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November Health TipsNovember is American Diabetes MonthDid you know that diabetes is becoming epidemic in our communities? We are seeing types of diabetes in populations that in the past has been seen rarely, especially in children. In many cases this is being attributed to our more sedentary life and eating habits. With the obesity epidemic spreading through our country, so is diabetes, a complex disease with many forms and devastating complications. There are 20.8 million children and adults in the United States, or 7% of the population, who have diabetes. While an estimated 14.6 million have been diagnosed, unfortunately, 6.2 million people (or nearly one-third) are unaware that they have the disease. Diabetes is associated with an increased risk for a number of serious, sometimes life-threatening complications and certain populations experience an even greater threat. Good diabetes control can help reduce patients risk, however many people are not even aware that they have diabetes until they develop one of its complications. Did you know that diabetes takes many forms? Type 1 diabetes Type 2 diabetes Gestational diabetes Pre-diabetes How to Prevent or Delay DiabetesPre-diabetes is a serious medical condition that can be treated. The good news is that the recently completed Diabetes Prevention Program study (DPP) conclusively showed that people with pre-diabetes can prevent the development of type 2 diabetes by making changes in their diet and increasing their level of physical activity. They may even be able to return their blood glucose levels to the normal range. While the DPP also showed that some medications may delay the development of diabetes, diet and exercise worked better. Just 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity, coupled with a 5-10% reduction in body weight, produced a 58% reduction in diabetes. The American Diabetes Association is developing materials that will help people understand their risks for pre-diabetes and what they can do to halt the progression to diabetes and even to, "turn back the clock." In the meantime, ADA has a wealth of resources for people with diabetes or at risk for diabetes that can be of use to people interested in pre-diabetes. If you would like to take a test to see if you are at risk for diabetes or would like to find out more regarding this disease please visit the web site of the American Diabetes Association. Robert
S. Oller, D.O Osteoporosis: The Silent ThiefYaritza Vega and Joy Ferris, Pharm. D. Candidates Osteoporosis is a condition of decreased bone mass. This leads to fragile bones, which are then at an increased risk for fractures. The term "porosis" means spongy, which describes the appearance of osteoporosis bones when they are broken in half. Osteoporosis occurs when the body fails to form enough new bone, when too much old bone is reabsorbed by the body, or both. The leading causes are a drop in estrogen in women at the time of menopause, and a drop in testosterone in men. All men and women face the risk and dangers of osteoporosis in their lifetime, but women, especially those over the age of 50, are more likely to develop this condition. Other causes, although not all inclusive, include excess corticosteroid production from Cushing's syndrome, hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, and bone cancers. There are no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. Symptoms occurring late in the disease can include: fractures of the vertebrae, wrists, or hips (usually the first indication); low back pain, neck pain, bone pain or tenderness; loss of height over time; and stooped posture. The diagnosis of osteoporosis is based on a special x-ray method called densitometry with dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). This test is considered the “gold standard” for diagnosing osteoporosis. Densitometry will give accurate and precise measurements of the amount of bone. This measurement is termed "bone mineral density" or BMD. While there are treatments available for osteoporosis, there is no cure. That is why it is critical to take the initiative to prevent osteoporosis. Building strong bones, especially by the age of 30 is very important. Some steps on the path of prevention include getting the recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D, engaging in regular, weight-bearing exercise, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and seeing your health care provider frequently to access your bone health. Currently, bisphosphonates [alendronate (Fosamax®), ibandronate (Boniva®) and risedronate (Actonel®)], calcitonin (Miacalcin Nasal Spray®), parathyroid hormone (Forteo®), raloxifene (Evista®), and estrogens are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the prevention and/or treatment of osteoporosis. While there is no cure for osteoporosis, these medications affect the bone remodeling cycle which helps to prevent future bone loss. You should see your health care provider to see if these treatment options are right for you. For more information about osteoporosis, please visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation. References: Endocrine Disorders and Endocrine Surgery Web Site. Accessed on October 4, 2006. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia Web Site. Accessed October 4, 2006. National Osteoporosis Foundation Web Site. Accessed October 4, 2006. A Novel Vaccine for Cancer: HPV (Human Papillomavirus)Richelle Garcia, PharmD Candidate What is HPV?
How is HPV treated?
What is HPV vaccine?
How is HPV vaccine given?
Who can receive HPV vaccine?
How long does the vaccine protection last?
Are there any side effects?
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For more information, please contact Office of Public Affairs This page is maintained by The Office of Public Affairs. . Nova Southeastern University. Revised: December 11, 2006 |