Health topics for men and women,Stroke, heart health

Breakthrough Device Relieves Restless Legs Syndrome

2015-07-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Breakthrough Device Relieves Restless Legs Syndrome, Allowing Patients To Get The Sleep They Need

(NAPS)-A nationwide campaign is aimed at helping the millions of Americans who aren't getting enough "shut-eye." It's a serious problem:

Besides experiencing physical fatigue and emotional stress, sleep-deprived people face increased risks for heart and kidney disease, high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes.

Among those who may suffer the most are the estimated 12 million people who have Willis-Ekbom disease, more commonly known as Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS).

During an RLS attack, sufferers may feel uncontrollable tingling, aching or pain in their legs, usually while they are already resting, sitting or sleeping.

Many RLS victims may find some relief by massaging their legs or walking around, but it's at a steep price: disrupted sleep. What's worse, RLS attacks tend to increase in frequency and severity, both over time and with age.

Often, those who are already weary from battling RLS, including the elderly, may be awakened repeatedly during a single night, and over many following nights, due to this chronic medical condition.

Until recently, prescription medications were the primary option for RLS victims, but many people avoid these due to concerns over potential side effects, drug interactions and addiction risks.

In addition, no single drug has been found to effectively manage RLS for all individuals, and regularly taken medications may lose their effect over time, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

Relaxis: The First and Only Nondrug Solution for RLS Fortunately, a new, nondrug solution is now available for people battling RLS:

Relaxis.

Designed by a doctor who experienced debilitating RLS himself, the FDA-cleared, prescription-only Relaxis device has been scientifically proven to be safe and effective for improving the quality of sleep in patients with primary RLS.

When RLS symptoms begin, patients place the Relaxis pad beneath their legs, adjusting the vibration intensity to a comfortable level.

The device provides 30 minutes of soothing vibratory counterstimulation, allowing patients to remain resting in their bed as it gradually ramps down and shuts off without waking them.

From Weekly Attacks to None With Relaxis

Anchorage resident Gayle Stubbs, who tried everything from hot baths to heavy medications to relieve her agonizing RLS symptoms, says that Relaxis has given her relief like nothing else she's tried.

"I wanted to reduce the medications I was taking to fight off RLS attacks. I thought if I could get the same results with Relaxis, without taking the medications and their side effects, that would be a success," says Gayle, who's battled RLS for four decades.

The results have been better than she'd ever hoped for. After requesting a prescription for Relaxis from her doctor, Gayle used the device whenever she felt RLS symptoms starting.

After 10 days, she went from experiencing two to three RLS episodes a week to having no episodes at all. What's more, the change has lasted; in the months since first trying Relaxis, Gayle reports she hasn't experienced any RLS attacks at all.

With her doctor's supervision, she is also slowly but surely reducing her medications, with a goal of eventually weaning off of them altogether.

While not everyone may experience the same outcomes as Gayle, Relaxis represents a promising option for patients seeking a better, nondrug approach to treating RLS.

For additional details, call (888) 475-7435 (toll free) or visit www.MyRelaxis.com, where an RLS self-assessment can be downloaded and shared with doctors.

Relaxis is made in the U.S.A. by Sensory NeuroStimulation Inc., a privately held company based in San Clemente, California.

A new treatment may mean an end to sleepless nights for the millions of Americans with Restless Legs Syndrome.

Help Prevent Vision Loss From AMD

2015-07-02T07:30:00.000-07:00

Early Diagnosis, Effective Monitoring And Treatment Can Help Prevent Vision Loss From AMD

(NAPS)-There's good news for those at risk for, or in the early stages of, age-related macular degeneration, or AMD-an eye disease that is also a leading cause of vision loss among people ages 50 and older.

Early diagnosis, effective monitoring and appropriate treatment can all help to prevent vision loss from AMD.

To help educate the public on AMD, Prevent Blindness, the nation's oldest eye health and safety organization, created the free online resource "The AMD Learning Center."

Understanding AMD-age-related macular degeneration

Millions of Americans are currently affected by AMD-a condition that causes damage to the macula, a small spot near the center of the retina.

This is the part of the eye needed for sharp, central vision. It also makes it possible to see objects that are straight ahead.

The exact cause of AMD is unknown, but risk factors for the disease include age, smoking, and history of cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Caucasians are more susceptible, as are patients with a family history of AMD.

Some signs of AMD include:

o Straight lines-such as telephone poles, the sides of buildings or streetlight poles-look wavy.

o Written text and/or type can appear blurry.

o A dark or empty spot may block the center of your vision. If you notice any of these changes, it's recommended that you schedule a dilated eye exam as soon as possible.

Dry And Wet AMD

There are two forms of AMD: "dry" and "wet." Dry AMD is the most common form of the disease. Vision loss usually progresses slowly. In some cases, it will progress to the most advanced wet AMD.

Wet AMD is less common, but more rapidly threatening to vision. It causes tiny blood vessels under the retina to leak or break open, distorting vision and causing scar tissue to form.

Wet AMD currently affects an estimated 2.2 million Americans age 50 and older, according to the recent report.

"The Future of Vision: Forecasting the Prevalence and Costs of Vision Problems" prepared by Prevent Blindness. Due to the rapidly aging population, these numbers are expected to grow.

Monitoring for signs of wet AMD can be helped by using a method called the Amsler grid, or the ForeseeHome™ AMD Monitoring Program (www.foreseehome.com) for monitoring progression of dry AMD to wet AMD, from Notal Vision, Ltd.

For more information, visit the AMD Learning Center at www.preventblindness.org/amd or call Prevent Blindness at (800) 331-2020.

When AMD progresses, it can rob people of their central vision and often the ability to read a book, recognize a face, see fine details and distinguish some colors.

Save On Prescription Medications

2015-07-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

How Medicare Beneficiaries Can Save On Prescription Medications

(NAPS)-There are some 10,000 Americans turning 65 each day, with many joining the growing pool of Medicare enrollees trying to control their health care costs.

And among the worries is how best to afford and manage what for some can be a not-so-simple prescription drug regimen.

When you consider that a recent survey showed more than one-third of Medicare beneficiaries surveyed are concerned about prescription drug costs, and one in five say they've made sacrifices, such as delaying filling a prescription or skipping doses to help manage medication costs, the importance of seniors knowing how to manage prescription drug costs can be critical to managing their health.

Not Too Late To Save On Prescription Medications

Being able to make ends meet doesn't have to conflict with taking medications correctly and on schedule. What many seniors with Medicare may not know is that, depending on how their insurance plan is designed, something as simple as where their prescriptions are filled can have a significant impact on how much they pay.

