Uncontrolled asthma during the first trimester of pregnancy greatly increases the risk of birth defects in babies, according to new research recently published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
Canadian researchers Lucie Blais, PhD, and Amelie Forget, MSc, concluded that women who had an asthma flare-up in the first three months of pregnancy were 48 percent more likely to have a baby with at least one congenital defect than asthmatic mothers who did not have a flare-up in the first trimester. The rate of birth defects among the children of mothers who experienced a flare-up was 12.8 percent, versus a rate of 8.9 percent for mothers with better-controlled asthma, according to study data. In total, researchers analyzed more than 4,300 pregnancies through health care and pharmacy records.
The findings underscore the need to keep asthma well-managed throughout pregnancy, but especially in the first trimester – a crucial period for fetal development.
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) recommends all pregnant women with a history of asthma consult with an allergist/immunologist to ensure the asthma is well-controlled.
When a pregnant woman has trouble breathing, as during an asthma attack, both mother and fetus can experience a drop in the level of oxygen in their blood. A fetus needs a consistent supply of blood for normal growth and survival. Pregnant women, like all asthma patients, should avoid common asthma triggers such as house dust mites, animal dander and smoke, according to the AAAAI. An allergist/immunologist can prescribe safe and effective medications for controlling asthma during pregnancy. To learn more about asthma and pregnancy or to find an allergist/immunologist in your area, visit http://www.aaaai.org/
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Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
STUDY: Government Finds Gaps in Breastfeeding Support at American Hospitals & Birthing Centers
Many birth facilities in the United States are not providing maternity care that is fully supportive of breastfeeding, according to a study in today′s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Reports a publication of the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Research has shown that what happens in the hospital or birth center plays a crucial role in establishing breastfeeding and helping mothers to continue breastfeeding after leaving the birth facility.
The study, “Breastfeeding-Related Maternity Care Practices among Hospitals and Birth Centers – United States, 2007,” analyzed responses from nearly 2,700 birth facilities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. It asked birth facilities about their practices and policies in caring for women who choose to breastfeed their newborns. The practices were scored on a scale from 0 to 100 points.
The study found that hospitals and birth centers in many southern states scored lower in practices supportive of breastfeeding compared to other regions of the nation, with average total maternity practice scores ranging from 48 to 58.
Western and New England states generally had higher scores compared to other parts of the country.
Vermont and New Hampshire tied for the highest overall maternity practice scores (81), followed by Maine (77) and Oregon (74). (Massachusetts was not mentioned in the governmental press release.)
In addition, Oregon, Maine, and Vermont report that more than 75 percent of children were ever breastfed.
The study reported scores related to seven aspects of maternity care.
Nationally, the average facility score was 63 for key maternity practices in infant nutrition and care.
Out of a possible 100 points, the national scores were: labor and delivery, 60; breastfeeding assistance, 80; mother-newborn contact, 70; postpartum feeding, 77; breastfeeding support after hospital discharge, 40; nurse/birth attendant breastfeeding training and education, 51; and structural and organizational quality, 66.
The study also found that mean total scores combining all seven categories of practice varied significantly among states – ranging from a score of 48 in Arkansas to 81 in both New Hampshire and Vermont.
“These findings underscore the importance of improving the way hospitals and birth centers provide assistance, encouragement and support for breastfeeding,” said Laurence Grummer-Strawn, Ph.D., chief of the nutrition branch in CDC′s Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity. “We have a great deal of work to do to accomplish our national objectives related to breastfeeding, and birth facilities can make a huge contribution to this effort.”
National Healthy People 2010 objectives call for 75 percent of new mothers to initiate breastfeeding, 50 percent to continue for six months, and 25 percent to continue for one year. In addition, the national objectives have a goal for 40 percent of mothers to breastfeed exclusively for three months, and 17 percent of women to breastfeed exclusively for six months.
Studies show that both babies and mothers gain many benefits from breastfeeding. Breast milk contains antibodies that can protect infants from bacterial and viral infections. Breastfed babies are also less likely to become overweight compared to formula-fed babies. Research also indicates that women who breastfeed may have lower rates of diabetes and breast or ovarian cancers than women who don′t breastfeed.
For general information about breastfeeding, visit www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding
Research has shown that what happens in the hospital or birth center plays a crucial role in establishing breastfeeding and helping mothers to continue breastfeeding after leaving the birth facility.
The study, “Breastfeeding-Related Maternity Care Practices among Hospitals and Birth Centers – United States, 2007,” analyzed responses from nearly 2,700 birth facilities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. It asked birth facilities about their practices and policies in caring for women who choose to breastfeed their newborns. The practices were scored on a scale from 0 to 100 points.
The study found that hospitals and birth centers in many southern states scored lower in practices supportive of breastfeeding compared to other regions of the nation, with average total maternity practice scores ranging from 48 to 58.
Western and New England states generally had higher scores compared to other parts of the country.
Vermont and New Hampshire tied for the highest overall maternity practice scores (81), followed by Maine (77) and Oregon (74). (Massachusetts was not mentioned in the governmental press release.)
In addition, Oregon, Maine, and Vermont report that more than 75 percent of children were ever breastfed.
The study reported scores related to seven aspects of maternity care.
Nationally, the average facility score was 63 for key maternity practices in infant nutrition and care.
Out of a possible 100 points, the national scores were: labor and delivery, 60; breastfeeding assistance, 80; mother-newborn contact, 70; postpartum feeding, 77; breastfeeding support after hospital discharge, 40; nurse/birth attendant breastfeeding training and education, 51; and structural and organizational quality, 66.
The study also found that mean total scores combining all seven categories of practice varied significantly among states – ranging from a score of 48 in Arkansas to 81 in both New Hampshire and Vermont.
“These findings underscore the importance of improving the way hospitals and birth centers provide assistance, encouragement and support for breastfeeding,” said Laurence Grummer-Strawn, Ph.D., chief of the nutrition branch in CDC′s Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity. “We have a great deal of work to do to accomplish our national objectives related to breastfeeding, and birth facilities can make a huge contribution to this effort.”
National Healthy People 2010 objectives call for 75 percent of new mothers to initiate breastfeeding, 50 percent to continue for six months, and 25 percent to continue for one year. In addition, the national objectives have a goal for 40 percent of mothers to breastfeed exclusively for three months, and 17 percent of women to breastfeed exclusively for six months.
Studies show that both babies and mothers gain many benefits from breastfeeding. Breast milk contains antibodies that can protect infants from bacterial and viral infections. Breastfed babies are also less likely to become overweight compared to formula-fed babies. Research also indicates that women who breastfeed may have lower rates of diabetes and breast or ovarian cancers than women who don′t breastfeed.
For general information about breastfeeding, visit www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding
Monday, June 16, 2008
STUDY: Disinfecting School Classrooms Keep Kids in School
As schools are closing up for the summer, here is an interesting, although obvious study to most moms, reported in the June issue of Pediatrics, the peer-reviewed, scientific journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics ...
"Regular disinfection of elementary school classrooms can reduce the number of kids who stay home sick, according to the study, “Reducing Absenteeism From Gastrointestinal and Respiratory Illness in Elementary School Students: A Randomized, Controlled Trial of an Infection-Control Intervention.”
Researchers equipped elementary school teachers in Ohio with disinfecting wipes to clean the students’ desks every day after lunch, and students were instructed to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer several times a day.
