Media Centre 
Media Releases Archive
2007
Two New Arthritis Genes get Identified
Osteoporosis: never too early to beat, never too late to treat
Osteoarthritis affects 1.3 million Australians
Impairments and disability associated with arthritis and osteoporosis
Painful Realities - the economic impact of arthritis in Australia, 2007(PDF)
Enabling Orthopaedic Surgeons to Prevent Future Fractures
Tai Chi can ease Osteoarthritis
Yet Another Reason Not to Smoke Cigarettes
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
IOF Recognises good 'bone health' corporate citizenship
Blackmores Dismissed flawed antioxidant research
Painkillers: Leading headache pills 'put strain on the heart'
International Osteoporosis Foundation warns of bone damage from anorexia
October 2007
Two new arthritis genes get identified
In a world first, a UQ scientist has discovered two new genes responsible for one-third of the risk of developing a hereditary and debilitating form of arthritis known as ankylosing spondylitis.
The discovery, headed by Professor Matthew Brown, from UQ's Diamantina Institute for Cancer, Immunology and Metabolic Medicine, is the most significant discovery in this disease since the first gene behind spondylitis was identified 37 years ago.
The study was performed by both the Wellcome Trust Case Control Consortium (WTCCC) and the Australo-Anglo-American Spondylitis Consortium (known as TASC), accessing a grant pool of $16.6 million (£7 million) and $7 million (US$5.5 million) respectively.
Professor Brown's work was assisted by Professor John Reveille from the Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunogenetics at the University of Texas, and involved a team of researchers in Australia, England and North America.
“The identification of the two new genes will assist doctors to identify those people at high risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis,” Professor Brown said. “They also point to basic processes which cause this disease, for which there is no current treatment to prevent its progression.
“Together with the main gene, HLA-B27, the discovery of the two new genes, dubbed ARTS1 and IL23R, means we can now account for 70 percent of the overall cause of ankylosing spondylitis.
“At this rate, we should have identified all of the genes that play a role in this damaging condition within the next 12 months.”
Published in the latest edition of prestigious international journal, Nature Genetics, Professor Brown's discovery is expected to rapidly lead to new therapeutics to treat ankylosing spondylitis, with clinical trials expected to occur over the next couple of years.
Ankylosing spondylitis is the second-most common form of arthritis and affects around one in 200, mainly young, adults, with 22,000 Australians currently managing the condition.
It causes back pain and progressive stiffness of the spine, and can also damage other joints, the eyes and heart. In its most severe form, it leads to a complete fusion of the spine leaving patients unable to straighten and bend.
The genetic findings also largely explain why three conditions – psoriasis (skin inflammation and excessive skin production), Crohn's disease (inflammatory bowel disease), and ankylosing spondylitis – commonly occur together, something which had never previously been understood.
The results are among the first in a roll-out of life-changing discoveries from the world's largest genetic study involving WTCCC and TASC scientists on three continents.
To make his discovery, Professor Brown scanned 14,500 genetic variants affecting proteins known as nonsynonymous SNPs (nsSNPs) from 2500 people.
The main equipment used at UQ Diamantina was a micro array genotyper, capable of simultaneously analysing millions of possible genetic sequences.
Media inquiries: Professor Brown (0421 588 581, 07 3240 2870, ) or Shirley Glaister at UQ Communications (07 3365 1931). Ankylosing spondylitis patient, Greg Johnson (0424 053 601) is happy to discuss his condition and the latest discovery.
Here’s a radio interview with Professor Matthew Brown, the Australian discoverer of the two new AS genes.
http://www.abc.net.au/worldtoday/content/2007/s2069181.htm
Osteoporosis: never too early to beat, never too late to treat
World Osteoporosis Day – WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17
With more than 2.2 million Australians suffering from an osteoporosis related condition1, Australian Idol judge Mark Holden and former Olympian pole vaulter Tatiana Grigorieva are reminding Australians that it’s never too early to beat and never too late to treat the crippling disease.
Their sentiments will be echoed today with the launch of Osteoporosis Australia’s 2007 White Paper, The Burden of Brittle Bones: Epidemiology, Costs and Burden of Osteoporosis in Australia and Invest in your bones: know and reduce your osteoporosis risk factors, to mark World Osteoporosis Day (WOD). The White Paper shows that despite the prevalence of the disease and the introduction of osteoporosis treatment guidelines within the past 12 months, more than 80 per cent of high-risk individuals remain uninvestigated and untreated.
Quirky Australian Idol judge, Mark Holden understands the frustration and pain of undetected osteoporosis. It was only after several episodes of broken bones that he was finally diagnosed with the disease.
“Initially I had so many tests to determine the cause of my brittle bones, but no-one could give me a reason and after further investigation it was eventually revealed that I had the bones of a 70 year old man.
“I was deeply depressed after being told that I had osteoporosis and questioned my quality of life until I realised that it’s never too late to treat. I have taken medication, have a personal trainer and I eat well and walk a lot,” said Mark.
Osteoporosis is on the rise in Australia, with a person admitted to hospital with an osteoporotic fracture every five to six minutes, up from every eight minutes in 2001.1
Experts suggest that around 3 million Australians will have an osteoporosis related condition by the year 2021 (1.65 million women and 0.51 million men).1 The number of Australians sustaining hip fractures each year is estimated to increase by 15 per cent every five years until 2026 and the number sustaining vertebral, humeral and pelvic fractures is estimated to increase by 12 per cent every five years until 2036.1
OA ambassador, Tatiana Grigorieva knows the importance of identifying risks and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent osteoporosis.
