Womens Health Specialist

When Do You Need A Women’s Health Care Specialist?

2009-11-08T09:04:00.005-08:00

Women are usually the stronger of the two sexes. However, they are prone to a lot of ups and downs once they hit their late forties due the menopause. Menopausal women experience a great deal of health problems especially due to the hormonal changes that this period brings along. This is the time when other diseases creep up too, such as heart disease, infertility, osteoporosis, uterine fibroids, fibromyaglia, cervical cancer, breast cancer and so on.

Why Women’s Health Care Specialist is Recommended

In ordinary circumstances, women are okay with the regular medical practitioner and medical care. However, when age advances a women’s health care specialist would be a better choice (and recommended) as such a professional will be able to provide the right guidance to what tests a woman should do when and what special care a woman needs to maintain good health.

Besides the medical attention, the women’s health care specialist would be able to focus on the mental make-up and upheavals that menopause inflicts on women. This is a difficult time for women not only because their bodies seem to have a mind of their own, but also because they are prone to heavy depression bouts, excitability, mood swings and feeling of hopelessness which does not help in any way the overall situation.

Many times the hormonal changes are so drastic that these cause acute and even suicidal depression. When and if such times are coupled with any of the diseases mentioned a bit earlier, it kind of overwhelms the women. The role of the women’s health care specialist is here to keep women healthy physically as well as take care that they receive sufficient and adequate counseling to equip them to handle the difficulties that the menopausal period brings along.

The women’s health care specialist hence plays a dual role – one of a healer and the other of an adviser. Both the roles are important because women tend to neglect their own health till it is too late. It is as important for women to know why they are suffering as what would cure them. During the middle age, there are a lot of ‘whys’ that disturb women’s peace of mind.

Questions such as, ‘why do I feel like crying all day long?’, ‘why am I so angry all the time?’, ‘why do I feel that I have do be on my toes the whole day long?’, ‘why do I feel so lost and hopeless?’ plague the minds of women in their late forties. These questions affect women much more than any disease and this is where and when the women’s health care specialist is needed most.

Important Facts Concerning Women's Reproductive Health

2009-11-08T09:04:00.003-08:00

Women's Reproductive Health: What You Should Know

This article addresses some of the key issues regarding women's reproductive health. A careful reading of this material could make a big difference in how you think about women's reproductive health.

Women's reproductive health, though often neglected, is very important to a woman's health, especially as it relates to child bearing and women need to acquire a good understanding of their reproductive system so that in turn they will realize just how important their reproductive organs really are. A woman seeking a better perspective concerning women's reproductive health should also understand how her hormones in addition to her organs come together to develop a monthly cycle. Women's reproductive health is also subject to the right nutrition due to the fact that the food they consume will affect and influence their reproductive system's functioning.

Understanding The Relationship Of Hormones and Organs

A woman may frequently experience abnormal changes in her body and this has an immediate impact on their menstrual cycle and can cause difficulties in becoming pregnant. To maintain the health and consistency of a woman's reproductive system, women need to schedule routine Pap test. A Pap smear test that may appear to be abnormal often causes anxiety and concern among women even though it is not necessarily a sign of cancer or the risk of developing it in the future.

Given the fact that cervical cancer is the second most common cancer other than breast cancer, taking a Pap smear test is essential as it significantly aides in properly identifying early warning signs of possible cancer and also contributes to stopping further growth of cervical cancer. Cancer has a devastating impact on women's reproductive health and aside from cervical cancer; women will likely have to be very concerned with ovarian cancer or uterine cancer. In addition, she may also develop ovarian cysts, chronic pelvic pain as well as fibroids.

Now that we've covered some of the core essentials of women's reproductive health, let's turn to some of the other factors that need to be considered.

We need to also keep in mind that women's reproductive health isn't only focused on the pelvic region because even the breasts are an important part of women's reproductive health which enables women to breast feed their children for months or years. The danger of developing breast cancer is a serious worry to women's reproductive health which may cause damage to the breasts and lead to infertility. In the example of a woman who has had a mastectomy it may be devastating to have just one breast, but using reconstructive surgery technology, it is now possible to rectify this condition.

Some other concerns that are detrimental to women's reproductive health are when the reproductive system becomes affected by infections such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis even though these are treatable conditions. However, pelvic inflammatory disease can cause scarring and even infertility if not detected in time. Those who only know one or two facts about women's reproductive health can be confused by misleading information. However, this is easily avoidable by active reading and research.

In conclusion, women should schedule regular visits to their doctors and keep their health a top priority.

Women's Health: What Every Woman Needs To Know

2009-11-08T09:04:00.001-08:00

Women's Health: Breast Cancer Prevention And Treatments

This article addresses some of the key issues regarding women's health. A careful reading of this material could make a big difference in how you think about this important subject.

Women should routinely visit a Gynecologist or Obstetrician for pelvic scans or for taking a Pap smear. This is especially true if they are 21 years of age or older. The medical community world wide on the issue of women's health has made more women aware of the rise of cancer as a grave illness that may lead to death and is second only to heart disease in leading causes of death among women.

Important Facts To Consider

Women's health is directly affected by cancer which is believed to have been diagnosed in excess of a million people in the United States, though it is a widely known fact that the development of cancer can be significantly reduced by practicing a healthier lifestyle, maintaining good nutrition and limiting sun exposure. In addition, cancer screening, a basic understanding of cancer prevention as well as cancer prevention programs would all help to drastically improve women's health.

It is believed that women who are 65 years of age or older contribute to half of the new breast cancer cases every year and the number for older women having breast cancer is expected to double by the year 2030 as the baby boomers age. Younger women diagnosed with breast cancer often receive better care than their older counterparts, even though women want their doctors to look at the condition not their ages.

I trust that what you've read so far has been informative. The following section should go a long way toward clearing up any uncertainty that may remain.

Internationally, breast cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer impacting women's health and is thought to have affected one out of every 11-12 women at some point of their lives in the Western hemisphere, and although important efforts are being made to achieve early detection and provide sufficient treatment, purportedly about 20% of all women diagnosed with breast cancer would die as a result of this disease.

Some common methods of detecting breast cancer is to have screening performed which includes breast self-examination and mammography though only the latter has been proven to reduce mortality from breast cancer. Because of the risk that breast cancer poses to women's health, modern technologies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are needed to detect cancers that are not visible through mammography methods.

In addition to cancer, another cause of worry seriously affecting women's health is diabetes, and to fight this disease the National Public Health Initiative on Diabetes and Women's health have produced a television video on diabetes and women's health and this video brings to light the realities facing women which gives hope and encouragement to women as well as their love ones in living with diabetes.

As your knowledge about women's health continues to grow, you will begin to see how a proper understanding of women's health is critical in the fight against cancer and other leading diseases affecting women world wide.

Women's Health: What Every Woman Needs To Know

2009-11-01T14:35:00.005-08:00

Important Facts Concerning Women's Reproductive Health

2009-11-01T14:35:00.003-08:00

Cinnamon Spice Offers Health Benefits

2009-11-01T14:35:00.001-08:00

Cinnamon is widely used both in the food and pharmaceutical industry because of its antiseptic properties. The cinnamon bark oil is used as a flavoring for digestive aids, liniments, and oral care products. It is also used in many perfumes, soaps, and lotions. In addition, cinnamon leaf oil is used in the food industry as flavorings to candies, sauces, and pastries. The commonly used ingredient is actually the soft, inner bark of the cinnamon tree.

This spice is now being heralded as the latest in the long line of herbal medicine wonders? According to research findings, one teaspoon of cinnamon contains 28 milligrams of calcium, one milligram of iron, fiber, and vitamins C, K, and manganese.

The use of cinnamon dates back in Chinese medicine to 2800 BC, and is known as "kwai" in the Chinese language. Ancient Egyptians used it in the embalming process of corpses because of its fragrance. Medieval physicians used this spice to treat coughs, hoarseness, sore throats, and other types of infections. Cinnamon also has antibacterial and inflammatory properties that help reduce joint and muscle pain, especially the discomforts associated with arthritis.

Many health specialists advice diabetics to take daily dose of cinnamon to regulate blood sugar levels. It can also benefit one's health by improving the body's digestive system and relieve many stomach discomforts.

In aromatherapy, cinnamon oil is used to stimulate and warm the senses, restore vigor, and treat stress and anxiety. Cinnamon oil is also important in strengthening the immune system because its scent is said to treat early stages of cold and fever. The oil of cinnamon is also used as a physical and emotional stimulant, with many believing that it can actually enhance one's libido.

Medical research also indicates that the scent of cinnamon may reduce drowsiness, irritability, pain, and frequent migraines. In some studies, the essential oil provides relief to tight muscles, ease painful joints, and relieve menstrual cramps in women. Cinnamon also increases the action of enzymes that break down the food in the body and help improve one's metabolism.

Traditional uses of cinnamon

Many traditional cultures around the globe have been using cinnamon not just as an ingredient in their favorite dishes but as a medicine as well. In fact, cinnamon has been highly valued for its medicinal properties for hundreds, perhaps even thousands of years.

Here are the other health benefits of Cinnamon:

ท Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon included in a daily diet can lower cholesterol.

ท Cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with diabetes.
ท Cinnamon has shown an amazing ability to stop medication-resistant yeast infections.
ท A study released by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland showed that cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.
ท It has an anti-clotting effect on the blood.
.Relief from congestion - Cinnamon and other spices have long been consumed to relieve congestion that comes from colds, allergies, and other common conditions.
.Muscle and joint pain relief- Those who eat cinnamon on a regular basis often report that their muscle and joint pain, as well as stiffness, is reduced or even eliminated.
ท When added to food, it prevents bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.
ท Smelling cinnamon may boost cognitive function and memory.
ท Researchers at Kansas State University found that cinnamon fights the E. coli bacteria in unpasteurized juices.

Indeed, cinnamon has many benefits that can be used to improve one's health and well-being. If taken together with a balanced, healthy diet and plenty of exercise --- one can bring back the spice of life that everyone longs for.

Keenan Appoints Molly Joel Coye,MD, MPH, Former Director of the California Department of Health Services, to Newly Formed Keenan Advisory Board

2009-10-30T21:58:00.003-07:00

TORRANCE, CA February 12, 2004--Keenan, the largest privately held brokerage firm in California, announced today the appointment of Molly Joel Coye, MD, MPH, to its Advisory Board. Dr. Coye served as the Director of the California Department of Health Services from 1991 to 1993, and is the current founder and CEO of the Health Technology Center (HealthTech), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the use of beneficial technologies for healthier people and communities. Keenan is dedicated to providing superior insurance products and services to schools, community colleges, municipalities, and healthcare organizations that include employee benefits, third-party claims administration, workers' compensation, integrated disability, risk management, and property and liability.

"I look forward to working with Keenan to identify technologies that will advance the quality of care for consumers, and help to make that care both more satisfactory and more efficient,โ says Dr. Coye.

A healthcare icon in the state of CA, Dr. Coye has made her mark on healthcare through a variety of key affiliations. Dr. Coye is a member of the Institute of Medicine, was a member of the IOM Committee on the Quality of Healthcare in America, and chaired the IOM Committee on Access to Insurance for Children. A former trustee of The California Endowment and the China Medical Board, Dr. Coye is currently a member of the Board of Trustees of the Program for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH). Dr. Coye also directed the Division of Public Health at the Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health, and served as Commissioner of Health for the State of New Jersey from 1986 to 1990. She was named 2003 โWoman or the Yearโ by the Women Health Care Executives of Northern California.

Sean Smith, CEO of Keenan, says, โDr. Coye's dedication to quality, healthcare, and innovation closely aligns with Keenan's mission. It is a sincere honor to have Dr. Coye agree to be part of Keenan's new advisory board.โ

Henry Loubet, senior vice president and chief strategist for Keenan, says, โDr. Coye is highly sought after by many organizations seeking her expertise. We extend our sincerest thanks to Dr. Coye for consenting to share her leadership and service to our advisory board.โ

About Keenan

Founded in 1972, Keenan is the 24th largest insurance brokerage firm in the United States, and the largest independent broker in California. Keenan is dedicated to providing superior insurance products and services to schools, community colleges, municipalities, and healthcare organizations that include employee benefits, third-party claims administration, workers' compensation, integrated disability, risk management, and property and liability. Keenan has a network of offices located throughout California and a staff of more than 550 insurance specialists. For more information, call 1.800.654.8102, 1.310-212-3344 or email info@keenanassoc.com. Visit our web site at www.keenanassoc.com.

Contact:

Frank Public Relations

Peggy C. Frank, MBA

818.735.3591

pfrank@frankpr.com

Mental Health And Vitamin Supplements: How These Work Together For An Overall Healthy You

2009-10-30T21:58:00.001-07:00

The positive effects of the use of discount vitamins are more prevalent today than in the past. It is estimated that there are approximately 44.3 million people in the United States with a diagnosable mental disorder. These can range from depression, bipolar disorder, and premenstrual syndrome, to schizophrenia and anxiety disorders. In light of those tough statistics, mental health and medical professionals know that keeping the body and physical wellbeing healthy, can actually decrease the symptoms related to most mental illnesses.

The most important step of all is to first see a doctor or mental health specialist, either to be tested and diagnosed or to discuss with them the alternative discount vitamins that are best for your situation. While many of the disorders are rather different from one another, the types of vitamins used to treat them are fairly common.

* Depression - Depression can be a side effect to some other drugs, including oral contraceptives. Your doctor or specialist may want to perform a test on what are called the homocysteine levels in order to check for folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiencies. If diagnosed with depression, there are several choices in discount vitamins and supplements including folate, vitamin B12, amino acid supplements - specifically the amino acid L-tryptophan, and vitamin B6. Another popular treatment with those who prefer natural medicines is the use of ginkgo biloba. Ginkgo is also used to treat asthma, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease and more.

* Bipolar Disorder - Bipolar Disorder, closely associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder, is naturally treated with some of the same vitamins as depression and anxiety. Most commonly used are a mixture of vitamin B1, vitamin B6, zinc, vitamin B2 and vitamin B complex. Studies have also shown that these same vitamins in addition to biotin, boron, and manganese and fish oil can be used to treat Bipolar Disorder II.

* Anxiety - As one of the most common forms of mental illness, anxiety at certain levels can also cause fatigue, psychological and physical stress, excessive alcohol consumption and even anorexia and insomnia. Anxiety studies have also shown a links to folic acid deficiency. Many treatments include vitamin B12 and folic acid. In recent years, St. John's Wort has become a popular alternative due the ingredients hypericin and pseudohypericin, which has also shown to be helpful in ceasing anxiety.

* Premenstrual Syndrome (also know as PMS) - For women, this is one of the most common types of disorders. In recent studies, it has been shown that most women do not take the Recommended Daily Allowance for magnesium, which is now believed to be one of the causes for premenstrual syndrome. Magnesium is known for relating to mood changes, so it is one of the most common supplements used in treating PMS. Calcium and vitamin D are also good for premenstrual syndrome. Four servings of skim of low fat milk is a great way to get that extra calcium needed.

* Schizophrenia - Schizophrenia is a disabling and chronic brain disorder that affects approximately one percent of people in the world. Pyridoxal-5-phosphate, the active form of vitamin B6, is very important to the brain functioning normally. This supplement, along with folic acid, methylfolate, niacin, and vitamin C are some of the vitamin supplements used to treat schizophrenics.

Once there has been a determination of the vitamins that can be used in your specific case, purchasing quality vitamins at a discount price is the next step. These can be found anywhere from vitamin outlet stores, the Internet, magazine and on television through home shopping channels. The Internet, being the most convenient way to shop, offers consumers a world of opportunity in finding the best quality discount vitamins at the most reasonable price. The most desirable sites offer considerable information all the vitamins and herbs they sell, showing that they are committed to the overall health and well being of the customers. These sites break down each vitamin and provide an explanation of how it should be used, the dosage amount and size. In addition, some offer their customers health and wellness articles that can provide the most up-to-date information of discount vitamins, health issues, and alternative medicines, in turn giving each customer the ability to make the right decisions in the purchases they make.

