Effective Ways To Treat Hemorrhoids Naturally

Natural treatment for hemorrhoids, which can be described as the condition of swollen painful anus and rectum is now a possibility. Some common symptoms for hemorrhoids, which is either internal or external include; bleeding and swelling of the anus, pain, itching and swelling (external symptoms). The truth is hemorrhoids should not be allowed to last for too long because it can lead to other serious problem in the future. However, treatment can be both natural and through proper medication from medical experts. Nevertheless, hemorrhoids are better treated naturally; especially if you want a permanent cure for it. This article is going to be based on the natural remedies for hemorrhoids.

Butcher's Broom

One of the active components present in the butcher's broom is known as Ruscogen. For those looking for cure for piles, the butcher's broom can be taken in the form of capsules or in the form of tea, alongside some other sweet substance. However, it is advised that people with high blood pressure do not need to use this method; as it may not go down well with their health or body conditions. Butcher's broom is one of the best treatments especially where the blood circulation is very poor.

Bioflavonoid

This will really help to stabilize and strengthen the walls of the blood vessels in the body system. Citrus fruits and hesperidins are also in the categories of intakes that can help you treat hemorrhoids naturally. As a result of the stability they bring to the system, it is possible for the person suffering from this condition to start experiencing comfort in the anal region.

Horse Chestnut

This treatment is similar to the butcher's broom, which enables the blood in the vein to move freely. This time around, the Horse Chestnut contains an active component called the Aescin, which acts as a cure for piles. Though, a great natural remedy for pile, people who are allergic should avoid using this treatment because horse chestnut could also have some side effects.

Some other minor, but highly effective natural treatments for hemorrhoids include: ointments, which is for external treatments, and helps to reduce inflammation caused by pile; triphala, which helps to relieve constipation; and regular body fitness exercises. However; exercises are not just recommended for people suffering from this kind of health condition, but are also good for everyone.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=HB_Smith

Green Tea May Reduce Lung Cancer Risk—Even for Smokers

For thousands of years, the people of China, Japan, India, and Thailand have consumed green tea and used it medicinally to treat everything from headaches to flatulence. In fact, the ancient Chinese proverb, “better to be deprived of food for three days, than tea for one,” gives us an idea of how much they believed in its curative abilities. Over the past few decades, however, research in both Asia and the West has begun providing scientific evidence of green tea’s numerous health benefits.

As a whole, studies indicate that regular consumption of green tea may slow or prevent conditions including high cholesterol, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, impaired immune disease and liver disease. In addition, some studies have indicated green tea may have cancer-fighting properties, lowering the rate of gastric, esophageal, and mouth cancers. And in a conference this week sponsored by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) and the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC), researchers reported that Taiwanese smokers who consumed one cup of green tea each day significantly reduced their chances of developing lung cancer.

For their study, Dr. I-Hsin Lin, of Chung Shan Medical University in Taiwan, and her colleagues recruited 170 people with lung cancer and 340 healthy patients as controls. The participants completed questionnaires regarding their lifestyle habits, including how much they smoked, how much green tea they drank, their dietary intake of fruits and vegetables, cooking practices and family history of lung cancer. They also underwent genotyping on insulin-like growth factors: IGF1, IGF2, and IGFBP3, all of which have been reported to be associated with cancer risk.

The results showed that both smokers and non-smokers who did not drink green tea were 5 times more likely to develop lung cancer compared to those who drank at least one cup of green tea per day. Smokers who did not drink green tea at all were more than 12 times more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer than those who drank at least one cup of green tea per day. However, the protection was greatest for those carrying certain genes. Green tea drinkers, whether smokers or non-smokers, with non-susceptible IGF1 (CA)19/(CA)19 and (CA)19/X genotypes reported a 66 percent reduction in lung cancer risk compared with green tea drinkers carrying the IGF1 X/X genotype.

Lin explained that green tea’s cancer-fighting benefits are due to its rich concentration of chemicals called polyphenols, notably a catechin called as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which acts as a powerful antioxidant. “Tea, particularly green tea, has received a great deal of attention because tea polyphenols are strong antioxidants, and tea preparations have shown inhibitory activity against tumorigenesis,” she said. “Our study may represent a clue that in the case of lung cancer, smoking-induced carcinogenesis could be modulated by green tea consumption and the growth factor environment.”

But cancer experts say the findings don’t change the fact that smoking is bad for health and shouldn’t be used as an excuse to continue smoking. “Smoking tobacco fills your lungs with around 80 cancer-causing chemicals. Drinking green tea is not going to compensate for that,” said Yinka Ebo, of Cancer Research UK. “Unfortunately, it’s not possible to make up for the harm caused by smoking by doing other things right like eating a healthy, balanced diet. The best thing a smoker can do to reduce their risk of lung cancer, and more than a dozen other cancer types, is to quit.”

More people, both male and female, die from lung cancer than from any other type of cancer. In 2005 (the most recent year for which statistics are available), 196,687 people in the United States were diagnosed with lung cancer, and 159,217 died from it. About 90 percent of lung cancer deaths in men and almost 80 percent of lung cancer deaths in women are due to smoking.

from healthnews.com

Fish Oil Versus Krill Oil - What Exactly Is The Difference?

You will find research saying that there is a new omega 3 supplement around to challenge the currently respected and reliable oil supplement - that awesome is krill oil. But could there be really much major difference? Let's look at more details on the fish oil vs. krill oil issue and be aware of facts.

Fish oil has already recognized its prowess as a good supplement. Hoping to make the most out of the health advantages omega 3 in it can provide, there are experiments at present to produce supplements that are more efficient and will give more omega 3.

Lately, it has been found that there might just be an alternative source which could give as much or maybe more omega 3 than it. This has lead some to mention krill oil is one more good source of omega 3, while there are other people saying that it's just a promotion gimmick to promote this latest gimmick.

Effects of Krill and Fish Oil to our body

Krill and Fish Oil are believed to likely help lessen inflammation, boost healthy heart and even cardiovascular health, help elevate mood levels, promote weight loss and much more. These krill oil benefits are all because of omega 3 fatty acids. Anyway, Fish and Krill Oil are both natural supplements that can be safely taken everyday without the unwanted side effects.

Does krill oil have more antioxidants?

What's good with krill oil is that it contains more antioxidants to some but not all brands of fish oil. These antioxidants such as astaxanthin are readily absorbed into the body easily. But, there are some fish oil that contain added astaxanthin and deliver more of it compare to krill oil. Therefore, if you use this measurement of astaxanthin antioxidants.

Vitamin A and D maybe also present in Krill Oil

Apart from its antioxidant content, krill supplements are also known to contain vitamins A and D that are not present in fish oil. This could be bad or good, depending on whether you are already taking a multivitamin that already has enough vitamin A and D. There are doctors that advices not to take too much Vitamin A or D, so consult your doctor how much of those vitamins are good for you.