In these classrooms, 16 percent of students stayed home with a gastrointestinal illness during the study period, compared to 24 percent of students in classrooms who did not receive the extra sanitation. There was no difference between the two groups in absenteeism due to respiratory illness.
Researchers also detected less norovirus on computer mice, desks and drinking fountains in the intervention classrooms compared to the control group."
Source: Pediatrics
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Thus another reason to pack anti-bacterial spray in your child's backpack Or suggest your tween or teen to keep one in their lockers during the school year...
"Regular disinfection of elementary school classrooms can reduce the number of kids who stay home sick, according to the study, “Reducing Absenteeism From Gastrointestinal and Respiratory Illness in Elementary School Students: A Randomized, Controlled Trial of an Infection-Control Intervention.”
Researchers equipped elementary school teachers in Ohio with disinfecting wipes to clean the students’ desks every day after lunch, and students were instructed to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer several times a day.
In these classrooms, 16 percent of students stayed home with a gastrointestinal illness during the study period, compared to 24 percent of students in classrooms who did not receive the extra sanitation. There was no difference between the two groups in absenteeism due to respiratory illness.
Researchers also detected less norovirus on computer mice, desks and drinking fountains in the intervention classrooms compared to the control group."
Source: Pediatrics
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Thus another reason to pack anti-bacterial spray in your child's backpack Or suggest your tween or teen to keep one in their lockers during the school year...
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
STUDY: St. John's Wort Does Not Appear To Have an Impact on the Symptoms of ADHD in Children or Teens
From the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and the National Institutes of Health comes a study on St John's wort and the treatment of children with ADHD...
"According to the National Institute of Mental Health at NIH, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects 3 to 5 percent of children in the United States and it is one of the most common mental disorders that develop in children. NIMH states that children with ADHD have impaired functioning in multiple settings, including home, school, and in relationships with peers. Children with chronic conditions like ADHD are reported to have higher rates of complementary and alternative medicine use and may turn to dietary and herbal supplements such as St. John's wort. However, according to authors of a new NCCAM-funded study, St. John's wort does not appear to have an impact on the symptoms of ADHD in children and adolescents.
Researchers at Bastyr University conducted an 8-week randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of St. John's wort among a volunteer sample of 54 children aged 6 to17 years with ADHD. Participants were randomly assigned to receive 300 mg of Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort) standardized to 0.3 percent hypericin—an active ingredient in St. John's wort—or placebo 3 times daily for 8 weeks. The participants were evaluated for changes in inattentiveness and hyperactivity from baseline at weeks 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8.
While symptom improvement was noted in both the treatment and the placebo groups, the data suggest that St. John's wort had no additional benefit beyond that of placebo for treating symptoms of ADHD.
This study used a preparation of St. John's wort with a standardized hypericin content. However the researchers note that studies involving St. John's wort also standardized to hyperforin—another active ingredient in St. John's wort—could be beneficial. Hyperforin is believed to inhibit reuptake of key brain chemicals—serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. The authors note that hyperforin is highly unstable and can become inactive quickly. The researchers believe that if a St. John's wort product with a higher and more stable hyperforin content became available, it would be worthy of further investigation in ADHD.
References: Weber W, Vander Stoep A, McCarty RL, et al. Hypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort) for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents. JAMA. 2008;299(22):2633–2641.
"According to the National Institute of Mental Health at NIH, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects 3 to 5 percent of children in the United States and it is one of the most common mental disorders that develop in children. NIMH states that children with ADHD have impaired functioning in multiple settings, including home, school, and in relationships with peers. Children with chronic conditions like ADHD are reported to have higher rates of complementary and alternative medicine use and may turn to dietary and herbal supplements such as St. John's wort. However, according to authors of a new NCCAM-funded study, St. John's wort does not appear to have an impact on the symptoms of ADHD in children and adolescents.
Researchers at Bastyr University conducted an 8-week randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of St. John's wort among a volunteer sample of 54 children aged 6 to17 years with ADHD. Participants were randomly assigned to receive 300 mg of Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort) standardized to 0.3 percent hypericin—an active ingredient in St. John's wort—or placebo 3 times daily for 8 weeks. The participants were evaluated for changes in inattentiveness and hyperactivity from baseline at weeks 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8.
While symptom improvement was noted in both the treatment and the placebo groups, the data suggest that St. John's wort had no additional benefit beyond that of placebo for treating symptoms of ADHD.
This study used a preparation of St. John's wort with a standardized hypericin content. However the researchers note that studies involving St. John's wort also standardized to hyperforin—another active ingredient in St. John's wort—could be beneficial. Hyperforin is believed to inhibit reuptake of key brain chemicals—serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. The authors note that hyperforin is highly unstable and can become inactive quickly. The researchers believe that if a St. John's wort product with a higher and more stable hyperforin content became available, it would be worthy of further investigation in ADHD.
References: Weber W, Vander Stoep A, McCarty RL, et al. Hypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort) for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents. JAMA. 2008;299(22):2633–2641.
Pediatrics: Children Consume Too Many Calories From Sugar-Sweetened Drinks and Fruit Juices
From the June issue of Pediatrics, the peer-reviewed, scientific journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics ... comes a warning about the number of calories children take in from sugar-sweetened drinks and fruit juices.
"As of 2004, children ages 2 to 19 were consuming 10 percent to 15 percent of their total calories from sugar-sweetened beverages and 100 percent fruit juices.
The study “Increasing Caloric Contribution From Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and 100% Fruit Juices Among U.S. Children and Adolescents, 1988-2004,” compared data from two time periods: 1988 to 1994, and 1999 to 2004.
In the more recent time period, children ages 6 to 11 consumed approximately 20 percent more calories from these beverages than in the earlier years. From 1999 to 2004, 3 percent fewer children age 2-5 drank milk on a given day, and children in this age group consumed 30 calories more on a daily basis from sweetened beverages and juice.
Most consumption of these beverages across all ages occurred at home, with 7 percent to 15 percent of consumption occurring in schools.
Experts recommend no more than 8 to 12 ounces of these beverages per day for children ages 7 to 18, and only 4 to 6 ounces for younger children. During the time period from 1999 to 2004, children’s average consumption was 25 ounces per day. Mounting evidence supports limiting intake of calories from these beverages to promote optimal energy balance. "
Source: Pediatrics.
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How much sweetened drinks and juice does you child consume?
Post and let us know.
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"As of 2004, children ages 2 to 19 were consuming 10 percent to 15 percent of their total calories from sugar-sweetened beverages and 100 percent fruit juices.
The study “Increasing Caloric Contribution From Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and 100% Fruit Juices Among U.S. Children and Adolescents, 1988-2004,” compared data from two time periods: 1988 to 1994, and 1999 to 2004.
In the more recent time period, children ages 6 to 11 consumed approximately 20 percent more calories from these beverages than in the earlier years. From 1999 to 2004, 3 percent fewer children age 2-5 drank milk on a given day, and children in this age group consumed 30 calories more on a daily basis from sweetened beverages and juice.
Most consumption of these beverages across all ages occurred at home, with 7 percent to 15 percent of consumption occurring in schools.
