as crushing or 'eye-popping' more than other types," according to research published in the Archives of Dermatology. The company "has filed for approval with the [FDA] to market Botox as a treatment for chronic migraines...said" a spokeswoman for Allergan.
HealthDay (2/15, Reinberg) reported that the study of 18 patients showed that 13 "saw a reduction in migraine pain," from "almost seven days a month to less than one day a month." Researchers speculated that Botox "may work by blocking pain receptors or reducing inflammation." MedPage Today (2/15, Bankhead) also covered the story.
Does Metformin Smell?
Some patients stopped using metformin due to smell.
The New York Times (2/16, D6, Rabin) reports, "A report in this week's Annals of Internal Medicine says some patients have stopped using" metformin "because they think it smells like 'dead fish,' and pharmacists say they can identify it by its 'old locker-room sweat socks' odor." The authors of the report "said they hoped to raise awareness, and suggested offering patients extended-release forms of the drug, which are coated, or generic products that may agree with them more."
HealthDay (2/16, Gordon) adds that Bristol-Myers Squibb, "one of a number of companies that manufacture metformin," released a statement on metformin's odor, saying, "Bristol-Myers Squibb is aware that the inherent characteristics of metformin have been associated with a mild odor upon opening of the bottle, so these type of reports are not unexpected. It's important to note there has been no correlation between an odor and the efficacy of metformin." Reuters (2/16, Fox) also covered the story.
The New York Times (2/16, D6, Rabin) reports, "A report in this week's Annals of Internal Medicine says some patients have stopped using" metformin "because they think it smells like 'dead fish,' and pharmacists say they can identify it by its 'old locker-room sweat socks' odor." The authors of the report "said they hoped to raise awareness, and suggested offering patients extended-release forms of the drug, which are coated, or generic products that may agree with them more."
HealthDay (2/16, Gordon) adds that Bristol-Myers Squibb, "one of a number of companies that manufacture metformin," released a statement on metformin's odor, saying, "Bristol-Myers Squibb is aware that the inherent characteristics of metformin have been associated with a mild odor upon opening of the bottle, so these type of reports are not unexpected. It's important to note there has been no correlation between an odor and the efficacy of metformin." Reuters (2/16, Fox) also covered the story.
Asperger's and Oxytocin
Oxytocin may help people with Asperger's make eye contact, interact better with others.
The Washington Post (2/16, Stein) reports that "a nasal spray containing" oxytocin, "a hormone that is known to make women more maternal and men less shy apparently can help those with autism make eye contact and interact better with others, according to a" study published Feb. 15 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science.
"In the study, 13 subjects with Asperger's syndrome and a control group were quizzed about photos of human faces," the Los Angeles Times (2/16, Healy) reports. "Such images normally prompt Asperger's subjects to avert their gaze, especially avoiding the eyes." But, "for 90 minutes after inhaling oxytocin, those subjects were more willing to study faces, including the eyes."
HealthDay (2/15, Gardner) reported, "When observed playing a virtual ball game, individuals who had inhaled oxytocin were able to interact better with their virtual partners compared to untreated participants."
According to WebMD (2/15, Warner), previous studies have "found that children with autism have lower levels of oxytocin than children without autism."
The Washington Post (2/16, Stein) reports that "a nasal spray containing" oxytocin, "a hormone that is known to make women more maternal and men less shy apparently can help those with autism make eye contact and interact better with others, according to a" study published Feb. 15 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science.
"In the study, 13 subjects with Asperger's syndrome and a control group were quizzed about photos of human faces," the Los Angeles Times (2/16, Healy) reports. "Such images normally prompt Asperger's subjects to avert their gaze, especially avoiding the eyes." But, "for 90 minutes after inhaling oxytocin, those subjects were more willing to study faces, including the eyes."
HealthDay (2/15, Gardner) reported, "When observed playing a virtual ball game, individuals who had inhaled oxytocin were able to interact better with their virtual partners compared to untreated participants."
According to WebMD (2/15, Warner), previous studies have "found that children with autism have lower levels of oxytocin than children without autism."
18% of Americans Contracted H1N1
About 18% of Americans contracted H1N1.
The AP (2/12, Stobbe) reported that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday that the "cumulative impact" of the H1N1 virus "has grown to 57 million US illnesses, 257,000 hospitalizations and 11,690 deaths." The numbers, representing the first nine months of the pandemic, indicate "increases of about four percent from the CDC's last estimates, which covered the first eight months." The Washington Post (2/13, Brown) reported that "slightly more than 18 percent of the population" contracted H1N1 at some point during the nine-month period.
Beth Bell, associate director for science at the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Disease, told Bloomberg News (2/13, Randall), "The fact that there are young healthy people dying and being hospitalized at these rates, that's the important feature of this pandemic. ... There are still hospitalizations and deaths being reported. We have ample supply of vaccine, and this is a good time to get vaccinated."
The AP (2/12, Stobbe) reported that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday that the "cumulative impact" of the H1N1 virus "has grown to 57 million US illnesses, 257,000 hospitalizations and 11,690 deaths." The numbers, representing the first nine months of the pandemic, indicate "increases of about four percent from the CDC's last estimates, which covered the first eight months." The Washington Post (2/13, Brown) reported that "slightly more than 18 percent of the population" contracted H1N1 at some point during the nine-month period.
Beth Bell, associate director for science at the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Disease, told Bloomberg News (2/13, Randall), "The fact that there are young healthy people dying and being hospitalized at these rates, that's the important feature of this pandemic. ... There are still hospitalizations and deaths being reported. We have ample supply of vaccine, and this is a good time to get vaccinated."
Colon Cancer Screening Initiative
NIH panel seeks ways to increase colorectal cancer screening rates.
The AP (2/15, Neergaard) reported that the National Institutes of Health convened a panel of specialists to examine colorectal cancer screening programs at Kaiser Permanente and the Veterans Affairs health system "for clues to what might encourage more people to get screened." The panel found that "colonoscopies...now account for 80 percent of all screening," but it "concluded that people should pick the screening option best for their own needs and comfort," including "the new virtual colonoscopy, a new X-ray exam offered in only limited places." The panel also "urged eliminating financial barriers" to screening. While "Medicare pays for colorectal screening...for people 65 and older," the CDC is funding "free screening for low-income 50- to 64-year-olds" in 22 states.
The AP (2/15, Neergaard) reported that the National Institutes of Health convened a panel of specialists to examine colorectal cancer screening programs at Kaiser Permanente and the Veterans Affairs health system "for clues to what might encourage more people to get screened." The panel found that "colonoscopies...now account for 80 percent of all screening," but it "concluded that people should pick the screening option best for their own needs and comfort," including "the new virtual colonoscopy, a new X-ray exam offered in only limited places." The panel also "urged eliminating financial barriers" to screening. While "Medicare pays for colorectal screening...for people 65 and older," the CDC is funding "free screening for low-income 50- to 64-year-olds" in 22 states.
More Bad News for Smokers
Smoking may increase risk of recurrence in patients with HPV-linked oral cancers.
The Los Angeles Times (2/15, Maugh) "Booster Shots" blog reported that, according to findings appearing in the journal Clinical Cancer Research, "smokers who have an HPV-linked [oral] tumor are six times as likely to have a recurrence as those who have never smoked." In a study of "124 patients with advanced cancer of the tonsils or the base of the tongue," researchers found that "about two-thirds of the 102 patients with HPV-linked tumors were current or former tobacco users."
