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The seven-day juice cleanse
Juice is definitely one of the best ways to detoxify the body, lose weight, diminish bloating, clear up the complexion and improve bowel movement, among others. While the world’s interest in health and wellness increases with every new virus that mutates, some of the simplest (and yet the most ancient) of practices are becoming more popular like juicing. There is a clamor to go back to the old traditions, thus a resurgence of time-tested practices which include organic farming, vegetarianism, slow-food movement and the like. Should it interest you to try out this seven-day juice plan, you can expect basic changes in your body -- from your daily lifestyle to food choices and, of course, to a more energetic you. Day 1: General Cleanse [caption id="attachment_178353" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] CARROT-LEMON-GINGER juice increases serotonin. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF UNSPLASH/louis hansel[/caption] Carrot-Lemon-Ginger Nutrients: Beta-carotene, vitamin B-6, C and magnesium. Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, may increase serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain that could provide benefits to reduce depression and anxiety, may treat nausea and indigestion and could improve skin quality. Recipe: 4 stalks carrots 1/4 lemon slice 1/4 fresh ginger Day 2: Liver Cleanse Carrot-Sugar Beets [caption id="attachment_178355" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] BEET juice may help lower blood pressure. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF UNSPLASH/nick collins[/caption] Nutrients: Carbohydrate, vitamin C, calcium and iron Benefits: May slow down the growth of cancer and could cleanse the liver. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Recipe: 5 stalks carrots, 2 whole sugar beets Day 3: Energy Drink Apple-Cucumber Nutrients: Vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, carbohydrate, water Benefits: Hydration, may improve heart and bone health, may increase vitality and could improve gut health Recipe: 2 whole green apples 1 whole cucumber Day 4: Green Booster Romaine Lettuce-Sprouts (of any kind, radish, alfalfa)-Green Pepper (optional)-Green Apple Nutrients: Vitamins A, B and C, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium potassium Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, may cleanse the blood and lower blood pressure Recipe: 10 leaves Romaine 1 cup sprouts 1 whole green apple 1/2 green pepper Day 5: Red Helper Beet-Celery-Lime Recipe: 2 beets 4 stalks celery 1/2 lime Nutrients: Vitamins A, B and C, natural sulfurs and potassium Benefits: Relieves and prevents constipation, may improve heart, kidney and eye and healthy liver. Day 6: Immune Booster Lemon-Ginger-Orange Nutrients: Vitamin C and potassium Benefits: May dissolve kidney stones, may address anemia and digestive issues and strengthen the liver Recipe: 1 lemon 6 slices ginger 2 oranges Day 7: Kidney Flush Coconut Water- Cucumber-Sayote Nutrients: Vitamin C, magnesium and potassium Benefits: May improve a hangover and cleanse the kidneys, good for hydration and blood cleansing Recipe: Water from one fresh coconut One whole cucumber One whole sayote Note : All ingredients must be washed, peeled and seeded, preferably organic. Procedure: All ingredients should be ideally juiced in a slow juicer like the highly acclaimed Hurom brand. Affirmation: “I claim perfect healing for myself beginning today.” Love and Light! The post The seven-day juice cleanse appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Guarding lungs strengthens immunity
Many of us had a taste of how catastrophic lung disorders can be during the pandemic when hospitals were overcrowded and bed ventilators were in limited supply. Regrettably, lung function is not just impaired by respiratory illnesses like Covid-19 but also declines with age. According to a study, swelling or inflammation brought on by disease, exposure to the environment, or advancing age can also partially clog breathing passageways and restrict airflow. Your lungs exert much effort each time you breathe to keep you alive. Especially if breathing is simple for you, you never give them a second thought. But if your lungs have trouble doing their essential tasks, your general health may also suffer. Breathing comfortably is the primary goal. What causes lung disease, though, and how can we prevent it? It is hard to pinpoint all the potential causes of lung disorders due to their extensive range. Lung problems are primarily caused by cigarette smoking. Lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD are two conditions that can result from it. On the other hand, infections and heredity are all also common causes. Some lung conditions, like the flu, can also be brought on by bacteria or viruses. Other lung disorders are frequently brought on by exposure to dangerous substances, including smoke, radon, asbestos, or air pollution. If you are exposed to any of these for an extended period, it raises your risk of developing lung disease. Your lungs (and your heart) get stronger when you exercise regularly. The muscles that aid in lung expansion can also be strengthened through exercise. Nature and lungs work together. A heart-healthy diet, therefore, benefits your lungs as well. You can breathe easier by eating well. Loading as much of your plate as possible with fiber-rich foods, lean meats, fresh fruits and veggies, and healthy fats is recommended. It is just as crucial to protect and secure our lungs’ health as to maintain a healthy mind and body. We should care for our lungs and strengthen our immunity against air pollution and viral illnesses. Supplements are a vital part of our lives nowadays, and they should be used with a healthy, well-balanced diet. The post Guarding lungs strengthens immunity appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Tech giants form AI group focused on ensuring safety
