Holly Hanna…another C-section

“Doctor’s need to rethink how they look at C-sections.” This is the latest information coming from the John Hopkins School of Medicine.

The reason for this latest insight into Caesarean Section or C-sections is the recent findings from a study looking into C-sections for the patients who’s babies are preterm. The predominate belief, prior to this study, was that C-sections were the best choice for babies that were headed towards being born preterm. The idea may have been the belief that the babies weren’t improving or growing adequately while in the uterus and that they would do better in the hospital. But one way or another, it was believed that a C-section would be safer for the unborn baby.

But instead, it was brought to light that Caesarean Section may actually lead to additional medical problems including respiratory distress, possibly learning disabilities, and cerebral palsy. This could increase the risk of breathing problems including asthma in the years to come. Yet, the babies born through vaginal births were no more likely to develop seizures, brain bleeds [hemorrhage], or sepsis.

On average, between 45 and 50 percent of premature babies in the last four years were delivered by C-section. Up to this point it has been the standard of treatment. Equally as important, is that there has been a sizable increase in the rate of C-sections in the last dozen years.

The study looked back at birth rates with preterm babies in New York over an 8 year period. This study was done based on data that was reviewed and studied from medical charts where the births were done years ago. This helped allow for the children to not only be reviewed at the time of birth, but for the years that followed.

No specific study was formed to look at this specifically. In some cases, this helps the veracity of the study . The parameters were done post birth and this allowed for a review only and conclusions weren’t made prior to the study beginning.

Of course, additional studies, outside of New York alone will need to be done. But, at least, for the moment. When assessing a preterm baby, C-section may need to be reviewed to see if it is the best option. It is certain that under some circumstances involving preterm, C-section may be the best option. But in other cases, vaginal births may be the way to go.

In related articles:

To have a C-Section or not to have a C-Section? – That is the question!!

Welfare check – A urine Sample

The welfare system may changing – but for better or worse still remains to be seen.

Proposals in almost twenty-five states have shed light on drug testing requirements in order to receive benefits like unemployment assistance, job training, public housing, welfare, food stamps and more.

The concerns by the proponents are that some of the governmental assistance are being misused while others decry this as an attempt at signaling out the poor. States that have already passed such requirements include: Arizona, India, Florida, and Missouri.

At the federal level, Senator David Vitter, a Louisiana Republican, has introduced the Drug Free Families Act of 2011, which would require all 50 states to drug-test welfare applicants.

In Florida, those people receiving cash assistance have had to pay for their own drug tests for the last few months. Enrollment in cash assistance has decreased dramatically. Many argue that the poor are being targeted unfairly has lead to such a decrease, while others praise the new tactics as just and fair. The cost of drug testing is around $40 dollars and the state of Florida has insisted that it will reimburse those who pass. If you fail – you’re disqualified for a year. Payments already being sent to children can still continue through another person, like a grandparent.

“Working people today work very hard to make ends meet, and it just doesn’t seem fair to them that their tax dollars go to support illegal things,” said Ellen Brandom, a Republican state representative in Missouri.

So far, most proposals for change have failed to win the support needed. This is believed to be the result of concerns about the legality of such proposals.

Kimberley Davis, the director of social services for Operation Breakthrough, said the legislation sent a bad message. “All this does is perpetuate the stereotype that low-income people are lazy, shiftless drug addicts and if all they did was pick themselves up from the bootstraps then the country wouldn’t be in the mess it’s in,” Ms. Davis said. Operation Breakthrough provides day care services in Kansas City to low-income women.

Several studies that date back a decade or more indicate that drug use is not solely seen in the poor. In 1996, a report from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found that there is no significant difference in the rate of illegal-drug use by welfare applicants and other people. Another study found that 70% of illegal-drug users between the age of 18 and 49 are employed full time.

The certainty is that many of these new policies will end up in court to see if indeed they are legal or a constitutional violation. For the time being, a few states will continue to require drug testing for welfare programs. One must ask if this is really a bad thing in the end?

