Drug distributors under pressure in opioid epidemic

West Virginia, which leads the nation in rate of overdose deaths, is fighting the epidemic in court by suing six national companies that distribute painkillers

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fvideos%2Fdrug-distributors-under-pressure-in-opioid-epidemic%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

DEA targets drug wholesalers to stem opioid epidemic

Records reveal in a five-year period, the distributor McKesson delivered nearly 100 million opiates to West Virginia -- a state with 1.8 million people

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fnews%2Fdrug-distributor-mckesson-faces-lawsuit-in-effort-to-stem-opioid-painkiller-epidemic%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Migraine or Sinus Headache: What's the Difference?

WebMD talks to headache experts about the difference between migraines and sinus headaches.

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.webmd.com%2Fmigraines-headaches%2Ffeatures%2Fmigraine-or-sinus-headache%3Fsrc%3DRSS_PUBLIC&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

S.C. Gov. Nikki Haley signs 20-week abortion ban

Only exceptions to the ban are if the mother's life is in jeopardy or a doctor determines the fetus can't survive outside the womb

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fnews%2Fsouth-carolina-governor-nikki-haley-signs-20-week-abortion-ban%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Dr. Pritish Tosh Discusses Zika Virus

From: Mayo Clinic http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DEqYT1eKKam4&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

World Health Assembly agrees new Health Emergencies Programme

WHO Member States today agreed to one of the most profound transformations in the Organization’s history, establishing a new Health Emergencies Programme. The programme adds operational capabilities for outbreaks and humanitarian emergencies to complement its traditional technical and normative roles.

The new programme is designed to deliver rapid, predictable, and comprehensive support to countries and communities as they prepare for, face or recover from emergencies caused by any type of hazard to human health, whether disease outbreaks, natural or man-made disasters or conflicts.

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.who.int%2Fentity%2Fmediacentre%2Fnews%2Freleases%2F2016%2Fwha69-25-may-2016%2Fen%2Findex.html&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

The truth about tequila and your bones

Tequila could reverse osteoporosis!

Drinking tequila is good for your bones!

Have a Third Margarita — Because Tequila’s Great for Your Bones!

Talk about misleading headlines! These are prime examples.

It’s true that a newly published study found that a substance in tequila (called agave tequilana, or tequila agave) might help maintain bone health. And that it could lead to new treatments for osteoporosis. But consider the details:

• The study was performed on mice who had had their ovaries removed. This is by no means a perfect model for human osteoporosis.
• The mice were treated with a type of agave tequilana, not tequila, for only eight weeks.
• When compared with untreated mice, the treated mice were found to have larger thigh bones, and samples of their thigh bones contained more of a protein linked with bone growth (called osteocalcin). However, there was no long-term treatment with agave tequilana beyond the initial eight weeks, nor was there any assessment of whether this treatment would prevent osteoporosis.

The researchers suggested that sugars in the agave tequilana interacted with bacteria in the intestinal tracts of the mice to encourage absorption of minerals needed to build bones. So, a “healthy intestinal microbiome” may also be required for this approach to work.

What’s the catch?

I think this new research is intriguing. It’s entirely possible that certain types of agave (a plant that produces a honey-like nectar) could turn out to help people maintain or improve bone health. And considering the health impacts of osteoporosis — hip fractures, loss of mobility, and complications that can lead to death in some cases — such an advance can’t come too soon.

But any study in animals has to be considered highly preliminary. It’s simply unknown whether the results of this study apply to humans. In addition, the animals did not drink tequila. They were treated with a chemical found in tequila. So, the suggestion that we (humans) might improve our bone health by drinking margaritas is, in my view, just a way to grab attention. Even if we could fast forward a few years and confirm that agave tequilana improves human bone health, it’s unlikely that the treatment would be in the form of tequila.

Unfortunately, many people don’t read past the headlines. This is one time when that would be hazardous. The health impact of the alcohol in tequila — and the sugar content of agave — are just two of several “downsides” that could come about if you were worried about your bone health and took the headlines too literally.

Haven’t we been here before?

This new study on “tequila for osteoporosis” reminds me of past studies touting the health benefits of chocolate, wine, or coffee. The same week as the tequila story broke, other researchers reported that certain substances in red wine and coffee could improve cardiovascular health by changing the intestinal bacteria. Again, the study was in mice.

Claims that some of our favorite foods and drinks are actually good for us are not new. Some claims are better supported than others. For example, the evidence that coffee consumption may reduce the incidence of certain types of liver disease in humans is compelling. Still, it’s relatively rare that doctors actually “prescribe” these foods to prevent or treat disease. Perhaps they should. But, enthusiasm for doing so is tempered by concerns that excessive consumption may cause other, unhealthy effects.

