Mayo Clinic Volunteer Programs Testimonials

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dr16TKHi5eE

More water problems in Flint, Michigan

Officials say new water tests show lead levels 10 times the federal limit -- too high for filters to handle

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/flint-water-crisis-high-lead-levels-with-filters/

Zika virus infects more than 2,100 pregnant Colombian women

Virus linked to birth defect which causes babies to have small heads and underdeveloped brains and rare, sometimes paralyzing illness

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/zika-virus-infects-more-than-2100-pregnant-colombian-women/

​NFL says concussions were way up in 2015

League says it will study what might have caused head injuries to rise by 58 percent this season

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/nfl-says-concussions-were-way-up-in-2015/

Zika survivor: "All of my joints felt like lead weights"

Brazilian-American man tells CBS News about his harrowing experience with Zika virus; his doctors in New York "had never seen a case of Zika"

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/zika-survivor-all-of-my-joints-felt-like-lead-weights/

Factors that may raise autism risk before birth

New research suggests mothers-to-be with obesity and diabetes have a higher risk of giving birth to a child with autism

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/factors-that-may-raise-autism-risk-before-birth/

Obesity, diabetes during pregnancy linked to autism

Mothers-to-be with both conditions are more likely to give birth to a child with autism, according to new research

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/obesity-diabetes-during-pregnancy-linked-to-autism/

How far away is a Zika virus vaccine?

Experts say research efforts will focus on developing a vaccine for the mosquito-borne illness, but it will take time

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/how-far-away-is-a-zika-virus-vaccine/

Lung-Irritating Chemical Found in Flavored E-Cigs

Highest levels seen in cherry versions, but levels still far below federal safety standards

From: http://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/news/20160129/chemical-that-can-irritate-lungs-found-in-flavored-e-cigarettes?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Experimental ultrasound treatment zaps cancer pain

High-intensity focused ultrasound blasts cells that trigger pain; "When the pain is less, or the pain is gone, you're back to being normal"

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/experimental-ultrasound-treatment-zaps-cancer-pain/

Senate Democrats propose $600 million plan to help Flint

A large chunk of the funding would be used to fix or replace lead-contaminated pipes

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/senate-democrats-propose-600-million-plan-to-help-flint/

Mayo Clinic Minute: Lead Exposure Risks for Kids

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIwbXzPUPHk

Where the Candidates Stand on Health Care Issues

WebMD looked at where presidential hopefuls from both parties stand on various health care issues -- including the health care reform law (the Affordable Care Act, also called "Obamacare"), Medicare and Medicaid, the price of prescription drugs, and abortion.

From: http://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/20160129/presidential-candidates-abortion-obamacare?src=RSS_PUBLIC

U.S. Weighs Blood Donation Changes Over Zika Virus

Temporary ban might be imposed on travelers returning from countries where the virus had taken hold

From: http://www.webmd.com/news/20160129/us-weighs-changes-to-blood-donations-in-response-to-zika-virus-outbreak?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Lead Poisoning Risk From Cosmetic Clay: FDA

Agency tells users of Bentonite Me Baby to stop using product, get checked by their doctor

From: http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/news/20160129/fda-warns-of-lead-poisoning-risk-from-cosmetic-clay?src=RSS_PUBLIC

More than just a game: Yoga for school-age children

Follow me at @newyorkpsych

Yoga is becoming increasingly popular among American children. A national survey found that 3% of U.S. children (1.7 million) did yoga as of 2012 — that’s 400,000 more children than in 2007.

Yoga and mindfulness have been shown to improve both physical and mental health in school-age children (ages 6 to 12). Yoga improves balance, strength, endurance, and aerobic capacity in children. Yoga and mindfulness offer psychological benefits for children as well. A growing body of research has already shown that yoga can improve focus, memory, self-esteem, academic performance, and classroom behavior, and can even reduce anxiety and stress in children.

Emerging research studies also suggest that yoga can help children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by improving the core symptoms of ADHD, including inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It can also boost school performance in children with ADHD. A growing number of schools now integrate yoga and mindfulness into physical education programs or classroom curriculums, and many yoga studios offer classes for school-age children. Yoga can be playful and interactive for parents and children at home, as well.

Jessica Mei Gershen, a certified yoga instructor who teaches yoga to children at Brooklyn Yoga Project and founder of Yoga For All Needs, recommends making yoga playful and fun for kids, whether in the classroom or at home. In her yoga classes, Gershen weaves in fun games and stories with positive themes like compassion, gratitude, and strength.

“Yoga is really effective because it’s so tangible. Learning physical postures builds confidence and strength as well as the mind-body connection,” Gershen says. She also has found that the effects of yoga go beyond physical fitness and also allow kids to build confidence and awareness beyond the classroom. “Through yoga, kids start to realize that they are strong and then are able to take that strength, confidence, acceptance, and compassion out into the world,” notes Gershen.

Simple and fun yoga exercises for kids

Here are some fun yoga exercises and games for kids. If you are a parent familiar with yoga, you can try these at home with your family.

More yoga poses for kids, as well as some other resources, can be found here.

Simple yoga breath exercise

1. Take a deep breath in and hold it for a count of three.
2. Breathe out forcefully, like you’re blowing out a candle.
3. Repeat this for five cycles of breath.

Flying bird breath

1. Stand tall, with arms at your sides and feet hip-width apart in standing Mountain Pose.
2. Imagine being a beautiful, strong bird.
3. Pretend to prepare to fly by inhaling and raising your arms (“wings”) until your palms touch overhead. Keep your arms straight.
4. Exhale slowly as you bring your arms back down to your sides, palms facing down.
5. Repeat in a steady motion with each breath: inhale as you raise your arms, and exhale as lower your arms.
6. Optional: Close your eyes as you repeat the movements with breath, and imagine yourself flying in the sky like a bird.

Yoga games

Mirror, mirror. This game is a good warm-up exercise to increase focus.

1. One person starts as the leader. The leader chooses a pose to do and shows it to the others.
2. The other players copy the leader’s pose as if they are looking into a mirror.
3. Change the leader with each round of poses, so that everyone has a turn at being the leader.

Yogi says

One person is selected as the Yogi. The other players must do the yoga poses that the Yogi tells them to do if the instruction starts with “Yogi says.” If the Yogi doesn’t use “Yogi says,” then players do not do the pose. Keep changing the person who is Yogi, so that everyone gets a turn.

