Author: Contributing Writer

The online gambling industry, known as iGaming, has seen tremendous growth and evolution since the first virtual casinos launched in the mid 1990s. What started as basic online replicas of land-based establishments has transformed into a high-tech, immersive gaming experience across multiple platforms and devices. Understanding how iGaming platforms have advanced over the years provides insight into the trajectory of the industry and what the future may hold. Examining the key innovations and breakthroughs that have shaped the development of online casinos sheds light on the driving factors behind their phenomenal rise.

Key Takeaways
  • Prescription medications, like Suboxone, may have unexpected side effects, including dental health issues.
  • It's crucial for everyone, particularly those on prolonged medication, to prioritize proper oral care.
  • Familiarizing yourself with medication side effects empowers you to take preemptive steps to safeguard your well-being.
  • Consistent dental examinations and embracing a healthy lifestyle can help alleviate certain medication-related risks.
Introduction to Prescription Medications and Dental Health Prescription medications can be life-saving, but they often come with side effects that patients may not fully understand. One such medication is Suboxone, a vital tool in treating opioid addiction. While Suboxone is effective for its intended purpose, it has been linked to significant dental health issues, including tooth decay. Recent reports and studies have highlighted the concern over a suboxone lawsuit tooth decay issue, emphasizing the need for awareness and preventive measures. Without the proper knowledge, patients might find themselves facing unexpected health challenges.

Your spine is a critical part of your body, supporting you in almost every movement you make. Keeping it healthy and happy is essential for your overall well-being. Many people experience back pain or discomfort at some point in their lives, often due to poor habits and lifestyle choices. Fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to maintain spine health and prevent these issues. This article will provide you with practical tips to keep your spine in top shape.

1. Practice Good Posture

Good posture is the foundation of a healthy spine. When you maintain proper alignment, you reduce strain on your back muscles and spine. Whether you are sitting, standing, or sleeping, being mindful of your posture can make a significant difference. When sitting, keep your feet flat on the floor, your knees at a right angle, and your back straight. Use a chair that supports the natural curve of your spine. If you spend long hours at a desk, consider using an ergonomic chair that offers proper lumbar support. Standing with good posture involves keeping your shoulders back, your head level, and your weight evenly distributed on both feet. Avoid slouching or leaning to one side. When sleeping, choose a mattress and pillows that keep your spine aligned, whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach. Maintaining good posture not only helps your spine but also improves your overall appearance and confidence.

Nutrition label makers have become popular in food production circles. But they are more than just a fad. You need them to run a food business that meets regulatory standards. Let's explore food labeling software and the features that make it a star in the food production industry.

The Science Behind Food Labels

Nutrition Label Making SoftwareThe nutrition label maker relies on food reference materials to produce accurate and up-to-date nutrition information. The reference materials are compilations of nutritional data detailing the nutrients in diverse foods and beverages. Most food manufacturers prefer government-backed standard reference materials—such as those from the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology)—as they meet accuracy, trustworthiness, and reliability standards. Manufacturers can also use scientifically developed food databases that are not affiliated with government agencies as their nutrition data source. Indeed, many players in the food production space rely on more than one database to process their products' nutrient data. The more data a nutrition label maker has to comb through, the more extensive the nutrient information it can compile for every food ingredient. This is important for two main reasons:
  • It provides the consumer with comprehensive nutritional details about the food product
  • It ensures that the manufacturer is FDA-compliant

cycling-biking-health-benefits Remember those hot summer days when all we wanted was to come home from school and ride a bike around the neighborhood? Is this a familiar scenario for you? If yes, you've come to the right (digital) place because we discuss the benefits of cycling for all generations.

Why Pedaling?

You know how they say, once you learn to ride a bike, you never forget it. If you have a two-wheeler abandoned in some corner of your storage or basement, it's time to consider taking it for a ride. Here's why
  • Cycling is a low-impact aerobic activity
  • Riding a bike activates almost all muscles
  • Pedaling improves your concentration, coordination, stamina, and strength
  • Regular bike rides help you lose weight
  • Rides are as intense as you want them to be
  • It is a cost-effective, eco-friendly transportation option

A nursing career is one that can be both rewarding and challenging. It’s a profession that demands compassion, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning. According to Indeed, in the US, the typical hourly wage for a Registered Nurse stands at $43.91. Working in such a noble field is an amazing opportunity. However, before embarking on this career, it’s essential to step back and ask yourself some important questions. This will help you determine if nursing is the right path for you. Here are a few questions to consider before choosing a career in nursing.

