November 20, 2024

Could an innovative nasal spray delay Alzheimer’s by 10 years or more?

Could a nasal spray help delay Alzheimer’s onset in the future?

The number of people with dementia is forecast to almost triple by 2050.

Around 70% of these cases are likely to be Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia.

Current treatments can relieve some of the symptoms, and new disease-modifying treatments are not widely available.

Now, researchers have developed a nasal spray that, in a mouse model, slows down inflammation and clears protein buildup in Alzheimer’s disease.

The researchers suggest the spray might delay Alzheimer’s progression by up to 15 years in people.

Population growth and aging mean that the number of people with dementia is forecast to reach almost 152.8 millionTrusted Source by 2050.

There are several forms of dementia, but the most common, Alzheimer’s disease, currently accounts for up to 70%Trusted Source of cases.

Monoclonal antibody treatments, such as lecanemab and donanemab, are the first disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer’s.

They clear the beta-amyloid plaquesTrusted Source that are a characteristic of Alzheimer’s, potentially delaying the cognitive symptoms. However, the treatments are expensive, and some experts are concerned that the risk of side effects may outweigh their benefits.

In a new study from Texas A & M University College of Medicine, researchers have used a nasal spray to target microglia and astrocytes — cells that cause neuroinflammation (brain inflammation) — delaying the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in a mouse model.

They suggest that, if similar effects are confirmed in people, the spray could delay Alzheimer’s progression by up to 15 years.

The research is published in the Journal of Extracellular VesiclesTrusted Source.

Courtney Kloske, PhD, Alzheimer’s Association director of scientific engagement, who was not involved in this study, told Medical News Today that its findings are encouraging but that much more research is needed to confirm them:

“Models are important in helping us understand the basic biology of the disease, but we need human studies in representative populations for ideas to be fully validated. Microglia are an incredibly complex immune cell in the brain and researchers are still working to understand why they respond the way they do at different points in disease. Therefore, while these are intriguing findings, more research is needed to understand the impacts and outcomes of this kind of intervention on people living with, or at risk for, Alzheimer’s.”

Spray targets overactive immune cells in the brain

Microglia and astrocytes play a key role in neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s disease. In healthy brains, they protect nerve cells and remove damaged nerve tissue, but in Alzheimer’s, after initially clearing beta-amyloid plaques, they become overactive and destroy nerve cells.

Using a mouse model of the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, the researchers administered a nasal spray containing an anti-inflammatory treatment derived from stem cells in extracellular vesiclesTrusted Source.

The aim was to target these immune cells to decrease inflammation and reduce the buildup of harmful proteins in the brain.

They gave the 3-month old mice — both mice genetically modified to display Alzheimer’s-like symptoms (transgenic mice) and wild-type mice — 2 doses of the nasal spray containing the treatment, or a placebo spray, 1 week apart.

Seventy-two hours after the second dose, they euthanized five mice, to assess the numbers and activity of microglia and astrocytes.

Three weeks after the second treatment, they subjected the rest of the mice to a series of behavioral tests. The researchers repeated these tests regularly over the next month to monitor the mice’s cognitive function following treatment. They then euthanized the mice and analyzed their brains.

Spray treatment leads to lower inflammation, better cognitive function

In this mouse model, untreated transgenic mice usually show characteristic signs of Alzheimer’s such as beta-amyloid plaques, increased microglial activity, and inflammation by the age of 4.5 months.

However, at 4.5 months old, the mice that received the nasal spray treatment in this study had reduced microglial clusters, as well as reduced activation of genes associated with neuroinflammation. In addition, they had fewer beta-amyloid plaques than the untreated mice.

These reduced inflammatory effects were most notable in the hippocampus — the area of the brain that plays a major role in learning and memory — which is severely affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

In behavioral tests, both male and female treated mice showed better cognitive and mood function than the untreated mice.

However, Clifford Segil, DO, a neurologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, who was not involved in this research, emphasized that this was early days for plaque-removing treatments.

“The authors in the study noted nasal delivered stem cells could decrease the number of plaques in Alzheimer’s dementia patients and there are medications being used around the world right now doing the same thing. Post-marketing surveillance is going to determine if these plaque reducing medicines cause any noticeable cognitive improvements,” he told MNT.

“If the clinical use results in patients with improved memory, unlike the trials which resulted in these medications’ approval, novel and early methods to decrease brain plaques will be extremely desirable,” Segil added.

Brain immune cell regulation clears toxic plaques, but are there side effects?

Reducing the activity of microglia could lead to a reduction in their beneficial effects, but this was not seen when mice were treated with the nasal spray.

In a press release, the study authors said that “an intake of neural stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles significantly changed microglia gene expression and reduced the multiple harmful proinflammatory proteins without affecting the microglia’s ability to continue clearing the protein buildup related to Alzheimer’s.”

Steven Allder, BMedSci, BMBS, FRCP, DM, a consultant neurologist at Re:Cognition Health, also not involved in the stydy, welcomed its findings, noting that:

“The nasal spray appears to regulate microglia activity effectively. By preventing overactivation of microglia, it reduces harmful inflammation while allowing these cells to continue clearing beta-amyloid plaques, which are associated with Alzheimer’s progression. This balance is crucial because excessive inflammation can lead to neuron damage, while clearing plaques is necessary to maintain brain health.”

