• Introduction

• Feature Article

   ED - Early Heart Attack Warning

• Featured Stories

   White Wine - Good As Red

   Leukemia Drug Reverses MS

   Erection FAQ's

   Testicle Cancer Check with Video

   OTC Medications for Chlamydia Soon

   Tomatoes and Endometriosis

   Optimal Dose of Vitamin E

   Genital Warts Vaccine for Men

• Latest Senior News

   Tai Chi and Senior Health

• Articles of the Month

   NeoMatrix HALO™ Breast Cancer Test 

   The Nine (9) Serious STDs

   How is Herpes Spread?

• Videos

   By Request Herpes STDS AIDS

   Erectile Dysfunction Help

   NeoMatrix HALO Breast Cancer Test

   Blood Test for Breast Cancer

   Winter and Flu Video

   Testicle Cancer Check Video

• Feedback from visitors

• Questions, Answers, Notes

• Health Links

• Health Article Archive

Featured Article

ED - Early Heart

Attack Warning

...the link between erectile dysfunction and the risk of heart disease is being ignored by doctors...

Also read...

Erection FAQs

be sure to read our article:

Testicle Cancer w/ Video

TO SAFE HOLIDAYS - HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

Is Erectile Dysfunction Early Heart Attack Warning

We read an article at the bmj.com website the other day that stated erectile dysfunction gives a two to three year early warning of a heart attack.

It stated that the link between erectile dysfunction and the risk of heart disease is being ignored by doctors. When discussing their heart attacks with doctors, patients expressed that they were experiencing erectile dysfunction two to three years before they had their heart attack—a warning sign ignored by their general practitioners.

It is well known that erectile dysfunction (a symptom of vascular disease in the smaller arteries) doubles the risk of heart disease, a risk equivalent to being a moderate smoker or having an immediate family history of heart disease. Erectile dysfunction in type 2 diabetes has been shown to be a better predictor of the risk of heart disease than high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

It seems that erectile dysfunction is still treated as a recreational or "lifestyle issue." As the demand for blood flow to the penis increases during sexual activity, nitric oxide is released by the body to help the blood vessels expand. In men with erectile dysfunction, nitric oxide levels are low, so blood vessels cannot expand to allow the additional blood to reach the penis. Drugs like Viagra are so useful because they work along the same pathway that increases the amount of nitric oxide in the body.

But low levels of nitric oxide can affect more than just sexual health; nitric oxide also acts to keep blood vessels flexible by resisting atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries from cholesterol deposits. So, a reduced amount of this substance can also signal future cardiac troubles.

Instead of just getting a prescription to treat their condition, men with erectile dysfunction should see a doctor who can check for underlying vascular problems.

Doctors shouldn't ignore these issues on the basis that cardiologists feel uncomfortable mentioning the word 'erection' to their patients or that they may have to deal with the management of a positive response. In today's society it should no longer be acceptable or excusable not to discuss these issues...it's outright patient neglect.

VIDEO

Reclaiming Your Sexual Life: Treatment Strategies for Erectile Dysfunction

White Wine Also Protects Hearts

We have all heard how scientists have been documenting the heart healthy benefits of red wine for years and advised health-conscious consumers to choose red over white. But recently researchers at the Cardiovascular Research Center at the University of Connecticut in Farmington, found that rats given white wine enjoyed similar protection from heart damage as those fed red wine.

Before this study, scientists believed that only red wine, which uses grape skins containing the powerful antioxidant resveratrol, could protect the heart from damage. The so-called “French paradox,” which referred to a high fat diet but low rates of heart disease, was linked to France’s love of red wine, which was rich in resveratrol.

White wine hasn’t been considered to be particularly heart-healthy, but molecular biologist Dipak Das disagrees. “The flesh of the grape can do the same job as the skin,” he says.

In the study, rats were given the equivalent of one or two glasses of red wine, white wine, water or grain alcohol (beer or vodka). In rats that suffered induced heart attacks, those that were fed wine had less heart damage than rats fed either water or grain alcohol.

