Knitters manipulate strings of yarn and transform them into hats, gloves, scarves, and anything else you can imagine. There is no argument that knitting is not creative, but as shown in the media, can knitting also be good for your health?
The CBS Early Show portrays knitting as an activity that can be cognitively beneficial for older adults. In regards to factors such as social interaction and stress reduction, knitting is shown as a craft that is beneficial for people of various sexes and ages. The repetitive movements involved with knitting are linked to relaxation and distractions from daily life struggles. Knitting activities may reduce blood pressure and help with diagnoses such as depression and anxiety.
Watch the video below by the CBS Early Show:
What the Research Says: • Knitting will improve cognition in individuals of various ages and not only in seniors (Riley, Corkhill, & Morris, 2013). • Knitting can improve socialization (Riley, et al., 2013; Duffy, 2007; la Cour, Josephsson, & Luborsky, 2005). • Knitting can assist with stress relief and daily coping mechanisms [such as distraction] (Riley, et al., 2013; Duffy, 2007). • Knitting can produce physiological effects such as reduced blood pressure (Duffy, 2007). • Knitting can help relieve the symptoms associated with mental health diagnoses (Riley, et al., 2013; Duffy, 2007).
Next, take a look at the NY Times article by Jane E. Brody:
A look into how much we can trust the media when it comes to bariatric surgery
When it comes to weight loss, we know the media can run rampant with fads and false advertising. If someone is considering the route of bariatric surgery to combat obesity, it’s important that they know what is real and what is fake about the procedure, its outcomes, and what to expect following surgery. Here are three clips from the media and how well they align with current research on the topic.
This first video is a clip from ABC News and introduces us to a 16-year-old who underwent bariatric surgery.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIwtpOQGH3I
The Takeaways:
The young man lost a significant amount of weight (403 pounds to 247 pounds in one year)
His self-esteem skyrocketed because of his weight loss
He now has a girlfriend and date to senior prom, which he didn’t think was possible prior to surgery
Briefly Mentioned:
Life after surgery was not easy, with the adjustment to smaller food portions being cited as a difficult transition
Vomiting consistent following surgery
Experiencing an “emotional rollercoaster” and feelings of depression
The next video, from UCLA Health, tells the story of a 43-year-old man who turned to bariatric surgery after battling obesity for his entire life.
The Takeaways:
Previous weight loss strategies were unsuccessful
Bariatric surgery was a tool that allowed for this man’s new lifestyle changes to stick
150 pounds of weight loss occurred in the first year following surgery
Bariatric surgery is not a “magic bullet” — it requires commitment to change
This last video, from Loyola Medicine, follows a young man’s journey with bariatric surgery.
The Takeaways:
He lost more than 200 pounds in the first year
Expressed increased energy and decreased joint pain
Patients following the procedure need long-term behavioral and environmental change in order to successfully manage life post-op
Does the media align with current research?
These videos clearly highlight the positive potential outcome of radical weight loss within the first year of bariatric surgery, which definitely aligns with current research (Waleed, et al, 2017). These videos barely mention, or leave out altogether, the difficult transition following surgery, which evidence consistently cites as a very challenging time in terms of making healthy lifestyle changes, requiring a positive support system, and experiencing extreme physical and psychological changes (Liu & Irwin, 2017). Case studies following individuals for one year following bariatric surgery explain that some individuals’ biggest issues with surgery were that they had unrealistic weight loss expectations because of what they had seen in the media (Willmer, 2018). These videos are examples of exceptional amounts of weight loss, and individuals considering surgery should consult a physician to create reasonable and attainable weight loss goals.
Overall, the evidence supports the positive changes the media clips emphasize, like increased self esteem, increased energy, and decreased joint pain (Willmer, 2018). The media clearly de-emphasizes the harder and less flashy side of post-bariatric-surgery life, including vomiting, depression, emotional ups and downs, and changes in relationships (Liu & Irwin, 2017).
The Big Takeaway:
What we see in the media regarding bariatric surgery may be mostly factual, but it definitely diminishes some of the hard truths about life following this operation. Seek a medical professional and ask questions about the reality of post-operation expectations. The biggest recommendations from the media and research combined were to be prepared for relationships to change, have a strong support system in place, and expect to relearn about your own body (Liu & Irwin, 2017).
