Today is World Parkinson's Day - and numbers of Parkinson's sufferers are rising. Although the condition affects one person in 100 aged over 65, one in 10 of sufferers is diagnosed before the age of 50, and it can affect children as young as 13. For information and support, contact the Parkinson's Association of Ireland, tel 1800 359359. Parkinson's Active Liaison and Support (PALS) is a special support group for the under 50s; tel 012893746/01 8318678. [SBX]
Better hearing for many people with hearing loss in later life is not simply a question of "turning up the volume" - since hearing aids do not solve all hearing problems. The ability to hear a speaker above background noise or to follow different voices in group conversations can be improved by lip-reading. The National Association for Deaf People is beginning a new series of classes in Dublin and Dun Laoghaire for adults with acquired hearing loss. For details, contact Brigid MacSweeney. Tel: 01-8723800/Fax 018723816/Email nad@iol.ie
Ever felt an uncontrollable urge to raid the fridge in the middle of the night? According to a US professor of psychiatry, you could be suffering from a medical condition known as Night Eating Syndrome. Sufferers wake three or four times during the night and binge on high carbohydrate foods such as biscuits or crisps, consuming on average 500 calories a day more than normal eaters. Scientists believe 1.5 per cent of the population suffers from the syndrome, which, they say, could be caused by stress. (BBC)
A US government study has discovered the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C may not be sufficient. Researchers report that between 100 and 200 mgs of vitamin C is needed daily to prevent a deficiency, but the present daily allowance, which was set in 1980, is 60 mg. Sufficient vitamin C can be obtained by eating five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, say scientists - but they never say how big a portion is. (Journal of the American Medical Association)
Sleep problems among children are on the rise and may cause behaviour problems and also, not surprisingly, have an effect on parents' mental health. Lack of sleep in children is linked to hyperactivity, aggressive behaviour and attention problems, say US researchers. The Hyperactivity Attention Deficit Disorder (HADD) parents' support group meeting will take place tomorrow at 8 p.m. in Wynns Hotel, Lower Abbey Street, Dublin 1. For details, tel 01-2889766.
Women may now have a good reason for a morning pint - of milk. US researchers found higher calcium intake may reduce overall levels of body fat and slow weight gain. The two-year study into women aged 18 to 31 found those who consumed under 1,900 calories a day and averaged 1,000 mg of calcium lost six to seven pounds in weight. Women who consumed calcium from dairy products showed more weight control benefits than those who took calcium supplements. (Purdue News)