I’ve permanent cure for stroke – Nigerian researcher

Wow, no details and no research to back the claims up.

I’ve permanent cure for stroke – Nigerian researcher

Frontline Nigerian researcher in phytho-medicine, Dr Ben Amodu, who is recognised internationally for his alternative medicine remedies to various diseases, has said he has a cure for stroke without the need for rehab.

Dr Amodu made this revelation while speaking to newsmen at his African Alternative Medicine Hospital in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja over the weekend.

“Our research is into communicable and non-communicable diseases. Under the non-communicable diseases we deal with hypertension, diabetes, dementia, ataxia, enlarged heart which ailments are all related.

“While doing this work, we stumbled into the research of cures for these ailments, and this natural product we have has the capacity to deal with stroke in the sense that the whole body that has become degenerated will have a very strong stimulant that will make them firm up again.

“And as you can see, it was just a three- day treatment we gave to mama (one of his patients), that led to that massive transformation. So, if we deal with hypertension, diabetes, dementia and ataxia which are all embedded in stroke including high cholesterol and the system is able to be cleaned up and blood flows freely, what do you expect? A person that is gone comes back.

“So Nigeria should take advantage of this, we intend to pursue a partnership with the minister of FCT and create a medical tourism zone in Abuja here, in the aspect of medicine that is yet to be properly understood in the whole world; the herbal medicine.

“While America is working towards making $5trn from now till 2025, Nigeria with all the massive herbs, God has given us and the in-depth research some of us are doing, there is nothing to write home about in terms of generating GDP from herbal medicine for our country and we are willing to partner with government to close up the naira to dollar ratio.

“USA, Canada, Australia, China and India are doing very well in this regard; why can’t we join them, with the treatment of diseases that modern medicine is yet to find cures like stroke, diabetes, hypertension, enlarged heart, cancer, sickle cell anemia, end stage renal disease and the several others which cure here without any surgical procedures?

“There is no cure for heart in the modern medicine; you must open it up. But with us, all you need to do is to take the supplements and the heart is back to normal.”

Getting less slow-wave sleep as you age may increase your risk of dementia, study finds

What is your doctor's protocol to test for this and then what is the sleep protocol to prevent this problem? Or is your doctor incompetent in both pieces?

Getting less slow-wave sleep as you age may increase your risk of dementia, study finds

CNN  — 

Loss of slow-wave sleep as you age may increase your risk of developing dementia, according to a new study.

“We found that aging was associated with a decline in the amount of the deepest stages of sleep, known as slow wave sleep,” said Matthew P. Pase, senior author of the study published Monday in the journal JAMA Neurology, via email. Pase is an associate professor of psychology and neurology at Monash University in Australia.

“We then found that persons with greater declines in slow wave sleep over time had a higher risk of getting dementia over the next 17 years of follow-up,” said Pase via email.

Slow-wave sleep is the third stage of sleep, which is important for brain health. During this stage, the body removes unwanted, or potentially harmful, materials from the brain — including beta-amyloid protein, a hallmark sign of Alzheimer’s disease.

For the brain, this deep sleep is thought to be the most restorative, said Dr. Richard Isaacson, director of research at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Florida, via email. Isaacson wasn’t involved in the study.

Feeling a sense of purpose drops after dementia, new study shows

The authors wanted to know whether chronic reductions in slow-wave sleep over time are linked with dementia risk in humans and vice versa — whether dementia-related processes in the brain may contribute to getting less of this type of sleep.

“Results suggest that chronic declines in slow wave sleep, rather than individual differences at any given time, are important for predicting dementia risk.” Pase said.

The researchers studied 346 people who were age 69 on average and had participated in the Framingham Heart Study and completed two overnight sleep studies — one between 1995 to 1998 and the second between 1998 to 2001 — during which their sleep was monitored. Launched by the US National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute in 1948, the Framingham Heart Study identifies common factors contributing to cardiovascular disease.

The authors also investigated whether any changes in the amount of slow-wave sleep that participants got was associated with developing dementia up to 17 years after they completed the sleep studies.

By that time, 52 participants had been diagnosed with dementia. Each percentage decrease in slow-wave sleep per year was linked with a 27% increased risk of developing dementia and a 32% higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease dementia. The rate of slow-wave sleep loss accelerated from age 60, peaked from ages 75 to 80 and slowed afterward.

Those who experienced declines in this deep sleep were more likely to have cardiovascular disease, take medications that affect sleep and carry a gene that makes people more at risk for Alzheimer’s (the APOE ε4 allele).

“This is an important study yet again showing the impact of quality of sleep on a person’s risk of cognitive decline and dementia,” Isaacson said. “It’s important to not only pay attention to the total amount a person is sleeping each night, but also monitor sleep quality as best as possible.”

Deep sleep and dementia

The study isn’t the first to find such connections — in a May study, every 10% decrease in deep sleep meant an increase in damage to tissues that form connections between brain cells.

Older Hispanic people are ‘disproportionately more likely’ than older White people to develop Alzheimer’s, research shows

But the latest research still doesn’t prove that loss of slow-wave sleep causes dementia, the authors said, and it’s also possible that dementia-related processes occurring in the brain could lead to the sleep loss — a process one expert called a “vicious cycle.”

“The accumulation of amyloid beta in the brain can interfere with how much we sleep, especially as we age,” said Dr. Rudolph Tanzi, director of the Genetics and Aging Research Unit at Massachusetts General Hospital, via email. Tanzi wasn’t involved in the study.

“As a result, by not getting enough slow wave sleep, less amyloid is cleared, then leading to a vicious cycle of Alzheimer’s pathology,” he added via email. “Thus, safe drugs aimed at lowering production of amyloid will be important.”

