Society for Women's Health Research (SWHR)

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2011-06-17T09:52:00.002-04:00

As of June 17, 2011, we will no longer be updating this blog. Please join our facebook group (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Society-for-Womens-Health-Research/10033434757?v=wall) and follow us on twitter (http://twitter.com/SWHR) to learn the latest from SWHR and stay up-to-date on women's health and sex differences news.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in SWHR!

Mission Unaccomplished: Understanding the Health Needs of our Women Veterans

2011-06-13T15:42:00.001-04:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD
June 13, 2011

Women are the fastest growing segment in the US military, already accounting for approximately 14 percent of deployed forces. According to statistics from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), 20 percent of new recruits and 17 percent of Reserve and National Guard Forces are women. As the number of women continues to grow in the military, so does the need for health care specifically targeted to their unique concerns.

Historically, lower rates of female veterans have used the VA system. “Research has shown that women didn’t define themselves as veterans in the past, and this is changing,” said Antonette Zeiss, PhD, a clinical psychologist and Acting Chief for Mental Health Services at the VA Central Office in Washington, DC.

Now, “Women are among the fastest growing segments of new VA users with as many as 44 percent of women returning from Iraq and Afghanistan electing to use the VA compared to 11 percent in prior eras,” said Sally Haskell, MD, Acting Director of Comprehensive Women's Health, at the VA Central Office.

This change is due in large part to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the different military service opportunities available to women there. Although women are technically prohibited from participating in front-line combat, they have served in counterinsurgency operations in large numbers. Women are also often in convoys, which may be attacked, leading to serious injuries resembling those of their male counterparts.

“We found in the cohort of veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan using VA care in their first year after deployment that the most common conditions in female veterans were back problems, joint disorders, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), mild depression, musculoskeletal disorders, adjustment disorders, skin disorders, major depression, ear and sense organ disorders and reproductive health disorders,” said Haskell.

In addition, female veterans are more likely than their male counterparts to be confronted with childcare issues. “Women veterans may also need to reestablish childcare when they return home,” said Zeiss. “The VA is increasing family-oriented services and offering options to include the family in healthcare, if the veteran wants.”

According to a recent study in the journal Women’s Health Issues, female veterans had similar rates of physical conditions in the first year after combat, but higher rates of certain mental disorders, including depression and adjustment disorders. Men had slightly higher rates of PTSD.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, PTSD is a condition that develops after a distressing ordeal that involved physical harm or the threat of physical harm. PTSD can cause a multitude of symptoms including: flashbacks, bad dreams, frightening thoughts, avoidance, difficulty remembering things, stress, anxiety, anger, being easily startled, and sleep and eating disturbances. Among military personnel serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, more than 17 percent of service members screened positive for PTSD.

There are some notable gender differences when it comes to PTSD. According to survey results from PTSD in Women Returning From Combat – a report by the Society for Women’s Health Research, clinicians treating female patients reported more depressive symptoms in women, while men exhibited more irritability and anger, nightmares and flashbacks.

The report also revealed that female patients were more receptive to psychotherapy, while male patients expressed a stronger preference for medication. One key sex difference that almost 65 percent of doctors noted was that sexual trauma (previous or otherwise) was an issue in the treatment of their female patients but not at all for male patients.

Military Sexual Trauma (MST), a term coined by the VA, is the experience of sexual assault, or severe, repeated sexual harassment experienced during military service. MST can be experienced by both women and men and many VA facilities have designated a Military Sexual Trauma Coordinator to oversee the screening and treatment referral process.

When it comes to MST, “many women would like to have women providers,” said Zeiss. “Every facility needs to find out what gender providers are available, especially with sensitive topics. In my experience, men who experience sexual trauma also request women providers.”

Growing numbers of women in the military have posed challenges and sparked changes in VA services. “We are changing the treatment environment so women feel safe, supported and get the care they need,” said Zeiss.

Sources

Meehan S. Improving Health Care for Women Veterans Health Services Research and Development Service, Office of Research & Development, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC, USA.

Fihn S. Washington DC: Women's Health Conference; Women's Health: A Research Priority in VA. November 8–9, 2004.

Haskell S, et al. The Burden of Illness in the First Year Home: Do Male and Female VA Users Differ in Health Conditions and Healthcare Utilization, Women's Health Issues 21-1 (2011) 92–97.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Jennifer Wider, M.D., is a medical advisor for the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) www.swhr.org, a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., widely recognized as the thought leader in research on sex differences and dedicated to improving women’s health through advocacy, education, and research.

Dr. Wider is a graduate of Princeton University and received her medical degree in 1999 from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. She is frequently published in newspapers, magazines, and websites and has been a guest on the Today Show, CBS News, Fox News, Good Day New York, and a variety of cable channels. Dr. Wider hosts “Paging Dr. Wider,” a weekly segment on Sirius satellite radio for the Cosmopolitan magazine channel.

Dr. Wider is a past managing editor of the health channel at iVillage.com. She writes a monthly news service article for SWHR and is the author of the consumer health booklet “Just the Facts: What Women Need to Know about Sex Differences in Health” and the book “The Doctor’s Complete College Girls’ Health Guide: From Sex to Drugs to the Freshman Fifteen.”

SWHR Featured in New Nursing Textbook

2011-05-18T13:38:00.001-04:00

Chapter covers SWHR’s work in advocacy, education, and research for women’s health

Washington, DC (May 18, 2011) – Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) Board member and leader in women’s and infants’ health and research, Irma Goertzen, RN, MA wrote an exciting chapter on SWHR in the newly published textbook, Policy & Politics in Nursing and Health Care, 6^th Edition.

The new textbook features current analysis of healthcare policy and how nurses can directly influence change in today’s health care environment. Policy & Politics covers the 2010 healthcare reform law, community involvement and activism, and chapters detailing innovative work in today’s health non-profits.

“We are very pleased with the inclusion of SWHR’s history and impact on health research in the new textbook Policy & Politics,” said Phyllis Greenberger, MSW, President and CEO of SWHR. “Former SWHR Board Chair Irma Goertzen and Suzanne Stone did a wonderful job including all relevant SWHR achievements in this enlightening book for today’s nursing students. Hopefully this book chapter will inspire students to consider sex differences in their chosen career fields.”

Policy & Politics is published through Elseiver Sanders and edited by Diana J. Mason, Judith K. Leavitt, and Mary W. Chaffee. Purchase your copy today from any online retailer or from your local book store.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or rachel@swhr.org.

Annual OSSD Meeting to be Held June 2-4

2011-05-17T14:10:00.000-04:00

WASHINGTON, DC (May 17, 2011) — The 5^th Annual Meeting of the Organization for the Study of Sex Differences (OSSD) is June 2-4 in Oklahoma City. The annual OSSD meeting encompasses new research into sex differences by prominent US and international researchers. This is the can’t-miss research event of the year!

The OSSD Annual Meeting is the leading forum for scientists to explore aspects of sex differences research at the genetic, molecular, cellular, organ, and system levels in various model systems. The field of sex-based biology is growing rapidly. This meeting promotes the understanding and dissemination of novel findings about how sex differences translate into human physiological and pathological processes throughout the lifespan.

Rates for the 3 day meeting at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City can be found at ossdweb.org but space is limited so REGISTER TODAY!

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or rachel@swhr.org.

OSSD is a non-profit, scientific membership society. OSSD was established in 2006 by the Society for Women's Health Research (SWHR), with staffing provided by SWHR. Members include basic and clinical scientists from various disciplines who share an interest in exploring sex/gender differences in all areas of biological, medical, and behavioral science.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly as sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at www.swhr.org for more information.

6th Annual SWHR Medtronic Prize Winner Announced

2011-05-04T13:11:00.001-04:00

Washington, DC (May 10, 2011) — The 6^th annual Society for Women’s Health Research Medtronic Prize for Scientific Contributions to Women’s Health was presented to Dr. Denniz Zolnoun from the University of North Carolina at the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) 18^th Annual Gala Dinner on May 9, 2011.

The SWHR Medtronic Prize is given to a female scientist in her early to mid career who has devoted a significant part of her work to sex differences research and has served as a role model and mentor for both colleagues and students.

Zolnoun is a celebrated researcher at UNC specializing in women and gynecological pain. She received her BS in Biophysics from the University of California, her MD from the University of Illinois, and her MPH in Health Care Prevention from the University of North Carolina, where she is now an Associate Professor and Director of the Vulvar Pain Clinic.

Zolnoun’s area of research is pain mechanism, especially gynecological pelvic pain. Although persistent pain affects millions of women across the U.S., little is known about it in women. Zolnoun discovered that sensory nerves, perception, and dysfunction are well described and traced in men but not in women. Even anatomy books lack descriptions of these nerves, their point of origin, termination, and clinical perception, as they pertain specifically to women. Zolnoun has dedicated her research to closing this knowledge gap. She now strives to identify how sex differences affect sensory nerves in order to help determine the cause of women's pelvic pain and important clinical implications of this work.

“On behalf of millions of women with intractable pelvic pain I’d like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to SWHR for their support of sex difference research while championing a higher standard in women’s health,” said Zolnoun. “I am honored and privileged to be an SWHR Medtronic Prize winner and look forward to continuing my research into pelvic pain and closing the gender gap in medical research.”

Zolnoun has over 20 peer reviewed publications in journals including: The International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Clinical Journal of Pain, and The Annual Review of Sex Research and has authored several book chapters. Currently, she reviews nine journals and serves on the North Carolina Medical Board as the Expert External Reviewer.

Along with the SWHR Medtronic Prize, Zolnoun’s research has been supported by grants from the National Vulvodynia Association, NC TraCS Institute, and the Center for Neurosensory Disorders.

SWHR congratulates Dr. Zolnoun on her accomplishments and her work advancing sex differences research.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Bruised and Betrayed: Women and Domestic Violence

2011-04-14T10:18:00.002-04:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD

April 14, 2011

Domestic violence knows no boundaries: cultural, socio-economic, religious, level of education, gender or age. It can occur in any relationship and to anyone, but especially to women. In fact, roughly 25 percent of women will become a victim at one time or another during her lifetime.

Abuse is defined as any act used to gain power and control over another person, which can take on many forms. It can include physical, sexual, emotional, economic, coercion, threats, isolation and/or intimidation.

Domestic violence is abuse that occurs within interpersonal relationships and has become one of the top public health issues facing women in the United States. It is a leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 14 and 44 in this country.

There are risk factors that may increase the likelihood that a person becomes a victim to domestic violence. These can include: history of violence or abuse in a past relationship, physical or mental disability, unemployment, poor living situation, substance abuse, unplanned pregnancy, recently separated or divorced, social isolation and witnessed abuse as a child.

Men are not immune to victimization in relationships, but the patterns are different. “In many American surveys, roughly equal numbers of men and women report ever experiencing a violent act by their partner,” said Keera Allendorf, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. “However, women experience more severe and more frequent violence than men.”

Marital status and the amount of time couples have been together seem to play a role as well. “Cohabiters have greater violence than married people,” reported Allendorf. “And there is a higher risk for violence earlier on in a relationship than later.”

Some victims report that they have difficulty recognizing the signs of domestic violence, especially if the abuse is not physical in nature. One woman reported to a worker at a local domestic violence crisis center, “Everyone has disagreements.” But domestic violence is not a disagreement; it is a pattern of behavior used by one partner to exercise power and control over the other. Oftentimes, the behavior may begin subtly and then quickly escalate in intensity and frequency over time.

There are serious and harmful long-term effects associated with domestic violence. Victims may experience physical injuries which range from bruises and broken bones to head injuries and internal bleeding. Women who are victims of sexual violence may contract sexually transmitted diseases and experience unwanted pregnancies. Studies show that pregnant women who are physically and emotionally abused are at higher risk for low-birth-weight infants, pre-term labor and miscarriage.

Not just physical, domestic violence takes an emotional toll as well. Women who are in abusive relationships are more likely to be depressed, anxious, experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), engage in substance abuse and attempt suicide. One study revealed that female victims of domestic violence have a 40% increased risk of developing postpartum depression.

Domestic violence touches the lives of thousands of people each year. In order to take meaningful steps to lower the number of victims, we need to make sure that people realize that domestic violence is not a private matter.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, the National Domestic Violence Hotline offers crisis intervention and provides information and referrals for victims of domestic violence. Call the hotline at (800) 799-SAFE or (800) 787-3224 TTY, or visit www.ndvh.org.

Sources

Family Violence Prevention Fund (2004). National Consensus Guidelines on Identifying and Responding to Domestic Violence Victimization in Health Care Settings.

Fact sheets, Domestic Violence Crisis Centers (DVCC), 2007-11.