In spite of the new fad, there are still many people who stick with good old reliable, tried and tested fish oil supplements. Here are some reasons why:

Insufficient evidence and possible extinction of krill?

Although Omega 3 fatty acid health benefits have already been established, krill has not been as extensively studied as fish oil. More importantly, there's some people believing that krill will also be included in the listing of species that are already decreasing in numbers - too much consumption of krill oil might actually not good for the environment. This is also the food of whales so the question arises: are we taking away food from endangered whales?

Krill oil is expensive compared to fish oil

Currently, there are only a few trustworthy companies who manufacture krill oil. Currently, krill oil often is more costly than fish oil. What this mean is you will need to invest more cash on a supplement that has fewer studies to demonstrate whether it really gives health benefits equal to fish oil.

Fish Oil has all the important omega 3 fatty acids

Though Fish oil is said to contain large amounts of omega 3 fatty acids, krill oil remains to be superior regarding amounts of important omega 3 acids for example EPA and DFA. This means that the exact benefits as well as desired effects might possibly be better acquired with krill oil.

The verdict between Fish Oil and Krill Oil

Base on the facts above, paying more for krill oil maybe great for consumers. This means that for now, you can maybe pay more to buy krill oil supplements, taking foods of endangered whales, getting too mmuch vitamin A and also much vitamin A and D. But you can always buy the tested and proven fish oil until more studies are done on krill oil.

It's also important to remember that there are also brands of fish, have added astaxanthin antioxidants and as a result they have this ingredient just like krill oil does. So the same amount of antioxidants just like krill oil has.

These statements are not medical health advice and haven't been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Fish oil supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease.

Reasons why you need krill oil

It is a well-known misconception that all fats are not good for the body. This is definitely not true because there are some fats that are very good for your body. One kind of fat that is nice for your body is the Omega-3 fatty acids. Foods that provide this fat to the body should be part of your diet.

What you need to understand about krills

Krills look like tiny shrimp that resides in the base of the sea. Krills are near the base of the food chain, it also serves as food to other underwater creatures. Did you know that even whales feed on krills?

Human consumption of krills are not solely a new thing. You just have not heard of it. Krills are customary food in Japan probably even before 19th century. But, there as many types of krills as there are fish. Remember that not all kinds of krills are to our health though.

In fact, there is only one type of krill that have been examined and proven to be beneficial to us and that is the antarctic krill oil. Antarctic krill oil has plenty of benefits which I will mention after you finish reading the article below. But for the meantime, let's research the alternatives!

Krill Oil and Fish Oil Comparison

People have been consuming fish oil for quite some time now because of the health benefits that we can get from it. But there are various kinds of fish which can end up in the production of fish oil and we are coming to find out as time goes on that there may be certain kinds of fish oils which are better for the body than others. Fish oil are really good to your overall health because it contains the 2 vital omega-3 fats to our well-being - the DHA & EPA. DHA & EPA helps promote healthy heart plus supports your immune system.

But, fish oil has barely any antioxidant in it. The problem with thisis, as omega-3 fats intake increased, you need to raise your ingestion of antioxidants as well! This is simply because fish oil is highly perishable. Antioxidants are needed to prevent fish oil from oxidizing and cause more damage than good.

Krill oil on the other hand, contains both DHA & EPA but it also contains strong antioxidants property. Which means you do not need to be concerned regarding increasing your intake of antioxidants!

Krill Oil Benefits

1. It Maintain healthy cholesterol levels
2. Ease premenstrual syndrome and also menstrual cramps
3. Combats signs of aging
4. protect cell membranes
5. supports liver function
6. supports memory plus learning
7. strengthen immune system
8. important for healthy skin

What's Krill Oil?

Krill are little crustaceans, a lot like shrimp, which grow to be from 1 to six centimeters lengthy. They reside alongside the oceans floor, and feed mostly on phytoplankton. Eaten by a large variety of animals this kind of as whales, seals, penguins, squid, and bass or all kinds, these creatures are pretty much on the bottom of the meals chain.

Most commercial kind krill fishing is done within the southern portions of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Ocean, as well as the northern component of Pacific Ocean, around the coasts of Japan and Canada. The fisherman catch these wildlife to use them in aquaculture and aquarium feeds, for sport fishing, or for food. If krill is used for food in Japan it's called okiami.

The oil that is naturally found in these creatures is extracted and offered as a nutritional supplement. The cause for this really is due towards the reality that it's extremely higher in omega 3 fatty acids. It also contains an antioxidant that is known as astaxanthin. The algae that is eaten by krill produces the vibrant red pigment, astaxanthin which makes krill, shrimp, lobster and other crustaceans their pinkish color.

These anti-oxidants assist to shield the cells within our physique from some thing called 'free radicals'. Totally free radicals are unstable substances which many believe contributes to a number of different persistent diseases. Astaxanthin crosses the blood to brain barrier, which makes most researchers believe that it may protect the eyes, brain, and central nervous system from the damage caused by totally free radicals. Other anti-oxidants don't cross this barrier.

Individuals ingest krill oil for the same uses that they'd ingest flax oils, fish oils, or other omega 3 fatty acids. Fish oil can occasionally cause a fishy burp or aftertaste, which is a recognized following impact if fish oil. Krill oil also has a larger amount of astaxanthin than fish oils do. Its used for a number of various well being causes which include:

• Decreasing Cholesterol- Inside a study done around the results of krill oil on high cholesterol, 120 individuals had been offered both krill oil, fish oil, or a placebo. The ones who ingested krill oil showed a discount of 34% in LDL or 'bad' cholesterol, and an increase of 43.5% in HDL or 'good' cholesterol compared to those that got a placebo. Those who got krill oil also had a lowered triglyceride count. The ones who took the fish oil showed a discount of LDL cholesterol by 4.6% compared to the placebo, and and improve in HDL by 4.2%.

• Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS- Research shows that krill oil might assist wit the symptoms of PMS, by additional analysis is still becoming conducted.

• Arthritis-According to analysis posted within the 'Journal with the American School of Nutrition' when individuals took 300 mg each day of krill oil compared to a placebo, those who got krill oil showed effective outcomes in relieving arthritis pain, inflammation, and other signs.

As far as side effects are involved, there are actually very couple of. Of course, individuals with allergy symptoms to seafood ought to not ingest these oil. Individuals who have bleeding disorder are advised to talk with a doctor and be supervised by a professional well being expert before using krill oil. It isn't recommended to make use of it with blood thinners this kind of as aspirin, warfarin, heparin, clopidogrel, or NSAIDS such as ibuprofen, or naproxen ought to not use krill oil with out checking with their medical doctors. The same goes for gingko bilobo and garlic. Side results may include looser stools and indigestion.

Choosing the Healthiest Sources of Protein

Protein from either an animal or vegetable source, once it's digested, basically works the same. It's broken down into individual amino acids that are then recombined to form other proteins found in your body - e.g. muscles, bones, organs, blood, etc.

