January, 2009

Kerry Bernstein, Ph.D, professor of molecular and cellular pharmacology, spoke at last month's Presidents meeting and discussed the importance of vitamin D supplements. She stressed that vitamin D deficiency is a problem in our population especially among the elderly. Clinical trails using vitamin D in prostate cancer patients has shown great progress in extending life. Vitamin D has also helped patients with colon and breast cancers. Suggested dosage is 1000mg for women and 2000mg for men. Dr. Bernstein expressed her gratitude to the Pap Corps for helping fund these studies. A new study of nearly 6000 women found that while regular exercise appeared to reduce their risk of cancer, the benefit was likely to be lost if they did not get enough sleep. As the life span of people with HIV has increased their risk of developing a non-AIDS cancer is the same as members of the general population. Women who are wealthier, more educated and who do not live in inner cities are more likely to have immediate breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. Smoking and drinking are associated with three esophageal and stomach cancer subtypes. They are head and neck, the lower esophagus and gastric carcinoma. Bowel cancer can become aggressive. A tumor suppressor protein called Pten is critical in stopping tumors from growing in mice. Scientists found that when Pten becomes faulty some of these tumors turn aggressive. A new study identifies three groups of people with distinct sun protection behaviors and finds those who are among the most vulnerable to skin cancer use the least amount of sunscreen. The Victor Center for Jewish Genetic Diseases at the University of Miami has been funded by a donation from Lois Victor, who lost her two daughters to a genetic disease. Lois, an active member of the Greater Boca Raton Unit of the Pap Corps will speak at our Health Day on March 9th. The center does preconception genetic testing for nine disorders prominent among Ashkenazi Jews. Gary Kleiner, M.D., associate professor of clinical pediatrics at the Miller School of Medicine participated in a clinical trial using umbilical cord blood transfusions to successfully treat a baby suffering from a rare form of leukemia. There is a growing shortage of primary care doctors and it is getting critical. Doctors surveyed blamed the practice environment of "red tape" and "payment issues". Young medical students feel there is more money to pay off their debts in sub-specialties. Camillo Ricordi, M.D., distinguished professor of medicine and scientific director of the Diabetes Research Institute, and Luca Inverardi, M.D., research professor of medicine and leader of stem cell research at the Diabetes Research Institute are working to treat type I diabetes. They are transplanting beta-cells from an organ donor pancreas and growing stem cells into insulin-producing cells. James Schwade, M.D., voluntary professor of radiation oncology and executive director of the Cyberknife centers of Miami and Palm Beach treats lung cancer in a unique way. The Cyberknife allows patients to receive non-invasive treatments in 3-4 outpatient visits. These image-guided robotic radio centers are the first in southeastern United States. Joshua Hare, M.D., chief of the cardiovascular division and director of the Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute at the Miller School of Medicine, is leading clinical trials to see if stem cells from a patient's own bone marrow can repair the damage caused by heart attacks. Men with locally advanced prostate cancer that has spread beyond the wall of the prostate gland can undergo radiation treatment plus long term hormone treatment. Studies show that this cuts the risk of dying in half. More cases of blood cancers classified as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma or NHL seem to occur among people with diabetes than those without diabetes. Immune changes in the body due to diabetes may account for the increased risk. Because of new medical advances the U.S. death rates for heart disease and stroke have dropped about 30 percent since 1999. The FDA is taking a closer look at popular cosmetic treatments called dermal fillers that help smooth away deep lines and wrinkles on the face. There have been reports of allergic reaction, including some that were life-threatening such as anaphylactic shock. More study is needed but the public should be aware. Stress increases the risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular problems by pushing people toward bad habits such as smoking and lack of exercise. New research shows there may be genetic and physiological reasons for longevity running in families. In fact, the children who live to 100 or beyond are themselves less likely to develop cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. If you enjoy reading this FYI don't miss our HEALTH DAY-It's All About Me-March 9, 2009 at the Deerfield Hilton. You will meet the top doctors from Sylvester and can choose topics such as: Stress, Genetics, Male or Female Health Issues, and Cosmetics/ Dermatology. Our luncheon speaker will be Dr. Arthur Agatston, leading cardiologist and author of the South Beach Diet program. The cost for the day is $75 including breakfast, lunch and many free goodies. Please call me for more information about this very informative, exciting Pap Corps event. Naomi Prever - VP - Education - naomirltr@bellsouth.net - 561-997-6020