However, he warned MNT of potential side effects. “While the study shows promising results, possible side effects need to be evaluated,” he cautioned.

“Adverse reactions could arise from altering immune cell behaviour, unexpected impacts on other cell types, or long-term consequences of manipulating the brain’s immune response.

Clinical trials would need to monitor any immune-related side effects or unexpected impacts on cognition,” Allder further explained.

Alzheimer’s: ‘Important to consider different mechanisms of drug delivery’

Kloske stressed the need for further research to increase the range of Alzheimer’s treatments available.

“Treatments that target Alzheimer’s from all angles and all stages of the disease are essential, and that’s why strategic research funding that works to diversify the therapies in the pipeline is so important,“ she told us.

“It is also important to consider different mechanisms of drug delivery, such as intranasal delivery as is used in this research study. All evidence-based paths to treatment targets and drug delivery methods of Alzheimer’s and all other dementia should be explored,” added Kloske.

“The Alzheimer’s Association envisions a future where there are many treatments available that address these diseases in multiple ways, and can be combined into powerful combination therapies, most likely in conjunction with brain-healthy lifestyle guidance,” she told MNT.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/could-an-innovative-nasal-spray-delay-alzheimers-by-10-years-or-more

NABH, RSSDI tie up to boost quality of diabetes care in India

The National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH), a constituent body of the Quality Council of India (QCI), on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), to advance quality and consistency of diabetes care in India.

RSSDI is India’s largest professional body representing over 12,000 diabetes care providers across the country.

As part of the MoU, NABH will drive national quality certification and accreditation programmes and RSSDI’s expertise in developing best practice clinical guidelines for diabetes management and research.

Amid the increasing cases of diabetes in the country, the MoU urged for boosting research on the high blood sugar condition via robust clinical and digital health standards, said the Ministry of Commerce and Industry

“Diabetes impacts over 250 million people across India, and better management of diabetes is critical for the overall healthcare ecosystem. NABH can play a key role in driving standardised care and evidence-based guidelines for diabetes management,” said Rizwan Koita, Chairperson of NABH.

Koita also noted the “roll-out of digital health standards for clinics, which will enable the use of the latest technologies by both doctors and patients”.

Further, the ministry stated that the partnership will ensure accredited diabetes clinics will maintain high standards of care for diabetes treatment which also involves education, research, and guideline-directed care programmes.

These clinics will blend modern technology with personal care delivered by trained teams ensuring patients meet their recommended target goals.

The ministry said that NABH and RSSDI will work towards boosting “NABH’s Accreditation Standards for Allopathic Clinics for specific needs of diabetes care”.

The MoU will also help “develop digital health standards for Clinic Management Systems (CMS) for better management of diabetes care”.

On the other hand, “RSSDI will actively promote certification of NABH’s Allopathic Clinic Accreditation Standards across its member base”, the ministry said.

This will aid in better and standardised diabetes care, and will also help in decreasing morbidity and complications caused due to diabetes.

https://ww.newkerala.com/news/2024/72713.htm

Study links maternal exposure to chemicals in lotions, shampoos with asthma risk in kids

Babies born to mothers with exposure to everyday chemicals present in lotions and shampoos during pregnancy may be at high risk of developing allergic diseases such as asthma, according to a study.

Researchers at Kumamoto University analysed data from over 3,500 mother-child pairs to find a potential link between exposure to certain everyday chemicals during pregnancy and the development of asthma in children.

The findings published in the journal Environmental Pollution showed that exposure to high levels of butylparaben -- a chemical commonly used in personal care products like lotions and shampoos -- during early pregnancy was associated with a 1.54-fold increase in the risk of asthma in children.

The study also showed that boys born to mothers exposed to 4-nonylphenol -- a chemical found in some cleaning products and plastics -- had 2.09 times higher odds of developing asthma. However, no such association was observed in girls.

"These results emphasise the need for careful evaluation of chemical exposure during pregnancy," said Dr. Shohei Kuraoka from Kumamoto University.

"Understanding these risks allows us to develop better guidelines to protect maternal and child health," Kuraoka added.

The team researchers measured 24 types of phenols in urine samples collected from pregnant women.

They then tracked the health of their children until the age of four. The findings highlight the importance of understanding how everyday chemical exposures might contribute to respiratory and allergic conditions in children.

Some phenols, such as nonylphenol, are known to be endocrine disruptors. Previous studies have shown that exposure to them has contributed to the recent increase in allergic diseases such as asthma.

While the study provides groundbreaking insights, the researchers also acknowledge limitations, such as not measuring phenol levels in children directly. They urged the need for future studies to explore these mechanisms further and establish safe exposure thresholds.

https://www.newkerala.com/news/2024/72754.htm

Japanese researchers find diabetes drugs' potential to protect kidneys

A team of Japanese researchers has found a class of diabetes drugs that help the kidneys to flush out glucose and maintain kidney health.

While Type 2 diabetes can lead to diabetic kidney disease, researchers from the Osaka Metropolitan University explored the potential of SGLT2 (sodium-glucose cotransporter-2) inhibitors to protect kidneys.

SGLT2 was originally developed to improve glycemic control in patients with diabetes.

