Breastfeeding May Help Prevent ADHD In Children

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Main Category: ADHD
Also Included In: Pediatrics / Children's Health;  Nutrition / Diet
Article Date: 16 May 2013 - 1:00 PDT Current ratings for:
Breastfeeding May Help Prevent ADHD In Children

Breastfeeding may help prevent children from developing ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) later in life, according to a new study.

The research was conducted by a team of Israeli researchers and published in Breastfeeding Medicine, the official journal of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine.

The scientists, led by Aviva Mimouni-Bloch, MD, of the Tel-Aviv University (TAU) Sackler Faculty of Medicine, wanted to determine whether the development of ADHD might be linked to a shorter duration of breastfeeding.

They compared breastfeeding history and other factors in children between the ages of 6 and 12 who were diagnosed with ADHD at Schneider's Children Medical Center in Israel with data from two control groups of kids of the same age without the disorder.

One of the control groups consisted of healthy children whose brother or sister had ADHD - this group was considered as having a similar genetic background and environment as the research group.

The other group was made up of kids who were consulted at the clinic and were not suspected of having the neurological disorder.

The mothers were asked to complete a questionnaire which sought information about their educational, psychosocial, medical status, pregnancy and perinatal details.

The researchers looked at whether the mother breastfed exclusively, whether she breastfed and gave formula, or whether she only gave formula when the child was 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year old.

Kids who had ADHD were less likely to have been breastfed at 3 and 6 months of age than the children without the disorder, according to the results.

Only 43% of ADHD kids were breastfed at three months of age and just 29% were breastfed when they were 6 months old, the researchers explained.

Results showed that 69% of the siblings group and 73% of the other control group were breastfed when they were 3 months old, and at six months of age, 50% of the siblings group and 57% of the other group were breastfed.

Ruth Lawrence, MD, Editor-in-Chief of Breastfeeding Medicine and Professor of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine, said:

"Breastfeeding has been shown to have a positive impact on child development, good health, and protection against illness. Now, another possible benefit of breastfeeding for three months and especially six months or longer has been identified. This study opens another avenue of investigation in the prevention of ADHD."

The authors concluded:

"Whether the lesser exposure to breastfeeding in ADHD children is causally associated with ADHD or, on the contrary, a consequence of early abnormalities of feeding behavior at the breast cannot be determined from the current study.

We speculate that prevention, at least partial, of ADHD may be added to the list of the multiple biological advantages of human milk feeding."

A previous study found that ADHD often continues into adulthood, and kids with the disorder are also more likely to have other psychiatric conditions later in life.

Written by Sarah Glynn
Copyright: Medical News Today
Not to be reproduced without permission of Medical News Today

Visit our adhd section for the latest news on this subject. Breastfeeding May Protect from Developing Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Aviva Mimouni-Bloch, Anna Kachevanskaya, Francis Benjamin Mimouni, Avinoam Shuper, Eyal Raveh, and Nehama Linder
Breastfeeding Medicine May, 2013; doi:10.1089/bfm.2012.0145 Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:

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posted by Harold Rongey, Ph.D. on 17 May 2013 at 3:05 pm

A simple review of the USDA Nutrient Database to compare breast milk to alternate sources shows breasst milk to be the best with cow's milk 2nd best. When comparing the breast milk to healthy brain tissue one finds that several amino acids, tryptophan, lysine, methionine, cystine, tyrosine, and serine are likely to be low as well as the vitamin choline, and others. There will be an overall much better balance of all needed nutrients if solid foods are begun at three to four months of age with one or two egg yolks. This was the recommended practice for more than 35 years from 1946 throug 1974 or later---before problems of autism and ADHD became so common. (see Dr. Bennjamin Spock, "Baby and Child Care.") This data comparison confirms the need to supplement breast feeding and especially alternate milk sources for proper brain development.

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'Breastfeeding May Help Prevent ADHD In Children'

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Do Not Prescribe ADHD Drugs To Mentally Healthy Children, Doctors Told

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Academic Journal
Main Category: Psychology / Psychiatry
Also Included In: Pediatrics / Children's Health;  ADHD
Article Date: 14 Mar 2013 - 11:00 PDT Current ratings for:
Do Not Prescribe ADHD Drugs To Mentally Healthy Children, Doctors Told

Is wrong for doctors to prescribe attention-boosting drugs for mentally healthy kids who misuse them as a means of achieving better grades at school, the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) announced in a public statement.

It is a doctor's duty to promote a child's 'authentic' development. Children need protection from coercion from peers or parents, the AAN added.

Teens often use these "study drugs" (ADHD medications) when they don't actually meet the criteria for the disorders the medications are supposedly prescribed for.

Recently there has been a growing trend of parents asking doctors to prescribe ADHD medications for their mentally-healthy kids so they can achieve better results in their exams. The drugs work by improving cognitive functioning among those with disorders that can severely impair a person's ability to concentrate, learn and function properly.

Over the past few years, the AAN has been analyzing all the research available concerning the real extent of children - who don't need to use them - taking study drugs.

William Graf, MD, of Yale University in New Haven, Conn., and a member of the American Academy of Neurology, said:

"Doctors caring for children and teens have a professional obligation to always protect the best interests of the child, to protect vulnerable populations, and prevent the misuse of medication. The practice of prescribing these drugs, called neuroenhancements, for healthy students is not justifiable."

The statement is backed by research that highlights the ethical and legal reasons why prescribing mind-enhancing drugs (such as ADHD drugs) for people who don't need them is 'misguided'.

Don't prescribe drugs for treating ADHD to mentally healthy children, doctors told

Many people believe that the huge increase in ADHD drug prescriptions has led to more recreational use of such medications, which in turn results in more hospital emergency department visits. A study carried out by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) reported that the number of emergency department visits involving ADHD medications increased from 13,379 in 2005 to 31,244 in 2010 (a rise of more than 100%).

It is important to note that there is a difference when considering children and adolescents, as opposed to independent adults who make decisions for themselves. A child's parent(s) or guardian is usually the decision-maker on such matters.

Some of the reasons why it is wrong to prescribe neuroenhancement drugs among children who do not need them include:

Graf concluded:

"The physician should talk to the child about the request, as it may reflect other medical, social or psychological motivations such as anxiety, depression or insomnia. There are alternatives to neuroenhancements available, including maintaining good sleep, nutrition, study habits and exercise regimens."

Abuse of prescription stimulants is an ever-growing problem in the United States. The number of college students who illicitly use drugs such as Adderall or Ritalin is alarmingly high.

Close to 12 percent of children have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the USA. A previous study, "Adolescent Prescription ADHD Medication Abuse is Rising Along With Prescriptions for These Medications," found that abuse of ADHD medications is on the rise, and stresses the importance for pediatricians to understand that when more ADHD prescriptions are written, there is also more abuse.