Give us your feedback in the comment section.

Read more: http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,2090871,00.html#ixzz1aUKa2mMl

Sick of the pink ribbon??

Every year October is designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Pink ribbons can be found on anything and everything. Recently I have been wondering, after watching clips and seeing family members from my uncle’s dog to a long lost cousin sport a pink ribbon, that it may be too much.

After so much attention have we become numb to the actual message. Breast Cancer is a difficult and terrible diagnosis. Often we hear about the success stories of those who have made it through this disease. We often aren’t told about those who don’t. Though, the memories of those lost to breast cancer are always close to the family members of those who lost their battle.

Additionally there has been some discussion about being to aware and fear overtaking the mass. Are we over checking for breast cancer. Are young women much too worried about the possible diagnosis of breast cancer. Many argue that screening mammograms are out of control. Everyone from the twenty year old to the forty year old is now waiting to get a mammogram. Is this the best option is pivotal for discussion.

Screening Mammogram vs. Diagnostic Mammogram

There is a large difference. Screening mammograms are done without any symptoms or findings. Diagnostic mammograms are done after a lump is found or another concerning symptom has been found. The difference is who will be getting the mammogram. Screening mammograms are very controversial and much has been written and studied. Diagnostic mammograms have very little controversy.

Are you worried?

There are several things to think about as a women of any age.

1.) Are you at risk?

2.) Do you have symptoms?

3.) Is there a family history?

4.) Have you spoken with your Physician or Mid-level Provider?

Essentially the idea of Breast Cancer Awareness month was something of a good thing. Now we are so used to seeing and hearing about it that it may actually push some people away from doing what they need to do. The person who needs the message may not be the one getting it. Those who need to see their provider may not be the one who can actually get an appointment.

What to do?

Be reasonable about your risk and the risk of your family. Be honest with yourself if you find something concerning such as a lump. Don’t be afraid to speak with someone, especially a family member and your provider. Don’t get overworked and try not to get desensitized by the public push for an entire month of pink ribbons. Understand that this topic is important and should not be overlooked.

Effects of Cancer

The American Cancer Society recently spoke out about the long term financial effects of cancer. They labeled it as the leading cause of death worldwide as well as one of the most expensive to manage and treat.

That expense has been researched and it has been reported that cancer is more expensive than malaria, AIDs, the flu, and other conditions.

Other chronic conditions also increase the medical cost. This includes: heart disease and diabetes. Heart disease has been the number one cause of death for the last several years. But, it has been forecasted over the last decade or more that cancer would eventually surpass heart disease and it appears that it has.

Another apparent concern is the actual money that is set aside or provided by both the public and private funding for cancer. The belief is that a relatively small amount of money is used to improve cancer prevention and management. A large amount of money is spent on behalf of treatment and management. The two sides are not proportional to each other.

Other diseases such as flu, AIDs and malaria have a much larger amount set aside for them. The reasoning is that the fear that these conditions cause urges public opinion and public spending. These types of conditions are transmitted or acquired through a host or another person. This raises the fear and brings in a larger portion of the economic dollar.

Cancer’s economic toll was $895 billion in 2008 and this is equivalent to approximately 1.5 percent of the world’s gross domestic product. This dollar amount represents the disability and years of life lost. This specific report does not account for the cost of treating the disease.

But, how can we make strides in this category? Certain medical conditions can be preventable, lung cancers, cardiac heart disease ,and others. Some can be detected earlier but than often, the cost would increase dramatically as well. It is estimated that lung cancer alone accounts for almost $200 billion of the $900 billion. This large amount is very interesting and an important topic to many researches on cancer.

Heart disease is not a distant second in terms of deaths and financial obligations. It is estimated that heart disease accounts for some $750 billion per year worldwide.

Free Statin while eating a Hamburger?

What is a statin you ask?  It is one of the main or primary medications to treat cholesterol medications.

