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Myung and colleagues 2009 investigated the association between mobile phone use and tumor risk using a meta-analysis of 465 articles. They report that the use of cell phones was not significantly associated with the risk for tumors, compared with people who never or rarely used a cell phone. However, mobile phone use of 10 years or longer was associated with a risk of tumors according to 13 studies. The authors concluded that mobile phone use is linked to increased risk of tumors, stressing, however, the need of more studies on this subject.
Additional research is needed, says the National Cancer Institute [2]
According to the National Cancer Institute the exposure to high levels of RF energy can heat body tissue, but RF energy exposures from cellular telephones are too low to cause significant tissue heating. Studies have not shown any consistent link between cellular telephone use and cancer, but scientists feel that additional research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
The meta-analisis from Myung and co-authors was criticized for having methodologic flaws and issues and a number of limitations.
Andreas Stang, MD, Andrea Schmidt-Pokrzywniak, PhD, and Oliver Kuss criticized some of the methodology in the meta-analysis, such as the use of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) to assess the quality of published case–control studies, whose the validity is unknown or doubtful. [3]
Rowley (GSM Association in London), and Milligan (Mobile Manufacturers Forum in Brussels deny any influence of the fundings of the industry on the scientific conduct of the INTERPHONE studies. [4]
Samkange-Zeeb and colleagues express their concern about the fact that Myung at al. solely relied on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for assessing the quality of the studies included in the meta-analysis. Samkange-Zeeb ends its letter urging Myung et al and other scientists intending to conduct meta-analyses or systematic literature reviews on mobile phone use and brain tumor risk to follow the suggestion made by Rothmann9 and explore the methodologic differences between studies intensively. [5]
Rejecting critics [6]
Myung and colleagues agree that the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) is not an ideal quality assessment tool for case-control studies because it has not yet been fully validated. However, other checklists, including the National Health Service Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, the Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology, and the Downs and Black checklist, have not been fully validated either. They conclude that theNOS is quite comprehensive for case-control studies, and was therefore chosen for the quality assessment by their study.
[1] Myung SK, Ju W, McDonnell DD, Lee YJ, Kazinets G, Cheng CT, Moskowitz JM.: Mobile phone use and risk of tumors: a meta-analysis. J Clin Oncol. 2009 Nov 20;27(33):5565-72. Epub 2009 Oct 13.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19826127
[2] National Cancer Instutute: Cellular Telephone Use and Cancer Risk.
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/cellphones
[3] Stang, A.;Schmidt-Pokrzywniak, A.; Kuss, O.: Arbitrary Results of a Meta-Analysis on Cancer Risks Among Mobile Phone Users. January 25, 2010. Journal of Clinical Oncology, Correspondece. Doi: 10.1200/JCO.2009.26.7443
http://jco.ascopubs.org/cgi/reprint/JCO.2009.26.7443v1
[4] Rowley, J.T; Milligan, M J.: Studies of Mobile Phone Use and Brain Tumor Risk Are Independent of Industry Influence. JCO Early Release, published online ahead of print Jan 25 2010
Journal of Clinical Oncology, Correspondence. Doi: 10.1200/JCO.2009.26.8136
http://jco.ascopubs.org/cgi/reprint/JCO.2009.26.8136v1
[5] Samkange-Zeeb F, Schüz J, Schlehofer B, Berg-Beckhoff G, Blettner M.: Comparison of Studies on Mobile Phone Use and Risk of Tumors. J Clin Oncol. 2010 Jan 25. Doi: 10.1200/JCO.2009.26.9084;
http://jco.ascopubs.org/cgi/reprint/JCO.2009.26.9084v1
[6] Myung SK, Ju W, McDonnell DD, Lee YJ, Kazinets G, Cheng CT, Moskowitz JM.: Reply to A. Stang et al, J.T. Rowley et al, and F. Samkange-Zeeb et al. J Clin Oncol. 2010 Jan 25. Doi: 10.1200/JCO.2009.26.8375
http://jco.ascopubs.org/cgi/reprint/JCO.2009.26.8375v1
06.02.2010: Diet rich in leafy green vegetables, folate and multivitamins may reduce gene methylation of smokers' lung cells [1]
Early detection of lung cancer by monitoring gene promoter hypermethylation events in sputum may lead to an early detection of the disease. Belinsky and colleagues 2010 evaluated the effect of diet and multivitamin on the prevalence of gene promoter methylation in cells of sputum of current and former smokers. The authors studied the promoter methylation of eight genes which are commonly silenced in lung cancer and associated with risk for this disease.
