UK Government enveils plans to prepare NHS for winter

Plans have been set out to help people keep well this winter and help the NHS prepare for winter and meet the increase in winter-related health problems always seen at this time of year.

The Department of Health’s measures include a flu vaccination advertising campaign to encourage people in at-risk groups to get vaccinated.

The campaign, which launches on Monday 5 November, is being carried out to:

• improve on last year’s vaccination rates – current rates for some at-risk groups are behind where they were at the same point last year
• guard against any possible false sense of security following a mild winter last year
• build on local campaigns.

Around 4,700 people die every year after getting flu. People in at-risk groups are 11 times more likely to die than someone who is not in an at-risk group.

In addition, the Cold Weather Plan, jointly run with the Met Office and Health Protection Agency, advises people on how to stay healthy and supports local communities and professionals to better prepare for and respond to severe cold weather events.

And a £20 million fund, distributed among local authorities, will help vulnerable people in their areas stay warm and well this winter.

David Salisbury, Director of Immunistation, said:

“You are 11 times more likely to die from flu if you are pregnant or have a serious health condition and each year thousands of people die after catching flu. That’s why we are reminding people who are particularly vulnerable to the consequences of flu to get the vaccine.”

Public Health Minister Anna Soubry said:

“We have taken the decision this year to run a flu campaign because too many people in at risk groups have not come forward for the jab yet, although local campaigns have been running for the past month. People may be lulled into a false sense of security about the seriousness of flu following a mild winter last year. The national campaign will build on the local ‘flu safe’ campaigns that have been running.

“Our campaign aims to encourage people who are most at risk from flu, who have put it off or who don’t think it is important, to get the vaccine. If pregnant women are vaccinated, they not only protect themselves but also protect their newborn babies from catching flu.”

John Hicks, Station Director of UK Health Radio (www.ukhealthradio.com) said: "We will keep our listeners and website visitors informed of winter health and wellness issues".

Europe Health Radio unveils new logo

Europe Health Radio, the forthcoming new development from UK Health Radio, the health and wellness radio station for the UK, Europe and beyond has unveiled its new logo:

The mission of the new health radio station will remain the same as UK Health Radio in the UK:

The mission of UK Health Radio is to improve the quality of life of people across the globe by providing health and wellness information through radio broadcasts and a resource website, allowing professionals to share best practice, their expertise and passion and for suppliers to showcase their products and services


The content will be largely shared with UK Health Radio but will also include regional programmes in European languages.

Station Director, John Hicks, welcomed the new artwork, which will be featured in a new website being launched by the end of the year, and said: "This is a unique opportunity for health, medical, nutrition, pharmacueticals, sports, fitness and homeopathy practitioners, campaigners and experts to share their passion and expertise on the radio in their own language."

"Similarly, for listeners, UK Health Radio and Europe Health Radio offer them the opportunity to hear health and wellness radio programs in a range of European languages." John added.

UK Health Radio can be heard at www.ukhealthradio.com

Fun video shares serious message

Within 24 hours of being posted on YouTube, the new promotional video for UK Health Radio, the health and wellness radio station for the UK, Europe and beyond had over 700 views.

UK Health Radio Station Director said: "We commisioned this video just as a little bit of fun but it contains a serious message that UK Health Radio and our website provide a useful health and wellness resource for everyone, including sports people".

The video was kindly sponsored by www.1-stop-health-shop.com

Common Toxins in our Homes, Schools and Workplaces

The Global Health Network has released a new paper titled “Common Toxins in our Homes, Schools and Workplaces.”

According to an US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) spokesman, indoor air pollution causes 50% of illnesses globally. This statistic should catch the attention of every physician, every lawmaker and every layperson reading this paper. That’s more than all the cancers and all the heart disease combined. It is time we started to pay more attention to the indoor air we breathe. It is staggering to comprehend the enormous impact on our global society as literally millions of individuals and families are harmed by contaminants inside our homes, schools and workplaces.

Changes over the years in building philosophy, construction materials, pesticides, usage patterns, etc., along with new awareness and improved testing capabilities, have brought us to the understanding that some buildings are sick and can make their occupants sick. Shoddy construction practices and environmental disasters also contribute. Americans spend, on average, 22 hours a day indoors. As such, it is a disconcerting thought that the structures we live in, work at and where we educate our children might lead to significant and even deadly health problems.