Getting more deep sleep

Pase’s advised people to prioritize getting good sleep. “Good quality sleep is important for many aspects of health and may also help to protect the brain as we age,” he said. “Persons experiencing sleep problems can consult with their doctor to discuss tailored solutions.”

If deep sleep “does turn out to be a proven modifiable risk factor for Alzheimer’s and dementia, then we need to empower people to be able to track and monitor (their sleep) more closely,” Isaacson said.

For this purpose, he recommended wearing tracking devices that can monitor your time in bed, time asleep and time spent in each sleep stage.

These devices aren’t perfect, he cautioned, but “they can at least give people at risk, and their physicians, real-time information that can be acted upon.”

Short sleep negates benefits of exercise for the brain, study says

Adopting a few healthy habits — another thing tracking devices would be able to indicate the effectiveness of — may also help protect your sleep and brain health.

“Exercise on a regular basis helps ‘loosen up’ the bad (disease-causing) proteins — called amyloid — from brain cells, and adequate deep sleep is necessary at night to ‘take out’ the amyloid trash,” Isaacson said.

Limiting alcohol and caffeine before bed, and ensuring you get seven to nine hours of sleep at the same time each night, can help improve sleep quality.

Does the MIND Diet Prevent Dementia?

But there is nothing EXACT  about this diet so nothing is scientifically repeatable so you can't be sure that your dementia risk declines.  A diet protocol is needed instead of hope that something works.

 

Does the MIND Diet Prevent Dementia?

Healthy eating might help protect your brain, experts say, but other factors play in as well.

Bridging the gap of unmet need in stroke rehabilitation: Innovations and initiatives

 The unmet need is 100%recovery protocols and you're DOING NOTHING ABOUT THAT! And since all you talk about is 'care', it means you don't know what survivors want! 100% RECOVERY.

Bridging the gap of unmet need in stroke rehabilitation: Innovations and initiatives

On World Stroke Day 2023, Sumita Mohapatro Pani, Lupin Vice President (Business Development and in-licensing) and Business Head, Atharv Ability-Neuro rehabilitation center stresses that to bridge this immense gap in stroke care, there is an imperative need for a holistic, patient-centered rehabilitation intervention. This solution must be innovative, culturally sensitive, and, above all, accessible

Stroke, a devastating neurological event, is personal tragedy and also a global healthcare challenge. It is the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. Shockingly, studies reveal that 1 in 4 adults over the age of 25 will suffer a stroke in their lifetime, emphasising the urgent need for effective rehabilitation services. However, a staggering 50 per cent of stroke survivors do not receive the rehabilitation they require, as highlighted by the World Health Organization Rehabilitation 2030 initiative. This pressing issue becomes even more pronounced in countries like India, where limited resources, a scarcity of trained medical staff, and lack of technology amplify health disparities in stroke care.

Stroke’s impact on disability and mortality

The impact of stroke is not confined to its immediate effects. Neurological disorders, including stroke, account for a significant percentage of total Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY). In India, the numbers are alarming, with one person suffering a stroke every 40 seconds. More concerning is that 60 per cent of stroke cases lead to disabilities, affecting motor control, language comprehension, swallowing, cognition, and memory.

India faces a colossal challenge in providing comprehensive stroke care. A severe shortage of trained medical staff, particularly neuro physiotherapists, coupled with inadequate allocation of resources and limited access to technology, underscores the need for urgent action. Stroke survivors often find themselves navigating a fragmented healthcare system, visiting multiple centers for various therapies, highlighting the necessity for a unified, accessible solution.

Addressing the discrepancy between need and availability

To bridge this immense gap in stroke care, there is an imperative need for a holistic, patient-centered rehabilitation intervention. This solution must be innovative, culturally sensitive, and, above all, accessible. It should encompass a wide array of therapies and treatments under one roof, eliminating the need for patients to shuttle between different facilities.

Innovative neuro-rehabilitation centers can transform the lives of stroke survivors. These centers need to offer a multidisciplinary approach, including neuro rehabilitation, gait and hand training, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and cognitive therapy. Additionally, integrating advanced technologies like robotics, virtual reality, and aqua therapy can significantly enhance the rehabilitation process.

Empathetic and individualised care: The heart of rehabilitation

Beyond clinical practices and state-of-the-art equipment, the key to successful rehabilitation lies in the caregivers. Empathetic, patient-centered care delivered by well-qualified neuro physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and cognitive therapists is crucial. Each patient’s journey is unique, demanding tailored therapies and individual attention to maximise recovery.

The need for collaborative initiatives

The establishment of innovative and futuristic neuro-rehabilitation centers is a collective responsibility. Collaboration between healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities is essential to create centers that offer cutting-edge treatments, ensuring that stroke survivors receive the care they deserve. It is equally vital to create widespread awareness about the transformative benefits of neuro rehabilitation for stroke survivors. Public education campaigns can dispel myths, reduce stigma, and empower both patients and their families to seek rehabilitation services actively. Understanding that rehabilitation is not just a post-stroke necessity but a pathway to reclaiming a fulfilling life can significantly enhance participation and outcomes. By disseminating knowledge about the efficacy of neuro-rehabilitation, we can inspire more stroke survivors to embrace the journey of recovery, fostering a society that values and supports their rehabilitation endeavors. Raising awareness about stroke symptoms and the importance of timely intervention is paramount. Educating communities can lead to quicker response times and enable more stroke survivors to access rehabilitation services promptly.

Urging governments for increased allocation of resources

Advocacy for policy changes is fundamental. Governments must increase the allocation of resources to stroke rehabilitation, focusing on training more medical staff, providing necessary equipment, and establishing affordable rehabilitation centers across the country. In addition, neuro rehabilitation should also be covered by insurance and Mediclaim policies to support stroke victims.

