Good Samaritan Hospital is pleased to demonstrate its commitment to promoting responsible vascular care by providing free diabetic, wound and vascular screenings.

Suffern, N.Y. (PRWEB) June 21, 2007 -- Good Samaritan Hospital is pleased to demonstrate its commitment to promoting responsible vascular care by providing free diabetic, wound and vascular screenings on Sunday, June 24 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in the Good Samaritan Hospital Auditorium. While receiving the on-site screenings, participants will also have the opportunity to learn about the warning signs and methods for early detection of diabetic and vascular diseases.

Multiple testing opportunities will be available including blood sugar tests, diabetic foot checks, examinations of any non-healing wounds on legs or feet, and non-invasive vein screenings. Each simple, painless test can increase chances for early detection of potentially serious health complications.

This free event is an opportunity for community members to take part in important health screenings and become educated on proper diabetic, wound, and vascular care.

All screenings are performed by healthcare professionals, and activities will be available for children while adults are being tested. Please call 1-800-435-7465 for more information.

Good Samaritan Hospital is a member of Bon Secours Health System, Inc., one of the nation's leading Catholic healthcare systems. It is also part of the regional Bon Secours Charity Health System, which includes St. Anthony Community Hospital in Warwick, NY and Bon Secours Community Hospital in Port Jervis, New York. Additionally, Bon Secours Charity Health System provides the services of a Certified Home Health Agency, two long-term care facilities, an assisted living and adult home facility and several other medical programs.

For more information about Good Samaritan Hospital, or any of its programs, visit their website at www.GoodSamHosp.org, or contact Good Samaritan Hospital at 845-368-5000.

#|##

Press Contact: JOHN LONSDORF
Company Name: R&J Public Relations
Phone: 908-722-5757
Website: www.goodsamhosp.org

¶ 10:08 PM 0 comments

In accepting Canadian Prescription Drugstore into its prescreened online pharmacy directory, eDrugSearch.com has added the pharmacy's inventory of prescription drugs to the eDrugSearch.com database of 30,000 prescription drug listings.

San Antonio, Texas (PRWEB) June 21, 2007 -- eDrugSearch.com, a free search engine and online community for Americans interested in purchasing safe, low-cost prescription drugs from prescreened Canadian pharmacies and other prescreened international pharmacies, announced that it has accepted Canadian Prescription Drugstore into its pharmacy directory. By introducing Canadian Prescription Drugstore into its directory, eDrugSearch.com has added the pharmacy's inventory of prescription medications into the eDrugSearch.com database.

"Because Canadian Prescription Drugstore is properly licensed and meets eDrugSearch.com's high standards of quality and professionalism in online pharmacies, we have accepted its inventory of prescription medications into the eDrugSearch.com database," said Cary Byrd, president of eDrugSearch.com.

With more than 30,000 drug listings, eDrugSearch.com brings together licensed and accredited pharmacies from around the world in one comprehensive, easy-to-use database. The pharmacy page for Canadian Prescription Drugstore is located at:
http://www.edrugsearch.com/pharmacies/canadian-prescription-drugstore.html

While many Americans are interested in Canadian pharmacies and other international pharmacies as a means of saving money on their prescriptions, they are often concerned about the quality and safety of the prescription medications they find online. eDrugSearch.com addresses these concerns by only accepting online pharmacies in the eDrugSearch.com database that pass a rigorous prescreening process -- including proof of home-country government licensing and third-party accreditations.

eDrugSearch.com expects to increase online prescription drug listings in the eDrugSearch.com database to 100,000 later this year -- making it easily the most comprehensive resource of its kind.

Additionally, eDrugSearch.com offers up-to-the-minute price search, extensive information on drugs and medical conditions and other features that make it the most advanced destination for online pharmacy consumers. Consumers can register for a free membership with eDrugSearch.com at the following url: http://www.edrugsearch.com/members/register-member.php .

Popular medications available through the eDrugSearch.com database include:

- Accupril
- Alrex
- Apidra
- Avandia
- Buspar
- Cephalexin
- Evista
- Lamisil
- Lotensin
- Monopril
- Naproxen
- Ortho Cyclen
- Prinivil
- Prozac
- Remeron
- Risperdal
- Wellbutrin SR

.. along with thousands of other listings.

About eDrugSearch.com
Based in San Antonio, eDrugSearch.com is the Internet destination for those seeking the cost benefits, enhanced privacy and convenience of ordering prescription drugs online from licensed international pharmacies, primarily in Canada. eDrugSearch.com's advanced search features allow members to identify pharmacies with specific licensing requirements and third-party accreditations. eDrugSearch.com is an impassioned advocate for consumers interested in lower drug prices. Visit the company's Web site at www.eDrugSearch.com or the eDrugSearch Blog at www.edrugsearch.com/edsblog .

#]##

Press Contact: Cary Byrd
Company Name:
Phone: 972-235-3439
Website: http://www.edrugsearch.com

¶ 3:46 PM 0 comments

healthdirectory.com.au combines commercial advertising with community services, assisting not-for-profit and public sector health care providers, and aged care facilities nation-wide to disseminate information on a pro-bono basis.

(PRWEB) June 15, 2007 -- The Australian Health Directory® at healthdirectory.com.au takes its social responsibility to an elevated level. It combines commercial advertising with community services, assisting not-for-profit and public sector health care providers, and aged care facilities nation-wide to disseminate information on a pro-bono basis.

Not-for-profit organisations and support groups are very important contributors to the overall wellbeing of the nation as they create communities for people to connect with, learn to manage their illness better and enjoy a sense of belonging. healthdirectory.com.au provides a platform for improved communication between these groups and their potential members.

The aged care directory that is part of healthdirectory.com.au, has already demonstrated how health service providers and consumers can benefit from community service advertising. The aged care directory is already a valuable resource for potential residents, carers and hospital discharge planning staff. The directory enables users to find nursing homes and hostels within a desired radius around their postcode and to search for vacancies.

healthdirectory.com.au is designed to make it easy for people within Australia and from other parts of the globe to navigate our health industry. There is no other vertical health market directory with a similar purpose - to connect service providers with consumers and B2B suppliers of the industry nation-wide, at a single point.

"healthdirectory.com.au can be used by participants for a range of purposes; to promote support groups, new and existing health services and products, to tell potential staff the benefits of joining a health service and to increase export revenue by communicating to medical tourists about our private sector services" - said Richard O'Hagan, Manager Online Services.

"We live in a competitive global market and have to address the critical shortage of health professionals, especially in rural and remote Australia. healthdirectory.com.au can show off our health and aged care industry to the world, helping to attract doctors and nurses from other countries.

"Climate change, the increasing cost of water, food and energy are likely to have a negative effect on the health of Australians and increase the cost of healthcare. Healthcare consumers and businesses will be forced to look for the closest and most efficient providers to reduce costs. healthdirectory.com.au is ready to assist them by becoming a gateway to the broad range of participants in the health and aged care industry across Australia" - said O'Hagan.


Media enquiries
David Green, Editor, contact via e-mail
email protected from spam bots

#|##

Press Contact: Richard O'Hagan
Company Name: Australian Health Directory
Phone: +61 3 9563 6650
Website: www.healthdirectory.com.au

¶ 1:19 AM 0 comments

Diabetech's healthcordia Intensive Management Programs combine mobile diagnostic devices, rules engine technology and social networks to deliver significant outcomes in type 2 diabetes patients.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) June 27, 2007 -- Diabetech, LP, a proven leader and pioneer in extending diabetes care beyond the reach of health care practitioners, announced at the annual American Diabetes Association (ADA) conference that over 84% of the type 2 diabetes trial participants reduced their blood glucose levels as measured by a highly accurate hemoglobin A1c laboratory test by an average of 1.1 points; a significant improvement in blood sugar control.

