Category Archives: Integrative Medicine

By Linda Tate, Communications Director, Northwest Osteopathic Medical FoundationThis week, we are covering Movement Therapy, sometimes called Dance Therapy. Many believe that anxiety and panic attacks can be treated using movement therapy.An expert in the field explains this style of treatment: Anxiety is a body/mind split that is constructed in the mind but felt in the body. Dance/movement therapy is a psychotherapeutic process that creates balance in the nervous system, ownership of ones own body, and agency through movement by turning anxiety into excitementand giving it someplace to go. Jennifer Frank Tantia, PhD, MS, BC-DMT, LCAT

Have you ever been in a crowd of people, and suddenly you feel as if you have to get away from the situation? It becomes an overwhelming urge to run and hide; to find peace and quiet. Or maybe you are a nail biter and nothing youve done to stop biting your nails has worked? Anxiety can be low level, Im anxious about giving my oral presentation to downright life-altering, I cant leave my houseits too scary out there. Have you ever wondered how that anxiety manifests itself in your mind and ultimately your body?According to Medical News Today, uncertainty of outcomes can trigger an anxious response. Not knowing when something will happen, or even if something will happen, can create anxiety.People who tend to worry will have a higher incidence of anxiety as opposed to those who stay in the moment and can ground themselves when those negative thoughts pop up.This is where dance therapy comes in. Rewiring our brains to stay in the moment, and to focus on ones body instead of ones thoughts. Reconnecting with your physical body is key.Iris Bruninger, Ph.D. states, The body has a deep influence on the mind and vice-versa. Just like running a mile can distract you from the pressures of your to-do list, dance uses expressive movement and breathing to deflate hyper-aroused thoughts. In other words, if youre concentrating on perfecting a pli, youre most likely not thinking about the outrageous bank statement you just got in the mail. Dancing brings us back to a more primitive, and consequently, more liberated state of mind. It causes our thoughts to simplify, to focus on our bodies and our movements instead of the more complicated stressors of life.Theres currently a movement group on the scene called Nia. Nia (pronounced nee-ah), short for neuromuscular integrative action or nonimpact aerobics, is a workout trend that combines the best of modern dance, martial arts, yoga, and tai chi. A sort of East meets West workout, with elements to enhance the body as well as the mind and spirit.I wanted to learn more about this therapy and turned to a woman Ive known since kindergarten, Kellie Chambers, to get the information on how these classes work and what they can do to aide someone in healing from anxiety.Kellie, a Nia instructor herself, tells us about Nia and why she feels its beneficial to anyone looking for healing.Nia is a sensory-based movement and lifestyle practice that conditions the whole body, mind, spirit, and emotion.One of Nias specialized offerings is Nia Moving to Heal. In class we move to feel better, or rather feel to heal. Guided by gentle instruction and creative imagery, Moving to Heal offers a way to move to music with an awareness of your unique bodys way for stress reduction, increased relaxation, improved energy, breathing, stronger heart, brain function, more balance and stability, increased flexibility just to name a fewKellie Chambers teaching a Nia classWhether you are looking for a more high energy Nia class or a more relaxed and soothing Nia Moving to Heal class, both offer movement as medicine for change. We learn to dance through life in a way that brings pleasure to the body and life and to use the body as a guide to discover its own inherent wisdom to heal (to feel better). We become sensation scientists on the dance floor.I have taught Nia for 6 years and am a 1st Degree Black Belt Instructor who owns a studio in Pleasant Hill Oregon called Just Move. I teach 10 classes a week. I feel utterly transformed by this practice. I am stronger, more grounded and joyful, feel younger and can move like I did in my 20s, and I love how much I have changed inside out by learning to listen, trust and move my body my bodys way.I encourage everybody to give it a try!To Find a Nia class near you, click HERE.This video runs for 7 minutes and 52 seconds. Its a good video to watch to understand the connection between Movement Therapy and Anxiety.

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IN GOOD HEALTH: Movement Therapy Good for Anxiety? - Tillamook County Pioneer

Anesthesiologists are trained to safely administer anesthetics to induce a temporary loss of sensation or consciousness for the performance of a medical procedure. This involves a variety of medical drugs ranging from local numbing agents to general anesthesia.

Anesthesiologists are an integral part of the surgical team since their role involves patient preoperative clearance, intraoperative care as well as post-operative recovery.