The study led by Graduate School of Medicine Associate Professor Katsuhito Mori focused on the SGLT2 inhibitor canagliflozin and its effects on the kidney in 14 patients under a hospitalised condition.

The team used BOLD (blood oxygenation level-dependent) MRI -- a method used to see changes in blood oxygen flow in the brain to monitor activity.

They found that patients who used canagliflozin for five days had more oxygen in their kidneys the first day after administration of the drug.

The researchers believe this indicates that SGLT2 inhibitors might improve the oxygenation of the kidneys, thereby protecting the organs.

"In animal experiments, the amount of oxygen in the kidneys can be measured by inserting a microelectrode, but this is not possible in humans," Mori explained.

"BOLD MRI can measure kidney oxygenation non-invasively, and this is expected to become an important technology for elucidating the mechanisms of kidney disease for the development of therapeutic drugs," Mori said.

The findings were published in Frontiers in Endocrinology.

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease. About 1 out of 3 adults with diabetes has kidney disease.

Also known as diabetic nephropathy, the high blood sugar condition can potentially damage the blood vessels and nephrons in kidneys by clogging them. Once the kidneys get damaged, they cannot filter blood, which enables albumin -- a type of protein -- to pass through these filters and end up in the urine.

With an ever-increasing number of diabetes cases, the number of people with diabetic nephropathy is expected to be 191.0 million by 2030.

https://www.newkerala.com/news/2024/72381.htm

November 19, 2024

Get chronic UTIs? Future treatments may add more bacteria to your bladder to beat back harmful microbes

Millions of people in the US and around the world suffer from urinary tract infections every year. Some groups are especially prone to chronic UTIs, including women, older adults and some veterans. These infections are typically treated with antibiotics, but overusing these drugs can make the microbes they target become resistant and reduce the medicines’ effectiveness.

To solve this problem of chronic UTIs and antibiotic resistance, we combined our expertise in microbiology and engineering to create a living material that houses a specific strain of beneficial E. coli. Our research shows that the “good” bacteria released from this biomaterial can compete with “bad” bacteria for nutrients and win, dramatically reducing the number of disease-causing microbes. With further development, we believe this technique could help manage recurring UTIs that do not respond to antibiotics.

UTI Since beneficial bacteria cannot attach to and survive in the bladder for long, we developed a biomaterial that could slowly release bacteria in the bladder over time. (Source: Freepik)

Bringing bacteria to the bladder

For the microbes living in people, nutrients are limited their presence varies between different parts of the body. Bacteria have to compete with other microbes and the host to acquire essential nutrients. By taking up available nutrients, beneficial bacteria can stop or slow the growth of harmful bacteria. When harmful bacteria are starved of important nutrients, they aren’t able to reach high enough numbers to cause disease.

Delivering beneficial bacteria to the bladder to prevent UTIs in challenging, though. For one, these helpful bacteria can naturally colonize only in people who are unable to fully empty their bladder, a condition called urinary retention. Even among these patients, how long these bacteria can colonize their bladders varies widely. Current methods to deliver bacteria to the bladder are invasive and require repeated catheter insertion. Even when bacteria are successfully released into the bladder, urine will flush out these microbes because they cannot stick to the bladder wall.

Biomaterials to treat UTIs

Since beneficial bacteria cannot attach to and survive in the bladder for long, we developed a biomaterial that could slowly release bacteria in the bladder over time.

Our biomaterial is composed of living E. coli embedded in a matrix structure made of gel. It resembles a piece of jelly about 500 times smaller than a drop of water and can release bacteria for up to two weeks in the bladder. By delivering the bacteria via biomaterial, we overcome the need for the bacteria to attach to the bladder to persist in the organ.

We tested our biomaterial by placing it in human urine in petri dishes and exposing it to bacterial pathogens that cause UTIs. Our results showed that when mixed in a 50:50 ratio, the E. coli outcompeted the UTI-causing bacteria by increasing to around 85% of the total population. When we added more E. coli than UTI-causing bacteria, which is what we envision for future development and testing, the proportion of E. coli increased to over 99% of the population, essentially wiping out the UTI-causing bacteria. Moreover, the biomaterial continued releasing E. coli for up to two weeks in human urine.

Improving biomaterials

Our findings show that E. coli can not only control harmful bacteria it’s closely related to but also a broad range of disease-causing bacteria in humans and animals. This means scientists might not need to identify different types of beneficial bacteria to control each pathogen – and there are many – that can cause a UTI. Our team is currently evaluating how effectively our biomaterial can cure UTIs in mice. We are also working to identify the specific nutrients that beneficial and harmful bacteria compete over and what factors may help beneficial bacteria win. We could add these nutrients to our biomaterial to be released or withheld.

https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/get-chronic-uti-future-treatments-bacteria-bladder-9675827/

Parkinson’s disease to surge to 3.15 million worldwide by 2033: Report

Parkinson’s disease is expected to increase to 3.15 million in 2033 from 2.64 million in 2023, at an annual growth rate (AGR) of 1.94 per cent, said a report on Monday.

The report by GlobalData, a data and analytics company, showed the rise in prevalence of diagnosed cases of the progressive brain disorder will specifically be seen in the seven major countries — the US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom and Japan.

