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PEOPLE, PRODUCT NEWS, BOOKS AND MORE
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER . ISSUE 64
M A LTA ’ S B E S T A N D B R I G H T E S T H E A LT H A N D W E L L B E I N G M A G A Z I N E
TUMBLED THOUGHTS HOW TEENS AND ADULTS CAN COPE WITH ADHD
HOW HEALTHY ARE YOU?
BULLYING AT SCHOOL WHAT NEXT?
DOING IT FOR THE FIRST TIME A&H READERS SPEAK OUT
ISOLATING ILLNESS?
where to find support
AUTUMN-WINTER 2015
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SAYS... TIME FOR A HEALTH CHECK asic daily health care means proper nutri on and regular exercise. How many of us bother with either one? Life and health are like air. You can only take them for granted un l you feel the supply’s running out. Changing long term bad habits can seem like too much effort. The cliché that preven on is be er than cure isn’t persuasive enough. The good news is that small incremental changes can add up to a huge effect without much disrup on to your daily life. Take our health check and then turn to our ar cles on quick fix lunches and exercise without effort. Some mes, health problems are beyond our control. The dreaded news of serious illness is usually psychologically debilita ng. In darker moments, there’s no be er source of support than someone who’s been there before. This month, we feature two rela vely new support groups that help the seriously ill and their families pull through the ini al trauma and cope with protracted treatment and its occasional setbacks. Whether you read this issue cover to cover or dip into it occasionally, you’re sure to find something that’s interes ng and useful. If there’s anything you’d like to see in A&H, write in and tell us. We’ll be back in mid-December.
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EDITORIAL CONSULTANT Corinne Vella ASSISTANT EDITOR Anna Maria Ga DESIGNER Conrad Bondin – Standard Publica ons Ltd. CONTRIBUTORS Daniela Allen, Mariella Camilleri, Suzanne Bonello, David P. Busu l, Anna Maria Ga , Corinne Vella PHOTOGRAPHY Standard Publica ons Ltd., Anthony Sultana & others. PRINTER Print-it DISTRIBUTION Bi-monthly with The Malta Independent on Sunday, and in clinics, hair and beauty salons and pharmacies. ADVERTISING Chris ne Bu gieg – Standard Publica ons Ltd. T 2134 5888 ext 136. cbu gieg@independent.com.mt SALES CO ORDINATOR/ARTWORK COLLECTION Chris ne Mifsud – Standard Publica ons Ltd. T 2134 5888 ext 138 PUBLISHERS P&D Communica ons Ltd. Standard Publica ons Ltd., Standard House, Birkirkara Hill, St Julian’s STJ1149, Malta. T (356) 2134 5888 F (356) 2134 6062, 2134 3460 The informa on in this magazine should not be used as a subs tute for the care and advice of a health professional. Appropriate treatment varies according to an individual’s par cular condi on and circumstances. Self-diagnosis is risky, especially in the case of serious condi ons. All rights reserved. Reproduc on of this magazine in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without the wri en consent of Standard Publica ons Ltd. A&H’s publishers cannot be held responsible for any ac on taken without the advice of a medical specialist. The opinions expressed in this publica on are not necessarily those of the publishers or the editor. While every a empt has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher and the editor cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions from ar cles, adver sing, photographs or illustra ons, for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other material, or for submissions of any kind, whether delivered electronically or by conven onal mail, which are lost or damaged in transit.
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IN THIS ISSUE
REAL LIVES
08 SCHOOL
BULLYING
28
MY KIND OF LIFE Sarah Cachia, co-founder of Survivors Malta
32
MALTA’S ‘GOLDEN BOY’ Meet Andre Camilleri
LIFESTYLE 06
HOW HEALTHY ARE YOU? Take our quiz
16
TIME FOR LUNCH Health options for busy people
24
EXERCISE CREDIT How to take 10,000 steps without effort
FEATURES 08
SCHOOL BULLYING What next?
12
HELP IS HERE Support for blood cancer patients
20
TUMBLED THOUGHTS ADHD in teens and adults
39
HOW WAS IT FOR YOU? Readers on first time sex
42
HERBAL TRUTH Natural remedies
REGULARS
28
39 4
MY KIND OF LIFE SARAH CACHIA, CO FOUNDER OF SURVIVORS MALTA
HOW WAS IT FOR YOU? READERS ON FIRST TIME SEX
October 2015
32
MALTA’S ‘GOLDEN BOY’ MEET ANDRE CAMILLERI
42
HERBAL TRUTH NATURAL REMEDIES
26, 34, 37 INFORMATION 36 BOOKS 44, 45, 46, 47 PRODUCT NEWS 47 HEALTH DIRECTORY
16
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QUIZ
IS YOUR LIFESTYLE HEALTHY?
TAKE OUR QUIZ TO CHECK WHETHER YOUR LIFESTYLE IS HEALTHY FOR YOUR MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT “Healthy lifestyle” means different things to different people. Often, people consider their lifestyle healthy if they are not sick, if they are able to carry out their everyday activities without fatigue or if they engage in regular physical activity. The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines health as “a complete state of physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or disability”. Read on to find out if your lifestyle is balanced and what you need to change. 1. You're late for work and you haven't had time to prepare lunch. You stop at the corner shop close to your office and buy: a. a bag of nuts and a cereal bar; b. a baguette with tuna and mayonnaise; c. crisps and chocolate cookies.
4. You pick up your children from their after school activities and don't feel like cooking an elaborate meal. You opt instead for: a. a chicken salad; b. tortellini with fresh cream sauce; c. hamburgers and chips in the oven.
2. During your day at the office you drink: a. water, and a fruit smoothie during lunch break; b. water and coffee; c. coffee, coffee and more coffee.
3. Exercise is: a. part and parcel of your daily routine; b. an ideal way to spend some quality time with friends; c. buying cool sportswear to go for a short walk.
5. You are stressed out at work and feel that you're holding the whole weight of the office on your shoulders. You: a. open up to your colleagues and ask for their cooperation; b. find comfort in your better half at home who encourages you not to give up; c. shut yourself in your bedroom and cry yourself out.
6. Voluntary work means: a. an activity which makes you feel fulfilled; b. participating in a fund-raising activity organised at the office; c. “I need people to help me.”
7. When you feel nervous and anxious, you: a. search for the company of those with whom you feel loved; b. go for a long walk on your own; c. sit on the sofa, sulking and smoking.
RESULTS Mostly A's You definitely are a role-model to all those around you. You can consider your lifestyle to be completely healthy. You take care of all aspects of living well. The way you eat, your choice of exercise, the way you behave with others and the way you tackle difficult situations, show that you live life to the full. It is very important that a person like you tries to be an example to others, especially to close family members. Well done. Keep on living in this positive way. Mostly B's You are aware of which healthy choices you should be making and at times you really do your best to be healthy. You might be easily influenced by what others are doing or thinking and thus tend to follow
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others’ example. You only need to change one thing: be strong and adamant about what you believe is good. You are not a lost case. With some more effort and encouragement, your lifestyle could be totally healthy. Mostly C's: The red light is on. You believe in enjoying life to the full without taking notice of the harm you inflict on yourself and on those around you. Do your best to change. If you believe you can't do it on your own, why not seek help? Professional people such as nutritionists, fitness trainers and even psychologists can help you change your lifestyle. If you are a parent, try to think about the well-being of your children and how you are the main teacher in their lives. It's never too late to start. You just need a stronger will.
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CHILDREN
Spotlight
ON BULLYING PROFESSOR CARMEL CEFAI TALKS TO DANIELA XUEREB ABOUT BULLYING IN SCHOOLS AND HOW THE PROBLEM NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED
Is the incidence of bullying in Malta on the increase? t is difficult to answer this question accurately. We need more national longitudinal studies, including Malta. The Health Behaviour School Checklist (HBSC) of 2012 based on data gathered in 2010 in about 40 countries, suggests that there has been an overall decline in victimisation among 11-15 year olds in most countries when compared to the earlier studies. However, this decrease is usually less than 10 %. Overall, the prevalence remains high in some countries and regions in Europe. When we compare Malta to the HBSC average, both the victimisation and perpetration rates are below average. However, the available data for Malta is almost 10 years old. Other studies done in Malta indicate that one third of students may engage in bullying behaviours, but we need more rigorous data to confirm this. We also have to factor in the relatively new phenomenon of cyberbullying.
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Could you tell me more about that? Cyberbullying has now been added to traditional bullying. As society is becoming more diverse and intercultural, bullying of vulnerable groups such as LGBT, refugees and children with disability, may become more apparent. Children in these groups are more at risk. The key point here is that we have greater understanding now of the serious long term impact of bullying on children’s wellbeing. We know more about how it affects their mental health, as well as the heightened risks of children disengaging from school or leaving school early because of bullying. We now also recognise that children who bully others may have a range of difficulties that need to be addressed through support. Our report (Downes and Cefai, 2015) emphasises the issue of discriminatory bullying. Until recently, this aspect of the problem was neglected. How do you define bullying? Bullying involves physical, verbal, and relational behaviours. This type of behaviour occurs repeatedly by one party in an uneven power relationship. The 8
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intention is to hurt or harm the victim who is unable to defend him/herself. In contrast to other forms of aggressive behaviour, bullying tends to be a recurring event rather than a one-off occurrence. Bullying may take place face to face or online through social networking, texting, emails, chatting, blogs and other forms of virtual communication. Bullying may be either physical such as physical abuse, threats of physical harm and forced behaviours; verbal, such as name calling, teasing, verbal attacks on the student’s family, culture, race or religion; or relational, such as ostracising, isolating, and ignoring behaviours. Verbal and relational bullying are sometimes put together as emotional, social or psychological bullying. Bullying types vary along a continuum and include bully, victim, bully-victim, bystander and uninvolved, with students possibly taking multiple roles What is the most common form of reported bullying? Relational and verbal bullying may be more frequent than physical bullying. However, this depends on the particular contexts. In some schools physical bullying may be more common. In other schools relational bullying may be more common.
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CHILDREN What are the physical and mental consequences on children who are bullied? Bullying’s impact on children’s health and wellbeing is harmful and a very serious issue that needs to be considered and addressed as such. Children and adolescents who are bullied are likely to experience low self-esteem, psychosomatic symptoms, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Bullying can also affect victims academically, causing lower academic achievement and other problems such as impaired concentration, disengagement, absenteeism and early school leaving. In contrast, perpetrators (the bullies) are likely to exhibit oppositional, anti-social and delinquent behaviours and to leave school early. Bully-victims experience both emotional difficulties such as anxiety and depression and behaviour problems such as delinquency. Why do some children bully their friends? Bullying is a complex phenonomenon with various factors leading to such behaviour including individual factors, home, peer group, community, school and society as a whole. But one of the determining factors is growing up in an evironment – home, peer group, community, school – which implicitly or explicitly promotes intolerance, hostility, violence and aggression against others, particularly those who are weaker, powerless and ‘different’.
For instance as our society becomes more intercultural and inclusive we need to make sure that vulnerable children, such as those with disability, LGBT children or those coming from ethnic minorities, are protected against bullying. Research shows that such children may be more at risk of bullying and discrimination. What are the long term effects of bullying? Research shows that bullying has both recurrent as well as long term negative impact in adulthood such as depression, suicidal ideation, substance use and criminality. Children who are bullied or who bully others are at risk of experiencing mental health difficulties in adulthood as well, particularly if they are not provided with timely and adequate support when the bullying occurs. Bullied children may be at risk of self-harm, depression and suicide ideation and completion in adolescence and adulthood. Similarly perpetrators are at risk of anti-social and violent behaviour and of criminal offence when they grow up.
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Professor Carmel Cefai heads the psychology department at the University of Malta. He is the director of the university’s Centre for Resilience and Socio-Emotional Health which collaborated with The President’s Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society on Malta’s first National Conference on Children’s Wellbeing – “Bullying: A Child’s Perspective” – which was held last Friday.
RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE 2015 EU REPORT ON SCHOOL BULLYING DOWNES AND CEFAI, 2015 A national framework to guide an explicit focus on bullying and violence prevention in school self-evaluation processes, external inspection processes, whole school planning processes, as well as for the establishment and improvement of national and regional strategies for school bullying and violence prevention. Such a framework would be governed by key principles such as recognising differentiated needs and levels of prevention, a holistic approach combining emotion and cognition, processes for voice, active participation and representation of all students, as well as promotion of non-discriminatory practices. * A National Committee for Inclusive Systems in Schools, encompassing a range of interrelated dimensions: bullying and violence prevention, early school leaving prevention, a mental health promoting schools systemic whole school approach, an antidiscrimination focus. The national committee needs to be cross-departmental bridging education, health and social services these are all relevant to development of integrated systems of care. In order to be aware and sensitive to needs of minority and marginalised groups, basic principles of representativeness would recommend that ethnic minority NGOs, for example, be represented on the committee. * a whole school implementation committee in every school to focus on developing inclusive systems, with a specific focus on bullying and violence prevention as part of a holistic systemic approach. This Whole School approach with a school implementation committee is to include students, parents, teachers and a wider health professional. This whole school approach needs to include projects to promote student and risk groups input into 10
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design of bullying prevention resources; processes to ensure that the voices and needs of minority students are heard regarding bullying and violence prevention, as well as more widely on school climate issues; an explicit Curricular and Whole School Focus on Homophobic Bullying Prevention; and the eestablishment of an explicit, sustained, developmental curricular focus on bullying and violence as part of a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum for personal and social development that is to be distinguished from a civic education curriculum. * to establish in every school a strategic focus on parental involvement, family support and active engagement, going beyond merely information for parents. This would be an integral part of a whole school approach to school bullying and violence. This requires an individual family outreach component to engage families of chronic need (indicated prevention level), in conjunction with multidisciplinary teams and family support services. * to develop an Integrated Prevention Strategy for Bullying and Early School Leaving to Promote Inclusive Systems in and around schools. Key features of an integrated strategy includes Social and Emotional Learning Curriculum. An Indicated Prevention Focus on Family Support Services and Multidisciplinary Teams, Systems to Promote Active Voices of Marginalised Students, School Climate and Teacher Professional Development. * to develop a specific community outreach strategy for groups of moderate risk (selected prevention level) such as through communal spaces of assumed connection (investment in community lifelong learning centres, arts and sports facilities, libraries, green spaces etc.).
