THEGAYUK

Category: Wellness

  • Joey Essex wannabe plans to sue the NHS for “botched” nose job

    Sam Barton, 22 plans to sue the NHS after a ‘botched’ nose job and plans to spend the money on a BMW.

    A man who has been dubbed Britain’s vainest man has revealed that he plans to sue the NHS for an operation on his nose that he says they have ‘botched’ said the Daily Mail.

    The man, who wants to look like TOWIE star Joey Essex, had the £5000 procedure on the NHS to straighten his nose, he said he has been very unhappy with the results and the negative feedback from his Twitter followers since the op.

    He said, ‘When I initially had the operation done, I wasn’t really happy with the result. I thought it looked worse. But my family and friends told me it looked fine.

    ‘But all the negative comments about it do get me down sometimes. Although there are days when I just laugh them off.

    ‘It doesn’t look fitting to my face, and is uneven. It is too big and looks terrible.

    ‘The fact that people have made the comments has driven me to sue the NHS. It was pointless having the operation it’s a lot to go through for no reason.’

    Over the years Barton has reportedly spent over £30,000 on proceedures for the perfect face, including £20,000 for his teeth, £2,000 on botox and £2,500 on tanning. Many of the treatments have been paid for by credit cards.

    He has said that he needs the cosmetic treatments to ‘combat the anxiety over his appearance that his ‘new-found fame’ has provoked,’ writes the DM.

    ‘Since I was in the newspapers people recognise and stare at me more and it makes me sweat a lot through anxiety.

    ‘I have over 20,000 followers on Twitter and I do get trolled sometimes by some nasty individuals.

    ‘I am very self-conscious about my appearance and I have told the doctors that I need to have regular Botox treatment to keep up my appearance and to make me feel more confident and less self-conscious.’

  • Top 10 Ways For Men To Lose Weight

    With the launch of their new guide, Public Health England (PHE) and Men’s Health Forum suggest the following top 10 tips to help men lose the belly.

    (more…)

  • FOOD: The Power Of Plant, Healing HIV

    FOOD: The Power Of Plant, Healing HIV

    The Power Of Plant, Healing HIV

    By no means am I suggesting medication be swapped in favour of natural remedies, and whenever incorporating a supplement or out of the ordinary addition to your diet, you should always seek medical advice in the first instance.

    After recently being diagnosed HIV myself, and try as I might, as I’m sure some HIV-positive people may be able to relate to when they first found out, I could not find the wonder drug online to cure me! I’m assuming this was my denial stage. After re-assessing and implementing a new diet, I started delving into plants and herbs that had undergone testing and scientific research that provided some promising results.

    The more I looked, the more evidence I came across not only from clinical trials but professional herbalists, ancient practices of medicine, even biblical references. It would seem that the plant world does have some interesting attributes in helping to strengthen our immune system, and dis-encouraging the growth of the HIV-1 virus within the body. A lot of the evidence found to support anti-HIV activity also shows anti-cancer activity too.

    The following plants/herbs/spices are readily available and would not only benefit people that are HIV positive but could be used within any diet/regime for general and specific health issues. It is not suggested that you take it upon yourself to incorporate any of the following before seeking advice/approval from your GP / Nurse / or nutritionist (especially if you are on any medication as certain plants have been known to interfere or react with meds). Some of the studies carried out have been done so via test tube so it is unclear how reactive the plant is in the human body.

    If you are considering discussing the possibility of incorporating supplements with a professional, then it’s best to ensure you initially bring it back to basics and ensure you have a healthy diet and are eating the right foods for your body. Spirulina and pomegranates will do nothing for you if you’re a chicken nugget and chocolate fiend.

    Herbalists can help treat a huge range of health issues; immune system issues, allergies, autoimmune conditions, energy, stamina, fatigue, emotional health, hormonal health, fertility, digestion, nutrition, skin, heart & circulation, and joints & bones. To find a herbalist near you, click here.