Pipes, cigars may increase risk for abnormal lung function. The New York Times (2/16, D6, Rabin) reports in Vital Signs that, according to a study published in Annals of Internal Medicine, "pipe and cigar smokers had more than double the risk for abnormal lung function that contributes to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], a leading cause of death -- even if they abstained from cigarettes." Meanwhile, "those who also smoked cigarettes were at more than triple the risk."
HealthDay (2/15, Edelson) reported, "The study results show clearly that cigar and pipe smokers are exposed to toxins and run the risk of developing" COPD. The researchers suggested that "physicians...consider pipe and cigar smoking a risk factor for [COPD] and counsel their patients to quit."
The Los Angeles Times (2/15, Maugh) "Booster Shots" blog reported that, according to findings appearing in the journal Clinical Cancer Research, "smokers who have an HPV-linked [oral] tumor are six times as likely to have a recurrence as those who have never smoked." In a study of "124 patients with advanced cancer of the tonsils or the base of the tongue," researchers found that "about two-thirds of the 102 patients with HPV-linked tumors were current or former tobacco users."
Pipes, cigars may increase risk for abnormal lung function. The New York Times (2/16, D6, Rabin) reports in Vital Signs that, according to a study published in Annals of Internal Medicine, "pipe and cigar smokers had more than double the risk for abnormal lung function that contributes to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], a leading cause of death -- even if they abstained from cigarettes." Meanwhile, "those who also smoked cigarettes were at more than triple the risk."
HealthDay (2/15, Edelson) reported, "The study results show clearly that cigar and pipe smokers are exposed to toxins and run the risk of developing" COPD. The researchers suggested that "physicians...consider pipe and cigar smoking a risk factor for [COPD] and counsel their patients to quit."
Is Your Food Safe?
Foodborne illnesses said to be on the rise.
In her "Informed Patient" column in the Wall Street Journal (2/16), Lauren Landro notes the numerous reports of foodborne illness outbreaks in the last few weeks. According to the FDA, the increase is likely due in part to better surveillance and improved detection measures, although lax safety standards in other countries and an increasing consumer demand for less-processed foods may also be to blame. Landro notes the pending food-safety legislation and quotes Sandra Eskin, director of the food safety campaign at the nonprofit Pew Charitable Trusts, who warns, "Without a modernized law there is only so much we can do as consumers to protect ourselves." The Wall Street Journal (2/16, Landro) also previews the column in its "Health Blog."
In her "Informed Patient" column in the Wall Street Journal (2/16), Lauren Landro notes the numerous reports of foodborne illness outbreaks in the last few weeks. According to the FDA, the increase is likely due in part to better surveillance and improved detection measures, although lax safety standards in other countries and an increasing consumer demand for less-processed foods may also be to blame. Landro notes the pending food-safety legislation and quotes Sandra Eskin, director of the food safety campaign at the nonprofit Pew Charitable Trusts, who warns, "Without a modernized law there is only so much we can do as consumers to protect ourselves." The Wall Street Journal (2/16, Landro) also previews the column in its "Health Blog."
Childhood Gastric Bypass?
Gastric bypass seen as next front in battle against childhood obesity.
The New York Times (2/16, D5, Beil) reports that even though gastric bypass "is still considered experimental for children, it is fast becoming the next front in the battle against pediatric obesity." According to Dr. Evan Nadler, of the Obesity Institute at Children's National Medical Center, "I honestly believe that in five to 10 years, you'll see as many children getting weight-loss procedures as adults." However, "many doctors say research has yet to establish whether immediate improvements from surgery justify altering a child's digestive system, probably for life." Meanwhile, experts continue to disagree whether bypass or banding is more suitable for children.
The New York Times (2/16, D5, Beil) reports that even though gastric bypass "is still considered experimental for children, it is fast becoming the next front in the battle against pediatric obesity." According to Dr. Evan Nadler, of the Obesity Institute at Children's National Medical Center, "I honestly believe that in five to 10 years, you'll see as many children getting weight-loss procedures as adults." However, "many doctors say research has yet to establish whether immediate improvements from surgery justify altering a child's digestive system, probably for life." Meanwhile, experts continue to disagree whether bypass or banding is more suitable for children.
Seniors and Sleep
New study examines sleep requirements of seniors.
In the USA Today (2/16) "Your Health" column, Kim Painter says that some researchers theorize that "healthy older people may need less sleep than younger people to feel alert during the day." According to a study conducted by the Surrey Sleep Research Centre and appearing in this month's "Sleep" journal, "older folks may get less sleep because they need less." Still, James Krainson, a sleep physician in Miami, warned that older people "should not assume that daytime sleepiness is a normal part of aging," as it "could be a sign that pain, illness, medication side effects or a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea, is interfering with sleep."
In the USA Today (2/16) "Your Health" column, Kim Painter says that some researchers theorize that "healthy older people may need less sleep than younger people to feel alert during the day." According to a study conducted by the Surrey Sleep Research Centre and appearing in this month's "Sleep" journal, "older folks may get less sleep because they need less." Still, James Krainson, a sleep physician in Miami, warned that older people "should not assume that daytime sleepiness is a normal part of aging," as it "could be a sign that pain, illness, medication side effects or a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea, is interfering with sleep."
Are Cities Healthy?
National survey says large cities are better for well-being.
USA Today (2/16, Page) reports that the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, a new study of Americans' attitudes, concludes that Boulder, CO, "is home to the happiest, healthiest people in the United States." The massive study, which is "based on interviews with more than 353,000 Americans during 2009, asked individuals to assess their jobs, finances, physical health, emotional state of mind, and communities." The study determined that "residents of large cities -- those with a population of one million or more -- generally report higher levels of well-being and more optimism about the future than those in small or medium-sized cities."
USA Today (2/16, Page) reports that the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, a new study of Americans' attitudes, concludes that Boulder, CO, "is home to the happiest, healthiest people in the United States." The massive study, which is "based on interviews with more than 353,000 Americans during 2009, asked individuals to assess their jobs, finances, physical health, emotional state of mind, and communities." The study determined that "residents of large cities -- those with a population of one million or more -- generally report higher levels of well-being and more optimism about the future than those in small or medium-sized cities."
Cell Phone Study Update
New study set to examine dangers of long-term cell phone usage.
The Washington Post (2/16, Donnelly) reports that the "long-awaited" Interphone study from the International Agency for Cancer Research "will attempt to give the world's billions of cellphone users a better informed perspective" on the safety of the devices. Researchers examined "the results of published national studies in 13 countries...to assess whether radio-frequency radiation exposure from cellphones is associated with cancer risk," with preliminary results "expected in two to three years." The Post notes that "the WHO, American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute, and the Food and Drug Administration have not found from their review of studies that wireless devices are a public health risk -- but the organizations also welcome more comprehensive research."
The Washington Post (2/16, Donnelly) reports that the "long-awaited" Interphone study from the International Agency for Cancer Research "will attempt to give the world's billions of cellphone users a better informed perspective" on the safety of the devices. Researchers examined "the results of published national studies in 13 countries...to assess whether radio-frequency radiation exposure from cellphones is associated with cancer risk," with preliminary results "expected in two to three years." The Post notes that "the WHO, American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute, and the Food and Drug Administration have not found from their review of studies that wireless devices are a public health risk -- but the organizations also welcome more comprehensive research."
