Canada is glowing - Canadian Tourism Commission sees results for tourism

VANCOUVER, February 27, 2010 /Canada NewsWire/ - Canada is glowing - at home and around the world.

And while the 2010 Olympic athletes pack up, and the 2010 Paralympians warm up, the Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) is ramping up the most important phase of its tourism strategy: Delivering results for Canada's tourism industry.

"International audiences have seen a new Canada and they're captivated. We're pulling out the stops to keep that interest way up and make it as easy as possible to book a trip and experience Canada in person," says Michele McKenzie, CTC president and CEO.

Supported by an investment of $26 million from the Government of Canada, CTC completed the ground work around its five year strategy last December. Media from around the world, including the Rights Holding Broadcasters carrying the 2010 Winter Games, were supplied with stunning visuals of Canada, video stories about authentic Aboriginal cultural tourism, and unique travel experiences from every province and territory.

Broadcasters already had the remarkable backdrop of Vancouver. CTC provided media with all-season stories about athletes connecting with Canadians across the country, complementing sports coverage with stories about Canada, for an audience of more than 3 billion people.

CTC's strategy is now playing out in real time.

"There's a surging interest in exploring Canada, discovering ice wine, taking a float plane to a luxury lodge, savouring our culture and our cuisine, and coming back for more. CTC is working full tilt with travel operators and partners to capitalize on this demand," says CTC's president.

CTC is seeing a 100% increase in traffic to its travel website over last month.

"It's soon out of the gate but clearly the world is embracing a different kind of Canada. CTC will do its part in bringing a new generation of explorers into Canada," says McKenzie.

About the CTC


The CTC is Canada's national tourism marketing organization. Our vision is inspiring the world to explore Canada. With our partners in the tourism industry and the governments of Canada, the provinces and the territories, we advertise and market Canada in 12 countries around the world, conduct industry research and studies, and promote product and industry development. For daily updates on CTC initiatives, subscribe to CTC News, available through RSS feeds and by e-mail.

Links

CTC image library:
http://www.photovideo.canada.travel/ctcdam/public/login.do
CTC video/photo story packages:
http://ctc.pathfireondemand.com/main.action?folderid=3
CTC media centre:
http://mediacentre.canada.travel/
CTC story ideas:
http://mediacentre.canada.travel/media/story-ideas
CTC YouTube channels:
http://www.youtube.com/canadiantourism
http://www.youtube.com/2010torch
CTC Flickr site:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/canadiantourism
CTC corporate website:
http://en-corporate.canada.travel/?sc_cid=corpdomain13

We Are More - by Shane Koyczan

When defining Canada
you might list some statistics
you might mention our tallest building
or biggest lake
you might shake a tree in the fall
and call a red leaf Canada

you might rattle off some celebrities
might mention Buffy Sainte-Marie
might even mention the fact that we've got a few
Barenaked Ladies

or that we made these crazy things
like zippers
electric cars
and washing machines

when defining Canada
it seems the world's anthem has been
"been there done that"
and maybe that's where we used to be at
it's true

we've done and we've been
we've seen
all the great themes get swallowed up by the machine
and turned into theme parks

but when defining Canada
don't forget to mention that we have set sparks
we are not just fishing stories
about the one that got away
we do more than sit around and say "eh?"

and yes
we are the home of the Rocket and the Great One
who inspired little number nines
and little number ninety-nines
but we're more than just hockey and fishing lines
off of the rocky coast of the Maritimes

and some say what defines us
is something as simple as please and thank you
and as for you're welcome
well we say that too
but we are more
than genteel or civilized

we are an idea in the process
of being realized
we are young
we are cultures strung together
then woven into a tapestry

and the design
is what makes us more
than the sum total of our history
we are an experiment going right for a change
with influences that range from a to zed
and yes we say zed instead of zee

we are the colours of Chinatown and the coffee of Little Italy
we dream so big that there are those
who would call our ambition an industry
because we are more than sticky maple syrup and clean snow

we do more than grow wheat and brew beer
we are vineyards of good year after good year

we reforest what we clear
because we believe in generations beyond our own

knowing now that so many of us
have grown past what used to be
we can stand here today
filled with all the hope people have

when they say things like "someday"
someday we'll be great
someday we'll be this
or that
someday we'll be at a point
when someday was yesterday
and all of our aspirations will pay the way

for those who on that day
look towards tomorrow
and still they say someday

we will reach the goals we set
and we will get interest on our inspiration
because we are more than a nation of whale watchers and lumberjacks
more than backpacks and hiking trails

we are hammers and nails building bridges
towards those who are willing to walk across
we are the lost-and-found for all those who might find themselves at a loss