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CONSULTANT HAEMATOLOGIST DR DAVID P BUSUTTIL ON BLOOD CANCER TREATMENT AND WHY PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES NEED SUPPORT he Lumiere support group was set up to advocate on behalf of patients with blood cancers. These include various types of leukaemia, lymphomas and myeloma. Some leukaemias / lymphomas are very aggressive and their treatment is intensive but they are potentially curable. Other types are chronic and not curable but associated with a long life expectancy or good quality of life and may not require therapy. Myeloma, on the other hand, is a bone cancer that is not curable. These aggressive conditions affect people of all ages. The therapy is intensive and protracted, involving long periods of hospitalisation of up to one year and may even entail overseas hospitalisation for stem cell transplants. The mortality of these conditions is very high and the therapy can pose complications of its own, some of which can be fatal or can even affect the patient’s quality of life. The treatment of these conditions is associated with a high relapse rate so patients need to be monitored for a lifetime to deal with the long term side effects of the treatment and to detect relapses at an early stage. The side effects of the chemotherapy can be life threatening because it suppresses the immune system which means the patient cannot
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cope with infections. This is the commonest cause of death as it can result in the collapse of vital body systems. Other complications are more long term and can be debilitating due to their effects on the heart, lungs, nerve tissue and, in young people, infertility. The more commonly publicised side effects are distressing but not serious as they are reversible, like hair loss, nausea, and gut ulceration.
treatment. This can result in painful haematomas and bruises that may get infected. An alternative is an indwelling long line in a large neck vein. However, this can pose problems of its own as they can get blocked, broken or infected. As part of their therapy and monitoring, patients have to undergo repeated uncomfortable procedures like bone marrow biopsies and spinal fluid aspirations.
There is the initial shock and despair at initial presentation which gives way to resignation, introspection, isolation and loneliness. Many patients require frequent venous punctures for blood tests, administration of blood transfusions and medications. This can be distressing especially as these patients develop a bleeding tendency due to the effect of the
In many respects the treatment can feel worse than the condition itself and the patient has to go through it all not knowing whether it will cure the disease. The disease is usually cleared during treatment.
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AWARENESS This is what is referred to as a remission. However, in many cases, the disease persists in microscopic amounts which cannot be detected even by sophisticated analysis. After months or years off treatment, the residual disease can reactivate, causing a relapse. Relapses are more difficult to deal with as the disease by now tends to become resistant and the patients’ limit of tolerance for chemotherapy is much reduced. If the disease does not reappear within a 5-year period, the patient is declared cured.
The psychosocial impact on the patient and their families is immense and abrupt. Arrangements need to be made for work, finances, children’s welfare, legal issues, etc. Support by the immediate family is invaluable. There is the initial shock and despair at initial presentation which gives way to resignation, introspection, isolation and loneliness. As they get used to the new routine, they become hopeful as they feel they are doing something that will lead to a better future by complying with the onerous treatment regimen. Once the treatment is finished there is a sense of relief and satisfaction as they as they attempt to relive their previously normal life. But this is tempered by a sense of anxiety because of the
Why I joined the Lumiere support group by Antonella Aquilina
THE LUMIERE SUPPORT GROUP In 2009, a group of nurses, doctors and pharmacists who worked in Haematology founded the Lumiere support group as a voluntary NGO. The name was derived from a character in Walt Disney s Beauty and the Beast. Lumiere is an optimistic character who sheds light when others see just darkness and gloom. There are 11 committee members and 88 paid up members. The overarching aim is to campaign for the provision of a coordinated network of care and support for patients with blood cancers. The support group is now part of the National Cancer platform coordinating their services with other NGOs that concentrate on other specific aspects of patient care. The Lumiere group also has international links through the Malta Health Network. Since its foundation, it has been instrumental in obtaining a new larger haematology ward in the Cancer Hospital and has had a say in the layout, embellishments, bed numbers, facilities, staffing requirements and training. The group has organised educational events for medical and nursing staff and patients, and yearly masses on All Souls Day for haematology patients treated on the ward. Through the funds obtained from donations, membership fees and fundraising events, we have purchased equipment or medications that are not provided by the government. The Lumiere support group strives to promote models of good care and practice and to support the patients and their families in a holistic co-ordinated manner.
On the 6th of December 2006, I received a phone call from my mum informing me that she had to go to the hospital since her blood test indicated something was wrong in her bone marrow. This was the start of a long journey for the whole family as my mother battled leukemia. This event changed the way I perceived life. News like that forces the patient and the whole family to live life day-by-day. After a three year and four month struggle, my mum passed away on the 11th April 2010. She was just 48. Throughout her battle my mum had strong faith in God. She loved life and knew that she still had a lot to offer to the family. After recovering from the bone marrow transplant in December 2008, she was convinced that if she managed to fully recover, she would help and support people suffering from blood related sicknesses. A year later she had her second relapse. She was surprised that there was no support group for patients like her. She consequently got to know that a group had just been appointed and eagerly told us that if it was God s will for her to recover she would love to be part of this group and do her utmost to help patients. After her passing away, I kept thinking about her words and decided to fulfil her wishes. I have been a member of the Lumiere Support Group from its official formation and have now joined the committee.
unknown fear of a relapse and the realisation that they are not in control of their fate. This sense of helplessness is apparent in the first year post treatment but gradually recedes over the years. There have been improvements in therapy outcomes with many new drugs becoming available. These conditions can now be treated with non-cytotoxic drugs which are much better tolerated but are very costly to the extent that the public health service cannot afford to provide many of them.
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Dr David P. Busuttil is Consultant Haematologist at Mater Dei Hospital and President and cofounder of Lumiere support group
My aim within this group is to provide support for patients for them to have a better life, which was my mother s ultimate wish.
A patient’s experience I remember the day when my worst fears were confirmed and I was diagnosed with the dreaded lymphoma cancer. Although shocked and traumatised beyond belief I accepted what was inevitably coming. With a huge dose of encouragement from my family and friends and lots and lots of prayers, I resolved to fight it to the end. And so I ended up at Mater Dei s Medical Investigations and Treatment Unit (MITU), a specialised unit where they cater for patients with haematology disorders. My experience at MITU is difficult to describe or to ever forget. While experiencing four months of chemo treatment, lumbar puncture procedures, constant intravenous therapy, and with the inevitable consistent nausea, loss of appetite, persistent headaches and gradual loss of hair, I often felt like giving up. The doctors, nurses and my visiting relatives and friends helped me overcome this with their constant encouragement and support. When I look back on my 4-month stay at MITU and I think of the suffering and anguish I and my family faced, I can t help remembering the kind-hearted dedication, commitment and competence shown by everybody, from the consultant hematologist to his dedicated team of doctors and the staff nurses and health assistants. I will forever cherish their friendship and support.
What one patient says While at MITU I came to know about the Lumiere Support Group, a voluntary group run by MITU doctors, nurses and volunteers solely dedicated to assist and support patients affected with haematological disorders. Their unselfish commitment to patients includes organising activities to fund the donation of items that are not provided by the hospital. I experienced both Lumiere s unstinting dedication as well as their material help by being given free Difflam, a mouthwash for the relief of inflammatory conditions during chemo treatment. Now that, thank God, I m back home leading a normal life with my family, I recognise more and more the huge contribution the Lumiere Support Group made during my cancer treatment. The very least I could do was for me and my family to enrol as members in Lumiere and to encourage other patients and relatives to do the same. The Lumiere Support Group deserves everybody s support and encouragement.
A relative’s experience
A&H DIRECTORY Lumiere support group T 2545 6000/1/3 lumieresupport@gmail.com
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Being near my wife throughout her traumatic ordeal whilst fighting lymphoma cancer at the hospital, I experienced with her the many agonising and despairing moments, as well as moments of sheer happiness and optimism when told the treatment was successful. During all of this, what really stood out above everything else, naturally apart from our strong, unfaltering belief that our constant prayers were being heard, was the warm-hearted dedication and support given by all the medical staff throughout the ordeal. For this I have nothing but praise for the Lumiere Support Group who were always there with their emotional and materialistic support. In this respect I strongly urge cancer patients and their relatives to enrol as members in order to help them continue offering their services and support.
QUICK MEALS
Time FOR LUNCH YOU USUALLY MAKE YOUR OWN BREAKFAST AND DINNER, SO YOU DECIDE WHAT GOES INTO YOUR MEAL. LUNCH IS ANOTHER MATTER.
m
ost of the time, lunch is a snatched sandwich in a canteen or café, or eaten at your desk. That’s not the best recipe for good health, so if health is your priority, you need to do something about lunch. And that doesn’t mean choosing a snack from a vending machine.
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1. Make time to make your own lunch. If you’re going to eat at your desk, then you might as well make your own lunch. You can do that the night before, to avoid being rushed in the morning. The key is to make up the right sized portion. Too little, and you’ll tuck into an unhealthy snack before you know it. Too much, and you defeat the purpose of preparing your own meals.
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QUICK MEALS
The second type is misleading. It means that the packet contains pure juice – mixed with lots of other things, like extra sugar. Better still, buy a bagful of oranges, squeeze them, and store portions of juice in your freezer. Pop one in your lunch bag on the way out to work. It’ll help keep your lunch fresh and you’ll get to enjoy a cool drink when you want it.
salad dressing into a smaller bag and pop the lot into the fridge in the staff kitchen when you get to work. At lunchtime, toss the salad and dressing in the bag and tip the lot into a bowl. That way you won’t have to carry a messy container back home. Leafy salads will leave you feeling hungry so make up rice and grain salads or add grains and nuts to a leafy salad.
3. If you really are going to include a bag of crisps, make sure they’re baked rather than fried, and not totally coated in salt. Avoid buying economy sized bags, on the grounds that baked crisps are healthy than the fried version. Buy small packets, or none at all. The best way to avoid eating junk food is to not have in your desk drawer in the first place.
5. Include healthy nibbles in your lunch pack. Fruit and vegetables are a good idea. Include a few small, sweet-tasting tomatoes, baby vegetables like carrots, or a small bunch of grapes. In small amounts, dried fruit and nuts are also good and reasonably healthy snacks, though dried fruit is high in sugar and nuts can be fatty as they’re packed with oil. Seal any fruit or vegetables in their own bag or the flavour will seep out into everything else.
7. Use wholemeal bread for sandwiches, or you’ll feel peckish sooner than you’d like. Eating wholemeal bread will also help keep up your dietary fibre. Vary the type of bread so you won’t get bored. Try alternating pitta bread pockets with wraps, wholemeal bagels, and full grained sliced bread.
4. Buy yourself a small stock of fruit juices and freeze them. Make sure what you buy is really 100% juice, rather than ‘contains 100% juice’.
6. Make your own salad. Carrying a container around is none too stylish, but don’t let that put you off. Pack your salad into a bag and your
2. Shop carefully. If your fridge and cupboards are stocked with processed food, then that’s what you’ll be eating especially when you’re in a hurry. Processed food and prepackaged meals are loaded with preservatives, sugar and salt. Make a separate list for lunch items and keep the amount of processed and packaged foods to a minimum. If you stock up on fresh food, that’s what you’ll find when you hunt around for something to put into a (brown bread) sandwich.
The best way to avoid eating junk food is to not store it in your desk drawer in the first place
8. Use meat in your lunch pack only if you can store it in a fridge until it’s time to eat. Choose lean types of meat like skinless chicken or tuna. Wholemeal sandwiches made with lean meat and salad rounded off with a fruit dessert will keep you going through the afternoon. 9. Include a low-fat dairy product to boost your calcium intake. Cottage cheese makes an excellent sandwich filling, particularly when mixed with crushed roasted hazelnuts and snipped chives. A pot of yoghurt is convenient snack as it’s sealed and you don’t need to cart the pot back home afterwards. Chopped fruit or nuts can make plain yoghurt interesting. Buy a small stock of yoghurt and freeze the lot. It’ll defrost by lunchtime and will keep your lunch pack fresh in the meantime.
