January, 2008

Scientists have found that breast cancer is linked to the genetic mutation of the gene BRCA1. PTEN which usually acts as a brake on cancer is broken and does not repair itself. This sets off a chemical cascade that leads to a malignancy. Pharmaceutical companies have been testing drugs that seek to interrupt the cascade. Marc E. Lippman, M.D., chairman of the Department of Medicine and one of the nation's leading breast cancer researchers predicts that with the enormous gains in a variety of technologies breast cancer can be eradicated in the next 20 years. Chronic infections from viruses, bacteria and parasites can cause 15-20% of all cancers. Most of the other cancers are caused by a mutation or mistakes within the genetic codes of cells. The public, as well as health workers, should be aware that chronic infection can be a preventable cause of cancer. Three inspiring stories of giving for the holiday season: 1) A family in Pinecrest has donated thousands of dollars to fund cancer research at UM by allowing visitors to view their elaborate holiday light display. 2) A generous UM/Sylvester patient from Delray Beach has donated a flexible ureteroscope for UM/Sylvester at Deerfield Beach. 3) A young woman in Pinecrest has been selling delicious home baked cookies to raise money for research at UM/Sylvester. As we get older our brains get "out of sync" leading to "senior moments". These changes are not necessarily due to Alzheimers and most aged people will never experience this disease. William O'Neill, M.D., executive dean of Clinical Affairs has stated that an effective drug for atrial fibrillation without warfarin-like baggage will be an instant blockbuster. Many drug companies are in a race to find the next blood thinner. Researchers are moving closer to help heart attack survivors from suffering sudden cardiac arrest. They will be using transplanted cells to protect these patients. Dr. Salahadin Abdi, M.D., professor of Clinical Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology at the Miller School of Medicine, spoke at the Presidents meeting about alleviating pain in the lower back. Patients should discuss their pain with their primary physician and have him actually feel where it hurts. There are 3 options to alleviate pain- 1) Physical therapy, 2) Epidural-should be given only after a fluoroscope or x-ray and to the exact point of the pain, 3) Medication for either the pain or depression. The University of Miami acquired the 560-bed Cedars Medical Center to fulfill a long-held goal. The hospital has become the University of Miami Hospital. Naomi Prever - VP Education - naomirltr@bellsouth.net - 561-997-6020