we are not the see-through gloss or glamour
of those who clamour for the failings of others
we are fathers brothers sisters and mothers
uncles and nephews aunts and nieces
we are cousins

we are found missing puzzle pieces
we are families with room at the table for newcomers

we are more than summers and winters
more than on and off seasons
we are the reasons people have for wanting to stay
because we are more than what we say or do

we live to get past what we go through
and learn who we are
we are students
students who study the studiousness of studying
so we know what as well as why
we don't have all the answers
but we try

and the effort is what makes us more
we don't all know what it is in life we're looking for
so keep exploring
go far and wide
or go inside but go deep
go deep

as if James Cameron was filming a sequel to The Abyss
and suddenly there was this location scout
trying to figure some way out
to get inside you
because you've been through hell and high water

and you went deep
keep exploring
because we are more
than a laundry list of things to do and places to see
we are more than hills to ski
or countryside ponds to skate

we are the abandoned hesitation of all those who can't wait
we are first-rate greasy-spoon diners and healthy-living cafes
a country that is all the ways you choose to live
a land that can give you variety
because we are choices

we are millions upon millions of voices shouting
"keep exploring... we are more"
we are the surprise the world has in store for you

it's true

Canada is the "what" in "what's new?"

so don't say "been there done that"
unless you've sat on the sidewalk
while chalk artists draw still lifes
on the concrete of a kid in the street
beatboxing to Neil Young for fun

don't say you've been there done that
unless you've been here doing it

let this country be your first-aid kit
for all the times you get sick of the same old same old
let us be the story told to your friends
and when that story ends
leave chapters for the next time you'll come back

next time pack for all the things
you didn't pack for the first time
but don't let your luggage define your travels

each life unravels differently
and experiences are what make up
the colours of our tapestry

we are the true north

strong and free

and what's more

is that we didn't just say it

we made it be.

-Shane Koyczan

Kidney Cancer Patients Strive for Five during National Kidney Month

Kidney Cancer Canada kicks off National Kidney Month in Canada with message of hope


TORONTO, February 26, 2010 /Canada NewsWire/ - Survival. Support. Understanding. Research. Hope. These are five words that mean a great deal to Kidney Cancer Canada as National Kidney Month kicks off this March.

"As few as five years ago, a diagnosis of advanced kidney cancer left few options for patients or physicians. Little was known about the disease and patients found themselves with nowhere to turn for support," says Deb Maskens, co-founder, Kidney Cancer Canada, the first and only Canadian charity established to improve the quality of life for patients and their families living with kidney cancer. "But Canada has made remarkable progress in the area of kidney cancer. From medical advances to patient support, important inroads in combating kidney cancer are starting to unfold."

According to Maskens, there are five key areas where kidney cancer management is gaining traction in Canada:


1. Survival - The average survival time for patients living with advanced kidney cancer has grown considerably. "A few years ago patients were living approximately twelve months - that's changed so much in such a short time we are literally making history," says Dr. Jennifer Knox, medical oncologist, Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto. "Most patients with metastatic kidney cancer are living longer on average today than ever before and some of these patients are surviving years longer than expected, all thanks to advances in treatment options over the past five years."

Kidney cancer does not respond to conventional therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation, which makes the need for alternative, effective treatments that much more important.

"The introduction of the new targeted therapies has changed the lives of people with kidney cancer and men and women are living longer," says Knox. "But even though they are approved by Health Canada, not all treatments are available to Canadians due to a lack of funding for all these new drug therapies. What will improve survival even further is if our patients have better access and more flexibility in treatment options so their physicians can tailor their treatment more effectively."


2. Support - A handful of years ago, when someone was diagnosed with kidney cancer, there was nowhere to turn for dedicated information and support about their disease. In 2007, Deb Maskens and Tony Clark changed that and created Kidney Cancer Canada (KCC) to fill that gap. KCC is now a registered charity with a strong presence across Canada.

On April 10, 2010 KCC will hold the first Patient Education Conference in Toronto, where kidney cancer experts from across Canada will present the latest treatment and research information and patients will have the opportunity to learn about self-care and support services and meet other patients and caregivers.


3. Understanding - In 2009, the KCC Medical Advisory Board, comprised of cross-Canada experts from specialties including urology, medical oncology, radiation oncology and nursing, was established. "Our mission is to provide KCC with a dedicated group of medical practitioners focused on kidney cancer research, collaboration, and best practices in patient care," says Knox, who is Chair of the Board. "Creating a strong medical connection helps build awareness for the disease among the medical community and supports a greater push for patient therapies."


