On February 24, 2010, an employee at the Chowking restaurant near the Malate church in Manila did not have a visible required health certificate. Also, said restaurant
did not have a visible express lane for senior citizens, contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003.Also, contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003, said restaurant did not have a visible sign regarding the privileges of senior citizens. There was a live flying insect fly in the dining area of said restaurant.The men's CR was under repair.
On February 24, 2010, there was a security lapse at the entrance to the Aristocrat restaurant near the Malate church. A person identified as a security guard
near the entrance to said restaurant, didn't inspect/subject to scanning my luggage, which was large enough to contain deadly weapons, to the detriment of
customers inside.
On February 24, 2010, an employee at the Max's restaurant at Robinsons Place Ermita, didn't have a visible required health certificate in the proper location
on her clothing.There was no visible express lane or senior citizens, contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003.Also, contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003, said restaurant did not have a visible sign regarding the privileges of senior citizens.
On February 24, 2010, the KFC and Chowking restaurants at Robinsons Place Ermita, didn't have visible express lanes for senior citizens, contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003.Also, contrary to
the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003, said restaurants did not have a visible sign regarding the privileges of senior
citizens.
On February 24, 2010, the Robinsons Supermarket at Robinsons Place Ermita, sold an imported food product without a visible name and address of the importer of said product.
Advisory re products from Power Nut Food Manufacturing. I have evidence that Senator Loren Legarda accepted my complaint vs. said entity and that her agent endorsed my complaint to Peter Favila of DTI. I have evidence that the Department of Trade and Industry indorsed to the Department of Health my letter regarding said entity. Evidence is a letter addressed to Director Irma L. Asuncion, Department of Health (DOH), San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, Manila. The source of said letter was identified as "Jaime Lazaro L. Olmos Director-In-Charge Bureau of Trade Regulation and Consumer Protection Department of Trade and Industry. Said letter was dated 19 August 2009. Said letter contains the following words:"respectfully referred to Director Irma L. Asuncion, Department of Health . . .for appropriate action, the attached self explanatory letter of M. Silva . . . regarding customer advisory re . . . Power Nut store specifically for the lists of all the ingredients and visible understandable consume before/best before dates of the said products . . ." I have evidence that the Department of Trade and Industry indorsed to Benjamin Abalos, Jr. , Mayor, Mandaluyong City my customer advisory vs. Power Nut store. Evidence of said letter from DTI is a letter dated 18, August 2009.
On February 26, 2010, a person, identified as a security guard at the entrance to the Jollibee restaurant on P. Faura St., Ermita, Mnila, didn't inspect my luggage/subject said luggage to security scanning. As a result, I could have brought deadly weapons into said restaurant, to the detriment of customers inside. The restaurant employee who received my payment didn't have a visible health certificate attached to her clothing, contrary to regulations. Contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003, there was no visible express lane for senior citizens in said restaurant and there was no visible sign in said restaurant regarding the privileges of senior citizens. The employee who received my payment didn't immediately give me proof of payment or table tag.
It was only much later was I given said table tag and proof of payment. Said table tag didn't have the visible name of said restaurant.
web site with useful information:
http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/
Friday, February 26, 2010
Friday, February 19, 2010
Advisory vs. IPixel store at the third floor of Robinsons Ermita.
On February 18, 2010, an employee, at said store, issued Sales Invoice No. 30873 where the address was not at Robinsons Ermita but at SM City San Lazaro. So, if a
customer wanted to complain regarding a product sold at IPixel at Robinsons Ermita, he/she would have to go to SM San Lazaro.
Advisory vs. Wendy's restaurant on Taft Avenue (near PGH hospital), Manila. On February 19, 2010, when I went to said restaurant, there was no visible express lane for senior citizens and no sign regarding the privileges of senior citizens, contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003.
Advisory vs. Chowking restaurant on Taft Avenue, corner U.N.Avenue, Manila. On February 19, 2010, when I went to said restaurant, there was no visible express lane for senior citizens and no sign regarding the privileges of senior citizens, contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003.
CDC Healthy Aging Topics
http://www.cdc.gov/aging/
Health Information for Older Adults
Alzheimer’s disease HIV/AIDS
Arthritis Influenza vaccine
Alcohol Use Lung cancer
Brain health MedicareExternal Web Site Icon
Breast cancer Mental health
Cancer Motor vehicle-related injuries
Caregiving Nutrition
Cervical cancer Obesity
Clinical preventive services Oral health
Cholesterol Osteoporosis
Colorectal cancer Physical activity
Depression Prostate cancer
Diabetes Pneumonia vaccine
Elder abuse/neglect Sexual health
End-of-life preparedness Shingles vaccine
Epilepsy Smoking
Falls Substance abuseExternal Web Site Icon
H1N1 virus Suicide
Heart disease and stroke Tobacco use
Hearing lossExternal Web Site Icon Vision loss
High blood pressure West Nile virus
Don't Get Burned_ Stay Away From Ear Candles
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm200277.htm
On this page
* Burns and Other Risks
* Enforcement
* Concern for Children
* Reports of Injuries
A lit "candle" that can drip hot wax into your ear, usually as you lie on your side.
Sound dangerous? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) thinks so, and is warning consumers to steer clear of products being sold as ear candles.
These "candles"—hollow cones that are about 10 inches long and made from a fabric tube soaked in beeswax, paraffin, or a mixture of the two—are being marketed as treatments for a variety of conditions. These conditions include ear wax buildup, sinus infections, hearing loss, headaches, colds, flu, and sore throats.
Marketers of ear candles claim that warmth created by the lit device produces suction that draws wax and other impurities out of the ear canal.
"Some ear candles are offered as products that purify the blood, strengthen the brain, or even 'cure' cancer," says Eric Mann, M.D., Ph.D., clinical deputy director of FDA's Division of Ophthalmic, Neurological, and Ear, Nose, and Throat Devices.
He adds that some firms claim the candles are appropriate for use on children.
But FDA warns that ear candles can cause serious injuries, even when used in accordance to manufacturers' directions. "Also," says Mann, "FDA believes that there is no valid scientific evidence for any medical benefit from their use."
Burns and Other Risks
Mann says that ear candling—the procedure is also called "ear coning" and "thermal auricular therapy"—exposes the recipient to risks such as
* starting a fire
* burns to the face, ear canal, eardrum, and middle ear
* injury to the ear from dripping wax
* ears plugged by candle wax
* bleeding
* puncture of the eardrum
* delay in seeking needed medical care for underlying conditions such as sinus and ear infections, hearing loss, cancer, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. (TMJ disorders often cause headache and painful sensations in the area of the ear, jaw, and face).
Even many promoters of ear candles warn potential users to have the procedure done by an experienced "candler," and to not use the candles on themselves.
Ear candling involves placing the candle in the outer ear, usually while the recipient lies on his or her side. It is also done with the recipient sitting upright.
Often, before being lit, the candle is placed through a hole located in the center of a plate. The plate is supposed to protect against hot wax or ash coming down the side of the device and onto the recipient.
Enforcement
FDA and the Canadian health regulatory agency Health Canada have acted against manufacturers of ear candles. These actions have included import alerts, seizures, injunctions, and warning letters. FDA import alerts identify products that are suspected of violating the law so that agency field personnel and U.S. Customs and Border Protection staff can stop these entries at the border prior to distribution in the United States.
In February 2010, FDA issued warning letters to three large manufacturers of ear candles. These firms were informed that FDA had determined that there was no agency approval or clearance, no manufacturing facility registration or device listing, and no adverse-event reporting systems in place in regard to their ear candles.
FDA will continue to take enforcement action when appropriate.
Concern for Children
Claims that ear candling is appropriate for kids have caused great concern at FDA. "Children of any age, including babies, are at increased risk for injuries and complications if they are exposed to ear candles," says Mann.
He adds that small children and infants may move while the device is being used, increasing the likelihood of wax burns and ear candle wax plugging the ear canal. "Also, their smaller ear canal size may make children more susceptible than adults to injuries from ear candles," he says.
Since FDA views ear candles as medical devices, manufacturers seeking approval to sell them must submit evidence to FDA that the products are safe and effective.
Reports of Injuries
FDA believes that injuries associated with ear candles are likely underreported, and encourages consumers and health care professionals to report such injuries to FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program4.
Over the past decade, FDA has received reports of burns, punctured eardrums, and blockage of the ear canal which required outpatient surgery from the use of ear candles.
In its testing, Health Canada found that ear candles produce no measurable effect in the ear and have no therapeutic value.
And in a survey published in 1996, the medical journal Laryngoscope reported 13 cases of burns of the ear, seven cases of ear canal blockage due to wax, and one case of a punctured eardrum.
That study also reported that ear candles produced no measurable vacuum pressure or suction on a model of the ear, and that burning ear candles dripped candle wax onto the eardrum of test subjects and of the ear model.
This article appears on FDA's Consumer Updates page5, which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products.
Date Posted: February 18, 2010
FDA Announces New Safety Controls for Long-Acting Beta Agonists, Medications Used to Treat Asthma
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm200931.htm
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced that drugs in the class of long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) should never be used alone in the treatment of asthma in children or adults. Manufacturers will be required to include this warning in the product labels of these drugs, along with taking other steps to reduce the overall use of these medications.
These new requirements are based on FDA analyses of clinical trials showing that use of these long-acting medicines is associated with an increased risk of severe worsening of asthma symptoms, leading to hospitalization in both children and adults and death in some patients with asthma. The drugs involved include the single agent products Serevent and Foradil and combination medications Advair and Symbicort that also contain inhaled corticosteroids. These medications improve a patient’s ability to breathe freely and reduce the symptoms of asthma by relaxing muscles in the lung’s airways.
The FDA will now require that the product labels reflect the following:
* The use of LABAs is contraindicated without the use of an asthma controller medication such as inhaled corticosteroid. Single-agent LABAs should only be used in combination with an asthma controller medication; they should not be used alone;
* LABAs should only be used long-term in patients whose asthma cannot be adequately controlled on asthma controller medications;
* LABAs should be used for the shortest duration of time required to achieve control of asthma symptoms and discontinued, if possible, once asthma control is achieved. Patients should then be maintained on an asthma controller medication.