 

Radon, asbestos, products of combustion (such as carbon monoxide and cigarette smoke), volatile organic compounds (such as formaldehyde, benzene, pesticides and some personal care products), particulate matter, lead and a number of known and emerging disease-causing microbiological agents are discussed in this paper. However, the most space is reserved for the discussion regarding the secondary metabolic products of molds and bacteria released into the air of water-damaged buildings as these potentially may harm the most people and because of the disinformation war currently being waged suggesting that human disease from these toxins cannot exist.

 

Naysayer articles spend valuable print space suggesting that disease from mold can only occur after ingestion, or can only occur in the presence of large amounts of aerosolized toxin, or can only occur in an acute exposure. In light of the overwhelming peer-reviewed and journal-published evidence to the contrary, it is unimaginable that such papers are still being inked, are still being used in courts as “evidence” and are still considered relevant in any way. It’s the “Big Lie” all over again – say something long enough and loud enough and many will believe the lie.

“Big Business” has been shown repeatedly to use this tactic regarding the dangers of their products, and the histories of such substances as radium, asbestos and coal are evidence of the same. Workers in these industries, and other industries, were exposed to dangerous materials for decades while those making the profits knew the potential harmful health effects.

 

Mould illness, mold-related illness and biotoxin – related illness are euphemisms which are collectively referred to as Multi-system Exposure Related Illness (MERI) in this paper. MERI is a multi-symptom, multi-system disease occurring in many people due usually to long-term exposure to the interior of water-damaged buildings. While a massive acute exposure can lead to MERI, the most common mechanism is chronic exposure to low level toxins leading to an inflammatory response in the body. Written by treating physicians and researchers in the field, this paper is a collaborative effort which provides detailed information on the pathophysiology and diagnosis of MERI, as well as details regarding the treatment protocols used by some of the leading physicians.
 

It is time to move beyond the focus of “establishing the fact of mold disease,” because it has already been established in numerous research papers and in the treatment of thousands of patients. It is time for our national and world leaders to develop a comprehensive public health response to this devastating epidemic that has the potential to cripple our individual and collective futures. The paper provides specific recommendations in the Call to Action. The Global Indoor Health Network looks forward to collaborating with government agencies and organizations in the public and private sector in this search for better health and safer living and working conditions.

 

Authors: Scott W. McMahon, MD; Janette Hope, MD; Alan R. Vinitsky, MD; Jack Dwayne Thrasher, PhD; William J. Rea, MD; and Michael R. Gray, MD.

The paper can be found, in its entirety, at:

http://globalindoorhealthnetwork.com/files/GIHN_position_statement.pdf

The Global Indoor Health Network (GIHN) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is uniting experts and laypersons from the world. GIHN’s vision is a global community of individuals and organizations working together to ensure that comprehensive information and guidance concerning medical treatment, investigative techniques and solutions are available to address the effects of contaminants in the indoor environment of homes, schools and businesses. Visit our website at: www.globalindoorhealthnetwork.com.

 

 

 

 

 

Please note that all information and content on UK Health Radio and this blog are provided by the authors, producers and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Please do not delay or disregard any medical advice received due to information gathered on UK Health Radio.

UK Health Radio – the health radio station for the United Kingdom, Europe and beyond at www.ukhealthradio.com – is kindly sponsored by www.1-stop-health-shop.com

 

Holistic Wellness for the Upcoming Season

That season is almost upon us, the end of summer and the return of shorter, darker days and for many, the risk of colds and flu as well.  If you should find yourself having to do battle with some viscous bug that is going around, consider putting the following in your natural alternative arsenal:

Echinacea:  This is a wonder herb (pictured) that has very serious immune boosting powers.  It has mild antibiotic action, as well as anti-inflammatory properties.   It is good to consider this for short term, during the winter months to increase the body’s resistance to colds and flu.   Usual recommended dosage is 500 mg to 1000 mg per day for no more than 6-8 weeks. 

Grapefruit Seed Extract:  I would not EVER be without this in my home medicine cabinet as it can be used for so many different things.  If you are currently fighting off a cold or flu, this is one of the most natural effective ways to assist the body in returning to balance gently.  It is a natural antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral.  Recommended dosage is 5-10 drops per day, while recovering.  It’s fine to place the drops in water or juice.

Oil of Oregano:   This is a powerhouse of a natural antibiotic that has also been shown effective against bacteria, fungus and virus invaders.  It is very helpful when a sore throat starts to set in, just add 2-3 drops to a glass of cool water and drink.  It may also be added to hot water with lemon to soothe the throat, and will greatly assist in opening up the nasal passages.

