Blog - Page 4 of 50

Intrinsic and Extrinsic Causes of Age-Related Memory Loss

Posted on August 31, 2013 by 6s79T

Intrinsic Causes – programmed normal aging process in the brain

The decline of various memory functions for many cognitive tasks is termed as age-related memory impairment (AMI) or age-associated memory impairment (AAMI). AMI or AAMI are not the same as brain diseases that severely impair memory function such as mild cognitive impairment (MCI), dementia, Alzheimer’s disease.

The hippocampus, a region of the brain associated with memory function, deteriorates with age.
Biomolecules—growth factors, hormones and proteins that protect and repair brain cells and stimulate neural growth—decline with age.
Decreased blood flow to the brain associated with aging
Decreased efficient in absorbing brain-enhancing nutrients.

Extrinsic Causes – lifestyle factors

Lifestyle factors and other medical complications can accelerate the brain aging and exacerbate the age-related memory loss. Studies has found that people with healthy habits are at a reduced risk of memory complaints.

substance use – alcohol, drug, tobacco
medication – prescription and over-the-counter medications can interfere with or cause loss of memory (e.g.. antidepressants, antihistamines, anti-anxiety medications, muscle relaxants and etc.)
stress and mental health (e.g. anxiety, emotional trauma, depression)
diet and nutrition (e.g.. vitamin B1 and B12 deficiency)
insomnia
brain injury
other medical condition
- thyroid problems
- infections and inflammation that affect the brain (e.g.. HIV, tuberculosis, and syphilis)
- condition that block or interfere with the oxygenated blood flow to the brain (stroke, vascular disorders), causing nerve cell damage)

Understanding the causes and mechanisms of age-related and lifestyle environmental-related memory loss will facilitates the strategies in preventing memory loss and sharpen the memory as we age. Although normal memory function aging is part of the brain aging process, however, significant or severe memory loss may not be an inevitable outcome because brain cells renews at any age. One way to promote the renewal of brain neuron cells is to use the brain frequently. By maintaining healthy stress free lifestyle habits – balanced diet, exercise (increase blood flow to the brain), lifelong learning, decline in memory function can be prevented and slowed.

Vitamin D Deficiency And Healthy Aging

Posted on August 29, 2013 by 6s79T

Vitamin D is a prohormone that the body converts into a steroid hormone regulating more than 3,000 genes. Two major forms of vitamin D are vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. Vitamin D2 is also called ergocalciferol and vitamin D3’s other name is cholecalciferol. Vitamin D receptors are found in almost every tissue and cell of the human body. Vitamin D synthesis can be induced by sunlight exposure. The healthy level of vitamin D should be 30-100 nanograms per milliliter. Vitamin D helps bones absorb calcium, maintain bone health and normal calcium metabolism. Vitamin D influences a much broader array of physiological processes.

Studies has found that vitamin D deficiency or low vitamin D level is linked to a host of age-related health conditions:

1) accelerating aging of bone (osteoporosis, rickets, weakened fracture resistance of the bone, increased back pain in female)

2) hasten disabilities in daily physical activities (in completing ordinary daily tasks) with aging.

3) age-related muscle deterioration, muscle mass loss, weaker muscle strength; higher vitamin D prevent age-related injury, associated with stronger muscle

4) high blood pressure

5) weaken immune system, increase the possibility of inflammation

6) increased risk of depression

7) increased risk of heart attack

8) diabetes risk

Receptors for vitamin D have been found on pancreatic cells that make insulin (leading to a theoretical connection between vitamin D and diabetes

9) periodontal disease

10) increased risk of cancer

11) linked to age-related brain conditions (Alzheimer’s disease, reduced brain function, cognitive impairment)

12) linked to all-cause mortality

In a study, people with the lowest levels (bottom 25%) of vitamin D was found to have a 26% increase in risk of death during the study period compared to people with the highest levels of vitamin D.

Vitamin D deficiency is most common for the elderly and/or people who spends a lot of time indoors. Vitamin D deficiencies or the level of Vitamin D is decreasing associated with aging. The question is whether the deficiency is caused by the aging body (for example, the body can’t absorb, produce sufficient levels of vitamin D anymore) or because elder people does not have enough activities out door and get exposed to much sunlight. The understanding of the question should provide guidelines on how to prevent vitamin deficiency for healthy aging. Risk of vitamin D deficiency increases If people shun the sun, suffer from milk allergies, is a strict vegetarian or has obesity or deficiency in kidney function. As people age, kidneys are less able to convert vitamin D to its active form, thus increasing the risk of vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D can be obtained from food, sunlight and supplements. Government recommendations for Vitamin D had been 600 IUs adults, and 800 IUs for adults over 70. Growing number of scientists and health care providers believe these amounts are not high enough. Many doctors are now routinely recommending 1000-2000 IUs of Vitamin D daily for adult patients, especially female over 50. Vitamin D occurs naturally in a few foods . In addition, it’s vital that adequate amounts of some important Vitamin D co-factors are available in diets or supplements—Magnesium, Zinc, Vitamin A, Boron, and Vitamin K2

Nidogen And Skin Aging

Posted on July 13, 2012 by 6s79T

Members of Nidogen proteins are multivalent matrix binding proteins that function as classical linkers joining laminin and collagen IV networks in basement membranes. Lack of nidogens completely prevented BM deposition and ultrastructural assembly of BM and hemidesmosomes, although other BM proteins remained detectable at comparable levels with no signs of degradation. Supplementation by recombinant nidogen restored these structures. Nidogen-1 (NID-1) is also known as Entactin. Entactin is an integral and ubiquitous component of basement membrane (BM) alongside other components such as collagen type IV, proteoglycans (heparan sulfate and glycosaminoglycans), laminin and fibronectin in the skin epidermal-dermal junction. The protein interacts with several other components of basement membranes and is essential for connecting laminins to collagen IV in the basement membrane. It may also play a role in cell interactions with the extracellular matrix. Entactin binds calcium ions and this calcium-binding activity may play a role in the matrix assembly process.