“Protecting myself against injury during my sporting career was vital. As a pole vaulter, I relied on my skill and the ever present safety mat. For people at risk of osteoporosis, the safety mat is all about identifying your risks and working to avoid them in order to cushion the fall.
“The key to preventing or decreasing the risk of osteoporosis is daily exercise, a healthy diet rich in calcium, and not smoking or drinking,” Tatiana said.
Professor Peter Ebeling, Head of Departments of Medicine (RMH/WH) and Endocrinology, University of Melbourne at Western Health in Footscray, Melbourne said osteoporosis remains the greatest undetected and untreated National Health Priority Disease.
“There are about 262 osteoporosis related hospitalisations per day. So clearly we need more research into early identification, recognition, appropriate treatment and management by health professionals and the general community to prevent osteoporosis reaching epidemic proportions as our population continues to live well into their 80s and 90s.
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“This could include appointments of Fracture Co-ordinators in area health services for people sustaining a first fragility fracture, as well as Fracture Co-ordinators within the hospital system to identify and provide ongoing care for patients who may need anti-osteoporotic treatment,” said Professor Ebeling.
Osteoporosis also imposes a huge burden on the quality of life of Australians aged over 50 years with approximately 25 per cent of those sustaining a hip fracture dying within 12 months, 50 per cent requiring long-term help with routine activities and walking, and 25 per cent requiring full-time nursing home care.1
Osteoporosis Australia (OA) CEO, Ms Judy Stenmark said further development of education and healthy lifestyle strategies are needed to build skills and knowledge for people at risk of osteoporosis, to help them self manage osteoporosis, with the International Osteoporosis Foundation 2007 report, Beat the Break also prompting people to know and reduce their risk of developing osteoporosis.2
“There are ways of slowing or preventing osteoporosis, but the first step is for people to find out if they are at risk.
“It’s never too early to beat the break and the best way to do this is to know your risks. This includes knowing the difference between lifestyle or modifiable risk factors and genetic or fixed risk factors,” Ms Stenmark said.
Modifiable risk factors arise from unhealthy diet or lifestyle choices and include poor nutrition, low body mass index, alcohol consumption, smoking, insufficient exercise, frequent falls and low dietary calcium and vitamin D deficiency.2
Fixed risk factors are those that people cannot change, including age, family history of osteoporosis, presence of previous fractures and menopause.2
“While people cannot change their fixed risk factors they can reduce their modifiable risk factors through exercise, following a diet rich in calcium and adequate vitamin D (through limited sunlight exposure),” Ms Stenmark said.
Loss of bone occurs progressively over many years without the presence of symptoms and often a fracture is the first sign of osteoporosis. For this reason osteoporosis is often referred to as the “silent epidemic”.2
Current statistics indicate that one in two women and one in three Australian men over 60 years of age will suffer an osteoporotic fracture.3
The direct community cost burden of brittle bones in 2007 is over $1.9 million dollars while indirect costs such as lost earnings and the necessity for volunteer carers and home modifications amount to several billion dollars annually. Osteoporosis falls within the category constituting the third largest component of health expenditure nationally.1
For more information about osteoporosis, call 1800 242 141 or go to www.osteoporosis.org.au.
* Online media kit available (WED, OCT 17 2007) @ www.vivacommunications.com.au/risks
* Broadcast audio grabs available (WED, OCT 17 2007) @ mediagame.com.au or vivacommunications.com.au/risks
For more information or to organise an interview with Professor Peter Ebeling, Mark Holden, Tatiana Grigorieva or Judy Stenmark, please contact Kirsten Bruce or Ruby Archis from viva! communications on 02 9884 9011 or m. 0401 717 566 / 0413 834 906.
References
- The Burden of Brittle Bones: Epidemiology, Costs and Burden of Osteoporosis in Australia – September 2007. Written on behalf of Osteoporosis Australia by The Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Western Hospital, Footscray, Victoria.
- Invest in your bones. Beat the Break. Know and Reduce your Osteoporosis Risk Factors– August 2007. Written on behalf of the IOF Committee of Scientific Advisors by Professor Cyrus Cooper, FMedSci, Professor of Rheumatology and Director, MRC Epidemiology Resource Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
- Calcium, Vitamin D and Osteoporosis – A Guide for GPs 2006. Osteoporosis Australia (OA). Written by OA in partnership with the Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society (ANZBMS). Publication funded by the Australian Government.
Osteoarthritis affects 1.3 million Australians
To read the corresponding report click here
Osteoarthritis is the most common chronic joint disease—almost 7% of the Australian population has it—according to a new report launched this morning at the Bone and Joint Decade Patient Advocacy Meeting on the Gold Coast.
The report, A picture of osteoarthritis in Australia, produced jointly by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), the Department of Health and Ageing, and Arthritis Australia, provides key information about the disease, including how it develops, its symptoms, its impact overall, and how it can be managed and prevented.
‘Osteoarthritis can make it difficult to perform the activities needed for daily living’ said Dr Vanessa Prescott, author of the report.
Pain, stiffness and mobility limitations, often described in that order, are major characteristics of osteoarthritis. It can restrict participation in employment and social life.
Osteoarthritis is one of the major causes of disability in older age groups. It may also lead to fatigue, depression and psychological distress.
‘Physical therapy, keeping active and taking medication when necessary can help to reduce symptoms, improve and maintain mobility and optimize quality of life,’ said Dr Kuldeep Bhatia, Head of the of the AIHW National Centre for Monitoring Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Conditions. Further management options include home modifications, surgery, and weight loss in those who are overweight.