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AWARENESS
Tumbled THOUGHTS
ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER IS A COMMON NEUROBEHAVIOURAL CONDITION. IT STARTS IN CHILDHOOD AND MAY GO ON TO AFFECT A PERSON’S LIFE WELL INTO ADULTHOOD. MARIELLA CAMILLERI REPORTS.
or many of us, containing our thoughts is a process we learn during childhood – a method where chores or activities are performed according to priority. For those affected by Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) things are not so simple. The condition creates situations where individuals find it hard to contain themselves, live in the moment and sit still. The condition may also be present without the hyperactive traits and is
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known as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). The NHS estimates that 2-5% of school age children are affected by the condition which may have several traits. People with ADHD may find it hard to remember information, follow directions, concentrate, organise tasks and finish work on time. They also have a tendency to be disorganised and this often leads to loss of personal belongings. The disorder is believed to be genetically derived, however factors like smoking and drug abuse in
pregnancy, premature delivery and low birth weight can also be contributing factors. Eighteen year old Ella* was only six when she was diagnosed with ADHD. “I have been restless for as long as I remember,” she says. “During my early school years, my teacher complained that I was extremely hyper and that I couldn’t concentrate for long periods of time. Of course now I know that, due to ADHD, I also learned more slowly than other children my age.” Ella says that school was a
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AWARENESS constant struggle particularly with subjects like maths and Maltese: “I only enjoyed the extracurricular subjects because they were the only activities that tired me out.” Psychotherapist Mariella Dimech says that through her work she has met several people who suffer from the condition. “There is a certain misconception about ADHD. People believe those affected are prone to misbehaviour; however, this is not always the case. Teens who are supported well at home and in school generally fare well. For others, the condition can bring about highly stressful situations that make them more prone to restlessness.” Certain circumstances can actually heighten one’s impulses to move and fidget. For instance, being shamed in a classroom for not keeping up may cause severe frustration and other impulsive behaviour. Ella says that school was challenging because her mind wandered constantly. However, at home she found lots of support particularly with reading which was mostly difficult. Ella took extra lessons with other children affected by the condition and this helped with the basics of academic subjects. Being impulsive and rash is one of the difficult components of the disorder. Ella says that the need to do things faster often makes other people nervous. “There are days when it’s difficult to keep my mind shut down, even in situations where I’m expected to keep quiet,” she says. “My mind feels too full and this hinders my ability to retain information.” Ms Dimech says that, with ADHD, support is half the solution. “The condition in adulthood goes beyond the classroom. Relationships and employment can also be hard to maintain particularly because ADHD behaviour is often misconstrued. Inattentiveness could be perceived as carelessness or even as lack of interest and this could create issues.” The psychotherapist adds that having a supportive partner and choosing the right form of employment can make a huge difference to people affected by the condition. Self-awareness, where one understands the challenges, is also essential. “People who were diagnosed with ADHD as children often cope better than those who go undiagnosed. Sometimes I meet people who don’t understand why they haven’t been able to sustain a job or a relationship and this leads to feelings of failure that may bring on severe depression and anxiety,” Ms Dimech says. Ella says that being depressed has been part of the ADHD package: “Since I hit puberty, depression has been a recurring symptom. I highly doubt that things would have affected me the way they do if I
were able to control my thoughts like others do. At least my depression is easier to accept because I know that it’s due to my ADHD.” An early diagnosis often helps those affected channel their personality in the right way. People with ADHD are generally the life and soul of every party, usually as a result of their boundless energy. People who are self-aware and who know how to control their impulses can actually find paths that are well suited for their personality. For instance an ADHD person will cope better in a job that allows
says. “The pills also help with my anxiety because they keep me calm enough to contain my thoughts.” Dosing a child with medication is never easy particularly when dealing with a behavioural condition. “Parents are often afraid of side effects. Many people take time to adjust. It’s essential that one is well informed about what lies ahead,” Ms Dimech says, adding that, although the step towards diagnosis and medication may be hard, the pitfalls of undiagnosed ADHD tend to be much greater. Adolescence and adulthood may bring about stressful times where a person feels inclined to turn to abusive substances like alcohol and drugs. “The most troubling drug is cocaine because in people with ADHD, this gives the calming effect that is craved by those who are affected by the condition,” Ms Dimech says. “In many cases teens and adults with ADHD use drugs as a form of self-medication. This leads to addiction and further problems that will create more obstacles in a person’s life.” Stress is often the culprit in these situations. Ella says that symptoms increase dramatically when she is worried: “I am less able to control my impulses when things go wrong, however since I started my medication I can control stress in better ways.” Favourable self-awareness, acceptance and support are all components that help a person with ADHD manage the condition. The psychotherapist adds that maturity can also make a difference. “It’s all about attitude. A teenager who views ADHD in a negative light is more likely to steer in the wrong direction,” she says. “However, those who learn how to channel their energy in the right direction generally go on to lead satisfying and fulfilled lives.”
Favourable selfawareness, acceptance and support are all components that help a person with ADHD manage the condition
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him or her to be on the go, rather than be selfcontained in a regimental office routine. ADHD can present symptoms which vary significantly between individuals. In some, selfawareness may be enough to help control certain impulses. However, in severe cases medication can be the only solution. Ella says that a few years ago, she began taking tablets to help her concentrate. “The medicine made a huge difference in my life as it helped me to be more attentive with academic subjects and thankfully my grades improved,” she
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EXERCISE
Stepping UP
“A JOURNEY OF 10,000 MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP” LAO TZU, CHINESE PHILOSOPHER
LAO TZU’S QUOTE IS ABOUT MINIMISING THE DIFFICULTY OF A MAJOR CHANGE BY SIMPLY MAKING A START. HERE’S HOW TO INCREASE YOUR DAILY EXERCISE WITHOUT MAKING AN BEFFORT.
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ealth guidelines recommend taking 10,000 steps a day. That’s roughly 7.6km daily, given that the average person’s stride length is approximately 76cm. Sedentary people take an average of 2,000 steps a day. Increasing the number of daily steps offers several health benefits. 7.6km seems like a long way, but 10,000 steps can be broken down into smaller amounts. You can easily reach the 10th milestone by carefully planning your daily routine. Experts suggest increasing your number of steps gradually, even by as little as 500 steps per week. You can do this without major disruption to your daily routine. By the time you build up to a regular 10,000 steps daily, it will seem effortless. Using a pedometer – a gadget that can keep count of the number of steps you take - will help you keep track of how far you get towards your 10,000 steps goal. The pedometer should be put on as soon as you get up and removed only
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at bedtime. Note down the number of steps you take daily so that by the end of the week you can work out your daily average. Use your free time to increase the number of steps you take. Include at least one physical activity each day. Going for walks with your friends or with your pet is a good way to increase your daily quota. Start gradually, not only increasing the amount of time you spend walking but also how fast you walk. A brisk walk is more beneficial than a gentle stroll. Be active even at home. Do not allocate a single morning to housework or gardening. Spread your chores throughout the whole week. Even some simple movements can add to your walking total. Avoid using remote-controls all the time. Stand up to change the TV channel or to adjust heating/air conditioning. When working at home, don’t sit in your study all the time. Use another part of the house so that whenever you need something, you have to take a few more steps.
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Even if you have a sedentary job you can easily increase your walking steps during the day. Use the stairs instead of taking the lift. Plan walking meetings, holding your discussions on foot instead of sitting at a table. (This is easier for one-to-one meetings). If you arrive early for work and are not
Include at least one physical activity each day
in a hurry after work, park as far away as possible so that you will walk further each day. During break time, organise a walking session in groups so that it is more enjoyable. If you take your break on your own, walk along a shopping street. The distraction of window shopping will help you walk further. Do most of your errands on foot when possible. If you are a parent and need to take your children to after-school activities, accompany them on foot if the premises are close to your home. Take a brisk walk while you wait, rather than sitting around. Not only will you increase your count towards 10,000 steps, you will also transmit a positive message to your children about the importance of healthy exercise. Make the most of your weekends. Plan activities in which you will really be active. Now that the winter months are close-by, a walk or a hike on a Sunday afternoon is an ideal way to release tension accumulated during a week at work. During family picnics, organise games that involve everyone. Moving around will increase your step-count and shift everyone’s focus away from snacking.
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INFORMATION
30 YEARS OF EU ACTION ON CANCER VYTENIS ANDRIUKAITIS, EU COMMISSIONER FOR HEALTH AND FOOD SAFETY, ON THE NEW EUROPEAN CODE, THE JOINT ACTIONS WITH MEMBER STATES, NEW GUIDELINES ON BREAST CANCER SCREENING AND QUALITY ASSURANCE.
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hirty years ago, in 1985, the heads of state of the countries of the then European Community, met in Milan and committed themselves to initiate activities to fight against cancer at a European level. Shortly afterwards, the first ”Europe against Cancer” programme was officially launched and, since then, Europe has made a difference. Actions taken at EU-level have helped to extend and save lives. Together in the EU we have built solid foundations
that will serve us well for continued success in the future. Over the past decades, the number of cancer survivors increased significantly in Europe thanks to progress in early diagnostics and effectiveness of therapies. However, cancer remains the second most common cause of death in the EU. According to the most recent data, there were an estimated 1.4 million new cases of cancer in men and 1.2 million in women in the EU in 2012. Given today's incidence
rates, we can expect that one in three men and one in four women in the EU will be affected by cancer before the age of 75. Cancer is not something that “only happens to other people". Most people have been affected by cancer, either personally or through supporting a loved one through diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, I know first-hand what it is like to lose close family members to this terrible disease. I myself am here today because of early screening and effective treatment. As European Commissioner for health, contributing to cancer prevention, screening and care, is a priority for me. There are four dimensions which I find particularly important: early diagnosis, prevention, research and partnership.
Early diagnosis Quality screening gives patients the chance to receive timely and often life-saving treatment through early diagnosis. If detected at an earlier stage, cancer is often more responsive to less aggressive treatments. The 2003 Council Recommendation on cancer screening calls on all EU countries to implement national, population-based screening programmes for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer, with appropriate quality assurance at all levels. To support the EU’s Member States in implementing these programmes, the Commission has produced a full set of European Guidelines for quality assurance for the screening of all three types of cancer.
Prevention We know that some cancers can be avoided by 26
October 2015
INFORMATION they can be diagnosed earlier and treated more successfully. In addition, projects funded through the Health Programme support the target of reducing cancer incidence by sharing expertise, raising standards and reducing health inequalities.
Partnership Working together in Joint Actions is immensely valuable. It allows EU countries and a wide range of stakeholders to share information, capacity and expertise in cancer prevention and control. The 'European Partnership for Action Against Cancer’ (EPAAC) Joint Action launched by the Commission in 2009 aimed to reduce the incidence of cancer by 15% by 2020 and to help Member States develop solid national cancer plans. EPAAC has helped to ensure that today, 25 out of 28 Member States have adopted National Cancer Plans, compared with 17 in 2009. The Comprehensive Cancer Control (CANCON) Joint Action, launched in 2014, builds on the success of EPAAC and aims to deliver a European Guide on Quality Improvement in Cancer Control. By presenting evidence-based recommendations for all stages of cancer control and care, this guide should contribute to reduce inequalities in cancer between EU countries.
Looking to the future
EU Commissioner Vytenis Andriukai s is responsible for Health and Food Safety adopting healthier lifestyles, and outcomes are greatly improved if cancer is detected early on. Arming people with this information is the aim of the ‘European Code Against Cancer’. The Code was first developed in 1987 and has been regularly updated ever since. The fourth edition which was launched in 2014 to reflect the latest scientific opinion, lays out 12 evidence-based recommendations for significantly reducing your cancer risk. Addressing the risk factors is the Commission’s first line of attack for reducing the burden of cancer. Actions in the past thirty years include legislation on pesticides, air quality, and exposure to carcinogens at work. The ambitious EU tobacco control policy includes robust laws regulating tobacco products and banning advertising and sponsorship, and awareness-
raising campaigns such as the award winning ‘Exsmokers are unstoppable’. Strategies and platforms for joint action on alcohol and nutrition and physical activity bring together EU countries and stakeholders including NGOs and industry to tackle these risk factors.
Research During the past seven years, the EU has invested nearly €1.5 billion in international collaborative research, frontier research, mobility programmes, public-private partnerships and coordination of national cancer research efforts. Over half of this budget - €770 million – is used for ‘collaborative research projects’, to find new ways to fight cancer and to help patients. These projects help us better understand how various types of cancer develop, how
There are currently several initiatives in the pipeline. The Commission is working towards a voluntary, evidence-based quality assurance scheme for breast cancer services. Clinical departments that adhere to this scheme will be recognised as the ‘gold standard’ for screening, diagnosis, treatment and posttreatment of breast cancer. I also want to help Member States target their efforts where they are most needed, on the basis of solid data. For this we are helping to improve the evidence base by promoting the cooperation of cancer registries. Finally, we are preparing a new European Joint Action to pool together scarce knowledge and resources on rare cancers. We have achieved a lot in the last 30 years. I am committed to building on what is now on the table: the new European Code, the joint actions with Member States, new guidelines on breast cancer screening and on quality assurance. Going forward, I want to mobilise all actors – Member States, stakeholders, European and National Parliaments to work together to continue the commitment to focus on cancer prevention while continuing action on screening, treatment and research. To deliver results on cancer we need to work together; we need to have everybody on board.
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October 2015
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REAL
LIVES
TURNING LEMONS INTO LEMONADE
SURVIVORS MALTA IS AN ONLINE SUPPORT GROUP THAT HELPS BREAK THE ISOLATING EXPERIENCE OF FAMILIES FACING TRAUMA. CO FOUNDER SARAH CACHIA TALKS TO SUZANNE VASSALLO ABOUT HOW IT STARTED AND WHAT KEEPS HER GOING.
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eeting Sarah is always a pleasure. She looks different from when I first met her, having had her hair cut into a stylish bob. It suits her. This is the Sarah who has made yet another change, and delivered what she promised her son Jacob. After her son’s ordeal, she and Jacob started Survivors Malta on Facebook, and Sarah has written a book pour encourager les autres. Over cups of tea, her face changes. She smiles, laughs out loud and thanks God for feeling so blessed. “Thank you Thank you Thank you” she says loudly. She knows He’s listening. There are times when her eyes glint, not just with amusement at seeing the funny side of things, but also with the occasional tears of sadness caused by flash backs to more difficult times. But this woman sitting across from me is a formidable one. She has gone though what, in her very own words “every mother’s nightmare whom no mother should ever have to go through”. I have interviewed Sarah before, and chatted with Jacob. Their story has been splashed all over social media, newspapers and magazines to reach out to other families facing trauma. It is now in the form of a book aptly entitled “Jacob My Titanium man”. This is the book he asked her to write. He said “Mum, tell my story.” Always a woman of her word, she did just that. With the help of Kristina Chetcuti, who put Sarah’s one hundred words a minute to bookshelves and in briefcases and handbags all over the island. Sarah, ever the altruist wanted to give the proceeds to a charity. Many talked her out of it in favour of a more sensible option closer to home. The proceeds will start the fund for Jacob’s dream to set up his own coffee shop. I’m positive that “Jacob’s Brew” will be quite a success especially with the pay forward initiative. Survivors Malta has already taken off. A Facebook group popular with many who have found solace and support, it is something that Sarah, as a mother sitting by her son’s bedside in ITU, day after day, night after night, would have loved to have found. Data Protection laws can be so difficult for relatives of patients they do not allow hospitals and clinics to share patients’ information. Survivors Malta was set up to get around that limitation. Anyone who joins the group can post their experience there. Anyone who wants to get in touch with another member is free to do so.
