Smile More...
Walk More...
Live life More... Chief Editor : Dr. Aniruddha Malpani, M.D.
July’2012, Rs.10
GLOBAL CAnCer rATe TO sUrGe 75% By 2030
T
he number of people with cancer is set to Organisation's International Agency for Research surge by more than 75% across the world on Cancer in Lyon, France. But those advances by 2030, with parcould come at a cost ticularly sharp rises in an increase in cases of poor countries as they cancers linked to poor adopt unhealthy "Westdiet, lack of exercise ernized" lifestyles, a and other bad habits asstudy said . sociated with affluence Many developing counand linked to diseases tries were expected to like breast, prostate and see a rise in living stancolorectal cancers, it dards in coming added. decades, said the paper from the World Health P T N
N
DIAL TO QUIT TOBACCO
icorette, manufacturer of tobacco cessation products, announced the launch of a National Tobacco Cessation Quit Line-1800 227787 to mark the World No Tobacco Day. The national quitline is a dedicated toll-free number that can be reached daily from 9 am to 9 pm from May 31 onwards. The quitline will provide free support and guidance to tobacco users to overcome their addiction and increase their chances of quitting successfully. This quitline is designed to help tobacco users by answering their queries, formulating a personalised quit plan depending on their tobacco consumption pattern (cigarettes, beedis and other forms of chewing tobacco) and supporting them through the entire 12 week journey of quitting tobacco through a com-
bination of phone calls, text messages, emails and hand deliveries. Callers will receive tobacco cessation counselling in English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati and Bengali. This free of charge service can be used by all tobacco users, friends and families of tobacco users and even healthcare practitioners seeking to provide tobacco cessation therapy for their
patients. To support the telephone counselling, callers wanting on-ground support will be referred to a local Tobacco Intervention Initiative (TII) center of the Indian Dental Association (IDA). At each center, dentists trained in tobacco cessation will help tobacco users give up their addiction and improve their health. Currently there are 500 TII centers across India. P T N
Most dental professionals agree that a soft-bristled brush is best for removing plaque and debris from your teeth. Small-headed brushes are also preferable, since they can better reach all areas of the mouth, including hard-to-reach back teeth. For many, a powered toothbrush is a good alternative. It can do a better job of cleaning roper Brushing takes at least two minutes — that's teeth, particularly for those who have difficulty brushing or right, 120 seconds! Most adults do not come close who have limited manual dexterity. To find the right Colto brushing that long. To get a feel for the time in- gate toothbrush for you, . volved, try using a stopwatch. To properly brush your How Important is the Toothpaste I Use? teeth, use short, gentle strokes, paying extra attention to It is important that you use a toothpaste that's right for the gumline, hard-to-reach back teeth and areas around you. Today there is a wide variety of toothpaste designed fillings, crowns or other restoration. Concentrate on thor- for many conditions, including cavities, gingivitis, tartar, oughly cleaning each section as follows: stained teeth and sensitivity. Ask your dentist which tooth• Clean the outer surfaces of your upper teeth, then your paste is right for you. lower teeth How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush? • Clean the inner surfaces of your upper teeth, then your You should replace your toothbrush when it begins to lower teeth show wear, or every three months, whichever comes first. • Clean the chewing surfaces It is also very important to change toothbrushes after • For fresher breath, be sure to brush your tongue, too you've had a cold, since the bristles can collect germs that Tilt the brush at a 45° angle against the gumline and can lead to infection. sweep or roll the brush away from the gumline. Gently brush the outside, inside and chewing surface of each tooth using short back-andforth strokes. G e n t l y brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath. What Type of Toothbrush Should I Use?
How To BrusH
what Is the right way to Brush?
P
P T N
H
ypertension, which is also commonly known as high blood pressure is a medical condition where ones blood pressure is chronically elevated. It is a serious condition that can lead mto coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, as well as other problems related to health. Hypertension in itself usually manifests no symptoms although some people report headaches, fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, facial flushing, transient insomnia or difficulty sleeping due to feeling hot or flushed, and tinnitus during beginning onset or prior to the diagnosis of hypertension. Usually, the condition is just incidentally found by a healthcare professional when a routine checkup is done. The only test that can be done to know if one has hypertension is for blood pressure to be measured. Blood pressure is the force of blood that push against the walls of the arteries. Each time that the heart beats, it also pumps out blood into the arteries. Ones blood pressure is at the
highest when the heart beats and pumps the blood, this is what is called systolic pressure. On the other hand, when the heart is at rest, in-between beats, the blood pressure falls and this is then called the diastolic pressure. The reading for blood pressure makes use of two numbers, the systolic and diastolic pressures, which is
pressure and having a blood pressure of 120 and 139 for the top number, or between 80 and 89 for the bottom number is then a condition called prehypertension wherein one is identified to be at high risk of developing hypertension. Hypertension has two classifications; it can either be essential (primary) or secondary. In essential hypertension no specific medical cause can be found to explain a patient's condition while in a secondary hypertension the high blood pressure is a result of another condition, such as kidney disease or tumours (pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma). Though regarded as a serious medical condition, yet, hypertension can be controlled by having a healthy lifestyle habits such as weight reduction, regular aerobic exercises, reducing sugar and sodium (salt) in the , avoiding tobacco use and alcohol consumption as well as minimizing stress along with the regular intake of medicines, if needed.