* Pediatric and adolescent patients who require a LABA in addition to an inhaled corticosteroid should use a combination product containing both an inhaled corticosteroid and a LABA to ensure compliance with both medications.
“Although these medicines play an important role in helping some patients control asthma symptoms, our review of the available clinical trials determined that their use should be limited, whenever possible, due to an increased risk of asthma exacerbations, hospitalizations and death,” said Badrul Chowdhury, M.D., director of the Division of Pulmonary and Allergy Products in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.
“The risks of hospitalization and poor outcomes are of particular concern for children; parents need to know that their child with asthma should not be on a LABA alone,” said Dianne Murphy, M.D., director of the FDA’s Office of Pediatric Therapeutics.
LABAs are approved to treat both people with asthma or with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The new recommendations only apply to the use of LABAs in the treatment of asthma.
The FDA will be requiring the manufacturers of LABAs to conduct additional studies to further evaluate the safety of LABAs when used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids. The FDA will seek input on the design of these studies at a public advisory committee meeting in March 2010.
In addition to these actions, FDA will work with public and private partners under the agency’s ongoing Safe Use Initiative to study LABA prescribing practices.
“We will collaborate with our Safe Use partners to evaluate whether prescribing patterns adjust to the new recommendations for this class of asthma drugs. If prescribing patterns don’t adjust, we will determine the reasons and consider additional steps to support safe prescribing,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.
The Safe Use Initiative, launched in November, strives to reduce preventable harm by identifying specific, preventable medication risks and developing, implementing and evaluating cross-sector interventions with public and private partners who are committed to safe medication use.
Advair and Serevent are marketed by Collegeville, PA-based GlaxoSmithKline.
Foradil is marketed by Lebanon, PA-based Novartis AG.
Symbicort is marketed by Wilmington, DE-based AstraZeneca.
Long-Acting Beta Agonist (LABA) Information
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/InformationbyDrugClass/ucm199565.htm1
Safe Use Initiative
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm187806.htm2
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Page Last Updated: 02/18/2010
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February 1, 2010
Mild Lung Disease Linked to Heart Function
http://www.nih.gov/researchmatters/february2010/02012010copd.htm
People with a mild form of a common lung condition—even those without symptoms—are at increased risk for heart problems, according to a new study. This is the first report that mild, often-symptomless chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be linked to the heart's pumping ability.
COPD is the nation's fourth leading cause of death. It affects an estimated 1 in 5 Americans over age 45, but as many as half the people who have it may not even be aware of it. The condition is strongly associated with smoking, and it often involves the destruction of lung tissue, called emphysema. COPD can bring persistent coughing, mucus production, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. Symptoms often worsen over time.
Researchers have long known that severe COPD can have harmful effects on the heart, decreasing its ability to pump blood effectively. To see if mild and even symptomless COPD might also be linked to reduced heart function, a team of scientists led by Dr. Graham Barr of Columbia University Medical Center studied 2,816 generally healthy adults ages 45 and older. About half were women. All were participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA), a large study designed to detect early signs of heart, lung and blood diseases before symptoms appear. MESA is supported by NIH's National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI).
As described in the January 21, 2010, issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, the researchers used breathing tests and imaging studies of the chest to assess the structure and function of each person's heart and lungs. None of the participants had severe COPD or heart disease, but many were found to have mild abnormalities in heart and lung function.
The scientists observed that as lung function and structure became increasingly impaired, so did the heart's ability to fill with oxygen-rich blood. The volume of blood pumped per minute also dropped as lung function declined. The link between lung and heart function was strongest in the 370 participants who were current smokers, but it was also seen in people with mild COPD who had never smoked.
The new results suggest that these changes in heart function occur much earlier than previously realized, when COPD is mild or even before symptoms appear. Because the study population was ethnically mixed and covered a broad age range of apparently healthy people, the findings may be widely applicable to the general U.S. population.
"These results raise the intriguing possibility that treating lung disease may, in the future, improve heart function," says Barr. "Further research is needed to prove whether treating mild COPD will help the heart work better."
Related Links:
* What is COPD?:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Copd/Copd_WhatIs.html
* COPD: Learn More, Breathe Better:
www.LearnAboutCOPD.org
* Breathing Problems? Learn to Recognize the Symptoms of COPD:
http://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2009/November/feature2.htm
* Emphysema:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/emphysema.html
* Quit Smoking Today:
http://www.smokefree.gov/
FDA Drug Safety Communication: Product Confusion with Maalox Total Relief and Maalox Liquid Products
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/ucm199476.htm
Safety Announcement
[02-17-2010] The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received five reports of serious medication errors involving consumers who used Maalox Total Relief, the upset stomach reliever and anti-diarrheal medication, by mistake, when they had intended to use one of the traditional Maalox liquid antacid products.
Due to the potential for serious adverse events from product confusion, the maker of Maalox brand products has agreed to:
* Change the name of Maalox Total Relief to one that will not include the name "Maalox" and revise the graphics and information displayed on the front of the product container to help distinguish the active ingredients and uses of this product from the traditional Maalox antacids.
* An educational program that includes outreach to healthcare professionals and consumers to inform them about the different products sold under the Maalox brand, including how to select the appropriate Maalox brand product.
* Active safety monitoring and reporting of adverse events associated with the use of Maalox brand products.
The company expects to begin selling the renamed product in September 2010. Until that time, healthcare professionals and consumers should be aware of the following:
* Maalox Total Relief and the traditional Maalox products are both liquid medications available without a prescription (OTC), but are NOT interchangeable.These products are intended to treat different medical conditions.
* Maalox Total Relief is not appropriate for individuals who want to use an antacid, especially if they have a history of gastrointestinal ulcer disease or a bleeding disorder.
* Maalox Total Relief contains the active ingredient bismuth subsalicylate and is used to treat diarrhea, upset stomach associated with nausea, heartburn, and gas due to overindulgence in food (overeating).Bismuth subsalicylate is chemically related to aspirin and may cause similar adverse effects such as bleeding. Bismuth subsalicylate has a warning statement stating that it should not be used in people who have or have a history of gastrointestinal ulcers or a bleeding disorder.
* Maalox Total Relief should not be used in children and teenagers if they are recovering from a viral infection. The product should also not be used in people who are taking oral anti-diabetic medications, blood thinning medications such as Coumadin (warfarin) or Plavix (clopidogrel), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like ibuprofen and naproxen.
* The traditional Maalox liquid products including Maalox Advanced Regular Strength and Maalox Advanced Maximum Strength are well-recognized antacid drug products that contain aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone. Both are OTC products and are used for the relief of acid indigestion, heartburn, sour stomach, upset stomach, and pressure and bloating commonly referred to as gas.
* Maalox Total Relief should not be confused with traditional Maalox liquid antacid products.
FDA is concerned about the public health impact of medication mix-ups with products that have the same names or portions of the same name but contain different active ingredients. The agency encourages drug companies to consider the potential for name confusion when choosing OTC product names.
Additional Information for Consumers
To help avoid potentially serious health risks associated with Maalox product mix-ups, the FDA recommends that consumers:
* Check with a healthcare professional or pharmacist if they are not sure what Maalox product is right for them.
* Carefully look at the labels of all Maalox products to make sure the right product is being purchased for the right condition.
* Read the active ingredients, uses and warnings in the "Drug Facts" box prior to purchasing any Maalox product.
* Report any side effects from the use of Maalox products to the FDA MedWatch program, using the information at the bottom of this page.
Additional Information for Healthcare Professionals
* When recommending an OTC product such as Maalox, refer to the product by its full product name (for example, Maalox Total Relief, Maalox Advanced Regular Strength, or Maalox Advanced Maximum Strength) or use the active ingredient name.
* Ensure that patients know the product name and understand the uses of the product prior to purchase.
* Report adverse events or medication errors involving Maalox products, such as using the wrong product because of confusing names, to the FDA MedWatch program using the information at the bottom of this page.
Maalox Total Relief and Maalox have similar packaging, but are not interchangeable.
-
Related Information
* Avoid Maalox Mix-Ups1
Read the labels carefully before buying or taking any over-the-counter products.
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Links on this page:
1. http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm199331.htm
2. http://www.fda.govhttps://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/medwatch-online.htm
3. http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Safety/MedWatch/DownloadForms/UCM082725.pdf
Page Last Updated: 02/18/2010
Note: If you need help accessing information in different file formats, see Instructions
Long-Acting Beta-Agonists (LABAs): New Safe Use Requirements
http://us.mc343.mail.yahoo.com/mc/welcome?.gx=1&.tm=1266552979&.rand=081bsnlvs9pqn#_pg=showMessage&sMid=2&&filterBy=&.rand=1265195446&midIndex=2&mid=1_26984651_AIWyo0IAAR%2BrS32v%2FwxgCARCo3o&m=1_26986114_AIiyo0IAAIjvS32zQQjLC2fBrAI,1_26985324_AIWyo0IAAS8YS32xFg24FSVx81E,1_26984651_AIWyo0IAAR%2BrS32v%2FwxgCARCo3o,1_26987613_AIayo0IAAAd%2FS327mAZNkmz1H3c,1_26984054_AIqyo0IAAKCcS32tEghg7Xj9JhQ,1_26983272_AIqyo0IAAIN3S32pYg0GA0GrjvA,1_26982561_AIuyo0IAAER3S32o2AGZZCCCrls,1_26980246_AIqyo0IAABDgS32ePwCXXA%2Biep4,&sort=date&order=down&startMid=0&hash=5ff733ae35dfad9a8f327488fda85148&.jsrand=5162769
Audience: Asthma management healthcare professionals, patients
FDA notified healthcare professionals and consumers that, due to safety concerns, FDA is requiring a risk management strategy (REMS) and class-labeling changes for all LABAs. The REMS will require a revised Medication Guide written specifically for patients, and a plan to educate healthcare professionals about the appropriate use of LABAs. These changes are based on FDA's analyses of studies showing an increased risk of severe exacerbation of asthma symptoms, leading to hospitalizations in pediatric and adult patients as well as death in some patients using LABAs for the treatment of asthma.