Garabedian M, et al "Intimate partner violence and postpartum depression" SMFM 2009; Abstract 194.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Jennifer Wider, M.D., is a medical advisor for the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., widely recognized as the thought leader in research on sex differences and dedicated to improving women’s health through advocacy, education, and research.

SWHR Sponsors Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Yale University, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital Study on Exercise and Breast Cancer

2011-04-05T11:28:00.001-04:00

Washington, DC (April 5, 2011) - The Society for Women's Health Research (SWHR) is partnering with Susan G. Komen for the Cure^® to sponsor research to study the link between exercise and breast cancer.

"I'm pleased to announce SWHR's $1,000,000 award from Susan G. Komen for the Cure^® that will fund Dr. Jennifer Ligibel of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Dr. Melinda Irwin of Yale University, and Dr. Deborah Dillon of Brigham and Women's Hospital to study the benefit of exercise on breast cancer," said Phyllis Greenberger, MSW, President and CEO of SWHR. "It is our hope that this research will provide women with helpful measures to increase their chance of survival if diagnosed with this devastating disease."

Earlier studies have consistently shown that moderate amounts of exercise lowers breast cancer incidence in women. "Observational evidence suggests that women who exercise are less likely to develop breast cancer, and several recent reports also demonstrate lower rates of breast cancer recurrence in women who exercise after diagnosis," said Dana-Farber investigator Jennifer Ligibel, MD. "Little is known, however, about the biological mechanisms through which exercise could lower breast cancer risk and improve outcomes. With this project, we hope to shed some light upon the pathways through which exercise could influence breast cancer."

To understand the effect of exercise on biological mechanisms will require use of interdisciplinary approaches and methods from both basic and clinical research. "We are thrilled to bring together a network of experts in the field that will include medical oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, epidemiologists and behavioral scientists. By forming a transdisciplinary team of scientists, we will use an innovative design and methods to examine how exercise impacts breast cancer risk and recurrence," said Yale University's Melinda Irwin, PhD.

Breast cancer is still the most common cancer among women in the United States and accounts for approximately 40,000 deaths every year despite decreases in incidence rates due to early detection and existing therapies. Exercise promises to offer an alternate cost-effective, non-medical treatment option for women newly diagnosed with breast cancer, leading to improved quality of life.

"If this research can demonstrate that physical activity leads to alterations in these or other biological pathways, this would help provide important basic information that links exercise to breast cancer," said Komen President Elizabeth Thompson. "That information could then be used to both direct future research and to develop guidelines for millions of breast cancer survivors and women at risk of developing the disease."

Click here to learn more about SWHR's Interdisciplinary Networks.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research, please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Controlling the Spread of HIV/AIDS in Women

2011-03-15T14:33:00.000-04:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD
March 15, 2011

National Women and Girls AIDS Awareness Day, a nationwide observance that raises awareness and promotes action in the fight against HIV/AIDS, took place on March 10. As the nation turns its attention to this important cause, women and girls around the world continue to be affected by HIV/AIDS in high numbers. According to reports from the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS, HIV is the leading cause of death and disease among women of reproductive age across the globe.

HIV is a virus that can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS, a disease that diminishes the body’s ability to fight off infection. Unprotected intercourse is the primary way HIV is spread, but it can also be shared through IV drug use, blood transfusion or from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.

Despite the fact that HIV/AIDS-related deaths are significantly lower in the United States when compared with other regions of the world, the disease remains a serious public health issue. According to statistics from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, roughly 280,000 women are affected by AIDS in the United States today.

When the disease was first reported in the early 1980s, men were primarily infected. Today, more and more women are affected by HIV/AIDS. According to information from the Office on Women’s Health at the US Department of Health and Human Services, one in four Americans who lives with HIV is a woman; with African American women being the most affected.

“Over the last two decades, the proportion of estimated AIDS cases diagnosed among women has more than tripled, from 7 percent in 1985 to 25 percent in 2009,” said Dr. Regina Benjamin, Surgeon General of the United States, in a report issued by the Office of National AIDS Policy. “Women of color are especially impacted—HIV diagnosis rates for black women are nearly 20 times the rate for white women. HIV infection is one of the leading causes of death among black and Latina women age 25-44 years.”

According to information from the CDC, approximately one in five people who are infected by HIV do not know they are infected. Getting tested for STDs, including HIV on a regular basis is an extremely important part of protecting yourself and your loved ones. In addition, sharing medical histories between sex partners is vital because 85 percent of newly diagnosed HIV infections among women and girls in the US result from sexual relations with an infected male counterpart.

As in the case of other diseases, early diagnosis of HIV can lead to a better prognosis. Timely treatment of HIV not only reduces the risk of transmission, but it can prolong a person’s lifespan significantly. Pregnant women need to be extra vigilant to ensure the prevention of transmission to unborn children.

There is currently no cure for HIV/AIDS, but an array of medications can be used in tandem to manage and control the disease. Over the years, doctors have learned that it is best to combine different classes of drugs to prevent creating viral strains that may become immune to single therapies.

There are a few new treatments on the horizon. “There are new microbicide studies that suggest some efficacy in reduction of transmission of HIV,” said Michael Kolber, MD, Director of the University of Miami’s Comprehensive AIDS Program. Furthermore, scientists from the University of Utah have developed a new kind of “molecular condom,” in the form of a vaginal gel that is inserted prior to intercourse, which then becomes semisolid when it encounters semen. In effect, it works to trap HIV particles and prevent them from infecting vaginal cells.

“Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is the new kid on the block,” said Kolber. This involves encouraging high-risk, but HIV negative people, to take antiretroviral medication on a daily basis to lower their chances of getting infected if they are exposed to HIV. To date, PrEP has only been shown to be effective in men who have sex with men. According to Kolber, “Whether this modality will catch on because of cost and other factors remains to be seen, but may translate into prevention for women, as well.”

Sources

CDC. MMWR, Vol. 57, No. 39; 2008

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

SWHR President Named One of Nation’s Top 90 Mentor Leaders

2011-03-11T15:36:00.002-05:00

SWHR President and CEO Phyllis Greenberger was profiled in the special edition 2011 issue of Women of Wealth Magazine, the leading publication on mentoring and philanthropy. Get your copy from newsstands today!

http://www.womenofwealthmagazine.com/

Senators Stabenow and Murkowski Reintroduce HEART for Women Act

2011-03-02T15:54:00.001-05:00

Federal bill aims to reduce cardiovascular disease death rates in women

Washington, DC (March 2, 2011) — U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) today reintroduced legislation to ensure that heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are more widely recognized and effectively treated in women.

The Heart disease Education, Research and Analysis, and Treatment (HEART) for Women Act would make sure that healthcare data reported to the federal government is classified by gender, race and ethnicity. It would also require the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary to submit an annual report to Congress on the quality of and access to care for women with CVD. Additionally, the measure would expand eligibility for funding to all 50 states for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s WISEWOMAN screening program for low-income, underinsured uninsured women. Currently the program is available in only 20 states.

“Unfortunately, a majority of women and even some physicians are unfamiliar with the symptoms, diagnoses, and dangers of heart disease in women,” said Senator Stabenow. “The HEART for Women Act will help educate women and their doctors, increase access to screenings for women, and expand gender-specific analysis and research, so we are better equipped to fight this disease and save lives.”

Every 60 seconds, someone’s mother, daughter, wife or sister dies from heart disease, stroke or other forms of CVD in the U.S. These diseases claim the lives of more than 422,000 American women each year—more than the next four causes of death combined. Nearly half of all African-American women have some form of cardiovascular disease, compared to 34 percent of white women. But according to the 2011 American Heart Association CVD prevention guidelines for women, helping women and their doctors understand risks and taking practical steps can be most effective in preventing heart disease and stroke.

“Cardiovascular disease, often called the “silent killer,” takes the life of one woman nearly every minute,” said Senator Murkowski. “The HEART for Women Act gives more women access to the WISEWOMAN program that provides free heart disease and stroke prevention screening to low-income, uninsured women. Passage of this legislation will ensure that health care providers have greater access to life-saving drugs and screening services to prevent the rise of cardiovascular disease in women.”

The HEART for Women Act is endorsed by more than 40 leading health organizations including the American Heart Association, Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), and WomenHeart: the National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease.

“With nearly one in three women dying from heart disease and stroke each year, we are pleased to see the U.S. Senate put forth legislation that will help save lives,” said Ralph L. Sacco, M.D., American Heart Association President. “The HEART for Women Act supports and recognizes women’s unique health needs, which is critical in eliminating inequities and improving the treatment, diagnosis and prevention of America’s leading health threats.”

“Cardiovascular disease continues to be the number one killer of women and the recent re-introduction of the HEART for Women Act shows a renewed commitment to raising awareness, improving treatment options and educating women on prevention and care,” said Phyllis Greenberger, M.S.W., President and CEO of SWHR. ”We must ensure that the Food and Drug Administration is documenting sex based differences in medications and devices, specifically on heart disease and women.”

“Women are underrepresented in cardiovascular trials and there is a serious lapse in enforcement of rules requiring new drug applicants to submit data by sex, age group and race, said Lisa M. Tate, CEO of WomenHeart. “As a result, female heart patients are treated with drugs, procedures and devices that have been shown to be effective in men, yet not studied in a sufficient number of women. The HEART for Women Act will ensure that results of cardiovascular trials are reported by sex and that women get the best possible care for their heart health,” Tate continued.

For more information, visit www.heartforwomen.org.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington DC, is widely recognized as the thought leader in research on sex differences and is dedicated to improving women’s health through advocacy, education, and research. Our focus is to clearly demonstrate that sex and gender differences exist and that more research needs to be done to explore conditions that affect women differently, disproportionately, or exclusively; and to identify these differences and understand the implications for diagnosis and treatment. Visit SWHR’s website at www.swhr.org for more information.

The American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. Our mission is to build healthier lives by preventing, treating and defeating these diseases – two of America’s leading killers. We fund cutting-edge research, conduct lifesaving public and professional educational programs, and advocate to protect public health. To learn more or join us in helping all Americans, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit heart.org and heart.org/advocacy.

WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease is the only national organization dedicated to promoting women’s heart health through advocacy, and patient support. As the leading voice for the 44 million American women living with or at risk of heart disease, WomenHeart advocates for equal access to quality care and champions prevention and early detection, accurate diagnosis and proper treatment of women’s heart disease. For more information, visit www.womenheart.org.

SWHR ISIS Poster Accepted

2011-02-28T10:48:00.000-05:00

Washington, DC (February 28, 2011) — The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) is pleased to announce the acceptance of a poster to be presented at the Second Annual International Science of Team Science (SciTS) Conference. The title of the poster is “The SWHR ISIS Networks: A Collaborative Model for Conducting Sex-based Research”.

The SWHR Interdisciplinary Studies in Sex-differences (ISIS) Networks address cross-cutting research questions in sex-based biology. Since 2002, we have convened and funded five successful networks focusing on sex differences in the brain, musculoskeletal health, metabolism, coronary vascular disease and breast cancer. The poster will describe SWHR’s experience, the model used, the guidelines, and several of the products that have emerged from the network collaborations.

Lead author, Christine L. Carter, Ph.D., M.P.H., who recently joined SWHR as Vice President, Scientific Affairs, says “I am delighted to have this opportunity to showcase the unique features of this interdisciplinary research network model which focuses exclusively on sex-differences in health and disease”.

Sponsored by the Research Team Support & Development (RTS&D) of the Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences (NUCATS) Institute, the SciTS Conference is a forum to enhance understanding of how best to engage in team science to meet society’s needs. The poster session offers an opportunity for conference attendees to present findings as they relate to the field of team science.

The conference will be held April 11-14 in Chicago at Northwestern University.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Fatigues to Fabulous to Aid Women Veterans

2011-02-11T16:09:00.007-05:00

Washington, DC (February 11, 2011) — SWHR is excited to announce that Tuesday, February 15^th during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, SWHR and our partner Grace After Fire, a support network for women veterans, will be launching the Fatigues to Fabulous (F2F) campaign – a national program created to honor the service of women veterans and support their transition home. The campaign is working with the fashion industry to help women make the transition to a civilian wardrobe, raise awareness of the challenges women veterans face upon return, and harness resources to support them.

As part of the campaign, DKNYC has designed a fashionable and feminine F2F watch featuring “dog tag” accessories and the F2F logo, which will be exclusively offered and promoted through HSN.

Just as disease affects women differently than men, so too do military women have unique health concerns that differ from their male counterparts. While accidents and injuries are often an uncontrollable reality for those who serve, what we can control is making sure women are appropriately equipped and protected. For those injuries that cannot be prevented, we must have in place care options that are designed for women. Some studies are already reporting important differences in the incidence, severity, and outcomes among male and female veterans in conditions ranging from PTSD to urological conditions and muscle and joint disorders. Finding the best, evidence-based treatments for women and men can only happen with research.