Water is another extremely important part of keeping ourselves healthy. To many, water is just water and nothing else, but recently this has changed. Now called "Functional Water" by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), bottled water is now classified by its origin.

* Spring water - spring water derives from the point where ground water flows, sometimes flowing as a result of snow and ice melting or rain.

* Purified water - This water can come from any source (ocean, spring, well, etc.), but is then purified using a process called reverse osmosis.

* Mineral water - Mineral water contains minerals which can alter or change the taste of the water. This water is one of the most popular types purchased, and commercially offered in over 3000 brands.

* Distilled water - Distilled water is used in many ways, most commonly known for being used to clean car batteries. The water becomes distilled by boiling it and re-condensing the steam into a container, thus removing any contaminants.

* Vitamin added water - As one of the most popular types of water available today, this water is available with or without additional flavors, such as strawberry, lemon or grape. The vitamin water contains distilled water, electrolytes, and vitamins such as C, B6, B12 and E.

No matter the choice of discount vitamins chosen or the type of water that best fits your tastes, these simple and inexpensive additions to everyday life can truly change the way you think and feel. Dealing with a mental illness can be one of the hardest things in life, but there is help available. Making an appointment and speaking to your doctor or a health professional today can give anyone the ability to start living a life that is more fulfilling and happy.

Real Men, Real Depression! (Mental Health Matters)

2009-10-30T21:57:00.001-07:00

Depression is a serious but treatable medical condition - a brain disease - that can strike anyone, including men. In America alone, over 6 million men have depression each year.
Whether you're a company executive, a construction worker, a writer, a police officer, or a student, whether you are rich or poor, surrounded by loved ones or alone, you are not immune to depression. Some factors, however, such as family history, undue stress, the loss of a loved one or other serious illnesses can make you more vulnerable.
If left untreated, depression can lead to personal, family and financial difficulties, and, in some cases, end in suicide. With appropriate diagnosis and treatment, however, most people recover. The darkness disappears, hope for the future returns, energy and desire come back, and interest in life becomes stronger than ever
Depression can strike anyone regardless of age, ethnic background, socioeconomic status, or gender; however, large scale research studies have found that depression is about twice as common in women as in men. In the United States, researchers estimate that in any given one year period, depressive illnesses affect 12 percent of women (more than 12 million women) and nearly 7 percent of men (more than six million men).3 But important questions remain to be answered about the causes underlying this gender difference. We still do not know if depression is truly less common among men, or if men are just less likely than women to recognize, acknowledge, and seek help for depression.
Types of Depression
Just like other illnesses, such as heart disease, depression comes in different forms. This booklet briefly describes three of the most common types of depressive disorders. However, within these types, there are variations in the number of symptoms, their severity, and persistence.
Major depression (or major depressive disorder) is manifested by a combination of symptoms (see symptoms list below) that interferes with the ability to work, study, sleep, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities. A major depressive episode may occur only once; but more commonly, several episodes may occur in a lifetime. Chronic major depression may require a person to continue treatment indefinitely.
A less severe type of depression, dysthymia (or dysthymic disorder), involves long lasting, chronic symptoms that do not seriously disable, but keep one from functioning well or feeling good. Many people with dysthymia also experience major depressive episodes at some time in their lives.
Depression
Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood.
Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyable, including sex.
Decreased energy, fatigue; feeling "slowed down."
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
Trouble sleeping, early morning awakening, or oversleeping.
Changes in appetite and/or weight.
Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts. Restlessness or irritability.
Persistent physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain that do not respond to routine treatment.
Men and Depression
Researchers estimate that at least six million men in the United States suffer from a depressive disorder every year. Research and clinical evidence reveal that while both women and men can develop the standard symptoms of depression, they often experience depression differently and may have different ways of coping with the symptoms. Men may be more willing to acknowledge fatigue, irritability, loss of interest in work or hobbies, and sleep disturbances rather than feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and excessive guilt. Some researchers question whether the standard definition of depression and the diagnostic tests based upon it adequately capture the condition as it occurs in men.
Men are more likely than women to report alcohol and drug abuse or dependence in their lifetime;14 however, there is debate among researchers as to whether substance use is a "symptom" of underlying depression in men or a co occurring condition that more commonly develops in men. Nevertheless, substance use can mask depression, making it harder to recognize depression as a separate illness that needs treatment.
Instead of acknowledging their feelings, asking for help, or seeking appropriate treatment, men may turn to alcohol or drugs when they are depressed, or become frustrated, discouraged, angry, irritable, and, sometimes, violently abusive. Some men deal with depression by throwing themselves compulsively into their work, attempting to hide their depression from themselves, family, and friends. Other men may respond to depression by engaging in reckless behavior, taking risks, and putting themselves in harm's way.
More than four times as many men as women die by suicide in the United States, even though women make more suicide attempts during their lives. In addition to the fact that men attempt suicide using methods that are generally more lethal than those used by women, there may be other factors that protect women against suicide death. In light of research indicating that suicide is often associated with depression, the alarming suicide rate among men may reflect the fact that men are less likely to seek treatment for depression. Many men with depression do not obtain adequate diagnosis and treatment that may be life saving.
Depression in Older Men
Men must cope with several kinds of stress as they age. If they have been the primary wage earners for their families and have identified heavily with their jobs, they may feel stress upon retirementญloss of an important role, loss of self esteemญthat can lead to depression. Similarly, the loss of friends and family and the onset of other health problems can trigger depression.
Depression is not a normal part of aging. Depression is an illness that can be effectively treated, thereby decreasing unnecessary suffering, improving the chances for recovery from other illnesses, and prolonging productive life. However, health care professionals may miss depressive symptoms in older patients. Older adults may be reluctant to discuss feelings of sadness or grief, or loss of interest in pleasurable activities.
They may complain primarily of physical symptoms. It may be difficult to discern a co occurring depressive disorder in patients who present with other illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, or cancer, which may cause depressive symptoms or may be treated with medications that have side effects that cause depression. If a depressive illness is diagnosed, treatment with appropriate medication and/or brief psychotherapy can help older adults manage both diseases, thus enhancing survival and quality of life.
Identifying and treating depression in older adults is critical. There is a common misperception that suicide rates are highest among the young, but it is older white males who suffer the highest rate. Over 70 percent of older suicide victims visit their primary care physician within the month of their death; many have a depressive illness that goes undetected during these visits. This fact has led to research efforts to determine how to best improve physicians' abilities to detect and treat depression in older adults.
Approximately 80 percent of older adults with depression improve when they receive treatment with antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. In addition, research has shown that a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medication is highly effective for reducing recurrences of depression among older adults. Psychotherapy alone has been shown to prolong periods of good health free from depression, and is particularly useful for older patients who cannot or will not take medication.18 Improved recognition and treatment of depression in later life will make those years more enjoyable and fulfilling for the depressed elderly person, and his family and caregivers.
A depressive disorder is not the same as a passing blue mood.
Depression can strike anyone regardless of age, ethnic background, socioeconomic status, or gender; however, large scale research studies have found that depression is about twice as common in women as in men.In the United States, researchers estimate that in any given one year period, depressive illnesses affect 12 percent of women (more than 12 million women) and nearly 7 percent of men (more than six million men) But important questions remain to be answered about the causes underlying this gender difference. We still do not know if depression is truly less common among men, or if men are just less likely than women to recognize, acknowledge, and seek help for depression.
Symptoms of Depression
Not everyone who is depressed or manic experiences every symptom. Some people experience only a few; some people suffer many. The severity of symptoms varies among individuals and also over time.
Depression
Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood.
Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyable, including sex.
Decreased energy, fatigue; feeling "slowed down."
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
Trouble sleeping, early morning awakening, or oversleeping.
Changes in appetite and/or weight.
Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts.
Restlessness or irritability.
Persistent physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain that do not respond to routine treatment.
Depression can coexist with other illnesses. In such cases, it is important that the depression and each co occurring illness be appropriately diagnosed and treated.
Research has shown that anxiety disordersญwhich include post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, and generalized anxiety disorderญcommonly accompany depression. Depression is especially prevalent among people with PTSD, a debilitating condition that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened.
Traumatic events that can trigger PTSD include violent personal assaults such as rape or mugging, natural disasters, accidents, terrorism, and military combat. PTSD symptoms include: re experiencing the traumatic event in the form of flashback episodes, memories, or nightmares; emotional numbness; sleep disturbances; irritability; outbursts of anger; intense guilt; and avoidance of any reminders or thoughts of the ordeal. In one NIMH supported study, more than 40 percent of people with PTSD also had depression when evaluated at one month and four months following the traumatic event.
Substance use disorders (abuse or dependence) also frequently co occur with depressive disorders. Research has revealed that people with alcoholism are almost twice as likely as those without alcoholism to also suffer from major depression. In addition, more than half of people with bipolar disorder type I (with severe mania) have a co occurring substance use disorder.
Men and Depression
Researchers estimate that at least six million men in the United States suffer from a depressive disorder every year. Research and clinical evidence reveal that while both women and men can develop the standard symptoms of depression, they often experience depression differently and may have different ways of coping with the symptoms. Men may be more willing to acknowledge fatigue, irritability, loss of interest in work or hobbies, and sleep disturbances rather than feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and excessive guilt. Some researchers question whether the standard definition of depression and the diagnostic tests based upon it adequately capture the condition as it occurs in men.
Men are more likely than women to report alcohol and drug abuse or dependence in their lifetime; however, there is debate among researchers as to whether substance use is a "symptom" of underlying depression in men or a co occurring condition that more commonly develops in men. Nevertheless, substance use can mask depression, making it harder to recognize depression as a separate illness that needs treatment.
Instead of acknowledging their feelings, asking for help, or seeking appropriate treatment, men may turn to alcohol or drugs when they are depressed, or become frustrated, discouraged, angry, irritable, and, sometimes, violently abusive. Some men deal with depression by throwing themselves compulsively into their work, attempting to hide their depression from themselves, family, and friends. Other men may respond to depression by engaging in reckless behavior, taking risks, and putting themselves in harm's way.
More than four times as many men as women die by suicide in the United States, even though women make more suicide attempts during their lives. In addition to the fact that men attempt suicide using methods that are generally more lethal than those used by women, there may be other factors that protect women against suicide death. In light of research indicating that suicide is often associated with depression,17 the alarming suicide rate among men may reflect the fact that men are less likely to seek treatment for depression. Many men with depression do not obtain adequate diagnosis and treatment that may be life saving.
More research is needed to understand all aspects of depression in men, including how men respond to stress and feelings associated with depression, how to make men more comfortable acknowledging these feelings and getting the help they need, and how to train physicians to better recognize and treat depression in men. Family members, friends, and employee assistance professionals in the workplace also can play important roles in recognizing depressive symptoms in men and helping them get treatment.
The first step to getting appropriate treatment for depression is a physical examination by a physician. Certain medications as well as some medical conditions such as a viral infection, thyroid disorder, or low testosterone level can cause the same symptoms as depression, and the physician should rule out these possibilities through examination, interview, and lab tests. If no such cause of the depressive symptoms is found, the physician should do a psychological evaluation or refer the patient to a mental health professional.
A good diagnostic evaluation will include a complete history of symptoms: i.e., when they started, how long they have lasted, their severity, and whether the patient had them before and, if so, if the symptoms were treated and what treatment was given. The doctor should ask about alcohol and drug use, and if the patient has thoughts about death or suicide. Further, a history should include questions about whether other family members have had a depressive illness and, if treated, what treatments they may have received and if they were effective. Last, a diagnostic evaluation should include a mental status examination to determine if speech, thought patterns, or memory has been affected, as sometimes happens with depressive disorders.
Treatment choice will depend on the patient's diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and preference. There are a variety of treatments, including medications and short term psychotherapies (i.e., "talk" therapies), that have proven effective for depressive disorders. In general, severe depressive illnesses, particularly those that are recurrent, will require a combination of treatments for the best outcome.
Alcoholญ including wine, beer, and hard liquorญor street drugs may reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants and should be avoided. However, doctors may permit people who have not had a problem with alcohol abuse or dependence to use a modest amount of alcohol while taking one of the newer antidepressants.
Questions about any medication prescribed, or problems that may be related to it, should be discussed with your doctor.
How to Help Yourself if You Are Depressed
Depressive disorders can make one feel exhausted, worthless, helpless, and hopeless. It is important to realize that these negative views are part of the depression and do not accurately reflect the actual circumstances. Negative thinking fades as treatment begins to take effect. In the meantime: Engage in mild exercise. Go to a movie, a ballgame, or participate in religious, social, or other activities. Set realistic goals and assume a reasonable amount of responsibility.
Break large tasks into small ones, set some priorities, and do what you can as you can.
Try to be with other people and to confide in someone; it is usually better than being alone and secretive. Participate in activities that may make you feel better. Expect your mood to improve gradually, not immediately. Feeling better takes time. Often during treatment of depression, sleep and appetite will begin to improve before depressed mood lifts.
Postpone important decisions. Before deciding to make a significant transition-change jobs, get married or divorced-discuss it with others who know you well and have a more objective view of your situation.
Do not expect to 'snap out of' a depression. But do expect to feel a little better day by day.
Remember, positive thinking will replace the negative thinking as your depression responds to treatment. Let your family and friends help you.
How Family and Friends Can Help
The most important thing anyone can do for a man who may have depression is to help him get to a doctor for a diagnostic evaluation and treatment. First, try to talk to him about depressionญhelp him understand that depression is a common illness among men and is nothing to be ashamed about. Perhaps share this booklet with him. Then encourage him to see a doctor to determine the cause of his symptoms and obtain appropriate treatment.
Occasionally, you may need to make an appointment for the depressed person and accompany him to the doctor. Once he is in treatment, you may continue to help by encouraging him to stay with treatment until symptoms begin to lift (several weeks) or to seek different treatment if no improvement occurs. This may also mean monitoring whether he is taking prescribed medication and/or attending therapy sessions. Encourage him to be honest with the doctor about his use of alcohol and prescription or recreational drugs, and to follow the doctor's orders about the use of these substances while on antidepressant medication.
The second most important thing is to offer emotional support to the depressed person. This involves understanding, patience, affection, and encouragement. Engage him in conversation and listen carefully. Do not disparage the feelings he may express, but point out realities and offer hope. Do not ignore remarks about suicide. Report them to the depressed person's doctor. In an emergency, call 911. Invite him for walks, outings, to the movies, and other activities. Be gently insistent if your invitation is refused. Encourage participation in some activities that once gave pleasure, such as hobbies, sports, religious or cultural activities, but do not push him to undertake too much too soon. The depressed person needs diversion and company, but too many demands can increase feelings of failure.
Listed below are the types of people and places that will make a referral to, or provide, diagnostic and treatment services.
Family doctors
Mental health specialists, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, or mental health counselors Religious leaders/counselors
Health maintenance organizations
Community mental health centers
Hospital psychiatry departments and outpatient clinics
University or medical school affiliated programs
State hospital outpatient clinics
Social service agencies
Private clinics and facilities
Employee assistance programs
Local medical and/or psychiatric societies
Conclusion
A man can experience depression in many different ways. He may be grumpy or irritable, or have lost his sense of humor. He might drink too much or abuse drugs. It may be that he physically or verbally abuses his wife and his kids. He might work all the time, or compulsively seek thrills in high risk behavior. Or, he may seem isolated, withdrawn, and no longer interested in the people or activities he used to enjoy.
Perhaps this man sounds like you. If so, it is important to understand that there is a brain disorder called depression that may be underlying these feelings and behaviors. It's real: scientists have developed sensitive imaging devices that enable us to see depression in the brain. And it's treatable: more than 80 percent of those suffering from depression respond to existing treatments, and new ones are continually becoming available and helping more people. Talk to a healthcare provider about how you are feeling, and ask for help.
Or perhaps this man sound like someone you care about. Try to talk to him, or to someone who has a chance of getting through to him. Help him to understand that depression is a common illness among men and is nothing to be ashamed about. Encourage him to see a doctor and get an evaluation for depression.
For most men with depression, life doesn't have to be so dark and hopeless. Life is hard enough as it is; and treating depression can free up vital resources to cope with life's challenges effectively. When a man is depressed, he's not the only one who suffers. His depression also darkens the lives of his family, his friends, virtually everyone close to him. Getting him into treatment can send ripples of healing and hope into all of those lives.
Depression is a real illness; it is treatable; and men can have it. It takes courage to ask for help, but help can make all the difference.
Please know that you may share this article with anyone you want, family, friends, associates and anyone you feel this may help, please just leave the footer inact, thanks:)
Leading Psychiatrists are calling Arthur a 'walking miracle'-After 15 years in mental institutions, absorbing inhumane shock treatments, abusing alcohol, he's now being called worldwide' The Zig Ziglar of Mental Illness 'Read about his amazing comeback and what #1 best-selling author Mike Litman has called The Most Inspirational Book of 2002' Out of Darkness - One Man's Journey From The Depths Of Mental Illness to Pure Joy
Listen to Arthur Buchanan on the Mike Litman Show!
http://www.freesuccessaudios.com/Artlive.mp3
THIS LINK WORKS, LISTEN TODAY!
With Much Love,
Arthur Buchanan
President/CEO
Out of Darkness & Into the Light
43 Oakwood Ave. Suite 1012
Huron Ohio, 44839
http://www.out-of-darkness.com
567-219-0994 (cell)

Infectious Disease Specialist

2009-10-30T02:09:00.005-07:00

Welcome to the Holistic Health Care & Research Center located at New York with its own unique features to cure the chronic diseases suffering people. Our infectious diseases specialist Dr. Rao.K. is a doctor & physician with advanced training of internal medicine who is qualified as an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases which are caused by the illness of the microorganisms or germs.