The unmet need in stroke rehabilitation is a global crisis, demanding immediate and collective action. By embracing innovation, fostering empathetic care, and advocating for policy changes, we can bridge this gap. Stroke survivors deserve more than just survival; they deserve a life of dignity, independence, and fulfillment. Let us unite in our efforts to provide comprehensive, accessible, and innovative stroke rehabilitation services, empowering survivors to reclaim their lives and reintegrate into society. Together, we can turn the tide against stroke, ensuring a healthier, more resilient future for all.

World Stroke Day | 15 million hit by stroke globally every year

And if you're one of the 10 million yearly survivors, your doctors and therapists know nothing EXACT about getting you to 100% recovery.  You'll have to hope like hell you're in the 10%.

10% full recovery from stroke rehab?

World Stroke Day | 15 million hit by stroke globally every year

Today we are stronger together and we're also Greater than Stroke. That's the theme of World Stroke Day. The World Health Organization say over 15 million people suffer a stroke every year worldwide. It warns that 12 million will have their first stroke this year, and 6.5 million will die as a result. We speak to CEO of Heart and Stroke Foundation, Pamela Naidoo. #dstv403

Transcript

Follow along using the transcript.

COVID-19, flu shots might raise stroke risk for older Americans: Preprint

Title is misleading since the article suggests the flu shot is the likely culprit. 

I'll take that risk. While the effects of flu varies, it places a substantial burden on the health of people in the United States each year. CDC estimates that flu has resulted in 9 million – 41 million illnesses, 140,000 – 710,000 hospitalizations and 12,000 – 52,000 deaths annually between 2010 and 2020.

The age-adjusted COVID-19 death rate was 61.3 per 100,000 persons. COVID-19–associated death rates were highest among males, older adults, and AI/AN persons.

 COVID-19, flu shots might raise stroke risk for older Americans: Preprint

The risk of a stroke was more prevalent for older adults who received a flu and bivalent COVID-19 vaccine within six weeks of the other in fall 2022, according to a preprint of research conducted by the FDA and CMS. 

Researchers evaluated the stroke risk among more than 5 million Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 and older. They found that, between Aug. 31 and Nov. 6, 2022, those who received a bivalent COVID-19 shot and a high-dose flu vaccine had a slightly higher stroke risk than those who were only vaccinated for COVID-19. 

There was not an increased risk of stroke among older adults who only received a bivalent COVID-19 shot, according to the study that is waiting on peer review.  

Those who received Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine and a flu vaccine saw a 20% increase in the risk of transient ischemic stroke, and those who got a Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot saw a 35% increased risk. 

This outcome is more likely to be tied to the influenza shot, the researchers concluded: "The observed risk of stroke in the concomitant subgroup was likely driven by influenza vaccination alone rather than concomitant administration [a COVID-19 vaccine administration]."

Can living near parks and lakes boost your mental health? A 10-year study says yes

Well your competent doctor told you about this years ago.

Acute effects of walking in forest environments on cardiovascular and metabolic parameters.  December 2016 

• green spaces (2 posts to January 2019)

• blue space (3 posts to May2016)

 

 

Can living near parks and lakes boost your mental health? A 10-year study says yes

In a recent study published in the journal Planetary Health, research conducted a massive, long-term, population-scale study comprising 2.3 million individuals from Wales to elucidate whether greater exposure to green and blue spaces (GBS) could be linked with mental health outcomes. Results from this 10-year-long longitudinal dynamic panel study revealed that greater exposure was associated with reduced common mental disorders (CMD), with these results more significant for individuals from more socio-economically deprived quintiles. These findings can help inform government policy on GBS, especially those planning GBS set-up to improve the mental health of their communities.

Study: Ambient greenness, access to local green spaces, and subsequent mental health: a 10-year longitudinal dynamic panel study of 2·3 million adults in Wales. Image Credit: Dmitrijs Bindemanis / Shutterstock

Mental health and GBS

Common mental disorders (CMD) remain a primary contributor to the worldwide disease burden, resulting in an estimated 4.9% reduction in disability-adjusted life-years. Recent research has hypothesized that increased exposure to greener and blue spaces (GBS) or living close to green spaces may be responsible for improved mental health outcomes. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of longitudinal scientific evidence to support this hypothesis.

GBS comprises open-air natural settings, including parks, gardens, forests, beaches, lakes, and ponds, and has long been categorized as cultural ecosystem services. High-quality GBS accessibility and distribution, however, is unequal, with individuals living in deprived areas, older adults, the sick and disabled, and minority ethnic communities being far more deprived than their more affluent, younger, and more mobile counterparts.

Small-scale cross-sectional and longitudinal studies have suggested that increased GBS exposure may result in better mental health and well-being. However, they have predominantly included area- rather than household-level census data and been restricted to urban settings. Furthermore, the results from these pilots have been inconclusive, differing in estimated lag times between GBS exposure and beneficial mental health outcomes.

About the study

In the present study, researchers investigated the adult (>16 years) outcomes of accrued household GBS availability, with explicit consideration of health inequalities. They further delinked GBS exposure and living in greener areas, allowing them to analyze the benefits of each separately. Since households may change location over time, the research methodology accounted for these shifts and periodically tracked household movement (anonymously) via a routine updation of household residence, as opposed to previous studies, which focused on the region rather than families or households.

The study cohort comprised adult individuals from Wales, United Kingdom (UK), tracked electronically between 2008 and 2019. The dataset was derived from the Welsh Demographic Service Dataset and consisted of anonymized individual-level demographic characteristics of citizens registered with National Health Service (NHS) general practitioners (GPs). This dataset comprises 80% of the total Welsh population. Geographical location was participant-provided and updated when a participant or GP reported a change in household residency. The study design nested all individuals above 16 years within a household.