F2F Wants You!

We need your help to get the word out about the campaign. Please visit the F2F Facebook Page and CLICK HERE become a fan! And please don’t be shy…share the link with your friends, family and professional associations.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fatigues-to-Fabulous/151113794941720

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at www.swhr.org for more information.

Grace After Fire was established by women veterans for women veterans to offer a safe and confidential venue – a social network. Women can share common experiences and offer unique peer support for wellness while providing increased access to resources for healthcare, family and self.

The Make Up of Your Make Up

2011-02-10T16:42:00.000-05:00

Washington, DC (February 10, 2011) — The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) and the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) hosted the Capitol Hill briefing, The Science of Cosmetics on Wednesday, February 9, with a reception following. Featuring physicians, government representatives, and industry members, the briefing discussed the science of cosmetics and its impact on women’s health.

Leading the presentations, Linda M. Katz, MD, MPH, Director of the Office of Cosmetics and Colors. Chief Medical Officer, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition at FDA, provided an overview of the FDA’s responsibilities. She defined cosmetics as articles intended for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, and altering appearance. In order to be marketed as a cosmetic in the United States, the cosmetic must not be adulterated or misbranded. “Manufacturers have the responsibility to ensure that products are safe prior to marketing through studies (clinical or laboratory), review of literature, or other validated sources of information,” said Katz.

With FDA oversight defined, John E. Bailey, PhD, Chief Scientist and Executive Vice President for Science of the Personal Care Products Council, shared more information on the cosmetic regulatory system including hazard vs. risk and how products are developed. Bailey said the steps for product development are, “to decide on type of product, who is intended to use it, what do you want the product to do, what regulatory body does it fall under (over-the-counter drugs or cosmetics), and finally, selection of ingredients by formulator.”

Halyna Breslawec, PhD, Deputy Director of the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), explained the approval process for cosmetics and how ingredients are deemed safe. The mission of CIR is to “thoroughly review and access the safety of ingredients used in cosmetics in an open, unbiased, and expert manner, and publish the results in open, peer-reviewed literature.” The most frequently used ingredients and ingredients of concern are given high priority from CIR for review. They found 1124 ingredients to be safe, 875 safe with qualifications, 9 unsafe and 51 with insufficient data. In total, 2109 ingredients have been reviewed by CIR to date.

Rounding out the panel, Tina Alster MD, Director of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery and Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Georgetown University Medical Center, offered insight into the top dermatological concerns with cosmetics. Even though cosmetics are deemed safe, some women face adverse reactions, including irritant, allergic, photoallergic and other reactions. Dermatitis from topical prescriptions is common so women should be diligent in observing how their skin reacts to different products. Alster’s main take-home messages for consumers are “sun protection is crucial, know your ABCDE’s (have any and all suspicious lesions checked by a dermatologist), and topicals have great therapeutic efficacy but also potential for side effects.”

Following the presentations, guests were treated to a reception to learn more about cosmetics from various companies and to ask further questions of the panel.

“The safety of cosmetics is an important issue for women’s health,” said Phyllis Greenberger, MSW, President and CEO of SWHR. “Conducting the layered review process for cosmetic ingredients ensures the safest products remain on the market and keeps the consumer safe.”

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Exercise Files: Gender Differences in Exercise

2011-02-09T11:41:00.002-05:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD
February 9, 2011

Obesity levels are at an all-time high among men, women, and children in the United States. The need for good nutrition and regular exercise is paramount for maintaining proper health and for keeping those extra pounds at bay, especially for women.

Beginning in her late 20s and 30s, a woman’s average body weight climbs steadily each year. This increase usually continues into her 60s. For many women, the weight gain is between one to two pounds per year with some women gaining more, and others less.

Aside from weight loss, women who incorporate regular exercise into their daily schedules may lower the risks of certain diseases and conditions. A recent study presented at the Ninth Annual AACR Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research Conference, revealed that women who exercised for at least 150 minutes a week significantly reduced their risk of endometrial cancer, regardless of their body size.

The Journal of the American Medical Association revealed that in order to prevent weight gain, an average woman who eats a normal diet needs 60 minutes of moderate exercise per day. If a woman is overweight or obese, 60 minutes of exercise is inadequate to keep off the weight, according to the study. In many cases she will have to modify her diet, including cutting down on overall daily caloric intake.

For older women, a dose of moderate, regular exercise may slow the progression of age-related memory loss. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, revealed that exercise may even reverse changes in the brain due to the aging process. Other recent studies prove a positive correlation between exercise and a lower risk of colon cancer.

Despite the numerous health benefits that accompany exercise, there are some important things women need to keep in mind in order to prevent injury. According to Alice Chen, MD, a specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Norwalk Hospital in Connecticut, “There are some gender differences in exercise-related injuries. Most of these relate to ligament laxity.” Women need to take extra precautions because although, “they feel less sore than men after vigorous exercise, due to hormonal differences, women will have more laxity in their ligaments and therefore potentially more ligament injury at extreme stresses,” said Chen.

Pregnant women and women in the post-partum period may have additional health concerns due to fluctuations in hormone levels. “Pregnant women (and post-partum) with their shifting levels of progesterone will have more vulnerability to injury,” said Chen.

Women are also more likely to experience knee pain than men, especially in the patellar (knee cap) region. This is partially due to their natural laxity and also due to “an (anatomical) difference in the knee angle that puts women’s knees at an increased level of stress,” explained Chen.

The good news is there are specific things women can do to reduce their risk of injury while exercising.
Prior to working out, women should make sure to:

Stretch. Everyone should warm up before engaging in vigorous exercise. Stretching and light aerobic activity to get the heart rate up helps to warm you up and prevent muscle injury.

Hydration. Many people are chronically operating on a fluid deficit and working out and sweating further depletes their fluid reserves. It is vital to stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise and always monitor your fluid levels in order to prevent muscle injury and overheating.

Adequate caloric intake. Under nutrition can lead to amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) due to hormone disruption. If this persists it can result in bone mass loss (osteoporosis), placing the athlete at risk for potential stress fracture.

Athletes who are consistently undernourished may experience long-term health consequences, such as amenorrhea. According to Chen, “menstruating athletes gain two to four percent bone mass between the ages 20 to 30. But those athletes with amenorrhea will lose two percent bone mass a year. Since women start to lose bone mass in their 40s naturally with menopause, the athlete is vulnerable to a higher lifelong fracture risk.”

Exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy body, and taking precautions to ensure safety during exercise is equally important. Stretching, hydration and adequate nutrition will help lower the risk of injury in women.

Sources

Lee I, Sesso HD, Buring J, et al. Physical Activity and Preventing Weight Gain in Women. JAMA. 2010;303(24):2475.

Arem H, et al. Cancer Prevention Research: December 2010; Volume 3, Issue 12, Supplement 2.doi: 10.1158/1940-6207.PREV-10-B70

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Jennifer Wider, M.D., is a medical advisor for the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., widely recognized as the thought leader in research on sex differences and dedicated to improving women’s health through advocacy, education, and research.

SWHR Supports New Requirements for Pregnancy Drug Labeling

2011-01-28T10:31:00.001-05:00

SWHR supports Sen. Kohl and FDA on important women’s health legislation

Washington, DC (January 28, 2011) – On Wednesday, Sen. Herb Kohl of Wisconsin furthered a Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) long-term advocacy priority with his letter to support new drug labeling and protections for pregnant women. Sen. Kohl and SWHR submitted independent letters with proposed guidelines to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the delay in issuing new guidance and labeling for medication use to protect pregnant women.

The requirements outlined in the proposed regulation will give pregnant and nursing women and their clinicians important and detailed information that will improve treatment decisions as well as health outcomes. The case for more comprehensive information on prescription use during pregnancy is clear, and reflects the larger issue of decades of under-studying and under-reporting in women’s health. SWHR has long fought for clinical trials to look at sex differences, as well as racial and ethnic differences in how people react to drugs and biologics.

“SWHR is pleased to support potential revisions to drug labeling in order to protect one of the most vulnerable populations, pregnant women,” said Phyllis Greenberger, M.S.W., President and CEO of SWHR. “Pregnant women and their fetuses need protection from possible harms, but this is only possible when we know how to inform care choices. Without appropriate research and labeling, women are being denied the chance to make informed decisions.”

Nine out of ten medications on the market today have an undetermined risk for use in pregnancy and lactation. An estimated 50% of pregnancies in the U.S. are unplanned, often precluding a woman from stopping or changing potentially hazardous therapies before conceiving. A vast majority of women will use prescription or over-the-counter medications while pregnant.

As the current system for drug risk classification was developed in 1975, SWHR and others believe that the proposed labeling rules, under consideration since 2008 by the FDA, are long overdue. Better information and labeling will substantially advance and augment the health care treatment and procedures for pregnant and nursing women and their children. This large portion of the general population needs added protections and cautions on drugs and biological products, but for too long women and their providers have been forced to make decisions based on limited and inadequate research. SWHR is excited to see and motivate further momentum towards getting this labeling rule passed through FDA.

Click Here to Read SWHR's Comment Letter regarding Pregnancy Drug Labeling.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

SWHR Congratulates Sen. Mikulski on Milestone

2011-01-05T16:34:00.000-05:00

Mikulski breaks record as longest serving female senator in American history

Washington, DC (January 5, 2011) – On this historic day, the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) applauds Sen. Barbara Mikulski on her milestone as longest serving female senator in American history.

The formidable senator has long been a champion of women’s health and women’s health research. Sen. Mikulski has been a vocal supporter of SWHR’s work to include women in all levels of clinical research and helped create the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Women’s Health after she learned that NIH was not including women in its clinical trials.

“Sen. Mikulski is a true friend of SWHR and a fierce advocate for women’s health and research,” said Phyllis Greenberger, MSW, president and CEO of SWHR. “She has continuously fought for affordable healthcare, the inclusion of women in clinical trials, and consistent funding for women’s health research. We send our heartfelt congratulations to her on this landmark achievement.”

To ensure that women’s health was receiving proper attention at all the federal health agencies, Sen. Mikulski co-sponsored, along with Sen. Olympia Snowe of Maine, the Women’s Health Office Act (WHOA). This landmark legislation was included in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act that was signed into law last year. WHOA codified the offices of Women’s Health within the federal agencies, preventing them from being eliminated or underfunded. Further, Sen. Mikulski fought for an amendment to the healthcare legislation that required insurers to cover preventive care and screenings for women at little or no cost to the patient.

The Maryland senator took her oath of office for the 112^th Congress earlier today among friends, family, and distinguished colleagues. Mikulski was born and raised in Baltimore, MD and served as a social worker before entering politics as a member of the Baltimore City Council in 1971.

She first ran for the U.S. Senate in 1974 and lost but was undeterred. Mikulski won her next election to the House in 1976. She was later elected to the Senate in 1987, and then was one of only two women in the Senate at that time. She became a hallmark for women’s rights and a fierce advocate for equality.

Mikulski was re-elected to her fifth term last November with 62 percent of the vote. SWHR extends its congratulations to Sen. Mikulski for this achievement and continued support of women’s health.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Winterize Your Body and Mind

2011-01-03T16:02:00.001-05:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD
January 3, 2011

As the winter months approach bringing holidays and good cheer, certain health issues may arise that women should have on their radar. From mental health issues like stress, depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), to physical concerns like skin care, the winter can certainly pack a punch.

Depression peaks during the holiday season, afflicting more than 17 million Americans, according to the National Mental Health Association. On average, women are more vulnerable to stress-related illnesses like depression and anxiety than men. One study, conducted by Pacific Health Laboratories, revealed that 44% of American women report feeling sad through the holidays compared to 34% of American men.

"Depression of any kind is more common in females than males," explains Greg Murray, M.D., lecturer and clinical psychologist at Swinburne University of Technology in Australia. "A pattern of elevated depression in the winter months is more marked in women than in men."

There are a host of different reasons why women may be more susceptible to stress during the holidays than men. Women tend to be the primary caretakers of the family and often take on the extra burden of gift buying, entertaining, and coordinating visits with extended family during the holidays. For working women, the added responsibilities can be difficult to balance, especially if they are already balancing a family, job, child-care and elder-care duties.

In addition to clinical depression, SAD or “winter depression,” affects women more often than men. SAD is a type of depression that usually occurs in the late fall through early spring. The specific cause remains unknown, but many studies point to a disruption in a person’s internal clock due to reduced levels of sunlight. Symptoms of SAD include: depressed mood, lethargy, apathy, changes in sleep or appetite, social withdrawal and difficulty concentrating. According to information from the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, women are diagnosed more frequently than men yet men tend to have more severe symptoms.