Animal source protein, however, is complete protein since it provides all nine of essential amino acids needed for human health. Vegetable source protein always lacks one or more of these vital amino acids. This is usually not a problem for people who eat a vegetarian diet, as long as they eat a wide variety of good quality protein foods.

But there's another big difference between animal and vegetable source protein that must be taken into consideration when looking for the best protein source for good health. And that's the extra food components that come along with the protein.

Take a four-ounce porterhouse steak, for example. It provides a lot of complete protein. 25 grams to be exact. But it also provides about 30 grams of fat of which more than 10 grams are unhealthy saturated fat. The same size serving of broiled salmon delivers about the same amount of complete protein - 23 grams, but only 12 grams of fat, less than 3 of them saturated. A cup of lentils, on the other hand, has about 18 grams of incomplete protein, but under a gram of fat.

So paying close attention to the dietary source of protein makes good sense if you want to get and stay healthy. Animal source protein may be complete but it also contains a lot of extra unwanted fat. Studies show, for example, that people who eat more than 18 ounces of red meat each week have a much higher risk of colon cancer. The best sources of animal protein are lean fish, and poultry.

If you enjoy red meat eat it only on an occasional basis and always choose moderate size portions of the leanest cuts. And stay away from processed meats - bacon deli meats and hot dogs - that are linked to cancer risk. When eating dairy products, choose healthier low fat milk, yogurt and cheese.

Vegetable source protein like beans, nuts and whole grains may be incomplete but they also provide vitamins, minerals and healthy fiber. When limiting animal source protein in your diet, it's vital that you eat a wide variety of protein rich foods to be sure you're getting all of the amino acids you need. Combining rice and beans and peanut butter on whole grain bread are excellent vegetarian choices that provide a complete amino acid profile.

from ezinearticles

5 Best Android Apps for Health and Fitness

it’s time to get outside and get in shape. Technology has been a great part of our lives and we should take advantage of it as much as possible. You can find a lot of phone applications today that you can use for tracking your calories and kilometers to stay in shape. As the Android is gaining popularity, here are ten popular health-related apps in the Android Market today that will help you get and stay in shape.

1. CardioTrainer + Racing

The CardioTrainer is a great Android application that challenges users to beat their own best times. It has features such as virtual race simulator and even a nifty voice that tells the user exactly how far behind or ahead he is. That's not all, for only $2.99 you will be able to enhance the free CardioTrainer app with a weight loss module.

2. Fast Food Calorie Counter

Its hard to resist the allure of fast food especially when you are trying to watch your weight. This application can help you mitigate the disastrous effects on your body of your favorite fast foods. You will find compiled data from 72 fast food restaurants. Those who are watching their diet and weight will surely love the data included in this app such as calories, fat grams, fiber, carbohydrates and protein. You can even try the free version of this app, Fast Food Calorie Counter Lite, if you are still undecided to purchase the full version.

3. CalorieQuick™

CalorieQuick will provide you with the help you need to track and control your calorie intake and exercise. Many people love how easy it is to set up and use, it is also designed for quick updating, and provides you with just the feedback you need to improve your health and appearance.

4. Endomondo Sports Tracker

Runners, cyclists, joggers and rollerskaters/rollerbladers will surely love this application. The Endomoohelps can help you track your time, distance, speed and altitude, and keeps a history of your workouts.

5. Calorie Counter by FatSecret

The Calorie Counter is a simple tool for those who would like to keep track of their calories and other nutrition facts. This app also figures the recommended daily intake for a user to achieve his or her fitness and weight goals. It even has a built-in bar code scanner to help you find healthy foods in a snap.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux happens when the acids from your stomach "flow back" into your esophagus, causing discomfort and pain. The discomfort is also known as heartburn. The difference between acid reflux and heartburn is action and sensation. The flow of acid from your stomach to your esophagus is called acid reflux while heartburn is pain you are feeling when there is movement of acid into the esophagus from the stomach.

Common symptoms of acid reflux:
* Asthma
* Chest pain due to heartburn sensation
* Dental erosion
* Dysphagia
* Heartburn is the burning sensation brought by rising acid from the stomach towards the esophagus
* Hoarseness
* Regurgitation

Common causes of acid reflux:
* Large meals and eating habits
* Hiatus hernia (hiatal hernia)
* Peptic ulcers and insufficient digestive enzymes
* Smoking
* Alcohol

Medications

* Acid suppressant - these have been shown to be effective, such as histamine2-receptor antagonists (blockers). Histamines are good at reducing inflammation. An inflamed stomach produces more acid - blocking this extra production of acid helps prevent the acids from building up and seeping upwards.

* Propton pump inhibitors - these reduce the production of acid in the stomach. They act on cells in the stomach wall and produce stomach acids.

* Prokinetic agents - these promote the emptying of the stomach, stopping it from becoming overfull.

* Antiacids - commonly used to treat mild acid-related symptoms, such as heartburn or indigestion. They neutralize the acids in the stomach. These are not recommended for frequent heartburn.

Obama Hails Vote on Health Care as Answering ‘the Call of History’

WASHINGTON — House Democrats approved a far-reaching overhaul of the nation’s health system on Sunday, voting over unanimous Republican opposition to provide medical coverage to tens of millions of uninsured Americans after an epic political battle that could define the differences between the parties for years.

With the 219-to-212 vote, the House gave final approval to legislation passed by the Senate on Christmas Eve. Thirty-four Democrats joined Republicans in voting against the bill. The vote sent the measure to President Obama, whose yearlong push for the legislation has been the centerpiece of his agenda and a test of his political power.

After approving the bill, the House adopted a package of changes to it by a vote of 220 to 211. That package — agreed to in negotiations among House and Senate Democrats and the White House — now goes to the Senate for action as soon as this week. It would be the final step in a bitter legislative fight that has highlighted the nation’s deep partisan and ideological divisions.

On a sun-splashed day outside the Capitol, protesters, urged on by House Republicans, chanted “Kill the bill” and waved yellow flags declaring “Don’t Tread on Me.” They carried signs saying “Doctors, Not Dictators.”

Inside, Democrats hailed the votes as a historic advance in social justice, comparable to the establishment of Medicare and Social Security. They said the bill would also put pressure on rising health care costs and rein in federal budget deficits.

“This is the Civil Rights Act of the 21st century,” said Representative James E. Clyburn of South Carolina, the No. 3 Democrat in the House.

Mr. Obama celebrated the House action in remarks at the White House.

“We pushed back on the undue influence of special interests,” Mr. Obama said. “We didn’t give in to mistrust or to cynicism or to fear. Instead, we proved that we are still a people capable of doing big things.”

“This isn’t radical reform,” he added, “but it is major reform.”

After a year of combat and weeks of legislative brinksmanship, House Democrats and the White House clinched their victory only hours before the voting started on Sunday. They agreed to a deal with opponents of abortion rights within their party to reiterate in an executive order that federal money provided by the bill could not be used for abortions, securing for Democrats the final handful of votes they needed to assure passage.