Dr. Halims medical training began at Northwestern University in Chicago. Dr. Halim did a research fellowship in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics before she went on to perform her internship in internal medicine. Dr. Halim did her residency in anesthesiology, along with subspecialty training in critical care/trauma and pediatrics at Northwestern University.

The core function of anesthesiology is the practice of anesthesia. This involves the use of topical, injected, or inhaled medications to produce a loss of sensation. Without anesthesia, many surgical and non-surgical procedures would be intolerable or unfeasible, says Dr. Halim.

Anesthesiologists are the internist in the operating room as well as procedure oriented therefore must be knowledgeable in all areas of medicine and surgery, understanding anatomy and pathophysiology in order to provide proper care in any situation.

As an anesthesiologist, she has worked with physicians and surgeons in virtually every specialty. She has continued to build up her expertise in other areas of medicine such as integrative medicine, post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and cognitive decline therapies including hyperbaric therapy protocols.

Dr. Halim is constantly researching, learning and training to remain on the cutting edge of medicine and combining traditional medicine with functional medicine.

Anesthesiologists must receive their board certification through the American Board of Anesthesiology, which demonstrates advanced skill and knowledge.

Image by Anne Karakash from Pixabay

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The Study Of Anesthesiology And Tips From Dr. Halim - Yahoo Finance

Listen to Maine Calling's discussion on acupuncture.

Acupuncture has gone from being considered a more fringe technique to a widely accepted and practiced method of addressing health problems. This traditional Chinese medical practice of inserting needles in the skin at strategic points in the body is most often used to treat pain. But it has been embraced more recently for everything from anxiety to weight loss. We'll learn about how the Western medical community and scientific researchers view acupuncture, how it is being applied today, and what other wellness practices are often used alongside acupuncture.

Tobey Williamson, owner, licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, Good Hearth Eastern Medical Arts in Rockland

Chris Haskell, board certified by NCCAOM, licensed practitioner, Rocky Coast Family Acupuncture

Helene Langevin, M.D.(by phone), director, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Naomi Skoglund(by phone), owner, licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, Six Branches Family Acupuncture

Dr. Liz Strawbridge(by phone), family practice and integrative medicine physician; founder, Good Medicine Collective

Originally posted here:
Acupuncture: How and Whether This Treatment Works & Why It Has Gained Popularity - Maine Public

Founded in 2012, OncoCard is one of the most modern oncologic hospitals in Romania, based on an innovative concept of Integrative Medicine which starts during the diagnosis stage of the patient and covers the whole specific active treatment period. The institution includes ambulatory care, an oncological surgery unit, departments for hematology, radiotherapy, and medical imaging, and also its own medical lab used for admitted patients. Since opening, OncoCard Brasov received EUR 24 million worth of investments, the hospital recording a turnover of LEI 41.8 million in 2018.

This partnership comes from our strategy to expand and develop the oncologic sector and we are glad to have such a great team of experts besides us, which will strengthen the medical excellency zone even further. OncoCard comes to complete the oncologic services provided by us in the surgery units of all MedLife hospitals, and will become the first integrated oncologic centre in Brasov, and the second in our group, after Sibiu. For us, its an area of interest and we dont rule out consistent investments over the next few years in oncologic treatment of excellence on a national level. Declared Mihai Marcu, President and CEO of MedLife.

The transaction will be analyzed by the Romanian Competition Council, and once approved could become the most important piece of business for the MedLife group in 2019.

We have always advocated for excellency in healthcare, imposing on ourselves to become a landmark of quality for the level of medical services offered, managing to instill trust and courage in our patients. Said Raluca Buzea, OncoCard Brasov shareholder.

By taking over OncoCard Brasov, MedLife group have reached a portfolio of 27 successful acquisitions, the most recently announced one being that of Micromedica Medical Centre.

Photo: OncoCard.ro

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MedLife purchases the full block of shares of OncoCard Brasov Hospital - Business Review

Cancer itself is a very broad based topic. There are various forms of cancer and many different types of diagnostics and treatments that are currently available. In our earlier articles, we have touched on various aspects of cancer:

- Key facts with statistics - Major causes- The correlation between employment and the illness- Risk reduction- Types of treatment available- Treatment cost overview- Integrative and Preventive Medicine

So far, the treatment model that is proven by several sources to have the best results is through Integrative Medicine. Its approach is to combine conventional methods with both complementary and alternative therapies. It is very patient-centred, making use of natural products, modification of lifestyle, diet, a mind-body-spirit healing journey together with conventional treatments like chemotherapy.