UNDERSTANDING HYPERTENSION
usually written one above or before the other. A reading of 120/80 or lower is considered normal blood pressure, 140/90 or higher reading is high blood
P T N
Ibuprofen Drug Facts Ibuprofen (NSAID)* *nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug Purpose Pain reliever/fever Uses temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to: • headache • minor pain of arthritis • the common cold • muscular aches • temporarily reduces fever • backache • toothache • menstrual cramps warnings Allergy alert: Ibuprofen may cause a severe allergic reaction, especially in people allergic to aspirin. Symptoms may include: • hives • facial swelling • asthma (wheezing) • shock • skin reddening • rash • blister If an allergic reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away. stomach bleeding warning: This product contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which may cause stomach bleeding. The chance is higher if you: • are age 60 or older • have had stomach ulcers or bleeding problems • take a blood thinning (anticoagulant) or steroid drug
•
take other drugs containing an NSAID [aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others] • have 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product • take more or for a longer time than directed do not use • if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other pain reliever/fever reducer • right before or after heart surgery ask a doctor before use if you have • problems or serious side effects from taking pain relievers or fever reducers • stomach problems that last or come back, such as heartburn, upset stomach, or stomach pain • ulcers • bleeding problems • high blood pressure • heart or kidney disease • taken a diuretic • reached age 60 or older ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are • taking any other drug containing an NSAID (prescription or nonprescription) • taking a blood thinning (anticoagulant) or steroid drug • under a doctor’s care for any serious condition • taking any other drug when using this product
•
take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs • long term continuous use may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke stop use and ask a doctor if • you feel faint, vomit blood, or have bloody or black stools. These are signs of stomach bleeding. • pain gets worse or lasts more than 10 days • fever gets worse or lasts more than 3 days • stomach pain or upset gets worse or lasts • redness or swelling is present in the painful area • any new symptoms appear If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. It is especially important not to use ibuprofen during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery. Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. directions • do not take more than directed • the smallest effective dose should be used • do not take longer than 10 days, unless directed by a doctor (see Warnings)
P T N
MeTforMIN: wHaT sHould I Tell My docTor? Prior to taking metformin ormetformin ER you should talk with your healthcare provider if you have: • Kidney problems, including kidney failure (renal failure) • Liver problems, including liver failure or cirrhosis • Low vitamin B12 levels (pernicious anemia) • Congestive heart failure (CHF) • Had a heart attack or stroke
•
An upcoming surgery or procedure (including xrays or other radiology procedures) • Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives. Also, let your healthcare provider know if you: • Are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant • Are breastfeeding • Drink alcohol regularly.
P T N
• The expiry date of all With the onset of summers packed eatables / come water-borne disdrinks should aleases. Gastroenteritis, ways be checked Jaundice, Typhoid before consumption. Fever, Cholera and Diar• Drinking water container rhea are some very common should be washed everyday. water-borne diseases in summers and rainy seasons. To be in the pink of health, it is important • Only warm and fresh cooked food should be conto take necessary precautions against these diseases. sumed. To do this, individuals and their family members should • Plenty of water and fluids should be consumed before stepping out in the heat. keep the following in mind : doNT's do's • Consumption of water, milkshakes and fruit juices from • Nails should be cut short once every three days. roadside vendors should be avoided. • Only filtered / branded bottle water should be con• Avoid eating cut fruits, Chat and food material from sumed. roadside Vendors. • Wash hands properly with soap and water before con• Oily and spicy food should be avoided. suming food. • If a person does not have a water purification system, • Half cooked / pre-cooked / refrigerated food should not be consumed. he/she should drink water after boiling and cooling it . • If a person is suffering from loose motions, he/she • Leaving home/office empty stomach should be avoided. should immediately see a Doctor and drink ORS (Oral • Avoid sharing utensils while consuming food. Re-hydration Solution) to prevent dehydration. • Do not bite nails with the help of teeth. • ORS should be continued till loose motions stops. • If a person is suffering from vomiting, he/she should not • Do not expose food and beverages to flies. eat/drink anything, otherwise the frequency of vomiting • Never do self-medication. Neither take medicines directly from chemist shop. Medicines should always will increase which will cause further water loss and elecbe taken after getting proper advice from a qualified trolyte imbalance. Doctor should be consulted doctor. immediately.