4. Research - The number of clinical trials in kidney cancer has been rising in the past few years, which fuels the hope of better patient outcomes. Canadian clinical researchers continue to make important contributions to these clinical trials. For example, researchers are studying new surgical treatments that preserve much of the patient's kidney, allowing them to live a full and healthy life.

2009 also saw the beginning of the Kidney Cancer Research Network of Canada (KCRNC). For the first time, there will be a coordinated group of Canadian scientists dedicated to kidney cancer research. Canadian patients will directly benefit from the application of intensive research at centres of excellence in kidney cancer.

But to continue on the path of achievement more dedicated research and funding is needed. A recent report from the Canadian Cancer Research Alliance shows kidney cancer is proportionally and significantly underfunded. Kidney cancer receives less than 1.2 per cent of the $402.4 million invested in cancer research in Canada, even though it accounts for up to three per cent of new cases.


5. Hope - KCC fights for treatment access, medical awareness and research. But above all, they offer a message of hope. "When I was diagnosed I was given one year to live. That was six years ago," says Tony Clark, co-founder of KCC. "I didn't think I would be here today helping other patients and I can't help but feel hope for the future. There is still a long way to go, but we continue to strive ahead one step at a time."


Kidney Cancer Canada


Kidney Cancer Canada is the first Canadian-based, patient-led registered charity established to improve the quality of life for patients and their families living with kidney cancer. Kidney Cancer Canada advocates for access to new treatments, provides support and information to patients, and works to increase awareness of kidney cancer as a significant health issue. For more information please visit: www.kidneycancercanada.ca.

A Perfect Storm of Heart Disease Looming On Our Horizon

From the Heart and Stroke Foundation...

Heart disease has changed dramatically in a short period of time in Canada. It now includes groups that previously were thought to be immune to the disease. This has been the result of a combination of unhealthy habits that Canadians have adopted which has ultimately accelerated the impact of the threats as well as disregarding any progress that we have made.

High blood pressure, diabetes and obesity which have continuously been found to be a major culprit in the development of heart disease have increased dramatically. Stephen Samis, director of Health policy stated that “The magnitude of this problem has become so large, the only way forward is to implement a comprehensive, Canadian heart-health strategy that focuses on at-risk and disadvantaged populations, address the disparities between provinces and territories and integrates Canada’s fragmented system.

These groups include:

Young Canadian Adults - increased levels of inactivity, obesity, smoking high blood pressure and diabetes

The Aging population - One in five adults 50-64 years of age have two or more of the major risk factors for heart disease: high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and obesity. Residents in Newfoundland and Labrador are most at risk.

Canada’s Aboriginal people - Have far worse overall cardiovascular health than the general Canadian population.

Ethnic Populations - Canadians of south Asian and African-Caribbean are at an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. They may also develop heart disease 5 to 10 years earlier than other ethnic groups.

Women - Women have been found to be protected against hear disease until mid life but unfortunately this is beginning to be less accurate due to unhealthy habits.


In general there is an epidemic of inactivity and obesity. Canadians are also suffering from unhealthy eating habits with the majority not getting enough fruits and vegetables.

In order to achieve a more heart healthy population strategies need to include: create heart healthy environments; help Canadian lead healthier lives; end the cardiovascular health crisis among the aboriginals; continue health services reform, enhance prevention and care, develop heart health human resources.

There is no federally funded strategy for the number one killer of Canadians: heart disease and stroke. The heart health strategy and action plan was released in Feb 2009 but has not revieved funding. With an aging population and an increased threat seen amongst previously immune sub populations, this should be made a main priority. The key priorities at this time are the following:

- Improving the nutritional health of all Canadians and addressing the rising rates of obesity.

- Improving cardiovascular awareness and prevention among women and reducing care inequalities by funding public education initiatives, such as the Foundation’s Heart Truth campaign.

- Improving our understanding and management of cardiovascular health.
Developing a multi-year action plan to meet the cardiovascular needs of aboriginal people.

- Providing specific strategies to help at-risk and disadvantaged populations understand and manage their heart-health risk.

A Perfect Storm of Heart Disease Looming On Our Horizon... get report here as a .pdf file

Nutrition Month survey shows Canadians favourite regional foods are as diverse as Canadians

Cheese, apples, corn, fresh veggies, lobster and beef are our favorites


TORONTO, February 24, 2010 /Canada NewsWire/ - A new Ipsos Reid/Dietitians of Canada survey reveals that Canadians enjoy food produced across Canada and each region has its own local favourite. The survey was released in support of National Nutrition Month, taking place in March, which is built around the theme, "Celebrate food...from field to table!"