Red light, green light yoga

One person is chosen as the Stoplight. He or she stands at the front of the room. The other players are the “cars,” and they start at the opposite wall. The Stoplight starts the game by calling “Green light!” The other players then use yoga poses to move forward. When the Stoplight calls “Red light!,” each player needs to be in a yoga pose and remain still. Everyone takes a turn being the Stoplight.

Meditation

Meditation can be short and simple, and does not have to involve complex yoga poses or staying still in a quiet, dark room. One parent, who is also a physician, describes playing a “meditation game” with her children before bedtime, when she turns off electronic devices and reflects on the day with her children, using questions like, “What are you grateful for today?”

Here are a few simple meditations for children, which can be done for as little as 30 seconds or for several minutes.

Mindful awareness meditation

1. Find a comfortable seated position or lie down.
2. Close your eyes.
3. Try to listen to every single sound in the room.

Loving kindness meditation

1. Find a comfortable seated position or lie down.
2. Close your eyes and think about someone you love.
3. Hold them tight in your heart and continue to think about that person.

Related Post:

• Yoga and meditation offer health care savings—and you can…
• More than a stretch: Yoga’s benefits may extend to the
• Yoga in pregnancy: Many poses are safer than once thought
• Yoga for Better Sleep
• Mindfulness meditation helps fight insomnia, improves sleep

The post More than just a game: Yoga for school-age children appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: Marlynn Wei, MD, JD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/more-than-just-a-game-yoga-for-school-age-children-201601299055

Resistance to HIV Drug Growing, Study Finds

Problem affects almost two-thirds of those taking tenofovir in sub-Sahara Africa

From: http://www.webmd.com/hiv-aids/news/20160129/resistance-to-hiv-drug-growing-study-finds?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Mom's Diabetes, Obesity Tied to Higher Autism Risk

Combination may nearly quadruple risk, researchers say, but their review did not prove cause-and-effect

From: http://www.webmd.com/parenting/news/20160129/study-links-diabetes-obesity-in-moms-to-be-to-higher-autism-risk-in-kids?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Boys Victims of Dating Violence, Too

Survey of 'at risk' teens finds males as likely as females to suffer abuse

From: http://teens.webmd.com/news/20160129/boys-victims-of-dating-violence-too?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Can genetically modified mosquitoes snuff out Zika?

As companies race to create vaccines, Brazil is already testing a different way to fight the disease, and Florida may follow

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/can-genetically-modified-mosquitoes-snuff-out-the-zika-virus/

Insomnia May Raise Women's Type 2 Diabetes Risk

Insomnia can disrupt hormones, and may play a role in developing the blood sugar condition, expert says

From: http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/news/20160128/sleepless-nights-might-raise-womens-type-2-diabetes-risk?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Higher Fiber Intake May Improve Lung Function

Best outcomes seen when eating more than 18 grams a day, study finds

From: http://www.webmd.com/lung/news/20160128/higher-fiber-intake-may-improve-lung-function?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Could seasonal depression be a myth?

Many people complain of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), depression linked to less sunlight, but new study raises doubts

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/could-seasonal-depression-be-a-myth/

This is Also to Blame for Rising Middle-Age Deaths

Commonwealth Fund also cites stalled progress against killers like heart disease, diabetes

From: http://www.webmd.com/news/20160129/suicide-drugs-only-partly-to-blame-for-rising-deaths-of-middle-aged-us-whites?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Live. Work. Play: Diana’s Diabetes Story

Working for the American Diabetes Association® means making a difference for millions of people and working toward a future free of diabetes and all its burdens.

We all have a story to share. Some of us live with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes or prediabetes. Others have loved ones with the disease or have lost someone to the fight.

The following are personal stories from the Association’s staff about why we are so committed to the mission to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.

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April 2010: As a volunteer I got to meet the artist Frankie J.

Diana Velo
Associate Manager, Area Community Engagement
San Diego

I came to know the American Diabetes Association in 2009, when I was offered the opportunity to volunteer my time for the Por Tu Familia program. But my diabetes story started in 2005, when I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at the age of 18. I am not ashamed to admit that I live with something that might have been prevented had I been more educated about the risk factors for type 2.

I didn’t do much or care much, to be honest—about the disease. I was in complete denial and refused to accept any medical attention for it. I thought if I ignored my diagnosis enough, it would go away on its own.

This all changed in 2008, when I became pregnant with my first child. I knew that if I wanted to live and see my baby grow, I would have to make some hard choices and stick by them. My first step was going on medication and checking my blood glucose like I was told to do.

But I felt that something was missing. Even though I wasn’t the only person in my family with this disease, I was the only person my age. At the time of my diagnosis, most of my relatives with diabetes were in their late 40s and couldn’t relate to me or my situation.

I started volunteering with the Association. A then staff member asked if I wanted to help out at the local office in San Diego as well, so whenever I could I would go in and help with any projects they had for me. Eventually, there was an administrative support opening at that office, and I applied—not knowing in that moment that it was going to be a life-changer for me.

Nearly three years later, I feel more committed than ever and in debt to the Association for all the help and support I’ve received as a volunteer, an employee and a person living with diabetes. My diabetes has never been so controlled. I recently started using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). I am now on insulin shots and will potentially go on a pump within the next few months.

Left to right: Dewan Gibson, Sheila Mazdyasni, Diana Velo, Nikki Woodward and Nicole Parker

Seeing firsthand how hard the Association works both locally and nationally and working with my community has motivated me to continue working here. I know how hard the staff works to put on events like Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes®, Tour de Cure® and Father of the Year.

It’s my duty and own mission to educate the masses, to inspire others to make a choice like I did and live better, smarter and healthier. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it hadn’t been for that very first opportunity in 2009 to tell my story in front of a few people who, like me, live with diabetes.

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To learn more about nationwide employment opportunities and life at the Association, please visit diabetes.org/careers.