Experts recommend no more than 8 to 12 ounces of these beverages per day for children ages 7 to 18, and only 4 to 6 ounces for younger children. During the time period from 1999 to 2004, children’s average consumption was 25 ounces per day. Mounting evidence supports limiting intake of calories from these beverages to promote optimal energy balance. "
Source: Pediatrics.
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How much sweetened drinks and juice does you child consume?
Post and let us know.
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Study: Do Parents Help or Hurt Their Overweight Children?
From the June issue of Pediatrics, the peer-reviewed, scientific journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics ... comes a study about the effect of parents on their overweight children.
Read the study summary below and post what you think!
"Obesity among children is a growing public health concern, given the physical and psychological consequences associated with excess body weight. The study, “Accurate Parental Classification of Overweight Adolescents’ Weight Status: Does It Matter?” determined that parents need to talk less and do more when it comes to weight-related matters.
The study authors suggest placing less emphasis on getting parents of overweight children to correctly classify their children as overweight and more emphasis on helping all parents provide a healthy home environment, which is supportive of healthy eating and physical activity, for their children."
Source: Pediatrics.
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FREE Symposium on Health, Weath, & the Environment on Thursday, June 26 at the EcoTarium
The Arthritis Foundation Massachusetts Chapter and the EcoTarium - a Museum of Science and Nature, will hold this FREE seminar Thursday, June 26, from 10 a.m. to noon at the EcoTarium, in Worcester.
Speakers will include: Katherine Upchurch, MD, Clinical Chief, Dept. of Rheumatology at UMass Memorial Medical Center; Myles McDonough, Chairman of the Board of Flexcon, Inc.; Kenneth Kirby, CFRE, Regional Director of Planned Giving, Arthritis Foundation; and Kathy Kennedy, MS, EcoTarium's Manager of Wildlife.
Roundtable discussions will follow with leading experts in financial and arthritis health-related fields.
Free viewing of the Cosmic Collision in the EcoTarium's new Alden Digital Planetarium.
Light lunch provided.
Seating is limited.
Pre-registration is suggested by calling Abby Murphy at the Arthritis Foundation Massachusetts Chapter 800-766-9449, ext. 136 or e-mail amurphy@arthritis.org.
Speakers will include: Katherine Upchurch, MD, Clinical Chief, Dept. of Rheumatology at UMass Memorial Medical Center; Myles McDonough, Chairman of the Board of Flexcon, Inc.; Kenneth Kirby, CFRE, Regional Director of Planned Giving, Arthritis Foundation; and Kathy Kennedy, MS, EcoTarium's Manager of Wildlife.
Roundtable discussions will follow with leading experts in financial and arthritis health-related fields.
Free viewing of the Cosmic Collision in the EcoTarium's new Alden Digital Planetarium.
Light lunch provided.
Seating is limited.
Pre-registration is suggested by calling Abby Murphy at the Arthritis Foundation Massachusetts Chapter 800-766-9449, ext. 136 or e-mail amurphy@arthritis.org.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
American Academy of Pediatrics: Bunk Bed Injuries Send Thousands to Emergency Rooms
From the June issue of Pediatrics, the peer-reviewed, scientific journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics ... comes a warning about bunk beds and injuries.
"Every year, an average of 35,790 children suffer non-fatal injuries related to bunk beds, according to an examination of 16 years of injury surveillance data. The study, “Bunk Bed-Related Injuries Among Children and Adolescents Treated in Emergency Departments in the United States, 1990-2005,” found a total of 572,580 children and adolescents 21 years and younger were treated in emergency rooms for bunk bed-related injuries.
Children younger than 6 suffered the majority of injuries, with significant injury rates also seen among college-aged students. Roughly 60 percent of the injuries occurred in males.
Lacerations were the most common type of injury (29.6 percent) followed by contusions and abrasions (24 percent) and fractures (19.9 percent).
Roughly 72 percent of the injuries were caused by falls.
Over a quarter of the injuries were to the head and neck.
In an estimated 2.9 percent of cases, the patient was hospitalized, transferred to another hospital or held for additional observation.
The authors suggest increased efforts are needed to prevent bunk-bed injuries among children, adolescents and young adults."
Source: Pediatrics
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"Every year, an average of 35,790 children suffer non-fatal injuries related to bunk beds, according to an examination of 16 years of injury surveillance data. The study, “Bunk Bed-Related Injuries Among Children and Adolescents Treated in Emergency Departments in the United States, 1990-2005,” found a total of 572,580 children and adolescents 21 years and younger were treated in emergency rooms for bunk bed-related injuries.
Children younger than 6 suffered the majority of injuries, with significant injury rates also seen among college-aged students. Roughly 60 percent of the injuries occurred in males.
Lacerations were the most common type of injury (29.6 percent) followed by contusions and abrasions (24 percent) and fractures (19.9 percent).
Roughly 72 percent of the injuries were caused by falls.
Over a quarter of the injuries were to the head and neck.
In an estimated 2.9 percent of cases, the patient was hospitalized, transferred to another hospital or held for additional observation.
The authors suggest increased efforts are needed to prevent bunk-bed injuries among children, adolescents and young adults."
Source: Pediatrics
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Congressman Markey Proposes a Federal Ban on BPA
Representative Edward J. Markey (D-MA), a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee with oversight over the Department of Health and Human Services, will introduce the “Ban Poisonous Additives (BPA)” Act today to prohibit the use of the chemical bisphenol-A (BPA) in all food and beverage containers.
BPA is prevalent in plastic bottles and most baby bottles and the linings of canned food and beverages, but more than 100 scientific studies have shown that low doses of BPA in animals can lead to increases in cancer, brain damage, altered immune function and other health problems.
Rep. Markey said, "From baby bottles to cans of chicken soup, BPA is present throughout American life. But concerns about the effects of BPA on human health have been mounting, and we've reached a point where the risk is simply too high. For the sake of the health of every man, woman and child in America, the best course of action we can take right now is to completely ban BPA in food and beverage containers, especially because there are alternatives already available."
BPA is used to harden plastics and is associated with a broad spectrum of hazardous effects. Often used to make plastic bottles and as a coating in the linings of food and beverage cans, it has been shown to leach out of the containers into liquids and foods, and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention found measurable amounts of BPA in the bodies of 93 percent of the U.S. population studied.
"Representative Markey's legislation is an essential step to improving the health of all U.S. citizens," said Jeanne Rizzo, R.N., executive director of the Breast Cancer Fund. "The presence of bisphenol-A in commonly used goods is shockingly prevalent, and the average consumer is unaware of what products to avoid. Americans expect and believe that their government is safeguarding their health, and this legislation is an important step in that direction."
Rep. Markey's BPA Act will ban BPA in all food and beverage packaging.
The bill has been endorsed by the Breast Cancer Fund, Consumers Union, the Environmental Working Group, Health, Education and Resources, Inc., Making Our Milk Safe, the National Research Center for Women and Families, the Public Interest Research Group, the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals and the Chicago Consortium for Reproductive Health in Minority Communities.
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BPA is prevalent in plastic bottles and most baby bottles and the linings of canned food and beverages, but more than 100 scientific studies have shown that low doses of BPA in animals can lead to increases in cancer, brain damage, altered immune function and other health problems.