Treatment for SAD is similar to regular depression and can include psychotherapy, medication, and other therapies. Light therapy has been proven effective and involves sitting a few feet away from a specialized light box. The light is supposed to imitate outdoor light and some studies have shown that it actually sparks a change in the brain chemicals that regulate a person’s mood.

The winter months can also wreak havoc on a person’s skin. With the outside cold air and dry indoor heat, many people complain of dry, cracked and flaking skin. Remember these few tips to prevent dry skin during the winter:

Hydrate: some women forget to drink the recommended 8 glasses of water a day because the temperature has dropped, but hydration is just as important in the winter and will help keep the much needed moisture in your skin.

Exfoliate: some skin care experts recommend removing the dead skin cells to keep the skin smoother and less dry.

Moisturize: using a moisturizer during the winter months can help your skin stay soft and less itchy. For people with sensitive skin, hypo-allergenic products are recommended.

Don’t forget the sunscreen: even though it’s wintertime, sun protection is just as important, especially on the face and hands.

Sources

Alexander JL, Dennerstein L, et al. Women, anxiety and mood : a review of nomenclature, comorbidity and epidmiology. Expert Rev Neurother. 2007. Nov;7(11 Suppl):S45-58.

Privitera MR, Moynihan J, Tang W, Khan A, Light therapy for seasonal affective disorder in a clinical office setting. J Psychiatr Pract. 2010 Nov;16(6):387-93.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Women, Depression and Obesity: What's Eating You?

2010-12-14T11:58:00.001-05:00

SWHR holds congressional briefing exploring links between obesity and depression

Washington, DC (December 14, 2010) — The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) presented the topical Capitol Hill briefing, Holiday Blues: Women, Depression and Obesity on Thursday, December 9, which featured four panelists detailing the links between depression and obesity.

Obesity is the newest health threat due in large part to American’s sedentary lifestyle and poor food choices. Co-morbidities of obesity include depression, heart disease, stroke, type II diabetes, hypertension, some cancers, osteoporosis and more. Sex differences in obesity play a role in fat distribution, higher financial burden on women, and incidence rates. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2008 33.2% of females were obese, with a body-mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher.

Belinda Needham, PhD, Assistant Professor and Director of Graduate Studies at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, spoke to the effects of obesity and depression, “17% of women will experience serious depression; females are two times as likely to be depressed as males, and women gain weight faster than men.” Needham presented findings from a community study to gauge the effects of obesity on depression and discovered women had higher BMIs at the start of the study and ended up larger than men at the end of the study. She concluded that depression led to weight gain and not the other way around.

“Elevated depressive symptoms affect over 25% of adolescents, and adolescent girls with elevated depressive symptoms are 2.5 times more likely to develop obesity at a later point in time compared to girls without depressive symptoms,” said Lauren B. Shomaker, PhD, Adjunct Scientist in the Unit on Growth and Obesity, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. “Depressive symptoms lead to an increase in stress-induced eating, which results in obesity. And depression is theorized to alter physical fitness by a loss of pleasure in previously enjoyed physical activities.”

Fortunately, there are researchers leading studies to reverse this trend. Jay Breines, Executive Director, Holyoke Health Center, launched a pilot program at his health center in Holyoke, Mass. to combat obesity and teach proper nutrition and exercise habits to high-risk populations. His program integrated physicians, dentists, nurses, outreach workers, and promotoras among many others to provide a full care team for the participants to fight obesity and stop depression from taking hold. Breines closed with an advisory message to fellow community health organizers battling obesity, “We must engage at the community level to save money on our healthcare system.”

Christine Ferguson, Director, STOP Obesity Alliance and Research Professor, George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services, outlined the obesity cost burden. Ferguson’s research team found the overall annual costs of being obese are $4879 for an obese woman and $2646 for an obese man. “There is a real, tangible economic impact for those women who are obese in our society,” said Ferguson. Obese women are paid less than average-weight women whereas obese men are paid the same as average-weight men. This can be partly attributed to social stigmatization and the already present gender wage gap.

“The key to obesity policy is to relate more to the health aspect, and less the aesthetic,” said Ferguson. Focusing on health versus looks may decrease depression and boost self-esteem. We need to support programs that target adolescents and teach healthy lifestyle habits in order to stave off depression as well as obesity.

Depression may lead to weight gain and vice versa, thus treatment for either should target both mind and body. Properly training physicians on weight-related issues, providing health and nutrition centers in high-risk communities, and focusing on the health aspects of obesity are just a few more ways to fight the fat and, in turn, defeat depression this holiday season and beyond.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Streisand Speaks Out on Women and Heart Disease

2010-11-23T14:34:00.003-05:00

This week, Barbara Streisand published an article highlighting the gross inequities in heart disease. We would like to thank her for her statement. Unfortunately, heart disease is not the only condition that affects women disproportionately or differently from men.

Before 1990, women were not included in medical research and clinical trials, and to almost everyone women’s health meant reproductive health. After the establishment of the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) in 1990 and legislation that required the inclusion of women in research studies, we have learned that biological sex must be considered in all phases of medical research and in clinical care.

For example, women may have different symptoms when experiencing a heart attack and women are more likely than men to have a second heart attack within a year of the first one. Lung cancer, autoimmune disorders, drug and alcohol addiction, osteoporosis, pain conditions, stroke, and depression are but a few of the conditions that effect women differently; and the differences influence the methods of prevention and diagnosis, the symptoms and the treatment options.

SWHR advocates for greater research into sex differences and increasing the number of women and minorities in clinical trials to better treat these debilitating diseases.

With the help of celebrities such as Barbara Streisand more people will become aware of the inequities in medical research and health care and support increased funding for sex differences research. For more information on biological differences that affect our health, please visit www.swhr.org. Click here to read Ms. Streisand's article.

Behind Closed Doors: Americans and Sex

2010-11-17T15:15:00.001-05:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD
November 17, 2010

A recent study conducted by sexual health researchers at Indiana University challenges some of the myths about sexual practices among adolescents and adults in this country. The National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior (NSSHB), which was published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, is the largest, most comprehensive survey of American’s sexual behavior since 1994.

The study includes information from roughly 6,000 American participants, ranging in age from 14-94. Among other things, the study reveals patterns of condom use, same-sex encounters, sexually-transmitted diseases and sexual behavior among men and women.

One of the more surprising findings involved condom use. Adolescents between the ages of 14-17 reported high rates of protected sex. “Our data show that, in fact, the majority of adolescents are using condoms,” said Dennis Fortenberry, MD, MS, professor of Pediatrics in the Indiana University School of Medicine, who led the adolescent section of the survey. The same did not hold true for older adults. “The proportion of older adults using condoms, however, is much smaller.”

This finding was worrisome for the researchers because it poses an increase in risk of disease among an aging population who report multiple sexual partners. And although this age group may not be as concerned about pregnancy, the finding suggests that sexually transmitted disease education and prevention efforts may need to be increased for this population.

“One reason condom use remains low is that misconceptions about condoms are common. For example, many people justify condom non-use by saying that condoms interfere with sexual pleasure,” said Fortenberry. “However, among adults, ratings of sexual pleasure at last intercourse were no different among those using condoms as compared to those not using condoms. We think this means that health care providers and health educators should be more assertive about the idea that condoms do not detract from the quality of sexual experiences.”

There were some similarities in condom use among adolescents and adults; however, “For both adolescents and adults the relationship context in which sex occurs influences the use. Condom use is much higher for less involved and shorter relationships, and is much lower in longer term relationships,” said Fortenberry.

There were some notable gender differences as well:

Men were more likely to achieve an orgasm when vaginal intercourse was involved, while women were more likely to experience orgasm when they engaged in a variety of acts, including oral sex.
85% of men reported that their latest sexual partner climaxed during sexual intercourse, while only 64% of women reported having an orgasm during their latest sexual encounter.
Roughly 33% of women reported feeling pain during intercourse, compared with only 5% of men.
Roughly 7% of adult women and 8% of men identify themselves as gay, lesbian or bisexual. The proportion of participants who reported same-gender sex at some point in their lives was higher among men.

The study revealed a wide variety of sexual experiences among American adults. The number of adults engaging in just one sex act per encounter has gone down over the years. And while vaginal intercourse is still the most common sexual behavior in the United States, many sexual experiences do not involve intercourse, but instead involve partnered masturbation or oral sex.

Maintaining an active and healthy sex life is part of overall total body health. And this recent study highlights the importance of sexual health and education. “Perhaps the most important point is the presence and importance of sex and sexuality throughout the lifespan” said Fortenberry. “Data like those in our study confirm and extend findings of others and give us the empirical basis for continued commitment to sexual health, with education, public dialogue and access to sexual health services as the most important outcome of the work.”

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

SWHR Presents "Science of Sex" at TedX Conference

2010-11-09T15:22:00.002-05:00

Washington, DC (November 9, 2010) - The highly anticipated TEDxNASA 2010 event at Christopher Newport University featured an intriguing presentation by Society for Women’s Health Research President and CEO Phyllis Greenberger. The well-received presentation, The Science of Sex, illustrates where sex-based biological research is currently and how it will significantly impact health outcomes for both women and men in the future.

In front of 1650 people at the Ferguson Center for the Arts, Greenberger shared SWHR’s mission and strategic goals with a new audience of policymakers, federal agency employees, and the general public, many of whom had never heard of sex-based biology.

“The opportunity to present to such a new and diverse group is crucial to expanding sex differences awareness to the general populous,” said Greenberger. “I appreciate the energy and feedback the audience provided me during the presentation and hope I inspired some new debate on sex differences research.”

Other notable speakers at the jam-packed event were Dr. Bobby Braun, NASA Chief Technologist, who spoke on future space missions and technologies; Dr. Jim Green, Director of the Planetary Science Division at NASA; and Lesa Roe, Director of NASA’s Langley Research Center.

The TED talks have been viewed online more than 100 million times worldwide and an even larger audience is expected this year with the expansion of the talks through NASA’s highly regarded website. Click here to watch her presentation on YouTube.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

New Sex Differences Journal Launches

2010-11-04T14:02:00.000-04:00

Washington, DC (November 4, 2010) - Biology of Sex Differences (BSD), the official journal of the Organization for the Study of Sex Differences (OSSD), has been launched. Biology of Sex Differences is an open access, peer-reviewed, online journal launched by BioMed Central. BSD considers manuscripts on all aspects of the effects of sex on biology and disease.

Articles published in BSD will relate to sex differences and feature articles on the separate and interacting effects of any hormonal, genetic, or environmental factors which cause sex differences in phenotype or disease.

“Biology of Sex Differences is dedicated to presenting advanced research on all aspects of the effects of sex on biology and disease,” said Viviana Simon, Ph.D., Vice President of Scientific Affairs at SWHR. “This journal provides a platform for publishing the most advanced research in which sex is a factor, involving animal models and/or humans.”

Some topic areas in BSD include, but are not limited to, sex differences in: the genome, epigenetics, molecular and cell biology, tissue biology, physiology, body interactions, and clinical studies focused on sex differences.

Biology of Sex Differences also publishes articles about sex-specific factors that counteract each other to reduce sex differences rather than cause them. Of particular interest is material about the biological origins of sex differences in disease models, animal or human. BSD welcomes papers reporting on sex differences in clinical studies or other studies of humans, particularly if they affect the biological mechanisms related to human physiology or disease.

Editor-in-Chief Art Arnold, the force behind the journal’s launch, is excited to present the first edition later this week. “BSD will be a great forum for discussion of the causes and consequences of sex differences in human and animal physiology and disease. BSD will bring together scientists from diverse disciplines and from around the world to share information on the common factors that cause sex differences in many tissues,” said Arnold. “There’s never been greater interest in this topic. If one sex is protected from a disease, then studying the sex differences might lead to the identification of the factors that are protective.”

This ground breaking journal is available worldwide at no cost to anyone with an internet connection by visiting www.bsd-journal.com. To submit an article, please use the online submission system at www.bsd-journal.com/manuscript.

The first issue will launch on Thursday, November 4, 2010.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at www.swhr.org for more information.

The Organization for the Study of Sex Differences (OSSD) was launched in 2006 in partnership with the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) to promote scientific research on sex differences.

Spina Bifida: How to Protect Yourself and Your Baby

2010-10-25T11:27:00.002-04:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD
October 25, 2010

October marks National Spina Bifida Awareness Month, a condition that affects thousands of American babies each year.

Spina Bifida is a birth defect caused by the incomplete closing of the neural tube during embryonic development. The neural tube is a structure that ultimately forms the baby’s brain and spinal cord and their surrounding tissues. In normal fetal development, the neural tube forms early on in pregnancy and closes several weeks thereafter. In babies with Spina Bifida, a portion of the tube fails to close properly, which can lead to defects in the back bone and spinal cord.