Dr. ChatChai Sribundit (M.D) from Akesis Life Bangkok (akesisoncology.com) emphasises the important role that integrative medicine plays in todays cancer management and in many cancer-care programs. As he mentioned in earlier articles, almost one third of cancer cases are actually preventable. Risk factors can be eliminated and implementing existing evidence-based preventive strategies are definitely the winning formula.

In the long run, preventive strategies in the form of regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk not only of cancer but many other primary medical conditions. In addition, a well-balanced lifestyle and healthy food provide both long and short term benefits. Apart from the above, Dr. Chatchai stands firmly by his 5 pillars consisting of medical intervention, diet & nutrition, physical therapy & exercise, emotional wellness and patient education.

Together with the basis of the 5 Pillars, early detection with timely and proper patient management can greatly reduce cancer risk. Many cancers have a high chance of cure if diagnosed early and treated adequately.

Chemotherapy and radiotherapy remain a mainstream form of treatment whereas tissue biopsy and scans are general diagnostic tools commonly used in Conventional therapies for cancer. In some cases, a targeted approach is lacking and patients can be vulnerable to certain types of drugs. Recently, new treatments have been emerging to improve the traditional options in cancer treatment with poor prognosis. Areas like nanomedicine and extracellular vesicles along with advances in immunotherapy and nanotechnology are becoming a norm for the next generation of cancer diagnosis and treatments.

Liquid Biopsy

Molecular targeting of specific oncogenic mutations in human cancer is now key for anti-cancer drug therapy as mutations lead to drug resistance. Therefore, the ability to detect and continuously monitor oncogenic mutations is important as it guides the use of targeted molecular therapies to improve long-term clinical outcomes in patients. Apart from direct sampling of cancer tissue by biopsy, oncogenic mutations are also detectable in circulating bodily fluids of patients which is a less invasive method.

Cancer biomarker discovery using DNA aptamersBiomarkers are molecules able to indicate specific physiological states of cells. Identifying reliable biomarkers is essential for early diagnosis and adaptive treatment strategies. According to pub.vsc.org, aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides generated by an in vitro screening method called Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX). They can recognise their cognate targets with selectivity and affinity comparable to protein antibodies in cancer patients.

Nanomedicine

Treating cancer with nanotechnology has become one of the emerging trends. Studies reveal that treating cancer by nanoparticle enhances the efficiency of the treatment and also minimises adverse effects. The property of nanoparticles in treating cancer is target specific. Nanoparticles also target uncontrolled cell proliferation.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are released by all cells within the tumour microenvironment, such as endothelial cells, tumour-associated fibroblasts, pericytes, and immune system cells. The EVs carry the load of parental cells formed of proteins and nucleic acids, that convey cell-to-cell communication and also suppress tumour progression. Due to longevity of vesicles within the circulation and their ability to cross bloodbrain barriers, modification of these unique organelles offers the potential to create new biological-tools for cancer therapy.

These treatments help ones immune system to find and attack cancer cells the same way it attacks bacteria and viruses. It uses substances made by the body or in a laboratory to improve or restore immune system function. Immunotherapy may work by maximising the immune system to prevent or slow down the growth of cancer and reduce the probability of spreading. Some examples of immunotherapy, include, NK Cell therapy, Cancer vaccines (prophylactic or therapeutic) and T-cell therapy.

Commonly use in Integrative medicine and in conjunction with radiation, hyperthermia is a non-invasive method of increasing tumour temperature to stimulate blood flow and improve oxygenation. This makes cancer cells more sensitive during radiation therapy. Hyperthermia helps address the limitations of radiation for many patients by effectively increasing the radiation dose without increasing in unwanted side effects. There are significant results which show the effect of hyperthermia approach in treating cancer.

Longdom.org states that this treatment uses a drug called photosensitizer or photosensitizing agents. Agents and particular type of light are exposed at a specific wavelength. The specificity of wavelength depends on the production of oxygen. Oxygen destroys nearby Cancer cells. The wave length determines the distance travelled by the light into the body. The photosensitizer present in a tumour absorbs the light and produces oxygen which destroys surrounding cancer cells.

This treatment uses light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation. Laser therapy for treating cancer includes special light beams instead of instruments. Laser therapy is normally given through an endoscopic tube. There are different types of laser therapies used for treatment of cancer. The Endoscope is inserted in the body to treat cancer or precancerous growth. Lasers can also be used to shrink or destroy tumours or precancerous growth.