Rep. Markey said, "From baby bottles to cans of chicken soup, BPA is present throughout American life. But concerns about the effects of BPA on human health have been mounting, and we've reached a point where the risk is simply too high. For the sake of the health of every man, woman and child in America, the best course of action we can take right now is to completely ban BPA in food and beverage containers, especially because there are alternatives already available."
BPA is used to harden plastics and is associated with a broad spectrum of hazardous effects. Often used to make plastic bottles and as a coating in the linings of food and beverage cans, it has been shown to leach out of the containers into liquids and foods, and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention found measurable amounts of BPA in the bodies of 93 percent of the U.S. population studied.
"Representative Markey's legislation is an essential step to improving the health of all U.S. citizens," said Jeanne Rizzo, R.N., executive director of the Breast Cancer Fund. "The presence of bisphenol-A in commonly used goods is shockingly prevalent, and the average consumer is unaware of what products to avoid. Americans expect and believe that their government is safeguarding their health, and this legislation is an important step in that direction."
Rep. Markey's BPA Act will ban BPA in all food and beverage packaging.
The bill has been endorsed by the Breast Cancer Fund, Consumers Union, the Environmental Working Group, Health, Education and Resources, Inc., Making Our Milk Safe, the National Research Center for Women and Families, the Public Interest Research Group, the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals and the Chicago Consortium for Reproductive Health in Minority Communities.
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Friday, June 6, 2008
STUDY: Low Birth Weight Associated with Autism, Especially in Girls
From the June issue of Pediatrics, the peer-reviewed, scientific journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics ... comes a new study about autism.
"Low birth weight was associated with a 2.3-fold increased risk for autism, with the strongest association seen among low birth weight girls.
In the study, “Birth Weight and Gestational Age Characteristics of Children With Autism, Including a Comparison With Other Developmental Disabilities,” researchers examined the records of 565 children with autism born in Atlanta, Ga., from 1986 to 1993, and matched them to a control group. They found the risk for autism was consistently higher for low birth weight girls than for low birth weight boys.
For all low birth weight children, the risk of cerebral palsy, mental retardation, hearing loss or vision impairment was higher than the risk of autism.
Researchers hypothesize that some girls are more likely than boys to require a prenatal insult, such as reduced growth or preterm birth, in the causal pathway leading to autism."
Source: Pediatrics
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Thursday, May 22, 2008
8th Annual Give Children A Chance Gala toBenefit Pioneering Autism Program
With Autism Spectrum Disorder rising in prevalence and receiving significant national attention, parents thankfully have more options than ever before to enhance the social and emotional development of affected children. MGH YouthCare has long been a leader in this field, pioneering skill-based programs for toddlers through teens and offering children with Autism Spectrum Disorder the chance to develop social and friendship skills in a safe and supportive environment. Through their summer camp, career skill development program, social skills groups, parent groups and school consultations, YouthCare has empowered hundreds of kids and their parents to make healthy decisions and lead fuller lives.
Each year, YouthCare hosts a gala fundraiser, “Give Children a Chance.” Its eighth annual installment, which will take place May 29 at 6 p.m. at the Moakley Courthouse in Boston, will be hosted by KISS 108’s Billy Costa and will feature Jimmy Buffet cover band The Baja Brothers. Event co-chairs David Long, Stephanie Long, Tim Sweeney, Tom Hamilton and Terry Hamilton are expecting more than 300 guests for this year’s event. Says Terry Hamilton and her husband Tom, best known as bassist for Aerosmith, “Ever since attending our first YouthCare event more than five years ago, we knew this was a cause that needed our support. MGH YouthCare gives kids a place where they can enjoy activities with their peers and be themselves without being bullied or teased, and that is so important for a young kid.”
Says D. Scott McLeod, Ph.D., executive director of MGH YouthCare, “Allowing children on the Autism Spectrum to build skills in a supportive and engaging environment is the surest way to prepare them for a productive, fulfilling life. It is thanks to our generous donors that we continue to be able to deliver high-quality care to hundreds of children in need.”
For more information about attending the gala or about sponsorship opportunities, contact Deb Shapiro at 617-724-2818. To find out more about MGH YouthCare, access www.mghyouthcare.org.
About the Massachusetts General Hospital: Massachusetts General Hospital, established in 1811, is the original and largest teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School. The MGH conducts the largest hospital-based research program in the United States, with an annual research budget of nearly $500 million and major research centers in AIDS, cardiovascular research, cancer, computational and integrative biology, cutaneous biology, human genetics, medical imaging, neurodegenerative disorders, regenerative medicine, transplantation biology and photomedicine. MGH and Brigham and Women's Hospital are founding members of Partners HealthCare HealthCare System, a Boston-based integrated health care delivery system.
Each year, YouthCare hosts a gala fundraiser, “Give Children a Chance.” Its eighth annual installment, which will take place May 29 at 6 p.m. at the Moakley Courthouse in Boston, will be hosted by KISS 108’s Billy Costa and will feature Jimmy Buffet cover band The Baja Brothers. Event co-chairs David Long, Stephanie Long, Tim Sweeney, Tom Hamilton and Terry Hamilton are expecting more than 300 guests for this year’s event. Says Terry Hamilton and her husband Tom, best known as bassist for Aerosmith, “Ever since attending our first YouthCare event more than five years ago, we knew this was a cause that needed our support. MGH YouthCare gives kids a place where they can enjoy activities with their peers and be themselves without being bullied or teased, and that is so important for a young kid.”
Says D. Scott McLeod, Ph.D., executive director of MGH YouthCare, “Allowing children on the Autism Spectrum to build skills in a supportive and engaging environment is the surest way to prepare them for a productive, fulfilling life. It is thanks to our generous donors that we continue to be able to deliver high-quality care to hundreds of children in need.”
For more information about attending the gala or about sponsorship opportunities, contact Deb Shapiro at 617-724-2818. To find out more about MGH YouthCare, access www.mghyouthcare.org.
About the Massachusetts General Hospital: Massachusetts General Hospital, established in 1811, is the original and largest teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School. The MGH conducts the largest hospital-based research program in the United States, with an annual research budget of nearly $500 million and major research centers in AIDS, cardiovascular research, cancer, computational and integrative biology, cutaneous biology, human genetics, medical imaging, neurodegenerative disorders, regenerative medicine, transplantation biology and photomedicine. MGH and Brigham and Women's Hospital are founding members of Partners HealthCare HealthCare System, a Boston-based integrated health care delivery system.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Massachusetts is One of The Best States for Children
Massachusetts is the second best state in the nation for U.S. children, based on a diverse set of 10 child well-being standards, including lack of access to prenatal care, premature deaths, malnutrition, poverty, child abuse and teen incarceration, according to a major new report released by the non-profit and non-partisan Every Child Matters Education Fund.
In revealing a nation that is starkly divided with what are often "deadly differences" in how it treats its youths, the report shows "geography matters" greatly when it comes to the ability of U.S. children to be healthy and survive to adulthood.
For example, children in the bottom of all the states are three times more likely to die before the age of 14; five times more likely to be uninsured; and eight times more likely to be incarcerated as teens.
The states with the best performance for children are (in order) Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Hawaii, Iowa, Minnesota, Washington, & Maine.
In fact, all 6 New England states made the top 10, making it the best region in America for children.
In Massachusetts. there are 1,458,036 children under age 18.