Four US leaders in artificial intelligence announced Wednesday the formation of an industry group devoted to addressing risks that cutting edge versions of the technology may pose. Anthropic, Google, Microsoft and ChatGPT-maker OpenAI said the newly created Frontier Model Forum will draw on the expertise of its members to minimize AI risks and support industry standards. The companies pledged to share best practices with each other, lawmakers and researchers. "Frontier" models refer to nascent, large-scale machine-learning platforms that take AI to new levels of sophistication -- and also have capabilities that could be dangerous. "Companies creating AI technology have a responsibility to ensure that it is safe, secure, and remains under human control," Microsoft president Brad Smith said in a statement. "This initiative is a vital step to bring the tech sector together in advancing AI responsibly and tackling the challenges so that it benefits all of humanity." US President Joe Biden evoked AI's "enormous" risks and promises at a White House meeting last week with tech leaders who committed to guarding against everything from cyberattacks to fraud as the sector grows. Standing alongside top representatives from Amazon, Anthropic, Google, Inflection, Meta, Microsoft and OpenAI, Biden said the companies had made commitments to "guide responsible innovation" as AI spreads ever deeper into personal and business life. Ahead of the meeting, the seven AI giants committed to a series of self-regulated safeguards that the White House said would "underscore three principles that must be fundamental to the future of AI: safety, security and trust." In their pledge, the companies agreed to develop "robust technical mechanisms," such as watermarking systems, to ensure users know when content is from AI and not humans. Core objectives of the Frontier Model Forum include minimizing risks and enabling independent safety evaluations of AI platforms, the companies involved said in a release. The Forum will also support the development of applications intended to take on challenges such as climate change, cancer prevention and cyber threats, according to its creators. Others pursuing AI breakthroughs were invited to join the group. "Advanced AI technologies have the potential to profoundly benefit society, and the ability to achieve this potential requires oversight and governance," said OpenAI vice president of global affairs Anna Makanju. "It is vital that AI companies -– especially those working on the most powerful models –- align on common ground and advance thoughtful and adaptable safety practices." Text The post Tech giants form AI group focused on ensuring safety appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Missing mom
Finding alive a person missing for many years can be intriguing as in the case of a Houston, Texas man. Reports say Rudy Farias, 25, was found by a Good Samaritan with cuts and bruises outside a Houston church and he was brought to a local hospital for treatment on 29 June. On 2 July, the Texas Center for the Missing tweeted that Farias was miraculously reunited with his mother, Janie Santana, on 1 July, New York Post reported. Reports quoted missing persons organizations as saying that Farias was 17 when he walked their dogs on 7 March 2015. The dogs returned home without him. An activist, Quanell X, told Fox 7 Austin that Santana claimed her son was kidnapped by Mexican traffickers and she raised money to find him but she used the funds instead for vacations and personal expenses. Santana got $2,000 in donations on GoFundMe to purportedly help search for her missing son. The fundraising platform said it has banned her, Fox News reported. X and Farias’ cousin, Michelle Rodriguez, also claimed that Santana mentally, physically, and sexually abused her son so he left. In a 6 July press conference, the Houston Police Department said they interviewed Farias, who denied the allegations. The HPD, however, said the man was never really missing. Farias returned home one day after his mother reported him missing, but Santana had told investigating police that Farias was her nephew, Lt. Christopher Zamora told reporters, according to Fox News. The misled HPD is still investigating but no charges have been filed against Santana. The mother and son were seen together in a friend’s home indicating there was no issue between them. Meanwhile, a San Diego, California man told an investigator of the US Social Security Administration last year that his mother was still alive and living in Japan where she was born. But much earlier, on 