The initial stage, which is most important, is the detection of cancer. Early detection could increase the possibility of cure and increases survival rates. However, poor prognosis due to lack of proper diagnosing methods and ineffective chemotherapeutic treatment is a common hurdle. As synthetic drugs cause many side effects, and cancer cells become resistant, more innovative treatment methods must be considered to give new hope for existing sufferers.

Author: Ezree Ebrahim, Business Development Consultant (Healthcare), Akesis Life by Absolute Health. For Further information, please contact: ezree.ebrahim@akesisoncology.com

Series Editor: Christopher F. Bruton, Executive Director, Dataconsult Ltd, chris@dataconsult.co.th. Dataconsults Thailand Regional Forum provides seminars and extensive documentation to update business on future trends in Thailand and in the Mekong Region.

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Cancer in the workplace: Innovative diagnostic devices and treatments - Bangkok Post

After Virginia Thurston died of breast cancer in 1999, her widower remembered how much the gardens around their home in Harvard gave her comfort during her illness.

Bill Thurston wanted to give solace to others with similar cancer battles, so he donated a portion of their property and a cottage to create the Virginia Thurston Healing Garden to serve women with breast cancer.

Nearly two decades later, the Healing Garden has evolved into a place where anyone fighting cancer can participate in a meditation, yoga, knitting or writing class, or take part in group mindfulness session or another on living a life of meaning.

The acres of gardens from which the center gets its name are still there. Otherwise, the quiet location anyone not closely looking for the driveway is bound to miss it has gained an important role in the area as one of few places where cancer patients can turn to get better in a way not involving medical treatment.

Without them, I probably wouldnt be here right now, said Alice Daugherty of Royalston, who turned to the Healing Garden during a battle with breast cancer.

Daughtery, who has recovered and gave birth early this year to a son, Owen, found the center to be just what she needed to balance the western medicine she was receiving at the Dana-Farber Center Institute in Boston and the eastern medicine her Taiwanese family insisted upon.

Were really focused on nature and being sensory-driven, said Meg Koch, the gardens executive director.

Bill Thurston came up with the plan for the garden with Betsy Tyson-Smith, a psychotherapist and the facilitator of his late wifes hospital support group. He wanted to both honor his wife and support other cancer patients, and Tyson-Smith developed the idea into a center to offer complementary therapies, psycho-social support and the healing environment of nature.

The center, while evolving over the last two decades, has stayed true to its founders vision.

Located down a wooded driveway on Bolton Road south of the town center, the garden is purposefully the opposite type of environment from what can be a cold and sterile conditions in a hospital or medical office. Even after two acres were donated for the Healing Garden along with seed money to get the organization off and running the gardens still required 10 years of work and more funding to get established, with benches and rock outcroppings in some areas, along with a pollinators garden and sculptures that dot the property.

They can reflect in the peace they find with nature, Koch said.

Medical facilities, she added, can be a trigger for cancer patients, even the act of walking into a medical building sometimes stirring panic. The garden acts as a refuge.

It gives them instantaneous distance from being just about cancer, Koch said.

Patients, Koch said, typically first arrive at the center for support groups before turning to the peaceful effects of the gardens. They find the services exactly what they need after going through the toll of cancer treatment, said Brianne Carter, the gardens co-director of integrative care.

Oncology is pretty relentless, Carter said.

The garden has quietly gained a reputation among hospitals in the area, getting referrals from hospitals and centers including Dana-Farber, UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, Lowell General Hospital, Emerson Hospital in Concord.

In fiscal 2019, the garden tallied nearly 3,600 patient visits from more than 300 clients and caregivers. More than 300 therapeutic and educational programs and classes were held.

The gardens more than 1,500 clients in the past nearly two decades have come from 165 cities and towns across the state, with most coming from Acton, Concord and Harvard. Around 30 affiliated practitioners come to the center to give yoga, acupuncture, and other classes.

As its clientele base has grown, the garden has expanded with a new support center it opened in 2008 after a $1-million fundraising campaign. In 2012, it began serving both men and women, and patients no matter their cancer diagnosis. It has also begun collaborations with other nonprofits, including the Worcester Family Health Center, and launched educational programs including one with Lesley University so graduate students of the Cambridge school can complete internships there.

Photo | Grant Welker

The Healing Garden has two acres of landscaped gardens.

The services are free for about a quarter of patients who qualify financially, and transportation to and from the garden is offered for free to clients who need it.

The gardens staff has seen views of less traditional methods of care evolve. What was once called complementary or alternative medicine is now called integrative medicine, and its typically viewed as more central to caring for patients.

