In response to President Obama’s March 9th Executive Order lifting the Bush Administration’s restrictions on stem cell research, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has issued draft guidelines on the federal funding of this research. The public comment period for the draft is open through May 26th so there’s still time to have your voice heard!
This post was written by Valerie Hagan, former Health Programs Coordinator at the Alliance.
If you are one of the 5 million Americans that have heart failure, a new study published in JAMA provides evidence that exercise may help you feel better. Researchers found that moderate exercise is not only safe, but beneficial for heart failure patients.
The Alzheimer’s Epidemic Marches On
Alzheimer’s disease has taken an unfortunate step in front of the national news spotlight as of late. The last two evenings, I have seen features on the evening news highlighting the devastating effects of the disease both as a public health epidemic and as a personal, family struggle.
Prevent Colorectal Cancer
This post was written by Valerie Hagan, former Health Programs Coordinator at the Alliance.
Colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented. Through a routine colonoscopy, physicians can remove pre-cancerous polyps which grow along the colon wall. Take the time during March, colorectal cancer awareness month, to learn more about risk factors and preventative measures for this disease.
A Research Jolt for Economic Stimulus
Medical research will get a huge boost from the economic stimulus about to be signed into law by President Obama.
I can’t remember the House and Senate ever conferencing on a spending bill and, instead of splitting the difference between higher and lower amounts, deciding to add the competing bills together! But that’s our legislators did for disease research at the National Institutes of Health.
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.
Improving Access to Dental Care for Seniors
The health and overall well-being of seniors can be improved with regular dental services. In many circumstances, ignoring oral care can lead to the development of oral diseases, tooth loss, infection, and if left untreated, death.