    MANGOSTEEN

    (Queen of the tropical fruits) Historically used in folk medicine, this fruit is thought to have come from South East Asia. The entire fruit (rind, flesh, leaves, bark) contain Xanthones, which have; anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, to name a few. A study which took place showed that xanthone mangostin, derived from the mangosteen inhibited the replication cycle of HIV. (SOURCEhttp://www.gayprideband.com/Mangosteen%20Studies%20PDF.pdf

    BITTER MELON (wild cucumber)

    An unusual vegetable-fruit used as a healing aid for intestinal or stomach disorders (ulcers, colitis, constipation, worms). Bitter melon has also proved successful for people suffering with; psoriasis, liver disease, kidney stones, and diabetes. MAP-30, a plant protein within the veggie-fruit has been found to fight against the HIV virus. (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7665070

    HYSSOP

    In Greek, this word means ‘Holy Herb’. In fact, it is so holy it’s mentioned ten times in the Old Testament, being used to purify sacred areas and cleanse leprosy sufferers. Hyssop is an immune system strengthener and blood nourisher. The crude extracts of dried out Hyssop Officinalis leaves showed potent antiviral qualities and anti-HIV activity. (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7665070)

    OLIVE LEAF EXTRACTION

    Olive leaf is simply the leaves from an olive tree. With an antioxidant level doubling that of green tea extract, and 400% higher than vitamin C, no wonder the olive tree was referred to as “the tree of life” in the Bible. The real treasure within the extract lies within its Oleuropein, that contains; anti-fungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. The extract is used for blood pressure, cholesterol, heart disease, ulcers, diabetes, cancer, HIV, and much more. Studies found that the Oleuropein prevents acute infection and replication of the HIV virus.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12878215
    BLACK SEED EXTRACT (Nigella Sativa)
    I recognised this immediately as an avid Nigella Lawson fan, she uses these seeds in one of her recipes. The seed has been used in medicines for thousands of years and was also reported to have been found in King Tut’s tomb. Used to encourage healing headaches, toothaches, digestive issues, haemorrhoids, respitorary issues, lowering blood pressure, treating cancer, and boosting the immune system. I read somewhere that the only thing black seeds cannot cure is death.
    Interestingly, one of the studies that were carried out on an HIV patient induced a sero-reversion (tested negative for HIV), and remained at healthy CD4 counts 24 months after the experiment.(SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24311845

    SPIRULINA

    For some reason, I don’t have the capacity to say this word correctly the first time I go to say it. Spirulina is a high-protein “super food” which is formed from a blue-green alga. Rich in vitamins; A, B1, B6, B12, C, along with proteins and minerals. Spirulina has been found to inhibit the replication of HIV in the blood. Available in most health food stores, I have personally started to incorporate this into my diet.

    (SOURCE:http://journals.lww.com/jaids/Abstract/1998/05010/Inhibition_of_HIV_1_Replication_by_an_Aqueous.2.aspx

    NEEM LEAF EXTRACT

    The neem plant is native to India and it’s surrounding regions. The entire plant can be used in medicine and has been done so, especially within traditional medicines such as Ayurveda, to treat malaria, cancer, skin diseases, and diabetes to name a few. With research into it’s benefits to people with HIV, the results concluded a significant influence on CD4 cells.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17667213

    LICORICE

    No introduction necessary. Personally, I cannot stand the stuff! However, as a supplement for someone with HIV, it could potentially slow the activation of any dormant immune cells, which would prevent the virus from replicating within the blood. Liquorice root contains the compound glycyrrhizin, which is the part that helps prevent replication. Liquorice root is also full of many anti-depressant qualities and could be used as an alternative to St. John’s Wort. Large quantities are not advised (no more than 7g a day) as it may have implications with testosterone in the body.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12679601

    SUMAC (Rhus chinensis)

    Sumac fruits are ground into a red powder, used widely to spice dishes in the Middle East. It has a lemony flavour to it and is often used in hummus. Research has shown that compounds within sumac have anti-HIV activity and would be a useful medicinal plant for HIV patients. Sumac is also a wonderful antioxidant.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16368204

    SCHISANDRA

    From East Asia, this “five flavour fruit”, would traditionally be used in Chinese medicine to fight infection, help sufferers of insomnia, and promote healthy skin. Schisandra contains anti-aging properties and has also been used to normalise blood sugar/pressure, whilst boosting your immune system. The fruit has had great results for treating liver disease/hepatitis. China developed a liver-protecting drug titled DBD which is made from compounds within the fruit. The fruit contains lingnans, and it is these that have demonstrated anti-HIV virus activity.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19413342

    ROOIBOS LEAVES (redbush)

    I love this tea. I probably drink about 10 cups a day. A study shows a polysaccharide within rooibois leaves has strong anti-HIV properties. They concluded the polysaccharide plays a big part in the mechanism for the virus binding itself to T Cells, and the prevention of that. It is unclear whether this can be achieved by just drinking the tea, however. On the plus side the polyphenols within the tea help to ease headaches, allergies, bone weakness, asthma, eczema, stomach cramps, and also boost your immune system!

