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Procedures could be used to predict Parkinson’s

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:00:12 -0700

Procedures could be used to predict Parkinson’s

05/16/12

Researchers at Rush University Medical Center have revealed that it is possible to predict patients who will develop Parkinson’s disease from a colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy.

The procedures obtain colonic tissue that could predict the neurodegenerative disorder that leads to progressive deterioration of motor function from the loss of neurons in the brain.

"Recent clinical and pathological evidence supports the notion that Parkinson's disease may begin in the intestinal wall then spread through the nerves to the brain,” said Kathleen Shannon, neurologist in the Movement Disorders and Parkinson's Center at Rush, and a multidisciplinary team of scientists at Rush. “Clinical signs of intestinal disease, such as constipation, Parkinson's disease diagnosis by more than a decade. These studies suggest it may one day be possible to use colonic tissue biopsy to predict who will develop motor Parkinson's disease.”

Parkinson’s disease affects 5 million people worldwide and it is predicted that number will double by 2030. The most common symptom of the disease is tremors in one hand that slowly develop to the rest of the body. Other symptoms include slurred or slowed speech, stiffness in the body and slowed movement. Symptoms worsen as time progresses. Those afflicted should consider life insurance to ensure loved ones financial security. Compare life insurance rates online to receive the best pricing options.

Delivery system assists arthritis treatment

Tue, 15 May 2012 17:00:13 -0700

Delivery system assists arthritis treatment

05/15/12

A recent study featured on the cover of The Journal of Immunology revealed that a DNA-covered submicroscopic bead used to deliver genes or drugs into cells that treat disease may have therapeutic value.

Researchers from Georgia Health Sciences University conducted the study and were surprised with the results which showed an increased expression of an enzyme that calms the immune response.

Scientists used an animal model of rheumatoid arthritis and the enhanced presence of indoleomine 2 significantly reduced the hallmark limb joint swelling and inflammation of the autoimmune disease.

"It's like pouring water on a fire," said Andrew Mellor, director of the GHSU's Medical College of Georgia Immunotherapy Center and the study's corresponding author. "The fire is burning down the house, which in this case is the tissue normally required for your joints to work smoothly. When IDO levels are high, there is more water to control the fire."

According to the Arthritis Foundation, the disease is the leading cause of disability in the United States and has been diagnosed in 50 million Americans, which should be enough to encourage people to compare life insurance quotes for the best rates to prepare for their future.

Seniors switch to earth-friendly values

Tue, 15 May 2012 17:00:12 -0700

Seniors switch to earth-friendly values

05/15/12

Senior citizens are beginning to switch to green energy as ways to leave their mark on the environment by reducing carbon emissions, which have been proven to cause health issues for those who are in contact with pollution often.

Peggy McKibben is one of the senior citizens who is an advocate for clean energy in the country. McKibben, who is the daughter of renowned activist and writer Bill McKibben, recently read about an event that 350.org was planning for May 5 called "Connect the Dots," which is scheduled to produce rallies and projects worldwide.

“The idea behind ‘Connect the Dots’ is to map out the world using red dots to show the dramatic damage caused by catastrophic events related to climate change, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and tsunamis, and using green dots to show the ways in which people are practicing sustainable living,” McKibben said.

According to U.S. Census Bureau data, the number of people 65 and older in the United States in 2009 totaled 39.6 million. Considering the high number of Americans in the country, more people should compare life insurance quotes to prepare for future health expenses, which could prove to be costly without an insurance policy.

53 million Americans to have diabetes by 2025, study shows

Tue, 15 May 2012 14:00:15 -0700

53 million Americans to have diabetes by 2025, study shows

05/15/12

Individual state and population predictions published in Population Health Management reveal that by 2025, 53.1 million Americans will suffer from diabetes.

"Diabetes is now a national security issue as it threatens all aspects of our nation’s well-being," said Journal Editor-in-Chief David Nash.

The Diabetes 2025 Model for the United States predicts the dramatic increase of the epidemic and offers societal solutions in healthcare delivery systems and lifestyle adjustments.

Based on the model, most cases of diabetes will be type-2 and the 53.1 million Americans affected will be apart of the 64 percent increase from 2010. The publication offers a model for specific interventions in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle and reduce the burdens that comes with diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association estimates that as of 2011, 25.8 million Americans, or 8.3 percent of the population, had diabetes and 1.9 million new cases were diagnosed in people age 20 years or older in the year 2010.