Totally, the paradigm has shifted, Koch said.

Among those benefiting from the less-traditional means of care was Daugherty, the breast cancer survivor who was diagnosed just after moving to Royalston with her husband, Scott. They were planning to start a family.

Suddenly, we had to put everything aside, she said.

Daugherty, who teaches music in Worcester, said her Taiwanese family had bad experiences with western medicine and was pushing her to use treatment considering bettering a patients whole body. Daugherty had a double mastectomy, and said she felt ready to quit chemotherapy before arriving at the garden.

At the healing garden, an acupuncture class helped with the side effects of chemotherapy, while the staff and other patients supported her through the fight.

They would inspire me all the time, she said. When I was sick, I felt like no one could understand how I felt.

More here:
Healing Garden in Harvard has outgrown its name and helped thousands of cancer survivors - Worcester Business Journal

For the estimated 11 percent of American women between1 5 and 44 living with endometriosis, symptoms like severe pain, fatigue, and nausea can profoundly disrupt their lives. Yet endometriosis remains under-diagnosed, with a lack of effective treatments.

Thats why many women are taking symptom relief into their own hands by using cannabis, according to a recent survey published this November in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada. Other women are turning to cannabidiol (CBD) for pain relief, hoping to address the symptoms without the high.

RELATED: This New, CBD-Based Compound Can Reverse CIPNAnd Scientists Discovered It by Accident

Pain relief in endometriosis is an important topic, as it can impact women on so many levels, including work, relationships, academic studies, and of course their mental health, says study co-author Mike Armour, PhD, a post-doctoral research fellow in womens health at Western Sydney Universitys NICM Health Research Institute, a government-funded group that focuses on integrative and complementary medicine research and policy in Australia.

Dr. Armours team surveyed nearly 500 Australian women between the ages of 17 and 45 and found that 13 percent say they use cannabis to self-treat endometriosis symptoms. The authors estimate that their findings suggest approximately 10 percent of Australian women with endometriosis use cannabis for symptom and pain management.

Women frequently report that they cant get endometriosis symptoms under control with recommended medications or surgery; theres little evidence to show current treatments relieve endometriosis pain. NSAIDS like ibuprofen, for one, dont appear to be effective, and theres a strong potential for addiction and abuse with opioid painkillers. Although research suggests hormonal birth control can reduce symptoms, many women stop or avoid using it due to perceived side effects like mood swings and depression.

Women with endometriosis often report that despite various medications, they have pain that is difficult to deal with, Dr. Armour tells Florence Health. Thats why its not surprising theyre turning to cannabis and CBD, he adds, since limited studies suggest these drugs may (or may not) relieve pain.

Cannabis is the most popular illicit drug in the United States; there has been a steady rise in use every year since 2007, with 7.7 percent of American adults reporting using it within the past month as of 2017. That may be in part because its well on its way to becoming a legal medical therapy. A total of 33 states and the District of Columbia have legalized medical marijuana to date; 11 states and D.C. also permit marijuana for recreational use, with another 16 states having decriminalized the possession of small amounts of the drug.

Marijuana remains illegal at the federal level, so the act of prescribing it is still illegal, even in states that have legalized it. Physicians and some APPs can, however, write a recommendation for and discuss the benefits of the plant if the patient suffers from a qualifying condition covered by their local law (usually severe conditions like cancer, HIV/AIDS, glaucoma, or multiple sclerosis).

RELATED: What Clinicians Need to Know About Every FDA-Approved CBD Product

Because the Drug Enforcement Agency classifies cannabis as a schedule 1 drug with more restrictions than even fentanyl or methadone officially, there are no currently accepted medical use and high potential for addiction. It requires a rigorous approval process to study, so to-date theres little peer-reviewed research. That leaves providers hesitant to recommend a drug thats hasnt been rigorously studied and whose contents and dosage arent regulated by the FDA.

Meanwhile, interest in cannabidiol, or CBD, has skyrocketed in recent years. While CBD is an essential component of marijuana, it doesnt contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and therefore doesnt cause a high. A full 14 percent of American adults say they use CBD, according to an August 2019 Gallup poll, most often for pain (40 percent), anxiety (20 percent), and insomnia (11 percent).

Only one CBD-derived drug, which treats seizures in children, has been approved by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). All 50 states have legalized CBD in some form, and retailers have added it to pretty much any product you can imagine from cheeseburgers to toothpicks to mouth wash.