In addition, their blood pressure and aortic blood flow was more stable. The scientists found little difference between the rats fed red wine and those fed white wine.

Even though other experts aren’t willing to say that white wine is as good as red wine, Dr. Das believes future studies will agree with his conclusions. “We can safely say that one to two glasses of white wine per day works exactly like red wine,” he said.

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2.  How To Get Tested for STDS (Video)

3.  How AIDS affects your body (Video)

4.  How to Prevent the transmission of HIV (Video)

5.  How To Test for HIV and AIDS Basics -Fast and Easy HIV Testing (Video)

Tai Chi Program Helps Prevent Falls Among Older Adults

In the July issue of the American Journal of Public Health, senior scientist Fuzhong Li, Ph.D., describes how a Tai Chi program to prevent falls among older adults has had success. Based on this successful trial several Oregon counties have now adopted the Tai Chi program as part of its efforts to promote physical activity and reduce falls among community-living older adults.

Falls are associated with an enormous burden to individuals, society, and to the health care system. Tai Chi, as a proven fall intervention, may have much to offer in terms of reducing the public health burden of falls and the benefits accrued for prevention.

The Tai Chi program has shown positive results in improving balance and reducing falls among the elderly.

Twice-weekly 1-hour classes were held in local senior centers for 12 weeks. Trained tai chi instructors delivered the program.

Results indicated that the all centers successfully implemented the program. Program participants showed significant improvements in health-related outcome measures such as balance, reduction in falls, and increased functional independence.

Tai chi has been considered a low-cost exercise activity because no equipment and few facilities are needed. These results indicate that an evidence-based tai chi program can be implemented in urban and rural community settings.


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Adapted from materials provided by Oregon Research Institute, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS.

A new blood test for Breast Cancer is underway!

ABOUT BREAST CANCER: Breast cancer is a type of cancer in which cells in the breast become abnormal and grow and divide uncontrollably, eventually forming a mass called a tumor. Some tumors are benign, meaning that they do not invade other types of tissue, although if they become big enough, they can interfere with some bodily functions, such as the flow of blood or urine. Malignant tumors have cells that can invade nearby tissues. When a cancer "metastasizes," cells from the original tumor break off and travel to other parts of the body via the blood or lymph systems. More than 75 percent of breast cancers begin in the milk ducts within the breast. The next most common site is in the glandular tissue that makes the milk.

Breast cancer research has discovered a promising new method to screen for breast cancer. NeoMatrix screening, better known as the HALO Breast Pap Test, can detect abnormal cells years before a lump can be detected by mammography or self examination.

How it works:

The NeoMatrix HALO™ Breast Cancer Test is the only fully automated, noninvasive

NAF collection system designed for use in the primary care office. Its three main components include:

1. HALO Console

2. Patient Interface Cassette with fluid reservoir and adjustable breast cups

3. Disposable Sample Collection Cups

The HALO™ Breast Cancer Test incorporates a simple 5-step cycle.

The HALO Breast Cancer Test allows a physician's office staff to perform noninvasive NAF collection in about five minutes. The system incorporates heat, suction and compression in

a single, fully automated cycle.

With the HALO™ Breast Cancer Test, adjustable cups are fitted to the woman's breasts. The test cycle is then started and the system automatically warms the breasts, gently massages them, and applies light suction to bring nipple aspirate fluid to the surface of the nipple. The nipple aspirate fluid is then collected, placed into a standard liquid cytology vial, and sent to a cytology laboratory for analysis. The entire procedure is well-tolerated by patients, with no anesthetic required.

Step 1: Inserting Disposable Sample Collection Cups

New Disposable Sample Collection Cups are inserted into the Adjustable Breast Cups for each patient.

Step 2: Preparing the Breasts

An alcohol swab is used to cleanse the nipples and soften the small keratin plugs located at the opening of the milk ducts. The Adjustable Breast Cups are adjusted to fit the patient's breast size and are placed on the breasts.