»
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REAL
LIVES
For Sarah, whose son’s recovery is the wind beneath her wings, the fact that Survivors Malta has nearly 3000 members and is growing daily is nothing short of pure, unadulterated joy. This group, which started in July 2013, has been exactly what she herself needed and yearned for, in those dark hours. In it there’s support for people who are going through pain and suffering. It is for the relatives of these people to help them help their family and friends. And it’s free. Sarah takes no money from advertising. It’s something she’s adamant about. The dark bob swings left to right as she makes her point. When you think about it, illness generates so many expenses, besides changes, that this is indeed a relief. People find each other on Facebook daily. Survivors Malta is no different. Patients find patients. Carers find carers, worried relatives find other relatives of survivors who have been there before them. Although the aim is positive, Sarah always says “We cannot promise a happy ending.” She’s a sensible woman.
Kristina Chetcuti who organised Sarah’s pain, sorrow and ultimate elation into the book. The mental image of these two women, both mothers, bouncing ideas off each other to give birth to Jacob’s request, has me suppressing a giggle. Sarah recounts how a mother grabbed her hand one time and said “Thank you, You gave me strength.” “How could I not?” she says, looking at me, her eyes welling up. “I was that woman. Once upon a time that was ME! NO mother should ever go through this. No parent should ever be that close to losing a child. I had to do something to give others hope.” Beaming at the thought of Survivors Malta, she nods and her sleek hair bobs, catching the sunlight. “That’s why I do what I do,” she says. “That was me, so I still need to hear it. I need to continue to be inspired by the multitude of stories I hear on the page in the group. Also do, people need to hear a story of survival. To hear that against all odds you never gave up.”
Patients find patients. Carers find carers, worried relatives find other relatives of survivors who have been there before them.
Sensible as she is, Sarah, like all mothers, had the ability to “Kiss it better”. Sadly, she can do this no longer. That has been taken away from her. I like to think she has replaced it with group hugs, as that is what Survivors Malta feels like. She is now reaching out to others who are hurting. When, in her words, it felt like her family was falling apart, what she needed was someone to understand her. Empathy goes a long way. Pity stops you in your tracks, but empathy propels you forward. While writing the book, her words tumbled out. Considering that she speaks at nineteen to the dozen I can only praise 30
October 2015
Sarah has become quite a well known face. Her smile is contagious, as is Jacob’s. Many ask, perplexed, But why are you smiling? Her family fell apart. It was a make it or break situation and against all odds, they made it. Wouldn’t you smile in her place? Sadly, the media still prefer misery to happiness. Luckily these instances are far and few between. In Sarah’s very simple words “there’s always something to smile about”. She’s right. There is. Always. For someone who was given a crate of lemons, not only did she make lemonade, she went one step further. That lemonade is as effervescent as she is.
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Survivors Malta is a safe haven for people who are going through a tough time. We asked members how joining the group has helped them. “When my husband was in hospital after a stroke I felt so lost and down and depressed, so I let my feelings out at Survivors Malta. I was overwhelmed at the warm and genuine response I received from people who went through exactly the same thing and who knew what I was feeling. Many times what we need is just a gentle or encouraging push to keep going on and I got it on Survivors Malta.” Jeannette “It’s been nine months now since I have been seeing my son fighting this battle, and there were too many times that I almost gave up. When Survivors Malta approached me, I plucked up the courage to keep holding on. I couldn’t forget the hug from the heart of a mother to a mother that’s living her nightmare and the precious words “where there is life, there is hope”. I thank Sarah, Jacob and all who form part of this group” Jakline “All the cases I came across in Survivors Malta went through very hard times and with God’s help and support they bounced back. It is not easy and yes, looking back, everything seems impossible. Courage to all. You are in someone’s prayers even if you don’t know it. When I was a practicing nurse, I always used to pray for the patients I used to come across.” Antoinette “Joining Survivors Malta helped me quite a lot. It gave me support and courage. It is like a chain. Everyone is trying to pull it to make you feel alive. That is how I felt. It made me feel at home and is a place where I can write whatever I want about what I was going through. I felt safe.” Roxanne “My youngest was admitted to ITU three times for brittle asthma. She was given the last sacrament as they held no hope for her to survive. She did as she is a tough cookie like me. In ITU I was offered the possibility of meeting a psychologist to come and talk to me but to be honest they can’t feel the pain of a mother nearly losing a child in front of them. When I met Sarah, it was the medicine I needed as she has been through the same experience. Overnight I went from being a very active career lady and mother of three to a lady that is in constant pain 24/7. There are many restrictions as a wheelchair user but I never want people to pity me. I have one more job in my life left which is to help people to deal with constant pain with invisible disabilities. Survivors Malta members are always ready with an ear open and all survivors help just by being there to listen.” Michelle “When I was introduced to Survivors Malta I spoke freely about my condition and comments made me feel I was supported and listened to. I felt free to say what I have been through without being shy. I also managed to make new friends who suffered from the same condition. We exchanged ideas such as diets and so on and encouraged each other. This group helped me to believe in myself. It makes me feel that I am never alone and no matter what my problem was there was someone who listened.” Roderick Survivors Malta
SPORT
Photograph: Mark Borg Photography
Malta’s GOLDEN BOY ANDRÉ CAMILLERI, ONE OF MALTA’S YOUNGEST TRIATHLETES, TALKS TO ANNA MARIA GATT ABOUT EARLY MORNING, PRE SCHOOL TRAINING AND THE THRILL OF SUCCESS.
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f you’re of a certain age, you’ll remember Italy’s famous footballer Gianni Rivera, nicknamed “Golden Boy”, for his success in sport. That nickname came to mind when I first met 10-year old André Camilleri. André is not a footballer, as are most boys his age. He is a triathlete. That means swimming, running and cycling in one sporting event. This year, he joined Malta’s National Sports School together with his brother Jacob who is ranked as one of Malta’s future Karate champions. Getting to know André and Jacob means meeting their mother Leslin, who can only be described as the engine
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behind her sons’ success. “I owe everything to my mother,” says André. “She is always there to encourage us and to support us in everything we do. She is a fighter and this drives us to go on and be the best.” Elevenyear old André started triathlon training after his mum suggested it. “I always loved swimming. It’s how I got into sport,” he explains, adding that what fascinated him about triathlon was being able to practice three different sports at one go. “Triathlon is never boring and training is always different.” At first, triathlon training seemed difficult since André was only used to swimming but he took to
SPORT Photograph: Stephan Stafrace Photography
the sport and now says it has become part and parcel of his life. “I like all three sports, but if I had to choose, I would choose swimming because that’s how it all started.” You can’t help admire André's determination especially when he describes his weekly training schedule as if it is something that all of us can do with just a flick of our fingers. “On Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, I am in the water at 6am since I have a pool session before school,” he says. “On Tuesday and Thursday I have a one and a half hour session also in the afternoon where we focus more on cycling and running. The hardest session is on Saturday morning. We do two hours of core training and swimming.” In addition, André trains at school too, taking four training sessions during school hours. “I can't always use school transport because I have cycling sessions at school. My mother helps out by accompanying me to school when I need to carry my bike,” he says. Triathlon success means competing in all three disciplines separately and keeping record of the improvement obtained. Apart from regular training sessions, André takes part not only in triathlon competitions and competes in the separate disciplines. “Last March I won a fun-run held at Pembroke. In May, in a swimming competition in Sicily, I won two silver medals and one gold medal,” he says. Our discussion shifts then to a feat that André successfully managed last summer. This was an extraordinary event for an eleven-year old who is now a Malta record holder: the Gozo-Malta swim, a challenge that only the bravest attempt. “It all started with my participation in the St. Joseph Birkirkara Open Water championship which I won,” André says. “I immediately decided that I wanted to swim from Gozo to Malta. I had wanted to do it since last year. My mother was enthusiastic too but last year she felt that I was not yet prepared to do it. I was only ten years old.” This summer turned out to be the best ever for André and his family. “It was my mother who
organised everything. She was present for every training session and on the day, together with my aunt, she accompanied me on a boat, following each and every stroke.” Training for the Gozo-Malta swim was quite challenging. For a whole year, André swam for two hours at a stretch every morning between 7 and 9. He enjoyed every minute of it even though during school holidays he still had to wake up early to go
I eat healthily at lunch and at dinner, avoid sweets and drink lots of water
swimming. “While waiting to start, I was very excited and even a bit afraid about whether I’d manage to finish it,” he says, “but my mother's presence encouraged me. She made me feel I could do it.” As soon as André touched Malta’s shore, he was greeted by huge applause and by an emotional and proud mother. Many might think that this is not a normal lifestyle for an eleven-year old boy. However, André enjoys all this and is determined to keep on succeeding in his sport. “I do my best at every training session and follow a healthy lifestyle which helps triathletes,” he says. “Many ask me whether I follow a strict diet. I eat healthily at lunch and at dinner, avoid sweets and drink lots of water.” After the Gozo-Malta feat which was reported by Malta’s media, André looks forward to the forthcoming challenges: “There will be lots of competitions in Malta and abroad in which I will take part with my team-mates. We are a great team and we support each other all the time.” Although he is only eleven years old, André has already set his goals for the future. “My dream is to take part in great international competitions. I want to represent Malta in the Small Nations Games and, yes, if possible even in the Olympic Games,” he says. With young athletes like André, the future of triathlon in Malta looks very bright. As the months go by, more people are being attracted towards this sport. Thanks to the Triathlon Academy, even youngsters can now experience the thrill and beauty of it all. André confirms this. “It might seem difficult at first, but once you get into the habit, you will never want to stop.” Good time management and continuous support help young athletes develop their full potential. André has all the right attributes for success to fulfil his dreams and make us all proud: talent, determination and a family who supports him consistently. And this is what we wish for André and his friends: to aspire high and never look back.
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October 2015
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INFORMATION
NEUROPATHIC PAIN BY DR JAN CHIRCOP MD MMCFD FAMILY PHYSICIAN
p What is pain?
ain is physical suffering or discomfort caused by illness or injury. At one point or another, everybody has suffered from such a distress, and many adults suffer from severe or constant pain. However, pain is also personal, and in fact varies from one individual to another. What works on some people, does not necessarily work on others, and vice versa. What is neuropathic pain? Neuropathic pain is a chronic pain, occurring due to the damage and malfunctioning of the nervous system. The nerve fibers that transmit information from the brain to the different parts of the body may send incorrect information due to this damage. It tends to be more prevalent among the older adults and can severely interfere with the quality of life. Symptoms of neuropathic pain consist of burning and shooting pain, as well as tingling and numbness.
Dr Jan Chircop MD MMCFD Family Physician
How can alpha-lipoic acid and Vitamin B help? Alpha-lipoic acid (also called thioctic acid) and Vitamin B complex are becoming increasingly popular in the treatment of peripheral neuropathies, especially diabetic neuropathy. They are also indicated in pain associated with sciatica,
cervical brachial syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome and fibromyalgia. Alpha-lipoic acid is a very powerful antioxidant that counteracts the free radicals produced in oxidative stress damage, whereas Vitamin B complex protects the nerves from degeneration. Together, alpha lipoic acid and Vitamin B complex, have a synergistic effect that treats neuropathic pain.
Do you have neuropathic pain? 1. Does the pain feel like strange unpleasant sensations? (e.g. pricking, tingling, pins/needles) 2. Do painful areas look different? (e.g. mottled, more red/pink than usual) 3. Is the area abnormally sensitive to touch? (e.g. lightly stroked, tight clothes) 4. Do you have sudden unexplained bursts of pain? (e.g. electric shocks, ‘jumping’) 5. Does the skin temperature in the painful area feel abnormal? (e.g. hot, burning) 6. Does stroking the affected area of skin with cotton produce pain? 7. Does a pinprick at the affected area feel sharper or duller when compared to an area of normal skin?
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Interpretation of results: If your answer is positive (yes), add the points assigned in the table below. If the total score is more than 12, the pain experienced is likely to be neuropathic. Question no. Score
1 5
2 5
3 3
4 2
5 1
6 5
7 3
Disclaimer: Adapted from: Bennett, M.I. (2001). The LANSS Pain Scale: The Leeds assessment of neuropathic symptoms and signs. Pain, 92(1-2), 147–157. Appendices A and B, pp. 156 This test is used to indicate the presence of nociceptive pain and should not be used as a test for self-diagnosis. If anyone undertaking this test suffers from these symptoms, they should speak to their doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Liponerv CR Dosage regimen: Once daily dose = 600mg alphalipoic acid, 100% RDA of Vitamins B1, B6 and B12
Controlled release of alphalipoic acid One of the advantages of Liponerv CR is the controlled release of alphalipoic acid over a number of hours, thus allowing for once daily administra on. Alphalipoic acid has a short half-life, and with the incorpora on of both the MATRIS® (Retard Mul form Administra on Timed Release Ingredient System) and SURACTIVES components, this degrada on can be reduced by releasing the alphalipoic acid over 9-10 hours. Liponerv CR is made up of controlled release alpha lipoic acid (ALA) at a dose of 600mg, and Vitamin B complex. ALA is a POTENT an oxidant able to counteract free radicalmediated oxida ve stress damages, whereas the Vitamin B complex protects the nerves from degenera ve phenomena. This combina on offers synergis c, las ng and targe ed treatment for neuropathic pain and hypersensi ve nerves.
Indica ons: • Cervical brachial syndrome pain • Carpal Tunnel syndrome pain • Scia ca pain • Diabe c neuropathy • Fibromyalgia
Peak plasma concentra ons are reached a er 11 hours. Liponerv CR does not require a prescrip on, it is a registered food supplement available from leading pharmacies and Europharma Medical Center, Psaila Street, B’Kara. Tel 23859211; 23859272 info@europharma.com.mt
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lifestyle READING EVERYDAY SUPER FOOD JAMIE OLIVER
AGENDA’S PICK OF THE LATEST LIFESTYLE BOOKS. ISBN 9780718181239
Jamie's Everyday Super Food makes eating well exciting, delicious, easy and fun. No matter how busy you are, you'll find that healthy eating the Jamie way is both straightforward and achievable, making it super easy to choose exactly the kind of meals that suit you. The book is divided into breakfasts (up to 400 calories), lunches (up to 600 calories) and dinners (up to 600 calories), and every tasty meal is nutritionally balanced so that any combination over the day will bring you in under your recommended daily allowance of calories (2000, women/2,500, men), allowing you to enjoy snacks and drinks
on the side. You can eat Smoothie Pancakes with Berries, Banana, Yoghurt and Nuts for breakfast, Tasty Fish Tacos with Game-Changing Kiwi, Lime and Chilli Salsa for lunch and Griddled Steak and Peppers with Herby-Jewelled Tabbouleh Rice for dinner, and still be healthy. Whether you dip in and out of it, eat from the book Monday to Friday or use it faithfully every day for a month, it's totally up to you. In Everyday Super Food, Jamie's done all the hard work for you. All you need to do is choose a delicious recipe, cook it up and, most importantly, enjoy it. Every meal in this book is a good choice and will bring you a step closer to a healthier, happier you.