As a speaker at ADA Scientific in the symposium entitled, "Beyond Health Care Practitioners - Diabetes Health Care Extenders", McMahon presented the data showing that twenty-six adult patients with type 2 diabetes participated in this 12 month study. As is typical in Phase 2 translational research, the patients were not randomized nor was there a control group. In addition, trial participants rated their satisfaction with the program content and devices as being very high. The trial is being conducted under the oversight of an Institutional Review Board. No adverse events have been reported.

According to the ADA, over 21 million people in the US have diabetes. In addition, another 54 million are at risk of developing diabetes in the near future while 1 in 3 children born in the year 2000 are likely to develop type 2 diabetes at some point during their lifetime. The A1c is the gold standard for measuring the severity of diabetes as well as indicating the impact of self-management between visits. The A1c range for people without diabetes is approximately 4.0 to 5.5 depending on the specific test method used. The ADA guidelines indicate 7.0 as the target A1c level for people with diabetes while the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists recommend a target of 6.5 with talk about lowering the target to 6.0. Consistently elevated blood glucose levels lead to complications including kidney failure, nerve damage, blindness and increased incidence of cardiovascular disease.

"After the first year or two of working with type 1 diabetes patients, we suspected that our unique capabilities incorporating proprietary wireless & mobile diagnostic devices, rules engine technology and patient-centric social networks could also be used to improve the quality of care for patients with type 2 diabetes" stated Kevin McMahon, President & CEO of Diabetech. "Considering the reduced biometric data involved with day to day management of type 2 vs. type 1, we decided to emphasize diabetes education over glucose pattern analysis in this trial. For example, in response to automated system analysis of the patient's real-time personal health record, QuickTips educational messaging is sent to the patient and other members of the team based on clinical algorithms in the GlucoDYNAMIX diabetes intervention system. As always, using the system to engage the patient and their social network was a key contributor to this very exciting results data."

Following enrollment and establishment of the patient's profile, patient participants were given Diabetech's market leading GlucoMON® wireless glucose meter for automated and accurate blood glucose data collection, automated GlucoDYNAMIX blood glucose logbooks from their online personal health record (PHR), QuickTips lifestyle and diabetes educational messages, HomeCheck hematology screening and A1c laboratory tests at enrollment and every 90 days thereafter, activity guides and more. Minimal human intervention from program staff and practitioners in this trial also demonstrates the efficiencies gained using automated technology instead of weekly phone calls from highly skilled professionals who are also in limited supply.

When analyzing the data and attempting to determine specific influences to behavioral changes that led to these impressive reductions in A1c, the data consistently points to patient satisfaction with the simple design of Diabetech's GlucoMON and the psychological impact of being part of an active real-time system that monitors your data and connects your team. Another explanation for the reduction in average blood sugars can be tied to the automated blood glucose trending logbook. For many patients with type 2 diabetes, they have never known what to do with an individual blood glucose result. Now with simple business intelligence applied to aggregated data, trouble areas are highlighted for the patient making it easy to understand the effects of food and activity choices making it easy for the patient to take action to correct out of control blood sugars and enjoy long-term health improvement.

So advanced, it's simple.

About the healthcordia programs powered by Diabetech technology

Diabetech has been known for years for their work with type 1 diabetes patients and their remote caregivers, especially in pediatrics. Given the results from this study, and additional data from confidential studies also involving patients with type 2 diabetes, Diabetech's healthcordia diabetes intervention programs are clearly indicated for use with patients with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, a clinical trial in partnership with a major research university is pending with a focus on a special form of diabetes which occurs during pregnancy called gestational diabetes. Live patient interventions are planned to begin in the coming weeks with preliminary results to be announced before the end of this year.

We push the limits of clinical informatics in the delivery of real-world diabetes care. For more information on the healthcordia programs and to participate in our version of proactive care, please visit www.healthcordia.com or call us toll free at 877.My.Gluco. Interested parties outside of the US should send email to info @diabetech.net to initiate correspondence. More information on Diabetech and our proprietary wireless medical devices and industry leading diagnostic laboratory kits can be found at www.diabetech.net

Diabetech and GlucoMON are registered trademarks of Diabetech, LP. GlucoDYNAMIX, HomeCheck and QuickTips are also trademarks of the Company. The Company also protects its healthcordia service mark.

GlucoMON is an investigational device subject to certain FDA guidelines including 510(k) marketing clearance prior to marketing for sale in the US. All other local regulations apply. The performance characteristics of these devices have not been established. This service offering is compliant with applicable federal and state regulations including HIPAA, which govern the privacy and security of human subjects research.

#_##

Press Contact: KEVIN MCMAHON
Company Name: Diabetech, LP
Phone: 877-694-5826
Website: http://www.healthcordia.com

¶ 9:12 AM 0 comments

Piribo, the online destination for business intelligence for the biotech and pharmaceutical industry, has now added a new market report called "Cancer Stem Cells - Emerging Therapeutic, Diagnostic and Market Opportunities".

(PRWEB) June 15, 2007 -- The last decade has seen the emergence of a new paradigm in the therapeutic strategies which may be available to target cancer. This is based on the existence of so called Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs), found in small populations within the bulk of normal proliferating cancer cells, in tumours.

Many scientists believe that CSCs are responsible for the development and spread of cancer and explain why the disease is resistant to many conventional treatments and able to re-establish itself after therapy. Many researchers believe the selective targeting of these cells offers revolutionary advances in the treatment of cancer, by attacking the disease at its source. The unique identity of CSCs and their proposed causal role in the development and progression of cancer potentially make these cells an ideal target for the detection of the disease. A number of CSC-targeting candidate drugs are now in early research, 2 of which have entered Phase I clinical trials.

Key findings of the report
•Research on CSCs is revealing a unified picture on the involvement of these cells in the development and progression of cancer and this has accelerated discovery programmes to selectively target these cells, alongside normal proliferating cancer cells
•The targeting of CSCs is believed to offer revolutionary advances in cancer therapy and diagnosis
•The CSC field is seeing substantial development, investment and new company formation, as specialised groups advance new discovery programmes
•The targeting of CSCs presents several unique challenges, however a number of strategies have been proposed and are being explored.
•It is believed that diagnostic methods based on the detection of CSC's will have the potential to address key limitations of current methods
•The first CSC-targeting drug candidates have entered clinical development

This report provides a comprehensive overview of research on CSCs and the impact this is having on the development of new therapeutic and diagnostic strategies to target cancer. More than 50 academic research teams from 13 different countries have been reviewed, together with leading discoveries in this field. This is driving new research programmes and commercial developments. This report has identified and profiled 17 companies or commercially-focused groups, which now are targeting CSCs, to develop new therapies and diagnostics. The emerging picture on CSCs is creating significant excitement and interest in the cancer field and researchers have proposed a number of drug discovery strategies, which are also reviewed. Many scientists believe that the targeting of CSC's offers important and revolutionary advances in the targeting of cancer. This report gives the reader a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of developments in this exciting field.

Cancer Stem Cells - Emerging Therapeutic, Diagnostic and Market Opportunities" is available in pdf format from Piribo. For more information, go to: http://www.piribo.com/publications/diseases_conditions/cancer/cancer_stem_cells.html

Piribo product ID: VEN001

About Piribo:
Piribo (http:www.piribo.com) is a UK-based independent online store supplying business information on the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. The website now carries over 6,000 English language titles including, market reports, studies and books and is the UK's largest online biopharma information store. Subscribers receive a free monthly newsletter and email alerts on new titles in their areas of interest. The company was established in 2004.