PREVENTION OF WATER BORNE DISEASES
P T N
INFORMATION TO PATIENTS Procure your medicines only from licensed retail pharmacies (chemist shops). Insist on obtaining a bill / cash memo or invoice for your medicines as this is your major guarantee against spurious / counterfeit medicines. Your medicines may expire well before their date of expiry if not stored properly. Store your medicines in a cool, dark & dry place. Kitchen or bathroom cabinets are not the appropriate storage places. Taking alcohol along with medicines can be harmful. The medicines prescribed for you are meant for you only. Do not give them to others even if their symptoms are similar For common ailments - consult your Pharmacist.
If the symptoms persist beyond 3 days refer your doctor. Do not self medicate other than for minor ailments, or for more than 3 days. Do not discontinue taking your prescribed medicines until advised by your doctor. Take complete course of the prescribed medicines particularly if they are antibiotics. You can import up to 100 doses of your medicines against your Doctor's prescription. Contact Central Drugs Standard Control Organization, Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi 110011, Phone: 23061806 for further information in this regard. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children. Courtesy by: CDSCO.nic.in
ZINC BENIFITS
SubScribe Today for 12 issues just rs.100 only
New Delhi: Zinc, which is essential for normal growth and development of infants and children, has now found to be a wonder cure for kids suffering from serious bacterial infections such as pneumonia and meningitis, according to a new study carried out in Delhi hospitals. The study, which was conducted at three hospitals AIIMS, Kalawati Saran Children’s Hospital and Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital in Delhi, and published in the British medical journal The Lancet shows that 43 percent reduction in death among babies suffering from bacterial sepsis when zinc is administered along with standard antibiotics
P T N
,A=@9 &CF9
,A=@9 &CF9 %=J9 @=:9 &CF9 <=9: 8=HCF
<=9: 8=HCF
F
F
05@? &CF9 05@? &CF9
%=J9 @=:9 &CF9 B=FI88<5 &5@D5B= & & B=FI88<5 &5@D5B=
#I@MU #I@MU
+G +G
B5@ ;9B7M :CF +9G95F7< <9 BIA69F C: D9CD@9 K=H< 75B79F =G G9H (F;5B=G5H=CB G "BH9FB5H=C HC HC (F;5B=G5H=CB GIF;9 6M ACF9 H<5B K=H< 75B79F =G G9H %MCB F5B79;9B7M "BH9FB5H=CB5@ 5B79FG =B 58J5B79G BIA69F C: D9CD@9 57FCGG :CF +9G95F7< H<9 KCF@8 H<9 KCF@8 IH H<CG9 CB CB 5B79F =B %MCB F5B79 57FCGG 6M <9 K=H< D5F 7CGH GIF;9 6M ACF9 H<5B 7CI@8 7CA9 5H 5 H=7I@5F@M G<5FD F=G9G =B D5F IH H<CG9 K=H< =B 75G9G C: 58J5B79G 6M 5B =B7F95G9 DCCF 7CIBHF=9G 5G H<9M DCCF 7CI@8 7CA9 5H@=B?98 F=G9G =B G<5FD 75B79FG 5 7CGHHC 58CDHH=7I@5F@M IB<95@H<M 09GH H<9M 5B =B7F95G9@57? C: 9L9F7=G9 =B 75G9G 7CIBHF=9G 5G C: DCCF @=:9GHM@9G 8=9H 9FB=N98 509GH 75B79FG @=B?98 <56=HG 5G HC DCCF CH<9F 658 5B8 GHI8M 58CDH G5=8 IB<95@H<M 8=9H @57? C: 9L9F7=G9 @=:9GHM@9G 5 GC7=5H98 K=H< 5::@I9B79 &5BM 9FB=N98 89J9@CD=B; 7CIB 5B8 CH<9F 658 8=G95G9G HC 5G <56=HG G5=8 GHI8M9LD97H98 5B8 @=B?98 HF=9G K9F9 GC7=5H98 K=H< ; 7CIB DFCGH5H9 5B8 89J9@CD=BHC 5::@I9B79 &5BM @=?9 6F95GH G99 5 F=G9 =B @=J=B; GH5B HC 5B8 @=B?98 HC 8=G95G9G @ 75B79FG =H K9F9 9LD97H98 7C@CF97H5 85F8G HF=9G =B 7CA=B; @=?9 6F95GH DFCGH5H9 5B8 5 F=G9 =B @=J=B; GH5B G99 58898 897589G G5=8 H<9 =B D5D9F 7CA=B; 7C@CF97H5@ 75B79FG 85F8G =H :FCA H<9 0CF@8 !95@H< D5D9F 58898 897589G G5=8 H<9 !95@H< :FCA H<9 0CF@8 ;FCIB8 GIDDCFH =7CF9HH9 A5BI:57HIF9F 75@@9FG K5BH=B; CB -C6577C C: A9GG5;9G 9A5=@G 9A5=@G 5B8 <5B8 89@=J 5B8 <5B8 89@=J 75@@9FG K=@@ 69 F9:9FF98 HC 5 @C75@ HC6577C 79GG5H=CB A5BI:57HI F9F C: A9GG5;9G K5BH=B; CB ;FCIB8 GIDDCFH-"" 79BH9F =7CF9HH9 DFC8 9F=9G I7HG "BH9FJ9BH=CB "B=H=5H=J9 DFC8 9F=9G 5BBCIB798 69 F9:9FF98 79GG5 H<9 HC 5 @C75@ 9BH5@ GGC7=5H=CB HC6577CK=@@ HC6577C 79GG5H=CB 5@@9FG K=@@ 5@@9FG K=@@ F979=J9 HC6577C @5IB7< C: 5 '5H=CB5@ H<9 "B8=5B -C6577C 79GG5 8 H<9 F979=J9 "BH9FJ9BH=CB !