Scientists zero in on new HIV microbicides
Article Abstract:
Sulfated polysaccharides, temperature-sensitive gels, and nonoxynol 9 are promising agents under investigation that may prevent HIV infection in women. Researchers at a 1995 conference on HIV infection in women presented encouraging results on agents that women may one day use to protect themselves from HIV infection without involving their partners. Some researchers are testing compounds called sulfated polysaccharides that may inhibit HIV from infecting cells on the surface of the vagina or cervix. Quebec researchers are investigating temperature-sensitive gels that may prevent HIV from entering the body through the cervix, vagina, or anorectal area. These gels are liquid at cold temperatures and thicken to a toothpaste-like consistency at body temperature. The spermicide nonoxynol 9 is being reconsidered as an antiviral agent if used in dosages low enough to prevent ulceration.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1995
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Will altruism endanger prevention?
Article Abstract:
Many managed care organizations do not consider prevention efforts to be part of a sound business plan. In a study of eight US health care organizations, altruism seemed to be the guiding factor behind prevention programs. Many organizations isolated these activities in peripheral parts of the organization and provided them with a minimal budget. Seventy percent of the money supported prevention efforts in the community rather than in the organization's own members. Many plan officials believed their prevention efforts should be supported by state or federal grants. The view of prevention efforts as social welfare rather than part of a business plan could doom many of these programs.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1996
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Ames agrees with mom's advice: eat your fruits and vegetables
Article Abstract:
Dr. Bruce Ames, director of UC Berkeley's environmental health center, is a firm believer in the cancer-preventing powers of fruits and vegetables. He points out that in many studies, the rate of cancer in those who eat few vegetables is as much as two times higher than the rater in people who eat the most vegetables. He feels that a daily multivitamin could be beneficial, and that not smoking, eating a good diet and exercising are the secrets to good health. Ames believes that screening procedures that accurately reflect a patient's nutritional status could be the future of preventive medicine.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1995
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