Eucalyptus Oil:  Hands down this is an all time favorite when I have a head cold trying to take up residence.  I will put about 40 drops of this wonderful essential oil on about 2 cups of Epsom salts and throw it into my very warm tub water right before I hop in. The steaming water will aerosolize the eucalyptus and help open up the nasal airways and get you breathing freely again.

Ginger Root:  This is one of the most warming teas to make during the cold and flu season.  Buy some fresh organic ginger root and keep on hand in your fridge.  When you feel the need, simply grate about a tablespoon worth and simmer in water for about 15 minutes.  Adding a teaspoon or so of some raw Manuka honey will only enhance the healing properties of this wonderful tea.

Black Elderberry Syrup:  This wonderful berry is just full of immune boosting, anti-viral and antibacterial properties.  They have a very high amount of antioxidants to assist in fighting free radicals, more so than even blueberries!

Influenzinum:  This is a homeopathic remedy that attuned for the current (2012-2013) season.  To prevent flu it is recommended to take 3 pellets of 30c strength once per week during the flu season. 

Be Well!

 

Content written by Ruth-Ann Rohrman, Holistic Wellness Consultant, and owner of Well Balanced, a Holistic Wellness Energy Kinesiology Practice in the US. 

 

 

Please note that all information and content on UK Health Radio and our blog are provided by the authors, producers and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge and does not substitute professional medical advice or treatment. So please do not delay or disregard any medical advice received due to information gathered on the UK Health Radio.

 

 

The Importance of Saliva

Saliva is needed for lubrication, you won’t be driving your car home tonight on water alone – it will need oil – the difference being lubrication.

 

So you have noticed some changes in your mouth.  Perhaps your lips are always dry, you have a constant thirst? Maybe you have noticed that it is difficult to chew and swallow food, possibly you are waking through the night with your tongue stuck to the roof of your mouth and you are desperate for a sip of water?  Any of these symptoms, and there are many more, are signs that you could be suffering with  or Dry Mouth.

If you are taking medications, it is more than likely that one or more of your prescribed drugs will list dry mouth as a side effect.  In fact over 1000 regularly prescribed medications will cause this painful and detrimental condition.

Painful, because trying to swallow food, or even just talking can be agony in extreme cases.  The mouth can become sore with ulcers and simple pleasures in life, such as sharing a cup of tea and a biscuit with friends will seem impossible.  A fundamental part of our wellbeing as humans is to socialise with friends, colleagues and family.

Detrimental, because a lack of saliva will leave the mouth open to attack from bacteria.  The teeth will have lost their protective coating and will be exposed to plaque acids. A rapid increase in cavities will ensue, as the loss of saliva means there is no remineralisation of the tooth enamel. Without the lubricating properties of saliva, abrasive foods will cause cuts to the mouth’s soft tissues which may then ulcerate.  Chronic dry mouth will also lead to bad breath.

An already vulnerable patient taking xerostomic medications can undoubtedly become withdrawn, depressed and suffer low self esteem.  If they are already poorly and uncomfortable and then feel unable to eat sufficiently nutritious meals, they will lose weight and not recover as well or as quickly as they perhaps could have done if the dry mouth had been diagnosed and treated.  Disturbed sleep caused by regular waking for sips of water and then the inevitable toilet visits will inhibit coping strategies.  We all know that a lack of regular sleep is the equivalent to torture!

So which drugs should we be looking out for, and what can we do to help? Many of the medications for Stroke, Alzeihmer’s, Parkinsons and Cancer Treatments will cause dry mouth along with all the ‘anti’s’ such as Antidepressants, Antihistamines, Decongestants and Beta Blockers. The list is extensive and worth discussing with the Prescribing Clinician.
If the medication is the cause of your dry mouth, then one simple measure that can be taken is to change the time that the drug is taken. For example, if taken in the evening, switch to taking it in the morning although this may not always be possible.

If medication is NOT the cause then a visit to a doctor is essential because a lack of saliva could indicate a more serious underlying condition which needs to be looked into.

Other methods to improve the symptoms would be to keep hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids but avoiding alcohol and coffee as these lead to dryness as does smoking, mouth breathing, and anxiety.