Step 3: Suction and Heating and Compression Cycles

The HALO console initiates gentle suction (similar to that of a breast pump) on both breasts. Simultaneously with suction, warmth is applied and then a massage is initiated.

Step 4: Fluid Samples Obtained

Once the cycle is completed, Breast Cups are removed from the patient and any NAF sample is collected with a swab (included), placed into a liquid cytology vial, and sent to a cytology lab for examination.

*NOTE: Not all women will produce a NAF sample. Lack of NAF in the ducts has clinical significance, as absence of fluid production indicates reduced relative risk for breast disease. (Wrensch et al, JNCI, 2001)

Step 5: Removal and Disposal of Disposable Sample Collection Cups

Disposable Sample Collection Cups are removed and disposed of at the end of each HALO™ Breast Cancer Test.

Read Fact Sheet Brochure (English)

For more information Watch Video

ALSO...Be sure to read about the new blood test for Breast Cancer!

Breast Cancer Blood Test Video
 

The latest estimate from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that there are approximately 19 million new STD infections each year, with almost half of those occurring in teens and young adults ages 15 to 24. Almost half of women have a sexual problem of some sort, according to a report today from HealthDay. Since sexually transmitted diseases often are announced only by nonspecific signs (like abdominal pain and fever), they may easily be mistaken for other illnesses—and that means the number of cases may actually be much higher.

That's not good, say experts: Certain STDs, undiagnosed and untreated, can wreak havoc, bringing serious and even life-threatening consequences.

Here's a list of nine serious STDs—and one that's just a nuisance:

1. Chlamydia. Nicknamed the "silent disease," chlamydia often does its damage unnoticed; indeed, it produces virtually no symptoms in about half the men and three quarters of the women who get it, according to the CDC. But that can mean trouble, especially for women: Infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and dangerous ectopic pregnancies can result if the infection isn't stopped with antibiotics. While men rarely experience complications, the infection can spread to the tube that shuttles sperm, leading to pain, fever, and a remote chance of sterility. Once a woman has been infected with chlamydia, she is up to five times more likely to contract HIV if exposed to the virus. To avoid serious problems, the CDC urges—at a minimum— annual screening tests for all sexually active women ages 25 and under, as well as tests for all pregnant women. A mother's untreated chlamydia infections can invade a newborn's eyes and respiratory tract, which is why it's the leading cause of pink eye and pneumonia in infants, according to the CDC.

2. Syphilis. Once thought to be nearly eradicated in the United States, syphilis has staged a comeback in the past decade. It is most common among men with same-sex partners, although women, too, can become infected. Syphilis typically unfolds in stages, the first of which is marked by a small, often painless sore that may heal on its own (it is through direct contact with syphilis sores that the bacterial infection is spread.) If untreated, a rash of red-brown spots may pock the palms of hands and soles of feet, a sign that the infection has progressed to its second stage. Fever, swollen glands, a sore throat, hair loss, headaches, and other symptoms of this stage may emerge and resolve on their own. Without treatment, however, late-stage syphilis will develop. This can take up to 20 years, but it can involve such extensive damage to vital organs like the brain, heart, blood vessels, nerves, liver, bones, and joints that a person can't survive.

3. Genital Human Papillomavirus. It's a common complaint but should not be taken lightly: Although 90 percent of cases will be resolved by a person's own immune system within two years, some of the 40-plus HPV strains that infect the genitals boost the risk of certain cancers, according to the CDC. Cervical cancer, for one, can be especially dangerous because it tends not to produce symptoms until it's quite advanced. More rarely, HPV infections can lead to vulvar, vaginal, anal, or penile cancer. Since the infection is caused by a virus, there is no treatment (although warts can be removed by medications or physicians). Regular Pap tests and exams are recommended to flag signs of cancer before it can develop. Gardasil, a vaccine that can protect women against some of the strains linked to cervical cancer, is recommended for some women.