=B8= C: "B=H=5H=J9 -C6577C 5BBCIB79 B;@=G< 9G H=CB -"" 79BH9F 7CIBG9@@=B;7CIBG9@@=B 79BH9F 89BH=GHG H 957< =B B;@=G<; =B G5H=CB *I=H %=B9 I7HG " !=B8= H<9 "B8=5B -C6577C 9G H=CB 5B8 C: 9B;5@= 9BH5@ GGC7=5H=CB 79GG5H=CB K=@@ @5IB7< C: 5 '5H=CB5@ HC &5F5H<=HC &5F5H<= I>5F5H= 5B8I>5F5H= A5F? H<9 0CF@8 9B;5@= HF5=B98 =B HC6577C 'C -C6577C G9FJ=79" 75B 69 H 957< 79BH9F 89BH=GHG ;=J9 ID H<9=F C: 7<5F;9 G5H=CB *I=H %=B9 5M -<=G :F99 7<5F;9 :F99 G9FJ=79 -<9 B5H=CB5@ 75B 69 HF5=B98 5M C: -<=G <9@D HC6577C IG9FG EI=H@=B90CF@8 :F=9B8G -C6577C =G =B 'C 5 HC6577C <95@H< 898= IG9FG H<9=F 79GG5H=CB IG98 6M 5@@ IG98 6MIG9FG 5@@ HC6577C K=@@ A5F? H<9 75H98 HC@@ :F99 :F=9B8G <9@D 5B8 588=7H=CB 5B8 =ADFCJ9 5 898= HC6577C BIA69F H<5H 75B 69 =G5B8 C: HC6577C IG9FGHC6577C IG9FG ;=J9 :5A=@=9G C: HC6577C ID5F9 H<9=F -"" 79BH9FG -<9 B5H=CB5@ EI=H@=B9 :5A=@=9GIG9FG F957<98 85=@M IFF9BH@M H<9F9 5B8 588=7H=CBFG =ADFCJ9 75B 69 5B8 :FCA 5A DA H<5H 9J9B <95@H<75F9 H<9=F <95@H< <95@H<75F9 DF57H=H=CB9 5B857FCGG 75H98 HC@@ :F99HCBIA69F :FCA &5M CBK5F8G HC DA 9J9B DF57H=H=CB9FG IFF9BH@M 79GG5H<9F9 5F9 "B8=5 -<9 :FCA 5A HC6577C G99?=B; HC DFCJ=89 -"" 79BH9FG HC DFCJ=89 F957<98 85=@MEI=H@=B9 HC6577C K=@@ DFCJ=89 :F99 79GG5 57FCGG -C EI=H@=B9 G99?=B; GIDDCFH CBK5F8G ;I=8 -<9 H=CB H<9F5DM :CF :CF H<9=F D5H=9BHG "B8=5 :FCA &5M 5B8 H<9F5DM 5B79 HC HC6577C D5H=9BHG -C ; 5B8 ;I=8 H=CBH<9=F IG9FG :F99CJ9F GIDDCFH GIDDCFH H9@9D<CB9 7CIBG9@@=B DFCJ=89 HC H<9 H<9 H9@9D<CB9 GIDDCFH 7CA9 H<9=F K=@@ 7CIBG9@@=B; 588=7H=CB IG9FG HC CJ9F 5B79 HC HC6577C 5B8 =B7F95G9 H<9=F 7CA9 H<9=F 588=7H=CB 7<5B79G C: EI=HH=B; GI7 H<9=F 5B8 =B7F95G9 79GG:I@@M -<=G EI=H@=B9 GI7 =G 7<5B79G C: EI=HH=B; 89G=;B98 HC <9@D =G HC 79GG:I@@M -<=G EI=H@=B9 6577C IG9FG 6M 5BGK9F HC 89G=;B98 HC <9@D =B; H<9=F EI9F=9GIG9FG 6M 5BGK9F 6577C :CFAI@5H=B; 5 D9FGCB EI9F=9G H<9=F =B; 5@=G98 EI=H D@5B 89D9B8 :CFAI@5H=B; 5 D9FGCB =B; CB H<9=F HC6577C 5@=G98 EI=H D@5B 89D9B8 7CBGIADH=CB D5HH9FB HC6577C H<9=F CB 7=;5F9HH9G 6998=G=B;5B8 7CBGIADH=CB D5HH9FB CH<9F :CFAG C: 7<9K=B; 5B8 7=;5F9HH9G 6998=G HC6577C 5B8 GIDDCFH :CFAG C: 7<9K=B; =B; H<9A H<FCI;<CH<9F H<9 HC6577C 5B8 GIDDCFH 9BH=F9 K99? >CIFB9M H<9 =B; H<9A H<FCI;< C: EI=HH=B; HC6577C K99? >CIFB9M 9BH=F9 H<FCI;< 5 7CA6=B5H=CB HC6577C EI=HH=B; C: C: D<CB9 75@@G H9LH CB H<FCI;< 5 7CA6=B5H= H9LH C: D<CB9 75@@G
send M.o. / dd / cheques with complete address to: Pharmed Trade News 3-3-62/A, New Gokhale Nagar, Ramantapur, Hyderabad - 500013 Ph: 040 - 27030681 Mobile: +91 98495 51183 email: editorptn@gmail.com
PREVENTING HEART DISEASE close family member who had heart disease at an early age. Fortunately, there are many things you can do reduce your chances of getting heart disease. You should • Know your blood pressure and keep it under control • Exercise regularly • Don't smoke • Get tested for diabetes and if you have it, keep it under control ver one quarter of all deaths are from heart disease. Know your cholesterol and triglyceride levels and It is also a major cause of disability. The risk of heart • keep them under control disease increases as you age. You have a greater risk of Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables heart disease if you are a man over age 45 or a woman • Maintain a healthy weight over age 55. You also are at greater risk if you have a •
