Fear Factor: New Survey Reveals that One Quarter of Ontarians Say Surviving a Stroke Would Be Worse Than Dying

Stroke Survivors Association of Ottawa urging Ontarians to learn about a serious heart condition called atrial fibrillation - and how to prevent it causing the most severe and debilitating type of stroke

TORONTO, January 23, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - According to a new Stroke Survivors of Ottawa Survey, conducted by Léger Marketing, a quarter of Ontarians say surviving a stroke would be worse than dying and more than a third (34 per cent), would rather lose a limb than suffer the effects of a stroke. However, while Ontarians are fearful of the consequences of a stroke, the majority are unfamiliar with the basic facts of atrial fibrillation or AF - a common and serious heart condition that can lead to the most severe and debilitating types of stroke. What's more, 71 per cent of Ontarians falsely believe that AF is tied to an increased risk of heart attack while only 40 per cent understand its connection to stroke.

There are approximately 100,000 Ontarians living with AF, which causes the heart to beat irregularly. After the age of 55, the incidence of AF doubles with each decade of life. People with AF are three to five times more at risk of having a stroke than those without AF, and they are twice as likely to die from one. For those who survive a stroke, the disabilities can be significant and can include paralysis; loss of speech and understanding; and effects on the memory, thought and emotional processes. Currently, AF costs the Ontario health care system approximately $700 million annually.

"Ontarians are right to be frightened by the effects of a stroke - but what concerns me more is the wide-spread lack of awareness about conditions like AF, and thereby the lack of action people are taking to protect themselves from the strokes it can cause," says Janet McTaggart, Executive Director of the Stroke Survivors Association of Ottawa.

Bruce Ryder knows all too well how easy it can be to live with AF and not even know it. He was diagnosed with AF four years ago after passing out at a party.

"Prior to my AF diagnosis, I had never heard of atrial fibrillation, much less knew about its connection to stroke," says Ryder. "Thinking about what could have happened had I not discovered my AF and started treatment is positively frightening to me. I was just living with AF and didn't even realize it - I had no symptoms. That is why you need to raise this with your physician and get them to check your heart rhythm. Not everyone will be as lucky as me."

The survey also revealed that more than 70 per cent of Ontarians do not know how to prevent an AF-related stroke. To help bridge that knowledge gap and raise awareness of AF, a new website has been developed: www.StrokeAndAF.ca. Visitors can not only learn the facts about AF, but they can also find questions to ask their doctor, tips on living with AF, and suggestions for caregivers.

"Ontarians are fearful of stroke, yet many admit they're unfamiliar with its link to AF - a condition that can lead to one of the most severe and debilitating types of stroke," says Dr. Richard Tytus, Associate Clinical Professor of Family Medicine, McMaster University. "Our goal is to educate Ontarians about AF and the consequences of an AF-related stroke, so that they take action by speaking with their doctor. Once people understand their risk, they can then work with their doctor to take the necessary steps to protect themselves."

A White Paper entitled Reconnecting the Pieces to Optimize Care in Atrial Fibrillation was recently published by the Centre for Innovation and Complex Care at the University Health Network. It provides a comprehensive review of the gaps of AF care in Ontario, the challenges for patients, and the costs to the health care system.

"Atrial fibrillation and stroke are putting enormous financial pressures on our health care system that we cannot afford," says Dr. Dante Morra, Medical Director, Centre for Innovation and Complex Care at the University Health Network. "Our population is aging at an alarming rate, but with a combination of some system restructuring and better disease prevention, we can get it under control and provide great care to Ontarians."

According to the survey, Ontarians have an appreciation for the impact a severe stroke could potentially have on their lives. In fact seven in 10 Ontarians fear losing their independence due to stroke and more than six in 10 fear losing their mobility (66 per cent), not fully recovering from a stroke (65 per cent), losing their speech/ability to communicate (64 per cent) and being a burden on their family (63 per cent).

"If we get more people to take action and protect themselves from stroke, hopefully we can reduce the number of stroke survivors that need our assistance. Raising awareness about AF is an important first step," says McTaggart.