Healthcare professionals are reminded that to ensure the safe use of these products:
* Single-ingredient LABAs should only be used in combination with an asthma controller medication; they should not be used alone.
* LABAs should only be used long-term in patients whose asthma cannot be adequately controlled on asthma controller medications.
* LABAs should be used for the shortest duration of time required to achieve control of asthma symptoms and discontinued, if possible, once asthma control is achieved. Patients should then be maintained on an asthma controller medication.
* Pediatric and adolescent patients who require the addition of a LABA to an inhaled corticosteroid should use a combination product containing both an inhaled corticosteroid and a LABA, to ensure compliance with both medications.
FDA has determined that the benefits of LABAs in improving asthma symptoms outweigh the potential risks when used appropriately with an asthma controller medication in patients who need the addition of LABAs. FDA believes the safety measures recommended will improve the safe use of these drugs.
Read the complete MedWatch 2010 Safety summary, including links to the Drug Safety Communication, Q&As and FDA news release, at:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm201003.htm
On February 18, 2010, an employee, at said store, issued Sales Invoice No. 30873 where the address was not at Robinsons Ermita but at SM City San Lazaro. So, if a
customer wanted to complain regarding a product sold at IPixel at Robinsons Ermita, he/she would have to go to SM San Lazaro.
Advisory vs. Wendy's restaurant on Taft Avenue (near PGH hospital), Manila. On February 19, 2010, when I went to said restaurant, there was no visible express lane for senior citizens and no sign regarding the privileges of senior citizens, contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003.
Advisory vs. Chowking restaurant on Taft Avenue, corner U.N.Avenue, Manila. On February 19, 2010, when I went to said restaurant, there was no visible express lane for senior citizens and no sign regarding the privileges of senior citizens, contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003.
CDC Healthy Aging Topics
http://www.cdc.gov/aging/
Health Information for Older Adults
Alzheimer’s disease HIV/AIDS
Arthritis Influenza vaccine
Alcohol Use Lung cancer
Brain health MedicareExternal Web Site Icon
Breast cancer Mental health
Cancer Motor vehicle-related injuries
Caregiving Nutrition
Cervical cancer Obesity
Clinical preventive services Oral health
Cholesterol Osteoporosis
Colorectal cancer Physical activity
Depression Prostate cancer
Diabetes Pneumonia vaccine
Elder abuse/neglect Sexual health
End-of-life preparedness Shingles vaccine
Epilepsy Smoking
Falls Substance abuseExternal Web Site Icon
H1N1 virus Suicide
Heart disease and stroke Tobacco use
Hearing lossExternal Web Site Icon Vision loss
High blood pressure West Nile virus
Don't Get Burned_ Stay Away From Ear Candles
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm200277.htm
On this page
* Burns and Other Risks
* Enforcement
* Concern for Children
* Reports of Injuries
A lit "candle" that can drip hot wax into your ear, usually as you lie on your side.
Sound dangerous? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) thinks so, and is warning consumers to steer clear of products being sold as ear candles.
These "candles"—hollow cones that are about 10 inches long and made from a fabric tube soaked in beeswax, paraffin, or a mixture of the two—are being marketed as treatments for a variety of conditions. These conditions include ear wax buildup, sinus infections, hearing loss, headaches, colds, flu, and sore throats.
Marketers of ear candles claim that warmth created by the lit device produces suction that draws wax and other impurities out of the ear canal.
"Some ear candles are offered as products that purify the blood, strengthen the brain, or even 'cure' cancer," says Eric Mann, M.D., Ph.D., clinical deputy director of FDA's Division of Ophthalmic, Neurological, and Ear, Nose, and Throat Devices.
He adds that some firms claim the candles are appropriate for use on children.
But FDA warns that ear candles can cause serious injuries, even when used in accordance to manufacturers' directions. "Also," says Mann, "FDA believes that there is no valid scientific evidence for any medical benefit from their use."
Burns and Other Risks
Mann says that ear candling—the procedure is also called "ear coning" and "thermal auricular therapy"—exposes the recipient to risks such as
* starting a fire
* burns to the face, ear canal, eardrum, and middle ear
* injury to the ear from dripping wax
* ears plugged by candle wax
* bleeding
* puncture of the eardrum
* delay in seeking needed medical care for underlying conditions such as sinus and ear infections, hearing loss, cancer, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. (TMJ disorders often cause headache and painful sensations in the area of the ear, jaw, and face).
Even many promoters of ear candles warn potential users to have the procedure done by an experienced "candler," and to not use the candles on themselves.
Ear candling involves placing the candle in the outer ear, usually while the recipient lies on his or her side. It is also done with the recipient sitting upright.
Often, before being lit, the candle is placed through a hole located in the center of a plate. The plate is supposed to protect against hot wax or ash coming down the side of the device and onto the recipient.
Enforcement
FDA and the Canadian health regulatory agency Health Canada have acted against manufacturers of ear candles. These actions have included import alerts, seizures, injunctions, and warning letters. FDA import alerts identify products that are suspected of violating the law so that agency field personnel and U.S. Customs and Border Protection staff can stop these entries at the border prior to distribution in the United States.
In February 2010, FDA issued warning letters to three large manufacturers of ear candles. These firms were informed that FDA had determined that there was no agency approval or clearance, no manufacturing facility registration or device listing, and no adverse-event reporting systems in place in regard to their ear candles.
FDA will continue to take enforcement action when appropriate.
Concern for Children
Claims that ear candling is appropriate for kids have caused great concern at FDA. "Children of any age, including babies, are at increased risk for injuries and complications if they are exposed to ear candles," says Mann.
He adds that small children and infants may move while the device is being used, increasing the likelihood of wax burns and ear candle wax plugging the ear canal. "Also, their smaller ear canal size may make children more susceptible than adults to injuries from ear candles," he says.
Since FDA views ear candles as medical devices, manufacturers seeking approval to sell them must submit evidence to FDA that the products are safe and effective.
Reports of Injuries
FDA believes that injuries associated with ear candles are likely underreported, and encourages consumers and health care professionals to report such injuries to FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program4.
Over the past decade, FDA has received reports of burns, punctured eardrums, and blockage of the ear canal which required outpatient surgery from the use of ear candles.
In its testing, Health Canada found that ear candles produce no measurable effect in the ear and have no therapeutic value.
And in a survey published in 1996, the medical journal Laryngoscope reported 13 cases of burns of the ear, seven cases of ear canal blockage due to wax, and one case of a punctured eardrum.
That study also reported that ear candles produced no measurable vacuum pressure or suction on a model of the ear, and that burning ear candles dripped candle wax onto the eardrum of test subjects and of the ear model.
This article appears on FDA's Consumer Updates page5, which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products.
Date Posted: February 18, 2010
FDA Announces New Safety Controls for Long-Acting Beta Agonists, Medications Used to Treat Asthma
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm200931.htm
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced that drugs in the class of long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) should never be used alone in the treatment of asthma in children or adults. Manufacturers will be required to include this warning in the product labels of these drugs, along with taking other steps to reduce the overall use of these medications.
These new requirements are based on FDA analyses of clinical trials showing that use of these long-acting medicines is associated with an increased risk of severe worsening of asthma symptoms, leading to hospitalization in both children and adults and death in some patients with asthma. The drugs involved include the single agent products Serevent and Foradil and combination medications Advair and Symbicort that also contain inhaled corticosteroids. These medications improve a patient’s ability to breathe freely and reduce the symptoms of asthma by relaxing muscles in the lung’s airways.
The FDA will now require that the product labels reflect the following:
* The use of LABAs is contraindicated without the use of an asthma controller medication such as inhaled corticosteroid. Single-agent LABAs should only be used in combination with an asthma controller medication; they should not be used alone;
* LABAs should only be used long-term in patients whose asthma cannot be adequately controlled on asthma controller medications;
* LABAs should be used for the shortest duration of time required to achieve control of asthma symptoms and discontinued, if possible, once asthma control is achieved. Patients should then be maintained on an asthma controller medication.
* Pediatric and adolescent patients who require a LABA in addition to an inhaled corticosteroid should use a combination product containing both an inhaled corticosteroid and a LABA to ensure compliance with both medications.
“Although these medicines play an important role in helping some patients control asthma symptoms, our review of the available clinical trials determined that their use should be limited, whenever possible, due to an increased risk of asthma exacerbations, hospitalizations and death,” said Badrul Chowdhury, M.D., director of the Division of Pulmonary and Allergy Products in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.
“The risks of hospitalization and poor outcomes are of particular concern for children; parents need to know that their child with asthma should not be on a LABA alone,” said Dianne Murphy, M.D., director of the FDA’s Office of Pediatric Therapeutics.
LABAs are approved to treat both people with asthma or with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The new recommendations only apply to the use of LABAs in the treatment of asthma.
The FDA will be requiring the manufacturers of LABAs to conduct additional studies to further evaluate the safety of LABAs when used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids. The FDA will seek input on the design of these studies at a public advisory committee meeting in March 2010.
In addition to these actions, FDA will work with public and private partners under the agency’s ongoing Safe Use Initiative to study LABA prescribing practices.
“We will collaborate with our Safe Use partners to evaluate whether prescribing patterns adjust to the new recommendations for this class of asthma drugs. If prescribing patterns don’t adjust, we will determine the reasons and consider additional steps to support safe prescribing,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.
The Safe Use Initiative, launched in November, strives to reduce preventable harm by identifying specific, preventable medication risks and developing, implementing and evaluating cross-sector interventions with public and private partners who are committed to safe medication use.
Advair and Serevent are marketed by Collegeville, PA-based GlaxoSmithKline.
Foradil is marketed by Lebanon, PA-based Novartis AG.
Symbicort is marketed by Wilmington, DE-based AstraZeneca.
Long-Acting Beta Agonist (LABA) Information
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/InformationbyDrugClass/ucm199565.htm1
Safe Use Initiative
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm187806.htm2
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February 1, 2010
Mild Lung Disease Linked to Heart Function
http://www.nih.gov/researchmatters/february2010/02012010copd.htm
People with a mild form of a common lung condition—even those without symptoms—are at increased risk for heart problems, according to a new study. This is the first report that mild, often-symptomless chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be linked to the heart's pumping ability.
