Community Magazine November 2008

80 Community magazine ASPIRINMAY CUT CANCERRISK A new study pro- vides evidence that anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aspi- rin and Advil may re- duce a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. Researchers reviewed 38 studies involving a total of 2.7 million women and found that those who regularly took non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) had a lower incidence of breast cancer. Past research has indicated a possible link between anti-inflammatory drugs and a reduced risk of breast cancer, but some of the results were inconsistent. The new study is published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. NSAIDs are typically used to treat pain, fever, arthritis and other inflammation-related problems. Prolonged use of these medications can cause serious side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding, but the findings could eventually lead to new prevention options. HEALTH FEARS OVER ENERGY-SAVING LIGHT BULBS Reading or working near to an energy-saving light bulb could be harmful to your health. Certain types of fluorescent light bulbs – where the shape of the coil is clearly visible – may emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can damage the skin. The Health Protection Agency (HPA) issued a “precautionary” warning that the bulbs should not be used for long periods at distances closer than 30cm (one foot) away, such as in a desk or bedside lamp. Tens of thousands of people with conditions that make them sensitive to UV light, and those who work under a light bulb, such as jewelry makers, could also be affected. Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are gradually replacing traditional “incandescent” lighting as part of the Government’s strategy to tackle climate change. The study is published in the journal Radiation Protection Dosimetry. SOCIAL SMOKING TAKES TOLL Even occasional smoking is harmful to your health. Among the 45 million smokers in the United States, about 19 percent don’t smoke every day. Some occasional smokers, who smoke only on weekends or just in social situations, believe they avoid the risks typically associated with smoking by not smoking regularly. But new research shows that even occasional cigarette smoking can im- pair artery function, a sign of looming heart disease. The study, pub- lished in the journal Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology, found that the arteries of occasional smokers were 36 percent less responsive to changes in blood flow than nonsmokers. Repeated bouts of cigarette smoking — even if classified as occasional — appear to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in otherwise healthy people. SALT IS NEXT ONCITY’SHIT LIST New York City’s health commissioner Dr. Thomas Frieden wants to increase awareness of the risks of salt. The journal Circulation: Cardiovascular Qual- ity and Outcomes found that 26% of adults in New York City have high blood pressure — a known con- sequence of excessive salt consumption — compared to 30% nationally. The rate among New Yorkers older than 65 is 71%. Dr. Frieden has previously enacted measures tar- geting smoking and unhealthy foods. The Food and Drug Admin- istration reports that Americans consume twice the recommended daily intake of salt. The American Heart Association recommends that adults consume less than 1 teaspoon, or about 2,300 milli- grams, of salt daily. Fitness advice from professional trainer Michael Cohen WEIGHT TRAINING… FORWOMEN? Women have been flocking to the weight room in big numbers for over 20 years. But unlike men who often hit the bench just to build bulging biceps, women are seek- ing other valuable dividends from working with weights. Among other benefits, an American Cancer Society study published in 2004 found that strenuous physical activity protects against breast cancer. Additionally, women diag- nosed with breast cancer are generally advised to take up weight training as a means of fighting the disease. Weight training can also prove immensely beneficial to post-menopausal women. Until menopause, the pres- ence of high amounts of estrogen helps prevent against disorders such as heart disease and osteoporosis. But the onset of menopause causes a decline in bone density and an increase in excess weight. A 2004 study found that an aerobic and resistance training program offers significant protection against these risks. It is likely to maintain or even decrease body weight, preserve bone density, and increase muscle strength. Weight training might also improve flexibility, balance and coordination, decrease hypertension, raise good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol. And one need not spend hours in a weight room to enjoy these benefits. Just regular walking combined with a well-designed strength training program can bring great results and improve your health. So, don’t let your husband have all the fun. Reach for a dumbbell and start your own strength training program now . NER To • Your • Health MIKE’S COR