It showed that the US is predicted to have the highest number of diagnosed prevalent cases of Parkinson's (1.24 million). Italy, with nearly 0.16 million cases, will have the lowest number.

“In 2023, adults aged 60 and older accounted for over 90 per cent of diagnosed prevalent cases of PD, while adults ages 18-39 made up less than 1 per cent. This age distribution aligns with findings showing higher PD prevalence among older populations,” said Rahul N Ravi, senior epidemiologist at GlobalData.

“There is a slight predominance of sex-specific diagnosed prevalent cases favouring men. Differences across the sexes and markets may be mostly attributed to differences in the underlying demographic differences in each market, as well as the significant differences in sex-specific diagnosed prevalence,” he added.

Parkinson’s is an incurable neurodegenerative disease clinically categorised as a movement disorder with prominent motor symptoms, including tremors, rigidity and bradykinesia. It is the second most common chronic progressive neurodegenerative disorder in the elderly, after Alzheimer's disease.

While current treatments provide symptomatic relief, there is no cure available to halt or slow the progression of the disease.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/parkinsons-disease-to-surge-to-3-15-million-worldwide-by-2033-report/

White button mushroom extract may help slow progression of prostate cancer

White button mushrooms could help suppress tumor growth, new research suggests. 

The role mushroom compounds could play in preventing different conditions is a feature of much current research.

There are differences in the compounds found in culinary mushrooms and mushrooms used in traditional medicine. The regulation of both also differs.

A group of researchers from California looked at the impact of a culinary mushroom, white button mushroom extract, on the progression of prostate cancer in mice and patients.

They propose that white button mushroom extract enhances the impact of immunotherapy used to treat prostate cancer in mice due to the presence of the polysaccharides in the mushrooms.

The role of white button mushrooms in treating prostate cancer has been investigated in mice and humans.

Researchers from City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, California, the U.S., discovered a decline in the amount of specific types of immune-suppressing cells in tumors following treatment with white button mushroom extract in mice and patients with prostate cancer. They also observed an increase in certain types of immune cells known to play a role in destroying cancer cells.

The immune system detects and destroys cells that contain genetic mutations that could lead to problems, including cancer. Immune suppression in the environment cancer exists in allows cancer cells to escape destruction by the immune system, so reducing the immune-suppressing cells in a tumor environment can help the immune system destroy cancer cells.

In a paper published in Clinical and Translational Medicine, the researchers proposed that the presence of polysaccharides in white button mushrooms could explain why treatment with an extract of them can slow the rate of prostate cancer tumor growth. They suggested that this mechanism could complement the role of immune checkpoint inhibitors used to treat the cancer.

Frédéric A. Meunier PhD, Professor of the Single Molecule Neuroscience Laboratory at the Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Australia, who was not involved in the study, told Medical News Today this was a “really impressive study”.

“This study is comprehensive going from preclinical animal model to a human clinical trial and showing enhanced immune-mediated tumor suppression of extract from the white button mushroom. This provides a potential nutraceutical approach to delay prostate cancer progression and opens the way for more research on the mechanism underpinning this effect,” he said.

“Their data shows an enhanced inhibition of tumor growth and prolonged survival when given in combination with immunotherapy based on stopping the ability of tumor cells to block programmed cell death,” he added.

His own research has previously explored the role of lion’s mane mushroom extracts on nerve growth in vitro.

White button mushroom extract suppresses tumor growth

Researchers had previously published data showing that myeloid-derived suppressor cells, a type of immune cell that suppresses the immune system and can play a role in the progression of cancer, decreased when prostate cancer patients were given white button mushroom extract tablets. They hypothesized that white button mushrooms could limit prostate cancer progression by suppressing myeloid-derived suppressor cells.

First, they looked at mice. They found that white button mushroom extract given to mouse models of prostate cancer suppresses tumor growth. They showed again that the number of myeloid-derived suppressor cells was reduced in these mice, but other types of immune cells, such as T cells, which attack cancer, were increased in the mice that took the white button mushroom extract.

They showed similar trends in prostate cancer patients. Using blood samples taken from eight prostate cancer patients before and after three months of treatment with white button mushroom extract, they found that myeloid-derived suppressor cells were decreased in these patients, alongside an increase in T cells known to attack cancers and another group of immune cells called natural killer cells, or NK cells.

Further research was then done in mice to investigate how white button mushroom treatment impacted prostate cancer when used in conjunction with an immunotherapy commonly used to treat prostate cancer. By combining anti-PD-1 antibodies given twice per week for 48–50 days with white button mushroom treatment in mice, researchers showed enhancement of tumor growth inhibition compared to the immunotherapy alone. They also showed that the mice receiving white button mushroom treatment lived 8 days longer.

The role of polysaccharides in the immune system

Researchers point to the fact that white button mushrooms contain polysaccharides (β-glucan), which are known to play a role in immune response in cells when included in the diet. They state that other studies have been done showing that the same impact of polysaccharides taken from mushrooms on myeloid-derived suppressor cells in other studies by other teams, pointing to a potential reason for their findings.

“Overall, this paper not only opens the field to more research to better understand the mechanism conferring this additional effect but also suggests that b-glycans could have broader cancer applications, making mushroom-based compounds a promising addition to the future of immunotherapy,” Meunier said.