References
Waleed, M., N. R., Algadhi, Y. A. M., Assiri, S. A., Alomari, M. A., Khouj, O. T., Albakestani, M. Y., … Alsudairi, T. R. A. (2017). Bariatric Surgery to Treat Obesity Among Adults. Egyptian Journal of Hospital Medicine, 69(5), 2400–2404. https://library.neit.edu:2404/10.12816/0041683
Willmer, M., & Salzmann-Erikson, M. (2018). ‘The only chance of a normal weight life’: A qualitative analysis of online forum discussions about bariatric surgery. PLoS ONE, 13(10), 1–14. https://library.neit.edu:2404/10.1371/journal.pone.0206066
Liu, R., Irwin, J. (2017). Understanding the post-surgical bariatric experiences of patients two or more years after surgery. Quality of Life Research, 26(11), 3157–3168. https://library.neit.edu:2404/10.1007/s11136-017-1652-z
In a society where we’re constantly bombarded by headlines proclaiming, “fake news” we need to become astute at determining what medical information available to us is “fact or fiction.” A common reflex to new aches in our bodies is to search the internet for any information that could possibly narrow down a diagnosis of some sort. This is not the best because self-diagnosing can lead someone down many paths. Taking a look at Rheumatoid Arthritis we can compare multiple sources, videos and articles from the Internet to check for accurate or false information. Let’s look at some factual information about Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Rheumatoid Arthritis:RA is a chronic, progressive inflammatory disorder that affects joints (fingers, wrists, feet, shoulders, knees and ankles) in the body. RA can also affect a wide variety of body systems including skin, lungs, heart and blood vessels.
Cause of RA is Unknown
No Known Cure
3 Million Americans have RA
RA occurs at any age but peaks between 35 to 50
RA increases chances of Heart Attack and Stroke
RA can be managed with medication, lifestyle modifications and treatment
60% of inadequately treated individuals with RA are unable to work after 10 years
Signs &Symptoms:
Fatigue
Joint Pain & Tenderness
Joint Swelling
Joint Redness
Joint Warmth
Stiffness of Joints
Both Sides of Body Affected
Treatments:
Heat treatment for stiffness
Cold treatment for pain/inflammation
Rest
Physical Exercise (Range of Motion)
Medication: to help suppress inflammation
Occupational Therapy for adaptations to everyday task
Surgery
Videos:
Foods To Avoid:Avoiding these types of foods can help decrease RA flare ups
Refined Carbohydrates
Processed Foods
Citrus Fruits
Gluten
Saturated Fats
Types of Surgeries:In depth definition of RA and possible surgeries if recommendations from doctors are not working to limit pain or stiffness.
Arthroplasty
Arthrodesis
Synovectomy
Causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, pathology:This video provides an in depth look into RA possible causes such as genetics or environment, discussion of symptoms, how doctors come to a diagnosis, specific deformities, possible treatments and the pathology of RA.
Peer Reviewed Sources:
Source #1: Arthritis, Rheumatoid: an Overview
This article supports the information gathered through the above media clips. The article defines RA as a chronic, inflammatory disease that primarily affects articular structures and synovial membrane of the joint. The article provides more information that RA is characterized by joint pain, stiffness, swelling, tenderness and deformities. The article agrees with the information gathered by informing the reader that the cause of RA is unknown and has no cure. The reading provides further information on facts and figures of RA affecting 1% of the population worldwide, women being three times more likely to suffer from RA than men and peak age or onset is between 35 to 50 years old. This article supports the information provided to me through media clips I have chosen.
Source #2: Arthritis, Rheumatoid: Diet and Nutrition
This article provides more information on the dietary aspect for individuals suffering from RA. Individuals suffering from RA show deficits in vitamins and minerals such as C, D, B6, B12, E, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, zinc and selenium. This information was provided in some of the media clips. This article gives the same definition for RA as the media clips. Media clips I chose discussed how dietary changes assist the individuals suffering from RA by their choices in food options increasing or reducing inflammation in joints. This article states that the age of onset for RA is between 25 to 50 years old. This article supports the information provided to me through media clips. This article provides a different age of onset from the first article and media clips I have seen.
Source #3: Teaching the Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis
The article “ Teaching the Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis” goes into detail of different parts of RA such as desired outcomes, facts and figures, why patient education is important and what to teach a patient with RA. The facts and figures support information provided by media clips such as RA occurring in 1% of the U.S population, affects women 3 times more than men, peak onset of RA is between 35 to 50 years old and 1.3 million adults in the U.S have RA. This article supports RA symptoms from media clips of redness, swelling, warm to touch, morning stiffness and symmetric arthritis. The article goes further into detail on the importance of educating someone with RA, why it is important, why we educate individuals with RA and expected outcomes of educating someone about RA. The information provided in this article supports the information provided to me through media clips.
In Conclusion when performing research on medical diagnosis or illnesses we can be overloaded with factual or fictional information. In the case of Rheumatoid Arthritis we are provided with information that is primarily factual and can be backed through multiple other sources.