4. Gonorrhea. Like chlamydia, this common bacterial STD can progress silently, leaving people with intractable health problems. Symptoms such as discolored penile discharge or signs that mimic those of a bladder or vaginal infection may occur. Unnoticed and untreated, gonorrhea can cause infertility in both men and women. It is also a common culprit behind pelvic inflammatory disease. Once treated with antibiotics, people can be re-infected by untreated partners.

5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. Pelvic inflammatory disease occurs when the uterus, fallopian tubes, or other female reproductive organs become invaded by infection-causing bacteria. Two common culprits are chlamydia and gonorrhea. Each year, more than 100,000 women are left infertile by an untreated case of PID, which can be cured with antibiotics, according to the CDC. PID can lead to lifelong pelvic pain and pus-filled internal abscesses and can raise the odds of ectopic pregnancies. Suspicious vaginal discharge, painful sex or urination, and bleeding between periods may all be signs that something is awry.

6. Trichomoniasis. A one-celled parasite causes this STD, and a frothy, odorous, greenish-yellow discharge can be a sign that a woman has it. Infected men don't usually show signs, though some may experience abnormal penile discharge or pain after urinating or ejaculating. Trichomoniasis can make women more likely to contract HIV if exposed and may increase the likelihood that an HIV-infected woman will transmit HIV to her partner. Trichomoniasis is curable with medications.

7. Genital Herpes. Some victims have bouts of painful genital sores, but many who are infected with genital herpes are unaware because symptoms may be absent or confused with the flu. Caused by two types of the herpes simplex virus, genital herpes has no cure, though antiviral medications may help manage the severity of outbreaks. Because it's a chronic infection, genital herpes can be psychologically distressing for those infected and can cause potentially deadly infections in babies if transmitted from a mother. Transmission from mother to baby is rare, but freshly acquired genital herpes late in pregnancy can boost the risk, says the CDC.

8. HIV. The virus that causes AIDS can lie dormant with no signs for over a decade, though symptoms include extreme fatigue, swollen lymph glands, persistent diarrhea, dry cough, rapid weight loss, pneumonia, night sweats, and a recurring fever. While any of these symptoms alone may not be cause for alarm, since they could be caused by a slew of other illnesses, the only way to be sure is to be tested, advises the CDC. Untreated, HIV can cripple the immune system. The infection may not ever advance to AIDS, but if it does, it can be deadly. While drugs can halt the progression of the virus, no cure exists. Click here to learn more about the prevalence of HIV infections among black women or here to read about one young woman's battle with HIV.

9. Chancroid. This bacterial infection is quite common in Africa and Asia and is also infecting Americans. Chancroid can cause ulcer-like genital sores that are often accompanied by swollen lymph nodes around the groin. Like many STDs, untreated chancroid makes it easier to acquire and spread HIV.

10. Crabs. Days after sex or intimate contact, the intense itching may start—a sign that these blood-sucking parasites may have chosen an unfortunate place to call home. The tiny lice typically spread by moving from one person's pubic hair to a partner's, although it is possible to acquire crabs from clothing, furniture, or bedding. The critters can survive without a human host for about 24 hours.

How is herpes spread?

Direct contact with the live virus including: 

• Any direct contact with an herpes infection
• Kissing, touching or caressing actively infected areas
• Sexual contact (vaginal, oral, or anal sex)
• Cold sores or mouth herpes can be spread by sharing the same drinking glass, lipstick, cigarette, etc. 

Herpes can be spread by any of the following real-life situations:

The virus can be transmitted to your partner if you have active genital herpes and have vaginal or anal intercourse

People who experience an episode of herpes, either facial or genital, should consider themselves infectious from the first sign of an outbreak to the healing of the last ulcer.

Occasionally, one partner in a long-term relationship may develop symptoms of herpes for the first time. Often this is due to one or both of the partners being asymptomatic carriers of HSV and not knowing it. 

A mother can pass the virus onto her baby during pregnancy or at birth.

Reports have been sited of possible transmission via 'Hot tubs"or "Spa Baths" but there is scientific skepticism as to whether or not the virus can be transmitted via inanimate objects such as toilet seats.