Along with a healthy lifestyle, life insurance is a viable option for preparing for the future. Compare life insurance rates online to receive the best available pricing.

Vaccine, therapy gaining ground on breast cancer

Tue, 15 May 2012 14:00:14 -0700

Vaccine, therapy gaining ground on breast cancer

05/15/12

A recent study showed the breast cancer hormonal therapy drug letrozole, combined with a vaccine that targets cancer cells, significantly increased the survival rate in mice.

The UC Davis investigators published the report in the Clinical Cancer Research journal.

"We found that the vaccine and the hormonal drug letrozole were more effective when given together," said Michael DeGregorio, UC Davis professor of hematology and oncology and principal investigator of the study. "This adds critical evidence that immunotherapy with vaccines, which has traditionally been used to prevent infectious diseases, is also a promising new approach to combating cancer."

The vaccine L-BLP25 attacks an antigen that is expressed in cancer cells. The vaccine generates an immune response, which recognizes and destroys the tumor cells. The mice that were treated with letrozole saw improved survival rates along with a combination of the vaccine, and were better off when compared to mice that took the vaccine and the common breast cancer medication, tamoxifen.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in women in the United States, behind lung cancer, and one out of eight women will be diagnosed in their lifetime. Although the study shows promise for a solution in the near future, life insurance is always a surefire way to get peace of mind when preparing for the future. Receive cheap life insurance by comparing life insurance rates online.

Physical fitness could reduce hypertension

Tue, 15 May 2012 14:00:12 -0700

Physical fitness could reduce hypertension

05/15/12

New research recently released in the American Heart Association's journal Hypertension showed that people whose parents had a history of high blood pressure could significantly reduce the risk of developing hypertension with moderate exercise and by increasing cardiovascular workouts.

The study examined more than 6,000 people, and found that the participants who had a parent with high blood pressure but were physically fit had a 34 percent lower risk of developing high blood pressure themselves when compared to those with low fitness levels.

"Understanding the roles that family history and fitness play in chronic diseases is critically important," said Robin Shook, study lead author and a doctoral graduate student in the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina in Columbia. "The results of this study send a very practical message, which is that even a very realistic, moderate amount of exercise - which we define as brisk walking for 150 minutes per week - can provide a huge health benefit, particularly to people predisposed to hypertension because of their family history."

During the last decade, the number of Americans with high blood pressure has increased by 30 percent, which could encourage some people to secure life insurance quotes to prepare for any future healthcare costs.

National study conducted for Alzheimer's disease

Mon, 14 May 2012 17:00:15 -0700

National study conducted for Alzheimer's disease

05/14/12

A Georgetown physician is leading the way in an investigation of the phase II clinical trial that examines the effects of resveratrol on patients who have mild to moderate dementia due to Alzheimer's disease.

Resveratrol is a compound found in red grapes, red grape juice, red wine, chocolate, tomatoes and peanuts. Preliminary studies of the compound show that it could be helpful in preventing diabetes, act as a natural cancer fighter, ward off cardiovascular disease and prevent memory loss.

"Most resveratrol studies showing any health benefits have been conducted in animal models, such as mice, and with doses that far exceed intake from sipping wine or nibbling on chocolate," said R. Scott Turner, lead investigator for the study. "With this clinical trial, we'll find out if daily doses of pure resveratrol can delay or alter memory deterioration and daily functioning in people with mild to moderate dementia due to Alzheimer's."

Considering 5.4 million Americans have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's, more people should consider comparing life insurance quotes to prepare for any future expenses.

More dementia deaths occur at home than in nursing homes

Mon, 14 May 2012 14:00:20 -0700

More dementia deaths occur at home than in nursing homes

05/14/12

The Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University have found that individuals with dementia are more likely to die at home than in a nursing home, contrary to popular belief.

The study, Transitions in Care for Older Adults With and Without Dementia, was published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, and was the first to track individuals with dementia until death, regardless of whether the death was caused by dementia or another condition.

The study found that most individuals with dementia die of conditions such as cancer, heart disease or pneumonia. The researchers found that, often times people with dementia do not follow a predetermined path for care. The number and direction of transitions can be sporadic and doesn’t follow the expected straight line of receiving care at home, then the hospital, then the nursing home.

"This is a study on what it is like to live with dementia over a five- to 10-year period," said Regenstrief Institute Investigator Christopher Callahan. "You probably won't proceed on a straight line from home to hospital to nursing home. You will experience multiple transitions as you progress from mild to moderate to advanced dementia."