#-##

Press Contact: BRENDT SHEEN
Company Name: PIRIBO LTD
Phone: 0207 060 7474
Website: http://www.piribo.com/publications/diseases_conditions/cancer/cancer_stem_cells.html

¶ 11:53 AM 0 comments

Medtronic Unveils New Advanced Diabetes Therapy Management Software at 67th Annual American Diabetes Association Meeting

CareLinkT Pro Software is the World's Most Advanced Diabetes Therapy Management Software for Healthcare Professionals

June 22, 2007 - MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE:MDT) today announced the launch of a new physician component to its CareLinkT Therapy Management System for Diabetes. CareLinkT Pro Software, the world's most advanced therapy management software for healthcare professionals, allows healthcare professionals to quickly and easily analyze their patients' critical diabetes management data, and identify cause and effect relationships in therapy that may enhance office visits and optimize treatment decisions.

CareLink Pro Software and CareLink Personal Software provide an integrated approach to diabetes control by to simplifying data management associated with regular diabetes management. The new physician-based software enables professionals to retrieve a patient's data from the Internet after the patient uploads the data using his or her CareLink Personal account. The unique software platform also provides robust reports with data from the insulin pump, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensor, and meter to solve the puzzle of glucose control.

"We expect these new physician tools to greatly simplify pump therapy initiation and the ongoing 'fine tuning' adjustments associated with maintaining healthy blood sugar control," said Chris O'Connell, president of the Diabetes business at Medtronic.

"Due to large patient case loads, many endocrinologists are often overburdened and have less time to spend with each patient, so we believe that better information and closer communication between physician and patient will help improve diabetes management and therapy outcomes."

The CareLink Therapy Management System uncovers patterns and problems for better glucose control:
CareLink Personal Software for Patients                 CareLink Pro Software for Physicians

    * Allows patients to upload data from their diabetes management devices to a secure, web-based online database

    * Enables patients to discover glucose patterns and problems that meter software and logbooks would not uncover

    * Reports help patients track insulin usage, carbohydrate intake, and glucose levels         

    * Integrates critical clinical information from patient devices

    * Provides easy-to-read reports that give insights to clinical patterns and patient behaviors

    * Enables easier identification of patterns and problems than with blood glucose meter software or logbooks

    * Reduces or eliminates in-office uploading time and makes office visits more productive

The only software that integrates meter, logbook and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data, the CareLink Personal Software helps patients learn how insulin, carbohydrates and exercise affect their diabetes. Detailed treatment reports feature easy to use charts and graphs, and reveal patterns and problems often overlooked by traditional meter software or paper logbooks.

"As a physician, I have less and less time to manage the dozens of patients in my practice suffering from diabetes," said Jill Abelseth, MD, The Endocrinology Group, Albany, New York. "CareLink Pro allows me to better organize my practice, manage multiple patients and provide more regular help to those individuals who need it most, ultimately providing better quality care."

All CareLink Software is compatible with most major blood glucose meters and is available for the MiniMed Paradigm® REAL-Time Insulin Pump Systems. The patient software also supports the Guardian® REAL-Time Continuous Glucose Monitoring System; CareLink Pro is expected to support the Guardian® REAL-Time System in the near future.

REAL-Time Insulin Pump and Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System

Medtronic currently markets the MiniMed Paradigm REAL-Time Insulin Pump and Continuous Glucose Monitoring System - the world's first insulin pump with REAL-Time continuous glucose monitoring. The MiniMed Paradigm REAL-Time System has all of the benefits of CGM plus the added value of precise insulin delivery through the use of insulin pump therapy. The Guardian REAL-Time System is a stand-alone CGM device and is available for adult patients as well as children and teenagers ages seven to 17.

Diabetes Statistics

According to the American Diabetes Association, almost 21 million Americans (seven percent of the population) have the disease. Diabetes affects children and adults, costing the United States more than $132 billion in direct and indirect costs.

About The Diabetes Business at Medtronic

The Diabetes business at Medtronic (www.medtronic-diabetes.com) is the world leader in diabetes management. The company's products include insulin pump therapy, continuous glucose monitoring systems, related disposable products and diabetes management software.

About Medtronic

Medtronic, Inc. (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Minneapolis, is the global leader in medical technology, alleviating pain, restoring health and extending life for millions of people around the world.

Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 28, 2006. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.
Contacts

Medtronic, Inc.
Public Relations:
Steve Sabicer, 818-576-4826
714-907-6264 onsite
or
Investor Relations:
Jeff Warren, 763-505-2696

¶ 10:14 AM 0 comments

Salugen, Inc. Gene Pioneer Professor Ken Blum explains how Reward Deficiency Syndrome may be worsened by Acomplia (rimonabant) and how GenoTrim may be used as an alternative.

San Diego, CA (PRWEB) June 21, 2007 -- Salugen, Inc. Gene Pioneer Professor Ken Blum explains how Reward Deficiency Syndrome may be worsened by Acomplia (rimonabant) and how GenoTrim may be used as an alternative.

First, he discovered the alcoholism gene 10 years before publication of the Human Genome Project. Next, he explained how the "pleasure" system works in the brain through the Brain Reward Cascade. Then, he explained why 1/3rd of people have a gene deficiency that drives them to overcome their chemical imbalance by consuming excess alcohol, sugar, carbohydrates, illegal drugs, prescription pain killers, or other compulsive behaviors. With this understanding of how the brain governs our cravings, Wake Forest University School of Medicine Professor and Salugen, Inc. Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Kenneth Blum, now explains why Acomplia (rimonabant) may result in greater depression and suicidal thoughts in people who take it.

Most recently the US FDA rejected Acomplia/Zimulti (rimonabant) as an anti-obesity agent for sale in the U.S. (http://en.sanofi-aventis.com/Images/20070613_Rimonabant_AD_Comm_EN_tcm24-16868.pdf). However it is currently sold in 18 countries in Europe with sales upward of 20 million for 2007 and over 130,000 users. The unanimous decision of the US FDA was based on the drug's potential ability to induce depression and suicidal ideation in humans. In two independent studies, participants have withdrawn due to episodes of depression and suicidal thoughts iin spite of anti-depressant effects observed in animal studies (http://www.fda.gov/ohrms/dockets/ac/07/briefing/2007-4306b1-fda-backgrounder.pdf).

"According to early studies, a prolonged period of treatment with Acomplia likely results in a blockade of dopamine neuronal release in the brain's reward center. By reducing the body's ability to receive dopamine, the body then begins to feel less of the benefits from dopamine or what has been called the "pleasure molecule". Having less of this pleasure molecule reduces the brain's ability to experience pleasure, happiness, and wellbeing. Persons with less dopamine have greater incidence of depression, addictions, and other neurological problems. It should come as no surprise that a person taking Acomplia may be more likely to be depressed and thinking about suicide. And when such a drug is combined with those persons who already have a genetic predisposition for less dopamine, then there is a potential recipe for real problems" states Dr. Blum.

Dr. Blum goes onto explain, "while the consensus of the literature tends to support the use of dopamine release blockade as a way of preventing reinforcement, common sense would argue its wisdom. Our laboratory and others from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) have challenged this concept. We have advocated using agonist therapy for treating addiction rather than antagonist therapy as induced by Acomplia."

The NIDA scientists have concluded that Dopamine and Serotonin (5-HT) releasers might be useful therapeutic adjuncts for the treatment of reward deficiency syndrome subtypes, such as cocaine and alcohol addiction, obesity, and even attention deficit disorder and depression (http://rewarddeficiencysyndrome.blogspot.com). This is so because, it has been shown that pharmacological manipulations that increase extracellular Serotonin (5-HT) attenuate stimulant effects produced by dopamine release, such as locomotor stimulation and self-administration behavior.