Written by Joseph Nordqvist
Copyright: Medical News Today
Not to be reproduced without permission of Medical News Today

Visit our psychology / psychiatry section for the latest news on this subject. "Pediatric neuroenhancement - Ethical, legal, social, and neurodevelopmental implications"

William D. Graf, MD, Saskia K. Nagel, PhD, Leon G. Epstein, MD, Geoffrey Miller, MD, Ruth Nass, MD and Dan Larriviere, MD, JD

Neurology

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posted by James Javorsky, Ph.D. on 15 Mar 2013 at 12:32 am

In my professional interactions with child/adult psychiatrists, the ones, which should be diagnosing and treating (with Developmental Pediatricians) and not your garden variety pediatrician. I was working as a director of educational services at a child/adolescent psychiatric hospital. Because we were also a training hospital, I was slotted to spend 30 mins total to address - cognitive impairments, learning/language disabilities, social skill deficits, Math and writing disorders, etc. You get the picture. I have also seen attempts by parents to 'buy' a diagnosis of ADHD in our out-patient clinic by bullying the staff. In the end the more a parent badger physician who is psychiatric disorders are not their field; the more likely kids who are healthy will be medicated. Just like the teachers giving in the parent to change a grade or to place a child in special education who does not meet criteria; we are a service community need to stand up and start supporting one-another and make the right referrals and swallow one's ego that he/she does not know all. For my latest ailment, I would receive subpar care for my kidney stone if i went to a ENT doctor or Dermatologist. Let common sense ring throughout the our professional communities
James Javorsky, Ph.D.
Diagnosis and Intervention for Youth with severe emotional and mental disorders.

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In US, 20% Of Children Have A Mental Disorder

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Main Category: Pediatrics / Children's Health
Also Included In: Psychology / Psychiatry;  ADHD;  Mental Health
Article Date: 19 May 2013 - 0:00 PDT Current ratings for:
In US, 20% Of Children Have A Mental Disorder

Nearly 20% of children in the United States suffer from a mental disorder, and the number has been increasing for over a decade, according to a new report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The report covered the topic of mental disorders among children aged 3 to 17 for the first time. The investigators found that childhood mental illnesses affect up to one in five children and cost close to $247 billion per year in medical expenses, juvenile justice, and special education.

An earlier report from 2009 reported that the costs of treating mental illness reached $8.9 billion in 2006, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

Childhood mental disorders are defined as serious changes in the ways children handle their emotions, learn, or behave. Symptoms generally begin in early childhood, but some may develop during adolescence.

Often diagnoses are made during school years or even earlier. Earlier research has suggested that children with mental disorders were three times more likely to be identified as bullies

Mental health is critical to overall health. Mental disorders are conditions that can last throughout an entire life. Without treatment and early diagnosis these conditions can lead to problems at school, home, and in developing friendships.

The current report was developed in collaboration with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). It outlines federal causes on monitoring mental disorders and provides estimates on the number of children with certain mental disorders.

The researchers examined data from several sources covering the period 2005-2011. The report also suggests a few indicators of mental health such as unhealthy days and suicide.

The report revealed that ADHD was the most prevalent current diagnosis among children aged 3 to 17 years. The number of kids with a mental disorder rose with age, except autism spectrum disorders - which were highest among 6 to 11 year old children.

Males were more likely than females to have ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, Tourette syndrome, cigarette dependence, behavioral or conduct problems, and anxiety. Boys aged 12 to 17 years were at a greater risk of dying by suicide than girls. Girls were more likely than boys to have depression or an alcohol misuse disorder.

Children ranging in age from 3 to 17 years had: ADHD (6.8%)Conduct or Behavioral Problems (3.5%)Anxiety (3.0%)Depression (2.1%)Autism spectrum disorders (1.1%)Tourette syndrome (0.2% among children 6-17 years old)Adolescents aged 12 to 17 years had: Illicit drug use disorder in the last year (4.7%)Alcohol use disorder in the last year (4.2%)Cigarette dependence in the last month (2.8%)These findings suggest that mental health is a significant component of public health. The goal now is to develop improved methods on how to document children who have mental disorders, better understand these disorders, and implement and recommend treatment and intervention strategies.

Written by Kelly Fitzgerald
Copyright: Medical News Today
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posted by Anna on 21 May 2013 at 10:15 am

I think what the article means is not 'In US, 20% of children have mental disorder', but instead, 'we have invented mental disorders with thresholds that implicate 20% of US children'. That is not to say that mental disorder is medically fabricated in totality, but it seems that biomedical opinions of mental health are given undue authority to label children (and adults) with mental conditions.

Surely it is evident that social impacts have a much greater influence in the development of what is considered a 'mental illness' as there is no convincing evidence of a biological cause for mental health problems. In regards to this, there remain pertinent questions as to medical approaches of labelling patients, particularly children and adolescents.

In this sense, the report is truly astounding. How can 'cigarette dependence' and 'alcohol use disorder' be considered a mental disorder?! The threshold for those perceived as 'mentally ill' has been lowered so considerably that we can surely all be considered mentally unstable.

This article should not considered credible, instead I'd suggest it to be considered as farcical.

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posted by td helder on 19 May 2013 at 1:45 pm

This report is full of crap. What most of these kids suffer from is a complete lack of parents who know/care what their doing. They sit there telling their little hellion to stop, and when the brat ignores them they say "Oh it's not my parenting, he has (insert problem here)"

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posted by John on 19 May 2013 at 7:00 am

'In US, 20% Of Children Have A Mental Disorder' - and we're working overtime to invent conditions (and persuade others to vote them into being diseases!). Our goal is 120% with a disorder. Oh, sorry, that should be 100%. You know how precise us soft science people are.

Question: if you can vote a "condition" into being a disease, why can't you vote a disease into just being a (non-lethal) condition? For instance; heart failure, diabetes, gun shots wounds, old age.

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Elvanse® (Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate) Receives UK Marketing Authorisation - New Option For The Treatment Of ADHD In Children And Adolescents

Main Category: ADHD
Article Date: 13 Feb 2013 - 5:00 PST Current ratings for:
Elvanse® (Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate) Receives UK Marketing Authorisation - New Option For The Treatment Of ADHD In Children And Adolescents

Shire plc (LSE: SHP, NASDAQ: SHPG) have announced that its single-daily dose long-acting prodrug stimulant, Elvanse, has been authorised by the MHRA for the treatment of ADHD in children aged 6 years and over when response to previous methylphenidate treatment is considered clinically inadequate.2

Elvanse is the first stimulant prodrug to be launched in Europe for the treatment of ADHD. It is ingested in an inactive form and subsequently activated within the body, meaning that the active part of Elvanse is gradually released over time.3 Elvanse provides a long duration of effect to help patients achieve control of their ADHD symptoms.2

ADHD is one of the most common behavioural psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents, and is recognised by the World Health Organisation,4,5,6,7 yet treatment options to help manage the symptoms of ADHD remain limited in Europe. In the UK ADHD is thought to affect 3.62% of boys and 0.85% of girls aged between five and 15 years old.1

"Every person with ADHD is different and will vary in his or her response to the available treatments. A new treatment is welcomed as it will provide a broader range of options to help people with ADHD manage their individual needs effectively," said Dr Val Harpin, Consultant Neurodevelopmental Paediatrician, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust.