Recent scientific investigations have identified Nidogens as key components in the aging process. Discoveries show their importance as support connectors for skin firmness. After 3 years of research, L’Bel and Sederma Laboratories have created Nidogen-X Complexes Jour: the topical treatment whose technology replenishes Nidogens or “Vital Connectors” that tend to erode as the skin ages, providing the skin with improved firmness, reduction of wrinkles and deep hydration.

A ‘Forever Young’ Longevity Pill Could Be Available In Just Ten Years

Posted on June 16, 2012 by 6s79T

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United Kingdom the daily mail reported on June 11, 2011, the scientists said, the rapid development of science and technology is expected to make “ youth ” possible, through prevention and confrontation of many aging-related diseases, the so called “ youth ” panacea (Longevity Pill) will come out within 10 year. Linda Partridge, Director of the Institute of healthy ageing at the University of London, said that the science is moving so quickly that it will soon be possible to prevent many of the ills of old age; taking a grain of ‘Forever Young’ Longevity Pill a day, can ensure that we will not develop Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease in old age, hair and skin regains luster. People could work for longer – or simply make the most of their retirement.

Continue reading →

Clock Turned Back on Aging Muscles

Posted on April 29, 2012 by 6s79T

By Robert Roy Britt, Editorial Director

The research was supported by the National Institutes of Health, the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine, the Danish Medical Research Council and the Glenn Foundation for Medical Research. The findings are detailed today in the European journal EMBO Molecular Medicine.

Scientists have found and manipulated body chemistry linked to the aging of muscles and were able to turn back the clock on old human muscle, restoring its ability to repair and rebuild itself, they said today. The study involved a small number of participants, however. And the news is not all rosy.

Importantly, the research also found evidence that aging muscles need to be kept in shape, because long periods of atrophy are more challenging to overcome. Older muscles do not respond as well to sudden bouts of exercise, the scientists discovered. And rather than building muscle, an older person can generate scar tissue upon, say, lifting weights after long periods of inactivity.

“Our study shows that the ability of old human muscle to be maintained and repaired by muscle stem cells can be restored to youthful vigor given the right mix of biochemical signals,” said study leader Irina Conboy of the University of California, Berkeley. “This provides promising new targets for forestalling the debilitating muscle atrophy that accompanies aging, and perhaps other tissue degenerative disorders as well.”

More research would be needed before any anti-aging products might result from the work, however.

Strong mysteries

Scientists know that muscles deteriorate rapidly in old age. Mechanisms that prevent muscle breakdown work less effectively in people over the age of 65, a study earlier this month found. Other research has shown that neurons have to yell louder to kick aging muscles into gear.

Yet much about how and why muscles respond to exercise, and atrophy without it, remains unknown.

Previous research in animal models led by Conboy revealed that the ability of adult stem cells to do their job of repairing and replacing damaged tissue is governed by the molecular signals they get from surrounding muscle tissue, and that those signals change with age in ways that thwart tissue repair. But the animal studies also showed that the regenerative function in old stem cells can be revived.

Meanwhile, there is no fountain of youth for aging muscles. The best advice for now: Eat well and exercise regularly throughout life.

Human muscle atrophy

In the new study, a team of researchers compared samples of muscle tissue from nearly 30 healthy men. The young group ranged from age 21 to 24 and averaged 22.6 years old, while the older group averaged 71.3 years old, ranging from 68 to 74.

Muscle biopsies were taken from one quadriceps (upper leg muscle) of each test subject, who then had that leg immobilized in a cast for two weeks to simulate muscle atrophy. After the casts were removed, the men lifted weights to regain muscle mass. More muscle tissue samples were taken.

Analysis showed that before the legs were immobilized, the adult stem cells responsible for muscle repair and regeneration were only half as numerous in the old muscle as they were in young tissue. (Muscle stem cells produce other muscle cells.) The disparity increased during exercise, with younger tissue having four times more regenerative cells compared with the old muscle.

Muscles of the older participants showed signs of inflammation and scar tissue formation during immobility and again four weeks after the cast was removed.

“Two weeks of immobilization only mildly affected young muscle, in terms of tissue maintenance and functionality, whereas old muscle began to atrophy and manifest signs of rapid tissue deterioration,” said Morgan Carlson, another UC Berkeley researcher and the study’s lead author.

“The old muscle also didn’t recover as well with exercise,” Carlson said. “This emphasizes the importance of older populations staying active because the evidence is that for their muscle, long periods of disuse may irrevocably worsen the stem cells’ regenerative environment.”

The researchers warned that in the elderly, rigorous exercise after immobility can cause replacement of functional muscle by scarring and inflammation.

“It’s like a Catch-22,” Conboy said.

Restoring powers

Previous studies have shown that adult muscle stem cells have a receptor called Notch, which triggers growth when activated. Those stem cells also have a receptor for the protein TGF-beta that, when excessively activated, sets off a chain reaction that ultimately inhibits a cell’s ability to divide. In aging mice, the decline of Notch and increased levels of TGF-beta ultimately block the stem cells’ ability to rebuild muscle.

The new study found the same process at work in humans. But it also revealed that an enzyme called mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) regulates Notch activity.