#1 Am I Passionate about Helping Others?

Ask Yourself Before Choosing a Career in NursingAccording to the Daily Nurse, nursing is fundamentally about caring for others during their most vulnerable moments. It requires kindness and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Besides, nurses, particularly those working with diverse populations, need to consistently practice empathy to enhance the quality of their care. Reflect on whether you have a passion for helping others and derive satisfaction from providing comfort and support to those in need. If the answer is yes, then nursing might be a perfect fit for you.

dental health, new teeth Table of Contents
  1. The Importance of Oral Health
  2. Routine Dental Checkups
  3. Proper Brushing and Flossing Techniques
  4. The Impact of Diet on Oral Health
  5. Lifestyle Choices Affecting Oral Health
  6. Benefits of Preventative Care 
    The Importance of Oral Health There's more to oral health than just having straight teeth. It's a crucial part of general wellbeing. Tooth decay, gum disease, and even more severe systemic disorders can be brought on by poor oral hygiene. Remember to practice good oral hygiene to avoid these problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that untreated oral disorders can impede speech and eating and can lead to chronic inflammation, which can exacerbate pre-existing conditions like heart disease. Regular visits to a Holly Springs dentist can help manage and prevent such conditions. Investing time in oral health is crucial for future comfort and wellbeing. Simple habits like brushing twice daily and flossing can prevent many problems. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to tartar build-up, cavities, and tooth loss. Teaching children these habits early sets them up for a lifetime of good dental practices.

nurse-practitionerNurse practitioners (NPs) contribute boundless compassion with their specialized expertise across healthcare fields. However, have you wondered what an average day looks like for a women’s health NP compared to an acute care specialist? Or have you pondered distinctions in clinical environments between mental health and pediatric NPs coordinating youth care teams? In this blog post, we will shed light on four distinct NP specialties by peeking into realistic scenarios covering typical patients, evolving roles, and meaningful differences impacting their daily rounds.

Embarking on a rewarding career path in nursing can be a noble and fulfilling choice. But before immersing yourself in a nursing program, pause to confirm it resonates with your aspirations and strengths. This introspection is vital, as a nursing degree lays the foundation for a demanding yet deeply impactful profession. Below, we've curated seven crucial questions to aid your self-discovery and determine if a nursing major aligns with your aspirations.

1. Is Nursing Right for You?

Nursing major, nursingThere is no doubt that nursing is a promising and rewarding career. Registered Nurses earned a median salary of $81,220 in 2022, as reported by US News. The top 25% earned $101,100, while the bottom 25% earned $66,680. But, before committing to a nursing major, consider if it resonates with your passions and values. Nursing entails dedication, empathy, and resilience beyond academic excellence to address patient care's challenges and rewards effectively. Assessing alignment with your aspirations is pivotal for a fulfilling nursing career. Consider your innate qualities and personal motivations. Are you genuinely drawn to helping others in their times of need? Do you thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments where critical thinking and problem-solving skills are paramount? Reflecting on these aspects can offer invaluable insight into whether nursing is the right path for you.

elderly-drivers-car-keys The risk of accidents and medical emergencies on the road can increase for elderly individuals struggling with confusion, slowed reflexes, poor vision, and other issues. Frightening statistics show the number of   motor-vehicle deaths involving drivers aged 65+ increased 5% from 2021 to 2022. In the last decade, deaths have increased 42% as the older adult population in the United States has increased 29%. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to support both independent and safe driving for older adults. Part of this is knowing when to take car keys from elderly drivers. If you or a loved one are struggling to understand when it’s time to limit driving, here are some signs that it might be time to have a conversation about alternative transportation options.