Use a high fluoride toothpaste and mouth wash to protect the teeth and gums and keep regular appointments with the dentist so that any changes can be monitored.  Stimulate saliva flow by sucking on sugar free sweets and chewing gum.

For those with a low salivary flow, the use of artificial saliva is recommended.  Choose one that is pH neutral and sweetened naturally with xylitol.  Mucin based artificial salivas such as AS Saliva Orthana have been proven to be more effective than the chemically formulated products offering a more efficient and longer lasting coating to the teeth and gums.  Saliva Orthana is available from all chemists and is available on prescription.

 

Written by Niki Smith

Regional Account Manager
A.S Pharma part of CCMed Ltd

 

 

 

Please note that all information and content on UK Health Radio and our blog are provided by the authors, producers and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge and does not substitute professional medical advice or treatment. So please do not delay or disregard any medical advice received due to information gathered on the UK Health Radio.

 

 

 

 

Protect against bad breath for 12 hours with new CB12

UK Health Radio previews a unique oral care agent neutralises substances and processes that cause bad breath.............................

 

CB12 is a new, unique, long-lasting mouth rinse proven to prevent and treat bad breath.

Effective for 12 hours, CB12 neutralises substances and processes that cause bad breath.

CB12 combats all three parts of volatile sulphur compounds gases (VSCs) that cause bad breath instead of simply masking it for a short period of time. The unique combination of zinc and chlorhexidine eliminate the “VSCs” from exhaled air and thus also bad breath. CB12 also contains fluoride.

CB12 safe breath oral care agent is available in larger Boots stores and Lloyds Pharmacies nationwide (from November 2012), in both Mint/Menthol and Mild varieties, 250ml, £14.59.

The mouth rinse was developed, evaluated and documented using a gas chromatograph (a specially developed instrument capable of detecting sulphurous gases), of which only a few exist worldwide.

CB12 is easy to use and designed to give the user an exact dose every time. Simply rinse for approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute, gargle and then spit out.

Do not swallow. CB12 is not suitable for those under 12 years or those sensitive to the ingredients.

Dr Thomas Norlin, dentist and a member of the research team that developed CB12 explains, “The discovery and development of the unique active ingredient in CB12 was an incredibly exciting time. CB12’s unique formula, which treats the cause of bad breath, offers welcome relief to halitosis sufferers, ensuring safe breath for 12 hours. We have already seen great successes in other markets. This is a really exciting product for dentists, pharmacists and consumers alike.”

Bad breath is caused by bacteria in the oral cavity, around the teeth and in the gum pockets, as well as in crypts on the back of the tongue. When these bacteria break down food particles, malodorous VSC sulphur gases are formed and these cause bad breath in the exhaled air. Bacteria in the mouth area are naturally occurring and essential for good health.

CB12 neutralises and prevents the origin of these gases. The effect of CB12 is on the gases, not the bacteria, a key differentiator from other products.

 

Dangerous online ‘slimming pills’ must not stop us advancing the use of effective anti-obesity medication

By Graham Rowan, Chairman of Obesity Management Association

 

Horror stories of the effects of ‘slimming pills’ bought over the internet continue to emerge as more and more people seek help to try and take control of their weight. With the obesity epidemic spiralling out of control, increasing numbers are turning to the web for quick fix solutions, with disastrous consequences. The Obesity Management Association is working hard to educate people about the dangers of buying drugs off the internet and raise awareness of effective anti-obesity medication and how it should be prescribed and monitored.

 

Preventative action to stem the rising tide of obesity is always the preferred course of action, but for some people it is too late and we need to look at different ways they can be helped without placing extra burden on the state. Licenced and proven medication, monitored and prescribed by doctors in private clinics, is an important part of the solution. In OMA member clinics medication has already helped thousands to tackle their obesity and make a step change in their lifestyles for the benefit of themselves and their families.

Unless we start to take the role of medication seriously – as it appears NICE is now doing with its appraisal of Phentermine and Topiramate – our hospital waiting rooms will be filled with people queuing up for gastric surgery and our health service will be crippled.

Now is the time for a change in approach, moving the focus from the shortcomings of dangerous internet drugs towards the opportunities and positive impact that effective anti-obesity treatment can have to transform lives.

 

 

Find out more about the OMA at:  www.omaorg.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Towards Tomorrow Together

Mel Scott who has been left heartbroken since the stillbirth of her first, much loved, child Finley decided to fund a new charity Towards Tomorrow Together that aims to support others who experience the same tragedy. She has set up an online crowd funding campaign called If Your Baby Died Who Would Help? http://www.indiegogo.com/Ifyourbabydied?a=468970 which is raising funds in order to register her new charity so it can continue to work with bereaved parents.