22 October 1990, Donald Felix Zampach, 65, had notified the US embassy in Tokyo that his mother, identified as STZ, had died, LA Times reported. She had returned to her home country that year after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the US. US authorities eventually learned that Zampach continued to collect his dead mother’s pension and survivor benefits from the Department of Defense that were deposited in her bank accounts by not informing the SSA that she was dead. He also received $12,000 from filing false tax returns, opened multiple credit card accounts, and obtained a home refinance loan of $126,000 all under his mother’s name, according to LAT. Federal prosecutors said Zampach’s take was more than $830,000 in public funds over more than 30 years, the longest-running and largest fraud of its kind in the Southern District of California. Zampach pleaded guilty to fraud charges and agreed to pay $830,000 in fines and surrender the house to the government, according to LAT. The post Missing mom appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Purple Power: Why more farmers should grow purple corn
The demand for healthier food options is on the rise, driven by an increasing number of health-conscious consumers. According to a survey by Food Industry Asia, eight out of ten Filipino consumers are becoming more health conscious and would prefer healthier food choices as long as they are tasty. This growing awareness of the importance of a healthy diet presents a substantial market opportunity for unique, tasty, and nutritious crops like East-West Seed’s hybrid Morado F1 purple sweet waxy corn. With its vibrant color, anthocyanin content, sweetness, and potential to increase income, Morado presents an enticing opportunity for Filipino farmers. Morado can provide farmers with a consistent income opportunity throughout the year as it is suitable to be planted all year round. It is also an early-maturing corn variety – farmers can harvest within 60 to 62 days after planting, enabling them to sell their produce to the market sooner. It also stands out not only for its vibrant purple hue but also for its ear quality. The kernels are soft, tender, and stay sweet even two days after harvest. Another remarkable attribute of Morado is its high anthocyanin content. Anthocyanins are the natural compounds responsible for the purple color of Morado. Studies have shown that anthocyanins possess antioxidant properties, offering numerous health benefits. These include reducing inflammation and preventive potential against cancer. Research also suggests that anthocyanins may be beneficial to the gut, which can contribute to overall improvement of health. Morado’s anthocyanin content makes it an appealing choice for health-conscious consumers. "Morado is very easy to sell in the market. Our buyers always look for Morado because it’s sweet, sticky, and has health benefits," said Levi Llaneta, a farmer from Albay who planted Morado. Mike Paragozo, a farmer from Agusan del Sur, also attests to Morado’s potential to increase income. He shared that the market value of Morado commands a premium, with prices ranging from 50 to 80 pesos per kilo, compared to other corn varieties. From Paragozo’s experience, customers are willing to purchase Morado, regardless of size and higher price, as they prioritize the health benefits it offers. "Every week, we plant 1-2 kg of Morado to ensure a continuous supply," said Paragozo. This consistent planting approach enables him to meet the growing demand for this unique crop and capitalize on its market potential. Mike also shared that it is easy to grow Morado. "From my experience, Morado has a high germination rate at around 95%. It is also strong against diseases," he added. The uniqueness and versatility of Morado also opens up various marketing avenues for farmers like Paragozo. "Morado can be sold to processors of corn coffee, fresh markets or directly to consumers." Moreover, because of its unique purple color, farms planted with Morado have the potential to attract tourists, offering an additional income opportunity for farmers. Mike is establishing Morado as a trademark in his farm in Agusan del Sur to attract tourists who are intrigued by this distinct purple corn. "At East-West Seed, we aim to improve the lives of our farmers by offering them innovative and high-yielding vegetable seed varieties that are suitable to the local growing conditions and needs of the local market," said Jay Lopez, general manager of East-West Seed Philippines. "Morado purple corn combines visual appeal, health benefits, and a significant potential to increase income, making it a favorable choice for entrepreneurial farmers," Lopez added. The post Purple Power: Why more farmers should grow purple corn appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Living near green space makes you 2.5 years younger: study
