BIPOLAR DISORDER Definition Bipolar, or manic-depressive, disorder is a mood disorder that causes radical emotional changes and mood

swings, from manic highs to depressive lows. The majority of bipolar individuals experience alternating episodes of mania (an elevated or euphoric mood or irritable state) and depression. Description In the United States alone, bipolar disorder afflicts an estimated three million people. According to a report by the National Institutes of Mental Health, the disorder costs over $45 billion annually. The average age of onset of bipolar disorder is from adolescence through the early twenties. However, because of the complexity of the disorder, a correct diagnosis can be delayed for several years or more. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition text revised (DSM-IV-TR), the diagnostic standard for mental health professionals in the United States, defines four separate categories of bipolar disorder: bipolar I, bipolar II, cyclothymia, and bipolar not otherwise specified (NOS). Bipolar I disorder is characterized by manic episodes, the "high" of the manic-depressive cycle. A bipolar patient experiencing mania often has feelings of selfimportance, elation, talkativeness, increased sociability, and a desire to embark on goal-oriented activities, coupled with the characteristics of irritability, impatience, impulsiveness, hyperactivity, and a decreased need for sleep. Usually this manic period is followed by a period of depression, although a few bipolar I individuals may not experience a major depressive episode. Mixed states, where both manic or hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms occur at the same time, also occur frequently with bipolar I patients (for example, depression with the racing thoughts of mania). Also, dysphoric mania is common (mania characterized by anger and irritability). Bipolar II disorder is characterized by major depressive episodes alternating with episodes of hypomania, a milder form of mania. Bipolar depression may be difficult to distinguish from unipolar depression (depression without mania, as found in major depressive disorder ). Patients with bipolar depression tend to have extremely low energy, retarded mental and physical processes, and more profound fatigue (for example, hypersomniaa sleep disorder marked by a need for excessive sleep or sleepiness when awake) than people with unipolar depression. Cyclothymia refers to the cycling of hypomanic episodes with depression that does not reach major depressive proportions. A third of patients with cyclothymia

will develop bipolar I or II disorder later in life. A phenomenon known as rapid cycling occurs in up to 20% of bipolar I and II patients. In rapid cycling, manic and depressive episodes must alternate frequentlyat least four times in 12 monthsto meet the diagnostic definition. In some cases of "ultra-rapid cycling," the patient may bounce between manic and depressive states several times within a 24-hour period. This condition is very hard to distinguish from mixed states. Bipolar NOS is a category for bipolar states that do not clearly fit into the bipolar I, II, or cyclothymia diagnoses. Causes and symptoms The source of bipolar disorder has not been clearly defined. Because twothirds of bipolar patients have a family history of emotional disorders, researchers have searched for a genetic link to the disorder. Several studies have uncovered a number of possible genetic connections to the predisposition for bipolar disorder. There is significant evidence that correlates bipolar II with genetic causes. Studies have shown that identical twins have an 80% concordance rate (presence of the same disorder). Additionally, studies have demonstrated that the disorder is transmitted to children by autosomal dominant inheritance. This means that either affected parent (father or mother) has a 50% chance of having a child (regardless if the child is male or female) with the disorder. Further studies concerning the genetic correlations have revealed specific chromosomes (the structures that contain genes) that contain mutated genes. Susceptible genes are located in specific regions of chromosomes 13, 18, and 21. The building blocks of genes, called nucleotides, are normally arranged in a specific order and quantity. If these nucleotides are repeated, a genetic abnormality usually results. Recent evidence suggests that a special type of nucleotide repeat is observed in persons with bipolar II on chromosome 18. However, the presence of this sequence does not worsen the disorder or change the age of onset. It is currently thought that expression of bipolar II involves multiple mutated genes. Further research is ongoing to discover precise mechanisms and to develop genetic markers (gene tags) that would predict which individuals are at higher risk. Another possible biological cause for bipolar disorder under investigation is the presence of an excessive calcium buildup in the cells. Also, dopamine and other neurochemical transmitters (the chemicals that transmit messages from nerve cell to nerve cell) appear to be implicated in bipolar disorder and these are under intense investigation. Over half of patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder have a history of substance abuse. There is a high rate of association between cocaine abuse and bipolar disorder. Some studies have shown up to 30% of abusers meeting the criteria

for bipolar disorder. The emotional and physical highs and lows of cocaine use correspond to the manic depression of the bipolar patient, making the disorder difficult to diagnose. For some bipolar patients, manic and depressive episodes coincide with seasonal changes. Depressive episodes are typical during winter and fall, and manic episodes are more probable in the spring and summer months. Symptoms of bipolar depressive episodes include low energy levels, feelings of despair, difficulty concentrating, extreme fatigue, and psychomotor retardation (slowed mental and physical capabilities). Manic episodes are characterized by feelings of euphoria, lack of inhibitions, racing thoughts, diminished need for sleep, talkativeness, risk taking, and irritability. In extreme cases, mania can induce hallucinations and other psychotic symptoms such as grandiose delusions (ideas that the person affected is extremely important or has some unrecognized talent or insight). Demographics Manic-depression is a common psychological disorder that is difficult to detect. As stated, it is estimated that about three million people in the United States are affected. The disorder is more common among women than men. Women have been observed at increased risk of developing subsequent episodes in the period immediately following childbirth. Diagnosis Bipolar disorder is usually diagnosed and treated by a psychiatrist and/or a psychologist with medical assistance. In addition to an interview, several clinical inventories or scales may be used to assess the patient's mental status and determine the presence of bipolar symptoms. These include the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory III (MCMI-III), Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory II (MMPI-2), the Internal State Scale (ISS), the SelfReport Manic Inventory (SRMI), and the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS). The tests are verbal and/or written and are administered in both hospital and outpatient settings. Psychologists and psychiatrists typically use the criteria listed in the DSM-IV-TR as a guideline for diagnosis of bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses. DSM-IV-TR describes a manic episode as an abnormally elevated or irritable mood lasting a period of at least one week that is distinguished by at least three of the mania symptoms: inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, talkativeness, racing thoughts, distractibility, increase in goal-directed activity, or excessive involvement in pleasurable activities that have a high potential for painful consequences. If the mood of the patient is irritable and not elevated, four of the symptoms