The demographic data thus obtained was linked to GP records, including CMD reports. Data from the Annual District Death Extract from the Office for National Statistics mortality register was used to periodically add individuals who had attained the age of adulthood and remove those who had died from the dataset. The Welsh Index of Multiple Deprivation and rural-urban Office for National Statistics classifications for Lower Layer Super Output Areas were used for the socioeconomic and demographic classification of study cohort participants.

This study defined ‘household ambient greenness’ as living within 300 m of a GBS and ‘local GBS access’ as 1. living within 1600 m of a GBS easily accessible via foot or 2. living in proximity to a GBS with a road-accessible network buffer. Greenness was measured using the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), which improves over the hitherto prevalent Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) by correcting for atmospheric conditions (e.g., cloud cover) and canopy background noise. EBI and NDVI are obtained from geospatial satellite imagery, with data for this study from Landsat 2008-2019.

“The substantial topographical variation in our study area (Wales, UK) made EVI the most appropriate measure as it is less susceptible to the effects of topographic seasonal factors. We calculated this within 300 m of each home in Wales.:

Building on earlier research, this study posited that certain advantages of green-blue space (GBS) exposure, such as serene natural views and lower noise levels compared to industrial environments, could be experienced without direct physical interaction with the GBS. To minimize noise from cloud cover, images were extracted during the springtime between May and June of each year.

“We used the cloud masks to set pixels covered by cloud in the satellite imagery to NULL to prevent these values from influencing the final greenness density. A larger EVI score does not necessarily equate to more greenness by area but instead represents a larger volume (increased biomass) of green. A small forest, for example, could produce the same EVI score as a large area covered in grass.”

Food Adulteration in the Honey Industry eBook Learn how to test and ensure honey authenticity throughout the supply chain with this free eBook. Download the latest edition

Obtained GBS imagery in tandem with local authority technical advice notes (TAN 16) was used to classify GBS into those that can be 1. seen and 2. physically accessed. The CMD (anxiety or depression) data was categorized into 1. no CMD, 2. CMD diagnosed one year prior to study commencement, and 3. CMD was diagnosed within the eight years preceding study initiation, for which medication was ongoing.

Statical covariates included sex, age group, household births and deaths, area-level socioeconomic deprivation, household movement, and region category (urban or rural). Statistical analyses comprised the application of multivariate logistic regression to elucidate correlations between normalized time-aggregated EVI and access measures.

Study findings

Results from this study highlight that both increased ambient greenness and GBS access were independently associated with a reduced likelihood of future CMD. Stratified statistical analyses showed that this association was strongest for people living in deprived areas (10% reduction per 0·1-unit increase) compared to those living in areas with low deprivation (6% reduction).

These results also discovered that individuals’ CMD history alters the benefits of ambient greenness and GBS access – individuals with a previous history of CMD were found to benefit more than those without prior CMD diagnoses. However, both showed positive associations, indicating that GBS has both restorative and preventive functions in combatting CMD.

“Although the study period for this research preceded the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for GBS to access or view was brought to the fore during the early stages of the pandemic, particularly for those living in urban areas with poor or no access to private or communal garden spaces. Our results suggest that investing in improved ambient greenness, as well as making public GBS accessible, might lead to future mental health benefits for adults with and without a history of CMD.”

In combination with the above, GBS, especially in urban settings, might provide additional co-benefits, including food and job creation, flood prevention, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity promotion. GBSs can, therefore, be thought of as both public health and social investments. This study thus forms the scientific repository that policymakers and urban planners can use in their decision-making processes, thereby helping their respective communities from both ecological and mental health standpoints.

Journal reference:

• Geary R. S., Thompson D., Mizen A., Akbari M., et al. Ambient greenness, access to local green spaces, and subsequent mental health: a 10-year longitudinal dynamic panel study of 2·3 million adults in Wales. The Lancet Planetary Health (2023), DOI – https://doi.org/10.1016/S2542-5196(23)00212-7, https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(23)00212-7/fulltext

Daily stair climbing, disease susceptibility, and risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: A prospective cohort study

 When I had a fitbit it assumed any 10 foot gain in elevation was a flight of stairs. Is this talking about real stairs or fitbit stairs?

Daily stair climbing, disease susceptibility, and risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: A prospective cohort study

• Zimin Song ¹
• Li Wan ¹
• Wenxiu Wang
• 
  
• Robert Clarke
• Lu Qi
• Tao Huang
• Show all authors
• Show footnotes

Published:September 15, 2023DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2023.117300

Highlights

• •
  This large cohort of UK adults demonstrated that climbing more than five flights of stairs daily was associated with over a 20% lower risk of ASCVD.
• •
  The associations were broadly concordant in populations with varying susceptibilities to ASCVD.
• •
  Participants who discontinued stair climbing between the baseline and resurvey exhibited a higher risk of ASCVD in comparison to those who never engaged in stair climbing.

Abstract

Background and aims

The associations between intensity of stair climbing and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and how these vary by underlying disease susceptibility are not fully understood. We aim to evaluate the intensity of stair climbing and risk of ASCVD types and whether these vary with the presence of ASCVD risk factors.

Methods

This prospective study used data of 458,860 adult participants from the UK Biobank. Information about stair climbing, sociodemographic, and lifestyle factors was collected at baseline and a resurvey 5 years after baseline. ASCVD was defined as coronary artery disease (CAD), ischemic stroke (IS), or acute complications. Associations between flights of stair climbing and ASCVD were examined as hazard ratios (HRs) from Cox proportional hazards models. The modification role of disease susceptibility on such associations was assessed by analyses stratified by levels of genetic risk score (GRS), 10-year risks of ASCVD, and self-reported family history of ASCVD.