So, you've probably heard about ultrasonic tooth cleaners, right? They're like the new kids on the block in the world of dental hygiene. These gadgets use high-frequency sound waves – we're talking ultrasonic vibrations – to gently yet effectively break down and remove all sorts of nasties from your teeth: plaque, tartar, the works. The cool part? They do this without being harsh on your gums or enamel. This is key because, let’s face it, no one wants to trade in tartar for tooth sensitivity. It’s about getting your pearly whites clean without the downsides of traditional scraping tools that sometimes feel like a DIY project gone wrong in your mouth.

Why Ultrasonic Cleaners Could Be Your Teeth's New Best Friends

dental-health-pexels-photo-3706542
Now, why are these ultrasonic wonders good news for your chompers? Well, think about the usual suspects that dentists always warn us about – plaque and tartar. They're not just cosmetic issues; they're like the bad guys plotting against your oral health. Ultrasonic tooth cleaners step in as the superheroes, targeting these troublemakers with precision. This means less plaque and tartar, which in turn means a lower risk of gum disease and cavities. It’s a domino effect, really. Plus, these cleaners often reach where regular brushes can't, like those sneaky spots between your teeth and along your gum line. So, you’re not just cleaning; you're doing a deep clean every time.

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

[caption id="attachment_61098" align="alignleft" width="160"]Mahsa Dolatshahi, M.D., M.P.H.Post-doctoral research fellow Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology (MIR) Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis Dr. Dolatshahi[/caption] Mahsa Dolatshahi, M.D., M.P.H. Post-doctoral research fellow Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology (MIR) Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Obesity at midlife is recognized as a risk factor for developing Alzheimer disease decades afterwards. However, body mass index on its own does not adequately represent the risks associated with obesity. In this study, we went beyond BMI and considered anatomical distribution of body fat, including the metabolically active visceral fat in the belly, and showed its association with Alzheimer pathology in the form of amyloid proteins. In addition, visceral fat along with obesity and insulin resistance were associated with thinning of brain cortex, as early as midlife.

If you're setting your sights on giving your gums the royal treatment, you're on the right track. You want to buddy up with foods that are friends with your gums. Crunchy greens, like celery and spinach, are packed with gum-loving vitamins and minerals. Noshing on cheese and yogurt isn't just good for your bones; it also helps buffer the acids in your mouth, keeping your gums happy. Why's this a big deal? Well, your gums are the unsung heroes holding your teeth in place, and keeping them healthy is key to making sure your smile stays put for the long run.

Foods to Give a Wide Berth

Now, on to the munchies that your gums wish they could ghost. Sugary snacks and acidic eats like citrus and tomatoes might taste the bomb, but they're no pals to your gums. They invite bacteria to the party, and not the good kind. These guys get down to business, breaking down your gum tissue and causing inflammation. If you're fond of a smoke or a cheeky glass of wine, you might want to rethink that too. Anything that dries out your mouth is basically giving your gums a hard time. Skipping these is critical because, once gum disease checks in, it can be a hassle to show it the door.

Addiction is a part of modern life. Some people have addictions that are regarded as minor and not particularly dangerous. Caffeine addiction is widespread, for instance. Other individuals become addicted to something like drugs or alcohol, though. Addiction therapy in Houston may be appropriate if you live there and feel your life is slipping out of your control. If you live elsewhere, you must look for inpatient or outpatient facilities close to you. Some people compare addiction to an anchor that weighs you down. We will talk about why that is an apt comparison right now. What Addiction Does to Your Spirit Anchors are things that incapacitate you, and many people who have a habit that is getting out of control feel that weight every day. It impacts you in many ways, but the spiritual exhaustion an addict feels might be the worst thing that happens to them. When you look at an addict, you might see what their addiction is doing to them physically, but what it is doing to them mentally and psychologically is often just as evident. They may slump as though they’re literally carrying something heavy on their shoulders. This is because they often have to lie and hide their addiction or the extent of it from family members, friends, and coworkers. There’s no way that can be anything but exhausting.