From: American Diabetes Association http://diabetesstopshere.org/2016/01/29/dianas-diabetes-story/

Mosquitoes: "The most murderous animal on Earth"

Zika virus is just one of the many dangerous health threats posed by mosquitoes

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/media/mosquitoes-the-most-murderous-animal-on-earth/

NIH: Zika virus at "pandemic" level

World Health Organization warns the Zika virus is "spreading explosively" and could infect four million people by the end of the year

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/zika-virus-at-pandemic-level-national-institutes-of-health-says/

Study: Breastfeeding could save 800,000 lives a year

"We want to encourage breastfeeding but I've also seen patients in tears who can't do it"

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/breastfeeding-could-save-lives-babies-mothers/

Rio mayor: No threat to Olympics from Zika virus

As global health experts warn the Zika virus is "spreading explosively," Rio's mayor says timing of Olympics reduces danger

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/rio-mayor-no-threat-to-olympics-from-zika-virus/

These are the healthiest, happiest states

Find out where your state's well-being ranks in the Gallup and Healthways index

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/media/healthiest-happiest-states/

In face of Zika virus, women ponder abortion, childlessness

Concerns over Zika virus are raising anxiety for millions of would-be and could-be mothers in affected areas

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/in-face-of-zika-virus-women-ponder-abortion-childlessness/

Bernie Sanders: I'm "blessed with good health"

The Democratic presidential candidate released a letter from his doctor proclaiming him in "overall very good health"

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/bernie-sanders-im-blessed-with-good-health/

6 things a food poisoning expert won't eat

A few common foods are more likely than others to make you sick; one expert avoids them "like the plague"

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/6-things-a-food-poisoning-expert-wont-eat/

El Virus del Zika: Lo que necesita saber (Dr. Pritish Tosh on Zika Virus- Spanish)

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81YrRxFhf4o

Exercise: Is More Always Better?

If a little exercise is good, then more is better in terms of calorie burn and weight loss, right? That's what most of us tend to believe. WebMD has the details.

From: http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/20160128/exercise-diet-calories-weight?src=RSS_PUBLIC

As Zika Virus Spreads, Doctors Try to Calm Fears

Public health officials said Thursday they're concerned about the fast-spreading Zika virus, and they're racing to understand its relationship to the troubling rise in birth defects seen in Brazil and other countries. WebMD has the details.

From: http://www.webmd.com/news/20160128/zika-virus-pregnancy?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Zika Vaccine Efforts Get Boost From Prior Research

U.S. health officials say valuable lessons were learned during battles against other mosquito-borne viruses

From: http://www.webmd.com/news/20160128/zika-vaccine-efforts-get-boost-from-prior-research?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Having memory problems? Don't forget to tell your doctor

Fear, embarrassment, and denial may keep people from bringing up memory troubles - but sometimes treatments can help

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/memory-problems-dont-forget-to-tell-your-doctor/

Hepatitis C Reported at 19 Dialysis Clinics: CDC

Health officials blame lapses in infection control practices

From: http://www.webmd.com/hepatitis/news/20160128/hepatitis-c-reported-at-19-dialysis-clinics-cdc?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Mayo Clinic Minute: Sex, Exercise and Pregnancy

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0IpDleipkc

Dr. Stacey Rizza talks about tuberculosis

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SlVDvjdurE

WHO to convene an International Health Regulations Emergency Committee on Zika virus and observed increase in neurological disorders and neonatal malformations

WHO Director-General, Margaret Chan, will convene an International Health Regulations Emergency Committee on Zika virus and observed increase in neurological disorders and neonatal malformations.

The Committee will meet on Monday 1 February in Geneva to ascertain whether the outbreak constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

From: http://www.who.int/entity/mediacentre/news/statements/2016/emergency-committee-zika/en/index.html

Obama establishes cancer moonshot task force

The new group aims to accelerate cancer research and progress towards prevention and a cure

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/obama-establishes-cancer-moonshot-task-force/

Wearable Electric Patch May Ease PTSD

Researchers found symptoms decreased in civilians who tried the device; vets are now being tested

From: http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/news/20160128/wearable-electric-patch-may-ease-ptsd?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Study Finds No Proof of 'Seasonal' Depression

Rates of mood disorder don't vary by time of year or sunlight exposure, researchers say

From: http://www.webmd.com/depression/news/20160128/study-finds-no-proof-of-seasonal-depression?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Bedbugs Biting Back Against Insecticide

Researchers find a strong resistance to the most widely used pesticide group

From: http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/news/20160128/bedbugs-biting-back-against-insecticide?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Most Consumers Satisfied With Health Plans: Poll

The survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that 71 percent of people with insurance believe their services are excellent or good.

From: http://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/20160128/despite-kvetching-most-consumers-satisfied-with-health-plans-poll?src=RSS_PUBLIC

USDA Seeks Proposals for Market-Based Wetland Protection Systems

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the establishment of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Wetland Mitigation Banking Program, made possible by the 2014 Farm Bill.

From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/01/0028.xml&contentidonly=true

Certain Fruits, Veggies May Aid Weight Control

Study found those who ate apples, pears, berries, peppers had better weight management in long run

From: http://www.webmd.com/diet/20160127/eating-certain-fruits-veggies-may-help-a-bit-with-weight-control?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Studies Lacking Youth Antidepressant Effects Data?

New analysis finds much greater risk of aggression, self-harm

From: http://www.webmd.com/depression/news/20160127/did-studies-lack-key-data-on-link-between-antidepressants-youth-suicides?src=RSS_PUBLIC

MS Drug Tied to Higher Risk for Brain Virus

Patients taking Tysabri were more prone to show signs of exposure to JCV, which can cause a brain disease

From: http://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/news/20160127/ms-drug-tied-to-higher-risk-for-potentially-deadly-brain-virus?src=RSS_PUBLIC

HIV Can Persist in Body Despite Drug Therapy

Scientists find virus replicates in lymphoid tissue and see a possible target for a cure

From: http://www.webmd.com/hiv-aids/news/20160127/hiv-can-persist-in-body-despite-drug-therapy?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Zika "spreading explosively," global health experts warn

World Health Organization calls special session on outbreak of virus linked to birth defects and neurological problems

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/zika-virus-outbreak-spreading-explosively-world-health-organization/

Why are doctors writing opioid prescriptions — even after an overdose?

A group of researchers at Boston Medical Center recently looked at nearly 3,000 patients who had survived an opioid-related overdose between 2000 and 2012. According to their recently published study, over 90% of these patients continued to receive opioid medications from doctors — even after their overdose. Given the soaring numbers of opioid-related overdose deaths and heightened scrutiny on how these medications are being over-prescribed, the study findings are alarming and disturbing.