About Stroke in Canada

In Canada, stroke is the leading cause of adult disability and the third leading cause of death with up to 15 per cent of strokes being caused by AF. The health care costs for patients in the first six months after a stroke totals more than $2.5 billion a year, with direct and indirect costs for each patient averaging $50,000 in the first six months following a stroke. People with non-disabling strokes spend up to $24,000 during the first six months and the costs for families can increase to over $100,000 for the most severely affected.7 Examples of stroke-related expenses to families include caregiving, transportation and lost income.

About Stroke Survivors Association of Ottawa

Stroke Survivors Association of Ottawa (SSAO) provides stroke survivors, their families, caregivers, professionals and the general public with a wide variety of support services, community re-engagement, advocacy, education and other programs. As well, SSAO has connections to many Ottawa and surrounding area stroke supports.

Cases of Influenza confirmed in Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph, Ontario

If you have a vacation planned for March break, now is the time to get your flu shot

WELLINGTON COUNTY, Ontario January 18, 2012 - Health and Safety Watch - Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health reports that while it’s been a relatively mild year for flu activity, confirmed cases are started to be seen in Wellington and Dufferin counties. WDG Public Health has received four lab confirmed cases of flu in the community and one confirmed outbreak of flu in a long-term care home.

Public Health’s Clinical Services Manager, Rosalyn LaRochelle, says,

“To date, we have administered over 10,000 flu shots in our clinics and distributed 61,000 doses to area physicians, hospitals, and long-term care homes. We don’t have numbers for shots administered through independent pharmacies and home health care providers but there’s no doubt anyone who chose to get their flu shot has contributed to the lower incidence of flu in our community.”

In general, flu is spread by droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze and by touching surfaces that are contaminated with the virus such as unwashed hands, toys, cell phones or eating utensils. The most common symptoms are fever and cough PLUS one or more of the following symptoms: Sore throat, Muscle pain, Joint pain, Weakness

LaRochelle adds,

“This year we had the option of ordering pre-filled syringes of the flu vaccine. It’s made the process of administering the shot much more efficient.”

If you have a vacation planned for March break, now is the time to get your flu shot. Appointments are available by calling Public Health or your health care provider. For more information visit: www.wdgpublichealth.ca.

CNIB Recommends Diabetics Have Regular Eye Examinations

TORONTO, January 17, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - CNIB is stressing the importance of regular eye examinations as part of a diabetic's treatment protocol. This recommendation comes as a result of the 2011 Diabetes in Canada1 report recently released by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) which details the importance of eye disease, in particular diabetic retinopathy, as a key complication of type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

The report not only showed that the prevalence of diabetes had increased 70% over a 11-year period from 1998/99 to 2008/99, it also stated that in the first 20 years after a diagnosis of diabetes almost all individuals with type 1 diabetes and more than 60 percent with type 2 diabetes develop some form of retinopathy. And, according to results from a 2007 Canadian Community Health Survey only 66 percent of individuals with diabetes obtain regular eye exams.

CNIB's Vice President of Research, Dr Keith Gordon, a member of the Diabetes in Canada editorial board, stresses the importance of regular eye examinations for diabetics:

"Because people with diabetes are at a greater risk for vision loss, it is vitally important that all diabetics visit an eye care professional for regular diagnostic examinations to help detect any early signs of diabetic retinopathy and to monitor any further developments of the disease," says Dr. Gordon.

"There are typically few warning signs of diabetic retinopathy in the early stages and very often, by the time symptoms are noticed by an individual with diabetes, the disease has progressed to a more advanced stage, making successful treatment less likely and the risk of blindness greater," adds Dr. Gordon.

According to the PHAC report, in 2008/09 there were almost 2.4 million Canadians or 6.8 percent of the population living with diabetes. It is estimated that close to 500,000 Canadians have been diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy and that approximately 100,000 of these individuals have a vision threatening form of the disease. A CNIB study, conducted in conjunction with the Canadian Ophthalmological Society two years ago2, put the total cost of diabetic retinopathy to the Canadian economy at half a billion dollars.

