Tag Archives: american

Program helped limit antibiotic misuse in kids

A one-hour educational session followed by personalized feedback helped pediatricians more closely align their antibiotic prescribing habits with national guidelines, in a new study. Researchers found fewer doctors in the program prescribed a drug that could increase the risk of antibiotic resistance for children with pneumonia or a sinus infection, compared to those who received no extra guidance. “We tried to keep it relatively simple,” said Dr. Jeffery Gerber, who led the new study at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. “Our hope is that any practice with an electronic health record would be able to adopt this strategy.” The potential for antibiotic resistance - when bacteria no longer respond to certain drugs - exists any time an antibiotic is used. Researchers have focused on limiting overuse or misuse of those drugs, in hopes they will continue to work when needed. One strategy for preventing resistance is to prescribe the antibiotic most specifically targeted to a particular infection, rather than a “broad-spectrum” antibiotic that can kill many types of bacteria. For their new study, Gerber and his colleagues tracked how often pediatricians prescribed a broad-spectrum drug versus “narrow-spectrum” options such as penicillin and amoxicillin, which are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for conditions like pneumonia and sinus infections. Their data came from 162 doctors at 18 pediatric primary care practices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, nine of which received the year-long education and electronic feedback intervention. In the 20 months before the initial education session, doctors prescribed broad-spectrum antibiotics to 27 percent of kids with common respiratory infections. During the program, that fell to 14 percent. In comparison, the decline in antibiotic misuse was much smaller at practices where doctors didn't receive education or feedback: from 28 percent to 23 percent, Gerber's team reported Tuesday in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The researchers did not see a reduction in how often antibiotics were inappropriately prescribed for viral conditions - but those numbers were low to begin with, they said. Dr. Adam Hersh, who studies pediatric infectious diseases at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, said doctors in general are getting better at not prescribing antibiotics when they won't help, such as for the common cold. But concerns about increasing resistance continue. “Despite the success in the decline in overall antibiotic use that we've seen over the last decade, at the same time there's still an ongoing problem and even increasing problem of overuse of unnecessarily broad-spectrum antibiotics,” he said. Narrow-spectrum drugs “will limit the collateral damage that goes along with antibiotic prescribing,” said Hersh, who didn't participate in the new study. And they're often cheaper than broad-spectrum versions. He said the program used in the new study has the advantage of being relatively cheap and non-intrusive, so it's likely to work for other types of practices. Still, it's unclear from these findings whether the rate of broad-spectrum prescribing would stay down after doctors stopped getting regular antibiotic-related feedback, Gerber and his colleagues noted. Hersh said parents can do their part by asking if an antibiotic is really necessary when the doctor prescribes one, as well as if it's the most appropriate version. “The number one thing is to make sure the kid gets the best medication that cures their infection,” Gerber said.source : http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/06/12/program-helped-limit-antibiotic-misuse-in-kids/

Scientists say new study shows pig health hurt by GMO feed

Pigs fed a diet of only genetically modified grain showed markedly higher stomach inflammation than pigs who dined on conventional feed, according to a new study by a team of Australian scientists and U.S. researchers. The study adds to an intensifying public debate over the impact of genetically modified crops, which are widely used by U.S. and Latin American farmers and in many other countries around the world. The study was published in the June issue of the peer-reviewed Journal of Organic Systems by researchers from Australia who worked with two veterinarians and a farmer in Iowa to study the U.S. pigs. Lead researcher Judy Carman is an epidemiologist and biochemist and director of the Institute of Health and Environmental Research in Adelaide, Australia. The study was conducted over 22.7 weeks using 168 newly weaned pigs in a commercial U.S. piggery. One group of 84 ate a diet that incorporated genetically modified (GM) soy and corn, and the other group of 84 pigs ate an equivalent non-GM diet. The corn and soy feed was obtained from commercial suppliers, the study said, and the pigs were reared under identical housing and feeding conditions. The pigs were then slaughtered roughly five months later and autopsied by veterinarians who were not informed which pigs were fed on the GM diet and which were from the control group. Researchers said there were no differences seen between pigs fed the GM and non-GM diets for feed intake, weight gain, mortality, and routine blood biochemistry measurements. But those pigs that ate the GM diet had a higher rate of severe stomach inflammation - 32 percent of GM-fed pigs compared to 12 percent of non-GM-fed pigs. The inflammation was worse in GM-fed males compared to non-GM fed males by a factor of 4.0, and GM-fed females compared to non-GM-fed females by a factor of 2.2. As well, GM-fed pigs had uteri that were 25 percent heavier than non-GM fed pigs, the study said. The researchers said more long-term animal feeding studies need to be done. Biotech seeds are genetically altered to grow into plants that tolerate treatments of herbicide and resist pests, making producing crops easier for farmers. Some critics have argued for years that the DNA changes made to the transgenic plants engineer novel proteins that can be causing the digestive problems in animals and possibly in humans. The companies that develop these transgenic crops, using DNA from other bacteria and other species, assert they are more than proven safe over their use since 1996. CropLife International, a global federation representing the plant science industry, said more than 150 scientific studies have been done on animals fed biotech crops and to date, there is no scientific evidence of any detrimental impact.source : http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/06/12/scientists-say-new-study-shows-pig-health-hurt-by-gmo-feed/