According to the Fund's report, here is the Bay State's ranking in the categories:
Deaths of infants per 1,000 live births -- #4
Deaths per 100,000 Children Aged 1-14 -- #2
Deaths per 100,000 Teens Aged 15-19 -- #4
Births to Teen Mothers (15-19) per 1,000 Teen Girls -- #3
Births to Women Receiving Late or No Prenatal Care --#6
Children Living in Poverty --#5
Uninsured Children - #11
Juvenile Incarceration Rate (per 100,000) -- #12
Child Abuse Fatalities per 100,000 Children -- #6
Per Capita Child Welfare Expenditures -- #7
Child Vulnerability Index -- #2
To read the entire report, visit: http://www.everychildmatters.org/homelandinsecurity/index_geomatters.html
The Every Child Matters Education Fund (ECMEF) is a 501(c)(3) organization focused on making the needs of children and youth a national political priority and promoting the adoption of smart policies for children, youth, and families-including stopping child abuse, helping working families with child care, expanding pre-school education and after-school programs, and ensuring that children receive good health care.
In revealing a nation that is starkly divided with what are often "deadly differences" in how it treats its youths, the report shows "geography matters" greatly when it comes to the ability of U.S. children to be healthy and survive to adulthood.
For example, children in the bottom of all the states are three times more likely to die before the age of 14; five times more likely to be uninsured; and eight times more likely to be incarcerated as teens.
The states with the best performance for children are (in order) Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Hawaii, Iowa, Minnesota, Washington, & Maine.
In fact, all 6 New England states made the top 10, making it the best region in America for children.
In Massachusetts. there are 1,458,036 children under age 18.
According to the Fund's report, here is the Bay State's ranking in the categories:
Deaths of infants per 1,000 live births -- #4
Deaths per 100,000 Children Aged 1-14 -- #2
Deaths per 100,000 Teens Aged 15-19 -- #4
Births to Teen Mothers (15-19) per 1,000 Teen Girls -- #3
Births to Women Receiving Late or No Prenatal Care --#6
Children Living in Poverty --#5
Uninsured Children - #11
Juvenile Incarceration Rate (per 100,000) -- #12
Child Abuse Fatalities per 100,000 Children -- #6
Per Capita Child Welfare Expenditures -- #7
Child Vulnerability Index -- #2
To read the entire report, visit: http://www.everychildmatters.org/homelandinsecurity/index_geomatters.html
The Every Child Matters Education Fund (ECMEF) is a 501(c)(3) organization focused on making the needs of children and youth a national political priority and promoting the adoption of smart policies for children, youth, and families-including stopping child abuse, helping working families with child care, expanding pre-school education and after-school programs, and ensuring that children receive good health care.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Drug Manufacturers Voluntarily Recall Infant Cough Medicines
Johnson & Johnson and other makers of infants' non-prescription cough and cold products are voluntarily recalling certain medicines in the United States because of the danger of overdose, according to the the Consumer Healthcare Products Association.
A spokeswoman for the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, a trade group representing makers of over-the-counter medicines, said overdoses have led to death and serious injury in rare instances, but stressed the medications are safe when used as directed, according to a Reuters report.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration reviewers have said that from 1969 through 2006 the agency received 54 reports of deaths with decongestants and 69 with antihistamines.
Most were in children younger than 2.
And the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention reported earlier thsi year that more than 1,500 toddlers and babies wound up in emergency rooms over a two-year period and three died because of bad reactions to cold or cough medicine. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned parents not to give common over-the-counter cold remedies to children under 2 years old without consulting a doctor.
FDA reviewers have recommended that over-the-counter cough and cold medicines that contain decongestants and antihistamines should come with new instructions saying they are not recommended for very young children.
The FDA has not made a final decision on whether to change the warnings or instructions on the widely used drugs until it gets input from outside advisers who are to meet Oct. 18-19.
Questions have been raised about the safety of nonprescription cough and cold products in children and whether the benefits justify any potential risks, especially in children under 2 years of age.
FDA reviewers have said the product labels "should include prominent language to describe the risk of overdose in children." They also recommended dropping the statement on many over-the-counter remedies urging parents to "consult a physician" about use of decongestants in children under 2 years old and antihistamines in children under 6 years old.
To read the full Reuters report visit: http://www.reuters.com/article/domesticNews/idUSN1133248720071011
Medicines that are being voluntarily recalled include:
Concentrated Infants' TYLENOL Drops Plus Cold
Concentrated Infants' TYLENOL Drops Plus Cold & Cough
PEDIACARE Infant Drops Decongestant (PSE)
PEDIACARE Infant Drops Decongestant & Cough (PSE)
PEDIACARE Infant Dropper Decongestant (PE)
PEDIACARE Infant Dropper Long-Acting Cough
PEDIACARE Infant Dropper Decongestant & Cough (PE) products
Dimetapp Decongestant Plus Cough Infant Drops
Demetapp Decongestant Infant Drops
Little Colds Decongestant Plus Cough
Little Colds Multi-Symptom Cold Formula
Robitussin Infant Cough DM Drops
Triaminic Infant & Toddler Thin Strips Decongestant
Triaminic Infant & Toddler Thin Strips Decongestant Plus Cough.
A spokeswoman for the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, a trade group representing makers of over-the-counter medicines, said overdoses have led to death and serious injury in rare instances, but stressed the medications are safe when used as directed, according to a Reuters report.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration reviewers have said that from 1969 through 2006 the agency received 54 reports of deaths with decongestants and 69 with antihistamines.
Most were in children younger than 2.
And the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention reported earlier thsi year that more than 1,500 toddlers and babies wound up in emergency rooms over a two-year period and three died because of bad reactions to cold or cough medicine. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned parents not to give common over-the-counter cold remedies to children under 2 years old without consulting a doctor.
FDA reviewers have recommended that over-the-counter cough and cold medicines that contain decongestants and antihistamines should come with new instructions saying they are not recommended for very young children.
The FDA has not made a final decision on whether to change the warnings or instructions on the widely used drugs until it gets input from outside advisers who are to meet Oct. 18-19.
Questions have been raised about the safety of nonprescription cough and cold products in children and whether the benefits justify any potential risks, especially in children under 2 years of age.
FDA reviewers have said the product labels "should include prominent language to describe the risk of overdose in children." They also recommended dropping the statement on many over-the-counter remedies urging parents to "consult a physician" about use of decongestants in children under 2 years old and antihistamines in children under 6 years old.
To read the full Reuters report visit: http://www.reuters.com/article/domesticNews/idUSN1133248720071011
Medicines that are being voluntarily recalled include:
Concentrated Infants' TYLENOL Drops Plus Cold
Concentrated Infants' TYLENOL Drops Plus Cold & Cough
PEDIACARE Infant Drops Decongestant (PSE)
PEDIACARE Infant Drops Decongestant & Cough (PSE)
PEDIACARE Infant Dropper Decongestant (PE)
PEDIACARE Infant Dropper Long-Acting Cough
PEDIACARE Infant Dropper Decongestant & Cough (PE) products
Dimetapp Decongestant Plus Cough Infant Drops
Demetapp Decongestant Infant Drops
Little Colds Decongestant Plus Cough
Little Colds Multi-Symptom Cold Formula
Robitussin Infant Cough DM Drops
Triaminic Infant & Toddler Thin Strips Decongestant
Triaminic Infant & Toddler Thin Strips Decongestant Plus Cough.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Get Active & Get Fit!
