Are you at risk for a fall? Canadian physiotherapists identify key factors for tumbles in older adults

OTTAWA, February 28, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Canadian physiotherapists have designed a new checklist aimed at identifying key risk points that make older people more susceptible to falls.

Falling is a potential hazard for anyone, regardless of age, fitness level or environmental conditions. But there are certain factors that can increase the likelihood an older adult may fall. The Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA) has developed these six simple questions to determine the risk.

...Have you fallen in the last year?

...Are you currently taking four or more prescription medications?

...Do you have a history of stroke or Parkinson's disease?

...Do you have any problems with your balance?

...Are you unable to stand up from a chair without using your arms?

...Have you limited your recreational or social activities due to a fear of falling?

A YES answer to any of these questions indicates an ELEVATED RISK for falls.
Answer YES to THREE OR MORE questions, and there is a HIGH RISK of falls.

"The checklist is a useful tool for determining the proactive steps necessary for fall prevention," says Adrian Salonga, a physiotherapist with CPA's Seniors' Health Division. "Considering how frequently older adults fall and the serious consequences that can occur, this issue is an important public health concern."

Approximately 30 per cent of older Canadians will fall at least once a year, and of those, half will sustain a fracture or strain. Injuries from falls can lead to disability, chronic pain, loss of independence, or reluctance to participate in normal activities.

The good news is that there are effective physiotherapy treatments available to prevent falls and to restore optimal function after a fall has occurred. Physiotherapists can prescribe balance exercises, strength-building activities and safe living tips to allow older adults to stay active and remain independent in their community.

More fall prevention tips are available for download here

Learn about physiotherapy and find a physiotherapist at www.physiotherary.ca.

LCBO stores raise funds for Osteoporosis Canada

TORONTO, February 24, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Starting on March 1, the public can help support Osteoporosis Canada by making a donation at any of the more than 600 LCBO stores throughout Ontario. Donation boxes for Osteoporosis Canada will be displayed at LCBO checkout counters until March 31.

As many as two million Canadians live with osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to lose their strength, become thin, brittle and prone to fracture. Osteoporosis Canada works to educate, empower and support these individuals. Funds raised through the LCBO donation boxes will be used to deliver vital education and patient support programs, drive research and advocate for Ontarians living with osteoporosis.

"We appreciate the support we receive from LCBO, its employees and especially its customers," says Dr. Famida Jiwa, President and CEO of Osteoporosis Canada. "LCBO's province-wide store network provides a unique opportunity to raise public awareness and funds to carry out the important work we do."

"LCBO is pleased to partner with Osteoporosis Canada and help improve the lives of individuals and communities across Ontario," says LCBO President and CEO Bob Peter. "We appreciate the unwavering generosity of LCBO's customers and staff who support these worthy causes and, in turn, assist their fellow Ontarians."

Osteoporosis Canada is one of 25 provincial, as well as numerous local charities that will benefit from LCBO's province-wide donation box program in 2011. In 2010, LCBO raised a total of $4.2 million for charities through special programs and initiatives, of which $3.8 million was raised through in-store fundraising. In addition, LCBO's annual dividend transfer to the Ontario government, which totaled $1.41 billion in fiscal 2009-10, excluding taxes, supports a wide range of important government programs, services and priorities, including health care and education.

Osteoporosis Canada thanks the public for its support when shopping at their local LCBO store during March.

A new interactive budget calculator helps Canadians better manage their finances in 2011

OTTAWA, February 22, 2011 Canada News Wire - An easy-to-use interactive budget calculator that does the math for you has been launched by the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) to help Canadians see how much money they take home and where they’re spending it.

A budget can help you find ways to pay off debt faster, achieve your financial goals and find ways to make your dollar stretch further. But making a budget and sticking to it can be difficult.

“The budget calculator shows you where your money is going. It’s divided into categories that prompt the user to consider every possible source of income, savings and expenses,” explains FCAC Commissioner Ursula Menke. “It’s so much easier to manage your finances and change your spending and saving habits when you can see how daily spending, even your daily cups of coffee, adds up over a year.”

FCAC already has a paper-based budget worksheet on its website. But this new interactive budget calculator does the hard work for you. It can be downloaded as a spreadsheet and saved onto your computer to help you keep a close eye on your finances.

“A carefully crafted budget is a very good financial tool that helps you manage your spending. It makes it easier to reduce unnecessary expenses and save regularly,” adds the Commissioner. “It’s also important to be financially prepared for any unexpected expenses. If people spend their own money, rather than borrowing it in an emergency, they avoid expensive interest charges. A budget is key to avoiding the debt trap,” she stresses. “So as we take a step into the next year, FCAC wants to raise awareness of the importance of budgeting and being financially prepared.”

No more need to cringe at the word “budget.” FCAC’s budget calculator, other tools and publications can be found on moneytools.ca. You can also view Rodney Noriega’s Success Story. He incurred a lot of debt while studying for his business degree from Simon Fraser University in British Columbia. He explains how he uses FCAC's tip sheet Making a Budget and Sticking to It to better manage his finances and reduce his debt load.

Drinking Diet Soda Increases Risk of Vascular Events By 61 Percent

from TreeHugger.com
by Sara Novak, Columbia, SC

For years diet soda has been portrayed as the "healthier soda" choice because it has no calories. But zero calorie sweeteners like saccharin and aspartame come with risks including a link with bladder cancer, brain tumors, and osteoporosis. If that's not reason enough to put down the frighteningly sweet bubbled beverage, new research recently presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference in Los Angeles found that daily intake of diet soda increases your risk of vascular events by 61 percent, according to a story on the Today Show.

While the study has yet to be released, new research presented last week at the International Stroke Conference points to real evidence that links diet beverages to vascular events including heart attack and stroke. But scientists have yet to figure out why the use of sugar-free sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin is causing the incidence and what exact amount would be deemed unsafe. But they did outline the risk of daily consumption, which for many Americans who drink 3 to 4 cans a day, is scary stuff.

The study, which was done at Columbia University and University of Miami, followed 2,500 New Yorkers for 9 years and found that those that consumed diet soda every day had a 61 percent increased risk of vascular events such as stroke or heart attack than those that drank none.

According to the Today's Show Chief Medical Editor Dr. Nancy Snyderman, diet sodas have in some ways shaped our society to crave sweeter things and more of them because they are just so much sweeter than sugar. What's more, new studies are showing that diet sodas can "rejigger" the brain to make us crave other things... read more story at TreeHugger.com

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Do Something on Family Day that Will Make a Difference for Future Generations

Dedicate 20 minutes on February 21 to the Ontario Health Study


TORONTO, February 17, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - What better way to celebrate Family Day on February 21 than to do something that will help make a big difference to future generations of Ontarians? While you're enjoying your day off with your family, set aside a little time to fill out the Ontario Health Study's online questionnaire. It's easy and quick, and your participation will help improve the future of health care for you, your family and friends.