COPD is the nation's fourth leading cause of death. It affects an estimated 1 in 5 Americans over age 45, but as many as half the people who have it may not even be aware of it. The condition is strongly associated with smoking, and it often involves the destruction of lung tissue, called emphysema. COPD can bring persistent coughing, mucus production, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. Symptoms often worsen over time.
Researchers have long known that severe COPD can have harmful effects on the heart, decreasing its ability to pump blood effectively. To see if mild and even symptomless COPD might also be linked to reduced heart function, a team of scientists led by Dr. Graham Barr of Columbia University Medical Center studied 2,816 generally healthy adults ages 45 and older. About half were women. All were participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA), a large study designed to detect early signs of heart, lung and blood diseases before symptoms appear. MESA is supported by NIH's National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI).
As described in the January 21, 2010, issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, the researchers used breathing tests and imaging studies of the chest to assess the structure and function of each person's heart and lungs. None of the participants had severe COPD or heart disease, but many were found to have mild abnormalities in heart and lung function.
The scientists observed that as lung function and structure became increasingly impaired, so did the heart's ability to fill with oxygen-rich blood. The volume of blood pumped per minute also dropped as lung function declined. The link between lung and heart function was strongest in the 370 participants who were current smokers, but it was also seen in people with mild COPD who had never smoked.
The new results suggest that these changes in heart function occur much earlier than previously realized, when COPD is mild or even before symptoms appear. Because the study population was ethnically mixed and covered a broad age range of apparently healthy people, the findings may be widely applicable to the general U.S. population.
"These results raise the intriguing possibility that treating lung disease may, in the future, improve heart function," says Barr. "Further research is needed to prove whether treating mild COPD will help the heart work better."
Related Links:
* What is COPD?:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Copd/Copd_WhatIs.html
* COPD: Learn More, Breathe Better:
www.LearnAboutCOPD.org
* Breathing Problems? Learn to Recognize the Symptoms of COPD:
http://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2009/November/feature2.htm
* Emphysema:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/emphysema.html
* Quit Smoking Today:
http://www.smokefree.gov/
FDA Drug Safety Communication: Product Confusion with Maalox Total Relief and Maalox Liquid Products
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/ucm199476.htm
Safety Announcement
[02-17-2010] The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received five reports of serious medication errors involving consumers who used Maalox Total Relief, the upset stomach reliever and anti-diarrheal medication, by mistake, when they had intended to use one of the traditional Maalox liquid antacid products.
Due to the potential for serious adverse events from product confusion, the maker of Maalox brand products has agreed to:
* Change the name of Maalox Total Relief to one that will not include the name "Maalox" and revise the graphics and information displayed on the front of the product container to help distinguish the active ingredients and uses of this product from the traditional Maalox antacids.
* An educational program that includes outreach to healthcare professionals and consumers to inform them about the different products sold under the Maalox brand, including how to select the appropriate Maalox brand product.
* Active safety monitoring and reporting of adverse events associated with the use of Maalox brand products.
The company expects to begin selling the renamed product in September 2010. Until that time, healthcare professionals and consumers should be aware of the following:
* Maalox Total Relief and the traditional Maalox products are both liquid medications available without a prescription (OTC), but are NOT interchangeable.These products are intended to treat different medical conditions.
* Maalox Total Relief is not appropriate for individuals who want to use an antacid, especially if they have a history of gastrointestinal ulcer disease or a bleeding disorder.
* Maalox Total Relief contains the active ingredient bismuth subsalicylate and is used to treat diarrhea, upset stomach associated with nausea, heartburn, and gas due to overindulgence in food (overeating).Bismuth subsalicylate is chemically related to aspirin and may cause similar adverse effects such as bleeding. Bismuth subsalicylate has a warning statement stating that it should not be used in people who have or have a history of gastrointestinal ulcers or a bleeding disorder.
* Maalox Total Relief should not be used in children and teenagers if they are recovering from a viral infection. The product should also not be used in people who are taking oral anti-diabetic medications, blood thinning medications such as Coumadin (warfarin) or Plavix (clopidogrel), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like ibuprofen and naproxen.
* The traditional Maalox liquid products including Maalox Advanced Regular Strength and Maalox Advanced Maximum Strength are well-recognized antacid drug products that contain aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone. Both are OTC products and are used for the relief of acid indigestion, heartburn, sour stomach, upset stomach, and pressure and bloating commonly referred to as gas.
* Maalox Total Relief should not be confused with traditional Maalox liquid antacid products.
FDA is concerned about the public health impact of medication mix-ups with products that have the same names or portions of the same name but contain different active ingredients. The agency encourages drug companies to consider the potential for name confusion when choosing OTC product names.
Additional Information for Consumers
To help avoid potentially serious health risks associated with Maalox product mix-ups, the FDA recommends that consumers:
* Check with a healthcare professional or pharmacist if they are not sure what Maalox product is right for them.
* Carefully look at the labels of all Maalox products to make sure the right product is being purchased for the right condition.
* Read the active ingredients, uses and warnings in the "Drug Facts" box prior to purchasing any Maalox product.
* Report any side effects from the use of Maalox products to the FDA MedWatch program, using the information at the bottom of this page.
Additional Information for Healthcare Professionals
* When recommending an OTC product such as Maalox, refer to the product by its full product name (for example, Maalox Total Relief, Maalox Advanced Regular Strength, or Maalox Advanced Maximum Strength) or use the active ingredient name.
* Ensure that patients know the product name and understand the uses of the product prior to purchase.
* Report adverse events or medication errors involving Maalox products, such as using the wrong product because of confusing names, to the FDA MedWatch program using the information at the bottom of this page.
Maalox Total Relief and Maalox have similar packaging, but are not interchangeable.
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Related Information
* Avoid Maalox Mix-Ups1
Read the labels carefully before buying or taking any over-the-counter products.
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Links on this page:
1. http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm199331.htm
2. http://www.fda.govhttps://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/medwatch-online.htm
3. http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Safety/MedWatch/DownloadForms/UCM082725.pdf
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Long-Acting Beta-Agonists (LABAs): New Safe Use Requirements
http://us.mc343.mail.yahoo.com/mc/welcome?.gx=1&.tm=1266552979&.rand=081bsnlvs9pqn#_pg=showMessage&sMid=2&&filterBy=&.rand=1265195446&midIndex=2&mid=1_26984651_AIWyo0IAAR%2BrS32v%2FwxgCARCo3o&m=1_26986114_AIiyo0IAAIjvS32zQQjLC2fBrAI,1_26985324_AIWyo0IAAS8YS32xFg24FSVx81E,1_26984651_AIWyo0IAAR%2BrS32v%2FwxgCARCo3o,1_26987613_AIayo0IAAAd%2FS327mAZNkmz1H3c,1_26984054_AIqyo0IAAKCcS32tEghg7Xj9JhQ,1_26983272_AIqyo0IAAIN3S32pYg0GA0GrjvA,1_26982561_AIuyo0IAAER3S32o2AGZZCCCrls,1_26980246_AIqyo0IAABDgS32ePwCXXA%2Biep4,&sort=date&order=down&startMid=0&hash=5ff733ae35dfad9a8f327488fda85148&.jsrand=5162769
Audience: Asthma management healthcare professionals, patients
FDA notified healthcare professionals and consumers that, due to safety concerns, FDA is requiring a risk management strategy (REMS) and class-labeling changes for all LABAs. The REMS will require a revised Medication Guide written specifically for patients, and a plan to educate healthcare professionals about the appropriate use of LABAs. These changes are based on FDA's analyses of studies showing an increased risk of severe exacerbation of asthma symptoms, leading to hospitalizations in pediatric and adult patients as well as death in some patients using LABAs for the treatment of asthma.
Healthcare professionals are reminded that to ensure the safe use of these products:
* Single-ingredient LABAs should only be used in combination with an asthma controller medication; they should not be used alone.
* LABAs should only be used long-term in patients whose asthma cannot be adequately controlled on asthma controller medications.
* LABAs should be used for the shortest duration of time required to achieve control of asthma symptoms and discontinued, if possible, once asthma control is achieved. Patients should then be maintained on an asthma controller medication.
* Pediatric and adolescent patients who require the addition of a LABA to an inhaled corticosteroid should use a combination product containing both an inhaled corticosteroid and a LABA, to ensure compliance with both medications.
FDA has determined that the benefits of LABAs in improving asthma symptoms outweigh the potential risks when used appropriately with an asthma controller medication in patients who need the addition of LABAs. FDA believes the safety measures recommended will improve the safe use of these drugs.
Read the complete MedWatch 2010 Safety summary, including links to the Drug Safety Communication, Q&As and FDA news release, at:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm201003.htm
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Advisory vs. Rustan's Supermarket at Rockwell Power Plant, Makati. Previously, there was no designated check out lane, in said store, for senior citizens. After I complained, a check out lane in said store was designated
for senior citizens. However, when I went to said store on February 13, 2010, I discovered that said lane in said store,which was previously designated as exclusively
for senior citizens, could now be used by non senior citizens.
Advisory vs. Shopwise store at Harrison Plaza. I was recently at said store. The security guard at an entrance to said store didn't inspect my luggage, which was large
enough enough to contain deadly weapons.
The Chowking restaurant at Harrison Plaza didn't have a visible express lane for senior citizens, contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded
Senior Citizens Act of 2003.Also, an employee at said restaurant didn't have a visible health certificate attached at upper left of the clothing she was wearing. Also, there was no visible sign in said restaurant regarding the privileges for senior citizens.
On February 16, 2010, I ate at Bowl of China restaurant at Robinsons Ermita. Contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003, said restaurant didn't have a visible express lane for senior citizens. An employee of said restaurant didn't have a visible health certificate attached to the upper left of the clothing shr was wearing. Also, said store didn't have a visible sign re the privileges of senior citizens.
Advisory vs. Xclusive Hits & Events which presented on February 14, 2010 Charice In Concert. The stated starting time of said concert was 8:00 P.M. Hoever, said concert actually started at 8:30 P.M.
silobreaker web site
http://www.silobreaker.com/
Based on information, Manila councilors include:
Ernesto M. Dionisio, Jr.