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9058964

    ELDERBERRY

    Massive antioxidant qualities within the elderberry. Its juice was actually used to combat a flu epidemic in Panama, 1995. Elderberries help the immune system’s response to when it is under attack or low and is also rich in vitamins A,B,C. The experiment that took place showed that flavanoid compounds in elderberries blocked HIV-1 entry.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19641233

    ASTRAGALUS

    The root of this herb is used to treat anaemia, kidney disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, allergies and HIV. Researchers claim that the herb increases the T-cell count within the body, making this a good immunity booster. Herbalists have used this herb in their medicines for years. Andrew Weil, author of “Spontaneous Healing”- which is an amazing book by the way- has used astragalus with his clients that are HIV positive.

    (SOURCE:http://www.aidsmeds.com/articles/hiv_astragalus_telomere_1667_15595.shtml
    Annoyingly, I cannot stand any of the following as they are all type of mushroom. If you are like me, then they are available in tinctures, capsules, and other complexes. But again, consult your doctor first. Certain types of mushroom have had amazing coverage on their antioxidant and health promoting properties. A lot of research has gone into their impact on cancer, along with HIV.

    MAITAKE (the dancing mushroom) Maitake, or “the miracle mushroom” have been eaten in Asia for years. As a medicine, it has been used for in the treatment of cancer, hepatitis, diabetes, high cholesterol and HIV. Polysaccharides and beta glucans within the mushroom aid the immune system and promote T-Cells.

    (SOURCE: http://doctorschar.com/archives/maitake-and-hiv-infection/

    CHAGA

    This mushroom is one of the highest antioxidants in the world. It has also been publicised previously about its health benefits with cancer. Chaga mushrooms have been useful in treating over 40 conditions. For extensive information on the Chaga mushroom read here:http://www.chagamountain.com/health-benefits.html

    REISHI

    You probably won’t ever see this kind of mushroom in a kitchen. They are bitter and hard. In medicine, they like the Chaga mushrooms are an amazing antioxidant and free radical fighter. Reishi mushrooms are also considered to be beneficial to those suffering from cancer, as they may suppress tumour growth. Reishi mushrooms have also been used with respiratory issues, such as asthma, as they appear to have a healing effect on the lungs. (SOURCE:http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-reishi-mushrooms.html )

    An experiment showed that the reishi mushroom did, in fact, contain compounds that would help inhibit the HIV virus (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22347784 )

    SHIITAKE

    We may recognise this mushroom the most from our love and knowledge of eastern food. This mushroom is a fantastic source of iron. The shiitake has been documented to provide immune support, protection against rheumatoid arthritis (RA), have cardiovascular and anti-cancer benefits, (SOURCEhttp://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?dbid=122&tname=foodspice ) and test tube studies showed that lignins within the shiitake prevented HIV cells from attacking the needed T-cells. (SOURCEhttp://www.fungihealth.com/shiitake-mushroom-against-aids )

    POMEGRANATE

    Obviously, we are going to see a lot of vitamin C in the pomegranate, with that a high level of anti-oxidants, in fact, more so than the almighty acai berry or green tea. Pomegranates do wonders for your skin. Not only can pomegranates help a dry type skin, but they can also help soothe outbreaks on more oily/combo type skin. This vibrant fruit promotes skin regeneration and can help slow the ageing process on our skin. For the rest of our body pomegranates can help; cardiovascular health, bone quality (from the vitamin K), aid digestion, treat anaemia (pomegranates are also high in iron) and have found to contain a property that helps lose weight. Research with pomegranates and cancer has suggested that they could help treat prostate and breast cancer. (source:http://www.med-health.net/Benefits-Of-Pomegranate.html )

    An experiment that took place using pomegranate juice showed that it may help in blocking the HIV virus from binding to T-cells. (SOURCEhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16387698 )

    NATIONAL HIV TESTING WEEK IS 22nd-30th NOVEMBER

  • Scottish Government Launches Next Phase Of Bowel Cancer Campaign

    Bowel cancer can be beaten – if detected early. This was the message Scots were told today as the Scottish Government launched the second phase of its bowel cancer awareness campaign.

    In a bid to encourage more Scots aged 50-74 to take part in the life-saving national bowel screening programme, the new campaign carries the powerful message that early stage bowel cancer can often be cured.

    The campaign shows the real value of completing the home screening kit, which is the best way to find bowel cancer early.