Every Ontario resident aged 18 and older is invited to participate in the Study, the largest long-term, community-based health Study ever undertaken in Canada. It only takes 20 to 30 minutes to sign up for and complete the online questionnaire at www.OntarioHealthStudy.ca

By filling out the online questionnaire - and consenting to occasional follow-up questionnaires - you will be sharing valuable information that could help guide researchers in the development of strategies to prevent and treat diseases like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, asthma, Alzheimer's disease and depression.

In fact, past population-based health studies led to the discovery of the link between smoking and cancer and the link between obesity and heart disease. As of early February, more than 18,000 Ontarians aged 18 to 95 have already participated in the Ontario Health Study. By joining, you can help build the healthy communities of tomorrow and improve health care for future generations of Ontarians.

The Ontario Health Study has been initially funded by four organizations: the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Cancer Care Ontario, the Ontario Agency for Health Protection and Promotion, and the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer. The Ontario Health Study is also a participating study of the Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow Project, which consists of a further four regional studies across Canada. Discover more at www.OntarioHealthStudy.ca.

Ontario Food Takes the Plate at Hospitals and Long-Term Care Facilities

-Greenbelt Fund Announces Ontario Grants-

GUELPH, Ontario, February 17, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Providing safe and nutritious meals to those convalescing in hospitals and living in provincial long-term care facilities is an important part of the services these institutions provide. Now, this will become easier as more Ontario food will make its way into the kitchens of hospitals, long-term care facilities and other broader public sector institutions. With funding from the Ontario Government, food service operators and distributors will offer more diversity of products from Ontario. These changes will help create a ripple effect in the procurement of local food to other institutions, both public and private, across the province.

"By putting more of Ontario's fresh, healthy, local food in our hospitals, schools and other public institutions, the McGuinty government is investing in a strong future for our farmers and for agriculture. I want to congratulate these organizations for serving the good things that grow in Ontario."
- Carol Mitchell, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

The funding is being administered by the new Greenbelt Fund via its program, the Broader Public Sector Investment Fund: Promoting Ontario Food.

"In our first round of grants we were pleased to see the diversity of applications from farmers to distributors. Now is the time for change, and through these innovators, more of the great food in Ontario will make its way into the three main public sectors: health care, education and municipalities."
- Burkhard Mausberg, President Greenbelt Fund

One grantee, St. Joseph's Health Centre, is setting an example in the health care sector. With a kitchen initially not intended for meal preparation, St. Joseph's has created space to develop their own salads and hot dishes made with Ontario foods. After introducing these menu changes, satisfaction rate with food service has climbed to 87 per cent among St. Joseph's patients, residents, their families and cafeteria patrons. The commitment to making small changes and understanding their preparation and processing needs, is helping the Centre to change procurement practices and serve more Ontario food to their clients.

"We are working hard to ensure our patients and residents have the freshest local options in the meals we serve. Our grant from the Broader Public Sector Investment Fund will help us to further the amount of Ontario food we serve. We hope the results of our program will help to change food procurement practices throughout the health care system."
- Leslie Carson, Manager of Food and Nutrition Services, St. Joseph's Health Centre

"By offering more great Ontario food on the menus of hospitals and long-term care facilities, we are providing nutritious options to those who are sick and elderly. Growing the supply of Ontario food in public institutions demonstrates our government's commitment to our agri-food industry and well-being of patients and residents. We congratulate those grantees working to grow Ontario food in public institutions."
- MPP Liz Sandals, Guelph

These projects will be the catalyst for changing public institutions and will demonstrate the ease of putting more Ontario food into their menus.

About the Greenbelt Fund:

The Greenbelt Fund is helping to increase the amount of Ontario food served in daycares, schools, universities and colleges, hospitals and long-term care facilities through its program, the Broader Public Sector Investment Fund: Promoting Ontario Food.

With funding from the Ontario Government, this program provides grants to local food industry leaders, producers, distributors, food service providers and public institutions working to serve more Ontario food. Helping to overcome challenges, support economic growth and the sustainability of agriculture in Ontario, the Fund will aim to create systemic change to permanently increase the amount of local food in the province's public institutions. For more information about the program and grants, please visit www.ontariofresh.ca

Ontario Medical Association Statement on Smoking Cessation Drugs

TORONTO, February 14, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Ontario's doctors were pleased to learn that the Ontario government is considering covering the cost of smoking cessation drugs. These medications are proven to at least double the success rates for people who want to quit when other approaches don't work.

Ontario's doctors have been strong advocates and long-time supporters of providing smoking cessation drugs to patients who want to quit, but can't afford the drugs that can help them. For over two years, Ontario's doctors have called for the addition of these smoking cessation medications to the Ontario Drug Benefit Plan and including them in other public and private insurance plans in order to reach the patients who need this help.

The negative impact that tobacco products and cigarettes have on our health-care system and society is no secret. Tobacco related disease currently costs the Ontario health system $1.6 billion annually and kills more than 13,000 Ontarians every year. Which is why earlier this year, Ontario's doctors included several key recommendations in our provincial election platform, "Better care. Healthier patients. A stronger Ontario." In addition to a broader cessation system, Ontario's doctors are calling for a reduction in the number of tobacco outlets; a moratorium on sale of new tobacco products; and a comprehensive contraband control strategy.

As physicians, we want to help our patients quit smoking. We believe that providing medicines that can help them quit will pay big dividends for their health, and ultimately save our health-care system much more money in the end.

Sheridan College's 90th Birthday Gift to Mayor Hazel McCallion Will Honour Her Legacy

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario February 13, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Sheridan College will name its new Mississauga Campus in honour of Mayor Hazel McCallion. The news was announced last night by Sheridan President and CEO, Jeff Zabudsky, at a 90th birthday celebration for McCallion held at the Mississauga Convention Centre.

In making the announcement, Dr. Zabudsky noted the tremendous impact Mayor McCallion has had on the city, and the college. "It's in large part thanks to her vision and determination that we will open a brand new campus in the heart of Mississauga's city centre this fall," he said.

The Hazel McCallion Campus of Sheridan College will open its doors in September. Located at 4180 Duke of York Boulevard, the campus will offer postsecondary and postgraduate business programs, as well as programs and services for newcomers to Canada, to nearly 2,000 students.