The initiative started three years ago by supplying memory boxes to her local hospital with donations that had been taken at Finley’s funeral. The aim now is to expand the operation to include providing support such as; a ‘mentor’ who supports at the time of the loss, a special regulated ‘cold cot’ to each hospital that allows parents to spend extended time with their children and funding holistic therapies to baby-loss parents to help them cope with the range of emotions that follow a loss, as well as supporting parents during any subsequent pregnancies, which are often times high anxiety.

All of this additional support and the facilities cost at least £83,000 per year, per county, in the UK. In order to help, people are invited to share the link throughout their networks, and to contribute anything they can spare.

When Mel went into labour at 41+5 days of pregnancy, finding out that her son had died, despite an emergency caesarean and efforts to resuscitate him failing, was a life-changing event. Not only the trauma of the birth itself, but the pain, confusion and realisation of that day does not fade. Mel was lucky, her husband and Finley’s grandparents arrived and a midwife helped them all to make some important memories, including taking photographs and footprints. While Mel came to terms with the fact the Finley would not be waking up.

Thanks to the care of the staff the family have many memories that they treasure, this will not be the case for all of the 17 families that will experience this in the UK today and everyday. This important care varies from county-to-county depending on the skills of the staff, hospital policies and the extra support given by the voluntary sector in that area. The services that Towards Tomorrow Together will fill this gap and ensure that this much-needed support is provided when needed.

Anyone who would like to be part of this important campaign can donate today at: If Your Baby Died? http://www.indiegogo.com/Ifyourbabydied?a=468970

 

UK Health Radio (www.ukhealthradio.com) is pleased to support this wonderful charity.

Aspirin the Wonder Drug!

Aspirin the Wonder Drug!

There is no doubt that there have been many miracles in the field of medicine over the years, the discovery of penicillin, of radium, drugs that treat diabetes and many treatments that have helped cure cancer. Amongst them all, in my opinion, one stand out medicine is the humble Aspirin. I put myself on a daily dose of baby aspirin (75mg) about 10 years ago when I first heard about the advantage it had in reducing the incidence of stroke and heart attack, although at that time I was not at specific risk of either.   Since then the humble little aspirin has gradually been giving away more of its secrets.  The latest news  -that a daily dose of aspirin can reduce the incidence of some cancers and stop others from spreading - is only the last in a long line of discoveries highlighting this drug's extraordinary potential. And Aspirin is not a new discovery.  It was used in ancient times, as an extract from willow bark, for treating fever and pain.

Despite its wonderful benefits in treating various maladies, the actual mechanism of how Aspirin is able to work on so many different medical problems is still a mystery to scientists. It’s first use in modern times came when it was used in the 1850s, to relieve the pains of "rheumatism." It worked but no one had any idea why!

In fact the reason that I chose to take it Aspirin, was not recognised as a benefit of the drug until the late 20th century when doctors started to give it to patients as a preventative against heart disease. Researchers had begun formulating a theory of heart disease that hinged on some sort of inflammation process and the involvement of something called C-reactive protein. (CRP) CRP is a marker for inflammation: if CRP levels in the blood are raised this indicates an inflammatory process.

Taking aspirin reduces CRP levels, and so may also reduce the risk of future heart problems.  There have been concerns that taking this medication in the long term might give rise to other problems such as stomach ulcers.  Its preventative benefits have seen many symptomless patients taking the medication, but there are those who say that it should really only be taken by patients who have been identified as being at risk of heart disease or stroke.  I can imagine that some of you will think I'm mad to be taking a powerful medicine every day when I don’t really know that is doing me any good, and which, in fact, may actually be harming me. But my view is that lots of people take supplements and vitamins - the evidence for those has often been questioned - and I do try to minimise the risks: I take my aspirin after breakfast every day on a full stomach to try to protect my stomach lining.

The more I hear about this drug the more impressed I am with it and so for now, stomach irritation notwithstanding, I am keeping it on my shopping list, along with my seaweed tablets and ginseng.  Oh and that’s another thing, for a drug that packs a big punch has a very small price!

Please note that all information and content on UK Health Radio and this blog are provided by the authors, producers and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge and does not substitute professional medical advice or treatment. So please do not delay or disregard any medical advice received due to information gathered on the UK Health Radio.

