| Post Date | Title and Description |
| 2002-04-15 | Neural Stem Cells Can Develop into Functional Neurons
A new study done at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and at The Salk Institute shows that adult stem cells can become working brain cells. The investigators said that these cells (neurons) seem to be exactly like normal adult neurons. One difference was that the stem cell derived neurons did not have as many synapses, or connections, as normal neurons. They are not sure whether this anomaly is due to the adult stem cells which they used or to a fault in the experiment protocol. Much more study will be required before it is known whether adult stem cells can be used as effectively as embryonic stem cells in treating cases of damage to the brain and nervous tissue.
|
| --Howard Hughes Medical Institute - HHMI.org |
| 2002-02-10 | Transplant Drug "Protects Against Cancer"
Transplant patients have been found to be more likely to develop certain cancers. Cyclosporine, a common anti-rejection drug, has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. A new drug, rapamycin, seems to handle the anti-rejection qualities needed by transplant patients, and it also seems to control and prevent the growth of tumors in tests on mice.
|
| --BBC News |
| 2002-02-10 | Alzheimer's Patients Get Lost From Motion Blindness
Disorientation in Alzheimer's patients may be due to more than the patient forgetting where he is going or where he lives. New evidence suggests that there is a part of the brain that detects self-movement. Patients seem to have lost function in this part of the brain and do not realize that they are moving. Therefore, they are surprised to find themselves in a different place, and they don't know how they got there.
|
| --UniSci.com |
| 2002-02-07 | Drug Transforms Life for Lung Patients
Tests with a new drug, tiotropium, have found that it not only improved lung function in COPD patients, it also reduced the number and severity of attacks that patients experienced. Researchers are still cautious about recommending this new drug, though, for the general population of lung patients.
|
| --BBC News |
| 2002-02-07 | FDA Approves Leukemia Drug for Gastrointestinal Cancer
The serious cancer drug with the funny name is now approved for use against another type of cancer.
|
| --The Dallas Morning News/DallasNews.com |
| 2002-02-04 | Altered Images for Brain Damage Patients
Brain injury occasionally causes an unusual condition known as visual agnosia. This condition can cause people to have trouble recognizing faces, objects, or animals. For some, a family member may not be recognizable - until they speak or move! Others don't recognize familiar animals as real and believe that fantasy animals are real. Interesting photos of invented animals accompany the article.
|
| --BBC News |
| 2002-02-04 | New Test Detects Colon Cancer Gene
A non-invasive test for colorectal cancer has been tested in a small group of patients. The test looks for mutations in a specific gene. These mutations are known to initiate the cancer, so finding evidence of them can lead to an early diagnosis while the cancer is more easily cured. While the percentages of mutations found in patients with the cancer are not high, the number of false positives was zero. This alone can make the test more attractive to those who may fear the results of tests.
|
| --Howard Hughes Medical Institute News |
| 2002-02-04 | E. coli Could Provide Alzheimer's Clue
The same bacteria that cause food poisoning also produce plaque-forming amyloid fibers similar to those found in Alzheimer's patients. While this discovery gives researchers an easier way to study the amyloid production process, it also leads to some interesting questions, such as, can bacterial infection cause plaque formation?
|
| --BBC News |
| 2002-02-04 | Medicare Widens Funding for Diet Help
Preventive nutrition therapy is finally covered by Medicare. As of the beginning of the year, nearly 5 million diabetic and kidney patients are eligible for individualized medical nutrition therapy. A 1999 study showed that therapy provided by registered dietitians could save federal money. The details of the program are still being worked out, but dietitians are readily signing up to provide services under the program.
|
| --Washington Post |
| 2001-12-20 | Caring for Loved Ones Takes Its Toll
A new study shows that former spousal caregivers
still show signs of depression a few years after
their spouses have died. Several tips for managing
stress and stress-reduction techniques are listed.
|
| --WebMD.com |
| 2001-10-25 | Carers Lack Vital Support
Results from a survey of caregivers in the U.K. It shows areas in which caregivers need help and
how caregiving affects health.
|
| --BBCNews |
| 2001-10-25 | A Carer's "Isolated" World
A profile of one woman's life as a caregiver for her husband.
|
| --BBCNews |
| 2001-08-24 | New Drug Recommended for Patients Getting Heart Surgery
Combining aspirin with a new drug, Plavix, seems to cut the risks of heart attacks and strokes
after heart bypass surgery as well as after balloon angioplasty and coronary stenting. Long-term
effects are not yet known, but at the moment researchers are only recommending this
treatment for up to one year.