Family members are the main providers of help or informal care for people with osteoarthritis. The report shows that a large proportion of carers of people with arthritis-associated disability spend more than 40 hours a week caring. A large majority (68%) have been providing care for more than 10 years.
Direct health expenditure on osteoarthritis is more than 2.3% of the total allocated health expenditure in Australia, with joint replacement surgery accounting for a large proportion of this spending.
Some key facts about osteoarthritis:
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of disability in Australia.
The mail symptoms of the disease are pain, stiffness and reduced mobility
The most commonly afected joints are the hips, knees, spine and hands.
Osteoarthritis is common in older age groups, and affects females more than mailes.
Maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding joint injury and repetitive joint-loading tasks can help to reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
Arthritis Australia provides a range of management and support services for people living with osteoarthritis. For more details call 9388 2199.
Further information: Dr Kuldeep Bhatia, AIHW 02 6244 1144, mob. 0417 880 300.
For media copies of the report: Publications Officer, tel. 02 6244 1032.
September 2007
Concern amongst Australian experts on the veracity of the claim "Calcium Linked to Increased Heart Risk" report
A recent Herald on Sunday newspaper article appearing in the Western Australian of …reports a University of Auckland study of women over 70 advising them to stop taking calcium supplements because of a higher risk of a heart attack. The report seems to be based on a scientific meeting presentation at the recent American Society of Bone Mineral Research meeting in Hawaii which has not yet been published in detail. There seem to be significant differences in the two reports. Furthermore findings of a potential increase in heart disease risk are not supported by a large number of previous studies of this important issue.
Thus Australian experts advise patients who take calcium with or without vitamin D supplements to prevent osteoporosis and fracture to continue treatment.
Supplementary data is attached on the following sheets.
Sunday September 23, 06:17 AM
Calcium linked to increased heart risk
Women over 70 have been advised to stop taking calcium supplements because of a higher risk of a heart attack.
A University of Auckland study has found calcium - often prescribed by doctors to lower the risk of risk of broken bones in the elderly - caused a 40 per cent increase in heart attacks, The Sunday Star-Times reports.
In the University of Auckland study, 1500 post menopausal women were randomly assigned to take a placebo or 1000 mg of calcium for five years.
The Herald on Sunday said when the study started, researchers believed calcium supplements might cut the rate of heart attacks and strokes by almost a quarter.
But the reverse was found.
Thirty-six women on calcium supplements had heart attacks, compared with 22 on the placebo. Some women died from cardiac-related illnesses during the trial, but none of them was believed to have been caused by the calcium supplements.
A build up of calcium in blood vessels and heart valves increases a person's risk of heart disease but until now, the relationship between dietary calcium and cardiovascular problems had been uncertain.
Study director, Professor Ian Reid, said women over 70 who had been on the trial were recommended to stop taking the supplement, particularly if they had a history of heart or kidney disease, until the results of further investigations were known.
The women in the trial were given 1000 mg tablets, Prof Reid said. "Perhaps we should be encouraging more modest calcium supplements - 1000 mg is the standard dose, but perhaps it should be 500 mg."
Instead, other drug therapy to prevent bone loss could be preferable for older women, he said.
Prof Reid said three smaller international studies had shown similar results, which suggested the university's results were more than just a statistical anomaly.
"That, in the context of what we have found here, we think is quite worrying."
Session: Osteoporosis Treatment (Clinical): Other Agents Presentation Number: M449 Title: Calcium Supplementation Improves Lipid Profile But Does Not Decrease the Incidence of Cardiovascular Events in Postmenopausal Women Presentation Start: 9/17/2007 11:30:00 AM Presentation End: 9/17/2007 2:30:00 PM Category: M - Osteoporosis - Treatment (clinical) Authors/Speakers: M. J. Bolland*, B. Mason*, A. Horne*, R. Ames*, A. Grey, G. Gamble*, R. Doughty*, A. Barber*, I. R. Reid. Department of Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand. Previously we have shown that calcium supplementation produces beneficial changes in lipids that might impact upon the incidence of cardiovascular disease. We set out to determine the effect of calcium supplementation on myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, sudden death, and lipids in post-menopausal women.
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Keep up your dietary calcium!
The results of this study by Prof. Ian Reid does not provide sufficient evidence to recommend evidence that older women should stop taking calcium supplements because of an increased risk of heart disease. In this one study, 36 women presented with heart attacks who were taking the calcium supplement compared to 22 on the placebo, however it was not clear if the subjects in each group (placebo or calcium supplement) had the same degree of atherosclerosis or cardiovascular disease risk factors before taking the supplement.
There have been a number of large, long-term studies of more than 10 years, which did not identify any adverse effects of calcium supplement on risk of heart disease and stroke. In fact, some studies found that those consuming more calcium had a reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes. For example 85,764 women in the Nurses' Health Study cohort, were followed for 14 years, after 1.16 million person-years they found that there was a long-term protective effect of calcium supplementation on ischemic stroke (Iso H. et al 1999). Another similar study in men (Health Professionals Follow-up Study) found, after 12 years (415,965 person-years), that neither dietary, nor supplemental intakes of calcium were related to the risk of heart disease (Al-Delaimy WK. et al 2003). Finally in a large study that assessed the effect of calcium supplements in 36,282 postmenopausal women with vitamin D for 7 years found that calcium/vitamin D supplementation neither increased, nor decreased, heart attacks or strokes in generally healthy postmenopausal women (Hsia J. et al 2007).