In old muscle, MAPK levels are low, so the Notch pathway is not activated and the stem cells no longer perform their muscle regeneration jobs properly, the researchers said.

In the lab, the researchers cultured old human muscle and forced the activation of MAPK. The regenerative ability of the old muscle was significantly enhanced, they report.

“In practical terms, we now know that to enhance regeneration of old human muscle and restore tissue health, we can either target the MAPK or the Notch pathways,” Conboy said. “The ultimate goal, of course, is to move this research toward clinical trials.”

Cancer in Older Adults

Posted on April 23, 2012 by 6s79T

More than 60% of cancers in the United States occur in adults over the age of 65. As the current population ages, and as more people are living longer, the number of new cancer diagnoses in older people is expected to rise during this century.

Older adults with cancer and their families often have different needs from younger adults and children. For example, older people are often at higher risk for developing chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, arthritis, or high blood pressure. These health conditions are called comorbidities, or co-existing conditions, and can affect the treatment of and recovery from cancer. In addition, older people may not always have access to transportation, social support, or financial resources.

The information in this section is adapted from the ASCO Curriculum, Cancer Care in the Older Population, an educational resource developed by ASCO for doctors and other health-care professionals who treat people with cancer.

Cancer in the Older Person

– This section provides an overview of cancer in older people, including aging and cancer and the unique issues of being an older person with cancer.

This section has been reviewed and approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 5/10

Key Messages

Older adults are at a higher risk for cancer and other diseases that may affect cancer treatment and care.
When making decisions about treatment, older adults and their doctors should consider their overall health and ability to keep up with daily activities; age alone should not determine treatment options.
Community resources, social workers, and services can help older adults access treatment and cope with the emotional and practical concerns of a cancer diagnosis.

Because of advances in medicine, a better understanding of how to prevent certain illnesses (such as heart disease), and more emphasis on healthy living, people in the United States are living longer. On average, women born today are expected to live 81 years, and men are expected to live 76 years. In fact, by the year 2050, 88 million people will be older than 65.

The single greatest risk factor for developing cancer is aging. According to studies done by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the number of new cancer cases is about 10 times greater for people 65 years and older and about 60% of all cancers occur in this age group. Cancers of the prostate, breast, colon, pancreas, bladder, stomach, lung, and rectum are the most common cancers occurring in people over 65.

Aging is a process that changes a healthy young adult into an older, potentially less healthy person, with an increased risk of illness, injury, and death. The aging process is complex and can weaken a person’s ability to resist disease and disability. Aging may also affect a person’s well-being, independence, and feelings of self-worth.

Physical changes associated with aging and their relationship to cancer

Many older people experience physical changes that increase the chance of disease and disability and may interfere with cancer therapy. In addition, age is associated with a gradual inability to accomplish daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, and using the toilet without assistance. These abilities are measured by two indices called the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). Older adults who are dependent in these areas have a lower life expectancy and tolerance of stress, including the stress of cancer treatment.

Older adults are more likely to have chronic illnesses that can affect their life expectancy and ability to handle stress. Examples of chronic illnesses that often accompany the aging process include:

Heart problems
Decreased kidney function
Memory loss
Vision loss
Hearing difficulties
Poor nutrition
Weight loss, which can be caused by poorly fitting dentures, loss of teeth, and depression
Loss of appetite, especially from certain medications

Each person ages at a different rate, and actual age doesn’t reflect a person’s physiologic age (an estimation of age based on how a person functions). It’s important to consider daily function and co-existing conditions when estimating a person’s life expectancy and tolerance for stress. Learn more conducting a health assessment for an older adult with cancer.

Older age and undertreatment

Even though cancer occurs most often in the older population, older people often receive less frequent screening for cancer, fewer tests to stage the type of cancer, and may receive milder treatments or no treatment at all. According to a study published in the November 15, 2004, issue of the Journal of Clinical Oncology, people with cancer over age 65 are significantly under-represented in cancer clinical trials. Other studies also support this conclusion.

Furthermore, many studies have shown that cancer treatment is beneficial for older people. Although some people associate older age with poor health, age alone should not determine treatment options. For example, an older person’s overall health and ability to perform daily activities should also be evaluated. It is important that both the older person with cancer and his or her family be given enough information about treatment options, especially the risks, benefits, and goals of treatment to make informed choices. Decisions about cancer treatment are personal, and older people with cancer have a right to determine what is in their best interest.

Emotional concerns and practical issues

Older people with cancer often have a different set of concerns than other adults with cancer, which may affect how the older person will cope with cancer and includes the following:

Maintaining independence. For many older people with cancer, the biggest concerns are being able to take care of themselves and feel they are still in control of their health and decisions. Cancer treatment may interfere with the ability to cook and eat independently, wash or bathe independently, walk, drive, or access transportation. Having to rely on others to care for them may not only be overwhelming, but may not even be possible, especially if there are no family members or friends around to act as caregivers. In addition, many older people experience the loss of their primary caregiver, such as a spouse, and may not have other supportive adult relationships.

Feelings of social isolation. Older people with cancer are less likely to have a support system in place, often because they have relocated to a new home or apartment, do not live close to family, or have experienced the loss of family members or friends. Sometimes, being isolated brings up feelings of depression and anxiety, which may interfere with treatment. Furthermore, coping with problems associated with cancer treatment may become difficult. Community resources, such as visiting nurse services and other agencies, can be set up ahead of time so the older adult does not experience cancer alone. Sharing one’s concerns with doctors and social workers may provide useful tips and contacts with local resources.

Spiritual concerns. Spiritual and religious concerns may also factor into decisions about cancer treatment. As with other issues, effective communication among the person with cancer, a social worker, family members, and trusted members of the religious community may be helpful.