Stand by

We’ll need much more research before tequila or anything in it can be recommended for bone health, or any other health concern. Until then, I hope medical writers — and readers — will be careful in how they interpret preliminary research. It’s one thing to hope that what you like is also good for you. It’s quite another for that to be any more than wishful thinking.

Related Post:

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• For women on osteoporosis drug “holiday,” bone…
• How well does calcium intake really protect your bones?
• Vitamin D and physical function: Is more better?
• Starting an osteoporosis drug? Here’s what you need to

The post The truth about tequila and your bones appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: Robert H. Shmerling, MD http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fblog%2Ftruth-tequila-bones-201605259671&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Common Abnormal Heart Rhythm Linked to Cancer Risk

But study only found an association and doesn't prove that atrial fibrillation causes cancer

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.webmd.com%2Fheart-disease%2Fatrial-fibrillation%2Fnews%2F20160525%2Fcommon-abnormal-heart-rhythm-linked-to-cancer-risk%3Fsrc%3DRSS_PUBLIC&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Medicare Drug-Pricing Experiment Stirs Opposition

A proposal to change the way Medicare pays for some drugs has set off intense reaction and lobbying — all tied to a common theme: How far should the government go in setting prices for prescription drugs?

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.webmd.com%2Fhealth-insurance%2F20160525%2Fmedicares-drugpricing-experiment-stirs-opposition%3Fsrc%3DRSS_PUBLIC&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

High-Salt Diets May Up Kidney Patients' Heart Risk

Study found higher odds for heart attack, stroke in people who consumed more sodium daily

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.webmd.com%2Fdiabetes%2Fnews%2F20160524%2Fhigh-salt-diets-may-raise-heart-risks-for-kidney-patients%3Fsrc%3DRSS_PUBLIC&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Colon cancer rising in unexpected age group

Overall rates are on the decline, but this age group has seen a big jump in the past decade, new research shows

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fnews%2Fcolon-cancer-rising-in-people-under-50%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

States file lawsuit over pelvic mesh implants

Officials in Washington state and California say the mesh, made by Johnson & Johnson, caused dire complications

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fnews%2Fstates-file-lawsuit-against-johnson-johnson-over-pelvic-mesh-implants%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Balloon-in-a-pill might be new weight loss tool

New ingestible, inflatable balloon system is a noninvasive way to curb appetite, researchers say

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fnews%2Fballoon-in-a-pill-might-be-new-weight-loss-tool%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

25 Legends: Timothy Trout

This year marks the 25^th anniversary of two American Diabetes Association^® signature fundraising events—Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes^® and Tour de Cure^®.

Every dollar raised at these events supports people living with diabetes and funds our life-changing research and programs.

The “25 Legends” blog series highlights personal stories from some of the Association’s most dedicated walkers and riders who are affected by the disease.

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My name is Timothy Trout and I’m from Greenville, South Carolina. I have been living with type 1 diabetes for 22 years. I was diagnosed at 5 years old; I’m 27 today.

My family has been participating in Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes since 1995, soon after I was diagnosed. Our team is called Team In Motion (TIM). I was the first person in my family to be diagnosed with diabetes—my younger sister has been diagnosed since—and we were looking for a way to be in touch with others who shared the same personal and family experiences with the disease.

Diabetes has impacted many aspects of my life. The daily burdens associated with the disease are frustrating, but in a way, I enjoy the challenge of it. I am determined to lead the best, most active, most fulfilling life I can, and I am too stubborn to let type 1 diabetes get in the way. I play sports and enjoy weight-lifting, hiking and cooking healthy meals. And even though diabetes makes some of that a little more challenging, it has also made me understand the importance of maintaining my health. Following a healthy lifestyle helps me manage my blood glucose and makes me feel better overall.

I have always felt great after finishing a Step Out walk. Being involved early on helped me understand the importance of having a supportive community and following a healthy lifestyle. Participating in the walks helped me form these good habits.

The walk itself is exciting, but the sense of community there is the best part. Step Out provides the unique opportunity to connect with others affected by diabetes, and it is nice to know that others are going through the same thing as you on a daily basis.

My favorite memory from the walk was winning the top fundraising trophy when I was very young.  I remember telling my mother I wanted to win, and she said, “Well, that will probably go to the bigger companies that have a lot of people fundraising for them.” I was a little disheartened at first, but after a few weeks of rallying our friends, family, neighbors and colleagues, we ended up winning! We spent several weekends walking around our neighborhood telling people about the event and why they should support the American Diabetes Association. Educating people about the cause was a rewarding experience, and getting our name on the trophy was pretty cool.

My younger self would have said that my family’s biggest accomplishment was winning that fundraising trophy, but now I’d say it is the great feeling of getting everyone together to support people affected by diabetes.