Further Resources:
Arthritis Foundation
www.arthritis.org
800-283-7800
The Arthritis Foundation is the only national not- for-profit organization that supports the more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions with advocacy, programs, services and research.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
With the increasing rise is Autism diagnoses over the last several decades, it is only natural that people seek to find an answer as to why. One theory popular among a minority of the population is that common childhood vaccines are to blame. As early as two months, new babies (barring those who suffer from compromised immune systems) are inoculated against diseases that were once rampant and were the cause of serious harm to the health and well-being of our society. Anti-vaxxers, or those opposing the widespread use of such vaccines, are growing in numbers in the United Sates, as well as globally, and believe there is a direct correlation between these very vaccines and the growing rate of Autism.
FACT:
It has been proven time and time again that vaccines are by-and-large safe for the typical child or adult. There is a near-continuous stream of evidence-based and peer-reviewed studies being released that directly contradict the myth that vaccines are a cause for Autism. For example, according to a 2013 study conducted by the CDC
Myth #2
The mercury levels in vaccines are a danger to patients who receive them.
A small group of investigative reporters believe that vaccines, with dangerous levels of Mercury contained in them, are being used to target racial minorities in America. The reports have dubbed the supposed practice a “medical genocide”. They also believe Americans of low socio-economic status are being given vaccines with elevated levels of thimerosal. Thimerosal is an antiseptic and antifungal agent that can be toxic in high doses. Reports of children displaying symptoms of Autism after receiving vaccines are widespread throughout the anti-vaccination media.
FACT:
In early studies to test the safety of vaccines, “The animals appeared to tolerate significant doses—up to 20 mg per kg body weight in rabbits and still higher in rats—without apparent injury.” (5) More recent medical studies have shown that the Mercury and Thimerosal levels in vaccinations are far below the level that would be dangerous to a human. Mercury and thimerosal are used in small doses in vaccines because they deter the spread of bacteria. In addition, the human body easily disposes the elements and there has been no medically proven cause between the elements and Autism.
Myth #3
Vaccines are the cause of SIDS.
News reports have linked SIDS and children receiving vaccines. The news reporters postulate that babies that receive multiple vaccinations before age 1 are at higher risk of dying. They believe the toxins from environment, bacteria and viruses contained in vaccines are the cause of SIDS. The evidence the news reports cite is the onset of conditions that lead to death in a short time period after vaccination.
FACT:
SIDS is the death of a child between the ages of two weeks old and two years old. Scientific research studies have proven that sleep disorders, being born to a young mother, delayed vaccinations, low birth weight, and race are factors that lead to SIDS. A small minority of citizens began to explore the connection between vaccinations and SIDS in the late 1970s following four unexplained deaths in Tennessee. The deaths were later investigated, vaccinations was found not to be the cause of the deaths. More scientific research was conducted throughout the years and demonstrated that immunized children had a decreased risk of SIDS compared to non-immunized children. A temporal, not causal, relationship was established between childhood vaccinations and SIDS. (6)
For more information on the history of the anti-vax movement and its subsequent consequences, view the video below.
Essential oils are becoming more popular and are used in various ways. Individuals may utilize essential oils for health benefits as well as the overall scent. Essential oils are have been claimed to cure conditions, prevent disease or conditions, assist with emotional distress or stress, and improve overall quality of life. These are pretty bold claims- doesthesciencematchup
Video Clip 1:
Claims made in this video clip: – Essential oils have healing quality that are facilitated through ingestion, topical use and inhalation. – Essential oils are as strong as prescription drugs – Essential oils have no side effects only benefits – Essential oils have cured conditions that may have required increased medical treatment (e.g. hormonal related cancer, physical ailments).
Video Clip 2:
Video clip #2: Claims made in this video clip: – Essential oils assist with sleep issues – Lavender oil contains compounds that help the body relax thus facilitating improved sleep – Roman chamomile, lavender, and vetiver are oils that assist with sleep issues – Inhalation of oils through topical use or from a diffuser before bed can facilitate improved sleep.
Video Clip 3:
Video clip #3: Claims made in this video clip: – This Essential oil featured in the clip protects the immune system – This blend of essential oils is 90% effective in fighting the flu virus – Layering this oil blend with another oil may increase the effectiveness of the oil.
Let’sseewhatsciencesaysabouttheseclaims:
Scientific evidence #1:
This article cited below stated that essential oils have been utilized in holistic and alternative medicine. In this article, several oils were listed with conditions they address. This ultimately supported some claims in the video. An aspect that differed from the claims made in the video was that if the studies are carried out appropriately then the efficacy of essential oils individually or in combination with traditional medical care can be determined. There is still a need for more studies of the efficacy of essential oils to address this increased consumer interest of essential oils as an alternative therapy.