Our specialist is speicalised in curing all the infections of any type such as sinuses, heart, brain, lungs, urinary tract, bowel, bones or pelvic organs and any cause with the bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic. He is trained and experienced over a decade in the unique cross-section of medicine. The specialist also has the knowledge of a particular insight into the use of antibiotics and their potential adverse effects. He also has a deep understanding of immunology (how the body fights infection), epidemiology (how infections spread), and infection control.

The infectious disease specialist at our center helps you with the treatments to the people who have long-term or the chronic infections, or disorders, like
ท AIDS and HIV CLINIC,
ท Allergy and Asthma Center,
ท Anemia: Aplasic Anemia Symptom, Thalassemia, Sickle Cell Anemia, General Anemia,
ท Rheumatoid Arthritis,
ท Auto Immune Disorders: Lupus, Ulcerative colitis, Crohns disease, Celiac Disease, Rheumatoid arthritis, Multiple sclerosis, Vitiligo, Guillain-Barre syndrome, Scleroderma, Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus , Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease , Primary biliary sclerosis, Sclerosing cholangitis, Autoimmune hepatitis, Addison's disease, Raynaud's phenomenon, Alopecia,
ท Cancer - Prostate Cancer - Mesothelioma Cancer - colon cancer symptom etc.,
ท Cardiac Problems - Cardiac Stent - Areest Cardiac,
ท Coma - medically induced coma - diabetic coma,
ท Depression and Anxiety Medication,
ท Diabetes - herbs for diabetes,
ท Drugs, Alcohol and Smoking Cessation,
ท Womens Sexual Problem: Hormonal imbalance, Frigidity, Loss of libido,
ท Hair Problems - Womens Hair Loss - Accutane Hair Loss - alopecia areata treatment,
ท High cholesterol - natural remedy for high cholesterol - high cholesterol medication,
ท Hypertension - portal hypertension - malignant hypertension,
ท Male Sexual Problems: Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Impotence, Loss of libido, Hormonal Imbalance,
ท Migraine - basilar migraine - occular migraine,
ท Premature aging,
ท Premature menopause, PMS, Prostate: Beningn Prostatic Hypertrophy, Prostatitis,
ท Sexually Transmitted Disease: HIV, AIDS, herbal treatment for genital herpes, Syphilis,
ท Urinary Problem - Chronic renal failure - Chronic Urinary Infection,Urinary Incontinence,
ท Infertility Specialist - Male Infertility Treatment - Female Infertility Treatment,
ท Skin and Beauty Problems: Xanga Skin - Rascal Flatts Skin - Proactive Acne Treatment - Blemishes - Psoriasis - Dermatitis - Eczema - Freckles - Vitiligo,
ท Stroke - Stroke Symptom,
ท Thyroid - overactive thyroid - armour thyroid, of any age and many more diseases.
We consult the patient by the review of a patient's medical data, including records, X-rays and laboratory reports. Our specialist also performs a physical examination, depending on the type of problem. Sometimes specialized expertise like our infectious disease specialist is needed to either diagnose or manage specific infectious diseases.

We at our center provide you with the services in the form of treatment to the chronic incurable illness with not n number of medications, the suspect of the side effects caused by heavy dosage of medications, conventional supplements as well as naturopathy, to the sufferers who has left the hope of getting cured by the disease and with the herbal dietary supplements.

Ours is a unique center which has its own unique way of an effective blend of Modern Scientific Technology and Complementary Medical Modalities in an innovative yet responsible manner to help people and optimize their health and vitality by providing herbal dietary supplements/natural supplements at affordable price. Our specialist Dr. K. Rao also serves as a science director of HHCSRC which only deals with cheap nutritional dietary supplements and not with traditional chemical prescription medicine given by medical practitioner.

We give the medications which provide relief using a very scientific approach, combining modern techniques with nutritional herbal dietary supplements prepared from a collection of over 4,000 proven rare organic herbal extracts, natural vitamins, minerals and amino acids from all over the world under strict guidelines of FDA, FDCA & FTC and buying natural health supplements makes it stronger for health.

The customers who visit our center are benefited tremendously with our unique customized way in a short span of time with no known side effects whatsoever. You can see what our customers have to say about our rare blend and how they have recovered even when all hope was lost at our website http://www.drraomd.com/videos/index.com .
You can also make your own review of the scientific investigation reports before and after using nutritional dietary fiber supplements/dietary supplements available in our testimonial section as a proof of the effectiveness of our unique way.

We are working on the philosophy that " Optimal well-being is a concept of health that goes beyond the curing of illness to one of achieving wellness of mind, body and soul " and backed by a Family History of 40 generations in herbal dietary supplements/nutritio nal dietary supplements Hikmat/ Desi Dawa.

Womens Reproductive Health: Where To Turn For Womens Reproductive Health Answers

2009-10-30T02:09:00.003-07:00

When it comes to womens reproductive health, there are a lot of questions that can be asked. If you have a question it's always best to see a doctor and ask him or her in person. After all, they went to school for years to specialize in the subject, it'd be a shame if they never got to utilize their skills. Besides going to a womens health specialist, your best bet is to get online, head to a library or even ask your friends. Usually, a poll of ten or so female friends can tell you if something is normal or an issue you should be concerned about.

If you get online, you can go to different web doctor sites that can give you lists of symptoms and pair you up with the health issue that is most likely what you're currently dealing with. If there's no specific problem that you're worried about, and you just want to know more about womens reproductive health, you can try using a forum. Forums are great because they are completely anonymous. You can post whatever you'd like or just sit and read what everyone else has written without having to wonder whether somebody you're talking to knows you. On the other hand, since you don't know who is posting, you can never be sure if you're really getting a doctor's advice or just the ramblings of an unemployed loser.

There are a lot of fantastic books pertaining to womens reproductive health that you can use as resources. All you need to do is go to the library or book store and you'll find hundreds of books by about as many authors on the subject matter. They can walk you through everything you need to know about womens reproductive health, and can serve as excellent guides.

Womens Health Specialists: Where To Go For The Best Womens Health Specialists

2009-10-30T02:09:00.001-07:00

Where do you go when you need womens health specialists? Do you rely on womens health magazines, or do you just ask your friends whenever you have a question that you don't know the answer to? Many women avoid either and prefer to use the internet instead as their sole source of information that deals with their health. There are a lot of great sites out there that you can search through to find more information on whatever health problem you may be experiencing. Even better, some sites allow you to search through symptoms, essentially helping you to diagnose yourself. You should still see a doctor, but it can put your mind at ease to know you're probably only dealing with a cold, rather than the life threatening illness you thought you had.

Also, there are a lot of awesome forums you can use to discuss womens health issues with other people. A lot of womens health specialists frequent many of the forums and give their opinions, so they can be a great resource to turn to. The great thing about forums is that you can post your questions anonymously, and depending on how busy the forum is that day you can get your answer in minutes. Also, since there are different people that can respond you can get different answers and pick which ones you like best.

On the other hand, you have to take a lot of what you read on forums with a grain of salt. Indeed, the main strength is also the main weakness, as because everyone can post anonymously you can never be sure who you're taking your advice from. Sure, the people may claim to be womens health specialists, but they may just be plumbers or unemployed weirdos. As long as you go into the forum with that in mind, you can usually benefit from what forum members have to say.

Lt

2009-10-29T18:46:00.003-07:00

August 26, 2004 -- He is retired from the Army Reserve as a Lieutenant Colonel with 30 years of service. He has been featured on television's History Channel, Univision, Fox Sports Net, HD News and Comcast Newsmakers. He has also appeared in various publications, among others, The Miami Herald, The Herald, The Washington Times and in the men's lifestyle magazine RAZOR.

His background is unique and diverse...military instructor, attorney, corporate wellness coach, certified corporate trainer, certified personal trainer, and fluent in German and English. In furthering the fitness aspect of his military years, he started his own business "Fountain of Youth Fitness" and specializes in a military-style workout on Fort Lauderdale Beach that incorporates strength, cardio, flexibility and agility training, both personal training and group sessions.

He is known as the Health Colonel and is a corporate wellness coach on topics of leadership, team building, sales, fitness, nutrition, health, wellness and the importance of the inter-relationships of people.

Community service activities include volunteer work for non-profit organizations, among others, the Arthritis Foundation, American Health Association and Covenant House where he also trains juveniles on Fort Lauderdale Beach. He is also presently writing a book on health and wellness. His mission is to inspire and motivate others to lead healthier and happier lives.

For more about Lt. Colonel Weinstein visit http://www.NoMoreCrybabies.com/pressreleases.asp

A few weeks ago Colonel Weinstein met Rose of the Rose Lee Archer Show at a meeting of the Florida Speakers Association. Rose is an amazing lady that shares his philosophy on healthy living. They have partnered to do a three part mini-series that tackles some of those tough life issues, such as diabetes, childhood obesity, eating healthy and exercising as a single mother, how to lose those 20 pounds after 15 years of being overweight. Both have a burning desire to empower others to lead healthier and happier lives and to conquer all of life's challenges. Sponsors that share this vision are welcome to become a part of this worthy cause. The show is targeted for the second quarter of 2005.

Rose Lee Archer is an award winning television producer and host of the Rose Lee Archer Show. Her work as America's Women's Resource Specialistโข airs on the PAX TV network to millions of viewers on WPXN, New York City and throughout five Florida markets; Miami, Orlando, Tampa, West Palm Beach and Jacksonville. The Rose Lee Archer Show offers women and families pragmatic solutions to issues that affect their lives. The show's outreach commitment, educates viewers to readily available resources through government agencies, nonprofits and the private business sector. Rose Lee's award winning journalistic style, features expert guests who lead the audience to a wealth of resources that will maximize their personal and professional opportunities. For more on the Rose Lee Archer Show go to http://www.roseleearchershow.com .

About Comcast Newsmakers:

From sports to politics, Comcast Newsmakers keeps viewers informed about local issues and events that are important to them. Comcast Newsmakers features community leaders, opinion makers, elected officials and people who make a difference in our lives.

Tune in to view this five-minute interview at :25 and :55 after the hour on CNN Headline News during the month of September 2004, and join host Spero Canton as he investigates topics that have a direct impact on our community. For more information on Comcast Newsmakers go to http://www.newsmakerssouthflorida.com/index.htm .

- Each Comcast Newsmakers show has the potential of being viewed 21 times a week, 42 times a month by more than 600,000 Comcast customers throughout the South Florida area.

- Features elected officials, community leaders and citizens making the news in South Florida and around the country.

- Opportunity to raise awareness for significant issues and events.

- Comcast Newsmakers is also publicized via 30 second commercials on some of our most popular cable networks.

"Your Breast Cancer Treatment Handbook" Called the Most Effective and Empowering Breast Cancer Book both by Patients and Healthcare Professionals

2009-10-29T18:46:00.001-07:00

Columbia, SC June 28, 2004 -- Across America thousands of women with breast cancer have gained the support needed to be a survivor thanks to educational and support systems pioneered by Judy Kneece, RN, OCN, author and breast health specialist.

Kneece, a certified oncology nurse with a specialty in breast cancer, is author of Your Breast Cancer Treatment Handbook, (ISBN 1-886665-22-2, 210 Pages, 6th Edition, Copyright 2004, $24.95) a woman's guide to understanding the disease, treatments, emotions and recovery from breast cancer.

"Breast cancer has invaded my body but it need not invade my spirit. There may be scars on my chest, but there need not be scars on my heart," is a personalized statement Kneece tries to emblazon in the thoughts of all women who have breast cancer.

The author's passion to provide breast cancer patients and their families with educational and emotional support was born out of her own personal experience. Kneece cared for her father for almost three years while he was dying of leukemia and was a continual support for her sister-in-law who battled breast cancer for seven years before dying. She learned firsthand from these experiences the need for cancer patients and their families to have someone that can answer their many questions and help them deal with this unwelcome guest.

"I learned firsthand that anyone going through a crisis needs the support of someone who cares and needs to have knowledge about how to make immediate decisions and move forward through the tough times in life," says Kneece. "My philosophy is to give a person wings by supporting them during the initial period of shock upon learning they have cancer, then giving them the information they need to overcome what they are going through, and a way to reframe or make meaning out of that crisis."

Kneece was one of the first in the oncology field to conduct serious research into the recurrence of breast cancer in women and was one of the early researchers into the impact of breast cancer on a woman's sexuality after chemotherapy administration.

Kneece has trained over 1000 nurses across the country to fill the role of a breast health specialist/educator in hospitals and breast centers. The breast health specialist begins working with patient from the time of diagnosis through the stages of treatment and beyond, to serve as the patient's advocate, and to provide her with education and support.

Another popular guide written by Kneece is Helping Your Mate Face Breast Cancer: Tips for Becoming an Effective Support Partner. "Men are traditionally problem solvers and breast cancer is a problem they cannot fix," says Kneece. "And men can be directive sometimes, demanding that things be done and things not be done. The woman feels overwhelmed and the man feels inadequate. Most mates are unsure of how to help. But men learn to be supportive and learn to live through their fears while helping their wife deal with her fears."

Kneece also has authored Solving the Mystery of Breast Pain and Finding a Lump in your Breast: Where to Go โฆ What to Do, Solving the Mystery of Breast Discharge, and is creator of a computer CD-ROM featuring almost 300 breast health topics for clinics, hospitals and physicians to use for individual patient education.

Your Breast Cancer Treatment Handbook is a guide for the patient journeying through breast cancer. It provides the patient with current, easy-to-understand explanations of procedures and treatments; decision making guidelines; and inspirational support. No treatment advice is given, allowing the patient to work as a partner with her medical team for final treatment decisions.

Hospitals and cancer centers across the country provide Your Breast Cancer Treatment Handbook to their newly diagnosed patients. "This is the most complete reference for breast cancer patients that I have ever read. It covers every aspect from diagnosis through recovery; most importantly, it addresses the fears and anxieties of all patients. Facts are presented with hope. It fills a void and will empower patients to be better informed and more in control. I give it to every newly diagnosed woman in my practice", says Rosemary Lambert-Falls, MD.