Cannabis mimics endocannabinoids, natural molecules that act on the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which maintains homeostasis in the body. ECS receptors, in turn, are found throughout the human body. The ECS participates in a wide variety of processes, including pain, stress, sleep, metabolism, immune function and reproduction.

While research is lacking, Dr. Armour says theres another reason to believe cannabis could have a particularly powerful effect on endometriosis pain. Both the uterus and ovaries have highly expressed cannabinoid receptors, he explains. Some researchers even think cannabis could slow the growth of endometrial tissue.

The endocannabinoid system has been found recently to interact with specific mechanisms associated with pain, explains Dr. Armour. It also appears to play an important role in cellular proliferation and apoptosis, which may explain why cannabis is being used by women with endometriosis. However, little has been done clinically to investigate this currently.

While theres little research into cannabis for pain, one recently published paper found it may can effectively reduce pelvic pain and opioid use. In Dr. Armours study, on average, respondents rated the effectiveness of cannabis a 7.6 out of 10, with 55 percent reporting they were able to reduce the need for pharmaceuticals by at least half. Women reported the greatest improvements in sleep and nausea/vomiting, with only 10 percent saying they experienced adverse side effects, like anxiety, drowsiness, and rapid heart rate.

RELATED: Americans Search for Info About CBD Online More Than Any Other Health Product

CBD, meanwhile, appears to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties but the jury is out at the moment as to whether it can provide as much potential pain relief in endometriosis as THC does, says Dr. Armour.

For now, researchers agree that theres not enough research to make a conclusion about the benefits or risks of cannabis. People who are at risk of developing addiction or schizophrenia should avoid it altogether, while patients with lung disease should avoid smoking it since it causes airway inflammation, wheezing and chest tightness.

For patients interested in using cannabis, talking with a physician who understands the ECS and has experience in prescribing cannabis is an important first step, says Dr. Armour. Like all medications, it still comes with certain risks.

CBD, on the other hand, may seem less risky to recommend, as it doesnt have the psychoactive effect of THC and no known risk of abuse or dependence, notes Dr. Armour. But there still are dangers.

RELATED: 7 Cant-Miss Talking Points When Patients Ask You about Trying Cannabis

Because CBD isnt regulated by the FDA, its impossible to confirm the exact ingredients or concentration in any given supplement. The FDA has found some CBD products contain contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals.

Whats more, CBD can raise levels of certain medications. [Its] been shown in preclinical and case studies to change the way certain medications are metabolized. It appears to be of more concern than THC in this particular regard, notes Dr. Armour. Providers should ask patients taking CBD about any other medications theyre on and closely monitor for adverse side effects, he adds.

Dr. Armour also calls out the other, nonpharmacological treatments that can address endometriosis symptoms. Some women find relief from heat packs, hot baths, and hot water bottles. Research suggests that acupuncture twice a week for several months may reduce pelvic pain, although its unclear whether the effect lasts after patients complete treatment. And a low-FODMAP diet may help improve any IBS-like symptoms. Just remind patients that this eating plan is for short periods of time.

References:

Endometriosis, WomensHealth.gov.

Cannabis Use, a Self-Management Strategy Among Australian Women With Endometriosis: Results From a National Online Survey, Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada.

The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: The Current State of Evidence and Recommendations for Research, National Center for Biotechnology Information.

Patient Outcomes Following Initiation of Medical Cannabis in Women with Chronic Pelvic Pain, the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology.

FDA warns 15 companies for illegally selling various products containing cannabidiol as agency details safety concerns, U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

Cannabidiol (CBD) what we know and what we dont, Harvard Medical School.

Effects of acupuncture for the treatment of endometriosis-related pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis, PLoS ONE.

What Is the Low FODMAP Diet?, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

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More Women are Self-Treating Endometriosis with Cannabis and CBD But is it Safe? - Florence Health

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ --Thomas Jefferson University has received a $70 million gift from Sidney and Caroline Kimmel, which will significantly advance research at Jefferson. The Caroline Kimmel Biomedical Research Building will be a home for big ideas, providing Jefferson scientists with leading-edge technology and laboratories.

"This gift will have a profound and lasting impact on Jefferson's ability to further pursue scientific discovery," said Mark Tykocinski MD, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and the Anthony F. and Gertrude M. DePalma Dean, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University. "The Caroline Kimmel Biomedical Research Building will serve as a magnet for scientific talent and will bolster our status as an R2 National Research University."