UK Health Radio – the health radio station for the United Kingdom, Europe and beyond at www.ukhealthradio.com – is kindly sponsored by www.1-stop-health-shop.com

Amanda Thomas

Back pain solution to be revealed at Pharmacy Show

An innovative back pain relief device which could dramatically reduce one of the UK ’s most common medical complaints will be showcased at the Pharmacy Show 2012.

Rophi Cushions Ltd will be exhibiting the Rophi Cushion– a posture improving, pain relieving cushion which alleviates spinal stenosis by aligning the spine and pelvis whilst the user is asleep.

The cushion sits within a medical stocking and is placed between the user’s legs whilst they sleep in the semi-foetal position. Unlike a regular cushion, it comfortably stays in place all night, inhibits perspiration and is fully washable at 65 degrees Celsius.

The company will showcase its product to clinicians, pharmacists and healthcare professionals at the Pharmacy Show, the UK ’s only CPD-accredited training, education and sourcing event for the UK pharmacy community.

Four out of five adults in the UK suffer from back pain at some point in their lives and treating the condition costs the NHS over £1 billion a year.

Robert Lloyd, Technical Director of Rophi Cushions Ltd, said: “Back pain is one of the most common ailments that patients bring to their doctors – but for many of those appointments, the remedy is invariably short-term at best with recurring pain.

“The Rophi Cushion has the potential to dramatically reduce lower back pain for sufferers of all ages, ultimately benefitting both the patient and clinician.

“For a patient, the Rophi Cushion presents a genuinely long-term and cost-effective solution to a problem which can have such a distressing and long-lasting impact on their life.

“Such is the recurrent nature of back pain complaints, healthcare professionals at the Pharmacy Show will undoubtedly recognise the value and potential of the Rophi Cushion and we look forward to meeting interested parties.”

Rophi Cushions Ltd can be found at stand F35 of the Pharmacy Show, which is being held at the NEC in Birmingham from September 30 – 1 October.

 

UK Health Radio (www.ukhealthradio.com) are attending the Pharmacy Show and special editions of the Health Kicks Show (www.health-kicks.co.uk) hosted by John Hicks will be recorded at the event. UKHR will also be attending next February's Back Pain Show at Olympia.

UK Health Radio Announces Broadcasting From ‘The Pharmacy Show 2012’

 

UK Health Radio is pleased to announce that they will be broadcasting from The Pharmacy Show 2012, to be held at The National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, UK.

Come visit our booth and join John Hicks, presenter of the popular Health Kicks Show, for a live recorded interview.  Bring your health and wellness questions and get answers, or just come and network with us to share opinions, get feedback, or simply gain wisdom on topics of interest. 

John (pictured above) said: “The mission of UK Health Radio is to improve the quality of life of people across the globe by providing health and wellness information through radio broadcasts and a resource website, allowing professionals to share best practice, their expertise and passion and for suppliers to showcase their products and services. By having an outside broadcast studio at The Pharmacy Show, we not only get to meet in person both pharmacists and people interested in health and wellness, but we keep our knowledge of products and the industry right up to date.”

“We are aiming to meet the public and those in the industry to record interviews to be broadcast throughout October in a series of special shows called ‘Live from The Pharmacy Show’.  I fully expect to be bringing back some fascinating material to broadcast.” John added.

This event is scheduled to host over 6000 pharmacy professionals and over 350 vendors in the pharmaceutical industry.  As one of the largest pharmacy events in the UK, The Pharmacy Show 2012 is sure to bring excitement to your day and leave you with a stronger presence in the industry, more knowledge, and a more stable network.

For Pharmacists, The Pharmacy Show is providing assessments and the majority of your CPD requirements as well as over 55 hours of workshops and seminars to give you the advantage in the markets for the rest of 2012 and many years to come.  The debates will be fierce, the issues will be addressed, and you will truly leave a stronger pharmacy rep than you ever were before.

For more information concerning the event, please visit thepharmacyshow.co.uk and to learn more about UK Health Radio or to join us for live streams, please visit us at UKHealthRadio.co.uk, or follow us on Twitter (@ukhealthradio).  To find out more about John Hicks and his contributions to the industry, please visit Health-Kicks.co.uk. 

UK Health Radio hope they’ll see you at the Pharmacy Show!