In addition to the observational data other randomised controlled trials in patients taking calcium compared to placebo did not show any increased risk of heart disease (Prince et al 2006) or death (Grant et al 2005: Prince et al 2006)
Thus, the weight of evidence to date indicates no increased risk of heart attacks or stroke with increased calcium intakes from diet or supplements.
Of those who fracture a hip over 20% will die within 6 months and of the survivors 50% will not be able to walk without assistance, and 50% will need full-time nursing care (The Burden of Brittle Bones 2007). Calcium supplementation is effective in reducing fractures and reducing bone loss in older men and women, particularly in those on low intakes of dietary calcium (Tang et al. 2007).
Preventing a fracture when we are older means that we are more likely to be able to maintain a better quality of life as we age: remaining mobile and living independently and making sure we consume sufficient calcium can help reduce our risk of fracture. This should remain the case.
References
Iso H, Stampfer MJ, Manson JE, Rexrode K, Hennekens CH, Colditz GA, Speizer FE, Willett WC. Prospective study of calcium, potassium, and magnesium intake and risk of stroke in women. Stroke. 1999 Sep;30(9):1772-9
Al-Delaimy WK, Rimm E, Willett WC, Stampfer MJ, Hu FB. A prospective study of calcium intake from diet and supplements and risk of ischemic heart disease among men. Am J Clin Nutr. 2003 Apr;77(4):814-8
Hsia J, Heiss G, Ren H, Allison M, Dolan NC, Greenland P, Heckbert SR, Johnson KC, Manson JE, Sidney S, Trevisan M; Women's Health Initiative I Calcium/vitamin D supplementation and cardiovascular events. Circulation. 2007 Feb 20;115(7):846-54.
Tang BM, Eslick GD, Nowson C, Smith C, Bensoussan A. Use of calcium or calcium in combination with vitamin D supplementation to prevent fractures and bone loss in people aged 50 years and older: a meta-analysis. Lancet. 2007 Aug 25;370(9588):657-66.
The Burden of Brittle Bones, Epidemiology, Costs & Burden of Osteoporosis in Australia 2007 Prepared by The Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Western Hospital, Footscray, Victoria. For Osteoporosis Australia, Final Draft August 2007.
Prince RL, Devine A, Dhaliwal SS, Dick IM. Effects of calcium supplementation on clinical fracture and bone structure: results of a 5-year, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in elderly women. Arch Intern Med 2006;166(8):869-75.
Grant AM, Avenell A, Campbell MK, McDonald AM, MacLennan GS, McPherson GC, et al. Oral vitamin D3 and calcium for secondary prevention of low-trauma fractures in elderly people (Randomised Evaluation of Calcium Or vitamin D, RECORD): a randomised placebo-controlled trial. Lancet 2005;365(9471):1621-8.
Impairments & Disability Associated with Arthritis & Osteoporosis
A new report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reveals that arthritis and osteoporosis are the most common causes of disability in Australia and contribute to a wide range of physical and functional impairments that affect quality of life.
Arthritis reduces mobility of joints and is a source of much pain and body stiffness. 'It can limit carrying out daily living activities, working, or the ability to participate in social activities,' said Dr Kuldeep Bhatia, Head of the National Centre for Monitoring Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Conditions located at the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
It is estimated that almost 3 million Australians (16%) have arthritis or a related disorder, such as gout, and almost 586,000 Australians (3%) have been diagnosed with osteoporosis.
The report, Impairments and disability associated with arthritis and osteoporosis, shows that in 2003, arthritis was the main disabling condition for 546,000 Australians aged 35 years or over, while osteoporosis was the main source of disability for another 50,000 persons. A large proportion of these (around 265,000 persons) were of working age (35--64 years).
Almost 172,000 people with arthritis-associated disability and 10,000 with osteoporosis-associated disability have limitations relating to employment -- for example, restrictions on what type of job they can undertake, problems in changing jobs or difficulty in getting a preferred job.
More than 30% of people with arthritis-associated disability and almost 45% of people with osteoporosis-associated disability report profound or severe core activity restrictions, thus needing assistance with basic activities of daily living.
'Half of those people with arthritis-associated disability report problems in gripping or holding things, and experience difficulty with writing, turning taps or doorknobs, opening bottles and jars, preparing and eating meals, and brushing teeth and hair,' said Dr Naila Rahman, principal author of the report.
Almost two-thirds of people with osteoporosis-associated disability require assistance when using public transport and 40% require assistance with mobility outside their own home, which can reduce social participation and affect the ability to undertake everyday activities such as shopping or getting to appointments.
The quality of life of people with disability can be improved through modifications to the home and, occupational modifications and help from family members -- all of which can greatly reduce the impact of disability, allowing the person to maintain a level of independence.
Further information: Dr Naila Rahman, AIHW, tel. 61 2 6244 1057, mob. 0407 915 851.
For media copies of the report: Publications Officer, AIHW, tel. 61 2 6244 1032.
Availability: Check the AIHW Publications Catalogue for availability of the Impairments and disability associated with arthritis and osteoporosis.
August 2007
Painful Realities - the economic impact of arthritis in Australia, 2007(PDF)
Click on the PDF to read the report.
May 2007
Enabling Orthopaedic Surgeons to prevent future fractures
Media Release
Sunday 13th May, 2007
NYON, Switzerland
A major new tool to help orthopaedic surgeons better diagnose and treat osteoporosis, which globally affects one in three women, one in five men and costs billions of dollars to diagnose and treat, was launched today.
