Healthwise    October 2009      

Healthwise is a regular column written especially for laterlife.com members and visitors. Welcome to healthwise 115.

For previous articles in the healthwise series visit 'more healthwise'

 NEWS AND VIEWS

NEW GENES IN ALZHEIMER’S

Three new genes have been identified as having links with Alzheimer’s. These are the first new genes linked to the condition that have been found for over 15 years and researchers say it is a breakthrough discovery.

Researchers in the joint study between Britain and France say the new genes are common in the population, with up to 40 per cent of people carrying a part of one of them. If the effects of the new genes could be prevented, the scientists say they could halt 20 per cent of cases, the equivalent of stopping almost 100,000 people developing the disease.

MELON CALMING

Melon is the latest in the big list of “wonder” foods. This time it is because melons contain a powerful antioxidant called superoxide dismutase.

Researchers have found that when supplements containing this enzyme were given to a group of healthy volunteers, they showed a decrease in the signs and symptoms of perceived stress. The researchers reported that melons contain this calming enzyme and so could be useful in helping to combat certain types of stress.

NEVER TOO LATE

It is never too late to start exercising.
Israeli academics tested the fitness of 2,000 retired people and confirmed that those who took more than four hours of exercise a week were less likely to die than their sedentary counterparts.

They also confirmed that it is never too late to benefit from increased exercise and even those who have only taken up exercise very late in life still show a marked improvement in their health.

HOPE FROM CANCER DRUG

Scientists from Harvard University in America say that using the diabetes drug Metformin on top of chemotherapy could be a more effective treatment for breast cancer.

The scientists say that when mice were given both treatments, their tumours reduced faster. Tests are going on.

IN THE PREVIOUS EDITION

Laser help for Macular degeneration
A new laser technique might delay the onset of this problem

Genetic reasons for requiring less sleep
Why some people need less sleep than others

New uses for teflon in hospitals
Teflon is not just for frying pans!

Cannabis for prostate cancer
Researchsuggests that active chemicals in cannabis can slow prostate cancer cell growth

Milk helps fight heart disease
It is bellieved that proteins in milk help reduce blood pressure

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