o
P T N
d
engue fever is an acute viral disease caused by the Flavivirus of the family Flaviviridae. The term “dengue” is a Spanish attempt at the Swahili phrase “Ki denga pepo” meaning “cramp-like seizure” caused by an evil spirit. It’s a disease of tropical and subtropical regions that occurs epidemically, very much similar to chikungunya. This disease is also called “breakbone” fever because it sometimes causes severe joint & muscle pain that feels like bones are breaking, hence the name. The illness is usually self-limiting and can last up to 10 days, but complete recovery can take as long as a month. How Dengue Spreads? Dengue fever is noncontagious i.e., not an airborne infection (an infected person cannot spread the infection to other persons but can be a source of dengue virus for mosquitoes for about 6 days from the start of symptoms). Dengue virus is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites, a specific species of mosquito usually Aedes aegypti (but frequently Aedes albopictus) which bites during morning hours. The mosquito transmits disease by biting an infected person and then biting someone else, similar to the spread of chikungunya. The incubation period (i.e., period from infection till the manifestation of symptoms) is 4 to 6 days, but may vary with a range of 3 to 14 days. This disease is a vector borne infection i.e., mosquito is the vector (carrier) of the virus believed to cause this fever and the vector is common both in dengue and chikungunya. dengue fever symptoms Symptoms of typical (classic) dengue usually start with fever within 5 to 6 days after someone is bitten by an in-
fected mosquito. Symptoms are more or less similar to that ofchikungunya and include: • High-grade fever. • Severe headache. • Severe joint and muscle pain. • Nausea and vomiting.
wHaT Is
dengue diagnosis Dengue fever can be diagnosed by performing blood test to detect antibodies against the virus. How To Prevent Dengue? Prevention is basically by: • Avoiding mosquito bites (by using mosquito repellents containing DEET, picaridin(KBR3023) or oil of lemon eucalyptus) • Eliminating pockets of stagnant water that serve as mosquito breeding sites at home, workplaces and their vicinity, • Not storing water in open containers. Covering all water containers with lids. • Preventing mosquito entry by keeping doors closed and windows screened. • Wearing protective clothing like long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks and shoes when outdoors. • Using mosquito nets at home. • Scrubbing and cleaning margins of containers used for water (to dislodge the eggs of Aedes aegypti) • Covering overhead tank to prevent access to mosquitoes. • Aedes mosquitoes usually bite during the day; therefore, special precautions should be taken during early morning hours before day break and in the late afternoon before dark. • There is no commercially available dengue vaccine (for dengue Flavivirus). dengue Treatment and Prognosis Prognosis for dengue fever is good, if the infectious disease is treated on time. However the mortality rate can be as high as 15%. Hence immediate medical attention should be sought in suspected cases with dengue fever.
deNgue?