In diabetic retinopathy, elevated glucose levels in the blood can cause blood vessels in the eye to swell and leak in the retina. New blood vessels may also grow causing further damage. Severe diabetic retinopathy can result in total vision loss. While diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness amongst diabetics, the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma is also increased in people with diabetes.

"Diabetes affects the organs of the body including the eyes," says Dr. Gordon. "Controlling blood sugars and changing other lifestyle factors can help reduce the risk of developing vision loss due to retinopathy."

Diabetes, a chronic disease that occurs when the body is either unable to sufficiently produce or properly use insulin, can strike at any age. Cathy MacDonald of Sackville, NS was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 4. Despite daily insulin treatment, she began to develop tiny blood vessels in the back of her eyes. Laser treatments to control their growth failed, leading to the development of severe diabetic retinopathy.

After two operations to correct the condition failed, Ms. MacDonald was blind at the age of 27. "If there is a message that I would like to impart, it's that diabetes is very serious and complications do happen," says Ms. MacDonald, who learned firsthand about the long-term effect diabetes can have on internal organs such as the eyes.

Ms. MacDonald relied on services and programs at CNIB to help her regain a sense of independence in her daily activities. She went on to enroll in a local community college, earning a diploma in Human Services. She later married and had a child.

"You can do anything if you put your mind to it," adds Ms. MacDonald.

About CNIB

CNIB is a registered charity, passionately providing community-based support, knowledge and a national voice to ensure Canadians who are blind or partially sighted have the confidence, skills and opportunities to fully participate in life. To learn more, visit cnib.ca or call the toll-free CNIB Helpline at 1-800-563-2642.

Call for New Driver Test to Help Improve Road Safety in Canada

TORONTO, January 16, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - A University of Toronto Psychology Professor believes a test to measure a driver's cognitive ability would go a long way in making Canada's roads safer. As Canadian clinicians become more aware of disorders that impact cognitive ability, such as post concussion syndrome, and dementias, such as Alzheimer's disease, Dr. Konstantine Zakzanis believes it's becoming increasingly important to measure a driver's cognitive ability.

"A practical and accessible screening test to identify those drivers who may be a risk to themselves and others would help to improve road safety for all drivers," said Zakzanis. "It could be used at a time of driver's license renewal, or made available anytime at a driver's request."

Zakzanis has developed a 15-minute online screening test called BrainScreen. It is patent pending, available in 20 languages and is the first test of its kind in North America.

"A whole range of factors affect a driver's cognitive skills, from medications and concussions to Alzheimer's disease," said Brian Patterson, President of the Ontario Safety League. "A standard recognized test to measure a driver's cognitive ability will take road safety to the next logical level."

About BrainScreen

Developed by Professor Konstantine Zakzanis through the University of Toronto and the Hemisphere Centre for Mental Health & Wellness, BrainScreen is an effective screening tool developed to identify cognitive disorders that result from Alzheimer's disease and other Dementia syndromes, as well as psychiatric and medical conditions such as Attention Deficit Disorder and Post-Concussive Syndrome.

"All too often delayed diagnosis prevents people from getting early treatment," said Scott Knight, Executive Director of the Hemisphere Centre for Mental Health and Wellness. "Since BrainScreen is an online test, giving the user immediate results, it serves as an early warning system for anyone to get treatment sooner - treatment that could make all the difference."

BrainScreen is easily adaptable for a range of applications from driver's license renewals and insurance underwriting and claims to improving safety in the trucking and cab industries. BrainScreen provides instant results to the user or any administrator. Similar to baseline testing in sports endeavours, BrainScreen is able to measure against past performance.

The Benefits of Cognitive Testing

In 2025, 1 in 4 Canadians will be 65 and older, making a screening test for cognitive acuity a relevant and practical tool for improving road safety.

Half a million Canadians have Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. In other words, 71,000 Canadians under the age of 65, and 1 in 11 Canadians over the age of 65 have Alzheimer's disease. By 2040, that number is expected to more than double, according to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

About Hemisphere Centre

The Hemisphere Centre for Mental Health and Wellness is a collaborative project designed to promote de-medicalized access to screening tools to aid in the identification of cognitive disorders secondary to various disorders and diseases. Combining assessment best practices and evidence-based research, the Hemisphere Centre is focused on delivering products and services that are scientifically robust, accessible and practical for use by the general public. http://hcmh.ca/

Stay Healthy this Winter, Shovel Lightly!

