AI at par with docs for cancer diagnoses, not at treatment decisions: Study

Artificial intelligence-(AI) based cancer diagnosis is as accurate as those made by doctors, but is inferior when it comes to treatment decisions, according to a study.

In the study published by The Lancet Digital Health, researchers compared the accuracy in diagnosis and therapy recommendation of skin cancer using two different algorithms in smartphone applications with that of doctors.

The results show that the AI application generally performs well in diagnosis. However, doctors were clearly superior when it came to treatment decisions.

The research team from Medical University of Vienna in Austria tested the AI application under realistic clinical conditions in two skin cancer centres.

The prospective study consisted of two scenarios, with AI being used in scenario A for changes suspicious of skin cancer and in scenario B for patients with many moles. The AI-assisted application was compared in both cases with both medical experts and less experienced physicians.

In scenario A, 172 suspicious pigmented lesions (of which 84 were malignant) were examined in 124 patients; in scenario B, the research team analysed 5,696 pigmented lesions (of which 18 were malignant) in 66 patients. Two different AI-based smartphone applications were used: a novel 7-class AI algorithm and an ISIC algorithm already used in retrospective preliminary studies.

In scenario A, the 7-class AI algorithm showed equivalent diagnostic accuracy compared to the experts while it was significantly superior to the less experienced physicians. The ISIC algorithm, on the other hand, performed significantly worse compared to experts, but better than the inexperienced users.

In terms of treatment decisions, the 7-class algorithm was significantly inferior to the experts but superior to the inexperienced users.

The results suggest that an AI-assisted smartphone application for skin cancer diagnosis makes similarly good diagnostic decisions as experts in a real clinical scenario. When it came to treatment decisions, however, the experts were superior to the AI.

"The AI application tends to remove more benign lesions in the treatment recommendation than experts would. If you take this into account, the AI application can certainly be used. It should also be borne in mind that if it is used uncritically, too many false-positive findings would have to be clarified," said dermatologist Harald Kittler from the varsity.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/ai-at-par-with-docs-for-cancer-diagnoses-not-at-treatment-decisions-study-556149

Higher levels of triglycerides linked to lower risk of dementia

Experts say diet and physical activity can help slow symptoms of dementia.

New research reports that people with higher levels of triglycerides – a type of fat – carried a lower risk of dementia and slower cognitive decline if they are diagnosed with dementia.

Researchers noted that while they found a link, their findings do not prove a connection between triglyceride levels and dementia, nor should triglyceride levels be used as a screening tool.

Experts say early diagnosis and intervention can help because staying mentally sharp and physically healthy can help slow cognitive decline.

Researchers say they may have found a link between a type of fat in the body and dementia – a connection that could help explain the rate of cognitive decline in people with the condition.

Researchers published their findings, along with an accompanying editorial, today in the medical journal Neurology, a publication from the American Academy of Neurology.

The study looked at data from more than 18,000 people with an average age of 75 and no prior diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or any other type of dementia. Over a 6-year and 12-year follow-up periods, researchers analyzed cholesterol and levels of triglyceride (the most common type of fat in the body).

Among study participants, 823 developed dementia during the first 6 years and 2,778 had been diagnosed with the condition after 12 years.

The researchers said the final data showed that higher levels of triglycerides were associated with a slower cognitive decline in participants who developed dementia.

They added that higher triglyceride levels may also be associated with a lower risk of developing dementia in the first place, although it could not be proven that these higher levels prevent dementia.

“Our findings were a surprise to us,” Dr. Zhen Zhou, a study author and a chronic disease and aging research fellow at the School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, told Medical News Today.

“It’s important to highlight that our study focused only on older adults and the triglyceride levels we analyzed were from their later years, not middle age,” Zhou added. “In older individuals, these levels are prone to fluctuation and were affected by nutritional status and underlying disease, whereas mid-life measurements are more tied to cardiovascular risk.”

Zhou noted that high triglyceride levels do carry risk factors of their own, including an elevated risk for serious conditions like pancreatitis and heart disease.