Diet rich in leafy green vegetables, folate and current use of multivitamin was found to provide a significant protection against methylation.
The addition of methyl groups, which are simple four atom molecules, to DNA can affect whether the gene is expressed, i.e., whether the gene's signal to produce a protein is actually sent. Many genes involved in critical cell functions, including cell division, are methylated in lung tumors. Gene methylation is likely to be a major mechanism in lung cancer development and progression, as well as a potential marker for the early detection of lung cancer.
The National Cancer Institute refers to considerable debate regarding the relationship between diet and cancer prevention. Previous studies, such as the Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention (ATBC) Trial, showed an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers who took beta-carotene supplements. In contrast, the current study shows reduced gene methylation with the intake of multivitamin supplements that are rich in phytochemicals, such as vitamin C, carotenoids, lutein, folic acid, and vitamins A and K--the same agents present in leafy greens. Some studies suggest an association between a low folate intake and increased lung cancer risk in current and former smokers. Higher folate intake has been associated with lower methylation of genes in colorectal tumors as well. [2]
Belinski and co-authors recommend that lung cancer prevention interventions be developed that take into consideration the influence of dietary factors on cancer risk.
[1] Stidley CA, Picchi MA, Leng S, Willink R, Crowell R, Flores KG, Kang H, Byers T, Gilliland FD, and Belinsky SA. Multi-Vitamins, Folate, and Green Vegetables Protect Against Gene Promoter Methylation in the Aerodigestive Tract of Smokers. Cancer Res. 2010 Jan 15;70(2):568-74. Epub 2010 Jan 12.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20068159
[2] National Cancer Institute: Diet May Protect Against Gene Changes in Smokers. News, February 12, 2010.
http://www.cancer.gov/newscenter/pressreleases/Dietaryfactorslungcancer
04.02.2010: Patents on breath Cancer genes are unconstitutional and invalid, say two civil organisations [1]
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Public Patent Foundation (PUBPAT) filed a lawsuit charging that patents on two human genes associated with breast and ovarian cancer are unconstitutional and invalid.
The lawsuit was filed against the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, as well as Myriad Genetics and the University of Utah Research Foundation, which hold the patents on the genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2. The lawsuit charges that patents on human genes violate the First Amendment and patent law because genes are "products of nature" and therefore can't be patented.
According to ACLU about 20 percent of our genes are patented. A gene patent holder has the right to prevent anyone from studying, testing or even looking at a gene. As a result, scientific research and genetic testing has been delayed, limited or even shut down due to concerns about gene patents.
The ACLU stresses that mutations along the BRCA genes are responsible for most cases of hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. The patents granted to Myriad give the company the exclusive right to perform diagnostic tests on the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes and to prevent any researcher from even looking at the genes without first getting permission from Myriad.
[1] ACLU and PUBPAT Argue Today That Patents on Breast Cancer Genes Are Unconstitutional and Invalid. American Civil Liberties Union. 02.February 2010.
http://www.aclu.org/free-speech-womens-rights/aclu-and-pubpat-argue-today-patents-breast-cancer-genes-are-unconstitution
04.02.2010: Oregano oil may improve shelf-life of processed meat [1]
Scramlin and colleagues 2010 report that oxidation of the fat content and and the rate of colour change of the meat was significantly reduced by addition of a brine containing 0,5 per cent of oregano oil, during a storage of 11 days. Off-flavours in fresh meat was increased , and more work is needed to use of oregano oil to extend shelf-life of meat products.
The adverse effects of flavour may not be tolerable in fresh meat products at this concentration. The authors recommend to reduce the concentrations of oregano oil which could become a natural antioxidant in a variety of processed products.