The educational training package consisting of four in-depth lectures plus one summary lecture, was announced today at a symposium chaired by Prof. Ghassan Maalouf (International Osteoporosis Foundation/Bone and Joint Decade) and Prof. Wolfhart Puhl (European Federation of National Associations of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, EFORT), at the EFORT congress in Florence, Italy and will be made available to orthopaedic surgeons worldwide.
“Orthopaedic surgeons have an important role to play in diagnosing and treating osteoporosis,” noted Professor Cyrus Cooper, chairman of the IOF Committee of Scientific Advisors. “A fragility fracture can be the first indication a patient has osteoporosis. Orthopaedic surgeons are often the first healthcare professionals to see such patients and can play a pivotal role in referring a patient to a bone specialist, who will help diagnose the underlying disease and provide appropriate care.”
The materials were developed by three major organizations fighting osteoporosis worldwide – International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), International Society for Fracture Repair (ISFR), and the Bone and Joint Decade (BJD).
The training package is in the form of a CD teaching kit, with lectures on:
- Challenges on fragility fracture treatment (Prof. Dave Marsh)
- Pathogenesis of fragility fractures: A biomechanical view (Dr. Mary Bouxsein)
- Osteoporosis and fractures: The size of the problem (Prof. Kristina Åkesson)
- Fragility fractures: Clinical pathways (Dr. Karsten Dreinhöfer and Dr. Ghassan Maalouf)
- Summary lecture (Dr. Mary Bouxsein, Dr. Aenor Sawyer and Dr. Nansa Burlet)
In addition to the material for physicians, the CD also includes information to help the general public better understand bone health:
- Osteoporosis FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
- Prevention of osteoporosis: Skeletal health across the lifespan.
The CD and additional information for health professionals are available on the IOF (www.iofbonehealth.org), the ISFR (www.fractures.com) and the BJD (www.bjdonline.org) websites.
ENDS
Osteoporosis, in which the bones become porous and break easily, is one of the world's most common and debilitating diseases. The result: pain, loss of movement, inability to perform daily chores, and in many cases, death. One out of three women over 50 will experience osteoporotic fractures, as will one out of five men1, 2, 3. Unfortunately, screening for people at risk is far from being a standard practice. Osteoporosis can, to a certain extent, be prevented, it can be easily diagnosed and effective treatments are available.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) is the only worldwide organization dedicated to the fight against osteoporosis. It brings together scientists, physicians, patient societies and corporate partners. Working with its 175 member societies in 86 locations, and other healthcare-related organizations around the world, IOF encourages awareness and prevention, early detection and improved treatment of osteoporosis.
1. Melton U, Chrischilles EA, Cooper C et al. How many women have osteoporosis? Journal of Bone Mineral Research, 1992; 7:1005-10
2. Kanis JA et al. Long-term risk of osteoporotic fracture in Malmo. Osteoporosis International, 2000; 11:669-674
3. Melton LJ, et al. Bone density and fracture risk in men. JBMR. 1998; 13:No 12:1915
Media Release
Thursday 3 May 2007
From correspondents in New York
Tai Chi can ease osteoarthritis
BOTH water-based exercise and the Chinese practice of Tai Chi can help older people with severe arthritis move and feel better, researchers from Australia report.
Among men and women 60 and older with chronic osteoarthritis of the hip and knee, a study conducted by Dr Marlene Fransen (University of Sydney) and Professor John Edmonds (St George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW) found that those who participated in 12 weeks of hydrotherapy or Tai Chi experienced significant improvements in pain and physical function scores.
The researchers randomly assigned 152 people to hydrotherapy, the special ‘Tai Chi for Arthritis’ (Dr Paul Lam) program, or a waiting group. Classes lasted an hour and were offered twice a week. After 12 weeks, there were significant improvements on scores measuring pain and physical function in both groups. Both groups also showed improvements in physical performance scores, but these improvements were only significant from a statistical standpoint in the hydrotherapy group.
At 24 weeks, all improvements had been sustained, and were comparable with those demonstrated in studies of traditional land-based exercise for arthritis patients, the researchers noted.
Interestingly, study participants in the hydrotherapy group were more likely to attend sessions than those assigned to Tai Chi. They also experienced significant improvements in measurements of physical performance, such as ability to climb stairs and walk, which weren't seen in the Tai Chi group.
"Hydrotherapy classes appeared to be more acceptable (higher attendance) in this older Caucasian group of patients, appeared to provide greater relief of joint pain, and resulted in larger improvements in objective measurements of physical performance," Dr Fransen and her team conclude in the medical journal Arthritis & Rheumatism.
Among the hydrotherapy group, 81 percent attended 12 or more of the 24 available classes, compared to 61 per cent of those assigned to Tai Chi. Just one of the study participants was Asian, while the rest were white, which may have made them less accepting of the Tai Chi. In addition, Tai Chi requires participants to stand with knees slightly bent, which can be difficult for many people with chronic knee pain.
To read the corresponding report to this release click here
Media Release:
Thursday 3 May 2007
Yet another reason not to smoke cigarettes
A team at the Menzies Research Institute are the first to demonstrate the harmful effects of cigarette smoking on knee osteoarthritis (OA), primarily with a person with a family history of knee OA.
It is common knowledge that cigarette smoking is associated with an increased risk of common diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, stroke, and rheumatoid arthritis, but until now research has suggested that smokers have a lower risk of developing knee OA.
Menzies’ research published this week in the leading arthritis journal in the world, Arthritis and Rheumatism, conflicts with previous studies and provides significant evidence that smoking leads to knee cartilage loss and defect development largely in persons whose family has suffered from knee OA.