This in effect, signals that you can enjoy your hamburgers, fries, coke and swallow a cholesterol medications at the same time. In hopes of preventing the effects caused by excessive cholesterol intake.

Wow, what an idea. Some may argue that this is the complete opposite of prevention medicine.  What do you think?  Let us know in our comment section.

There are others that have concluded that this may be the new preventive medicine.

Often quoted or referred to is a study that was published in the American Journal of Cardiology. Researchers and Scientists from the National Heart and Lung Institute in London tested and formed an opinion that the reduction of risk in cardiac heart disease may be reduced by a statin, a type of cholesterol lowering drug. They also believed that this risk could offset the consequence of eating a cheeseburger and a milkshake.

“Sign me up!!” could be the chant of thousands. Though fatty foods such as hamburgers and fries have other problems than just increased cholesterol. Fatty lipids, obesity, risk of Diabetes, and many other consequences would not be helped by the statin gift at mealtime.

Dr. Darrel Francis, who led the research team said the following: “When people engage in risky behaviors like driving or smoking, they’re encouraged to take measures that minimize their risk, like wearing a seat belt or choosing cigarettes with filters. Taking a statin is a rational way of lowering some of the risks of eating a fatty meal.“

Statins are a great medication and in essence are used to help treat our unhealthy lifestyles. We are consuming an increased amount of processed sugars, fats, cholesterol, and others. In addition to statins several other cholesterol and lipid medications are available.

But remember, cholesterol is formed in the liver on a natural level. Our problem, with elevated cholesterol occurs when either our body produces to much and/or we consume excess cholesterol. Therefore many individuals who eat unhealthy many never need a statin and conversely someone who eats healthy and exercises may need a statin or other cholesterol medication.

The rule of thumb should remain, attempt to exercise and eat healthy. This doesn’t mean that you necessarily need to completely abstain from Fast foods, but moderation should always apply.

The Truth about Botox

Is Botox really that dangerous?

This is a question that many could answer so differently.

Recently there have been reports of the dangers of Botox. A large number of women are concerned about Botox treatment and Women’s Health.

Botox is used for many reasons and is prescribed for several muscle disorders. This medication is very helpful in those patients and often improvement in muscle spasms and muscle twitching can be seen.

Botox suppresses symptoms for 3 months then another treatment or dosing is required.

Other uses for Botox are for Cosmetic and wrinkles and this is the more well known casual use for Botox injections. Almost One million Americans are currently using Botox at a cost of almost $400 million is spent per year. Over 4 million Botox treatments are performed annually.

Botox is a toxin from a bacteria that produces botulinum toxin that is processed and purified. The result is a paralyzation of the injected muscles. When this toxin is injected a localized affect is anticipated and expected.

But it is not uncommon to have a response to the toxin at a different location in the body. The toxin may travel through nerve roots as argued. In addition, it can be transported to other parts of the body.

Often Botox should be administered by someone who has a medical license and is familiar with Botox injections. But more and more we are seeing unlicensed and unsafe concentrations of Botox being injected.

Botulism is a serious consequence to the bacteria Clostridium botulinum and some overdoses and side effects of

Symptoms of adverse effects of Botox injections include:

-  Voice change [hoarseness]
-  Muscle weakness or strength
-  Loss of bladder control
-  Vision changes
-  Drooping eyelids
-  Difficulty swallowing
-  and others.

Botox addiction is the newest concern for treatment.  Dr. Martin Kelley, a plastic surgeon at London Plastic Surgery Associates, and Dr. Carter Singh, a psychologist at Britain’s Derbyshire Royal Infirmary, recently presented a study to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons claiming that BOTOX® has addictive qualities for some people. In that study almost 40% studied wanted additional treatment and felt compelled to maintain treatment even before their symptoms returned.

Others argue that some people will never be satisfied with their physical image and that an psychological attachment o addiction is not what is being observed.

Botox Linked to Deaths

In a paper back in 2005 in the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology reports that 28 deaths from 1989 to 2003 were linked to Botox injections though none of the deaths were by patients or individuals using Botox for Cosmetic use.