Results

During a median of 12.5 years of follow-up, 39,043 ASCVD, 30,718 CAD, and 10,521 IS cases were recorded. Compared with the reference group (reported climbing stairs 0 times/day at baseline), the multivariable-adjusted HRs for ASCVD were 0.97 (95% CI, 0.93–1.01), 0.84 (0.82–0.87), 0.78 (0.75–0.81), 0.77 (0.73–0.80) and 0.81 (0.77–0.85) for stair climbing of 1–5, 6–10, 11–15, 16–20 and ≥21 times/day, respectively. Comparable results were obtained for CAD and IS. When stratified by different disease susceptibility based on the GRS for CAD/IS, 10-year risk, and family history of ASCVD, the protection association of stair climbing was attenuated by increasing levels of disease susceptibility. Furthermore, compared with people who reported no stair climbing (<5 times/d) at two examinations, those who climbed stairs at baseline and then stopped at resurvey experienced a 32% higher risk of ASCVD (HR 1.32, 95% CI:1.06–1.65).

Conclusions

Climbing more than five flights of stairs (approx 50 steps) daily was associated with a lower risk of ASCVD types independent of disease susceptibility. Participants who stopped stair climbing between baseline and resurvey had a higher risk of ASCVD compared with those who never climbed stairs.

Graphical abstract

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Intracerebral Hemorrhage Among Blood Donors and Their Transfusion Recipients

 You can ask your doctor how common this is and what to do to prevent this problem.

Intracerebral Hemorrhage Among Blood Donors and Their Transfusion Recipients

Jingcheng Zhao, MD, PhD¹; Klaus Rostgaard, MSc^2,3; Elsa Lauwers, PhD⁴; et al Torsten Dahlén, MD, PhD^1,5; Sisse Rye Ostrowski, MD, PhD, DMSc^6,7; Christian Erikstrup, MD, PhD^8,9; Ole Birger Pedersen, MD, PhD^7,10; Bart de Strooper, MD, PhD^4,11,12; Robin Lemmens, MD, PhD^4,11,13; Henrik Hjalgrim, MD, PhD, DMSc^2,3,7,14; Gustaf Edgren, MD, PhD^1,15

Author Affiliations

JAMA. 2023;330(10):941-950. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.14445

editorial comment icon

Editorial

Comment

• Editorial
  Blood Transfusion and Brain Amyloidosis
  Steven M. Greenberg, MD, PhD
  JAMA

Full Text

Key Points

Question  Is there an association between the occurrence of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage among blood donors and the risk of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage in patients who receive a transfusion with their blood?

Findings  In this exploratory retrospective cohort study, which included 759 858 patients in Sweden and 329 512 patients in Denmark, receiving red blood cell transfusions from donors who later developed multiple spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhages was significantly associated with an increased risk of developing spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage compared with receiving a transfusion from donors without subsequent intracerebral hemorrhage (hazard ratios, 2.73 and 2.32 in the Swedish and Danish cohorts, respectively).

Meaning  The findings suggest a transfusion-transmissible agent associated with some types of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage, but findings may be susceptible to selection bias and residual confounding, and further research is required to understand the potential underlying mechanism.

Abstract

Importance  Recent reports have suggested that cerebral amyloid angiopathy, a common cause of multiple spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhages (ICHs), may be transmissible through parenteral injection of contaminated cadaveric pituitary hormone in humans.

Objective  To determine whether spontaneous ICH in blood donors after blood donation is associated with development of spontaneous ICH in transfusion recipients.

Design, Setting, and Participants  Exploratory retrospective cohort study using nationwide blood bank and health register data from Sweden (main cohort) and Denmark (validation cohort) and including all 1 089 370 patients aged 5 to 80 years recorded to have received a red blood cell transfusion from January 1, 1970 (Sweden), or January 1, 1980 (Denmark), until December 31, 2017.

Exposures  Receipt of red blood cell transfusions from blood donors who subsequently developed (1) a single spontaneous ICH, (2) multiple spontaneous ICHs, or (3) no spontaneous ICH.

Main Outcomes and Measures  Spontaneous ICH in transfusion recipients; ischemic stroke was a negative control outcome.

Results  A total of 759 858 patients from Sweden (median age, 65 [IQR, 48-73] years; 59% female) and 329 512 from Denmark (median age, 64 [IQR, 50-73] years; 58% female) were included, with a median follow-up of 5.8 (IQR, 1.4-12.5) years and 6.1 (IQR, 1.5-11.6) years, respectively. Patients who underwent transfusion with red blood cell units from donors who developed multiple spontaneous ICHs had a significantly higher risk of a single spontaneous ICH themselves, compared with patients receiving transfusions from donors who did not develop spontaneous ICH, in both the Swedish cohort (unadjusted incidence rate [IR], 3.16 vs 1.12 per 1000 person-years; adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 2.73; 95% CI, 1.72-4.35; P < .001) and the Danish cohort (unadjusted IR, 2.82 vs 1.09 per 1000 person-years; adjusted HR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.04-5.19; P = .04). No significant difference was found for patients receiving transfusions from donors who developed a single spontaneous ICH in the Swedish cohort (unadjusted IR, 1.35 vs 1.12 per 1000 person-years; adjusted HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.84-1.36; P = .62) nor the Danish cohort (unadjusted IR, 1.36 vs 1.09 per 1000 person-years; adjusted HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.70-1.60; P = .73), nor for ischemic stroke as a negative control outcome.

Conclusions and Relevance  In an exploratory analysis of patients who received red blood cell transfusions, patients who underwent transfusion with red blood cells from donors who later developed multiple spontaneous ICHs were at significantly increased risk of spontaneous ICH themselves. This may suggest a transfusion-transmissible agent associated with some types of spontaneous ICH, although the findings may be susceptible to selection bias and residual confounding, and further research is needed to investigate if transfusion transmission of cerebral amyloid angiopathy might explain this association.

