Foundation News Archives

Shingles vaccine may lower dementia risk

November 12, 2024

The recombinant zoster vaccine known as SHINGRIX may also lower the risk of developing dementia, according to a new study. The vaccine prevents shingles, a painful viral infection, and is typically recommended for those 50 and older. Researchers in the U.K. published a study in Nature Medicine on July 25 that showed that among people diagnosed with dementia, those who received the recombinant zoster vaccine had more diagnosis-free time compared with those who received a different vaccine.

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome in cats similar to Alzheimer’s disease

November 8, 2024

House cats live an average of 14 years, and it’s not uncommon for a cat to live more than 20 years. Older cats often develop cognitive decline resulting in dementia. It’s called “cognitive dysfunction syndrome” or CDS. This condition is similar in many ways to Alzheimer’s disease, including amyloid beta and tau protein accumulation. Some believe that environmental stressors from life as a house cat contribute to cognitive decline.

Ultra-processed foods affect brain health

October 25, 2024

Recent research has revealed that eating ultra-processed foods affects brain health. Studies suggest that diets high in these foods could increase the risk of cognitive impairment and stroke. Ultra-processed foods include industrially prepared items like packaged snacks, ready-made meals, and sugary drinks. These foods are often convenient, but they carry hidden health dangers.

The spread of dangerous medical misinformation

October 23, 2024

You may have heard that vaccines cause autism, but are you unsure where this idea came from? Are you — or someone you know — suspicious of the U.S. government response to COVID-19? If so, you’ll be interested in a two-part series of articles that John Parkinson wrote about the challenges of communicating medical information to the public and the ease with which medical misinformation spreads.

Hormone therapy is safe for treating menopause symptoms

October 17, 2024

Many women approaching menopause are concerned about the safety of hormone therapy. That’s because in 2002, researchers reported that hormone replacement therapy — or HRT — was related to increased risk of breast cancer. However, experts now report that hormone therapy in early menopause is safe and beneficial.

Noninvasive methods to evaluate canine BPH

October 4, 2024

Most intact male dogs will develop enlarged prostate glands. This condition, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is influenced by androgen hormones such as testosterone. BPH has few symptoms in the earlier stages of development. However, it can lead to serious health issues if left untreated, such as reproductive tract issues, constipation, and prostate infections. Researchers have outlined noninvasive methods to evaluate canine BPH in the early, subclinical, stages. Early detection allows early treatment and avoids the progression of the disease.

Targeting 14 risk factors can cut dementia cases by nearly half

October 2, 2024

As life expectancy increases worldwide, more people are living with dementia. Even though the age-specific rate of dementia is falling in some high-income countries, the overall number of cases is still rising. This highlights the need for effective prevention strategies. The Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, intervention, and care recently updated its findings, revealing 14 modifiable risk factors that can help reduce dementia cases. Their latest report emphasizes that targeting 14 risk factors can cut dementia cases by nearly half.

Estrogen and low back pain: what the research shows

September 20, 2024

Low back pain is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide — especially older women. While the causes of low back pain can be varied, new research suggests that estrogen may play a role in its development and severity. A recent review published in Bone Research reported that estrogen receptors are present in the intervertebral discs and facet joints. These two key areas of the spine are often affected by low back pain. This suggests that estrogen may have a direct impact on the health of these tissues.

Links between sleep, Alzheimer’s disease, and sex differences

September 18, 2024

Did you know that women are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than men? In fact, about two-thirds of Alzheimer’s cases in the U.S. affect women. One key factor that might help explain this disparity is the connection between sleep disruptions, Alzheimer’s disease, and sex differences. As a recent study shows, it’s becoming clear that sleep problems, especially during and after menopause, may play a significant role in women’s increased risk for Alzheimer’s.

German shorthair pointers benefit from delaying spay/neuter

Additional support for delaying spay/neuter in large-breed dogs

September 2, 2024

When it comes to spaying or neutering your dog, the timing of the procedure can significantly impact their long-term health. Traditionally, veterinarians have recommended spaying or neutering before six months of age. However, recent studies, including an update to the comprehensive studies by Drs. Benjamin and Lynette Hart from the University of California, Davis, have added to growing evidence that delaying these procedures can reduce the risk of cancer and joint disorders in certain breeds. Pet owners should also consider hormone-sparing sterilization as an alternative to traditional spay/neuter.

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