"The one thing that all women should know is that breast cancer, except for inflammatory cancer, always provides enough time to gain knowledge, support and information before having to make any major decisions," stresses Kneece, "There will be time to educate yourself and make informed decisions about treatment. All we do is to help women learn to work as informed partners with their healthcare team to make decisions about their future treatment. Women need educational support to stay in control of decisions being made about their body."

"Getting well is more than surgery and treatments; it is a woman understanding the vital role she can play in managing her own recovery," adds Kneece, "And always remember that breast cancer is usually a treatable disease. It certainly is not an illness you would choose, but it is an illness with many proven treatments."

Your Breast Cancer Treatment Handbook covers such topics as: emotional impact of breast cancer; relationship with your mate; telling your children; calming your fears; surgical treatment decisions; reconstructive surgery; the surgical experience; understanding your pathology report; understanding treatments; radiation therapy; sexuality after breast cancer; complementary and alternative therapies; prosthesis selection; monitoring your emotional recovery; future fertility; care of the surgical arm; health insurance and employment issues; diet and exercise; monitoring your future health for recurrence.

The worksheets cover such matters as fear management, questions to ask about surgery, surgical decision evaluation, questions for the reconstructive surgeon, healthcare provider records, personal treatment records, drain bulb record, hospital discharge instructions, questions for the medical oncologist, questions for the radiation oncologist, patient appointment reminder, exercise guidelines after breast cancer, and personal recovery plan.

For more information on breast cancer and Kneece's book, patients and professionals may go to www.educareinc.com .

Dr. Ginger Southall, Noted Adventure Sport Athlete, Journalist, TV Health & Medical Reporter, to Appear on Internet Talk Radio Show 'Nutritional Medicine & You' on Voice America Radio

2009-10-29T18:45:00.001-07:00

September 3, 2004 -- โNutritional Medicine & Youโ host, Joel Martin, featured on Internet radio station VoiceAmerica (www.voiceamerica.com), welcomes doctor, journalist, TV health & medical reporter, and adventure sport athlete Dr. Ginger Southall on Saturday, September 4, 2004 at 3:00pm PST (7:00pm EST). VoiceAmerica is a division of SurfNet Media Group, Inc (OTCBB: SFNM), a leading Internet broadcast media company. โNutritional Medicine & Youโ bridges the gap between traditional and alternative medicine by offering balanced, informative solutions to disease.

Dr. Southall and Joel will discuss Shopping for Ultimate Health and the Food Chain. Dr. Southall "empowers extraordinary health" through her role as National Educator for the West Palm Beach-based whole food supplement and health education company, Garden of Life.

Dr. Southall has hosted many health shows on television, appeared in numerous commercials and infomercials for health products and was the health and medical correspondent for the College Television Network. She was honored as an invited physician to The First National Leadership Conference on Women's Health & Physical Activity in Washington, D.C. where she helped develop the Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity & Health for Women. She worked closely with Dr. Jack Barnathan of the NY Center for Strength & Performance in planning and executing the National Symposium on Fitness, in cooperation with Arnold Schwarzenegger and other celebrities involved in national fitness.

Listeners with questions, comments or opinions are encouraged to call in live, toll-free at 1-888-335-5204.

You can hear โNutritional Medicine & Youโ host, Joel Martin on VoiceAmerica.com live every Saturday at 3:00pm PST (7:00pm EST). with re-broadcast 12 hours later. Archives of past interviews are available at http://www.voiceamerica.com/.

About Dr. Ginger Lea Southall

Dr. Southall earned a B.A. at the State University of New York at Stonybrook and a Doctorate Degree in Chiropractic from the New York Chiropractic College in Seneca Falls, NY. In addition to being a widely respected health consultant, Dr. Ginger is a triathlete, certified pilates instructor and personal trainer. She serves on the board of directors for the New York Chiropractic College Alumni Association and as a pro official and team doctor with the International Federation of bodybuilding. A native of Houston, Texas, Dr. Southall now resides in Singer Island, FL. She is a member of the board of directors and is a nutrition and fitness awareness instructor at "We Change Foundation" in Boynton Beach, Florida. Her ultimate goal is to become the U.S. Surgeon General.

About Joel Martin

Joel Martin is a natural therapeutic specialist and practitioner who has gained tremendous personal and professional benefit from his work and he sought personal growth and well being. Joel seeks to bridge the gap between traditional medicine and alternative therapies for the benefit of the patient. He takes a holistic approach that harmonizes the influences and powers of the mind, body and spirit through the use of intuitive assessment, nutritional counseling, natural substances, herbal remedies and exercise. For More Information on Joel Martin, visit http://www.voiceamerica.com/

About SurfNet Media Group, Inc.

SurfNet (http://www.surfnetmedia.com) is an Internet broadcast media company producing diverse audio content streamed 24/7, that enables sponsors to deliver cost-effective advertising content to targeted audiences. SurfNet's mission is to create and expand Internet communities by utilizing Internet broadcast media as a vehicle for communication and commerce. SurfNet's business opportunities include delivering corporate and genre based Internet radio to key constituencies; streaming traditional radio and Internet radio directly to desktops; facilitating distributed enterprise communications; and providing rich media content for on-line yellow pages. SurfNet trades on the OTCBB market under the symbol, SFMN.

SurfNet produce original, live, Internet talk radio programming through its networks, VoiceAmericaโข Radio (http://www.voiceamerica.com/) and BusinessAmericaโข Radio (http://www.businessamericaradio.com). SurfNet utilizes its patented Metaphorโข technology as a cost-effective communications tool to deliver Internet radio programming and other rich media content. Metaphor is an HTML media container that adds to websites/desktops in seconds without downloading, easily streams audio and video, and modifies instantly from a single control point. Metaphor's applications include a media player, an email-free enterprise communications tool for distributed workforces, membership and affinity groups, a multimedia toolbar and a mini-web page.

Forward-looking Disclaimer

This release contains "forward-looking statements" governed by Sections 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and 21E of the Securities Act of 1934. SurfNet believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, but cannot assure they will prove correct. Several important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement, including inability to obtain financing for technology development or business expansion; reliability and availability of required technology; financial, operational and other business problems associated with rapid business expansion; and general and industry-specific economic conditions. SurfNet has no obligation to modify its forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of future events or circumstances.

Why You Need Health Insurance

2009-08-13T20:02:00.001-07:00

The United States does not have socialized medical care. If you have no health insurance coverage, you have to pay for health care out of your own finances at the time of service. This can run into many thousands of dollars for serious illnesses.

You buy health insurance for the same reason you buy other kinds of insurance: to protect yourself financially. With health insurance, you protect yourself and your family in case you need medical care that could be very expensive.

You cannot predict what your medical bills will be. In a good year, your costs may be low. But if you become ill, your bills could be very high. If you have health insurance, many of your costs are covered by a third-party payer, not by you. A third-party payer can be an insurance company or, in some cases, it can be your employer.

Many people in the United States are enrolled in some sort of managed care health insurance plan. This is an organized way of both providing services and paying for them. Different types of managed care plans work differently and include preferred provider organizations (PPOs), health maintenance organizations (HMOs), point-of-service (POS) plans and fee-for-service plans.

Individuals enrolled in health care plans pay a monthly or quarterly fee as insurance for the time when they will need medical attention. At the time when a service is provided, the health insurance organization pays part or all of the fee, minimizing the amount you have to pay at the time you receive the service.

The information presented here will help you choose a health insurance plan that is right for you. If you are married or single, have children or no children, this information will help you to find out how to choose a health insurance plan that best meets your needs and your financial circumstances. Definitions of the health insurance terms used are included in the section called Understanding Health Insurance Terms.

Understanding Health Insurance Terms

Coinsurance
The amount you are required to pay for medical care in a fee-for-service plan after you have met your deductible. The coinsurance rate is usually expressed as a percentage. For example, if the health insurance company pays 80 percent of the claim, you pay 20 percent.

Coordination of Benefits
A system to eliminate duplication of benefits when you are covered under more than one group plan. Benefits under the two plans usually are limited to no more than 100 percent of the claim.

Co-payment
Another way of sharing medical costs. You pay a flat fee every time you receive a medical service (for example, $5 for every visit to the doctor). The health insurance company pays the rest.

Covered Expenses
Most health insurance plans, whether they are fee-for-service, HMOs, or PPOs, do not pay for all services. Some may not pay for prescription drugs. Others may not pay for mental health care. Covered services are those medical procedures the insurer agrees to pay for. They are listed in the health insurance policy.

Customary Fee
Most health insurance plans will pay only what they call a reasonable and customary fee for a particular service. If your doctor charges $1,000 for a hernia repair while most doctors in your area charge only $600, you will be billed for the $400 difference. This is in addition to the deductible and coinsurance you would be expected to pay. To avoid this additional cost, ask your doctor to accept your health insurance company's payment as full payment. Or shop around to find a doctor who will. Otherwise you will have to pay the rest yourself.

Deductible
The amount of money you must pay each year to cover your medical care expenses before your health insurance policy starts paying.

Exclusions
Specific conditions or circumstances for which the policy will not provide benefits.

HMO (Health Maintenance Organization)
Prepaid health plans. You pay a monthly premium and the HMO covers your doctors' visits, hospital stays, emergency care, surgery, checkups, lab tests, x-rays, and therapy. You must use the doctors and hospitals designated by the HMO.

Managed Care
Ways to manage costs, use, and quality of the health care system. All HMOs and PPOs, and many fee-for-service plans, have managed care.

Maximum Out-of-Pocket Expenses
The most money you will be required pay a year for deductibles and coinsurance. It is a stated dollar amount set by the health insurance company, in addition to regular premiums.

Non-cancellable Policy
A policy that guarantees you can receive health insurance, as long as you pay the premium. It is also called a guaranteed renewable policy.

PPO (Preferred Provider Organization)
A combination of traditional fee-for-service and an HMO. When you use the doctors and hospitals that are part of the PPO, you can have a larger part of your medical bills covered. You can use other doctors, but at a higher cost.

Pre-existing Condition
A health problem that existed before the date your health insurance became effective.

Premium
The amount you or your employer pays in exchange for health insurance coverage. Primary Care Doctor
Usually your first contact for health care. This is often a family physician or internist, but some women use their gynecologist. A primary care doctor monitors your health and diagnoses and treats minor health problems, and refers you to specialists if another level of care is needed. In many health insurance plans, care by specialists is only paid for if your are referred by your primary care doctor. An HMO or a POS plan will provide you with a list of doctors from which you will choose your primary care doctor (usually a family physician, internists, obstetrician-gynecologist, or pedicatrician). This could mean you might have to choose a new primary care doctor if your current one does not belong to the plan. PPOs allow members to use primary care doctors outside the PPO network (at a higher cost). Indemnity plans allow any doctor to be used. Provider
Any person (doctor, nurse, dentist) or institution (hospital or clinic) that provides medical care.

Third-Party Payer
Any payer for health care services other than you. This can be an insurance company, an HMO, a PPO, or the Federal Government

MAJOR HEALTH PROBLEMS OF ORISSA

2009-08-13T20:01:00.005-07:00

MAJOR HEALTH PROBLEMS OF ORISSA

By Dr Nihar Ranjan Ray

Orissa is a high focus state for its culture, heritage, rich with minerals and diseases as well. It has rated as one of the measurable state so far the health care is concerned. Badly affected by the poverty, illiteracy, natural disasters Orissa registered very poor health indicators as per the WHO reports. Its state with a population of 3.68 crores, comprising of 85% rural habitants, with 22% Scheduled Tribe and 16.5% Scheduled Caste population. From a lot of health issues I need to focus the following topics with bird vision felling their importance and seriousness.

Infant mortality

Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) is only 53 per 1,000 live births in urban areas as compared to 76 in rural areas, only 26.4 per cent of tribal children are immunized when compared to 43.7 per cent among the general population in the State and anemia is very high of 61.2 per cent among women.

The State needed to arrest the malnutrition trend as early as possible. "The level of malnutrition in the State is quite high. Over 30 per cent of children are severely malnourished. As per the latest survey, 40.7 per cent under age of 3 are underweight, 45 per cent are stunted and 19.5 per cent are wasted. About 65 per cent of children aged between 6 and 35 months are anemic.

Maternal mortality rate

One woman dies every seven minutes from complications related to pregnancy and child birth in India and in Orissa nine women die everyday for the same reasons.

The MMR in the state has come down from 367 per one lac (100,000) child births in 1993 to 358 deaths per one lac births in 2003 which is a very negligible drop. In fact there has not been any significant reduction in the rate of maternal deaths in the last few years and this is a worrying factor, said participants at the "Know Your Entitlements" organized here to coincide with the National Safe Motherhood Day.

The White Ribbon Alliance-Orissa in collaboration with Department of Health and Family Welfare, government of Orissa, Unicef and UNFPA organized the workshop.

With a view to curb this problem by minimizing maternal death rate, the White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood unites individuals, organizations and communities who are committed towards increasing public awareness on this issue and promote Safe Motherhood.

This year, the Central government declared, "Know your Entitlement" as the theme of the National Safe Motherhood Day. The objective was to generate awareness amongst women and family members on their entitlements under various schemes and policies taken up by the government.

Several NGO's working in the health sector across the state including the Nehru Yuva Kendra which has trained 12,000 youths for the purpose participated in the workshop here today.

Flood ravaged Orissa

Floods cause health problems in Orissa: Oxfam India has warned that 8.5 million people affected by July's floods are facing serious health threats. 78 870 cases of diarrhoea have occurred, resulting in 41 deaths; 124 cases of jaundice were reported, with two deaths. 300 people have been bitten by snakes, leading to 22 deaths.

Malaria

Malaria is the foremost public health problem of Orissa contributing 23% of malaria cases, 40% of Plasmodium falciparum cases and 50% of malaria deaths in the country. The tribal population are badly affected by the Malaria. More than 60% of tribal population of Orissa live in highrisk areas for malaria. Though the tribal communities constitute nearly 8% of the total population of the country, they contribute 25% of the total malaria cases and 15% of total P.falciparum cases. Various epidemiological studies and malariometric surveys carried out in tribal population including primitive tribes reveal a high transmission of P.falciparum in the forest regions of India, because malaria control in such settlements has always been unattainable due to technical and operational problems. In a specific

study conducted in undivided Koraput district, it was observed that the district is endemic for malaria and is hyperendemic in top hills where Bondo primitive tribes are residing.

Diarrhoeal Disorders

Water-borne communicable diseases like gastrointestinal disorders including acute diarrhoea are responsible for a higher morbidity and mortality due to

poor sanitation, unhygienic conditions and lack of safe drinking water in the tribal areas of the country. In a cross sectional study conducted by RMRC, Bhubaneswar in 4 primitive tribes of Orissa, the diarrhoeal diseases including cholera was found to occur throughout the year attaining its peak during the rainy season .Generally the infants ,preschool children and adolescent groups are mostly affected.

Micronutrient Deficiency

Orissa is very much infamous for starvation death cases. Micronutrient deficiency is closely linked with nutritional disorders and diarrhoea. Deficiency of essential dietary components leads to malnutrition, protein calorie deficiency and micronutrient deficiencies (like vit A, iron and iodine deficiency). Vitamin A deficiency in the form of Bitot's spot, conjunctival xerosis and night blindness was observed

Skin Infection

Skin problems like scabies is a major health problem amongst the rural population of orissa and the problem is much worse in the primitive tribes because of overcrowding and unhygienic living conditions as also close contacts and lack of health awareness. In a study conducted by the RMRC, Bhubaneswar.

Intestnal Paracitism

Intestinal protozoan and helminthic infestations are the major public health problems and were observed in Most of these infections are due to indiscriminate defecation in the open field, bare foot walking and lack of health awareness and hygiene. The problem enhances in the rainy season. These are preventable with repeated administration of anti-helminthic and protozoal treatment at 4 months interval which can be used effectively in national parasitic infection control program.