are required. Although many clinicians find the criteria too rigid, a hypomanic diagnosis requires a duration of at least four days with at least three of the symptoms indicated for manic episodes (four if mood is irritable and not elevated). DSM-IV-TR notes that unlike manic episodes, hypomanic episodes do not cause a marked impairment in social or occupational functioning, do not require hospitalization , and do not have psychotic features (no delusions or hallucinations). In addition, because hypomanic episodes are characterized by high energy and goal-directed activities and often result in a positive outcome, or are perceived in a positive manner by the patient, bipolar II disorder can go undiagnosed. Bipolar symptoms often appear differently in children and adolescents than they appear in adults. Manic episodes in these age groups are typically characterized by more psychotic features than in adults, which may lead to a misdiagnosis of schizophrenia . Children and adolescents also tend toward irritability and aggressiveness instead of elation. Further, symptoms tend to be chronic, or ongoing, rather than acute, or episodic. Bipolar children are easily distracted, impulsive, and hyperactive, which can lead to a misdiagnosis of attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Furthermore, their aggression often leads to violence, which may be misdiagnosed as a conduct disorder . Substance abuse, thyroid disease, and use of prescription or over-the-counter medication can mask or mimic the presence of bipolar disorder. In cases of substance abuse, the patient must ordinarily undergo a period of detoxification and abstinence before a mood disorder is diagnosed and treatment begins. Treatment Bipolar disorder is usually treated with both medical and psychosocial interventions. Psychosocial therapies address both psychological and social issues. Medical interventions A combination of mood-stabilizing agents with antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants is used to regulate manic and depressive episodes. MOOD-STABILIZING AGENTS. Mood-stabilizing agents such as lithium, carbamazepine , and valproic acid (valproate) are prescribed to regulate the manic highs and lows of bipolar disorder: Lithium ( lithium carbonate , Cibalith-S, Eskalith, Lithane, Lithobid, Lithonate, Lithotabs) is one of the oldest and most frequently prescribed drugs available for the treatment of bipolar mania and depression. Because the drug takes four to ten days to

reach a therapeutic level in the bloodstream, it is sometimes prescribed in conjunction with neuroleptics (other psychiatric drugs) and/or benzodiazepines (medications that ease tension by slowing down the central nervous system) to provide more immediate relief of a manic episode. Lithium has also been shown to be effective in regulating bipolar depression, but is not recommended for mixed mania. Lithium may not be an effective long-term treatment option for rapid cyclers, who typically develop a tolerance for it, or may not respond to it. Possible side effects of the drug include weight gain, thirst, nausea, and hand tremors. Prolonged lithium use may also cause hyperthyroidism (a disease of the thryoid marked by heart palpitations, nervousness, the presence of goiter, sweating, and a wide array of other symptoms.) Carbamazepine (Tegretol, Atretol) is an anticonvulsant drug (a drug to treat seizures ) usually prescribed in conjunction with other mood-stabilizing agents. The drug is often used to treat bipolar patients who have not responded well to lithium therapy. Blurred vision and abnormal eye movement are two possible side effects of carbamazepine therapy. Valproic acid ( divalproex sodium , or Depakote; valproate, or Depakene) is one of the few drugs available that has been proven effective in treating rapid cycling bipolar and mixed states patients. Valproate is prescribed alone or in combination with carbamazepine and/or lithium. Stomach cramps, indigestion, diarrhea, hair loss, appetite loss, nausea, and unusual weight loss or gain are some of the common side effects of valproate. ANTIDEPRESSANTS. Because antidepressants may stimulate manic episodes in some bipolar patients, their use is typically short-term. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or, less often, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO inhibitors) are prescribed for episodes of bipolar depression. Tricyclic antidepressants used to treat unipolar depression may trigger rapid cycling in bipolar patients and are, therefore, not a preferred treatment option for bipolar depression. SSRIs, such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and paroxetine (Paxil), regulate depression by regulating levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter. Anxiety, diarrhea, drowsiness, headache, sweating, nausea, sexual problems, and insomnia are all possible side effects of SSRIs. MAOIs such as tranylcypromine (Parnate) and phenelzine (Nardil) block the action of monoamine oxidase (MAO), an enzyme in the central nervous system. Patients taking MAOIs must cut foods high in tyramine (found in aged cheeses and meats) out of their diet. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is a heterocyclic antidepressant. The exact neurochemical mechanism of the drug is not known, but it has been effective

in regulating bipolar depression in some patients. Side effects of bupropion include agitation, anxiety, confusion, tremor, dry mouth, fast or irregular heartbeat, headache, and insomnia. ADJUNCT TREATMENTS. Adjunct treatments are used in conjunction with a long-term pharmaceutical treatment plan: Long-acting benzodiazepines (medications that ease tension by slowing the central nervous system) such as clonazepam (Klonapin) and alprazolam (Xanax) are used for rapid treatment of manic symptoms to calm and sedate patients until mania or hypomania have waned and mood-stabilizing agents can take effect. Sedation is a common effect, and clumsiness, lightheadedness, and slurred speech are other possible side effects of benzodiazepines. Neuroleptics (antipsychotic medications) such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine) and haloperidol (Haldol) are also used to control mania while a mood stabilizer such as lithium or valproate takes effect. Because neuroleptic side effects can be severe (difficulty in speaking or swallowing, paralysis of the eyes, loss of balance control, muscle spasms, severe restlessness, stiffness of arms and legs, tremors in fingers and hands, twisting movements of body, and weakness of arms and legs), benzodiazepines are generally preferred over neuroleptics. ECT, or electroconvulsive therapy , has a high success rate for treating both unipolar and bipolar depression, and mania. However, because of the convenience of drug treatment and the stigma sometimes attached to ECT therapy, ECT is usually employed after all pharmaceutical treatment options have been explored. ECT is given under anesthesia and patients are given a muscle relaxant medication to prevent convulsions. The treatment consists of a series of electrical pulses that move into the brain through electrodes on the patient's head. Although the exact mechanisms behind the success of ECT therapy are not known, it is believed that this electrical current alters the electrochemical processes of the brain, consequently relieving depression. Headaches, muscle soreness, nausea, and confusion are possible side effects immediately following an ECT procedure. Temporary memory loss has also been reported in ECT patients. In bipolar patients, ECT is often used in conjunction with drug therapy. Calcium channel blockers (nimodipine, or Nimotop), typically used to treat angina and hypotension (low blood pressure), have been found effective, in a few small studies, for treating rapid cyclers. Calcium channel blockers stop the excess calcium buildup in cells that is thought to be a cause of bipolar