Prevention of ACL Injuries in Football

 

UK Health Radio Guest Contributor, Saudi academic researcher Abdullah F. Alghannam, has published his paper, titled ‘Prevention of ACL Injuries in Football’, on UK Health Radio.

ACL injuries threaten the careers of many athletes and recreational participants in many sporting events. In football, the occurrence of ACL injury is considerably high.

However, it was shown that prevention training programs could reduce the risk of this problem and therefore would be an advantage in terms of both avoidance of injury and being time and cost effective. The current review was aimed to address the specific components of both successful and unsuccessful prevention programs to provide evidence-based global guidelines for the reduction of ACL injury risk.

To read the full paper: please click here

  

 

Please note that all information and content on UK Health Radio and this blog is provided by the authors, producers and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. This information is not in any way a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment, so please do not delay or disregard any medical advice received due to information gathered on the UK Health Radio.

 

UK Health Radio – the health radio station for the United Kingdom, Europe and beyond at www.ukhealthradio.com – is kindly sponsored by www.1-stop-health-shop.com

Aspirin brings about its beneficial effects by modification of diastolic blood pressure of smokers

UK Health Radio Guest Contributor in Kuwait, Ayed Al-Shammari  B.Pharm. MSc., shares his joint paper “Aspirin brings about its beneficial effects by modification of diastolic blood pressure of smokers”:

Smoking promotes arthrosclerosis which means hardening of blood vessels and blocking of arterioles.

When this affects the blood vessels that supply the heart, it can lead to destruction of heart muscle.

To try and find out why the aspirin had exerted such a beneficial effect, some of the major risk factors which contribute to the risk of heart attacks and strokes were examined in the subjects who took part in the trial, and they all were smokers.

It has been observed that diastolic pressure had been modified during the treatment with aspirin.

To read the paper, please visit: http://cpanel.japharmacy.com/master/panel/A/6_Mazhar%20_1_.pdf

 

 

Please note that all information and content on UK Health Radio and this blog is provided by the authors, producers and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. This information is not in any way a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment, so please do not delay or disregard any medical advice received due to information gathered on the UK Health Radio.

UK Health Radio – the health radio station for the United Kingdom, Europe and beyond at www.ukhealthradio.com – is kindly sponsored by www.1-stop-health-shop.com

The rationale for the use of combined drug therapy for hypertension in Kuwait

UK Health Radio Guest Contributor Ayed Al-Shammari  B.Pharm. MSc., shares his paper on the rationale for the use of combined drug therapy for hypertension in Kuwait

To read the paper, please visit: http://www.kuwaitpharmacy.com/Mobile/Article.aspx?ArticleId=80

 

 

 

 

 

Please note that all information and content on UK Health Radio and this blog is provided by the authors, producers and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. This information is not in any way a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment, so please do not delay or disregard any medical advice received due to information gathered on the UK Health Radio.

UK Health Radio – the health radio station for the United Kingdom, Europe and beyond at www.ukhealthradio.com – is kindly sponsored by www.1-stop-health-shop.com

Assessment of the Reported Effectiveness of Five Different Quality-Improvement Initiatives for the Prevention of Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Intensive Care Units

Lawrence F Muscarella, Guest Contributor to UK Health Radio, writes:

Five studies that evaluated five different quality-improvement initiatives for the prevention of central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) in adult, paediatric and/or neonatal intensive care units (ICUs) and that were published within the past two years in an infection-control and epidemiology journal were reviewed, assessed and compared.

Each is a prospective cohort study that similarly concludes that the evaluated initiative was responsible for a significant and calculated reduction in the CLABSI rate, ranging from 30.3% to 85%. The soundness of these conclusions and calculations, however, like the legitimacy of several other common uses of CLABSI data, requires, in addition to satisfying a number of other criteria, that each study’s CLABSI rates be accurate and complete.

The primary goal of this analysis, therefore, was to confirm the hypothesis that each of these five studies had validated its CLABSI rates. The analysis found, however, that these five studies did not validate the accuracy and completeness of their CLABSI rates, which raises reasonable questions about each study’s assessment of and conclusions about the initiative’s effectiveness for the prevention of CLABSIs.

In addition to their aims, calculations, and conclusions, these five studies share in common a number of features, as well as circumscribing qualities, which are discussed.

The distinction between a qualitative assessment and a quantitative determination of an initiative’s performance is also discussed.

Both the circumspective use of CLABSI data that have not been validated and the cautious interpretation of conclusions about central-line care that are based on these CLABSI data are recommended.

