This post was written by Valerie Hagan, former Health Programs Coordinator at the Alliance.
In January, the Alliance held a briefing that discussed obesity in the U.S. aging population. Two experts in the field discussed the negative effects of obesity on chronic disease in this group. A new study presents more evidence that obese and overweight aging Americans could be putting their health at risk.
Major Step for Embryonic Stem Cell Research
Reaching a major milestone for embryonic stem cell research (ESCR), the Food and Drug Administration has approved the first human clinical trial for a treatment based on embryonic stem cells. The trial—to be conducted by biotechnology company Geron Corp.—will focus on the safety of a treatment for spinal cord injury. The trial will start with up to 10 paralyzed patients who can be treated within 14 days of their injury. If it’s found safe, the company will expand the trial and shift its focus to effectiveness.
Gearing Up for the Silver Tsunami
This post was written by Valerie Hagan, former Health Programs Coordinator at the Alliance.
As the Silver Tsunami approaches, more and more families will be faced with the choice of staying at home and caring for their loved one or finding outside assistance. The uBOT-5 from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst may be available to help.
I recently came across this news. Automaker Nissan has created a suit that simulates the affects of aging. This suit, worn by auto designers, mimics a bulging stomach, slow reflexes, physical weakness, and even vision problems. The designers’ goal is to make vehicles that are very friendly and drivable for an ever growing aging population thanks to the baby boom generation.
Standing up to Cancer
This post was written by Valerie Hagan, former Health Programs Coordinator at the Alliance.
A couple weeks ago, NBC, ABC, and CBS aired a special entitled Stand Up To Cancer. Stand Up To Cancer is a charitable services fund of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, and its purpose is to raise funds for what the campaign founders call “dream teams” of interdisciplinary and multi-institutional researchers. The founders believe that the scientific knowledge to beat cancer is there, but funding is preventing advancement from occurring.
What Can You Do to Stop Alzheimer’s?
Well-Being Index—The Dow Jones of Health
Podcast Series on Personalized Medicine
According to the a recent Washington Post article, more than 20 companies today offer personalized genomics tests that promise to help you determine what diseases you may get and gain insight into your personality and behavior.