Babar. A, Al-Wabel, N.A, Shams. S, Ahamad. A, Khan. S.A, Anwar. F. (August 2015). Essential oils used in aromatherapy: A Systemic review. Asian pacific journal of tropical biomedicine, 5(8), 601-611.
Scientific Evidence #2:
The article written by Lillehei and Halcon (2014) stated that essential oils can have a positive impact on an individuals quality of sleep. It discussed the benefits of inhaling essential oils before bed rather than utilizing pharmaceutical relief to assist with quality of sleep. Lavender oil was an essential oil mentioned for improved sleep as other studies have focused on this. This partly supports the claims in the video but states that more studies are required to provide more concrete information on the efficacy of essential oils for sleep.
Lillehei, A.S., Halcon, L.L. (2014) A systematic review of the effect of inhaled essential oils on sleep. The journal of alternative and complementary medicine, 20(6), 441-451.
Scientific Evidence #3:
The article written by Nestor Bassole and Rodolfo Juliani (2012) stated that essential oils have antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and insecticidal properties. Essential oils have various uses and are utilized for medicinal and food related reasons. This study shows that essential oils do indeed have properties that may benefit an immune system which supports a claim made in the video but doesn’t have specific information to suggest that essential oil combinations can be beneficial in immune related concerns.
Nestor Bassole, I.H, Rodolfo Juliani, H. (2012). Essential oils in combination and their antimicrobial prosperities. Molecules, 17, pages 3989-4006.
Thetakeaway:
Essential oils are a growing interest as it is a component of alternative and holistic medicine. It appears that there are many benefits to utilizing the oils but there has not been scientific evidence that supports claims of curing conditions or disease, or that specific blends of essential oils are effective in killing germs, fungus, or viruses. While the scientific evidence backs some claims made in these videos, they also stressed the need for more studies to be properly completed to allow for more definitive evidence relating to essential oil efficacy and usage.
It is a topic you cannot escape from. People are constantly sharing articles and their opinions discussing if vaccines are harmful or helping our children. With all of this information being tossed around the Internet, it’s time to look at this topic in detail with scientific evidence. There is a common misconception is that vaccines cause autism. The following addresses the medical fact vs. fiction regarding vaccine safety and autism.
Untitled photograph of child and vaccine. Retrieved from http://www.vaccine-info.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Getting-your-child-vaccinated-1.jpg
The Media: Vaccines cause autism
The first video clip includes Jenny McCarthy and her controversial view on the link between vaccines and autism.
In this video, McCarthy claims that vaccines triggered her son’s autism. She expresses that doctors need to stop hurting kids with these vaccines, regardless of the fact that doctors and scientists have shared how irresponsible it is for her to be spreading her thoughts.
The second video includes the thoughts of a doctor, who has since lost his medical license, behind the film “Vaxxed” that links autism to vaccines.
Dr. Andrew Wakefield claims the CDC has manipulated and hid data that proves there is a link between the MMR vaccine and autism. Vaxxedproducer, Polly Tommey, who was once pro-vaccines, shared that her son had the MMR vaccine in the morning and by evening was having huge convulsions, got taken to the hospital and now has autism.
The Research: Is it fact or fiction?
There is a large amount of scientific evidence from sources such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding vaccines. Vaccines protect us from disease, protect the health of our community and can help decrease potential disease-related medical costs. From vaccines, diseases become rarer and with continued use, they can be eliminated from our population (CDC, 2018a).
One of the most prominent arguments against vaccines is that it causes autism. In 1998, Andrew Wakefield released a study that suggested there is a link between the MMR vaccine and autism. Claims such as this are incredibly harmful to spread and since this study, Wakefield has lost his medical license for falsifying data (LaSalle, 2018).
There is a large amount of scientific evidence that vaccines do not cause autism- they keep communities healthy (Knopf, 2017). The CDC explicitly states there is no link between vaccines and autism. In 2013, the CDC published a study showing that vaccines do not cause autism. The results of this study showed that the total amounts of antigens that children received from vaccines was the same in those with and without autism spectrum disorder (CDC, 2015).
Vaccines not only help those who are vaccinated, but they can help improve the health of those who may be vulnerable and susceptible to diseases such as measles and cannot be vaccinated due to health reasons (too young or fragile). They can also help protect children, grandchildren and future generations of those who are vaccinated (CDC, 2018b). Therefore, it is important to vaccinate all members of a community for our population’s protection and health (LaSalle, 2018). Vaccines are safe, effective and the likelihood of serious side effects is very rare.
Political Influence and Policy
Politics and policy can greatly influence what people think about vaccines, how they feel about them and how we should act on this matter as a country. This third video clip is from the 2015 Republican Debate with the GOP Candidates. Here, our current President, Donald Trump, makes remarks regarding his thoughts on vaccinations.