Children's Health Data Project
Researchers aim to gather comprehensive data on factors affecting children's health.
On the front of its Science Times section, the New York Times (2/16, D1, Belluck) reports that the National Children's Study, which is "the largest, most comprehensive long-term study of the health of children," aims to examine "100,000 pregnant women in 105 countries" and "monitor their babies until they turn 21." Researchers "will examine how environment, genes, and other factors affect children's health." Dr. Francis S. Collins, the director of the National Institutes of Health, "which is overseeing the study," said the study is "important...for identifying factors that may play a role downstream in adult health." But, some critics say the study "misses important opportunities to help people" by "emphasizing narrower medical questions."
Immunization Article in USA Today
USA Today says vaccine fears are threatening public health.
USA Today (2/16) editorializes that "reported cases of measles, while still tiny, are now ticking upward, and the probable reason is troubling: Fearful parents are refusing to let their children be vaccinated against once-common childhood diseases." The fear that childhood vaccines cause autism is now "turning into a dangerous threat to public health," USA Today argues. In fact, "during the recent swine flu epidemic, nearly one-fifth of those who didn't get vaccinated cited fears that the shot was harmful." USA Today concludes, "It would be tragic if the current generation has to learn what their parents and grandparents knew from watching children get sick or die -- that yesterday's diseases are still lurking, and that vaccines are most effective when virtually everyone gets them."
Expert defends scientists who linked autism to MMR. In an op-ed in USA Today (2/16), Mark Blaxill, editor-at-large for Age of Autism and a director of SafeMinds, which researches the role of mercury in autism, defends Dr. Andrew Wakefield and his colleagues at the Royal Free Hospital "who simply reported a series of cases combining bowel symptoms, autistic regression and exposure to the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella)" in a study retracted by The Lancet. The scientists now "stand accused of fraud and misconduct," but Blaxill claims that "the evidence clearly shows there was neither fraud nor misconduct" in Dr. Wakefield's work. Meanwhile, "the medical industry has dismissed concerns over exploding autism rates in a crusade to protect their policies and vaccine profits," he asserts.
USA Today (2/16) editorializes that "reported cases of measles, while still tiny, are now ticking upward, and the probable reason is troubling: Fearful parents are refusing to let their children be vaccinated against once-common childhood diseases." The fear that childhood vaccines cause autism is now "turning into a dangerous threat to public health," USA Today argues. In fact, "during the recent swine flu epidemic, nearly one-fifth of those who didn't get vaccinated cited fears that the shot was harmful." USA Today concludes, "It would be tragic if the current generation has to learn what their parents and grandparents knew from watching children get sick or die -- that yesterday's diseases are still lurking, and that vaccines are most effective when virtually everyone gets them."
Expert defends scientists who linked autism to MMR. In an op-ed in USA Today (2/16), Mark Blaxill, editor-at-large for Age of Autism and a director of SafeMinds, which researches the role of mercury in autism, defends Dr. Andrew Wakefield and his colleagues at the Royal Free Hospital "who simply reported a series of cases combining bowel symptoms, autistic regression and exposure to the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella)" in a study retracted by The Lancet. The scientists now "stand accused of fraud and misconduct," but Blaxill claims that "the evidence clearly shows there was neither fraud nor misconduct" in Dr. Wakefield's work. Meanwhile, "the medical industry has dismissed concerns over exploding autism rates in a crusade to protect their policies and vaccine profits," he asserts.
Plasma Hand Sanitizers
Plasma devices being promoted as future hand-sanitizers.
The New York Times (2/14, BU5, Eisenberg) reports in "Novelties" that several laboratories are working to develop a plasma that is specially "engineered to zap germs, including the drug-resistant supergerm MRSA." The new devices are believed to be a potential asset to hospital workers and surgeons, who could use the plasma bath as an alternative to scrubbing. In addition to acting as hand sanitizers, "many other cleaning applications of plasma are being researched," including "plasma jets that can be built into air-conditioning systems," and the potential treatment of burn wounds.
The New York Times (2/14, BU5, Eisenberg) reports in "Novelties" that several laboratories are working to develop a plasma that is specially "engineered to zap germs, including the drug-resistant supergerm MRSA." The new devices are believed to be a potential asset to hospital workers and surgeons, who could use the plasma bath as an alternative to scrubbing. In addition to acting as hand sanitizers, "many other cleaning applications of plasma are being researched," including "plasma jets that can be built into air-conditioning systems," and the potential treatment of burn wounds.
Antibiotics and Ear Infections
Antibiotics may be overprescribed for ear infections.
The Wall Street Journal (2/16, D1, Matthews) reports that many physicians routinely prescribe antibiotics for ear infections in young children, even as current guidelines only recommend the treatment for the youngest and sickest of patients. Meanwhile, mounting research shows that many children recover well without medication. Physicians are debating the issue, according to the Journal, and new guidelines are set to be revealed soon.
The Wall Street Journal (2/16, D1, Matthews) reports that many physicians routinely prescribe antibiotics for ear infections in young children, even as current guidelines only recommend the treatment for the youngest and sickest of patients. Meanwhile, mounting research shows that many children recover well without medication. Physicians are debating the issue, according to the Journal, and new guidelines are set to be revealed soon.
Robot Prostate Surgery Update
Robot-assisted prostate surgery popular among patients despite being "unproven."
In a front-page story, the New York Times (2/14, A1, Kolata) reports on robot-assisted prostate surgery, which is becoming more popular among patients despite being "unproven," according to the Times. The surgery also "costs more -- about $1,500 to $2,000 more per patient. And it is not clear whether its outcomes are better, worse or the same." According to some researchers, "the robot situation is emblematic of a more general issue. New technology has sometimes led to big advances, which can justify extra costs. But often, technology spreads long before investigators know whether it is worthwhile."
In a front-page story, the New York Times (2/14, A1, Kolata) reports on robot-assisted prostate surgery, which is becoming more popular among patients despite being "unproven," according to the Times. The surgery also "costs more -- about $1,500 to $2,000 more per patient. And it is not clear whether its outcomes are better, worse or the same." According to some researchers, "the robot situation is emblematic of a more general issue. New technology has sometimes led to big advances, which can justify extra costs. But often, technology spreads long before investigators know whether it is worthwhile."
Appealing Medicare Decisions
Medicare recipients have appeal options when coverage for certain drugs is denied.
The Wall Street Journal (2/14, Tergesen) reported that each year, millions of Medicare recipients discover that their drugs are no longer covered by their Part D plans. While seniors in this situation can often substitute generic drugs for brand-name ones, they also have the option of appealing the denial, particularly if their plan did not notify them in a timely manner of the changes. The Journal said that typically, seniors who appeal have a good chance of success, but, in case their appeal is denied, they have 60 days to file a second appeal to Maximus Federal Services (www.medicarepartDappeals.com ).
LATimes offers advice for appealing a denied health insurance claim. The Los Angeles Times (2/15, Worth) offered suggestions on how to appeal a denied health insurance claim. While it can be a "daunting task," the Times suggests that "if you think you've been overcharged or that a claim has been wrongfully denied, there's no reason to take it lying down. You might want to call in reinforcements, though." The Times noted which agencies or organizations to approach depending on what kind of insurance one has.