BIG MAGIC: CREATIVE LIVING BEYOND FEAR ELIZABETH GILBERT Readers of all ages and walks of life have drawn inspiration from Elizabeth Gilbert's books for years. Now, this beloved author shares her wisdom and unique understanding of creativity, shattering the perceptions of mystery and suffering that surround the process, and showing us all just how easy it can be. By sharing stories from her own life, as well as those from her friends and the people that have inspired her, Elizabeth Gilbert challenges us to embrace
ISBN 9781408866740
our curiosity, tackle what we most love and face down what we most fear. Whether you long to write a book, create art, cope with challenges at work, embark on a long-held dream, or simply to make your everyday life more vivid and rewarding, Big Magic will take you on a journey of exploration filled with wonder and unexpected joys.
THE ALLERGY FREE FAMILY COOKBOOK: 100 DELICIOUS RECIPES FREE FROM DAIRY, EGGS, PEANUTS, TREE NUTS, SOYA, GLUTEN, SESAME AND SHELLFISH FIONA HEGGIE ISBN 9781409155812 It's daunting when your child is diagnosed with a food allergy but just because they're allergic to one, or indeed, several types of food doesn't mean that they can't eat delicious meals with the rest of the family, benefit from a healthy, balanced diet or have tasty treats if they deserve them. From shepherd's pie, risottos, Thai curries and casseroles as
well as cakes and desserts, The Allergy-Free Family Cookbook is packed full of 100 nutritious recipes, which allow everyone around the table to enjoy the same meal. Using ingredients that can be readily found in supermarkets, each recipe is free from all eight major food allergens: dairy, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soya, gluten, sesame and shellfish.
SECRETS OF THE WORLD’S HEALTHIEST CHILDREN WHY JAPANESE CHILDREN HAVE THE LONGEST, HEALTHIEST LIVES AND HOW YOURS CAN TOO NAOMI MORIYAMA & WILLIAM DOYLE ISBN 9780349407487 A recent global analysis by The Lancet revealed that Japanese children are the healthiest in the world. Bestselling author and Tokyo-born Naomi Moriyama set out to discover the secrets of Japan's success. Travelling with her young son, Naomi interviewed scientists, doctors and researchers in Japan, the US and the rest of the world as well as gathering the insights of
Japanese mums. The result: a highly practical and revolutionary guide that will help you establish healthy eating and lifestyle habits that will last a lifetime. In Secrets of the World's Healthiest Children, Naomi and her husband William Doyle reveal lifechanging behaviours and tips that will help any parent achieve the results they want.
THE MINDFULNESS COLOURING BOOK: ANTI STRESS ART THERAPY FOR BUSY PEOPLE EMMA FARRARONS ISBN 9780752265629 The is the bestselling adult colouring book. Working with your hands is one of the best ways to soothe anxiety and eliminate stress. This stunning, pocket-sized colouring book offers a practical exercise in mindfulness that draws on your creativity and hones your focus. Beautifully 36
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illustrated, The Mindfulness Colouring Book is filled with templates for exquisite scenes and intricate, sophisticated patterns, prompting you to meditate on your artwork as you mindfully and creatively fill these pages with colour. Take a few minutes out of your day, wherever you are, and colour your way to peace and calm.
INFORMATION
The Powerful HEALING PROPERTIES of Australian Bodycare Tea Tree Oil TO MAINTAIN GOOD HEALTH WE NEED TO LISTEN TO OUR BODY’S NATURAL RHYTHMS AND IDEALLY BE ABLE TO PREVENT RATHER THAN CURE ANY PROBLEMS THAT ARISE. IN MODERN HEALTHCARE THE DEMAND FOR NATURAL PRODUCTS AND SOLUTIONS IS INCREASING AS PEOPLE REALISE THAT ESSENTIAL OILS, HERBS AND BOTANICAL EXTRACTS CAN BE AS POTENT AND CONVENIENT AS MANMADE CHEMICALS. Spots & blemishes Cleanse the affected area twice a day with Daily Facial Cleansing Wash followed by the application of Tea Tree Oil dircectly to the spot to prevent spreading bacteria & cleanse blocked pores.
Did you know the powerful benefits of Melaleuca Alternifolia ? • The plant became known as tea tree when Captain Cook’s crew used its leaves to make a spicy refreshing brew. Now it is better known for its potent therapeutic properties. • The Bandjalung tribe (Aborigines) used to bathe in the magic lake where leaves from the tree fell, creating a natural antiseptic bath. • Oil Extracted from these leaves was also used to treat wounds, insect bites and sunburn.
After Sun/ Sun Burn Apply Body Lotion as soon as possible to soothe burnt, dehydrated skin & avoid peeling.
Shaving burn/rash Apply After Shave Balm to relieve symptoms, avoid infection & soothe the skin. For optimum skin care wash use Facial Cleansing Wash.
Which tea tree oil should I buy? Tea tree Oil comprises 150 identified components and, although there are about 110 different species of the plant, only Melaleuca Alternifolia has natural antiseptic, anaesthetic, bactericidal and fungicidal properties, acts as a pus solvent and can promote cell and tissue growth. Make sure you read the labels and always look for the Melaleuca Alternifolia Oil and a percentage in the ingredient list. This plant is the only tree to yield the precious curative oil. This is the key ingredient in the Australian Bodycare range of skin, hair and body treatments. Australian Bodycare products are labelled with the percentage content of pure tea tree oil, e.g. Melaleuca Alternifolia 0.5%. The amounts of Tea Tree Oil optimise the treatment of a variety of skin conditions and complaints. So make sure there is a percentage written in the ingredient list The 100% Pure Tea Tree Oil produced in Australia by Australian Bodycare is quality control tested.
JOIN THE HEAD LICE FREE ZONE WITH AUSTRALIAN BODYCARE TEA TREE OIL Lice are wingless parasitic insects that live among human hairs and feed on small amounts of blood drawn from the scalp. Head lice are a very common problem and we tend to see them especially in children aged 3-12. At the start of an academic year, contracting head lice at school concerns many parents.
Insect Athlete’s Foot & Bites & Stings Fungal Infection Dab Pure Tea Tree Oil Apply cleansing Body Wash on affected area to and dab some Pure Tea Tree Oil obtain immediate on the affected area. For a more soothing relief from the effective treatment apply the sting & kill bacteria Hand & Foot Lotion. Use twice (also applicable for daily for 2 weeks. Daily use minor burns) ofHand and Foot Lotion can alsoprevent foot odour. Eczema,Dermatitis
Mouth Ulcers Use one end of a cotton bud to apply Pure Tea Tree Oil directly to the affected area twice daily for up to 7 days.
CURE 100% Tea Tree Oil being a strong antiseptic will kill lice and their eggs. To clear lice and eggs, add 5 to 10 drops of 100% Pure Tea Tree Oil to measure of Daily treatment Conditioner. Then comb out the hair to remove lice. Repeat this process 2-3 times a week for up to two weeks.
PREVENT The back-to-school season is at hand. Apply a couple of drops of 100% Pure Tea Tree Oil behind your
Cuts & Abrasions Cleanse thoroughly with Daily Cleansing Wash, apply Tea Tree Oil with cotton bud 2-3 times daily, to kill bacteria and soothe pain. Dilute in warm water, if the area is quite large.
& Psoriasis Apply Body Lotion on a regular basis to keep skin supple, calm itching, nourish skin & remove build up of scales found in psoriasis. (Always try carrying out a test patch beforehand)
child’s ears and around the hair line. Tea Tree Oil will act as a repellent without damaging the skin. TRY BEFORE YOU BUY! Try Australian Bodycare Tea Tree Oil samples by calling Biocare Company Ltd on 21 42 44 01/2/3 or email us at info@biocaremalta.com Australian Bodycare Tea Tree Oil is distributed by Biocare Company Ltd. October 2015
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SEXUALITY
DOING IT FOR THE FIRST TIME
e
SEX IS NO LONGER A TABOO BUT FIRST TIME ANXIETY ISN’T PASSÉ. THREE READERS TELL A&H ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCE AND WHAT IT MEANS TO THEM TODAY. INTERVIEWS BY ANNA MARIA GATT
veryone remembers their first sexual experience. Some keep it a secret while others boast about it. Some might put it at the back of their mind while others recall it often. How we deal with the memory depends on the actual experience. Research shows that, although people have high expectations of their first sexual experience, most of the time they end up feeling disappointed because their experience is light years away from what they read about or see in films.
Jennifer*, 25 years old, single
She is the most important woman in my life and I loved her with all my heart
“My first time was about six years ago, when I was nearly 19 years old. I was on holiday with a group of friends, including my friend Patrick*. We were not attracted to each other but spending all that time together made us realise that there was a sort of chemistry between us. On our last night abroad, we all got a bit tipsy after long hours in a club and we ended up in bed together. I immediately came to my
senses and told him straight that it was my first time. Patrick was my friend and I am sure he didn't want to hurt me. I wouldn't describe it as an extraordinary
experience especially since it was a one-off, and nothing came out of it. It was nothing like books or magazines describe the first time. We were just a man and a woman enjoying each other. I don't understand all the fuss about the first time. It has to happen at some point. My friendship with Patrick is still going strong and sometimes we even joke about that first time. For us both, it is now an archived and nearly forgotten experience.”
Emanuel*, 52 years old, separated “I had sex for the first time with my ex-wife on our wedding night. We had been dating each other for only two years and we were both sure that we would wait for that first night. I don't regret it at all, even though we have now been separated for nearly six years. If I could turn back time I would still do it for the first time with her. She is the most important woman in my life and I loved her with all my heart. It was natural for me to share my first experience with her in our own home.
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I treasure it as if it happened only yesterday. I remember that my ex-wife had planned the wedding to the minimum detail, including also what would happen afterwards. We were both very relaxed and happy and this helped us to share an unforgettable experience. It was similar to what is shown on TV: candles in our room, new linen, champagne glasses. For us both it was a dream come true. At first, I admit I was a bit shy and not sure what I had to do, but we were so in love that it all came naturally. I only wish that even my children will treasure the beauty of love-making and wait till they find the right person. However, nowadays pressure is so high, I am sure that if I mention this to them, they will burst out laughing in my face. If only they knew what it means to appreciate and treasure one another.”
Veronique*, 37 years old, married “I don't have very good memories of my first sexual experience. It happened during a very bad period of my life where I consider myself to have been very
I felt awful even though I was not being forced into doing it 40
October 2015
vulnerable. I was 22 years old and had been going out with my boyfriend for nearly five years. But I ended up losing my virginity not to him, but to a colleague of mine with whom I had started a clandestine affair. It's really strange how things happen. I had a good relationship with my boyfriend but at the same time I was happy with the constant attention my colleague gave me. Once we were on late shift together and we ended up hugging and kissing on a sofa in his office. After that, we started spending more time together, until the inevitable happened. I felt awful even though I was not being forced into doing it. I still remember my colleague's
face after we had sex saying that now I belonged to him, even though we could never have a proper relationship. That episode marked my life, not only physically but also emotionally. I ended up leaving my boyfriend and started afresh cutting off all contact with my colleague. Now I am happily married but still I feel ashamed of what I did, even though many years have passed. I only wish that others are wiser than me and control their emotions. Waiting for the right time and with the right person is the best option not to have regrets.”
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*All names have been changed.
A&H says..... Many of us can easily relate to some aspect of these three different experiences. What seems clear is that waiting for the right moment and waiting for the right person is the best way to establish a healthy relationship. Recognising the right moment and the right person is the real challenge. Younger people are now experimenting more with sex and tend to have their first experiences at a very young age. This can lead to a variety of emotions either if the couple was involved not only physically but also emotionally or else if only one half of the couple wants to have sex and the other feels forced into it. That situation might lead to repercussions on the person who feels pushed into the experience. The key word here is definitely respect - for each other's decisions, thoughts, feelings and doubts. If younger people learn to respect each other in all ways, even sexually, the experience will be better for everyone. This raises the question once more: should sex education form part of the school curriculum and at what age should it begin? Schools have a role to play, of course, but parents can't ignore this responsibility. This does not mean that parents have to plan a day and time for a serious talk with their children. Discussions about sex should come naturally, must be age appropriate and devoid of lies, euphemisms or pretence. It's useless lying to your children when they can easily find what they’re looking for on the internet. Proper education must be a collective effort involving parents, teachers and other educators. There is nothing wrong in pointing out the real significance of sex: that of showing total respect to the person with whom you feel you can share everything.
COMPLEMENTARY
THERAPY
Herbal HEALING i t all started with a special tea Doru Prodan’s grandmother prepared for him that cured a persistent cough he suffered from as a child in Romania. That episode marked the beginning of his journey towards the discovery of herbs and their medicinal benefits. Now a fully qualified herbalist affiliated to the British Herbal Medicine Association, Prodran, who moved to Malta over 20 years ago together with his family, is determined to apply expertise to help people live a better quality of life. He insists, however, that despite his trust in herbal medicine he would never advise a patient against traditional medicine and he warns against dabbling with other people’s health. “My job is to find herbal remedies that complement traditional medicine. A professional herbal practitioner would never do it any other way,” he says. In the past, he says, herbal remedies had few side effects but since they are now being combined with traditional medicine, herbalists are duty bound to act with caution. “The combination of both, if not administered properly can have very serious repercussions,” he says. Doru Prodran tells A&H that most of his Maltese clients call upon him for help with problems related to anxiety, stress and other complex chronic problems. He says some go to him already informed about herbal remedies which they believe could help them. This worries him because most of their ‘research’ is based on what they find on the internet, where not all sources are reliable.