Commenting on the authorisation, Dr David Williams, Medical Director at Shire UK said, "We are delighted that Elvanse is now licensed for use in children and adolescents with ADHD in the UK. Shire is committed to improving the understanding and treatment of ADHD and to ensuring that patients diagnosed with ADHD continue to benefit from these advances."

ADHD is a complex disorder and every patient has specific needs.8 While there is no cure for ADHD, treatment generally includes educational approaches, behavioural or other psychotherapies, and medication (depending on patient age and ADHD severity), or a combination of all of these.8

Treatments such as Elvanse are believed to work by enhancing the availability of two neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain), noradrenaline and dopamine, helping to correct a presumed chemical imbalance and reduce symptoms such as inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity.2,9

Elvanse was accepted for review by the MHRA in January 2012, with the application based on two European Phase 3 safety and efficacy studies in children and adolescents with ADHD and further supported by clinical data from the USA.10,11,12,13,14,15 Elvanse has been available in the USA since 2007, Canada since 2010 (brand name Vyvanse®) and in Brazil since 2011 (brand name Venvanse®), where it has been used to treat over four million patients.16

Elvanse has been reviewed via the European Decentralised Procedure, in which the UK MHRA has acted as the Reference Member State. Elvanse is expected to be available in the UK in the first half of 2013. Product labelling has been agreed by the UK and the other seven countries participating in the procedure (Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Norway, Spain and Sweden) who will issue their own local Marketing Authorisations.

About the data2

As described in the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), the effects of Elvanse in the treatment of ADHD have been demonstrated in international controlled trials (including European patients) in children and adolescents (6 to 17 years).

Study 3252

As described in the SmPC, 336 patients aged 6-17 years were evaluated in the pivotal Phase 3 European Study SPD489-325. In this seven-week randomised double-blind, dose- titrated, placebo- and active-controlled study, Elvanse showed significantly greater efficacy than placebo. The placebo-adjusted mean reduction from baseline at endpoint in patients treated with Elvanse on the ADHD-RS-IV Total Score was 18.6 (p<0.001). In addition to a reduction in symptoms, clinical studies have demonstrated that Elvanse significantly improves functional outcomes, 75% of subjects on Elvanse showed Improvement (defined as "very much improved" or "much improved") on the Clinical Global Impression-Improvement (CGI-I) rating scale compared to 14.2% on placebo (p<0.001). Elvanse showed significant improvement in child achievement in academic performance, as measured by the Health Related Quality of life instrument, Parent Report Form of the Child Health and Illness Profile- Child Edition (CHIP-CE:PRF) Achievement Domain. Elvanse demonstrated a significant improvement from baseline compared to placebo (Elvanse: 9.4 versus Placebo: -1.1) with a mean difference between the two treatment groups of 10.5 (p<0.001).

Results of this study have recently been published in European Neuropsychopharmacology. Study 3262

Maintenance of effect was demonstrated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised withdrawal study conducted in children and adolescents ages 6 to 17 (n=157) who met the diagnosis of ADHD (DSM-IV criteria). Patients were optimised to open-label Elvanse for an extended period (at least 26 weeks) prior to entry into the 6-week randomised withdrawal period. Eligible patients were randomised to continue receiving their optimised dose of Elvanse or to switch to placebo. Patients were observed for relapse (treatment failure) during the 6-week double-blind phase. Treatment failure was defined as a =50% increase (worsening) in the ADHD-RS Total Score and a =2-point increase in the CGI-S score compared to scores at entry into the double-blind randomised withdrawal phase. Treatment failure was significantly lower (p<0.001) for the Elvanse subjects (15.8%) compared to placebo (67.5%). For the majority of subjects (70.3%) who were treatment failures regardless of treatment, ADHD symptoms worsened at or before the week 2 visit following randomisation.

Results from this study were presented on 13th October 2012 at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) congress in Vienna. Details of all clinical trials can be found at http://clinicaltrials.gov/.

Indication and Important Safety Information2

Elvanse is indicated as part of a comprehensive treatment programme for ADHD in children aged 6 years of age and over when response to previous methylphenidate treatment is considered clinically inadequate.

Elvanse is not indicated in all children with ADHD and the decision to use the drug must be based on a very thorough assessment of the severity and chronicity of the child's symptoms in relation to the child's age and potential for abuse, misuse or diversion.

Please consult the Elvanse SmPC before prescribing, particularly in relation to abuse and dependence, pre-treatment evaluation and ongoing monitoring, cardiovascular adverse events, psychiatric adverse events, tics, long-term suppression of growth (height and weight), seizures, visual disturbance, prescribing and dispensing, and use with other sympathomimetic drugs.

Adverse reactions observed with Elvanse treatment mainly reflect side effects commonly associated with stimulant use. Very common adverse reactions include decreased appetite, insomnia, dry mouth, headache, decreased weight and upper abdominal pain.

Misuse and abuse2

Stimulants including Elvanse have a potential for abuse, misuse, dependence or diversion for non-therapeutic uses that physicians should consider when prescribing this product. Stimulants should be prescribed cautiously to patients with a history of substance abuse or dependence.

About ADHD

ADHD is one of the most common behavioural psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents and is recognised by the World Health Organisation.4,5,6,7 In the UK, ADHD is thought to affect around 3.62% of boys and 0.85% of girls.1

While the exact causes of ADHD are not fully understood, it is thought to result from complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors, with studies estimating that genetic factors explain 60 - 75% of the aetiology of ADHD.17,18

Environmental factors which may increase the risk of developing ADHD include low birth weight/prematurity, and maternal smoking during pregnancy.17

Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release. Click 'references' tab above for source.
Visit our adhd section for the latest news on this subject. 1. Ford, T., Goodman, R. & Meltzer, H. (2003) The British Child and Adolescent Mental Health Survey 1999: the prevalence of DSM-IV disorders. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry , 42 , 1203–1211.

2. Elvanse, UK Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) 2013.

3. Pennick M, Absorption Of Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate And Its Enzymatic Conversion To D- Amphetamine. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment 2010;6:317-327.

4. Pliszka S and the AACAP Work Group on Quality Issues. Practice Parameter For The Assessment And Treatment Of Children And Adolescents With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2007;46(7):894-921.

5. Bloom B, Cohen RA, Freeman G. Summary health statistics for U.S. children: National Health Interview Survey, 2010. Vital Health Stat 10. 2011;(250):1-80.

6. McCarthy S, Wilton L, Murray ML, et al. The epidemiology of pharmacologically treated attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents and adults in UK primary care. BMC Pediatr. 2012;12:78.