The Wall Street Journal (2/14, Tergesen) reported that each year, millions of Medicare recipients discover that their drugs are no longer covered by their Part D plans. While seniors in this situation can often substitute generic drugs for brand-name ones, they also have the option of appealing the denial, particularly if their plan did not notify them in a timely manner of the changes. The Journal said that typically, seniors who appeal have a good chance of success, but, in case their appeal is denied, they have 60 days to file a second appeal to Maximus Federal Services (www.medicarepartDappeals.com ).
LATimes offers advice for appealing a denied health insurance claim. The Los Angeles Times (2/15, Worth) offered suggestions on how to appeal a denied health insurance claim. While it can be a "daunting task," the Times suggests that "if you think you've been overcharged or that a claim has been wrongfully denied, there's no reason to take it lying down. You might want to call in reinforcements, though." The Times noted which agencies or organizations to approach depending on what kind of insurance one has.
Maalox Monitoring
FDA warns of potential confusion over Maalox products.
The AP (2/18, Perrone) reports that the FDA "warned consumers Wednesday that Maalox Total Relief contains potent drug ingredients that can cause internal bleeding." The product "is often confused with traditional Maalox, which uses a gentler formula to neutralize stomach acid."
The "upset stomach reliever and anti-diarrhea medicine" contains "bismuth subsalicylate," which "can cause stomach bleeding," the Los Angles Times (2/17, Maugh) "Booster Shots" blog reported. The product "should not be used by individuals with a history of gastrointestinal ulcer disease or a bleeding disorder, nor by children or teens recovering from a viral infection."
The Wall Street Journal (2/18, Dooren) reports that Maalox manufacturer Novartis AG will halt sales of the products under the same brand name after the FDA announced that it received reports of medication errors linked to confusion over the two. The agency said the name Maalox Total Relief will no longer include the word Maalox and Novartis will alter the drug's packaging.
WebMD (2/17, DeNoon) reported that "the new label won't appear until September." Novartis will launch "an outreach program" until then to "warn consumers and medical professionals about the difference between the two product types." Novartis will also conduct active safety monitoring and reporting of adverse events associated with Maalox brand products." Dow Jones Newswire (2/18) and MedPage Today (2/17, Petrochko) also covered the story.
The AP (2/18, Perrone) reports that the FDA "warned consumers Wednesday that Maalox Total Relief contains potent drug ingredients that can cause internal bleeding." The product "is often confused with traditional Maalox, which uses a gentler formula to neutralize stomach acid."
The "upset stomach reliever and anti-diarrhea medicine" contains "bismuth subsalicylate," which "can cause stomach bleeding," the Los Angles Times (2/17, Maugh) "Booster Shots" blog reported. The product "should not be used by individuals with a history of gastrointestinal ulcer disease or a bleeding disorder, nor by children or teens recovering from a viral infection."
The Wall Street Journal (2/18, Dooren) reports that Maalox manufacturer Novartis AG will halt sales of the products under the same brand name after the FDA announced that it received reports of medication errors linked to confusion over the two. The agency said the name Maalox Total Relief will no longer include the word Maalox and Novartis will alter the drug's packaging.
WebMD (2/17, DeNoon) reported that "the new label won't appear until September." Novartis will launch "an outreach program" until then to "warn consumers and medical professionals about the difference between the two product types." Novartis will also conduct active safety monitoring and reporting of adverse events associated with Maalox brand products." Dow Jones Newswire (2/18) and MedPage Today (2/17, Petrochko) also covered the story.
Happiness Reduces Heart Disease
Happiness may be linked to reduced risk of heart disease.
Bloomberg News (2/18, Cortez) reports that "people who are naturally happy appear to have a lower risk of developing heart disease or dying from heart attacks, according to" a study published in the European Heart Journal.
The Washington Post (2/17, Huget) "The Checkup" blog reported that investigators "analyzed 10 years of data about 1,739 healthy adults who participated in the 1995 Nova Scotia Health Survey."
The AP (2/18, Cheng) reports that the researchers "used a five-point scale to measure people's happiness." The investigators found that "for every point on the happiness scale, people were 22 percent less likely to have a heart problem." The research "was paid for by the US National Institutes of Health and others." The UK's Daily Mail (2/18, Hope), the UK's Press Association (2/18), Reuters (2/18, Kelland), MedPage Today (2/17, Neale), and HealthDay (2/17, Reinberg) also covered the story.
Bloomberg News (2/18, Cortez) reports that "people who are naturally happy appear to have a lower risk of developing heart disease or dying from heart attacks, according to" a study published in the European Heart Journal.
The Washington Post (2/17, Huget) "The Checkup" blog reported that investigators "analyzed 10 years of data about 1,739 healthy adults who participated in the 1995 Nova Scotia Health Survey."
The AP (2/18, Cheng) reports that the researchers "used a five-point scale to measure people's happiness." The investigators found that "for every point on the happiness scale, people were 22 percent less likely to have a heart problem." The research "was paid for by the US National Institutes of Health and others." The UK's Daily Mail (2/18, Hope), the UK's Press Association (2/18), Reuters (2/18, Kelland), MedPage Today (2/17, Neale), and HealthDay (2/17, Reinberg) also covered the story.
H1N1 and Children
Children with neuromuscular disorders more likely to develop severe complications from H1N1.
USA Today (2/18, Sternberg) reports that "thousands of children and adolescents with neuromuscular disorders, asthma and other conditions...are suffering consequences of H1N1 that will linger long after the 2009/2010 swine flu pandemic ends." Although "no one knows exactly why flu has such a devastating effect on" these children, "the evidence has been mounting since late 2005. Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia "reported that, even in typical flu years, children with these ailments were six times more likely than other children to develop severe complications from flu."
Colorado health officials say H1N1 may ward off seasonal flu. The AP (2/18) reports that health officials in Colorado say the H1N1 virus "may have pushed the seasonal flu aside." Joni Reynolds, director of the Colorado Immunization Program, noted that flu hospitalizations have been dropping steadily in recent months. She added that swine flu is "keeping the other strains at bay." Still, Dr. Ned Calonge, the state's chief medical officer, said he remained "reticent to predict that we won't see a seasonal flu," which he said may extend into March and April.
USA Today (2/18, Sternberg) reports that "thousands of children and adolescents with neuromuscular disorders, asthma and other conditions...are suffering consequences of H1N1 that will linger long after the 2009/2010 swine flu pandemic ends." Although "no one knows exactly why flu has such a devastating effect on" these children, "the evidence has been mounting since late 2005. Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia "reported that, even in typical flu years, children with these ailments were six times more likely than other children to develop severe complications from flu."
Colorado health officials say H1N1 may ward off seasonal flu. The AP (2/18) reports that health officials in Colorado say the H1N1 virus "may have pushed the seasonal flu aside." Joni Reynolds, director of the Colorado Immunization Program, noted that flu hospitalizations have been dropping steadily in recent months. She added that swine flu is "keeping the other strains at bay." Still, Dr. Ned Calonge, the state's chief medical officer, said he remained "reticent to predict that we won't see a seasonal flu," which he said may extend into March and April.
Bariatric Surgery Insurance Denials
Quarter of bariatric surgery candidates denied insurance coverage before getting approval.