Proper advice goes beyond that. “I need to know more about my patient,” Prodran says. “I need to know their medical history, for example, and about their lifestyle, medication and so on. I have to make sure that the herbs prescribed work well in conjunction with any traditional medicine already being taken. “Some family doctors are open to herbal medicine. I see people who are referred to me by doctors. This pleases me because I firmly believe that the best results can be achieved when we collaborate.” In fact, he says that when someone is given traditional medicine for life, he would not be the one to advise his patient to stop taking the medication. “Medication should only be stopped on a doctor’s advice and if blood test results are clear. At that point, the herbal remedies in conjunction with traditional medicine have helped heal the condition.” Doru Prodran speaks about marketing campaigns that fool people into believing there are miracle cures for ailments. He dismisses claims that certain plants miraculously cure serious illnesses. “I am fed up of all the miraculous and expensive cures supposedly discovered overnight offering false promises, the expensive books offering fabulous healing ways and leaving you more confused than ever before after reading them, the false gurus and other cheats all over the world who make people suspicious about the real benefits of natural remedies which have proven to work and heal for hundreds of years. “Promises are dangerous. One cannot play with people’s emotions and health because there is never
HERBAL REMEDIES Grandma’s cough syrup NOTE: If symptoms are severe or persistent, seek medical advice.
recipe – “Effective, fast and tasty”
Ingredients: 1 black radish and a few tablespoons of natural honey Method: Do not peel the radish. Rinse it well with cold water and wipe it with a clean towel or cloth. Cut off the leafy top and put the cut piece aside (this will be the cover). With a spoon or a knife, carve a hole inside the radish, removing the core and leaving a ‘shell’ about 1 cm thick. Pour honey into the radish till it is about three quarters full. Cover with the filled radish with the leafy top and let it soak for some several hours to form syrup from the juice of radish and honey. If no 42
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HERBALIST DORU PRODRAN TALKS TO DANIELA ALLEN ABOUT RELIABLE REMEDIES AND WHY HE NEVER ADVISES AGAINST TRADITIONAL MEDICINE a guarantee of a cure, whether with traditional medicine or herbal medicine.” This is why he says he informs all his patients about the properties of herbal remedies and strongly believes that through this therapy he can make a difference in people’s lives. On a final note Doru Prodran passes on a message to all: “I wish you good health wherever you are. Think wise. Choose wise. Live wise.”
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Doru Prodran info@healthyhealingherbsmalta.com
Doru Prodran’s inspiration TV personality Nirvana Azzopardi who passed away in 2013 after battling with cancer was the one who encouraged Doru Prodran to take his expertise in herbal medicine further. "I owe it to her," he says. He met Nirvana shortly after her doctor had told her she had six months to live. She went on to live for a year. During that time Doru was close to Nirvana and helped her in the best way he can to ease her pain using herbal remedies. Doru has turned what he always loved into his profession, and although educated in civilian buildings, art, horticulture and aquaculture, he decided that herbal medicine is what he would like to practice for the rest of his life.
honey’s available, use brown sugar. When the syrup’s ready, take one or two tablespoons 3-4 times a day (how often depends on your age) until the cough or hoarseness disappears. The radish can be used several times until becomes tender. This syrup is also a natural treatment for insomnia, clogged sinuses, allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. Black radish or Raphanus sativus niger is the kind of radish used. It contains carbohydrates, essential oils, enzymes, trace elements, vitamins B and C, flavonoids, isothiocyanates, enzyme inhibitors. The combination of black radish and honey helps relieve symptoms of viral respiratory diseases, including cough, sore throat and hoarseness. It is a powerful energiser and removes toxins from the body.
HEALTH
Doru’s cough recipe Pour two cups of boiling water over two tablespoons chopped peeled onions and boil gently for 15 minutes. Once the mixture cools, strain it and drink one quarter of a cup three times a day, 30 minutes before meals.
Gastric flu remedy For the first 24 to 48 hours of a stomach or intestinal virus, it will probably be difficult to keep any herbal infusions, water or food down. You can use a tincture of equal parts elderflower, thyme and yarrow. Place 1ml of this formula in a tablespoon with warm water. Take small, frequent sips. Repeat this every hour until the symptoms subside. Then, use 1ml three times a day in warm water until you are well. This formula has proven to resolve the acute stage within 48 hours.
First and second degree burns remedy For first and second-degree burns, run cool water over the affected area or soak in a cool water bath for at least five minutes. Then, apply a healing herbal salve or cream. Include anti-inflammatory herbs, herbs to prevent infection and herbs that speed wound healing. All of the following should only be used externally. Aloe Vera gel (anti-inflammatory) St.Jonh’s Worth oil (anti-inflammatory) Comfrey poultice (demulcent, anti-inflammatory)
Hay fever remedy The right mixture of the below plants taken as an infusion will have surprising effects on relieving the symptoms from the first cups. • Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) antihistamine, decongestant
• Nettle (Urtica dioica) antihistamine, antiallergenic • Sage leaf (Salvia officinalis) tonic, astringent, expectorant, and diaphoretic • Peppermint ((Mentha piperita) diaphoretic, releasing heat and toxins from the body. • Elder flower (Sambucus nigra) strong diaphoretic and cooling activity.
Bee sting remedy In case of bee stings gently remove the sting from your skin without pressing it. You can immediately use some crushed parsley which leaves as a poultice on the affected area. Anti-inflammatory herbs can also be used to relieve the symptoms. The following should only be used externally. • Fresh plantain leaf (anti-inflammatory, soothing) • Calendula salve (anti-inflammatory) October 2015
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PRODUCT NEWS
FORCEVAL. BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY Winter is coming and so is the flu season. Boost your immunity and feel good with Forceval. Forceval multivitamin provides a complete multivitamin and multi-mineral supplement for adults and children, over the age of 12. Vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, folic acid and zinc, are all important for the natural functioning of the body and enhance its natural defence function, which makes our body work better and prevents illness. Forceval has been on the market for over 40 years, and is the top selling multivitamin preparation in the UK. It is free of gluten, lactose and artificial preservatives, and is also suitable in pregnancy. Forceval comes in a handy 30-day pack, and one tablet a day is all that is needed.
MOMMYCARE3 NATURAL AND ORGANIC PRODUCTS FOR MOTHER AND CHILD Mommy Care specialises in the development and production of skin care products for expecting mothers, babies and children and makes a point of developing natural and safe products for use during the timewhen skin ismost sensitive. Our line ofmaternity products can be used to prevent stretchmarks and help the body retain its shape after pregnancy. Our baby and kids products are especially suitable for the most delicate and sensitive skin. The safety of mother and child is our primary concern at Mommy Care, so at a time when it really matters our customers can feel safe and taken care of while using our products. Mommycare, a natural and organic range of products, never use parabens, petroleum based ingredients, SLS, or any other controversial ingredient and it is our mission to keep developing high quality, safe skin care products that support moms who are looking to make healthy lifestyle choices for themselves and their children. For a free brochure and samples contact Mommycare exclusive distributors, Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd, T 2144 6205/6
MILTON PROTECTING YOU FROM GERMS TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SKIN! Vichy Laboratories have created Normaderm Beautifying Anti-Imperfection Care, a specialist for oily and imperfection-prone skin for young and adult women. A complete formula that effectively transforms the beauty of your skin thanks to PHE RESORCINOL, a depigmenting & anti-bacterial active ingredient, ultra mattifying AIRLICIUM™ and other Dermatological active ingredients. Normaderm Beautifying Anti-Imperfection Care helps refine pores, reduce coloured marks, pimples and sebum production. It has an ultra–light and hydrating texture, make-up can be applied immediately after. Exclusively in pharmacies. For more info email vichy@prohealth.com.mt Vichy
Germs grow very quickly on all surfaces, and we are always at risk of getting sick, even by a simple touch of the hand. Milton, the experts in hygiene, have developed the Milton Antibacterial Hand Gel, which instantly kills all germs, while leaving your hands soft and moisturised. Another product is the Milton Room and Surface Spray, which is ideal to kill germs in the air like the flu virus, and can be used at home, school or even at your work place. This spray is also ideal for surfaces like bins, taps, telephones and all other surfaces, leaving them germ free and smelling nice too. Trust Milton to keep you and your home safe from germs. Available from all leading pharmacies, supermarkets and baby shops. Trade enquiries Cherubino Ltd. T 2134 3270.
SCHOLL BLISTER SHIELD PLASTERS Blister Shield Plasters are an advanced blister protection plaster using a revolutionary dual layer Hydra-Guard Technology. The hard outer shield protects and guards the formed blister from friction and rubbing. The soft gel island provides cushioning and may assist healing by keeping the blister hydrated and flexible. Instant protection and cushioning for pain relief. Invisible cushioning, stays firmly in place, waterproof, clear and discreet. www.schollfoothealthcentre.com Trade enquiries: Pharma-Cos Ltd. T 2144 1870
PLAYGRO A baby’s first years of life are filled with exploration as they begin to learn about themselves and the world in which they live. Playgro understands the importance of play in this developmental journey and create fun, innovative toys that engage baby’s senses and stimulate their imagination. The Playgro developmental toy range offers fashion colours and fabrics, such as hi-pile fabric, soft velours and wide corduroys to offer sensory stimulation, fresh colours including fire-engine red, caramel brown, lemonade yellow, electric-train blue and sky blue to offer visual stimulation. This Christmas choose your gifts from the colourful world of Playgro toys. Playgro is exclusively distributed by Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd. T 2144 6205/6
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PRODUCT NEWS
PAMPERS BABY DRY Every mum recognises that a night of quality, uninterrupted sleep is beneficial for babies as they wake up rested, cheerful and ready to start their day. Securing the best possible night’s sleep is important, but babies don’t just sleep through the night. They need a helping hand. Pampers Baby Dry have unique double dry zones: a new soft absorbing layer and a core which locks in wetness better than the next leading nappy for up to 12 hours of dryness. So your baby stays dry and comfortable throughout the night, every night. Pampers Baby Dry – every good morning needs up to 12 hours of dryness. Trade enquiries: VJ Salomone (Marketing) 22983201 www.vjsm.com.mt
DERMOCOSMETICS FOR PROBLEM PRONE SKIN Each of the 14 specialised product lines has been designed to address the needs of the most demanding and difficult-to-manage skin types. Pharmaceris is a brand offering specialised safe skin care products designed to fully address the needs of problem-prone skin. Pharmaceris are dermocosmetics developed by a team of experts who combined dermatological solutions with advanced cosmetic formulas to create 14 specialised product lines which meet the needs of the most demanding and difficult-to-manage skin types, usually referred to as “problem-prone skin types”. HYPOALLERGENIC. PROVEN HIGH TOLERANCE AND EFFICACY RECOMMENDED BY DERMATOLOGISTS. Visit our outlets or call us on T 2142 2999. www.brownspharmacy.eu Brown’sPharmaLimited
PHILIPS AVENT As a mum you’ll want to know what’s best for your baby from day one. With 30 years of clinical experience in baby feeding Philips Avent has been designing and manufacturing products to meet your needs. Products that are inspired by nature and have been developed through extensive research and clinical trials and, even more importantly by listening to moms like you. Our products will help to support the choices you make, whether breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or combining the two. Then as your baby grows, the ranges interchangeable design features mean the products can be adapted to meet your baby’s developing needs. We are here to give your baby the best start in life. Philips Avent offer a full range of baby products from bottles, cups, soothers, electric and manual pumps, breast pads, monitors and much more. Philips Avent is exclusively distributed by Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd, T 2144 620/5.
PHYRIS HYDRO ACTIVE HIGH QUALITY INTENSIVE MOISTURISING CARE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES The PHYRIS HYDRO ACTIVE products have one special target: to moisturise the skin immediately with a long-lasting effect. This new generation of deep-moisturising combines active care with lasting protection against dehydration of the skin. Every skin type and every skin condition finds its suitable moisturising product. “The care product with added moisture”. Visit our outlets or call us on 2142 2999. www.brownspharmacy.eu Brown’sPharmaLimited
Wellaby’s – living well, tasting great
NEW Dercos Anti-Dandruff Shampoos
Wellaby’s make unique snacks that are so deliciously tasty you'll hardly believe they are free from gluten, wheat and GSM. The exceptional taste of these snacks comes from Wellaby’s persistence use of exclusively top quality ingredients. Made with real cheese, flavoured with true herbs and baked to precision, these snacks are delicious and healthy choices for indulging.
Formulated with a unique technology - built around Selenium Disulfide, a reference active ingredient in dermatology renowned for its anti-fungal action Dercos Anti-Dandruff Shampoos are the first Vichy treatments to re-balance the scalp’s microbiome. 1 in 4 women and almost 1 in 2 men are affected by dandruff, with this unsightly condition sometimes causing frustration and stress. To add to this, it is sometimes very difficult to find an effective & pleasant product and it is also upsetting when dandruff recurs as soon as the treatment is stopped. Dercos advanced action anti-dandruff treatment shampoos eliminate dandruff from the first application and soothe itching. They also prevent dandruff recurrence for six weeks after stopping the treatment.
To know which stores stock this brand in your vicinity, email J. Calleja Ltd. at storelocator@jcallejaltd.com. T 2152 2438 www.jcallejaltd.com J. Calleja Caterers & Wholesalers Ltd.
Exclusively in pharmacies. For more information & samples email vichy@prohealth.com.mt. Vichy.
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PRODUCT NEWS
SEBAMED LIQUID FACE & BODY WASH • Soap and alkali free face and body wash with pH value of 5.5 just like healthy skin to ensure the maintenance of moisture balance in the skin. • Supports and protects the natural barrier function of the skin’s acid mantle. • Gentle deep cleansing of the pores. • Natural moisturisers Allontoin and Pentavitin leave skin soft and smooth. • Panthenol regenerates the skin. • Economical in use: one drop is sufficient to wash face and hands. • Good skin tolerance. • Ideal for people who suffer from skin allergies, itchiness and irritation. • Suitable for use by all the family including children and the elderly. Available from leading pharmacies, baby shops and Europharma Medical Centre, Psaila Street, Birkirkara. For further enquiries please call T. 2385 9272 or 2385 9211.