In fact, some are able to identify savings of hundreds of dollars in co-pays by filling their prescriptions at a pharmacy that's within their plan's preferred pharmacy network.

In addition, some seniors may think that with the Medicare open enrollment period over, the opportunity to save on prescription drug costs is over, too-but that's not the case.

Medicare beneficiaries can switch pharmacies at any time to access lower-cost medications; they just have to know where to start.

Ask A Pharmacist

The quickest and easiest way to explore cost savings is for seniors to ask their local pharmacist to provide prescription drug cost estimates based on their selected plan.

Walgreens, for example, is in the network of hundreds of Medicare prescription drug plans and participates in the preferred networks of nine of the largest national Part D sponsors.

These networks are specifically designed to offer ways to save on medications, and pharmacists can review potential cost-saving options for customers, which could include identifying a lower-cost generic medication option instead of brand name medications.

Walgreens pharmacists can also offer advice on medications and help identify any potential harmful drug interactions.

Community pharmacists also provide a wide range of important, preventive health care services, including immunizations, health testing, and helping patients manage their prescription drug regimen-and are working more closely with physicians and other providers than ever before.

A Convenient (And Cost-Effective) Option

All this can be done under one roof at your local pharmacy; all seniors need to do is stop by.

Online resources such as Walgreens.com/Medicare offer additional information on specific cost savings that may be available to Medicare beneficiaries concerned about prescription drug costs.

The quickest and easiest way to explore cost savings is for seniors to talk with their local pharmacist.

Guide To Warm Weather Comfort And Safety

2015-06-30T15:16:00.001-07:00

(NAPS)-Warm weather means not just an increase in outdoor activities but emergency room visits as well. By taking a few steps to prepare, you can protect yourself and your family for more fun in the sun.

Dr. Jamison Satterfield, a pediatrician for over 25 years, advises pulling together a bag to bring on your outings to help avoid unnecessary hospital visits. Essential items that should not be overlooked or underestimated include:

First Aid Kit: If left untreated, cuts and scrapes can get infected. Always keep on hand a topical sterilizer-tube of Neosporin-for a quick cleanup. Adhesive bandages, gauze, medical tape, alcohol wipes and an ice pack may also come in handy. Check your kit regularly to replace used items and remove expired products.

Sunblock: The rate of deadly melanoma skin cancer has almost tripled in the last 35 years despite all the warnings. Dr. Satterfield recommends broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Water-resistant sunscreens can be less effective so it's best to avoid them unless you're going swimming. In addition, sunscreen containing insect repellent has its SPF cut by more than 30 percent.

"When it comes to sunscreen, apply more and do it more often," added Dr. Satterfield. Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes prior to sun exposure and reapplied generously every two hours.

Over time, sunscreens lose effectiveness, changing in color or texture. At the expiration date or yearly, sunscreen should be discarded.

Also note, over-the-counter pain relief medications and antihistamines decrease the efficacy of sunscreen. So do some prescription drugs including antibiotics as well as many acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide.

Mosquito Repellent:

Chances of contracting mosquito-borne illnesses are on the rise, especially for children and the elderly. A study by The New England Journal of Medicine found that bath oil, which some people use as a repellent, protects for less than 10 minutes.

Other natural repellents such as eucalyptus oil, cactus juice, lemongrass oil, juniper, or even peppermint or vanilla, are no better.

While DEET certainly works, Dr. Satterfield does not recommend it for children under age 1.

He does recommend Thermacell Mosquito Repellent products, including lanterns, handheld repellers and backyard torches, which are designed to create a 15x15-foot "bubble" of protection that biting pests cannot penetrate.

These products use a repellent that mimics the natural insecticide found in chrysanthemums and are virtually odorless, flameless and portable.

Emergency Car Kit: Keep on hand hand-wipes or sanitizer, bottles of water, and hearty snacks that can take the heat, such as dried fruits, nuts and granola bars, for a quick, protein-rich snack.

Other emergency items can include a couple of flares, flashlight, hats, umbrella and blanket.

Dr. Satterfield said he also keeps a Thermacell repeller on hand for roadside use and picnics.

Jamison J. Satterfield, M.D., practices pediatric medicine in Charlotte, N.C., and has been included in the Charlotte magazine Top Doctor list for numerous years.

Protect your family from sunburn, bug bites and infection this summer.

Stroke Death Rate Declining

2015-06-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

(NAPS)-Good news: Stroke has dropped from the nation's fourth-leading cause of death to No. 5, according to new federal statistics.

Doctors Report;

The decline in stroke deaths may be due in part to improvements in treatment and prevention, explains Ralph Sacco, M.D., chairman of Neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. "There are more stroke centers now operating in the U.S. and the acute care of stroke is improving."

"The fact that the death rate is declining from this terrible and devastating disease is gratifying news,"

Says American Heart Association/American Stroke Association President Elliott Antman, M.D., professor of medicine and associate dean for Clinical/Translational Research at Harvard Medical School and a senior physician in the Cardiovascular Division of the Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston.

"Still, far too many people are dying from stroke and too many people are suffering greatly from this disease."

Stroke remains a leading cause of disability in the U.S. "Stroke is more disabling than it is fatal," says Dr. Sacco. "Getting medical attention at the first sign of a stroke gives the patient the best chance for recovery."

What You Can Do

While the death rate declined, the number of Americans having strokes actually increased, which underscores the importance for all Americans to learn the sudden signs of stroke and what to do if a stroke is suspected.

The American Stroke Association's Together to End Stroke initiative, which is nationally sponsored by Covidien, teaches the acronym F.A.S.T. to help recognize the most common signs of stroke.

F.A.S.T. stands for:

F-Face Drooping: Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile.

A-Arm Weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S-Speech Difficulty: Is speech slurred, is the person unable to speak, or is he or she hard to understand?

T-Time to call 9-1-1: If you see any of these symptoms, even if they go away, call 9-1-1 and get the person to the hospital immediately.

Learn More

To download the American Stroke Association's free "Spot a Stroke F.A.S.T." mobile app and find nearby hospitals recognized for stroke care, visit www.StrokeAssociation.org.

Think F.A.S.T.: Know the signs of a stroke and get help right away.

Hunger Is A Health Issue For Older Adults

2015-06-29T13:04:00.000-07:00

(NAPS)-Hunger and food insecurity are significant health issues for older Americans.

That's an issue underscored by two recent studies commissioned by AARP Foundation, according to the Foundation's president, Lisa Marsh Ryerson.

Among the key findings:

o Hunger and food insecurity are health issues for older Americans. Roughly one in 10 older adults struggles to put food on the table every day.

Plus, data shows that food insecurity and poor health go hand in hand. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and depression are more prevalent among the food insecure.