Disabled World predicts there to be 24 million people suffering from some form of dementia worldwide and, if no medical advancements are made, that number could rise to 84 million by 2040.

Beta blockers don’t lower risk of colorectal cancer, study shows

Mon, 14 May 2012 14:00:18 -0700

Beta blockers don’t lower risk of colorectal cancer, study shows

05/14/12

Contrary to recent belief, a new study has found taking beta blockers that treat high blood pressure, does not lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer, even with long-term use.

Recent research showed lowered risks of colorectal cancer in animal and laboratory studies because the stress hormone norepinephrine can promote the growth of cancer cells. Beta blockers were shown to inhibit norepinephrine in the models and gave promise to human bouts with cancer.

The more recent study, though, factored in patient characteristics for the first time, like smoking status and weight, among other factors, and found no link between beta blocker use and colorectal risk.

The studies concluded the importance of considering patient characteristics and other factors that influence the results of tests.

The National Cancer Institute predicts 103,170 new cases of colorectal cancer in 2012 and expects 51,690 deaths to occur. When faced with these odds, life insurance is a viable option to consider. Compare life insurance rates online to ensure the best possible price.

Baby boomers at risk for hepatitis C

Mon, 14 May 2012 14:00:16 -0700

Baby boomers at risk for hepatitis C

05/14/12

According to a new survey by the American Gastroenterological Association, nearly 75 percent of baby boomers have not been tested or are unsure whether they’ve been tested for hepatitis C, while 80 percent of them do not feel they are at risk.

Three out of four people with hepatitis C don’t know they have it. Nearly 5 million are infected and 82 percent of those who are infected are baby boomers.

The results showed that 83 percent of the baby boomers surveyed never even talked about hepatitis C with their healthcare provider.

"Many baby boomers have a potentially dangerous 'it's not me' mentality about hepatitis C, and this survey underscores how poorly most people in that generation understand that risk factors do apply to them," said Ira Jacobson, chief, division of gastroenterology and hepatology.

Along with getting, tested baby boomers are encouraged to compare life insurance rates online. Life insurance is a viable option to receiving peace of mind when considering the financial future of your loved ones.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, checking for hepatitis C is as easy as taking a blood test, and those with the disease can receive treatment with medicine taken everyday or an injection once a week for 24 to 48 weeks.

New discovery sheds new light on cardiovascular disease

Fri, 11 May 2012 10:00:14 -0700

New discovery sheds new light on cardiovascular disease

05/11/12

Researchers at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine have discovered evidence that the inflammatory skin disease psoriasis can lead to cardiovascular disease.

The study was published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology and used mouse models to prove the link. Mice that developed a similar skin condition to human psoriasis experience inflammation in large arteries, like the aorta.

"This discovery is paradigm shifting,” said Nicole Ward, senior author of the study.”There has been a link between the two diseases but to date we had not been able to show cause. Epidemiologic evidence from thousands of patients was convincing that psoriasis patients had a much greater chance of developing cardiovascular disease and dying from it.”

The National Psoriasis Foundation estimates that up 7 million people suffer from the autoimmune disease, which can lead to diabetes, depression and heart disease.

Psoriasis in the mice models showed vessel blockage that can lead to a stroke or heart attack in humans. The study showed that upon reversal of the skin disease in mice, the cardiovascular inflammation and blood clot formation was reduced.

Long-term use of medication could reduce bone fracture risk

Thu, 10 May 2012 17:00:15 -0700

Long-term use of medication could reduce bone fracture risk

05/10/12

A recent study conducted by the University of California in San Francisco showed that long-term use of osteoporosis medication could reduce bone fracture risks in the spine for some patients.

According to the National Institutes of Health, osteoporosis is the result of 1.5 million fractures in the United States each year, which costs $14 billion annually, and as many as half of all women and a quarter of all men older than 50 are predicted to break a bone due to the disease.

“Our study suggests that even after five years of therapy, if your bone density is low enough, you’re at high risk for having additional spine fractures,” said Dennis Black, PhD, professor and division chief of UCSF’s Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics’ Clinical Trials and Multicenter Studies. “And by continuing this therapy for these patients, it’s likely to decrease that risk for spine fractures.”

Treating osteoporosis with bisphosphonates for more than five years has been linked to multiple side effects, but is also helpful in reducing the pains of the bone disease.

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, the disease is a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans, which should send more people out to secure life insurance quotes.