Winding up the debate, Speaker Nancy Pelosi said: “After a year of debate and hearing the calls of millions of Americans, we have come to this historic moment. Today we have the opportunity to complete the great unfinished business of our society and pass health insurance reform for all Americans that is a right and not a privilege.”

The House Republican leader, Representative John A. Boehner of Ohio, said lawmakers were defying the wishes of their constituents. “The American people are angry,” Mr. Boehner said. “This body moves forward against their will. Shame on us.”

Republicans said the plan would saddle the nation with unaffordable levels of debt, leave states with expensive new obligations, weaken Medicare and give the government a huge new role in the health care system.

The debate on the legislation set up a bitter midterm campaign season, with Republicans promising an effort to repeal the legislation, challenge its constitutionality or block its provisions in the states.

Representative Paul D. Ryan, Republican of Wisconsin, denounced the bill as “a fiscal Frankenstein.” Representative Lincoln Diaz-Balart, Republican of Florida, called it “a decisive step in the weakening of the United States.” Representative Virginia Foxx, Republican of North Carolina, said it was “one of the most offensive pieces of social engineering legislation in the history of the United States.”

But Representative Marcy Kaptur, Democrat of Ohio, said the bill heralded “a new day in America.” Representative Doris Matsui, Democrat of California, said it would “improve the quality of life for millions of American families.”

The health care bill would require most Americans to have health insurance, would add 16 million people to the Medicaid rolls and would subsidize private coverage for low- and middle-income people, at a cost to the government of $938 billion over 10 years, the Congressional Budget Office said.

The bill would require many employers to offer coverage to employees or pay a penalty. Each state would set up a marketplace, or exchange, where consumers without such coverage could shop for insurance meeting federal standards.

The budget office estimates that the bill would provide coverage to 32 million uninsured people, but still leave 23 million uninsured in 2019. One-third of those remaining uninsured would be illegal immigrants.

The new costs, according to the budget office, would be more than offset by savings in Medicare and by new taxes and fees, including a tax on high-cost employer-sponsored health plans and a tax on the investment income of the most affluent Americans.

Cost estimates by the budget office, showing that the bill would reduce federal budget deficits by $143 billion in the next 10 years, persuaded some fiscally conservative Democrats to vote for the bill.

Democrats said Americans would embrace the bill when they saw its benefits, including some provisions that take effect later this year.

Health insurers, for example, could not deny coverage to children with medical problems or suddenly drop coverage for people who become ill. Insurers must allow children to stay on their parents’ policies until they turn 26. Small businesses could obtain tax credits to help them buy insurance.

The Democratic effort to secure the 216 votes needed for passage of the legislation came together only after last-minute negotiations involving the White House, the House leadership and a group of Democratic opponents of abortion rights, led by Representative Bart Stupak of Michigan. On Sunday afternoon, members of the group announced that they would support the legislation after Mr. Obama promised to issue an executive order to “ensure that federal funds are not used for abortion services.”

Mr. Stupak described the order as a significant guarantee that would “protect the sanctity of life in health care reform.” But supporters of abortion rights — and some opponents — said the order merely reaffirmed what was in the bill.

The vote to pass the Senate version of the bill means that it will become the law of the land as soon as Mr. Obama signs it, regardless of when — or even whether — the Senate acts on the package of changes the House also passed.

The Senate majority leader, Harry Reid of Nevada, has promised to take up the package of changes in short order, and he has said he has the votes to pass it. The Senate will consider it under a parliamentary maneuver that will allow the Democrats to pass it with a simple majority, averting the threat of a Republican filibuster.

Indeed, Senate Republicans were quickly faced with a need to recalibrate their message from one aimed at stopping the legislation to one focused on winning back a sufficient number of seats in Congress to repeal it.

Mr. Obama, in his remarks shortly before midnight in the East Room, urged the Senate to complete the final pieces of the legislation. “Some have predicted another siege of parliamentary maneuvering in order to delay it,” he said. “I hope that’s not the case.”

He continued, “It’s time to bring this debate to a close and begin the hard work of implementing this reform properly on behalf of the American people.”

Mr. Obama watched the roll call with Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. in the Roosevelt Room in the White House.

The House galleries were full, and the floor was unusually crowded, for the historic debate on health care.

Working together, Mr. Obama and Ms. Pelosi revived the legislation when it appeared dead after Democrats lost their 60th vote in the Senate and with it their ability to shut off Republican filibusters.

Republicans said they would use the outcome to bludgeon Democrats in this year’s Congressional elections. The White House is planning an intensive effort to convince people of the bill’s benefits. But if Democrats suffer substantial losses in November, Mr. Obama could be stymied on other issues.

The campaign for a health care overhaul began as a way to help the uninsured. But it gained momentum when middle-class families with health insurance flooded Congress with their grievances. They complained of soaring premiums. They said their insurance had been canceled when they got sick.

“It’s not just the uninsured,” said Representative Jim McGovern, Democrat of Massachusetts. “We also have to worry about people with insurance who find, for crazy reasons, that they are somehow going to be denied coverage.”

In the end, groups like the United States Chamber of Commerce and the National Federation of Independent Business tried to stop the bill, saying it would increase the cost of doing business. But other groups, including the American Medical Association and AARP, backed it, as did the pharmaceutical industry.

Lawmakers agreed that Sunday’s debate was historic, but they were poles apart in assessing the legislation.

Representative Rodney Alexander, Republican of Louisiana, said, “You cannot expect to expand coverage to millions of individuals and to curb costs at the same time.”

Republicans said the picture painted by the budget office was too rosy, because the new taxes and fees would start immediately, while the major costs would not show up for four years.

Moreover, Republicans said Democrats would pay a price for defying public opinion on the bill.

“Are you so arrogant that you know what’s best for the American people?” Representative Paul Broun, Republican of Georgia, asked the Democrats. “Are you so ignorant to be oblivious to the wishes of the American people?”

Lawmakers spoke with deep conviction in explaining their votes.

“Health care is not only a civil right, it’s a moral issue,” said Representative Patrick J. Kennedy, Democrat of Rhode Island, who invoked the memory of his father, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, a Massachusetts Democrat and a lifelong champion of health care for all.

After the legislation passed, Mr. Obama sought to place the day in perspective.

“In the end what this day represents is another stone firmly laid in the foundation of the American dream,” the president said. “Tonight, we answered the call of history as so many generations of Americans have before us. When faced with crisis, we did not shrink from our challenges. We overcame them. We did not avoid our responsibilities, we embraced it. We did not fear our future, we shaped it.”

Source: nytimes.com

Ten Minutes That Could Save Your Life

Oral, head and neck cancers most of which are preventable account for approximately 3 percent of all cancer cases in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. In 2009, more than 35,000 Americans were diagnosed with these cancers and 7,600 died.