“Identifying the specific β-glucan from white button mushrooms responsible for its immune-boosting effects could help further cancer treatment. It would be important to pinpoint the precise β-glucan and understand its molecular action to optimize this additive effect in existing treatments,” he explained.

First author Xiaoqiang Wang, M.D., Ph.D., City of Hope staff scientist and first author of the study pointed out that the study was ongoing and that this was a Phase II trial.

“Our study emphasizes the importance of seeking professional guidance to ensure safety and to avoid self-prescribing supplements without consulting a healthcare [professional],” he said in a press release.

“Some people are buying mushroom products or extract online, but these are not FDA-approved. While our research has promising early results, the study is ongoing. That said, it couldn’t hurt if people wanted to add more fresh white button mushrooms to their everyday diet.” — Xiaoqiang Wang, M.D., Ph.D.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/white-button-mushroom-extract-could-reduce-progression-prostate-cancer

Urethritis to prostatitis: Know the common urological conditions faced by men

The common urological and fertility problems faced by men are categorised based on their age – before 50s or after 50s. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Neelakandan, Consultant Urologist and Andrologist, Prashanth Multi Speciality Hospitals, Chennai, said, “For men with less than 50 years, the common urological problem is in the form of urinary tract infections, such as prostate infections. It is also called as prostatitis.”

Common urological issues faced by men below 50:

The common signs of prostatitis include experiencing a burning sensation while passing urine, frequent urination and not being able to control the urine. Urethral discharge or urethritis is also common in men below the age of 50. Warning signs of urethritis include blood in urine or semen, painful discharge, fever and enlarged lymph nodes in the groin area.

Prostate gland enlargement:

“The common problem faced by men above 50 is prostate gland enlargement. This is the benign age-related enlargement; rarely it can be a cancerous enlargement of the prostate. For these patients, the common symptoms include not being able to empty the bladder fully. There is a thin urine stream and they might take a long time to empty the bladder fully. Even after emptying, they feel that the bladder is not emptied fully,” said Dr Neelakandan.

Severe abdominal pain:

Men of all ages may face a sudden onset of severe abdominal pain accompanied by back pain, vomiting or vomiting sensation, burning sensation while urination or sometimes bloody urine. Kidney stones are very common these days, said Dr Neelakandan. Changes in sedentary lifestyle, the decreased consumption of water and increasing humidity with a lot of perspiration contribute to this common urological condition.

However, kidney stones can be addressed. Dr Neelakandan added, “The stones can be managed medically - advanced laser and the endoscopic surgical techniques will give a complete clearance.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/urethritis-to-prostatitis-know-the-common-urological-conditions-faced-by-men-prostate-gland-enlargement-kidney-stones-101731930456289.html

November 07, 2024

Menopause and osteoporosis: Don’t ignore these symptoms, tips to protect your bones before it’s too late

Women in their menopausal phase, beware - the hormonal changes during this transitional phase can increase the chances of osteoporosis. Menopause is the crucial phase when one’s period stops and is commonly seen in women during their 50s.

Menopause’s silent threat:

It is a natural occurrence and women tend to experience hormonal changes during this phase. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Abhik Banerjee, Zonal Technical Chief East and Pathologist at Apollo Diagnostic in Kolkata, shared, “The hormonal fluctuations can cause a wide range of symptoms such as irregular menses, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes, nighttime sweating, sleep problems, and brain fog. The complications of menopause are heart disease, low sex drive, weight gain and breaking of bones which is osteoporosis which is giving a tough time to a large number of women.”

Osteoporosis is a common occurrence in menopausal women leading to weak and brittle bones. Dr Abhik Banerjee revealed, “One will experience breaking of the bones even with simple activities such as bending abruptly or even coughing. Osteoporosis impacts more women compared to men. Age, family history, having a smaller frame, smoking and using other tobacco products, endocrine disorders such as thyroid disease, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, blood disorders, certain medications, low levels of calcium D, lack of exercise and alcohol consumption can also make one prone to osteoporosis.”

Bone health alert:

Highlighting that hormonal imbalance during menopause causes osteoporosis, Dr Abhik Banerjee explained, “As women transition through menopause, the falling estrogen levels play a vital role in their overall bone health. Estrogen is necessary for maintaining bone density, when estrogen levels drop, there will be a loss of bone mass and one can be at an increasing risk of osteoporosis. Moreover, menopausal women may experience mood swings or depression, which can discourage them from doing any physical activity, and lead to osteoporosis. It is better to manage osteoporosis as per the guidelines given by an expert. Bone density scans using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans and calcium and vitamin D tests will help one to know about the bone-mineral density.”

He concluded, “It is the need of the hour for menopausal women to kick off their sedentary lifestyles, do slow-impact exercises and strength training under the guidance of an expert, quit smoking and alcohol, and take calcium and vitamin D supplements as per the doctors' advice. Menopausal women will have to follow these vital tips to manage hormonal imbalances that can further cause osteoporosis. “Better be safe than sorry.” Stay vigilant and take utmost care of your entire well-being during menopause.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/menopause-and-osteoporosis-don-t-ignore-these-symptoms-tips-to-protect-your-bones-before-it-s-too-late-101730893055589.html

Can a combo of “active” therapies help lower dementia risk?

Multiple factors can increase a person’s risk for dementia, including mild cognitive impairment.