    Picking up where the first campaign left off, the next phase wants to increase the 57 per cent of bowel cancers detected at the earliest stages, by asking more people to return their completed kits.

    Last year’s public awareness campaign resulted in a large increase in calls to the national bowel screening centre and the latest statistics shows that uptake of the programme has gone up from 54 to 56 percent in two years.

    Health Secretary Alex Neil said: “We know that nine out of 10 people will survive bowel cancer if it is detected early. Completing and returning the home test is the simplest way to get checked – giving yourself the best possible chance of survival.

    “However, only just over half of those eligible have taken the opportunity to get tested. Bowel cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, especially when it’s caught early, and taking the test helps us to do exactly that.

    “We want to encourage even more people to take up the services on offer and help further increase the rate of bowel cancers detected at the earliest stage, when people are least likely to need invasive treatment and most likely to survive.

    “An important part of this is ensuring everyone who is eligible takes the time to complete their home test kit. Having done the test myself I know how simple it is to do and the results could make a difference to your life. My message is clear, bowel cancer can be beaten if its caught early. Don’t get scared, take the test.”

    The campaign, which goes live today, is supported by 70-year-old Sheena Edgar who is one of Scotland’s growing number of cancer survivors thanks to screening.

    Sheena, from Lanarkshire, was diagnosed with bowel cancer after completing a routine bowel screening test three years ago.

    Highlighting the importance of the returning the screening kit Sheena said: “I had no symptoms at all but I sent away my test anyway. Just a few days later I had a letter asking me to get in touch with the hospital to arrange a colonoscopy. They told me they found three polyps which were then sent away for testing.

    These tests, which would not have been done if Sheena hadn’t returned her kit, showed that she did indeed need treatment.

    Sheena explained: “I then had an operation, but was home three days later and felt like I was back to normal. It was all really quick. The staff that helped look after me were absolutely brilliant. It was over before I realised that anything had even happened.

    Sheena is sharing her story as part of the new campaign because she recognises how it saved her life – a message she wants others to know.

    She said: “I’m very grateful for the screening service. Don’t be put off doing the test – it’s so simple and could save your life. You might not like the thought of it, but it’s easy and you can do it in private, in your own home.

    “It doesn’t bear thinking about how long I might have had to wait before finding out I had bowel cancer, without the screening programme. It could have been much further down the line, when it was more advanced – I could have been facing a very different outcome all together.

    “I was so lucky it was caught early, thank goodness for the screening service.”

    Applauding the new campaign Emma Anderson, Scottish Operations Manager, Bowel Cancer UK said:

    “Bowel Cancer UK welcomes the next phase of the Detect Cancer Early bowel cancer campaign.

    “We have seen the uptake rate of the bowel screening test increase since the campaign began but there are still too many people not completing and returning their kit. Everyone who is eligible should do the test – it could save their life.”

    Terence O’Kelly, the Scottish Government’s Senior Medical Officer and Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary said:

    “If a tumour is present, just in the bowel wall, it can be cured.

    “I know of many patients who have completed the home screening test, had a positive result, and have gone on to have polyps removed before they develop any further. These individuals have then enjoyed completely normal lives.

    “Clearly not everyone has the same journey or outcome. However, what is clear, is that if detected early, bowel cancer is a form of disease that can be cured.”

    Currently the Scottish Bowel Screening Programme invites all men and women in Scotland aged 50 – 74 to participate in screening every two years.

    The programme was extended in April 2013, so that those over the age of 74 can self-refer every two years by requesting a screening kit through the Scottish Bowel Screening Helpline.

    For information on the screening programme, contact the Scottish Bowel Screening Helpline on 0800 0121 833 or visit www.bowelscreeningtest.org.

  • £90,000 Raised To Support People Living With HIV

    A host of celebrities including, Nigella Lawson, Jim Broadbent, Jemima Khan and Harry Enfield, were among dinner party guests who took part in HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust’s ‘The Supper Club’ fundraiser last night.

    The THT event, which is in its 14th year raised more than £90,000 to support people living with and affected by HIV. On the night guests attended 50 dinner parties at some of London’s most iconic restaurants, including Roast, Wilton’s, Polpo, Aqua Shard, and Scott’s, which all donated a meal in support of the charity.