For the full article, please visit: http://www.myendosite.com/articles/OEJ2012.pdf

 

© 2012 Lawrence F Muscarella. All rights reserved.

 

 

 

Please note that all information and content on UK Health Radio and this blog is provided by the authors, producers and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. This information is not in any way a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment, so please do not delay or disregard any medical advice received due to information gathered on the UK Health Radio.

UK Health Radio – the health radio station for the United Kingdom, Europe and beyond at www.ukhealthradio.com – is kindly sponsored by www.1-stop-health-shop.com

Has UK education gone mad?

John Hicks, presenter of the UK Health Radio 'Health Kicks' show which also airs on some other radio stations across Europe, touches on an interesting topic in this week's show.

Being of a 'certain age', John fondly remembers his days at the then Taunton Technical College (now SCAT - Somerset College of Arts and Technology) on a full-time course, Monday to Friday 9am to 3.30pm.

So, when his 16-year-old daughter attended her College last week for her induction and received her timetable for her full-time creative media course - with lessons on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday morning only - he was dumbfounded!

John says "if the definition of full-time education means two and a half days, then education has gone completely mad. A whole generation is being short-changed and our nation's workforce are being ill-equipped for playing their role in rebuilding our economy destroyed by bankers and politicians!".

Is he right? What do you think? Please share your thoughts and expertise - email john@health-hicks.co.uk




Listen to John's show (www.health-kicks.co.uk) on UK Health Radio, the health radio station for the UK, Europe and beyond, at www.ukhealthradio.com

Olympic Inspiration

With the London Olympic Games hailed a success it seems that people all over the UK are gaining an interest in sports that they have barely heard of before! And I, previously sports sceptic, am one of them.  The superb performances by sports men and women honed to the peak of physical perfection have encouraging many.  With the Paralympics following hot on the heels of the Olympics there is no doubt that the inspiration that the games has provided in spades is going to be increased as we marvel at the determination and achievements of the para- Olympians.  

There have been many stories of inspiration and of how sport has changed lives .I have been humbled by the punishing training schedules that these elite athletes have to subject themselves to  - hardly surprising when my idea of a training schedule is probably taking the dog on a whistle stop lamppost tour of the immediate neighbourhood.   And I have to admit that I, who never imagined I would give a fig, gasped in horror when, after all that work, Victoria Pendleton and Jessica Varnish were disqualified from the women’s team sprint race on a day of high drama for Team GB in the Olympic velodrome. In contrast, the pure ecstasy on the faces of the medal winners as tears flowed freely down their faces is something we will surely ever forget, and yes I did shed the odd tear too.  

So if this magnificent display of physical endeavour has inspired you, if you know you are in a rut, and that you don’t do enough exercise or you just want to be more active, where do you start?  Come to that where do I start?  Should I buy gym membership? Trot out to the local pool before work?  Take to walking the dog further than just down to the pub and back?  Well all of these would be a good start but the secret is, I believe, not to be too ambitious.  Rushing out to buy a javelin might seem like a good idea but you are going to get some very funny looks in the park!  

There is no doubt that regular exercise is important for our health.  It is recommended that to maintain good health, adults need to do a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise and youngsters need to do about 60 minute a day. 

I work from home but if I did go to an office I might think of getting off the bus or tube a few stops early to walk the rest of the way.  Maybe leave enough time to ditch the car altogether and make journeys to local shops and even all the way to work, entirely on foot or on a bicycle.  It wont be long till you feel the physical benefit. 

The NHS have a very useful section on their website to help you find the sport or activity that is right for you. Take a look at their interactive tool for matching your ability and interest to a specific sport at:

 http://www.nhs.uk/Tools/Pages/olympics-sport 

So long after the last athlete has gone home, lets hope that the inspiration of the 2012 Olympics will continue and leave a legacy that will see us all improving our fitness and our health!  Oh, and I'll be the one plodding determinedly around a park near you.  But next year, well - just watch this space!

Please note that all information and content on UK Health Radio and this blog are provided by the authors, producers and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge and does not substitute professional medical advice or treatment. So please do not delay or disregard any medical advice received due to information gathered on the UK Health Radio.

UK Health Radio – the health radio station for the United Kingdom, Europe and beyond at www.ukhealthradio.com – is kindly sponsored by www.1-stop-health-shop.com

Amanda Thomas