The connection between triglycerides and dementia

The study didn’t delve into the exact mechanisms at play between triglycerides and cognitive capacity, but the link may lie in the fact that triglycerides make up a large portion of the dietary fats that fuel the brain.

Zhou said that further in-depth studies could determine whether there’s a direct cause-and-effect relationship between triglycerides and dementia or cognitive decline.

“Should there be a link, it’s imperative to understand the underlying biological mechanisms, which will further inform potential preventive and treatment strategies,” she said. “If no direct link exists, studies should explore other contributing factors, such as lifestyle, medical conditions or genetics. Could it be that factors like malnutrition lead to both low triglycerides and a higher dementia risk? These are questions future research should address.”

As Zhou points out, this research could help guide future studies and advance our understanding of the mechanisms at play when it comes to dementia – but cautioned against using triglyceride levels as a screening tool for dementia.

“Our focus was primarily on understanding the association [between triglycerides and dementia],” she said.

Dementia is a difficult condition to diagnose, treat

Dementia is an umbrella term that refers to a number of types of cognitive decline, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are nearly 6 million adultsTrusted Source in the United States with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias and this number could rise to 14 million by 2060.

Because of these numbers, it’s quite common for people to have firsthand experience with this condition – whether it affects a parent, friend, or loved one.

There is no cure on the horizon for dementia, as it progresses over time. But with medical consultation and support, experts say it’s possible to diagnose and then manage it.

Dr. Jason Krellman, an associate professor of neuropsychology at Columbia University in New York, explained to Medical News Today that while forgetfulness is common with aging, dementia refers to more severe forms of cognitive impairment that prevent a person from doing their day-to-day activities.

“Forgetting minor details and being slower to remember names can be very common in normal aging,” Krellman said. “Of course, people do not go from a state of complete cognitive health to dementia overnight. In fact, the process often takes several years. Therefore, if someone and/or people close to them are concerned that their cognitive lapses are more than just an occasional, explainable nuisance, they should talk to their doctor, who will help them decide whether going to see a specialist is indicated.”

How to help someone with dementia

If an aging person is diagnosed with dementia, they’ll need plenty of help and support from their loved ones as their disease progresses.

Experts say early diagnosis is critical, as medications to slow its progression are most effective during this period.

Dr. Theodore Strange, the vice chair of primary care at Northwell Health and vice president of medical operations at Staten Island University Hospital in New York, told Medical News Today that, following diagnosis, it’s important for a person to stay physically and mentally healthy.

“I think activity, being around people in programs where you’re not isolated, is key,” explained Strange. “Proper nutrition, ensuring no alcohol, no smoking, these are the things that I recommend.”

“Think of it like exercising the brain: do crossword puzzles, play memory games, look at old pictures, and continually orient the patient,” he advised.

Strange also said that monitoring vitamin deficiency and thyroid function can help keep people with dementia on the best possible track.

“We’re constantly looking to slow the progression down, and hopefully one day there will be the research that comes out to help us arrest it,” he said. “I think healthy lifestyle is probably the most important thing we can do to continue to offset the issues related to dementia.” 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/higher-levels-of-triglycerides-linked-to-lower-risk-of-dementia

Vitamin B12 deficiency: Symptoms and simple Ayurvedic remedies

Not just diet, there are several reasons why one has vitamin B12 deficiency

An essential vitamin, Vitamin B12 or cobalamin is a water-soluble vitamin. It helps in the synthesis of DNA and red blood cells. Vitamin B12 is stored in the liver and if your diet does not keep adding the vitamin to the body, you are likely to have low amounts of it. There are several other factors, in addition to the dietary one, that lower the body's ability to absorb this nutrient. A human adult needs 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B12 on a daily basis. In Ayurveda, an ancient system of natural healing, there are simple remedies to address Vitamin B12 deficiency and promote overall well-being.

What are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency are fatigue, weakness, pale skin, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite, nerve problems like numbness and tingling, difficulty walking, mood changes, and memory problems. Recognizing these signs is essential so that one can get supplements on time and stops the onset of any complication.