    Afterwards guests where whisked away to a star studded after party at the Underglobe where they enjoyed entertainment by British singer-song writer Chloe Howl, Britain’s Got Talent Semi-Finalist La Voix and boylesque troop Briefs. Guests were also treated to cocktails by 6 O’Clock Gin and took part in ‘The Supper Club’ silent auction, which boasted an array of bespoke foodie prizes, including a chocolate making master class with acclaimed chocolatier Paul A Young, dinner at home catered by Michelin-starred chef Angela Hartnett, and the chance to create a bespoke brownie flavour with Bad Brownie.
    Sonya Trivedy, Director of Fundraising at Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “Thank you to everyone who has once again made ‘The Supper Club’ such a huge success and another night to remember. Each year our supporters came out in full force to help us raise awareness for the work that we do – and this year was no different. We are really lucky to have support from such exceptional people, who once again have helped us raise a phenomenal amount for people living with and affected by HIV in the UK ”

  • Lesbians, Gays and Bisexuals Encouraged To Stop Smoking This October

    Today is the launch of the Stoptober campaign and troubling statistics show that Lesbian, Gay and Bisexuals are more likely to smoke than their heterosexual counterparts.

    Compared to heterosexuals, gay/lesbian and bisexual adults are 1.5 times more likely to be current smokers.

    Two-thirds (67 percent) of gay and bisexual men have smoked at some time in their life compared to half of men in general who have smoked.

    A quarter (26 percent) of gay and bisexual men currently smoke compared to 22 per cent of men in general.

    Gay/lesbian and bisexual adults people over 16yrs are more likely to be current smokers, less likely to have never smoked, and less likely to have given up smoking than the general population.

    Professor Kevin Fenton, National Director of Health and Wellbeing at Public Health England and LGBT role model at the HSJ said, ‘The figures speak for themselves – businesses can play an important role in helping their employees and see the benefits of a smoke-free workforce. Quitting smoking is one of the most significant health improvements a person can make and it is encouraging to see so many businesses and employers supporting Stoptober to help make their workplace happier and healthier places for their staff.

    Last year, it was noted that English gay youth were twice as likely to smoke and drink hazardously compared to straight people of the same age. In an interview with TheGayUK, Dr. Joanna Semlyen stated there were several reasons why LGB people were more likely to

    In an interview with TheGayUK, Dr. Joanna Semlyen stated there were several reasons why LGB people were more likely to smoke and drink, saying, ‘we suspect that the impact of homophobia and heterosexism within society, in addition to the possible experience of homophobic bullying whilst at school, may lead to what we call ‘minority stress’ or in increased self-esteemteem which young people then perhaps seek to alleviate with smoking and/or alcohol.’

    11 Million Work Days Lost
    Leading employers are supporting this year’s Stoptober quit smoking campaign because smoking is bad for business. Smoking currently costs the economy in England a massive £13bn1 a year, with businesses losing over 11 million days of productivity each year due to smoking-related sick days, which alone costs £1bn a year.

    FREE RESOURCES
    New free resources are available for employers to support staff with the 28-day quit attempt. Everyone joining Stoptober can choose from a range of tools to suit them, including a new stop smoking pack, a 28-day mobile phone app, text support with daily updates, quitting advice and tips for coping, as well as the encouragement and support from thousands of people through social media. For more information and to join the biggest stop smoking challenge of its kind, search ‘Stoptober’ online and sign up.

  • How to fight obesity naturally

    Natural remedies for fighting obesity

    CREDIT: ©-tish1-Depositphotos

    Anti-obesity drugs can have some hazardous side effects which make the use of natural supplements more attractive. Most drugs that fight obesity either do it by reducing fat absorption or by suppressing appetite through neuronal regulation. There are some fruit and herbal extracts that are found to possess components that can regulate body weight through similar mechanisms.

    Polyphenols inhibit pancreatic lipase
    Pancreatic lipase (PL) is crucial in regulating the digestion of fats into absorbable forms. Saponins, polyphenols, flavonoids and caffeine have been found to possess PL-inhibitory activity. These compounds are found naturally in different types of tea, oolong, green and black. They are also found in fruits like berries, apples, lemons and in grape seeds and several other herbs. A multitude of studies have sought to explore the anti-obesity effect of polyphenol-rich extracts in animal models and have found promising results.

    Hoodia and Garcina species suppress appetite
    Another way to reduce weight gain is to suppress appetite by regulating the respective control centres of the brain. The perception of fullness has been linked with the intake of some herbal extracts like, Hoodia gordonii and Hoodia pilifera, leafless plants common in South Africa. Cissus quadrangularis and Garcina cambogia possess natural hydrocitric acid which boosts the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates appetite. Garcina exerted anti-obesity functions by reducing lipid accumulation in adipocytes in experiments on cell cultures.