When asked to name their favourite food from their region, Canadians across the country choose different foods: British Columbians like fresh vegetables and Albertans choose beef. Residents of Saskatchewan and Manitoba named corn on the cob, while more Ontarians preferred apples over any other food. Quebecers were most likely to pick cheese while Atlantic Canadians were most likely to indicate that lobster was their favourite local food.

Of all foods produced in Canada, the most popular identified by Canadians were beef, apples, corn on the cob, potatoes, cheese and maple syrup. "The results show that Canadians enjoy a wide variety of foods, which is a really good thing because variety is a key factor in eating well," said Caroline Dubeau, National Nutrition Month Manager for Dietitians of Canada.

The survey also revealed that most (86%) agree that they are confident the food they eat in Canada is safe. Canadians also feel positive about foods available in their region; most (96%) believe that the term 'healthy' describes foods found in their region, while most others say that the words 'fresh' (94%), 'safe' (93%), 'abundant' (88%), 'diverse' (85%) and 'good value' (82%) also describe their regional foods well. Finally, eight in ten (78%) agree that it is important for them to know where their food is grown.

"Knowing where our food comes from, how it's grown and harvested and how to choose foods for the best nutrition is the goal of this year's National Nutrition Month campaign. Our country has much to celebrate with regard to the food available to Canadians", says Dubeau. "And there are plenty of ways to celebrate - spend time at a farmers market to discover new foods; involve the kids in preparing the foods and talk about the new foods during meal time. When you're at the grocery store, use nutrition labelling to help make healthy food choices. You can also grow your own garden, if weather and space permit, and preserve the fresh taste of foods by freezing or canning them for year round use."

These are some of the findings of an Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Dietitians of Canada from November 25 to December 8, 2009. This online survey of 2,201 Canadians was conducted via the Ipsos I-Say Online Panel, Ipsos Reid's national online panel.

Canadians can get a head start on learning about food and where it comes from on the Dietitians of Canada National Nutrition Month website www.dietitians.ca/eatwell where they will find helpful resources like fact sheets, healthy eating tips and practical food solutions. There is also a new interactive game that helps Canadians discover where various foods are grown and harvested in Canada.

About Dietitians of Canada

Dietitians of Canada represents and supports nearly 6,000 dietitians across Canada and has led the National Nutrition Month campaign for more than 28 years. Dietitians of Canada acknowledges its food industry partners who help to bring National Nutrition Month messages to Canadians. This year's sponsors are: Compass Group Canada, Dairy Farmers of Canada, General Mills Canada Corporation, and McCormick Gourmet Spices and Seasonings. For more information, visit www.dietitians.ca/eatwell.

Whether it is to help balance a meal plan, get the straight facts on nutrition issues or help Canadians find affordable healthy foods, dietitians can help. Dietitians provide trusted, evidence-based nutrition information and can make tailored eating plans that best suit your active lifestyle. To find a Dietitian in your local area, visit www.dietitians.ca/find or ask your doctor for a referral.

"It is better to know some of the questions than all of the answers." - James Thurber

Stranded drivers beware

THORNHILL, Ontario, February 19, 2010 /Canada NewsWire/ - If stranded on the side of the road, CAA recommends drivers make themselves as visible as possible to passing motorists, especially on a busy highway or at night time.

"Don't assume drivers can see you," said Silvana Aceto, spokesperson for CAA SCO. "The recent tragic events on our roads remind us how important it is to know what to do if you find yourself stuck on the side of the road."

Keep the following items handy in your vehicle: a reflective vest, a flashlight, flares and a fully charged cell phone to call for help.

CAA is reminding motorists each case is unique and drivers must assess their own personal safety before getting out of their vehicles.

"There's no hard and fast rule. Sometimes staying in your vehicle with your seatbelt on is the safest option. Other times, it's getting as far away from the side of the road as possible."

In all cases, CAA advises people to stay calm and choose the safest option.


CAA South Central Ontario is a not-for-profit auto club offering insurance, travel, automotive care and roadside services. There are more than 1.8 million CAA members in South Central Ontario and 5 million members in Canada. Visit www.caasco.com.

The Vimy Foundation mourns the death of Canada's last WWI veteran

John Babcock's passing the end of an era

MONTREAL, February 19, 2010 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - The Vimy Foundation mourns the death of John Babcock, the last Canadian veteran of the Great War, who passed away Thursday, February 18.

"We offer our most sincere condolences to Mr. Babcock's family and friends," says Vimy Foundation president Andrew Powell. "He was the last living link to this horrific war in which 60,000 Canadians gave their lives, and was a symbol of their bravery and dedication."

