Memory Loss May Predict Alzheimer's Disease
Wednesday September 13, 2006
A
study being reported in the September 12, 2006, issue of Neurology, finds that adults over the age of 60 who complain of severe memory problems may actually be losing brain tissue. Despite scoring well on standard memory tests, the adults in the study who complained of significant memory loss were found to have loss of grey matter of about 3% on MRI brain scans. Patients diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (
early Alzheimer's ) show about 4% loss of brain tissue in the same areas of the brain - the areas where memory is stored.
Monday September 11, 2006
Beginning in 2007
Medicare beneficiaries who earn more money will pay higher premiums for their Medicare Part B coverage. A provision of the
2003 Medicare Modernization Act calls for a change in the formula for assessing Part B premiums. The Part B premium has been based on Medicare covering 75% of the premium costs and the beneficiary paying for 25%. With the changes, higher income beneficiaries will pay a higher percentage of premium costs. For those making more than $80,000 (single) or $160,00 for couples the percentage of the premium will increase to 28.3 % in 2007, 31.6% in 2008 and 35% in 2009. Those beneficiaries with even higher incomes will see large percentage increases.
COPD Patients Need Physical Activity
Friday September 8, 2006
Spanish researchers have found that physical activity, even a small amount can improve the health of patients suffering from
COPD. Those who engage in exercise and activity have fewer hospitalizations and have a lower risk of dying.
COPD is a group of diseases, very often caused by years of smoking that restricts the airway and makes breathing more difficult. Many patients are dependent on oxygen most of the day. This study found that even light activity like walking three days a week could help.
No Flu Shot Shortage This Year
Wednesday September 6, 2006
There should be no repeat of the flu vaccine shortages of the last few years according to the
CDC. Federal officials stated that at least 100 million doses would be available over the next few months, with at least 75 million available by October, the recommended period for having the flu shot. This gives the body time to build up immunity before the flu season officially starts in December and January. This should also mean that all those on the
recommended list for receiving the shot should be able to get one.