The Mayor's 90th Birthday Celebration attracted 1,000 guests, and featured tributes from a host of dignitaries and celebrities. Among those speaking were The Hon. Jim Flaherty, MP Whitby-Oshawa and Finance Minister; The Hon. Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario; The Hon. William G. Davis, former Premier of Ontario; and Don Cousens, former Mayor of Markham.

Video tributes from Regis Philbin and Rick Mercer were also presented during the evening. Sheridan students from the Music Theatre-Performance program provided entertainment, while a cross-section of students from the arts, business, community service and technology faculties took part in a special presentation to the Mayor. Proceeds from the evening will benefit Sheridan College.

About Sheridan:

Sheridan College aims to provide students of all ages with the knowledge and skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world. We serve 16,000 full-time and 35,000 continuing education students at our campuses in Oakville and Brampton, with a new campus set to open in Mississauga in the fall of 2011. Sheridan offers an innovative learning environment celebrated for academic excellence, applied research and creativity. Program options range from one-year certificates to four-year Bachelor's degrees, in the arts, business, community service and technology fields

Guelph Transit to offer improved service in 2011

City Council to consider impact on fares and schedules


GUELPH, Ontario, February 11, 2011 – Guelph Transit service is set to change for the better this year. Riders will benefit from a new transit terminal, more direct routes and shorter travel times as the City implements its Transit Growth Strategy this fall.

"We are committed to transit because an affordable, integrated transit system supports a healthier and more connected city that works for everyone,” says Mayor Karen Farbridge. “It allows those without a car or a driver’s license to travel to all corners of the city, and it allows all of us to tread more lightly on the planet by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants."

Over the next few weeks, City Council will consider the impact of transit service improvements on fares and schedules as part of the City’s 2011 budget.

While recent changes to the University of Guelph student U-Pass contribute to more fair and balanced rates for all transit riders, City Council is considering a fare increase for adults and students in 2011.

"A small fare increase is reasonable given that Guelph Transit will actually increase from 20 minute service to 15 minute service during peak periods. That’s a 25 per cent increase in service this year," says Derek McCaughan, Executive Director, Operations and Transit. "This fall, Guelph will have a new transit terminal, improved commuter routes, express routes, and 15-minute service frequency during peak hours. We’re making some big changes this year to ensure that our Transit service continues to meet the expectations of our riders."

"If the proposed fare increase is approved, fares for seniors would not change. Riders who use tickets would pay ten cents more per ride, and a monthly bus pass would cost three dollars more," says Michael Anders, General Manager Guelph Transit and Community Connectivity. "Occasional riders using cash, less than ten per cent of our customers, would pay twenty-five cents more per ride."

It is proposed that Guelph Transit continue to offer 30-minute service frequency during June, July and August and no service on statutory holidays in 2011.

Click here for more information, including a sneak peak at the new routes!

Infoway invests $380 million to help physicians and nurse practitioners implement electronic medical record (EMR) systems

TORONTO, February 9, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - With its newest investment program, Canada Health Infoway (Infoway) is funding Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems in community-based practices and outpatient settings throughout Canada. Infoway President and CEO, Richard Alvarez, today provided details about the $380 million fund which is designed to focus investment at the points of care where the benefits of health information technology can deliver immediate value to patients and clinicians.

"Connecting health providers to the health information systems being developed across the country is fundamental to Infoway's mandate," says Alvarez. "This new wave of investment, in collaboration with the provinces and territories, will help us reach our target to enroll an additional 8,000 to 9,000 physicians and nurse practitioners in EMR programs by March 2012."

Infoway's investment in electronic medical records is part of the $500 million in new funding provided by the Government of Canada in its 2010 Budget. Through this program, Infoway will co-fund EMR systems for physicians and nurse practitioners, working through funding programs in provinces and territories throughout Canada. Infoway support will allow provinces and territories that have programs in place to expand their current programs. In jurisdictions planning to introduce a formal EMR program in the near future, Infoway will assist with start-up costs.

"Infoway's initiative shows real commitment to put EMR support where it is needed most: at the front lines of care," said Dr. Jeff Turnbull, President of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). "Increasing the use of EMR systems is a critical component of the CMA's vision to transform Canada's health care system so that it puts patients first."

Infoway will also invest in clinical peer support networks so that health professionals using EMR systems can learn from others' experience and share best practices, innovation projects, and other efforts to accelerate clinical value from the use of information and communications technologies. As well, support will be provided to qualifying information technology vendors needing to upgrade their current product lines to meet Infoway privacy, security and interoperability standards.

Infoway's investments in EMR systems will be tied to the extent to which health professionals derive clinical value which will include using an EMR for functions such as entering patient information including notes, allergies, immunizations and prescribed medications or viewing lab tests. Additional clinical value will be derived from using the more advanced functionality of the EMR and supporting greater interoperability of the EMR with external systems.

"It is now time to ensure front-line clinicians have the ability to interact with these core systems and can use them to better manage patient care, added Alvarez. "Integrating point of service technologies such as EMR systems in community-based physician offices and ambulatory care settings allows us to leverage our investments to date in core provincial and territorial electronic health record systems."

Canada is one of the most connected nations in the world and Canadian patients want more interactivity and interoperability from their health care system.

"In the national dialogue the CMA has started with Canadians, improving and better integrating the use of EMRs and electronic linkages between providers and patients is a major recurring theme," added Dr. Turnbull. "This is not a brave new world for patients. They are plugged in and they want better IT and communication tools in their health care."

Family physicians such as Dr. Michael Golbey of Kelowna, British Columbia, believe now is the time for physicians to consider putting an EMR system in their practice.

"I would encourage my fellow doctors to talk to colleagues who have already put an EMR system in place. Go see how it works, spend some time with them, and I'm sure you'll be convinced that it really is worthwhile," says Dr. Golbey. "We've come a long way from where we were five years ago. People who implemented EMRs at that time, they were pioneers. But if you look around today, the people who are implementing EMR systems are average doctors."

As a strategic investor in the development of health information and communications technologies, Infoway has designed this new investment program to support jurisdictional efforts to encourage physicians and nurse practitioners to adopt, use and derive practical, tangible clinical value from interoperable EMR systems in community and out-patient settings.

Based on a Conference Board of Canada economic impact study, over the next four years investment expenditures made by Infoway and its partners will stimulate the Canadian economy with a $1.11 billion increase to real gross domestic product and create an estimated 10,700 person years of employment.


Canada Health Infoway is an independent, not-for-profit organization funded by the federal government. Infoway jointly invests with every province and territory to accelerate the development and adoption of information and communications technology projects in Canada. Fully respecting patient confidentiality, these secure systems will provide clinicians and patients with the information they need to better support safe care decisions and manage their own health. Accessing this vital information quickly will help foster a more modern and sustainable health care system for all Canadians.