Good hydration linked to healthy aging

Does your doctor have enough functioning brain cells to have a protocol to test your serum sodium levels? NO? Then you don't have a functioning stroke doctor. 

Good hydration linked to healthy aging

NIH findings may provide early clues about increased risks for advanced biological aging and premature death

Adults who stay well-hydrated appear to be healthier, develop fewer chronic conditions, such as heart and lung disease, and live longer than those who may not get sufficient fluids, according to a National Institutes of Health study published in eBioMedicine external link .    

Using health data gathered from 11,255 adults over a 30-year period, researchers analyzed links between serum sodium levels – which go up when fluid intake goes down – and various indicators of health. They found that adults with serum sodium levels at the higher end of a normal range were more likely to develop chronic conditions and show signs of advanced biological aging than those with serum sodium levels in the medium ranges. Adults with higher levels were also more likely to die at a younger age. 

 “The results suggest that proper hydration may slow down aging and prolong a disease-free life,” said Natalia Dmitrieva, Ph.D., a study author and researcher in the Laboratory of Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of NIH.  

 The study expands on research the scientists published in March 2022, which found links between higher ranges of normal serum sodium levels and increased risks for heart failure. Both findings came from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, which includes sub-studies involving thousands of Black and white adults from throughout the United States. The first ARIC sub-study started in 1987 and has helped researchers better understand risk factors for heart disease, while shaping clinical guidelines for its treatment and prevention. 

For this latest analysis, researchers assessed information study participants shared during five medical visits – the first two when they were in their 50s, and the last when they were between ages 70-90. To allow for a fair comparison between how hydration correlated with health outcomes, researchers excluded adults who had high levels of serum sodium at baseline check-ins or with underlying conditions, like obesity, that could affect serum sodium levels.  

They then evaluated how serum sodium levels correlated with biological aging, which was assessed through 15 health markers. This included factors, such as systolic blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, which provided insight about how well each person’s cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, renal, and immune system was functioning. They also adjusted for factors, like age, race, biological sex, smoking status, and hypertension.

They found that adults with higher levels of normal serum sodium – with normal ranges falling between 135-146 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L) – were more likely to show signs of faster biological aging. This was based on indictors like metabolic and cardiovascular health, lung function, and inflammation. For example, adults with serum sodium levels above 142 mEq/L had a 10-15% associated increased odds of being biologically older than their chronological age compared to ranges between 137-142 mEq/L, while levels above 144 mEq/L correlated with a 50% increase. Likewise, levels of 144.5-146 mEq/L were associated with a 21% increased risk of premature death compared to ranges between 137-142 mEq/L. 

Similarly, adults with serum sodium levels above 142 mEq/L had up to a 64% increased associated risk for developing chronic diseases like heart failure, stroke, atrial fibrillation and peripheral artery disease, as well as chronic lung disease, diabetes, and dementia. Conversely, adults with serum sodium levels between 138-140 mEq/L had the lowest risk of developing chronic disease.  

The findings don’t prove a causal effect, the researchers noted. Randomized, controlled trials are necessary to determine if optimal hydration can promote healthy aging, prevent disease, and lead to a longer life. However, the associations can still inform clinical practice and guide personal health behavior.  

“People whose serum sodium is 142 mEq/L or higher would benefit from evaluation of their fluid intake,” Dmitrieva said. She noted that most people can safely increase their fluid intake to meet recommended levels, which can be done with water as well as other fluids, like juices, or vegetables and fruits with a high water content. The National Academies of Medicine external link , for example, suggest that most women consume around 6-9 cups (1.5-2.2 liters) of fluids daily and for men, 8-12 cups (2-3 liters). 

Others may need medical guidance due to underlying health conditions. “The goal is to ensure patients are taking in enough fluids, while assessing factors, like medications, that may lead to fluid loss,” said Manfred Boehm, M.D., a study author and director of the Laboratory of Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine. “Doctors may also need to defer to a patient’s current treatment plan, such as limiting fluid intake for heart failure.”   

The authors also cited research that finds about half of people worldwide don’t meet recommendations for daily total water external link intake, which often starts at 6 cups (1.5 liters).  

“On the global level, this can have a big impact,” Dmitrieva said. “Decreased body water content is the most common factor that increases serum sodium, which is why the results suggest that staying well hydrated may slow down the aging process and prevent or delay chronic disease.” 

This research was supported by the Division of Intramural Research at NHLBI. The ARIC study has been supported by research contracts from NHLBI, NIH, and the Department of Health and Human Services.        

STUDY: Dmitrieva NI, Gagarin A, Liu D, et al. Middle-age high normal serum sodium as a risk factor for accelerated biological aging, chronic diseases, and premature mortality. eBioMedicine. 2023. doi: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104404 external link .  

Results Of Online Stroke Survey Released - Bermuda

Almost all survivors are not receiving the necessary EFFECTIVE rehab. Effective is 100% recovery, nothing less!

rehab full recovery? Better than 10%?

Results Of Online Stroke Survey Released - Bermuda

A online survey in Bermuda collected data from 56 respondents, finding that some stroke survivors “are not receiving the necessary rehabilitation support.”

A spokesperson said, “For this project, a nationwide online survey was conducted to gather data about the lived experiences of stroke survivors in Bermuda. The online survey was available to any stroke survivor who met the eligibility criteria.

“We plan to use this data to inform what is happening through the stroke pathway and put forth any recommendations that would be useful for survivors and the community. The aim of the survey was to gather the lived experiences of those in Bermuda after having a stroke. The survey ran for eight weeks. During that time, 205 people accessed the online survey, and 56 people completed the survey.

“We want to thank everyone who shared their stroke rehabilitation experiences and AGE Concern for their ongoing support.