John Babcock's passing marks the end of an era, severing forever Canada's living link to one of the most important events in its history. The First World War was where Canada emerged is a nation among nations, distinguishing itself for the first time on the world stage. It was a watershed moment in Canada's history that should not be forgotten.

"The mission of the Vimy Foundation, which is to foster remembrance of this terrible conflict and to learn from it, continues in Mr. Babcock's honour, and the honour of all of those who fought and made the ultimate sacrifice."

In tribute to John Babcock and all of the veterans of the First World War, the Vimy Foundation invites Canadians to take part in commemorative ceremonies on Vimy Ridge Day on April 9, the only specific national recognition of the Battle of Vimy Ridge and the events of the Great War. Canadians are also encouraged to wear a Vimy Pin - available from the Foundation - as a symbol of remembrance.


About the Vimy Foundation


The Vimy Foundation is a registered charity founded in 2006 with the goal of making young people more aware of the legacy of the battle of Vimy Ridge, which thrust Canada onto the world stage, gaining it recognition as a signatory of the Treaty of Versailles. The Foundation created the Beaverbrook Vimy Prize, to bring together youth from Canada, United Kingdom and France so that they can better appreciate their intertwined history and gain perspective on Canada's place in the world. More information on the Foundation is available online at www.vimyfoundation.ca.

Safer Motoring by Older Drivers Involves More Than Sticky Gas Pedals:

The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists Offers Solutions for Safe Driving


OTTAWA, February 18, 2010 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - As part of the National Blueprint for Injury Prevention in Older Drivers, the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) has released some important new resources for drivers, their families and health care professionals. A series of information brochures and website (www.olderdriversafety.ca) promoting older driver safety were unveiled today at a public forum held at Ottawa's Good Companions Senior Centre.

"Older adults want to maintain their mobility and continue driving for as long as possible," explains Dr. Claudia Von Zweck, Executive Director, CAOT. "To do so safely, they need information on strategies to improve their driving practices in relation to health and age."

CAOT is working closely with a national advisory committee to help older drivers make informed decisions about when it is time to plan their driving retirement, enroll in a driver refreshment course or seek the help of an occupational therapist who can recommend adaptations to their vehicles, for example, making mirror or steering wheel adjustments, common among individuals recovering from a stroke.

The focus of the brochures is on the impacts of normal aging and health conditions on safe driving. The brochures provide useful tips based on scientific analysis of high risk situations and risk-reducing strategies. The website provides occupational therapists, other healthcare professionals, older drivers and their families with the latest information regarding driving screening, assessment and treatment options.

The brochures and website are the result of recommendations contained in the National Blueprint for Injury Prevention in Older Drivers, a project launched in February 2009 with partner McGill University and funder the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). The Blueprint provides a framework for steps to be undertaken to address the growing issue of older driver safety in Canada.

"The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists is convinced that through proper testing, assessment and education, older drivers can drive longer and safer," says Dr. von Zweck. "For example, through the development of a "driving retirement plan," an older driver can learn both how to prolong their safe driving practices and what alternative forms of transportation are available to them."

The new brochures are being distributed nationwide for placement in physicians' offices, health care centres and older adult community centres, among other locations. Information packages have also been prepared for federal and provincial politicians.

About the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT)

CAOT is the national non-profit professional organization that represents more than 12,000 occupational therapists. As a professional group, occupational therapists are concerned with promoting health and well-being through occupation, in the workplace at home and recreation. For more information on occupational therapy or to download the Older Driver Blueprint, visit www.caot.ca. To find an occupational therapist in your community, visit www.otworks.ca and click on OT Finder.

Buying locally grown food will not help the environment

MONTREAL, February 16, 2010 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - Buying locally as measured in "food miles" - the distance between where food is grown and where it is sold - is a poor indictor of a product's impact on the environment and is thus not a valid way of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This is the conclusion of an Economic Note published today by the Montreal Economic Institute and prepared by Pierre Desrochers, associate professor of geography at the University of Toronto Mississauga, in collaboration with Hiroko Shimizu, a private consultant.

"There are perfectly legitimate reasons for consumers to make the personal choice of buying locally grown food if, for example, they find products from local farms to be superior in quality or freshness," Prof. Desrochers stated. "On the other hand, the supposed environmental benefits of buying locally just aren't there."

Rather than looking only at the distance between the place of production and the grocery store, it is preferable to ensure that food is produced as efficiently as possible in the most appropriate places, even when they are far away. The researchers point to an American study showing that production is responsible for 83% of food-related greenhouse gas emissions, whereas transportation accounts for only 11% of total emissions.