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61082" align="alignleft" width="125"]Hira Mohyuddin, PGY-2Psychiatry Residency Training Program  The George Washington University Dr. Mohyuddin[/caption] Hira Mohyuddin, PGY-2 Psychiatry Residency Training Program The George Washington University MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Frailty has become increasingly significant as the global population grows older, as this syndrome is linked with a higher mortality and morbidity in aging. Causes contributing to frailty are poorly understood, but it seems that the role of inflammation is very likely. While other chronic infections were shown to precipitate and perpetuate inflammation that contributes to the development of frailty, no prior study has previously focused on possible links between Toxoplasma gondii and geriatric frailty. Benefiting from a collaboration with Spanish and Portuguese researchers, we have now tested, for the first time to our knowledge, this possible association.

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61077" align="alignleft" width="150"]Giovanni Traverso MD PhDKarl Van Tassel (1925) Career Development Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Koch Institute of Integrative Cancer Research
Division of Gastroenterology
Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA Dr. Traverso[/caption] Giovanni Traverso MD PhD Karl Van Tassel (1925) Career Development Professor Department of Mechanical Engineering Koch Institute of Integrative Cancer Research Division of Gastroenterology Brigham and Women’s Hospital Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: I think its always important to acknowledge that this is a big team effort.  We have the teams from MIT, Celero Systems, West Virgnia University (WVU) and Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) all working together on this.   For this study, Celero prototyped the devices that we tested in pre-clinical (Swine) models and in a first-in-human study with the team at WVU. Our lab focuses on the development of ingestible devices for drug delivery and sensing and these have informed the development of these efforts as you can see. MedicalResearch.com: What types of vital signs are measurable in this fashion? Response: Heart rate and respiratory rate.

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Lisa-Marie Smale, PharmD
PhD Candidate Clinical Pharmacy
Radboud University Medical Center
Department of Pharmacy
Nijmegen, the Netherlands Lisa-Marie Smale, PharmDPhD Candidate Clinical PharmacyRadboud University Medical CenterDepartment of PharmacyNijmegen, the Netherlands   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Cancer drugs are not always fully used by patients, while these drugs are mostly expensive and environmentally damaging, both in production and (waste) disposal. Therefore we investigated whether unused drugs of patients can be collected, verified of quality by a pharmacy, to be redispensed to other patients instead of being disposed of. We were interested whether such an approach ultimately leads to lower environmental impacts and costs.

pexels-photo-7578808-medical-practitioner.webpIf you've been in a scrape and your noggin took a knock, playing it tough and shaking it off isn't the way to go. A traumatic brain injury (TBI), even one that seems no biggie, can be sneaky. At first, you might feel fine, but your brain's had a jolt, and it needs a look-over. Ignoring it? Bad move. That little headache or dizziness might be your brain's way of saying, "Hey, I'm not okay." Small signs like mood swings, sleep changes, or even just feeling "off" can be the early whispers of something bigger brewing. It's like ignoring a weird noise in your car's engine—let it go and you might just find yourself broken down on the highway of health.

The Domino Effect of Ignoring Symptoms

Let's talk about what happens if you shrug off those symptoms. A tiny injury can start a chain reaction. Before you know it, you could be dealing with big-time problems like memory issues, serious concentration hiccups, or even long-term disabilities. And here's the kicker: these troubles don't always show up on day one. They can sneak up on you, turning from "I'm fine" to "Why can't I remember my passwords?" in no time. Think about it—your brain runs the show, so even a small glitch can throw off the whole performance.

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61065" align="alignleft" width="150"]Charles Schuler, MDAssistant Professor
Allergy and Clinical Immunology &
Mary H. Weiser Food Allergy Center
University of Michigan Dr. Schuler[/caption] Charles Schuler, MD Assistant Professor Allergy and Clinical Immunology & Mary H. Weiser Food Allergy Center University of Michigan MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that may include a skin rash, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and shock. Food anaphylaxis sends 200,000 people to the emergency room annually in the United States. Oral food challenges are when a patient ingests increasing doses up to a full serving of the suspected food allergen under supervision of a medical provider, usually an allergist. These oral food challenges are the diagnostic standard for food allergy/anaphylaxis as skin and blood allergy tests have high false positive rates. Although a highly accurate test, patients often experience anaphylaxis during oral food challenges necessitating an epinephrine injection.