To help combat cancers of the oral cavity, larynx and pharynx, Loyola University Medical Center will offer free screenings for oral, head and neck cancers as part of the 12th annual Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week, April 12-18, sponsored nationally by the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance, formerly the Yul Brynner Head and Neck Cancer Foundation).

"Oral and other head and neck cancers remain a target for early detection. When diagnosed very early, it is easier to treat and cure," said Dr. Chad Zender, assistant professor, Department of Otolaryngology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood.

The screenings will take place from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, April 19, in the Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, 2160 S. First Ave., Maywood, Ill. Screenings will be open to the public and will be done by Loyola physicians and nurses. The screenings, which take less than 10 minutes to perform, will include a visual examination of the inside of the mouth and a check for areas of swelling or lumps in the head and neck.

The event will also include information on how to prevent oral, head and neck cancers and counseling on ways to reduce risk factors and make lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and cutting down on alcohol use, said Patricia Mumby, Ph.D., associate professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Stritch School of Medicine.

"More than 85 percent of head and neck cancers are related to tobacco use, making this one of the most preventable diseases of our time," said Mumby, who provides counseling to patients in Loyola's Smoking Cessation Clinic. "It's heartbreaking to see people suffering who didn't have to. We hope to encourage people to get regular checkups and to eliminate high-risk habits like smoking."

Common warning signs of oral, head & neck cancer include:

-- A red or white patch in the mouth that lasts more than two years

-- Change in voice or hoarseness that lasts more than two weeks

-- Sore throat that does not subside

-- Pain or swelling in the mouth or neck that does not subside

-- Lump in the neck

Warning signs that occur during the later stages of the disease include:

-- Ear pain

-- Difficulty speaking or swallowing

-- Difficulty breathing

Source: Loyola University Health System

Are Doctors Knowledgeable About Herbal Medicines?

by Stephanie Brunner (B.A.)

A survey of Drug and Therapeutic Bulletin (DTB) subscribers indicates that doctors are poorly informed. In addition, they think their patients know little on the subject of herbal medicines.

The DTB survey on herbal medicines was carried out online in January 2010, by emailing a random sample of 1,157 DTB subscribers. The response rate was just over 14 percent.

More than 80 percent of respondents to the survey were doctors. Most of them were family doctors. Pharmacists made up the bulk of the remainder.

The findings illustrate that more than seven out of ten respondents believe that the public has misplaced confidence in the power of herbal medicines.

Additionally, more than 85 percent think that the public is "poorly informed" on the subject. Not one single respondent considered the public to be well informed.

On the other hand, healthcare professionals rated themselves slightly better. When asked how well informed doctors are on the subject:

• three out of four respondents said they were "poorly informed"
• one in five (21.5 percent) thought doctors were "moderately well informed"
• about half of respondents (48 percent) described their current knowledge and understanding of herbal medicines as either "quite poor" or "very poor"

In addition, nine out of ten admitted that their knowledge of herbal medicines was "much poorer" than their knowledge of prescription medicines.

More importantly, not more than seven out of ten respondents said that if they knew a patient was taking herbal medicine about which they knew little, they would seek additional information before starting or adjusting prescription drugs.

Generally, the greatest reason for doing so (almost 96 percent) was because of concerns over potential interactions between the two forms of treatment. Two thirds (just under 69 percent) worried they might ignore a side effect if they were not well informed.

Among the reasons offered by the three out of ten respondents who said they would not seek further information were:

• uncertainty as to where to find reliable information (60 percent)
• doubt on how to assess and use it (43 percent)

A considerable proportion of respondents (77 percent) worried that their patients would take herbal medicines without telling them. However, despite these concerns, few doctors actually asked their patients about it.

When reviewing or planning prescription drug treatment, only one in eight (13 percent) "always" asked their patient if s/he was taking herbal medicines. More than half (55 percent) either "never" asked or did so only "occasionally."

Also, knowledge of the regulatory arrangements for herbal medicines was poor.

No more than 3 percent of respondents said they knew "a great deal" about this area. However, almost 85 percent considered that herbal medicines are not well regulated.

Dr Ike Iheanacho, DTB editor, commented on the findings: "It's obviously worrying that doctors in general seem to know so little about herbal medicines, given the widespread use of such products."

In 2008, an Ipsos-MORI survey carried out for the drugs regulator the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) revealed that more than one in three people surveyed (35 percent) had used a herbal medicine. Also, one in four (26 percent) had used one within the past two years.

He added: "The fact that few doctors make a point of asking patients whether they are taking herbal medicines raises further safety concerns." He comments: "Similarly unsettling is that even when doctors don't know the effects of a herbal medicine a patient is taking, many won't try and look these up."

Michael McIntyre chairs the European Herbal Practitioners Association and is a member of the UK Department of Health Herbal Medicine Regulatory Working Group. In an accompanying DTB podcast, he exposed doctors' belief that familiarization with herbs is somehow a retrogressive step.

He explains that before the beginning of modern medicine, ailments were often treated with herbs, suggesting that doctors feared being "pulled back into the swamp."

In the podcast, Dr Linda Anderson, Principal Pharmaceutical Assessor at the MHRA commented that the Agency's research indicated that patients were ready to tell their doctors if they were taking herbal medicines. Also, they expected them to be knowledgeable about these products.

F.D.A. Cracks Down on Nestlé and Others Over Health Claims on Labels

The Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday released 17 warning letters to food manufacturers, making good on a vow to crack down on misleading labels on food packages.

The agency accused the companies of pumping up the nutritional claims of their products or masking contents like unhealthy fats. The letters went out to the makers of a broad array of products, including Gerber baby food, Juicy Juice, Dreyer’s ice cream, POM pomegranate juice and Gorton’s fish fillets.

“The F.D.A. is not merely firing a shot across the bow; it is declaring war on misleading food labeling,” said Bruce A. Silverglade, director of legal affairs of the Center for Science in the Public Interest, an advocacy group that had pushed for stricter rules.

The warning letters followed commitments last fall by the F.D.A. commissioner, Margaret A. Hamburg, who has made a priority of improving information for consumers on food packages.

Asked about the warning letters, Scott Faber, vice president for federal affairs at the Grocery Manufacturers Association, pointed to an open letter from Dr. Hamburg to the industry that was also released on Wednesday. In that letter, she pledged cooperation with food manufacturers in improving labeling.

“What’s significant today is that Commissioner Hamburg took the extra step of reinforcing her commitment to work with industry to develop a clear, science-based labeling system that is effective with consumers,” Mr. Faber said. The letters, sent last month but just made public, addressed a range of violations.

Several products were singled out for labels that boasted prominently that they contained no trans fat, even though they had high levels of saturated fat. The products included Gorton’s Fish Fillets, Spectrum Organic All Vegetable Shortening and two products from Dreyer’s, the Dibs bite-size ice cream snacks and the vanilla-fudge Drumsticks.