Economics applies to healthcare, study finds

Thu, 10 May 2012 17:00:13 -0700

Economics applies to healthcare, study finds

05/10/12

A study of 7,424 colon cancer patients found that hospital competition and managed care presence increased the likelihood of laparoscopic surgery at lower costs when compared to other procedures.

"This is a timely analysis in the era of health care reform," said Avi Dor, lead author on the study. "It demonstrates that competition among providers can be harnessed to benefit patients and consumers."

Researchers saw that, with a 10 percent increase of health maintenance organization in a market, yielded a 10.3 percent increase in the utilization of laparoscopic surgery.

The average cost of open surgery is $21,257 and has multiple long incisions, while the average cost for laparoscopy is $18,133, and has far less and smaller incisions. Researchers also found that a patient was 12.5 times more likely to receive laparoscopic surgery in 2007 compared to 2002.

The Center for Disease Prevention and Control lists colon cancer as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The latest numbers found that 142,672 men and women were diagnosed in 2007. Life insurance is a viable resource to preparing for the future, offering peace of mind and ensuring loved ones financial security. Compare life insurance quotes online to receive the best option.

New criteria established for cardiac catheterization

Thu, 10 May 2012 10:00:16 -0700

New criteria established for cardiac catheterization

05/10/12

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, in collaboration with the American College of Cardiology Foundation, reported detailed new criteria to help clinicians determine when it is necessary to use cardiac catheterization to evaluate heart disease in patients.

"Invasive coronary catheterization is a cornerstone for how we diagnose and care for people with heart disease," said Manesh Patel, co-chair of the writing group. "We want to encourage the appropriate and judicious use of all of our techniques and procedures. With this document, we aim to help all clinicians – not just cardiologists – determine when it would be reasonable to perform diagnostic cardiac catheterization."

Catheters are used every year throughout the United States and the panel has just identified 166 possible clinical scenarios to consider catheterization. Amongst the cases in the study, half were deemed appropriate for catheter use, 30 percent were uncertain and 25 percent were inappropriate.

According to the Mayo Clinic, cardiac catheterization is a procedure to diagnose and treat cardiovascular conditions. A long thin tube is inserted in an artery or vein in the neck, arm or groin, travelling through blood vessels, to the heart.

The panel has made catheter use easier to identify, but risks in the coronary artery are still prevalent. Life insurance offers contentment that loved ones are financially secure. Compare life insurance rates online to find the best price and benefits.

Greater purpose in life could prevent Alzheimer's

Wed, 09 May 2012 17:00:23 -0700

Greater purpose in life could prevent Alzheimer's

05/09/12

Americans worried about the changes they could go through if diagnosed with Alzheimer's now have ways to protect against the effects of the disease.

A recent study that was conducted by researchers at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, revealed that a greater purpose in life could help prevent harmful effects of plaques and tangles associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study was published in the May issue of the Archives of General Psychiatry.

"Our study showed that people who reported greater purpose in life exhibited better cognition than those with less purpose in life even as plaques and tangles accumulated in their brains," said Patricia Boyle, PhD. "These findings suggest that purpose in life protects against the harmful effects of plaques and tangles on memory and other thinking abilities. This is encouraging and suggests that engaging in meaningful and purposeful activities promotes cognitive health in old age."

According to the Alzheimer's Association, more than 5.4 million people have been diagnosed with the disease, which could increase the number of Americans secure life insurance quotes.

Doctors offer advice for heart attack victims

Wed, 09 May 2012 17:00:21 -0700

Doctors offer advice for heart attack victims

05/09/12

Results from a recently released study show that patients who were sexually active before suffering a heart attack were 1.5 times more likely to reclaim a normal sex life following advice from a professional.

Sexual activity is known to decrease slightly in both men and women in the year following a heart attack, but researchers found that many patients didn't receive medical counseling following the event of a heart attack and chose to be sexually inactive.

"Doctors need to understand the significant role they play in helping acute myocardial infarction patients avoid needless fear and worry about the risk of relapse or even death with return to sexual activity," said Stacy Lindau, an expert on helping women with complex illnesses maintain sexual function. "Receiving instructions, prior to hospital discharge, about resuming sex was a major predictor of whether patients resumed sexual activity in the year following AMI. For women, this was the only significant predictor."

Considering heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, more Americans are looking to secure life insurance quotes in order to prepare for future health expenses.