According to statistics from the Spina Bifida Association of America (SBAA), Spina Bifida is the most common, permanently disabling birth defect in the United States. Every day, roughly eight babies are born with Spina Bifida or a related birth defect in this country.

While the exact cause of Spina Bifida is not entirely known, there are several recognized risk factors. According to information from the Mayo Clinic’s Foundation for Education and Research, the following are the most common risk factors:

Family history: Women who have given birth to one child with a neural tube abnormality seem to have a higher risk of occurrence in subsequent children.
Race: Spina Bifida seems to more common in Caucasian and Hispanic populations.
Folic Acid deficiency: A nutritional deficiency of folate (or folic acid), vitamin B9, increases the risk of Spina Bifida and many other neural tube defects.
Certain medications: Research studies have shown that certain drugs including anti-seizure medications may interfere in the body’s ability to utilize folic acid and can lead to an increase in neural tube problems.
Obesity: Women who are obese prior to and during their pregnancies have a higher risk for Spina Bifida and other known neural tube deformities.

While some of the risk factors cannot be controlled, others including diet and vitamin supplements clearly make a difference. “Folic acid dietary supplementation appears to reduce the occurrence of Spina Bifida and other neural tube defects,” explains William Graf, MD, Director of the Yale/New Haven Hospital Spina Bifida Program in Connecticut. “Clinicians in the United States should advise women without a family history of NTDs (neural tube defects), who anticipate a pregnancy to take .4-.8 mg (400-800 micrograms) of folic acid daily.”

According to data from the SBAA, “if all women who could possibly become pregnant were to take a multivitamin with folic acid, the risk of neural tube defects like Spina Bifida could be reduced by up to 70 percent.” Because many pregnancies are unplanned, most experts recommend women in their childbearing years to take the recommended dose of 400 micrograms of folic acid. Folic acid can be found in foods including: dark, green leafy vegetables, whole wheat products, nuts and seeds, oranges, grapefruits and fortified cereals and grains.

It is important for women to realize the cause of Spina Bifida is not clearly understood and most likely results from an interplay of many factors, including: nutritional, environmental and genetic. According to Dr. Graf, “there has been a slight miscommunication that folic acid will completely prevent this very complex, early neurodevelopmental disorder.” Thus, if a woman has a family or personal history of neural tube defects, it is important she speaks to her health care provider about how to further reduce the risk for her offspring.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Havoc Reigns in DC

2010-10-01T13:09:00.000-04:00

Provocative new documentary premieres in DC

Washington, DC (September 29, 2010) — On September 28, in front of a packed house at the Burke Theatre in the United States Navy Memorial, the provocative documentary Hot Flash Havoc premiered to an audience of prominent Washingtonians as well as out of town guests.

Hosted by the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), the film, which was both informative and entertaining, received thunderous applause at the curtain’s call. Following the screening, a panel moderated by SWHR president and CEO Phyllis Greenberger, MSW, and featuring distinguished physicians Alan Altman, MD, Pamela Peeke, MD, and Susan Wysocki, RNC, NP took questions from the audience on this important rite of passage.

“We are very happy with the turnout and reactions the documentary is receiving,” said Greenberger. “Producer Heidi Houston will be taking her film on a cross-country major market tour de force. The film is a must-see!”

The partnership between Hot Flash Havoc and SWHR will continue to raise awareness on menopause and available treatments. To order a copy of the DVD, please visit www.swhr.org and watch for the announcement of the DVD’s availability; a portion of the proceeds benefit SWHR and women’s health research.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at www.swhr.org for more information.

SWHR Applauds House Passage of the HEART for Women Act

2010-09-30T10:54:00.001-04:00

Washington, DC (September 30, 2010) — Important legislation to improve the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the leading killers of American women — heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases passed the House of Representatives late last night, Septemeber 29, marking a huge victory for women’s health advocates everywhere.

The Heart Disease Education, Analysis and Research and Treatment (HEART) for Women Act raises awareness among women and their health care providers about their risk for heart disease and stroke. The bill provides greater oversight of Food and Drug Administration requirements for reporting sex and race-based data about new medicines and devices and authorizes the expansion of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s WISEWOMAN screening program for low-income, uninsured women to additional states.

“Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women and the HEART for Women Act will raise awareness, improve treatment options and educate women on prevention and care. SWHR is pleased with the House’s vote today,” said Phyllis Greenberger, M.S.W., president and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research.

Every minute in this country, someone's mother, sister, wife or friend will die from heart disease, stroke or other cardiovascular diseases. These diseases claim the lives of more than 432,000 American women each year — more than the next four causes of death combined. Nearly half of all African-American women have some form of cardiovascular disease, compared to 35 percent of Caucasian women. More than 90 percent of primary care physicians do not know that more women die each year from cardiovascular disease than men, according to an American Heart Association survey.

The legislation was introduced by Representatives Lois Capps (D-CA) and Mary Bono Mack (R-CA) and Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK).

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at swhr.org for more information.

SWHR and ORWH Celebrate 20 Years Advancing Women's Health Research

2010-09-27T09:36:00.001-04:00

Washington, D.C. (September 27, 2010) – The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), congratulates the Office of Research on Women's Health (ORWH) at the National Institute of Health on its 20^th anniversary. As the thought leader in women’s health research, SWHR has been pleased to work with ORWH these last 20 years advancing sex-based biology research.

In 1990, SWHR worked with the Congressional Caucus on Women's Issues to establish ORWH to focus attention on the lack of inclusion of women and minorities in clinical trials and attention to conditions that exclusively, disproportionately or differently affected women. It was clear from the 1990 GAO report Problems in Implementing Policy on Women in Study Populations that little or no research was being done on exclusively women's health issues.

SWHR tirelessly advocated Congress on the 1993 NIH Revitalization Act, to mandate the inclusion of women and minorities in clinical research, provide significant appropriations towards research in women's health, and codify the Office of Research on Women’s Health, making it a permanent entity and the focal point for women’s health research at NIH.

In 1995, SWHR submitted a proposal to the IOM to examine the importance of sex and gender differences. The 2001 IOM report Exploring the Biological Contributions to Human Health: Does Sex Matter? concluded that sex matters in health “from womb to tomb” and the exploration of sex differences holds the promise of greater understanding of human biology and significant improvements in health and health care for both women and men.”

The Women’s Health Office Act (WHOA), SWHR’s signature piece of legislation, was a provision of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590) signed in March 2010 by President Obama. WHOA makes permanent the offices of women’s health within the Department of Health and Human Services, marking another tremendous achievement for women’s health and women’s health research. ORWH, while already mandated by law in 1993, is now re-elevated to reporting to the Director of NIH, assuring prominence to the agenda set by SWHR so many years ago.

Over the past 20 years, SWHR has successfully sought annual funding increases for ORWH, in particular during the doubling of the NIH budget, and other ORWH successful projects --BIRCWH and SCOR-- that advance women's health research and SWHR's efforts to promote sex differences research.

It is clear, 20 years later, how important it is to understand sex differences and their implication for both men and women in appropriately preventing, diagnosing and treating all conditions.

SWHR and ORWH will continue to work together to bring sex and gender differences research to the forefront of the medical and research community. SWHR wishes ORWH another 20 years of success advancing women’s health research.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at swhr.org for more information.

IOM Report Demands Sex-based Research

2010-09-24T13:14:00.003-04:00

Washington, DC (September 24, 2010) — Women’s health research and the study of sex differences are vitally important and require more attention and focus from federal agencies, according to the just released Institute of Medicine (IOM) report, Women's Health Research: Progress, Pitfalls, and Promise.

According to the report, “The IOM finds that women’s health research has contributed to significant progress in lessening the burden of disease and reducing deaths from some conditions, while other conditions have seen only moderate change or even little or no change.”

Reaffirming SWHR’s efforts to translate research into practice and the need to address disparities in care and treatment in our healthcare system, the IOM Report strongly recommends increased funding for women’s health research.

“The IOM report echoes our call for more research and specifically research into sex differences and diseases and illnesses which disproportionately, differently, or exclusively impact women,” said Martha Nolan, JD, Vice President of Public Policy at SWHR. “Further, it forcefully demands stratification of data by sex and other factors at the major agencies in order for research to be reported and conducted appropriately.”

Over the last two decades, SWHR has been a strong advocate for the FDA and the Office of Women’s Health and has sought research and analysis into sex, race, and ethnicity in drug devices and biologic approvals. SWHR does believe that FDA’s enforcement of its regulations and guidelines in this area will result in important research and medical information into clinical care and best practices for patients.

A major IOM recommendation is that all research should be designed and conducted in a way that allows for analysis of differences between men, women and subgroups.

To SWHR, women’s health research and the study of sex differences requires an interdisciplinary approach involving investigators with different but complementary expertise working together to address specific gaps in knowledge.

Anticipated by individuals and organizations concerned about women’s health, the report’s message could not be clearer: women’s health research is a priority and the gaps in knowledge must be addressed in order to improve health outcomes for both men and women. It has long been SWHR’s mission and focus to improve the health of all women through to sex differences research, advocacy and education.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at swhr.org for more information.

SWHR Board Member Named to Prestigious PCORI Board

2010-09-24T13:09:00.000-04:00

Washington, DC (September 24, 2010) — The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) is pleased to learn of the appointments to the Board of Governors of the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) by the Government Accountability Office (GAO).

SWHR congratulates SWHR Board member Freda Lewis-Hall, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Pfizer and Ellen Sigal, PhD, Chairperson and founder of Friends of Cancer Research on their appointments to the Board of Governors.

The new research institute, created by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, will set CER priorities, fund independent research, establish research methods, and share results with the public. The PCORI board, selected from among many strong candidates, includes patient and consumer representatives as well as physicians and other providers.

“Dr. Lewis-Hall and Dr. Sigal are welcome additions to PCORI and bring a wealth of experience to the Board of Governors,” said Phyllis Greenberger, MSW, CEO and president of SWHR. “Dr. Lewis Hall is a valued member of SWHR’s Board of Directors and both she and Dr. Sigal are fierce advocates for women’s health research and we extend our hearty congratulations to them on this wonderful appointment.”

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at swhr.org for more information.

SWHR Celebrates 50 Years of the Pill on Capitol Hill

2010-09-23T11:43:00.000-04:00

Washington, DC (September 21, 2010) — The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) presented the Capitol Hill briefing, 50 years of the Pill: Revolutionizing Health and Dispelling Myths on Tuesday, September 21 to a thoughtful and engaged audience of health care providers, Hill staff, and health and patient organizations. Detailing the past, present, and future of contraception, the briefing celebrated the Pill’s 50^th anniversary and featured a robust question and answer session following the presentations.

The distinguished panel of contraception experts and physicians featured Anne Burke, M.D., Assistant Professor of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Director of Family Planning, at Johns Hopkins and her presentation, The Pill: History, Evolution, and How It Works. To demonstrate how much contraception has evolved, Burke highlighted various early birth control methods including gun powder, lemons, and mercury.

Luckily, “In 1960 all of this changed as the Pill was finally on the market after many experiments on rabbits in the 1930s, to laboratory production of oral reproductive hormones in the early 1950s, and finally clinical studies done with women in Puerto Rico, Haiti, and Mexico City in the mid-1950s,” said Burke.

Speaking on the present popularity of the Pill, William Mosher, Ph.D., Reproductive Statistics Branch, Division of Vital Statistics, National Center for Health Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, presented his lecture, Oral Contraceptive Use in the United States with some surprising statistics from the National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG).

“The Pill is the leading method of contraception for women under 30, women with no children, never married women, and college graduates,” said Mosher. “The Pill is not the leading method among black and Hispanic women, married couples, those with two or more children, and those with a high school diploma or less.”

Rounding out the panel with his presentation, The Future of Contraception, Matthew F. Reeves, M.D., MPH, Vice President, Medical Affairs, WomanCare Global discussed the effectiveness of contraceptive methods, the future of the Pill, and alternative methods for improving contraception.

Injectable, transdermal, transvaginal (ring), intrauterine (IUD), and subdermal (implant) are new types of hormonal contraception on the market today. Reeves presented data in which rings and IUDs had some of the most satisfied customers followed by injectables, the Pill, and patches.

In regards to contraception, “Women want ease of use, safety, effectiveness, and minimal side effects,” said Reeves. “But the more options, the more satisfied users there will be. Ultimately, the most effective contraception is the one that gets used.”

From the use of Lysol and sponges, to the Pill revolution of the 1960s, and the increased usage of rings and IUDs today, contraception in the United States has undergone substantial transformations over the last 50 years. Today the Pill is the most effective birth control option on the market, second only to female sterilization, and up to 80% of US women born after 1945 have used the Pill at some point in their lives.