According to Dreyer’s, the Dibs contain 17 grams of saturated fat per serving. Federal guidelines recommend that a person not consume more than 20 grams in a day.

In the case of POM pomegranate juice, the agency said that the company’s Web site, which is listed on its bottles, carried misleading claims that the juice could prevent or cure diseases like hypertension, diabetes and cancer.

Such claims are not allowed on food products and would require that the juice be treated, in regulatory terms, as a drug, according to the letter sent to the company.

POM said that “all statements made in connection with POM products are true” and supported by scientific research.

It added, “We are currently reviewing the F.D.A.’s concerns and, as strong advocates of honest labeling and fair advertising, we are looking forward to working with the agency to resolve this matter.”

The letters also singled out some baby foods made by Gerber and Beech-Nut. The letters say that those foods make numerous health claims that are not allowed because appropriate dietary levels for the nutrients cited have not been established for children under 2 years old.

The F.D.A. said that the labels of some Nestlé Juicy Juice products implied they were primarily made of a single juice, like orange or tangerine, rather than a flavored blend of juices.

Nestlé, which owns Juicy Juice, said that it believed its labels complied with regulations but that it was working with the F.D.A. Dreyer’s and Gerber, which are also owned by Nestlé, said they were cooperating with the F.D.A. and would not comment beyond that.

Efforts to reach several companies were not successful.

Source: nytimes

A Child’s Allergies Are Serious but Can Be Treated Effectively

IT starts with a telltale sniffle, itchy eyes and an occasional cough. You think your little one is getting a cold, but the cold never comes while the runny nose seems never to leave.

“That could be a sign of allergies,” says Dr. Kevin Weiss, an expert on allergies and president of the American Board of Medical Specialties. Not a surprising diagnosis when you consider that more than 40 percent of children (and 20 to 30 percent of adults) suffer from allergic rhinitis, often simply called allergies. With spring pollen season just around the corner, parents are bound to hear more of those telltale sniffles.

Allergies are no trivial matter. Each year, allergic rhinitis accounts for two million missed school days and $2.3 million in health care costs for children younger than 12. It’s not unusual for allergy sufferers to spend thousands of dollars each year on doctor visits, medications and other products, says Dr. Linda Cox, an allergist practicing in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., and a former committee chairwoman for the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology

What’s more, Dr. Cox said, allergies left untreated in children can often lead to asthma, a chronic and debilitating pulmonary disease.

For the purposes of this article I’ll focus on allergic rhinitis, particularly among children. (The subject of food allergies may warrant a separate, future column.) The condition can be set off by outside elements like pollen from ragweed, grasses and trees and indoor allergens like dust mites and pet dander.

Combating allergies often requires a multipronged and sometimes costly approach. Here’s what you can do to make sure your child gets the best results.

THE RIGHT DOCTOR Most allergies can be identified and treated by a pediatrician or family doctor. The doctor will use blood tests and your child’s symptoms to come up with an educated guess on what is causing the problem.

“Mild allergies can be treated without a lot of testing,” Dr. Weiss said. New nondrowsy prescription and over-the-counter medications make it easier to treat symptoms, he added. Your child’s doctor should know which drugs are appropriate for children.

That’s good news, because allergists aren’t always part of an insurer’s network or covered under high-deductible plans.

Nevertheless, an allergist can best treat your child if symptoms become moderate to severe. If your child is extremely uncomfortable, losing sleep or missing a lot of school, and the current medications he or she is using aren’t working, you may need to take the next step. An allergist will most likely do a skin test to pinpoint exactly what your child is allergic to. This is often more precise than the blood tests and is usually covered by insurance.

To find an allergist, ask your pediatrician or family doctor for a recommendation or log onto the doctor locator sponsored by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. If you’re covered by an H.M.O. or other health network, you’ll need to ask your primary physician for a referral.

ELIMINATE THE SOURCE After you and your child’s doctor have narrowed down the possible culprits, it’s time to reduce or remove the troublemakers. Many of the most effective ways to do this are labor-intensive but low in cost, said Dr. James Sublett, an allergist in Louisville, Ky., and professor of pediatric allergy and immunology at the University of Louisville School of Medicine.

Keep your pet away from carpeted rooms, sleeping areas, upholstered furniture and other places where it becomes difficult or impossible to remove dander. Cats are the animals that cause the most allergy problems, and cat allergen can remain in a house for an average of 20 weeks after an animal is removed.

If you and your doctor suspect dust mites are a problem, remove drapes, stuffed animals, pet bedding, upholstered furniture and even carpeting from the bedroom. Wash linens frequently. Dust with a moist cloth or an electrostatic fabric duster. Both do a better job of actually collecting dust rather than just stirring it around. Remember: dust takes a couple of hours to settle after cleaning and vacuuming.

Tumble-drying stuffed animals on high heat for 20 minutes will also kill dust mites.

Get rid of any pest problems, like roaches or mice. Both can be huge allergy triggers. In addition, keep windows closed during peak allergy season.

CONSIDER IMMUNOTHERAPY Even after you’ve identified and tried to eliminate the source of your child’s allergies, he or she may still be suffering. If that happens, you may have to go for the shots.

Allergy shots have come in for criticism over the years because, well, they are shots and require repeat visits to the doctor’s office — two things children really don’t like.

And many parents may wonder — in some cases, rightfully, alas — whether the allergy doctor is overdiagnosing allergies and overtreating their children. Dr. Cox argues that allergists get to the root of the cause instead of just treating symptoms. General practitioners can prescribe medicines to treat symptoms without easing the condition, she says. In any case, it is important to get a referral from a pediatrician or family doctor whom you trust to do what’s right for your child.

A new study published last month in the peer-reviewed Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology found that allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, could actually help eliminate allergy symptoms after only 18 months. What’s more, shots may help save you money in the long run. Among the children with allergic rhinitis studied, shots helped to reduce total health care costs by a third, and prescription drug costs by 16 percent, said Dr. Cox, who was a co-author of the study.

In immunotherapy, an allergist injects a small amount of the allergen into a patient. This prompts the body to make natural antibodies, which naturally increase one’s immunity to the culprit. “It is the only therapy that doesn’t just treat allergy symptoms but tries to get at the cause,” Dr. Cox said.

But because the allergist personally mixes the allergens according to a patient’s needs, the shots are not considered pharmaceuticals and are sometimes not covered by insurance.

The first year of allergy shots, which includes a three-month build-up period during which a child receives injections as often as twice a week until the proper dosage is found, would cost a bit less than $1,000 for the year, according to Dr. Cox. The next year, with twice-a-month injections, would total an estimated $350.

For parents who are uninsured and cannot afford shots for their children, Dr. Cox suggests contacting the state allergy society for a list of allergists and clinics that may offer low or no-cost treatments. (Because there is no clearinghouse for such information, you’ll probably have to do your own Web sleuthing.)