Experts worry over possible link between child CT scans and cancer

Fewer CT scans were done on American children in recent years after a steep increase from 1996 to 2005, a new study showed, but medical experts said they remain concerned that too many youngsters are being unnecessarily exposed to the procedure's harmful radiation. Medical experts said that about one-third of kids who receive the scans likely are exposed unnecessarily to radiation from the equipment. Ionizing radiation from computed tomography equipment, which uses X-rays to examine internal organs for bleeding, fractures or cancer, among other purposes, has been linked in previous studies to increased risk of cancer. Children appear particularly vulnerable because their organs are still developing and they have a longer period for cancer to form. In Monday's study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, researchers examined the rates and radiation dosages of CT scans used in children across seven large U.S. health-maintenance organizations between 1996 and 2011. The study examined data on the 152,000 to 370,000 children who got scans each year, for a total of 4.85 million child-years of observation. One child-year refers to data for one child over one year. For the 10 years up to 2005, use of scans doubled in kids younger than 5 and tripled in those aged 5 to 14. The rates then plateaued between 2006 and 2007 and began to decline between 2008 and 2010. “This is adding more to the body of knowledge of we're…overdoing CT scans in general and ionizing radiation in everyone, especially children,” said Eric Topol, director of the Scripps Translational Science Institute in La Jolla, Calif., who studies medical technologies and wasn't involved in the current study. The recent decrease may be connected in part to growing concerns about cancer risk from CT radiation, but probably also is related to a push to reduce unnecessary and expensive testing, said Diana Miglioretti, the first author on the study and a biostatistics professor at the University of California, Davis. Health-care spending of many types fell during the recession. However, there still likely is overuse of CT scans in children, Dr. Miglioretti said. For instance, medical evidence suggests that children with suspected appendicitis first should get an ultrasound, which doesn't use radiation, but many times they receive a CT scan initially. The researchers also used radiation-dosage information for CT scans, combined with prior studies on the amount of radiation associated with cancer, to project how many additional cancers might result from CT scans in childhood. They found that the highest risk was for abdomen scans, where one case of cancer could be expected in 300 to 400 girls and one in 700 to 800 boys who received such a scan. Click for more from The Wall Street Journal.source : http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/06/11/experts-worry-over-possible-link-between-child-ct-scans-and-cancer/

Dr. Manny: FDA loss of control on Plan B not surprising

I told you so - the government is bamboozling us about Plan B. The Obama administration announced on Monday that it will now allow girls and women of all ages to purchase the Plan B pill without a prescription. This is exactly what I have been warning the American public about. I am now totally convinced that our current federal government loves confusion. When you have a single agenda, and many ways to spin it, the American public never gets a clear answer and that is exactly what has happened with the Plan B emergency contraception controversy. Just last week, a U.S. appeals court ruled that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) must make only certain forms of the emergency contraception pill available to children of all ages, without a prescription.  In a confusing ruling, the court stated that while the two-pill version of emergency contraception could be sold over-the-counter to women of all ages, the one-pill version would still only be sold to women age 17 or older. The court did not explain its reasoning. One has to remember that the FDA first approved this form of over-the-counter contraception for women of all ages back in 2011. When that initial FDA ruling came out, there was a loud public outcry and restrictions were quickly put in place barring women under the age of 17 from purchasing these pills. But of course, that was just one spin on the story. In April, a New York judge ruled that restricting access to Plan B was inappropriate, forcing the FDA to reconsider their initial finding that emergency contraception should be available to children of all ages. And then, we got another spin on the story, as the FDA tried to lower the age limit for access to emergency contraception to 15 last month. There was another outcry and more criticism, because we know perfectly well that a 15-year-old may not have a clear understanding of how to utilize emergency contraception. Now, we see that the FDA will get to do what they wanted to do in the first place. How convenient. So, what’s the message here?

