Archive for the ‘Scientific Study’ Category

Disease Susceptibility Gene Testing: Get A Grip on Controlling Future Illness

Tuesday, August 31st, 2010

While no one can control the future, a sense of control of future events is a known feature of what possibly can make a person happy and content.

Akin to this line of thinking, in the realm of wellness and preventive medicine, it’s been a fantasy to be able to know one’s future disease predilection so that preventive measures can be taken to possibly modify the disease’s manifestation …a fantasy until now! Now, one can take control! The Disease Susceptibility Gene Test is now available at Beverly Hills 6750!

Gene testing now allows an individual to know his susceptibility to more than 100 disease conditions. Medical research and science indicate that while most diseases are determined by BOTH genetic constitution and various environmental factors, getting a heads-up on one’s disease susceptibility through gene testing can impact on how one manages one’s nutrition, weight, exposure to detrimental environmental substances and conditions and clinical decision- making.

An international laboratory that participated in the Human Genome Project —Genetic Center Company Limited is in the forefront of entrepreneurial genomics. With the completion of the human genome sequence, its derivative ramifications in increasing knowledge of DNA sequence differences between individuals, and rapidly advancing technology for reading DNA sequences have further led to significant progress in identifying genes that underlie common, genetically complex diseases (“susceptibility genes”).

Below are FAQ’s on the Disease Susceptibility Gene Test:

1. What is a Disease Susceptibility Gene? The research results of modern medical science indicate that most diseases are determined by various environmental factors and genetic constitution. Genes related to some diseases that bring about health disadvantage are called the susceptibility gene of the disease.

2. What is a Disease Susceptibility Gene Test (DSGT)? Disease susceptibility gene is detected from tissue samples, either blood or exfoliated cells of the mucosal lining of the mouth. Using gene biochip technology, DNA analysis is done and derivative information on what potential diseases people may have inherited are determined. This information allows one to understand their own genetic information and the risk of physical illness, and proactively improve their living environment, nutrition and lifestyle habits.

3. How is tissue sample obtained? This is done by using 2 cotton pledgets that are simply swabbed across the lining of the mouth — one for the left side and one for the right side. These are then smeared and stored in a special collection tray device. After proper sample labeling, these are then shipped out to an international laboratory.

3. What information can Disease Susceptibility Gene Testing tell you? If you carry disease susceptible genes, the likelihood of developing this disease is higher than other people. One can then initiate preventive measures — for example, improved nutrition, adjusting lifestyle habits to avoid harmful environmental factors that may trigger disease manifestation, and going for periodic medical examinations. Studies have shown that even if you have the disease susceptibility gene, so long as early detection and early prevention measures are done, then it may be possible to delay or avoid the occurrence of the disease.

4. What is the difference between Disease Susceptibility Gene Test (DSGT) and Conventional Genetic Tests done in Hospitals? The Disease Susceptibility Gene Test (DSGT) is done to analyze the presence or absence of genetic risk of a specific disease and to predict the possibility of future illness. The conventional genetic tests done in hospitals are usually chromosomal analyses that diagnose and confirm a condition that is already present in the patient e.g. Down’s Syndrome.

5. How does the company protect the privacy of my genetic testing? All of the clients information, DNA samples and test results are kept strictly confidential. DNA samples that are collected are properly stored and labeled using an advanced barcode system before sending the sample to our Genetic Testing Laboratory overseas for gene biochip technology analysis. Our scientists will have access to only the DNA samples with its corresponding bar-code label on it. All documents, reports and samples can only be identified through the matching of the barcode.

Click on the thumbnails below to get a list of diseases that are predicted by disease susceptibility gene testing:

To learn more, call 893-8888, 893-6750 or 0917-893-6750 or visit www.bh6750.com to schedule an appointment.

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Problems Arise From “Bargain” Injectables

Monday, July 26th, 2010

It is not uncommon for physicians to encounter patients, who suffer the ill effects of having injection treatments for “enhancement” purposes, using substances that may have been represented to the patient as medical grade or drug regulatory approved “silicone”, “collagen” or “botox”. These patients receive injections for “breast augmentation”, “nose-lift”, “buttocks-lift”, or “anti-wrinkle” treatments and unwittingly, expose themselves to clinical complications.

The lure of advertisements and the fact that the injection treatments are presented as “cheaper” alternatives, in combination with a person’s poor body image or a desire to physically enhance one’s self, are enough to attract clients for these procedures and potentially create undesirable results.

As an example, a good number of patients who’ve had breast injections using “bargain” injectables will present with one of two problems, or a combination of both. Infection is one presenting problem. There have been instances when these injected substances cause infections in the breast, requiring surgical drainage and debridement. The consequence of such a problem is oftentimes seen in the unfortunate patient’s eyes — a sadness which is an indelible reflection of how their self-esteem has been diminished by both physical and emotional scarring, when an attempt at enhancement turns into disfigurement.