In February of 2008, the FDA reported that they had found some link with adverse reactions including death and respiratory failure by those using a wide variety of concentrations and dosages of Botox.

There appears to be little risk with Botox if it is used appropriately and when administered by a licensed and competent medical provider. When steps are taken to increase dosing and concentration then the risk of abnormal outcomes appears to increase dramatically.

Though any adverse media or news articles on Botox does not appear to have limited or decreased it’s use, more concern is being noticed by the main stream public. Addiction or no addiction, Botox has helped many improve their own physical looks. It depends on what you are willing to do to look several years younger.

The following link is a video showing Botox Injection for Spasmodic Dysphonia – link

The Good and Bad of Cholesterol

Cholesterol is an important molecule that is  essential to human metabolism, cell structures, and production of certain hormones and vitamins within the body.

Synthesis of cholesterol occurs in several organs. A large portion of cholesterol is produced within the liver. Other sites for production include: intestines, adrenal gland, and some reproductive organs.

Dietary cholesterol is equally as important and a large cause of health effects associated with elevated cholesterol.  Animal fats are typical places to find cholesterol. Plants and vegetables do not contain cholesterol unless it has been added through cooking process or other means.

Sources of Cholesterol include:

-    Cheese
-    Beef
-    Chicken
-    Eggs
-    Pork
-    Shrimp

Another few players in cholesterol are Trans Fat and Saturated Fat

Saturated Fats can be seen in chocolate, some oils, animal fats, and some dairy products.

Trans Fats can be seen in baked goods, fast food, snack foods, fried foods, margarine, and hydrogenated vegetable oil. Trans fats are produced by partially hydrogenating unsaturated fats. These are not found largely in nature. It has been recommended to limit or eliminate trans fats to improve your health.

The health concerns of elevated cholesterol are intense and severe:

Hypercholesterolemia

Is when a high amount of circulating cholesterol can be found in the blood

It is not specifically a disease but may result from other issues such as diet, family genes, diabetes or thyroid problems.

Cholesterol can always be found in the blood – but when levels becomes quite elevated then the concern arises.

Elevated cholesterol can lead to serious medical concerns such as: Atherosclerosis, Coronary Artery Disease, Worsening High Blood Pressure , Stroke, Peripheral Vascular Disease, Angina, and others

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a response or result of damage to arterial blood vessels.

Is the result of hardening in the arteries and is typically caused by a build up of fatty molecules such as cholesterol.

It is a more specific term then the general term of arteriosclerosis.

Coronary Artery Disease

Plaque fills the inner pipes of arteries that supply oxygen to the heart.

Smoking is the #1 preventable risk factor but so is elevated cholesterol

Coronary arteries supply the muscle of the heart with oxygen.

Plaque can fill or line the arteries of the heart

Rupture or tearing of the arteries can occur causing serious consequences.

Prevention and Exercise

Prevention is necessary for several reasons. Diabetes and Hypertension are serious diseases that can be made much worse with elevated cholesterol. Diet and exercise are central to a good health in both improving cholesterol and additional symptoms associated with this disease.

As in many other areas, preventing cholesterol build up before it changes your life can be difficult but critical. HDL can be considered “the good cholesterol” and acts as a buffer to prevent a build up of unwanted cholesterol. HDL is a lipoprotein that can be improved through exercise. Other ways to improve HDL is stopping smoking, improving diet, weight loss, fish oil, flax seed and others.

Haitian Earthquake 2010

So much has been spoken of regarding the earthquake and the damage has been intense.  It is difficult to understand, from behind my desk, the complete destruction that has taken place as a result of this earthquake.  Large amounts of media, celebrities, political, and religious discussion has been made about this disaster.

My large concern is the health issues associated immediately after the earthquake and in the weeks to come.  I have written several blogs regarding this devastating issue. My hopes and prayers go to those who have loss loved ones and been apart of this tragedy.