Electronic Medical Records - Good News for Canadian Health Care

The emergence of electronic medical record (EMR) systems that channel accurate up-to-date health information to a desktop computer or a hand held device in a community-based clinic represents one of the most significant advancements in Canadian health care in decades.

EMRs - the systems used in some private practices and clinics to store, retrieve, and update health information - make it easier to deliver a meaningful diagnosis, determine a treatment or manage a chronic disease.

By using an EMR system, Canadian physicians, nurse practitioners and other authorized health providers are provided with easy access to a complete picture of their patient's health information such as their medication history, information about drug sensitivities and allergies, lab tests and clinical reports.

Strategic investments recently announced by Canada Health Infoway (Infoway) will accelerate the adoption and use of EMRs in community and out-patient care settings, as well as connecting them to their jurisdictional electronic health record (EHR) system. Infoway's goal is to support the provinces and territories to enroll an additional 8,000 to 9,000 physicians in physician office EMR programs across Canada by March 2012.

New agreements now being signed with provincial and territorial jurisdictions will hasten the day when physicians and nurse practitioners, are provided with the health data they need to improve the quality of care via an EMR system in their local office.

Supporting the Transition to EMRs

Supporting individuals and teams of health providers through an EMR deployment is as important as any software or hardware solution or upgrade. An effective change management process definitely contributes to the success of an EMR project.

The Great Slave Medical House in Yellowknife implemented an EMR system in 2005. It employs six physicians, several nurses and nurse practitioners, a mental health specialist, a community outreach worker and medical office assistants.

The clinic provides its services in a remote setting, and coordinating information across multiple sites and care providers is critical. Even though it was badly needed, the implementation of the clinic's EMR took patience and required careful planning. Adjustments to workflow were the key issue for the team members working through the implementation, but once they got it right, they started to see the benefits of the EMR.

Infoway has also funded a Clinician Peer Support Network to promote dialogue and information sharing among clinical practitioners involved in EHR and EMR implementation processes. This network shares best practices and change management approaches so others don't need to start from scratch.

Infoway's latest investment wave is meant to further encourage the adoption of these promising, new EMR systems. The benefit they bring to Canadians will make the delivery of heath care better and the business of health care easier.

For more information about Canada's progress in implementing information and communications technologies in health care, please visit www.knowingisbetter.ca or www.infoway-inforoute.ca.

EMR Success Stories

Physician Office EMR Programs

The Family Health Clinic in Calgary, headed by Dr. Norman Yee, began using an EMR system in 2002. Today, the clinic's eight physicians, rheumatologist, clinic manager and several office staff report the move has simplified office workflow, improved office communication and made it easier to provide quality care and patient education. The main effect of the EMR has been that staff have more time for those coming to the clinic for care.

Dr. Yee ensured that a change management plan was in place, helped create a budget for the project, and suggested the hiring of a clinic manager with the business and organizational management experience needed to help guide them through. Since the EMR was introduced, the clinic has been able to double its number of doctors without adding any new support staff.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Patients seeing a number of skilled health care practitioners, in sequence or at the same time, will be pleased to know that an EMR puts them all on the same page. Take for example, Central Interior Native Health Services in downtown Prince George, British Columbia. The clinic is a showcase for how an EMR can support and coordinate the work of multiple health care providers and community workers from different disciples. Today full spectrum and coordinated care is being provided by the clinic's four physicians, three medical office assistants, two nurses, two social workers, one nurse practitioner, one Aboriginal support worker, one addictions worker, one office administrator and one primary health care coordinator.

Drug Recalls

In 2004, when Vioxx was recalled by its manufacturer, it took one Ottawa general practitioner just 15 minutes to pinpoint each of his patients taking the drug because an EMR was in place. Within hours, everyone had been reached and informed about the implications of the recall.

Chronic Disease Management

George Roper has multiple medical conditions, including type 2 diabetes, and the aftermath of arterial surgery and colon cancer treatment, making management of his health complex indeed. He likes EMRs because his Ottawa-based physician can give him an up-to-date printed record of his current condition at each appointment. Another patient, Diane Snowball, likes the automatic reminders prompted by her physician's EMR system. While being treated for breast cancer, someone from the doctor's office called to remind her about her other regular tests, such as a Pap smear.

It's Bell Let's Talk Day - help take the stigma out of mental illness!

Send a text or make a long-distance call with Bell or Bell Aliant to support mental health. Join Clara Hughes and other great Canadians by uploading your own smile at bell.ca/letstalk


MONTREAL, February 9, 2011 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - Today is Bell Let's Talk Day, when Canadians can help lift the stigma around mental illness and support Canadian mental health initiatives by sending a text message or making a long distance call with Bell and Bell Aliant. You can also upload your smile alongside that of Olympian Clara Hughes, the national spokesperson for Bell Let's Talk Day, and learn more about mental health at bell.ca/letstalk.

For every text message sent and every long distance call made by Bell and Bell Aliant customers today, Bell will donate 5 cents to programs dedicated to mental health. Regular long distance and text message charges apply.

Bell Let's Talk Day is the high-profile anti-stigma component of the Bell Mental Health Initiative, a five-year, $50-million charitable initiative dedicated to promoting Canadian mental health.

Since January 17, a national promotional campaign focused on the world-famous smile of Clara Hughes, Canada's six-time Olympic medalist, has invited Canadians to join the conversation about mental health. By relating her own story of depression during the campaign, Clara has encouraged changing attitudes towards mental health, an important first step in removing the stigma that impacts so many Canadians affected by mental health issues.

"The reality is that most of the 1 in 5 Canadians who will suffer from mental illness in their lifetimes, and their families, friends and colleagues too, are afraid to talk about the disease. The stigma that prevents discussion means too many won't get the help they need," said Ms. Hughes. "The best way to beat the stigma is to talk about mental health - I'm proud to invite Canada to join me in that conversation on Bell Let's Talk Day."

The stigma surrounding mental illness is as pervasive as the disease itself. According to the Canadian Medical Association, about 75% of Canadians would disclose a cancer diagnosis - but just half are likely to tell a friend that a family member has a mental illness. Bell Let's Talk is intended to raise awareness of the impact this has on so many Canadians who suffer in silence and as a result do not get the treatment they need.

In advance of Bell Let's Talk Day, Canadians have been joining Clara in the mental health conversation by visiting bell.ca/letstalk. Bell encourages Canadians to continue adding their smiles throughout the day as they talk and text to raise awareness of mental health.