[1] Scramlin, S.M.; Newman, M.C.; Cox, R.B.; Sepe, H.A.; Alderton, A.L.; O'Leary, J.; Mikel, W.B.: Effects of Oregano Oil Brine Enhancement on Quality Attributes of Beef Longissimus dorsi and Semimembranosus Muscles from Various Age Animals. Journal of Food Science. Doi: 10.1111/j.1750-3841.2009.01459.x
http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/123268411/abstract
03.02.2010: Food-borne infections are decreasing in Europe [1]
Campylobacteriosis remained the most frequently reported zoonotic infection in humans across the European Union, with 190.566 cases notified in 2008 (down from 200.507 in 2007). In foodstuffs, Campylobacter, which can cause diarrhoea and fever, was mostly found in raw poultry meat. In live animals, Campylobacter was found in poultry, pigs and cattle. EFSA’s BIOHAZ Panel concludes that the handling, preparation and consumption of broiler meat may directly account for 20 to 30% of human cases of campylobacteriosis in the European Union. Campylobacteriosis is generally contracted through ingestion of bacteria originating from contaminated food or contaminated water. The disease which can lead to diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and fever affects children, young adults and the elderly.
Salmonella, the second most reported zoonotic infection in humans, decreased significantly for the fifth consecutive year, with131,468 cases in 2008 compared to 151.998 in 2007, representing a 13.5% decrease. It remained however the most frequent cause of food borne outbreaks. Salmonella was found most frequently in raw chicken, turkey and pig meat. In animal populations, an important decline of the Salmonella type Enteritidis –the type most frequently affecting humans[1] – was observed in laying hen flocks.
With 1.381 confirmed cases in 2008, Listeria infections showed a decrease of 11% compared to 2007. Although less frequent in humans compared to Campylobacter and Salmonella, Listeria is known to have a high mortality rate, the most affected being vulnerable groups such as the elderly. In foodstuffs, the study found Listeria above the legal safety limit in some ready-to-eat foods, mostly in smoked fish and heat-treated meat products and cheeses.
Q Fever increasing in Germany and The Netherlands [2]
Q fever is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii that affects both animals and humans. It has been reported to be present in a wide range of species, including cattle, sheep and goats, as well as birds and arthropods in many areas in the world.
It was first recognised as a disease transmissible from animals to humans in abattoir workers in 1935 in Australia. In recent years, the number of confirmed cases in humans increased, in particular in Germany and The Netherlands.
Coxiella burnetii does not usually cause clinical diseases in animals, although abortion in goats and sheep has been linked to infection with this bacterium. In humans, Q fever may cause flu-like symptoms, including fever and headache, diarrhea and vomiting. In some cases it can cause pneumonia and hepatitis. Chronic Q fever (characterized by an infection lasting more than 6 months) is uncommon but a much more serious disease with complications such as inflammation of the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis).
Most human infections result from the inhalation of dust contaminated with bacteria from the placenta and birth fluids or faeces from infected animals. In some cases the disease can be transmitted by the consumption of contaminated milk or contact with infected animals, especially animals that are giving birth. Other modes of transmission, including tick bites and human to human transmission are extremely rare.
[1] EFSA and ECDC issue 2008 report on zoonoses and food-borne outbreaks in the EU
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/press/news/zoonoses100128.htm
[2] Q fever. EFSA
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/ahawtopics/topic/qfever.htm?
03.02.2010: Thiacloprid in strawberries [1]
Bayer CropScience B.V made an application to modify the existing MRL for the active substance thiacloprid in strawberries, raising the existing MRL in strawberries from 0,5 mg/kg to 1,0 mg/kg.
Residue field trials indicate that a higher EC MRL of 0,7 mg/kg for strawberries would be necessary to accommodate the intended use of thiacloprid.
EFSA concluded that no significant residues are expected provided that thiacloprid is applied according to the intended use. Residues in commodities of animal origin were not assessed in the framework of this application since the crop under consideration is not a livestock feeding item. Therefore the EFSA proposes the EC MRL of 0,7 mg/kg of thiacloprid in strawberries.
[1] Reasoned opinion of EFSA: Modification of the existing MRL for thiacloprid in strawberries. EFSA 02.02.2010.
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/scdocs/doc/1498.pdf
03.02.2010: “Hero Baby” brand baby milk contaminated with Enterobacter sakazakii [1]
KUWAIT: The Kuwait Municipality has ordered the withdrawal of the 'Hero Baby' brand of baby milk formula from co-operative societies. Traces of the potentially fatal 'entro bacter sakazakii' bacteria were found in these products, announced Head of the Imported Food Department, Khalid Al-Zahmoul.
This decision was based on similar moves made by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, which have banned the sale of this product in their markets, reported Al-Watan. Officers from the Municipality were referred to warehouses in order to ensure that the distribution process is halted. This is in addition to taking samples to be tested for traces of bacteria.