The other problem encountered in these same patients — is breast lumpiness, or the sensation of having multiple breast masses (occurring at the multiple puncture injection sites). These masses are usually felt by the patient herself and are clinically evident to the physician as well, upon a physical examination of the breast. The haunting question that this problem creates in the minds of these patients is, “Is this mass a cancer?”

It is possible that in the presence of a lumpy breast due to these injections, a cancer growth can arise from the breast glandular tissue making it indistinguishable from the other lumps by physical examination alone.  In this situation, unless a biopsy is done on each and every lump, the tool that will be useful to screen for cancer, is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) — an expensive diagnostic procedure. Thus, a patient who at the start was looking for a “bargain”, is later on saddled with an expensive proposition to do annual MRI screening for cancer surveillance. Otherwise, the specter of undetected cancer threateningly hangs over their heads.

Problems similar to those just cited occur not only in Manila but also in the United States. A recent press release by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) states that, “…four seriously ill people were hospitalized following injections of an unidentified substance at a Fort Lauderdale clinic and could be the latest victims of what has become an increasingly common problem — illegal and unsafe drugs administered as cosmetic treatments by practitioners without appropriate training and credentials.”

Former American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) President Dr. Peter Fodor, when asked to comment on the Fort Lauderdale case, said, “The popularity of injectable treatments including BOTOX and a host of soft tissue fillers, has encouraged their promotion by inadequately trained or non-medical practitioners, some of whom may obtain illegal substances and perform procedures under non-sterile conditions.” He says furthermore,  “Unfortunately, patients sometimes are lured by promises of less expensive treatments, or they simply fail to check the qualifications of the person administering the treatments, unnecessarily risking their health and safety.”

Patients these days have to be informed patients. They should do their homework when planning to undergo certain procedures. If they eventually decide to have a procedure done, they should be sure that they’re done in appropriate facilities by a properly qualified physician who has received specific training in the particular procedure.

To do otherwise, would be putting your health, and maybe even your life, in jeopardy.

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Less Frequent Dosing Of BOTOX Still Results In Reduced Wrinkles

Monday, July 26th, 2010

With real, noticeable results, no surgery and no recovery time, there are many reasons why BOTOX™  has been chosen by millions of women and men and their doctors.

BOTOX™ is a prescription medicine derived from Botulinum Toxin that works by blocking nerve impulses to the injected muscles, thereby reducing muscle activity that causes moderate to severe wrinkle lines in the face, especially those between the eyebrows (glabellar lines). Visible results are immediate but are best seen 3 to 4 days later. The effects last from 3 to 4 months and to benefit from these results continuously, a cycle of BOTOX™ injections is done at 3-4 month intervals.

A recent study done by Dr. Roger Dailey, professor and Lester Jones Endowed Chair of Oculofacial Plastic Surgery of the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and presented at a meeting of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons last April 24, 2010 in Washington, D.C. — has shown that patients who’ve received BOTOX™ cosmetic injections for at least 2 years can decrease the frequency of the injections to every 6 months and still receive most of the same wrinkle-smoothing cosmetic benefits.

Dr. Dailey said, “This demonstrates patients have the ability to achieve good results with broader treatment schedules and ultimately at a lower overall treatment cost.”

The research also demonstrated that BOTOX™ injections have a wrinkle preventing – or prophylactic – effect. Patients who begin receiving injections between their 30s and 50s are able to prevent wrinkles from forming aside from eliminating existing wrinkles.

BOTOX™ has been approved for cosmetic use for eight years. In 2008, more than 5 million patients in the United States received cosmetic BOTOX™ treatments, according to Allergan, the manufacturer. About 313,000 of those patients were men.

For before and after pictures of Botox patients, click HERE.

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Study Shows How Soft Tissue Filler Restylane Works

Thursday, July 8th, 2010

Soft tissue fillers are quite popularly used by both dermatologists and plastic surgeons as injections into the skin, to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, plump lips, fill hollow cheeks, repair various facial imperfections, improve scars, and elevate deep folds. The result is a smoother, more youthful appearance with minimal “downtime” and maximum safety.

There are a variety of soft tissue fillers, including human and bovine (cattle) collagen, hyaluronic acid, autologous fat (one’s own fat), and donor tissue. The growing number of available fillers has greatly expanded the anti-aging and skin-saving treatments, and since soft tissue filler substances do not involve major surgery and are generally cost-effective, men and women are using these youth-enhancing techniques more than ever.

One such filler that has acquired wide acceptance and usage is Restylane™ — a product containing hyaluronic acid.

It has been thought that Restylane’s physical volume caused the improvement in the appearance of one’s skin. In a study published in the journal/ Archives of Dermatology, it has been found that Restylane™ actually works by stretching fibroblasts — the cells in the skin that make collagen, in a way that causes the skin to create new collagen. This new, natural collagen would then contribute to the reduction of the appearance of creases and wrinkles. The study also shows that the product seems to inhibit the breakdown of existing collagen.

