- Research by Imperial College London scientists suggests that by testing breath and phlegm, doctors can better treat children with severe asthma. Ten percent of children have asthma, which is often treated with oral steroids; unfortunately, when overused, “rescue steroids” can lead to side effects, such as growth problems, in children. Doctors using the testing methods, however, prescribed more accurate treatments and were less likely to raise dosage on children’s medications.
- A new study in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds dementia can be slowed significantly with treatments that reset the body’s circadian rhythm (internal clock). Researchers from the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences studied 189 assisted living facility residents and found that by exposing residents to brighter daytime lighting, their sleep, mood and behavior improved and cognitive deterioration slowed by 5 percent.
- The Delgado Northshore campus is expanding Allied Health programs with the lease of 4,600 feet in the Theard Building, a facility not far from the college’s two pre-existing locations in Covington. Custom renovations and equipment have turned the Theard Building, formerly a farmers market, into classroom, office and laboratory spaces.
The Theard Building will house “Careers That Heal,” offering programs in fields including Surgical Technology, Pharmacy Technician and Respiratory Care Technology. Classes will be held in fields including biology and veterinary technology beginning this fall.
- Congratulations to Thomas Nolan, M.D., MBA, Professor and Chairman of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans School of Medicine, who was named President of the Society of Gynecologic Surgeons at the organization’s annual meeting in Savannah, Ga.
- Ochsner Health System has posted suggestions on their media blog from Dr. Alvin Rouchell, Ochsner’s Chairman of Psychiatry, for dealing with “natural disaster” stress. Dr. Rouchell’s recommendations include: Don’t think about “what if” scenarios; Don’t watch TV or listen to the radio on a non-stop basis; have a plan and supplies ready; make arrangements for the elderly in advance; and calm children by letting them know there is a plan in place.