Financial concerns. For an older adult, retirement, the death of the primary wage earner, and existing financial problems can contribute to limited financial resources to pay for cancer treatment and other related costs. It is important to discuss these needs with a health care provider, as there are many resources available to help. Read more about managing the cost of cancer care.

Physical limitations. Many pre-existing medical problems may limit an older person’s physical abilities and their mobility. Creating a safe physical environment at home can help them cope. Simple measures, such as improving lighting, clearing the clutter in the home, and installing safety railings in stairs or bathrooms, may help minimize accidents or falls. A social worker or a visiting nurse service can help assess the home environment and suggest changes.

Transportation. Access to treatment depends on reliable transportation. Older people undergoing cancer therapy may have a difficult time getting to doctor appointments, especially if the person no longer drives and is dependent on other transportation. Ask the nurses or a social worker about assistance with transportation needs that will allow the older adult to receive appropriate cancer care.

Cancer in Daily Life

— Find practical tips on how older adults can manage their cancer care, cope with financial concerns, and find support.

This section has been reviewed and approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 6/10

Key Messages

Older adults living with cancer may need additional support organizing and accessing health care
Medicare is available for people 65 and older, but you may need other insurance to cover related costs of cancer care
Caregivers play a vital role in the physical and emotional care of older adults

While facing a diagnosis of cancer at any age is difficult, older people often face challenges related to their physical health, support systems, financial resources, and access to health care. These issues can make living with cancer more stressful and complicated for older people. The strategies discussed below may help address the additional problems that arise after a cancer diagnosis.

Managing your care

Cancer treatment can be complex and the amount of information may feel overwhelming. It may be helpful to enlist a family member or friend to help you understand and organize the information from the doctor. For example, this person could accompany you to doctors’ appointments to take notes or think of additional questions. Learn more helpful hints for doctor visits. Other tips for managing your care include the following:

Talk with your doctors and nurses. Most people with cancer say that having an open and trusting relationship with their doctors, nurses, and other health care providers is important. Being able to talk to the health care team and ask questions may make you feel more in control of your disease. If you are meeting with the doctor for the first time, you may feel anxious about how well you will be able to voice your questions and concerns. Find out some examples of the types of questions you may want to ask your doctor.

Organizing your cancer care. Good organization allows you to make the best decisions you can about cancer treatment and recovery and gives you a sense of control. Keep it simple and don’t be afraid to ask friends or family members for help.

Many people find it helpful to develop a medical diary or journal. This can also be a useful tool after treatment. Some people find that a small binder divided into different sections provides easy access to the information they need. Some components of the medical journal could include:

A monthly chart or calendar to record appointments, keep notes about phone calls, or track symptoms and side effects
Copies of important tests and records
A current list of all your medications so that each doctor will know exactly what you are taking
Phone numbers and addresses of your doctor, doctor’s office, and other health care providers

Read more tips about organizing your cancer care.

Organizing transportation. Transportation back and forth from doctors’ appointments and treatment sessions may require the assistance of another person. If friends or family members are not available to help, talk to your doctor, nurse, or social worker about arranging alternate means of transportation.

Updating legal medical documents. While no one at any age wants to face the possibility of life-threatening events or terminal illness, it is better to be prepared. Living wills and health care proxies are among the legal documents that designate the person who will make medical decisions for you and outlines your wishes regarding medical care in case you are unable to make these decisions. Learn more about advance directives.

Financial concerns

Older adults, especially those on a fixed income, commonly have limited financial resources. Depending on a person’s age and insurance coverage, treatment for cancer and other related costs (transportation; over-the-counter medications; and extra support, such as nursing or housekeeping services) can be expensive. It is important to understand your insurance policy and what out-of-pocket expenses it covers. Often, a social worker or a person in your doctor’s office can help you understand what your insurance policy covers.

Medicare

Since its start in 1965, Medicare has been the primary insurance resource for people age 65 and older. Medicare has different “parts” that serve different, sometimes complementary, purposes.

Medicare Part A covers inpatient care (such as hospital care), skilled nursing care, hospice care, and a limited scope of home care services.
Medicare Part B provides financial coverage for doctor services, outpatient care, physical and occupational therapy, and selected medically necessary supplies.
Medicare Part C, also called Medicare Advantage plans, are insurance plans managed by private Medicare-approved companies. It combines Medicare Parts A and B and may include prescription drug coverage.
Medicare Part D is a new benefit that people can enroll in that covers prescription drugs. The Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 (MMA) provided this prescription drug benefit. A common barrier in obtaining active cancer care is the lack of drug benefit for cancer-associated treatment.

Medicare may not cover all of your health care costs. Over the past several years there have been many revisions to the Medicare laws about what treatments that take place outside of the hospital are covered. Depending on a patient’s Medicare plan, they may be responsible for a 20% co-payment (a fixed fee for medical service) if no other insurance is available. For some types of cancer care, this 20% co-payment can be costly and can be another possible barrier to obtaining treatment.

Because of the financial gap in Medicare coverage, some people have supplemental insurance to cover this co-payment. Supplemental insurance helps cover expenses not covered by Medicare, such as deductibles (the amount of money you are responsible for before insurance begins paying), co-insurance (the proportion of a health care bill you are responsible for paying), co-payments, and other out-of-pocket expenses.

For more information about Medicare’s coverage of costs, visit www.medicare.gov.

Other insurance

Medicaid, a federally funded, state-run, health insurance program, is available to people over age 65 who have limited financial resources and low incomes, including those who live in a nursing home.