SWHR was pleased to have this opportunity to present important and timely information on the history of the birth control pill, the use of contraceptives in the United States, and future research in the area of hormonal contraception.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at swhr.org for more information.

National Health Organizations Hail House Subcommittee Approval of the Heart for Women Act

2010-09-16T12:47:00.001-04:00

Federal bill aims to reduce heart disease and stroke death rates in women

Washington, DC (September 16, 2010) — National health organizations today applauded the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee for their favorable vote on legislation to improve the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the leading killers of American women -- heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.

The Society for Women’s Health Research, the American Heart Association, and WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease, along with millions of women and supporters across the nation are urging Congress to pass the Heart Disease Education, Analysis and Research and Treatment (HEART) for Women Act.

The HEART for Women Act would raise awareness among women and their health care providers about their risk for heart disease and stroke. The bill would also provide greater oversight of Food and Drug Administration requirements for reporting sex and race-based data about new medicines and devices and authorizes the expansion of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s WISEWOMAN screening program for low-income, uninsured women to additional states.

With more than 200 cosponsors in both the U.S. House and Senate, the HEART for Women Act has strong bipartisan support. The House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee’s passage of the bill is a critical step forward in the battle to save women’s lives.

“Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women and the HEART for Women Act will help raise awareness, improve treatment options and educate women on prevention and care,” said Phyllis Greenberger, M.S.W., President and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research. “It is imperative we pass this bill to ensure that the FDA is documenting sex based differences in medications and devices.”

“We are very pleased Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee members stood up for women’s heart health by approving this lifesaving legislation,” said Ralph L. Sacco, M.D., American Heart Association President. “Addressing cardiovascular disease prevention, detection, treatment and health equities in women should be a priority, and we urge Congress to pass the bill this year.”

“The lack of adequate representation of women in clinical trials and the failure to consistently report results by sex impedes successful reduction of cardiovascular events in women,” said Lisa M. Tate, CEO, WomenHeart. “WomenHeart is encouraged by the Subcommittee’s action today to improve the care and treatment for women with heart disease through the HEART for Women Act.”

Every minute in this country, someone's mother, sister, wife or friend will die from heart disease, stroke or other cardiovascular diseases. These diseases claim the lives of more than 432,000 American women each year – more than the next four causes of death combined. Nearly half of all African-American women have some form of cardiovascular disease, compared to 35 percent of white women. More than 90 percent of primary care physicians do not know that more women die each year from cardiovascular disease than men, according to an American Heart Association survey.

In addition to the Society for Women’s Health Research, the American Heart Association, and WomenHeart: the National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease, the HEART for Women Act is also supported by about 45 organizations. The legislation was introduced by Representatives Lois Capps (D-CA) and Mary Bono Mack (R-CA) and Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK).

For more information, visit www.heartforwomen.org.

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Society for Women’s Health Research
The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C. is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at www.swhr.org for more information.

American Heart Association
Founded in 1924, we’re the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to building healthier lives, free of heart disease and stroke. To help prevent, treat and defeat these diseases — America’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers — we fund cutting-edge research, conduct lifesaving public and professional educational programs, and advocate to protect public health. To learn more or join us in helping all Americans, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit americanheart.org.

WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease
WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease is the only national organization dedicated to promoting women’s heart health through advocacy, and patient support. As the leading voice for the 42 million American women living with or at risk of heart disease, WomenHeart advocates for equal access to quality care and champions prevention and early detection, accurate diagnosis and proper treatment of women’s heart disease. For more information, visit www.womenheart.org/kit.

Where Sex and the City Ends, Hot Flash Havoc Begins

2010-09-15T12:11:00.000-04:00

Los Angeles, CA (September 15, 2010) – Phyllis Greenberger, president and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research, has forged a new partnership between health advocates and the world of entertainment. In honor of National Menopause Awareness Month, Greenberger is joining forces with the filmmakers of the controversial new documentary; Hot Flash Havoc (www.hotflashhavoc.com). A premiere screening will be held on September 28, 2010, at the Burke Theatre in Washington D.C. at 6:30p.m. Tickets are available at swhr.org.

Several of the film’s nationally recognized experts including Alan Altman, MD, Pamela Peeke, MD and Susan Wysocki, NP, RNC head of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners will gather immediately after the screening for an informative discussion on the film’s key issues.

Hot Flash Havoc encourages everyone, including the experts, to break the silence of modern culture, speak up and reveal the truth that has remained shrouded in mystery for far too long. Hot Flash Havoc is the definitive voice on menopause delivering this message of truth and enlightenment to the nearly 100,000,000 perimenopausal or menopausal women in the United States alone. Washington D.C. health care providers along with policy makers and the general public will be offered the very first look.

The film is circumventing a Hollywood release and instead is going directly into the hands of women’s health advocates, care givers and policy makers in Washington D.C. These are the stakeholders who can make the difference and increase educational access on a national level. The grassroots initiative has already started and the Havoc has only just begun.

The Society for Women’s Health Research is breaking the rules by using this movie as a tool to reach men and women alike with the hope of making a difference on this important issue through research, health policy and media exposure.

Warner Brother’s famed blockbuster, Sex and the City 2 took menopause out of the closet and onto the screen. Hot Flash Havoc goes one step further, shedding light on a decade of misguided facts, conveying poignant personal stories and providing the truth about women’s options. The film addresses the challenges of making empowering choices in the “Second Act” of a woman’s life in an entertaining and enlightening way. It’s a hard, fast, funny and compassionate exploration of women in menopause at all ages and stages of life.

“Remember as one doctor said – this is not a solo journey. Whatever is happening to her is happening to you, so you better hope it’s pleasant,” said Heidi Houston, Executive Producer of Hot Flash Havoc.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at swhr.org for more information.

Dr. Alan Altman, president of The International Society for The Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH), formerly assistant clinical professor, Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, specialist in Menopause & Female Sexual Function, Aspen, CO. Author of Making Love The Way We Used To…or Better; Secrets To Satisfying Midlife Sexuality and The Betrayal of American Women; Don’t Throw Away Those Hormones So Quickly.

Susan Wysocki, president and CEO of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health (NPWH). She is a woman’s health nurse practitioner and a nationally recognized speaker, writer, and opinion leader in the field of women’s health. Ms. Wysocki is also the editor of Women’s Health Care: A Practical Journal for Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Challenges in Women’s Health.

Dr. Pamela Peeke is a nationally recognized best-selling author and expert in nutrition and fitness. She serves as Chief Medical Correspondent for Discovery Health Television, host of Discovery’s Fit to Live series (based on her latest book), and also the featured physician of the award-winning National Body Challenge series. She is also a New York Times bestselling author of Fight Fat after Forty and Body for Life for Women.

SWHR Supports Stem Cell Research

2010-09-01T13:53:00.000-04:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept 1, 2010) – On August 23, 2010, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia issued a preliminary injunction halting the federal funding of human embryonic stem cell research. This injunction prevents the NIH from implementing, applying, or taking any action pursuant to the 2009 NIH Guidelines for Human Stem Cell Research or using federal funds for this research.

“SWHR is deeply disturbed by the recent ruling abruptly cutting off funds for embryonic stem cell research,” said Phyllis Greenberger, MSW, president and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research. “This will have tremendous impact on current and future research and on the health of the women and men waiting for the cures this research can offer. Scientific research and patients’ lives cannot continue to be put on hold. It is the sincere hope of SWHR that this essential research is able to continue.”

SWHR strongly supports this area of biomedical research and believes that it would be tragic to ignore the unique potential for alleviating human suffering afforded by studying stem cells that would have otherwise been discarded.

Stem cells have the unique ability to differentiate into any human cell type, replacing or repairing damaged cells that cause disability or disease and offer real hope for life-improving treatments for diabetes, damaged heart tissue, arthritis, Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, ALS and spinal cord injuries, to name but a few. There is also the possibility that these cells could be used to create more complex, vital organs such as kidneys, livers, or even hearts, perhaps someday negating the need and wait for donor organs.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Don't Be a Statistic: Women's Guide to College Health

2010-08-26T14:28:00.002-04:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD
August 26, 2010

College can be some of the best years of a person’s life. But it is also a critical time, a time when students need to be aware of their health and safety. For women, many on their own for the first time in their lives, developing the ability to safeguard their emotional and physical health is paramount.

According to Angela Diaz, MD, MPH, and Director of the Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center in New York City, “For young women, many health-related issues can arise during these formative years as a direct result of the fact that [they] are now out from under the supervision of [their] parents, and free to make many of [their] own choices.”

Statistics reveal that sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and alcohol binge-drinking are way up on college campuses across the country. As a result, students need to be aware of the risks and take precautions to lessen their chances of engaging in dangerous behavior.

In particular, women need to understand the dangers involved in binge-drinking and the unique health risks that may be posed, including: date rape, unwanted pregnancies and unprotected sexual encounters. According to numerous studies, over 90% of date rapes on college campuses involve the use of alcohol.

“New freedom may mean that [students] end up engaging in behaviors that pose significant health risks,” says Diaz, “having sex, using drugs or alcohol, or maybe just getting too little sleep, eating too much junk food, or otherwise neglecting areas of [their] health [their] parents previously made sure [they] took care of. The consequences of these risky behaviors can potentially cause problems for the rest of [their] lives.”

One important message for students, both men and women, is that this new found freedom is not just about facing new dangers, it’s about embracing new responsibility—in ways that can benefit them for the rest of their lives. Giving students the tools they need to take charge of their own health and healthcare is critical as they embark on their transition into adulthood.

“The first step in the prevention of potential problems on campus is education and knowledge,” says Diaz.

Here are a few tips for students leaving for college:

Get to know the health center: many centers on college campuses have a variety of offerings which range from mental health services, eating disorder counselors and annual check-up appointments. Students should use the health center as a main resource, which is readily available whenever they need it.
Maintain a regular exercise routine: all too often, students (who aren’t involved in organized athletics) forgo exercise because they get too busy. Exercising several times a week is important to overall health and well-being.
Try to maintain a balanced diet: when late night pizza breaks and beer take the place of home-cooked meals, students often suffer the consequences. Encouraging students to eat healthy, balanced, well-portioned meals is very important, and may prevent them from developing extreme dieting patterns or eating disorders. Many health centers have counselors on staff that can help manage and treat a variety of these conditions should they arise.
Use the “buddy system”: to prevent date rape or unwanted sexual encounters, women should use the “buddy system” when going out. Students should find a teammate, a sorority sister or friend to stick by their side as a “buddy,” and they should return the favor.
Know your limit: all students should learn their alcohol limit and know to cut themselves off when they’ve had too much to drink. This will ensure good decision-making and lower the chances of engaging in risky behavior. Additionally, female students should know that their tolerance will always be lower than their male counterparts. This is because women produce less of the stomach enzyme that breaks down ethanol; thus, after consuming the same amount of alcohol women have higher blood alcohol content than men, even after adjusting for size.
Use protection: when sexual counters occur, students should always use at least one form of protection to prevent STDs and unwanted pregnancy.

SOURCES

Abbey A. Alcohol-related sexual assault: A common problem among college students. Journal of Studies on Alcohol. 2002;(Supplement 14):118–128.

Oswalt SB, Cameron KA, Koob JJ. Sexual regret in college students. Archives of Sexual Behavior. 2005;34:663–669.

Temple MT, Leigh BC, Schafer J. Unsafe sexual behavior and alcohol use at the event level: Results of a national survey. Journal of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndromes. 1993;6:393–401.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Finicky Fat: Men and Women Distribute Fat Differently in the Body

2010-08-25T15:28:00.001-04:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 25, 2010) – Ever wonder why men and women gain weight in different areas of the body? Researchers are coming close to understanding the vital sex differences in men and women concerning fat storage. In fact, research indicates that fat is genetically different in men and women.

A groundbreaking medical study from members of the SWHR-Isis Fund Network on Sex Differences and Metabolism sponsored by the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), the nation’s leading advocate for the study of sex differences, uncovers new truths about fat deposition in male and female mice.

"Given the difference in gene expression profiles, a female fat tissue won't behave anything like a male fat tissue and vice versa," said Deborah Clegg, Ph.D., assistant professor of internal medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center. "The notion that fat cells between males and females are alike is inconsistent with our findings."

Mice store their fat similar to humans in a sexually dimorphic pattern. Just like human males, male mice store their fat in the belly and midsection area while females store fat in their hips, thighs and buttocks. Fat around your central organs (also known as central adiposity) is the type that is most dangerous for subsequent development of chronic diseases.

Dr. Clegg, the senior author of the study appearing in the International Journal of Obesity, was surprised by the findings. “We found that out of about 40,000 mouse genes, only 138 are commonly found in both male and female fat cells,” said Dr. Clegg. “This was completely unexpected. We expected the exact opposite - that 138 would be different and the rest would be the same between the sexes.”