Research also indicates this relationship between hunger and health can easily become a vicious cycle, as low-income seniors have to spend more on their health care and thus have even fewer financial resources to spend on food.

o The "youngest old" are the worst off. The statistics show that food insecurity is highest among those aged 50 to 59, and indeed that the numbers are even higher for those in their 40s.

Ryerson believes this demonstrates that there is something systemically wrong with how nutritious food reaches those at the lowest end of the economic spectrum, and that Band-Aid approaches-as necessary as they are to meet immediate needs-are not solving the root of these problems.

With the size of the 50+ population growing every year, it's a problem that needs attention right away.

o Many older adults don't make good nutrition choices. The study from AARP Foundation reveals that many older Americans may misunderstand dietary recommendations and find food labeling a mystery.

In addition, it's common for older adults to not have access to nutritious food, especially if they live in urban areas, where they sometimes have to shop for food at places like convenience marts and drugstores.

Ryerson says the Foundation is convinced its new strategy of working with those at each step throughout the food supply chain will reap major rewards in improving the nutritional quality of food available to the food insecure and ultimately enable these individuals to live happier, healthier lives. To learn more or to obtain a copy of the study, visit www.aarpfoundation.org.

New studies suggest food insecurity among older adults contributes to this nation's staggering health care costs.

Screening For Lung Cancer May Help Heavy Smokers

2015-06-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

(NAPS)-While lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, sometimes, the most common type-non-small cell lung cancer-can be cured if it is found early enough.

More than 200,000 Americans are diagnosed with lung cancer each year.

Smoking is the single largest risk factor and is responsible for about 85 percent of lung cancer cases in the United States. The more a person smokes over time, the more likely it is that he or she will get the disease. The risk of lung cancer also increases with age, with most people developing the condition after age 55.

The most important way to prevent lung cancer is to stop smoking and limit exposure to tobacco smoke.

For heavy smokers who have not been able to quit or who smoked for a long time before quitting, there is now evidence that screening can prevent a large number of lung cancer-related deaths.

Screening is important because lung cancer has no symptoms in its early stages. Most cases of lung cancer are not detected until a person has symptoms, usually after the disease is already at an advanced stage.

Who Should Be Screened?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (Task Force) now recommends yearly lung cancer screening using low-dose computed tomography (also known as a CT scan) for people who are at high risk for lung cancer.

People are considered to be at high risk if they:

o Are between 55 and 80 years old.

o Have a history of smoking for 30 "pack-years" or more.

o Are either a current smoker or quit within the past 15 years. Pack-years are determined by multiplying the number of packs (which typically contain 20 cigarettes) smoked daily by the number of years a person has smoked.

For example, you would have a 30 pack-year history if you smoked a pack of cigarettes a day for 30 years, two packs a day for 15 years, or half a pack a day for 60 years.

The goal of screening for lung cancer is to detect the cancer at an early stage so that it can be successfully treated.

There are other types of tests that also screen for lung cancer, but the Task Force found that low-dose CT scans are the most accurate for finding cancer early.

Why Not Screen Everyone?

Not everyone should be screened for lung cancer, not even all smokers.

This is because there are some risks from low-dose CT scans and these are greater for people who are not at high risk for lung cancer.

For example, people are exposed to a small amount of radiation during a CT scan. Repeated exposure to this radiation can actually cause cancer in healthy people.

Also, people at lower risk are more likely to have a false-positive test result (a test result that shows a person has a disease when he or she does not).

False-positive results can cause anxiety and can lead to follow-up tests and surgeries that aren't beneficial and have their own significant risks.

In addition, screening is not beneficial for people who would be unable (because of poor health) or unwilling to undergo treatment for lung cancer.

Treatment involves surgery to remove the cancerous part of the lung.

Before Screening,

Quit Smoking

It's important to remember that getting screened for lung cancer is not an alternative to quitting smoking. Quitting smoking is still the best way to reduce your risk of developing and dying from lung cancer.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers a toll-free quit line ((800) QUIT-NOW) and a text messaging service (Text QUIT to 47848) to help you get started. See your primary care clinician to discuss ways to help you quit smoking if you still smoke.

How To Get Screened.

The Affordable Care Act requires private insurance companies to cover the cost of lung cancer screening for eligible enrollees, without a co-payment.

Additionally, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recently decided to cover yearly lung cancer screening for people with Medicare who are between 55 and 77 years old and are otherwise considered "high risk" as defined by the Task Force.

If your clinician thinks screening is right for you, check with your health insurance company to see if the cost of screening would be covered and what requirements need to be met for coverage.

Then, work with your primary care clinician to find an accredited imaging facility that has experts who are experienced and knowledgeable about lung cancer screening.

Recommendations To Protect Your Health.

The Task Force is an independent group of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine. The aim of its work is to evaluate and identify critical preventive health services that primary care professionals can perform.

For more information and to read the full report on screening for lung cancer, visit www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org.

The best way to prevent lung cancer is to quit smoking. Heavy smokers may also benefit from being screened.

Aging U.S. Infrastructure May Add To Health Risks

2015-06-28T12:45:00.002-07:00

(NAPS)-An aging infrastructure may be putting the health of many Americans at risk, particularly when it comes to their drinking water.

That's the word from experts such as the U.S. Conference of Mayors, which has placed a spotlight on deteriorating U.S. drinking water systems, many of which consist of aging pipes that are in need of upgrades.

With that deterioration comes increased health risks. The EPA and CDC have estimated that there are up to 16 million waterborne illnesses per year associated with contaminated drinking water.

In addition, by-products from chlorine, along with mercury, industrial pollutants and pesticides, can sometimes be found in municipal tap water that makes its way into the home.

Fortunately, there are immediate steps that consumers can take to provide themselves with a better quality of drinking water that do not require government intervention or construction projects.

"Using an at-home filtration system, such as a PUR Faucet Mount or Pitcher system, is a simple yet effective way to filter out contaminants while leaving you with clean, fresh-tasting drinking water," said Mike Mitchell, a water scientist from PUR.

He further alludes to the ancillary benefits offered by filter systems, explaining, "Not only are PUR filters certified to reduce up to 71 contaminants-including heavy metals, agricultural pesticides and industrial pollutants-but choosing to filter your water can also be beneficial to your wallet and the environment by reducing the number of water bottles purchased and discarded annually in the U.S."

In fact, home filtration systems such as PUR produce filtered drinking water that is about one-tenth the cost of bottled water, which for a family of four can create savings of as much as $1,000 per year.

To further counter the potential negative effects associated with deteriorating water infrastructure, all PUR Faucet Mounts and Pitchers feature MAXION Technology, a unique formulation that blends carbon and ion exchange materials for maximum contaminant reduction.