Dr. Kenneth Blum is also the Chief Scientific Officer of Salugen, Inc. (www.salugen.com), a leading personalized health and wellness company, based in San Diego, CA. Salugen, through its partner, DNA Services of America (www.dnasoa.com), will be introducing GenoTrim, a DNA-customized nutritional solution for weight management (www.genotrim.com) later in 2007. GenoTrim contains a proprietary ingredient complex from Salugen called synaptamine which is a dopamine agonist. This ingredient is customized in GenoTrim based upon a DNA analysis conducted first, including the dopamine D2 receptor gene and serotonin (5-HT) 2A receptor gene. Synaptamine's mechanism of action is likely an increase of dopamine release at the nucleus acumbens by virtue of gabaergic inhibition. This is potentially brought about by the use of d-phenylalanine, a known enkephalinase inhibitor thereby inducing enkephalinergic inhibition of GABA firing at the substania-nigra causing disinhibition and increased neuronal dopamine release.

In a clinical study, the administration of GenoTrim over an average of 80 days significantly increased the feelings of happiness and weight reduction. In another clinical study recently published, study participants experienced stress and weight reduction, improved sleep and energy, and an improved sense of wellbeing.

"With GenoTrim, we have demonstrated in repeated studies that you can reduce weight and increase feelings of happiness and wellbeing, rather than increasing depression and suicidal thoughts like Acomplia," states Dr. Blum. "For the millions of Americans who are disappointed to learn that Acomplia was rejected by the U.S. FDA, they should feel comforted in the decision of these experts."

As an alternative to prescription Acomplia and over the county Alli, the next innovation in weight management technology is DNA-customized GenoTrim to support weight loss efforts without the negative side effects.*

About GenoTrim
GenoTrim is a DNA-customized nutritional solution for weight management. Based upon an analysis of five important genes effecting weight, GenoTrim ingredients and dosages are genetically-guided to address the underlying genetic factors involved in hormones and metabolism that Harvard Medical Experts suggest influence 70% to 80% of overweight cases. By addressing genetic factors that make individuals prone to weight problems, GenoTrim has demonstrated in studies to help reduce weight, appetite, sugar cravings, snacking, and late-night eating, as well as help support improved sleep, mood, and energy levels which results in sustainable weight loss. GenoTrim will be available in the United States through DNA Services of America (www.dnasoa.com) later in 2007. For more information on GenoTrim, please visit www.genotrim.com.

About Salugen
Salugen, Inc., a leading personalized health and wellness company, engages in the discovery, development and commercialization of patent-protected genetic tests and companion DNA-customized therapeutics worldwide. With over 30 years of research conducted on the genetic causes and pharmacology of many healthcare concerns, Salugen is a pioneer and leader in delivering personalized medicine. Currently, the Company commercializes nutrigenomic technologies where genetic analysis guides the formulation and delivery of nutritional solutions that are customized to the individual. The company has headquarters in San Diego, CA, with its high-complexity CLIA-certified laboratory services in Los Angeles, CA. For additional information about the company, please visit http://www.salugen.com.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

#-##

Press Contact: Florina Crews
Company Name: Salugen, Inc.
Phone: 6193155081
Website: www.salugen.com

¶ 11:15 AM 0 comments

With media coverage continuing to raise serious safety questions about the diabetes drug Avandia, LegalView.com is proud to remind readers that it maintains a comprehensive collection of important legal information for concerned patients.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) June 20, 2007 -- With media coverage continuing to raise serious safety questions about the diabetes drug Avandia, LegalView.com is proud to remind readers that it maintains a comprehensive collection of important legal information for concerned patients at their Avandia attorney information portal.

Avandia (Rosiglitazone) is a prescription medication intended to help patients with Type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar levels. However, a study published in the June 14th issue of the New England Journal of Medicine showed that using Avandia raised patients' risk of heart attack by up to 43 percent, and their risk of heart-disease-related death by up to 64 percent. In response, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has called for a strong "black box" warning on Avandia's label, and Congress has called for an inquiry into the drug's approval.

These concerns about heart disease are not new; CBS News reports that the drug's own maker, GlaxoSmithKline, submitted information to the FDA last year suggesting a similar rate of heart problems in Avandia users. Diabetes patients and their doctors are especially concerned about this side effect because diabetes itself increases a patient's risk of serious heart disease; the American Diabetes Association says two out of three diabetics die of heart disease or stroke.

Patients and their loved ones with questions about Avandia are invited to visit LegalView.com's Avandia lawyer information portal to browse LegalView.com's extensive collection of original informational articles on Avandia. From there, they can easily navigate to LegalView.com's collection of Avandia news articles, government safety warnings, glossary of Avandia terms and an original Avandia blog. As the investigation into Avandia's safety continues, LegalView.com's team of attorneys, writers and editors will respond with frequent updates of this free portal of Avandia information.

The Avandia portal takes its place among LegalView.com's growing online collection of comprehensive information on legal topics important to Americans. Anyone who is considering birth injury litigation, needs an auto accident attorney, or is seeking out a traumatic brain injury attorney is invited to visit LegalView.com's completely free collections of factual information on these important topics.

The information available on these portal sites includes fast facts, easy-to-understand articles outlining the issue, feeds of news articles and information from public safety authorities, legal glossaries as well as encyclopedia entries and blogs that track the issues as they unfold.

As always, LegalView.com is a free public service brought to you by Legal WebTV Network, LLC, a Limited Liability Corporation created by a group of respected law firms: Anapol Schwartz; Brent Coon and Associates; Burg Simpson; Cohen, Placitella and Roth; James F. Humphhreys and Associates; Lopez McHugh; and Thornton and Naumes. For more information on LegalView.com's distinguished law firm sponsors and their accomplishments, or to get in touch with LegalView.com's attorneys, visit http://www.legalview.com/.

##=#

Press Contact: Peter Kent
Company Name: LegalView.com
Phone: (720)771-3246
Website: http://www.legalview.com

¶ 1:29 PM 0 comments

On June 14th, 2007 at Simon Fraser University, B.C. Skeptics Colloquium sponsored a lecture by Arthur Grollman, M.D., Professor of Pharmacological Sciences at the University of New York Stony Brook. Barry Beyerstein, PhD, a professor of Psychology at S.F.U. and head of the B.C. Skeptics Society, hosted the event entitled "The Pharmacology of Herbal Remedies and the Placebo Effect".

Vancouver, BC (PRWEB) June 20, 2007 -- On June 14th ,2007 at Simon Fraser University, B.C. Skeptics Colloquium sponsored a lecture by Arthur Grollman, M.D., Professor of Pharmacological Sciences at the University of New York Stony Brook. Barry Beyerstein, PhD, a professor of Psychology at S.F.U. and head of the B.C. Skeptics Society, hosted the event entitled "The Pharmacology of Herbal Remedies and the Placebo Effect".

With an audience of about 25 people, mostly students, Grollman presented a lecture and then fielded questions from the audience. He addressed science's growing awareness and validation of the tight mind/body connection, which he referred to as the placebo effect, the most powerful factor in pharmacology, at 30% efficacy. "Placebo is the most interesting and understudied factor," admitted Grollman. When asked specifically how placebo relates to prescription drug trials, he confessed that in prescription drug trials, with placebo being a known 30%, a drug is called "effective" if it demonstrates 31% efficacy. That fact in itself was amazing and made attending this event worth the price of admission: it was free, or at least sponsored by our taxes toward funding Universities in their quest for greater knowledge.

Dr. Grollman then tackled the idea that herbs can interfere with prescription drugs. When asked about prescription drug interactions with other prescription drugs he admitted that this is a concern, but physicians have a manual of drug interactions to handle this possibility. One click on the internet reveals the fact that this manual is not and couldn't possibly be inclusive of every possibility.