"If we want to calculate the environmental impact of a strawberry, we have to look at its entire life cycle, from when it is grown to when it reaches our plate," Prof. Desrochers explains. "We then see that California can produce strawberries almost year-round, far more efficiently and with lower quantities of inputs such as fertilizers. One hectare can produce 50,000 kg of fruit compared to only 7,000 to 10,000 kg in Ontario. We have to recognize that some locations are more favourable for producing certain crops."

A full assessment of food's environmental impact must also take account of transportation to its final destination in the consumer's home. The many trips by car to bring home small volumes of food, as done by each family, have a relatively significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions. Cars are less efficient than the huge ships or airplanes that move food from where it is grown to where it will be sold. Shipping enormous quantities of food requires far less energy per apple or lamb chop, even if the distance is much greater.

The Economic Note published today, titled Will Buying Food Locally Save the Planet?, can be consulted free of charge at www.iedm.org.


The Montreal Economic Institute (MEI) is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit research and educational organization. Through studies and conferences, the MEI informs public debates in Quebec and Canada by suggesting wealth-generating reforms based on market mechanisms.

New hope for diabetics: Innovative treatment begins clinical trials at McGill University Health Centre

Study of new Exsulin(TM) peptide treatment for type 1 diabetes starts this month


MONTREAL, February 10, 2010 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - A clinical trial of Exsulin, an innovative new treatment that targets the underlying cause of type 1 diabetes, has begun at the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC). Under the direction of Dr. George Tsoukas of the MUHC and the McGill University Faculty of Medicine, the study will assess the effectiveness of Exsulin.

This potentially groundbreaking therapy was made possible by fundamental research led by Dr. Lawrence Rosenberg of the MUHC and McGill University Faculty of Medicine. The study is conducted in partnership with the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Type 1 diabetes is triggered when a patient's immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This prevents normal insulin secretion and the normal regulation of blood sugar levels. There is currently no cure for type 1 diabetes and it can only be controlled through regular insulin injections. Although these injections partially avoid sugar level fluctuations in the blood they do not prevent the onset of other complications.

Dr. Rosenberg and his colleagues have been working on an Exsulin-based treatment to stimulate the regrowth of insulin-producing beta cells in diabetic patients for more than 25 years.

"Exsulin has already been tested in animal models of diabetes," he explained. "These experiments demonstrated that Exsulin injections help restore insulin production in animals whose insulin production had been lost. For example, mice injected with this new molecule were cured of their diabetes."

The results of previously conducted human trials have indicated that Exsulin triggers at least a partial recovery of natural insulin secretion. Although at this stage of development it may not completely control the amount of circulating glucose, Exsulin does improve glucose homeostasis, which prevents the dramatic fluctuations that can lead to the main complications of diabetes: neuropathy, renal failure, blindness and heart disease. This new clinical trial aims to test a new formulation of Exsulin and to establish the best dosing schedule, as well as the most effective dosage.

In vitro experiments on human pancreatic tissue have shown that Exsulin acts on stem-like cells by causing them to differentiate into new insulin-producing beta cells, as well as the three other types of endocrine cells that make up the islets of Langerhans. In a healthy pancreas, these "islets," or small groups of cells, house all cells that produce glucagon, somatostatin, pancreatic polypeptide, as well as those that produce insulin.

"This means that Exsulin could help rebuild the islets' entire structure, restoring near-normal metabolic control-something that insulin injections alone cannot do," concluded Dr. Rosenberg.


Dr. Lawrence Rosenberg is Chief of the Division of Surgical Research, and Professor of Surgery and Medicine at McGill's Faculty of Medicine. He holds the A.G. Thompson Chair in Surgical Research at the MUHC and is also an investigator in the Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Kidney Diseases Axis of the Research Institute of the MUHC. Dr Rosenberg is also Chief of Surgical Services at the SMBD-Jewish General Hospital.


Dr. George Tsoukas is a senior member of the Department of Endocrinology at the MUHC and he currently supervises the Montreal General Hospital Diabetes Clinic at the MUHC. He is also a clinical investigator in the "Musculoskeletal Disorders" axis at the Research Institute of the MUHC and has been involved in many clinical trials involving diabetes and associated illnesses. Dr. Tsoukas is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at McGill University.

Funding

This study will be partly funded by the MUHC Foundation, Montreal and Exsulin Corporation, Minneapolis in collaboration with Dr. Lawrence Rosenberg at the Research Institute of the MUHC.