The researchers identified almost 3,000 patients nationwide who had had a nonfatal overdose while being treated with opioid medications for chronic pain. These patients were followed for 300 days, on average, after their overdose. During those 300 days, an additional 7% of the patients overdosed a second time. In the majority of cases, the same doctor wrote the opioid prescription before and after the initial overdose.

The study did show that as a whole, patients received smaller doses of opioid medications after the overdose. But many patients were still receiving very high doses, and those receiving the higher doses were more likely to overdose yet again.

The study raises many questions. How could doctors continue to write prescriptions for opioid medications, even after an overdose? How could doctors be so ignorant to the dangers of these medications?

The problem with gaps in communication — and education

The truth is that the doctors who wrote the prescriptions probably did not know that the patients in their clinic had recently overdosed. Unless the patient was sent to an emergency room or hospital affiliated with the prescribing doctor, there is a good chance that the information about the overdose never made it back to the doctor. Indeed, doctors may never know unless the patient voluntarily discloses this information.

This communication gap is well known to those in the health care system. And this study further highlights the potential consequences of this poor communication. At the least, information about opioid overdoses must be communicated back to the prescribing doctor so that he or she can adjust pain treatment and offer addiction treatment where indicated.

The study authors give some recommendations for how to fix the communication problem. For example, the prescription monitoring program — the electronic database that doctors use to see if patients are obtaining multiple prescriptions from different doctors — could include information about overdoses. Or the insurance companies could alert the prescriber about a recent overdose.

While these measures would certainly help, the reality is that doctors have relatively little training in safely managing chronic pain and treating addiction. Whether in medical school or in residency training, very little curricular time is devoted to helping doctors safely prescribe pain medications, recognize patients at high risk for overdose, intervene when patients need to be taken off of opioids, and adequately treat opioid addiction. As such, a critical component in reducing the overprescribing of opioid medications is for medical schools and residency programs to improve how doctors are educated.

What you can do for a loved one who’s had an overdose

Family members and loved ones of those who recently survived an overdose can also help:

• If someone you love has had an overdose, make sure his or her doctor is aware.
• Consider obtaining a naloxone rescue kit, which can be used to treat an opioid overdose in an emergency situation. These kits are now available at drugstores such as Walgreens and CVS.
• If you think your loved one is addicted to opioids, encourage him or her to seek professional addiction treatment. Medication-assisted treatment with buprenorphine (Buprenex), for example, has been shown to save lives.

Related Post:

• The problem with prescription painkillers
• The “right” goal when managing pain
• Number of babies born in withdrawal from prescription…
• Report highlights the dangers of opioid painkillers
• Better use of medicines could save billions

The post Why are doctors writing opioid prescriptions — even after an overdose? appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: Joji Suzuki, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/why-are-doctors-writing-opioid-prescriptions-even-after-an-overdose-201601289060

Living with Diabetes in College: Erykah

For young adults living with diabetes, preparing for college can be a difficult time. Managing diabetes while trying to make sense of a new world, social network and expectations can be especially challenging. You’re not alone! There are many resources in place to help support this transition.

The following are stories shared by College Diabetes Network (CDN) Students, involved in CDN’s Student Advisory Committee (SAC), about their experiences heading off to college, and navigating life on campus, with diabetes.

The College Diabetes Network provides programs for young adults with diabetes to help make their college experience safer and more successful. The American Diabetes Association is working with CDN to help further this goal.

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Name and Age: Erykah, 17

School: Philander Smith College (Little Rock, Ark.), Class of 2019

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when I was 11 years old and in the sixth grade.

I knew I needed to thoroughly research colleges and universities, because I had already encountered a case of discrimination. I was accepted to one university’s summer program and offered a scholarship. However, the director of the program took it away because I had type 1 diabetes and they didn’t want to burden the other students. The director felt I was not prepared for college due to my diabetes. But I fought to be in the program, informed the university of my rights as a student and proved myself capable. In the end I decided to not attend that school, but I hope they learned a lesson about the rights of people with diabetes and other disabilities.

After this incident I realized that as someone living with diabetes, it is so important for me to know about my rights and the available services and accommodations.

The resources provided by CDN to inform others about living with diabetes have been a tremendous help in my time so far at Philander. Whether through their website or educational programs, my local CDN chapter has helped me connect with others on campus who are also living with diabetes. It’s important to meet and connect with others who are going through the same experiences as me. Although Philander already celebrates Diabetes Awareness Month in November, I am hoping that with the help of CDN and the Project Blue campaign I will be able to have more programs and meetings on diabetes awareness to educate others.

Educating others about diabetes often starts with a simple question. For example, I’ve been asked about my insulin pump and why it is needed to manage my diabetes.

I have also experienced a lack of knowledge about type 1 and type 2 diabetes on my college campus. I have met many students who have no idea what diabetes is, or the difference between type 1 and type 2. Once in class, type 1 diabetes was being discussed and the instructor told the entire class that it developed when parents fed their children candy and sweets all their life. The instructor continued to say that we needed to make sure we ate oranges and apples to ensure we would not get diabetes. These statements really bothered me. That’s why I am glad CDN now has a chapter at my school to educate others and correct these myths.

When someone has a question or concern about diabetes, I try to explain it in the best way possible. I am happy to explain to anyone who is looking for knowledge. Sometimes I may even throw in a few jokes—I want them to realize that I appreciate how diabetes has shaped me as a person.

I chose to tell my college friends and professors about my diabetes, not only for the safety of myself but for the sake of others. It’s important to educate others about what to do in case of an emergency and to teach them about the devices we carry. My diabetes has been a struggle since I was diagnosed. They were surprised that I did open up and let it be known immediately. I am not ashamed; diabetes is just a part of who I am.

Before leaving for college I did not know how difficult it would be to manage my diabetes. It’s very time-consuming, and time management is very important. I have to be a full-time college student while managing my diabetes at the same time. I didn’t even consider that my life would change so much. The foods I eat, the amount of time I exercise, even how late I stay up at night all affect how my diabetes stays controlled.

Before I headed off to college, my mother made sure I had everything I needed, as did my health care team. My school is about six hours away from home, so we ordered supplies in advance and officially changed my address so that I could get certain items shipped directly to my college.