7. International Classification of Diseases, 10th ed., (ICD-10). World Health Organization 2007:Chapter 5,F90. Accessed August 2012 at: http://apps.who.int/classifications/icd10/browse/2010/en#/F90-F98.

8. NICE guideline on diagnosis and management of ADHD in children, young people and adults, National Clinical Practice Guideline Number 72 2009; 1 – 664.

9. Faraone S, Buitelaar J, Comparing the efficacy of stimulants for ADHD in children and adolescents using meta-analysis Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2009; 19(4):353-64.

10. Coghill D, Banaschewski T, Lecendreaux M et al. European, randomized, phase 3 study of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. European Neuropsychopharmacology 2013; Online publication: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.euroneuro.2012.11.012.

11. Coghill D, Banaschewski T, Lecendreux M et al. Efficacy And Safety Of Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate In Children And Adolescents With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Phase III, Randomized, Double-Blind, Multicenter, Parallel-Group, Placebo- And Active Controlled, Dose-Optimized Study In Europe. Joint Annual Meeting Of The American Academy Of Child And Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) And The Canadian Academy Of Child And Adolescent Psychiatry, 2011.

12. Biederman J et al. Efficacy and tolerability of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (NRP-104) in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a phase III, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, forced-dose, parallel-group study. Clin Ther 2007;29:450-463.

13. Childress AC et al. Long-Term Safety and Effectiveness of Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate in Adolescents With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Poster presented at the 164th Annual Meeting of the APA, 14-18 May 2011, Honolulu, Hawaii.

14. Findling R, Childress A, Krishnan S et al. Long-Term Effectiveness And Safety Of Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate In School-Aged Children With Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder. CNS Spectr 2008;13(7):614-20.

15. Findling R, Childress A, Cutler A et al. Efficacy And Safety Of Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate In Adolescents With Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2011;50(4):395-405.

16. Shire Data on File SPD489-016.

17. Cortese, S. The neurobiology of genetics of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): What every clinician should know. Eur J Paediatr Neurol. 2012; 16)5):422-33.

18. Faraone S, Perlis R, Doyle A et al. Molecular Genetics Of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Biol Psychiatry 2005; 57:1313-1323.

Shire

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Shire. (2013, February 13). "Elvanse® (Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate) Receives UK Marketing Authorisation - New Option For The Treatment Of ADHD In Children And Adolescents." Medical News Today. Retrieved from
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ADHD Incidence May Be Reduced In Breastfed Children

Main Category: ADHD
Also Included In: Women's Health / Gynecology;  Nutrition / Diet
Article Date: 16 May 2013 - 1:00 PDT Current ratings for:
ADHD Incidence May Be Reduced In Breastfed Children

Breastfeeding has a positive impact on the physical and mental development of infants. A new study suggests that breastfeeding may protect against the development of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) later in childhood. The study is reported in Breastfeeding Medicine, the Official Journal of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, published by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers. The article is available on the Breastfeeding Medicine website.*

A team of Israeli researchers led by Aviva Mimouni-Bloch, MD compared breastfeeding history and other factors in a group of children 6-12 year of age diagnosed with ADHD to control groups of children who did not have ADHD. The results demonstrated that overall, the children with ADHD were less likely to have been breastfed at 3 and 6 months of age than the children without ADHD. This association between ADHD and lack of breastfeeding was statistically significant.

"Breastfeeding has been shown to have a positive impact on child development, good health, and protection against illness. Now, another possible benefit of breastfeeding for three months and especially six months or longer has been identified," says Ruth Lawrence, MD, Editor-in-Chief of Breastfeeding Medicine and Professor of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine. "This study opens another avenue of investigation in the prevention of ADHD."

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Majority Of Young Children Still Suffer ADHD Symptoms Despite Treatment

Main Category: ADHD
Article Date: 14 Feb 2013 - 0:00 PST Current ratings for:
Majority Of Young Children Still Suffer ADHD Symptoms Despite Treatment

Nine out of 10 young children with moderate to severe attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) continue to experience serious, often severe symptoms and impairment long after their original diagnoses and, in many cases, despite treatment, according to a federally funded multi-center study led by investigators at Johns Hopkins Children's Center.

The study, published online in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, is the largest long-term analysis to date of preschoolers with ADHD, the investigators say, and sheds much-needed light on the natural course of a condition that is being diagnosed at an increasingly earlier age.

"ADHD is becoming a more common diagnosis in early childhood, so understanding how the disorder progresses in this age group is critical," says lead investigator Mark Riddle, M.D., a pediatric psychiatrist at Johns Hopkins Children's Center. "We found that ADHD in preschoolers is a chronic and rather persistent condition, one that requires better long-term behavioral and pharmacological treatments than we currently have."

The study shows that nearly 90 percent of the 186 youngsters followed continued to struggle with ADHD symptoms six years after diagnosis. Children taking ADHD medication had just as severe symptoms as those who were medication-free, the study found.

Children with ADHD, ages 3 to 5, were enrolled in the study, treated for several months, after which they were referred to community pediatricians for ongoing care. Over the next six years, the researchers used detailed reports from parents and teachers to track the children's behavior, school performance and the frequency and severity of three of ADHD's hallmark symptoms - inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. The children also had full diagnostic workups by the study's clinicians at the beginning, halfway through and at the end of the research.

Symptom severity scores did not differ significantly between the more than two-thirds of children on medication and those off medication, the study showed. Specifically, 62 percent of children taking anti-ADHD drugs had clinically significant hyperactivity and impulsivity, compared with 58 percent of those not taking medicines. And 65 percent of children on medication had clinically significant inattention, compared with 62 percent of their medication-free counterparts. The investigators caution that it remains unclear whether the lack of medication effectiveness was due to suboptimal drug choice or dosage, poor adherence, medication ineffectiveness per se or some other reason.

"Our study was not designed to answer these questions, but whatever the reason may be, it is worrisome that children with ADHD, even when treated with medication, continue to experience symptoms, and what we need to find out is why that is and how we can do better," Riddle says.

Children who had oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder in addition to ADHD were 30 percent more likely to experience persistent ADHD symptoms six years after diagnosis, compared with children whose sole diagnosis was ADHD.

ADHD is considered a neurobehavioral condition and is marked by inability to concentrate, restlessness, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. It can have profound and long-lasting effects on a child's intellectual and emotional development, Riddle says. It can impair learning, academic performance, peer and family relationships and even physical safety. Past research has found that children with ADHD are at higher risk for injuries and hospitalizations.

More than 7 percent of U.S. children are currently treated for ADHD, the investigators say. The annual economic burden of the condition is estimated to be between $36 billion and $52 billion, according to researchers.

Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release. Click 'references' tab above for source.
Visit our adhd section for the latest news on this subject. Other Johns Hopkins investigators on the research included Elizabeth Kastelic, M.D., and Gayane Yenokyan, Ph.D.
The other institutions involved in the research were Columbia University Medical Center, Duke University, the Nathan Kline Institute, University of California—Irvine and University of California—Los Angeles.
The research was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health under grant numbers: U01 MH60642 (Johns Hopkins), U01MH60848 (Duke University Medical Center), U01MH60943 (New York University Child Study Center), U01MH60903 (Columbia University), U01 MH60833 (University of California–Irvine) and U01H60900 (University of California—Los Angeles).
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posted by Dr Billy Levin on 19 Feb 2013 at 5:35 am

The most important reason for non success is incompetent doctors and mismanagement . ADHD is diagnosabe and successfully treated by experts. But medication HAS TO BE MONITORED ON A MONTHLY BASIS USING RATING SCALES FROM PARENT AND TEACHER TO AN OPTIMAL LEVEL.

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Risk Of Behavioral, Adaptive And Learning Problems Increase For Children Who Suffer From Sleep Apnea

Main Category: Sleep / Sleep Disorders / Insomnia
Also Included In: Pediatrics / Children's Health;  ADHD
Article Date: 02 Apr 2013 - 1:00 PDT Current ratings for:
Risk Of Behavioral, Adaptive And Learning Problems Increase For Children Who Suffer From Sleep Apnea

A new study found that obstructive sleep apnea, a common form of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), is associated with increased rates of ADHD-like behavioral problems in children as well as other adaptive and learning problems.

"This study provides some helpful information for medical professionals consulting with parents about treatment options for children with SDB that, although it may remit, there are considerable behavioral risks associated with continued SDB," said Michelle Perfect, PhD, the study's lead author and assistant professor in the school psychology program in the department of disability and psychoeducational studies at the University of Arizona in Tucson. "School personnel should also consider the possibility that SDB contributes to difficulties with hyperactivity, learning and behavioral and emotional dysregulation in the classroom."

The five-year study, which appears in the April issue of the journal SLEEP, utilized data from a longitudinal cohort, the Tucson Children's Assessment of Sleep Apnea Study (TuCASA). The TuCASA study prospectively examined Hispanic and Caucasian children between 6 and 11 years of age to determine the prevalence and incidence of SDB and its effects on neurobehavioral functioning. The study involved 263 children who completed an overnight sleep study and a neurobehavioral battery of assessments that included parent and youth reported rating scales.

Results show that 23 children had incident sleep apnea that developed during the study period, and 21 children had persistent sleep apnea throughout the entire study. Another 41 children who initially had sleep apnea no longer had breathing problems during sleep at the five-year follow-up.

The odds of having behavioral problems were four to five times higher in children with incident sleep apnea and six times higher in children who had persistent sleep apnea. Compared to youth who never had SDB, children with sleep apnea were more likely to have parent-reported problems in the areas of hyperactivity, attention, disruptive behaviors, communication, social competency and self-care. Children with persistent sleep apnea also were seven times more likely to have parent-reported learning problems and three times more likely to have school grades of C or lower.

The authors report that this is the first sleep-related study to use a standardized questionnaire to assess adaptive functioning in typically developing youth with and without SDB.

"Even though SDB appears to decline into adolescence, taking a wait and see approach is risky and families and clinicians alike should identify potential treatments," said Perfect.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, obstructive sleep apnea occurs in about two percent of children who are otherwise healthy. Children with sleep apnea generally have larger tonsils and adenoids than other children their age, and most children with sleep apnea have a history of loud snoring. Effective treatment options for children include the surgical removal of the tonsils and adenoids or the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.

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Children With ADHD Require Long-Term Treatment Well Into Adulthood

Main Category: ADHD
Also Included In: Psychology / Psychiatry
Article Date: 05 Mar 2013 - 1:00 PST Current ratings for:
Children With ADHD Require Long-Term Treatment Well Into Adulthood

The first large, population-based study to follow children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) into adulthood shows that ADHD often doesn't "go away," and that children with ADHD are more likely to have other psychiatric disorders as adults. Although numbers were small, they also appear more likely to commit suicide and are often incarcerated as adults.

"Only 37.5 percent of the children we contacted as adults were free of these really worrisome outcomes," says William Barbaresi, MD, of Boston Children's Hospital, lead investigator on the study, published in the April 2013 issue of Pediatrics and online March 4. "That's a sobering statistic that speaks to the need to greatly improve the long-term treatment of children with ADHD and provide a mechanism for treating them as adults."

"This was a unique population based study of a large group of individuals with ADHD followed from childhood to adulthood," added Slavica Katusic, MD, lead Mayo Clinic investigator of the study.

ADHD is the most common neuro-developmental disorder of childhood, affecting about 7 percent of all children and three times as many boys as girls. Most prior follow-up studies of ADHD have been small and focused on the severe end of the spectrum - like boys referred to pediatric psychiatric treatment facilities - rather than a cross-section of the ADHD population.

The long-running study, begun when Barbaresi was at the Mayo Clinic and continued in collaboration with Mayo researchers, led by Katusic, followed all children in Rochester, Minn. who were born from 1976 through 1982, were still in Rochester at age 5 and whose families allowed access to their medical records. That amounted to 5,718 children, including 367 who were diagnosed with ADHD; of this group; 232 participated in the follow-up study. About three-quarters had received ADHD treatment as children.

At follow-up, the researchers found: 29 percent of the children with ADHD still had ADHD as adults (ascertained through structured neuropsychiatric interviews). 57 percent of children with ADHD had at least one other psychiatric disorder as adults, as compared with 35 percent of controls. The most common were substance abuse/dependence, antisocial personality disorder, hypomanic episodes, generalized anxiety and major depression. Of the children who still had ADHD as adults, 81 percent had at least one other psychiatric disorder, as compared with 47 percent of those who no longer had ADHD and 35 percent of controls. 7 of the 367 children with ADHD (1.9 percent) had died at the time of study recruitment, 3 of them from suicide. Of the 4,946 children without ADHD whose outcomes could be ascertained, only 37 children had died, 5 by suicide. 10 children with ADHD (2.7 percent) were incarcerated at the time of recruitment for the study. "We suffer from the misconception that ADHD is just an annoying childhood disorder that's overtreated," says Barbaresi. "This couldn't be further from the truth. We need to have a chronic disease approach to ADHD as we do for diabetes. The system of care has to be designed for the long haul."

Barbaresi thinks the study findings may actually underestimate the bad outcomes of childhood ADHD. The study population in Rochester, Minn., was relatively heterogeneous and largely middle class, and the children tended to have good education and good access to health care. "One can argue that this is potentially a best-case scenario," Barbaresi says. "Outcomes could be worse in socioeconomically challenged populations."

He advises parents of children with ADHD to ensure that their children are in high-quality treatment - and remain in treatment as they enter adolescence. Children should also be assessed for learning disabilities and monitored for conditions associated with ADHD, including substance use, depression and anxiety.

"Data indicate that the stimulant medications used to treat ADHD in children are also effective in adults, although adults tend not to be treated and may not be aware they have ADHD," Barbaresi says.

Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release. Click 'references' tab above for source.
Visit our adhd section for the latest news on this subject. The study was supported by Public Health Service research grants #s MH076111, HD29745 and AG034676. Pilot work for a portion of the project was funded by an investigator-initiated grant from McNeil Consumer and Specialty Pharmaceuticals.
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In Children With ADHD Methylphenidate 'Normalizes' Activation In Key Brain Areas

Main Category: ADHD
Article Date: 14 May 2013 - 0:00 PDT Current ratings for:
In Children With ADHD Methylphenidate 'Normalizes' Activation In Key Brain Areas

The stimulant drug methylphenidate "normalizes" activation of several brain areas in young patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to a review published in the May Harvard Review of Psychiatry. The journal is published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, a part of Wolters Kluwer Health.

Studies using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) show increased activation of key brain areas after a dose of methylphenidate in young patients with ADHD, according to the systematic review by Constance A. Moore, PhD, and colleagues of the University of Massachusetts Medical School. They write, "In most cases, this increase 'normalized' activation of at least some brain areas to levels seen in typically developing children."

How Do ADHD Medications Affect the Brain in ADHD Patients?

In a research review, Dr Moore and colleagues identified nine previous studies using fMRI to study patterns of brain activation in response to a single dose of methylphenidate. Perhaps best known by the brand name Ritalin, methylphenidate is a common and effective treatment for ADHD. "Although methylphenidate has been shown to significantly improve the behavioral symptoms associated with ADHD, both the mechanism behind its therapeutic effect and its direct effects on brain function are unknown," the researchers write.

The studies evaluated methylphenidate-induced fMRI changes in various brain areas, as the participants performed different types of tasks. Most of the studies included adolescent boys with ADHD, along with matched groups of young people without ADHD.

Methylphenidate altered activation patterns in widely distributed areas of the brain in ADHD patients, the results showed. The main brain areas involved were the frontal lobes, the basal ganglia, and cerebellum: "Abnormalities in these regions have all been implicated in patients with ADHD," Dr Moore and coauthors write.

Different areas were activated during different types of fMRI tasks. Several studies assessed performance on "inhibitory control" tasks - the ability to control certain types of accustomed ("prepotent") responses. In three out of five studies, methylphenidate "at least partially normalized" brain activation in ADHD patients, compared to healthy young people.

Different Tasks Affect Different Brain Areas

A few studies showed similar normalization of brain responses with methylphenidate on tasks of selective attention and time perception - although not on tasks evaluating working memory. Methylphenidate mainly affected activation in the frontal lobes during inhibitory control tasks. During selective attention tasks, a wider range of brain areas were affected.

Since none of the studies evaluated ADHD symptoms on and off methylphenidate, there was no way to link the changes in brain activation with clinical improvement. Brain activation patterns with methylphenidate differed for patients who were versus were not previously treated with stimulants for ADHD.

Patients with ADHD have "age-inappropriate frequency or severity of inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive behaviors," according to the authors. It affects about five percent of children worldwide, and a growing body of evidence suggests that ADHD persists throughout adolescence and into adulthood. Functional fMRI provides a safe, noninvasive way to study how stimulants like methylphenidate may act in the brain of ADHD patients.

The new analysis suggests that methylphenidate partially normalizes activation in key brain areas thought to be involved in ADHD. The studies "may provide evidence that methylphenidate facilitates the return of brain function in ADHD patients to, or close to, a typically functioning state," Dr Moore and colleagues write. They call for further research to confirm that methylphenidate-induced changes in specific brain areas are correlated with improvement in ADHD symptoms.

Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release. Click 'references' tab above for source.
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posted by Drc Billy Levin on 15 May 2013 at 7:40 am

ADHD is a genetically inherited right brain dominance and/or a left brain immaturity. As long as there is no damage of left brain and no low IQ to the left brain, a stimulant will boost left brain functions, normalizing cerebral functions as an artificial "crutch" until maturity hopefully takes place some time in the future.
Optimal effective dose is essential and clearly improvements are only seen when the medication is still active!.

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Brain Activity In Sleep May Impact Emotional Disturbances In Children With ADHD

Main Category: ADHD
Also Included In: Pediatrics / Children's Health;  Sleep / Sleep Disorders / Insomnia
Article Date: 29 May 2013 - 14:00 PDT Current ratings for:
Brain Activity In Sleep May Impact Emotional Disturbances In Children With ADHD

Sleep consolidates emotional memories in healthy children but not those with ADHD

Sleep consolidates emotional memories in healthy children but not in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to research published May 29 in the open access journal PLOS ONE by TK and colleagues from TK. The study suggests these deficits in sleep-related emotional processing may exacerbate emotional problems experienced in the daytime by children with ADHD.

For the study, healthy adults, healthy children and children with ADHD were shown pictures that had emotional relevance, such as a scary animal, or neutral pictures showing an umbrella or lamp. Participants were shown pictures in the evening, their brain activity was monitored as they slept, and recollections were tested the following morning. The researchers found that during sleep, regions of the brain thought to support consolidation of emotional memories were most active in healthy children, less so in healthy adults and least active in children with ADHD.

The study states, "While several studies reported a benefit from sleep with respect to emotional memory in healthy individuals, our results showed for the first time that healthy children outperform healthy adults." However, the authors add that this may be, in part, attributable to the child-oriented pictures used as stimuli.

Their results support the idea that frontal brain activity is critically to the consolidation of emotional memory in sleep, and this brain region is also implicated in the emotional symptoms seen in children suffering from ADHD. The authors add that further studies are needed to confirm whether this function of sleep in forming emotional memories develops with time in adults with ADHD, or whether the dysfunction persists in ADHD sufferers of all ages.

Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release. Click 'references' tab above for source.
Visit our adhd section for the latest news on this subject. “Sleep Promotes Consolidation of Emotional Memory in Healthy Children but Not in Children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”,
Prehn-Kristensen A, Munz M, Molzow I, Wilhelm I, Wiesner CD, et al. (2013)
PLoS ONE 8(5): e65098. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0065098

Financial Disclosure: This study was supported by a grant of the German research foundation (SFB 654, Plasticity and Sleep). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.

Competing Interest Statement: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

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'Brain Activity In Sleep May Impact Emotional Disturbances In Children With ADHD'

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The physical symptoms of anxiety and Stress - 1 Secret and effective trick of children to deal with!

First off the coast, what are these physical symptoms of anxiety and stress and how they affect the US?

When we perform tasks which often has a kind of pressure that is associated with, this can produce stress and anxiety. While this can be a normal thing occasionally, when constantly sometimes rather that sometimes it can become a source of concern.

Physical symptoms can vary greatly, but most often, you may notice the following:

-A feeling of nausea

-Cold

-Some various aches and pains

-Diarrhea

Some non-physical symptoms can include memory problems, lack of concentration, constant worry, very Moody or Irritable, feeling overwhelmed (if its work, liability, or otherwise) and more. These physical symptoms of anxiety and stress may negatively affect us in many ways. It causes damage to our mood.