Choosing to make a simple decision, such as using an at-home water filtration system, is a preventative way to help ensure that America's aging water infrastructure won't pose short- and long-term health risks to the general public.

To learn more about MAXION Technology or ways that PUR products can be beneficial to your health and the environment, visit www.PUR.com.

An at-home water filtration system like PUR is one way to address the problems posed by the deteriorating U.S. infrastructure.

Reducing Your Risk Of Stroke

2015-06-28T11:00:00.000-07:00

(NAPS)-While strokes are a leading cause of death and disability in adults in the United States, there are ways to reduce your risk of having one.

Sometimes called a "brain attack," a stroke happens when blood flow is cut off to part of the brain, starving brain cells of oxygen.

Within minutes, those cells begin to die, which can lead to permanent damage if not treated quickly.

Reducing Your Risk of stroke.

Some of the common risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, smoking and a family history of strokes.

Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to reduce your risk of stroke (and other related diseases like heart attacks).

Engage in a healthy lifestyle by eating a healthy diet, being physically active and quitting smoking.

Also, take steps to keep your blood pressure, blood cholesterol and blood sugar under control by visiting your doctor or nurse.

He or she can be a valuable resource for helping you improve your health and treating any conditions that might raise your risk for stroke.

An Uncommon Stroke Risk Factor

A less common risk factor for stroke is carotid artery stenosis, the narrowing of the arteries that run along the sides of the neck that carry blood from your heart to your brain.

This condition affects only one half to 1 percent of the population and causes a relatively small percentage of strokes.

You may be at increased risk of developing carotid artery stenosis if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or a history of heart disease. Older age and smoking are also risk factors.

More Harm Than Good

Screening for carotid artery stenosis is often done by listening to the neck with a stethoscope for unusual sounds from the arteries.

Another method is to use ultrasound, a painless test that uses sound waves to create a picture of the arteries (similar to the ultrasound that pregnant women get to see the baby inside the womb).

Health care professionals can look at the pictures to see whether the arteries are narrowed or blocked.

Carotid artery stenosis screening, however, has little or no overall benefit for preventing stroke for most adults.

In fact, this screening can be harmful because it often leads to a cascade of follow-up testing and surgeries that themselves can cause stroke, heart attack or death.

Because the condition is rare, screening all adults would also lead to many false-positives (test results that say a person has a disease when he or she does not) and can lead to unnecessary surgeries.

As a result, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends against carotid artery stenosis screening for the general population.

Work with your doctor or nurse to talk about any concerns you may have about your risk for stroke and ask about ways that you can reduce your risk by exercising, eating well and managing any chronic diseases, including high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol.

Stroke Symptoms: Time to Act

Even if you take steps to reduce your risk, it's important to know the signs and symptoms of stroke so you can act quickly and potentially avoid devastating consequences.

These include:

o Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg-especially on one side of the body.

o Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding.

o Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.

o Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.

o Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or in someone near you, call 911 and get immediate medical help. A stroke is an emergency and quick treatment can help prevent long-term brain damage or even death.

It is also important to tell your doctor if you have a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack, or TIA (a "ministroke").

If you have had TIA or a stroke, the Task Force recommendation on carotid artery stenosis screening does not apply to you.

Your doctor can work with you to develop a plan based on your individual health to prevent a future stroke.

Protecting Your Health

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force is an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine.

The Task Force makes evidence-based recommendations on primary care services. Recently, the Task Force reviewed evidence on screening for carotid artery stenosis in the general adult population.

Learn More For more information on the Task Force and to read the full report on carotid artery stenosis screening, visit www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org.

A healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk of stroke.

Brain Health How You Can Make A Difference

2015-06-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

(NAPS)-If you're like most people, you've noticed differences in the way your mind works over time.

The good news is that understanding the potential threats to brain health can help you make smart choices to strengthen mental alertness.

Threats to Brain Health

Some health conditions can negatively affect your brain. Heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes can alter or damage blood vessels throughout your body, including the brain.

Some medications and combinations of drugs, as well as alcohol use, may affect thinking.

Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia harm the brain, too. While no one knows how to prevent dementia, many approaches that are good for your health in other ways, like exercise and a healthy diet, are being tested.

Actions That Help Your Brain health

o Get regular health screenings.

o Manage diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

o Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the medications you take and any possible side effects.

o Try to maintain a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats (including fish and poultry), and low-fat or nonfat dairy products. Monitor your intake of solid fat, sugar and salt and eat proper portion sizes.

o Drink moderately, if at all, because avoiding alcohol can reverse some negative changes related to brain health.

o Be physically active be cause doing so may improve connections among your brain cells. Older adults should get at least 150 minutes of exercise each week.

o Don't smoke. Quitting at any age will be beneficial to your mind and body. Nonsmokers have a lower risk of heart attacks, stroke and lung diseases, as well as increased blood circulation.

o Be safe. Older adults are at higher risk of falling and other accidents that can cause brain injury. To reduce your risk, exercise to improve balance and coordination, take a falls prevention class and make your home safer.

o Keep your mind active by doing mentally stimulating activities including reading, playing games, teaching or taking a class, and being social. Volunteer.

o Visit an Area Agency on Aging (AAA). These community-based agencies provide a welcoming environment for older adults and caregivers interested in learning about services from meals, transportation and in-home care to volunteer opportunities and classes to keep them healthy and engaged.

Free brain health Brochure

For more information and a free brochure containing strategies to promote brain health, call the Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 or visit www.eldercare.gov.

If you put your mind to it, you can make smart choices that will support brain health as you age.

Healthy Bones For Life

2015-06-27T21:00:00.000-07:00

(NAPS)-When it comes to good health, you can certainly feel it in your bones. That's because your bones are alive.

Every day, the body breaks down old bone and puts new bone in its place. While it is normal to lose some bone with age, too much bone loss can lead to osteoporosis.

What Is Osteoporosis?

With osteoporosis, the bones become weak and are more likely to break, especially those in the wrist, spine and hip.

Because bone loss often happens over time and doesn't hurt, many people have weak bones and don't even know it.

A broken bone is often the first sign of osteoporosis. It's a good idea, therefore, to know the risk factors.