ATERONON Ateronon is a natural, food-based product that can be taken with statins or other medication prescribed by your doctor without interfering with their function. Taking Ateronon daily is a great first step in a new health regime. By combining this with a fresh approach to exercise and diet you can enjoy a positive, healthy lifestyle immediately. We would love to hear how much better you feel after living the Ateronon lifestyle for three months. Ateronon has been developed to give your circulatory system every chance to be as healthy as possible, and that means not affecting your existing medication. Ask your GP or pharmacist about Ateronon today.
GOOD THINGS MANUKA HONEY Manuka Honey is proven to contain a high level of active antioxidants that neutralise free radicals which are responsible for skin cell damage. Assisting in the growth of new cell and tissue regeneration, Manuka Honey hydrates, nourishes and helps prevent signs of ageing. With this in mind, Good Things skincare has launched a Manuka Honey skincare range. Good Things Manuka Honey skincare range will appeal to customers wanting an anti-ageing aspect tailored with hydrated, healthy, balanced skin in simple, effective products at affordable prices. The range consists of the following. • Good Things Manuka Honey Creamy Cleanser 150ml A gentle, creamy cleanser to effectively remove daily grime and keep skin hydrated. Contains Royal Jelly and Beeswax . • Good Things Manuka Honey Refining Scrub 150ml An exfoliating scrub to balance and smooth skin. Contains Oat Meal and Sweet Almond oil. • Good Things Manuka Honey SPF 15 Daily Moisturiser 100ml Hydrates, replenishes and prevents signs of skin ageing. Contains Royal Jelly and Bee Venom. • Good Things Manuka Honey Radiance Face Mask 100ml Brightening face mask to hydrate skin and promote skin radiance. Contains White Clay and Bee Venom.
POWER LIPOSCULPTURE BY ESTETIKA Summer bodies are made in winter, so benefit from our FANTASTIC OFFER on Power Liposculpture this October and treat TWO areas for the price of ONE.* Book your consultation NOW on 21340503 or visit our Facebook page. www.estetika.com.mt *Terms & conditions apply
Good Things Skincare is exclusively distributed by Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd. T 2144 6205
MATERNA NUTRITION DURING BREASTFEEDING A healthy wellbalanced diet is important during breastfeeding. Although a supplement does not replace a well-balanced diet, it can provide some extra insurance on those days when taking care of your new baby keeps you from eating as well as you would like. It is important to choose a multivitamin that is especially formulated for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding that supports your nutritional requirements adequately as a nursing mother. Nestlé Materna helps provide the vitamins and minerals you need during all stages of your pregnancy. After pregnancy, Nestlé Materna provides both calcium and vitamin D to help meet the nutritional needs while breastfeeding. Available in Pharmacies
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SEBAMED REPAIR LOTION • Essential natural lipids of skin-related lecithin, sweet almond oil and triglycerides to restore the lipid balance. • No colourants. • No mineral oils. • No silicon oils. • No PEG-compounds. • Product features: 10% urea concentration for effective repair natural, skin-related ingredient for effective penetration. • Humectant capacity prevents excessive moisture loss. • Keratolytic effect encourages necessary scaling and desquamation for smooth skin. • Intensive hydration to restore moisture balance. • Range is ideal for people who suffer from dry skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, etc. • Other products within the same range: Relief Hand Cream, Repair Foot Cream, Relief Shampoo. Available from leading pharmacies, baby shops and Europharma Medical Centre, Psaila Street, Birkirkara. For further enquiries please call on T. 2385 9272 or 2385 9211.
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LASER HAIR REMOVAL BY ESTETIKA We all know that unwanted facial and body hair can be problematic for men and women of all ages. Laser hair removal at Estetika gives you a fast and easy solution for permanent hair reduction so you can look and feel your best. Call now to avail of our special October prices starting from €299 for a full year of Laser.* Free consultations and test patches. Book your consultation NOW on 21340503 or visit our Facebook page. www.estetika.com.mt *Terms and conditions apply
SCHOLL FRESH STEP FOOT SPRAY 98 G Fresh step antiperspirant spray for dry feet is specially developed with a Tri-Action formula that instantly neutralises odour, reduces wetness with drying action, provides feet with 24h protection and ensures your feet are kept fresh whatever the day brings. www.schollfoothealthcentre.com Trade enquiries: Pharma-Cos Ltd. T 2144 1870
MOMMYCARE Mommycare baby products are especially formulated for the most sensitive skin. Mommycare Calendula Diaper Cream 60ml is made from all natural ingredients including Calendula, Chamomile, Lavender and Aloe Vera. This cream helps prevent soreness and irritation caused by diaper rash. Another new innovative product by Mommycare is Facial Wind and Cold Protective Balm 50ml especially developed to protect sensitive skin from the drying effects of cold and wind by creating a protective barrier on baby’s face using all natural nourishing ingredients. For a free brochure and samples please call Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd, T. 2144 6205/6
ATTARD / BALZAN / IKLIN / LIJA M4 PHARMACY, OLD RAILWAY ROAD ATTARD 21436531 MISRAH KOLA PHARMACY, PITKALI ROAD ATTARD 21434137 ST. CATHERINE PHARMACY, TRIQ ID-DIELJA K/M TRIQ SANTA KATERINA ATTARD 21413442 ST. MARY PHARMACY, 2 ANTONIO SCHEMBRI STREET ATTARD 21436348 BALZAN PHARMACY, 70 ST FRANCIS STREET BALZAN 21444035 MEDICA PHARMACY, NAXXAR ROAD BALZAN 21445741 MILIA’S PHARMACY, 73 COTTONERA STREET, BIRGU 27600126 IKLIN PHARMACY, GERONIMO ABOS STREET IKLIN 21415499 IL-MEHRIEZ PHARMACY, 31 GIOVANNI CURMI STREET IKLIN 21435567 ST. JOSEPH PHARMACY, 164 ANNIBALE PRECA STREET LIJA 21418846 ST. MICHAEL PHARMACY, TRANSFIGURATION AVENUE LIJA 21435875 BAHRIJA BAHRIJA PHARMACY, RADDET IR-ROTI STREET C/W SCHOOL STREET BAHRIJA 21450743 BIRGU / SENGLEA / VITTORIOSA VITTORIOSA PHARMACY, 9 TRIQ IL-MINA IL-KBIRA, BIRGU 21807529 VERDALA PHARMACY, 57 TRIQ IL-GENDUS BORMLA 21824720 WHITE CROSS PHARMACY, SHOP A BLOCK 1 SAN PAWL BORMLA 21821671 SAN FILIPPU PHARMACY, 155 VICTORY STREET SENGLEA 21800681 VICTORY PHARMACY, 32 VICTORY STREET SENGLEA 21801698 BIRZEBBUGIA / MARSASCALA / MARSAXLOKK BLOSSOMS PHARMACY, TRIQ IL-GURGIER BIRZEBBUGIA 21652226 BRITANNIA PHARMACY, 5 PRETTY BAY STREET BIRZEBBUGIA 21658622 MARTIN’S PHARMACY, 182 MAIN STREET BIRZEBBUGIA 21651031 BELLAVISTA PHARMACY, 88 TRIQ IL-ĦORTAN MARSASCALA 21633788 SAN GWAKKIN PHARMACY, 1 ST ANNE STREET MARSASCALA 21637994 SAN TUMAS PHARMACY, LAMPUKA STREET MARSASCALA 27023322 ST. ANNE PHARMACY, TRIQ IL-QALIET MARSASCALA 21637615 POMPEI PHARMACY, 28 XATT IS-SAJJIEDA MARSAXLOKK 21651278 BUGIBBA / QAWRA / ST PAUL’S BAY PROMENADE PHARMACY, PIONEER ROAD BUGIBBA 21571530 ST. SIMON PHARMACY, 8 ISLETS PROMENADE BUGIBBA 21571649 EL MEDINA CHEMIST, TRIQ IL-MASKLI QAWRA 21576308 EURO CHEMIST, TRIQ IL-KURAZZA QAWRA 21581876 QAWRA PHARMACY, EARL’S COURT/1 TRIQ L-IMĦAR QAWRA 21585633 PARKES PHARMACY, 582 ST PAUL STREET ST. PAUL’S BAY 21571764 ST. PAUL’S BAY PHARMACY, 504 MAIN STREET ST. PAUL’S BAY 21573406
The magazine is also available for free at the following pharmacies and clinics FGURA / PAOLA / TARXIEN ALPHA PHARMACY, ‘MARIA IMMACULATA’ COTTONER STREET FGURA 21673811 CILIA’S PHARMACY, 303 ZABBAR STREET FGURA 21801962 FGURA PHARMACY, TRIQ IL-KOPPLA FGURA 21675250 BROWN’S PAOLA SQUARE PHARMACY, 64/65 ANTOINE DE PAULE SQUARE PAOLA 21821646 BROWN’S PHARMACY, 45 PAOLA HILL PAOLA 21694818 DE PAOLA PHARMACY, 36 PJAZZA ANTOINE DE PAULE PAOLA 21826408 DISTINCTION PHARMACY, 32 PJAZZA ANTOINE DE PAULE PAOLA 21693412 FLEMING PHARMACY, 61 ZABBAR STREET PAOLA 21696893 ST. MONICA PHARMACY, 157 ST MONICA STREET PAOLA 21667146 SONREN PHARMACY, ZEJTUN STREET TARXIEN 21672757 TARXIEN PHARMACY, 59 TARXIEN STREET TARXIEN 21802986 THERESA JO PHARMACY, 3A TRIQ XINTILL TARXIEN 21672703 FLEUR DE LYS / BIRKIRKARA HERBA PHARMACY, 183 MAIN STREET BIRKIRKARA 21443406 HOLY CROSS PHARMACY, 37 MAIN STREET BIRKIRKARA 21448454 MARRIT PHARMACY, 1ST MAY STREET FLEUR-DE-LYS 21488613 PHARMAPLUS GANU STREET BIRKIRKARA 21492958 RATIONAL PHARMACY, 74/75 VALLEY ROAD BIRKIRKARA 21441513 ST. ANNE PHARMACY, 24 ST HELEN SQUARE BIRKIRKARA 27441913 ST. HELEN PHARMACY, TUMAS FENECH STREET BIRKIRKARA 21441589 ST. JUDE PHARMACY, 213 VALLEY ROAD BIRKIRKARA 21492151 ST. PAUL’S PHARMACY, BRARED STREET BIRKIRKARA 21442135 THE LOCAL DISPENSARY, CAN. K. PIROTTA STREET BIRKIARA 21493549 FLEUR-DE-LYS PHARMACY 32 FLEUR-DE-LYS 21488884 MACKIE’S PHARMACY, L. CASOLANI STREET BIRKIRKARA 21496089 FLORIANA / VALLETTA CHEMIMART LTD., 14 ST ANNE STREET FLORIANA 21239310 ST. PUBLIUS PHARMACY, 48 TRIQ IL-MIRATUR FLORIANA 21225444 VILHENA PHARMACY, 3 ST ANNE STREET FLORIANA 21244114 WATERFRONT DISPENSARY, FORNI 2I PINTO WHARF FLORIANA 21233034 MEDICINE CHEST PHARMACY, DEMITRIJU FARRUGIA ROAD GHARGHUR 21422204 ST. ALBERT PHARMACY, ORATORY STREET GHARGHUR 21413402 CHEMIMART PHARMACY REPUBLIC STREET, 20/21, REPUBLIC STREET, VALLETTA 21246051 CHEMIMART CITY GATE PHARMACY, 24, CITY GATE, VALLETTA, 21238355 COLLIS WILLIAMS PHARMACY, 15 REPUBLIC STREET VALLETTA 21226281 EMPIRE PHARMACY, 77 OLD THEATRE STREET VALLETTA 21225785 EMPIRE PHARMACY BRANCH, 46 MELITA STREET VALLETTA 21225785 NEW BRITISH DISPENSARY, 109/110 ST JOHN STREET VALLETTA 21244813 REGENT PHARMACY, 70 MERCHANTS STREET VALLETTA 21245135 ROYAL PHARMACY, 271 REPUBLIC STREET VALLETTA 21252396