Trump states that he is in favor of vaccines but wants smaller doses over longer periods of time with remarks to the size of the needles used for vaccines. He continues to share that he knows of a 2-year-old child who had a fever and became very sick and is now autistic, because of receiving a vaccine. This led people to believe he does see a link between vaccines and autism.
Although Trump made claims about a link between vaccines and autism, he has not changed any regulations regarding vaccine policies. The article, Vaccines and the Trump Administration—Reasons for Optimism Amid Uncertainty, states that this is a positive outcome amid fear of vaccine policies changing. The leadership team and federal health agencies have shared that we should not expect any changes to occur with our current vaccine policy.
The CDC has continuously proved that there is no link between autism and vaccinations (Schwartz, 2017). If this subject comes up again from our President, it can raise more light to statements that have already been debunked by the CDC and other federal health agencies. With continued financial support, federal health agencies can continue to prove their confidence in the benefits of vaccines and continue to educate the public with a science-based approach to advocate vaccination programs and policies.
References
Centers for Disease Control. (2018a). Vaccines & Immunizations: Why Are Childhood Vaccines so Important?. Centers for Disease Control.Retrieved February 18, 2019 from https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/howvpd.htm
Centers for Disease Control. (2018b). Vaccines & Immunizations: Why Immunize?. Centers for Disease Control.Retrieved February 18, 2019 from https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/why.htm
Centers for Disease Control (2015). Vaccine Safety: Autism. Centers for Disease Control.Retrieved February 18, 2019 from https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/concerns/autism.html
Knopf, A. (2017). Vaccines do not cause autism: Pediatricians fight back against anti-science. Brown University Child & Adolescent Behavior Letter, 33, 1-2. https://library.neit.edu:2404/10.1002/cbl.30195
LaSalle, G. (2018). When the answer to vaccines is “No.” Journal of Family Practice, 67(6), 349. Retrieved from http://library.neit.edu:2216/ehost/detail/detail?vid=6&sid=193bbe69-c561-496c-8fdb-868b25368321%40sessionmgr4008&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=f5h&AN=129940420
Schwartz, J. L. (2017). Vaccines and the Trump Administration—Reasons for Optimism Amid Uncertainty. American Journal of Public Health, 107(12), 1892-1893. https://library.neit.edu:2404/10.2105/AJPH.2017.304111
As states continue to legalize the use of marijuana, studies show an increase in the amount of people who are now legally utilizing marijuana. Is utilizing marijuana harmful to your body though? Within this blog post, there are video clips that will present fictional information regarding the topic and then there will be scientific evidence that debunk the information presented in the video clips.
Video Clip 1: Dr. Phil Explains Physical Effects Of Regular Marijuana Use On The Brain
This video clip claims:
Marijuana usage causes increased anxiety
Marijuana usage causes decreased life satisfaction
Marijuana usage causes poorer physical health
Marijuana usage causes increased likelihood of psychosis in addition to one’s family history
Video Clip 2: Stomach Illness Stemming From Marijuana Use On The Rise
This video clip claims that in states where marijuana is legalized, there is an increase in people suffering from a stomach illness that is causing severe abdominal pain and severe vomiting. Doctors are calling this rare illness Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). Doctors’ advice for relief of symptoms is taking a hot shower or bath. This was never an issue prior to the legalization of marijuana, according to the video clip. Additionally, this illness is often missed due to doctors not being aware of CHS.
Video Clip 3: 3 Arguments Why Marijuana Should Stay Illegal Reviewed
This video clip claims:
Marijuana contains a high amount of THC, which is related to psychosis. Therefore, marijuana users have a high risk of developing psychosis.
As marijuana is legalized, there will be a spike in the increase of hard drugs.
10% of the population who try marijuana become addicted.
Marijuana causes lung problems, increased blood pressure, and diminished levels of intelligence.
Scientific Evidence 1:
In the following article, the author, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, discusses his stance on medical marijuana. He also mentions how he has interviewed various healthcare professionals regarding their stance on medical marijuana. The healthcare professionals each had their own profession; for example a doctor, a nurse, a therapist, etc. The author acknowledges that there is a possibility for drug abuse, but then states how there has never been an issue of overdosing with marijuana. Following that, the author says how marijuana is a legitimate way of relief for individuals who suffer from medical disorders. Every drug comes with side effects, but marijuana’s pros outweigh it’s cons (Gupta and O’Connor, 2013).