These include:

o Poor Diet. Too little calcium can increase your chances of getting osteoporosis. Not enough vitamin D can also increase your risk. Vitamin D helps the body use the calcium in your diet.

o Not Enough Physical Activity. Not exercising and not being active for a long time can increase your chances of getting osteoporosis. Like muscles, bones become stronger-and stay stronger-with regular exercise.

o Body Weight. Being too thin makes you more likely to get osteoporosis.

o Smoking. Cigarettes can keep your body from using the calcium in your diet.

o Alcohol. People who drink a lot are more likely to get osteoporosis.

o Medicines. Certain medications can cause bone loss.

o Age. Your chances of getting osteoporosis increase as you get older.

o Gender. Women have a greater chance of getting osteoporosis because they have smaller bones than men and lose bone faster than men do. However, men can still develop osteoporosis as they age. o Ethnicity. White and Asian women are most likely to get osteoporosis. However, people of all backgrounds are at risk.

o Family History. Having a close relative with osteoporosis may increase your risk.

What To Do About It

Since osteoporosis has no symptoms, it's important to talk to your doctor about your bone health.

If your doctor feels you're at risk, he or she may order a bone density test.

It's quick, safe and painless.

If your bone density test shows that your bones are weak, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes and prescribe medication that can help.

Learn More about Osteoporosis

For further information on osteoporosis and bone health, you can go to www.niams.nih.gov/multicultural, the website of the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), or call toll free (877) 226-4267 and order a free publication on bone health, available in English or in Spanish.

To keep bones healthy and strong, it helps to eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, and get plenty of exercise.

A Colon Cancer Screening Test You Can Take At Home

2015-06-27T16:16:00.001-07:00

(NAPS)-There's good news for Americans 50 or older who are at average risk for colon cancer and who have not been screened. A new test that is designed to be convenient and noninvasive is now available.

The best part? You can do it at home.

When not detected, colon cancer remains one of the deadliest forms of cancer. However, for many Americans, like 73-year-old Dan Meaney of Madison, New Jersey, getting screened is low on their to-do list.

The American Cancer Society recommends that Americans who are not at high risk for colon cancer start screening at age 50.

Yet people often avoid it because the gold standard-colonoscopy-can be invasive, inconvenient and unpleasant.

But when Meaney heard about a new, noninvasive screening test that he could take at home, he decided it was finally time to put his health first and take the test.

"Cologuard came as a blessing in disguise," says Meaney. "I had avoided having a colonoscopy for over 20 years. But when I heard there was a new option that didn't require any dietary restrictions, prep or sedation, I immediately asked my doctor about it."

And it was a good thing he did. Meaney's test came back positive and he was scheduled for a follow-up colonoscopy.

Doctors discovered and removed a precancerous polyp. Meaney is cancer free, but for some, a positive Cologuard test can mean the presence of cancer itself.

More than half of colorectal cancer-related deaths could be avoided with regular screenings.

Nevertheless, 23 million Americans do not get screened as recommended.

The lack of patient compliance with screening has meant that in more than 60 percent of all cases, colorectal cancer is detected at a late stage, making treatment difficult and survival rates a mere 12 percent.

The good news is that, if caught early, colon cancer can be treated successfully with five-year survival rates greater than 90 percent, and when precancerous polyps are removed, they cannot develop into cancer, underscoring the importance of routine screening.

"There has been a 30 percent reduction in cases of colon cancer in the last decade largely due to an increase in screening. The message is clear-the more people screened, the fewer cases of colon cancer and the more lives we save," said Eric Hargis, CEO of the Colon Cancer Alliance.

"Unfortunately, one-third of Americans at average risk for colon cancer have not been screened. There is a significant need for a highly effective, at-home screening method, particularly for individuals unable or unwilling to have a colonoscopy. The Colon Cancer Alliance welcomes Cologuard as a new, patient-friendly screening method that has no required preparation, except perhaps a good meal."

Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in August 2014, Cologuard is a noninvasive screening test that looks for both altered DNA and blood biomarkers known to be associated with cancer and precancers.

Every day, cells are shed from the colon wall during the digestion process. As part of this process, normal cells, along with abnormal cells from precancers or cancers, are shed into stool as it passes through the colon. It is the DNA released from these cells that Cologuard looks for.

Getting a Cologuard test is simple. First, a licensed health care provider prescribes a Cologuard test and a collection kit is sent to the patient's home.

The patient collects a stool sample at home at his/her convenience (no medication, dietary restrictions, bowel preparation, sedation, time off from work or transportation required) and then sends the kit back to the lab for testing in a pre-paid mailer.

The patient receives the results from his/her physician in as little as two weeks after sending in the sample. If the result is positive, the doctor will refer the patient for a diagnostic colonoscopy.

If the test is negative, the patient should continue to participate in a screening program at an interval and with a method appropriate to him or her.

"Everyone who has avoided getting screened for colon cancer should know about this test," said Meaney." "I tell all my friends over 50 that there are no more excuses because getting screened is easier than ever!"

Cologuard is available by prescription only and is intended for men and women 50 years or older who are at average risk for colorectal cancer.

It is not a replacement for diagnostic or surveillance colonoscopy in high-risk individuals.

Patients should talk to their doctor to determine if Cologuard is the right option for them. Both false positives and false negatives do occur.

In a clinical study of Cologuard, 13 percent of people without cancer or precancer tested positive.

Any positive should be followed by a diagnostic colonoscopy.

Following a negative result, patients should continue participating in a screening program at an interval and with a method appropriate for the individual patient.

Cologuard performance when used for repeat testing has not been evaluated or established.

To learn more, visit www.CologuardTest.com. Rx Only.

Colorectal cancer is treatable if caught early. Early detection through screening is the key.

Make Your Connection Count To End Multiple Sclerosis Forever

2015-06-20T23:18:00.000-07:00

(NAPS)-Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. MS destroys connections, divides minds from bodies, pulls people from their lives and away from one another.

Therefore, it's only fitting that connections would be its greatest enemy. Connections help individuals address the challenges of MS and move their lives forward. Connections break down barriers around the world and help researchers pursue the best science to stop MS, restore function lost and end MS forever.

Such connections have helped move MS in just two decades from being an untreatable disease to one for which there are at least 12 disease-modifying treatment options for relapsing MS, the most common form of MS.

Such connections also unite nearly 100 nations around the globe each May for World MS Day to raise awareness about how MS affects the lives of more than 2.3 million people.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is a driving force in this effort to connect everyone committed to creating a world free of MS, devoting more than $52 million to support 380 research projects internationally while providing services to more than 1 million people annually.

Science is moving at an incredible pace. The approach to research needs to be open, flexible and holistic, tapping into the expertise of scientific advisers who identify gaps and opportunities, and the MS community who provide topics that matter most to them. Key research priorities are progressive MS, nervous system repair, wellness, and genetics and environmental risk factors for MS.

Progressive MS: The Society is focusing on the next frontier in MS research, finding solutions for people experiencing worsening disability that characterizes progressive MS, for whom there are few treatment options.