Step Out walks are a great opportunity to meet others who are passionate about stopping diabetes, and I plan to continue supporting the American Diabetes Association. If you’re looking to connect with the diabetes community, my advice is to gather up as many friends and relatives as you can and go for it!

Together, we CAN Stop Diabetes.

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The Association is so grateful of our 25 Legends! Their tireless efforts as walkers and riders are a tremendous support and inspiration to people with diabetes.

Sign up today! Learn more about these events and find out how to get involved at diabetes.org/stepout and diabetes.org/tourdecure.

From: American Diabetes Association http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdiabetesstopshere.org%2F2016%2F05%2F25%2F25-legends-timothy-trout%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Mayo Clinic Minute: Sleep Challenges for Women

From: Mayo Clinic http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DfdBZtCdG4uk&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Pot While Pregnant May Raise Premature Birth Risk

Experts' advice to expectant mothers on marijuana use is same as for alcohol and tobacco: Don't do it

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.webmd.com%2Fbaby%2Fnews%2F20160525%2Fpot-while-pregnant-may-raise-premature-birth-risk-study%3Fsrc%3DRSS_PUBLIC&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Most Americans Wouldn't Join a Clinical Trial

Only 40 percent had favorable view of these studies, but number rose when they received more info

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.webmd.com%2Fcancer%2Fnews%2F20160524%2Fmost-americans-wouldnt-join-a-clinical-trial-survey-finds%3Fsrc%3DRSS_PUBLIC&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

After Heart Attack, New Threat: Heart Failure

1 in 4 survivors develops this serious condition within 4 years, study finds

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.webmd.com%2Fheart-disease%2Fnews%2F20160524%2Fafter-heart-attack-new-threat-heart-failure%3Fsrc%3DRSS_PUBLIC&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Weight-Loss Surgery Helps Treat Type 2 Diabetes

45 professional groups say the procedure improves blood sugar control

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.webmd.com%2Fdiabetes%2Fnews%2F20160524%2Fweight-loss-surgery-helps-treat-type-2-diabetes%3Fsrc%3DRSS_PUBLIC&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Aches and pains? You could have "Dormant Butt Syndrome"

Common aches in the knee, hip, and back might actually be a pain in the butt, experts warn

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fnews%2Fdormant-butt-syndrome-a-cause-of-common-aches-and-pains%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Philadelphia becomes battleground over sugary drink tax

The mayor wants to add three cents an ounce to the price of soda, flavored water, sports drinks and some juices

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fvideos%2Fphiladelphia-becomes-battleground-over-sugary-drink-tax%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Growing fears over Zika virus as summer approaches

So far, more than 500 people living within the 50 states have contracted Zika while traveling overseas or by having sex with someone who did

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fvideos%2Fgrowing-fears-over-zika-virus-as-summer-approaches%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

New Vision Issues Spotted in Zika-Infected Babies

Finding adds to growing understanding of damage virus causes in these infants, researchers say

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.webmd.com%2Fnews%2F20160525%2Fdoctors-spot-new-vision-problems-in-babies-struck-by-zika%3Fsrc%3DRSS_PUBLIC&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

WHO: Pioneering methadone programme gives hope to thousands in Dar es Salaam

From: World Health Organization http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DHTDGeLFdRuc&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

WHO: Antimicrobial resistance - Full webcast of WorldHealth+SocialGood

From: World Health Organization http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DPI4e2_HOzcs&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

WHO: WHA 69 - Christiana Figueres, invited speaker to the World Health Assembly

From: World Health Organization http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DGrMo9yCUTHE&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Alzheimer's: When to stop driving

A person who has Alzheimer's may be hazardous on the road. Know how to keep your loved one safe.

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mayoclinic.org%2Fhealthy-lifestyle%2Fcaregivers%2Fin-depth%2Falzheimers%2Fart-20044924&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Fitness tips for menopause: Why fitness counts

Want to prevent weight gain and promote good health as you get older? Follow these fitness tips for menopause.

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mayoclinic.org%2Fhealthy-lifestyle%2Fwomens-health%2Fin-depth%2Ffitness-tips-for-menopause%2Fart-20044602&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

Philadelphia's tax proposal on sugary drinks fizzles with critics

Mayor Jim Kenney claims it will help cut down poverty and grow the city's pre-K program, but critics say it'll hurt those meant to be helped most

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fnews%2Fphiladelphia-tax-proposal-on-sugary-drinks-fizzles-with-critics%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8

"Killing children": Congress takes action on danger of car seat backs

Lawmakers demand answers after CBS News investigation found more than 100 people -- mostly children -- were severely injured or killed by seat back failures

From: http://redirect.viglink.com?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fnews%2Fcbs-news-investigation-of-seat-back-failures-sparks-action-by-congress%2F&key=ddaed8f51db7bb1330a6f6de768a69b8