Research is a cornerstone of the University and Jefferson's Reimagine $1 billion campaign. Focused on four key themes, the campaign aims to support talented faculty and students, create spaces that heal and inspire, unite communities for health equity, and fuel discoveries that will improve lives. This landmark gift will round out Jefferson's distinctive integrative approach to research that includes programmatic basic science, clinical and applied.

The new facility will markedly expand Jefferson's research capacity and, along with the Bluemle Life Sciences Building and Jefferson Alumni Hall, will create a "research corridor" along Locust Street. Being physically connected with Bluemle will foster connections with researchers in the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, where Mrs. Kimmel serves as a member of the Advisory Council, and the larger Jefferson research community.

Mr. and Mrs. Kimmel are noted philanthropists, supporting medicine and the arts for many years in his native Philadelphia. Mr. Kimmel's first job in the garment industry was as an inventory clerk and later a traveling salesman for a women's wear manufacturer. From there, he joined the iconic clothing company The Villager, rising through the ranks to become its president and CEO. In 1970, Mr. Kimmel established his own clothing line, Jones New York, and during the 70s and 80s became one of the major players in the women's apparel industry. Jones went public in 1991, adding many notable brands to its line including Anne Klein, Nine West, Gloria Vanderbilt, and Stuart Weitzman. Mr. Kimmel served as CEO until 2003 and as chairman until 2014, when The Jones Group was sold for $2.2 billion.

This year, 2019, also marks Mr. and Mrs. Kimmel's 20th wedding anniversary. They were married in 1999 and reside in Southern California just miles from where Mrs. Kimmel was raised. Together, they have continued the many philanthropic endeavors to which Mr. Kimmel committed after taking Jones public.

"I could not be more pleased about this gift; in fact, I am ecstatic," said Sidney Kimmel. "In one act, I have been able to honor my wonderful marriage to Caroline, my home town of Philadelphia, Thomas Jefferson University which I call the Soul of the City, and cancer research to which I have devoted so much of my time and resources. What more could I ask for? I am so fortunate, frankly blessed, to have this opportunity."

"Sidney has proven once again that he's an incredible humanitarian and philanthropist," said Caroline Kimmel. "But where he really shines, is as a husband! I'm profoundly grateful to have my name and our 20th anniversary celebrated in such a meaningful way at Jefferson. This moment forever links our personal commitment to cancer research, our legacy and our abiding love. I couldn't be happier!"

Mr. and Mrs. Kimmel have been extremely generous benefactors to Jefferson, having given more than $200 million over the years including: providing cornerstone funding to establish the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center in 1995, as well as transformational support for research into the prevention of cardiovascular disease, and Jefferson's largest-ever gift of $110 million to name the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University in 2014.

"Caroline and Sidney Kimmel have always been able to see the future and to make it more optimistic for everyone," said Stephen K. Klasko, MD, MBA, President of Thomas Jefferson University and CEO of Jefferson Health. "This gift is more than transformative for Jefferson and for cancer research in Philadelphia and beyond. It further embeds Caroline and Sidney's hearts in Philadelphia and as Sidney said, 'Jefferson is the soul of Philadelphia.' It is especially gratifying to me that this will be called the Caroline Kimmel Biomedical Research Building as Mrs. Kimmel has served as an invaluable leader on the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center Advisory Council."

About Thomas Jefferson University Thomas Jefferson University is a leader in interdisciplinary, professional education. Jefferson, home of the Sidney Kimmel Medical College and the Kanbar College of Design, Engineering and Commerce, is a preeminent university delivering high-impact education in 160 undergraduate and graduate programs to 8,400students in architecture, business, design, engineering, fashion and textiles,health, science and social science. The new Jefferson is re-defining the higher education value proposition with an approach that is collaborative and active; increasingly global; integrated with industry; focused on research across disciplines to foster innovation and discovery; and technology-enhanced. Student-athletes compete as the Jefferson Rams in the NCAA Division II Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference.

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Thomas Jefferson University Receives Second Largest Gift in Institution's History, Paving the Way for New Biomedical Research Building - The Times...

A new study found that patients with coronary heart disease who included Transcendental Meditation with their cardiac rehabilitation increased blood flow to the heart by more than 20 percent.

The pilot study, conducted by researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center in collaboration with the Institute for Prevention Research, included 56 patients who had coronary heart disease, including a recent heart attack, coronary artery bypass, or angina.