What causes vitamin B12 deficiency?

Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal-based foods like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. This makes it a challenge for individuals following a strict vegetarian or vegan diet to obtain sufficient B12 from their food alone. Additionally, as people age, their ability to absorb B12 from food decreases, making this group more susceptible to deficiency. Medical conditions, certain medications, and gastrointestinal surgeries can also interfere with B12 absorption.

Simple Ayurvedic remedies can prevent vitamin B12 deficiency

Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, takes a holistic approach to health and emphasizes the balance of physical, mental, and spiritual elements. It offers a range of remedies and lifestyle practices to address Vitamin B12 deficiency. While Ayurveda largely emphasizes a plant-based diet, it recognizes the need for Vitamin B12 obtained from animal sources and in this context including dairy products and fortified cereals can be beneficial.

Herbal supplements can stop cognitive decline due to lack of vitamin B12

Brahmi and Shatavari are herbal supplements that can prevent vitamin B12-related complications. Brahmi is known for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It can help improve memory and cognitive function, which may be affected by B12 deficiency. Shatavari is believed to nourish and strengthen the nervous system. This herb can be beneficial for those experiencing nerve-related symptoms due to B12 deficiency.

Ayurvedic remedies

To increase the absorption of vitamin B12 one can consume triphala churna. Triphala, a combination of three fruits, is a widely used Ayurvedic remedy. It aids digestion and supports nutrient absorption, potentially improving B12 utilization. Panchakarma therapy, the Ayurvedic detoxification procedure also helps in improving vitamin B12 absorption. It involves cleansing the body and removing toxins. It can enhance the digestive system's efficiency, which is essential for nutrient absorption.

Lifestyle changes

Ayurveda places great importance on stress reduction through practices like meditation, yoga, and mindfulness. High-stress levels can hinder nutrient absorption, and managing stress can aid in better utilization of vitamin B12. Engaging in regular physical activity can stimulate the digestive system and promote overall well-being.

Ninth grader student invents soap to treat skin cancer; named "America's Top Young Scientist"

Be careful when combining Ayurveda with modern medicine

It's important to note that Ayurveda should complement, not replace, modern medical approaches to addressing Vitamin B12 deficiency. If you suspect a deficiency, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional who can conduct the necessary tests to confirm your condition. B12 deficiency may require injections or higher-dose supplements, especially if it has reached an advanced stage. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to health, and its remedies can be valuable for prevention and as a complementary support system for individuals dealing with mild to moderate Vitamin B12 deficiency. However, it's crucial to work with a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about both Ayurveda and conventional medicine to ensure a comprehensive and effective treatment plan.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/vitamin-b12-deficiency-symptoms-and-simple-ayurvedic-remedies/photostory/104695210.cms

6 things to know about prostate cancer

Right knowledge and information about prostate cancer can be life-saving. Here are 6 things that men should know about prostate cancer

Prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland in males that produces the semen fluid and prostate cancer is a disease in which normal cells in prostate gland change and grows out of control, forming a tumour. Fortunately, in most cases prostate cancer is slow growing low-grade tumour.

Since right knowledge and information about prostate cancer can be life-saving, here are 6 things that men should know about prostate cancer:

1. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Preetham Dev, Urologist and Uro-oncologist at Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology, shared, “Globally, prostate cancer is one of the commonly diagnosed cancers and the third leading cause of cancer death in men. In India there are almost 34 thousand new cases and 16 thousand deaths from this disease every year.”

2. Initially, a person may have no symptoms of prostate cancer

According to Dr Preetham Dev, individuals with early prostate cancer may initially have no symptoms at all but at a later stage, men may face the following symptoms:

Dull pain in the lower pelvic area

Frequent urination

Trouble urinating, pain, burning, or weak urine flow

Blood in the urine (Hematuria)

Painful ejaculation

Pain in the lower back, hips or upper thighs

Bone pain

3. Risk factors are important to identify

Dr Preetham Dev said, “There are several modifiable and non-modifiable factors that might affect risk of prostate cancer. Modifiable factors can include diet, obesity, smoking, chemical exposure and sexually transmitted infections. Long term smoking is also associated with increased risk of prostate cancer. Non-modifiable factors include age, family history etc. Hence, men should be aware of the risk factors and contact your doctor in case any adverse effects seen.”