The Dallas Morning News (2/18, Roberson) reports, "A quarter of patients considering bariatric surgery are denied insurance coverage three times before getting approval, and about 60 percent report their health worsened during this waiting period, according to an online Harris Interactive survey conducted in May 2008 of 280 surgeons and 400 weight-loss surgery patients." Requiring "a body mass index of 40 or more," Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, "the state's largest health insurer," will approve "a surgery with a BMI of 35 as long as the patient has two of the following: hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, or dyslipidemia."
The Dallas Morning News (2/18, Roberson) reports, "A quarter of patients considering bariatric surgery are denied insurance coverage three times before getting approval, and about 60 percent report their health worsened during this waiting period, according to an online Harris Interactive survey conducted in May 2008 of 280 surgeons and 400 weight-loss surgery patients." Requiring "a body mass index of 40 or more," Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, "the state's largest health insurer," will approve "a surgery with a BMI of 35 as long as the patient has two of the following: hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, or dyslipidemia."
Gardasil Update
Merck may seek approval to sell Gardasil for new uses.
The AP (2/17) reports that a new study shows that Merck's "Gardasil is about 89 percent effective in blocking cervical cancer, genital warts and lingering HPV infections in women aged 24 to 45." Another new study "shows it is about 77 percent effective in blocking anal cancer and precancerous lesions in homosexual men." The drugmaker plans to "seek approval to sell the vaccine for those uses."
The AP (2/17) reports that a new study shows that Merck's "Gardasil is about 89 percent effective in blocking cervical cancer, genital warts and lingering HPV infections in women aged 24 to 45." Another new study "shows it is about 77 percent effective in blocking anal cancer and precancerous lesions in homosexual men." The drugmaker plans to "seek approval to sell the vaccine for those uses."
Statins and Diabetes
Statins may increase diabetes risk.
Bloomberg News (2/17, Cortez) reports that, according to a study published online Feb. 17 in The Lancet, statins may increase the risk of developing diabetes. After analyzing 13 studies of statins encompassing "more than 90,000 patients," researchers found that "the risk" for developing diabetes is "tied to the entire class of medications, and the danger increases with age."
"More than six million adults currently taking statins are being advised to carry on taking them by researchers and leading medical charities, who stress that the benefits far outweigh the risks," the UK's Daily Mail (2/17, Hope) reports. Specifically, "researchers say that treating 255 patients with statins for four years results in one extra case of diabetes, but saves five major coronary events, such as heart disease death or heart attack." Nevertheless, "the review will put the brakes on growing calls for statins to be given to 'healthy' people," the Daily Mail points out. HealthDay (2/16, Preidt) and HeartWire (2/16, O'Riordan) also covered the story.
Bloomberg News (2/17, Cortez) reports that, according to a study published online Feb. 17 in The Lancet, statins may increase the risk of developing diabetes. After analyzing 13 studies of statins encompassing "more than 90,000 patients," researchers found that "the risk" for developing diabetes is "tied to the entire class of medications, and the danger increases with age."
"More than six million adults currently taking statins are being advised to carry on taking them by researchers and leading medical charities, who stress that the benefits far outweigh the risks," the UK's Daily Mail (2/17, Hope) reports. Specifically, "researchers say that treating 255 patients with statins for four years results in one extra case of diabetes, but saves five major coronary events, such as heart disease death or heart attack." Nevertheless, "the review will put the brakes on growing calls for statins to be given to 'healthy' people," the Daily Mail points out. HealthDay (2/16, Preidt) and HeartWire (2/16, O'Riordan) also covered the story.
King Tut Dies from Malaria
Researchers attribute King Tut's death to malaria, degenerative bone condition.
The New York Times (2/16, Wilford) reported that "scientists have now determined the most likely agents of" King Tutankhamen's "death: a severe bout of malaria combined with a degenerative bone condition," according to research reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers used "advanced radiological and genetic techniques" during their two-year investigation, finding "several...pathologies in the Tut mummy, including a bone disorder known as Köhler's disease II, which alone would not have caused death. But he was also afflicted with avascular bone necrosis, a condition in which diminished blood supply to the bone leads to serious weakening or destruction of tissue."
The New York Times (2/16, Wilford) reported that "scientists have now determined the most likely agents of" King Tutankhamen's "death: a severe bout of malaria combined with a degenerative bone condition," according to research reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers used "advanced radiological and genetic techniques" during their two-year investigation, finding "several...pathologies in the Tut mummy, including a bone disorder known as Köhler's disease II, which alone would not have caused death. But he was also afflicted with avascular bone necrosis, a condition in which diminished blood supply to the bone leads to serious weakening or destruction of tissue."
Genetic Testing and Inherited Diseases
Boost in prenatal genetic testing linked to declining incidence of inherited diseases.
The AP (2/17) reports, "Some of mankind's most devastating inherited diseases appear to be declining, and a few have nearly disappeared, because more people are using genetic testing to decide whether to have children," according to "interviews with numerous geneticists and other experts and a review of...research" conducted by the AP. The work revealed that "more women are being tested as part of routine prenatal care, and many end pregnancies when diseases are found." The declining cost of genetic testing contributes to the trend, as "the number of companies offering it is rising."
The AP (2/17) reports, "Some of mankind's most devastating inherited diseases appear to be declining, and a few have nearly disappeared, because more people are using genetic testing to decide whether to have children," according to "interviews with numerous geneticists and other experts and a review of...research" conducted by the AP. The work revealed that "more women are being tested as part of routine prenatal care, and many end pregnancies when diseases are found." The declining cost of genetic testing contributes to the trend, as "the number of companies offering it is rising."
Children and Circadian Rhythms
Lack of blue-wavelength light may disrupt adolescent circadian rhythms.
The Los Angeles Times (2/17, Maugh) reports, "Riding in school buses in the early morning, then sitting in poorly lighted classrooms are the main reasons students have trouble getting to sleep at night," according to a study published in the journal Neuroendocrinology Letters. That is because adolescents "need bright lights in the morning, particularly in the blue wavelengths, to synchronize their inner, circadian rhythms with nature's cycles of day and night." In fact, "if they are deprived of blue light during the morning, they go to sleep an average of six minutes later each night, until their bodies are completely out of sync with the school day."
The AP (2/17, Neergaard) reports that for the study, 11 eighth-graders "donned special orange goggles that block short-wavelength 'blue light,' but not other wavelengths necessary for proper vision," from the time they got up until the time school ended. "Blocking that light for five days upset the students' internal body clocks -- delaying by half an hour their evening surge of a hormone called melatonin that helps induce sleep, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute researchers reported."
The Los Angeles Times (2/17, Maugh) reports, "Riding in school buses in the early morning, then sitting in poorly lighted classrooms are the main reasons students have trouble getting to sleep at night," according to a study published in the journal Neuroendocrinology Letters. That is because adolescents "need bright lights in the morning, particularly in the blue wavelengths, to synchronize their inner, circadian rhythms with nature's cycles of day and night." In fact, "if they are deprived of blue light during the morning, they go to sleep an average of six minutes later each night, until their bodies are completely out of sync with the school day."
The AP (2/17, Neergaard) reports that for the study, 11 eighth-graders "donned special orange goggles that block short-wavelength 'blue light,' but not other wavelengths necessary for proper vision," from the time they got up until the time school ended. "Blocking that light for five days upset the students' internal body clocks -- delaying by half an hour their evening surge of a hormone called melatonin that helps induce sleep, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute researchers reported."