You can learn more about how the Bell Mental Health Initiative and help make a difference by visiting bell.ca/letstalk.


About Bell

Bell is Canada's largest communications company, providing consumers and business with solutions to all their communications needs, including Bell Mobility wireless, high-speed Bell Internet, Bell Satellite TV and Bell Fibe TV, Bell Home Phone local and long distance, and Bell Business Markets IP-broadband and information and communications technology (ICT) services. Bell is wholly owned by BCE Inc. (TSX, NYSE: BCE). For Bell product and service information, please visit bell.ca. For BCE corporate information, please visit bce.ca

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The Arthritis Society announces new funding for research and training

TORONTO, February 8, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Canada's largest non-government funder of arthritis research has announced more than $3.5 million for new arthritis research and training.

The Arthritis Society will award $1 million, during the next two years, to a training program for multi-disciplinary scientists administered by The Canadian Arthritis Network (CAN). The funds are available for graduate PhD students, research fellows and research scholars to acquire experience in basic science, clinical research, product services and development and industrial partnering. During the past decade, The Arthritis Society awarded more than $4.5 million to this training program. (As of 2011, this training program has been renamed The Arthritis Society/CAN Training Program.)

"The Arthritis Society has been invaluable in its support of the Canadian Arthritis Network's training program," says Dr. Monique Gignac, co-scientific director of CAN. "Training and financially supporting the next generation of arthritis researchers and rheumatologists is a goal that we share and a priority, given the shortage Canada faces in this area."

In addition, The Arthritis Society recently committed $150,000 to the Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC) for supplemental research into spondyloarthritis (a group of diseases characterized by chronic inflammation of the pelvic joints and spine) for one year. The Arthritis Society has already awarded $2.5 million to the SPARCC research team led by co-principal investigators Drs. Dafna Gladman and Robert Inman (University of Toronto), Walter Maksymowych (University of Alberta) and Proton Rahman (Memorial University, Newfoundland), from 2005-2010.

"As the recipient of the first National Research Initiative awarded by The Arthritis Society, SPARCC is proud of the success it has achieved in significant advances in the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of spondyloarthritis," says Dr. Robert Inman, co-director, SPARCC and director, Ankylosing Spondylitis Clinic, University Health Network - Toronto Western Hospital.

"Research into the many types of arthritis to find a cure and improved treatments is a priority for The Arthritis Society," says Steven McNair, president and CEO, The Arthritis Society. "Without the generosity of donors and supporters, this critical work would not be possible."

In addition, The Arthritis Society recently issued a new call for operating grant applications which are due March 1, 2011, with funding starting October, 2011. Funding for this competition is $2.4 million over three years. For more information, please visit www.arthritis.ca/research.

About The Arthritis Society

The Arthritis Society is Canada's principal health charity empowering the more than four million Canadians with arthritis to live their lives to the fullest through extensive programs and services. Since its founding in 1948, The Society has invested more than $170 million in arthritis research to develop better treatments and, ultimately, find a cure.

About The Canadian Arthritis Network

The Canadian Arthritis Network (CAN) ( www.arthritisnetwork.ca) is a not-for-profit organization, funded by the Government of Canada's Networks of Centres of Excellence (www.nce.gc.ca), to support arthritis research and development and to facilitate the commercialization of its Network Investigators' discoveries. CAN is the single point of contact that links over 200 leading Canadian arthritis researchers and clinicians, 45 Canadian academic institutions, The Arthritis Society, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and government.

About Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC)

Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC) is a transdisciplinary national research program focusing on "Genetic and Pathogenesis Studies and Outcome Measures for Patients with Spondyloarthritis (SpA)", and is secured by a 5-year National Research Initiative (NRI) grant through The Arthritis Society who has provided the core funding.

First "Patient Led, Patient Governed" organization in Canada officially launches to improve health care for everyone

TORONTO, February 7, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - On February 15 The Patients' Association of Canada (PAC) will launch as the only organization of its kind to promote the patient voice in Canada. Founder Sholom Glouberman, a longtime health care advisor, began the association after his own eye-opening experience as a patient.

In an interview in Maclean's (Feb 7 issue), Glouberman explains that the current health care system is based on 19th Century breakthroughs in the treatment of acute diseases which did not need or allow patient input. The success of the acute model meant that throughout the 20th Century fewer people died of diseases like cholera, small pox or pneumonia. Today, most die of slowly evolving chronic diseases like heart disease or diabetes and for their treatment, patients play a critical role. Yet the system continues to find it difficult to involve patients.

We now recognize that the patient voice must become part of decision-making throughout the system—in clinical care, service design and policy making. The Patients' Association of Canada launches February 15 in Toronto with a full-day conference on "Improving the Patient Experience." PAC membership information at www.patientsassociation.ca

The genesis of The Patients' Association of Canada, Glouberman's account of his experience as a patient, his comments on that experience and his full medical record are outlined in his new book My Operation: A Health Insider Becomes a Patient (Feb 1, 2011; Health & Everything Publications).

Alcohol Pads and Swabs Urgently Recalled Due to Microbial Contamination

Health & Safety Watch - February 04, 2011 - Update - Alcohol pads, swabs, etc urgently recalled due to microbial contamination - Sold at pharmacies and included in drug kits for MS (COPAXONE) and Hep C (PEGETRON)

Initial Recall (1): Triad Group, a manufacturer of over-the-counter products, has initiated a voluntary product recall involving ALL LOTS of ALCOHOL PREP PADS, ALCOHOL SWABS, and ALCOHOL SWABSTICKS manufactured by Triad Group. These products are used to disinfect prior to an injection. This recall has been initiated due to concerns about potential contamination of the products with an objectionable organism, namely Bacillus cereus.

This recall involves products marked as STERILE as well as non-sterile. They were packaged in individual packets and sold in retail pharmacies. The affected products can be identified by either “Triad Group,” listed as the manufacturer, or the products are manufactured for a third party and use the names listed below in their packaging: Cardinal Health, PSS Select, VersaPro, Boca/ Ultilet, Moore Medical, Walgreens, CVS, Conzellin. See Product Details tab for additional details.

These products were distributed in the United States, Canada and Europe. Specific customers distributing the product and selling it at the wholesale, hospital and retail pharmacy level have been notified by certified mail with instructions on how to return the product.

Use of contaminated product could lead to life-threatening infections, especially in at risk populations, including immune suppressed and surgical patients.?To date the Triad Group has received one report of a non-life-threatening skin infection.

Event Update - Health Canada is informing Canadians that other health products have been identified that are co-packaged with affected alcohol prep pads manufactured by the Triad Group (See below). Alcohol prep pads closely resemble alcohol swabs and are used for the same purpose: to cleanse or disinfect a particular area of the body.