The Society led an international effort culminating in the creation of the International Progressive MS Alliance, a growing global initiative to end progressive MS, which is already funding 22 research grants across nine countries as part of an ambitious program to allocate at least $30 million over the next six years to find solutions for progressive MS.

The Society is also investing in strategies to protect the nervous system from injury, and in advanced imaging techniques and other biomarkers to track progression and the success of therapies.

Nervous system repair, recovery and wellness: Repairing myelin may represent the best strategy for protecting nerve fibers from injury and improving function for people with MS.

Thanks in part to the Society's pioneer funding, potential cell therapies and myelin repair strategies are now approaching or already in clinical trials.

Recovery can take other forms, and the Society is supporting more than 30 studies of new exercise, rehabilitation and other non pharmaceutical programs to address symptoms and restore function. It also recently launched a Wellness Initiative and is formulating priorities to drive research and programs aimed at helping people with MS live their best lives.

Genes/Environmental Risk Factors: Researchers are starting to drill down into how genes and the environment interact to cause MS and possibly to influence the course of the disease.

This area is ripe for additional efforts and could lead directly to new therapeutic targets for treating the disease and also eventually for preventing MS.

This remarkable progress being made in understanding and treating MS is propelled by people like you who combine their efforts, knowledge and hope to create connections that can become more powerful than the connections MS destroys.

You can make meaningful connections at www.nationalMSsociety. org, where you will find expert MS information, connect and share with others, download tools to spread MS awareness, or register for Society events.

Whether you volunteer, bike, walk, advocate or support, every connection you create unites you with people around the world in the MS movement and moves us closer to a world free of MS.

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Actor Shemar Moore participates in Bike MS in honor of his mom, Marilyn Wilson-Moore, who has MS.

New Study for People with Stage 4 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

2015-05-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

There is a new clinical study looking for patients with Stage IV non-small cell lung cancer who have already been treated with chemotherapy. The purpose of this study is to compare the new investigational medicine versus the standard-of-care treatment with respect to life expectancy outcomes.

More about the Stage 4 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer study:

If you are interested, please find the full study details and eligibility criteria listed here.

The study drug (LY2835219) is administered by Tablets, Pills, or Capsules. At least 193 people have already taken this drug in clinical trials. There will be 550 participants in this trial, at 20 sites around the world.

If you are interested, please find the full study details and eligibility criteria listed here.

Stage 4 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer study eligibility criteria:

Stage 4 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer study participants must:

be at least 18 years old have a diagnosis of stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (Stage IV means the cancer has spread to distant tissues or organs) have tumors with KRAS mutations, if known have already had chemotherapy for this tumor

Stage 4 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer study participants must not:

be pregnant or lactating have HIV, Hepatitis B or C, or a history of cardiac arrest

Please complete the online questionnaire to check if you’re eligible for the trial at this site click here.

If you’re not familiar with clinical trials, here are some FAQs: What are clinical trials? Clinical trials are research studies to determine whether investigational drugs or treatments are safe and effective for humans. All new investigational medications and devices must undergo several clinical trials, often involving thousands of people.

Why participate in a clinical trial?

You will have access to new investigational treatments that would be available to the general public only upon approval. You will also receive study-related medical care and attention from clinical trial staff at research facilities. Clinical trials offer hope for many people and an opportunity to help researchers find better treatments for others in the future.

If you are interested, please find the full study details and eligibility criteria listed here.

Learn why I’m talking about Clinical Trials

Reduce your chances of heart disease by lowering your cholesterol.

2015-05-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

Cholesterol, what's the risk? Total cholesterol is a measure of the total amount of cholesterol in your blood and is based on the HDL, LDL, and triglycerides numbers. LDL cholesterol makes up the majority of the body’s cholesterol. LDL is known as “bad” cholesterol because having high levels can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries and result in heart disease and stroke.

The two important types of lipoproteins are low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). At the same time as LDL and HDL are being tested for, another type of fat called triglycerides is often included in the test. There is a NEW research study for people with high cholesterol that evaluates the PCSK9 inhibitor, Bococizumab, in reducing the occurrence of major cardiovascular events.

Take a health questionnaire to see if you qualify!

HDL cholesterol absorbs cholesterol and carries it back to the liver, which flushes it from the body. HDL is known as “good” cholesterol because having high levels can reduce the risk for heart disease and stroke. Triglycrides are a type of fat found in your blood that your body uses for energy. The combination of high levels of triglycerides with low HDL cholesterol or high LDL cholesterol can increase your risk for heart attack and stroke.

Cholesterol is a major player in increasing the risk of heart disease and quite a few people do not understand this. Not all cholesterol is bad, it is necessary component for new cells, it acts as an insulator for nerves and helps in the production of hormones. There are two sources of cholesterol, one source is the food you eat, such as meat, eggs and milk. And your liver produces cholesterol as well. Cholesterol is needed to a certain level in your body, but as the level goes past the safe mark it increases your risk for heart disease.

Take a health questionnaire to see if you qualify!

As you can see from this number 73.5 million adults (31.7%) in the United States have high low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad,” cholesterol, high cholesterol is a fairly large problem. People with high total cholesterol have approximately twice the risk for heart disease as people with ideal levels.

As the cholesterol builds in your blood it begins to plant itself on the artery walls, untreated this can result in atherosclerosis, called hardening of the arteries. What actually takes place is that the arteries begin to narrow as more and more bad cholesterol is deposited onto them which results in the blood flow going to and coming from the heart muscle slowing down or worse ending up blocked altogether. Oxygen is carried in your blood and moves back and forth into the heart but as cholesterol builds up in your arteries the blood flow is reduced this will eventually result in an uncomfortable feeling in your chest, as the narrowing in your arteries progresses this will turn into pain if the cholesterol is allowed to build up to the point of actually blocking your arteries the result will be a heart attack.

Molecules called lipoproteins carry cholesterol in the blood. Two important kinds of lipoproteins are low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). When checking LDL and HDL, doctors often include another type of fat called triglycerides.

"Total cholesterol is a measure of the total amount of cholesterol in your blood and is based on the HDL, LDL, and triglycerides numbers. LDL cholesterol makes up the majority of the body’s cholesterol. LDL is known as “bad” cholesterol because having high levels can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries and result in heart disease and stroke. HDL cholesterol absorbs cholesterol and carries it back to the liver, which flushes it from the body. HDL is known as “good” cholesterol because having high levels can reduce the risk for heart disease and stroke. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood that your body uses for energy. The combination of high levels of triglycerides with low HDL cholesterol or high LDL cholesterol can increase your risk for heart attack and stroke." http://www.cdc.gov/cholesterol/ldl_hdl.htm

There are no symptoms created by having high cholesterol levels, consequently it is necessary to check your cholesterol level. This is done by means of a blood test and will establish what your HDL and also LDL levels are. Monitoring your cholesterol levels is similar to monitoring your blood pressure only the levels are not checked as frequently. Adults beginning at the age of 20 need to have regular tests done to check cholesterol levels. It is recommended that a test be done every years if you have been diagnosed with heart disease, some people will need to have their cholesterol levels checked more frequently. Children and adolescents starting at 9 years and up to 11 years should have their cholesterol checked at least once and then again between the ages of 17 and 21 years.