4. Risk of prostate cancer increases with age

“The risk of prostate cancer increases with age, especially after age 50. Around 60% of prostate cancers are diagnosed in people who are 65 or older,” Dr Preetham Dev revealed.

5. Early stage detection helps in better improved survival:

Dr Rajesh Taneja, Senior Consultant, Urology, Andrology and Robotic Surgery, said, “Detecting prostate cancer in the early stages can have a huge impact on the overall survival and quality of life of the patient. One of the best ways to detect prostate cancer early is through screening by testing for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in blood. Complimentary to PSA testing is digital rectal examination (DRE) for detecting prostate cancer.”

6. Chemotherapy is not the only treatment option:

Dr Rajesh Taneja said, “When the cancer is limited to the prostate, it is considered localized and potentially curable. In this stage it is treated with surgery or radiotherapy. If the disease has spread to the bones or elsewhere outside the prostate it is considered stage 4 cancer. This is treated with pain medications, hormonal treatment, chemotherapy, radiopharmaceuticals, focused radiation and other oral targeted therapies. Outcomes depend on age, associated health problems, stage and extent of cancer.”

He concluded, “Choose to maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce your chance of getting cancer. Avoid alcohol or drink in moderation, eat a healthy diet, Exercise regularly, get regular checkups and talk to your doctor about cancer screening, know your family history of cancer and talk with your doctor about it, quit using tobacco. Ask your health care provider for help quitting.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/6-things-to-know-about-prostate-cancer-101698232842102.html

High blood pressure: 5 amazing probiotics for lowering hypertension; lifestyle changes

A study says probiotics can help you manage high BP. Here's a list of fermented foods and probiotics that you can consume for keeping hypertension at bay.

Managing hypertension, often referred to as a silent killer, in modern times isn't easy. Risk factors for high blood pressure like unhealthy diet, stress, and processed foods with high amounts of salt are all around us leading to an increase in hypertension cases. WHO's recent report discussing devastating impact of high blood pressure also highlights the need to follow preventive measures to win the fight against this dreaded disease. Hypertension can significantly increase risk of heart attack and stroke, but lifestyle measures and diet can play a key role in managing blood pressure. A recent study published on mSystems says there is evidence indicating that adding probiotics to the diet may have antihypertensive effects. The study elaborates that probiotic strains Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, which can be found in foods like yogurt and cheese are especially helpful.

"High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common health concern in India and around the world. It is a silent killer that is often ignored until it leads to complications such as heart disease and stroke. It is ranked as the third most important risk factor contributing to other chronic diseases. Recent studies show that there was a significant increase in the prevalence of hypertension from 19% in men and 17% in women to 24% and 21% respectively. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, poses several significant health risks," says Clinical Dietician Kajal Aggarwal, PCOD expert and Founder of Dietician Kajal’s App in an interview with HT Digital.

"Recent studies suggest that probiotics, beneficial microorganisms that promote gut health, may play a crucial role in lowering blood pressure. Probiotics are live microorganisms that are known to provide various health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. These microorganisms are often referred to as 'good' or 'friendly' bacteria because they have a positive impact on our digestive and overall health," says Aggarwal.

Probiotics For Heart Health

Aggarwal shares list of 5 probiotics that you should consider adding to your diet for a healthier heart.

1. Kombucha: Kombucha is a fizzy, fermented tea made by fermenting sweet tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). It contains acetic acid and a variety of probiotic strains and is also rich in polyphenol that have blood pressure-lowering effects.

2. Sauerkraut: Sauerkraut is a fermented cabbage dish that is rich in Lactobacillus bacteria. The high fiber content in sauerkraut supports heart health by aiding in the reduction of cholesterol levels.