•
Skin rash – The rash may appear over most of the body 3 to 4 days after fever. • Bleeding from the nose, gums or under the skin, causing purplish bruises. dengue severity classification Four grades of severity are recognized: Grade I, fever and constitutional symptoms; grade II, grade I plus spontaneous bleeding (of skin, gums, or gastrointestinal tract); grade III, grade II plus agitation and circulatory failure; grade IV, profound shock. Dengue Synonyms Exanthesis arthrosia, Aden fever, bouquet fever, breakbone fever, dandy fever, date fever, dengue fever, dengue hemorrhagic fever, polka fever, solar fever, scarlatina rheumatica.
P T N
SignS and SymptomS of CanCer what are signs and symptoms? A sign is a signal that something is not right in the body. But signs are signals that can be seen by someone else -- maybe a loved one, or a doctor, nurse, or other health care professional. Fever, fast breathing, and abnormal lung sounds heard through a stethoscope may be signs of pneumonia. A symptom is also a signal of disease, illness, injury, or that something is not right in the body. Symptoms are felt or noticed by the person who has them, but may not be easily seen by anyone else. For example, weakness, aches, and feeling short of breath may be symptoms of pneumonia. Having one sign or symptom may not be enough to figure out what's causing it. For example, a rash in a child could be a sign of a number of things, such as poison ivy, measles, a skin infection, or a food allergy. But if the child has the rash along with other signs and symptoms like a high fever, chills, achiness, and a sore throat, then a doctor can get a better picture of the illness. Sometimes, a patient's signs and symptoms still don't give the doctor enough clues to figure out the cause of an illness. Then medical tests, such as x-rays, blood tests, or a biopsy may be needed. How does cancer cause signs and symptoms? Cancer is a group of diseases that can cause almost any sign or symptom. The signs and symptoms will depend on where the cancer is, how big it is, and how much it affects the organs or tissues. If a cancer has spread (metastasized), signs or symptoms may appear in different parts of the body. As a cancer grows, it can begin to push on nearby organs, blood vessels, and nerves. This pressure causes some of the signs and symptoms of cancer. If the cancer is in a critical area, such as certain parts of the brain, even the smallest tumor can cause symptoms. But sometimes cancer starts in places where it will not cause any symptoms until it has grown quite large. One example is cancers in the pancreas. They usually do not cause symptoms until they grow large enough to press on nearby nerves or organs (this causes back or belly pain). Others grow around the bile duct and block the flow of bile. This causes the eyes and skin to look yellow (jaundice). By the time a pancreatic cancer causes these signs or symptoms, it is usually in an advanced stage. This means it has grown and spread beyond the place it started -- the pancreas. A cancer may also cause symptoms like fever, extreme tiredness (fatigue), or weight loss. This may be because cancer cells use up much of the body's energy supply, or they may release substances that change the way the body makes energy from food. Or the cancer may cause the immune system to react in ways that produce these symptoms.
Sometimes, cancer cells release substances into the bloodstream that cause symptoms which are not usually linked to cancer. For example, some cancers of the pancreas can release substances which cause blood clots in veins of the legs. Some lung cancers make hormone-like substances that raise blood calcium levels. This affects nerves and muscles, making the person feel weak and dizzy. How are signs and symptoms helpful? Treatment works best when cancer is found early. Finding cancer early usually means it can be treated while it is still small and is less likely to have spread to other parts of the body. This often means a better chance for a cure, especially if the cancer can be removed with surgery. A good example of the importance of finding cancer early is melanoma skin cancer. It can be easy to remove if it has not grown deep into the skin. The 5-year survival rate (percentage of people who live at least 5 years after diagnosis) at this stage is nearly 100%. Once melanoma has spread to other parts of the body, the 5-year survival rate drops below 20%. Sometimes people ignore symptoms. They may not know that symptoms could mean something is wrong. Or they may be frightened by what the symptoms might mean and don't want to get medical help. Some symptoms, such as tiredness, are more likely caused by something other than cancer. They can seem unimportant, especially if there is an obvious cause or the problem only lasts a short time. In the same way, a person may reason that a symptom like a breast lump is probably a cyst that will go away by itself. But no symptom should be ignored or overlooked, especially if it has lasted a long time or is getting worse. Most likely, any symptoms you may have will not be caused by cancer, but it's important to have them checked out by a doctor, just in case. If cancer is not the cause, a doctor can help figure out what is and treat it, if needed. Sometimes, it is possible to find cancer before you have symptoms. The American Cancer Society and other health groups recommend cancer-related check-ups and certain tests for people even though they have no symptoms. This helps find certain cancers early, before symptoms start. For more information on early detection tests, see our document American Cancer Society Guidelines for the Early Detection of Cancer. But keep in mind, even if you have these recommended tests, it is still important to see a doctor if you have any symptoms. what are some general cancer signs and symptoms? You should know some of the general signs and symptoms of cancer. But remember, having any of these does not mean that you have cancer -- many other things cause these signs and symptoms, too. If you have any of these