disorder. They are usually used in conjunction with other drug therapies such as carbamazepine or lithium. Clozapine (Clozaril) is an antipsychotic medication used to control manic episodes in patients who have not responded to typical mood-stabilizing agents. The drug has also been a useful prophylactic, or preventative treatment, in some bipolar patients. Common side effects of clozapine include tachycardia (rapid heart rate), hypotension, constipation, and weight gain. Agranulocytosis, a potentially serious but reversible condition in which the white blood cells that typically fight infection in the body are destroyed, is a possible side effect of clozapine. Patients treated with the drug should undergo weekly blood tests to monitor white blood cell counts. Risperidone (Risperdal) is an antipsychotic medication that has been successful in controlling mania in several clinical trials when low doses were administered. The side effects of risperidone are mild compared to many other antipsychotics (constipation, coughing, diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, heartburn, increased length of sleep and dream activity, nausea, runny nose, sore throat, fatigue, and weight gain). A new potential treatment for bipolar II disorder may be gabapentin , an anticonvulsant that may help treat mania. Recent reports indicate that gabapentin is effective for treating sudden onset bipolar II. Very recent evidence suggests, however, that gabapentin can potentially induce aggressive and disruptive behavior in children treated with this drug for seizures. rTMS, or repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation is a new and still experimental treatment for the depressive phase of bipolar disorder. In rTMS, a large magnet is placed on the patient's head and magnetic fields of different frequency are generated to stimulate the left front cortex of the brain. Unlike ECT, rTMS requires no anesthesia and does not induce seizures. Psychosocial interventions Because bipolar disorder is thought to be biological in nature, psychological therapy is recommended as a companion to, but not a substitute for, pharmaceutical treatment of the disease. Psychotherapy , such as cognitivebehavioral therapy , can be a useful tool in helping patients and their families adjust to the disorder, in encouraging compliance to a medication regimen, and in reducing the risk of suicide . Also, educative counseling is recommended for the patient and family. In educative counseling, patients (and their families) learn of the high rates of social dysfunction and marital discord associated with this disorder.

Patients also learn how their treatment will progress, which factors can affect treatment, and what kind of follow-up after treatment will be implemented. Genetic counseling should be a part of family education programs since this disorder is more prevalent among first-degree relatives of individuals with the disorder. Social support for individuals with bipolar disorder is also important. Some people with the disorder, as well as their families, may find support groups helpful. Alternative treatment General recommendations include maintaining a calm environment, avoiding over-stimulation, getting plenty of rest, regular exercise, and proper diet. Some Chinese herbs may soften mood swings, but care must be taken (and good communication with the physician is essential) when combining herbal therapies with medications. Biofeedback is effective in helping some patients control symptoms such as irritability, poor self-control, racing thoughts, and sleep problems. A diet low in vanadium (a mineral found in meats and other foods) and high in vitamin C may be helpful in reducing depression. Prognosis While most patients will show some positive response to treatment, response varies widely, from full recovery to a complete lack of response to all drugs and/or ECT therapy. Drug therapies frequently need adjustment to achieve the maximum benefit for the patient. Bipolar disorder is a chronic recurrent illness in over 90% of those afflicted, and one that requires lifelong observation and treatment after diagnosis. Patients with untreated or inadequately treated bipolar disorder have a suicide rate of 15-25% and a nine-year decrease in life expectancy. With proper treatment, the life expectancy of the bipolar patient increases by nearly seven years and work productivity increases by ten years. Prevention The ongoing medical management of bipolar disorder is critical to preventing relapse (recurrence) of manic episodes. Even in carefully controlled treatment programs, bipolar patients may experience recurring episodes of the disorder. Patient education in the form of psychotherapy or self-help groups is crucial for training bipolar patients to recognize signs of mania and depression and to take an active part in their treatment program.

MRI versus CT A computed tomography (CT) scanner uses X-rays, a type of ionizing radiation, to acquire images, making it a good tool for examining tissue composed of elements of a higher atomic number than the tissue surrounding them, such as bone and calcifications (calcium based) within the body (carbon based flesh), or of structures (vessels, bowel). MRI, on the other hand, uses non-ionizing radio frequency (RF) signals to acquire its images and is best suited for soft tissue (although MRI can also be used to acquire images of bones, teeth and even fossils). In contrast, CT images are generated purely by X-ray attenuation, while a variety of properties may be used to generate contrast in MR images. By variation of scanning parameters, tissue contrast can be altered to enhance different features in an image (see Applications for more details). Both CT and MR images may be enhanced by the use of contrast agents. Contrast agents for CT contain elements of a high atomic number, relative to tissue, such as iodine or barium, while contrast agents for MRI have paramagnetic properties, such as gadolinium and manganese, used to alter tissue relaxation times. CT and MRI scanners are able to generate multiple two-dimensional crosssections (tomographs, or "slices") of tissue and three-dimensional reconstructions. MRI can generate cross-sectional images in any plane (including oblique planes). In the past, CT was limited to acquiring images in the axial (or near axial) plane. The scans used to be called Computed Axial Tomography scans (CAT scans). However, the development of multidetector CT scanners with near-isotropic resolution, allows the CT scanner to produce data that can be retrospectively reconstructed in any plane with minimal loss of image quality. For purposes of tumor detection and identification in the brain, MRI is generally superior. However, in the case of solid tumors of the abdomen and chest, CT is often preferred as it suffers less from motion artifacts. Furthermore, CT usually is more widely available, faster, less expensive, and may be less likely to require the person to be sedated or anaesthetized as a result of being less enclosed and noisy, and therefore less psychologically intimidating.

MRI is also best suited for cases when a patient is to undergo the exam several times successively in the short term, because, unlike CT, it does not expose the patient to the hazards of ionizing radiation.

Autoimmune disorders Autoimmunity is the failure of an organism to recognize its own constituent parts as self, which allows an immune response against its own cells and tissues. Any disease that results from such an aberrant immune response is termed an autoimmune disease. Autoimmunity is often caused by a lack of germ development of a target body and as such the immune response acts against its own cells and tissues. Prominent examples include Coeliac disease, diabetes mellitus type 1 (IDDM), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjgren's syndrome, Churg-Strauss Syndrome, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus and allergies. Autoimmune diseases are very often treated with steroids. The misconception that an individual's immune system is totally incapable of recognizing self antigens is not new. Paul Ehrlich, at the beginning of the twentieth century, proposed the concept of horror autotoxicus, wherein a 'normal' body does not mount an immune response against its own tissues. Thus, any autoimmune response was perceived to be abnormal and postulated to be connected with human disease. Now, it is accepted that autoimmune responses are an integral part of vertebrate immune systems (sometimes termed 'natural autoimmunity'), normally prevented from causing disease by the phenomenon of immunological tolerance to selfantigens. Autoimmunity should not be confused with alloimmunity. Environmental factors An interesting inverse relationship exists between infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases. In areas where multiple infectious diseases are endemic, autoimmune diseases are quite rarely seen. The reverse, to some extent, seems to hold true. The hygiene hypothesis attributes these correlations to the immune manipulating strategies of pathogens. Whilst such an observation has been variously termed as spurious and ineffective, according to some studies, parasite infection is associated with reduced activity of autoimmune disease.[11][12][13] The putative mechanism is that the parasite attenuates the host immune response in order to protect itself. This may provide a serendipitous benefit

to a host that also suffers from autoimmune disease. The details of parasite immune modulation are not yet known, but may include secretion of antiinflammatory agents or interference with the host immune signaling. A paradoxical observation has been the strong association of certain microbial organisms with autoimmune diseases. For example, Klebsiella pneumoniae and coxsackievirus B have been strongly correlated with ankylosing spondylitis and diabetes mellitus type 1, respectively. This has been explained by the tendency of the infecting organism to produce superantigens that are capable of polyclonal activation of B-lymphocytes, and production of large amounts of antibodies of varying specificities, some of which may be self-reactive (see below). Certain chemical agents and drugs can also be associated with the genesis of autoimmune conditions, or conditions that simulate autoimmune diseases. The most striking of these is the drug-induced lupus erythematosus. Usually, withdrawal of the offending drug cures the symptoms in a patient. Cigarette smoking is now established as a major risk factor for both incidence and severity of rheumatoid arthritis. This may relate to abnormal citrullination of proteins, since the effects of smoking correlate with the presence of antibodies to citrullinated peptides.