Unfortunately, many older adults do not have any other supplemental insurance and may not have prescription drug coverage. Financial counseling or social work intervention may be necessary and should be discussed with your doctor or nurse. Local service organizations may have grants available to cover the costs of transportation or treatment.

Find out more about managing the cost of cancer care.

Caregiving

Family caregivers increasingly provide more care to ill, disabled, or older family members and friends. In fact, family members and friends are often responsible for administering medications, monitoring symptoms, advocating for appropriate medical care, and participating in end-of-life issues. Often, these caregivers are an important link between the person with cancer and the health care team.

Caring for a family member or friend with cancer requires tremendous dedication and commitment. In return, the reward for the caregiver can be tremendous as well, knowing that they have been able to help and support a family member or friend when it matters most. In some circumstances, an older person with cancer may already have a debilitating illness that has required the support and care of their family and friends. Sharing caregiving responsibilities can provide the necessary mutual support to effectively cope with the stresses of caring for an older person with cancer.

The older spouse as the primary caregiver

In many cases, the spouse of the person with cancer does most of the caregiving. Spouses in this situation may also require emotional support. People with cancer and their spouses may need assistance with the following:

Driving the spouse with cancer back and forth for appointments, tests, and treatments
Preparing meals or buying groceries
Housekeeping
Caring for pets

In addition, if the primary caregiver also has health issues and is not able to effectively care for the person with cancer, help from other family members, neighbors, or social workers is probably needed. Family members or friends of older adults with cancer may want to check in with the caregiver as well as the person with cancer to offer some relief. In addition, there may be other options and resources for family caregivers that can help relieve the stress and demands of caregiving. Talk with the doctor or nurse about finding solutions to these problems.

Coping with caregiving responsibilities

Because caring for a family member or friend with cancer takes a tremendous amount of commitment, caregivers report that this responsibility significantly affects their lives. For example, caregivers may experience emotional distress, financial hardship, an inability to maintain their normal routine, and an inability to socialize. Often, caregivers experience feelings of depression and social isolation, especially if the person they are caring for becomes progressively sicker. Many caregivers often neglect their own health care needs. Learn more about how caregivers can take care of themselves.

Finally, support networks over the phone, on the Internet, or in person are available to both the person with cancer and the caregiver. The Internet can provide virtual places for people with cancer and caregivers to seek advice, talk about their experiences, and acknowledge that they are not alone in what they are going through.

Male Hormone Replacement Therapy As Men Age

Posted on April 2, 2012 by 6s79T

As men age, they begin to experience changes in their bodies. Abdominal fat increases and muscle mass decreases. They also experience a distressing decline in their sex drive. At the same time, the risk of serious health conditions such as depression and heart disease rises. While most conventional physicians (and some members of the lay media) dismiss these woes as signs of “natural aging,” there is often an underlying and identifiable cause of these symptoms—the gradual decline of important sex hormones, especially testosterone.

Too often, men who have problems related to a low testosterone level are advised to treat only the symptoms of their conditions (such as taking antidepressant and/or cholesterol-lowering drugs). Fortunately, progressive physicians, along with the Life Extension Foundation, now recognize the connection between hormones and the diseases of aging. Restoration of youthful hormone levels is associated with optimal sexual function, energy, and vitality, while declining hormone levels correlate with many age-related conditions, including high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, diabetes, loss of muscle and bone mass, and fatigue (Shores MM et al 2004).

Factors That Affect Testosterone Levels

Testosterone, which is abundantly produced during puberty, is responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics and has profound effects throughout the body. Testosterone receptors are found in virtually all body tissues, so levels of testosterone affect the function of most organ systems. For example, testosterone causes growth of facial and body hair in skin cells, increased fiber size and strength in muscle cells, and maturation of the external genitalia. The effects of testosterone on the central nervous system are also well-known (Okun MS et al 2004). Testosterone governs such behaviors as aggression, risk taking, and territoriality. It is now recognized as an important factor in mitigating depression (King JA et al 2005).

As with all sex hormones, testosterone is part of a cascade that begins with cholesterol, the building block for hormones. Pregnenolone, the “master hormone,” is produced directly from cholesterol. In turn, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA; a precursor to testosterone), testosterone (and its metabolites), and estrogen (and its metabolites) are produced from pregnenolone. Both testosterone and estrogen are produced by enzymatic reactions from DHEA. This ubiquitous molecule is the steroid found in highest quantities in humans. Changes in the supply of DHEA (and/or changes in the levels of the enzymes that convert DHEA to the sex hormones) can have powerful effects on sex hormone–dependent systems.

As men age, a number of changes occur that reduce the testosterone level available to the body and that alter the ratio between testosterone and the chief female hormone, estrogen. This condition is now referred to as partial androgen deficiency of aging men (Harman SM 2005).

One of the most important factors that affect testosterone levels of aging men is an enzyme called aromatase, which is found in fat tissue. This enzyme is responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen, thus altering the ratio of estrogen to testosterone (Steiner MS et al 2003). Men who have excessive body fat, especially abdominal fat, are likely to have increased estrogen levels caused by aromatase activity and a dramatically increased estrogen level compared to testosterone. An increased estrogen level has been linked, in turn, to a host of disorders, including decreased insulin sensitivity and blood glucose problems. Some studies suggest that there is an association between a low testosterone level, insulin resistance, an elevated estrogen level, and increased body fat in aging men (Phillips GB 1993).

This relationship between low testosterone and obesity has been described as the hypogonadal/obesity cycle. In this cycle, a low testosterone level leads to an increase in abdominal fat, which leads to increased aromatase activity, which leads to further conversion of testosterone to estradiol, which further reduces testosterone and increases the tendency toward abdominal fat (Cohen PG 1999).