    There are many supplements that contain extracts from Hoodia, Garcinia and Cissus plants and have proven to be effective in suppressing appetite and promoting weight loss. However, the exact mechanism by which this regulation is achieved by these extracts is not clear. Crude ethanol extract from Caralluma fimbriata, a type of cactus, and saponins from Korean red ginseng, have also been shown to have a suppressive effect on the hunger cycle.

    Fish oil
    Consumption of fish oil has also been linked to increased energy expenditure. Diet composed of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Dosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both components of fish oil, decreased body weight gain in mice. DHA caused 90% increase in lipolysis in different studies.

    Caffeine, rich in oolong tea
    The principal component of tea leaves, caffeine, has shown a reduction in weight gain through numerous mechanisms. Caffeine has lipolytic action and therefore increases lipid metabolism in the body. Increasing the energy expenditure of the body through non-shivering thermogenesis is also a way to regulate body weight. Caffeine and catechins found in tea have shown increased energy expenditure in multiple experiments.

    Ginseng
    Panax ginseng, a type of berry common in Korea, expresses moderate anti-obesity properties by suppressing appetite, increasing energy expenditure, and downregulating accumulation of triglycerides. The active components of ginseng that are used in supplements are ethanol extracts, ginsenosides and saponins.

    Resveratrol and quercetin
    Naturally occurring compounds like resveratrol, found in grapes and berries and quercetin, found in teas, apples and onions, are also associated with reduced accumulation of triglycerides. Resveratrol and quercetin inhibit adipogenesis and promote apoptosis in adipocytes and can therefore be used as an anti-obesity treatment.

    Other than the above mentioned compounds, extracts from cinnamon, garlic, capsicum, palm oil and green tea have also demonstrated anti-obesity properties in studies.

    Dr Clovis Palmer heads the immunometabolism group at the world renowned Burnet Institute of Medical Research in Melbourne, Australia. Dr Palmer is a reviewer for several top ranked international journals including Hepatology, AIDS and Antioxidants and Redox Signalling. He is the chief scientific editor for Natural Immunity-Health, Australia (www.naturalimmunity.com.au).

  • Is HIV medication making you suicidal?

    HIV drug increases risk of suicidal ideation.

    A recent study shows an association between Efavirenz (a common anti-HIV drug) and increased risk for suicidal ideation or attempted or completed suicide. The study conducted by Mollan KR et al., and published in Ann Intern Med. 2014 confirmed the neuropsychiatric effects of Efavirenz. With increased life expectancy of people living with HIV infection – and the opportunity to study the long term effects of drugs – the emergence of drug-induced co-morbidities is concerning.

    This underscores the need for the development of longer-acting drugs or treatment modalities that limit the constant (daily) use of antiretroviral therapy. Emerging data also beg the question as to the longer-term benefits of immediate treatment of a young individual with normal CD4 T cell count and low viral load.

    Indeed, early treatment reduces inflammation and impacts the size of the viral reservoir – yet the clinical benefits are questionable.

    One argument for early treatment is epidemiological-based: “to protect the community”. But we probably can dismiss this one because with fashionable PrEP picking up steam we might all be chewing PrEP candies in the near future.

    I think more needs to be done to delay the use of antiretroviral drugs wherever possible, and more reliable measures of inflammation are needed so that we are not only guiding treatment based on CD4 cell counts and viral load but also take into account the levels of inflammation a person has. After all, inflammation (which generally is associated with CD4 T cell count) has been shown to be the best predictor of HIV disease progression and mortality.

    Dr Clovis Palmer is a graduate of the University of Sydney, Australia, and holds a PhD in plant biochemistry and molecular genetics. He conducted postdoctoral studies in immunology, liver disease and obesity at the University of New South Wales, Australia.

    Dr Palmer is a reviewer for several top-ranked international journals including Hepatology, AIDS and Antioxidants and Redox Signalling. He is the chief scientific editor for Natural Immunity-Health, Australia (www.naturalimmunity.com.au).

     

    Opinions expressed in this article may not reflect those of THEGAYUK, its management or editorial teams. If you’d like to comment or write a comment, opinion or blog piece, please click here.

  • HIV death rates halved since 1999

    HIV-positive adults in high-income countries face a substantially reduced risk of death from AIDS-related causes, cardiovascular disease, and liver disease compared with a decade ago, according to a large international study published in The Lancet.