Take a health questionnaire to see if you qualify!

The blood analysis that is used to determine cholesterol levels is known as a lipoprotein profile. Four measurements will be taken on a cholesterol test and these include the total cholesterol level, the LDL "bad" cholesterol, the HDL "good" cholesterol and the triglycerides.

A person whose total cholesterol is less than 200 is at a desirable rate; total cholesterol that is 200 to 239 is borderline high and 240 and over is high. LDL cholesterol that is less than 100 is optimal, while 100 to 129 is near optimal or above optimal and with HDL, the higher the number, the better it is. HDL cholesterol that measures 60 or more is at a desirable rate while less than 400 constitutes a major risk factor. Triglycerides that are less than 150 are at a normal or desirable rate while 150 to 199 is borderline high and 200 or more is high and may necessitate the need for medication in some individuals.

Sources for article http://www.cdc.gov/cholesterol/facts.htm http://www.cdc.gov/cholesterol/ldl_hdl.htm Learn why I’m talking about Clinical Trials

CLINICAL TRIAL FOR WOMEN WITH METASTATIC HR+, HER2- BREAST CANCER

2015-04-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Breast cancer touches us all. Over 200,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2015. The best way we can all help is to move medical research forward by helping find patient volunteers. If you have Breast Cancer or know someone who does, there is a new study evaluating whether the study drug combined with hormonal therapy has better outcomes than hormonal therapy alone.

More about the study:

The investigational drug is administered by oral capsules and the hormonal therapy by injection into your muscle
At least 193 people have already taken this drug in clinical trials
There will be 550 participants in this trial

If you are interested, the full study details and eligibility criteria are listed here.

Eligibility Criteria:

Participants must:

have been diagnosed with breast cancer which expresses at least one hormone receptor (estrogen receptor or progesterone receptor) and is HER2 negative
have stopped having monthly menstrual cycles either naturally or through surgery or hormonal treatment

Participants must not:

have received chemotherapy for metastatic disease (neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy is allowed)
be currently participating in any other clinical trial
have a history of central nervous system metastases

Please complete the online questionnaire to check if you’re eligible for the trial.

If you’re not familiar with clinical trials, here are some FAQs:

What are clinical trials?

Clinical trials are research studies to determine whether investigational drugs or treatments are safe and effective for humans. All new investigational medications and devices must undergo several clinical trials, often involving thousands of people.

Why participate in a clinical trial?

Learn why I’m talking about Clinical Trials

BREAST CANCER CLINICAL TRIAL SEEKING PARTICIPANTS

2015-04-27T13:00:00.000-07:00

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, where 1 in 8 women in the US will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. The majority of breast cancers are hormone-receptor positive (HR+), which means the cancer cells grow in response to hormones. Such cancers are typically treated with hormonal therapy.

There is a clinical study available, seeking participants who have Breast Cancer in order evaluate whether the study drug combined with hormonal therapy has better outcomes than hormonal therapy alone.

More about the study:

The investigational drug is administered by oral capsules and the hormonal therapy by injection into your muscle
At least 193 people have already taken this drug in clinical trials
There will be 550 participants in this trial

If you are interested, the full study details and eligibility criteria are listed here.

Eligibility Criteria:

Participants must:

have been diagnosed with breast cancer which expresses at least one hormone receptor (estrogen receptor or progesterone receptor) and is HER2 negative
have stopped having monthly menstrual cycles either naturally or through surgery or hormonal treatment

Participants must not:

have received chemotherapy for metastatic disease (neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy is allowed)
be currently participating in any other clinical trial
have a history of central nervous system metastases

Please complete the online questionnaire to check if you’re eligible for the trial.

If you’re not familiar with clinical trials, here are some FAQs:

What are clinical trials?

Why participate in a clinical trial?

Learn why I’m talking about Clinical Trials

HAVE SEVERE ASTHMA? PARTICIPATE IN A CLINICAL STUDY THAT MAY HELP

2015-04-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! There is a clinical trial going on right now that assesses the safety and effectiveness of the investigational drug when administered in severe asthma patients whose symptoms are otherwise uncontrolled with current standard therapy. Despite standard treatment, up to 50% of asthma patients have symptoms that are not well controlled, with a negative impact on quality of life.

Here is some basic information:

Participants must:

between 12 – 75 years old
have asthma diagnosed by a doctor.
have been treated with an inhaler in the past 3 months
have had at least 1 exacerbation (worsening of your asthma that requires medical intervention or a change in medications) in the past year

Participants must not:

have severe lung disease other than asthma
have HIV, Hepatitis B or C

The full study details and eligibility criteria are listed here.

Please complete the online questionnaire to check if you’re eligible for the trial.

If you’re not familiar with clinical trials, here are some FAQs:

What are clinical trials?

Why participate in a clinical trial?

Learn why I’m talking about Clinical Trials

PARTICIPATE IN TYPE 2 DIABETES CLINICAL TRIAL

2015-04-26T14:00:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! There is a Type 2 Diabetes clinical trial going on right now where the research study is evaluating a new investigational medicine for people with type 2 diabetes, who are not currently on any diabetes medication. The study medicine is being evaluated to see if it can improve the management of type 2 diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels.

Here is some basic information:

Participants must:

between 18 – 44 years old
be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes
have HbA1c levels between 7% – 10%

Participants must not:

be involved in a weight loss program
have been on any diabetes medication in the past 3 months

The full study details and eligibility criteria are listed here.

Please complete the online questionnaire to check if you’re eligible for the trial.

If you’re not familiar with clinical trials, here are some FAQs:

What are clinical trials?

Why participate in a clinical trial?

Learn why I’m talking about Clinical Trials

NEW CLINICAL STUDY SEEKING SEVERE ASTHMA PARTICIPANTS

2015-04-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

If you have Severe Asthma and your current symptoms are not well controlled, this study may be right for you. Despite standard treatment, up to 50% of asthma patients have symptoms that are not well controlled, with a negative impact on quality of life.

The purpose of this research study is to assess the safety and effectiveness of the investigational drug when administered in severe asthma patientswhose symptoms are otherwise uncontrolled with current standard therapy.