Conditions identified with biopsies When cancer is suspected, a variety of biopsy techniques can be applied. An excisional biopsy is an attempt to remove an entire lesion. When the specimen is evaluated, in addition to diagnosis, the amount of uninvolved tissue around the lesion, the surgical margin of the specimen is examined to see if the disease has spread beyond the area biopsied. "Clear margins" or "negative margins" means that no disease was found at the edges of the biopsy specimen. "Positive margins" means that disease was found, and a wider excision may be needed, depending on the diagnosis. When intact removal is not indicated for a variety of reasons, a wedge of tissue may be taken in an incisional biopsy. In some cases, a sample can be collected by devices that "bite" a sample. A variety of sizes of needle can collect tissue in the lumen (core biopsy). Smaller diameter needles collect cells and cell clusters, fine needle aspiration biopsy. Pathologic examination of a biopsy can determine whether a lesion is benign or malignant, and can help differentiate between different types of cancer. In contrast to a biopsy that merely samples a lesion, a larger excisional specimen called a resection may

come to a pathologist, typically from a surgeon attempting to eradicate a known lesion from a patient. For example, a pathologist would examine a mastectomy specimen, even if a previous nonexcisional breast biopsy had already established the diagnosis of breast cancer. Examination of the full mastectomy specimen would confirm the exact nature of the cancer (subclassification of tumor and histologic "grading") and reveal the extent of its spread (pathologic "staging"). Precancerous conditions For easily detected and accessed sites, any suspicious lesions may be assessed. Originally, this was skin or superficial masses. X-ray, then later CT, MRI, and ultrasound along with endoscopy extended the range. Inflammatory conditions A biopsy of the temporal arteries is often performed for suspected vasculitis. In inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), frequent biopsies are taken to assess the activity of disease and to assess changes that precede malignancy. Biopsy specimens are often taken from part of a lesion when the cause of a disease is uncertain or its extent or exact character is in doubt. Vasculitis, for instance, is usually diagnosed on biopsy. Kidney disease: Biopsy and fluorescence microscopy are key in the diagnosis of alterations of renal function. The immunofluorescence plays vital role in the diagnosis of Crescentic glomerulonephritis. Infectious disease: Lymph node enlargement may be due to a variety of infectious or autoimmune diseases. Metabolic disease: Some conditions affect the whole body, but certain sites are selectively biopsied because they are easily accessed. Amyloidosis is a condition where degraded proteins accumulate in body tissues. In order to make the diagnosis, the gingival. Transplantation: Biopsies of transplanted organs are performed in order to determine that they are not being rejected or that the disease that necessitated transplant has not recurred. Fertility: A testicular biopsy is used for evaluating the fertility of men and find out the cause of a possible infertility, e.g. when sperm quality is low, but hormone levels still are within normal ranges.

ROMANIAN - ENGLISH Cele mai importante descoperiri medicale ale mileniului Descoperirile medicale din ultimii 1000 de ani au salvat nenumeroase vieti si au dublat speranta de viata a oamenilor in multe colturi ale lumii. Aceste descoperiri au revolutionat practica medicala, au salvat milioane de vieti si au adus imbunatatiri pentru sanatatea intregii populatii. Acum 1000 de ani, in Europa, oamenii se asteptau la o speranta de viata de 30 de ani, iar din 100 de copii nascuti, mai bine de 40 nu apucau primul an. Bolile, infectiile, conditiile precare de viata doborau numeroase vieti. In prezent, in SUA, speranta de viata este mai mult decat dubla decat acum 1000 de ani, aceasta fiind de 76,5 ani, iar rata mortalitatii infantile este doar o fractiune din ceea ce a fost acum 1000 de ani. Descoperirile din acest mileniu vor imbunatati cu siguranta aceste cifre si vor conduce la un trai mai sanatos. Progresele in genetica, de exemplu, ofera speranta unor tratamente serioase bolilor precum cancerul, bolile mostenite genetic si chiar pot conduce la incetinirea procesului de imbatranire. Niciunul dintre aceste progrese nu ar fi posibil, nici macar cu gandul, daca nu s-ar fi facut toate aceste descoperiri din ultimul mileniu. Procesul de selectare a zece dintre numeroasele descoperiri realizate in ultimii 1000 de ani este unul foarte dificil. Cum se masoara semnificatia unei descoperiri din lumea medicala? Un factor este suprem: cele mai fundamentale descoperiri sunt cele care au condus mai tarziu la alte descoperiri ce au renascut practica medicala si au afectat milioane, chiar miliarde de oameni. Cu toate aceste, schimbarile din medicina au lasat in urma, au dat uitarii descoperirea initiala. Aceste descoperiri au ajuns la statutul de cele mai importante nu pentru ca au ajutat imediat pe medici sa salveze vieti, ci pentru ca le-au schimbat acestora modul de a gandi despre viata si sanatatea umana. Prin urmare, aceste descoperiri au deschis largi campuri de cercetare ce au revolutionat medicina si au salvat vietile unui numar incalculabil de oameni. In ordinea descoperirii lor, aceste progrese majore sunt: anatomia umana, circulatia sangelui, bacteria, vaccinul, anestezia, razele X, testarea sangelui, tesuturile, antibioticele si structura acidului dezoxiribonucleic ( AND). ANATOMIA Inainte de descoperirea stiintei medicale, practicienii din medicina aveau nevoie sa inteleaga precis anatomia umana. Fara descrieri clare ale structurii