For high school students heading out to college, I would say do your best to get your diabetes managed and develop a set schedule before you even get there. College is extremely time-consuming; you are a student all day, every day. But when dealing with a chronic illness, you have to take time to take care of yourself. Once you arrive, do not be afraid to stand up for yourself, your health and your rights. You only have one body and you must take care of it.

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The College Diabetes Network (CDN) is a 501c3 non-profit organization, whose mission is to use the power of peers, access to resources, and grassroots leadership to fill the gaps experienced by young adults with diabetes and make their college experience safer and more successful. CDN’s vision is to empower young adults with diabetes to thrive in all of their personal, healthcare, and scholastic endeavors. CDN has over 80 campuses with 60+ affiliated chapters. Sign-up for more information here.

Diabetes Forecast magazine and the College Diabetes Network recently published a “Thrive Guide for Young Adults” with tips for doing college with diabetes. Visit diabetesforecast.org and diabetes.org for more information.

From: American Diabetes Association http://diabetesstopshere.org/2016/01/28/diabetes-in-college-erykah/

Biotechs aim for noninvasive prostate cancer biopsies

The current procedure is quite painful and often unneeded, but these alternatives use blood and urine samples instead

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/biotechs-aim-for-noninvasive-prostate-cancer-biopsies/

Statement on the 8th meeting of the IHR Emergency Committee regarding the Ebola outbreak in West Africa

The 8th meeting of the Emergency Committee convened by the WHO Director-General under the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) regarding the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in West Africa took place by teleconference on Tuesday, 15 December 2015, and by electronic correspondence from 15-21 December 2015.

The Committee’s role was to provide the Director-General with views and perspectives as to whether the event continues to constitute a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), whether the current Temporary Recommendations should be extended, rescinded or revised, and whether additional recommendations should be considered.

From: http://www.who.int/entity/mediacentre/news/statements/2015/ihr-ebola-8th-meeting/en/index.html

Breaking the silence on male breast cancer

When Michael Singer was first diagnosed with breast cancer, he didn't want anyone to know

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/breaking-the-silence-on-male-breast-cancer/

Male breast cancer survivor empowered, not embarrassed

Michael Singer didn't tell friends about his diagnosis for a year; now the Harley-riding Bronx native is an outspoken advocate for male breast cancer awareness

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/male-breast-cancer-survivor-michael-singer-first-embarrassed-now-empowered/

Hospice care: Comforting the terminally ill

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/end-of-life/in-depth/hospice-care/art-20048050

Health officials battle to contain the Zika virus

10 cases of the mosquito-borne infection have turned up in five states this month, and it's spreading rapidly south of the border

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/health-officials-battle-to-contain-the-zika-virus/

High-frequency ultrasound may ease cancer pain

Researchers in London are testing a new therapy to relieve pain in bone cancer patients

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/high-frequency-ultrasound-may-ease-cancer-pain/

Small number of doctors behind many malpractice claims

New study reveals that some pysicians are much more "claim-prone" than others

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/small-number-of-doctors-behind-big-share-of-malpractice-claims/

Government: Theranos lab a danger to patient health

Blood-testing startup says it's working to fix safety problems identified by the top federal overseer of clinical labs

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/government-theranos-lab-a-danger-to-patient-health/

Scientists uncover clues to schizophrenia

New discovery about how this severe mental illness develops may help lead to prevention, treatments

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/scientists-uncover-clues-to-schizophrenia/

Dr. Pritish Tosh on Zika virus

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhogxNMdIAw

Clues to Schizophrenia's Origins Uncovered

Analysis found gene variant prompts too much 'pruning' in brain during teen years

From: http://www.webmd.com/schizophrenia/news/20160127/scientists-uncover-clues-to-origins-of-schizophrenia?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Soy May Counter BPA Effects in Women Having IVF

Soy-rich diet combats harmful chemical in those undergoing in-vitro fertilization, researchers report

From: http://www.webmd.com/infertility-and-reproduction/news/20160127/soy-may-counter-effects-of-bpa-in-women-undergoing-fertility-treatments?src=RSS_PUBLIC

The caregivers

Raising a family of special-needs children

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/caregivers-raising-family-of-special-needs-children/

Young women with melanoma tanned indoors earlier, more

Women were two to six times more likely to develop melanoma if they had tanned indoors

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/women-under-40-with-melanoma-indoor-tanned-earlier-more/

Cold and flu warning: The dangers of too much acetaminophen

Cold and flu season is here.

Peruse the aisles of a local pharmacy or grocery store and you will find more than 30 over-the-counter medications available to treat the symptoms of fever, headache, sore throat, and achy muscles. Many of these “multi-symptom” products contain acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol. This means cold and flu sufferers who are using multiple combination cough and cold remedies may inadvertently be taking more acetaminophen than they intend — and putting themselves at risk for a serious complication: acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity.

Acetaminophen is the most commonly available pain-relieving and fever-reducing medication. It is an ingredient in more than 600 over-the-counter and prescription medications, and it has a remarkable safety profile: the dose at which potential toxicity occurs (8,400 milligrams, or mg) is dramatically higher than the amount that most adults need to effectively treat their symptoms (650 to 1,000 mg). Moreover, acetaminophen does not cause the unwanted effects that are associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or prescription opioids. As a result, acetaminophen is known as a very safe and effective over-the-counter medication for the treatment of pain and fever, and is taken by millions of people.

The problem with too much acetaminophen

Nevertheless, you may not realize that acetaminophen is an active ingredient in a combination medication unless you read the label carefully. For example, NyQuil, Theraflu, and Percocet (oxycodone with acetaminophen) all contain acetaminophen. Unfortunately, using multiple products that contain acetaminophen can result in accidental misuse and overuse, as well as potential liver damage.

Acetaminophen is primarily processed in the liver. The liver breaks down most of the acetaminophen in a normal dose and eliminates it in the urine. But a small portion of the drug is converted to a byproduct that is toxic to the liver cells. If you take too much acetaminophen — all at once or over a period of several days — this toxic breakdown product can build up and cause damage to the liver.

In addition, there is some evidence that people with dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea, persistent fevers, or underlying liver problems may be at slightly increased risk of liver damage when taking normally safe doses of acetaminophen. The resulting symptoms of right-sided abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and general malaise may be mistaken for a worsening flu-like illness instead of being recognized as warning signs of liver damage.