Nieva
Alcoreza
Moises T. Lim
Arlene W.Koa
Rolando Y.Sy
Marlon M. Lacson
Valleriano
Abelardo C. Viceo
Nubero G. Lim
Ivy A. Varona
Carlo V. Lopez
Ernesto C. Isip, Jr.
Monina Silva
Joel R. Chua
J. M. C. Nieto
R.D. Morales
E.V.R. Maceda
V.A. Melendez
Jocelyn J. Quintos
Amalia A. Tolentino
L.N. Chua
C.C. Gernale
C.C. Isip
J.M. Siscar
Luis C. Uy
Luciano M. Veloso
Ernesto F. Rivera
Based on information, Makati councilors include:
DISTRICT I COUNCILORS
HON. JEJOMAR ERWIN S. BINAY, JR.
HON. ERLINDA S. GONZALES
HON. VIRGILIO V. HILARIO, SR.
HON. LUIS S. JAVIER, JR.
HON. MONIQUE YASMIN Q. LAGDAMEO
HON. ARNOLD C. MAGPANTAY
HON. ARMANDO P. PADILLA
HON. TOSCA CAMILLE P. RAMOS
DISTRICT II COUNCILORS
HON. ERNESTO A. ASPILLAGA
HON. ISRAEL S. CRUZADO
HON. MARIA THERESA N. DE LARA
HON. ANGELITO D. GATCHALIAN
HON. HENRY A. JACOME
HON. SALVADOR D. PANGILINAN
HON. VINCENT T. SESE
HON. ELIAS V. TOLENTINO, JR.
SECTORAL REPRESENTATIVES
HON. ROMULO V. PEÑA (Liga ng mga Barangay)
HON. DENISSE ANGELICA A. HECHANOVA (SK Representative)
Advisory re 2R Place at 172 Aurora Blvd., near J. Ruiz, San Juan. Said place is allegedly a hobby of Ricky Reyes.
for senior citizens. However, when I went to said store on February 13, 2010, I discovered that said lane in said store,which was previously designated as exclusively
for senior citizens, could now be used by non senior citizens.
Advisory vs. Shopwise store at Harrison Plaza. I was recently at said store. The security guard at an entrance to said store didn't inspect my luggage, which was large
enough enough to contain deadly weapons.
The Chowking restaurant at Harrison Plaza didn't have a visible express lane for senior citizens, contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded
Senior Citizens Act of 2003.Also, an employee at said restaurant didn't have a visible health certificate attached at upper left of the clothing she was wearing. Also, there was no visible sign in said restaurant regarding the privileges for senior citizens.
On February 16, 2010, I ate at Bowl of China restaurant at Robinsons Ermita. Contrary to the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003, said restaurant didn't have a visible express lane for senior citizens. An employee of said restaurant didn't have a visible health certificate attached to the upper left of the clothing shr was wearing. Also, said store didn't have a visible sign re the privileges of senior citizens.
Advisory vs. Xclusive Hits & Events which presented on February 14, 2010 Charice In Concert. The stated starting time of said concert was 8:00 P.M. Hoever, said concert actually started at 8:30 P.M.
silobreaker web site
http://www.silobreaker.com/
Based on information, Manila councilors include:
Ernesto M. Dionisio, Jr.
Nieva
Alcoreza
Moises T. Lim
Arlene W.Koa
Rolando Y.Sy
Marlon M. Lacson
Valleriano
Abelardo C. Viceo
Nubero G. Lim
Ivy A. Varona
Carlo V. Lopez
Ernesto C. Isip, Jr.
Monina Silva
Joel R. Chua
J. M. C. Nieto
R.D. Morales
E.V.R. Maceda
V.A. Melendez
Jocelyn J. Quintos
Amalia A. Tolentino
L.N. Chua
C.C. Gernale
C.C. Isip
J.M. Siscar
Luis C. Uy
Luciano M. Veloso
Ernesto F. Rivera
Based on information, Makati councilors include:
DISTRICT I COUNCILORS
HON. JEJOMAR ERWIN S. BINAY, JR.
HON. ERLINDA S. GONZALES
HON. VIRGILIO V. HILARIO, SR.
HON. LUIS S. JAVIER, JR.
HON. MONIQUE YASMIN Q. LAGDAMEO
HON. ARNOLD C. MAGPANTAY
HON. ARMANDO P. PADILLA
HON. TOSCA CAMILLE P. RAMOS
DISTRICT II COUNCILORS
HON. ERNESTO A. ASPILLAGA
HON. ISRAEL S. CRUZADO
HON. MARIA THERESA N. DE LARA
HON. ANGELITO D. GATCHALIAN
HON. HENRY A. JACOME
HON. SALVADOR D. PANGILINAN
HON. VINCENT T. SESE
HON. ELIAS V. TOLENTINO, JR.
SECTORAL REPRESENTATIVES
HON. ROMULO V. PEÑA (Liga ng mga Barangay)
HON. DENISSE ANGELICA A. HECHANOVA (SK Representative)
Advisory re 2R Place at 172 Aurora Blvd., near J. Ruiz, San Juan. Said place is allegedly a hobby of Ricky Reyes.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
warning vs. Shopwise Supercenter branch
which was at Harrison Plaza mall, A. Mabini St., Cor. M. Adriatico St., Malate, Manila and which was identified as owned & Operated by Rustan Supercenters, Inc. Donny Tantoco was identified as the head of Shopwise Supercenters. On February 11, 2010, the guard at the said Shopwise Supercenter branch, closest to the Abenson store, didn’t inspect/subject to scanning my luggage which was large enough to contain deadly weapons. Said guard allowed me to bring said luggage into said store. Then, said store sold me, among others, what was identified as a picnic basket, swedish cinnamon bread, Kettle chips. Said picnic basket didn’t bear a visible (to unaided eye) name and address of the manufacturer/distributor of said product. Said swedish bread didn’t bear a visible, to unaided eye, address of the supplier of said product. Said chips, which were identified as an imported product, didn’t bear a visible, to unaided eye, name and address of the importer of said product.Proof of said sale is sales invoice SI No. 71 issued to me on February 11, 2010 by said store.While I was at said store, there was no visible, to unaided eye, express lane for senior citizens and while I was talking to a person at what was identified as the baggage counter of said store, said person attended to another person. I believe the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003 was violated. Said person issued to me a piece of plastic with a number and the name of said store but without the word “Harrison Plaza" or “Manila” on said piece of plastic. Since, as of said date, there were several branches of Shopwise in the Philippines, without the word “Manila” on said piece of plastic, I would have a hard time proving that said goods were sold by said branch. When I asked said Shopwise employee to replace said piece of plastic with one with the word “Manila” on it, he replaced it with another piece of plastic also without the word “Manila”. Said issuance of claim tags at said store without the word “Manila” or “Harrison Plaza” on said tags occurred previously and I reported said wrongdoing to the Department of Trade and Industry. Based on evidence, said DTI wrote to said Shopwise branch regarding said wrongdoing and for a time said branch did not commit said wrongdoing. Apparently, said branch has resumed commiting said wrongdoing.
http://www.bfad.gov.ph/default.cfm?CFID=113093&CFTOKEN=39965483
News and Announcements
FDA Advisory 2010-003: Zhen De Shou Fat Loss Capsule and Zhen De Shou Fat Loss Tea
FDA Advisory 2010-002: Jiaoli Miraculuous Cream (Jiaoli); Jiaoli Huichusu Special Cut Genuine (Jiaoli Huichusu); and Jiaoli 2+1 7 days Clearing Facial Spots Suit (Jiaoli) Cosmetic Products
Paunawa Mula sa DOH - FDA Blg. 2010-001: Babala sa publiko tungkol sa Food Supplements
Travelers' Diarrhea
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/travelersdiarrhea_g.htm
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who gets travelers' diarrhea?
What are common symptoms of travelers' diarrhea?
What causes travelers' diarrhea?
What preventative measures are effective for travelers' diarrhea?
Is prophylaxis of travelers' diarrhea recommended?
What treatment measures are effective for travelers' diarrhea?
When should antimotility agents not be used to treat travelers' diarrhea?
What is CDC doing to prevent travelers' diarrhea?
How can I learn more about travelers' diarrhea?
Who gets travelers' diarrhea?
Travelers' diarrhea (TD) is the most common illness affecting travelers. Each year between 20%-50% of international travelers, an estimated 10 million persons, develop diarrhea. The onset of TD usually occurs within the first week of travel but may occur at any time while traveling, and even after returning home. The most important determinant of risk is the traveler's destination. High-risk destinations are the developing countries of Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Persons at particular high-risk include young adults, immunosuppressed persons, persons with inflammatory-bowel disease or diabetes, and persons taking H-2 blockers or antacids. Attack rates are similar for men and women. The primary source of infection is ingestion of fecally contaminated food or water.
What are common symptoms of travelers' diarrhea?
Most TD cases begin abruptly. The illness usually results in increased frequency, volume, and weight of stool. Altered stool consistency also is common. Typically, a traveler experiences four to five loose or watery bowel movements each day. Other commonly associated symptoms are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, bloating, fever, urgency, and malaise. Most cases are benign and resolve in 1-2 days without treatment. TD is rarely life-threatening. The natural history of TD is that 90% of cases resolve within 1 week, and 98% resolve within 1 month.
What causes travelers' diarrhea?
Infectious agents are the primary cause of TD. Bacterial enteropathogens cause approximately 80% of TD cases. The most common causative agent isolated in countries surveyed has been enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). ETEC produce watery diarrhea with associated cramps and low-grade or no fever. Besides ETEC and other bacterial pathogens, a variety of viral and parasitic enteric pathogens also are potential causative agents.
What preventive measures are effective for travelers' diarrhea?
Travelers can minimize their risk for TD by practicing the following effective preventive measures:
"" "" Avoid eating foods or drinking beverages purchased from street vendors or other establishments where unhygienic conditions are present
"" Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat and seafood
"" Avoid eating raw fruits (e.g., oranges, bananas, avocados) and vegetables unless the traveler peels them.
If handled properly well-cooked and packaged foods usually are safe. Tap water, ice, unpasteurized milk, and dairy products are associated with increased risk for TD. Safe beverages include bottled carbonated beverages, hot tea or coffee, beer, wine, and water boiled or appropriately treated with iodine or chlorine.
