FEET FIRST:Members of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists are stressing the importance of wearing comfortable shoes that fit properly during their Feet for Life campaign this month.
"If your feet hurt, it can affect your concentration, efficiency and attitude to work," says Justin Blake of Dundalk Foot Clinic.
"Wearing the wrong type of shoes for long periods can cause blisters, corns and calluses and lead to serious foot, knee and back pain and damaged joints."
For more information on the campaign log on to www.feetforlife.org
HEARTY FOOD:For a happy heart, portion size matters is the theme of the annual Happy Heart Eat Out campaign which runs throughout this month. Chefs in more than 750 restaurants and workplace canteens will offer healthy menu choices (low in fat, low in salt and with fruit and vegetables) in the Irish Heart Foundation campaign.
A recipe book with healthy menus is available free from lo-call 1850-364364 or www.irishheart.ie
DEMENTIA RISK INFORMATION:Cognitive Aspects of Parkinson's is a new booklet from the Parkinson's Association which aims to clarify current information on the associated risk of dementia.
While most people with Parkinson's experience symptoms such as tremor and muscle rigidity, about two in five go on to experience further issues with cognition, leading many to fear the onset of dementia.
However, the booklet points out that the cognitive aspects of dementia, such as slowness of thought and difficulty with concentration - particularly when tired or under stress - can, in fact, be due to untreated depression rather than dementia.
Dementia itself is associated with more advanced Parkinson's.
The booklet is available from the Parkinson's Association freephone 1800-359359 or e-mail youngparkinsons@eircom.net
ORGAN WAIT:Nearly 10 people die every day in Europe while waiting for an organ. There are currently about 40,000 patients in Europe on organ transplant waiting lists.
The European Commission announced plans last week to introduce a European organ donor card and set common European standards of quality and safety on organ transplantation.