AVOID THE UNNECESSARY There’s no end to the number of products marketed to allergy sufferers, including air filters, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, ozone machines, mattress and pillow encasements, special breathing masks and more. Many of these products are expensive and some are ineffective. Ozone, for instance, can be a pollutant and actually worsen allergies, Dr. Sublett said.

Several studies show that there are no significant improvements from using mattress and pillow encasements and other allergy-fighting products. The best thing to do is to take the necessary steps to remove allergens like the ones discussed above.

source: nytimes

Soft Drinks Could Boost Pancreatic Cancer Risk

MONDAY, Feb. 8 (HealthDay News) — People who down two or more soft drinks a week may have double the risk of developing deadly pancreatic cancer, compared to non-soda drinkers, new research suggests.

But the overall number of people developing the malignancy remains low, with the U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI) estimating 42,470 new cases last year.

“Soft drinks are linked with a higher risk of pancreatic cancer,” said Noel Mueller, lead author of a study appearing in the February issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. “We can’t speculate too much on the mechanism because this is an observational study, but the increased risk may be working through effects of the hormone insulin.”

Still, the report should not cause undue alarm, some say.

“The study was well designed but smaller than some previous studies that did not find a link between sugar-sweetened soft drinks and pancreatic cancer,” noted Eric Jacobs, strategic director of pharmacoepidemiology at the American Cancer Society. “Direct evidence linking sugar-sweetened soft drinks to pancreatic cancer remains limited.”

And adult soda drinkers may also engage in other lifestyle habits, such as smoking, which could contribute to the elevated risk.

“It’s an interesting finding but if you look at the people who had the high soft drink intake, they also had other issues that may also predispose you to pancreatic cancer,” said Dr. Colin D. Weekes, assistant professor of medicine at the University of Colorado Denver. “It’s hard to make any true associations from this. “We could argue that smoking could be the issue here and not the soda intake.”

Although the study didn’t differentiate between regular and diet soda, it was conducted in Singapore, where most soda consumed is regular, Mueller said.

The study was a collaboration between the University of Minnesota and National University of Singapore. Mueller, formerly at Minnesota, has since joined Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, DC, as a research associate.

The analysis involved more than 60,000 middle-aged or older Chinese Singaporeans. Researchers calculated how much juice and soda the participants drank on average and followed them for 14 years to see how many developed cancer of the pancreas.

Those who drank two or more sodas a week were 87 percent more likely to develop this kind of tumor than individuals who didn’t consume any soda.

Researchers found no link between juice consumption and cancer risk, perhaps because fruit juice has less effect than sugary sodas on glucose and insulin levels, the authors noted.

Previous research in U.S. and European populations has suggested an association between sweetened sodas and juices and pancreatic cancer. This is the first study to examine the association in an Asian population, although the authors feel the findings can be extrapolated to Western nations.

“We believe that because Singaporean adults have a lot of the same mannerisms as Western countries, which is a tendency to eat fast food and also go shopping, one could say that these findings may be generalizable to other Western countries,” said Mueller. “Genetically they are very different from Caucasians, however their lifestyle is similar to Western countries.”

The findings are biologically plausible.

Type 2 diabetes, a disorder of blood sugar levels and insulin under-activity, has also tentatively been linked to pancreatic cancer.

The researchers speculate that elevated blood sugar levels associated with soda-drinking and the associated increase in insulin levels prompt pancreatic cells to divide abnormally.

“Drinking sugar-sweetened soft drinks has been linked to weight gain, obesity and diabetes. Both obesity and diabetes are associated with higher risk of pancreatic cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer death in the United States,” Jacobs said.

The soft drink industry disputed the findings, however.

“The [study] authors are skipping several steps in trying to connect soft drinks with pancreatic cancer, including an allegation regarding an increase in insulin production,” Richard Adamson, a consultant to the American Beverage Association and former scientific director of the NCI, said in a statement.

“The fact remains that soft drinks do not cause cancer, nor do any authoritative bodies, such as NCI, name soft drinks as a risk factor for pancreatic cancer,” he added. “You can be a healthy person and enjoy soft drinks. The key to a healthy lifestyle is balance — eating a variety of foods and beverages in moderation along with getting regular physical activity,” Adamson added.

Others took a more cautious view.

“The bottom line is that limiting consumption of sugar-sweetened soft drinks can help in maintaining a healthy weight, which in turn will reduce risk of many types of cancer and other serious diseases,” Jacobs said.

source: news.health.com

Third-hand smoke a danger to babies, toddlers

Residue of nicotine can interact with chemical in air to form carcinogens

Add a new health threat to smoking: In addition to the harm caused by actually smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke, so-called third-hand smoke may also pose a threat, particularly to babies and toddlers.

A new study reveals that the residue of nicotine that lingers on surfaces can react with another chemical in the air to form potent carcinogens — chemicals linked to various cancers. While first-hand smoke is that inhaled directly by the smoker and second-hand is the smoke exhaled (and inhaled by others), third-hand smoke is the residue from second-hand smoke.

Anyone who has entered a confined space — a room, an elevator, a vehicle, etc. — where someone has recently been smoking, knows that the scent lingers for an extended period of time.

"The burning of tobacco releases nicotine in the form of a vapor that adsorbs strongly onto indoor surfaces, such as walls, floors, carpeting, drapes and furniture. Nicotine can persist on those materials for days, weeks and even months," said Hugo Destaillats, a chemist with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in San Francisco, and one of the authors of the study.

Scientists have been aware for several years that tobacco smoke sort of sticks to surfaces where it can react with other chemicals. But reactions of residual smoke constituents with molecules in the air have been overlooked as a source of harmful pollutants, the researchers of the new study say.

Destaillats and colleagues investigated the formation of harmful chemicals in the air after exposing material to cigarette smoke. They found that it reacts with one chemical in particular.

"Our study shows that when this residual nicotine reacts with ambient nitrous acid it forms carcinogenic tobacco-specific nitrosamines or TSNAs," Destaillats said. "TSNAs are among the most broadly acting and potent carcinogens present in unburned tobacco and tobacco smoke."

Unvented gas appliances are the main source of nitrous acid indoors.

The researchers used cellulose as a model of indoor material, and exposed it to cigarette smoke. They then exposed it to a "high but reasonable" concentration of nitrous acid for three hours. The levels of newly formed TSNAs were 10 times higher after the nitrous acid exposure. The TSNAs also formed quickly, the researchers found.

"Given the rapid sorption and persistence of high levels of nicotine on indoor surfaces, including clothing and human skin, our findings indicate that third-hand smoke represents an unappreciated health hazard through dermal exposure, dust inhalation and ingestion," said lead author Mohamad Sleiman, also of Berkeley Lab.

Since most vehicle engines emit some nitrous acid that can infiltrate the passenger compartments, tests were also conducted on surfaces inside the truck of a heavy smoker, including the surface of a stainless steel glove compartment. These measurements also showed substantial levels of TSNAs.