McNeil Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Tylenol, has disseminated instructions for the safe use of this product since the 1990s. Advertisements and medication labels warn of the dangers of misusing this medication. The recommended maximum daily dose of acetaminophen in adults has decreased from 4,000 mg (two extra-strength tablets four times daily) to 3,000 mg (two extra-strength tablets three times daily) since the original preparation became available. (Of note, there are also updated warning instructions on the use of products for children with various amounts of acetaminophen, namely infant drops, children’s liquid suspension, and chewable tablets.) The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has strongly recommended that combination products not contain more than 325mg of acetaminophen per tablet or capsule, and that prescribers not order combination products containing more than 325 mg of acetaminophen.

What this means for your cold and flu season

Acetaminophen is a safe and very effective drug. The vast majority of all patients who take this medication to treat common symptoms of pain and fever will find relief with appropriate use. However, even when in the fog of cold or flu symptoms, be careful to read the label of any cough, cold, or pain medication for the amount of acetaminophen in the drug so that you don’t inadvertently take too much. If unsure, ask a pharmacist for assistance in how to safely use combination medications that include acetaminophen.

Finally, keep in mind that in most cases, viral illnesses such as the common cold and flu generally get better on their own with rest, fluids, and time.

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The post Cold and flu warning: The dangers of too much acetaminophen appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: Susan Farrell, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cold-and-flu-warning-the-dangers-of-too-much-acetaminophen-201601279065

Excess Weight: 'Unexpected' Boys' Puberty Effect

Sexual maturity slowed in obese kids, but sped up in those who were only overweight, study found

From: http://teens.webmd.com/boys/news/20160127/excess-weight-has-unexpected-effect-on-puberty-onset-in-boys?src=RSS_PUBLIC

USDA Seeks Fellowship Applications for Future Agricultural Scientists, Science Educators

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the availability of $18.9 million in competitive grants to support fellowships and other higher education training projects in food, nutrition, natural resources and agriculture fields.

From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/01/0027.xml&contentidonly=true

USDA Renews Agricultural Air Quality Task Force, Appoints Members

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2016 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the renewal of the USDA Agricultural Air Quality Task Force and the selection of its members for the 2016-2018 term. The task force is composed of representatives from agriculture, industry, academia, government agencies, non-governmental organizations and other agricultural and environmental experts.

From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/01/0026.xml&contentidonly=true

Open Data from USDA, Microsoft Cloud Technology Become Tools to Strengthen Food Supply Through "Innovation Challenge" Winners

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Microsoft officials today announced the winners of the USDA-Microsoft Innovation Challenge, in which contestants used USDA agriculture production open data to develop online tools that can help make the American food supply more resilient in the face of climate change.

From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/01/0025.xml&contentidonly=true

Family, Friends of Suicide Victims at Higher Risk

Social stigma can isolate those who are grieving, researcher explains

From: http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/news/20160126/suicide-risk-rises-among-family-friends-of-suicide-victims-study?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Zika Virus Travel Broadened for Pregnant Women

U.S. agency says those at risk should avoid U.S. Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic

From: http://www.webmd.com/news/20160126/cdc-broadens-zika-virus-travel-alert-for-pregnant-women?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Cancer's Financial Burden Tied to Poorer Survival

Economic stress may force patients to forgo vital treatments, experts say

From: http://www.webmd.com/cancer/news/20160126/cancers-financial-burden-tied-to-poorer-survival-study-finds?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Parents May Lack Food Allergy Emergency Know-How

Many don't know how, when to use epinephrine, study finds

From: http://www.webmd.com/allergies/news/20160126/parents-often-ill-informed-about-food-allergy-emergencies?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Consumer Reports: "Natural" food labels misleading consumers

More than 60 percent of Americans buy products labeled "natural," but they may not be buying what they think

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/natural-food-labeling-misleading-consumer-reports-fda-lacks-regulations/

El Nino rain spurring growth of deadly mushrooms

Weather phenomenon's rainfall helping drought-stricken California, but not without health risks

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/el-nino-rain-deadly-mushrooms-california/

New depression guidelines: Who should get screened?

Doctors are being urged to cast a much wider net in the search for signs of depression

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/new-depression-guidelines-who-should-get-screened/

Report: Disney still has a big princess problem

Even though the studio has become more progressive with women's roles, researchers found disturbing trends that may negatively influence girls

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/report-disney-still-has-a-big-princess-problem/

Travel alert expands as Zika virus cases spread

Two popular winter travel destinations are added to a travel advisory over virus linked to birth defects

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/travel-alert-expands-as-zika-virus-cases-spread/

New findings on coffee and heart palpitations

Latest study challenges current medical thinking that caffeinated beverages cause irregular heartbeats

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/coffee-doesnt-seem-to-cause-heart-palpatations-after-all/

Doctors warn of heart attack gender gap

"Heart disease in women is under researched, under-diagnosed and under-treated," cardiologist says after American Heart Association warning

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/doctors-warn-of-heart-attack-gender-gap/

CDC issues new guidelines for infants with possible Zika virus

Zika presents itself with mild symptoms in most people; but in pregnant women, it has been linked to babies born with an abnormally small head

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/cdc-issues-new-guidelines-for-infants-with-possible-zika-virus/

Solitary confinement takes lasting toll on mental health

The president's move to curtail solitary confinement shines a spotlight on the deep mental scars the punishment can inflict

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/solitary-confinement-lasting-toll-on-mental-health/

To make transplant happen, medics had to beat blizzard

It was a race against time and the elements to get a New York woman to the hospital

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/to-make-transplant-happen-medics-had-to-beat-blizzard/

Smoking Lowers Breast Cancer Survival

Smoking after diagnosis tied to 72 percent higher risk of death from the disease versus never smoking

From: http://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/news/20160126/smoking-lowers-breast-cancer-survival-study-finds?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Mayo Clinic Minute: Why Donating Blood Matters

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itvUgNME5Tg

Dr. Yang - Lung Cancer Guidelines Study

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5bIIj6qb9g

Prenatal Vitamin D and Baby's Asthma Risk

But since the nutrient can help ease other ills, supplementation may not be a bad idea, experts say

From: http://www.webmd.com/baby/news/20160126/prenatal-vitamin-d-supplements-may-not-lower-babys-asthma-risk-study?src=RSS_PUBLIC

No Clear Winner Seen Among Stop-Smoking Aids

Whether you use the nicotine patch, lozenges or Chantix, strong desire to quit is key, experts say

From: http://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/news/20160126/no-clear-winner-seen-among-stop-smoking-aids-in-study?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Depression Screening Should Include All Pregnant, Postpartum Women: Panel

As many as 1 in 10 shows signs of mood disorder after birth, says task force

From: http://www.webmd.com/depression/news/20160126/depression-screening-should-include-all-pregnant-postpartum-women-panel?src=RSS_PUBLIC

What parents need to know about pain in newborns

Just because newborn babies can’t tell you they feel pain doesn’t mean they don’t feel pain. They do. And parents can help.