Both major depressive disorder in remission (rMDD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can increase a person’s risk for dementia.

Researchers from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health say a combination of two “active” therapies may help slow cognitive decline in high-risk older adults.

Scientists saw this decrease, especially in participants with rMDD and those at a low genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers estimate that more than 55 million peopleTrusted Source around the world live with dementia — a chronic condition negatively impacting a person’s memory, concentration, and thinking skills.

Past studies show that both major depressive disorder in remission (rMDD)Trusted Source and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can increase a person’s risk for dementia.

“It is important to slow cognitive decline to maintain independence in day-to-day functioning and ultimately prevent dementia in older adults, especially those at high risk of developing dementia, like in older adults with depression,” Tarek Rajji, MD, chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the UT Southwestern Medical Center and former senior scientist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health at the University of Toronto explained to Medical News Today.

Rajji is the lead author of a new study recently published in JAMA PsychiatryTrusted Source that has found a combination therapy of computerized memory and thinking exercises with non-invasive mild electrical stimulation may help slow cognitive decline in high-risk older adults, especially those with rMDD — with or without MCI — and those at a low genetic risk for a type of dementia called Alzheimer’s disease.

A combo of CR and tDCS therapies for dementia

For this study, researchers recruited 375 older adults with an average age of about 72 years, who had either rMDD, mild cognitive impairment, or both.

Participants either received a “sham” control intervention or the combination of two “active” therapies — computer-based Cognitive Remediation (CR) techniques and a type of non-invasive brain stimulation called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS).

“CR consists of computerized memory and thinking exercises that are meant to improve these abilities,” Rajji said.

“The way we delivered them was in a classroom-like setting where groups of six to eight individuals were training on these exercises with the support of one or two coaches. We administered the classes five days a week for eight weeks and then five days a week every six months as boosters until the end of the study or until an individual left the study or progressed from having normal cognitive function to MCI or from MCI to dementia. In between boosters, individuals were asked to exercise on their own at home online for 20 to 40 minutes a day,” he explained.

“tDCS is a form of non-invasive mild electrical stimulation that is delivered by a portable machine the size of a smartphone,” he continued. “It delivers a 2 milliAmp current to the frontal regionTrusted Source of the brain to enhance brain plasticity, i.e. the brain’s ability to change and learn. We delivered it for 30 minutes at the beginning of each class and while the individuals were performing thinking exercises. The goal was to prime the brain and optimize the ability to learn and benefit from the computerized exercises.”

“We chose these two therapies because we thought that they have synergistic effects. tDCS on its own was less likely to be effective but when combined with another therapy like CR — which typically has had mild benefit — it would increase its effect by priming the brain and increase its plasticity.” — Tarek Rajji, MD

Combo therapy slows cognitive decline compared to no therapy

Throughout the study, researchers conducted participant assessments at the start of the study, two months in, and then yearly for three to seven years.

During these assessments, Rajji and his team found that participants receiving the combination therapy experienced slower cognitive decline over an average follow-up period of four years, compared to those receiving the “sham” intervention.

“We were very happy to see that our prediction was correct because, to date, no other therapy has been shown to have such an effect in these patients,” Rajji said.

Scientists reported the benefits of the combination therapy was more notable in participants with a low genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

Additionally, study participants with rMDD, with or without MCI, experienced better outcomes than those with MCI only.

“Individuals with low genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease are likely to be ineligible for the antibody intravenous infusion therapies so a therapy like ours could offer hope to these patients,” Rajji explained.

“The fact that we found the effect mainly in those individuals with remitted rMDD irrespective of whether they also had MCI or not is very exciting because this group has been consistently shown to be at double the risk of developing dementia yet none of the current treatments for MDD reduce this risk. Our treatment offers this possibility for these patients,” he said.

Cognitive decline is multifactorial in nature

MNT also spoke with David Merrill, MD, PhD, a board certified geriatric psychiatrist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, and Singleton Endowed Chair in Integrative Brain Health, about this study, who commented that this study highlights the potential benefits of combination therapies in addressing the multifactorial nature of cognitive decline.

“Unlike monotherapies that target isolated pathways, combination approaches recognize that cognitive decline often results from an interplay of genetic, lifestyle, vascular, and neuroinflammatory factors. Leveraging a combination strategy could address these varied risk factors more effectively, potentially delaying the onset of more severe cognitive impairment in at-risk populations. This aligns well with preventative strategies we are increasingly exploring in clinical practice, emphasizing early and multidimensional interventions.” — David Merrill, MD, PhD

Building on this research, Merrill said it would be beneficial to see larger-scale studies that validate these findings across more diverse populations.

“Furthermore, exploring the interaction between combination therapies and individual genetic profiles — particularly among those with known risk factors such as the APOE ε4 allele — could illuminate how personalized interventions can be optimized. Integrating digital health technologies and biomarkers for real-time tracking of cognitive health and therapy efficacy would also be invaluable,” he said.

“Ultimately, I’d like to see the development of precision medicine frameworks that use multi-therapeutic approaches tailored to individual patient profiles, optimizing cognitive health and minimizing risks across the continuum of aging,” Merrill added. 