HEALTH INDICATORS OF ORISSA

The Total Fertility Rate of the State is 2.6. The Infant Mortality Rate is 73 and Maternal Mortality Ratio is 358 (SRS 2001 - 03) which are higher than the National average. The Sex Ratio in the State is 972 (as compared to 933 for the country). Comparative figures of major health and demographic indicators are as follows:

Table I: Demographic, Socio-economic and Health profile of Orissa State as compared to India figures

S. No.

Item

Orissa

India

Total population (Census 2001) (in million)

36.80

1028.61

Decadal Growth (Census 2001) (%)

16.25

21.54

Crude Birth Rate (SRS 2007)

21.9

23.5

Crude Death Rate (SRS 2007)

9.3

7.5

Total Fertility Rate (SRS 2006)

2.6

2.9

Infant Mortality Rate (SRS 2007)

Maternal Mortality Ratio (SRS 2001 - 2003)

358

301

Sex Ratio (Census 2001)

972

933

Population below Poverty line (%)

47.15

26.10

Schedule Caste population (in million)

6.08

166.64

Schedule Tribe population (in million)

8.15

84.33

Female Literacy Rate (Census 2001) (%)

50.5

53.7

Table II: Health Infrastructure of Orissa

Particulars

Required

In position

shortfall

Sub-centre

7283

5927

1356

Primary Health Centre

1171

1279

Community Health Centre

292

231

Multipurpose worker (Female)/ANM at Sub Centres & PHCs

7206

6768

438

Health Worker (Male) MPW(M) at Sub Centres

5927

3392

2535

Health Assistant (Female)/LHV at PHCs

1279

726

553

Health Assistant (Male) at PHCs

1279

168

1111

Doctor at PHCs

1279

1353

Obstetricians & Gynaecologists at CHCs

231

Physicians at CHCs

231

Paediatricians at CHCs

231

Total specialists at CHCs

924

Radiographers

231

223

Pharmacist

1510

1984

Laboratory Technicians

1510

311

1199

Nurse/Midwife

2896

637

2259

(Source: RHS Bulletin, March 2007, M/O Health & F.W., GOI)

Health Institution

Number

Medical College

District Hospitals

Referral Hospitals

City Family Welfare Centre

Rural Dispensaries

Ayurvedic Hospitals

Ayurvedic Dispensaries

624

Unani Hospitals

Unani Dispensaries

Homeopathic Hospitals

Homeopathic Dispensary

603

Conclusion

Despite the above said problems we have to make our stands strong to fight against the disease, poverty, illiteracy and natural as well as the man made disasters(Naxlite problem).Now under the able leadership of Mr Naveen Pattnaik Orissa has registered record foreign investment as well as an appreciable economical growth. Now it is time to flex our muscles and brain to expedite our development in health care system. Orissa is doing well in the influence of NRHM .Orissa has many a miles to go to improve its health indicators that needs a lot of patience, composure and brain storming.

Dr.Nihar Ranjan Ray

Dt.29th july 2008

Donât Lie to Get Cheaper Womenâs Car Insurance

2009-08-13T20:01:00.003-07:00

Many women are coming around to the benefits of buying their auto insurance from women's car insurance specialists in order to receive cheaper rates. However, with the recession in full swing you might be tempted to allow a few fibs into your insurance policy in order to secure an even cheaper premium. The problem is that not only is this against the law, you can also invalidate your insurance policy by not telling the truth. Here are the top items that are most popular on the fib list, and things you should definitely not lie about.

Convictions

If you've had a previous driving conviction, even a minor one, then you must declare that when you're looking for a new quote from a women's car insurance company. Most insurance companies will ask if you have had any motoring convictions in the last five years. It is important to remember that a conviction will count from the time you were convicted, not the time of the incident. So if you were caught speeding in January but weren't officially convicted until March then you have to count five years from March to decide if you fall within the category or not.

Mileage

There are usually two mileage categories which you will have to fill out when applying for women's car insurance. The first is the number of miles your car has already driven; the second is the expected number of miles you will drive annually. Cars with a lower mileage will have a lower premium but, in the event of an accident, insurers can easily check the number of miles your car has done and a discrepancy can be enough to void your policy, leaving you with an expensive bill to pick up.

Health

This is of vital importance not just for women's car insurance quotes but for your safety also. If you fail to declare any health issues on your insurance policy, or worse to the DVLA when applying for your driving licence, then you are committing fraud and could go to jail. Serious health issues such as epilepsy are something that both your insurer and the DVLA must know about.

Customisation

Although car customisation is stereotypically in the domain of the male driver, female drivers are increasingly looking to altering their vehicles from the norm. If you have made any modifications to your car which take it outside of the normal manufacturer's specifications then your insurer needs to know about it. Policies differ between women's car insurance companies, and some will not make adjustments to your premium for "aesthetic" modifications, but if the car's performance is enhanced, then this will attract a higher rate of insurance to compensate.

In the end, taking a risk with your car insurance is simply not a wise move. Your insurance is a safety net for when things go wrong and giving insurers a reason to whisk that safety net away from you when you need it most can be a very painful experience.

How Women Can Overcome Migraine?

2009-08-13T20:01:00.001-07:00

Migraine is a one-sided, throbbing, or pulsating intense headache commonly associated with nausea, vomiting and a dislike of light and sound. Fluctuation in the level of estrogen hormone is the prime factor for migraines in women. During the time of menstruation, when there is hormonal fluctuation, women typically get migraines. Many women find that their migraine gets worse as they approach the menopause. Other factors that can trigger migraine in any person includes allergies, dental problems, stress, constipation, smoking, too much or too little sleep, liver malfunction, emotional changes, sun glare, hormonal changes, flashing lights, lack of exercise, changes in barometric pressure. According to surveys, most women report that their migraines make them lose control over their own lives. Many feel that migraines negatively affect their overall health by making them anxious or depressed and by causing nausea and other stomach problems associated with characteristic migraine headaches.

Untreated Migraines reduce the quality of life. It can also be dangerous, leading to stroke, life-threatening dental infections, aneurysms, coma and even death. Most migraine sufferers never seek any medical help, and they just depend on self-help measures. Recognizing the factors that activate the symptoms of migraine is important for successful treatment. Avoiding situations which stimulates an attack and then taking up simple timely treatment can be sufficient for many. Migraine Campaigns are there to help sufferers overcome migraine pain.

Simple painkillers such as aspirin and paracetamol would work for many attacks of migraine, if the stomach is able to absorb the drug into the blood stream. Drugs called triptans and ergotamine based medicines are very effective for some people. A nasal spray may help those in whom the nausea starts. Sometimes the pill makes migraine worse and stopping the pill may be necessary. Application of natural progesterone cream is a simple and often effective treatment for most female migraine sufferers. New treatments and techniques help many patients successfully manage their migraines.

Besides the internal and external treatments, here are some tips for women to overcome migraine. Cooperate with your doctor by giving him the correct information he needs in order to accurately diagnose your migraine condition and to give you the right treatment to either prevent or stop your migraine. The best thing is to follow your migraine treatment plan exactly as prescribed, take your medicine without any delay. This is important because if you treat your migraine early, there is less possibility of it getting worse. Understand the pattern of when and how migraines affect you in order to monitor whether your migraines are getting better with some treatment. Try to make sure that your home and work place are in a comfortable environment, free from migraine triggers. Try to avoid your exposure to migraine triggers. Join some support group to share your migraine experiences and to get the current information about migraines. Boost your confidence by knowing

how to manage the stress, pain and emotional issues that are all related to your migraines. Relax yourself for at least half-an-hour every day to de-stress and have control of your life. Try to know some relaxation exercises prescribed by leading migraine specialists, and do them regularly. Ask your family and spouse to be supportive by helping in household responsibilities. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and relaxing yourself won't just help you to overcome your migraines, but also help you feel better overall.

Major Component Of Female And Male Sexual Health And Good Libido

2009-07-12T15:26:00.001-07:00

Androgens, such as testosterone, are a major component of female and male sexual health and good libido. Female sexual health can be temporarily improved using androgens such as testosterone or DHEA. You write that Viagra legitimized male sexuality not only as conversation material but as a valid health-care issue. There is, therefore, a significant issue regarding the sexual health of female partners of men who have sex with men (MSMs). This bulletin message board forum is intended to allow male sexuality discussions, men's sexual health personal experiences, and male health issue problems. political trends on research on female sexuality with a particular focus on political attacks on sexual health research at the National Institutes of Health.

There are five major areas involved in male and female sexual health: 1. Understanding these constructions enable more effective designs for intervention strategies that enable the promotion of sexual health amongst males who have sex with males. For effective sexual health promotion amongst males who have sex with males, both these connected issues must be appropriately and adequately addressed. There are specialists who deal with urology and oncology, as well as other areas of male sexual healthcare. Consequently, health care practitioners comment that they only learn about their male patient's sexual health problems when the condition is severe. Exercise and weight loss may improve male sexual health in obese men, researchers in Italy report. Our project approach to male involvement in reproductive health in India is based in culturally defined male sexual health problems.

Female sexual health problems have to studied using a natural approach from many different areas. Impotence or erectile dysfunction is a quite common male sexual health disorder afflicting around 10 to 30 percent of the total male population. The authors bring together the two critical areas of expertise medical and psychological explain healthy male sexual function and the problem of sexual dysfunction. PenisPillsInfo.com Male enhancement advice and information, sexual health and performance and top pill brand information. Sex-Boost is a 'by-prescription-only' pill designed to enhance male sexual health by enabling men to achieve an erection. The female sexual health function is a complex interaction of hormonal events and psychosocial relationships. Work on male fertility and potency have also made the UW a national leader in advancing men's sexual health.

McCullough is a specialist in male sexual health and fertility. A report examining and summarizing the symposium held in Oaxaca, Mexico, on male partcipation in sexual and reproductive health. Since Sex-Boost's invention the subject of male sexual health has become common in newspapers, on the television and also over the Internet. It also combats male pattern boldness and contributes to a man's overall sexual health regimen. The program was set up as the women's movement raised awareness about reproductive health and female sexuality. A manmade ingredient of many plastics, cosmetics and other consumer products may be interfering with male sexual health and prenatal male sexual development.

Talk with your physician or other female sexual health professional to find a good sex therapist in your area that could help you. Although trials are underway with drugs to help eliminate female sexual health problems, the current feedback is not promising. There are a lot of male nurses working in sexual health. body - sexual health Female Infertility Finding out she's pregnant can be one of the most joyous moments in a woman's life. I did an online search for a male sexual health supplement, and there are hundreds of them. A urologist specializes in male sexual health problems. During a recent interview, Spark discussed his version of the Clinton legacy, shifting attitudes about male sexual health and alternatives to Viagra. Synopsis: A groundbreaking comprehensive guide to male health and sexuality.

If you are male and have a sexual health concern, you can address it with your regular doctor. Blood tests are often employed in female sexual health conditions to check various hormone levels. Use regularly to promote general health and overall female sexual functioning. Ovantra is the best product for womens sexual health and it has been referred to as the Female Viagra! General women's health issues play an important part in a woman's overall sexual wellness. Healthy female sex organs are less susceptible to infection. Victim to abuser: Mental health and behavioral sequels of child sexual abuse in a community survey of young adult males. Thanda is a powerful tonic for female sexual health, containing a range of specially selected remedies from Africa and the Orient.

Etic and emic categories in male sexual health: a case study from Orissa. As a result, sexual health services often ignores the possibility of STD/HIV transmission resulting from such a sexual practice both for males and females. Oriental (Panax) ginseng - supports physical stamina and has long been used to support male sexual health. Training of police staff and the judiciary on issues regarding males who have sex with males and sexual health concerns. http://www.man-sexual-health.com/

Aetna Signs Contract With Orlando Health Physicians

2009-07-12T05:51:00.001-07:00

Quoting and Saving on your insurance coverage has never been easier. You're a few seconds away from obtaining detailed quotes for Aetna health insurance programs.

Aetna Health Insurance Signs Contract With Orlando Health Physicians

ORLANDO, Fla., October 30, 2008 — Aetna (NYSE: AET) announced today that it has reached agreement with the Orlando Health physicians group on a three-year contract renewal. Under the new contract, Aetna for the first time will have a direct contract with South Seminole Behavioral Specialists, a behavioral health physicians group that serves Central Florida.

South Seminole Behavioral Specialists added to central Florida network

"Aetna Health Insurance is very pleased to offer its Central Florida members in-network access to behavioral health services," said Jim McCunney, Aetna's vice president of network development for Central Florida. ""n an environment of rising health care costs, this new agreement is good news for our members."

Aetna Health Insurance also recently renewed its hospital agreement with Orlando Health, a 1,780-bed system that includes:

Orlando Regional Medical Center;

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children;

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies;

Lucerne Hospital;

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital;

South Lake Hospital;

South Seminole Hospital; and

M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Earlier this year, Aetna also signed a five-year agreement with the Orlando Health Visiting Nurse Association. That contract took effect in August.

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation's premier cancer centers, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Orlando Health's areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health is Central Florida's fifth-largest employer with nearly 14,000 employees and more than 2,000 affiliated physicians.

Aetna provides and administers health benefits to more than 225,000 members in Central Florida. Those members have access to a contracted network of 35 hospitals, 1,626 primary care physicians and 4,434 specialists.

Aetna is one of the nation's leading diversified health care benefits companies, serving approximately 37.2 million people with information and resources to help them make better informed decisions about their health care. Aetna offers a broad range of traditional and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services, including medical, pharmacy, dental, behavioral health, group life and disability plans, and medical management capabilities and health care management services for Medicaid plans. Our customers include employer groups, individuals, college students, part-time and hourly workers, health plans, governmental units, government-sponsored plans, labor groups and expatriates.

Seniors Mental Health & Depression

2009-07-11T21:11:00.001-07:00

A majority of men and women from the ages of 55-74 report they are satisfied with their lives and are currently in good health. While periods of depression may occur among seniors, it is important to remember that it is not a normal part of aging.

Depression is the most common mental health concern for older adults, affecting between 15 to 20 percent of older adults living in the community. It is not a normal part of aging. Symptoms such as decreased energy, poor sleep and preoccupation with health problems should be viewed as possible symptoms of a treatable illness and are NOT a result of the aging process.

Treatment for depression works, yet too many people remain undiagnosed and untreated because they don't recognize the signs and symptoms of depression.

Mental health specialists generally agree on the following definition of major depression:

Symptoms persist for two weeks or longer
People either have depressed moods or seem unable to enjoy life.
Major depression should be considered if four of the following seven criteria are present:

A change in sleeping habits (more or less than usual)
A change in eating habits or weigh
Low energy or fatigue
Trouble concentrating
Feeling worthless or excessively guilty
Marked restlessness or slowed-down movements
Thoughts of death or suicide

Depression can be defined as an imbalance of brain chemicals triggered by stress and life events, including biological, psychological and social factors.

Depression is NOT a character or personality flaw.

Many of the signs of depression may also indicate other problems or medical conditions - It is important to consult with a doctor to determine if your symptoms indicate depression or another medical condition.

Depression is often difficult to recognize among the senior population and it tends to be under diagnosed. Living with depression not only prevents older adult from fully enjoying their lives but it puts a strain upon their health, which can lead to other medical concerns. It is also very difficult for their caregivers and places a strain on their health as well.

What we do know is that there is no one cause for depression- every individual is unique in what may cause their depression, and what may trigger a depressive episode. Some possible causes and risk factors include genetics and family history, brain chemistry, personality, major illness, medications & alcohol, and life events. Risk factors for serious depression, particularly in older adults, may include loss and bereavement, lack of social support, isolation, living in poverty, being a caregiver, and abuse.