MONTREAL, January 13, 2012 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - January is putting on its traditional white coat and whether we like it or not, winter rhymes with snow storm! Here are a few useful tips to make sure you shovel safely this season.

Shovelling is a highly demanding physical activity for your heart and joints and it can cause many injuries. According to Dr. Robert David, spokesperson for the Association des chiropraticiens du Québec,

"the amount of patients who see their chiropractor for muscle, joint or nerve injuries increases during the winter months. Yet, many injuries could be avoided if the right shovelling technique were being used."

Extreme temperatures like the ones we experience in Quebec make shovelling an even more difficult task. To avoid injuries, here are a few tips that will help you make the right decisions when the first big snowfalls will show up to your doorstep.

...Don't let snow pile up. It is preferable to shovel frequently in small quantities than to wait until the storm is over.

...In order to loosen up your joints and activate your blood circulation, take 5 to 10 minutes to warm up before starting. To do so, walk in place, go up and down the stairs, stretch your torso side to side and stretch your back.

...Use a lightweight shovel with an ergonomic curved handle. Ideally, your shovel should be made out of plastic or aluminum and designed to push the snow. Its handle should be long enough so that you don't have to bend over to work, though it should not be higher than your shoulders.

...Push the snow to the side rather than throwing it. If you absolutely need to throw it, lift only the amount you are able to carry and move your feet in the desired direction. Never throw snow over your shoulder height. Flexion-extension and rotating movements cause a lot of tension to your intervertebral disks and ligaments. Lumbar sprains and herniated disks can arise from such movements.

...Use your leg muscles instead of your back. Don't forget to bend your knees, to always keep your back straight and to keep the shovel close to your body.

...Don't turn your torso and never throw snow over your shoulder or sideways.

...Don't always work on the same side; make sure you shovel snow equally your right and left side.

...Wear many layers of clothing so you can remove some if needed and still be properly dressed to prevent chilblains.

...Keep a regular rhythm and take frequent breaks, especially if you are shovelling heavy, wet snow.

...If you feel tired or short of breath, take a break every 10 to 15 minutes.

...Drink a lot of water. Dehydration occurs as much in the winter as in the summer.

...Watch out for temperature rises. In cold weather, the physical strain is lower than when the temperature rises. Water concentration in snow increases in weight and risks of injuries become higher. So when spring comes, make sure you take smaller shovels of snow.

...If you experience pain after shovelling, apply ice on the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, rest for a few hours. Be careful when applying heat, it could cause inflammation. During the day, apply ice every two hours. If the pain persists for more than three days, consult a chiropractor near you.

If your spine is not in great shape, the risks of developing more problems when the first snow storm occurs are much higher. Prevent pain! See your chiropractor for a full neuromusculoskeletal system evaluation.

About the ACQ

The Association des chiropraticiens du Québec (ACQ) is a non-profit organisation created in 1966. As part of its public education mission, the ACQ seeks to constantly promote educational projects that enhance public health using natural approaches. With that in mind, we are pleased to offer tips to the citizens of Quebec for a safe and healthy Holiday and winter season.

To find out more about how to shovel right, we invite you to visit our website at www.chiropratique.com.

Community Invited to Celebrate Lincoln Alexander’s 90th

GUELPH, Ontario January 10, 2012 - University of Guelph Campus Bulletin

Lincoln Alexander, the University of Guelph’s chancellor emeritus, turns 90 on Jan. 21. The University will hold a community celebration Jan. 20, 2 to 3:30 p.m., in the Science Complex atrium. The event is open to all University students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends.

“

Lincoln led our university with grace and dignity for more than 15 years and has made great contributions to Canada during his lifetime,” says president Alastair Summerlee.

“We’ve been blessed that he remains a great supporter and friend to this university, as well as a role model and inspiration. His birthday is truly a day worth celebrating.”