This news is especially helpful in determining the underlying causes of obesity-related diseases. Since men are more likely to carry extra weight around their bellies, they are at higher risk for numerous obesity-related diseases including diabetes and heart disease. Women, on the other hand, are usually protected from these disorders until menopause, when their ovarian hormone levels drop and fat storage tends to shift from their buttocks to their waists.

“The research being performed by Dr. Clegg and colleagues underscores the importance of understanding the differences in fat deposition in men and women,” said Viviana Simon, Ph.D., SWHR vice president of scientific affairs. “The ability to manipulate how and where in the body fat is deposited holds the promise of helping researchers develop strategies to prevent or delay the development of chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.”

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Dangerously Damaging: What Happens to Women Who Live by the Scale

2010-07-22T10:11:00.002-04:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD
July 21, 2010

With so much attention focused on the obesity epidemic in the United States, eating disorders often receive less of the spotlight. But don’t let that fool you.

Eating Disorders, a set of conditions in which a person experiences severe disturbances in eating behavior, are widespread in our country. Roughly five to ten million American girls and women are currently battling eating disorders. Studies have shown that approximately 80 percent of American women are dissatisfied with their appearance at one time or another. According to statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Bethesda, Md., females are much more likely than males to develop an eating disorder. They most frequently appear during adolescence and young adulthood, but can show up at any time.

The two main forms of eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, or an extreme fear of gaining weight and relentless pursuit of thinness; and bulimia nervosa, a condition characterized by eating a significant amount of food (bingeing) and then ridding the body of the calories by throwing up or using laxatives or diuretics (purging). A third type, known as “eating disorders not otherwise specified (EDNOS)”, may incorporate several variations of anorexia and bulimia with other characteristics which can include binge-eating without purging, obsessive exercise and dietary rituals.

Eating disorders are often linked to other psychological conditions. “Depression, anxiety, and substance abuse are not uncommon among people with eating disorders,” explains Marlene B. Schwartz, Ph.D., clinical psychologist and Co-Director of the Yale Center for Eating and Weight Disorders in New Haven, Conn. Studies have shown that higher rates of depression among women and girls may be associated with a tendency to become more dissatisfied with physical appearance than their male counterparts.

Many medical conditions can result from eating disorders and they should not be taken lightly. For example, anorexia can slow the heart rate and clinically lower a person’s blood pressure, placing them at higher risk for heart problems. Nutritional deficiencies can lead to anemia, reduced muscle mass and light-headedness. Chronic starvation can lead to heart failure and brain damage.

Bulimia can cause a host of other medical conditions. For example, the acid in vomit can destroy the enamel of the teeth and inflame and erode the esophagus. Also, stomach and digestive issues from frequent purging are not uncommon in bulimic patients. Compulsive exercising can result in wear and tear injuries including shin splints, stress fractures, and damage to muscles and joints.

So what can you do? There may be several warning signs that a person could be developing an eating disorder, they include:

Food avoidance: pushing food around on a plate or avoiding meals with families and friends
Change in appetite
Preoccupation with food and calories
“Hiding behavior” - hiding the body under baggy clothes to disguise weight loss or disappearing after a meal to purge
An overuse of scales to weigh themselves

Concerned parents should pay close attention if their child is, “overly concerned with being fat, comparing themselves to their peers, partaking in excessive exercise, or over-using the internet to search for information on calories, diet, etc.,” according to Nikki Gorman, MD, a pediatrician at Village Pediatrics in Westport, Conn. These issues may be red flags or signal a good time to speak with a health professional.

The treatment for eating disorders depends on the extent of the problem. There are often a host of underlying issues that need to be addressed and the treatment will often have a multi-pronged approach which will focus on the person’s physical, emotional and nutritional needs.

Gorman summarizes, “If we can intervene early, it is usually possible to avoid costly treatment centers, and avoid some of the morbidity associated with an eating disorder.” This is good news for any parent and a step in the right direction in exposing the dangers of eating disorders.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Visit SWHR’s website at swhr.org for more information.

SWHR Briefing Highlights Why the Bladder Matters

2010-07-20T10:34:00.002-04:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) hosted the Capitol Hill briefing, The Bladder Matters: What Women Need to Know on Thursday, July 15, which highlighted startling statistics and an insightful patient perspective. Featuring noted researchers, physicians, Hill staff, and a UI-afflicted patient, the aim of this widely attended briefing was to detail current research on urinary incontinence (UI) and present future outlooks.

Urological expert Janice Lee Arnold, M.D., a board-certified urologist with over 20 years of practice in the DC area, outlined the struggles that patients with UI and overactive bladder (OAB) face. OAB is defined as the urgency to urinate eight or more times per day and two or more times each night (nocturia) and is overwhelmingly found in women. Patients with OAB deal with many anxieties that worsen their symptoms: potential for embarrassment, limited travel options, distant or lost relationships, etc.

“Women suffering from OAB should seek treatment immediately because of the impact on overall quality of life, high risk for depression, and poorer quality of sleep,” said Dr. Arnold.

Robert Star, M.D., Director, Division of Kidney, Urologic, and Hematologic Diseases at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) shared new research on OAB and potential treatments. These novel treatment options include a newly funded urinary leakage detection system, a continuous drug delivery device to minimize the potential for accidents, and a Trojan Horse Drug Delivery system for bladder issues without the risk of systemic toxicity.

“Research into women’s OAB issues is a largely ignored topic and one that affects many women worldwide,” said Phyllis Greenberger, M.S.W., President and CEO of SWHR. “And this is why SWHR fiercely supports increased funding for innovative research into the pervasive diseases UI and OAB.”

Closing the panel with her poignant patient perspective, Ellen Exelbert shared her harrowing tale of OAB and how it disrupts her life on a daily basis. The victim of a defective cruise control mechanism, Exelbert suffered major trauma to her inner organs and spinal cord, resulting in bladder problems when her vehicle sped out of control and crashed. Since the accident, Exelbert has suffered through numerous surgeries, humiliating social interactions, and the indignity of having little to no control over her bladder.

“The disability of incontinence is more debilitating than my other major injuries,” said Exelbert. “Incontinence leads to a loss of freedom, spontaneity, travelling, activities, and trust in my own body that is heartbreaking.”

With new innovative approaches to OAB treatment, patients like Exelbert may one day find a course of treatment that is right for them. Until that time, more funding and research needs to be dedicated to eradicating this disease.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

X Conference: All About the Chromosomes

2010-07-20T10:30:00.002-04:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A packed house of researchers, clinicians, physicians, and non-profit professionals joined the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) for its 2nd annual What a Difference an X Makes: the State of Women’s Health Research scientific conference at the Barbara Jordan Conference Center in Washington, DC on Friday, July 16.

Leading physicians and researchers from across the country congregated in Washington to share new findings and groundbreaking studies in sex-differences research. The conference covered pain and the musculoskeletal system, the brain, the immune system, Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), cardiovascular disease and therapeutics, and obesity and comorbidities. These topic areas featured speakers from a wide range of backgrounds and institutions that enriched the dialogue throughout the day.

Highlighting the most recent research on sex and gender differences in knee osteoarthritis, Mary O’Connor, M.D., chair of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Florida, engaged the audience with information on physician bias and whether or not discrimination against women is unconscious or overt. In fact, physicians tend overwhelmingly to recommend men for surgery but not women, even when presented with the same symptoms and conditions. O’Connor shared “that despite identical clinical information, the presentation style of male and female patients may have differed due to the fact women are more narrative, personal and open while men are more business-like, factual and reserved.”

Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder, one of the more taboo subjects of the conference but arguably the most dynamic presentation, was given by leading researcher Sheryl Kingsberg, Ph.D., professor of Reproductive Biology at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and chief of the Division of Behavioral Medicine at University Hospitals Case Medical Center. “There are many models of the human sexual response, not one being all encompassing,” said Kingsberg. “Because of this, the estimated 43% of all women who experience some sexual dysfunction in their lifetime have a variety of treatment options to follow.”

One of the most important panels of the day was Reducing Cardiovascular Disease in Women – We’ve Come a Long Way Baby but We’re Not There Yet, presented by Virginia Miller, MBA, Ph.D., professor of Surgery and Physiology, College of Medicine at the Mayo Clinic, and President of the Organization for the Study of Sex Differences (OSSD).

Miller included the latest statistics from the American Heart Association on cardiovascular disease mortality trends, noting the number of deaths from heart disease appears to be declining, but the total number of deaths from all cardiovascular diseases in women still exceeds that of men. Heart disease is still the number one killer of women, yet clinical trials do not support this fact. In a 2010 study of affected patient populations and inclusion in randomized clinical trials of cardiovascular disease prevention, women comprised 51% of the patient population for heart failure, but only 29% of the trial; women were also 46% of the coronary artery disease population, but only 25% of the clinical trial and so on.

“We’re not there yet,” said Miller. We need age and sex specific animals in preclinical studies, research into sex differences, integration of basic and clinical scientists, sex specific reporting in clinical trials, and more women in clinical trials.

The X Conference is a major step towards bridging the research gap on biology-based diseases and bringing together the top researchers in the sex-based biology field to share their new data. Sex differences research needs to be a top priority in both private and public research. Because in the end, it’s all about the chromosomes.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

Meeting with CIBR (June 24, 2010)

2010-06-29T16:56:00.000-04:00

On June 24, the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) co-sponsored a Capitol Hill event with the Coalition for Imaging & Bioengineering Research (CIBR) and Representative Edolphus Towns (D-NY). The event was of great interest to Hill staff, which began with opening remarks from Representative Towns and former Majority Leader Dick Gephardt.

SWHR, a member of CIBR, brought a unique patient voice to the event, highlighting innovations from approximately 13 different medical technology companies. SWHR explained to Hill staff the key role that diagnostic imaging has in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases, especially for women.

CIBR was created in 2006, to be a diverse and unified voice in support of imaging research. SHWR supports CIBR and its work to improve imaging research, outcomes, and safety for patients while appropriately utilizing medical imaging.

To see more information, please visit www.CIBR.org.

Join a Facebook Discussion

2010-06-14T16:40:00.002-04:00

SWHR invites you to join a discussion on Facebook. Share and learn about important women's health issues such as:

What do you have to say?

Meeting With Secretary Kathleen Sebelius (June 9, 2010)

2010-06-14T16:38:00.000-04:00

Phyllis Greenberger, SWHR President and CEO, and Martha Nolan, Vice President, Public Policy met with HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Dora Hughes, HHS Counselor for Public Health and Science Policy to discuss SWHR’s 20 years of work to improve women’s health: the inclusion of women in clinical trials, sex differences research, and SWHR advocacy efforts. Some of these efforts include comparative effectiveness research (CER) as part of the stimulus bill, Women’s Health Office Act (WHOA) in health care reform, and the appropriate use imaging and diagnostic tools for prevention and early diagnoses.

The Secretary was interested in SWHR’s information regarding women in clinical trials and surprised that sex still is not a fundamental component of all research in the development of drugs, devices and biologics. The Secretary understood how important SWHR’s issues were to determinations being made under comparative effectiveness research, especially with the newly developing Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. The Secretary was informed of SWHR’s testimony, both written and oral, to the NIH/FDA last week regarding the need for consideration of sex differences in “regulatory science,” the newly coined term from the NIH/FDA collaborative.

Awakening Desire: Understanding Female Sexual Dysfunction

2010-06-08T16:13:00.003-04:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD
June 8, 2010

Many women experience problems in the bedroom at one time or another. Female sexual dysfunction is not uncommon and although some women and healthcare providers have difficulty discussing it, it has been recognized by the medical community for decades. In fact, for the last twenty years, it has been listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, used to classify and diagnose psychological disorders.

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) can develop at any age, but many women report sexual problems at times of hormonal fluctuation; for example: post-pregnancy or during menopause. FSD encompasses several conditions that can have an effect on a woman’s health and cause concern and suffering. These symptoms include:

The desire to have sex is low or absent.

An inability to maintain arousal during sexual activity, or become aroused despite a desire to have sex.

An inability to experience an orgasm.

Pain during sexual contact.

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) affects roughly 1 in 10 women and is the most common sexual dysfunction among women of all ages. It is sometimes difficult to diagnose because a woman’s sex drive varies tremendously from person to person. And the factors causing a lowered sex drive can range from psychological to biological. But some women underestimate what an important role sexual health plays in their overall health and well-being. And if the lack of desire becomes distressing in any way or interferes with her overall quality of life, she may have HSDD.

Many women suffer in silence and some even feel that a decline in sexual desire is a normal part of aging. According to Sheryl A. Kingsberg, PhD, a clinical psychologist and Professor in the Department of Reproductive Biology at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio: “Women should not be expected to accept a distressing loss of sexual desire any more than they should be expected to simply accept arthritis, acid reflux, or any other condition often associated with aging.”