Several friends and acquaintances are attempting with all their might to get a medical clearance to head out to Haiti for relief work in the medical field.   Housing, medical infrastructure, water, sanitation have all been affected immensely.

Take a look at the blogs below and give some feedback.  These blogs and many other health information can be found at InterActive Health

1.)   Potential Health Problems After Haitian Earthquake Are Expected

2.)   12 Diseases That Will Be Seen in Haiti

3.)   Health in Haiti – The Crisis

Haiti’s Mental and Medical Concerns

The Haitian earthquake is an unexpected and devastating natural disaster that has hit and is affecting a large number of people.   Travelers, locals, businesses, health care, government, and many others have been affected.

Doctors Without Boarders/Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) were still in full force 1 month following an earthquake.  This group and several others are found in areas several months following earthquakes and other natural disasters.

The number of affected following a natural disaster expands beyond those directly affected.  Mental and medical concerns for those involved in this recent earthquake in Haiti will be felt for the next several months to several years.

Mental Health

A destruction that destroys the world once familiar can be devastating for those affected by the Hiait earthquake. The expectation to pick up where things had been before remains. The difficulty is the loss of life, home, water, food and “normality” of life.

“I worried a lot and had difficulty sleeping during the first two weeks after the earthquake, but I am getting better after a psychological consultation with MSF,” says Novaldi.   He lost six family members in an earthquake.

This help will need to be provided for months after the earthquake and is a remarkable and a necessary aspect of forward progression and rebuilding.

Health Issues:

Following an earthquake two serious concerns need to be addressed;
Water and Sanitation

Without a good plan for bringing in drinkable water into an area can have wide spread consequences. Most people start to begin to suffer side effects from dehydration after 30-36 hours without water. A city or village is very vulnerable to the water system being contaminated.

Often a recommendation is the melting of ice cubes when no other water source is available

Sanitation Standards

Human excreta has a large amount of germs. The possibility of an increase of infections and disease can be seen during similar natural disaster.

Often water lines and such become non functioning. This results in a buildup or concern for sanitation. Contamination of drinking water, rivers and lakes can occur during rains and other times.

Proper disposal of solid waste and other sanitation materials is essential. In addition hand washing becomes an increase concern as well when locals do not have enough clean running water. Build-up of sanitation will increase flies and other infectious diseases.

Flies will often then land on nearby food transferring the infection to many others.

Infectious diseases

Often after a severe natural disasters epidemics due to infectious diseases emerges.

This is a potential for a disaster and a high mortality during this period.

Often it depends on type of disaster, location, time of year, and associated rainfall or other weather changes.

Previous natural disasters have seen large increases in the following:

1.) Measles
2.) Viral Hepatitis
3.) Typhoid fever
4.) Gastroenteritis
5.) Coccidiomycosis
6.) Giardia
7.) Cholera
8.) MRSA skin infection
9.) Malaria
10.) Dengue Fever
11.) Yellow fever
12.) Others

Our hopes and prayers must stay with those that have suffered from a tremendous disaster.  The only hope remains from those who have donated their time and money for those survivors of the Haitian earthquake.

Recall of Tylenol Arthritis

Tylenol is a top medication used in several forms and areas. The FDA has been recommending a recall as well. In this instance the treatment is for arthritis and the recall appears to have been expanded.

The recall began late last month because of a smell that has been described as “moldy” or “musty“. It is believed that this smell is caused from a chemical called “2,4,6 tribromoanisole“. The overall health concern remains unknown and studies have not been performed to see if any health problems may result.

It can therefore be assumed that, at this time, the large majority of the reason for this recall is smell alone.

Though many describe symptoms including: Nausea, Vomiting, Abdominal pain, Abdominal discomfort, Diarrhea and these symptoms appear to only last for a short period of time.

The bottle for this medication is unique to this brand. Johnson & Johnson has produced a E-Z bottle top that is bright red. The top is larger than a typical top and Caplets of 100 per bottle are seen.

It is recommended that you stop taking this medication immediately and contact the company for the return and refund policy.

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