City parks and green spaces help counter heat, boost biodiversity, and instill a sense of calm in the urban jungle. They also help slow biological aging, with people who have access to green spaces found to be on average 2.5 years biologically younger than those who do not, according to a new study published Wednesday in Science Advances. "Living near more greenness can help you be younger than your actual age," Kyeezu Kim, the study's lead author and a postdoctoral scholar at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, told AFP. "We believe our findings have significant implications for urban planning in terms of expanding green infrastructure to promote public health and reduce health disparities." Exposure to green spaces has previously been linked with better cardiovascular health and lower rates of mortality. It's thought that more physical activity and social interactions are at play, but whether parks actually slowed down aging on a cellular level has been unclear. To investigate, the team behind the study examined DNA chemical modifications known as "methylation." Prior work has shown that so-called "epigenetic clocks" based on DNA methylation can be a good predictor of health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, cognitive function, and a more accurate way of measuring age than calendar years. Kim and colleagues followed more than 900 white and Black people from four American cities -- Birmingham, Chicago, Minneapolis, and Oakland -- over a period of 20 years, from 1986-2006. Using satellite imaging, the team assessed how close the participants' residential addresses were to surrounding vegetation and parks, and paired this data with blood samples taken in years 15 and years 20 of the study, to determine their biological age. The team constructed statistical models to evaluate the results, and control for other variables, such as education, income, and behavioral factors like smoking, that might have affected the results. They found that people whose homes were surrounded by 30 percent green cover within a five kilometer (three mile) radius were on average 2.5 years younger biologically compared to those whose homes were surrounded by 20 percent green cover. The benefits were not evenly shared. Black people with more access to green space were only one year biologically younger, while white people were three years younger. "Other factors, such as stress, qualities of the surrounding green space, and other social support, can affect the degree of benefits of green spaces in terms of biological aging," said Kim, explaining the disparities required further study. For example, parks in deprived neighborhoods used for illicit activities might be less frequented, negating the benefits. Next steps might involve investigating the link between green spaces and specific health outcomes, she added. It's also not yet clear how exactly greenery reduces aging -- only that it does, added Kim. Epidemiologist Manuel Franco, of the University of Alcala and Johns Hopkins, called the research a "well designed study." "We have more and better scientific evidence to increase and promote the use of urban green spaces," added Franco, who was not involved in the study. ia/jh © Agence France-Presse The post Living near green space makes you 2.5 years younger: study appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Living near green space makes you 2.5 years younger — study
City parks and green spaces help counter the heat, boost biodiversity, and instill a sense of calm in the urban jungle. They also help slow biological aging, with people who have access to green spaces found to be on average 2.5 years biologically younger than those who do not, according to a new study published Wednesday in Science Advances. "Living near more greenness can help you be younger than your actual age," Kyeezu Kim, the study's lead author and a postdoctoral scholar at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, told AFP. "We believe our findings have significant implications for urban planning in terms of expanding green infrastructure to promote public health and reduce health disparities." Exposure to green spaces has previously been linked with better cardiovascular health and lower rates of mortality. It's thought that more physical activity and social interactions are at play, but whether parks actually slowed down aging on a cellular level has been unclear. To investigate, the team behind the study examined DNA chemical modifications known as "methylation." Prior work has shown that so-called "epigenetic clocks" based on DNA methylation can be a good predictor of health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, cognitive function, and a more accurate way of measuring age than calendar years. Kim and colleagues followed more than 900 white and Black people from four American cities -- Birmingham, Chicago, Minneapolis, and Oakland -- over a period of 20 years, from 1986-2006. Using satellite imaging, the team assessed how close the participants' residential addresses were to surrounding vegetation and parks, and paired this data with blood samples taken in years 15 and years 20 of the study, to determine their biological age. The team constructed statistical models to evaluate the results, and control for other variables, such as education, income, and behavioral factors like smoking, that might have affected the results. They found that people whose homes were surrounded by 30 percent green cover within a five-kilometer (three-mile) radius were on average 2.5 years younger biologically compared to those whose homes were surrounded by 20 percent green cover. The benefits were not evenly shared. Black people with more