symptoms and they last for a long time or get worse, please see a doctor to find out what is going on. unexplained weight loss Most people with cancer will lose weight at some point. When you lose weight with no known reason, it's called anunexplained weight loss. An unexplained weight loss of 10 pounds or more may be the first sign of cancer. This happens most often with cancers of the pancreas, stomach, esophagus, or lung. fever Fever is very common with cancer, but it more often happens after cancer has spread from where it started. Almost all patients with cancer will have fever at some time, especially if the cancer or its treatment affects the immune system. This can make it harder for the body to fight infection. Less often, fever may be an early sign of cancer, such as blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma. fatigue Fatigue is extreme tiredness that does not get better with rest. It may be an important symptom as cancer grows. It may happen early, though, in cancers like leukemia. Some colon or stomach cancers can cause blood loss. This is another way cancer can cause fatigue. Pain Pain may be an early symptom with some cancers like bone cancers or testicular cancer. A headache that does not go away or get better with treatment may be a symptom of a brain tumor. Back pain can be a symptom of cancer of the colon, rectum, or ovary. Most often, pain due to cancer is a symptom of cancer that has already spread from where it started (metastasized). Skin changes Along with cancers of the skin, some other cancers can cause skin symptoms or signs that can be seen. These signs and symptoms include: • Darker looking skin (hyperpigmentation) • Yellowish skin and eyes (jaundice) • Reddened skin (erythema) • Itching (pruritis) • Excessive hair growth signs and symptoms of certain cancers Along with the general symptoms, you should watch for certain other common symptoms and signs which could suggest cancer. Again, there may be other causes for each of these, but it is important to see a doctor about them as soon as possible. change in bowel habits or bladder function Long-term constipation, diarrhea, or a change in the size of the stool may be a sign of colon cancer. Pain when passing urine, blood in the urine, or a change in bladder function (such as needing to pass urine more or less often than usual) could be related to bladder or prostate cancer. Report any changes in bladder or bowel function to a doctor. sores that do not heal Skin cancers may bleed and look like sores that do not heal. A long-lasting sore in the mouth could be an oral cancer. This should be dealt with right away, especially in
people who smoke, chew tobacco, or often drink alcohol. Sores on the penis or vagina may either be signs of infection or an early cancer, and should be checked by a doctor. white patches inside the mouth or white spots on the tongue White patches inside the mouth and white spots on the tongue may be leukoplakia. Leukoplakia is a pre-cancerous area that is caused by frequent irritation. It is often caused by smoking or other tobacco use. People who smoke pipes or use oral or spit tobacco are at high risk for leukoplakia. If it is not treated, leukoplakia can become oral cancer. Any long-lasting mouth changes should be checked by a doctor or dentist right away. unusual bleeding or discharge Unusual bleeding can happen in early or advanced cancer. Blood in the sputum (phlegm) may be a sign of lung cancer. Blood in the stool (or a dark or black stool) could be a sign of colon or rectal cancer. Cancer of the cervix or the endometrium(lining of the uterus) can cause abnormal vaginal bleeding. Blood in the urine may be a sign of bladder or kidney cancer. A bloody discharge from the nipple may be a sign of breast cancer. Thickening or lump in the breast or other parts of the body Many cancers can be felt through the skin. These cancers occur mostly in the breast, testicle, lymph nodes (glands), and the soft tissues of the body. A lump or thickening may be an early or late sign of cancer and should be reported to a doctor, especially if you've just found it or notice it has grown in size. Indigestion or trouble swallowing Indigestion or swallowing problems may be signs of cancer of the esophagus (the swallowing tube that goes to the stomach), stomach, or pharynx (throat). But like most symptoms on this list, they are most often caused by something other than cancer. Recent change in a wart or mole or any new skin change Any wart, mole, or freckle that changes color, size, or shape, or that loses its sharp border should be seen by a doctor right away. Any other skin changes should be reported, too. A skin change may be a melanoma which, if found early, can be treated successfully. Nagging cough or hoarseness A cough that does not go away may be a sign of lung cancer. Hoarseness can be a sign of cancer of the voice box (larynx) or thyroid gland. The signs and symptoms listed above are the ones more commonly seen with cancer, but there are many others that are less common and are not listed here. If you notice any major changes in the way your body works or the way you feel -- especially if it lasts for a long time or gets worse -- let a doctor know. If it has nothing to do with cancer, the doctor can find out more about what's going on and, if needed, treat it. If it is cancer, you'll give yourself the chance to have it treated early, when treatment works best. P T N