Having depression could also increase the risk of suicide among older adults, particularly in older males. According to the CDC, seniors account for more than 16% of all suicide deaths. Older adults who are over the age of 60 are far more likely to have a higher risk rate of suicide than younger people. If you feel that a friend or a loved one is suicidal, encourage them to seek out help either from a doctor, friend, crisis centre or, mental health agency.

Some things to keep in mind:

Keep a positive attitude. Remember that slowing down does not mean you have to come to a complete stop. Chances are you will still be able to do almost all the things you used to; you may just need to take a little more time and learn to pace yourself.
See your family doctor regularly. He/she can, then, deal with any changes or symptoms that require medical attention.
Be careful about your medications. As you get older, they may begin to interact differently with other drugs and to affect you differently than before. Make sure your doctor knows about all your medications, even those prescribed by another doctor.
Take responsibility for your own health. Do not hesitate to ask your doctor questions; some do not offer explanations unless asked.

Depression is a serious disorder that is treatable. In addition, dealing with an individual who is suffering from depression or at risk of suicide can be absolutely overwhelming for a caregiver. Although the caregiver is providing care and assistance to their loved ones they must also look after their own emotional, mental, and physical well-being.

While all of us may feel sad from time to time, sadness is not depression and it is important to remember that depression is not a normal part of aging.

About eldercaring.ca

Elder Caring Inc. http://www.eldercaring.ca is a group of experts with backgrounds in Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Gerontology. As working professionals in the field, all of our team members have many years of experience in working with the disabled, the elderly, and their families. The company has team members and representatives across Canada.

Pap Smears

2009-07-11T12:51:00.001-07:00

Each year tens of thousands of young women should be thinking about whether they should start having their Pap smear done. So what is this smear test, how is it done and is it really necessary now that girls are having HPV vaccinations at school?

But first a few essential facts:

A Pap smear is performed when a nurse or doctor samples cells from the cervix. This is the lowest part of the uterus and is accessible to sampling through the vagina.

Cancer of the cervix has fallen from being the 8th to the 18th most common cancer in women since the introduction of the Pap smear registry program. These cancers often take several years to develop and so are very amenable to early diagnosis and management.

The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is thought to be one of the main triggers of this form of cancer. There are over 100 different types of HPV infections, but only a few are thought to be the major instigators of this form of cancer. The Gardisil vaccine, recently introduced into the vaccination program for young women, targets these particular viruses.

HPV is very prevalent in the community, but as infections with the virus are not a notifiable disease, we don't have accurate statistics, however, according to information from the Mayo Clinic in the USA, over 25 million US citizens are infected with the virus.

Who should have a Pap smear?

Local, national and international experts differ on when and how often Pap smears should be performed. So here's my guide to when and how often:

Start within 12 months after the onset of sexual activity and have them annually until you have had two negative Paps - then you can have them every 2 years.

If you change your sexual partner, go back to annual testing until you've had 2 negative annual tests again. The more partners the greater the risk of infection.

If there has been no sexual activity, then start at age 21.

In a monogamous relationship, Pap smears can be done safely every two years.

There are no specific guidelines on when to stop, some suggest after the age of 70, some 65. My suggestion is to discuss this with your GP.

You can safely stop if you have had a total hysterectomy for a non cancerous condition, as the cervix will have been removed with the uterus.

What do the results mean?

A normal test means that there have been no abnormal cells detected and it is 95% certain that there is no cancer. A positive test doesn't mean that you have got cancer, it means that you have some abnormal cells and it's wise to have a closer look at your cervix and more tests.

In other words, here in WA, you should see a specialist in that area who will review your findings and suggest a colposcopy and biopsy. A colposcope is an instrument that allows the specialist to get close to the cervix and magnify it greatly for more detailed inspection. Any suspicious areas can then be biopsied for examination in the laboratory.

How can we reduce the risk of developing problems with the cervix?

Being in a monogamous relationship.

Reducing the number of sexual partners.

Using a latex condom may reduce transmission of most, but not all, HPV infections.

Discussing being immunised against HPV infections before the infection finds you!

Women Beware of Doctors Over-Prescribing Drugs

2009-07-11T04:26:00.001-07:00

I love the women of the Baby Boomer generation. They demanded world attention for their rights to equality in the sixties, changed the gender rules in the seventies, made their way into executive boardrooms in the eighties, and paved the way for the coming generations of their daughters and their daughter's daughters. Generations X and Y, and hopefully "Z", have a lot to thank them.

Today, younger adult women don't have to go through what they did for recognition and understanding. When I enrolled at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in 1981, I was the only female in my first accounting class. Today, there are equally the same if not more women in graduate university and advanced education courses than men. This is how dramatically things have changed. But have they?

Since my mid-forties, I have had reason to visit a lot of doctor's offices. I have been diagnosed as peri-menopausal, menopausal (differing opinions from different doctors), suffering from hypothyroidism, not suffering from hypothyroidism, Chronic Fatigue, no Chronic Fatigue, stress-related panic attacks, hypoglycaemia, hyperglycaemia - and the best of all - a recommendation that I should see a psychologist! All of these complaints and symptoms became more relevant when I later discovered I had severe adrenal problems - completely undiagnosed by all the doctors I saw. But for now, I just want to say, "God help the Baby Boomers!"

During the last few years, I have been in and out of so many doctor's offices, surgeries, and hospitals that I have lost track. I have visited Hormone Specialists, Gynaecologists, General Practitioners and been rushed into hospital Emergency Rooms on countless occasions. I have had more blood tests than any rational person is meant to endure; subjected to ECGs (electrocardiograms), X-rays, brain scans, chest scans, hearing tests, and spent hours upon hours in those wonderful little ER cubicles waiting for tests or wheeled around from testing lab to testing lab. Not once, not a couple of times, but countless times. I have had the top of my palm injected with horrible large needles while I've waited for hours for a scan, drip, or blood transfusion.

I have also been insulted, ignored, laughed at, and been given operative procedures, drugs and antibiotics against my expressed concerns. A hospital gynaecologist even asked me on one occasion whether my breasts were real. (I am naturally well endowed.) I believe he was being playful and it was meant to be a joke - but at the time, I was lying in a hospital Emergency Room bed, waiting for a 4-pack blood transfusion. Needless to say, I didn't find it very amusing at the time.

I am not a feminist. I know what strengths and weaknesses women have and acknowledge the strengths and weaknesses that men have. However, I am utterly astonished and dumbfounded at the way women are still being treated in the medical arena.

I am in total dismay at how the women of that gregarious, rebellious, open-minded, ground-breaking generation, the Baby Boomers, who led the revolution in changing the advertising, marketing, financial, and consumer-driven demands of the world, are still being treated as the 1950s stereotype female by the traditional medical community. And this includes some female doctors I have visited as well.

Every time I have visited a new doctor, the first typical response is, "its probably menopausal changes". Firstly, if all I have suffered were menopause symptoms, I'd be swinging from the rafters with glee. I don't wish to invalidate the women who have difficulties caused by hormonal changes, but with the new bio-identical hormone therapy available, menopause is an easier transition now than ever before.

Secondly, it worries me that the abruptness and immediacy of this instant diagnosis for women who happen to be in the 40 plus age group can potentially and dangerously prevent a real disease from accurate diagnosis and treatment or lead to misdiagnoses and serious consequences where there were none in the first place.

Men, younger women and now even teenagers and children are affected by similar circumstances. However, the typical and by far the larger demographic profile of wrongly diagnosed patients who fall victim to anti-depressants and tranquillisers are adult women.

Norma Finkelstein, Ph.D., of the Boston-based Coalition on Addiction, Pregnancy, and Parenting says, "Women tend to get addicted to prescription drugs like sedatives and tranquillisers more often than men do because doctors prescribe them to women more freely". She estimates that 70 percent of prescribed tranquillisers and sedatives in the US are given to women. In Australia, 2:1 or 66.7 percent is the estimated ratio for women. Finkelstein also adds, "Women have long been seen by the medical profession as hysterical and anxious - so rather than listening to the woman's problem, some doctors will just write a prescription for medication."

I recall the wisdom of a friend who once said, "Educate the mother and you educate the family". He was speaking of higher values at the time, but those words ring ominously in my mind now. Was the Rolling Stones' 1960s hit "Mother's Little Helper" a warning we didn't heed?

When Do You Need A Women

2009-07-10T20:02:00.001-07:00

Men's Health Checks: Early Detection Can Save Many Lives!

2009-07-10T11:41:00.001-07:00

Did you know that each hour in each civilised country, at least five men die from conditions that are potentially preventable? Or that men live on average six years less than women?

According to the Australian Medical Association, many men treat their health as a low priority while they juggle the competing demands of work and family life. Apparently, men often adopt a "functional view" of their bodies. Only when their work, play or exercise is below par, they understand there may be a problem. Another fact is that most men stop visiting doctors regularly between the age of 20 and 45. By the time the begin visiting GP's again, their ailments are more chronic in nature!

Prevention and early detection are key! To prevent and mitigate risks of obesity, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, etc., there is a thing you can do: an annual men's health check! This is the best advice I can give you, as it will most certainly help you to maintain and protect your own health.

According to my own Sydney based men's health specialist Dr. Rob King, the main objectives of a men's health check/assessment are:

To improve and maintain your wellbeing in the short and long term.
To ensure you maintain your physical independence in the long term.
To prevent the onset of disease, including cancer.
To detect disease early, including cancer.

According to Dr. Rob King a complete men's health check should cover the detection and prevention of:

Nutritional imbalances.
Excess body weight.
Disease of your heart and arteries (cardiovascular disease - build-up of plaque in your arteries).
High blood pressure (hypertension).
Abnormal blood fats (dyslipidaemia).
Abnormal blood sugar (insulin resistance/pre-diabetes/diabetes).
Prostate problems.
Weak bones (osteoporosis), calcium and vitamin D deficiencies.
Screening for cancer, in particular skin, testicles, prostate, bowel.
Sexual difficulties, in particular erection and ejaculation problems (optional).
Sexually transmitted infections (optional).
Immunisations.

Most large medical centres offer health checks and there are specialized men's health check centres in most large cities around the world. They'll do a full health check and provide you with advise on how to improve your health. It will all be on a strictly confidential basis! A men's health check will take you at least 1 to 2 hours and will cost approx. $300-$600 of which you can claim a large part from your health insurance. A lot of employers do have agreements in place with external health and wellbeing providers, so just ask internally if your employer can arrange and fund your annual health check.

To find a men's health check specialist near you, just Google "men's health check" with your location to find a specialised centre near you.
Please do yourself a big favour and schedule a health check appointment on the short term. It is one of the best health investments you can make!

Make this a Positive & Fruitful Day….unless you have other plans!

Thanks, warm regards & success,

Patrick Driessen

Mental Health And Vitamin Supplements: How These Work Together For An Overall Healthy You

2009-07-10T02:36:00.001-07:00

Health Sector Reforms In Andhra Pradesh

2009-07-09T22:46:00.001-07:00

Health sector Reforms in Andhra Pradesh

A review on Health sector reforms in India The health sector reforms in India were started way back in 1970s .The Govt. of India identifies the need HSR and stated in the eighth five year plan. The Eighth Five Year Plan (1992-1997) was the first plan document to state the need for re-structuring of economic management systems, following the macro developments of the 1990s. During this period in the health sector, the concept of free medical care was revoked and people were required to pay, even if partially, for the health services (1). The Ninth Five Year Plan (1997-2002) emphasized the need to review the response of the public, voluntary and private sector health care providers as well as the population themselves to the changing health scenario, to reorganize health services to bring about greater efficiency and effectiveness and to introduce health system reforms to enable the population to obtain optimum care at affordable cost The Ninth Plan sought to increase the involvement of voluntary, private organizations and self-help groups in the provision of health care and ensure inter-sectoral coordination in implementation of health programmes and health-related activities as well as enable the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) in planning and monitoring of health programmes at the local level so as to bring about greater responsiveness to health needs of the people and greater accountability; to promote inter-sectoral coordination and utilise local and community resources for health care(2) .The Tenth Five Year Plan (2002-2007) touches upon reforms at primary, secondary and tertiary level(3). Politics influence health systems in significant manner. The goals, priorities, and the strategies, variations in the commitment are largely decided through the political contingencies. There are competing demands on the health systems. The evolution of the health systems is largely shaped by the culture, history, and norms. Client satisfaction is very high. As per NFHS-2 data, an overwhelming majority of clients are satisfied by the services delivered by the public systems. May be the expectations are low or may be our people are so courteous. But on the hand, we have the report from Transparent International, ranked the health system in India is the most corrupt system (4) The Government has taken several steps for improving the public health care institutions and Strengthening the primary health care infrastructure. However, the situation is compounded by severe resource constraints - financial, technical and human power related, which has resulted in policy makers as well as programme managers at differing levels being faced with difficult choices. In such a situation, attempts are being made through various reform initiatives to ensure that the health needs of the people are met One of the major reform initiatives underway is the Secondary Health System Strengthening Project funded by the World Bank in seven states (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Punjab, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Orissa and Uttar Pradesh). The projects include strengthening FRUs/CHCs and district hospitals so as to improve the availability of emergency care services to patients, to reduce overcrowding at district and tertiary care hospitals, construction works, procurement of equipment, increased availability of ambulances, drugs; improvement in quality of services following skill up gradation training in clinical management, changes in attitudes and behavior of health care providers; reduction in mismatches in health personnel / infrastructure; improvement in hospital waste management, disease surveillance and response system. It is essential to assess both progress and problems in implementation of the reforms in each state and to appropriately modify the content and pace of implementation. Such an overview and analysis of all related issues is necessary to provide evidence to policy makers and other stakeholders in terms of the various dimensions and impact of health sector reform.(5) In the Indian Constitution, health is a state responsibility. During Adjustment, many state governments in India had recourse to Health Systems Development Project loans from the World Bank for carrying out health sector reforms (HSR), of which one of the key policies has been to raise public spending on health care from the abysmally low levels seen up to then. The Health Systems Development Project seeks to develop strategic management capacity; strengthen performance, accountability, and efficiency; and build implementation capacity. Further, it seeks to improve clinical service quality by renovating and expanding district, sub district, and community hospitals and improving access to services. In all seven reforming states, around 15% of the total project cost is borne by the state governments. All the project documents note the low levels of funding for secondary hospitals in the reforming states. This is attributed to the small share of overall public spending allotted to health, the limited portion of total health spending going to hospitals, and, within this, a skewed distribution of funds in favour of the tertiary hospitals. After analysis of the problems of the health sector, the governments of the reforming states have agreed-using terminology ranging from "assurances" to "commitments"-to several undertakings. These are: (i) to enhance the overall size of the health budget; (ii) to redress imbalances in public expenditure between secondary and tertiary care levels; (iii) to safeguard the operations and maintenance components of current expenditure allocations for the secondary health-care sector; (iv) to charge user fees for selected services; and (v) to address workforce issues. The Health Systems Development Project initiated in the seven states recognizes the need for enhanced public spending on health and identifies it as the foremost policy reform to be pursued. Nevertheless, such assurances and conditions have not succeeded in enhancing health sector budgets in states implementing HSR. Worse, HSR has not been able to arrest the decline in the share of health spending within total government spending. The Indian system is especially complicated, as the larger tax resources are controlled by the central government but the major responsibility for health-care spending is bestowed on the states (6).Andhra Pradesh is the first state to go with the HSR. Health sector reforms in Andhra Pradesh The state of Andhra Pradesh was formed on 1st November, 1956 under the States' reorganization scheme. It is the fifth largest State with an area of 2, 76, 754 sq. km, accounting for 8.4 % of India's territory and also the fifth most populous state with a Population of 75 crores. The state has varied physiographic features ranging from high hills, undulating plains to a coastal deltaic environment. Administratively, Andhra Pradesh is divided into 23 districts, 79 revenue divisions, 1123 mandals, about 27000 villages and 264 towns. AP's economy grew at 7.2% during 2006-07 -- the fourth consecutive year of 6% plus growth. The latest poverty headcount ratio stands at 16%, compared to 23% for India . the third-highest credit rating among the major Indian states; the third best investment climate in the country; and the fourth-lowest corruption level among Indian states Andhra Pradesh was the first Indian state to receive a multi-sector Bank operation - the Andhra Pradesh Economic Restructuring Program for US$ 550 million in 1997 - aimed at helping the state accelerate policy and institutional reforms across a wide range of sectors under a common fiscal framework. It is also the only Indian state where the Bank has disbursed three budget support operations - the First Andhra Pradesh Economic Reform Loan (APERL-1) in March 2002, the Second APERL in February 2004, and the Third APERL in January 2007 - that sought to support the state's development program.(12) Within AP there are regional, social and gender disparities. Health outcomes are worst among Scheduled Castes (16% of population) and Scheduled Tribes (7% of population), especially those living in underserved areas in North tribal and South drought prone districts, and for women. Effective delivery of quality basic health services is hampered by demand and supply side issues, including poor health infrastructure and staffing.(15) The reform history in health sector in the State can be traced to Andhra Pradesh First Referral Health System Project, one of the first World Bank aided health system projects in the country. This project, launched in 1995 had been implemented by AP Vaidya Vidhana Parishad (APVVP). Agencies like World Bank and DFID are supporting the reform process in the State. The Bank supported the AP Economic Restructuring Project which included improvement of primary health care as one of the component.(7) The priority reforms focus on improved access to quality and responsive health services, strengthened governance and management in health sector, improved institutional mechanisms for community participation and systems for accountability; and strengthened financial management systems.(15) The government of Andhra Pradesh [GoAP 1999] Vision 2020 document identifies a seven-point set of priorities for health sector reform: providing universal access to primary healthcare; encouraging private investment in tertiary healthcare; focusing on specific programmes to promote family planning; focusing on improving health levels in disadvantaged groups and backward regions; ensuring a strong prevention focus; enhancing the performance of the public health system; and formulating a state information education and communication (IEC) programme to broadcast information on preventive healthcare.(13) The Government of Andhra Pradesh is embarking on a major health sector reforms to improve health care delivery in the State. D.F.I.D. has expressed its willingness to support these initiatives with a grant of 100 Million pounds over the next five years (2006-2011). The reform initiative will include measures to improve the effectiveness and accountability of public health services, measures to focus on community centric preventive healthcare system and enhance access to quality healthcare for the poorer sections of the population(14) DFID will provide up to £40 million health sector budget support to the DoHMFW, GoAP, over 3 years 2007 - 2010. The sector support will build synergy with National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) which is a health sector reform program of the central government for decentralisation, pro-poor focus, strengthening service delivery(15) The health sector support will be provided over three years (2007-08 - 2009- 10). It aims at increased use of quality health services, especially by the poorest people and in underserved areas.(16) The main outputs will be: a) Improved access to quality and responsive services, especially in remote and interior areas; b) Governance and management of health sector strengthened; c) Institutional mechanisms for community participation and systems for accountability in functioning; and Financial management systems strengthened and improved public expenditure on health. The performance of health services would be measured against(17)