... read the update here for full product information

World Cancer Day: Canadians Willing to Pitch in to Prevent Cancer

National survey examines attitudes to cancer research

TORONTO, February 3, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - When it comes to cancer research, Canadians want to do more. A national survey released today in advance of World Cancer Day shows that more than half of Canadians 35 to 69 years of age feel cancer should be a top priority for health research. However, the survey also shows that a similar number do not know how to get involved in a way that could be helpful to other people.

We have the answer and it takes just 30 or so minutes to sign up. The Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow Project is looking for 300,000 Canadians between the ages of 35 and 69 to participate in a landmark Canadian study designed to help us better understand cancer and other chronic diseases, like heart and lung disease or diabetes. By following a large group of people over many years, researchers can explore how genetics, environment, lifestyle and behaviour interact and contribute to the development of cancer and other chronic diseases.

"This type of research is often difficult because it is complex, time consuming and extensive resources are required," says Dr. Heather Bryant, Vice-President of Cancer Control, Canadian Partnership Against Cancer. "By joining this landmark study, Canadians will be contributing to the creation of a rich national bank of health information to help researchers answer fundamental questions about the causes of cancer and chronic disease for future generations."

Study participants will be asked to provide information about their health, lifestyle and environment, biological samples such as urine and blood, and physical measurements such as weight and height. By following participants over the long term, researchers will be able to build layers of information that will create a rich understanding of how all of these factors interact to affect health. It is much more than a single study: it is the construction of a population laboratory that will yield results for decades to come.

"Like many Canadians, I have been personally affected by cancer and have often felt powerless in the face of this devastating disease," says Jan Duff, a study participant. "By participating in the Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow Project, I know that I'm making a simple contribution that could make a significant difference in cancer research, and prevent my children and grandchildren from ever developing the disease."

Most Canadians Want to Do More to Support Cancer Research

A new survey, conducted by Angus Reid Public Opinion for the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer to mark World Cancer Day on February 4th, found that virtually all Canadian respondents aged 35 to 69 (91 per cent) have been touched by cancer and three-quarters (74 per cent) feel that they are likely to develop cancer themselves. While more than half of Canadians (58 per cent), feel that they can do more to help improve the health of Canadians, a similar proportion (54 per cent) also feel that they do not know how they can help other people with their health problems, despite many (59 per cent) being interested in donating more time to health-related causes. While many Canadians in this age group (55 per cent) selected cancer over nine other possibilities as the top priority for health research, when introduced to the Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow Project, 80 per cent agree that it is critical for Canadians to participate in this type of study.

About Canada's Landmark Cancer and Chronic Disease Research Study

The Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow Project consists of five regional studies known as Atlantic PATH, BC Generations Project, Quebec's CARTaGENE, Ontario Health Study and Alberta's The Tomorrow Project. These cohorts are being driven by partner organizations in the five participating regions including the BC Cancer Agency, Alberta Health Services - Cancer Care, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Cancer Care Ontario, Quebec's CARTaGENE project, and Cancer Care Nova Scotia with Dalhousie University collaborating for work in the Atlantic Provinces.

Funding includes $42 million from the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer - a national, independent organization funded by the federal government to accelerate action on cancer control for all Canadians - along with additional regional commitments of $57.1 million.

How to Join

Make a commitment to cancer research by participating in the Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow Project, please visit www.partnershipfortomorrow.ca.

About The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer

The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer is an independent organization funded by the federal government to accelerate action on cancer control for all Canadians. Bringing together cancer experts, government representatives, the Canadian Cancer Society and cancer patients, survivors and their families through the Canadian Cancer Action Network to implement the first pan-Canadian cancer control strategy, the vision is to be a driving force to achieve a focused approach that will help prevent cancer, enhance the quality of life of those affected by cancer, lessen the likelihood of dying from cancer, and increase the efficiency of cancer control in Canada. For more information about the Partnership and Canada's cancer control strategy, visit partnershipagainstcancer.ca. The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer is also the driving force behind cancerview.ca, an online community linking Canadians to cancer information, services and resources.

About Angus Reid Public Opinion

Angus Reid Public Opinion is headed by Dr. Angus Reid: an industry visionary who has spent more than four decades asking questions to figure out what people feel, how they think and who they will vote for. A team of talented and experienced practitioners with a unique and profound understanding of global issues conduct high quality research throughout the world on a daily basis for corporations, governments, academic researchers, and non-profit organizations.

The survey was conducted from January 19th to 23rd, 2011 by Angus Reid Public Opinion in collaboration with the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer. The survey was administered online among 1,002 Canadians aged 35 to 69 years who were recruited from the Angus Reid Forum online research panel. The margin of error, which measures sampling variability, is +/- 3.1% points, 19 times out of 20. Survey results have been statistically weighted according to the 2006 Census data on age, gender, region and education to ensure the sample is representative of the adult population Canadians between the ages of 35 and 69.

Core elements of electronic health records in place for almost half of Canadians

Benefits being realized across the country as a result of investments in EHRs

TORONTO, February 3, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - As a result of investments made by Canada Health Infoway (Infoway) and its jurisdictional partners, Infoway President and CEO, Richard Alvarez reports today that the core elements of an electronic health records (EHR) are now in place for nearly half of the Canadian population (49.3%).

"We set an ambitious goal of making the core systems of an electronic health record available to authorized care providers for 50 percent of Canadians by the end of 2010. We've come very close to achieving this important milestone and estimate we'll cross this threshold in mid-2011," said Alvarez. "As a result of these efforts, systems are now in place that are delivering value to patients and clinicians from coast to coast to coast."

Funded by the Government of Canada, Infoway works with the country's ten provinces and three territories to implement secure EHR systems, enabling best practices and successful projects in one region to be shared or replicated in other regions.

Investments that Infoway and its provincial and territorial partners have made in information and communications technologies such as client and provider registries, drug information systems, lab information systems and diagnostic imaging systems are already paying significant dividends in a number of ways.

"Already we're seeing improvements in the quality of health care, reductions in wait times, avoided errors, better management of chronic diseases, and enhanced access in remote and rural communities," says Alvarez. "Patients and health care providers alike believe that knowing is better than not knowing when it comes to health care."

Examples of such benefits include:

Alberta Netcare

Alberta's Netcare was launched in 2006 and is now a leading example of an EHR deployment, both domestically and internationally. Through Netcare, over 30,000 authorized users in the province have access to information that they need to deliver better health care, including lab results, medication profiles, diagnostic imaging reports, hospital transcribed and ECG reports and immunizations.