corpului uman era imposibil de inteles faptul ca diferite parti ale corpului reactioneaza diferit. Odata cercetat si inteles felul in care partile corpului lucreaza, era mai usor de stabilit terapii si tratamente pentru a restaura corect aceste functii. Uimitor, dar nimeni nu a stiut mai multe despre corpul uman pana in anul 1543 cand anatomistul belgian Andreas Vesalius a scris De Humani Corporis Fabrica. Ambitios, motivat si nemilos, Andreas a primit la doar 23 de ani diploma de medic la Universitatea din Padova, unde a fost numit si sef al sectiei de chirurgie. Ca student, iar mai tarziu ca om de stiinta, Vesalius mergea noaptea in cimitire de unde recupera cadavrele pentru a putea face disectii pe ele. Celebra sa carte cuprinde 7 volume, cu peste 200 de desene magnifice. Aceasta opera pretioasa, considerata de unii ca fiind cea mai mare carte medicala publicata vreodata, a oferit informatii extrem de importante despre anatomia umana, toate bazate pe o observare atenta si disectii. CIRCULATIA SANGELUI Fizicianul englez William Harvey este cel care a descoperit felul in care sangele circula. Cartea sa Anatomical Essay on the Motion of the Heart and Blood in Animals a stimulat cercetarea a numeroase procese precum respiratia, digestia, metabolismul si reproducerea. Harvey si-a luat diploma la Universitatea din Padova unde a invatat un lucru de o importanta majora venele au valve ce permit circulatia sangelui intr-o singura directie. Cu oate acestea, rolul lor nu era definit in totalitate. Intr-unul din capitolele cartii sale, Harvey a introdus ideea revolutionara cum ca sangele circula in cerc in corp, de la inima, la artere, la vene si iarasi la inima, de aici si numele de circulatie. BACTERIA Dupa descoperirile monumentale ale lui Vesalius si Harvey, a urmat secolul a 17-lea cand s-a descoperit cel mai mare dusman al corpului uman bacteria. Aceasta descoperire a dus la concluzia ca expunerea organismului la anumite microorganisme poate provoca boli. Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, un simplu om de serviciu olandez a descoperit numeroase bacterii la propriul lui microscop. Cu ajutorul unui prieten, acesta a inceput sa scrie scrisori, traduse in engleza, Curtii regale de la Londra. Intr-una din faimoasele sale scrisori, acesta povesteste cum urmarea de cateva zile o picatura de apa la microscopul sau si a vazut mici animale ce se miscau, cunoscute astazi sub numele de protozoare. VACCINUL Variola, considerata una dintre cele mai comune infectii care a facut numeroase victime, astazi este complet eradicata. Acest success medical apartine medicului englez Edward Jenner care in 1796 a dezvoltat primul

vaccin eficient impotriva variolei. Descoperirea lui Jenner a pus bazele Imunologiei. Procedura medicala realizata de el s-a numit variolare si urmarea sa protejeze oamenii de variola. Mai exact, putin sange de la o persoana ce suferea de variola era injectat unei persoane sanatoase, astfel corpul dezvoltandu-si anticorpi pentru apararea organismului si impiedicarea instaurarii bolii. Vaccinarea a fost privita ca ceva nefiresc pentru multi ani, iar tehnica a fost intampinata de o opozitie semnificativa din partea oamenilor din acele timpuri. Cu toate acestea, Jenner a primit o diploma de onoare de la Universitatea din Oxford pentru munca sa inovatoare care a deschis calea dezvoltarii unor metode moderne de vacinare. ANESTEZIA Pana la descoperirea anesteziei in anul 1842 de catre Crawford Williamson, chirurgia era un calvar ingrozitor incercat doar in cazurile de rani sau boli cumplite. In aceste cazuri in care se facea apel la chirurgie, de obicei pacientul consuma opium sau alcool pentru diminuarea durerii, altii isi gaseau speranta in Dumnezeu. Aceasta descoperire le-a permis medicilor sa lucreze mai atent si mai lent atunci cand faceau operatii. RAZELE X Descoperirea razelor X si a radiologiei a reprezentat un pas enorm pentru medicina. Pentru prima data, medicii au putut vedea in interiorul corpului uman fara a-l deschide. Acest fapt a facut mult mai usoara identificarea tumorilor, fracturilor, a altor maladii, cat si a planului de operatie. TESTAREA SANGELUI La inceputul secolului al XX-lea, fizicianul austriac Karl Landsteiner a descoperit faptul ca sangele poate fi grupat in cateva tipuri diferite, ceea ce a facut posibil transferul de sange de la o persoana la alta. TESUTURILE Americanul Ross Granville Harrison a descoperit in 1907 faptul ca tesuturile organismului pot fi cultivate si in afara lui. Descoperirea lui a fost apreciata deoarece a permis studiul dezvoltarii genelor, tumorilor, toxinelor, dar si a altor agenti patogeni care pot produce numeroase boli. Tehnica a fost, de asemenea, folosita pentru a produce medicamente, vaccinuri, tesuturi de nlocuire, precum si pentru a clona animale, cum ar fi Dolly, oaia celebra. ANTIBIOTICELE Descoperirea antibioticelor a deschis un nou front in lupta impotriva bolilor. Inarmati cu antibiotice care distrug bacteriile si inhiba cresterea lor, oamenii de stiinta au putut lupta impotriva holerei, pneumoniei, tuberculozei etc. ADN-ul a reprezentat cea mai mare descoperire a secolului.

SUPRADOZA DE MEDICAMENTE Niciun medicament nu este lipsit de riscuri si aproape toate au efecte secundare, chiar daca sunt destinate tratarii anumiror boli. Organismul uman este format astfel incat sa reactioneze impotriva substantelor toxice ingerate, insa daca sunt administrate intr-o cantitate mare acesta cedeaza. Supradoza de medicamente se descrie ca fiind o stare comatoasa provocata prin consumul exagerat de produse specifice medicamentelor, alcoolului sau drogurilor. Acest supradozaj poate fi accidental sau voluntar (tentativa de suicid). Organismul nu este capabil sa suporte cantitati excesive de medicamente. Primele reactii sunt aparitia simptomelor specifice supradozajului. Daca aceste semne sunt identificate in timp util, pacientul poate fi salvat. Simptomele unei supradoze de medicamente Iata semnele care indica faptul ca o persoana a luat o supradoza de medicamente: In functie de produsul ingerat, primele simptome pot fi diferite. Insa, in general victima devine somnolenta, iar respiratia sufera modificari puternice (respiratie accelerata, sacadata, apoi din ce in ce mai inceata). Persoana afectata se ingalbeneste puternic la fata si poate avea frisoane. Victima poate suferi si reactii mai violente precum agitatie puternica, anxietate, delir, halucinatii auditive si vizuale, paranoia etc. Ritmul cardiac este foarte accelerat, iar starea de indispozitie este din ce in ce mai vizibila. Cu trecerea timpului, persoana care a luat o supradoza de medicamente devine inconstienta. Respiratia sa este foarte mult diminuata, devine neregulata, uneori chiar absenta pe anumite perioade de timp. Ritmul cardiac incetineste treptat, iar victima intra in coma. In cele mai multe situatii, trezirea persoanei afectate in timp util si mentinerea acesteia constiente s-au dovedit a fi esentiale in salvarea ei. Daca bolnavul nu isi mai controleaza respiratia, masajul cardiac si respiratia artificiala sunt primele gesturi de urgenta care trebuie facute inainte de venirea asistentei medicale calificate. Organele afectate de supradozaj Medicamentele contin produse al caror principiu activ actioneaza asupra organismului in scopul terapeutic. Aceste produse active sunt de origine animala, vegetala sau chimica. In caz de supradozaj, efectul medicamentelor se schimba dintr-unul benefic intr-unul toxic. - Primul organ afectat este stomacul. Persoana in cauza poate suferi o gastrita sau chiar un ulcer. Ficatul. Rolul principal al ficatului este acela de a detoxifica organismul. In