Can working long hours increase stroke risk? Neurologist answers

Long working works can affect health drastically. It can lead to increased risk of chronic illnesses, and also accelerate stroke risk. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Srinivas Raju, Consultant – Neurologist, Manipal Hospital, Hebbal, said, “While standard working hours range from 35 to 40 hours per week, extended hours often lead to adverse health outcomes.”

Negative impact of long working hours on health:

“Long working hours can negatively impact health through two main pathways. First, they may trigger detrimental behavioral responses, such as increased cigarette smoking, higher alcohol consumption, unhealthy eating habits, physical inactivity, and poor sleep quality. Second, chronic psychosocial stress from extended work hours can lead to excessive release of stress hormones, resulting in elevated blood pressure and blocked blood vessels,” said Dr. Srinivas Raju.

How to combat stroke risk?

Dr Srinivas Raju noted down a few preventive measures that can help us mitigate the risk of stroke associated with long working hours.

Choose healthy foods and drinks: Prioritise a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, while avoiding foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol. Limiting salt intake is also crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight is vital, as overweight and obesity increase stroke risk. Consult with your doctor for personalised advice on weight management.

Physical activity: Aim for at least 45 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, several times a week. Regular physical activity strengthens the heart and improves overall health.

Quit smoking: Stopping smoking is one of the most impactful steps you can take to reduce stroke risk.

Limit alcohol consumption: Keeping alcohol intake within moderate limits can help protect your cardiovascular health.

Control medical issues: Effectively managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and heart disease is essential.

Adhere to medication: Ensure you take prescribed medications regularly to manage existing health issues effectively.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/can-working-long-hours-increase-stroke-risk-neurologist-answers-101730889522826.html

Need to recognise obesity as chronic disease: Experts

Healthcare professionals say that many people living with obesity have anywhere between one and four co-morbidities

There is a disconnect between awareness, understanding and management of obesity and recognising it as a chronic disease will be the first step towards obesity management, experts have said.

A recent report by global healthcare company Novo Nordisk, that involved more than 2,000 people living with obesity (PwO) and 300 healthcare professionals in India, underlined the need for an integrated, long-term approach to the treatment of obesity.

PwO face immense difficulties in maintaining weight loss and more than half of those surveyed said they reverted to old eating habits despite their efforts to change.

More than 44 per cent regain lost weight within six months, the report said, emphasising the need for more sustainable, long-term solutions that go beyond just lifestyle adjustments.

"The first step towards obesity management is to understand that it is a chronic disease. We need to support People with Obesity (PwO) with tools that not only help them lose weight but also maintain that loss over time," Novo Nordisk India Vice President Clinical, Medical, Regulatory Dr Maya Sharma told reporters on Wednesday.

A successful obesity management strategy must combine lifestyle changes, behavioural interventions, medication, and surgery where necessary, said Dr A G Unnikrishnan from Chellaram Diabetes Institute, Pune.

"Only through such integration can PwO achieve their weight loss goals and maintain long-term health improvements," Unnikrishnan said.

Obesity is also closely linked to other chronic diseases like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, eating disorders and cardiovascular diseases among others.

According to the report, every two in five PwO suffer from conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes.

The healthcare professionals say that many PwO have anywhere between one and four co-morbidities, such as high blood pressure (32 per cent), high cholesterol (27 per cent), eating disorder (23 per cent) and cardiovascular diseases (19 per cent), reinforcing that obesity is a chronic disease requiring medical intervention.

"Even a 5 per cent weight loss can bring significant health benefits, and it's important that PwO understands that small, sustainable changes are key. We as healthcare professionals have to overcome any inhibitions in discussing the condition with our patients on a regular basis and support them in their weight-loss journeys," Dr Rishma Pai from Mumbai said.

Despite the availability of prescription weight-loss medications, PwO remains hesitant and only one in seven PwO believe such medications would be helpful, with concerns about side-effects and safety being the primary deterrents, said the report.

Despite the growing awareness, there are still significant misconceptions and hurdles that need to be addressed. Hence, involvement by the government is crucial in addressing the growing obesity challenge in India, Novo Nordisk India Corporate Vice President Vikrant Shrotriya said.

Obesity is not just an individual issue but a significant public health concern that impacts healthcare resources, economic productivity, and the overall well-being of our society, he said."A multifaceted approach that includes policy interventions, awareness programs, and accessible healthcare solutions is essential to address this complex issue effectively," Shrotriya added.https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/need-to-recognise-obesity-as-chronic-disease-experts/

Maternal Vitamin D intake can boost kid's bone health even at age 7

Extra Vitamin D intake during pregnancy can make your kid's bone stronger even at age 7, according to a study on Wednesday.

Vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin, helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body -- minerals that are essential for bones, teeth, and muscle health.

Researchers from the University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton (UHS) in the UK showed that an increase in women’s intake of vitamin D supplements during pregnancy can boost bone mineral density in the children’s mid-childhood.

Increased maternal vitamin D supplements spiked calcium and other minerals in the kids’ bones. This made their bones stronger and less likely to break.

Dr Rebecca Moon, NIHR Clinical Lecturer in Child Health at the University of Southampton said that the “early intervention represents an important public health strategy”.

In the paper, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, she added that the strategy can boost “children’s bones and reduce the risk of conditions like osteoporosis and fractures in later life”.