Dr. Robert Hauptman of the Saulbus Family Medical Clinic in St. Albert, Alberta points to the availability of lab test results as an example of how Netcare has improved patient care.

"By being able to see the results of lab tests or imaging, there is no duplication of tests requested. Furthermore, if you have the best information possible, you can make the best diagnostic and therapeutic decisions," says Dr. Hauptman. "In the past, you might order more tests which were unnecessary and caused the patient to wait two or three weeks for the results, when those tests might already have been done. It's important to stress that having records online allows us to provide better patient care."

Ontario Telemedicine Network (OTN)

OTN is a one of the largest telehealth networks in the world, using live two-way videoconferencing and associated diagnostic equipment to bring medical expertise to some of the province's most hard-to-reach, underserved northern communities. More than 3,000 health care professionals in more than 1,000 sites across Ontario are proving that distance doesn't matter when it comes to delivering quality care. OTN is expected to deliver more than 100,000 patient visits in 2011.

"Telehomecare is very powerful technology in terms of improving patient outcomes and reducing health care costs, because it empowers patients to manage their own illnesses," says Dr. Ed Brown, CEO, Ontario Telemedicine Network. "We improve care — and patients are making fewer trips to the emergency department and being admitted to hospital less often. When you improve patient outcomes, improve satisfaction with the health care system and reduce system costs, that's very powerful technology."

Drug Information Systems

In 2010, an independent study on drug information systems showed that they are already generating $436 million worth of annual benefits due to the increased productivity of prescribers and pharmacists, improved patient compliance with medications, and gains inpatient safety. Further benefits are expected as adoption of these systems spreads, experience is gained in their use, and e-prescribing becomes more common.

"Pharmacists are seeing technology and their drug therapy expertise working in concert to transform the delivery of patient care," said Ruth Ackerman, President of the Canadian Pharmacists Association. "By providing health care professionals with the information they need to support their clinical decisions, Drug Information Systems are improving medication safety and effectiveness."

Diagnostic Imaging

A 2009 study on the benefits of the investments in diagnostic imaging identified potential cost savings and efficiencies of almost $1 billion a year. This estimate reflects improved productivity of radiologists and radiology technologists, a significant reduction in the number of patient transfers and duplicate tests, as well as the elimination of film and costly film storage requirements. For example, the evaluation report noted that system innovations could improve the efficiency of clinical decision making of referring physicians by 50-60 minutes, creating $160-190 million of pan-Canadian annual value.

Dr. Derek Younge, an orthopaedic surgeon working in Yellowknife, is a proponent of the DI/PACS system in his jurisdiction.

"It's a big advancement. We can see an image as soon as it is taken and consult directly with the health centre where the patient has been taken. We can manipulate the scan in ways we couldn't do with a traditional X-ray. We can give an opinion even before an official radiology report goes out."

About Canada Health Infoway

Canada Health Infoway is an independent, not-for-profit organization funded by the federal government. Infoway jointly invests with every province and territory to accelerate the development and adoption of electronic health record projects in Canada. Fully respecting patient confidentiality, these secure systems will provide clinicians and patients with the information they need to better support safe care decisions and manage their own health. Accessing this vital information quickly will help foster a more modern and sustainable health care system for all Canadians.

For more information about Canada's efforts to implement information and communications technologies in health care, please visit www.knowingisbetter.ca. To see how EHR initiatives are improving health care delivery for Canadians from coast to coast to coast, visit https://www.infoway-inforoute.ca/lang-en/about-ehr/ehr-success-stories.

Canadians won't be ready to care for aging relatives

Research shows majority expects to be overwhelmed by providing home care to elderly

TORONTO, February 3, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - As the old adage goes, life is what happens when you're busy making other plans, and Canadians might just find themselves in a life consumed by caring for ailing loved ones rather than fulfilling those plans. In fact, over 80 per cent of Canadians state that caring for a loved one would change their current and future expectations.

According to a recent Leger survey commissioned by home care provider We Care Home Health Services, almost two out of three (64 per cent) Canadians say caring for an elder would be overwhelming for them, especially when trying to meet the demands of their own lives. The survey also reveals that only 23 per cent of Canadian families have a home care plan in place in the event a loved one needs it.

To make this undertaking easier, Sue Kelly, director of Health and Wellness for We Care Home Health Services, says it has published its new Get Going to Keep Going Guide — a free how-to guide on everything from maintaining dietary and physical health to mental stimulation, medicine awareness and staying safe — to relieve the responsibility on families.

"When we think of those who suffer from chronic conditions, we rarely think about the impact their condition has on their loved ones," said Kelly. "There are currently 7 million Canadians who are taking on the task of tending to a friend or family member in need. Therefore we wanted to show those who live with chronic disease that there are so many everyday things they can do for themselves to improve their quality of life."

The Get Going to Keep Going Guide is available online at www.wecare.ca/GetGoing or through participating healthcare retailers. It will undoubtedly be welcomed by Canadians, of which only 42 per cent believe there is sufficient information available to families and caregivers in this country. It provides details on how staying physically active, volunteering in the community, discussing feelings of depression, talking to medical professionals about medications, and numerous other simple, non-strenuous activities can help prevent or delay the onset of chronic illness.

As Kelly notes, the public healthcare system has limits on how much it will provide for the needs of the chronically ill, and many families are likely to find themselves in challenging circumstances. In fact, 62 per cent of Canadians do not feel the public healthcare system offers sufficient homecare support to those who require it.

"With the rapid growth of our aging population, more and more Canadians will find themselves suddenly having to care for a loved one and that's going to have a profound impact on the caregivers' time, emotions, finances and energy," said Kelly. "Like anything else in life one must expect the unexpected, but we encourage Canadians to be proactive about their health and that of their loved ones, and have a plan ready to cope with the demands of caregiving should one be needed."

The Leger study surveyed 1,508 Canadian adults through an online forum between January 10 and 12. The study has a margin of error of +/-2.5 per cent.

About We Care

We Care Home Health Services, a leading national provider of in-home care and support services with over 50 locations across Canada, provides professional and compassionate care that allows seniors and others to live independently in the comfort of their own homes. We Care employs over 3,000 homecare staff and provides care in over 800 communities across Canada. For more information, visit www.wecare.ca

Making Your Own Decisions - What You Need To Know

Free Education Event

Come and hear Theresa Daly RN, MSW, RSW & Designated Capacity Assessor speak about making your own decisions about finances and personal care. This session will educate you about Powers of Attorney, Wills, and Advance Directives that protect your own decision making as you grow older.

