Some 1,600 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in Ireland each year. Of these, 20 to 30 per cent produce excess amounts of a specific protein, HER2, which stimulates uncontrollable cell growth, leading to a particularly aggressive form of the disease. Now, a new treatment (Herceptin) has been found to block the action of the protein and suppress tumour growth. Research has shown that Herceptin improves survival in HER2-positive women by 39 per cent, compared with chemotherapy alone. October is International Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Irish Cancer Society nurses will be answer questions on breast cancer in Boots chemists throughout the country. Tel: 01-6681855 and details.
NEW research from Israel suggests that cranberry juice may help fight the H. pylori bacteria that causes ulcers. According to a study from the Tel Aviv University, cranberry juice has a bacterial anti-adhesion mechanism which can fight bacteria even when they have already adhered to the stomach lining. Cranberry juice has already been found to help fight urinary tract infections.
Stressless is a new Dublin-based company which offers 15 minute acupressure massage to workers while at their desks. The massage is carried out on a custom-designed mobile chair. Clients sit fully clothed while therapist Nessa O'Shaughnessy applies acupressure massage techniques to the neck and shoulders to help combat stress. Cost per person: £8£12; tel 086-8488442.
EXPERTS have suggested the traditional approach of giving older antibiotics as the first line of attack against bacterial infection should be changed. Speaking at the 40th Inter-science Conference on Anti-microbial Agents and Chemotherapy in Toronto, Dr Robert Read said: "Firstly, it is important that antibiotics are only given when and where they are needed. Our GPs are well able to distinguish between simple viral and potentially serious bacterial disease. Secondly, antibiotics should be used correctly, at a high dose for a short period of time and finally, the powerful new antibiotics should be considered for use in high-risk patients, those with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, immuno-suppressed individuals and the elderly.