caz de supradozaj, celulele acestuia sunt afectate si victima poate suferi de insuficienta hepatica. - Sangele. Substantele toxice sunt eliberate in sange. Rinichii. Riscul de insuficienta renala in cazul unui supradozaj cu medicamente este foarte mare. - Creierul. Sistemul nervos in general poate fi afectat considerabil (encefalopatie, diverse tulburari neurologice, polinefrita etc). - Inima. Anumite medicamente provoaca tulburari de ritm, determinand astfel aparitia stopului cardiac. - Pielea. La nivelul pielii au loc manifestari cutanate de tip alergic (eruptii cutanate). Medicamentele cele mai periculoase in supradozaj: Medicamentele psihotrope de genul antidepresivelor, anxioliticelor, neurolepticelor: risc de stop respirator. / Aspirina: traumatism renal si auditiv; / Corticoizii: dereglari hormonale; / Paracetamolul: imbolnavirea ficatului; / Antibioticele: afectiuni ale ficatului, ale rinichilor, ale inimii; / Anti-inflamatoarele: boli de stomac; / Diureticele: stop cardiac; / Insulina si antidiabeticele comprimate: coma hipoglicemica; / Antitusivele pe baza de codeina: risc de stop respirator; / Antihistaminicele: coma.

Romnia a aderat la Codex Alimentarius Genocidul planetar incepe in 2010 In 30 de ani vor muri trei miliarde de oameni: unul din lipsa hranei, alte doua din cauza bolilor. Directive: * eliminarea suplimentelor naturale, a mineralelor si vitaminelor * Animalele vor fi tratate cu hormoni si iradiate, iar plantele - modificate genetic * Cine va folosi produse naturale va face inchisoare * Usturioul, menta si alte produse comune vor deveni droguri De la 31 decembrie 2009, Guvernul Romaniei a inceput, alaturi de alte 165 de state semnatare (reprezentand aproape 85 % din populatia planetei), implementarea temutului Codex Alimentarius. Un compendiu de legi alimentare, de factura nazista, introdus de AG Farben si care va stabili regulile de alimentatie ale natiunilor. Implementarea, prevazuta pe mai multe etape, porneste de la faptul ca populatia globului este mult prea numeroasa ca Terra sa poata sustine o alimentatie naturala. Astfel, produsele trebuie modificate genetic, construite in laborator, aditivate si iradiate. Toate aceste date pot fi studiate pe site-ul www.codexalimentarius.com.

Conform acestui site, Romania a trimis deja formularele de inscriere si aderare in ultimile zile ale anului trecut, iar din iulie 2010, dupa intalnirea de la Roma va incepe implementarea proiectului, prima etapa prevazand plantele modificate genetic, precum si normativele aditivilor alimentari. In privinta aditivarii sunt implicate marile concerne farmaceutice mondiale, aceleasi care sunt acum implicate si in fabricarea vaccinurilor anti-gripale, precum cel impotriva virusului AH1N1. Secretul hranei artificiale Codex Alimentarius este unul din cele mai bine pastrate secrete deschise". Este finantat de Organizatia Mondiala a Sanatatii (OMS) si Organizatia pentru Alimente si Agricultura (FAO), ambele apartinand de ONU. Este cel mai mare dezastru pentru sanatatea noastra, intrucat va interzice elemente vitale de alimentatie. Adeptii teoriei conspiratiei sustin ca planul "Guvernului Mondial" e menit sa decimeze populatia planetei, aflata in continua crestere. Daca pana acum razboaiele mondiale erau cele care reglau numarul populatiei, de acum solutia sta in alimentatie. Aceiasi adepti sustin ca in 30 de ani de la implementarea Codului, populatia planetei se va stabiliza la doua miliarde, o masa suficient controlabila, care este indeajuns pentru resursele planetei si care este in acord cu normele de poluare etc. In acest interval un miliard de oameni vor muri din lipsa elementelor principale de hrana, iar alte doua miliarde datorita bolilor ce vor fi generate in organism. Hrana farmaceutica si cancerigena Denumirea Codex Alimentarius provine din limba latina si se traduce prin codul produselor alimentare. Reprezinta o colectie de standarde alimentare adoptate la nivel international, care au ca scop declarat protectia sanatatii consumatorilor si asigurarea practicilor corecte in comertul alimentar. Codex Alimentarius cuprinde standarde pentru toate alimentele, fie ele preparate, semipreparate sau crude si pentru distributia catre consumator, prevederi in ceea ce priveste igiena alimentara, aditivi alimentari, reziduuri de pesticide, factori de contaminare, etichetare si prezentare, metode de analiza si prelevare. Codex Alimentarius intentioneaza sa puna in afara legii orice metoda alternativa in domeniul sanatatii cum ar fi terapiile naturiste, folosirea suplimentelor alimentare si a vitaminelor si tot ceea ce ar putea constitui mai mult sau mai putin un potential concurent pentru industria chimiei farmaceutice. Cine se va opune sau va folosi alimente in afara