|
| --WebMD.com |
| 2001-08-24 | Rheumatoid Arthritis Drugs' Link to Tuberculosis Examined
Two rheumatoid arthritis drugs, Remicade and Enbrel, are becoming associated with increased
risk of tuberculosis. Because the method of relieving inflammation also inhibits the immune
system, people with inactive TB may experience renewed infection. Remicade is urging doctors
to give patients a TB skin test before starting them on the drug. Other "opportunistic"
infections are also possible while taking these drugs.
|
| --WebMD.com |
| 2001-08-22 | Leaving Your Loved One Home Alone
Some important questions to ask when considering whether you can leave your loved one alone.
|
| --caregiver.com |
| 2001-08-22 | Government Takes Glimpse of Assisted Living Facilities
A report released by the U.S. government surveys assisted-living facilities in an attempt to
provide a better sense of what is available to seniors.
|
| --WebMD.com |
| 2001-08-22 | Caregiver Burnout
Symptoms of burnout and strategies for dealing with burnout are listed.
|
| --caregiver.com |
| 2001-08-22 | Experts Find Dangers in Emphysema Surgery
A common operation used to treat emphysema is now being questioned in the cases of very ill
patients.
|
| --WebMD.com |
| 2001-08-22 | Urinary Incontinence Treatments for Women
A listing of the types of incontinence and some new treatments available.
|
| --caregiver.com |
| 2001-08-22 | Heart Failure Gets a New Drug
Natrecor, the first new treatment approved for heart failure in 14 years, seems to be safer than
nitroglycerin and other treatments now available.
|
| --WebMD.com |
| 2001-08-07 | Study: Cutting Cholesterol for the Old Could Be Bad
A Hawaiian study published in The Lancet medical journal shows that low cholesterol levels in
Japanese-American men over 70 can lead to an increased risk of death. However, it is still
unclear what the predominant factor in this study is - the age or the ethnicity of the test
subjects.
|
| --ABCNews.com |
| 2001-08-07 | Researchers Optimistic About Alzheimer's Vaccine
A New York University School of Medicine study on mice which have been given the human
gene for Alzheimer's shows that a new vaccine dramatically reduced the formation of the
plaques that kill nerve cells, causing the symptoms of Alzheimer's. The researchers hope
to start testing in humans within the year.
|
| --ABCNews.com |
| 2001-07-30 | Caregiving Boomers Sandwiched Between Young and Old
The AARP reports the results from a new survey of American baby boomers.
|
| --WebMD |
| 2001-07-30 | Caregivers: The Invisible Patient
A profile of three caregivers including Suzanne Mintz, founder of the National Family Caregivers
Association. Several resources are listed.
|
| --WebMD |
| 2001-07-01 | Aging & Nutrition Concerns
Since many caregivers are caring for older loved ones, this article by Registered Dietitian Laura
Garrett can help you determine the differences in nutritional needs for older people. Of course,
please use this information in conjunction with any dietary requirements established by your
loved one's doctors.
|
| --thehealingalternative.com (a WebSeed Publishing Website) |
| 2001-07-01 | A Portrait of Alzheimer's
A report on an amazing study of the progression of Alzheimer's as seen through the eyes of an
artist with the disease. This is a visual record of what happens inside the brain of an affected
person. The differences in perception are clear for those who have no experience of the disease.
|
| --BBC News |
| 2001-07-01 | Parkinson's Disease
This overview provides information on Parkinson's Disease, its symptoms, treatments, and tips
for patients and caregivers. This is good basic information with resources.
|
| --AmericasDoctor |
| 2001-07-01 | Stretching and Flexibility
Caregiving can reduce the time we spend taking care of ourselves, but that is exactly what we
must do if we are to continue to care for our loved ones. This article on stretching teaches the
basics of stretching effectively to prevent injury and increase mobility. As the author says, "You
should aim to stretch all your major muscle groups at least once a day, even if you do not plan
on participating in physical activity - especially if you do not plan on participating in any physical
activity."
|
| --abcnews.com |
| 2001-05-13 | Little Orange Pill Gets Green Light
The first of what researchers hope are many new cancer-specific drugs was approved by the FDA
on May 10 for use in the U.S. Gleevec should be available by prescription within a week of its
approval for people with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). It also may show promise for use
against other types of cancer. And in an unprecedented move, Novartis, the pharmaceutical
company that makes Gleevec, is offering the drug free or at a lower cost to patients who cannot
afford the expensive medicine.
|
| --CBS News |
| 2001-05-08 | A Spice of Life: Turmeric Helps Arthritis and Cancer
Have a little curry to celebrate National Arthritis Month this May! The same turmeric that colors
curry targets the enzyme that arthritis drugs Vioxx and Celebrex work on. While you shouldn't
throw away your pills, turmeric does seem to ease arthritic pain.
|
| --HealthScout.com |
| 2001-05-08 | Where Does Your "Self" Live?
