by: Bello kamorudeen
To provide hope and life-saving treatment to the thousands of people dying each year from asbestos-caused mesothelioma, federal governments of affected countries must make substantial investments into medical research.
Asbestos must be banned in the United States and in other developed countries to protect future generations from increased proliferation of this deadly disease.
Mesothelioma: A Terrible Killer
Mesothelioma is an extremely painful, almost always fatal cancer in which membrane cells (mesothelium) lining the chest or abdomen become malignant and multiply and divide without control. The resulting tumor thickens and hardens, crushing the lungs and suffocating the patient, invading the chest wall causing severe difficulty in breathing and sometimes invading other vital organs like the heart, aorta or the abdomen, leading to various forms of the cancer.
We are all at risk
Mesothelioma is the tragic legacy of the industrial and commercial use of asbestos.Advertised as “the miracle mineral” because of its excellent fireproofing, insulating, filling and bonding properties, asbestos was used virtually everywhere in industry,manufacturing and construction from the 1930s through the late 1970s, even as its carcinogenic and respiratory lethality was well known to medicine, industry and the government. At its peak usage, more than 3,000 industrial applications or products were listed as utilizing asbestos.
As a result, over 20 million American workers were exposed to this mineral and are at risk of developing mesothelioma today, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). When the workers in the asbestos related industries brought the fibers home on their skin, hair and clothes, their families were also exposed to the dangerous mineral.
Asbestos was prevalent on Navy ships, and servicemen and shipyard workers were heavily exposed. A study at the Groton, Connecticut shipyard found that over one hundred thousand workers had been exposed to asbestos over the years at just this one shipyard.
Mesothelioma has a long incubation period before its symptoms start to show (ten to 50 years), and even low-dose, incidental exposures to asbestos are sufficient to cause the cancer. Thus, the prolific exposures of the past are leading to an epidemic of disease today. Minnesota Congressman Bruce Vento worked near an asbestos-insulated boiler in a Minneapolis brewery for two summers while putting himself through college. In October 2000, he was diagnosed with mesothelioma, and died just ten months later.
According to the most recent data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2004, approximately2,700 Americans died from mesothelioma, and incidence still has not peaked.
Millions more Americans are being put at risk today, because of all of the asbestos that remains present in occupational settings; in buildings such as homes, offices and schools; and in a wide variety of products. Just one product, an insulation contaminated with a very dangerous form of asbestos, is estimated by the EPA to be in 30 million U.S.homes.
The EPA estimates that there are asbestos containing materials in most of the nation's approximately 107,000 primary and secondary schools and 733,000 public and commercial buildings. According to the US Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), an “estimated 1.3 million employees in construction and general industry face significant asbestos exposure on the job.” The utility tunnels under our nation’s Capitol have hazardous levels of asbestos, and demonstrate just how pervasive the problem is.
In fact, asbestos still has not been banned. Every year, the hazards of asbestos increases as more of the carcinogen is introduced into our environment. Asbestos is still used in roofing and other building materials, and in many consumer products including vehicle brakes. As a result, everyday occurrences like going to work, simple remodeling projects, or the normal wear of roofing materials, tiles or brakes on a family vehicle are exposing Americans to the hazardous risk of mesothelioma.
Needed: A National Commitment to a Cure
Mesothelioma was identified in medical literature by the late 1940’s. However, for decades the need for research to develop effective treatments for mesothelioma patients was ignored, obscured by the legal, economic and political aspects of asbestos.
The National Cancer Institute’s annual investment in clinical mesothelioma research has been, on a per death basis, only a fraction of its investment in other cancers. For years,despite the disproportionate toll of the disease on Navy veterans and shipyard workers,the Department of Defense did not apply any of its vast biomedical research resources to mesothelioma.
As a result of the Meso Foundation’s advocacy efforts, in 2008mesothelioma investigators are for the first time eligible to compete for Department of Defense Peer Reviewed Medical Research Grant funding. No mesothelioma grants have yet been awarded, however, this has led to advancements in the treatment of mesothelioma lagging far behind those of other cancers. According to the National Institutes of Health, the median survival of mesothelioma patients is only 14 months, with most patients dying within two years.
But there is hope. Since 1999, the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation has awarded over $5 million to spur mesothelioma research forward. Researchers are gaining valuable understandings of the tumor and potential treatment targets, and new clinical trials are opening. The field is ripe for federal partnership. Federal investment in the research needed to develop earlier detection and more effective treatment is essential to provide hope to the thousands of Americans who will become sick as a result of asbestos exposures that have already occurred or that will inevitably occur given the virtual ubiquity of asbestos in our environment.