Children and Chronic Health Conditions
Prevalence of chronic conditions among US children increasing.
The Los Angeles Times (2/17, Roan) reported, "More than a quarter of all US children have a chronic health condition, new research " in the Journal of the American Medical Association "suggests, a significant increase from the rate seen in earlier decades." Children are not "less healthy," however. In fact, "fewer children today are affected by congenital defects, infectious diseases, and accidents than they were 50 years ago."
In other words, "doctors can now save many children who might once have died very young," USA Today (2/17, Szabo) reports. But, while "such children survive, they often face serious health problems." And, "in the last three decades, chronic health problems including obesity, asthma and behavioral and learning problems have been steadily increasing among children," Time (2/16, O'Callaghan) reported in its "Wellness" blog.
Before reaching those conclusions, researchers at the MassGeneral Hospital for Children Harvard "analyzed data collected during six-year periods from three consecutive groups of children who participated in a US Bureau of Labor Statistics survey that began in 1979," Bloomberg News (2/16, Peterson) reported. Specifically, investigators "began tracking the first group in 1988, the second in 1994, and the third in 2000."
When "all cohorts were pooled together, all categories of chronic conditions increased from baseline to the end of the study: obesity: 11.9 to 13.3%; asthma: 2 to 3.6%; other physical conditions (such as allergies and chronic ear infections): 3.9 to 5.7%; behavior/learning problems (such as AD/HD and mental retardation): 1 to 4.7%," according to MedPage Today (2/16, Neale). "For obesity, the baseline rate increased significantly with each progressive cohort, from 7% in 1988 to 12.3% in 1994 to 19% in 2000."
HealthDay (2/16, Gordon) noted that the "risk of having a chronic condition was higher for males, and for children who were black or Hispanic." In addition, those "who had overweight mothers were far more likely to be overweight themselves." But "some children did outgrow the problems," WebMD (2/16, Doheny) reported. Medscape (2/16, Lowry), AFP (2/16), and Reuters (2/17, Steenhuysen) also covered the story.
The Los Angeles Times (2/17, Roan) reported, "More than a quarter of all US children have a chronic health condition, new research " in the Journal of the American Medical Association "suggests, a significant increase from the rate seen in earlier decades." Children are not "less healthy," however. In fact, "fewer children today are affected by congenital defects, infectious diseases, and accidents than they were 50 years ago."
In other words, "doctors can now save many children who might once have died very young," USA Today (2/17, Szabo) reports. But, while "such children survive, they often face serious health problems." And, "in the last three decades, chronic health problems including obesity, asthma and behavioral and learning problems have been steadily increasing among children," Time (2/16, O'Callaghan) reported in its "Wellness" blog.
Before reaching those conclusions, researchers at the MassGeneral Hospital for Children Harvard "analyzed data collected during six-year periods from three consecutive groups of children who participated in a US Bureau of Labor Statistics survey that began in 1979," Bloomberg News (2/16, Peterson) reported. Specifically, investigators "began tracking the first group in 1988, the second in 1994, and the third in 2000."
When "all cohorts were pooled together, all categories of chronic conditions increased from baseline to the end of the study: obesity: 11.9 to 13.3%; asthma: 2 to 3.6%; other physical conditions (such as allergies and chronic ear infections): 3.9 to 5.7%; behavior/learning problems (such as AD/HD and mental retardation): 1 to 4.7%," according to MedPage Today (2/16, Neale). "For obesity, the baseline rate increased significantly with each progressive cohort, from 7% in 1988 to 12.3% in 1994 to 19% in 2000."
HealthDay (2/16, Gordon) noted that the "risk of having a chronic condition was higher for males, and for children who were black or Hispanic." In addition, those "who had overweight mothers were far more likely to be overweight themselves." But "some children did outgrow the problems," WebMD (2/16, Doheny) reported. Medscape (2/16, Lowry), AFP (2/16), and Reuters (2/17, Steenhuysen) also covered the story.
Foreign Drug Monitoring
FDA asked to detail monitoring efforts for foreign drugs.
Dow Jones Newswire (2/17, Favole) reports that Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) asked the Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday for a report elaborating on their efforts to monitor foreign drugs. The agency said they have opened new offices in China, India and other regions in an effort to beef up their foreign presence, and are collaborating with foreign regulatory agencies to improve their inspection processes. Grassley said that he expected a formal response from the agency by March 2nd.
Dow Jones Newswire (2/17, Favole) reports that Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) asked the Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday for a report elaborating on their efforts to monitor foreign drugs. The agency said they have opened new offices in China, India and other regions in an effort to beef up their foreign presence, and are collaborating with foreign regulatory agencies to improve their inspection processes. Grassley said that he expected a formal response from the agency by March 2nd.
Breast Cancer and Asprin
Aspirin may boost survival, cut risk of recurrence in breast cancer survivors.
The CBS Evening News (2/16, story 7, 0:20, Couric) reported that "a new study says breast cancer survivors who take aspirin regularly may be less likely to die or have their cancer return."
NBC Nightly News (2/16, story 5, 1:45, Williams) reported that the researchers found that "women who had been diagnosed with early breast cancer and who just happen to be taking aspirin, somewhere between two and five days, had a 50% reduction in dying of the breast cancer." In women who took "aspirin just once a week, there was no benefit," but, those who took "aspirin two to five times a week" experienced "a 71 percent reduction in dying from a return of the cancer," ABC World News (2/16, story 4, 2:00, Besser) reported.
The Los Angeles Times (2/17, Maugh) reports that the study of 4,164 breast cancer patients, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, showed that those "who took aspirin two to five days per week were 60 percent less likely to have a recurrence and 71 percent less likely to die from the disease." The findings challenge "at least five large studies" that "have shown that taking aspirin regularly has no effect on the risk of developing breast cancer in the first place."
USA Today (2/17, Szabo) reports that the researchers said that "aspirin may help control cancer by fighting inflammation," as "breast cancers produce more inflammatory chemicals than normal breast cells." But, they "cautioned that more research is needed to confirm the findings before recommending that breast cancer patients take aspirin to increase their chances of surviving," the Washington Post (2/16, Stein) "The Checkup" blog reported.
According to the Boston Globe (2/17, Smith), "The study did not ask women what dose of aspirin they were taking, nor why they were taking it." The findings "also suggested other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs...may reduce breast cancer recurrence, although that effect was evident only in women who took those medicines 6 to 7 days a week." Notably, "no link could be established between acetaminophen...and reduced breast cancer mortality."
The Boston Globe (2/16, Gil) "White Coat Notes" blog, the Wall Street Journal (2/17, Sataline), Reuters (2/17, Fox), HealthDay (2/16, Doheny), and MedPage Today (2/16, Phend) also covered the story.
The CBS Evening News (2/16, story 7, 0:20, Couric) reported that "a new study says breast cancer survivors who take aspirin regularly may be less likely to die or have their cancer return."
NBC Nightly News (2/16, story 5, 1:45, Williams) reported that the researchers found that "women who had been diagnosed with early breast cancer and who just happen to be taking aspirin, somewhere between two and five days, had a 50% reduction in dying of the breast cancer." In women who took "aspirin just once a week, there was no benefit," but, those who took "aspirin two to five times a week" experienced "a 71 percent reduction in dying from a return of the cancer," ABC World News (2/16, story 4, 2:00, Besser) reported.