Alexander, a former lieutenant-governor of Ontario, was appointed U of G chancellor in 1991 and served for five terms, a record among Canadian universities. In 2007, he was named chancellor emeritus to recognize his years of dedication to the University.

Alexander was first elected MP for Hamilton West in 1968. He was Canada’s first black MP, the first black chair of the Workers’ Compensation Board and the first visible minority to hold the post of lieutenant-governor.

Ontario schools and buildings and a highway are named after him. Alexander Hall, the University’s environmental teaching hub, opened on the Guelph campus this past fall.

Three U of G awards also carry his name: the Lincoln Alexander Outstanding Leadership Award; the Lincoln Alexander Medal of Distinguished Service; and the Lincoln Alexander Chancellor’s Scholarship. Established on his 80th birthday, the scholarship recognizes top students who are aboriginal, persons with a disability or members of a visible minority who have made significant contributions to their communities and demonstrated leadership potential.

If you’re unable to attend the Jan. 20 celebration, you may leave a birthday greeting online.

Come in From the Cold - Winter 2012 Education Series

...a FREE series of informational workshops for everyone...

Free Diabetes Screening Clinic - Tuesday, January 10 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Has you doctor ever said to you that you could develop Diabetes because of your weight, activity levels, blood pressure or elevated blood sugars? A Nurse and Dietitian from Diabetes Care Guelph will measure blood sugar, blood pressure and waist circumference and provide consulation regarding your risk for Diabetes

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"Hmm, so my hearing is not as good as it used to be, now what should I do?" - Wednesday, February 1 1:00 pm

Presented by: Mary Young, Hearing Care Counsellor, Canadian Hearing Society
Topics: dealing with hearing changes, hearing aids, communication strategies, assistive listening devices and community supports

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"Get Stroke Smart" - Wednesday, February 8 1:00 pm

Presented by: Andrew Grayson, Heart and Stoke Foundation of Ontario
Topics: the impact of stroke, what a stroke is and the various types, warning signs, risk factors and what to do if someone is having a stroke.

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"Seeing Beyond Vision Loss" - Wednesday, February 15 1:00 pm

Presented by: Roland Schlosser, Canadian National Institute for the Blind

Did you know it is estimated that 75% of vision loss could have been avoided?

Topics: health issues and the contribution to vision loss, eye conditions (AMD, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma)

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"Nutrition checkup! Am I eating well to stay health? How can I improve my diet?" - Wednesday, February 22 1:00 pm

Presented by: Holly Reimer, Registered Dietitian

Come and learn about healty eating guidelines for older adults and online resources to give yourself a nutrition checkup!

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"Federal and Financial Benefits for Seniors" - Wednesday, February 29 1:00 pm

Presented by: Carolyn Lewis, Service Canada

Eligible seniors are entitled to receive Federal Benefits which provide ongoing financial assistance and services. Learn more about these Pension Benefits.

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"Fraud Against Older Adults. Recognize it! Report it! Stop it from happening" - Wednesday, March 14 1:00 pm

Presented by: Constable Tina Ryan, Guelph Police Services, Fraud Unit

Back by demand, Tina will provide an update on identity theft and frauds you need to be aware of.

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"What will happen when you can no longer cope at home by yourself?" - Wednesday, March 21 1:00 pm

Presented by: Barb Wahl, Senior Manager, Waterloo Wellington Community Care Access Centre (CCAC)
Topics: when it may be time to think about Long-Term Care, the difference between Retirement Homes and Long-Term Care, costs, how to apply and questions to ask when deciding where to live.

To Register please contact Pat Gage 519-837-5696 - presented by GWSA Community Support Services

All workshops take place at the Evergreen Seniors Community Centre, 683 Woolwich Street, Guelph, Ontario

January is Alzheimer Awareness Month... Let's face it! Get the facts. Know for sure.

TORONTO, January 4, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - Canadians are still dismissing symptoms of dementia as "just old age" based on survey results released today by the Alzheimer Society. Close to 50 per cent of Canadians lived a year or more with their symptoms before seeing a family doctor. Of these, 16 per cent waited more than two years. A delayed diagnosis results in a huge treatment gap and prevents people from getting valuable information about medications, support and better disease management.