Pharmaceutical drug interactions are of particular concern with regard to our increasing population of senior citizens. According to Consumer Reports on Health, "Any new health problem in an older person should be considered drug induced until proven otherwise." Many seniors take several prescription drugs daily and are often given new prescription drugs without thoroughly assessing their other medications. Dangerous interactions and side affects -- some with disastrous consequences -- can result. It is conservatively estimated that 25% of hospital admissions of seniors result from medication problems, including prescription drugs interactions. Grollman failed to address this at all, preferring to comfort himself with the existence of a partial manual in the hands of physicians.

When asked about the efficacy of vitamin D as a cancer preventative supplement, Dr. Grollman voiced his disapproval of it. He was spared further embarrassment as he was stopped mid-sentence by Dr. Beyerstein and others in the group of skeptics. Grollman was quickly informed by the hosts of the event that there was an article published which highlighted significant research proving that vitamin D is the most effective supplement in cancer prevention. The research showed a dramatic 60 percent or greater reduction in cancer risk than those who did not get vitamin D. In fact, the Canadian Cancer Society now recommends that all Canadians take this inexpensive and harmless vitamin on a daily basis.

According to their own website; "The Canadian Cancer Society is recommending a specific amount of Vitamin D supplementation for Canadians to consider taking. This first-time recommendation is based on the growing body of evidence about the link between Vitamin D and reducing risk for colorectal, breast and prostate cancers.

"The evidence is still growing in this area, but we want to give guidance to Canadians about this emerging area of cancer prevention based on what we know now," says Heather Logan, Director, Cancer Control Policy, Canadian Cancer Society. "As we find out more we will update our recommendation."

A red-faced Grollman grumbled that the study must have been a small and insignificant one, suggesting that Canada could not afford to do a large study. With all due respect to Dr. Grollman, the research cited was a large randomized study of 1,179 women over a five-year period conducted at Creighton University School of Medicine in Nebraska. As noted on the Canadian Cancer Society's website: "Research findings announced today (June 8th ,2007) add to the mounting evidence in this area. A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that taking Vitamin D supplements and calcium substantially reduces all cancer risk".

This event was presented by university professors to impressionable students who might be inclined to agree with their views. Grollman stated in his presentation, "I give this lecture to fourth year medical students.' Now that's unfortunate indeed. An entire graduating class of medical doctors feeling pressure to agree with this skewed view of reality should be a call to action for anyone possessing rational thought.

Close-minded skeptics are not reliable leaders of change as they are adverse to modifying their thought patterns. It is beyond shameful that our universities, which should be at the cutting edge of progressive thought, are supporting and endorsing such a biased approach to knowledge and research. Students, intent on their objective of good grades, are faced with the choice of endorsing this dominant opinion or opting out of the system. SFU is one of thousands of institutes of higher learning and skeptics are abound in many, including the university's research centers. Society's authorities, such as universities and medical centers with the biggest investment in traditional thinking on science and medicine, can actually sabotage open-minded science when reacting from a position of perceived threat, as any approach which may jeopardize potential research grants is viewed as threatening.

If Grollman were to broaden his perspective, given his knowledge base in pharmacology, he could help so many people by focusing on prescription drug interactions, a significant problem in morbidity and mortality rates. A university's mandate is to enlighten the medical doctors of the future by updating them about valid research, such as the vitamin D study, rather presenting biased beliefs seemingly based on conflicts of interest and ego considerations. Future doctors are of interest to everyone, and confidence in them is essential to the integrative medical system of our future.

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Press Contact: JOHN MASON
Company Name:
Phone: 604-728-7948
Website:

¶ 9:51 AM 0 comments

Retired New Jersey firefighter is reporting decreased insulin doses and lower blood glucose levels within one month after his adult stem cell treatment for diabetes (type 2), diabetes induced erectile dysfunction and peripheral artery disease in Cologne, Germany.

Cologne, Germany (PRWEB) June 19, 2007 -- Retired Fire Captain, Calvin Miller of Union City, New Jersey is reporting decreased insulin doses and lower blood glucose levels within one month after his adult stem cell treatment for diabetes (type 2) , diabetes induced erectile dysfunction and peripheral artery disease in Cologne, Germany.

Mr. Miller was recently treated at the XCell-Center using adult stem cells derived from a small amount of his own bone marrow. The stem cells were introduced directly into his pancreas using a minimally invasive catheter procedure via the right femoral artery. To battle the common diabetes complications of peripheral artery disease and erectile dysfunction, stem cells were also introduced into his thighs and calves, and into the arteries that supply the penis, respectively.

"Before scuba diving this past Sunday morning, I injected only 32% of my normal insulin dose. During the day, I ate normally - for a diabetic - without injecting any more insulin. That evening, I measured my blood sugar and I was astounded that it was only 126. A month ago, even with my full insulin doses, I never had readings below 170," said Miller.

These are the third, fourth and fifth diseases in two years for which Mr. Miller has chosen to undergo stem cell therapy. After being treated with stem cells for coronary artery disease in January 2005, he was featured in BusinessWeek Magazine (June 2005) . In September 2005, he was treated for ischemic cardiomyopathy using minimally invasive surgery.

"Actually, what really got my attention this past weekend was that I also felt a regeneration of heart function…and that was after a 3 km swim," Miller added with a grin.

About the XCell-Center
The XCell-Center is the first privately-owned center in Europe to specialize in regenerative medicine using autologous adult stem cell therapy. Newly completed in 2006, the XCell-Center features the latest medical equipment and technology. The XCell-Center is a fully licensed clinic with German specialized physicians working in accordance with German law and European guidelines. It is located on the second floor wing of the Eduardus Hospital in Cologne, Germany.

The XCell-Center currently treats Diabetes and its complications (Erectile Dysfunction and Peripheral Artery Disease), Stroke, Spinal Cord Injuries, Ischemic Heart Disease and degenerative diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

Before the end of this year, the XCell-Center will publish clinical data coming from their SCIDEM I and II trials. In these trials, diabetes (type I and II) patients will be treated with their own stem cells and compared with a control group receiving traditional therapy. The findings will be presented at different international scientific meetings. Later this year, another clinical trial for stroke patients will commence.

For more information on Stem Cell Therapy:
XCell-Center Website: http://www.xcell-center.com

Stem Cell Therapy for Diabetes Blog: http://www.stem-cell-diabetes.blogspot.com

XCell-Center GmbH
at the Institute for Regenerative Medicine
Custodisstrasse 3-17
Cologne, Germany 50679

E-Mail: info @ xcell-center.de

Phone: 1-866-680-8202 (USA Toll-Free) or (+49) 0221-802-5095 (Germany)

Fax: 1-713-583-9322 (USA) or (+49) 0221-2921-2550 (Germany)

#-##

Press Contact: Ruud de Jong
Company Name: XCell-Center GmbH
Phone: +49 0221-802-5095
Website: http://www.xcell-center.com

¶ 9:26 AM 0 comments

The Inspector General of the United States Department of Health and Human Services recognized a significant whistleblower action against the nationwide pharmacy Omnicare, Inc. as one of the top recent national recoveries for fraud against Federal health care programs. Omnicare, the nation's largest pharmacy for nursing homes, was charged with switching drugs to garner huge profits by evading federal and state price limits. This case was pursued for over five years by Illinois pharmacist Bernard Lisitza and his Chicago attorney Michael I. Behn, of Behn & Wyetzner, Chartered, under federal and state False Claims Acts.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) June 18, 2006 -- The Inspector General of the United States Department of Health and Human Services report to Congress spotlighted Behn & Wyetzner's significant whistleblower case against Omnicare, Inc. (01-CV-07433). Omnicare, which calls itself "the nation's leading provider of pharmaceutical care for seniors," paid $49.5 million to settle charges that it illegally switched the drugs of senior citizens in nursing homes and other facilities. The charges primarily involved the generic forms of the popular drugs Zantac® and Prozac®.