access to green space were only one year biologically younger, while white people were three years younger. "Other factors, such as stress, qualities of the surrounding green space, and other social support, can affect the degree of benefits of green spaces in terms of biological aging," said Kim, explaining the disparities required further study. For example, parks in deprived neighborhoods used for illicit activities might be less frequented, negating the benefits. Next steps might involve investigating the link between green spaces and specific health outcomes, she added. It's also not yet clear how exactly greenery reduces aging -- only that it does, added Kim. Epidemiologist Manuel Franco, of the University of Alcala and Johns Hopkins, called the research a "well-designed study." "We have more and better scientific evidence to increase and promote the use of urban green spaces," added Franco, who was not involved in the study. The post Living near green space makes you 2.5 years younger — study appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Senate: Biazon was an outstanding public servant and the ‘epitome of humility’
Senate members and employees held a necrological service for former senator and military chief, Rodolfo “Pong” Biazon, on Monday morning. In his eulogy, former Senate President Vicente Sotto III remembered Baizon’s humble beginnings that made him become a “fearless legislator and well-decorated military official attributable to his hard work, perseverance, and fighting for what is right.” “Adversities did not hinder him from climbing both political and military—as a leader, so to speak,” Sotto said. Sotto also feted Biazon for advancing his advocacies for low-cost housing and benefits for soldiers while making sure that all sectors of society will benefit from the bills he crafted. “He is a truly dynamic and multi-faceted individual, a family man and excellent soldier, an extraordinary legislator, freedom fighter and defender of democracy who relished his life to the fullest, and above all his accomplishments, he will be most remembered as a good father, a loving husband, and a dear friend,” Sotto said. Former Senator Jose Lina Jr. described Biazon as an excellent and outstanding Filipino, a warrior and a statesman as well as a devoted public servant “whose integrity and compassion to the people are indeed worth emulating.” “All throughout his life, in the service of the Filipino people, Pong was an epitome of humility, simplicity, and decorum,” said Lina, adding that Biazon has the “compassion, understanding and pleasing traits of an exemplary public servant to be able to connect more effectively to the people.” Former Senator Gregorio Honasan II paid his last respects to Biazon, remembering Biazon’s unwavering dedication to public service. “Manong Pong walks the talk and showed by living example that an ordinary imperfect man—together, I underscored the word together— dream, pray, worked hard, and sacrificed to build a strong sovereign nation for the next generation. They all become heroes,” Honasan said. Also, former Senate President Franklin Drilon bid farewell to his departed ex-colleague and a good friend in the Upper Chamber. Drilon honors Biazon’s career as an inspiration, saying: “No one can question his capability and his dedication to public service and loyalty to the country.” “He was fearless and undoubted even in the face of death,” Drilon said. “Every little thing that could erode his beloved Philippines was worth his time to be able to bring on the floor of the Senate.” During the necrological service, several incumbent senators likewise delivered their eulogy for Biazon, followed by a public viewing of Biazon's remains in the Senate until 1 p.m. Biazon, a native of Batac, Ilocos Norte, entered the Philippine Military Academy as a cadet at 21, serving the military for three and a half decades. He then became the 21st AFP chief who served from 24 to 12 April 1991—the first and only from the ranks of the Philippine Marines. Prior to this, Biazon also served as the AFP Vice Chief of Staff, Commanding General of AFP-NCR Defense Command and Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps. Biazon is the first PMA alumnus to be elected as a senator and served in the 9th Congress from 1992 up to 1995 and from 1998 until 2010—where he was recognized as an exemplary defender of Philippine democracy and the people’s freedom. From Pasay City, Biazon’s remains will be transferred to the Philippine Marines headquarters in Taguig City later in the afternoon, for the final salute and execution of full military honors to Biazon. Biazon died age of 88 on 12 June 2023 after battling pneumonia. His family earlier confirmed that Biazon was diagnosed with lung cancer in July last year. The Senate issued a resolution honoring Biazon's legacies as well as expressing sincere sympathy and condolences for the passing of the veteran legislator. The post Senate: Biazon was an outstanding public servant and the ‘epitome of humility’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cervical cancer coverage among PhilHealth priorities
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation is looking for more health care providers to partner with them in providing benefits for cervical cancer patients......»»
