In Brief: More evidence that varenicline harms the heart
An analysis of studies lends additional insight to the evidence that using Chantix to quit smoking increases the risk of a cardiovascular event.
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Predicting Potency After Prostate Cancer
New research gives men with early-stage prostate cancer a way to estimate their chances of keeping sexual function after treatment. The study involved about 1,000 men. They were given a questionnaire before and after treatment. The questionnaire was fairly accurate in predicting post-treatment sexual function. In men who had surgery, it was 77% accurate. In those who had radiation, it was 90% accurate. The odds of sexual function varied widely. For example, between 53% and 92% of men who had standard radiation maintained their sexual function. A man’s specific odds depended upon his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level and whether he also had hormone therapy. The findings may help men get an idea of what to expect after treatment. The study was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The Associated Press wrote about it September 20.
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Natural supplements for mental health
Herbal supplements, certain vitamins, and other naturally occurring substances may provide relief for some mental health conditions.
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In Brief: Study tests electronic messages as a way to improve depression care
Electronic communication with patients may help improve the treatment of depression.
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Autism spectrum disorders revisited
New research suggests that environmental factors play a much larger role in the development of autism spectrum disorders than previously believed.
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Commentary: Dr. Aaron T. Beck’s enduring impact on mental health
Dr. Michael Miller, editor in chief of the Harvard Mental Health Letter, offers an appreciation of a psychiatrist considered a pioneer in cognitive therapy.
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Mind over matter
Mindfulness techniques have been shown to be effective in people with depression or anxiety, and they can be useful in alleviating stress.
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Heart Beat: Repeat “zaps” often needed to stop atrial fibrillation
People with atrial fibrillation who undergo an ablation procedure may need two or more of the procedures to ease the arrhythmia.
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Blood vessel disease linked to dementia
Blood vessel problems can have a significant effect on the health of the brain, including contributing to the development of dementia.
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Ask the doctor: What accounts for wide swings in blood pressure?
My blood pressure has wide swings each day. It can go as high as 210/110, then fall to 100/50, tiring me. My doctor says I’m just a “reactive person.” My diet is excellent, and I try to keep active. Could my adrenal glands have anything to do with this?
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