Individuals are most likely exposed to these TSNAs through either inhalation of dust or the contact of skin with carpet or clothes, suggesting third-hand smoke might pose the greatest hazard to infants and toddlers.

And the study's findings, detailed in the Feb. 8 issue of the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, indicate that opening a window or deploying a fan to ventilate the room while a cigarette burns does not eliminate the hazard of third-hand smoke.

Smoking outdoors is not much of an improvement.

"Smoking outside is better than smoking indoors but nicotine residues will stick to a smoker's skin and clothing," said study co-author Lara Gundel, also of Berkeley Lab. "Those residues follow a smoker back inside and get spread everywhere."

"What we see in this study is that the reactions of residual nicotine with nitrous acid at surface interfaces are a potential cancer hazard, and these results may be just the tip of the iceberg," said Kamlesh Asotra of the University of California's Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program, which funded this study.

In their paper, the authors suggest several ways to limit the impact of third-hand smoke, including the implementation of 100 percent smoke-free environments in public places and self-restrictions in residences and automobiles. In building where high levels of smoking has occurred, replacing furnishings, carpets and wallboard could reduce exposures.

source: msn.com

2 million faulty needles recalled by FDA

Needles can push bits of silicone from injection ports into patients' bodies

WASHINGTON - Federal health officials announced the recall of 2 million medical needles Tuesday because of a risk they can push bits of silicone into patients' bodies.

The Food and Drug Administration said Japanese manufacturer Nipro Medical Corp. has voluntarily recalled its Exel/Exelint Huber needles manufactured between January 2007 and August 2009.

The needles are used to access injection ports, which are devices implanted beneath the skin of patients who require frequent injections. The ports connect to a vein and allow easy delivery of chemotherapy, antibiotics and other injectable drugs.

Huber needles are designed to be non-coring, or to penetrate an injected material without retaining any of it.

However, a monthslong FDA investigation found that the needles can dislodge bits of silicone from the ports, potentially pushing them into the patient's bloodstream. The problem can also damage the ports themselves, resulting in problems delivering drug therapy.

60 to 72 percent had design flaw
An inspection at Nipro's manufacturing plant in Japan found that 60 to 72 percent of the company's needles had the design problem, according to the FDA.

"The agency's laboratory work helped determine the coring problem, and we will continue to work with manufacturers to address coring issues as quickly and thoroughly as possible," said Dr. Jeffrey Shuren, FDA's director of medical devices.

Huber needles have been approved in the U.S. since 1984, according to the FDA.

FDA officials told reporters Tuesday they are working with 19 other manufacturers to determine if their needles have the same problem. The agency estimates 6 million Huber needles are sold in the U.S. each year.

According to FDA regulatory specialist Mary Brooks, there have been no reports of silicone shards in patients, though it may be difficult for doctors to identify the problem.

Tuesday's announcement was the second mass recall from Nipro Medical in less than a week. On Thursday the company recalled 15 lots of GlucoPro Insulin Syringes because of a defect that can cause the needles to detach.

FDA advised hospitals and doctors to stop using the Huber needles and return them to Los Angeles-based Exel International, which distributed the products in the U.S. The company can be reached at 1-800-940-3935.

A spokesman for Exel said the company hopes to wrap up the recall within 30 days.

The FDA made several recommendations to physicians when using other Huber needles, including: watching for signs of tissue or nerve damage in patients, which could be a sign of damage to an injection port. The agency also suggested throwing out the first syringe injected into a port, in an effort to discard any bits of silicone.

Acupuncture Effective in Easing Breast Cancer Treatment Symptoms

Aside from skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, and the second leading cause of death in women. The American Cancer Society estimates that the chance of a woman getting breast cancer at some point during her life is slightly less than 1 in 8, and the chance of dying from breast cancer is about 1 in 35. However, as a result of early detection and vast improvements in treatment over the past two decades, breast cancer death rates have been decreasing. Today in America, there are more than 2.5 million survivors.

Although each person’s treatment will be slightly different, it most often involves some combination of surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, followed by five years of hormone therapy and drugs like tamoxifen, which counters the effects of hormones. These treatments often cause uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating side effects, including decreased sexual desire and in younger women, early menopause—hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings. Venlafaxine, an antidepressant drug also known as Effexor, has been the treatment of choice for women undergoing breast cancer treatments, but it comes with its own set of side effects: dry mouth, decreased appetite, nausea and constipation. However, researchers say there is another option for these patients; one that works as well as drugs, without the side effects—acupuncture.

Previous studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce hot flashes in healthy postmenopausal women. So, researchers decided to find out if it could also benefit premenopausal women being treated for breast cancer. “We need something that’s accessible that doesn’t add adverse effects,” said Dr. Eleanor Walker, division director of breast services in the department of radiation oncology at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. For the study, 50 women with breast cancer were randomly chosen to receive either 12 weeks of acupuncture (twice a week for four weeks then once a week) or daily Effexor. They were followed for a year.

Initially, both groups experienced a similar reduction (about 50 percent) in hot flashes, depression and other menopausal symptoms as well as improvement in mental health. But two weeks after treatment stopped, hot flashes increased in the antidepressant group but remained minimal in the acupuncture group. It wasn’t until three months after the last treatment that hot flashes began to return for those receiving acupuncture. Additionally, about 25 percent of women receiving acupuncture reported better sex drive and many reported increased energy and clearer thinking. Adverse effects, including nausea, headache, difficulty sleeping and dizziness were reported by the antidepressant users, whereas no adverse effects were reported with acupuncture. “Acupuncture offers patients a safe, effective and durable treatment option for hot flashes, something that affects the majority of breast cancer survivors,” Walker said. “Compared to drug therapy, acupuncture has benefits, as opposed to more side effects.”

Janet Konefal, a licensed acupuncturist and assistant dean of complementary and integrative medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, theorized that acupuncture operates as a balancing tool. “It is a regulator for the systems of the body. It doesn’t add or take anything—it simply increases activity or decreases activity depending upon the points used,” she explained. “In this situation, it helped regulate the endocrine system, thus helping to balance the activity of hormones, neurotransmitters, and other biochemical reactions that regulate the body.”

But other experts say it’s too early to take the findings too seriously. “It’s provocative but the problem is it’s a small number of patients and, having participated in research trials in vasomotor (hot flashes, night sweats, etc.) symptoms in women, it’s a field that has a large placebo effect,” said Dr. Jay Brooks, chairman of hematology/oncology at Ochsner Health System in Baton Rouge. “It needs to have a bigger trial.”

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends acupuncture as an effective treatment for over 40 medical problems, including allergies, respiratory conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, gynecological problems, nervous conditions, and disorders of the eyes, nose and throat, and childhood illnesses, among others. Acupuncture has also been used in the treatment of alcoholism and substance abuse.

The study results are published online in the Journal of Oncology.