“Based on our feedback, it is evident that some people in Bermuda are not receiving the necessary rehabilitation support. Conducted as the first of its kind in Bermuda related to rehabilitation, this survey represents a crucial step towards recognizing the needs of the community post-stroke.

“As the demand for rehabilitation services is expected to increase globally, it is vital to prioritize affordable healthcare coverage that includes prevention and rehabilitation. Bermuda has the potential to provide world-class rehabilitation services with the proper funding, systems, and structures in place and become a model of excellence.

“The survey report recommends several changes including:

1. Increasing insurance coverage for private insurers and the government
2. Establishing an improved stroke care pathway
3. Providing specialized multidisciplinary care
4. Increasing the number of healthcare professionals that can deliver high-quality stroke rehabilitation
5. Establishing a support group for survivors and caregivers in Bermuda.

“Why is this survey important?

“In Bermuda, by 2026, there is expected to be population growth with a rise in the proportion of seniors [65 years and older] [Government of Bermuda Department of Statistics, 2016]. Even with the smaller population size of Bermuda, there is a rising number of stroke incidents [Dyer, 2022; Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation, 2022].

“Data collected from the Bermuda Hospitals Board estimates somewhere between 200-300 incidences of stroke annually. Nationally, the Ministry of Health has identified stroke as the second leading cause of death in 2019 and the third leading cause of disability in Bermuda [Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation, 2022].

“Therefore, prevention and rehabilitation should be one of the leading health priorities due to the growing number of stroke survivors on the island. Currently, there are limited stroke rehabilitation services in Bermuda, although international data shows that structured, organized, coordinated, multidisciplinary services can improve post-stroke outcomes [Clarke & Forster, 2015; Langhorne et al., 2011; Prvu Bettger & Stineman, 2007].

Survey Findings

“Participants had various rehabilitation experiences due to going overseas and returning to Bermuda, and many reported gaps in stroke rehabilitation services. It was impossible to get treated for everything related to their stroke rehabilitation needs. There needed to be a link for the stroke pathway from acute to community services. Once discharged, some of the participants felt that there needed to be more support.

“The participants reported that having coordination of services on discharge and improved access to services promptly was important.

“Participants faced barriers to accessing rehabilitation due to geographical location, time, staff shortages, and lack of healthcare professional groups. The participants also discussed staff shortages during rehabilitation and that this impacted therapy. There was a need for more healthcare professional groups, such as physiotherapists and speech and language therapists.

“The participants felt their rehabilitation needs were not met with the amount and intensity of therapy. Most participants felt they wanted more and that more input would benefit their stroke rehabilitation.

“The participants felt they needed more specialized services, healthcare professionals, and a specific setting for stroke rehabilitation. They felt that not all healthcare professionals had experience working with people post-stroke. Some participants discussed wanting a specific place to complete their rehabilitation, including access to a gym to continue their rehabilitation needs.

“Many of the participants discussed that rehabilitation was costly. The participants discussed how they had to stop their therapy or continue doing it without healthcare professional input due to financial constraints. There were limits on private services, which reduced the participant’s choice of healthcare providers.

“Some of the participants discussed that it was important that during rehabilitation, financial support was available. The participants also discussed the specific needs of those trying to return to work.

“Communication and information sharing with patients were needed in Bermuda, and it was found that support through the service was imperative. The participants suggested that support groups were needed for their stroke rehabilitation journey. This support included not only systems and organizations but also from their peers and was also necessary for the caregivers.

“This suggestion is part of the rehabilitation journey and is as essential as the other components of physical rehabilitation.

“The findings of this survey highlight the urgent need for improved stroke rehabilitation services in Bermuda. The recommendations provided in the survey report should assist policymakers and healthcare providers to develop and implement effective strategies for providing high-quality and affordable rehabilitation services to stroke survivors.

“By prioritizing prevention and rehabilitation, Bermuda can become a model of excellence in stroke care and improve the health outcomes and quality of life of stroke survivors. The survey has been an important step towards recognizing the needs of the community post-stroke, and we hope that it will lead to positive changes and improvements in stroke care and rehabilitation services in Bermuda.”

The full survey report follows below [PDF here]:

Consuming this ancient Chinese medicine herb(goji berry) shown to protect the brain from Alzheimer's damage: on C. elegans worms

Two huge problems need to be solved with this:

1. Testing in humans needs to occur.

2. Getting thru the blood brain barrier has to be solved.
   

Consuming this ancient Chinese medicine herb shown to protect the brain from Alzheimer's damage

Chinese scientists have recently found that goji berry (a traditional Chinese medicinal herb) can potentially protect the brain from Alzheimer's. This berry, otherwise known as wolfberry, has been highly valued in China for many generations because of its health benefits.It's a vibrant orange-red fruit sourced from a shrub native to China. Goji berry has gained popularity worldwide, finding its place in both traditional Chinese medicine and culinary traditions, thanks to its abundant antioxidants and its associated health benefits.

Is goji berry a potential brain protector against Alzheimer's?

Stops the production of harmful proteins (Image via Vecteezy)span class="image-attribution image-attribution-ux-impr" style="opacity: 0.65; padding-bottom: 4px;">© Provided by Sportskeeda Health and Fitness Scientists from the Institute of Biophysics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences conducted a study to understand how goji berry extract can potentially benefit the neuro system. To study its impact on the disease, they tested the extract on C. elegans, a type of worm known for its simple and mapped genome, often used in research.The study revealed exciting insights. The goji berry extract was able to break down amyloid-beta protein, a major player in Alzheimer's disease. These protein clumps, known as plaques, affect the brain.The extract also stopped the production of reactive oxygen species, which lowers the formation of amyloid-beta protein.