Investigators Dr Changhai Ding and Professor Graeme Jones say that the difference between the Menzies’ study and previous studies related to smoking and knee OA is the imaging equipment used.
“At Menzies we have conducted one of the largest Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) based studies on knee cartilage health so far, where as previous studies on the relationship between knee OA and smoking have used x-ray images.
“X-rays can only show the space between the bones and not cartilage directly therefore are not necessarily accurate, but an MRI can directly assess cartilage volume and splits in cartilage,” Professor Jones said.
Professor Jones states the message from this research study is simple.
“If you have a parent who has suffered from knee osteoarthritis you should think twice about continuing or taking up smoking.”
Osteoarthritis is a highly prevalent and costly disease, affecting more than 3.4 million Australians. It has been designated a National Health Priority due to its extent and its socioeconomic impacts.
Tasmanian research studies have found a high prevalence of OA and osteoporosis in Tasmanian community, especially in the older population (more than 30%). Nearly 200 total knee replacements are performed for knee OA in Southern Tasmania every year.
Cost-effective interventions and continued research and development to delay the onset of osteoarthritis offer potential for substantial reductions in the future projected costs and burden of the disease.
ENDS
Media Release:
1 May 2007
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme - Patients with arthritis, high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes & metabolic problems
Patients with arthritis, high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes and metabolic problems will benefit from treatments to be subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from 1 May 2007.
Two new versions of ENBREL® (etanercept) injections will become available to treat patients with ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic, painful, inflammatory arthritis that mainly affects the spine and weight-bearing joints. Another two new versions of ENBREL injections will also become available to treat patients with psoriatic arthritis, which is characterised by a chronic inflammation of the skin and joints.
For many Australians suffering from high blood cholesterol, the listing of LESCOL® will offer some patients the convenience of a higher-strength once-daily dose.
Patients with hypertension will benefit from the listing of COVERSYL PLUS® (perindopril with indapamide hemiydrate) and TARKA® (trandolapril with verapamil hydrochloride). Both products are combinations of currently listed drugs and should result in reduced copayments for patients and a reduction in the number of pills that need to be taken.
There is now more choice for people with diabetes with the inclusion of two further brands of glucose test strips on the PBS, Accu-Chek Performa® and Betachek G5™.
Children whose metabolism has difficulty processing amino acids will benefit from the listing of the nutritional supplement products XLYS Low Try Analog® and XLYS Low Try Maxamaid®. Their listing will extend the range of food substitutes available for these patients.
These listings are expected to have no net impact on PBS expenditure as they either provide more convenient dosages or are new brands of products already listed on the PBS.
Information about medicines subsidised by the Commonwealth Government through the PBS is available at www.pbs.gov.au
For more information call Mr Abbott's office on ph 02 6277 7220.
IOF RECOGNIZES GOOD “BONE HEALTH” CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP
Six companies lauded in new IOF Corporate Responsibility Program for Bone Health
NYON, Switzerland
March 28, 2007
The International Osteoporosis Foundation today recognized six companies, charter members of the IOF Corporate Responsibility Program for Bone Health, who have shown outstanding leadership within their organizations by promoting good bone health to their staff.
Award certificates were presented to representatives from Eli Lilly, Merck & Co, GSK, Roche, Novartis and Kyphon during a meeting of the IOF Committee of Corporate Advisers in Porto, Portugal.
“IOF encourages all companies to become good corporate citizens in the field of bone health and we are delighted to applaud these companies for their adoption of the IOF Corporate Responsibility Program for Bone Health,” noted IOF Chief Executive Officer Daniel Navid. “The companies who are being recognized today have made a commitment to fight osteoporosis, holding tailored education and bone health promotional activities amongst their staff, to increase awareness about the condition, its risk factors and what individuals can do to reduce the risk of fractures.”
Other companies including Fonterra Brands, Tetra Pak, Arent Fox and Weber Shandwick, have also helped to promote good bone health to their staff through a variety of activities.
The IOF Corporate Responsibility Program for Bone Health suggests voluntary actions that a company can take, such as running bone-health education programs, providing bone-friendly food in the canteen, making exercise facilities available, and paying for diagnostic and treatments.
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Osteoporosis is one of the most serious chronic, non-communicable diseases, affecting one out of three women worldwide (more than breast cancer), and one out of five men (more than prostate cancer).
What the charter companies have to say about IOF Corporate Responsibility Program for Bone Health:
“The IOF Corporate Responsibility Program for Bone Health provides a great opportunity, not only to raise awareness among our employees regarding the disease, but also a great way for Eli Lilly to connect with patients’ main needs.”
Marcel Lechanteur, Executive Director,
Osteoporosis Business Unit – U.S., Eli Lilly & Co.
“GlaxoSmithKline is proud to be a part of the IOF Corporate Responsibility Program for Bone Health. As part of our commitment to patients and physicians in the field of osteoporosis, we see this program as an important opportunity to raise awareness of this condition, and to support our employees in taking the necessary steps to protect their bone health.”
Laure Thibaud,
Vice President of External Affairs,
Pharmaceuticals Europe, GSK
"Kyphon is committed to the fight against osteoporosis and is proud to be a part of the IOF Corporate Responsibility Program for Bone Health. Through company activities, including our health fairs, wellness programs and educational materials, our goals are to raise awareness about the consequences of this crippling disease among patients and our employees in order to improve bone health and access to innovative treatments for spinal fractures."
Karen D. Talmadge, Ph.D.,
Executive Vice President and Chief Science Officer
Kyphon Inc.