More about the study:

The study drug (Benralizumab) is administered by Subcutaneous injection (SC).
This trial is 48 – 56 weeks long, requiring 17 – 19 visits and 0 overnight stays

If you are interested, full study details and eligibility criteria are listed here.

Eligibility Criteria:

Participants must:

between 12 – 75 years old
have asthma diagnosed by a doctor.
have been treated with an inhaler in the past 3 months
have had at least 1 exacerbation (worsening of your asthma that requires medical intervention or a change in medications) in the past year

Participants must not:

have severe lung disease other than asthma
have HIV, Hepatitis B or C

If you’re not familiar with clinical trials, here are some FAQs:

What are clinical trials?

Why participate in a clinical trial?

Learn why I’m talking about Clinical Trials

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS CLINICAL TRIAL SEEKING PARTICIPANTS

2015-04-25T13:00:00.000-07:00

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting small joints in the hands and feet that affects about 1.5 million people in the United States today.

There is a clinical study available to those with Rheumatoid Arthritis, where the purpose of the study is to compare the proposed biosimilar study drug rituximab (GP2013) against a standard approved treatment rituximab (Rituxan®) to see if the study drug is as safe and effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis.

More about the study:

The study drug (GP2013 and Rituximab) is administered by IV Injection (IV).
At least 174 people have already taken this drug in clinical trials

If you are interested, the full study details and eligibility criteria are listed here.

Eligibility Criteria:

Participants must:

be at least 18 years old
have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis for at least 6 months
have had inadequate response or intolerance to DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) and 1 – 3 anti-TNF (tumor necrosis factor) therapies
have received methotrexate for at least 4 months with 25 mg/week as the maximal dose

Participants must not:

have significant liver disease, or congestive heart failure
be taking a high potency of opioid analgesics (e.g. methadone, hydromorphone, morphine)

Please complete the online questionnaire to check if you’re eligible for the trial.

If you’re not familiar with clinical trials, here are some FAQs:

What are clinical trials?

Why participate in a clinical trial?

Learn why I’m talking about Clinical Trials

NEW ASTHMA TREATMENT AVAILABLE IN CLINICAL TRIAL

2015-04-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

If you have Mild or Moderate Asthma and you're looking for new treatment options, this clinical trial may be right for you.

This study is for patients who have mild or moderate asthma and are using a reliever inhaler. If approved, it is hoped that the study drug will improve your lung function and overall symptoms of asthma.

More about the study:

The study drug (Lebrikizumab ) is administered by Subcutaneous injection (SC).
This trial is 22 weeks long, requiring 9 visits and 0 overnight stays

If you are interested, full study details and eligibility criteria are listed here.

Eligibility Criteria:

Participants must:

between 18 – 75 years old
be diagnosed with asthma for more than 1 year
be willing to attend 9 study visits over a 22 week period of time

Participants must not:

have used corticosteroids in the last 4 weeks
have any other lung diseases (like COPD )
be a current smoker

If you’re not familiar with clinical trials, here are some FAQs:

What are clinical trials?

Why participate in a clinical trial?

Please complete the online questionnaire to check if you’re eligible for the trial.

Learn why I’m talking about Clinical Trials

HAVE TYPE 2 DIABETES? NEW CLINICAL STUDY AVAILABLE SEEKING TYPE 2 DIABETES PARTICIPANTS

2015-04-24T17:00:00.000-07:00

There is clinical trial available seeking people with Type 2 Diabetes, who are not currently on any diabetes medication. The study medicine is being evaluated to see if it can improve the management of type 2 diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels.

More about the study:

The study drug (MK-3102) is administered by Tablets, Pills, or Capsules.

At least 100 people have already taken this drug in clinical trials.
There will be 200 participants in this trial, at 12 sites around the world.

If you are interested, please find the full study details and eligibility criteria listed here.

Eligibility Criteria:

Participants must:

between 18 – 44 years old
be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes
have HbA1c levels between 7% – 10%

Participants must not:

be involved in a weight loss program
have been on any diabetes medication in the past 3 months

If you’re not familiar with clinical trials, here are some FAQs:

What are clinical trials?

Why participate in a clinical trial?

Learn why I’m talking about Clinical Trials

OPPORTUNITY TO HELP RESEARCH TO DETECT EARLY ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE BY PARTICIPATING IN A REGISTRY

2015-04-24T15:49:00.000-07:00

Biogen Idec is running a registry for researchers to advance their knowledge of early Alzheimers Disease. If you're having memory problems or are worried you're at risk of early Alzheimer’s, you can play an important role in improving our understanding of the disease. You will have the opportunity to learn about and take part in local studies looking at new treatment options. You will also receive some reimbursement for your time.

More about the registry:

There will be 14000 participants in this registry
This registry will take place over two years requiring no visits or overnight stays
This registry is taking place nationwide and you can complete it from the comfort of you own home.

If you are interested, the full study details and eligibility criteria are listed here.

Eligibility Criteria:

Participants must:

be between 50 – 85 years old
be willing to answer questionnaires periodically over a 2 year block of time
be concerned that you are at risk for developing early Alzheimers have difficulty with memory or thinking skills

Participants must not:

already be diagnosed with Alzheimers Disease
have had events of stroke, epilepsy, or Parkinson's Disease

ADDITIONAL INFO ON THE REGISTRY

If you agree to participate in the registry, you will be asked to complete an online questionnaire to assess how you understand, remember, and communicate information. This questionnaire will be repeated every 3 – 6 months. You will also be asked to take a brief 10 – 15 telephone call, which will be repeated every 6 months. The registry team may use your answers to see if you may qualify for another clinical research study. If you are interested in participating, we will ask for your permission to send your contact details to the study center. After you speak with someone at the study center, you can decide whether or not you want to participate in the study.

Please complete the online questionnaire to check if you’re eligible for the registry.

Learn why I’m talking about Clinical Trials

Long Term Stroke Recovery Progress

2009-05-04T22:33:00.000-07:00

It has been over 7 years since I had my stroke. I was paralyzed completely from the tips of my toes to the top of my head, and I am here to say that with much hard physical and mental work it is possible to maintain a long term fully functional recovery from this type of stroke episode. My last MRI showed an area between the two hemispheres of my brain the size of a 50 cent piece that had died. But no perceptible long term disability has materialized from this, sure I tire a bit more easily then before and when I am very tired I tend to slur some words but nothing major. My ability to do physical work is not what it was so I moved into supervision and do fine there. What I mean by all of this is that from my experience if you have had a stroke you can come back from it and live a good life. Sure it will be a SOB to pull yourself back, pain and sweat,disgust and fear but damn it's a darn better thing than laying in a bed and giving up.