Helps in breaking down harmful proteins

Potential health benefits

Scientists found out that goji berry extract can get things moving with a process called mtUPR (mitochondrial unfolded protein response). This process helps break down amyloid-beta protein deposits.This process plays a vital role in maintaining mitochondrial function and overall cellular health. By enhancing mtUPR, goji berry extract introduces a novel strategy for potential Alzheimer's treatment.Related video: 5 Nutrients That Might Stop Alzheimer’s — and Foods Rich in Them (Money Talks News)
 As we age, mitochondrial function tends to decline, leaving cells vulnerable to dysfunction. Activating mtUPR can promote cell survival and restore optimal mitochondrial network function.Scientists consider the manipulation of mtUPR as a potential therapeutic target for various diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, including Alzheimer's.Provides hope in treating Alzheimer'sThis study not only underscores the protective potential of goji berry against this disease but also offers insights into a novel mechanism by which this ancient Chinese herb operates. By enhancing mtUPR, goji berry extract exhibits the ability to safeguard the brain from amyloid-beta protein accumulation, providing hope for future treatment approaches. QuizscapeWhile this research is promising, further exploration is needed to fully understand the intricacies of goji berry's protective effects. Future studies should examine the efficacy of goji berry extract through other experimental models before proceeding to clinical trials involving humans.However, these early findings show that natural remedies can be powerful in fighting brain-destroying diseases.Goji berry, an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine, has piqued researchers' interest in the field of Alzheimer's disease.This study demonstrates that goji berry extract has remarkable properties in breaking down amyloid-beta protein deposits and activating mtUPR to protect the brain.While we await further research, incorporating goji berries in your diet could potentially be a simple and delicious step towards maintaining brain health and overall well-being.

Scientists prove how many daily steps you should take to avoid early death - 7,000

 Other numbers to see if your doctor knows one damn thing about walking.

Other walking prevention items:

My numbers for steps.

10,000 Steps A Day? How Many You Really Need To Boost Longevity - 4,400

This one suggests 8900 steps a day:

Can Exercise Protect Against Alzheimer's?

 

Exactly How Many Steps You Need to Take a Day to Not Gain Weight - 15,000

Every 2,000 steps a day could help keep premature death at bay

The latest here:

Scientists prove how many daily steps you should take to avoid early death

In a significant shift from the common belief that individuals should aim for 10,000 steps daily for optimal health, a new international study spearheaded by the University of Granada has established a different standard.

The research not only highlights the ideal number of daily steps people should target but also emphasizes the health advantages of the walking pace.

Dissecting the myth of 10,000 daily steps

The notion advocating for 10,000 daily steps, originating in Japan around the 1960s, was widely accepted but lacked substantial scientific backing.

This recent study demystifies that number, pointing out that the key to reducing the risk of premature death significantly lies in accomplishing approximately 7,000 daily steps.

This translates to about 6.4 kilometers (4 miles) per day, given the average human stride. The research also delineates that the pace of walking fortifies the health benefits gained.

Optimal daily step count

The study is the product of collaboration among specialists from various international institutions. These include the Radboud University Medical Center in the Netherlands, the Universities of Granada and Castilla-La Mancha in Spain, and Iowa State University in the United States.

 How just 22 minutes of your day can reduce risk of dying earlier (The Independent)What they found is that if you are physically active,

Ortega emphasized that reaching between 7,000 and 9,000 daily steps emerges as a practical health objective for the majority. The revelation comes after a comprehensive literature review and meta-analysis encompassing data from twelve international studies, which collectively involved more than 110,000 participants.

From 10,000 to 7,000: Establishing clear targets

Esmée Bakker, a Marie Curie Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Granada and a principal author of the study, shared insights distinguishing this research from others.

"What sets our study apart is the establishment of clear step goals. We indicate that health improvements are observable with minor increases in daily steps, especially for individuals presently less active," she stated.

[Photos] 27+ Rare Photos Show The Darker Side Of The Wild West

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According to the findings, even incremental objectives like an additional 500 daily steps could offer health improvements. This recommendation is particularly encouraging for those who find the prospect of nearly 9,000 steps daunting.

Fast walking enhances benefits

The study doesn't stop at just quantifying steps. It further uncovers that the speed at which a person walks plays a crucial role. Faster walking correlates with a lower mortality risk, irrespective of the total daily steps. The researchers also found these results consistent across genders.

Moreover, the study's insights extend to practicality. It underscores that the means of counting steps, whether through a smartwatch, a wrist-based tracker, or a smartphone, doesn't influence the outcomes.

Health benefits at every age

One might wonder if ceasing to walk beyond approximately 9,000 steps is advisable. "Absolutely not," asserts Francisco B. Ortega. The research indicates no upper limit to harmful steps.

Ortega notes that walking as many as 16,000 steps daily still showcases health advantages, albeit with diminishing risk reductions beyond the 7,000-9,000 step bracket.

Importantly, the study advocates for age-appropriate step targets. Younger individuals might have higher step goals compared to their older counterparts.

Notably, the research scope was confined to analyzing the effects on all-cause mortality and cardiovascular diseases. A broad spectrum of scientific literature suggests that moderate to vigorous physical activities correlate with numerous other health benefits.

Daily steps simplify public health goals

The significance of this study is not just in its scientific findings but also in its practical implications. National physical activity guidelines recommending 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly often leave individuals at a crossroads. Most people are unsure about exercise intensity, or whether their activities meet these standards.

Counting steps simplifies this. It offers a tangible, measurable goal that most people can track thanks to prevalent technology like smartphones and wearable devices.

In summary, the study serves as a beacon, guiding individuals towards achievable health goals through walking. By establishing a more accessible target and recognizing the role of walking pace, the research paves the way for enhanced public health strategies. It encourages communities to step up -- quite literally -- for their health.

The full study was published in Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

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