For Women Only
Another subset of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study has concluded that hysterectomized women can take supplemental estrogen for relief of menopausal symptoms without increasing their risk of breast cancer. The study involved 10,700 healthy women whose uteruses had been removed. Although the participants did not exhibit higher incidences of breast cancer, they did have more abnormal mammograms and more breast biopsies. Synthetic estrogen was used in this study, as well as in the larger WHI study that was stopped early when it concluded that the risks of synthetic hormones outweighed the benefits. For information about alternatives to these types of hormones, visit collegepharmacy.com.
For Men Only
A study at the University of California has shown that testosterone therapy may improve cognitive function and slow brain atrophy in men with multiple sclerosis (MS). Ten men with relapsing-remitting MS (RMSS), which involves periods of relapses and remission, participated in the research. For one year, they received daily treatment of 100 mg of transdermal testosterone gel. After one year, the men showed improved brain processing speed, working memory, and spatial memory. The men's rate of brain atrophy also slowed by 67% during the last nine months of treatment. In addition, production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which helps promote nerve cell survival, increased more than twofold. Further double-blind, placebo-controlled studies with larger groups of men are needed to confirm the preliminary results, say the researchers.
Remember Sex?
Equality between men and women outside the bedroom leads to better sex, according to a University of Chicago study. Researchers surveyed 27,500 people in 29 countries, from ages 40 to 80. Couples who live in countries where sexual equality is more prevalent, including Austria, the United States, Spain, and Canada, reported higher levels of sexual satisfaction. In more male-centered cultures where women's sexual pleasure is not deemed important—including Turkey, Egypt, and Algeria—both men and women said they were less satisfied. Researchers speculated that in relationships built on equality, both partners' sexual needs are more likely to be met.
Quote of the Month
"Progress always involves risk; you can't steal second base and keep your foot on first."
- Frederick Wilcox
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Q&A
Q: What exercises can I do for chronic back pain?
A: A new study has found that yoga postures may help. After six months of practicing yoga, participants with back pain had less discomfort, used fewer pain relievers, and had more range of movement than those who performed conventional exercises. It's definitely worth a try.
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Healthy and Fit
Fish apparently is good for your mental as well as physical fitness, say researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. People who eat seafood reportedly are happier and have more pleasant personalities, compared to their less-fishy friends who may have mild symptoms of depression, feelings of impulsivity, and a negative outlook on life. Fish is rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which help feed brain function. Nutritionists recommend at least two servings of seafood per week or fish oil supplements.
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