Plant-based diets take root in U.S. among athletes, exercisers

For Brendan Brazier it all started with a smoothie. The former Ironman triathlete and ultra-marathon champion said he decided to change to a vegan diet as a high school athlete hoping to turn professional. “I knew I had to improve,” Brazier explained in an interview. “I tried high carb, low carb, high protein, low protein, all sorts of different diets. Then I tried plant-based. It started with me just taking a daily blender drink of fats, plants, proteins.” The 38-year-old Canadian, who has written three books on veganism, including “Thrive Fitness: The Vegan-Based Training Program for Maximum Strength, Health, and Fitness,” is not alone. From tennis players to bodybuilders, athletes trying to improve their performance have switched to veganism, which excludes meat, eggs, dairy products and all other animal-derived ingredients. Baseball's Prince Fielder, ultra-marathoner Scott Jurek and ice hockey player Mike Zigomanis have declared themselves vegans. Olympic skier Seba Johnson has been vegan from birth and tennis star Venus Williams became a vegan after being told she had Sjogren's syndrome, an autoimmune disease. Fitness experts say the rewards of a plant-based diet can include more energy, deeper sleep and better performance. “We see athletes recovering faster, maximizing training, and thereby improving performance,” said Julieanna Hever, a personal trainer, registered dietitian and author of “The Complete Idiot's Guide to Plant-Based Nutrition.” “Unfortunately, there are not yet any clinical trials on vegan athletes,” she added. Sharon Palmer, author of “The Plant-Powered Diet” said some studies show that a diet high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds can help prevent and treat issues related to recovery. “It makes sense that anti-inflammatory compounds would help athletes avoid inflammation related to training,” said Palmer, a registered dietitian. “And the majority of anti-inflammatory compounds are found in plant foods.” Only 2 percent of 1,014 American adults questioned in a 2012 Gallup poll identified themselves as vegans. Five percent called themselves vegetarians, usually defined as those who do not eat meat, fish or poultry but consume dairy products and eggs. Brazier said with a plant-based diet the stress hormone cortisol decreases, so people need less sleep, and less sugar and coffee for stimulation. But Palmer cautioned that vegans are at risk for deficiency in vitamins B12, D, and calcium, which are found in meat, dairy products and eggs. “I see that people just wing it. They decide that their bodies will just fill in for their gaps in their diets, which is not true,” she said, adding vitamin supplements may be needed. “Another thing I see is that people don't always get adequate sources of protein.” She said athletes and very active people might need to add protein from nuts, seeds, beans, lentils and soy to their meals and snack. Brazier said a good way to transition to a vegan diet is with a daily smoothie of plant proteins, essential fats, and fiber greens. “And add fruit. Make it taste good.”source : http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/06/10/plant-based-diets-take-root-in-us-among-athletes-exercisers/