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d�ect�y GHAXAQ / QRENDI / MQABBA BETA PHARMACY, 50/52 SANTA MARIA STREET GHAXAQ 21663311 CHRYSANTHEMUM PHARMACY, ST NICHOLAS STREET QRENDI 21680828 QRENDI PHARMACY, 6 MAIN STREET QRENDI 21683781 ST. PHILIP PHARMACY, TRIQ IĊ-ĊEPPUN GHAXAQ 21808723 GUDJA / LUQA / MARSA GUDJA PHARMACY, 9 TRIQ SAN ĊIRU GUDJA 21696422 MEDICAID PHARMACY, 62 VJAL IT-TORRI GUDJA 21676294 AIRPORT PHARMACY, GROUND FLOOR ARRIVAL LOUNGE MALTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TERMINAL, LUQA 23696349 CENTRAL PHARMACY, 6 ST JOSEPH STREET LUQA 21692546 ST. ANDREW’S PHARMACY, 51 ST GEORGE STREET LUQA 21820795 SAN RAFFAEL PHARMACY, 247 QORMI ROAD MARSA 21221188 TRINITY PHARMACY, 32 MARSA ROAD MARSA 21235595 VIVIEN PHARMACY, TRIQ PATRI MAGRI MARSA 21221701 HAMRUN / SANTA VENERA BROWN’S PHARMACY, 706 MAIN STREET HAMRUN 21238623 CHEMIMART INTERNATIONAL PHARMACY, 650 MAIN STREET HAMRUN 21236 477 COSMED PHARMACY, SOCCORS VILLAMBROSA STREET HAMRUN 21225991 DARWIN PHARMACY, 152 MAIN STREET HAMRUN 21221512 FRA DIEGO DISPENSARY, 94 VILLAMBROSA STREET HAMRUN 21224898 LISTER PHARMACY, 678 MAIN STREET HAMRUN 21245627 NATIONAL PHARMACY, 17 SANTA MARIA STREET HAMRUN 21225539 ST. GAETAN PHARMACY, KAPPILLAN MIFSUD STREET HAMRUN 21234570 THE CROSS PHARMACY, 859 MAIN STREET HAMRUN 21227682 THOMAS’ PHARMACY, 796 MAIN STREET HAMRUN 21238018 FATIMA PHARMACY, TRIQ IŻ-ŻONQOR SANTA VENERA 21482856 LANTERN PHARMACY, MISRAĦ IL-KEBBIES SANTA VENERA 21444648 ST. BARTHOLOMEW PHARMACY, 230 FLEUR-DE-LYS SANTA VENERA 21492271 ST. VENERA PHARMACY, 532 MAIN STREET SANTA VENERA 21238625 KALKARA KALKARA PHARMACY, NO. 8 MISRAĦ L-ARĊISQOF GONZI KALKARA 21807740 KIRKOP KIRKOP PHARMACY, 9 PARISH STREET KIRKOP 21682028 PRESTIGE PHARMACY, 16 ST JOSEPH STREET KIRKOP 21641328 MELLIEHA BROWN’S PHARMACY, SHOP A GEORGE BORG OLIVIER STREET MELLIEHA 21523554 MELLIEHA PHARMACY, 111 GEORGE BORG OLIVIER STREET MELLIEHA 21523462 BROWN’S VILLAGE PHARMACY, MAIN STREET MELLIEHA 21523536 MĠARR PHARMACY, MAIN STREET C/W VITALE STREET MGARR 21577784 ST. MARY PHARMACY, 71 SIR HARRY LUKE STREET MGARR 21580711 MOSTA / NAXXAR GROGNET PHARMACY, 41 CONSTITUTION STREET MOSTA 21432038 ROTUNDA PHARMACY, 7 EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS ROAD MOSTA 21411197 SANTA MARGHERITA PHARMACY, VJAL IL-QALBIENA MOSTIN SANTA MARGHERITA ESTATE MOSTA 21416426 SGHAJTAR PHARMACY, SGĦAJTAR STREET MOSTA 21415198 ST. JOSEPH PHARMACY, 1 TRIQ IŻ-ŻAKKAK MOSTA 21417593 ST. LOUIS PHARMACY, CALI’ STREET MOSTA 21432802 ST. MARY PHARMACY, 14 PJAZZA ROTUNDA MOSTA 21433833 TAT-TARGA PHARMACY, PLOT NO. 2 CONSTITUTION STREET MOSTA 21433141 BROWN’S CHEMISTS, ST PAUL STREET NAXXAR 21417652 NAXXAR PHARMACY, VJAL IL-21 TA’ SETTEMBRU NAXXAR 21411438 PILLBOX PHARMACY, 63 TRIQ IL-BJAD NAXXAR 21417406 VICTORY PHARMACY, 16 VICTORY SQUARE NAXXAR 21412454 MQABBA KRISTIANNE PHARMACY, TRIQ IC-CAVI MQABBA 21683048 MQABBA CENTRAL PHARMACY, ST CATHERINE STREET MQABBA 21641133 MSIDA / PIETÀ /GZIRA/ TA’ XBIEX DEBY’S PHARMACY, 1 QUARRIES STREET MSIDA 21227920 MAYER PHARMACY, 33 TA’ XBIEX SEAFRONT MSIDA 21331732
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The magazine is also available for free at the following pharmacies and clinics
REGAL PHARMACY, 39B ANTONIO BOSIO STREET MSIDA 21313115 REGIONAL PHARMACY, E.H. FURSE STREET MSIDA 21312449 BROWN’S PHARMACY, SHOP 10 YACHT MARINA APARTMENTS TRIQ IL-MARINA PIETÀ 21244366 CHARING PHARMACY, MIMOSA STREET PIETÀ 21232954 ST. ANTHONY PHARMACY, 56 ST JOSEPH STREET PIETÀ 21237327 ST. LUKE PHARMACY, ST LUKE STREET PIETÀ 21241293 D’ARGENS PHARMACY, 330 RUE D’ARGENS GZIRA 21330817 O’HEA PHARMACY, 128 MANOEL STREET GZIRA 21330268 ST. MATTHEW’S PHARMACY, 213 THE STRAND GZIRA 21311797 TONY’S PHARMACY, 100 SIR PATRICK STUART STREET GZIRA 21332080 PHARMALAND DISPENSERS, 5 TAGLIAFERRO MANSIONS PRINCESS MARGARET STREET TA’ XBIEX 21346547 PERSONA MED-AESTHETIC CENTRE, 42, MARINA COURT, SIR UGO MIFSUD STREET, TA’ XBIEX 21340366 REMEDIES CHEMISTS, MARINA COURT 49A ABATE RIGORD STREET TA’ XBIEX 21341649 PACEVILLE / SAN GWANN / ST JULIANS POTTER CHEMISTS LTD., WILGA STREET PACEVILLE 21363244 LOURDES PHARMACY, NAXXAR ROAD SAN GWANN 21387479 MARC PHARMACY, 92 MENSIJA STREET SAN GWANN 21373275 MEDICAL PLAZA DISPENSING CHEMISTS, CASS-I-MALL BUILDINGS VJAL IR-RIHAN SAN GWANN 21372195 SAN GWANN PHARMACY, 11 FELIĊ BORG STREET SAN GWANN 21386974 SPIŻERIJA KAPPARA, ŻBIBU LANE SAN GWANN 21381776 BALLUTA PHARMACY, 30 MAIN STREET ST JULIANS 21317888 MELITA PHARMACY, 127 ST GEORGE STREET ST JULIANS 21378657 SPIŻERIJA MERĦBA, SHOP 2 LAPSI STREET TA’ GIORNI ST JULIANS 21333886 ST. JULIANS PHARMACY, 24 GEORGE BORG OLIVIER STREET ST JULIANS 21369426 PEMBROKE / SWIEQI / ST ANDREWS J.V.’S PHARMACY, SWIEQI VALLEY SWIEQI 21371062 KRYPTON CHEMISTS, IBRAGG STREET SWIEQI 21370141 ST ANDREWS PHARMACY, 87 GIUSEPPE MALFEGGIANI STREET ST ANDREWS 21372784 PENNY LANE PHARMACY, SEJJIEĦ STREET SWIEQI 21375373 SAN GIORGIO PHARMACY, MANWEL BUHAGIAR STREET PREMBROKE 21378485 ST. ANDREW’S PHARMACY, TRIQ IL-QASAM ST ANDREWS 21355205 QORMI ANICI PHARMACY, ANICI STREET QORMI 21487162 BROWN’S PHARMACY, 278 VICTORY STREET QORMI 21499697 DRUGSHOP DISPENSARY, VJAL DE LA CRUZ QORMI 21443221 EVANS PHARMACY, 96/98 ST SEBASTIAN STREET QORMI 21487020 PINTO PHARMACY, 43 ST SEBASTIAN STREET QORMI 21487311 ST. GEORGE’S PHARMACY, 21 MAIN STREET QORMI 21443045 TAL-HLAS PHARMACY, TRIQ IL-ĦELSIEN QORMI 21487739 DINGLI / MTARFA / RABAT SANTA MARIJA PHARMACY, FRENĊ ABELA SQUARE DINGLI 21452447 SPIŻERIJA CARMEN, 1 TRIQ MISRAĦ SUFFARA DINGLI 21457128 IMTARFA PHARMACY, 207 ST. DAVID ROAD MTARFA 21451261 MAKE OVER PHARMACY, BLK A TOWN CENTRE HOS MTARFA 21452833 CENTRAL PHARMACY, TRIQ GĦAJN KAJJET RABAT 21455959 IDEAL PHARMACY, 63 MAIN STREET RABAT 21455479 NIGRET PHARMACY, TRIQ IŻ-ŻAHAR RABAT 21450602 NOVA PHARMACY, 142 COLLEGE STREET RABAT 21454247 ST. ANTHONY PHARMACY, 18 MAIN STREET RABAT 21454187 SAFI PASTEUR PHARMACY, TRIQ IT-TELLERIT SAFI 21689944 SAFI PHARMACY, ST. JOHN STREET C/W BIEB IL-GARRA STREET SAFI 21649552 SANTA LUCIA MADDALENA PHARMACY, SHOP 2 TAL-FAQQANI BUILDING TOWER AVENUE SANTA LUCIA 21677037 STA. LUCIA PHARMACY, 1 MISRAĦ DORELL SANTA LUCIA 21890111
SIGGIEWI MENELO PHARMACY, DR NIKOL ZAMMIT STREET SIGGIEWI 21462957 ST. NICHOLAS PHARMACY, 1 PARISH STREET SIGGIEWI 21460828 THE BYPASS PHARMACY, MONS MIKIEL AZZOPARDI STREET SIGGIEWI 21461681 SLIEMA BROWN’S PHARMACY, UNIT 22 TIGNÈ STREET SLIEMA 21313233 CHEMIMART PHARMACY, 4 5 6 IL-PIAZZETTA TOWER ROAD SLIEMA 21338369 DRUG STORE, 382 MANWEL DIMECH STREET SLIEMA 21334627 EDWARD’S PHARMACY, 115 MANWEL DIMECH STREET SLIEMA 21334102 HARLEY PHARMACY, 1 NATHALIE POUTIATINE TABONE STREET SLIEMA 21334635 MRABAT PHARMACY, MRABAT STREET SLIEMA 21313535 NORMAN’S PHARMACY, 133 HIGH STREET SLIEMA 21332243 RUDOLPH PHARMACY, 133 RUDOLPHE STREET SLIEMA 21344722 STELLA MARIS PHARMACY, 34 MILNER STREET SLIEMA 21335217 THE ECONOMICAL DISPENSARY, 86/87 SIR ADRIAN DINGLI STREET SLIEMA 21330376 VICTOR’S PHARMACY, 9 TOWER ROAD SLIEMA 21330352 WALES PHARMACY, 183 MANWEL DIMECH STREET SLIEMA 21335492 ZABBAR ST. ELIAS PHARMACY, TRIQ SAN ELIJA XAGHJRA 21660300 FELICE DISPENSARY, 95 SANCTUARY STREET ZABBAR 21827939 MAY DAY PHARMACY, VICTORY STREET ZABBAR 21826529 MEDIATRIX PLUS PHARMACY, 7 SANCTUARY STREET ZABBAR 27826685 POLYMER PHARMACY, TRIQ IX-XGĦAJRA ZABBAR 21676263 ST. JAMES PHARMACY, 1 MISRAĦ SAN ĠAKBU ZABBAR 21666194 ST. PETER PHARMACY, TRIQ IS-SEBBELLIKA ZABBAR 21663750 ZEBBUG DE ROHAN PHARMACY, 24 ST ANTHONY STREET ZEBBUG 21464128 PLAZA PHARMACY, 86 MAIN STREET ZEBBUG 21467459 SANTA MARIJA PHARMACY, 40 GĦASFURA STREET ZEBBUG 21465346 SPIŻERIJA ĦAL-MULA, DUN SALV CIAPPARA STREET ZEBBUG 21461693 TAL-GRAZZJA PHARMACY, FRANĠISK FARRUGIA STREET ZEBBUG 21462068 BROWN’S PHARMACY, 47 VJAL IL-ĦELSIEN ZEBBUG 21465411 ZEJTUN GERADA PHARMACY, 46 MATER BONI CONSIGLI STREET ZEJTUN 21806009 GREEN CROSS PHARMACY, 31 GREGORIO BONNICI SQUARE ZEJTUN 21693723 JOHN J. BORG PHARMACY, 1 CONSTITUTION STREET ZEJTUN 21898728 ST. CATHERINE PHARMACY, PLOT 3 TRIQ IL-QADI ZEJTUN 21678039 ZURRIEQ KRISTIANNE PHARMACY, PIETRU PAWL SAYDON STREET ZURRIEQ 21647391 SALUS PHARMACY, 21 REPUBLIC SQUARE ZURRIEQ 21680761 ZURRIEQ DISPENSARY, 68 MAIN STREET ZURRIEQ 21689971 BRONJA PHARMACY, SONATA BRONJA STREET ŻURRIEQ 21682251 GOZO FONTANA PHARMACY, TRIQ IL-GĦAJN FONTANA 21566979 GĦAJNSIELEM PHARMACY, INDEPENDENCE SQUARE GHAJNSIELEM 27203615 LAURETANA PHARMACY, 36 MGARR STREET GHAJNSIELEM 21563017 SOKKORS PHARMACY, ST GREGORY STREET KERCEM 21553018 TONY’S PHARMACY, “EGRET COURT”VALLEY STREET MARSALFORN 21563617 NADUR PHARMACY, PJAZZA IT-28 TA’ APRIL 1688 NADUR 21563589 VELLA PHARMACY, 15 13TH DECEMBER STREET NADUR 21566431 ST. JOSEPH PHARMACY, 28 ST JOSEPH SQUARE QALA 21555348 ABELA’S PHARMACY, 42 G.P.F. AGIUS DE SOLDANIS STREET RABAT 21556170 AZZOPARDI PHARMACY, CAPUCHIN STREET RABAT 21563233 BATU PHARMACY, 38 PALM STREET RABAT 21551841 CASTLE PHARMACY, 2 INDEPENDENCE SQUARE RABAT 21556970 PALM PHARMACY, 2 PALM STREET RABAT 21566170 TAĊ-ĊAWLA PHARMACY, 7 JUNE 1919 STREET RABAT 21557819 PISANI PHARMACY, NEW BUILDING SANNAT STREET SANNAT 21564447 JOYCE’S PHARMACY, VJAL IT-8 TA’ SETTEMBRU XAGHRA 21561486 XAGĦRA PHARMACY 55 CHURCH STREET XAGHRA 27551140 GOZO CHEMISTS, MGARR ROAD XEWKIJA 21557278 ST. JOHN’S PHARMACY, 85 INDEPENDENCE STREET XEWKIJA 21563052