Codex-ului va face inchisoare. Practic, omenirea va avea parte de o hrana farmaceutica. Doctorul Matthias Rath, un specialist german care duce campanii la nivel mondial pentru folosirea tratamentelor alternative in cazul multor boli grave, descrie aceasta situatie astfel: Adevaratul scop al industriei farmaceutice mondiale este de a castiga bani pe seama bolilor cronice, si nu de a se ocupa de prevenirea sau eradicarea acestor boli. Industria farmaceutica are un interes financiar direct in perpetuarea acestor maladii, pentru a-si asigura mentinerea si chiar cresterea pietei de medicamente. Pentru acest motiv medicamentele sunt facute pentru a alina simptomele si nu pentru a trata adevaratele cauze ale bolilor. Trusturile farmaceutice sunt responsabile de un genocid permanent si raspandit, ucigand in acest mod milioane de oameni. La fel va fi si in cazul Codexului care nu e altceva decat o masura de decimare a populatiei planetei care va manca produse farmaceutice, ce vor fi iradiate, vor contine cobalt si vor fi modificate genetic, generand cancere." Aplicatiile Codexului Directivele Codex-ului Alimentarius enuntate de catre Directiva Europeana in ceea ce priveste suplimentele alimentare trebuie aplicate sub amenintarea sanctiunilor financiare. 1) Eliminarea oricarui supliment alimentar natural. Toate aceste suplimente vor fi inlocuite de 28 de produsi de sinteza farmaceutica, care vor fi dozati si vor fi disponibili numai in farmacii, pe baza de prescriptie medicala. Clasificate ca "toxine", vitaminele, mineralele si plantele medicinale vor fi pe piata numai in doze care NU au impact asupra nimanui. De exemplu coenzima Q10, glucozamina etc., vor fi ilegale, folosirea lor sanctionandu-se cu inchisoarea. 2) Medicina naturista cum ar fi acupunctura, medicina energetica, ayurvedica, tibetana etc, vor fi interzise. 3) Agricultura si alimentatia animalelor vor fi reglementate conform normelor fixate de trusturile chimiei farmaceutice, interzicand din principiu asa numita agricultura bio. Aceasta implica, de exemplu, ca fiecare vaca de lapte de pe planeta sa fie tratata cu hormonul de crestere bovin recombinat genetic produs de Monsanto. Mai mult, potrivit Codexului, orice animal de pe planeta folosit in scopuri de hrana trebuie tratat cu antibiotice si cu hormoni de crestere. Regulile Codexului permit ca produsele ce contin organisme modificate genetic (OMG) sa nu mai fie etichetate corespunzator. In 2001, 12 substante chimice despre care se stie ca sunt cauzatoare de cancer, au fost interzise in mod unanim de 176 de tari, inclusiv de SUA. Ei bine, Codex Alimentarius aduce inapoi 7 dintre aceste substante interzise,

precum hexachlorobenzene, dieldrin, aldrin etc, care vor putea fi folosite la liber din nou. 4) Alimentatia umana certificata legal va trebui sa fie iradiata cu Cobalt. Sub regulile Codexului, aproape toate alimentele trebuie iradiate. Si nivelurile de radiatie vor fi mult mai mari decat cele permise anterior. Codex Alimentarius va controla accesul asupra acizilor aminati esentiali, asupra vitaminelor si mineralelor. Cum va fi implementat programul Pe langa Romania, la Codex Alimentarius au mai aderat alte 165 de tari, ai caror reprezentanti se intalnesc alternativ fie la sediul FAO de la Roma, fie la sediul OMS de la Geneva. Urmatoarea intalnire are loc in 2010, la Roma. Acum, Comisia functioneaza dupa un Plan Strategic, elaborat pentru perioada 2008-2013. Obiectivele stabilite pentru aceasta perioada sunt promovarea unor cadre solide de reglementare a activitatilor, si anume un sistem solid national de control si sisteme de reglementare legislative pentru intregul lant alimentar. - suplimentele alimentare nu se vor mai comercializa nici in scop preventiv, nici terapeutic - vor fi necesare retete pentru toate medicamentele peste o doza extrem de mica - usturioul sau menta, alaturi de alte produse comune, vor fi considerate droguri de categoria a 3-a care pot fi comercializate doar de catre marile corporatii farmaceutice - toate suplimentele alimentare ce vor aparea vor fi interzise pana ce nu vor trece anumite teste prevazute in noul cod - produsele modificate genetic vor fi comercializate fara avertizarea consumatorilor, niciun fel de eticheta nefiind necesara Specialistii in nutritie preconizeaza ca aplicarea acestui program va produce, in maximum 30 de ani de la implementare, peste trei miliarde de victime umane, un miliard murind din cauza lipsei de hrana alte doua miliarde din cauza bolilor generate in organism si cauzate de proasta calitate a alimentelor disponibile.

MITURI MEDICALE Miturile medicale sunt prezente si capata din ce in ce mai mult teren in credintele si stilul actual de viata. Grav este ca unele ne conduc, gresit, viata si ne pot pune in pericol sanatatea sau ne pot face sa credem ca suferim de boli inexistente ori sa luam tratamente cu totul gresite. Iata principalele mituri medicale de care trebuie sa stii: 1. Daca faci vaccin antigripal, faci automat si gripa. Majoritatea oamenilor nu inteleg ca intr-adevar doza de vaccin antigripal contine tulpini de virus gripal inactiv. Cu alte cuvinte, virusul gripal prezent in compozitia vaccinului este "mort" si nu poate fi activat de nimic din corp. Dimpotriva el lupta impotriva virusului activ atunci cand persoana este supusa contaminarii. 2. Suplimentele sunt necesare pentru toata lumea si te fac mai sanatos. Suplimentele cu vitamine si minerale nu reprezinta nicidecum un tratament. De asemenea, nu toata lumea are nevoie de ele cand apar epidemiile de raceala si gripa, adica iarna sau primavara. Dimpotriva, medicii sustin ca acestea ar trebui administrate numai la recomandarea medicului si ca supradozarea cu anumite vitamine sau minerale poate conduce la probleme si dezechilibre grave in organism. Se aleg adesea gresit combinatii de mai multe vitamine pentru a fi administrate, fara ca a se sti daca au nevoie de toate si in ce doze, ceea ce este extrem de periculos. 3. Trebuie sa bei cel putin 2 litri de apa zilnic. Nu este neaparat un mit, cat mai degraba o confuzie usoara care reiese din aceasta recomandare pe care oamenii, in general, nu o sesizeaza. Sa bei apa este esential pentru sanatate, este foarte bine sa respecti si acest indicator al medicilor de cel putin 2 litri zilnic, dar mare atentie pentru ca aceasta cantitate este totalul de apa dintr-o zi. Si alimentele si celelalte bauturi pe care le consumi intr-o zi contin apa si intra la calculul celor 2 litri. Deci, nu este obligatoriu sa bei 2 litri numai de apa. 4. Calculatoarele strica vederea. Este unul dintre cele mai vehiculate mituri. O serie numeroasa de analize i-au determinat pe specialisti sa conchida ca ochii nostri nu sunt in pericol de a fi afectati de expunerea indelungata la calculator (si de radiatiile emise de acestea, care afecteaza ochii intr-o proportie insignifianta). Se pare ca tensiunea oculara determinata de concentrarea indelungata la anumite activitati de pe calculator, lipsa odihnei