Mammograms should start at 40, says US task force
All women should get mammogram screening for breast cancer starting from age 40, rather than 50, an influential US health body announced Tuesday, a move it said could save thousands of lives. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer and the second most common cause of cancer death for women in the United States, killing around 42,000 women and 500 men, according to official data. Black women are 40 percent more likely to die than white women. The Preventive Services Task Force, a group of independent experts appointed by the Department of Health and Human Services, said that while it previously recommended women in their 40s make individual choices about when to start screening, the new guidance could result in 19 percent more lives being saved. "New and more inclusive science about breast cancer in people younger than 50 has enabled us to expand our prior recommendation and encourage all women to get screened every other year starting at age 40," said the Task Force in a statement. Based on the evidence, the new recommendation was assigned a "Grade B" rating, its second-highest level. The guidance is still considered a draft, with the Task Force posting the evidence it considered on its website and allowing time for public comments and review. American health insurance is required to cover any service USPSTF recommends, regardless of cost. "Ensuring Black women start screening at age 40 is an important first step, yet it is not enough to improve the health inequities we face related to breast cancer," added Task Force vice chair Wanda Nicholson. "In our draft recommendation, we underscore the importance of equitable follow-up after screening and timely and effective treatment of breast cancer and are urgently calling for more research on how to improve the health of Black women." The draft recommendation applies to women at "average risk" of breast cancer, which includes people with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors such as having dense breasts, which about half of all women do. It doesn't apply to people who have a prior history of breast cancer, who have certain genetic markers that place them at high risk, who have had high-dose radiation therapy from a young age or had high-risk lesions taken on biopsies. The body said there was lingering uncertainty when it came to the benefits and harms of screening people aged 75 and older. "The balance of benefits and harms may shift as women age, but there is very limited research on this age population," it said in a statement. The Task Force said more research was needed to determine whether women with dense breasts should have additional screening with ultrasound or MRI, since mammograms may not work as well for them. Annual screening Sarah Friedewald, chief of breast imaging at Northwestern Medicine, told AFP that while she applauded the Task Force for recognizing age 50 was too late to start screening, "We feel very strongly that it should be every year." "If you increase the interval between the screens, you just allow the cancers to grow larger and potentially less treatable," she said, adding her recommendation was backed by numerous clinical trials and modeling data. When tumors are caught early, they can be surgically removed, without resorting to breast removal. The main risks linked to mammograms, and X-ray pictures of the chest, are anxieties associated with patients getting called back for additional imaging and biopsies that often turn out to be benign. The radiation risk associated with mammography is minimal. The post Mammograms should start at 40, says US task force appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Novartis NATALEE trial meets primary endpoint
Novartis announced positive topline results from an interim analysis of NATALEE, a Phase III trial evaluating ribociclib plus endocrine therapy in a broad population of patients with hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HR+/HER2) early breast cancer at risk of recurrence. The Independent Data Monitoring Committee recommended stopping the trial early as the primary endpoint of invasive disease-free survival has been met as ribociclib plus ET significantly reduced the risk of disease recurrence, compared to standard adjuvant ET alone, with consistent benefit in patients with stage II and stage III EBC regardless of nodal involvement. “While most patients are diagnosed and treated early with the aim to cure breast cancer, the risk of cancer returning, often as metastatic disease, peaks within three years after diagnosis, but never goes away completely,” said Dennis J. Slamon, MD, director of Clinical/Translational Research, University of California, Los Angeles Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Chairman and Executive Director of Translational Research In Oncology and NATALEE trial lead investigator. "There is a critical need for new, well-tolerated options that keep patients cancer-free without disrupting quality of life. The NATALEE trial, where ribociclib was given for three years plus ET, was designed with these unmet needs in mind, and it is extremely encouraging that this study met its primary endpoint,” he added. Per the NATALEE study protocol, patient follow-up will continue to evaluate long-term outcomes, including overall survival. "The positive topline results from NATALEE represent a major milestone in our ambition to expand the benefits of ribociclib to patients with earlier stages of breast cancer, building on the heritage of this effective treatment in HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer,” said Shreeram Aradhye, M.D., president of Global Drug Development and chief medical officer of Novartis. “These data have the potential to be paradigm-shifting for patients