The proliferation of asbestos and asbestos-disease must be stopped. Over 40 developed and industrialized countries have already banned asbestos; the United States should also protect its citizens by enacting an immediate asbestos ban.
About The Original Author
Bello Kamorudeen. For more information on asbestos and mesothelioma
Visit the author's web site at:
http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com
Jumat, 22 Mei 2009
by: Bello kamorudeen To provide hope and life-saving treatment to the thousands of people dying each year from asbestos-caused mesothelioma, federal g
Birth Control Ring Risks
by: John Humphrey
What is NuvaRing?
The birth control ring (NuvaRing) is a relatively new form of hormone-based birth control. It is a flexible, transparent ring that is approximately two inches in diameter that is inserted into the vagina. The position of the NuvaRing is not important for its function. NuvaRing is left in the vagina for three weeks and then removed. After one week, during which time withdrawal bleeding usually occurs, a new NuvaRing is inserted for another three-week cycle. NuvaRing was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 3, 2001.
How Does NuvaRing Work?
NuvaRing is a combination hormone contraceptive containing – an estrogen and a progestin. NuvaRing is a third generation birth control that uses a different form of progestin than older contraceptives called desogestrel. Those hormones are released into the bloodstream through contact with the vagina. The vaginal walls absorb the hormones and place them into the bloodstream. These hormones are designed to prevent the ovaries from producing mature eggs. In addition, the lining of the uterus becomes thinner which inhibits implantation of a fertilized egg.
Is NuvaRing Effective?
In three clinical trials of 13 cycles of NuvaRing use, the pregnancy rates were between one and two percent. The makers of NuvaRing claim it is highly effective “when used as directed.” However, there are side effects, some of which are serious.
Studies of third generation contraceptives concluded as early as 1995 that the third generation contraceptives containing desogestrel had almost double the risk of venous thrombosis (blood clots) than second generation oral contraceptives. The FDA confirmed this risk in 1995 stating “new studies indicated that a two-fold increase in the risk of venous blood clots associated with products containing desogestrel.” Currently, there also have been zero non-industry sponsored studies comparing the benefits of third generation contraceptives such as NuvaRing to second generation contraceptives.
What are NuvaRing’s Side Effects?
According to the manufacturer of NuvaRing, common side effects reported by NuvaRing users are vaginal infections and irritation, vaginal secretion, headache, weight gain, and nausea. More serious side effects include a higher risk of venous thrombosis (blood clots).
Studies have shown the association between desogestrel and an increased risk of blood clots and stroke. Similar to other hormone-based birth control, NuvaRing has been linked to blood clots including pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis, as well as stroke and heart attack.
Is There a Class Action Lawsuit Against NuvaRing?
There currently is no class action lawsuit against the manufacturer of NuvaRing for problems associated with the use of Nuvaring. Individuals, couples, and families are filing lawsuits on their own for serious problems caused by NuvaRing. The number of these lawsuits is increasing and cases have been consolidated into what is referred to as multi-district litigation. If you or a loved one has suffered NuvaRing side effects such as stroke, blood clot, or heart attack, you may be able to file a NuvaRing lawsuit.
About The Original Author
John Humphrey is author of this article on Nuvaring side effects.
Find more information about Nuvaring lawsuit here.
Visit the author's web site at:
http://www.nuvaringsideeffects.com
Safety Measures You Need To Bear In Mind When Using Sodium Hydroxide
by: Jo Alelsto
There are several things one has to remember when working with substances such as sodium hydroxide, a strong base whose chemical formula is written as NaOH. This alkaline is famous in industries due to its pH control purposes, being able to neutralize acids and acidic oxides with great efficiency. Lye or caustic soda, as it is commonly known, is used in manufacture of soaps and detergents, as well as many cleaning liquids. It is also found in processing of cotton, metals like aluminum, textile, paper, and pulp. This ionic compound dissociates completely into sodium ions and hydroxide ions in aqueous solutions.
This substance has never been found to be flammable, nor is it combustible. But since it forms extremely exothermic solutions with water, for instance, it is capable of releasing enough heat to burn combustible materials nearby when mixed with water. It also reacts with amphoteric transition metals like aluminum, tin and zinc. Typical reactions of sodium hydroxide with metals like the ones mentioned liberated hydrogen gas, which ignites in the presence of oxygen.