Omnicare was charged with switching dosage forms -- which are different drugs -- to garner huge profits by evading federal and state price limits. Ranitidine, the generic form of Zantac®, typically came in tablets. Given its popularity, the government set maximum prices that Medicaid would pay for the tablets. Ranitidine capsules were infrequently prescribed, and had no maximum prices. Allegedly, Omnicare switched patients' prescriptions for ranitidine tablets to the expensive capsules -- costing taxpayers up to four times as much. For Prozac®, Omnicare allegedly switched prescribed capsules to tablets.

This case was pursued for over five years by Illinois pharmacist Bernard Lisitza and his Chicago attorney Michael I. Behn, under federal and state False Claims Acts. "Bernie's your old-fashioned corner pharmacist, who was shocked by a profits over patients approach," said Behn. As the Inspector General recognized, the authority of his office to pursue False Claims Act violations "were critical in resolving" the case.

"This was the first case targeting generic drug switching under the False Claims Act, to help protect both patients and taxpayers," Behn added. "The switching covered by this settlement affected the most vulnerable segment of our population -- the elderly, the sick and the poor. Doctors should be selecting their medications, not a Fortune 500 company."

"This case underscores the new era of joint state and federal prosecutions of healthcare cases," said Behn. "The feds and the states worked together fist in glove. These prosecutors wrote the book on how it should be done."

This is yet another successful whistleblower case brought by Behn. Last year, he represented the plaintiffs in the largest settlement in Illinois and the largest whistleblower case ever in Chicago, which resulted in Northrop Grumman paying $134 million to resolve claims involving the B-2 "Stealth" bomber. (89-CV-6111) Behn also represented the American Association of Retired Persons in upholding the constitutionality of Illinois' False Claims Act before the state Supreme Court. (Ill. No. 97023)

Federal and state False Claims Acts allows private citizens with knowledge of fraud to help the Government recover ill-gotten gains and additional civil penalties. These statutes allows the government to collect up to three times the amount it was defrauded, in addition to civil penalties of $5,500 to $11,000 per false claim. Behn noted that whistleblowers can receive between 15 and 30 percent of the governments' recovery.

Further information concerning the False Claims Act and Behn's achievements can be found at his website, www.whistlebloweraction.com.

The settlement was achieved through the efforts of Assistant U.S. Attorney Linda A. Wawzenski, Deputy Chief of the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Illinois; Assistant Attorney General Patrick Keenan, Director of the Illinois Medicaid Fraud Bureau; John Guthrie, Chief Deputy Attorney General in charge of the Criminal Justice Division for the State of Ohio, and several other state prosecutors working with the National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units.

In executing the Settlement Agreement, Omnicare denied liability, wrongdoing or improper conduct.

#|##

Press Contact: Michael Behn
Company Name: Behn & Wyetzner, Chartered
Phone: 847 926 4603
Website: www.WhistleblowerAction.com

¶ 9:20 AM 0 comments

Increase In Mesothelioma Deaths

10th, May 2007 - New statistics unveiled by the Health and Safety Executive show an increase in the number of people who have died from mesothelioma. The figures released this week show more than 2,000 North East people died from the disease from 1985 to 2004. The figure is increased from 1701 deaths from 1981 to 2000.

Additionally the statistics from the Mesothelioma Register show more women than ever are affected by the disease, with 251 deaths during the period compared to 216.

Ian McFall, head of asbestos policy at Thompsons Solicitors, said: "These figures once again highlight the devastation asbestos has inflicted on people in the North East. Many of those affected worked in shipyards, factories or building sites and were given no protection or warning about the risks of asbestos exposure despite their employers being fully aware of the dangers.

"Although shocking, these figures come as no surprise given the widespread use of asbestos in the past. Sadly, the number of people who will die from this disease will continue to rise until 2020."

The drugs the NHS won't give you

¶ 12:56 AM 0 comments

A resource guide intended to help people with speaking, reading, writing, thinking and learning challenges improve with the assistance of technology has just been released. "Technology for Communication and Cognitive Treatment: The Clinician's Guide" highlights new approaches and treatment strategies that can help improve communication, learning, thinking and remembering.

(PRWEB) June 14, 2007 -- "Technology for Communication and Cognitive Treatment: The Clinician's Guide" , a resource to help people with communication, learning and thinking deficits improve with the help of technology, has just been released.

Chapters in this 400-page comprehensive practical reference tool were peer reviewed by more than 40 neuropsychologists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, assistive technology specialists and teachers. Author Joan Green is a speech-language pathologist with more than 20 years of experience using technology to help adults who have had strokes and head injuries, and children with speech, language and learning challenges. The guide can be found online at www.ittsguides.com.

"Technology for Communication and Cognitive Treatment: The Clinician's Guide" highlights and discusses approaches, techniques and products that can help improve communication, learning, thinking and remembering. Included is information about specialized multi-sensory software, free interactive websites, a variety of technology tools, and tips for the selection and customization of resources. Products discussed offer features such as voice recognition, text-to-speech, word prediction, study and organizational guidance, and drill and practice customized exercises.

"The Clinician's Guide" is designed to assist therapists, educators, and physicians as they help people with communication and cognitive challenges. The reader will learn to empower others to improve as well as compensate for the communication, learning and cognitive skills needed for success at school, at work, in the community and at home for improved overall quality of life.

"This guide outlines a revolutionary approach to enhance treatment outcomes," Green says. "It is written to help all of us who are busy efficiently locate the most pertinent information to help our clients and students."

"Top picks" are presented based on settings (school, hospital, long-term care) as well as the communication areas being addressed (reading, writing, talking, listening, cognition and memory). There are also many online resources grouped by profession (speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, teachers, neuropsychologists, assistive technology specialists) as well as diagnosis (stroke, head injury, learning disabilities, autism, dementia). Many resources described are free. There is an index of products (256) and vendors (163) for quick access to the information a user needs most.

"Technology for Communication and Cognitive Treatment: The Clinician's Guide" can be ordered at www.ittsguides.com for $89.95. Free shipping is offered to those who type in "free shipping" as a coupon code by the end of July. Testimonials, the table of contents and sample chapters can be found at www.ittsguides.com. ISBN 13: 978-0-9786942-5-8.

About Joan Green
Joan Green is the founder of Innovative Speech Therapy, a private speech therapy practice in the Washington, DC area. She provides treatment, consulting, training and coaching to clients, families and professionals in rehabilitation and education. Green is the founder and therapist for TWIST(Technology With Innovative Speech Therapy) a short-term intensive rehabilitation program designed to help clients and their families maximize overall quality of life. Green received her Master's in Speech Pathology from Northwestern University in 1986. Prior to starting her own private practice, she worked in a variety of acute care, rehabilitation and home-care settings.

Contact:
Michelle Lipman
1-800-IST-2550 or 301-602-2899
Info@ innovativespeech.com

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Press Contact: Michelle Lipman
Company Name: Innovative Speech Therapy
Phone: 1-800-478-2550
Website: www.ittsguides.com

¶ 3:59 PM 0 comments

LegalView.com, your comprehensive portal on the Web for all things legal, continues to closely watch the developing situation of the AMO Moisture Plus Contact Solution recall through its information portal at http://moistureplus.legalview.com/. As the solution's maker, Advanced Medical Optics, and health authorities investigate how Moisture Plus became contaminated, LegalView.com will keep its readers up to date with its free, comprehensive collection of original articles, news, government releases and more.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) June 14, 2007 -- As the recall and investigation into Advanced Medical Optics Moisture Plus contact solution continues, LegalView.com, your comprehensive portal on the Web for all things legal, continues to closely watch the developing situation through its Moisture Plus recall information portal. Moisture Plus was recalled earlier this year by its manufacturer after a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) connected it with an outbreak of serious and potentially blinding eye infection known as Acanthamoeba keratitis. As the solution's maker, Advanced Medical Optics, and health authorities investigate how Moisture Plus became contaminated, LegalView.com will keep its readers up to date with its free, comprehensive collection of original articles, news, government releases and more.