We tend to think that newborns are too little to really experience pain, and that if they do experience it, they soon forget it. However, research has shown that, indeed, babies do experience pain — and that repeated painful experiences in the newborn period can lead to both short- and long-term problems with development, emotions, and responses to stress.

This is particularly a problem for babies who need many medical procedures after they are born, such as premature babies, babies with certain birth defects, and those who have birth complications or get sick shortly after birth. But even perfectly healthy babies may have some painful procedures, such as heel sticks for newborn screening tests, immunizations, or circumcisions.

That’s why the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently released an updated policy statement on the prevention and management of procedural pain in newborns: to lessen the pain newborns experience. While the policy statement is written for health care providers, it’s important for the parents of newborns to be aware of it too.

We certainly need to avoid doing painful procedures in the first place. The policy statement does say that we should be very thoughtful and careful when it comes to choosing to do painful things to babies. But some of the painful things we do are either necessary or very helpful to the health of babies now and in the future.

Luckily, there are things health care providers — and parents — can do.

It turns out that even something as simple as holding a baby during a procedure can make a difference. Swaddling the baby, or just holding him or her in a bent position with the arms tight against the body, has been shown to lessen pain. So has breastfeeding during the procedure — or giving expressed breast milk. It also can help to simply look at and gently talk to the baby, while stroking the face or back. If a child is very sick or the procedure is complicated, it may not be practical to hold, nurse, or stroke and talk to a baby during a procedure, but it certainly could be done during a heel stick or immunization.

Another simple way to help is by giving babies sucrose, or sugar. It’s not fully clear how sucrose helps, but it does (glucose, which is similar to sucrose, can work too). It may be that the sweet taste activates natural pain-killing chemicals in the body. It’s best to give it about 2 minutes before the procedure, and the effects last about 4 minutes; for longer procedures such as circumcision, a few doses may be needed. If you talk to and massage the baby along with giving the sucrose, the effects may be even stronger.

For more painful procedures, there are medications (such as opioids, like morphine) that can be used. These medications have side effects, and must be used very carefully, but the AAP urges doctors to always think about using them.

So, parents, if you are told that your baby is going to have a procedure, ask questions. Ask if the procedure is necessary. If it is, ask what can be done to prevent or lessen pain. Ask if you can hold, or caress and talk to, your baby. Ask about using sucrose or glucose. Ask if there are other medications that might help.

Hopefully you won’t need to; hopefully, your doctor or nurse will suggest something before you even have a chance to say anything. But if they don’t, do what your baby can’t do: speak up.

Related Post:

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The post What parents need to know about pain in newborns appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: Claire McCarthy, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/what-parents-need-to-know-about-pain-in-newborns-201601269076

These preventable conditions kill millions of children

A short list of illnesses cause the majority of childhood deaths worldwide

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/these-preventable-conditions-kill-millions-of-children-each-year/

The Bacterial Connection to Celiac Disease – Celiac Disease in the News

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1n6qaogzef8

Higher Risk for Pneumococcal Disease in IBD Patients – IBD in the News

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKASyhWsQPM

Weight May Influence Lung Cancer Surgery Outcome

Study found the very thin or very obese had the highest odds for complications

From: http://www.webmd.com/lung-cancer/news/20160126/weight-may-influence-outcomes-after-lung-cancer-surgery?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Daily Caffeine Doesn't Seem to Jolt the Heart

Coffee lovers don't appear to risk extra heartbeats

From: http://www.webmd.com/heart/news/20160126/daily-caffeine-doesnt-seem-to-jolt-the-heart-study?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Many Chronic Pain Sufferers May Overuse OTC Meds

They run risk of stomach bleeds, ulcers, liver damage from meds, doctors say

From: http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/news/20160125/many-chronic-pain-sufferers-may-overuse-nonprescription-painkillers?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Can monkeys help unravel the mysteries of autism?

Scientists hope to learn from genetically-modified monkeys that gave birth to offspring with the autism-linked human gene

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/can-monkeys-help-unravel-the-mysteries-of-autism/

Dr James Kirkland discusses Oldest of the Old Living Longer

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSka5_jq2Do

WHO: Zika virus - Questions and answers (Q&A)

From: World Health Organization http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOm15VyWlwo

Study: At-home test for colon cancer a good alternative

Annual use of the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a reliable way to screen for colon cancer, new research shows

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/fit-at-home-screening-test-for-colon-cancer-good-alternative/

Alzheimer's genes: Are you at risk?

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/alzheimers-genes/art-20046552

Exercise helps ease arthritis pain and stiffness

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/arthritis/art-20047971

Study Finds Stool Test Effective for Detecting Colon Cancer

Colonoscopy still preferred screening, but this offers less invasive option, researchers say

From: http://www.webmd.com/colorectal-cancer/news/20160125/study-finds-stool-test-effective-for-detecting-colon-cancer?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Women's Heart Attacks Are Different Than Men's, Experts Stress

American Heart Association points out critical differences in new scientific statement

From: http://www.webmd.com/women/news/20160125/womens-heart-attacks-are-different-than-mens-experts-stress?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Grand jury indicts activists behind Planned Parenthood attack videos

No charges brought against Planned Parenthood; activists' charges relate to setting up and recording undercover videos

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/grand-jury-indicts-activists-behind-planned-parenthood-videos/

Heart attacks can be different for women

The American Heart Association says underlying causes and symptoms of heart attacks are often different for women than men, and many women don't know what to look for

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/heart-attacks-can-be-different-for-women/

Heart attack wake-up call for women and their doctors

Heart attack symptoms can be different for women than men, and some groups of women face special risks

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/heart-attack-wake-up-call-for-women-and-their-doctors/

Don't make these dangerous mistakes with OTC pain meds

Over-the-counter pain medicines can cause harmful side effects if you don't follow this advice

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/aspirin-other-otc-pain-medicine-dangerous-mistakes/

Mayo Clinic Minute: Daily Sleep Needs

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjEE3Bv8lW8

Kombucha Tea/Alcohol: Is It Safe?