The effect of sex hormones on tissues is also affected by the level of sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG). Sex hormones circulate in the bloodstream in very small quantities as free molecules. The bulk of sex hormones are bound to SHBG, which is a specialized carrier protein (Nankin HR et al 1986). Hormones bound to carrier molecules are inactive, so the amount of SHBG has an important impact on the degree to which tissues respond to sex hormone levels (Misao R et al 1999; Zmuda JM et al 1993; Dambe JE et al 1983; Van Look PF et al 1981). Nutritional status and the levels of other hormones are among the factors that determine levels of SHBG.

Aging men who have an androgen deficiency experience both an increase in aromatase activity and an elevation in SHBG production. The net result is to increase the ratio of estrogen to testosterone and lower the total testosterone level (Killinger DW et al 1987; Kley HK et al 1980a,b). Finally, it is important that aging men also strive for optimal liver function. The liver is responsible for removing excess estrogen and SHBG, so any compromise in liver function (such as that caused by heavy alcohol consumption, for example) can exacerbate hormonal imbalances.

Effects of Age-Related Decline in Testosterone Levels

The exact causes of the age-related reduction in testosterone levels is not known; it is probably the result of a combination of factors, including increased body fat (and therefore increased aromatase activity), oxidative damage to tissues responsible for the production of testosterone, and declining levels of precursor molecules such as DHEA. The results of the decline, however, are strikingly apparent.

Nervous system effects. Low testosterone levels have been associated with depression and other psychological disorders (Barrett-Connor E et al 1999b; Rabkin JG et al 1999; Schweiger U et al 1999; Seidman SN et al 1999; Moger WH 1980). In addition, many conventional antidepressants suppress libido. Some experts recommend that patients whose reduced libido is caused by taking antidepressants undergo testing to have their testosterone levels checked—and that they get supplemental treatment if necessary. Others suggest that testosterone therapy might reduce the need for the antidepressants themselves (Goldstat R et al 2003; Morley JE 2003). Feelings of well-being are often reported with testosterone treatment (Carnahan RM et al 2004; Dunning TL et al 2004; Orengo CA et al 2004; Wright JV et al 1999).

Cognition and alertness are also governed in part by testosterone’s effects on the central nervous system (Cherrier MM et al 2004; Cherrier MM et al 2001; Janowsky JS et al 2000). Low testosterone levels have been shown to correlate with lower scores on various psychometric tests (Moffat SD et al 2002; Barrett-Connor E et al 1999a; Janowsky JS et al 1994). Similar effects have been reported in men taking androgen-deprivation therapy for prostate cancer (Salminen EK et al 2004). Testosterone’s ability to protect nerve cells against a variety of toxins, including oxidative stress (Ahlbom E et al 2001) and the Alzheimer’s protein beta-amyloid (Zhang Y et al 2004; Hammond J et al 2001), may explain the low testosterone levels found in men who have neurodegenerative diseases (Hogervorst E et al 2004; Okun MS et al 2004; Ready RE et al 2004).

Sexual enjoyment and function. Falling levels of free testosterone diminish sexual desire, as well as pleasure and performance in sexual activity. There is evidence that, in men with low free testosterone levels, replacement therapy can improve sexual function (Tenover JL 1998; Anderson RA et al 1992; Ahmed SR et al 1988; Davidson JM et al 1982).

Cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. There is a clear relationship between low levels of testosterone and increased incidence of cardiovascular disease, particularly as testosterone level relates to metabolic syndrome (Dobrzycki S et al 2003; Hak AE et al 2002; Zhao SP et al 1998; Jeppesen LL et al 1996). Metabolic syndrome is the combination of abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, insulin resistance, and lipid disorders in the same person. This condition is associated with a high risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown that testosterone administration (500 milligrams [mg] of intramuscular injections) in middle-aged, obese men was able to increase insulin sensitivity (Marin P et al 1992a). These results were confirmed in another study in which testosterone treatment led to reduced insulin resistance (Marin P et al 1992b). Later studies also showed that testosterone administration is helpful in the context of metabolic syndrome (Bhasin S 2003; Boyanov MA et al 2003).

The musculoskeletal system. Bone integrity depends upon a balance between bone formation and bone resorption, which are controlled by multiple factors including estrogen and testosterone (Rucker D et al 2004; Tok EC et al 2004; Valimaki VV et al 2004). One clinical trial has demonstrated that testosterone increases bone mineral density in elderly men (van den Beld AW et al 2000). Testosterone supplementation also has a positive effect on muscle metabolism and strength (Herbst KL et al 2004). The effect is undiminished with age, although older men have a greater incidence of adverse effects.

The Importance of Hormone Testing

When testosterone levels are measured, it is critical to determine the levels of both free and total testosterone to understand the cause of any observed symptoms of deficiency or excess (Pardridge WM 1986).

The Life Extension Foundation believes that a comprehensive battery of tests, along with a careful physical examination, is helpful in detecting hormonal imbalances in aging men. If testing is conducted, it is important to remember that blood levels of both free and total testosterone vary widely among individuals, making it difficult to establish a general threshold for treatment. However, levels are quite consistent within individuals, so it is helpful for men to have multiple tests over time to determine trends and individual thresholds for treatment.

It is also important to note that so-called normal levels of testosterone for older men reflect averages in the current population. The Life Extension Foundation believes that most aging men would prefer not to accept the loss of youthful vigor as normal. Instead, we suggest that a more valid optimal range for all men would be in the upper one-third of the range for men aged 21 to 49 years, and that any supplementation should aim to restore hormone levels to that range.

