Endocrinologist
Higher Insulin doses do not cause death in the long term
There
is a perception in the scientific community that larger than usual
doses of insulin are harmful for health. Patients too, seem petrified of
taking doses upwards of say 30-40 units a day.
Studies
have repeatedly demonstrated no such problem. A recent publication has
provided further reassurance that insulin doses have no bearing on the
risk of death. A large trial comprising about 6000 subjects showed no
such adverse effects on health.
So
the key is to take as much insulin as is necessary to control blood
glucose's. It is the inadequate control of diabetes that results in
complications.
Toddlers eat mindlessly in front of TV
It
comes as no surprise that adults viewing television subconsciously
binge on snacks. Unfortunately, this appears to hold true even for
little ones.
It
is likely this is primarily attributable to advertisements promoting
unhealthy fare. Social icons and celebrities endorsing fizzy drinks and
chips are certainly contributing to the epidemic of childhood and
adolescent obesity.
I
wish these very high-profile stars realized the negative influence they
have on impressionable young kids. Responsible advertising is the
answer but in a capitalist society, placing curbs is not easy. However,
parent-child advocacy groups and government legislation can pave the way
for restricting the bombardment of such ads around the virtual and real
environs of our children.
Screening for thyroid cancer only in those at risk
Unlike
cancers such as breast and prostate, there is no schedule recommended
routinely for screening for thyroid cancer. It is best reserved for
those in whom it is more likely to occur than in the average person. To
enumerate a few such risk factors:
1. Past history of thyroid cancer in the individual or a first degree relative (parent or sibling or child)
2.
Radiation exposure to the neck such as radiation treatment for upper
body or head/neck area cancers in the past. Of note, plain dental Xrays
or CT scans of the head do not constitute high enough risk
3.
Genetic conditions that confer risk for certain type of thyroid
cancer. One example is the MEN (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia) syndrome
Besides these, if you have a neck lump, it must be thoroughly checked by a doctor.
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