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Healthwise is a regular column written especially for
laterlife.com members and visitors. Welcome to healthwise
100.
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'more healthwise'
OSTEOPOROSIS DRUG CAUSES IRREGULAR HEART BEAT
American researchers have linked Fosamax with the development of atrial fibrillation (irregular hearbeat).
Fosamax is a drug widely used across the UK to stop bone-thinning. Atrial fibrillation is not necessarily serious but can lead to a stroke.
In the UK, about one in 200 people aged between 50 and 60 have atrial fibrillation and the risk increases to about one in ten by the age of 90. The latest research shows the drug could increase the risk by 86%.
The report says that despite the research, for most women at high risk of fracture, the benefit of taking the drug to reduce fractures will outweigh the risk of atrial fibrillation. It says that if women are at risk of atrial fibrillation through existing problems such as heart disease or diabetes, then they should discuss the possibility of alternatives with their doctor.
The National Osteoporosis Society said this latest study was interesting, but should be considered in the context with other recent research which has not shown the same increase in atrial fibrillation. It says there are a range of treatment available to people with osteoporosis and urges anyone who is concerned about possible side effects of treatment to speak to their GP.
PERSONAL FITNESS PROGRAMME – walking and jogging
 We all know we need to keep as fit as possible whatever our age. Fast walking progressing to gentle jogging can be an excellent way to move your fitness forward. If you decide to start a new exercise programme, tips include:
1. Visit your GP and get an all clear before you start.
2. Get the right kit. There are so many different trainers and running shoes available, so don’t just buy off line; take time to find a shop where they have knowledgeable assistants who can give you good advice. Always wear in shoes slowly.
3. Work out a training programme; don’t try and do too much too soon. Many people sustain injuries early on simply by trying to do too much or go too fast. Buy a book or look at the various magazines which will all give good advice on developing a suitable programme for your level of fitness.
4. Keep a log. Write down details of your training sessions, your goals, what you achieved and how you felt.
5. Keep at it. It’s won’t happen overnight. Some days you will find you have gone backwards; don’t be discouraged. Getting fit takes time, patience and perseverance – but the rewards are enormous.
GENE ASSOCIATED WITH ALZHEIMER’S IS IDENTIFIED
American researchers have identified a gene that plays a role in Alzheimer’s disease. Identification of this gene -- TRPC4AP on chromosome 20 -- opens a new line of research that may help improve understanding of what causes the disease.
TRPC4AP is involved in calcium regulation. It's known that when calcium levels aren't carefully controlled, cells can die, leading to the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
The research was undertaken at the Medical College of Georgia and the VA Medical Center in Augusta and published in the current issue of the American Journal of Medical Genetics Part B: Neuropsychiatric Genetics.
"The next step will be to identify the exact mutation in this gene which is causing the disease," said study author Dr. Shirley Poduslo. "The long-term significance will be to understand the mechanism of the disease so that more effective drugs can be designed to slow the progression of the disease, delay the onset, identify patients early in the disease course and, hopefully, someday to keep this dreadful disease from occurring.”
If
in any doubt about any of the information covered in healthwise articles and
it's relevance for you, consult your GP.
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