THe soyBeaN’s effecT oN HealTH cardiovascular disease In 1995 a meta-analysis of previous studies entitled "Health Benefits of Soy Protein" (written by Dr. James Anderson of the University of Kentucky) was published in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine. Dr. Anderson’s study found that soy protein intake was associated with a 9.3 percent reduction in serum cholesterol, a 12.9 percent reduction in LDL cholesterol, and a 10.5 percent reduction in serum triglycerides. For HDL, the “good” cholesterol, concentrations increased by 2.4 percent. It is estimated that this serum cholesterol modification has the potential to reduce risk for coronary heart disease by 18 to 28 percent. Based on the findings from 34 out of the 38 studies reviewed, Dr. Anderson concluded that soy protein was clearly potent in decreasing LDL-cholesterol levels. But the positive effect of the soybean on heart health is not solely due to the protein and its related compounds; the fats that are found naturally in the soybean also can contribute to a reduction in cholesterol levels. It is understood now that oils that are high in unsaturated fatty acids, such as soybean oil, tend to decrease total serum cholesterol levels. Soybean oil contains about 50 percent linoleic acid, an essential polyunsaturated fat. In addition, soybean oil also contains about 8 percent linolenic acid, which is an omega-3 fatty acid, such as that found mainly in fish oils. This fatty acid has been the subject of numerous studies that link its consumption with a decreased incidence of heart disease and cancer. Soybeans are one of the few plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
osteoporosis Consumption of soy foods may help to maintain and even rebuild bone density and strength, and act as an effective treatment for osteoporosis. Studies have shown that diets high in animal protein tend to cause more calcium to be leached from the bones and excreted in the urine and feces. On the other hand, protein from soybeans does not have this effect. Other studies have shown that the isoflavone genistein inhibited bone breakdown and may increase bone density as well. Much attention has been focused on the need to increase calcium intake to help prevent osteoporosis, and most people tend to focus on dairy products as the best source for calcium. But many soyfoods are naturally rich in calcium, and the calcium from soyfoods is absorbed as well as that which comes from milk. Among soyfoods, good sources of calcium are tofu (in particular, tofu which has been coagulated with calcium sulfate), calcium-fortified soymilk, whole soybeans, soy flour and tempeh. Malnutrition Soybeans can produce at least twice as much protein per acre than any other major vegetable or grain crop, 5 to 10 times more protein per acre than land set aside for grazing animals to make milk, and up to 15 times more protein per acre than land set aside for meat production. Adding soy protein to breads, tortillas, corn meal, pasta, milk or any traditional food is a low cost and efficient way to ensure adequate nutrition for vulnerable populations. In this manner, not only do people receive enough high quality protein for the development and main-
tenance of their health, but they also get the added disease prevention benefits of soybean phytochemicals. cancer Since 1990, there have literally been thousands of studies conducted by researchers around the world hoping to identify which of these compounds may be the most valuable in the fight against cancer. And although it is not yet certain which one of these compounds is the most important, or if in fact some or all of them work together to a certain extent, many researchers believe that it is the isoflavones which are responsible for much of the anti-carcinogenic effect. Interestingly enough, soybeans are one of the few widely consumed foods that contain a significant amount of isoflavones. Because they look similar in structure, isoflavones tend to bind with the receptors normally used by estrogen to exert its effects on the body, some of which are cancer promoting. By binding to these receptors in place of the estrogen, the soybean’s phytoestrogens have in essence acted as anti-estrogens. These protective estrogen-related effects of isoflavones are not just beneficial to woman. It is possible that isoflavones may also exert a therapeutic effect for men with prostate cancer, as estrogen has been shown to be an effective therapy for treating that cancer. In experiments on human prostate cancer cells, genistein has been shown to inhibit cell proliferation. And in addition, genistein has been shown to inhibit angiogenesis, or new tumor vessel growth, thereby slowing the progression of existing cancer.
Tips for a HealTHy pregnancy
The following pointers would prove useful during your pregnancy. • Learn as much as possible about the wonderful ways in which your body is changing and about how your baby is growing. Talk to your mother, your friends, and other women about pregnancy, labour and birth. Attend pregnancy-related classes, read the relevant books, and watch videos about normal pregnancy and childbirth. • Eat a well-balanced diet and drink lots of water. • Avoid substances that may be dangerous for you and your baby such as cigarettes, alcohol and street
P T N
drugs. Do not take any medications, even overthe-counter varieties, unless you have discussed them with your doctor and taken his approval. • Remain active! Continue with the exercise programmes that you were following before you became pregnant, modified, if needed, according to the recommendations of your doctor. If you were not exercising at all before becoming pregnant, consider going in for walking or swimming. Start with short periods of exercise, and gradually increase the amount of time.
Printed and Published by V.BHaVa NarayaNa for PHarMed Trade News, 3-3-62/A, New Gokhale Nagar, Ramantapur, Hyderabad - 500013, Edited by Dr.Anirudhha Malpani MD and Printed at Sai Likhita Printers, Lakdikapool, Hyderabad.