3. Beetroot Kanji: Beetroot kanji is a traditional Indian probiotic drink made from fermented beetroot and various spices. Moreover, beetroot's natural nitrates have vasodilatory effects, further supporting cardiovascular health.

4. Yogurt: Yogurt is one of the most common probiotic foods. It is rich in live bacterial cultures, primarily Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. These probiotics play a crucial role in the gut, where they can aid in reducing inflammation and regulating blood pressure.

5. Homemade Dahi (Curd): Dahi or curd is a staple in many Indian households. When made at home, it can be an excellent source of probiotics. The live strains of good bacteria present in homemade dahi contribute to the regulation of blood pressure.

Additionally fermented foods such as idli, dosa can also be added to diet. Even though their live probiotic content gets destroyed in cooking but still there are few strains that are heat resistant.

Lifestyle Changes To Control High Blood Pressure

Apart from incorporating these probiotics into your diet, there are other important lifestyle modifications to lower blood pressure. These include:

1. Dietary changes: Reduce sodium intake, increase potassium-rich foods like fruits and vegetables, and maintain a balanced diet low in saturated and trans fats.

2. Regular exercise: Engage in physical activity to promote heart health and maintain a healthy weight

3. Stress management: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing to lower stress, which can contribute to high blood pressure.

4. Regular check-ups: Visit your healthcare provider regularly to monitor your blood pressure and receive guidance on its management.

In conclusion, while probiotics can significantly lower blood pressure, they should be part of a broader approach to manage hypertension. Combining probiotics with a healthy lifestyle can be a powerful strategy for keeping your blood pressure in check and safeguarding your heart.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/high-blood-pressure-5-amazing-probiotics-for-lowering-hypertension-lifestyle-changes-101698297151562.html

Diabetes drug metformin could stop gum disease and aid healthy aging

Metformin, a medication used to manage and treat diabetes, could also help people with gum disease.

Although gum disease occurs in the mouth, previous research shows it can affect health in other parts of the body, such as the heart and bones.

Researchers from King’s College London recently found that metformin —a common type 2 diabetes drug—may help improve clinical outcomes for non-diabetic people with gum disease.

The same study also found that metformin may help prevent bone loss caused by either periodontal disease or aging via both mouse and clinical trials.

About 19% of the world’s adult populationTrusted Source has severe periodontal diseaseTrusted Source.

Also known as gum disease, this condition occurs when the tissues holding teeth in place become infected. If left untreated, periodontal disease can damage bones in the mouth and ultimately lead to tooth loss.

Periodontal disease can also impact other areas of the body. Previous studies link gum disease to an increased risk for cardiovascular diseaseTrusted Source, Alzheimer’s diseaseTrusted Source, diabetesTrusted Source, and respiratory diseaseTrusted Source.

Now, researchers from King’s College London have found a common type 2 diabetes drug may help improve clinical outcomes for non-diabetic people with gum disease, as well as help prevent bone loss caused by either periodontal disease or aging, via both mouse and clinical trials.

Using metformin to treat gum disease

For this study, Dr. Vitor Neves, academic clinical lecturer, periodontology registrar in the Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences at King’s College London, and lead author of this study, and his team focused on using a common type 2 diabetes drug called metformin.

Previous studies have looked at the anti-inflammatory propertiesTrusted Source of metformin to provide protection against conditions like cardiovascular diseaseTrusted Source, liver diseaseTrusted Source, and certain types of cancerTrusted Source.

This is also not the first study to look at metformin as an ‘anti-aging’ therapy. Research published in August 2019 found there is mounting evidence suggesting the drug offers beneficial effects in reducing the risk of aging-related diseasesTrusted Source.

A study published in April 2021 says metformin reduces the levels of AGEsTrusted Source — a marker of aging — by lowering insulin and blood glucose levels and increasing insulin sensitivity.