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61061" align="alignleft" width="142"]Peter C. Minneci, MDChair of Surgery at Nemours Children’s Health
Delaware Valley Dr. Minneci[/caption] Peter C. Minneci, MD Chair of Surgery at Nemours Children’s Health Delaware Valley MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?  Would you briefly explain the symptoms/course of pilonidal disease?  Response: Pilonidal disease is relatively common and affects up to 1% of the population starting in adolescence and up until young adulthood. Pilonidal disease occurs when cysts or sinuses form between the buttocks. It is believed to be an inflammatory reaction to hair or debris that gets caught in the crease of the buttocks. Risk factors for the condition include a sedentary lifestyle, hygiene and obesity. [caption id="attachment_61062" align="alignleft" width="150"] Pilonidal Cyst
DermNet Image[/caption] Pilonidal disease can be intermittent or chronic and recurs about 33% of the time, with 80% of recurrences taking place within a year of initial treatment. These recurrences contribute to a high degree of psychosocial stress in patients, who often miss school or sports and may avoid social activities. Pilonidal cysts may become infected, in which case patients must take antibiotics or undergo surgery.   Standard treatment for pilonidal disease involves removal of hair with razors or creams, as well as recommendations such as keeping the area clean. In recent years, some practitioners have begun using laser epilation as an additional strategy to prevent recurrence by providing more durable hair removal. However, it’s important to point out that this is not covered by insurance. In addition, as a provider, I have found that my patients that do have the means to pay often don’t comply with the number of sessions needed to fully remove the hair due to many different factors including pain and discomfort during the procedure.  

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Lead Author: Rupak Desai, MBBS Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center Independent Researcher, Atlanta, GA, Presenter: Vamsikalyan Borra, MD Resident Physician, Internal Medicine University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Weslaco, TX MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The relationship between sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) is quite complex. OSA can cause hypoxia, activation of the sympathetic nervous system, and hypertension, all of which can have negative effects on kidney function. On the other hand, in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), intensifying renal replacement therapy has shown some improvement in sleep apnea severity, suggesting a bi-directional relationship between the two conditions. While there are still uncertainties, recent studies have focused on understanding the interplay between OSA and CKD. The role of CPAP therapy, a common treatment for OSA, in relation to CKD is not yet clear. Observational studies present findings regarding the impact of CPAPs on kidney function. However, researchers are actively investigating its cardiovascular benefits and its influence on the progression of CKD. The objective of this study is to analyze the trends in composite cardiovascular events in hospital encounters among geriatric patients with CKD, comparing those with and without obstructive sleep apnea. Additionally, we are also investigating sex and racial disparities in trends of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) among geriatric patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Furthermore, we are assessing the impact of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment and dependence on MACCE outcomes in OSA patients

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Ying Li MD, PhD Graduate School Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chengdu, China MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a prevalent dermatological condition affecting approximately 1% of the global population. It is characterized by persistent itching and the development of hives, significantly impairing patients' quality of life. More than 90% of patients with CSU require urgent medical treatment to relieve itching. However, few therapies are specifically designed to treat pruritus in The management of pruritus is one of the main goals in the treatment of chronic spontaneous urticaria . Antihistamines are a common treatment of CSU, and current guidelines recommend second-generation antihistamines as first-line therapy. However, nearly 40% of patients do not respond to second-generation antihistamines, even when the dose is increased 2- to 4-fold. Omalizumab as a second-line treatment is effective in controlling urticaria, but it is costly and is not reimbursed in many countries, limiting its use to most patients worldwide. Given the shortcomings of existing therapies for pruritus in CSU, novel therapeutic interventions or strategies are emerging. Acupuncture, a traditional physical therapy with a rich historical background spanning over a millennium, has been regarded as an effective treatment for urticaria in China. However, previous randomized controlled trials investigating acupuncture's efficacy have been marred by methodological limitations, thereby undermining the credibility of the evidence. To address this gap, we conducted a multicenter randomized controlled trial to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture in the management of CSU.