Scientists have found the place in the brain that holds our personalities, the part that makes
you "you". This amazing work can lead to treatments for people with frontotemporal dementia,
or Pick's disease. These people radically change their beliefs, likes, and dislikes in midlife, and
eventually cannot move, talk, or express themselves.
|
| --HealthScout.com |
| 2001-05-02 | Osteoporosis Sufferers: This Time, It May Be a Breakthrough
Our elders may not have to worry about osteoporosis for much longer. A new treatment is
expected to gain approval by the FDA this summer and be available for prescription this fall.
Based on a completely different mechanism for building bone density, Forteo has shown that it
increases bone density about twice as much per year as the commonly prescribed Fosamax
and Actonel.
|
| --latimes.com |
| 2001-05-02 | Health Tips from the Pros: How Doctors and Other Experts Live, Eat, and Exercise
Caregivers rarely consider taking care of themselves but need to do just that in order to take
care of their loved ones. Look over these tips from busy medical and healthcare professionals to
see how you might incorporate some of their ideas into your life.
|
| --seattletimes.com |
| 2001-04-30 | Breakthrough in
Japanese researchers have beaten British and American teams to produce the first complete
genome of two of the most dangerous bacteria. These bacteria had become resistant to almost
all antibiotics and are the major cause of hospital infections. With the genomes complete,
research can begin on effective vaccines and therapies to combat the infections the bacteria cause.
|
| --BBC News/Health |
| 2001-04-28 | Taking Care of the Greatest Generation: Are Baby-Boomers Ready for the Challenge?
Do you have elderly parents whose health is failing? Experts say begin talking to them about
options for potential care as early as possible. There is no one way to do it, so take all the
factors surrounding your family into consideration. And don't forget about the financial aspects!
|
| --WebMD.com |
| 2001-04-27 | If the Shoe Fits, You May Not Be Wearing It
Women caregivers, if you spend a lot of time on your feet, you may want to pay more attention
to the shoes you have on your feet. This article explains why women's shoes aren't made to fit
women's feet!
|
| --WebMD.com |
| 2001-04-27 | Early Growth Linked to Heart Disease
European research suggests a strong link between early growth and coronary heart disease. Slow
pre-natal growth and slow growth in the first year of life may predispose children to poor health
later in life.
|
| --BBC News/Health |
| 2001-04-25 | Fighting Cancer with Exercise
Exercise has proven to be such an enormous aid to staying healthy during cancer treatments
that new cancer patient exercise classes are springing up. A new cancer exercise specialist
certification program is being developed for use starting next year.
|
| --WebMD.com |
| 2001-04-22 | Nutrition Thieves: Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth Robs Elderly of Vitamins
"Bacterial overgrowth syndrome" may lead many seniors to suffer from weight loss, anemia, and
nutritional deficiency. A new breath test can help identify this problem that not only robs people
of needed nutrients but may reduce the efficiency of medicine.
|
| --HealthSurfing.com |
| 2001-04-22 | Pill Makes Chemotherapy Easier to Swallow
A common colon cancer chemotherapy drug has been re-formulated as a pill. Xeloda produces
fewer side effects and is more convenient, but it may not be for everyone. Further research is
being conducted to determine who might benefit the most from the treatments.
|
| --WebMD.com |
| 2001-04-05 | Mother Nature Can Be Nurturing
An environmental health expert says we shouldn't just focus on the harmful elements of our
environment. In an article in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, Dr. Howard Frumkin
notes that beautiful landscapes can actually make us feel better. Even inside, nature in the form
of plants and animals can bring us health benefits - without medicine.
|
| --WebMD Medical News |
| 2001-04-05 | Note to Self: Buy Memory-Boosting Beeper
A British study examined the use of pagers programmed to remind the user to do various tasks.