Inside this month's issue, Dr. Suzanne McLaughlin focuses on ways families can exercise and get fit together. The May FamilyHealth column, suggests ways families can be active in just 10 minutes, 30 minutes, or 60 minutes.Children bring a lot of energy and curiosity to everyday activities - they don't need exercise equipment or organized sports to get moving, says Dr. McLaughlin. Age-appropriate activities that give them a chance to get moving are the goal: and they carry the same benefits of increased physical activity, she says. "In other words, just running around counts," said Dr. McLaughlin, who is a pediatrician and internist at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester.
Pick up a copy of the May issue of Bay State Parent magazine or read her article and fitness tips online at: www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0501/Articles/011.html
May is National Physical Fitness & Sports Month
“Healthy, physically active kids learn and feel better!”
That is the key message the National Association for Sport and Physical Education wants to express in honor of May: National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. To achieve that goal, the Association urges parents, schools and communities to work together to help children become more physically active by creating “physical activity friendly” environments.
“Children and adolescents should spend at least 60 minutes every day in a variety of moderate to vigorous physical activities,” says Association President Craig Buschner of California State University at Chico. “In order to achieve that level of activity, we need to find more opportunities for children to be physically active throughout the entire day. Maintaining healthy bodies is not only vital for physical well-being, but for mental and emotional development as well.”
The Association has a number of tools for parents to help them in evaluating their children’s physical education and sport programs. Visit
www.aahperd.org/naspe/template.cfm?template=observePE/main.html
School physical education is the cornerstone to developing an active lifestyle. Physical education can help students to be more active, more fit, and achieve better academically. In addition to physical education, a physical activity friendly environment for kids includes school and community physical activity programs, that feature a diverse selection of competitive and noncompetitive, structured and unstructured activities, are inclusive and meet the needs and interests of all youth with a wide range of abilities, particularly those with limited interests or skills in traditional athletic activities, and emphasize participation and enjoyment without pressure. In addition, walking and biking to school, recess, and physical activity breaks should be a part of the school environment.
Parents and other significant adults (teachers, coaches, etc) should model physically active lifestyles. Parents/guardians need to be aware of the school and community resources that they can choose from to assist children in learning to lead healthy, active lifestyles. Extended day and after school programs also provide an important opportunity to incorporate physical activity into programs that typically focus on crafts, movies, board games and homework. By allowing the kids to participate and hone their skills in active games, they not only gain the opportunity to succeed and get fit, but practice the skills that can help them succeed in organized sports and activities that encourage interest in regular participation outside of the program. All of us must advocate for, take responsibility and seek accountability for physical activity in the education of ALL children and youth.
In summary, to get children more physically active, parents, schools and communities must establish a “physical activity friendly” environment that includes:
1. quality physical education programs in all schools.
2. recess for elementary school age children, and physical activity breaks for students of all ages
3. before school and after school programs that include physical activity
4. school facilities available during the non-school hours
5. positive sport opportunities for all youth
6. safe and well-lit walking paths and physical activity spaces/fields on school grounds and other public areas
7. family activities that involve physical activity (e.g. in-line skating, bike riding, family fitness nights)
8. restrictions on sedentary activities such as television, movies, web surfing and computer games.
The preeminent national authority on physical education and a recognized leader in sport and physical activity, the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) is a non-profit professional membership association that sets the standard for practice in physical education and sport. NASPE’s 17,000 members include: K-12 physical education teachers, coaches, athletic directors, athletic trainers, sport management professionals, researchers, and college/university faculty who prepare physical activity professionals. NASPE seeks to enhance knowledge, improve professional practice, and increase support for high quality physical education, sport and physical activity programs through research, development of standards, and dissemination of information. It is the largest of the five national associations that make the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (AAHPERD). To assess whether your child is receiving a quality physical education program, visit www.naspeinfo.org/observePE for an observation assessment tool.
That is the key message the National Association for Sport and Physical Education wants to express in honor of May: National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. To achieve that goal, the Association urges parents, schools and communities to work together to help children become more physically active by creating “physical activity friendly” environments.
“Children and adolescents should spend at least 60 minutes every day in a variety of moderate to vigorous physical activities,” says Association President Craig Buschner of California State University at Chico. “In order to achieve that level of activity, we need to find more opportunities for children to be physically active throughout the entire day. Maintaining healthy bodies is not only vital for physical well-being, but for mental and emotional development as well.”
The Association has a number of tools for parents to help them in evaluating their children’s physical education and sport programs. Visit
www.aahperd.org/naspe/template.cfm?template=observePE/main.html
School physical education is the cornerstone to developing an active lifestyle. Physical education can help students to be more active, more fit, and achieve better academically. In addition to physical education, a physical activity friendly environment for kids includes school and community physical activity programs, that feature a diverse selection of competitive and noncompetitive, structured and unstructured activities, are inclusive and meet the needs and interests of all youth with a wide range of abilities, particularly those with limited interests or skills in traditional athletic activities, and emphasize participation and enjoyment without pressure. In addition, walking and biking to school, recess, and physical activity breaks should be a part of the school environment.
Parents and other significant adults (teachers, coaches, etc) should model physically active lifestyles. Parents/guardians need to be aware of the school and community resources that they can choose from to assist children in learning to lead healthy, active lifestyles. Extended day and after school programs also provide an important opportunity to incorporate physical activity into programs that typically focus on crafts, movies, board games and homework. By allowing the kids to participate and hone their skills in active games, they not only gain the opportunity to succeed and get fit, but practice the skills that can help them succeed in organized sports and activities that encourage interest in regular participation outside of the program. All of us must advocate for, take responsibility and seek accountability for physical activity in the education of ALL children and youth.
In summary, to get children more physically active, parents, schools and communities must establish a “physical activity friendly” environment that includes:
1. quality physical education programs in all schools.
2. recess for elementary school age children, and physical activity breaks for students of all ages
3. before school and after school programs that include physical activity
4. school facilities available during the non-school hours
5. positive sport opportunities for all youth
6. safe and well-lit walking paths and physical activity spaces/fields on school grounds and other public areas
7. family activities that involve physical activity (e.g. in-line skating, bike riding, family fitness nights)
8. restrictions on sedentary activities such as television, movies, web surfing and computer games.
The preeminent national authority on physical education and a recognized leader in sport and physical activity, the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) is a non-profit professional membership association that sets the standard for practice in physical education and sport. NASPE’s 17,000 members include: K-12 physical education teachers, coaches, athletic directors, athletic trainers, sport management professionals, researchers, and college/university faculty who prepare physical activity professionals. NASPE seeks to enhance knowledge, improve professional practice, and increase support for high quality physical education, sport and physical activity programs through research, development of standards, and dissemination of information. It is the largest of the five national associations that make the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (AAHPERD). To assess whether your child is receiving a quality physical education program, visit www.naspeinfo.org/observePE for an observation assessment tool.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Massachusetts Is One of the Worst States in Protecting A Mother's Right To Breastfeed
Last week, a Hingham mom, who also happens to be a practicing cardiologist in Brockton, was told to stop breastfeeding her 2-month old infant, by the manager of an iParty store in South Weymouth.
While corporate iParty has informed all of its stores that women have the right to breatsfeed in public, the incident highlights the fact that Massachusetts is one of the worst states in America in protecting a women's right to breastfeed.