Metformin helps control inflammation

First, the researchers tested metformin in a mouse model of periodontal disease. After the mouse study, scientists found metformin led to significant prevention of bone loss during induced periodontal disease and age-related bone loss in living mice.

“What surprised me about metformin was being able to make my aging animals healthier and (prevent) 50% of bone loss,” Dr. Neves told Medical News Today. “When I analyzed that data, it was the (first) time I felt, ‘Wow, there is really something here’.”

Next, Dr. Neves and his colleagues performed a clinical trial with 20 study participants who all had gum disease but did not have diabetes.

At the end of the trial, researchers discovered participants given metformin had improved clinical outcomes in their gum disease treatment. Additionally, metformin helped control sugar levels and inflammation in the mouth and body, even when bacteria levels were high.

Improving aging with metformin

“Prevention starts before disease takes place, with both my animal data and patient data showing good metformin outcomes even with high levels of bacteria in the mouth. This raises the question about whether ‘solely brushing your teeth’ truly is the only way we can actually prevent gum disease development throughout our lives,” Dr. Neves said.

“In addition to those surprising findings, my clinical data also points to the potential use of metformin to improve the overall health of gum disease patients, due to seeing the stabilization of glucose levels, improvement of insulin sensitivity, and control of inflammation,” he added.

“All these markers [stabilized glucose, improved insulin, controlled inflammation] are directly correlated with improvement of aging according to aging research. Therefore, it seems that preventing systemic diseases from the mouth is a good pathway to prevent overall systemic diseases.” — Dr. Vitor Neves

How does gum disease happen?

Periodontal disease happens when bacteria is allowed to collect onto teeth, forming a sticky substance called plaque.

Most plaque can be removed with good dental hygiene — brushing teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. If plaque stays on the teeth too long, it can harden into a material called tartar, which can only be removed through professional dental cleaning.

Plaque and tartar buildup on teeth can also inflame and infect the gums, leading to gingivitis.

Suppose plaque and tartar are not removed from teeth and gingivitis is not treated. In that case, the infection can travel deeper into the soft tissues around teeth, potentially causing bone and tooth loss, known as periodontitis.

How is periodontal disease treated?

The best treatment for periodontal disease is prevention by following healthy oral hygiene practices. This includes visiting a dentist for a professional teeth cleaning every six months.

If periodontal disease has set in and become serious, a dentist may recommend a deep cleaning where plaque is removed from areas of the teeth below the gumline.

Severe periodontitis cases might require medications and surgical treatments.

 “If you go to the dentist today, the only possible treatment for gum disease is based on oral hygiene, cleaning the teeth, and antibiotic therapy, which are solely based on controlling plaque — bacteria and food — that accumulates around the teeth,” Dr. Neves told MNT.

“The issue is that [current treatments for gum disease] only tackle the disease from the bacterial angle of the problem, ignoring inflammation. Additionally, the treatments available do not help toward the prevention of other non-communicable diseases.” — Dr. Vitor Neves

“So, the development of novel therapies and pathways within health systems that sees gum disease patients as a potential patient for other non-communicable diseases can help decrease the overall burden of disease around the world and potentially create a new healthy geriatric generation,” he said.

How does gum disease affect aging?

Past studies show periodontal disease can impact a person’s systemicTrusted Source — or overall body — health, affecting how well they age.

Periodontal disease is also linked to inflammaging, which is chronic inflammation that can occur with aging.

According to Dr. Neves, systemic diseases that affect overall health, such as diabetes, obesity, and cognitive declineTrusted Source, often start affecting people from late adulthood into the geriatric stage. Gum disease, however, starts much earlier, around 30 years old for everyone.

“The diseases I have mentioned and gum disease are all classified as non-communicable diseases, which means that they develop throughout one’s lifespan. These diseases have also been shown to be associated with people with gum disease. In other words, people with severe gum disease are more likely to have these conditions,” he noted.