Gupta, D., & O’Connor, S. (2013). I’ve read that you now support legalizing medical marijuana. What should we know about its pros and cons? Prevention, 65 (10), 60. Retrieved February 6, 2019, from http://library.neit.edu:2216/ehost/detail/detail?vid=4&sid=5ac3ba45-83ee-444c-9ce4-4a46f56c3170@sessionmgr4010&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ==#AN=90418946&db=asn
Scientific Evidence 2:
The following article discusses a case study about a 55-year-old woman who was diagnosed with cancer and is receiving palliative care. Throughout her recovery she has relied on alternative treatment options, but she was not getting the results that she had hoped for. Because of this, she ended up asking the doctor about medical marijuana and then she applied for it. None of the alternative treatment options were working for her so she turned to medical marijuana to meet her needs and/or wants. Studies do show how beneficial marijuana can be in palliative care. Obviously there are cons to go along with the pros of (medical) marijuana usage, but this article discusses some of the benefits which include pain relief, decreased anxiety, decreased vomiting, decreased nausea, and an increase in appetite (Eschiti and Johannigman, 2013).
Johannigman, S., & Eschiti, V. (2013). Medical Use of Marijuana in Palliative Care. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, 17 (4), 360-362. doi:10.1188/13.CJON.360-362
Scientific Evidence 3:
The following article discusses a new study out of Harvard Medical School that suggests there is little to no evidence that using marijuana causes schizophrenia. The study consists of four control groups: Individuals with no history of drug use or psychotic illness; individuals with no history of psychotic illness, but a history of cannabis usage; individuals with less than ten years of being ill and no history of drug use; and individuals with heavy usage of cannabis prior to psychosis onset. Following the study, researchers confirmed that there is an increased risk for onset of psychosis in individuals who have a family history of schizophrenia or another mental disorder. While marijuana can be a contributing factor, it is not the cause of the illness (Grohol, 2018).
Grohol, J. M. (2018, August 8). Harvard: Marijuana Doesn’t Cause Schizophrenia. Retrieved February 19, 2019, from https://psychcentral.com/news/2013/12/10/harvard-marijuana-doesnt-cause-schizophrenia/63148.html
Overall, the conclusion is that although there are both pros and cons to the use of marijuana, the pros tend to outweigh the cons. Based off scientific studies, there are several (medical) benefits to using marijuana. Marijuana usage is not as harmful to the body as the media proposes that it is. As marijuana continues to become legalized, there will be more regulation of it’s usage, which is a positive.
Eating for High Blood Pressure is one way to help lower your numbers. This is along with medications, lifestyle changes like increasing activity and exercise, quitting smoking, relaxation and medications.
As much as we may want that quick fix in our lives, high blood pressure needs attention everyday. We all must eat to live and how we eat impacts our health and well being.
The best of intentions can be derailed by not knowing what to do or where to find your answers. There is agreement in the medical community and supported by the American Heart Association, that the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is preferred.
The DASH diet is high in fresh or frozen foods such as
Grains
Fruits
Vegetables
Fat free or low fat milk
Lean meats, poultry and fish
Nuts, seeds, legumes
Fats and oils
What it is not on our list is just as important
Sweets
Fried foods
Canned foods
Highly salted foods
High fatty foods
Changing eating habits can be overwhelming or intimidating. Feeling unable to make and keep track of all of the changes needed is common. Understanding that this is one lifestyle change is key.
Here is one approach that may be helpful
SHOP THE EDGES
This is where the freshest, least processed, least salty foods are found. The items that need to be kept cold like produce, meats, seafood and dairy will almost always be found along the edges where the refrigerated and frozen foods are kept. Buying most of your foods from the edges you can help to avoid the high salt, high fat aisles of poorer choices.
ASK FOR HELP
Let your friends and family know that you want to eat healthier. When you eat out continue to make the better choices. If someone else shops for you, give them a list of foods that will fit your new lifestyle. It may be quite a change for the whole family but stick with it and you may find that they may start looking at foods in a new way.
Your healthcare professional can have a dietitian work with you on developing a plan based on your likes and dislikes.
Controlling blood pressure requires more than a simple quick fix. It involves lifestyle changes including diet, exercise, weight control, smoking cessation, stress reduction, modifying alcohol intake and follow up with healthcare professionals for monitoring and medications.
Addiction has become quite an intense situation in the United States. People you may not suspect to become addicted to illegal and/or legal drugs, are now becoming victims. There are schools of thought that people are choosing to become addicted, or that they are just giving up on life. It will all be better if they just get a job right? Let’s take a deeper look into what is happening in America, and debunk what the media is saying.
Media Clip #1- PennLive
This video talks about the signs that may indicate a person is abusing opioid drugs. These signs may be covered up by the individual, or be mistaken as something else. It is important to recognize these signs, and get help for the individual.