A point not lost with us here at Bay State Parent magazine.
In fact, we highlighted this lack of support for moms in our 7th Annual Pregnancy & Baby Issue in March. Freelance Writer Jennifer Lefferts researched and wrote the report.
You can read the entire special report online at: www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/031.html
Additional articles include:
* Massachusetts is one of the worst: www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/032.html
* Benefits of Breastfeeding: www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/034.html
* Resources: www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/033.html
To read more about the iParty incident, visit http://news.bostonherald.com/localRegional/view.bg?articleid=196602
While corporate iParty has informed all of its stores that women have the right to breatsfeed in public, the incident highlights the fact that Massachusetts is one of the worst states in America in protecting a women's right to breastfeed.
A point not lost with us here at Bay State Parent magazine.
In fact, we highlighted this lack of support for moms in our 7th Annual Pregnancy & Baby Issue in March. Freelance Writer Jennifer Lefferts researched and wrote the report.
You can read the entire special report online at: www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/031.html
Additional articles include:
* Massachusetts is one of the worst: www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/032.html
* Benefits of Breastfeeding: www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/034.html
* Resources: www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/033.html
To read more about the iParty incident, visit http://news.bostonherald.com/localRegional/view.bg?articleid=196602
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Talking To Tweens and Teens About the Virginia Tech Shooting Tragedy
In the wake of the recent shootings of at least 32 students on the campus of Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia, mental health experts at Bradley Hospital (www.bradleyhospital.org), the nation’s first psychiatric hospital for children and adolescents, recognize that one of the most difficult tasks a parent has to face is that of talking about tragedy with their children.
This can range from the death of a pet through the death of a family member, all the way to local or national tragedies they see or read about in the news.
“Kids gain mastery through repetition - they may ask repeatedly about the incident to gain understanding--parents and caregivers need to be prepared to answer the same questions over and over and using simple, honest, and age appropriate answers,” says Kelly Chasse, PhD, with the Bradley School in East Providence, RI.
She also suggests that parents stay away from using euphemisms when talking about death.
“Statements such as “resting in peace;” “passed on to another life;" “we lost her;” “she is no longer with us” are not helpful to children and are confusing.
Using the words death or died, although difficult for adults, will be more helpful to kids,” says Chasse.
1. Remember to consider the developmental level of your child: Teenagers understand the concept of death. It is important to provide honest and factual information when talking with teenagers about death. Couch these facts in as warm and supportive a framework as you can; for instance, with reassurances that you are going to be there for them. With teenagers, it is appropriate to give more information than you would a younger child.
2. Invite questions: Even if your teenager seem to understand what happened, remind them that they can ask you questions any time. Many times, teenagers take some time to process tragic events, and will not ask about them until later. Remind them that questions are okay.
3. Expect regression: In the wake of loss or tragic events, many teenagers will regress to earlier behaviors, particularly ones that are associated with comfort, such as seeking favorite toys, or wanting to sleep in the same room with their parents. These behaviors are normal coping mechanisms in the face of tragedy, and are no cause for alarm. Most teens will return to more age appropriate behaviors in 1 - 2 months after the event, and often much more rapidly. However, if these behaviors continue beyond this general time frame, consult your pediatrician. Particular attention should be paid to regressive behaviors that interfere with your teen’s functioning, such as excessive school refusal and sleep or appetite disturbance.
4. Teenagers express grief differently than adults: Teenagers are on their way to becoming adults, but it is important to remember that they are not yet adults. As teens try to make sense out of what has happened and they experience their grief, you may see anger, disobedience, and acting out behaviors. If you see this happening, it helps to sit down with your teenager and talk with them. Give them permission to experience their feelings and encourage them to express their feelings. Let them know that the intensity of feelings they are experiencing will not last forever.
5. Structure helps: One of the things that most help teenagers through tragic loss is a continuity of family structure and tradition. If at all possible, continue to do the things your family usually does - whether these are mealtimes, special games, or involvement in religious or cultural groups. While teens need to have the tragedy acknowledged, they also need to know that the world will go on.
6. Remember your own grief: Often, parents will try to repress their own feelings in order to stay strong for their teenagers. While it may not be helpful to grieve extensively in front of your child, it is very important to take care of yourself, and your own feelings of loss. Teenagers can easily sense when a parent is tense or anxious, and it is important to acknowledge your own pain and loss, and to get whatever help you need.
Finally, remember that tragedy is a part of every life - the job of parents is not to shield their teenagers from tragedy, but to help their teens become resilient enough to survive it. This is not often a job that anyone can do alone, and if you need help, ask for it, from friends, family, clergy, or helping professionals.
Chasse says that parents and caregivers should not be afraid of not having all of the answers.
“It’s okay to say “I don't know:” You are helping your children by letting them talk about their feelings and listening to them.”
Founded in 1931, Bradley Hospital (www.bradleyhospital.org) was the nation’s first psychiatric hospital operating exclusively for children. Today, it remains a premier medical institution devoted to the research and treatment of childhood psychiatric illnesses.
This can range from the death of a pet through the death of a family member, all the way to local or national tragedies they see or read about in the news.
“Kids gain mastery through repetition - they may ask repeatedly about the incident to gain understanding--parents and caregivers need to be prepared to answer the same questions over and over and using simple, honest, and age appropriate answers,” says Kelly Chasse, PhD, with the Bradley School in East Providence, RI.
She also suggests that parents stay away from using euphemisms when talking about death.
“Statements such as “resting in peace;” “passed on to another life;" “we lost her;” “she is no longer with us” are not helpful to children and are confusing.
Using the words death or died, although difficult for adults, will be more helpful to kids,” says Chasse.
1. Remember to consider the developmental level of your child: Teenagers understand the concept of death. It is important to provide honest and factual information when talking with teenagers about death. Couch these facts in as warm and supportive a framework as you can; for instance, with reassurances that you are going to be there for them. With teenagers, it is appropriate to give more information than you would a younger child.
2. Invite questions: Even if your teenager seem to understand what happened, remind them that they can ask you questions any time. Many times, teenagers take some time to process tragic events, and will not ask about them until later. Remind them that questions are okay.
3. Expect regression: In the wake of loss or tragic events, many teenagers will regress to earlier behaviors, particularly ones that are associated with comfort, such as seeking favorite toys, or wanting to sleep in the same room with their parents. These behaviors are normal coping mechanisms in the face of tragedy, and are no cause for alarm. Most teens will return to more age appropriate behaviors in 1 - 2 months after the event, and often much more rapidly. However, if these behaviors continue beyond this general time frame, consult your pediatrician. Particular attention should be paid to regressive behaviors that interfere with your teen’s functioning, such as excessive school refusal and sleep or appetite disturbance.
4. Teenagers express grief differently than adults: Teenagers are on their way to becoming adults, but it is important to remember that they are not yet adults. As teens try to make sense out of what has happened and they experience their grief, you may see anger, disobedience, and acting out behaviors. If you see this happening, it helps to sit down with your teenager and talk with them. Give them permission to experience their feelings and encourage them to express their feelings. Let them know that the intensity of feelings they are experiencing will not last forever.
5. Structure helps: One of the things that most help teenagers through tragic loss is a continuity of family structure and tradition. If at all possible, continue to do the things your family usually does - whether these are mealtimes, special games, or involvement in religious or cultural groups. While teens need to have the tragedy acknowledged, they also need to know that the world will go on.