Molecule that inhibits estrogen represents risk in breast and endometrial cancer

Wed, 09 May 2012 17:00:18 -0700

Molecule that inhibits estrogen represents risk in breast and endometrial cancer

05/09/12

Researchers have discovered a molecule that inhibits the role of estrogen, the hormone that plays a crucial role in maintenance, growth and repair of reproductive tissues, and nourishes the development of breast and endometrial cancers.

Estradiol and progesterone are hormones that prepare a women to give birth, facilitating the uterus lining. Although the hormones are closely controlled, cells sometimes act abnormally and lead to menstrual irregularities.

Studies have shown that a molecule called KLF15 controls estradiol and progesterone actions in the endometrium by inhibiting a protein involved in DNA synthesis.

"The molecular mechanisms that underlie these pathologies are still obscure- and so are the mechanisms involved in normal hormonal regulation of cell proliferation in the endometrium, which is essential for successful pregnancy," said lead author Jeffrey Pollard. "Our findings raise the possibility that it may be feasible to prevent or treat endometrial and breast cancer and other diseases related to estrogen by promoting the action of KLF15.”

Breast cancer remains the number one cancer in women. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 226,870 new cases of breast cancer in the United States during 2012 and expects the disease to cause nearly 40,000 deaths. Life insurance reasonable option to help ensure your loved ones financial security. Get a life insurance quote online to see the benefits.

Women with Atrial fibrillation could be at higher risk for stroke

Wed, 09 May 2012 14:00:19 -0700

Women with Atrial fibrillation could be at higher risk for stroke

05/09/12

A new study shows that elderly women with an irregular heartbeat are at a greater risk of suffering a stroke than men.

The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre showed that warfarin, the most popular anticoagulant medication used to prevent strokes in patients with Atrial fibrillation may not be as effective in women 75 years or older, when compared to men.

According to Forbes, 2.2 million people in the United States suffer from persistent Atrial fibrillation. The irregularity accounts for one-third of hospitalizations for cardiac rhythm disturbances and patients with Atrial fibrillation are five times as likely to suffer from a stroke compared to someone with a normal beating heart.

"Physicians should put more emphasis on female sex as a risk factor in deciding to start anticoagulation treatment for stroke," said Dr. Louise Pilote, director of the Division of General Internal Medicine at McGill. "Because study results in men do not always apply to women, we need women to participate in our studies in order to develop new strategies to effectively prevent stroke equally in both sexes."

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Exercise helps in the fight against colon and breast cancer, research shows

Wed, 09 May 2012 10:00:23 -0700

Exercise helps in the fight against colon and breast cancer, research shows

05/09/12

Recent research published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute shows that physical activity is linked to reduced breast and colon cancer mortality.

The evidence provides the strongest case in breast cancer survivors. Most of the research, compiled over the 61 years of studies, showed a reduced risk of cancer risk and mortality. The studies also showed similar results for colorectal cancer survivors but were incapable of pointing out similar results for any other types of cancer.

"Even though direct effects of physical activity on cancer are not definitely proven, given that physical activity is generally safe, improves quality of life for cancer patients, and has numerous other health benefits, adequate physical activity should be a standard part of cancer care,"wrote Edward Giovannucci, of the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health.

According to the National Cancer Institute, breast and colon cancers are amongst the top cancer diagnoses in the United States. Men and women are estimated to account for 143,460 new cases of colon cancer this year and 226,870 new cases of breast cancer are expected to occur in women alone.

The research shows improvements in the battle against cancer, offering some peace of mind. Life insurance is also another option that ensures financial peace of mind. Compare life insurance rates online to receive the best rates.

Study shows income inequality can cause death

Wed, 09 May 2012 10:00:20 -0700

Study shows income inequality can cause death

05/09/12

A new study published in Social Science and Medicine provides evidence that higher levels of income inequality could be leading to more deaths in the United States.

The study suggests the outcome doesn’t occur immediately but over a period of time. Mortality rate increases five years later, peaks at seven years and shows few signs after 12 years.

“For the first time, we can clearly capture the long-term effect of income inequality on health,” said Hui Zheng, author of the study. “Previous studies are likely to miss the effect if the mortality follow-up period is too short for income inequality to exert its impact or too long for income inequality to maintain its influence.”

Only speculation exists on how exactly a lower income leads to decreased health. The United States Census Bureau calculates through the Gini coefficient. The Gini coefficient in the United States, according to its most recent results, rose every year from 2005 to 2009. It was 0.403 in 1980 and rose to 0.469 in 2010.

Zheng said that the study found, with a 0.01 rise in the Gini coefficient, the odds of death increased by 122 percent in the following 12 years.

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