* greater effectiveness and improved outcomes of existing programs;
* improved efficiency in the allocation of resources;
* greater access and equity; and
* consumer satisfacfion

Reforms underway in health sector The major reforms underway are classified under these categories and the activities are noted below and we will look each of them in detail (I) Reorganization and restructuring of existing government health care system

Establishment of Andhra Pradesh Vaidya Vidhana Parishad
Strengthening of referral institutions and fixing of service norms
Improvement in drug supplies
Formation of Andhra Pradesh Health, Medical & Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (APHM&HIDC)
Strengthening of PHCs as 24-hour MCH centers
Establishment of Comprehensive Obstetric & Neonatal Care (CEmONC) centres

(II) Changes in health system organisation, delivery and Management

Formation of Hospital Advisory Committee/ Hospital Development Societies for all PHCs and FRUs/ teaching hospitals
Provision of free travel bus passes to pregnant women for antenatal check ups
Public Private Partnership

(III) Changes in financing methods

Sukhibhava Scheme (Improvement of Institutional Delivery Services Scheme)
User fees

(IV) Reforms related to human resources

Integration and responsibilities of functionaries for planning, implementation and monitoring of programmes of HM & FW department

(V) Involving community in health service delivery and Provision

Women Health Volunteers Scheme

(VI) Reforms to quality of care

Performance indicators for grading the PHCs
Performance rating of secondary hospitals

1.Reorganization and restructuring of existing government health care system A)Andhra Pradesh Vaidya Vidhana Parishad AP, has created the Andhra Pradesh Vaidya Vidhana Parishad (APVVP) by enacting an Act in the Legislative Assembly in 1986(8) This was done with the objective to lay greater emphasis on development of both preventive as well as curative health care and to strengthen necessary linkages at appropriate levels to ensure comprehensive medical and health care services. APVVP has undertaken World Bank assisted Andhra Pradesh First Referral Health Systems Project (APFRHSP) in 1994 for a period of seven years. This has been one of the major projects undertaken by APVVP. The objectives of the project included improvement of efficiency in the allocation and use of health resources through policy and institutional developments and enhanced performance of health system by improving the quality, effectiveness and coverage of health services at the first referral level. B)Strengthening of referral institutions and fixing of service norms basic service norms for various categories of hospitals under the administrative control of APVVP have been fixed thereby creating a hierarchy of hospitals according to services and facilities. This system of service norms and referral linkages had been developed with a view to optimise utilisation of resources, avoid duplication and wastage of resources, regulate patient flow and reduce cost of treatment by reduction of patient burden at tertiary hospitals. the district hospital has been prescribed to provide services in eleven specialties for which 9 civil surgeon specialists, 18-20 civil assistant surgeons, 54-84 paramedical staff and other supporting staff have been Posted. C)Improvement in drug supplies To ensure regular supply of drugs at all times and in all situations, a system of three sources of drug supply has been put in place for the hospitals under APVVP: (a) centralised drug procurement system under which the institution has been allotted drugs worth a particular amount based on bed strength (Rs 2000 per bed per quarter); (b) an emergency provision for drugs (Rs 100 per bed per month) has been made to every institution from where emergency procurement of drugs is made; (c) drugs which are in short supply and for which regular rate contract suppliers are not available have been stocked at the office of District Coordinators of Health Service. Under the APFRHSP, const-ruction and repair of 160 hospitals including 81 CHCs, 58 area hospitals and 21 district hospitals had been undertaken.(10) D)Formation of Andhra Pradesh Health, Medical & Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (APHM&HIDC) a separate corporation has been set up in 1987 exclusively for developing housing and other infrastructure for medical and paramedical staff and constructing sub centers, PHCs, hospitals, dispensaries, clinics and other health care centers One of the major projects undertaken by APHM&HIDC has been the World Bank assisted India Population Project-VIII launched for improving the medical care facilities in urban slums in 74 municipalities. E)Strengthening of PHCs as 24-hour MCH centers In a move to make available maternal and child health care at all times, 470 PHCs in backward districts have been designated as round the clock Mother and Child Health Centre (earlier called women health centres). One staff nurse, one ANM and three support staff have been appointed in each centre on contractual basis. Staff nurses have been trained to conduct normal deliveries and refer emergency cases. Additional facilities like telephone and vehicle have been provided to the PHCs in order to assist communication and transport for referral of emergency cases. Provision has been made to conduct fortnightly specialist clinics of gynaecology and paediatrics in these centres to detect high risk pregnancies and neonates for referral to FRUs. F)Establishment of Comprehensive Obstetric & Neonatal Care (CEmONC) centres The State Government has decided to establish 108, CEmONC centres spread across every district so that pregnant mothers requiring emergency care do not have to travel more than 40-50 kms to receive specialist care. Training of MBBS doctors in anaesthesia, neonatal care and blood transfusion is also planned to support this scheme. 2)Changes in health system organisation, delivery and Management A)Formation of Hospital Advisory Committee/ Hospital Development Societies for all PHCs and FRUs/ teaching hospitals Hospital Development Societies have been constituted in all tertiary hospitals under the control of Directorate of Medical Education.(18) and after implementing NRHM rogi kalyam samithi at every PHC were formed to ensure the adequate participation of local institution,with an aim to improve effective and efficient services with allowed flexible financial powers. These societies are examples for decentralization . Activities of the society include maintenance of the hospital (including sanitation & water supply, electricity, building & civil works and equipment), purchase of drugs & medicine supplies and equipment. The government has set norms and limits for undertaking these works which are to be adhered to by the Society. The 'system works', observed an Unicef team which assessed the impact of RKS towards the end of 2000. The system, however, is not without any lacunae. For, it was pointed out that "overall control of the local RKS bodies remain in the hands of the collector and if he is not interested in health care then the whole thing might just drift(13) B)Provision of free travel bus passes to pregnant women for antenatal check ups(19) The Government of Andhra Pradesh has started an innovative scheme in order to enable pregnant women in rural areas to avail antenatal check ups at the nearest PHC/area hospital or FRU. It has tied up with the State Road and Transport Corporation to issue free transportation bus tickets pass to be utilised for three visits. The ANM issues the bus passes to the pregnant women on her house visits. C)Public Private Partnership(20) · Management of Urban Health Centers by NGOs Under the World Bank assisted Andhra Pradesh Urban Slum Health Care Project (APUSHCP), 192 urban health centers (UHCs) have been established in 74 municipal towns in 21 districts covering 1848 slums. After withdrawal of support by the World Bank, the project has been funded by the state government since 2002. The outcomes of the project show marked improvement in ANC coverage, institutional deliveries, post natal care and immunisation in the slum population. · 108 emergency services Govt. has tied up with satyam computers to provide emergency transportation which proved to a most successful programme and many states are following the same like Gujarath. The objective of 108 Ambulances is to save people in life emergency . One ambulance is given for three mandals. Each ambulance fitted with equipment worth Rs.17 lakhs renders its services in life emergencies, road and fire accidents (22) · Rajiv arogya sree The innovative Govt. insurance scheme to serve people of poor from the serious ailments now attracting the nation as this programme succeeded. this scheme provides financial support to families of BPL upto 2 lakhs per anum for treating serious ailments. it is proposed to cover the entire state by 2nd October 2008 with the govt. paying the insurance premium for all the beneficiaries .an amount of rs.450 crores are provided to implement the scheme during 2008-09. (21) 3)Changes in financing methods A)Sukhibhava Scheme(23) Under the Scheme, a cash assistance of Rs.300 (Rs 200 towards transportation charges and Rs 100 for food and incidental expenses) is paid to pregnant women belonging to below poverty line families who come to government hospitals/APVVP hospitals/ teaching hospitals/PHCs/CHCs for delivery serv-ices. This assistance is payable only to those women with no living children or with one living child. B)User fees:- If user fees are charged their main use may lie in optimization of expenditure patterns and better allocation between facilities and within facilities(24). Reddy and Vandemoortele (1996), based on a comprehensive review of user financing of basic social services carried out for UNICEF, point to three other discouraging features of user fees: (1) user financing can result in a sharp reduction in the utilization of services, particularly among the poor; (2) gender biases, seasonal variations and regional economic disparities can aggravate the effects of user financing on equity; (3) user financing quires adequate capacities, effective decentralisation and continued government support; and (4) user financing can undermine political support for the goal of universal coverage of basic social services. In 2001, the Commission on Macroeconomics and Health (2001) also reached a similar conclusion that user fees end up excluding the poor from essential healthservices, in 2005, the Millennium Project's recent Report to the UN Secretary General (2005) titled "Investing in Development - A Practical Plan to Achieve the Millennium Development Goals" also forcefully argues for abandoning user fees. The health sector in India has acquired a notorious reputation for inefficiency and corruption at all levels. There is little accountability in both the public and private sectors. Quality standards are practically non-existent as are performance measures and honest reporting. A recent report on human resources for health brought out by Harvard University's Global Equity Initiative (2004) argues that it is people - health workers alone - who can produce an effective health system and deliver good ealth.(25) 4)Reforms related to human resources Integration and responsibilities of functionaries for planning, implementation and monitoring of programmes of HM & FW department At district level, District Health Coordination Committee (DHCC) has been constituted to ensure proper planning, implementation and monitoring of all programmes/activities of HM&FW Department in the district. The Committee has been entrusted with the primary responsibility of planning, finalizing, implementing and monitoring the District Health Action Plans and institutionwise health plans in a participatory manner including all concerned officials, other concerned departments and NGOs. 5)Involving community in health service delivery and Provision

Women Health Volunteers Scheme

One of the key components of the National Rural Health Mission is to provide every village in the country with a trained female community health activist - 'ASHA' or Accredited Social Health Activist. Selected from the village itself and accountable to it, the ASHA will be trained to work as an interface between the community and the public health system. Following are the key components of ASHA(26) A woman, usually a daughter-in-law of a house who has studied upto 7th class and preferably from SC/ST community has been selected as WHV by the Gram Panchayat Health Committee. The selected WHV has been given one month training in health care aspects of pregnancy, antenatal, delivery, post natal and new born care, immunisation, diarrhoea, acute respiratory infections, first-aid and treatment of minor ailments. The training has been provided at Telugu Mahila Pranganams for three weeks and one week field level training at PHCs. Academy of Nursing Studies has been designated as the nodal agency for providing training to WHVs. 6)Reforms to quality of care A)Performance indicators for grading the PHCs One of the components of World Bank assisted AP Economic Restructuring Project is improvement of primary health care. In order to improve the quality of primary health care services, a system of performance rating has been developed to rate PHCs and CHCs. The grading has been accorded A to C in descending order B)Performance rating of secondary hospitals A performance rating system for secondary hospitals under APVVP has been introduced. The indicators related to general services (outpatients, inpatients, bed occupancy), emergency services (emergency-OP, emergency-IP, emergency major operations, emergency minor operations), clinical services (major/minor operations, tubectomy, deliveries) and diagnostic services (X-ray, ECG, lab tests and USG) have been developed for the purpose. Normative targets for each type of hospital (district hospital, area hospital, community health center) have been fixed against which the performance is measured and rating assigned. Highest grading is A while lowest grading is C.(27) Conclusion:- Introduction of user charges and subcontracting of services to the private sector are the main elements of health sector reforms. The health sector reforms are only a part of drastic reforms in other major sectors undertaken as a part of Andhra Pradesh Economic Restructuring Project (APERP) and the overall impact on the health conditions of people and their access to medical care depend more on the changes proposed outside the health sector. For instance, while exempting the white ration card holders i.e. the poor from the user charges in the government hospitals, it proposes to drastically reduce the number of white card holders to half in the state. The net affect would be to reduce the percent of population eligible for free treatment.(29) On the other hand the success of 108 EMRI services and overwhelming response from Rajiv Arogya sree scheme are the examples for HSR success. Just like every thing has gots its own pros and cons HSR should be done in such a way where the need exist and according to necessities . Referances:- (Note:-most part of the article was taken from ref.no 28 otherwise reference specified)