Acanthamoeba keratitis is an infection of the eye caused by exposure to tiny waterborne parasites. Its symptoms include redness, pain, excessive tears, discharge and blurry or double vision. If left untreated, the infection could scar or tear the cornea, causing total or partial blindness. While Acanthamoeba keratitis is normally very rare, the CDC received reports of a sharp upswing in cases of the infection as early as 2005. In the investigation that followed, the agency concluded that infected contact lens wearers were seven times more likely to have used AMO Moisture Plus than healthy lens wearers. In response, AMO voluntarily recalled the solution May 25th. Public health authorities continue to investigate, but have called on lens wearers to discard Moisture Plus and any lenses or contact lens containers the contact lens solution may have touched.

Concerned contact lens wearers and their loved ones can follow the situation as it unfolds at moistureplus.legalview.com. There, LegalView.com has collected extensive information on the recall and the infection that caused it. Visitors may browse LegalView.com's collection of original, informational articles, FDA alerts on Moisture Plus, frequently updated news feeds, and a glossary of technical terms related to the Moisture Plus recall. And as always, visitors seeking a skilled Moisture Plus attorney from their area to address their concerns about Moisture Plus can take advantage of LegalView's free nationwide attorney referral service.

The portal on Moisture Plus is just part of LegalView's collection of free, comprehensive information on common contemporary legal issues. Visitors may also browse other portals on LegalView.com to help them find information on any future diabetic drug Avandia lawsuit or to find an automobile accident lawyer or traumatic brain injury attorney as well as many other topics. Visitors can also look through LegalView.com's comprehensive glossary of legal terms, state-by-state directory of legal resources, frequently updated blogs on hot-button topics, as well as their directory of attorneys experienced in many specific legal areas of concern. And of course, there is never any charge to use these or any other part of LegalView.com's extensive legal resources.

LegalView.com was developed as a public service by Legal WebTV Network, LLC, a Limited Liability Corporation created by a national group of distinguished law firms: Anapol Schwartz; Brent Coon and Associates; Burg Simpson; Cohen, Placitella and Roth; James F. Humphreys and Associates; Lopez McHugh; and Thornton and Naumes. For more information on the accomplishments and track records of LegalView.com's sponsoring law firms and to get in touch with LegalView.com attorneys, go to http://www.legalview.com/.

#-##

Press Contact: Alan Haburchak
Company Name: LegalView.com
Phone: 720-226-6613
Website: http://www.legalview.com

¶ 3:54 PM 0 comments

Unique Continuing Education Documentary Targets Drug Industry Influence

Boston, MA (PRWEB) June 16, 2007 -- Frustrated by the pervasive pharmaceutical marketing in health care and related conflicts of interest that exist, Elissa Ladd, PhD, APRN, and Clinical Assistant Professor at the MGH Institute of Health Professions, is heading up a new program which showcases a documentary entitled: PERx: Prescribing Evidence-Based Therapies. The film, featuring expert commentary from renowned medical opinion leaders, and accompanying interactive website (www.perxinfo.org) will be launched on Monday, June 18.

The only nurse practitioner to receive a grant as part of the Attorney General Consumer and Prescriber Education Grant Program, Ladd was awarded $399,400 to develop PERx and educate prescribers about the various levels of drug industry influence. The program is funded through the 2004 multi-state settlement resolving allegations that Warner-Lambert (a division of Pfizer, Inc.) violated state consumer protection laws when it promoted the epilepsy drug Neurontin for uses not covered under the drug's FDA approval.

PERx will illustrate how pharmaceutical industry influence affects the prescribing behaviors of clinicians, emphasize the ethical implications of these practices and offer strategies to enhance evidence-based practice.

"I believe that all prescribers should be keenly aware of how pharmaceutical marketing can lead to unnecessary prescribing of expensive brand name drugs," said Ladd. "The overuse of these high cost medications is putting an undue burden on our already stressed health care system."

The MGH Institute selected filmmaker and consumer health advocate Kathleen Slattery-Moschkau, a leader in raising awareness about the questionable tactics of the pharmaceutical industry, to produce the educational documentary. Slattery-Moschkau's previous films, Side Effects (starring Katherine Heigl) and Money Talks: Profits Before Patient Safety have also been used as an important resource for consumers, health organizations, doctors and medical schools across the country.

"With billions being spent on drug promotion, the ability to distinguish good marketing from good science plays a critical role in public health and the affordability of health care overall," said Slattery-Moschkau. "PERx provides the health care community with access to unbiased information and the tools they need to better serve their patients."

About the MGH Institute of Health Professions
The MGH Institute of Health Professions (www.mghihp.edu), an academic affiliate of Massachusetts General Hospital, is an innovative and independent post-baccalaureate school that operates within the framework of Partners HealthCare System. A progressive leader in developing comprehensive models of health care education, the MGH Institute prepares advanced practice professionals in the fields of nursing, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, medical imaging and clinical investigation through a distinctive combination of academic study, clinical practice and research. An average of nearly 800 students are enrolled in graduate level degree and certificate programs, with an increasing number of courses available online. The Institute is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

Editors: Our style preference is to not spell out 'MGH' on a first reference to our name, as it incorrectly implies the Institute is a department within the hospital. Alternately, we recommend, "The MGH Institute of Health Professions, an academic affiliate of Massachusetts General Hospital…"

About Filmmaker and Consumer Health Advocate Kathleen Slattery-Moschkau:
Kathleen Slattery-Moschkau has taken a unique journey from working for the pharmaceutical industry to becoming a filmmaker and consumer health advocate who educates people through entertainment. Her work has prompted people to ask better questions about prescription drugs and think more about what they put into their bodies.

News organizations like the New York Times, NBC Nightly News, CBS News, CNN, USA Today, The Economist, and Atlantic Monthly, as well as more than 100 other media outlets worldwide have turned to her for real advice on how people can become better consumers of prescription drugs and take control of their health.

PERx Documentary Featured Interviewees
*Elissa Ladd, PhD, APRN, Clinical Assistant Professor at the MGH Institute of Health Professions
*Jerry Avorn, MD, Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School
*David Blumenthal, MD, MPP, Director of MGH Institute for Health Policy; IOM Report Committee Member
*Sidney M. Wolfe, MD, Director, Public Citizen's Health Research Group
*Nancy Crigger, Ph.D, MA, ARNP, Associate Professor of Nursing at William Jewel College
*Joel Lexchin, MD, World Health Organization Consultant
*Susan Reverby, Ph.D, Professor at Wellesley College, Former FDA Panelist
*Bradley Lewis, MD, Ph.D, New York University
*Ken Kaitin, Ph.D, Director, Tufts Center for the Study of Drug Development
*Shannon BrownLee, investigative journalist and fellow at the New American Foundation
*Gene Carbona, Executive Director of Marketing and Sales for The Medical Letter

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Press Contact: CARI REISINGER
Company Name: The MGH Institute
Phone: 608-441-5310
Website: www.perxinfo.org

¶ 12:13 PM 0 comments

The attorneys at Williams Kherkher discuss recent Asbestos issues in Baltimore and launch resource web site.