Relationships and those who dear we may suffer as a direct result of that our quality of life can be decreased. Health can also be affected radically. There is also the possibility of anxiety or panic attacks which can be a constant stress.

What is something Simple to manage Stress?

This is where we take a note of children, that we very often see this with other people or to apply ourselves. Are you ready for it?

A time out! You got it, a time out. Let me explain a little more clearly. When children sometimes get caught in a whirlwind of anger, or are not drive themselves correctly or may disobey the rules - we often see them get a time out.

What it does for the child, is to stop what they are doing, long enough to diffuse anger or reflect on their actions break the rules. It helps to calm in other words.

What this means for you and me? This means simply, as when the stress and anxiety begins to ramp we should probably take a time out also. Just stop what we do, take the time to breathe, get our head clear and rationally think things correctly. We can get a better perspective in doing so, and this in turn will help us to get back on track and do what must be done.

At any time the stress gets out of control, consider doing this. The results can be considerable, but effort on our part course is needed, otherwise no results will be achieved. Manage these things are crucial as out of control can easily lead to anxiety or a panic attack.

If you display physical symptoms of anxiety and Stress [http://www.panicanxiety-attack.info] it may prevent you to live and enjoy.

Get your health, well-being and mood on the rails. Learn a natural Technique that can eliminate panic attacks, anxiety and Stress for a life by visiting [http://www.panicanxiety-attack.info]

Dental health for small children - Causes and treatment of Early Childhood Caries (ECC)

For parents of children aged less than 1 year, which may not be aware of a real threat to the dental health of their children, such as ECC, this article focuses on explaining the nature of this condition and the advice on how to tackle Early Childhood Caries. By understanding its causes and applying methods of rapid treatment, you can help prevent painful cavities develop and retain the smiles on your precious toddlers intact. Keep reading to learn how!

ECC is the acronym for a medical condition called Early Childhood Caries, which may occur in infants - Yes, even if less than 12 months! However, investigations held by the State health institutions reveals shocking facts about to ignore issues of tooth decay which are common in infants, which can have very serious consequences as long term weakening of their affected teeth or teeth development, if the parents.

In fact, the AAPD (the United States enabling authority for dental care child, known as the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry) reports of the percentages as high as 90 to some populations within segment "head start" for the case of the ECC. They describe certain precautions for parents with babies and small children to prevent effects debilitating all-out ECC, which are produced below for your convenience.

Causes and treatment of the ECC

The common reason for the development of the ECC is when a bottle infants or toddlers is accustomed to drink sugary drinks before sleep and falls asleep with the teats to the mouth. It can be juice, milk or other children sweet drink which may result in the transfer of bottle caries, the child which resulted in a severe syndrome of bottle of milk.

It should be noted by parents keen on the safeguarding of their small, it's a fairly common dental health care threat that affects 3 years and most small children. Thus, appropriate weaning and the practice of drinking a Cup after 1 year of age and the avoidance of instances of bottle-in-mouth night in particular, is recommended.

In the light of the day, when the child sleeps for a shorter time and is awake most of the time, the constant flow of saliva allows any acidic built on the surface of the tooth or teeth to get carried away, but it is considerably reduced when a child is asleep, which is more likely at night.

4 top front teeth are more likely to display the ECC symptoms, which are distinguished by chalky white marks caused by acids decalcify them. Not only to make these unsightly Aspect, but also if left unchecked, can be very painful for the child and prevent good holding space develops in his mouth for the future of the permanent teeth.

To eliminate the chances of having your child wear braces and other problems as dental infections, abscesses, etc., it is suggested that parents remain alert to small children to fall asleep with a bottle of milk, formulas or sweet liquid in their mouth.

For a child crying excessively, interim measures between sweet bottle feeds may be provided by fresh water in a bottle. Also, never give a small child a pacifier is dipped in sweet products. Finally, on the observation of any red, swollen or unusual markings on the mouth of your child, immediately consult a pediatrician dental.

Shannen Lee is a freelance writer for the past 3 years. Discover his most recent written here on the website of chocolate diamond rings , where it passes review trends in wear color as yellow diamond ringsdiamond jewellery. How to Grow Tall Taller http://your-health-guru.blogspot.com

“Hello madam, would you like your children to be unemployed?”

Ben Goldacre, The Guardian, Saturday 20 November 2010

Obviously I like nerdy days out: like Kelvedon Hatch secret nuclear bunker, maybe, with its sign on the A128 saying “secret nuclear bunker this way”. Last month eight of us commissioned a boat to get onto a rotting man-made WW2 sea-fort in the middle of the ocean through Project Redsand (we genuinely thought we might die climbing the ladders), and a couple of weeks earlier, myself and Mrs Bad Science travelled to Dungeness, where a toytown narrow gauge railway takes you through amusement parks and back gardens, past Derek Jarman’s house, then into barren wasteland, before depositing you incongruously at the base of a magnificent, enormous, and terrifying nuclear power station.

I tell you this, because I should declare an interest: I quite like nuclear power stations, not just because they’re clever, or even because I regretfully concede they might be one of our least bad options for power. I secretly like nuclear power stations because they remind me, in the way nostalgia makes us pine for things we disliked at the time, of a childhood in the early 1980s when I knew that I would definitely die in a nuclear holocaust.

So. Last month energy company EDF conducted a poll on whether people near Hinkley Point nuclear power station would like it to be expanded. The BBC dutifully reported the results: “EDF survey shows support for Hinkley power station” said the headline. “Six in 10 people support a new power station at Hinkley”. Polls like this convince locals, and politicians.

But Leo Barasi at the blog ClimateSock has diligently obtained the original polling questions from ICM, and what he has found is a masterclass in how to manipulate answers to a single question.

First, respondents are set into the frame with a simple starter. “How favourable or unfavourable is your opinion of the nuclear energy industry?” Then things heat up. “To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement: nuclear energy has disadvantages but the country needs nuclear power as part of the energy balance with coal, gas and wind power.” As Leo says, this is structured in a way that makes it harder to disagree. “It appear reasoned: taking on board the downsides of nuclear before drawing a measured conclusion that it’s a necessary evil to produce a greater good.” As a result, only 13% disagree, but the whole audience is gently nudged.

Then locals are asked a whole series of branching questions, forcing them to weigh up the positive and negative impacts a new power station would have on the area. People who think it would be positive are asked to also weigh up the negative, and people who think it would be negative are asked to weigh up the positive factors, and everyone is asked to say why they think what they think.

Then, in a killer move, they’re asked: “How important, if at all, do you consider a new power station at Hinkley to each of the following? To the creation of local jobs? To the future of local businesses?” And take a moment to reinforce those concerns: “Why do you say that?”