In young people, fibroblasts are stretched, and this produces enough collagen to make the skin appear relatively smooth. As people age, the fibroblasts become relaxed and do not stretch as easily, and therefore do not release as much collagen, causing creases and wrinkles to appear.

The findings of the study are based on injections in 11 volunteers, ages 64 to 84 years, and the subsequent analyses of their skin biopsies.

With the injection of Restylane™ in this study, the relaxed fibroblasts were re-stretched, says lead author Dr. Frank Wang, research fellow with the Department of Dermatology. In a sense, this stretching encourages the fibroblasts to behave in the way they do in younger skin and to release collagen.

Another factor is that in older skin, an enzyme called collagenase breaks down the collagen in the skin. The research found that injection of the dermal filler inhibits the breakdown of collagen by collagenase, which also helps with the appearance of one’s skin.

To see Before and After pictures using Restylane™, click here.

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Herbal Supplements: Putting Cosmetic Surgery Patients At Risk?

Thursday, July 8th, 2010

The terms “herbal” or “natural” are practically identical with safety for most people. Over-the-counter medications that can be purchased without a doctor’s prescription are often misguidedly assumed to be risk-free.

A study in the March/April 2009 issue of Aesthetic Surgery Journal titled, “Perioperative Risks and Benefits of Herbal Supplements in Aesthetic Surgery”, cautions that over 40% of cosmetic surgery patients take herbal supplements in the two weeks preceding a surgical procedure. While a number of herbal supplements may offer benefits during recuperation after plastic surgery, familiar herbal products such as ginseng, echinacea, valerian root, garlic, ginkgo biloba, ephedra and others can cause harmful effects if taken during preparations for surgery.

When going through cosmetic surgery, the most substantial and possibly hazardous effects of alternative medications crop up during the operative and immediate postoperative periods with the chief matters being: sedative effects, change of blood coagulation, cardiovascular effects, and reactions with other medications.

Regrettably, as many as 70% of patients may not divulge the intake of herbal medications to their physician or health care provider, sometimes because they feel these cosmetic surgeons have not much understanding or interest in “natural” drugs, or they feel physicians may frown on such supplements. Some patients simply refuse to acknowledge the bearing of supplement intake to their present medical or cosmetic surgical treatment. Patients must be informed that complete disclosure of all medications – both those that are obtained over-the-counter and those that are prescribed – is exceptionally critical to their well-being and safety. They should also realize that conflicting and unregulated manufacturing criterions and deficiency in regulation for several herbal medications suggests that quality and dosage may differ greatly among treatments.

The proponents of the study recommend that in order to avoid potential plastic surgery complications, patients must be educated and given a complete list of medications that must be avoided prior to the operative period.

To read an abstract of the article, click here.

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Study Shows Liposuction Causes Natural Breast Enlargement

Thursday, June 24th, 2010

Liposuction offers a wealth of benefits, including fat loss for localized areas of the body, and a treatment to improve skin surface irregularities. But perhaps one other benefit that may surprise clients is the possibility for increased breast size! While the decision for liposuction should not be based on a reason of increased breast size, many female liposuction patients have noticed that their breast size is larger following liposuction.

Dr. Eric Finzi, M.D., Ph.D., a board certified dermatologic surgeon with a specialty in tumescent liposuction, initiated a study to determine the validity of this claim. He himself noted that a number of his patients returned to his office for their post-operative exam with this unexpected result from a body liposuction procedure. He retrospectively reviewed the records of over 60 women who underwent liposuction in various areas of the body over a 3 year period. The study results were published in the September 2003 issue of Dermatologic Surgery*, the official journal publication of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDA).

Study Results Support the Premise

The Finzi study found that significant breast enhancement occurred in 43% of female patients who underwent one or more tumescent liposuction surgeries. These patients demonstrated an increase in upper breast pole projection and improved breast shapeliness following liposuction. The study results show a likelihood for increased breast size under certain conditions, including:

  • Increased breast size is more likely to occur from liposuction of hips, waist and abdomen when compared to other areas of the body.
  • Liposuction patients who were 15-30% overweight at the time of liposuction were more likely to experience a breast size increase.

“This is the first step in the development of natural breast enlargement,” stated Dr. Finzi, who has performed tumescent liposuction surgery on thousands of patients to remove fat in areas of the body where diet and exercise were ineffective.

The reasons for increased breast size following liposuction is not clear, however it has been speculated that the accumulation of fat following liposuction tends to gravitate to untreated body areas.

Since it’s inception in 1987, tumescent liposuction by local anesthesia has become a major cosmetic treatment for body sculpting by dermatologic  and plastic surgeons. With tumescent liposuction’s superior safety record, and ability to remove fat in unwanted areas with minimal surgical scarring, women may now potentially also benefit with a natural increase in breast size!

* Dermatologic Surgery is the official publication of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS). To view the Breast Enlargement Induced by Liposuction study online, click here.

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