Is prophylaxis of travelers' diarrhea recommended?
CDC does not recommend antimicrobial drugs to prevent TD. Studies show a decrease in the incidence of TD with use of bismuth subsalicylate and with use of antimicrobial chemoprophylaxis. Several studies show that bismuth subsalicylate taken as either 2 tablets 4 times daily or 2 fluid ounces 4 times daily reduces the incidence of travelers' diarrhea. The mechanism of action appears to be both antibacterial and antisecretory. Use of bismuth subsalicylate should be avoided by persons who are allergic to aspirin, during pregnancy, and by persons taking certain other medications (e.g., anticoagulants, probenecid, or methotrexate). In addition, persons should be informed about potential side effects, in particular about temporary blackening of the tongue and stool, and rarely ringing in the ears. Because of potential adverse side effects, prophylactic bismuth subsalicylate should not be used for more than 3 weeks.
Some antibiotics administered in a once-a-day dose are 90% effective at preventing travelers' diarrhea; however, antibiotics are not recommended as prophylaxis. Routine antimicrobial prophylaxis increases the traveler's risk for adverse reactions and for infections with resistant organisms. Because antimicrobials can increase a traveler 's susceptibility to resistant bacterial pathogens and provide no protection against either viral or parasitic pathogens, they can give travelers a false sense of security. As a result, strict adherence to preventive measures is encouraged, and bismuth subsalicylate should be used as an adjunct if prophylaxis is needed.
What treatment measures are effective for travelers' diarrhea?
TD usually is a self-limited disorder and often resolves without specific treatment; however, oral rehydration is often beneficial to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Clear liquids are routinely recommended for adults. Travelers who develop three or more loose stools in an 8-hour period---especially if associated with nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, fever, or blood in stools---may benefit from antimicrobial therapy. Antibiotics usually are given for 3-5 days. Currently, fluoroquinolones are the drugs of choice. Commonly prescribed regimens are 500 mg of ciprofloxacin twice a day or 400 mg of norfloxacin twice a day for 3-5 days. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and doxycycline are no longer recommended because of the high level of resistance to these agents. Bismuth subsalicylate also may be used as treatment: 1 fluid ounce or 2 262 mg tablets every 30 minutes for up to eight doses in a 24-hour period, which can be repeated on a second day. If diarrhea persists despite therapy, travelers should be evaluated by a doctor and treated for possible parasitic infection.
When should antimotility agents not be used to treat travelers' diarrhea?
Antimotility agents (loperamide, diphenoxylate, and paregoric) primarily reduce diarrhea by slowing transit time in the gut, and, thus, allows more time for absorption. Some persons believe diarrhea is the body's defense mechanism to minimize contact time between gut pathogens and intestinal mucosa. In several studies, antimotility agents have been useful in treating travelers' diarrhea by decreasing the duration of diarrhea. However, these agents should not be used by travelers with fever or bloody diarrhea, because they can increase the severity of disease by delaying clearance of causative organisms. Because antimotility agents are now available over the counter, their injudicious use is of concern. Adverse complications (toxic megacolon, sepsis, and disseminated intravascular coagulation) have been reported as a result of using these medications to treat diarrhea.
What is CDC doing to prevent travelers' diarrhea?
CDC, in collaboration with the World Health Organization and several Ministries of Health, is working to improve food and water safety around the world. CDC also investigates risk factors associated with acquisition of TD, to assist in identifying more effective preventive measures. CDC continues to monitor antimicrobial resistance in other countries and in the United States. In addition, CDC, in collaboration with international agencies, is working to improve sanitary conditions in foreign accommodations (e.g., tourist resorts) and frequently consults with travel medicine specialists and local and state health departments. CDC is responsible for evaluating sanitation on cruise ships docking in US ports.
Please visit CDC's Traveler's Health site
http://www.cdc.gov/travel/cruiships.htm
for more information about the vessel sanitation program and for a summary of recent vessel inspections.
How can I learn more about travelers' diarrhea?
Potential travelers should consult with a doctor or a travel medicine specialist before departing on a trip abroad. Information about TD is available from your local or state health departments or the World Health Organization (WHO).
Other information that may be of interest to travelers can be found at the CDC Travelers' Health homepage at http://www.cdc.gov/travel.
Date: Novemberr 21, 2006
Content source: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases: Division of Bacterial Diseases
Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Radiation Exposure from Medical Imaging
http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationSafety/RadiationDoseReduction/ucm199904.htm
Like all medical procedures, computed tomography (CT), fluoroscopy, and nuclear medicine imaging exams present both benefits and risks. These types of imaging procedures have led to improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of numerous medical conditions. At the same time, these types of exams expose patients to ionizing radiation, which may elevate a person’s lifetime risk of developing cancer. As part of a balanced public health approach, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seeks to support the benefits of these medical imaging exams while minimizing the risks.
Through the Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Radiation Exposure from Medical Imaging1, FDA is advocating the universal adoption of two principles of radiation protection: appropriate justification for ordering each procedure, and careful optimization of the radiation dose used during each procedure. Each patient should get the right imaging exam, at the right time, with the right radiation dose.
In support of this goal, FDA will use our regulatory authority and also collaborate with others in the Federal government and the healthcare professional community to:
1. Promote safe use of medical imaging devices;
2. Support informed clinical decision making; and
3. Increase patient awareness.
By coordinating these efforts, we can optimize patient exposure to radiation from certain types of medical imaging exams, and thereby reduce related risks while maximizing the benefits of these studies.
-
Related Information
* White Paper: Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Radiation Exposure from Medical Imaging2
* Questions & Answers: Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Radiation Exposure from Medical Imaging3
* FDA Unveils Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Radiation Exposure from Medical Imaging4
* Medical Imaging5
-
-
Other Resources
* Safety Investigation of CT Brain Perfusion Scans: Update 12/8/20096
* FDA Makes Interim Recommendations to Address Concern of Excess Radiation Exposure during CT Perfusion Imaging7
-
-
-
Links on this page:
1. http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationSafety/RadiationDoseReduction/ucm199994.htm
2. http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationSafety/RadiationDoseReduction/ucm199994.htm
3. http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationSafety/RadiationDoseReduction/ucm199996.htm
4. http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm200085.htm
5. http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationEmittingProductsandProcedures/MedicalImaging/default.htm
6. http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/AlertsandNotices/ucm185898.htm
7. http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/2009/ucm193190.htm
Page Last Updated: 02/09/2010
which was at Harrison Plaza mall, A. Mabini St., Cor. M. Adriatico St., Malate, Manila and which was identified as owned & Operated by Rustan Supercenters, Inc. Donny Tantoco was identified as the head of Shopwise Supercenters. On February 11, 2010, the guard at the said Shopwise Supercenter branch, closest to the Abenson store, didn’t inspect/subject to scanning my luggage which was large enough to contain deadly weapons. Said guard allowed me to bring said luggage into said store. Then, said store sold me, among others, what was identified as a picnic basket, swedish cinnamon bread, Kettle chips. Said picnic basket didn’t bear a visible (to unaided eye) name and address of the manufacturer/distributor of said product. Said swedish bread didn’t bear a visible, to unaided eye, address of the supplier of said product. Said chips, which were identified as an imported product, didn’t bear a visible, to unaided eye, name and address of the importer of said product.Proof of said sale is sales invoice SI No. 71 issued to me on February 11, 2010 by said store.While I was at said store, there was no visible, to unaided eye, express lane for senior citizens and while I was talking to a person at what was identified as the baggage counter of said store, said person attended to another person. I believe the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003 was violated. Said person issued to me a piece of plastic with a number and the name of said store but without the word “Harrison Plaza" or “Manila” on said piece of plastic. Since, as of said date, there were several branches of Shopwise in the Philippines, without the word “Manila” on said piece of plastic, I would have a hard time proving that said goods were sold by said branch. When I asked said Shopwise employee to replace said piece of plastic with one with the word “Manila” on it, he replaced it with another piece of plastic also without the word “Manila”. Said issuance of claim tags at said store without the word “Manila” or “Harrison Plaza” on said tags occurred previously and I reported said wrongdoing to the Department of Trade and Industry. Based on evidence, said DTI wrote to said Shopwise branch regarding said wrongdoing and for a time said branch did not commit said wrongdoing. Apparently, said branch has resumed commiting said wrongdoing.
http://www.bfad.gov.ph/default.cfm?CFID=113093&CFTOKEN=39965483
News and Announcements
FDA Advisory 2010-003: Zhen De Shou Fat Loss Capsule and Zhen De Shou Fat Loss Tea
FDA Advisory 2010-002: Jiaoli Miraculuous Cream (Jiaoli); Jiaoli Huichusu Special Cut Genuine (Jiaoli Huichusu); and Jiaoli 2+1 7 days Clearing Facial Spots Suit (Jiaoli) Cosmetic Products
Paunawa Mula sa DOH - FDA Blg. 2010-001: Babala sa publiko tungkol sa Food Supplements
Travelers' Diarrhea
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/travelersdiarrhea_g.htm
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who gets travelers' diarrhea?
What are common symptoms of travelers' diarrhea?
What causes travelers' diarrhea?
What preventative measures are effective for travelers' diarrhea?
Is prophylaxis of travelers' diarrhea recommended?
What treatment measures are effective for travelers' diarrhea?
When should antimotility agents not be used to treat travelers' diarrhea?
What is CDC doing to prevent travelers' diarrhea?
How can I learn more about travelers' diarrhea?
Who gets travelers' diarrhea?
Travelers' diarrhea (TD) is the most common illness affecting travelers. Each year between 20%-50% of international travelers, an estimated 10 million persons, develop diarrhea. The onset of TD usually occurs within the first week of travel but may occur at any time while traveling, and even after returning home. The most important determinant of risk is the traveler's destination. High-risk destinations are the developing countries of Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Persons at particular high-risk include young adults, immunosuppressed persons, persons with inflammatory-bowel disease or diabetes, and persons taking H-2 blockers or antacids. Attack rates are similar for men and women. The primary source of infection is ingestion of fecally contaminated food or water.