Finally, after being led on this thoughtful journey, and immediately after mulling over the beneficial economic impact it would have in their community, the locals are asked if they’re in favour of a new nuclear power station. It’s the results of this, the final question, that are reported in the press release and headlines.

To me it seems clear that this long series of preceding questions will guide people down a path of thinking about a nuclear power station in a very different way to how they normally would. It’s a line of reasoning, and that might make sense if you were trying to advocate for a kind of structured decision making, but it’s very unlikely to produce results that reflect local views, partly because we’re all a bit thoughtless, in the real world, and follow our guts in odd ways; but partly because the penultimate question is “do you want your children to be unemployed?” rather than “are you all secretly terrified we might cock up and give you cancer?”.

So I still quite like nuclear power stations, but more than that, as ever, I salute the PR industry for finding new and elaborate ways to muddy the waters, and I salute the nerds who bust them for it.

View the original article here

Lazy Children May Face Chronic Health Problems

By Your Health Guru

Lazy Children May Face Chronic Health Problems
Children who are lazy and inactive may later face chronic health problems, says a study that advices parents of such children to take steps before it is too late. Lazy Children May Face Chronic Health Problems

Kamlesh Khunti and other researchers at Leicester University investigated activity levels among more than 3,500 pupils from five inner city secondary schools in Leicester and found that children face years of ill health because they are not active enough.
'This study shows that overall the physical activity levels in inner city school children are very low,' said Khunti. Lazy Children May Face Chronic Health Problems

'Parents, schools and community health providers need to address the results of these findings to reduce their future risks of developing diabetes and heart disease in children,' he said. Lazy Children May Face Chronic Health Problems

Khunti added that those of South Asian origin in Britain were at particular risk of both heart disease and diabetes. Children of parents who suffer from these conditions were also at extra risk of developing them as a result of inactivity. Lazy Children May Face Chronic Health Problems

Junk food, sedentary lifestyles and excessive television and computer usage have been blamed for creating couch potato children. At the same time, many children no longer take part in competitive sport at school, reported online edition of the Daily Mail. Lazy Children May Face Chronic Health Problems

Previous studies have shown that physical inactivity plays a major role in health. Those who are physically inactive face a risk of developing coronary artery disease. It also increases the risk of stroke and such other major cardiovascular risk factors as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol that is good for health. Lazy Children May Face Chronic Health Problems

The American Heart Association recommends that children and adolescents participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. Lazy Children May Face Chronic Health Problems!

Increased physical activity has been associated with an increased life expectancy and decreased risk of cardiovascular disease, scientists said. Physical activity also produces overall physical, psychological and social benefits. Inactive children are likely to become inactive adults. Lazy Children May Face Chronic Health Problems!

HIV Disease in Children

By Dr.Sally Zeinatie
HIV Disease in Children!
HIV disease in children is on the rise. With increasing prevalence of HIV in women among childbearing age group, absence of effective prevention program to restrict mother to child transmission of HIV and late detection as well as diagnosis of HIV in infected children; it has led to progression of this devastating disease.
HIV Disease in Children!
Having affected millions of homes worldwide, HIV has already entered many households and if nothing is done at present, it would lead to an epidemic of immense magnitude from which recovery will be slow.
MODES OF TRANSMISSION
HIV Disease in Children!
Three major routes are:
HIV Disease in Children!
• Sexual contact by 98%
• Transmission by blood by 100%
• Transmission through drug use by 100%
• Transmission in health care settings by 0.3%

Prenatal transmission by 13- 40%:
HIV Disease in Children!
a) in utero by transplacental spread
b) during birth through an infected birth canal
c) after birth by ingestion of milk by 14-29%
HIV Disease in Children!
How long do children with HIV survive?
HIV Disease in Children!
Between 25% and 30% of children who acquire HIV from their mothers die before their first birthday.
HIV Disease in Children!
How can mother-to child transmission of HIV be prevented?
HIV Disease in Children!
Pregnant women must have access to HIV testing and counseling so that they can learn their HIV status and make informed decisions about pregnancy, delivery and feeding options. Those who are HIV-positive should have access to a package of services that can enable safe delivery and ensure safe postnatal care and support for the baby and the mother. In high income countries, the use of antiretroviral drugs for treating the mother and preventing infection in the baby has become the standard of care and has led to the virtual elimination of mother to child transmission of HIV.
HIV Disease in Children!
Infection include:
HIV Disease in Children!
• Fever
• Rash
• Night sweats
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Swollen Glands
• Sore throat
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Oral (mouth) ulcers or sores
• Joint pain and/or muscle aches.
HIV Disease in Children!
The immune system has been severely damaged, making the child susceptible to opportunistic infections.
HIV Disease in Children!

The signs and symptoms of some of these infections may include:
HIV Disease in Children!
• Soaking night sweats
• Shaking chills or fever higher than 100 F for several weeks
• Dry cough and shortness of breath
• Chronic diarrhea
• Persistent white spots or unusual lesions on the tongue or in the mouth
• Headaches
• Blurred and distorted vision
• Weight loss.
HIV Disease in Children!
TREATMENT
HIV Disease in Children!
The latest drug is T/20, it prevents the HIV from entering into the cell, reducing the amount of HIV in these patients. Results show that the HIV has disappeared from 37% of AIDS patients, after taking this drug for 24 weeks. It was found that whole foods rich in selenocysteine, an amino acid chelating substance, prevents AIDS. Also vitamin A and selenium are good for boosting the immunity.
HIV Disease in Children!
Does antiretroviral therapy work for children with HIV?
HIV Disease in Children!
Antiretroviral therapy has proven to be highly effective in children, including those in resource-poor settings. Rapid initiation of treatment restores and preserves immune functions, promotes
normal growth and development, and prolongs life. (2)
HIV Disease in Children!
PREVENTION
HIV Disease in Children!
VACCINES:
HIV Disease in Children!
1) AIDSVAX: it consists of tiny fragments of gp120, the appendage that HIV uses to bind with target cells. This will trigger the production of antibodies that will stick to critical regions of gp120 preventing HIV from infecting cells.
HIV Disease in Children!
2) HGP-30W: This identifies a stable region of HIV -a protein segment from the core of the virus that holds its form while other parts mutate. The immune system attacks any cell that harbors it.
HIV Disease in Children!
3) GENETICALLY ENGINEERED CANARY-POX VIRUS: that carries the genes for three components of HIV, the surface protein used in AIDSVAX, the core protein used in HGP-30W, and one ENZYME. The immune system attacks both the free floating virus and HIV infected cells. If the altered virus can infiltrate the mucosal cells lining the rectum and vagina, this helps the body stop HIV entering into the bloodstream.
HIV Disease in Children!
“HIV DOES NOT MAKE PEOPLE DANGEROUS TO KNOW, SO YOU CAN SHAKE THEIR HANDS, AND GIVE THEM A HUG. HEAVEN KNOWS THEY NEED IT."
Says Princess Diana.
HIV Disease in Children!
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