On the Web

- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre: www.muhc.ca/research

- McGill University: www.mcgill.ca

- Exsulin Corporation: www.exsulin.com

Report: Achieving heart health targets would lead to big savings for Canada

OTTAWA, February 8, 2010 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - Canada could save $76.4 billion between 2005 and 2020 - an average of about $5 billion a year in health savings - if some of the targets set out by the Canadian Heart Health Strategy and Action Plan (CHHS-AP) are met, according to a Conference Board of Canada report released today at a press conference in Ottawa.

The report, The Canadian Heart Health Strategy: Risk Factors and Future Cost Implications, estimates the impact on future health expenditures if Canada were to meet the targeted reductions in heart disease and stroke risk factors outlined in the CHHS-AP report, Building a Heart Healthy Canada. The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and the Canadian Cardiovascular Society joined with the Conference Board to release the findings today.

"By 2020, the lower prevalence rate in risk factors will contribute to a reduction of 452,000 cases of ischemic heart disease and 150,000 cases of cerebrovascular diseases," said Louis Theriault, author of the report for the Conference Board. "The cost burden of these diseases will decrease substantially, leading to cost savings for the health system, governments and the Canadian economy."

The savings average $5 billion over the years 2005 to 2020, but they accelerate up to $10 billion a year in the path laid out in the Action Plan.

The CHHS-AP asked the Conference Board to complete a national-level forecast of the costs burden of heart disease and stroke in Canada, both direct (drug, hospital and physician costs) and indirect (mortality, long-term and short-term disability and fiscal costs).

In 2005, cardiovascular diseases were estimated to be $20.9 billion in direct and indirect costs. By 2020, total costs are estimated to reach $28.3 billion (estimates in constant 2008 dollars).

"Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of deaths, hospital admissions and drug costs in Canada," said Dr. Eldon Smith, who was Chair of the CHHS-AP and renowned Cardiologist. "The experts who worked hard to develop the CHHS-AP did not want it to sit on a shelf, and this analysis demonstrates that Canadians can't afford to let that happen."

The Conference Board developed two scenarios, a "business as usual" scenario with conservative risk factor prevalence targets and a CCHS-AP scenario that included the action plan's targets for modifiable risk factors.

The five CHHS-AP risk factor targets included in this analysis are:

By 2020:
- Decrease the prevalence of high blood pressure in adult Canadians aged 18-74 years by 32 per cent (from 22 per cent in 1992 to 15 per cent).
- Work with others to reduce the overall smoking rate by 25 per cent.

By 2015, achieve the following targets by working with others who have
set these targets:
- Increase the proportion of Canadian children and adults eating at least five servings of fruit and vegetables per day by 20 per cent.
- Increase the proportion of Canadian children and adults who are physically active by 20 per cent.
- Decrease the rate of Canadian adults who are overweight/obese by 20 per cent.


Achieving these five risk factor targets would lead to a reduction of 24 per cent in ischemic heart disease prevalence, and almost 35 per cent reduction in cerebrovascular diseases prevalence.

"The Conference Board of Canada has made the case for implementing the Canadian Heart Health Strategy irrefutable," said Sally Brown, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation. "Reducing heart disease risk factors-which are common to many chronic diseases-will make tremendous strides in improving the health of both Canadians and our economy."

"Every day, cardiovascular physicians see how patients living with, and dying from, heart disease exalts a human toll that is incalculable," said Dr. Charles Kerr, President of the Canadian Cardiovascular Society. "The savings that would be achieved through an investment in the Canadian Heart Health Strategy and Action Plan and risk factor reduction makes perfect sense. We must achieve these targets not only for financial reasons, but to maintain the quality of life of Canadians and to prevent unnecessary, premature death and disability."

The report is publicly available at the Conference Board's e-library, www.e-library.ca.

Bar coding for improved medication safety in Canada one step closer

National consensus reached on Joint Technical Statement for drug products


TORONTO, February 3, 2010 /Canada NewsWire/ - A pan-Canadian initiative was announced today that will ultimately have a major impact on patient safety by reducing preventable medication errors.

In collaboration with pharmacy supply chain stakeholders, the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP Canada) and the Canadian Patient Safety Institute (CPSI) have launched a national project to promote automated drug identification in Canada using GS1 global bar coding standards.

"Relying only on human vigilance to ensure medication safety is not enough; better use of available technology will be important in the 21st century," says David U, President and CEO, ISMP Canada. "With over 30,000 commercial drug products in the marketplace, there is a significant and overdue need for a coordinated approach to bar coding pharmaceuticals in order to enable automated identification throughout the Canadian healthcare system."