7 ways to cut your diabetes risk

Defend yourself against prediabetes and type 2 diabetes by sticking to these lifestyle habits, like lifting weights and getting a good night's sleep Hit the Weights Upping your lean muscle mass could lower your insulin resistance and drop your odds of developing prediabetes, according to a new study in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. Researchers found that for every 10 percent increase in muscle mass, people's prediabetes risk fell by 12 percent.  Build three days of resistance training into your weekly fitness plan, Sheri Colberg-Ochs, a professor of exercise science at Old Dominion University, said. And aim for at least two and a half hours a week of glucose-burning cardio activity such as running, cycling or swimming. MORE: 4 Muscle-Sculpting Kettlebell Exercises Score Enough Sleep Long-term sleep deprivation may amp up the body's insulin resistance, especially in people genetically predisposed to diabetes. A preliminary University of Chicago study found that those who regularly snoozed fewer than six hours a night were at the highest risk. Try to get at least seven hours of shut-eye each evening. MORE: 15 Tricks to Sleep Better Tonight Fiber Up The rough stuff isn't just good for digestion—it also curbs post-meal sugar spikes by slowing down the flow of glucose into the bloodstream. So when you crave something sweet, opt for fiber-rich fruit such as raspberries or pears. And consider adding brown rice to your diet: Eating two or more servings a week lowers diabetes risk by 11 percent, an Archives of Internal Medicine study said. MORE: What Your Food Cravings Say About Your Health Chill Out Chronic stress is a risk factor for many major diseases, including diabetes.  “When your body senses stress, it releases hormones that increase blood sugar,” Colberg-Ochs said.  That rush is beneficial in a pinch but dangerous long-term. Regularly practicing deep breathing or meditation, listening to calming music or getting massages can quell stress hormones and help lower overall blood sugar, she said. MORE: 8 Daily Strategies That De-Stress Your Life Embrace the Omegas The omega-3 fatty acids found in foods like oily fish (wild salmon, sardines) can help improve insulin sensitivity. Nosh on at least one serving of such seafood a week. Do the D The “sunshine vitamin” may be a key factor in the fight against diabetes. A review published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that people with high vitamin-D levels were less likely to develop type 2. Swallow 1,000 to 2,000 IU a day through dairy foods, fatty fish, or supplements. Spice Things Up Cinnamon may be an ace at lowering blood sugar levels, research in the Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine said. Rich in nutrients called polyphenols, the sweet spice may help insulin do its job more effectively. Sprinkle some into your morning joe or mix it into an oatmeal snack.source : http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/06/10/7-ways-to-cut-your-diabetes-risk/

Man sues after plastic surgeon removes his entire nose

A New York man living in Tulsa went to get a nose job with a well-established Tulsa plastic surgeon and five years later does not have a nose. Dr. Angelo Cuzalina is known across Green County, Okla., for his plastic surgery. The Oklahoma Medical Board does not show any complaints in his history. He is listed as president of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. “I had the first surgery and suffered some breathing problems, nothing too bad, but it made it hard to exercise and sleep,” said Thakkar. He went back, again and again. Between 2006 and 2007 he had eight surgeries. He then left Tulsa until 2011 and came back for more surgeries. He had several infections. Finally, during a surgery, Thakkar says Cuzalina cut off his nose. “He told me that there was an infection in there and since I was on the operating table and unconscious he had to make the decision,” said Thakkar. On August 31st, 2012 Cuzalina sent Thakkar a form stating he will no longer work on him, “… you are considered medically unstable. Because of your ongoing threats and harassment against my staff, my practice, and me personally…”  the statement read. It was around this time Thakkar told FOX23 News, he learned Cuzalina was recording their audio and video without letting Thakkar know that was happening during his visits to the office. The lawsuit filed by Thakkar's attorney, Paul Boudreaux states: “During this period, and in violation of plaintiff’s medical confidentiality and privileges, Cuzalina hired private investigators and attorneys, and secured hidden audio and video recordings of Plaintiff without Plaintiff's permission or knowledge, in violation of the law and Plaintiff's reasonable expectations of privacy.” “In December of 2011, in the medical record he (Dr. Cuzalina) wrote I am suicidal, but at the same time the medication he is giving me it could easily kill a couple human beings,” said Thakkar. The lawsuit details those drugs: “.. prescribed an excessive amount of medication, enough to kill the patient, if taken, including but not limited to Loratab, Ambien, Valilum, and Oxycodone.” “I have more than 3,000 injections, pain pills and stuff so my liver is pretty much fried,” said Thakkar. FOX23 News learned of Thakkar's story on Friday and called to interview with Cuzalina's attorney, Tim Best. After a few conversations, Best said they are not comfortable doing an interview because they need a signed medical release to speak about Thakkar's medical history. Click for more from Fox News 23. source : http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/06/07/man-without-nose-files-lawsuit-against-tulsa-plastic-surgeon/

Math technique de-clutters cancer-cell data, revealing tumor evolution, treatment leads

Using increasingly cheap and rapid methods to read the billions of "letters" that comprise human genomes — including the genomes of individual cells sampled from cancerous tumors — scientists are generating far more data than they can easily interpret. Today, two scientists from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) publish a mathematical method of simplifying and interpreting genome data bearing evidence of mutations, such as those that characterize specific cancers. Not only is the technique highly accurate; it has immediate utility in efforts to parse tumor cells, in order to determine a patient’s prognosis and the best approach to treatment. …