What are common symptoms of travelers' diarrhea?
Most TD cases begin abruptly. The illness usually results in increased frequency, volume, and weight of stool. Altered stool consistency also is common. Typically, a traveler experiences four to five loose or watery bowel movements each day. Other commonly associated symptoms are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, bloating, fever, urgency, and malaise. Most cases are benign and resolve in 1-2 days without treatment. TD is rarely life-threatening. The natural history of TD is that 90% of cases resolve within 1 week, and 98% resolve within 1 month.
What causes travelers' diarrhea?
Infectious agents are the primary cause of TD. Bacterial enteropathogens cause approximately 80% of TD cases. The most common causative agent isolated in countries surveyed has been enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). ETEC produce watery diarrhea with associated cramps and low-grade or no fever. Besides ETEC and other bacterial pathogens, a variety of viral and parasitic enteric pathogens also are potential causative agents.
What preventive measures are effective for travelers' diarrhea?
Travelers can minimize their risk for TD by practicing the following effective preventive measures:
"" "" Avoid eating foods or drinking beverages purchased from street vendors or other establishments where unhygienic conditions are present
"" Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat and seafood
"" Avoid eating raw fruits (e.g., oranges, bananas, avocados) and vegetables unless the traveler peels them.
If handled properly well-cooked and packaged foods usually are safe. Tap water, ice, unpasteurized milk, and dairy products are associated with increased risk for TD. Safe beverages include bottled carbonated beverages, hot tea or coffee, beer, wine, and water boiled or appropriately treated with iodine or chlorine.
Is prophylaxis of travelers' diarrhea recommended?
CDC does not recommend antimicrobial drugs to prevent TD. Studies show a decrease in the incidence of TD with use of bismuth subsalicylate and with use of antimicrobial chemoprophylaxis. Several studies show that bismuth subsalicylate taken as either 2 tablets 4 times daily or 2 fluid ounces 4 times daily reduces the incidence of travelers' diarrhea. The mechanism of action appears to be both antibacterial and antisecretory. Use of bismuth subsalicylate should be avoided by persons who are allergic to aspirin, during pregnancy, and by persons taking certain other medications (e.g., anticoagulants, probenecid, or methotrexate). In addition, persons should be informed about potential side effects, in particular about temporary blackening of the tongue and stool, and rarely ringing in the ears. Because of potential adverse side effects, prophylactic bismuth subsalicylate should not be used for more than 3 weeks.
Some antibiotics administered in a once-a-day dose are 90% effective at preventing travelers' diarrhea; however, antibiotics are not recommended as prophylaxis. Routine antimicrobial prophylaxis increases the traveler's risk for adverse reactions and for infections with resistant organisms. Because antimicrobials can increase a traveler 's susceptibility to resistant bacterial pathogens and provide no protection against either viral or parasitic pathogens, they can give travelers a false sense of security. As a result, strict adherence to preventive measures is encouraged, and bismuth subsalicylate should be used as an adjunct if prophylaxis is needed.
What treatment measures are effective for travelers' diarrhea?
TD usually is a self-limited disorder and often resolves without specific treatment; however, oral rehydration is often beneficial to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Clear liquids are routinely recommended for adults. Travelers who develop three or more loose stools in an 8-hour period---especially if associated with nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, fever, or blood in stools---may benefit from antimicrobial therapy. Antibiotics usually are given for 3-5 days. Currently, fluoroquinolones are the drugs of choice. Commonly prescribed regimens are 500 mg of ciprofloxacin twice a day or 400 mg of norfloxacin twice a day for 3-5 days. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and doxycycline are no longer recommended because of the high level of resistance to these agents. Bismuth subsalicylate also may be used as treatment: 1 fluid ounce or 2 262 mg tablets every 30 minutes for up to eight doses in a 24-hour period, which can be repeated on a second day. If diarrhea persists despite therapy, travelers should be evaluated by a doctor and treated for possible parasitic infection.
When should antimotility agents not be used to treat travelers' diarrhea?
Antimotility agents (loperamide, diphenoxylate, and paregoric) primarily reduce diarrhea by slowing transit time in the gut, and, thus, allows more time for absorption. Some persons believe diarrhea is the body's defense mechanism to minimize contact time between gut pathogens and intestinal mucosa. In several studies, antimotility agents have been useful in treating travelers' diarrhea by decreasing the duration of diarrhea. However, these agents should not be used by travelers with fever or bloody diarrhea, because they can increase the severity of disease by delaying clearance of causative organisms. Because antimotility agents are now available over the counter, their injudicious use is of concern. Adverse complications (toxic megacolon, sepsis, and disseminated intravascular coagulation) have been reported as a result of using these medications to treat diarrhea.
What is CDC doing to prevent travelers' diarrhea?
CDC, in collaboration with the World Health Organization and several Ministries of Health, is working to improve food and water safety around the world. CDC also investigates risk factors associated with acquisition of TD, to assist in identifying more effective preventive measures. CDC continues to monitor antimicrobial resistance in other countries and in the United States. In addition, CDC, in collaboration with international agencies, is working to improve sanitary conditions in foreign accommodations (e.g., tourist resorts) and frequently consults with travel medicine specialists and local and state health departments. CDC is responsible for evaluating sanitation on cruise ships docking in US ports.
Please visit CDC's Traveler's Health site
http://www.cdc.gov/travel/cruiships.htm
for more information about the vessel sanitation program and for a summary of recent vessel inspections.
How can I learn more about travelers' diarrhea?
Potential travelers should consult with a doctor or a travel medicine specialist before departing on a trip abroad. Information about TD is available from your local or state health departments or the World Health Organization (WHO).
Other information that may be of interest to travelers can be found at the CDC Travelers' Health homepage at http://www.cdc.gov/travel.
Date: Novemberr 21, 2006
Content source: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases: Division of Bacterial Diseases
Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Radiation Exposure from Medical Imaging
http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationSafety/RadiationDoseReduction/ucm199904.htm
Like all medical procedures, computed tomography (CT), fluoroscopy, and nuclear medicine imaging exams present both benefits and risks. These types of imaging procedures have led to improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of numerous medical conditions. At the same time, these types of exams expose patients to ionizing radiation, which may elevate a person’s lifetime risk of developing cancer. As part of a balanced public health approach, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seeks to support the benefits of these medical imaging exams while minimizing the risks.
Through the Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Radiation Exposure from Medical Imaging1, FDA is advocating the universal adoption of two principles of radiation protection: appropriate justification for ordering each procedure, and careful optimization of the radiation dose used during each procedure. Each patient should get the right imaging exam, at the right time, with the right radiation dose.
In support of this goal, FDA will use our regulatory authority and also collaborate with others in the Federal government and the healthcare professional community to:
1. Promote safe use of medical imaging devices;
2. Support informed clinical decision making; and
3. Increase patient awareness.
By coordinating these efforts, we can optimize patient exposure to radiation from certain types of medical imaging exams, and thereby reduce related risks while maximizing the benefits of these studies.
-
Related Information
* White Paper: Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Radiation Exposure from Medical Imaging2
* Questions & Answers: Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Radiation Exposure from Medical Imaging3
* FDA Unveils Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Radiation Exposure from Medical Imaging4
* Medical Imaging5
-
-
Other Resources
* Safety Investigation of CT Brain Perfusion Scans: Update 12/8/20096
* FDA Makes Interim Recommendations to Address Concern of Excess Radiation Exposure during CT Perfusion Imaging7
-
-
-
Links on this page:
1. http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationSafety/RadiationDoseReduction/ucm199994.htm
2. http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationSafety/RadiationDoseReduction/ucm199994.htm
3. http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationSafety/RadiationDoseReduction/ucm199996.htm
4. http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm200085.htm
5. http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationEmittingProductsandProcedures/MedicalImaging/default.htm
6. http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/AlertsandNotices/ucm185898.htm
7. http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/2009/ucm193190.htm
Page Last Updated: 02/09/2010
Sunday, February 7, 2010
web sites with free useful info:
http://www.usnews.com/health
http://www.hotfrog.ph/
http://www.philippinecompanies.com/
Advisory vs. Center for Health Development for Northern Luzon
Shortly after September 14, 2009, I received a letter identified as from one Maria Luisa Salonga-Agamada, Director IV Public Assistance and Information, Civil Service Commission, Constitution Hills, Batasang Pambansa Complex, Diliman 1126 Quezon City. Said letter was addressed to Director Irma L. Asuncion Center for Health Development for Northern Luzon, Department of Health San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, 1000 Manila. Said letter contained the following words: “May we refer, for information and appropriate action, the attached copy of the open letter to that Deparment of Mr. M. Silva furnished the Civil Service Commission’s Mamayan Muna Program, relative to his request from the Power Nut Store in Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila for a complete list of the ingredients in its food products.
We will appreciate your preferential action on the matter . . . Please advise Mr. Silva of the action taken thereon . . .” Up to February 4, 2010, I have not received
any communication regarding said matter from anyone from said Center. I believe R.A. 6713 has been violated.
Advisory vs. Compex store at Robinsons Ermita. On February 5, 2010, I saw at said store a sign regarding a desktop scanner priced at pesos eleven thousand and seven
hundred pesos. Beside said sign was what appeared to be said product. However, when I told an employee of said store that I wanted to try said product, said employee
told me that said product was out of stock at all Compex branches. If it was out of stock at all branches of Compex, a sign indicating that said product was out of
stock at all Compex branches should have been placed beside the sign bearing the price of said product. The names of the employees at said store, which were supplied
to me by one of said employees, were allegedly: Rolando Trogani, Jessie, Michael Santillian.
warning vs. Mega Cellular Network which was identied as owner and operator of several stores Luzon, including Mega One Phones & Gadgets Shop, Level 3, Space No. 0134. Robinson Place Manila - Midtown Ermita, Manila. I paid said entity six hundred ninety nine pesos on 2-3-2010 for a defect free Transcend brand card reader and a fully functional Photo Recovery computer program..Proof of payment is Mega One Phones & Gadgets Shop sales invoice No. 149832 dated 2-3-10. Said program couldn’t be activated because the serial number of said device didn’t fit into the designated space in the website of Transcend USA. I want Mega Cellular Network to, soonest, compensate me for said non-functional program.
http://www.usnews.com/health
http://www.hotfrog.ph/
http://www.philippinecompanies.com/
Advisory vs. Center for Health Development for Northern Luzon
Shortly after September 14, 2009, I received a letter identified as from one Maria Luisa Salonga-Agamada, Director IV Public Assistance and Information, Civil Service Commission, Constitution Hills, Batasang Pambansa Complex, Diliman 1126 Quezon City. Said letter was addressed to Director Irma L. Asuncion Center for Health Development for Northern Luzon, Department of Health San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, 1000 Manila. Said letter contained the following words: “May we refer, for information and appropriate action, the attached copy of the open letter to that Deparment of Mr. M. Silva furnished the Civil Service Commission’s Mamayan Muna Program, relative to his request from the Power Nut Store in Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila for a complete list of the ingredients in its food products.