at risk of recurrence, including those with no nodal involvement, who have limited well-tolerated options to prevent recurrence. Our teams are working on submissions to health authorities around the world with the hope to bring ribociclib to many more patients diagnosed with breast cancer.” “The result of the NATALEE trial is a welcome development in the management of breast cancer, offering new hope for a longer life in a broad population of patients with stage II and III HR-positive/HER2-negative early breast cancer at risk of recurrence,” said Dr. Rosario V. Pitargue, the president of Philippine Society of Medical Oncology. “These findings build on the legacy of ribociclib in metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Ribociclib is the first and only CDK4/6 inhibitor so far to have shown both consistent and significant improvements in overall survival across 3 phase III trials,” said Novartis Healthcare Philippines country president Joel Chong. NATALEE is a global Phase III multi-center, randomized, open-label trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ribociclib with ET as adjuvant treatment versus ET alone in patients with HR+/HER2- EBC, being conducted in collaboration with Translational Research In Oncology. The primary endpoint of NATALEE is iDFS as defined by the Standardized Definitions for Efficacy End Points criteria; secondary endpoints include safety, quality of life, and overall survival, among others. iDFS is a composite endpoint in EBC adjuvant trials, which incorporates locoregional relapse, ipsilateral and contralateral invasive breast cancer, distant recurrence, and types of new cancer events or death from any cause. Approximately 5,100 adult patients with HR+/HER2- EBC across 20 countries were randomized in the trial, including patients with tumor stages IIA (select patients), IIB or III, regardless of nodal involvement. NATALEE explored a lower starting dose (400 mg) of ribociclib than the dose approved for treatment in MBC (600 mg) with the goal to minimize disruptions to patient quality of life without compromising efficacy. Ribociclib, on the other hand, has consistently demonstrated overall survival benefit while preserving or improving quality of life across three Phase III trials. Updates to the NCCN Guidelines® for breast cancer, released in January 2023, recommend ribociclib as the only Category 1 preferred CDK4/6 inhibitor for first-line treatment of patients with HR+/HER2- MBC when combined with an AI. Additionally, ribociclib has the highest rating of any CDK4/6 inhibitor on the ESMO Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale, achieving a score of five out of five for first-line premenopausal patients with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer. Ribociclib, in combination with either letrozole or fulvestrant has uniquely, among other CDK4/6 inhibitors, received a score of four out of five for postmenopausal patients with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer treated in the first line. The post Novartis NATALEE trial meets primary endpoint appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Glutathione for that Radiant, healthy look
[caption id="attachment_121729" align="aligncenter" width="525"] photograph courtesy of pexels/shiny diamond | glutathione helps reduce pigmentation by decreasing oxidative stress.[/caption] To what lengths must we go to achieve radiant and youthful skin? Some opt for skincare products and a 10-step regimen, while others go the medical route via aesthetic procedures or supplements. On the topic of supplements, among the most common options are those that include glutathione. In the Philippines, what is commonly called “gluta” is ingested mainly by those who wish for a fair complexion. But, according to Medical News Today, glutathione is actually a “powerful antioxidant that may help protect the body from disease, slow cancer progression and improve insulin sensitivity, among other benefits.” Earlier, I also learned that the whitening effect of glutathione isn’t even its primary benefit, which actually makes it a win-win situation for those taking it. [caption id="attachment_121726" align="aligncenter" width="525"] photograph courtesy of unsplash/avdalyan | taking S-Acetyl Glutathione supplement is a great way to protect ourselves from health problems associated with aging.[/caption] According to HealthNews, “Glutathione can inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in the production of melanin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for dark spots and discoloration of the skin caused by the sun, medications, or certain medical conditions. Oxidative stress increases the production of melanin. Since glutathione is an antioxidant, it may also help reduce pigmentation by decreasing oxidative stress.” A myriad of glutathione supplements is available in the country, so it may be difficult to know which one is ideal for you. [caption id="attachment_121727" align="aligncenter" width="669"] photograph courtesy of NuWhite | NuWhite S-Acetyl Glutathione.[/caption] NuWhite offers what it calls a unique form of the antioxidant in S-Acetyl Glutathione. Per creators Oxina Nutricosmetics, S-Acetyl Glutathione belongs to the sulfur atom of cysteine in the glutathione molecule. The acetyl group protects glutathione from degrading when ingested orally. Once it hits the digestive tract, it does not get broken down and is 100-percent absorbed by the body. This helps ensure maximum effectivity, the results which can be seen in as little as 28 days. Integrative Psychiatry also says that “taking S-Acetyl Glutathione supplement is a great way to protect ourselves from health problems associated with aging, poor lifestyle and adverse environmental factors.” [caption id="attachment_121728" align="aligncenter" width="525"] photograph courtesy of pexels/john tekeridis | facials also help achieve radiant and youthful skin.[/caption] Whether it’s via a 10-step skincare regimen or ingesting glutathione-infused products, each one of us has our own way of getting that radiant look. But, it’s important to note that each option should be done under the supervision of professionals. NuWhite is available on Lazada, Shopee and TikTok Shop, and in Watson’s branches nationwide. The post Glutathione for that Radiant, healthy look appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mental health inclusion to PhilHealth eyed