6. Remember your own grief: Often, parents will try to repress their own feelings in order to stay strong for their teenagers. While it may not be helpful to grieve extensively in front of your child, it is very important to take care of yourself, and your own feelings of loss. Teenagers can easily sense when a parent is tense or anxious, and it is important to acknowledge your own pain and loss, and to get whatever help you need.
Finally, remember that tragedy is a part of every life - the job of parents is not to shield their teenagers from tragedy, but to help their teens become resilient enough to survive it. This is not often a job that anyone can do alone, and if you need help, ask for it, from friends, family, clergy, or helping professionals.
Chasse says that parents and caregivers should not be afraid of not having all of the answers.
“It’s okay to say “I don't know:” You are helping your children by letting them talk about their feelings and listening to them.”
Founded in 1931, Bradley Hospital (www.bradleyhospital.org) was the nation’s first psychiatric hospital operating exclusively for children. Today, it remains a premier medical institution devoted to the research and treatment of childhood psychiatric illnesses.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
SPECIAL REPORT: Ending the Food Fight & Tackling Childhood Obesity
In April, Dr. David Ludwig, director of the Optimal Weight for Life Clinic at Children's Hospital in Boston, hopes to get his warning about childhood obesity to a greater audience with the publication of his first book, Ending The Food Fight: Guide Your Child To a Healthy Weight in a Fast Food/Fake Food World.The book, co-written with Suzanne Rostler, is a guide for parents that provides an easy-to-read explanation of why so many children are overweight. The book offers strategies to help families develop healthy lifestyles and includes a detailed 9-week plan for families to follow. Also, it discusses strategies and coping techniques and even offers a number of recipes for healthy snacks and meals.
In a recent interview with Bay State Parent magazine contributing writer Rosemary Cafasso, Dr. Ludwig discussed his new book and shared his thoughts on the childhood obesity crisis.
"We take 2 steps forward and 1.9 steps back. Progress is slow,'' said Dr. Ludwig. "Obesity rates don't need to go up. We could level off and we would still be set for an unprecedented disaster. If the rates stay the same, we are looking at heart attack, stroke and kidney disease becoming conditions of young adulthood.''
Dr. Ludwig has been focused on childhood obesity since the early 1990s. He was named one of our nation's "Obesity Warriors'' in a 2004 Time magazine special report that focused on America's obesity crisis. He is outspoken in calling attention to this epidemic. When asked how families can get healthy when they are often so busy, Dr. Ludwig said, "It can be inconvenient until people realize how much better they feel - and guess what? Type 2 diabetes is a lot more inconvenient."
An endocrinologist and associate professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, he co-founded the Clinic in 1995. The clinic has treated more than 3,500 families.
Based on his years of research and patient treatment, Dr. Ludwig has determined certain factors must be in place for overweight children to lose weight and get healthy.
To read specific ways your family can make positive changes, pick up a copy of the March issue or read more of Rosemary's interview online at: http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/008.html
* Rosemary's interview with Dr. David Ludwig, is just one part of the magazine's Special Report: Tackling the Childhood Obesity Problem inside the March issue.
To read more of the Special Report check out the following links:
* http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/007.html
* http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/009.html
* http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/012.html
* http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/011.html
* http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/010.html
* Interview with Arthur-famed author & illustrator Marc Brown on his new project The Gulps -- http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0301/Articles/013.html
Monday, February 26, 2007
March Issue Preview
The March issue went to the printers this past weekend. You should be able to find it at your favorite location beginning Thursday! If you are pregnant or just had a baby, you will not want to miss this issue. Inside is our 7th Annual Pregnancy & Baby Guide. There are 10 great articles in the guide. They include:
* A report on how Massachusetts is one of the worst states in the union to support and protect a women's right to breastfeed
* The beginning of our two-part series The Truth About Miscarriage and Life After Miscarriage.
* Discover the reasons behind the increase in C-sections in the Bay State.
* Changes you can expect to see in your baby during his first three months
* Trends in naming newborns and the top 10 names for boys & girls in Massachusetts
* Should I hire an au pair?
* Finding & making time for mom after baby's arrival
* The smallest sweets perfect for a baby shower
* 12 marvelous maternity shops
* 7 essentials for every new mom & baby
But if you are not having a baby, then you'll still can't afford not to pick up this month's issue to read our Special Report: Tackling the Childhood Obesity Problem.
Freelance Writer Rosemary Cafasso researched and wrote a multi-article report on how organizations and families are putting muscle into the fight against obesity.
The package also contains a look at the soon-to-be released book Ending the Food Fight by a physician at Children’s Hospital in Boston and an interview with children's author & illustrator Marc Brown, of Arthur fame, who teamed up with Rosemary Wells (Max & Ruby) to collaborate on The Gulps, a children's book, to be released in April, which tackles the childhood obesity issue and the need for families to solve the problem together.
Also inside March, read a:
* Adoption Insights: Preview of the 34th Annual New England Adoption Conference
* Special Needs Parenting: Understanding Children with Asperger's Syndrome
* Ask the Teacher: How to Prepare Your Fourth Grader for the MCAS
* Tween to Teen Department: New Commonwealth Driving Rules for Teens, effective March 31
Hope you enjoy this issue as much as we do!
Drop me a line with your thoughts at editor@baystateparent.com
--Susan
P.S. Stop by our booth at the American Baby Faire in Boston on March 10-11. We'll be raffling for FREE a few of our essential items for moms and babies featured in this month's issue!
Wednesday, February 7, 2007
Should the State Mandate Another Vaccine?
That's the battle about to take place at the State House sometime this spring. State Senator Richard T. Moore, a Democrat from Uxbridge, has filed legislation, that if passed into law, would require all Massachusetts sixth grade girls to be vaccinated for the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). HPV is a sexually-transmitted virus that is one of the leading causes of cervical cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 11,000 cases of cervical cancer will be diagnosed this year. Annually, close to 4,000 women die from cervival cancer. Last year, drug company Merck received FDA approval for Gardasil, the first anti-cancer vaccine in the United States. Gardasil claims to prevent cervival cancer by targeting two of the major strains of HPV. The controversy is that for the vaccine to be effective it must be administered to girls before they become sexually-active, thus the state proposal for sixth graders to be vaccinated. Earlier this month, the governor of Texas signed into law a bill that would require girls in his state to be vaccinated. At least a half dozen other states are considering similiar laws, so the Bay State is not alone in pondering this health issue.
While the proposed legislation wouldl allow parents to opt their daughter out of the vaccine for religious reasons, some of the opponents to the legislation feel girls, ages 9-13, are just too young to have a conversation regarding sex and sexually-transmitted diseases.
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In the January issue of Bay State Parent, local doctor Karen Sadler, outlined the pros and cons of this new vaccine for parents. You can read her analysis at: http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2007/0101/Articles/013.html
In the December 2006 issue of Bay State Parent, Worcester-based doctor Mark Vining summarized all the new pre-teen vaccines now available, including this one. Read his report at: http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2006/1201/Articles/023.html
Please read both our reports carefully, ponder how it would affect your daughter, call your pediatrician if you have more questions, & then let your state representative & senator know your thoughts.
Parents, not government, should have the final say on this vaccine.
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