“What our research suggests is that if we start fighting gum disease from a systemic point of view, over time, we may be able to fight and prevent the development of other non-communicable diseases that gum disease patients may develop in their lifespan,” Dr. Neves added.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/diabetes-drug-metformin-stop-gum-disease-aid-healthy-aging

Neurocysticercosis: Causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention tips

Health experts reveal all you need to know about Neurocysticercosis - its causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention tips

 

Regions low in sanitation and hygiene are dominantly affected by Neurocysticercosis infection where usually, the consumption of contaminated water may lead larvae to the brain, spinal cord or other neurological tissues. Neurocysticercosis is a preventable parasitic infection that affects the central nervous system and is caused by the larval cysts of the pork tapeworm (taenia solium) where the larval cysts affect the various parts of the body, which develops a condition called cysticercosis.

 

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Anil R, Consultant Neurologist at Manipal Hospital in Bangalore's Hebbal and Millers Road, shared, “Neurocysticercosis refers to a form of brain infection caused by parasites. It is caused by the larval cysts of Taenia solium, also called the pork tapeworm. It is transmitted mainly through eating undercooked meat and contaminated vegetables, particularly the root vegetables that grow below the soil. Upon consumption, the larval cysts of taenia solium pierce the human intestine and cause neurocysticercosis.”

 

Dr Rushikesh Patil, Interventional Cardiologist at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital in Mumbai's Powai, added, “Neurocysticercosis is a disease caused by small worms present in dirty and unhygienic regions. It is a byproduct of undercooked pork mainly. So people consuming improperly cooked pork have a high chance of getting infected by this disease which directly affects the brain and spinal cord.”

 

Symptoms:

Dr Anil R revealed, “Most often, neurocysticercosis in other areas or organs of the body may remain asymptomatic or cause subacute to chronic symptoms. But when the condition affects the brain, it causes severe symptoms and can be fatal. Clinically, in the vast majority of the cases (about 70% of all cases), neurocysticercosis presents as seizures or epilepsy. Other common symptoms include headache, stroke, dizziness, or neuropsychiatric dysfunction.”

 

Dr Rushikesh Patil, said, “These tapeworms will create problems for you when they start staying in your brain or spinal cord. This disease will lead to small electric shocks known as seizures in your body. Other possible symptoms are severe headaches, which will make you uncomfortable and just would not go away. The feeling of confusion and dizziness and experiencing sensory issues are also the other symptoms.”

 

Treatment:

Dr Anil R said, “Neurocysticercosis is mainly treated symptomatically and by management of seizures by anticonvulsants. If the cyst load is higher, anti-cystic circle treatment is initiated. The anti-cystic circle treatment is similar to the antibiotic treatment used for the bacteria, but the treatment requires careful monitoring.”

 

Bringing his expertise to how we can evict these uninvited visitors from our bodies, Dr Rushikesh Patil said, “Healthcare providers have different strategies for this. They medicate you with a unique combination of medicines that will fight against these worms. These prescribed drugs directly target the worms, which will help the body to get rid of them but the sudden deaths of these worms in your body may affect your body condition. So to avoid such conditions like swelling, additional medication is prescribed to assist you with further side effects. When the condition becomes out of control, doctors will operate to remove worms from your body.”

 

Prevention Steps:

Dr Rushikesh Patil concluded, “The first step to avoid this problem is to stop it in the first place. Now the question arises of how, so make sure that your pork should be cooked well. When pork is cooked properly, these worms will die automatically in such extreme heat. Always keep yourself and your environment clean. These small steps will help in avoid these unwanted guests in your body.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/neurocysticercosis-causes-symptoms-treatment-and-prevention-tips-101697722935648.html

Sex hormones may play a key role in how Alzheimer's disease develops in the brain

A study suggests that sex hormones play an important role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

• Approximately 32 million people worldwide have Alzheimer’s disease.
• About two-thirds of all Alzheimer’s cases are in women.
• Researchers from the University of Western Ontario have found female sex hormones play a significant role in how Alzheimer’s disease manifests in the brain.

In a new study, researchers from the University of Western Ontario found that female sex hormones play a significant role in how Alzheimer’s disease manifests in the brain.