The Los Angeles Times (2/17, Maugh) reports that the study of 4,164 breast cancer patients, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, showed that those "who took aspirin two to five days per week were 60 percent less likely to have a recurrence and 71 percent less likely to die from the disease." The findings challenge "at least five large studies" that "have shown that taking aspirin regularly has no effect on the risk of developing breast cancer in the first place."
USA Today (2/17, Szabo) reports that the researchers said that "aspirin may help control cancer by fighting inflammation," as "breast cancers produce more inflammatory chemicals than normal breast cells." But, they "cautioned that more research is needed to confirm the findings before recommending that breast cancer patients take aspirin to increase their chances of surviving," the Washington Post (2/16, Stein) "The Checkup" blog reported.
According to the Boston Globe (2/17, Smith), "The study did not ask women what dose of aspirin they were taking, nor why they were taking it." The findings "also suggested other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs...may reduce breast cancer recurrence, although that effect was evident only in women who took those medicines 6 to 7 days a week." Notably, "no link could be established between acetaminophen...and reduced breast cancer mortality."
The Boston Globe (2/16, Gil) "White Coat Notes" blog, the Wall Street Journal (2/17, Sataline), Reuters (2/17, Fox), HealthDay (2/16, Doheny), and MedPage Today (2/16, Phend) also covered the story.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Migraine Article from the New York Times
MIGRAINES may be right up there with root canals and childbirth as one of life’s more painful experiences. But unlike childbirth or dental surgery — the pain of which can be dulled with standard medications — migraines are notoriously tricky to treat.
Those who suffer from these disabling headaches often try a dozen or so medications before they find something that works. What’s more, many migraines do not get properly diagnosed, according to the doctors and researchers I spoke with. That can lead to a lot of extra pain — and expense — for the afflicted.
A reason migraines are so maddeningly elusive is that they are not simply bad headaches. They stem from a genetic disorder (yes, you have your parents to blame) that afflicts 36 million Americans and manifests as a group of symptoms that besides head pain may include dizziness, visual disturbances, numbness and nausea.
Some of the symptoms resemble those from other disorders, like sinus headaches, epilepsy, eye problems or even strokes. And to further complicate matters, sufferers react in varied ways to medications.
“What might be a miracle drug for one person could be a dud for another,” said Dr. Joel Saper, director of the Michigan Headache and Neurological Institute, a treatment and research center in Ann Arbor. “There is no universally effective therapy.”
If that sounds murky, one thing is not: early intervention is important. If you get a migraine every few months and can cope by taking an over-the-counter med, great — you’ve got the problem somewhat under control. But if recurring pain is not responding to your own efforts, seek expert help.
Those who suffer from these disabling headaches often try a dozen or so medications before they find something that works. What’s more, many migraines do not get properly diagnosed, according to the doctors and researchers I spoke with. That can lead to a lot of extra pain — and expense — for the afflicted.
A reason migraines are so maddeningly elusive is that they are not simply bad headaches. They stem from a genetic disorder (yes, you have your parents to blame) that afflicts 36 million Americans and manifests as a group of symptoms that besides head pain may include dizziness, visual disturbances, numbness and nausea.
Some of the symptoms resemble those from other disorders, like sinus headaches, epilepsy, eye problems or even strokes. And to further complicate matters, sufferers react in varied ways to medications.
“What might be a miracle drug for one person could be a dud for another,” said Dr. Joel Saper, director of the Michigan Headache and Neurological Institute, a treatment and research center in Ann Arbor. “There is no universally effective therapy.”
If that sounds murky, one thing is not: early intervention is important. If you get a migraine every few months and can cope by taking an over-the-counter med, great — you’ve got the problem somewhat under control. But if recurring pain is not responding to your own efforts, seek expert help.
Stuttering Update
Stuttering may be linked to genetic defects in basic metabolic process.
USA Today (2/11, Rubin) reports that researchers at the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders "for the first time have identified genetic variations associated with stuttering, and the study's senior author says his team was 'kind of shocked' that two of the implicated genes were linked to rare, fatal metabolic disorders." In other words, the "genes are extremely well-known and studied by people who have been in this field for decades," Dennis Drayna explained.
According to the Los Angeles Times (2/11, Maugh), the research could eventually "help identify children who are likely to develop stuttering problems, allowing early initiation of treatments that can minimize or eliminate the problem." Still "further in the future, it could lead to new treatments to overcome the biological underpinnings of the disorder."
For years, "stuttering has been attributed to such things as nervousness, lack of intelligence, stress, or bad parenting," according to the AP (2/11, Nano). Indeed, "stuttering tends to run in families, and previous research suggested a genetic connection." But, "researchers had not been able to pinpoint any culprit genes."
USA Today (2/11, Rubin) reports that researchers at the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders "for the first time have identified genetic variations associated with stuttering, and the study's senior author says his team was 'kind of shocked' that two of the implicated genes were linked to rare, fatal metabolic disorders." In other words, the "genes are extremely well-known and studied by people who have been in this field for decades," Dennis Drayna explained.
According to the Los Angeles Times (2/11, Maugh), the research could eventually "help identify children who are likely to develop stuttering problems, allowing early initiation of treatments that can minimize or eliminate the problem." Still "further in the future, it could lead to new treatments to overcome the biological underpinnings of the disorder."
For years, "stuttering has been attributed to such things as nervousness, lack of intelligence, stress, or bad parenting," according to the AP (2/11, Nano). Indeed, "stuttering tends to run in families, and previous research suggested a genetic connection." But, "researchers had not been able to pinpoint any culprit genes."
Bored to Death!
Boredom may increase likelihood of early death, experts say.
The AP (2/11, Cheng) reports that, according to "a commentary to be published in the International Journal of Epidemiology in April, experts say there's a possibility that the more bored you are, the more likely you are to die early." Dr. Christopher Cannon, a spokesman for the American College of Cardiology, explained, "Someone who is bored may not be motivated to eat well, exercise, and have a heart-healthy lifestyle. That may make them more likely to have a cardiovascular event." The New York Daily News (2/11, Osterhout) also covers the story.
The AP (2/11, Cheng) reports that, according to "a commentary to be published in the International Journal of Epidemiology in April, experts say there's a possibility that the more bored you are, the more likely you are to die early." Dr. Christopher Cannon, a spokesman for the American College of Cardiology, explained, "Someone who is bored may not be motivated to eat well, exercise, and have a heart-healthy lifestyle. That may make them more likely to have a cardiovascular event." The New York Daily News (2/11, Osterhout) also covers the story.
Rhode Island Insurance Rate Hikes
Three health plans request rate hikes in Rhode Island.
The Providence (RI) Journal (2/11, Salit) reports that Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island, UnitedHealthCare of New England, and Tufts Health Plans are "seeking increases in the cost of health plans that companies offer to their employees." The hikes are smaller than a similar request to raise rates last June, which was denied by Rhode Island Health Insurance Commissioner Christopher F. Koller. Koller said that the new increase requests "are actually smaller than what was asked for last summer in every case." BCBS requested a 14.6% hike for large employers, while UnitedHealthCare requested a 4% increase and Tufts a rise of 9.3%. "The proposed rates, whether approved or modified by the commissioner, will go into effect in May."