The subjects of the study suffered from memory-impairment due to stroke, brain injury, and
early Alzheimer's disease. The patients were able to live more independently, which relieved
caregivers and other family members of some of their worry.
|
| --WebMD Medical News |
| 2001-04-01 | Time Off is Essential for Caregivers, Report Says
A report from the American Psychological Association stresses the need for time off for
caregivers, especially for those who care for Alzheimer's and other dementia patients. A list of
suggestions is included.
|
| --Star-Telegram (Fort Worth, Texas) |
| 2001-03-27 | Pill Seen as Advance for "Mild Heart Attack"
Plavix, a pill already in use for other heart problems, could help reduce the numbers of deaths,
heart attacks, and strokes significantly according to research presented at a meeting of the
American College of Cardiology last week.
|
| --CNN.com |
| 2001-03-27 | Who's Watching Grandma?
Legislators in some states are proposing bills that would let nursing home residents install
cameras in their rooms.
|
| --ABC13.com/The Associated Press |
| 2001-03-22 | Shame on You: Self-Blame Can Literally Make You Sick
A study at UCLA shows that shame, more than guilt, can increase stress hormones that affect
your immune system. This can lower your resistance to disease.
|
| --WebMD Health |
| 2001-03-22 | AHA: Nurse Shortage, Budget Cuts Hamper ER Care
A nursing shortage and rising ER visits have many hospitals on frequent "drive-by" status.
Some states are already experiencing a shortage of nurses, and it's only a matter of time
before it is a nationwide problem, unless something is done soon.
|
| --CNN.com Health Week |
| 2001-03-20 | Heparin May Reduce Cancer's Spread
The common blood thinner Heparin may keep cancer cells from spreading through the
bloodstream by allowing the body's immune system to recognize and attack these cells.
|
| --WebMD Health |
| 2001-03-18 | Docs Urged to Keep Up with Alternative Medicine
The March issue of Pediatrics suggests that doctors must keep up with complementary
and alternative medicine because parents often use these therapies on their disabled or chronically
ill children. Caregivers should also make sure that they discuss any of these therapies that they
use with their loved one's doctors.
|
| --HealthCentral.com |
| 2001-03-18 | Forgiving Others May Do A Body Good
Holding a grudge may hurt you more than the person you just can't forgive.
|
| --HealthCentral.com |
| 2001-03-08 | Cavemen Don't Get Alzheimer's
A study appearing in this month's issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of
Sciences indicates that physical and intellectual activity in the years between 20 and 60
may help prevent Alzheimer's significantly. Though this is an early study, it may signal hope
for family members who fear that they will inherit a parent's illness.
|
| --WebMD |
| 2001-03-08 | 20 Ways to Care for Caregivers
A list of tips and suggestions from caregivers and care managers at the Medicare Alzheimer's
Project in Florida. These ideas apply to caregivers dealing with any condition.
|
| --Caregiver.com |
| 2001-03-02 | Cancer Pill Speeds Through Testing
There appears to be new hope for patients with a common type of leukemia. Dramatic results
have been seen in drug trials for a new pill called Glivec. The FDA has approved it for "fast track"
status. It cannot yet be considered a cure because it has only been tested for three years.
Normally, a patient must be free of cancer for 5 years before he is considered cured. However,
given the high response rates and the minimal side effects shown thus far, Glivec could be on
the market by the end of this year.
|
| --CNN.com/Health |
| 2001-02-24 | Easing the Load for the Dying
Information on hospice and palliative care.
|
| --OnHealth with WebMD |
| 2001-02-24 | Organ Transplant Demand Rises Dramatically
The annual report of the United Network for Organ Sharing finds that while the number of organs
donated by living donors has increased over the last few years, the numbers of people on the
transplant waiting lists have far outgrown the supply.
|
| --CNN.com |
| 2001-02-23 | Seniors Most in Need of Home Care May Not Get It
A new study shows changes in which seniors receive home health care.
|
| --HealthCentral.com |
| 2001-02-23 | Pill Bottles 'Talk' to Elderly
Soon, a smart chip on prescription bottles may be read aloud by a small battery-operated
reader, helping the blind and those with poor eyesight take their medicine correctly without
the help of another person.
|
| --HealthCentral.com |
| 2001-02-23 | Cell Transplants Possibly Repair Stroke Damage
Long-term hope for stroke survivors was presented in a study at the 26th International Stroke
Association meeting in Florida.
|
| --Ivanhoe.com |