To promote the benefits of early diagnosis, this January during Alzheimer Awareness the Alzheimer Society is launching its Let's face it! campaign.

The online survey, which was conducted by the Society in the fall of 2011, also revealed that the most common reason for the delay (53 per cent) was the belief that the symptoms were part of "old age" and would eventually go away. Another 39 per cent said their symptoms were episodic or didn't take them seriously enough. Over a quarter either refused to see a doctor or saw no need to go unless symptoms grew worse.

However, three-quarters of respondents - caregivers of people with dementia - admitted that they wished they had sought a diagnosis sooner to have access to treatments to manage symptoms. They also recognized other benefits of getting a diagnosis when shown a list of these. Seventy-eight per cent of respondents said that early diagnosis would help them put their legal and financial affairs in order; 69 per cent said it would keep the person with dementia at home longer, and allow the person to actively participate in decision-making. Sixty-two percent of respondents attributed better coping and living with the disease to early diagnosis.

"Symptoms of dementia are different from normal aging," says Naguib Gouda, newly appointed CEO at the Alzheimer Society. "We need to help Canadians recognize the symptoms for what they are: signs of a brain disorder that will affect 1.1 million Canadians in the next 25 years. While we don't yet have a cure, we can offer treatment that may slow the progression of the disease, and a wealth of information to help people prepare for their future needs."

Dr. Francine Lemire of the College of Family Physicians of Canada agrees. "Dementia is a complex disease but a diagnosis can be reassuring for both the person exhibiting symptoms and their family. With early diagnosis, medications can help minimize symptoms and improve quality of life."

During Alzheimer Awareness Month, the Alzheimer Society encourages Canadians to face dementia by visiting its Let's face it! campaign site: www.alzheimerletsfaceit.ca There they can learn more about dementia and its warning signs and download a Preparing for your doctor's visit checklist. The site also features moving testimonials of caregivers and people with dementia who tell what early diagnosis has meant to them.

"You've got to take on the role of advocate yourself because your partner or parent can't do it themselves. Don't minimize their symptoms." - Wayne Grieve, Caregiver

About the Alzheimer Society

The Alzheimer Society is the leading nationwide health charity for people living with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Active in more than 150 communities across Canada, the Society offers Help for Today through our programs and services for people living with dementia and Hope for Tomorrow… by funding research to find the cause and the cure.

For more information visit www.alzheimerletsfaceit.ca or www.alzheimer.ca

Novel Influenza A H3N2 Virus identified - Canadians encouraged to get the flu shot and to take the usual precautions

Health & Safety Watch- January 1, 2012 The Public Health Agency of Canada reports that in recent weeks, a new variant of the influenza A H3N2 virus, now referred to as A(H3N2)v has been identified in the United States. A(H3N2)v is a swine origin influenza virus which also has genes from birds and humans, and usually infects pigs.
The U.S. Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has detected 12 cases of human influenza infection caused by the A(H3N2)v since July 2011. According to the CDC, most infections with the virus have resulted in mild, self-limited respiratory illnesses; three people, all with underlying medical conditions, were hospitalized, but have since recovered.
Early cases of infection with A(H3N2)v were associated with contact with pigs, but more recent cases were not, suggesting that A(H3N2)v is now capable of limited human to human spread.
No cases of the A(H3N2)v influenza virus have been identified in Canada. As is the case for all new variant influenza strains however, the Public Health Agency of Canada is working with provinces and territories to closely monitor the situation and has increased its surveillance for A(H3N2)v in Canada.
The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to encourage Canadians to get the flu shot and to take the usual precautions such as regular hand washing and coughing or sneezing into your arm, to protect themselves from the flu.
In collaboration with the Public Health Agency of Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has also issued information for the food production industry to help protect animal and human health during the flu season.
There are other steps Canadians can take to protect themselves and others from the flu. For more information visit fightflu.ca or get a copy of Fight Flu: Your Seasonal Flu Guide.
...read more story at Health & Safety Watch