    The study which involved nearly 50 000 HIV-positive adults receiving care and antiretroviral therapy (ART) at more than 200 clinics across Europe, USA, and Australia found that overall death rates have almost halved since 1999.

    The development in the mid-1990s of antiretroviral treatment for the management of HIV infections is one of medicine’s greatest success stories. For individuals who can access and adhere to treatment at early stages of the infection, the risk of developing an AIDS-defining complication is vanishingly small. Treatment, however, does not fully restore health. Treated adults have a higher than expected risk of developing many non-AIDS complications including cardiovascular disease and cancer. The excess risk has been attributed to antiretroviral drug toxicity, traditional risk factors, immune dysfunction, or chronic inflammation. With the advent of effective antiretroviral treatment, the life expectancy for people with HIV is now approaching that seen in the general population. Consequently, the relative importance of other traditionally non-AIDS-related morbidities has increased. The team behind the study investigated trends over time in all-cause mortality and for specific causes of death in people with HIV from 1999 to 2011.

    The team behind the study noted that their findings suggest that death rates in HIV-positive individuals with access to care and antiretroviral therapy have decreased since 1999-2000. They can detect no indication of an increase in risk of death from any specific cause as a potential result of long-term adverse effects of ART, and the risk of death from other causes – ie, those other than AIDs-related disease, cardiovascular disease, liver disease, and non-AIDS cancers – is low.

    Rates of death from non-AIDS-related cancers have remained stable over time, and these types of cancers are now the most common cause of non-AIDS deaths in people with HIV. The finding of a stable rate of death from non-AIDS cancer in the study is of concern when compared with the experience in the general population, in which death rates have decreased over the same time period.

    However a potential limitation to the study is that the investigators could only report on the outcomes of HIV-infected individuals who were followed up regularly in clinic, and thus excluded a large population of HIV-infected individuals who remain untreated because they are unaware of their infected status or not engaged in care.

    Steven Deeks and Peter Hunt from the University of California in San Francisco, USA, say, ‘The benefits of ART are unquestioned, and their beneficial effect on the HIV epidemic continues to grow. Still, clear limitations exist because many patients are not accessing treatment, and some problems persist even in those on ART, including a higher than expected risk of non-AIDS cancers and other morbidities. Finally, it needs to be emphasised that we are still early in the ART era. In the absence of a cure, most patients will need to continue on ART for decades. Continued monitoring for unexpected consequences of treatment will be needed indefinitely.’

    To read the article, see below:
    http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(14)60604-8/abstract

  • The Lancet: Causes of death shifting in people with HIV

    HIV-positive adults in high income countries face a substantially reduced risk of death from AIDS-related causes, cardiovascular disease, and liver disease compared with a decade ago, according to a large international study published in The Lancet.

    The study which involved nearly 50 000 HIV-positive adults receiving care and antiretroviral therapy (ART) at more than 200 clinics across Europe, USA, and Australia found that overall death rates have almost halved since 1999, while deaths due to AIDS-related causes and cardiovascular disease have declined by around 65% and liver-related deaths by more than 50%.
    Although deaths from most causes declined over the study period, there was no reduction in death rates from non-AIDS cancers which remained stable over time (1.6 deaths per 1000 years 1999–2000 to 2.1 in 2009–2011). Non-AIDS cancers are now the leading cause of non-AIDS deaths in people with HIV, accounting for 23% of all deaths.

    Using data from the Data collection on Adverse events of anti-HIV Drugs (D:A:D) study, the researchers looked at trends in underlying causes of death in people with HIV between 1999 and 2011, who were followed-up for a median of 6 years.
    Of the 3909 deaths that occurred over the study period, around 29% of individuals died from an AIDS-related cause, which remains the most common cause of death. Cancers (15%; mainly lung cancer) were the most frequent causes of non-AIDS deaths, followed by liver disease (13%; mainly due to hepatitis), and cardiovascular disease (11%).

    Mortality decreased from about 17.5 deaths per 1000 person-years in 1999–2000 to 9.1 deaths per 1000 years in 2009–2011—a drop of around 50%. Similar decreases in deaths related to AIDS (5.9 deaths per 1000 person-years to 2.0), liver disease (2.7 to 0.9), and cardiovascular disease (1.8 to 0.9) were also seen. The proportion of all deaths due to AIDS (34% to 23%) and liver disease (16% to 10%) declined over the decade, while the proportion of deaths due to cardiovascular disease remained constant at 10%.