Collaboration between ISMP Canada, CPSI, GS1 Canada and healthcare industry stakeholders has resulted in a national consensus on using GS1 bar codes as the standard format for labeling medication packaging in Canada.

"Automatic identification such as bar coding adds a layer of safety to our medication use system. It is one of the safest ways to track pharmaceutical products through the supply chain; from the point of manufacturing, to administering medication to patients," says Alicia Duval, Senior Vice-President, Healthcare, GS1 Canada. "By using machine-readable bar codes, healthcare practitioners and organizations will improve internal efficiencies, and more importantly improve patient safety. In order for this to become a reality, bar codes must be deployed in a standard format on all medication packaging, and readable by health system scanners and software. The GS1 system of standards enables this interoperability."

Serious medication adverse events causing permanent disabilities or death occur in Canadian hospitals as shown in the 2004 Ross Baker and Peter Norton study. In the study, they estimated that 7.5% of national hospital admissions involved an adverse event, and 20% of these adverse events resulted in death of the patient. Of these events, the second highest cause was medication or fluid therapies. Baker and Norton also found that approximately 37% were preventable.

"Changes in practice need to occur at the national, provincial and local levels to promote a more collaborative and standardized approach to medication traceability to keep Canadian patients safe, while retaining current supply chain efficiencies," says Pierrette Leonard, Senior Leader, National Partners, CPSI. "In working with GS1 and with the success of creating a Joint Technical Statement with over 34 organizations representing six healthcare sectors, we are one step closer to achieving this objective."

The goal of both ISMP Canada and CPSI, along with all healthcare partners, is to reduce preventable medication errors affecting patients in both institutional and community settings.


About Canadian Patient Safety Institute (CPSI)


The Canadian Patient Safety Institute (CPSI) is an independent not-for-profit corporation, operating collaboratively with health professionals and organizations, regulatory bodies and governments to build and advance a safer healthcare system for Canadians. CPSI performs a coordinating and leadership role across health sectors and systems, promotes leading practices and raises awareness with stakeholders, patients and the general public about patient safety. www.patientsafetyinstitute.ca


About the Institute for Safe Medication Practices Canada (ISMP Canada)


The Institute for Safe Medication Practices Canada (ISMP Canada) is an independent national not-for-profit agency committed to the advancement of medication safety in all health care settings. ISMP Canada works collaboratively with the health care community, regulatory agencies and policy makers, provincial, national, and international patient safety organizations, the pharmaceutical industry, and the public to promote safe medication practices. ISMP Canada's mandate includes receiving and analyzing medication incident and near-miss reports, identifying contributing factors and causes and making recommendations for the prevention of harmful medication incidents. www.ismp-canada.org


About GS1 Canada


GS1 Canada is a member of GS1, the world's leading supply chain standards organization. As a neutral, not-for-profit organization, GS1 Canada enables its more than 10,000 members - trading partners of all sizes from over 20 sectors across Canada - to enhance their efficiency and cost effectiveness by adopting electronic supply chain best practices. Learn more at www.gs1ca.org.

Deconstructing the Emergency Bag: Packing a Kit Is Tougher Than It Looks

from TreeHugger.com
by Jaymi Heimbuch, San Francisco, California

Eco-Friendly? Does Anyone Care In An Emergency?

It might seem frivolous to be worried about green during an emergency, but that's exactly the time we should be worried about it. But what better time to be green in an emergency than before it happens? It's harder than it looks to find a good emergency kit made up of all green items. So, it's up to you.

The time you spend packing your bag can be the best way to make it have the lowest impact, now and during a disaster. Search out products and supplies that are organic, made of natural materials where appropriate and practical, and other steps to make it as low-footprint as possible. After all, in a disaster there are already enough eco-problems to deal with -- why let our emergency kits be part of the problem?

Contents:
5x7 foot plastic tarp
Crow bar
2 pairs heavy working gloves
Waterproof matches
2 whistles
Generic Swiss Army-type knife
Plastic trash bags with zip ties
4 emergency survival blankets
4 ponchos
8 multifunction warmers, lasting 20 hours
8 tissue packs
4 toothbrushes and 2 tubes toothpaste
4 lightsticks
50' of 1/4 inch utility rope -- made of twine, not plastic.
Emergency ration bars
Drinking water - 4 bags filled 10 packs of 4 fl oz each
2 PVC water bags - 2 gallon capacity.
2 plastic flashlights (needing D batteries)
Waterproof radio (needing AA batteries)
D and AA batteries
Coloring book, 4 crayons, playing cards
First aid kit
Paper face masks

Many of the items are packed in Ziplok bags that can be reused.

...more story at TreeHugger.com