The Providence (RI) Journal (2/11, Salit) reports that Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island, UnitedHealthCare of New England, and Tufts Health Plans are "seeking increases in the cost of health plans that companies offer to their employees." The hikes are smaller than a similar request to raise rates last June, which was denied by Rhode Island Health Insurance Commissioner Christopher F. Koller. Koller said that the new increase requests "are actually smaller than what was asked for last summer in every case." BCBS requested a 14.6% hike for large employers, while UnitedHealthCare requested a 4% increase and Tufts a rise of 9.3%. "The proposed rates, whether approved or modified by the commissioner, will go into effect in May."
Obese Children and Mortality Risk
Obese children may be more likely to die prematurely.
The New York Times (2/11, A22, Rabin) reports that a study published Feb. 11 in the New England Journal of Medicine "that tracked thousands of children through adulthood found the heaviest youngsters were more than twice as likely as the thinnest to die prematurely, before age 55, of illness or a self-inflicted injury." While "youngsters with...pre-diabetes were at almost double the risk of dying before 55, and those with high blood pressure were at some increased risk," it was obesity that was "most closely associated with an early death, researchers said."
These "data come from a National Institutes of Health study that began in 1965," USA Today (2/11, Hellmich) reports. After tracking "4,857 American Indian children in Arizona for an average of 24 years," investigators found that "children who were the heaviest -- the top fourth -- were more than twice as likely to die early from natural causes, such as alcoholic liver disease, cardiovascular disease, infections, cancer, and diabetes, as children whose weight put them in the lowest quarter of the population."
Bloomberg News (2/11, Ostrow) reports, "The number of overweight and obese children has tripled since 1980, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention." Approximately "17 percent of US children ages two to 19 years old are considered obese and almost 12 percent are considered the heaviest kids, according to a CDC study released in January." The current study's "findings detail the 'serious health consequences' that children might face as they get older, lead study author Paul Franks said."
WebMD (2/10, Doheny) reported, "Death rates from natural causes among children in the highest group of glucose intolerance (a risk factor for developing diabetes) were 73% higher than among the children in the lowest group of glucose intolerance, the researchers found." While "no substantial links were found between cholesterol levels and premature deaths," the study authors "did find that high blood pressure in childhood raised the risk of premature death from natural causes by about 1.5 times."
HeartWire (2/10, O'Riordan) reported that an accompanying editorial "notes that the causes of obesity and diabetes appear to be rooted in culture -- inactivity and large portion sizes of calorie-dense fast food -- and that fighting these diseases with 'clinical and adult-based approaches' is akin to 'pasting a small bandage on a gaping wound.'" HealthDay (2/10, Reinberg) and MedPage Today (2/10, Fiore) also covered the story.
The New York Times (2/11, A22, Rabin) reports that a study published Feb. 11 in the New England Journal of Medicine "that tracked thousands of children through adulthood found the heaviest youngsters were more than twice as likely as the thinnest to die prematurely, before age 55, of illness or a self-inflicted injury." While "youngsters with...pre-diabetes were at almost double the risk of dying before 55, and those with high blood pressure were at some increased risk," it was obesity that was "most closely associated with an early death, researchers said."
These "data come from a National Institutes of Health study that began in 1965," USA Today (2/11, Hellmich) reports. After tracking "4,857 American Indian children in Arizona for an average of 24 years," investigators found that "children who were the heaviest -- the top fourth -- were more than twice as likely to die early from natural causes, such as alcoholic liver disease, cardiovascular disease, infections, cancer, and diabetes, as children whose weight put them in the lowest quarter of the population."
Bloomberg News (2/11, Ostrow) reports, "The number of overweight and obese children has tripled since 1980, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention." Approximately "17 percent of US children ages two to 19 years old are considered obese and almost 12 percent are considered the heaviest kids, according to a CDC study released in January." The current study's "findings detail the 'serious health consequences' that children might face as they get older, lead study author Paul Franks said."
WebMD (2/10, Doheny) reported, "Death rates from natural causes among children in the highest group of glucose intolerance (a risk factor for developing diabetes) were 73% higher than among the children in the lowest group of glucose intolerance, the researchers found." While "no substantial links were found between cholesterol levels and premature deaths," the study authors "did find that high blood pressure in childhood raised the risk of premature death from natural causes by about 1.5 times."
HeartWire (2/10, O'Riordan) reported that an accompanying editorial "notes that the causes of obesity and diabetes appear to be rooted in culture -- inactivity and large portion sizes of calorie-dense fast food -- and that fighting these diseases with 'clinical and adult-based approaches' is akin to 'pasting a small bandage on a gaping wound.'" HealthDay (2/10, Reinberg) and MedPage Today (2/10, Fiore) also covered the story.
Alzheimers Research
Research firm developing blood test for Alzheimer's disease.
The Miami Herald (2/12, Dorschner) reports, "OPKO Health...announced Thursday it is developing a simple diagnostic blood test for Alzheimer's disease." Notably, "the test is designed to detect elevated levels of antibodies unique to the disease. OPKO said it was 95 percent accurate in early testing."
The Miami Herald (2/12, Dorschner) reports, "OPKO Health...announced Thursday it is developing a simple diagnostic blood test for Alzheimer's disease." Notably, "the test is designed to detect elevated levels of antibodies unique to the disease. OPKO said it was 95 percent accurate in early testing."
Chocolate and Stroke Risk
Consuming one serving of chocolate every week may reduce stroke risk.
USA Today (2/12, Marcus) reports, "A new analysis, which involved a review of three prior studies, suggests eating about a bar of chocolate a week can help cut the risk of stroke and lower the risk of death after a stroke." Researchers in Canada explained that "one study they looked at found that 44,489 people who ate one serving of chocolate per week were 22% less likely to have a stroke than people who ate no chocolate," while another showed that "1,169 people who ate 50 grams of chocolate once a week were 46% less likely to die following a stroke."
The third study, however, "found no association between chocolate consumption and risk of death from stroke," WebMD (2/11, Warner) reported. Nevertheless, investigators say "more research is needed to determine whether chocolate truly lowers stroke risk, or whether healthier people are simply more likely to eat chocolate than others." Moreover, the study participants "did not identify what kind of chocolate they had eaten," the Canadian Press (2/11, Tobin) reported. HealthDay (2/11, Dotinga) also covered the study.
USA Today (2/12, Marcus) reports, "A new analysis, which involved a review of three prior studies, suggests eating about a bar of chocolate a week can help cut the risk of stroke and lower the risk of death after a stroke." Researchers in Canada explained that "one study they looked at found that 44,489 people who ate one serving of chocolate per week were 22% less likely to have a stroke than people who ate no chocolate," while another showed that "1,169 people who ate 50 grams of chocolate once a week were 46% less likely to die following a stroke."
The third study, however, "found no association between chocolate consumption and risk of death from stroke," WebMD (2/11, Warner) reported. Nevertheless, investigators say "more research is needed to determine whether chocolate truly lowers stroke risk, or whether healthier people are simply more likely to eat chocolate than others." Moreover, the study participants "did not identify what kind of chocolate they had eaten," the Canadian Press (2/11, Tobin) reported. HealthDay (2/11, Dotinga) also covered the study.
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