The study appears in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s AssociationTrusted Source.

About 32 million peopleTrusted Source globally live with a type of dementia called Alzheimer’s disease. Of that number, about two-thirds are womenTrusted Source.

Although researchers have some theories about why women are more likely to have Alzheimer’s disease than men, the underlying biological reasons remain unknown.

Why are women more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease?

There are a few reasons why researchers believe women are at a higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease than men.

The first is longevity, as women tend to live longer than men. In high-income countries, women tend to live 5.2 years moreTrusted Source than men and 3.8 years more in low-income countries.

Another factor may be genetics. A study published in October 2022 identified a specific gene on the X chromosomeTrusted Source that enhances the accumulation of tau proteinTrusted Source in the brain. Because females have two X chromosomes, they may have a higher likelihood of having higher levels of tau protein in the brain, which is considered one of the main causesTrusted Source of Alzheimer’s disease.

And scientists also believe women may be more prone to developing Alzheimer’s disease because of different hormones. Research in mice published in March 2022 discovered the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) — levels that rise during perimenopause — are linked to Alzheimer’s riskTrusted Source.

Research presented in 2023 found menopausal women who experience frequent hot flashes during sleep had a higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

How female sex hormones affect Alzheimer’s development

Medical News Today spoke with Dr. Vania Prado, professor in the Departments of Physiology, Pharmacology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and scientist at Robarts Research Institute at the University of Western Ontario, and senior author of this study.

Dr Prado said the team decided to examine the possible role of female sex hormones in the development of Alzheimer’s disease because of the chemical changes in the brain that can affect and contribute to amyloid pathologyTrusted Source — one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.

“One of the important contributors for regulating early pathology are brain cells that secrete acetylcholineTrusted Source,” Dr. Prado explained to MNT. “There is evidence that these brain cells can function differently and they also respond to sex hormones, including estradiolTrusted Source. We knew that from the start.”

Can estradiol affect ‘toxic’ amyloid buildup in the brain?

For this study, Dr. Prado and her team focused on the female sex hormone estradiol, which helps maintain a woman’s reproductive system and plays a significant role in the maturation and release of eggs during the menstrual cycle.

According to the researchers, the cholinergic neuronsTrusted Source that produce acetylcholine — which is essential for normal memory and cognition — are vulnerable to damage from beta-amyloid accumulation in the brain that’s linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

Through various tests and image analysis on a mouse model of male and female mice and brain scans of older humans, the researchers found that when estradiol was present, the relationship between acetylcholine and toxic amyloid was lost.

But when sex hormones were eliminated, the relationship was connected, potentially increasing Alzheimer’s pathology. This is especially of note, the researchers said, as levels of estradiol decreaseTrusted Source in postmenopausal women.

As for how estradiol may affect the build-up of beta-amyloid protein in the brain, Dr. Prado said that is still not fully understood.

“There is evidence that low levels of estradiol may affect how immune cells respond to amyloid in the brain,” she continued. “There is also evidence that loss of estradiol increases amyloid pathology.”

Insights on sex-specific factors and Alzheimer’s

Medical News Today also spoke with Dr. Verna Porter, a neurologist and director of the Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, and Neurocognitive Disorders at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, about this study.

As a doctor treating female patients at high risk for Alzheimer’s disease, she said she found this study to be one of great interest.

Dr. Porter said these findings may also lead to a need to emphasize the importance of considering the patient’s hormonal status, including their menopausal stage and the role of estradiol, when assessing their Alzheimer’s risk.

“This would be particularly relevant for perimenopausal women, as the study suggests that estradiol may impact the relationship between cholinergic signaling and amyloid pathology,” she added.

“For those in the perimenopausal age range, we should continue to stress the importance of monitoring cognitive health and considering lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining cognitive stimulationTrusted Source and a healthy dietTrusted Source, which have been associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease,” Dr. Porter said.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/alzheimers-disease-linked-to-female-sex-hormones-study