(Government of India, Eighth Five Year Plan, (1992-1997) Planning Commission, New Delhi.)
(Government of India, Ninth Five Year Plan, (1997- 2002) Planning Commission, New Delhi )
( Government of India, Tenth Five Year Plan (2002-2007) Planning Commission, New Delhi)
( D. Agarwal Health Sector Reforms: Relevance in India, Indian Journal of Community Medicine Vol. 31, No. 4, October-December, 2006)
Health Sector Reforms in India, Initiatives from Nine States
( http://www.idrc.ca/en/ev-118491-201-1-DO_TOPIC.html.The international development research centre)
http://www.worldbank.org.in
(The Andhra Pradesh Vaidya Vidhana Parishad Act 1986 (Act No. 29 of 1986 with Amendaments upto 31.03.1989
Dr. MCR Human Resource Development Institute of Andhra Pradesh (Undated). "Andhra Pradesh Vaidya Vidhana Parishad Departmental Manual"
6http://www.aponline.gov.in/apportal/departments/ departments.asp?dep=16&org=98
GoAP (2006), Response to Questionnaire on Health Sector Reforms from MOHFW, GoI.
http://www.worldbank.org.in/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/COUNTRIES/SOUTHASIAEXT/INDIAEXTN/0,,contentMDK:20970681~pagePK:141137~piPK:141127~theSitePK:295584,00.html#Ongoing_projects
Grish kumar,promoting PPP in health services,EPW commentary,july19,2002
(G.O.Ms.No.130, HEALTH MEDICAL AND FAMILY WELFARE (K2) DEPARTMENT. Dated the 24th April, 2006)
ANDHRA PRADESH HEALTH SECTOR REFORM PROGRAMME (APHSRP) Terms of reference for Technical Cooperation (TC) to DoHMFW, GoAP
PRESS INFORMATION BUREAU GOVERNMENT OF INDIA, HEALTHCARE PROJECT IN AP FUNDED BY DFID, New Delhi, March 5, 2008)
http://lnweb90.worldbank.org/oed/oeddoclib.nsf/DocUNIDViewForJavaSearch/0CFD6217A8A5BDA2852567F5005D32BD
G.O.Ms.No.403, dated Sept 7th 1998
GoAP (2006), Response to Questionnaire on Health Sector Reforms from MOHFW, GoI.
Power Point Presentation of Govt of AP at the 2nd Regional Workshop on Health Sector Reforms: Experiences of Select States at Hyderabad, 14-15th February 2005 and ECTA Working paper 2002/61 Public-Private Partnership: Operational Framework used in Andhra Pradesh and Assam
http://www.scribd.com/doc/2208678/AP-Budget-Speech
http://pibhyd.ap.nic.in/er27070702.pdf
Dept. of Health Medical Family Welfare, GoAP (undated), "Sukhibhava (Improvement of Institutional Delivery Services Scheme): Implementation Guidelines to PHC/Hospital
http://mohfw.nic.in/NRHM/Documents/CRM_report_full_report_version.pdf
(A.K.Shiv Kumar,,Budgeting for health ,some considerations) Economic and Political Weekly April 2, 2005
http://mohfw.nic.in/NRHM/asha.htm#abt
http://health.ap.nic.in/apvvp/apvvp_stat.html
(http://www.whoindia.org/linkfiles/health_sector_reform_hsr_vol_ii_-_andhra_pradesh.pdf)
(Impact Of Health Sector Reforms On Hospital Services In Andhra Pradesh - A Study Of Trends In The Structures Of Provision And Utilisation Pattern)(centre for economic and social studies) (http://www.cess.ac.in/cesshome/research6b.html)

On The Issue Of Menopause-- Women Should Be Aware

2009-07-09T21:53:00.001-07:00

Women, in most situations, take their health for granted because they think they are just overwhelmed with tasked and responsibilities to be rendered for their husband and children for them to focus on their health. That is why many end up with regrets of the results of making not their health as one of their top priorities.

Women should give equal care for their loved ones and for themselves.

It is very essential to promote and to become advocate on women's health.

For instance, on the issue of menopause, it is essential for women to speak up, to voice out and to share their health problems so to ease the burden its effects-- whether physical or psychological

Menopause, whether it is surgically induced occurs naturally, is a major mind and body event-- every woman should be aware of this fact. Perhaps, it make sounds appealing at first, the changes that you and your body will experience can be hard to cope with. Before you go under the knife, be aware of the changes you will have to go through.

Do not trust your hormone treatment to anybody else, not even your doctor. Look for a specialist who is well versed in hormonal medication. Relying on your doctor to recommend somebody may not be good enough. But, take all of the suggestions from the sources you may have. Be willing to check out a number of alternatives or options before deciding on the doctor who will treat you.

The effects of surgical menopause are not well known in regards to other type of ailments. Researchers are still working to find out how surgical menopause affects women when it comes to heart disease and other women health issues.

After surgical menopause you should expect to experience a number of the symptoms of menopause. Hot flashes usually experience by women who have surgical menopause. A decrease in sexual desire and vaginal dryness may be present. Difficulty sleeping and nigh sweats are common also. Mood swings and depression are no uncommon and in severe cases some women experience suicidal thoughts-- be aware of this.

Having personal support is essential. Close friends and family members will be a significant source of support. But, do not solely rely on friends and family. Seek out support groups and or individual counseling in coping with this problem. Chances are, very few or none of your personal support system members have experienced surgical menopause. They may not be able to comprehend many of the things you are going through. Support groups with others who know what you are experiencing can be extremely helpful.

Read up on surgical menopause before going through it. Tap into the resources that your doctor and medical center may have. Try all forms of support during surgical menopause even if you thinking they will not be helpful. Your entire life is going to change after surgical menopause.

Join a Womenâs Health Club and be in Control of your Life

2009-07-09T17:36:00.001-07:00

Being a woman is not always easy. You are faced with different types of issues almost at any stage in your life. As soon as you get to be a teenager you also get your monthly menstruation, then as you get married you get to be pregnant, and when you thought all the major issues were over you get your menopause.

All these changes in a woman's life come with their own side effects. These side effects include things such as hormonal imbalances, and these are things that a woman simply must learn how to handle in order to lead a happy and enjoyable life.

Good News and Bad News

The good news is all the changes that occur naturally in your life can be made pleasant and enjoyable. The bad news is you have to take interest in changing them from bad to good; they are not going to change by themselves. Start by joining a women's health club where you will be able to tackle every problem as it occurs.

What does a Women's Health Club Offer?

A women's health club usually has the essentials a women need: information, education and how to put them in action. In a women's health club you can find specialized staff such as doctors and nurses to assist you with your questions of any woman related problem you may encounter and how to handle the same.

At the same time, in a women's health club you will learn how to deal with everyday issues such as stress, marital problems, financial issues and weight loss. You can find qualified counseling in women's problems as well as women's health specialists to help you understand your body and at the same time help you deal with on hand situations.

Many women head for depressive break downs due to hormonal imbalances or other natural happening in their lives such as pregnancy and menopause. Having someone qualified to help you walk through these difficult situations is the right approach to the problem.

Helpful Tip

Women's health clubs will also allow you meet other women who are or have been in your situation and you can learn from their experiences as well as you will meet women who are going through the same issues you are and that too may provide you a source of strength. Take control of your life and bring back happiness into it by joining a women's health club today.

The Whole Woman and Her Whole Wellness: Physical Health and Well-being

2009-07-09T09:16:00.001-07:00

A woman is beautiful as she is! Welcome to the power of women, the power that makes them just as capable, as smart, as funny, and as compassionate as men. More than that, it empowers them to take up her distinctive position in society, at the same time being a daughter, a wife, a mother, homemaker, and all the other roles her considerable responsibilities call upon her seemingly infinite energy. Along with this emotional fluency, skill required to make a family survive and the language of power, the quintessential woman needs to be physically fit as well.

Very few physical disorders are unique to women, or are more prevalent or serious in women. Medical wellness consultants will inform you that the earliest to appear are precocious puberty, anorexia and bulimia. Reproductive health concerns are a major focus of women's health. Cancer is the leading cause of death in middle-aged women. Smoking contributes to numerous causes of death and disability among women.

Lung Cancer: Cancer accounts for maximum deaths among women aged between 35 to 54 years. For years, breast cancer was the leading cancer killer among women, but now lung cancer takes the lead with more and more women taking to cigarette smoking. What makes this change frightening and dramatic is that lung cancer is a preventable disease, yet today it kills more women than breast cancer.

Breast Cancer: There is, however, good news from women health specialists regarding breast cancer treatment. Modification in surgical procedures, research indicating that estrogen receptors respond well to a drug called tamoxifen and experimenting with a new drug called RU-486, along with women taking a more active part in their health care are considerable contributions to the treatment of breast cancer.

Gallstones occur four times more frequently in women than men. Attributed to multiple pregnancies, obesity, and rapid weight loss, the real cause of this disorder is still unknown. Stones are formed in the gall bladder due to a saturation of cholesterol and bile salts that crystallize and collect over time. A number of experimental drugs are being used as an alternative to a surgical approach called cholecystectomy.

Menopause and Osteoporosis: Post-menopausal women often suffer a disorder called Osteoporosis. Lack of estrogen after menopause causes loss of bone mass, resulting in weak bones that are susceptible to easy injury in case of a fall or mishap. There are no symptoms, and that is why Osteoporosis is known as the "silent disease". Certain steps can be taken to prevent osteoporosis from ever occurring. Women over the age of 50 have the greatest risk of developing osteoporosis and Caucasian and Asian women are more likely to develop this condition. Heredity and less body weight are an important risk factors. Exercise, calcium, vitamin D, and post-menopausal estrogen replacement play an important role in preventing this disorder.

Thyroid abnormalities are four to five times more common among women than among men. While, there is effective treatment, the cause again is unknown. Arthritis and diabetes are other disorders that are more common in women. Lupus erythematosus is a disease in which 90 percent of the victims are women.

Hence, there are quite a few disorders that are more frequent in women than in men or that differentially affect women. While considerable progress has been made to combat most of these, there remains much to be learned about others.

It is every woman's prerogative to form clear questions about her physical health, find clear answers, gain a sense of empowerment through knowledge, and inevitably achieve peace of mind through total wellness. Here is information shared, openly and candidly, associated with women health and wellness. We women need to arm ourselves. We need this knowledge to manage our own care.

Cooperating In Our Health Care

2009-07-09T00:56:00.001-07:00

Funny thing pain, if you’ve never had a severe pain then the suggestion of taking simple analgesia and resting the affected area all seems quite reasonable. I was reminded of this when I read recently of a doctor’s advice to someone who was suffering from sciatica. Having personally experienced sciatica, it’s a condition I would not recommend to anyone who wishes to walk, sit, laugh, sleep, or to just simply pull up your trousers. It’s a bit like a dentist drilling your teeth without an anaesthetic, but it affects your whole leg. In other words the pain is consuming, exhausting and without respite. Clinical studies do show that in the majority of cases the pain will eventually subside and surgery may not be necessary, but in the meantime the patient has to deal with the pain or deal with the medication required to dull the pain. Remember, pain-killers are not selective to the area affected. They affect the whole of the nervous system and elsewhere so there may be significant side-effects from these medications.

Dealing with severe pain can be a complex issue, but I suggest that you have to treat this sort of pain fairly aggressively as acute severe pain is relatively easier to treat than chronic severe pain. In the early stages of an injury or insult to an area of the body, most of the pathological processes are happening at the site of the injury or insult. Throughout time the brain begins to modulate this pain and so no only do you have the injured area to deal with, but you also have complex neural pathways within the brain to deal with as well. This often means a far more complex management plan and a far more protracted recovery time. Specialists are very skilled at dealing with these issues but they do rely heavily on the stories their patients give them. That means being honest in answering their questions and not being heroic with a grin and bear it grimace! Often the use of a pain scale is helpful with zero being no pain at all and a 10 being the worse pain you have ever experienced.

Another health issue we commonly down play is influenza. Over the years I have frequently heard people say that they would not have the flu vaccine because either they never get the flu or that they had it last week for a couple of days and then it was all over! Influenza is a serious debilitating disease that will usually last from 10 days to two weeks and often leave you flat on your back exhausted. It’s not a happy 10 days either as patients do not have the energy to read a magazine or even watch a DVD. You will literally feel ancient with every movement being a real challenge and that doesn’t include the aching all over or the fevers and sleepless nights. The influenza virus is also extremely contagious and most people are unaware that if you spread it to someone who is more frail than yourself that you may actually be putting their life at risk.

With the ‘flu the big challenge is to vaccinate as many people in the community as possible, including children, those employed and unemployed, the elderly and the infirm, to reduce the chance of an epidemic occurring. Recent research has also showed that vaccinating pregnant women in the last trimester of their pregnancy will help protect their new born infants born during the ‘flu season.

Medicine has evolved over the last 40 years, but the change has been fairly slow with doctors by nature being very cautious and conservative people. But we can’t leave the doctors to take all the initiatives. As patients we need to be good listeners in our approach to health by heeding all the great health messages that keep being given to us about vaccinations, smoking, alcohol, exercise and healthy eating. We also need to be good communicators and tell our doctors how we are feeling with conditions such as pain. If the team treating you doesn’t have the best information then it may be that you will not end up getting the best treatment!

Hair Loss: Avoid it With Few Easy Tips

2009-07-08T21:16:00.001-07:00

Silky, glowing and shinning hair with just one week usage of a hair product? well that only happens in advertisements shown on television. In real life, Most of the times, niether shampoo nor any other hair product can make that happen. Several women, rather majority, are worried about hair losses and other hair problems which do not get resolve even after using the best hair product in the market. Why does this happen?

This happens because of the wrong approach towards treating hair. Hair is one of the most fastest growing tissues in the body and hence requires regular feed of proper protiens, complex carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals for it to stay healthy. Healthy diet for hair is often neglected which results in bad hair and at times even loss of hair.

As already discussed, protiens are essential because they have the amino acids that helps build the cells. Meat, eggs, diary products like cheese, butter, soya, nuts, seeds and whole grains can provide the required protiens. Include these in your diet to improve the condition of your hair.

Body also requires proper amounts of "good fat" in order to tackle the dandruff and coarse hair. Cabohydrates in your diet are also essential because they help in building the body tissues which also include hair. A proper combination of all vitamins like Vit A and Beta carotene, Vit C, Vit E, Biotin, The B Complex group, Zinc are needed in your diet.

Apart from proper diet, ensure that your body is properly hydrated. Drink lot of water which generally flushes out harmful toxins and waste from the body. Club your diet with proper exercise plan that replinshes your skin and muscle. Drink atleast 2 liters of water daily in order to avoid dryness in hair.

Restrict Tea or coffee to only once a day. Replace the need with good and healthy fruit juices. Take proper care of your hair by oiling it regularly, using a good conditioner and maintaining it. Sometimes too long hair may also result in hair loss because of the neglected maintianence. Ensure that your hair cut is perfect with the time you can spend in looking after your hair. Those women who do not have much time to spare for their hair, should shorten their hair so that maintainence is less.

Finally we can only say that a combination of proper diet, water and exercise would automatically turn your hair into a beauty. The hair shown in advertisements can actually be achieved in the real life, but there is hardwork and dedication behind it.

Breast Cancer: The Woman Snatcher

2009-06-23T09:16:00.001-07:00

Breast Cancer is one of the dreadful cancers known to us in the history of Mankind. Out of every 4 women, one suffers from it in some part of her life. With the present lifestyle changing day by day, This cancer is becoming more and more common within women.

With the chances of any woman developing Breast Cancer in their life is 12%, it would be important to glance through some statistics that throw light on deaths and survivals that took place in the last decade. Analytical Health experts say that about 1.3 million women suffered from Breast cancer in 2007, out of which 465,000 resulted in deaths.

Breast Cancer deaths have been declining steadily since early 90's because of the improvement in the treatments and early cancer detection. This year, only 40, 000 deaths are expected compared to last year.

The unhealthy lifestyle is the basic reason for this cancer to prevail. Unhealthy diet, smoking, drinking alcohol, irregular sleep etc cause this cancer to erupt in most women. A simple change of lifestyle to a more stable one can easily restrict breast cancer from erupting.

Breast Cancer is more prevalent in Western countries because of the above mentioned factors. Heavy work pressures, feeling low in life, etc also add upto the factors. Most of the women who survived breast cancer could do it only by changing their Life style to a more stable one.

Apart from that, Women should be educated and taught to diagnose Breast Cancer at an early stage. Regular and routine checkup should be made compulsory. Government should provide free Health Checkup plans for the larger masses who cannot afford heavy medical bills.

Just following the above simple methods, we can easily curb this dreadful cancer and ensure the safety of our women. Lets act early before this Cancer snatches away our women!

Source: Health Signal

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