[1] Order to withdraw of baby milk. Kuwait Times 03 February 2010.
http://www.kuwaittimes.net/read_news.php?newsid=NzkxMTE0NjY2
02.02.2010: Oats may improve vitamin and minerals nutritional profile of gluten-free diet [1]
Oats may enhance levels of vitamin B1, magnesium, zink and antioxidants of gluten-free diets, according to Kemppainen and colleagues 2010. In this study 100g of kilned and unkilned oats a day were included in the diet of adult celiac patients in remission.
Kilning is a heat and moisture treatment to balance moisture, but mainly to stabilize the groat. Oat groats are high in fat (lipids) and once exposed from their protective hull, enzymatic (lipase) activity begins to break down the fat into free fatty acids, ultimately causing an off flavor or rancidity. Oats will begin to show signs of enzymatic rancidity within 4 days of being dehulled and not stabilized.
The researchers report that kilned oats increased intake of vitamin B1 and magnesium, while the unkilned oats increased intakes of magnesium and zinc.
Oats ay be acceptable for patients with celiac disease and can improve the nutritional quality of the diet. However, concerns of potential contamination of commercial oats with gluten containing cereals.
Oats as antioxidants source [2]
Lovik and colleagues 2010 write that gluten-free oats help to meet the fibre recommendations of glute-freediets. It also increased billirubin levels, which act as antioxidants.
Low serum bilirubin levels are linked to endothelial dysfunction and increased atherosclerosis. This could significantly improve heart health of coeliac diseased.
[1] Kemppainen TA, Heikkinen MT, Ristikankare MK, Kosma VM, Julkunen RJ.: Nutrient intakes during diets including unkilned and large amounts of oats in celiac disease. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2010 Jan;64(1):62-67. Doi:10.1038/ejcn.2009.113
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19756027
[2} Lovika, Astrid; Gjoenb, ; Morkridc, Lars; Guttormsend, Vigdis; Uelande, Thor ,Lundinaf, Knut E.A.: Oats in a strictly gluten-free diet is associated with decreased gluten intake and increased serum bilirubin. Volume 4, Issue 6, Pages e315-e320 (December 2009). European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism.
http://www.journals.elsevierhealth.com/periodicals/yeclnm/article/PIIS1751499109000791/abstract
02.02.2010: Calcium Plus Vitamin D Supplements May Reduce Fracture Risk [1]
A report of the DIPART (Vitamin D Individual Patient Analysis of Randomized Trials) Group says that Vitamin D plus calcium, but not vitamin D alone in doses of 10 to 20 μg, reduces the risk for fractures and hip fractures. The link between vitamin D plus calcium and a reduced risk for fractures is not affected by age, sex, fracture history, or hormone replacement therapy. A better undestanding of the effect od vitamin D is essential because fragility fractures are a significant source of morbidity and mortality in older persons.
[1] Patient level pooled analysis of 68 500 patients from seven major vitamin D fracture trials in US and Europe. DIPART (Vitamin D Individual Patient Analysis of Randomized Trials) Group. 2010 Jan 12;340:b5463. doi: 10.1136/bmj.b5463.BMJ.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20068257?dopt=Abstract
01.02.2010: Sibutramine linked to heart attack and strokes [1]
The Sibutramine Cardiovascular OUTcomes (SCOUT) Trial
The SCOUT trial has been designed to determine the impact of weight loss with sibutramine on cardiovascular endpoints in a large group of overweight and obese subjects at high risk for cardiovascular disease. Sibutramine is a neurotransmitter inhibitor and belongs to the family of amphetamines. It reduces appetite and cravings hence leading to weight loss. However, it must be supported by a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Results from the SCOUT study indicating cardiovascular events occurred in 11.4% of patients using sibutramine compared to 10% of patients using a placebo. This difference was higher than expected, suggesting that sibutramine was associated with an increased cardiovascular risk in the study population. The study reviewed by FDA indicate that the increased risk for cardiovascular events with sibutramine occurred only in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease.
The use of Sibutramine is authorised in the EU since 1999. New concerns arise after the release of the Sibutramine Cardiovascular OUTcomes (SCOUT) trial. Weight reducing medicines containing Sibutramine are Reductil, Reduxade and Zelium and other tradenames in Europe, and Meridia in the United States. Sibutramine could increase blood pressure and heart rate.