We will appreciate your preferential action on the matter . . . Please advise Mr. Silva of the action taken thereon . . .” Up to February 4, 2010, I have not received
any communication regarding said matter from anyone from said Center. I believe R.A. 6713 has been violated.
Advisory vs. Compex store at Robinsons Ermita. On February 5, 2010, I saw at said store a sign regarding a desktop scanner priced at pesos eleven thousand and seven
hundred pesos. Beside said sign was what appeared to be said product. However, when I told an employee of said store that I wanted to try said product, said employee
told me that said product was out of stock at all Compex branches. If it was out of stock at all branches of Compex, a sign indicating that said product was out of
stock at all Compex branches should have been placed beside the sign bearing the price of said product. The names of the employees at said store, which were supplied
to me by one of said employees, were allegedly: Rolando Trogani, Jessie, Michael Santillian.
warning vs. Mega Cellular Network which was identied as owner and operator of several stores Luzon, including Mega One Phones & Gadgets Shop, Level 3, Space No. 0134. Robinson Place Manila - Midtown Ermita, Manila. I paid said entity six hundred ninety nine pesos on 2-3-2010 for a defect free Transcend brand card reader and a fully functional Photo Recovery computer program..Proof of payment is Mega One Phones & Gadgets Shop sales invoice No. 149832 dated 2-3-10. Said program couldn’t be activated because the serial number of said device didn’t fit into the designated space in the website of Transcend USA. I want Mega Cellular Network to, soonest, compensate me for said non-functional program.
Monday, February 1, 2010
USDA CONSUMER ALERT: Keeping Food Safe During An Emergency
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/NR_013010_01/index.asp
WASHINGTON - January 30, 2010
Steps to follow to prepare for a possible weather emergency:
* Keep an appliance thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer. An appliance thermometer will indicate the temperature inside the refrigerator and freezer in case of a power outage and help determine the safety of the food.
* Make sure the freezer is at 0°F or below and the refrigerator is at 40°F or below.
* Freeze containers of water for ice to help keep food cold in the freezer, refrigerator or coolers after the power is out.
* Freeze refrigerated items such as leftovers, milk and fresh meat and poultry that you may not need immediately — this helps keep them at a safe temperature longer.
* Plan ahead and know where dry ice and block ice can be purchased.
* Have coolers on hand to keep refrigerator food cold if the power will be out for more than 4 hours. Purchase or make ice cubes and store in the freezer for use in the refrigerator or in a cooler. Freeze gel packs ahead of time for use in coolers.
* Group food together in the freezer - this helps the food stay cold longer.
* Store food on shelves that will be safely out of the way of contaminated water in case of flooding.
Steps to follow after the weather emergency:
* Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature.
* The refrigerator will keep food safely cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened. A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) and the door remains closed.
* Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, soft cheeses, milk, eggs, leftovers and deli items after 4 hours without power.
* Food may be safely refrozen if it still contains ice crystals or is at 40°F or below when checked with a food thermometer.
* Never taste a food to determine its safety!
* Obtain dry or block ice to keep your refrigerator and freezer as cold as possible if the power is going to be out for a prolonged period of time. Fifty pounds of dry ice should hold an 18-cubic-foot full freezer for 2 days.
* If the power has been out for several days, check the temperature of the freezer with an appliance thermometer. If the appliance thermometer reads 40°F or below, the food is safe to refreeze.
* If a thermometer has not been kept in the freezer, check each package of food to determine its safety. If the food still contains ice crystals, the food is safe.
* Discard any food that is not in a waterproof container if there is any chance that it has come into contact with flood water. Discard wooden cutting boards, plastic utensils, baby bottle nipples and pacifiers.
* Thoroughly wash all metal pans, ceramic dishes and utensils that came in contact with flood water with hot soapy water and sanitize by boiling them in clean water or by immersing them for 15 minutes in a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of drinking water.
* Undamaged, commercially prepared foods in all-metal cans and retort pouches (for example, flexible, shelf-stable juice or seafood pouches) can be saved. Follow the Steps to Salvage All-Metal Cans and Retort Pouches in the publication "Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency" at: www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/
Keeping_Food_Safe_During_an_Emergency/index.asp
* Use bottled water that has not been exposed to flood waters. If bottled water is not available, tap water can be boiled for safety. For more information on drinking water safely during weather emergencies, access the FSIS publication "Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency" at: www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/
Keeping_Food_Safe_During_an_Emergency/index.asp
* When in Doubt, Throw it Out!
FSIS has available a Public Service Announcement (PSA), available in 30- and 60-second versions, illustrating practical food safety recommendations for handling and consuming foods stored in refrigerators and freezers during, and after, a power outage. Consumers are encouraged to view the PSA at: www.fsis.usda.gov/news/Food_Safety_PSA.
News organizations and power companies can obtain hard copy (Beta and DVD) versions of the PSA by contacting the Food Safety Education Staff in FSIS' Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Education by calling (301) 344-4757.
Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day. Podcasts and SignFSIS video-casts in American Sign Language featuring text-captioning are available online at www.fsis.usda.gov/news_&_events/
multimedia.
#
For additional information, see also: FSIS Emergency Preparedness Fact Sheets
Warning vs. Bruno's barber shop at Robinsons Ermita. On January 31, 2010, while I was at said store, there was no visible express lane for senior citizens. Also, there was no visible sign about the privileges for senior citizens. I believe employees at said store violated the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act. An employee at said store cut me in places where I shouldn't have been cut.
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/NR_013010_01/index.asp
WASHINGTON - January 30, 2010
Steps to follow to prepare for a possible weather emergency:
* Keep an appliance thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer. An appliance thermometer will indicate the temperature inside the refrigerator and freezer in case of a power outage and help determine the safety of the food.
* Make sure the freezer is at 0°F or below and the refrigerator is at 40°F or below.
* Freeze containers of water for ice to help keep food cold in the freezer, refrigerator or coolers after the power is out.
* Freeze refrigerated items such as leftovers, milk and fresh meat and poultry that you may not need immediately — this helps keep them at a safe temperature longer.
* Plan ahead and know where dry ice and block ice can be purchased.
* Have coolers on hand to keep refrigerator food cold if the power will be out for more than 4 hours. Purchase or make ice cubes and store in the freezer for use in the refrigerator or in a cooler. Freeze gel packs ahead of time for use in coolers.
* Group food together in the freezer - this helps the food stay cold longer.
* Store food on shelves that will be safely out of the way of contaminated water in case of flooding.
Steps to follow after the weather emergency:
* Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature.
* The refrigerator will keep food safely cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened. A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) and the door remains closed.
* Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, soft cheeses, milk, eggs, leftovers and deli items after 4 hours without power.
* Food may be safely refrozen if it still contains ice crystals or is at 40°F or below when checked with a food thermometer.
* Never taste a food to determine its safety!
* Obtain dry or block ice to keep your refrigerator and freezer as cold as possible if the power is going to be out for a prolonged period of time. Fifty pounds of dry ice should hold an 18-cubic-foot full freezer for 2 days.
* If the power has been out for several days, check the temperature of the freezer with an appliance thermometer. If the appliance thermometer reads 40°F or below, the food is safe to refreeze.
* If a thermometer has not been kept in the freezer, check each package of food to determine its safety. If the food still contains ice crystals, the food is safe.
* Discard any food that is not in a waterproof container if there is any chance that it has come into contact with flood water. Discard wooden cutting boards, plastic utensils, baby bottle nipples and pacifiers.
* Thoroughly wash all metal pans, ceramic dishes and utensils that came in contact with flood water with hot soapy water and sanitize by boiling them in clean water or by immersing them for 15 minutes in a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of drinking water.
* Undamaged, commercially prepared foods in all-metal cans and retort pouches (for example, flexible, shelf-stable juice or seafood pouches) can be saved. Follow the Steps to Salvage All-Metal Cans and Retort Pouches in the publication "Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency" at: www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/
Keeping_Food_Safe_During_an_Emergency/index.asp
* Use bottled water that has not been exposed to flood waters. If bottled water is not available, tap water can be boiled for safety. For more information on drinking water safely during weather emergencies, access the FSIS publication "Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency" at: www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/
Keeping_Food_Safe_During_an_Emergency/index.asp
* When in Doubt, Throw it Out!
FSIS has available a Public Service Announcement (PSA), available in 30- and 60-second versions, illustrating practical food safety recommendations for handling and consuming foods stored in refrigerators and freezers during, and after, a power outage. Consumers are encouraged to view the PSA at: www.fsis.usda.gov/news/Food_Safety_PSA.
News organizations and power companies can obtain hard copy (Beta and DVD) versions of the PSA by contacting the Food Safety Education Staff in FSIS' Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Education by calling (301) 344-4757.
Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day. Podcasts and SignFSIS video-casts in American Sign Language featuring text-captioning are available online at www.fsis.usda.gov/news_&_events/
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For additional information, see also: FSIS Emergency Preparedness Fact Sheets
Warning vs. Bruno's barber shop at Robinsons Ermita. On January 31, 2010, while I was at said store, there was no visible express lane for senior citizens. Also, there was no visible sign about the privileges for senior citizens. I believe employees at said store violated the implementing rules and regulations of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act. An employee at said store cut me in places where I shouldn't have been cut.
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image of registry return receipt of letter addressed to Makati councilor J. J. Binay