Houston, TX (PRWEB) June 15, 2007 -- In reaction to the ever-growing body of news regarding asbestos exposure and the effects it can have on those who come into contact with this harmful substance, the law firm of Williams Kherkher of Houston, Texas has launched a Mesothelioma Legal Resource website, http://www.mesolawsuit.com/. This Web site is intended to be a resource for those who have come into contact with asbestos or been diagnosed with any of the medical conditions linked to asbestos exposure. Williams Bailey is led by Attorneys John Eddy Williams and Steve Kherkerk, and has 26 attorneys and over 120 support staff and has worked in the area of asbestos-related litigation since 1983.

Asbestos is a substance that was used commonly during the 20th Century in buildings and structures, as it was seen as a useful insulation material given its flame-retardant qualities. However, studies began to show that exposure to asbestos lead to serious medical consequences, including mesothelioma, asbestosis and several forms of cancer.

Traditionally, most patients suffering from asbestos-related diseases were adults, but recent news has shown that children could also be at risk. In a news article published on June 7, 2007 in the Baltimore Sun, it was reported that Violetville Elementary School was shut down after it was discovered that the floor tiles in the 3300 square-foot recreation center near the cafeteria contained asbestos.

The area was closed off and will remain so until the tiles are replaced. Even though officials claimed that these tiles did not pose an immediate health risk, the city of Baltimore has made replacing the tiles a priority.

Although most involved with this situation claim that there is no immediate danger as a result of the exposure, several studies and resources prove that the opposite is potentially true. Many cases of mesothelioma, asbestosis and cancer of the respiratory system can take years and even decades to fully appear inside a patient's body, and any exposure to this substance creates a potential risk, even in children. Bonnie Vogel, a local mother with four children who attend the school, is rightfully concerned.

"I don't really trust her going back in there," she said. "I'm a little leery sending her to school now because of all the problems they've been having."

###

Press Contact: Joe Devine
Company Name: Williams Kherkher
Phone: 5125734183
Website: www.mesolawsuit.com

¶ 8:47 AM 0 comments

Congressional Hearings Focus on FDA's Handling of Avandia

Press release from: The Lanier Law Firm

(openPR) - At a June 6, 2007, congressional hearing, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration was questioned on its handling of the dangers associated with GlaxoSmithKline's diabetes drug Avandia.

Rep. Henry Waxman (D-Calif.), chairman of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, accused the FDA of being to lax in monitoring the safety of Avandia. He said the FDA never completed a required post-market study of the drug, constituting "a major failure of our system."

"It's about time someone recognizes the flaws in our drug approval and monitoring processes," says W. Mark Lanier of The Lanier Law Firm in Houston. "It is far too easy for dangerous drugs to stay on the market simply because they are profitable."

The hearings were prompted by a recent New England Journal of Medicine article suggesting that Avandia significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular death. The article analyzed several clinical trials comparing patients taking Avandia with those not using the drug. The results indicated Avandia increased patients' chances of heart attack by 43 percent and cardiac-related death by 64 percent.

In response to the article, the FDA issued a Safety Alert advising patients to talk with their doctor about Avandia's risks. Nearly seven million people worldwide have taken Avandia.

The Lanier Law Firm is currently investigating claims against Avandia and its manufacturer, GlaxoSmithKline. The firm's Pharmaceutical Liability Practice Group has decades of experience representing clients who have been injured by dangerous drugs.

With offices in Houston and New York, The Lanier Law Firm is committed to addressing client concerns with effective and innovative solutions. The firm is composed of outstanding trial attorneys with decades of experience handling cases involving pharmaceutical liability, asbestos exposure, business fraud, serious personal injuries, product liability, and toxic exposure.

The Lanier Law Firm
www.lanierlawfirm.com

Houston Law Office
6810 FM 1960 West
Houston, Texas 77069
(713) 659-5200
(713) 659-2204 - Fax

New York Law Office
Lanier Law Firm, PLLC
Tower 56
126 East 56th Street, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10022
(212) 421-2800
(212) 421-2878 - Fax

Press contact:
Alan Bentrup
800-559-4534

¶ 5:27 PM 0 comments

The Association for Eradication of Heart Attack (AEHA) is urging American families to use Father's Day as an opportunity to help their Dad avoid a heart attack. AEHA suggests giving a heart scan or a scan of the carotid artery as a gift. The organization also is calling on hospitals, clinics and physicians to offer Father's Day specials with discounted rates.

Houston, TX, (PRWEB) June 13, 2007 -- Over 400,000 American men will experience their first heart attack this year. The SHAPE (Screening for Heart Attack Prevention and Education) Task Force organized by the Association for Eradication of Heart Attack (AEHA) urges families to give dads a heart attack prevention test for Father's Day. The SHAPE Task Force also calls for hospitals, clinics and physicians to offer Father's Day specials with discounted rates.

"One of the most meaningful Father's Day gifts would be a heart attack preventive screening test," said Dr. Morteza Naghavi, founder of the AEHA and Chairman of the SHAPE Task Force. "This is an excellent way to show Dad that you love him and want him to enjoy a long and healthy life."

"Image based screening that supplements traditional risk factor tests could possibly have saved my late husband's life," said JoAnne Zawitoski, a maritime attorney and board member of the AEHA who is organizing the Golf Fore Heart: Guy Fernandez Memorial Charity event. "Guy suffered a massive heart attack and died instantly, just days after a routine visit with his primary care physician. He was only 49. On behalf of our two sons, please protect your loved ones by being proactive with your heart health."

Modeled after successful cancer screening efforts, the SHAPE Guideline calls for men 45-75 years and women 55-75 years to undergo screening to assess coronary plaque or carotid wall thickness. It recommends the coronary calcium scan (Heart Scan) or carotid scan (Carotid IMT) - two tests that have proven to be strong predictors of those who are vulnerable to a heart attack or stroke. Preventive exams give healthcare professionals the opportunity to take appropriate action before fatal symptoms appear.

"The key is identifying asymptomatic patients at risk before a critical event occurs. With current medical therapies, we can reduce the chances of having a heart attack or sudden death by approximately 75%," according to Dr. Daniel Berman, Director of Cardiac Imaging at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA. "The imaging tests are far more accurate than blood tests in identifying the patients at risk and in need of medical therapy," according to Berman.

"Apparently healthy individuals present a special problem as they are often asymptomatic yet still have a high risk of heart attack. When symptoms of heart attack such as chest pain strike, in many cases it's already too late," said Dr. Zahi A. Fayad, Director, Cardiovascular Imaging Research and Director of the Translational and Molecular Imaging Institute, Professor, Departments of Radiology and Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY and member of the Editorial Committee of the SHAPE Task Force.

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the U.S. According to the Center for Disease Control there will be approximately 700,000 first heart attacks in 2007. Among them some 159,600 men will lose their lives, many within an hour of the event. AEHA urges family members to try and save their father being one of those victims.

About AEHA:
The AEHA's mission is to eradicate heart attack by promoting effective tools for prevention while advancing the scientific quest for a cure. Additional information is available on the organization's Web site, www.aeha.org or call 1-877-SHAPE11

MEDIA CONTACT: Paul Galloway, Cell: 832-656-0449. Email: pg @ vp.org

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Press Contact: Paul Galloway
Company Name: Association for Eradication of Heart Attack (AEHA)
Phone: 832-656-0449
Website: www.aeha.org

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US FDA objects to parts of House drug safety plan
San Diego Union Tribune - United States
The legislation is a response to the 2004 withdrawal of Merck & Co Inc.'s arthritis pill Vioxx and side-effect concerns with other prescription drugs. ...

Consumers Union Advertising Effort Puts Human Face on Victims of ...
DentalPlans.com - Dania,FL,USA
Slingo took the arthritis pain medication Vioxx to ease her arthritis pain. The drugmaker continued to heavily market Vioxx despite mounting evidence that ...

FDA Colludes With Merck To Avoid Vioxx Liability - Part I
Lawyers and Settlements - Vancouver,BC,Canada
Washington, DC: The FDA is still he