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61049" align="alignleft" width="128"]Timothy C. Durazzo, PhDClinical Neuropsychologist and Research Scientist
Mental Illness Research and Education Clinical Centers
VA Palo Alto Health Care System
Professor
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Stanford University School of Medicine Prof. Durazzo[/caption] Timothy C. Durazzo, PhD Clinical Neuropsychologist and Research Scientist Mental Illness Research and Education Clinical Centers VA Palo Alto Health Care System Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Stanford University School of Medicine MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? -There are a limited number of studies investigating changes in human brain structure, in individuals with an alcohol use disorder, with longer term abstinence after treatment. -Our study was the first to assess for change in cortical thickness over approximately 7 months of abstinence in those seeking treatment of alcohol use disorder. -Cortical thickness in humans is genetically and phenotypically distinct from other brain structural measures such as cortical volume and surface area. -Therefore, assessment of changes in cortical thickness with longer-term abstinence provides additional information on how human brain structure recovers with sobriety.

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61045" align="alignleft" width="133"]Li Li, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H.The Walter M. Seward Professor and Chair of Family Medicine
University of Virginia (UVA) School of Medicine
Director of Population Health at UVA Health Dr. Li Li[/caption] Li Li, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H. The Walter M. Seward Professor and Chair of Family Medicine University of Virginia (UVA) School of Medicine Director of Population Health at UVA Health Dr. Li joined the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force in January 2021. MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: Oral health is an important part of everyone’s overall health and well-being. Recognizing this, the Task Force looked at whether primary care clinicians can play a role in complementing the work of dental professionals to prevent cavities and gum disease. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response:  Our review of the latest available evidence focused on the prevention of cavities for children who are 5 years old and older and do not have any signs or symptoms. After a thorough review, we found that there is not enough evidence to recommend for or against oral health screening and interventions for school-aged children in primary care settings.

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61040" align="alignleft" width="92"]Prof. Dr. Wolfram-Hubertus ZimmermannDirector, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology University Medical Center Göttingen Georg-August University Göttingen, Germany Dr. Zimmermann[/caption] Prof. Dr. Wolfram-Hubertus Zimmermann Director, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology University Medical Center Göttingen Georg-August University Göttingen, Germany   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Involvement in research and development in the field of tissue engineered heart repair since 25+ years. Bench-to-bed translation of our research. MedicalResearch.com: How are the stem cell obtained? Response: We make use of induced pluripotent stem cells as starting material to obtain heart muscle cells for the engineering of Engineered Human Myocardium (EHM) and its use as Biological Ventricular Assist Tissue (BioVAT).

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Collective responses from study authors: MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
  • Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) have the best chance for a longer and healthier life if they receive a kidney transplant.
  • However, due to many barriers, many eligible patients today will never receive a kidney transplant.
  • Advanced CKD care is provided by 26 chronic kidney disease (CKD) programs managed by a government funded provincial renal agency (the Ontario Renal Network)
  • Together these 26 programs treat ~ 24,000 patients each year
  • This care is provided by over 3400 nurses and 230 nephrologists
  • To patients approaching the need for dialysis and those receiving dialysis
  • Approximately half are transplant eligible
    • ~ 600 kidney transplants done in Ontario each year across 6 transplant centres
    • with approximately.30% of kidneys coming from living donors

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Alexis C. Wood United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center Baylor College of Medicine, TX MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: We know (we think!) that what we eat has a big influence on our health. However, discovering which foods influence our health, and how, is highly challenging. Research investigating this topic should be seen as an on-going process as new results and new study methods emerge, and as the food environment shifts. Red meat is often considered a food that should be minimized in diets designed to support good health. This may seem surprising as red meat is a good source of protein and many other nutrients, but the advice to limit red meat intake is based on several large-scale studies showing associations between red meat consumption and the development of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, and other cardiovascular disease risk related factors. However, newer research, with different designs or approaches, has struggled to conclusively support this association; for example, in studies where the amount of red meat in people’s diet is manipulated, we do not see the expected increases in risk. Other studies have suggested that any associations between red meat intake and chronic disease may reflect confounding effects by adiposity – that is, the increased risk of disease really reflects the increased risk associated with a higher BMI.