ochilor conform indicatiilor medicului, ignorarea anumitor afectiuni si alte motive stau la baza diminuarii vederii. 5. Vaccinurile cauzeaza aparitia autismului. Organismul poate manifesta reactii adverse la administrarea unui vaccin, insa nu exista nicio dovada stiintifica ca ar determina autismul. Simptomele adverse cuprind iritatie locala, o usoara febra etc. Dar atat! Mitul a aparut in anul 1998, atunci cand parintii a 8 copii cu autism au acuzat vaccinul contra oreionului, rubeolei si pojarului ca fiind vinovat de declansarea bolii. Dar studii realizate pe mai mult de 530.000 de copii nu au reusit sa identifice nicio corelatie intre autism si vaccin. Din pacate acest mit i-a impiedicat pe multi parinti sa mai administreze vaccinul copiilor, punandu-le sanatatea in pericol. 6. Ouale cresc colesterolul nociv din sange. Desi in trecut se recomanda consumul aproape zilnic de oua, epoca moderna vine cu noi ipoteze. Unii medici sustin ca de fapt acestea ar avea efecte nocive asupra colesterolului. Specialistii zilelor noastre sustin ca nu exista niciun pericol in acest sens si ca dimpotriva, s-a demonstrat ca acestea ar avea un efect pozitiv asupra acestuia daca sunt consumate corect. In plus, chiar si daca ar fi asa, nu exista niciun motiv pentru care nu ai putea consuma albusul de ou, care nu are efect asupra colesterolului. 7. Tratamentele pentru cancer sunt dureroase si inutile. Aceasta idee a fost adevarata cu mult timp in urma. In ziua de astazi, cercetarile si descoperirile in domeniu au reusit nu numai sa gaseasca leacul la tot mai multor tipuri de cancer, dar sa creeze si scheme de tratament minim invazive cu efecte adverse reduse. Gandeste-te numai ca in trecut 90% dintre copiii cu leucemie mureau, in timp ce astazi 80% dintre ei supravietuiesc si sunt vindecati de aceasta boala cumplita. Este adevarat ca nu se aplica in toate cazurile de cancer, dar generalizarea acestui mit duce la presiuni emotionale puternice asupra bolnavilor de cancer. 8. Daca mananci noaptea te ingrasi mai mult. Nu este adevarat, spun expertii. Ceea ce este cu adevarat credibil si important de luat in considerare este faptul ca alimentatia pe timpul noptii poate crea probleme digestive. Dar specialistii sustin ca din punct de vedere al acumularii jkilogramelor in plus nu conteaza ora la care mananci daca respecti cantitatea de calorii zilnice recomandate.

9. Colesterolul este nociv pentru sanatate. Exista colesterol "bun" si colesterol "rau" in organism. Colesterolul nociv este influentat de grasimile saturate din alimente si poate cauza boli de inima grave. Cel benefic este "hranit" de grasimi neasaturate din alimente sanatoase si are un rol esential in functionarea optima a organismului. 10. Folosim doar 10% din creier! Este un mit care supravietuieste de zeci de ani, dar specialistii sustin ca nicio parte a creierului nu ramane inactiva pe parcursul vietii. Ei au demonstrat ca oamenii folosesc mult mai mult de 10% din creier in procesele si activitatile zilnice pe care le realizeaza. 11. Stresul iti scoate peri albi. Nu stresul in sine scoate peri albi, ci faptul ca acesta imbatraneste prematur organismul. Imbatranirea timpurie cauzata de stres are loc atat la exterior cat si la interior si determina reactiile specifice, printre care si albirea. 12. Gandirea pozitiva previne imbolnavirea. Intr-adevar gandirea pozitiva (optimismul) este una dintre masurile simple care previn aparitia afectiunilor. Totodata, aceasta contribuie la ameliorarea sau vindecarea afectiunilor, in special daca aceasta a fost declansata de gandirea negativa depresie, anxietate. Atentie, insa. Daca ganditi pozitiv nu inseamna ca puteti neglija consultatia medicala de specialitate; simptomele prezentate pot fi declansate de factori aflati in afara sferei constiintei. 13. Vremea rece favorizeaza aparitia bolilor. Potrivit studiilor oamenii care locuiesc in zone cu temperaturi scazute prezinta un risc minim de a se imbolnavi. Vremea rece contribuie la "conservarea" organismului, scazand astfel riscul dezvoltatii infectiilor. 14. Obezitatea si supraponderabilitatea sunt cauzate de un metabolism lent. Din pacate, metabolismul lent nu are nicio legatura cu supraponderabilitatea sau obezitatea. Potrivit ultimelor studii in domeniu, persoanele supraponderale prezinta un metabolism accelerat care foloseste o cantitate mai mare de energie (ceea ce inseamna o ardere mai mare de calorii) decat metabolismul persoanelor care au o masa corporala normala. 15. Laptele favorizeaza aparitia rinoreei. Potrivit statisticilor, 2 din 3 persoane sunt de parere ca laptele contribuie la cresterea secretiilor nazale. O afirmatie total falsa, in urma unui studiu realizat pe 330 voluntari care au consumat in mod regulat lapte nu s-a constat un risc crescut de aparitie

pentru rinoree si nici nu s-au manifestat simptome precum: tusea sau congestia nazala. 16. Antibioticele influenteaza actiunea anticonceptionalelor. Potrivit literaturii de specialitate antibioticele nu interactioneaza cu actiunea pilulelor contraceptive. O importanta mai mare detine modul de administrare al pilulei contraceptive (zilnic, la aproximativ acceasi ora) decat interactionarea cu antibioticele. 17. Eclipsa provoaca orbirea. Este adevarat. Eclipsa solara nu trebuie niciodata privita cu ochiul liber sau cu un dispozitiv optic nefiltrat (binoclu, telescop) deoarece lumina soarelui deterioreaza terminatiile nervoase sensibile la lumina de pe retina, conducand la pierderea vederii. Deci, eclipsele partiale sau totale cauzeaza leziuni grave ale ochilor daca nu sunt luate masuri de prevenire. 18. Bolile cu transmitere sexuala pot fi luate de pe colacul de la toaleta. Potrivit cercetatorilor, ideea de a contacta o boala venerica de pe colacul de la toaleta suna plauzibil, insa este foarte putin probabil ca acest lucru sa se intample. Se presupune ca acest mit era utilizat ca explicatie de catre sotiile implicate in relatii extraconjugale cand sotii aflau ca s-au contaminat cu o boala cu transmitere sexuala. 19. Consumul de lapte favorizeaza instalarea somnolentei. Este adevarat; laptele contine o substanta chimica cunoscuta sub denumirea de triptofan, care favorizeaza instalarea somnolentei. Astfel, daca doriti ca in fiecare seara sa adormiti repede iar somnul sa fie "usor" si odihnitor tot ce trebuie sa faceti este sa consumati un pahar cu lapte caldut inainte de culcare.