“Our corporate bone responsibility sends a strong message we care. The task now is to roll this out to the rest of our 60,000 employees worldwide.”
Dick Clark, CEO, Merck & Co
“The IOF Corporate Responsibility Program for Bone Health and the IOF World Osteoporosis Day have been an excellent opportunity to generate interest and awareness among both patients and Novartis’ employees. Osteoporosis represents a major burden of disease for society and the IOF Corporate Responsibility Program for Bone Health facilitated important discussions on how to tackle this significant problem of our society.”
Stephan Korte, Director,
Global Advocacy, Novartis
“The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) Corporate Responsibility Programme for Bone Health provides Roche with an excellent opportunity to raise the awareness of bone health to all employees. Osteoporosis can severely impact patients’ lives and the IOF is leading the way in motivating people to take action to prevent, diagnose and treat this debilitating condition.”
Luke Miels, Business Director PBA -
Primary Care, Roche
ENDS
Osteoporosis, in which the bones become porous and break easily, is one of the world's most common and debilitating diseases. The result: pain, loss of movement, inability to perform daily chores, and in many cases, death. One out of three women over 50 will experience osteoporotic fractures, as will one out of five men1, 2, 3. Unfortunately, screening for people at risk is far from being a standard practice. Osteoporosis can, to a certain extent, be prevented, it can be easily diagnosed and effective treatments are available.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) is the only worldwide organization dedicated to the fight against osteoporosis. It brings together scientists, physicians, patient societies and corporate partners. Working with its 175 member societies in 86 locations, and other healthcare-related organizations around the world, IOF encourages awareness and prevention, early detection and improved treatment of osteoporosis.
1. Melton U, Chrischilles EA, Cooper C et al. How many women have osteoporosis? Journal of Bone Mineral Research, 1992; 7:1005-10
2. Kanis JA et al. Long-term risk of osteoporotic fracture in Malmo. Osteoporosis International, 2000; 11:669-674
3. Melton LJ, et al. Bone density and fracture risk in men. JBMR. 1998; 13:No 12:1915
For more information on osteoporosis and IOF please visit: www.iofbonehealth.org
Media Release:
28 February 2007
BLACKMORES DISMISSES FLAWED ANTIOXIDANT RESEARCH
Blackmores has assured Australian vitamin-takers not to be concerned by alarmist conclusions drawn in the Journal of the American Medical Association1 claiming that certain antioxidant vitamins can increase the risk of death.
Experts who reviewed the study were dismissive of the reported conclusion, saying the research pooled studies that were too diverse. The doses used in many of the studies were significantly higher than those allowable in Australia. Many of the studies were done on high risk populations including smokers and those exposed to asbestos which would have an increased risk of death.
The research is actually a meta-analysis, in which the findings from a range of studies done for different purposes are grouped together in an attempt to draw a conclusion. While meta-analyses are appropriate when the included studies are very similar in design and study population, this meta-analysis combined studies that differ in so many ways that the results would be compromised.
“There is no new clinical data in this publication – it is an overall synthesis of existing data from multiple trials, in multiple disease states and with multiple dosages and combinations – this is its main problem,” said Blackmores’ Research Director Chris Oliver.
“The fact that this analysis includes numerous disease conditions, and supplements at various doses, composition, and duration of administration, makes any conclusions meaningless," said Qing Jiang, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Foods and Nutrition, Purdue University in a statement released in response to the study. "The majority of patients were on multiple prescription medications, which further invalidates the results.
“The ages of the patients in the trials ranged from 18 to 103, with significant variability in health status that was not accounted for. In addition, many of the patients were smokers, a risk factor associated with high mortality.”
The trials with vitamin A are skewed by two large trials (the largest trial was in smokers or those exposed to asbestos) of people taking 25,000 IU for over 3 years. Current Australian TGA mandated limit for supplements is set at 5,000 IU per day.
There is a significant body of robust clinical evidence to support the benefits of antioxidants. In a recent prospective cohort study of over 80,000 Swedes, high levels of vitamin A (and beta-carotene) intake were found to be protective against gastric cancer. Interestingly, these effects were seen only in non-smokers or former smokers.
Bjelakovic G et al. Mortality in Radomised trial of Antioxidant Supplements for Primary and Secondary Prevention. JAMA, February 28 2007 Vol 297, No 8.
2 Larsson SC, Bergkvist L, Naslund I et al. Vitamin A, retinol, and carotenoids and the risk of gastric cancer: a prospective cohort study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007;85:497-503)
Media Release:
27th February 2007
PAINKILLERS:
Leading headache pills `put strain on the heart'
By Nic Fleming in London
Regularly taking some of the most popular painkillers on the market is linked to a much greater risk of stroke and heart attack from higher blood pressure, according to American research published Monday.
Participants in a large American study who took paracetamol, aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen six or seven days per week over a two-year period were between a quarter to a third more likely to be diagnosed with high blood pressure.Those who took 15 pills per week, regardless of type, have almost a 50 per cent risk of higher blood pressure than those who do not.
More than five million Britons with osteoarthritis, migraines or back pain either buy the drugs over the counter
regularly or are prescribed them, though dosages differ.Those diagnosed with hypertension - high blood pressure - are at greater risk of stroke, heart attack and disease, and kidney failure.The findings could pose a dilemma for some arthritis sufferers who have been told to switch to over-the-counter painkillers because of fears of heart problems linked to some prescription drugs. Graham MacGregor, the professor of cardiovascular
medicine at St George's Hospital, London, and chairman of the Blood Pressure Association, said: ``High blood pressure is the biggest cause of death and disability in the UK.``Even though the increased risks are small in this study, they are important. If you take a couple of paracetamol for a headache, that's fine, but patients need to be aware if they are on long-term painkillers they need to get their blood pressure checked.''