Storage of this compound may involve tight sealing of its containers as it reacts with acidic oxides present in the air. For instance, it strips away carbon dioxide in the air. Carbon dioxide is a natural acidic anhydride and reacts with the said alkaline to form salt called sodium carbonate.
Since this alkaline has a lower heat capacity than water, it easily transfers heat to the surroundings. For instance, mixing it with water causes dangerous heat buildup that can cause the mixture to splatter and send sprays of sodium hydroxide everywhere. Pouring water onto the solid form of this alkaline can cause a violent reaction that sends NaOH-containing aerosol into the air. Keeping in mind that the substance is a known eye, skin and respiratory irritant, such practices are extremely hazardous. In addition, the extreme heat liberated during the mixing can be enough to destroy the container and cause spillage. Thus, it is necessary to note the safe way of diluting the alkaline. The safer way is to slowly introduce the substance to water. This way, the release of tremendous heat is avoided. While pouring a concentrated NaOH into the water, gently stir the mixture to allow a quicker dissolution process and a quicker distribution of heat throughout the mixture. It is best to use cold water for this purpose. Remember this procedure is also done with concentrated acids. It is necessary to wear special clothing and protective gloves while doing this procedure. Never pour water into a concentrated solution of this alkaline. Remember also that even dilute solutions of NaOH may still cause irritation and corrosion.
The alkaline is odorless, even in aqueous solutions. This means that you may not immediately notice your exposure until after irritation occurs. Thus, you may already be dangerously in contact with the alkaline without ever noticing it. This should prompt for extra caution when working with the chemical.
The extreme corrosiveness and reactivity of this substance warrants workers with high chances of coming in contact with this compound as well as to check engineering controls in the area they are working in. Safety equipment and protective gears and clothing must be available at all times. It is a basic rule to follow hygiene guidelines. Workers who are constantly running the risk of exposure with this chemical must be educated and informed about its properties and its health hazards. Furthermore, they must be trained in handling the chemical carefully.
Proper ventilation must be present in working areas. Should leaks and spillage be seen in containments, immediately report this problem. Before carrying and transporting containers check for leaks and damage.
There are several materials that must be kept away from this substance. Never place strong acids with the base, let alone mix them together. NaOH should not come in contact with nitroaromatic, nitroparaffinic or organohalogen compounds. As mentioned earlier the alkaline reacts with metals like aluminum, tin and zinc. Thus, it must not be transported in aluminum containers, for instance, as this may result to liberation of combustible hydrogen gas and damage to the aluminum container. Furthermore, it also reacts with glass. Hence, glass containers are not suitable for prolonged storage of the compound.
About The Original Author
Jo is an author and publisher for ‘ReAgent Chemical Services Ltd’ (http://www.reagent.co.uk), a well-known UK based chemical producer that makes, has a supply of and sells an enormous variety of premium chemicals. If your firm is looking for high quality chemical product such as Sodium Hydroxide or has other industrial compound needs for uses similar to chemical fusion, analytical applications and cleaning then have a look at ReAgent Chemical Services Ltd.
The Health Hazards In Using Sodium Hydroxide by: Jo Alelsto
Sodium hydroxide is one of the most dangerous chemicals. It is one of the strongest alkaline, known as caustic soda or lye. It is white, odorless and non-volatile in aqueous solutions. It is not readily flammable. However, it is a highly reactive substance. It forms an exothermic solution with water, evolving heat which may ignite combustible materials nearby. Its reaction with other metals yields hydrogen gas which ignites in the presence of oxygen. Moreover, this substance is extremely corrosive.
This compound is found in many manufacturing plants. It is used in the following industrial purposes: manufacture of soaps, detergents and cleaning agents; processing of cotton and production of rayon and cellophane; processing of petroleum and natural gas; manufacture of pulp and paper; and various other chemical processing like pH control and acid neutralization. This chemical is also found in textile processing, vegetable oil refining, water treatment, manufacture of glass, preparation of adhesives, and stabilization of sodium hypochlorite. It is used in the processing of aluminum and degreasing of metals.
This compound is either used in industries as a pure solid substance or in solutions with water at varying concentrations. It may be found with impurities like sodium chloride, sodium carbonate, and metals like iron and nickel.
This chemical is known in chemistry to be one of the most dangerous substances that must be handled with extreme caution.