This was the first study to show that the cardiovascular benefits of lifestyle modification, such as structured exercise and dietary counseling, may be enhanced by adding Transcendental Meditation in patients with heart disease, said Robert Schneider, M..D, F.A.C.C., co-director of the study and medical director of the Institute for Prevention Research. It also found that the Transcendental Meditation technique alone was able to reverse the effects of coronary heart disease assessed by positron emission tomography (PET) imaging.

For the study, the researchers randomly divided the subjects into four groups: cardiac rehabilitation, Transcendental Meditation, Transcendental Meditation plus cardiac rehabilitation, or usual care.

The studys findings showed that of the 37 patients who completed post-testing, myocardial blood flow increased by 20.7 percent in the group that did both Transcendental Meditation and cardiac rehabilitation. Blood flow in the group that practiced Transcendental Meditation alone increased 12.8 percent. Cardiac rehabilitation by itself showed an improvement of 5.8 percent. And patients who received the usual treatment showed a decrease in blood flow of -10.3 percent.

Although this is a preliminary study, it suggests that managing ones mind-body connection with Transcendental Meditation can improve the function of the heart in cardiovascular patients, said Schneider, who is also dean of Maharishi University of Managements College of Integrative Medicine.

He said that psychosocial stress is known to be a risk factor for coronary heart disease, but that stress reduction therapies arent usually included in cardiac rehabilitation.

More research needs to be done, but this study and previous research strongly suggest that medical professionals should consider utilizing this simple yet effective mind-body intervention in their heart health treatment and prevention programs, Schneider said.

While its not known precisely how Transcendental Meditation would increase blood flow, the researchers speculate that its a result of improved endothelial-mediated coronary and arteriolar vasomotor function. They explain that reduced levels of stress hormones and possibly inflammation may result in improved function of the endothelial cells that line the coronary arteries.

While the study suggests that the Transcendental Meditation technique can increase blood flow in cardiovascular patients, the researchers say that carefully conducted clinical trials with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm the benefit.

This was a first pilot study designed to determine the size of the effect and feasibility, Schneider said. Of the 56 original subjects, only 37 were available for the final post testing of blood flow after the 12-week study period. In addition, compliance with cardiac rehabilitation was average, with attendance at exercise sessions about 60 percent. Also, the subjects practicing Transcendental Meditation may have received more attention than the rehabilitation group. This initial study paves the way for full-scale clinical trials that will more rigorously evaluate these effects.

The study was published in the Journal of Nuclear Cardiology.

Source: Maharishi University of Management

Photo: Cardiac PET scan machine used in the cardiac rehabilitation study with and without TM at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Credit: Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

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Transcendental Meditation with Cardiac Rehab Can Increases Blood Flow to Heart - PsychCentral.com

A New York Times bestselling author of five books and easily recognized as a trailblazer in functional and integrative medicine, youd think Dr. Frank Lipmans philosophy on health aging will be quite the journal entry, sprawling into different facets that all explore a branch, all intertwining like a spiders web in order to achieve prime aging.

To our surprise, its not. In fact, it couldnt be simpler.

"Basically, eat less, laugh more, deal with your stress, take sleep seriously. What else would be important?" Dr. Lipman said in a recent podcast.

However, while he definitely has the formula down when it comes to aging gracefully, Dr. Lipman recently said that hes fascinated with our current pursuits to prolong our health, and not just our lives.

As such, he commented on it, saying that we should be aware of increasing our health span, not our life span.

So, how do you do it? Here are his tips, according to a recent post on mindbodygreen.

Physical adversity is the way to go

According to Dr. Lipman, a little bit of stress is actually good for you, which should come in the form of physical adversity such as fasting and high-intensity exercise. The idea is that your body is stressed a little bit to stimulate longevity genes, which then teaches your body to handle bigger stressors better. But dont starve yourself because the idea is that a little goes a long way.

Move intentionally

This isnt just about exercising more, although thats always a good idea. Per Dr. Lipman, this is about exercising intentionally and intelligently. The key, according to him, is to push your body in an intentional way that would test it but not enough to cause injury. Its harder to recover as you get older, and so its important to change the way you do your routines to better suit your body.

Dont take life too seriously

The last piece of advice, per Dr. Lipman, is to simply not take life too seriously and have some fun. These days, everyone is too caught up with numbers and metrics that its easy to forget how to enjoy things while were at it. Eat less and laugh more. Your life would be all the more better.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that every 19 minutes an older adult dies from a fall in any part of the country. Pixabay

Excerpt from:
Expert Reveals 3 Best Healthy Aging Tips - Medical Daily