Finally, during the initial testing, it is imperative to also test estrogen levels. Many of the unwanted effects of male hormone imbalance are actually caused by an elevated estrogen level relative to testosterone level (the estrogen/testosterone ratio).

Using Hormone Replacement Wisely

If a man chooses to pursue hormone testing with the intention of using testosterone supplementation (available orally or as an injection, implant, or skin patch), he should keep several facts and precautions in mind (Rhoden EL et al 2004; Schaeffer EM et al 2004):

The patterns and trends over time of multiple hormone levels (such as free testosterone, total testosterone, and estrogen) determine the specific hormone replacements required.
It is not safe to use large amounts of testosterone in any form.
Hormone replacement should not be initiated without comprehensive testing.
Because of the risk of worsening prostate cancer, careful screening for prostate cancer, including a digital rectal examination and prostate specific antigen (PSA) screening, must be done before starting any hormone replacement program.
Certain conditions are contraindications to hormone replacement (Ebert T et al 2005). Prostate cancer, in particular, can be made worse by increasing available testosterone.
A man who is contemplating taking hormone replacement, whether through a prescription or through supplements, should work closely with a qualified physician to plan a rationale approach to treatment and continued monitoring and screening.

Testosterone Therapies

Synthetic anabolic steroids. Synthetic anabolid steroids sold in the form of patches, creams, pellets, and tablets are chemically different from the testosterone made by the body and do not accomplish the same effect as natural testosterone. These drugs are aimed primarily at the musculoskeletal system and are known to have myriad toxic side effects, including causing serious heart and kidney complications. They are sometimes abused by athletes and bodybuilders who want to build muscle mass. A few of the synthetic testosterone drugs that men should avoid using on a long-term basis are methyltestosterone, danazol, oxandrolone, testosterone propionate, cyclopentanepropionate, and enanthate.

Testosterone patches, creams, pellets and tablets. Scientists learned decades ago how to make the identical testosterone that a man’s body produces. However, because natural testosterone could not be patented, drug companies developed all kinds of synthetic testosterone analogues. Currently available recommended natural testosterone drugs include testosterone transdermal patches and testosterone creams, pellets, and sublingual tablets.

Both synthetic testosterone and natural testosterone require a prescription. A physician should prescribe testosterone only after a man’s blood tests have verified that he has a testosterone deficiency.

Alternative physicians usually prescribe testosterone creams (available at compounding pharmacies). Conventional physicians are more likely to prescribe testosterone patches. All forms of natural testosterone are the same and all will markedly increase free testosterone in the blood and saliva.

www.lef.org

Aging changes in the heart and blood vessels

Posted on March 29, 2012 by 6s79T

Some changes in the heart and blood vessels normally occur with age, but many others are modifiable factors that, if not treated, can lead to heart disease.

BACKGROUND

The heart has two sides. The right side pumps blood to the lungs to receive oxygen and get rid of carbon dioxide. The left side pumps oxygen-rich blood to the body.

Blood flows out of the heart through arteries, which branch out and get smaller and smaller as they go into the tissues. In the tissues, they become tiny capillaries.

Capillaries are where the blood gives up oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, and receives carbon dioxide and wastes back from the tissues. Then, the vessels begin to collect together into larger and larger veins, which return blood to the heart.

Aging causes changes in the heart and in the blood vessels. Heart and blood vessel diseases are some of the most common disorders in the elderly.

AGING CHANGES

Heart

The heart has a natural pacemaker system that controls the heartbeat. Some of the pathways of this system may develop fibrous tissue and fat deposits. The natural pacemaker (the SA node) loses some of its cells. These changes may result in a slightly slower heart rate.
A slight increase in the size of the heart, especially the left ventricle, is not uncommon. The heart wall thickens, so the amount of blood that the chamber can hold may actually decrease despite the increased overall heart size. The heart may fill more slowly.
Heart changes cause the ECG of a normal, healthy, older person to be slightly different than the ECG of a healthy younger adult. Abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias) such as atrial fibrillation are common in older people. They may be caused by heart disease.
Normal changes in the heart include deposits of the “aging pigment,” lipofuscin. The heart muscle cells degenerate slightly. The valves inside the heart, which control the direction of blood flow, thicken and become stiffer. A heart murmur caused by valve stiffness is fairly common in the elderly.

Blood vessels

Receptors, called baroreceptors, monitor the blood pressure and make changes to help maintain a fairly constant blood pressure when a person changes positions or activities. The baroreceptors become less sensitive with aging. This may explain why many older people have orthostatic hypotension, a condition in which the blood pressure falls when a person goes from lying or sitting to standing. This causes dizziness because there is less blood flow to the brain.
The capillary walls thicken slightly. This may cause a slightly slower rate of exchange of nutrients and wastes.
The main artery from the heart (aorta) becomes thicker, stiffer, and less flexible. This is probably related to changes in the connective tissue of the blood vessel wall. This makes the blood pressure higher and makes the heart work harder, which may lead to hypertrophy (thickening of the heart muscle). The other arteries also thicken and stiffen. In general, most elderly people experience a moderate increase in blood pressure.

Blood

The blood itself changes slightly with age. Normal aging causes a reduction in total body water. As part of this, there is less fluid in the bloodstream, so blood volume decreases.
The number of red blood cells (and correspondingly, the hemoglobin and hematocrit levels) are reduced. This contributes to fatigue. Most of the white blood cells stay at the same levels, although certain white blood cells important to immunity (lymphocytes) decrease in number and ability to fight off bacteria. This reduces the ability to resist infection.

EFFECT OF CHANGES

Under normal circumstances, the heart continues to adequately supply all parts of the body. However, an aging heart may be slightly less able to tolerate increased workloads, because changes reduce this extra pumping ability (reserve heart function).