When: Wednesday, March 2, 2011 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the Evergreen Seniors Community Centre

Call 519-837-5696 to register - Space is limited

other Free Education Events you might enjoy...

Asian Grocery Store Tour - Takgo Supermarket 340 Woodlawn Rd. W. Guelph Friday, February 11, 2011 10:30 - 11:30 am

Fraud Against Older Adults "Recognize It - Stop It" with the Guelph Police Service Fraud Unit on Wednesday, February 16, 2011 1:00 pm Evergreen Seniors Community Centre

What Do You Really Need to Get Out of the Food You Eat - with Heather Keller, RD, PHD, DFC - University of Guelph Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition on Wednesday, March 9, 2011 at 1:00 pm at the Evergreen Seniors Community Centre

Call 519-837-5696 to register for these events

Heart and Stroke Foundation 2011 Report on Canadians' Health Warns: Denial Putting Canadians at High Risk of Cutting Their Lives Short

Is there an App for that? Yes! Foundation launches new mobile App to help Canadians take control of their risks

OTTAWA, February 1, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Heart and Stroke Foundation's 2011 Report on Canadians' Health warns that nine out of 10 Canadians are jeopardizing the quality and length of their lives. The Foundation found that many Canadians are in denial about their risk factors for heart disease such as being overweight and being physically inactive - risk factors they can manage and control. Each year, about 250,000 potential years of life are lost in Canada due to cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and other chronic heart-related conditions.

"Canadians know what to do to live healthier, longer lives. But there's a huge disconnect between what we think we are doing to address our risk factors and reality," says Dr. Beth Abramson, cardiologist and spokesperson for the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

"The fact is that we're not managing some of the most common and deadly cardiovascular risk factors as well as we think we are. We Canadians are living with a false sense of security that could be fatal."

According to a new Heart and Stroke Foundation poll, Canadians are aware of the importance of addressing their risk factors:

...The poll found that 84 per cent of Canadians know that nine out of 10 adults have at least one risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

...Nine out of 10 Canadians polled know that the majority of first-time heart attacks are caused by risk factors that they can control.

However, the Foundation poll also showed that Canadians have a false sense of security that is cutting their lives short. They overestimate their own healthy behaviours:

...Almost 90 per cent of Canadians rate themselves as healthy. The reality is that nine out of 10 Canadians have at least one risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

...Only about a third said they are not physically active or don't eat a minimum of five servings of vegetables and fruit per day. The reality is about half of Canadians don't meet the physical activity and healthy eating recommendations.

...Eighteen per cent of Canadian adults say they are obese. The reality is that almost one quarter - 25 per cent - of Canadian adults are obese.

"We are overestimating our healthy behaviours and underestimating our tendency to be couch potatoes," says Dr. Abramson.

"It's not just years of life that are at stake," explains Dr. Abramson. "It's healthy quality years that can be gained. For example, by being physically active, you gain close to four years of life - three of those free of heart disease and stroke."

"Living longer isn't much fun if you don't have your health," she adds. "Making healthier choices and controlling the modifiable risk factors are key to extending quality years of life."

On average, inactivity and obesity can each shave almost four years off a person's expected lifespan, high blood pressure two and a half years, and low vegetable and fruit consumption, 1.3 years.

The Foundation's prescription for a healthy lifestyle and more quality years of life is to manage the risk factors that can be controlled: follow a healthy diet, be physically active, know and control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, maintain a healthy weight, be smoke-free, reduce stress, manage diabetes and limit alcohol consumption. Dr. Abramson also recommends that Canadians ask their healthcare providers to help them reach their goals.

My Heart&Stroke Health App™ helps Canadians take control

To help people become more knowledgeable about their risk factors and support them in starting these important conversations with their healthcare providers, the Heart and Stroke Foundation today launched a free new app to complement its web-based e-tool.

"The My Heart&Stroke Health App™ is designed to give Canadians an overview of their health and health risks, as well as tailored action plans for healthier living," says Heart and Stroke Foundation director of research, Dr. Marco Di Buono. "We recognize that busy people may prefer the convenience of an app."

The app can be used anywhere, at any time. The results can - and should - be shared with people's healthcare providers.

"By simply pressing a button, you can learn how to add quality years to your life," says Dr. Di Buono. "This is an easy tool to help Canadians make changes to reduce their risks."

The My Heart&Stroke Health App™ is available for free at mobile app stores on Apple iPhone, Blackberry and Android. The app is classified under "Health & Fitness" or you can download it at heartandstroke.ca/mobileapps. If you don't have a mobile phone, you can take the risk assessment online at heartandstroke.ca/risk.

Time to take action

"Reducing heart disease risks is everyone's responsibility," says Linda Piazza, director of health policy for the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

"Canadians tend to expect that their healthcare professionals will inform them about their heart disease risks, but the Foundation poll found that many healthcare professionals didn't discuss or measure some of the important risk factors with their patients."

According to the poll, eight in 10 Canadians reported that their healthcare professional had measured their blood pressure within the past year, however only three out of 10 patients had their waists measured.

A waist measurement is something that people can do on their own, as well as discuss with their doctor. It's a simple, low-tech, accurate way of identifying people who are at increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and metabolic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. For more information on how to measure your waist, go to heartandstroke.ca/healthywaist.

The poll also found that five out of 10 Canadians had not been asked by their healthcare provider about their diet or family history of heart disease or stroke.

Four out of 10 had not been weighed, asked about their level of physical activity, or whether they smoked - risks the Foundation has encouraged the public to discuss with their health practitioner for years.

"Healthcare professionals tend to be focused on urgent or acute healthcare issues in their busy offices," says Dr. Abramson. "Both patients and physicians have a responsibility to discuss the prevention and management of chronic disease by raising these questions."

"Knowledge is power," she says. "Conversations with your healthcare provider who can explain the importance of managing risk factors can empower you to take control of your health. It's essential to start having those conversations early in life and to have them regularly as you age."

Making change - it takes a village

While people can take charge and apply what has been learned from decades of research on cardiovascular risk factors, the Heart and Stroke Foundation is also working to address the societal and environmental roots of heart disease and stroke.

"We have said for some time that we need to make sure that the healthy choice is the easy choice for all Canadians," says Dr. Di Buono.

"Telling people to eat more vegetables and fruit is pointless unless governments, industry and organizations like the Heart and Stroke Foundation work together to make healthy food more affordable and accessible to all Canadians."

He notes that individuals, families, schools, health care providers, communities, businesses, industries and government collectively play a role in improving the health of Canadians.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation, a volunteer-based health charity, leads in eliminating heart disease and stroke and reducing their impact through the advancement of research and its application, the promotion of healthy living and advocacy.