Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world and in the Republic. It is estimated that more than 250,000 people have the condition, with one in seven children and one in 20 adults having asthma symptoms which require treatment. The incidence is increasing - from 15 per cent of the population in 1995 to 18 per cent in 1998 - and so is the cost. It is estimated the annual healthcare cost and economic burden of asthma in the Republic is £75 million. Treatment of asthma usually requires two types of medication: one inhaler to relieve attacks, and another to prevent attacks. However, a recent study showed the majority of people do not take their medication properly, often failing to take the preventer medication. Combination therapies, such as Seretide, providing both types of medication in one inhaler, can be more effective in the management of asthma. For advice, call the Asthma Line (1850-445464).
Preventing obesity in children and teenagers may reduce the number of adults with heart disease, according to US research. Around 60 per cent of overweight children in the study had at least one risk factor for heart disease. Compared with other schoolchildren, an overweight child is more likely to have high blood pressure, more than twice as likely to have a high cholesterol level and more than seven times as likely to have a high level of the fatty acid, triglyceride - all of which are heart disease risk factors. (Reuters)
Mushrooms may become a medical treatment in the west, says Dr John Wilkinson, who runs a degree course in herbal medicine at Middlesex University. The benefits of natural herbs and funghi are well-known in China, where 7,000 species are used for medicinal purposes. In Asia, reishi mushrooms, for instance, have been used for thousands of years in the treatment of swelling, aches and pains, while Wilkinson has found evidence that mushrooms such as reishi and shitake can boost the immune system. (BBC)
Soy foods could help prevent heart disease and may explain why heart disease is so rare in east Asian countries (where soy consumption is high), according to University of Toronto researchers. In their study, people with high levels of harmful cholesterol ate a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet which doubled the intake of soluble fibre and replaced most of the animal protein with vegetable protein from soy products, vegetables and cereals. Compared with a low-fat only diet, the test diet significantly lowered total cholesterol levels.
The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre is running a course designed to help primary school teachers and principals to "deal sensitively and appropriately with pupils who may be at risk, due to sexual abuse". The in-service course, entitled Child Sexual Abuse: Issues and Counselling Skills for the Teacher, will take place on July 5th-9th and on August 23rd-27th, and costs £50. For further details, contact the Rape Crisis Centre Training and Education Department (01-6614911).