Some of the signs mentioned are:
Physical substance dependence
Chronic constipation
Small pupils
Nausea
Reduced sex drive
Sensitivity to pain
Shallow breathing
Slurred speech
Media Clip #2- KHON2 News
Drug addiction not only happens on the streets. Often times, a patient is receiving opioid drugs in the hospital for a legitimate reason, and then becomes addicted. In this clip, a pharmacist talks about how their role in the opioid epidemic. A pharmacists helps to verify prescriptions. Nothing should reach the patent before being confirmed by pharmacy.
Christina Berg, a hospital pharmacists, suggests ways that a pharmacist can help:
Having a pharmacists respond to emergency situations
Verifying individual doses of opiods
Recommending non-opioid drugs as an alternative
Monitoring daily dose of all opioids
Media Clip #3- The New York Times
In this clip, The New York Times takes on a discussion about the opioid epidemic in America. This video claims that there is an opioid epidemic primarily in the east of the United States.
This clip provides its own answers to these questions:
What is an opioid?
What is the current crisis?
Where is the crisis most severe?
Why has the crisis gotten worse?
Should we stop pressing opioids?
Let’s Check our Sources
Source #1- Recognizing Prescription Drug Abuse and Addiction in Patients, Part II
This source provides information on drug abuse and how to recognize it. Stimulants are highly abused by school-aged children. Stimulants are commonly prescribed for ADHD, and teens are often seen selling or distributing these drugs. Drug abuse and addiction is a massive problem in today’s society. Anxiety, depression, sweating, seizures, and hallucinations are some side effects that are seen in patients withdrawing. The author found that health care professionals need proper training to identify, treat, and prevent drug addiction and withdrawal. Prescribing drugs, whether they are controlled or not, should be monitored closely to prevent drug abuse.
Felicilda-Reynaldo, R. D. (2015). Recognizing prescription drug abuse and addiction in patients, Part II. MEDSURG Nursing, 24(1), 47-61.
This article supports the claims made in my media clip titled “Signs of Opioid Addiction: Opioid Crisis in Pennsylvania” by PennLive.
Source #2- Prescription Drug Abuse: A Comparison of Prescriber and Pharmacist Perspectives
This source provide survey results that help to gain the perspective of pharmacists versus prescribers. With drug addiction and abuse being so heavy today, it is important to recognize ways to prevent it. The effects of drug abuse, whether it be legal or illegal, can cause death. It was found that pharmacists are able to recognize drug abuse more easily than prescribers. They see how the patients react to different scenarios and see them more often than the prescriber. There needs to be a re-evaluation before the patient receives the drugs again. Furthermore, these refills should be short-term. If further treatment is needed, the pain management plan should be revised frequently to find best route. Pharmacists have to approve these medications in the hospital and monitor the dose and frequency. They are patient advocates and are a great tool in fighting this battle.
Hagemeier, N. E., Gray, J. A., & Pack, R. P. (2013). Prescription drug abuse: a comparison of prescriber and pharmacist perspectives. Substance Use & Misuse, 48(9), 783-790. doi:10.3109/10826084.2013.787101
This article supports the claims made in my media clip titled “Ask a Specialist: Hospital Pharmacists’ Role in Addressing the Opioid Epidemic” by KHON2 News.
Source #3- Opioid Prescribing Laws and Emergency Department Guidelines
This source provides information about pain medication provided to non-cancer patients. They explain that a comprehensive physical exam is needed to determine best route of pain management. Providers should only prescribe amount needed and not allow patient to stay on these drugs for long periods of time. Only credible and experienced pain management providers should be consulted. Careful evaluation of pain levels in emergency department is needed to prevent unnecessary prescribing. They found that the mortality rate related to opioid abuse is increasing at an alarming rate. This articles also states that there is an opioid epidemic in all of the United States. This is not limited to a certain region.
This article supports most claims made in my media clip titled “The Facts on America’s Opioid Epidemic” by The New York Times. The only statement that is incorrect in the clip is that the epidemic is limited to certain regions.
In conclusion, there is a widespread opioid epidemic currently happening in the United States. Everyone is susceptible, and people are hurting. As a country, we need to band together to help these victims. No one wakes up in the morning wishing to be addicted to drugs. Our healthcare system needs some tuning up, and it is up to society to help influence change.
If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction… call 1-877-661-3524, or visit the website, drugabuse.com for more resources
Vaccine in vial with syringe. Vaccination concept. 3d
With multiple opinions out there regarding if you should or should not vaccinate your child, it’s hard to follow what if fact and what is a myth. On one side you have credible doctors who have proved vaccines do not cause autism, but on the other side, you had a “credible” doctor along with celebrity endorsement from Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg stating vaccines have caused autism and other mental disorders. So as a parent what do you believe and where do you turn for correct information.