Some say kombucha tea is good for your health, but the government says some kombucha products have too much alcohol. WebMD explains the issue as well as what's in kombucha tea and any health claims.

From: http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/20160125/kombucha-tea-is-it-safe?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Are You Getting Enough Vitamin D and Calcium?

Vitamin D and calcium are essential for bone health. How to know if you're getting enough.

From: http://www.webmd.com/osteoporosis/features/are-you-getting-enough-vitamin-d-calcium?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Mayo Clinic: John A. Stauffer - Pancreatic Cysts

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQoY3kTN2NM

Cystic Fibrosis Drug Seems OK for Preschoolers

Finds treatment works and is well-tolerated in 2- to 5-year-olds

From: http://www.webmd.com/children/news/20160125/cystic-fibrosis-drug-seems-ok-for-preschoolers-study?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Speeches on Ebola

From: http://www.who.int/entity/mediacentre/news/ebola/speeches/en/index.html

WHO news on Ebola

From: http://www.who.int/entity/mediacentre/news/ebola/archive/en/index.html

After blizzard, snow shoveling proves deadly

Digging out from the massive snow storm is linked to heart attacks; how to avoid becoming a victim

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/blizzard-2016-snow-shoveling-proves-deadly/

Zika Expected to Spread North Through U.S.: WHO

Common mosquito spreads infection; Americans have no immunity

From: http://www.webmd.com/news/20160125/zika-virus-expected-to-spread-north-through-us-who?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Free Mailed Nicotine Patches May Help Smokers Quit

Intervention helped boost success rates a bit, even when counseling wasn't included, study found

From: http://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/news/20160125/free-nicotine-patches-by-mail-may-help-smokers-quit?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Is Your Beard Packed With Germs?

It’s an age-old debate: Are beards clean or a magnet for germs and bacteria? WebMD takes a look.

From: http://www.webmd.com/men/news/20160125/is-your-beard-packed-with-germs?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Colon cancer rates rising in people under 50

Screening doesn't normally start until age 50, but "this study is really a wake-up call"

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/colon-cancer-rates-rising-in-people-under-50/

The empowering potential of end-of-life care

When we scan the medical journals for research to report, we often ask ourselves whether an article suggests something many of us can do to improve our health or well-being. It might come as a surprise, but the articles on end-of-life care in recent issues of the Journal of the American Medical Association and The New England Journal of Medicine actually fit that bill. And they delivered good news.

These articles’ collective message is that there is much that medical teams can do to ensure that people have the best days possible in their final months and weeks, and that they die without undue suffering. The takeaway: palliative care and good communication can make all the difference between a difficult death and a peaceful passing. Even if you’re young and healthy, it’s good information to have if a loved one is facing a terminal illness.

What palliative care can do

Palliative care isn’t designed to treat disease, but to improve the quality of life for people with life-threatening illnesses and their families. A palliative care team concentrates on relieving symptoms and stressors and helps the ill person articulate his or her preferences and set goals. The team may also help explain what to expect as the disease progresses. In one study, people with metastatic cancer who began palliative care early — while they were still undergoing chemotherapy — reported less pain, had lower rates of depression, and even lived longer than people who didn’t receive palliative care until their last few weeks.

Comfort care is a form of palliative care that focuses on easing a person’s suffering in his or her final days by relieving symptoms often associated with dying, including pain, anxiety, breathlessness, coughing, and dry mouth. While the care team does everything possible to reduce the person’s pain and stress, they also refrain from administering medications, monitoring vital signs, using feeding tubes, and doing other uncomfortable procedures that are unlikely to benefit the person. In effect, people can spend their last days without being tethered to IV lines and monitors.

Why communication with the health care team is so important

Dr. Jennifer Temel is an oncologist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital who treats people with advanced lung cancer. She emphasizes that the medical team will support each person’s decisions — whether to undergo aggressive treatment in the hope of a recovery along with palliative care, or to receive only palliative care — but that the person should make those decisions based on a realistic sense of the severity of their illness. “When people are diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, it’s important that they understand what their condition is, what the treatments are, the purpose of each treatment, and what they might expect to gain,” she says. If you or a loved one is facing a life-threatening illness, it’s important to let the care team know what’s important to you or your loved one so they can help you make decisions that are in line with the person’s preferences, she adds.

Whether you or a loved one is the person facing a serious illness, you may want to let the care team know the following:

• Your own understanding of the illness and prognosis, so they can clear up any misconceptions you may have. In particular, ask the team to explain any medical terms that aren’t clear and have them describe the risks and potential benefits of any therapies they propose.
• The kinds of information you want to have, and what (if anything) you would rather not know.
• Who should be involved in discussions about care, and whether decisions will be made alone or collaboratively.
• Your, and your family’s, main worries or fears about the situation.
• Your values, goals, and preferences.
• What you consider “unacceptable states” — for example, being fed through a tube or being on a ventilator indefinitely.

Have the conversation with your family early

It’s always a good idea to explore these questions before you or a loved one develops a serious illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than half of us haven’t let our family members know how we’d like to be cared for at the end of our lives. If you want help broaching the subject, The Conversation Project, a collaboration of columnist Ellen Goodman and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, offers a starter kit of suggestions.

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• Straight talk needed to choose health care at the end of…
• Medical crises don’t take vacations
• Report proposes new “vital signs” to measure the
• When caring for a loved one, many caregivers go it alone

The post The empowering potential of end-of-life care appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: Beverly Merz http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-empowering-potential-of-end-of-life-care-201601259047

More People Under 50 Getting Colon Cancer

Though guidelines suggest screening starts at 50, researcher says it's premature to change them

From: http://www.webmd.com/colorectal-cancer/news/20160125/more-people-under-50-getting-colon-cancer-analysis-finds?src=RSS_PUBLIC