    The researchers note that substantially reduced death rates from liver and cardiovascular disease cannot be fully explained by changes in patient demographics or improvements in viral suppression or CD4 count, and might result from the better management of traditional risk factors such as smoking, alcohol use, and hepatitis, or the use of less toxic ART regimens.

    They conclude by calling for further research to gain a clearer understanding of why the risk of dying from a non-AIDS cancer remains high and to assess the effect of specific antiretroviral drugs on non-AIDS cancer rates.

    According to study leader Dr Colette Smith from University College London in the UK, ‘These recent reductions in rates of AIDS-related deaths are linked with continued improvement in CD4 count and provide further evidence of the substantial net benefits of ART. But despite these positive results, AIDS-related disease remains the leading cause of death in this population. Continued efforts to ensure good ART adherence and to diagnose more individuals at an earlier stage before the development of severe immunodeficiency are important to ensure that the low death rate from AIDS is sustained and potentially decreased even further.’*

    Writing in a linked Comment, Steven Deeks and Peter Hunt from the University of California in San Francisco, USA, say, ‘The benefits of ART are unquestioned, and their beneficial effect on the HIV epidemic continues to grow. Still, clear limitations exist because many patients are not accessing treatment, and some problems persist even in those on ART, including a higher than expected risk of non-AIDS cancers and other morbidities. Finally, it needs to be emphasised that we are still early in the ART era. In the absence of a cure, most patients will need to continue on ART for decades. Continued monitoring for unexpected consequences of treatment will be needed indefinitely.’

    The study appears in a special issue of The Lancet published ahead of AIDS 2014, the 20th international AIDS conference of the IAS, taking place in Melbourne, Australia, from 20-25 July, 2014.

  • Not Cumming Out – Delayed Ejaculation

    Guys have it hard. Or at least when sex isn’t explosive life can get a bit challenging. Physical intimacy, including penetration, is so enjoyable but when something goes wrong then it can really go wrong.

    You cum too quickly. You can’t get it up. You get it up but it goes down again. You meet a guy you fancy but can’t figure out if he is top or bottom. Then it turns out that you both want the same and neither are prepared to try the other position. He wants to do something you haven’t heard of much less tried.

    But all of the above are more or less well known about. And you’d probably be able to find a mate to talk about it. But there is one sexual issue that remains in the closet – delayed ejaculation (DE). DE is exactly what it says on the label. You have great difficulty in cumming. But why on earth is that a problem? It must be great to be able to shag for hours and not cum. To be able to take on one guy after another. Actually, it’s not all that it’s cut out to be.

    Our fundamental sexual desire is to ejaculate – to spread our seeds. If we don’t achieve that or it takes too long to do so we can get depressed. If we’re in and out of a hole for too long both our cock and partner will get sore. And the likelihood is that he has already cum, maybe even twice. If that’s the case he may begin to feel that there is something wrong with him. Or you begin to think that there is something fundamentally wrong with your techniques and wonder why you can never cum with a guy who really turns you on. In fact DE can cause considerable anxiety, distress and loss of sexual confidence.

    It is estimated that between 2 to 10 percent of men can suffer DE at some time of their lives and there seems to be a trend of it happening more as you get older. It has also been recently observed in men who watch a lot of porn. This could be because you are used to the stimulation that your hand gives or it may be because you are ‘trained’ to react to screen pictures. Because this isn’t a common disorder there is little research on the issue and so practitioners struggle to understand the issues and to help those affected.

    There are believed to be a number of potential causes. Some men have always suffered from DE from puberty. This can mean that they think it normal until they come upon a partner who questions their sexual abilities. DE may be tied in with a strict upbringing, a family who didn’t talk about sex and men who control their lives for a number of reasons but there could be an issue around sexuality acceptance.

    The second type of DE is situation induced. You can be happy squirting your spunk everywhere and then you suddenly find you can’t. There could be a number of reasons. For example how a partner makes you feel; stress at work; fear of penetrating either the anus or a mouth or something happened to you while you were having sex.

    Can it be cured? That depends. In general yes it can be helped but it could mean that you have to retrain your sexual techniques. You may even have to abstain from sex for a period of time including wanking off. The best thing to do is talk either to your GP if you think you have a problem or a counsellor.

    But whatever you do don’t suffer alone. Finding out that you are not the only one with delayed ejaculation is the first step. Accepting that you have a problem is the next. And doing something about it could change your life. Don’t worry GPs and therapists know about delayed ejaculation – you are not alone. Cum out and tell someone.

     

    by Owen Redahan

     

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