Some of the things that can increase heart workload include illness, infections, emotional stress, injuries, extreme physical exertion, and certain medications.

COMMON PROBLEMS

Angina (chest pain caused by temporarily reduced blood flow to the heart muscle), shortness of breath with exertion and heart attack can result from coronary artery disease.
Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) of various types can occur.
Anemia may occur, possibly related to malnutrition, chronic infections, blood loss from the gastrointestinal tract, or as a complication of other diseases or medications.
Arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) is very common. Fatty plaque deposits inside the blood vessels cause them to narrow and can totally block blood vessels.
Congestive heart failure is also very common in the elderly. In people older than 75, congestive heart failure occurs 10 times more often than in younger adults.
Coronary artery disease is fairly common. It is often a result of arteriosclerosis.
Heart and blood vessel diseases are fairly common in older people. Common disorders include high blood pressure and orthostatic hypotension.
Transient ischemic attacks (TIA) or strokes can occur if blood flow to the brain is disrupted.
Valve diseases are fairly common. Aortic stenosis, or narrowing of the aortic valve, is the most common valve disease in the elderly.

Other problems with the heart and blood vessels include the following:

Blood clots
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Thrombophlebitis
Peripheral vascular disease, resulting in claudication (intermittent pain in the legs when walking)
Varicose veins

PREVENTION

You can help your circulatory system (heart and blood vessels). Heart disease risk factors that you have some control over include high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, and smoking.

Eat a heart-healthy diet with reduced amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol, and control your weight. Follow your health care provider’s recommendations for treatment of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. Minimize or stop smoking.
Exercise may help prevent obesity and helps people with diabetes control their blood sugar.
Exercise may help you maintain your maximum abilities as much as possible and reduces stress.
Have regular check-ups for your heart:
- Have your blood pressure checked every year. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, your blood pressure may need to be monitored more closely.
- If your cholesterol level is normal, heave it rechecked every 3-5 years. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, your cholesterol may need to be monitored more closely.
Moderate exercise is one of the best things you can do to keep your heart, and the rest of your body, healthy. Consult with your health care provider before beginning a new exercise program. Exercise moderately and within your capabilities, but do it regularly.
People who exercise usually have less body fat and smoke less than people who do not exercise. They also tend to have fewer blood pressure problems and less heart disease.

source: NIH

Functioning, Mini-Human Liver Successfully Grown In The Lab

Posted on March 29, 2012 by 6s79T

Only an Inch in Diameter, Lab Organ is not Fit for Humans, but Opens the Door for Drug Testing or Creating Bigger Livers

(CBS) Researchers at Wake Forest University’s Institute for Regenerative Medicine have grown a miniature liver using human cells. It’s only an inch in diameter – not big enough to work for a human. But the hope is to someday grow bigger livers for people who need them, or to use them for testing new drugs.

To engineer the organs, the scientists used animal livers that were treated with a mild detergent to remove all cells, leaving only the collagen “skeleton.”
They then replaced the original cells with two types of human cells: immature liver cells known as progenitors, and endothelial cells that line blood vessels.
It’s the first time human — rather than animal — cells have been used to engineer livers in a laboratory setting.

“Our hope is that once these organs are transplanted, they will maintain and gain function as they continue to develop,” said lead author Pedro Baptista, PharmD, Ph.D. Said Shay Soker, Ph.D., professor of regenerative medicine and project director, “We are excited about the possibilities this research represents, but must stress that we’re at an early stage and many technical hurdles must be overcome before it could benefit patients.”

Staying Healthy at 50+

Posted on March 23, 2012 by 6s79T

Adapted from information provided by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; based on research findings from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.

Daily Steps to Good Health
• Be tobacco free.
• Be physically active.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.

SCREENING TESTS AND PREVENTIVE MEDICINE

Heart and Vascular Diseases
• Aspirin to prevent heart attack: Men at risk* — Ages 50 to 80.
• Aspirin to prevent stroke: Women at risk* — Ages 55 to 80.
• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Test: Once for men who have smoked — Ages 65 to 75.
• Blood Pressure Screening Test: All men and women — Ages 50 and older, at least every 2 years.
• Cholesterol Screening Test: All men and women — Ages 50 and older.
• Diabetes Screening Test: Men and women — Ages 50 and older with high blood pressure.

Cancer
• Breast Cancer Screening (Mammogram): All women — Ages 50 and older, every 1 to 2 years.
• Breast Cancer Preventive Medicines: Women at risk*— Ages 50 to 80.
• Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Test): All women — Ages 50 to 65, at least every 3 years.
• Colorectal Cancer Screening Test: All men and women — Ages 50 and older.

Bone Disease
• Osteoporosis Screening (Bone Density Scan): Women at risk* — Ages 60 to 65, and all women — Ages 65 and older.

Sexual Health
• HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection Screening Tests: Men and women at risk* — Ages 50 and older.

Mental Health
• Depression Screening: All men and women — Ages 50 and older.

Immunizations
• Flu Vaccine: All men and women — Ages 50 and older, annually.
• Other Vaccines: You can prevent some serious diseases, such as pneumonia, whooping cough, tetanus, and shingles, by being vaccinated. Talk with your doctor or nurse about which vaccines you need and when to get them.

* Being at risk means that you may be more likely to develop a specific disease or condition. Whether you are at risk depends on your family history, things you do or don’t do (such as exercising regularly or using tobacco), and other health conditions you might have (such as diabetes). If you think you might be at risk for a specific disease, talk with your doctor.

source: national institute on aging web site