FDA reviewing safety of sibutramine [2]
The FDA is reviewing preliminary data from a recent study suggesting that patients using sibutramine have a higher number of cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, resuscitated cardiac arrest, or death) than patients using a placebo.
The additional data from the SCOUT study reviewed by FDA indicate that the increased risk for cardiovascular events with sibutramine occurred only in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease [3].
The European Medicines Agency (EMEA) urges ban on a weight loss pill containing sibutramine, which are sold under the names Reductil, Reduxade and Zelium in Europe and Meridia in the United States over fears that it could increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Acording to EMEA, data of the SCOUT study indicate an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events, such as stroke or heart attack, with medicines containing sibutramine [4].
Abbott will suspend the marketing of Abbott medicines under the brand names Reductil, Merindia, Sibutral, Ectiva and Raductil, containing sibutramine in all EU member Countries, Iceland and Norway. Sibutramine remains available outside the EU. Abbott followed the recommendations of the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicine Agency (EMA), after evaluation of data of the SCOUT study [5].
[1] ESH '07: Blood Pressure Effects of Sibutramine in Hypertensive Patients: The SCOUT Trial
Medscape.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/561243_3
[2] Early Communication about an Ongoing Safety Review of Meridia (sibutramine hydrochloride), (U.S. Food and Drug Administration), November 20, 2009
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm191650.htm
[3] Follow-Up to the November 2009 Early Communication about an Ongoing Safety Review of Sibutramine, Marketed as Meridia. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, January 21. 2010.
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm198206.htm
[4] European Medicines Agency recommends suspension of marketing authorisations for sibutramine. Weight-loss medicine associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events to be removed from all markets in the European Union. authorisations for 21 January 2010
http://www.ema.europa.eu/pdfs/human/referral/sibutramine/3940810en.pdf
[5] Abbott to Suspend Marketing of Obesity Medicine Sibutramine in European Union Countries. Abbot News.
https://www.abbott.se/media/pdf/Sibutramine-news-release-01-21-10.pdf
01.02.2010: Sibutramine linked to heart attack and strokes [1]
The SCOUT Trial
Results from the SCOUT study indicating cardiovascular events occurred in 11.4% of patients using sibutramine compared to 10% of patients using a placebo. This difference was higher than expected, suggesting that sibutramine was associated with an increased cardiovascular risk in the study population. The study reviewed by FDA indicate that the increased risk for cardiovascular events with sibutramine occurred only in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease.
The use of Sibutramine is authorised in the EU since 1999. New concerns arise after the release of the Sibutramine Cardiovascular OUTcomes (SCOUT) trial. Weight reducing medicines containing Sibutramine are Reductil, Reduxade and Zelium and other tradenames in Europe, and Meridia in the United States. Sibutramine could increase blood pressure and heart rate.
According to the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) data of the SCOUT trial are so alarming that the Agency urges to impose a ban on a weight loss pill containing sibutramine. The Agency advises doctors not to use sibutramine-containing medicines in patients with coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, peripheral arterial occlusive disease, arrhythmia and cerebrovascular disease (stroke or transient ischemic attack). [2]
Abbot says that it will comply with the recommendations of the Committee for Medical Products for Human Use (CHMP) and suspend the marketing of abbot medicines containing sibutramine in all European Union member countries, Iceland and Norway. Outside the EU, sibutramine remains available. [3]
Food and Drug Administration said that the drug increased the chances of a heart attack or stroke for people with cardiovascular disease. [4]
[1] ESH '07: Blood Pressure Effects of Sibutramine in Hypertensive Patients: The SCOUT Trial
Medscape.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/561243_3
[2] European Medicines Agency updates on ongoing safety review of sibutramine
Weight-loss medicine assessed over cardiovascular concerns. 18 December 2009.
http://www.ema.europa.eu/pdfs/general/direct/pr/81787609en.pdf
[3] Abbott to Suspend Marketing of Obesity Medicine Sibutramine in European Union Countries. Abbot Park III. January 21, 2010
https://www.abbott.se/media/pdf/Sibutramine-news-release-01-21-10.pdf
[4] Follow-Up to the November 2009 Early Communication about an Ongoing Safety Review of Sibutramine, Marketed as Meridia. See the FDA Release Here