Yes this from 10 years ago, the information from anti vaxxers is still the same but research has grown immensely
In the above video, I agree with Julia regarding asking major questions prior to administering any vaccine because yes it is a medical procedure. This is something I agree with and should be done. (Julia speaking starting at 3:21). A significant amount this information 10 years later is no longer relevant, but I do agree with informed consent and that vaccines should not be a “one size fits all”.
Separating fact from fiction
Facts:
The cause of autism is still unknown
There has been no known link between vaccines and autism and other mental disorders
Young mothers look towards social media for information and celebrity endorsers are influential to them, 68% of young mothers will agree with celebrities regarding not only their own health decisions but decsions for their children (Cunningham, et al, 2018).
80% of people obtain their information from social media outlets (Basch, Zybert, Reeves, & Basch, 2017)
Once eradicated illnesses and diseases are making a huge come back making inoculated children sick as well as uninoculated children sick.
Vaccines are always changing and more research is being done on them (Bits and Pieces. Autism Speaks Alters Position on Vaccines, 2015)
Fiction:
Vaccines are causing mental illnesses and autism disorders
As stated above there is no known link with extensive research
Essential oils can protect my child from deadly diseases such as measles
Yes essential oils may aid keeping some germs away, but they are no match against a deadly disease
The live illness is injected into my child’s body
The vaccine is not living and allows the child’s body to know this is specimen is dangerous and provides protection against it
Not getting a vaccine does not mean the child/adult will get the illness
Yes you are more apt to get the disease but does not mean you will be the carrier for the disease
You have to trust your doctor when they give recommendations
DO NOT be afraid to ask anything and do research on something you do not understand prior to agreeing to it (More Evidence Vaccines Don’t Cause Autism, 2015)
You shouldn’t question your doctor
QUESTION away this is why they are there, to answer and GUIDE you to making your decision.
There are dozens of places you can find accurate information such as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) (www.CDC.gov/vaccines), Vaccine basics (www.vaccineinformation.org/trusted-sources), Immunization information (www.immunize.org) and plenty more. The most accurate sites end in .org or .gov, these are usually peer reviewed and have research provided information.
You need to question everything in which you feel is not correct when it comes to YOUR health! Do not be afraid to ask questions, ask for a second opinion at the end of the day this is your body/ your child’s body and you have EVERY right to ask questions. Like in the video below Melissa a Pro-vaccine person stated no matter where she heard the information she questioned it, did research on it and got second opinions. Gary who is an MD who is also pro-vaccine stated how it hurts being questioned but at the end of the day it is not him getting the treatment it is the patient and he appreciates when someone asked questions.
Listening to both ends of the spectrum you start to understand where both sides come from, but in the end they all seem to come to the same ending and that is ASK QUESTIONS. Do not be afraid to question anything and everything that is ENTERING your body or your child’s body. Just make sure you are obtaining proper information and not skewed. With providing proper education during 15-21 weeks of gestation this gives the parents a broad idea of a decision they will have to make when their child is born (Cunningham, et al, 2018). Just remember like David said “time is short and clinicians aren’t listening” get your provider to listen to you! Let your voice be heard with them. Lastly, gather your non skewed/ misleading information and make your informed decision.
References
Basch,
C. H., Zybert, P., Reeves, R., & Basch, C. E. (2017). What do popular
YouTubeTM videos say about vaccines? Child: Care, Health & Development,
43(4), 499–503. https://library.neit.edu:2404/10.1111/cch.12442
Bits
and Pieces. Autism Speaks Alters Position on Vaccines. (2015). Palaestra,
29(1), 55. Retrieved from
http://library.neit.edu:2048/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ccm&AN=103805316&site=ehost-live
Cunningham,
R. M., Minard, C. G., Guffey, D., Swaim, L. S., Opel, D. J., & Boom, J. A.
(2018). Prevalence of Vaccine Hesitancy Among Expectant Mothers in Houston,
Texas. Academic Pediatrics, 18(2), 154–160.
https://library.neit.edu:2404/10.1016/j.acap.2017.08.003
More
Evidence Vaccines Don’t Cause Autism. (2015). RT: The Journal for Respiratory
Care Practitioners, 28(5), 34. Retrieved from
http://library.neit.edu:2048/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ccm&AN=103258297&site=ehost-live
In a society where we’re constantly bombarded by headlines proclaiming, “fake news” we need to become astute at determining what medical information available to us is “fact or fiction.” A common reflex to new aches in our bodies is to search the internet for any information that could possibly narrow down a diagnosis of some sort. This is not the best because self-diagnosing can lead someone down many paths. Taking a look at Rheumatoid Arthritis we can compare multiple sources, videos and articles from the Internet to check for accurate or false information. Let’s look at some factual information about Rheumatoid Arthritis.