This alkaline substance does not form vapors but may form aerosol dust which can be inhaled. Reports from cases of inhalation of caustic soda suggest that this compound has the ability to irritate the respiratory tract lining. A lung injury known as pulmonary edema or the accumulation of fluid in the lungs may happen. Workers exposed to a hot mist of this compound in unventilated area will experience tightness of chest, difficulty in breathing, and cough. This is due to the body’s defense mechanism against the irritant. There was a reported case of a man who sustained severe pulmonary injury due to inhalation of aerosol containing the substance. This happened when water was poured onto sodium hydroxide pellets.
This compound is very corrosive that it should not come in contact with any part of the body. During skin exposure, the substance causes severe burning, ulceration and scarring. One of the dangers of skin exposure is that the chemical tends to destroy deeper layers of the skin until it is washed off. The extent of injury depends on the length and amount of exposure.
Another thing which must be guarded is the possibility of eye contact because the chemical can penetrate deep into the eyes. One of the most obvious symptoms of eye injury due to exposure is damage on the cornea accompanied by clouding and loss of normal vision. This could progress to eye disorders like glaucoma and cataract. The ulceration and clouding in the eye may continue resulting to permanent blindness.
Accidental ingestion of the alkaline may result to even more serious conditions. The substance is likely to corrode anything in its path. Thus, severe burns in the mouth, throat, esophageal lining, and gastric lining may happen. This could be accompanied by vomiting and loose bowel movement. In severe cases hemorrhage and perforation may occur, which leads to death.
These, however, are results of initial and acute exposures. Chronic exposure is one thing that concerns most workers in industrial plants where sodium hydroxide is introduced and utilized. Continual skin contact causes the skin to become dry, cracked, and inflamed. Chronic respiratory exposure may cause serious obstruction in the airway.
A research was conducted to determine whether the inorganic base is responsible for cancer. Individuals who were frequently exposed to it were called in for the study. There is a speculation that the alkaline causes cancer of the esophagus to individuals who have accidentally swallowed it. However, the cancer does not develop until more than ten years from exposure. The same cancer tissue growth has been noticed in areas of the skin that suffered previous burns. But experts believe that the cancerous growths have been due to the damage to the tissue and formation of scar and not directly caused by chemical exposure.
About The Original Author
Jo is a content writer for ‘ReAgent Chemical Services Ltd’ (http://www.reagent.co.uk), an established UK stationed chemical company that produces, has a supply of and distributes an enormous range of high quality chemical. If your business is seeking superior quality chemical product for instance Sodium Hydroxide or has other industrial compound requirements for applications similar to chemical syntheses, analytical purposes and cleaning then take a look at ReAgent Chemical Services Ltd.
Visit the author's web site at:
http://www.reagent.co.ukh
Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/health/article_7881.shtml
Why Eat Healthy?
Eating healthy is very important in order to sustain a good quality life. If we didn’t eat healthy we would be prone to lots of illnesses and would run the risk of gaining excess weight and joining the obesity crowd.
We are all allowed our bad times though and I don’t believe there is such a thing as the perfect healthy person. Even if you have stuck to healthy living for the past twenty years what about during your teen years and you visited McDonalds once a week
I know I was one of their regulars and without the teenage population I very much doubt that they would be surviving during this current recession!
Healthy eating should be practiced on the whole though. I know you hear about it in the media on a daily basis and get sick to the back teeth of it but eating your five a day of fruit and vegetables is an amazing place to start.
Growing up in Leeds, England my grandparents wouldn’t hear of me going without my fruit and vegetables. The majority of my friend’s parents and grandparents had allotments. This meant that from a very young age we were given lots of seasonal produce that we grew up loving. My wife’s Granddad had a lovely allotment and to this day she still loves eating lots of raw carrots when she gets the munchies and is much better than sneaking a cream filled bun out of the fridge.
As a result of our upbringing we both adore fresh fruit and vegetables. This we believe helps us have a healthy lifestyle and we very rarely catch a cold or suffer from illnesses in general. Neither of us have had a single tummy bug since our son was a couple of months old and he will be eight this year.
Through embracing a good diet along with regular exercise we are able to enjoy playing with our son for hours in the park or on the beach without feeling over tired or out of breath like many kids are.
If you constantly eat the wrong foods you run the risk of other problems such as heart disease or diabetes. Also you will have great levels of energy and actually enjoy getting out of bed in the morning.
About The Original Author
Dominic Milner is a well-known Online Chef and the owner of simply foodndrink that gives free food tips to all:
Head over to http://www.simplyfoodndrink.com to get your FREE advice now!
Visit the author's web site at:
http://www.simplyfoodndrink.com
Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/food_and_drink/article_2107.shtml