Researchers led by Dr John Forman, of Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts, studied 16,000 male
volunteers in a long-term research project.They were asked about their use of paracetamol, aspirin
and NSAIDs, and whether they had had a diagnosis of high blood pressure in the preceding two years.
Those taking paracetamol, aspirin or NSAIDs six or seven days per week were respectively 34 per cent, 38 per cent and 26 per cent more likely to have been diagnosed with it than
those who had not been taking painkillers regularly.Compared with men who took no pain relief medication,
participants who took 15 or more pills each week, irrespective of type, had a 48 per cent higher risk of higher blood pressure. Writing in the Archives of Internal Medicine, the journal of the American Medical Association, the authors said: ``These data add further support to the hypothesis that non-narcotic analgesics independently elevate the risk of hypertension.``Given their common consumption and the high prevalence of hypertension, our results may have substantial public health implications and suggest that these agents be
used with greater caution.''The researchers said the link with increased blood pressure may be caused by all three painkillers inhibiting the effect of vasodilatory prostaglandins - chemicals that relax the blood
vessels.They also believe paracetamol, the world's most widely-used painkiller, could promote the accumulation of volatile chemicals called free radicals or impair the functioning of blood vessel lining.
Around 16million people in Britain have high blood pressure. It rarely has symptoms and is usually only
discovered on a visit to the doctor.Doctors and patient groups stressed that patients should not change their medication without taking medical advice.Ellen Mason, of the British Heart Foundation, said: ``We
advise that painkillers should be taken at the lowest possible dose for the shortest amount of time. All medicines have side effects, and if you find yourself in frequent need of pain relief it makes good sense to discuss your health with a pharmacist or GP.``If you take prescribed painkillers regularly for conditions such as arthritis, which can cause chronic debilitating pain, the relief from symptoms may well outweigh the health
risks.''Prof Alan Silman, of the Arthritis Research Campaign, said: ``We should be careful about interpreting these results. We don't know whether people have a greater risk of high blood
pressure because they are taking painkillers or because of the condition they are taking them for.``Also we should remember high blood pressure has no symptoms. If someone is taking paracetamol regularly it is likely they go to their doctor more often. It is standard to take patients' blood pressure and so this could be explained by doctors being more likely to pick up their condition.''
Previous US research found women who regularly took paracetamol, NSAIDs or aspirin had increased risks of high blood pressure of 20 per cent, 35 per cent and 21 per cent.Vioxx, one of the NSAIDs, was taken off the market in 2004 after it was shown those who used it for 18 months or more were at increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.Dr Geoffrey Brandon, of the Paracetamol Information Centre, which receives funding from the pharmaceutical industry, said: ``As with previous reports this study reports a statistical association between analgesic use and hypertension but fails to show a causal relationship.``We do not believe there is any evidence to warrant a recommendation for any change in use of paracetamol.''
The Daily Telegraph
Media Release:
2nd February 2007
International Osteoporosis Foundation Warns of Bone Damage from Anorexia
Calls for young people to invest in their bones
NYON, Switzerland
Anorexia, which in recent months has caused a stir among fashion circles, can seriously damage a woman’s bones and be a risk factor later in life for osteoporosis.
The period of greatest bone growth is during puberty and adolescence. Maximum bone development takes place in girls and boys roughly between ages of 11 to 17 years. This corresponds with the ages at which many girls sacrifice their health in search of a fashionably wafer-thin physique. By building peak bone mass during this period, young people “invest in their bones” and reduce the risk of fracture later in life.
Osteoporosis is a widespread, chronic disease in which the bones become brittle and fracture easily. While it generally occurs in women approaching and during menopause, the “bone bank balance” is established earlier in life, often during the teenage years.
International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), pointed out the relationship between anorexia and bone health in its recent publication “Bone Appetit”. “Being underweight is a strong risk factor for osteoporosis,” noted Professor Bess Dawson-Hughes, author of the report. She added that weight loss diets could also jeopardize bone health. The eating disorder anorexia nervosa was highlighted because the “extreme body thinness in female anorexia patients leads to estrogen deficiency and amenorrhea (cessation of menstruation). Estrogen deficiency in younger women contributes to bone loss in much the same way that estrogen deficiency after menopause does.”
In 2005, seven beauty queens from around the world spoke out against the concept that “skinny is beautiful”. Justine Pasek, Miss Panama, Miss Universe 2002, said “Girls often ask what makes someone beautiful. For me, a big part of beauty is being physically fit, healthy, and taking pride in your body and also in your personal values.” Speaking at an IOF event in Bangkok, she added: “Don’t be a slave to fashion. My advice is respect yourself, respect your body, and that includes looking after your bones.”
Pavadee Vicheinrut, Miss Thailand, Mrs World 2003, speaking at the same event, said, “Many young girls tend to lose weight to look slim, but this puts their health at risk. I think that women have to recognize that beauty is partly physical but also made up of inner beauty that includes taking responsibility for their health. A healthy diet and lifestyle, as well as regular exercise are critical to bone health.”
Low body mass index (BMI) will be one of the risk factors that will be included in the new IOF One Minute Osteoporosis Risk Test to be released October 20, 2007 on World Osteoporosis Day (WOD) 2007. The theme of WOD 2007 will be Beat the Break: Know and reduce your osteoporosis risk factors.
ENDS