Senator Mark Villar on Wednesday has filed a measure seeking to expand the country’s health insurance program for about 3.6 million Filipino patients with psychiatric disorder. The lawmaker filed the Senate Bill 2062 or an Act Expanding Philippine Health Insurance Coverage, granting also a benefit package to all mental health patients in the country. “We should not set aside mental health disorders, it’s affecting a lot of Filipinos. In fact, according to the Department of Health there are around 3.6 million Filipinos facing mental health issues,” Villar said in a statement. Citing the recently published study by the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative Resilient Communities Program, Villar underscored the “costly treatments and services” that usually barred patients to access proper mental health care treatment in the Philippines. The measure is set to provide benefit packages to those with mental disabilities covering emergency services, psychiatric and neurological services, as well as mental health gap action program. “We are pushing for a benefit package so that our fellow countrymen will no longer thing about the treatment cost,” he said, noting that mental health patients are likewise entitled to gain support from the government. Under the bill, non-member parents of minors suffering from mental health disorders are also allowed to avail of the treatment package from the PhilHealth. “Mental health is equally important as physical health. It is a fundamental aspect of our overall well-being. We filed this bill to normalize seeking help for mental health disorders and to break the stigma that comes with it. By recognizing and prioritizing mental health, we can create a healthier, happier, and more inclusive society for Filipinos, especially the youth,” Villar said. Currently, PhilHealth is offering inpatient benefits being paid to the accredited Health Care institution; as well as outpatient benefits with day surgeries, radiotheraphy, hemodialysis and blood transfusion. Under the PhilHealth Z benefits program, those 20 listed illness and health conditions including the Acute lymphocytic leukemia, Early breast cancer, prostate cancer, kidney transplant, standard risk coronary bypass graft, tetralogy of Fallot, ventricular septal defect, cervical cancer, Z MORPH (Mobility, Orthosis, Rehabilitation and Prosthesis Help), selected orthopedic implants, peritoneal dialysis, colon cancer, rectal cancer, expanded mobility orthosis rehabilitation help, premature and small newborns, children with developmental disabilities, children with mobility impairment, children with visual impairment, children with hearing impairment and rheumatic heart disease. PhilHealth also covers benefits for outpatient malaria package, HIV-AIDS package, anti-tuberculosis treatment through directly-observed treatment Short-course, voluntary Surgical Contraception Procedures and animal bite treatment Package. The post Mental health inclusion to PhilHealth eyed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
VDM 200km cycling also a fund-raiser for cancer patient
CEBU CITY, Philippines— Aside from promoting the environmental benefits of cycling, the VDM Ride For Green & Healthy Environment will also be a fund-raising event for a breast cancer patient. The grueling 200-kilometer non-competitive cycling event, which will be held on Thursday, April 1, 2021, aims to raise funds to help stage 4 breast cancer […] The post VDM 200km cycling also a fund-raiser for cancer patient appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Galunggong retail price up 20 percent
The retail price of galunggong or round scad has increased by 20 percent as fish demand rises during the Holy Week......»»
DOH, SPMC raise colorectal cancer awareness
THE Department of Health (DOH) and the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) collaborated to raise awareness about colorectal cancer causes and symptoms during the Kapihan sa Dabaw at SM Ecoland on Monday morning, March 25, 2024......»»
DA, DTI urged to enforce stricter price monitoring during Holy Week
A lawmaker has called on the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Trade and Industry to keep an eye on possible price surges during the Holy Week and set suggested retail price on basic commodities......»»
Just seven of 116 SUCs offer medicine programs — lawmaker
House Minority Leader Rep. Marcelino Libanan (4PS Partylist) said that Congress should allot more funding to support "highly advanced" SUCs in establishing their own medical schools to subsidize the schooling of aspiring doctors......»»
Big-time oil price hike amid Holy week exodus
Big-time oil price hike amid Holy week exodus.....»»
Princess Kate praised for ‘extraordinary dignity’ after cancer diagnosis
LONDON – Kate, Britain’s Princess of Wales, and her husband Prince William have been “enormously touched” by the messages of support received since she announced her cancer diagnosis, a Kensington Palace spokesperson said on Saturday. Kate said on Friday she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy after tests done following her major abdominal surgery in January revealed cancer had.....»»