For the study, the team examined more than 1,000 pregnant women. Then they divided the women into those one taking an extra 1,000 International Units per day of vitamin D, and the other taking a placebo daily. Further, they followed 454 children aged six to seven to see the effects on bone health continued into mid-childhood.

The beneficial effect on children’s bones was similar at ages four and six to seven.

Previously, the Southampton researchers demonstrated that maternal vitamin D supplementation substantially reduced the chances of babies up to a year old suffering from atopic eczema.

https://www.newkerala.com/news/2024/69789.htm

November 06, 2024

Find out what happens to a woman and her child’s body if sugar consumption is restricted in the first 1000 days after conception

The mother’s diet may influence a child’s lifelong health, according to a new study. Published in the journal Science, it was found that reducing sugar in the first 1,000 days after conception, throughout gestation, and up to the age of 2 of the child may help cut the risk of chronic illnesses, especially diabetes, in adulthood. The researchers indicated that the risk of type 2 diabetes was reduced by about 35 per cent while high blood pressure risk was cut by roughly 20 per cent. “They also found a delay in disease onset of four and two years, respectively,” it read.

The study authors looked at data from before and after the end of the United Kingdom’s World War II-era sugar rationing in September 1953 when the UK began rationing to allow “fair shares” of food for the country during the wartime shortage. According to the Imperial War Museums, access to foods like sugar, fats, bacon, meat, and cheese was limited. However, when the rationing of sugar and sweets ended in September 1953, sugar consumption doubled immediately.

Why is sugar a concern?

Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology at Zandra Healthcare and co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative, said obesity drives the epidemic of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. “Sugar cravings are often rooted in both biology and psychology. Biologically, sugar stimulates dopamine release, giving a “feel-good” sensation. Over time, this can become habit-forming, leading to cravings.

Here’s what happens when you forgo sugar (Source: Freepik)

“I strongly believe sugar is the biggest addiction in this world. During periods like World War II, many countries rationed sugar due to limited availability. People adapted by using substitutes or simply consuming less. These rationing periods highlighted how reducing sugar availability influenced dietary habits, and obesity rates were much lower. Post-rationing, however, sugar intake surged, correlating with an increase in obesity rates,” added Dr Kovil.

Our forefathers used to get food once in a while. “Hence, our genes store fat in the liver, muscles, etc, to make it available when food is unavailable. This is called the thrifty gene hypothesis,” said Dr Kovil.

This hypothesis suggests that humans evolved to efficiently store energy in the form of fat during food abundance. “In ancient times, people faced frequent food scarcity, so individuals with a ‘thrifty’ genotype who stored fat more effectively were more likely to survive during famines. This adaption in our genes becomes a liability and maladaption today when we have abundant food,” said Dr Kovil.

Today, however, this once-beneficial genetic trait can lead to an increased risk of obesity and metabolic disorders. “In a world where high-calorie, sugar-rich foods are easily accessible, the ‘thrifty’ genotype may contribute to weight gain and obesity, as these individuals are predisposed to store excess energy,” said Dr Kovil.

What are the effects of sugar on maternal and child health?

Dr Poonam Sidana, director of neonatology and paediatrics at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, noted that the first 1000 days of life, which include the 40 weeks of pregnancy (approximately 280 days) and the first two years of life (about 730 days), are crucial for a child’s development. “This period is essential for optimal nutrition, and recent research has refocused attention on the impact of high sugar intake during pregnancy,” said Dr Sidana.

The findings reinforce the idea that excessive sugar intake during pregnancy, particularly among mothers who are overweight or consume more sugar than recommended, can have lasting effects on both maternal and child health. “Public health experts have long recognised the importance of improved nutrition in the first 1000 days of life, linking maternal health and nutrition with long-term cognitive development, risk of chronic diseases, and lifestyle issues in the child’s future. If a mother is overweight before or during pregnancy, there is a heightened risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension, and obesity in the newborn. Overweight infants are more likely to experience complications, such as the need for cesarean or instrumental deliveries,” said Dr Sidana.

Furthermore, if a mother consumes high-sugar, processed foods, she may be “depriving herself and her baby of other essential nutrients, impacting both their health.” “Studies indicate that babies exposed to high sugar content in utero are at increased risk of obesity, allergies, and chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension later in life,” said Dr Sidana.

The importance of maternal health extends beyond pregnancy. A “life cycle approach” to women’s health is essential, which includes promoting a healthy diet, ensuring vaccination,

and conducting pre-pregnancy check-ups to identify and address any issues early. “During pregnancy, guidance on healthy eating, with a focus on fresh foods, whole grains, and regular exercise, can significantly improve outcomes,” said Dr Sidana.

Breastfeeding, particularly exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, is also essential for a child’s immunity, neurodevelopment, and long-term health. “Research shows that mothers with healthier lifestyles during pregnancy are more likely to breastfeed. Once the child begins semi-solids, the focus should remain on fresh, home-cooked food, with natural sweeteners like fruits and nuts rather than processed sugars,” said Dr Sidana, emphasising that it helps support healthy habits in young women, mothers, and infants.

https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/what-happens-woman-child-sugar-restricted-first-1000-days-after-conception-pregnancy-diabetes-risk-benefits-experts-9654242/