It is generally considered that the spreading of genital herpes through inanimate objects, such as soap, towels, clothing, bed sheets, toilet seats, and spa surfaces is highly unlikely because the herpes virus cannot live very long outside of the body.

Asymptomatic Transmission - Can Herpes Be Transmitted Without Symptoms?

Sometimes those who know they are infected spread the virus between outbreaks when no signs or symptoms are present.  This is called asymptomatic transmission.

Many genital herpes infections are spread by asymptomatic "shedders" of the virus. The virus can still be present in people with no obvious lesions during periods of asymptomatic virus shedding.

Many couples have had sexual relations for years without transmitting herpes.  Some simply avoid having sexual contact when signs or symptoms are present, while others use condoms or other protection between outbreaks to help protect against asymptomatic shedding.

Asymptomatic virus shedding cannot be predicted but is known to occur on at least 5% of days during the year.

Can Herpes be transmitted during pregnancy and or be passed onto the baby?

Infants can become infected with the herpes virus.  If you have ever been exposed to herpes talk with your doctor before planning a pregnancy, even if you have never had symptoms or have not experienced a recurrence in a long time.

You will need to contact your health care professional for more information about pregnancy with herpes, and to obtain appropriate tests and follow-up care for the pregnancy.

Should you have herpes present in the birth canal near the time of delivery, a caesarean section might be necessary to protect the newborn from coming into direct contact with the virus.

Babies can also contract herpes from being kissed by someone with a cold sore (5 - 8%). A young child cannot fight off infections as easily as an adult can, so serious health problems can occur.  If you suffer from cold sores take every precaution not to put an infant child at risk. 

Special Notes:

Be sure to visit Positive Singles - A place where people with STD's will never feel lonely. 

70 million are afflicted with STDs in the U.S. alone and an estimated over 400 million worldwide. Are you one of them?

When you have Herpes, HPV, HIV/AIDS, or any other STD, it can feel like you are all alone in the world. Do you wish there was a place where you didn't have to worry about being rejected or discriminated?

Positive Singles is a warm-hearted and exclusive community for singles and friends with STDs. Here you can get on with your life and meet new friends, partners or potential spouses, or learn about STD medical information. If you just need to find someone to talk to or give them help or advice, this is the best place. Never feel lonely again!

_____________________________________________

How to check your testicles for Cancer

Boobs are OK but balls are not. That appears to be the philosophy of YouTube following the decision to place a video that shows you how to examine your testicles for cancer behind its ‘membership wall’.

The videos were posted earlier this year by Dr Chris Steele, a patron of the MHF who run the malehealth website. ‘At the beginning of the year Two videos were posted on YouTube, showing how to check for signs of breast cancer and testicular cancer by Dr. Chris.

‘Both conditions can be fatal, but early detection improves your chances of survival. I posted them on YouTube, so they could reach more people around the world, but YouTube rated them as suitable for over 18s only.

‘This is very short-sighted of them, as testicular cancer in particular can affect boys under the age of 18. By limiting access, YouTube is stopping us from saving lives.’

YouTube which is one of the best-known sites on the internet has been owned since October 2006 by internet giant Google.

Fortunately, there’s no need to go to YouTube itself to see the video. It's right here. It lasts about 3 minutes and has an introduction from Dr Chris. We hope it helps everyone, which should be it's main intent.

Thanks for the stories on the nine serious STDS along with the Herpes article.  I like your blog.  Keep doing stories like these and I'll be back.  - Donna Y, Long Island NY

I just wanted to say that I heard about the Testicle Cancer video, but could not find it anywhere until I ran across your blog.  Thanks for having it in this months blog.  I am sure it will help others besides me gain more information about such an important subject. - Hubert K., Selma, NC

Thanks for the Holiday Tips.  We have enjoyed your blog this year and hope that you will continue giving us good stories and research news.  We like that every story you do is up to date and current with today's latest health news.  Happy Holidays XLPharmacy Staff! - JoAnn and Burt W., Fargo, ND