Unfortunately, HSDD in women is not as well recognized as erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. There are many medications available for the treatment of ED, but currently, there are no US FDA approved medications for women with HSDD. “The problem is further compounded by a lack of attention and interest in women’s sexual satisfaction in many cultures,” says Kingsberg. And as a result, “some women may feel that it is not appropriate to seek help for a sexual problem.”

There are options available. An important step in getting help for FSD is realizing that there is a problem. Too many women ignore their symptoms or are unable to recognize that they have a treatable issue. Kingsberg suggests that: “Women should speak to their partners about the problem and (they may consider) seeing a professional for guidance; this professional may be a counselor, a sex therapist, a physician or nurse practitioner, or some other trusted person.”

Psychotherapy or sex therapy can be very effective in uncovering the different components that may contribute to the problem. There are a few medical treatments which include hormonal therapies that may help some women. “A number of other very exciting new approaches to the treatment of low sexual desire in women are under development,” say Kingsberg, “and may be available soon.”

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20 Years Advancing a New Science: Sex Based Biology and Women's Health

2010-06-03T15:45:00.002-04:00

Did you know that before 1990, women were not included in clinical trials? Learn more about how SWHR has spent "20 Years Advancing a New Science: Sex Based Biology and Women's Health."

The Team Approach to Breast Cancer Care

2010-05-26T13:18:00.004-04:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 26, 2010) — In downtown Manhattan, a group of health and media professionals, breast cancer survivors, and advocacy groups gathered for a media roundtable to discuss a new style of treatment for breast cancer patients. The “Team Approach” to breast cancer care includes a battery of doctors with one goal in mind: the patient.

Too often physicians and other key team members do not work together in creating a treatment plan for patients, denying the woman an upfront discussion of her options for treatment. The Team Approach provides patients with a more comprehensive understanding of the treatment options available, from diagnosis to breast reconstruction, so women are able to make informed decisions during their difficult road to recovery.

A 2007 study from the University of Michigan Medical Center shows that nearly 70 percent of women who are eligible for breast reconstruction are not fully informed of their surgery options. The study found that “most general surgeons do not discuss reconstruction with their breast cancer patients before surgical treatment.” However, when this discussion does occur, it significantly impacts a woman’s treatment choice. In fact, she is more likely to choose mastectomy.

Because of the prevalence of misinformation, The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) hosted a media roundtable to discuss the team approach to breast cancer care and why this is critical to a woman’s recovery.

“The Team Approach to breast cancer care helps women manage the many emotional challenges and physical changes that they face while battling breast cancer. By providing personalized and specialized information early on, the team helps guide a patient down a path to recovery,” said Phyllis Greenberger, President and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research. “We believe this should be a cornerstone for breast cancer care.”

A typical cancer care team is comprised of a primary care physician, an obstetrician/ gynecologist, pathologist, radiologist, breast surgeon, medical oncologist, and a plastic surgeon. This team then consults with the patient on the right course of action for treatment.

“The Team Approach to breast cancer care is an integral part to a woman’s recovery,” said Greenberger. “Without a unified team of doctors supporting the patient, many women will not receive the information they need to make life-altering decisions on their intended course of treatment.”

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research please contact Rachel Griffith at 202-496-5001 or Rachel@swhr.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR), a national non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., is widely recognized as the thought leader in women’s health research, particularly how sex differences impact health. SWHR’s mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research.

SWHR President Testifies at Military Sexual Trauma Hearing

2010-05-24T13:44:00.000-04:00

Washington, DC (May 20, 2010) — Among a panel of experts testifying before the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, Subcommittee on Health, Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) President and CEO Phyllis Greenberger, MSW, urged Congress to consider the risks and ramifications of military sexual trauma (MST).

The hearing, Healing the Wounds: Evaluating Military Sexual Trauma Issues, covered the often overlooked issue of sexual assault in the military. MST refers to sexual assault or sexual harassment that occurred while a veteran was in the military. Today over 10% of the military presence in Iraq and Afghanistan is female, resulting in an increase in numbers of female veterans seeking care after their time of service. Many of these female veterans are victims of MST and need the proper care to deal with these horrific experiences.

“A 2008 VA study reported that 15% of military women in Iraq and Afghanistan experienced sexual assault or harassment, and 59% of those were at higher risk for health problems,” said Greenberger. “These numbers are just among those cases reported. Many more, possibly more than half, of all MST cases go unreported each year.”

Greenberger emphasized the lasting effects MST has on female combat veterans. Female assault victims are at risk for unplanned pregnancy, more likely to contract a sexually transmitted infection, and are at a higher risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). SWHR encourages the VA to optimize interactions with female veterans by offering women the option to participate in research projects – receiving a higher quality of care while gathering information to help fellow veterans.

Other panelists discussed the various ways the VA can improve its sexual assault services by providing comprehensive care to all returning servicemen and women. The absence of civilian care facilities specifically for veterans is alarming and must be addressed as more active military personnel become veterans in the coming years.

In her closing, Greenberger said, “A victim of MST during her time of service needs streamlined care after she returns, as well as a VA system that is equipped to meet her sex and gender specific needs.” SWHR has one clear goal in mind – the VA should offer an improved continuum of care, as women transition from active duty to veteran status.

Know My Bones Newsletter

2010-05-18T17:10:00.001-04:00

Are you making your bone health a priority? May is National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, and the spring edition of the Know My Bones e-newsletter has arrived just in time! Throughout this newsletter, you'll find helpful questions you can ask your health care provider and information about risk factors that increase your likelihood of developing fractures. Read the Newsletter.

The Team Approach to Breast Cancer Care

2010-05-18T15:17:00.006-04:00

By: Molly Poarch, Spectrum Communications

Upon learning that she has breast cancer a woman is immediately faced with a series of key decisions and a challenging road ahead. Often, her physician plays an important role in helping her navigate the many stages of treatment that may involve surgery (such as a lumpectomy or mastectomy), radiation and chemotherapy.

In the face of so many difficult emotional and physical decisions, many women do not immediately think about breast reconstruction surgery. And, unfortunately, neither do their physicians.

A 2007 study from the University of Michigan Medical Center shows that nearly 70 percent of women who are eligible for breast reconstruction are not fully informed of their options related to surgery. The study found that “most general surgeons do not discuss reconstruction with their breast cancer patients before surgical treatment. ” However, when this discussion does occur, it significantly impacts a woman’s treatment choice. In fact, she is more likely to choose mastectomy.

For many women, if they are informed about their choices, they can choose to have a mastectomy and reconstructive breast surgery at the same time. For the patient, this means less surgery, which cuts down on hospital time and recovery time—significant factors for anyone, but especially a cancer patient.

Recently, Spectrum helped the Society for Women’s Health Research partner with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to host a roundtable discussion with members of the media, breast cancer survivors, patient advocacy organizations and medical professionals to discuss the importance of cancer care professionals working as a team and presenting a woman with all of her options at the outset of her diagnosis. They call this the “Team Approach” to breast cancer care.

The Team Approach brings together an interdisciplinary group of medical professionals who work together to develop and implement a treatment plan that is tailored for each patient. This method of care provides patients with a more comprehensive understanding of the treatment options available, from diagnosis to breast reconstruction, so women are able to make informed decisions during this difficult time.
Key members of the team include a:

Primary Care Physician and/or Obstetrician/Gynecologist
Pathologist
Radiologist
Breast Surgeon
Medical Oncologist
Plastic Surgeon

“The Team Approach to breast cancer care helps women manage the many emotional challenges and physical changes that they face while battling breast cancer. By providing personalized and specialized information early on, the team helps guide a patient down a path to recovery,” said Phyllis Greenberger, President and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research. “We believe this should be a cornerstone for breast cancer care.”

“Involving specialists early in the process and having those specialists work as a team allows for more coordinated care and fosters the most beneficial outcome for the patient,” said ASPS President Michael McGuire, MD.

Rather than segmenting or staggering these decisions, it’s clear that if a woman has access to an interdisciplinary group of physicians and specialists at the outset of her diagnosis, it will inform her decision-making process and guide her down the path to recovery.

When It Comes to Sparking A Woman's Sexual Desire, Most Men - And Even Most Women - May Not Know Where to Start

2010-05-18T12:04:00.002-04:00

Actress Lisa Rinna kicks off campaign highlighting connection between brain, body and sexual desire

Washington, DC, May 12, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — When it comes to sex, more than half of men and women don't recognize the brain as an important female sexual organ, according to a new survey.*

“The root of a woman's desire is complex, but it is thought to start with her brain. The brain is the center for thoughts and emotions, but it is also home to a complex system of nerves, hormones and other chemicals that can affect sexual desire,” said Laura Berman, LCSW, Ph.D., and sex and relationship expert.

Interestingly, the survey revealed that women and men's feelings about sex and sexual desire are more alike than people may think, as they both agree that sexual health is important for a woman's overall health and well being. Yet, while most women surveyed would be concerned if they experienced, and most men would be concerned if their partner experienced, a decrease in sexual desire, less than half of both women and men have ever discussed these issues with their partner.

Today, the Society for Women's Health Research (SWHR), along with actress and TV personality Lisa Rinna, launched “Sex Brain Body: Make the Connection,” a new educational campaign about female sexual health, particularly about the role the brain is thought to play in female sexual desire.

“As a woman, wife and mother, I know that women’s sexual desire can fluctuate. For some women that’s normal, but for others it may be something more,” Rinna said. “Everyone is entitled to a healthy sex life. That’s why I’m encouraging women to learn more about their sexual health and the brain's potential role in desire, so they can talk more openly about it with a partner and health care provider. By visiting www.SexBrainBody.com, I want to empower women to learn more about their sexual health and better understand sexual desire.”

Experts believe that chemicals in the brain may play a role in sexual response, impacting a woman's sexual desire. Women and men surveyed believe that desire is important for a healthy sex life, and that a decline in a woman’s desire would be distressing to the woman. Yet, few people realize that a lack of sexual desire accompanied by distress might be something more than stress from a demanding career or family commitments. It may be a medical condition known as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder, or HSDD.

By visiting www.SexBrainBody.com, women can learn more about HSDD, as well as find helpful tips for starting what may be an uncomfortable conversation with their partners or health care providers about their sexual health and any issues they may be experiencing.

“For 20 years, SWHR has provided resources and knowledge to empower women to take control of their health. We are proud to be supporting this campaign to help women understand their sexual health and give them the confidence to discuss their needs,” said Phyllis E. Greenberger, M.S.W., President and CEO of SWHR in Washington, D.C.

Survey Findings
The “Sex Brain Body: Make the Connection” survey included 1,300 women ages 30 to 55 years and 1,129 men ages 30 to 65 years. The survey was designed to explore the attitudes and behaviors of women regarding their sexual health, as well as men's perception of a woman's sexual health.

Highlights of the survey include the following:

Nearly 75 percent of women report experiencing a lack of sexual desire at least occasionally, with 20 percent reporting a lack of desire frequently

Both women and men believe a woman’s lack of desire for sex would cause distress in a relationship (78 percent women, 63 percent men); more than half of women and men say that a lack of desire would have a negative impact on their relationship

Most women (roughly 60 percent) say they would discuss low sexual desire with their health care provider, yet only 14 percent have actually done so

More women would rather discuss other health topics such as allergies, skin care, hair loss and weight issues with their health care provider than talk about their sexual health

Women are seven times more familiar with erectile dysfunction (66 percent) than Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) (9 percent)

About “Sex Brain Body: Make the Connection”
“Sex Brain Body: Make the Connection” is an educational campaign meant to help women recognize the potential links between the brain, the body and sexual desire, so they can better understand and address their own sexual health. The campaign is sponsored by the Society for Women’s Health Research and content was developed with the support of a sponsorship from Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. To learn more about the sex-brain-body connection, visit www.SexBrainBody.com.

Low sexual desire is the most commonly reported female sexual complaint. Approximately one in 10 women reported low sexual desire with associated distress, which may be HSDD. HSDD is a form of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) and has been recognized as a medical condition for more than 30 years. As defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR), HSDD is the persistent or recurrent lack (or absence) of sexual fantasies or desire for any form of sexual activity causing marked distress or interpersonal difficulty and not better accounted for by another disorder (except another sexual dysfunction), direct physiological effects of a substance (including medications), or a general medical or psychiatric condition. Generalized, acquired HSDD is not limited to certain types of stimulation, situations or partners, and develops only after a period of normal functioning. There has been an unmet need for women as there is no FDA-approved treatment for HSDD. It can affect women of all ages and at any stage of life.

*About the Survey
A demographically representative national internet sample of 1,300 women between the ages of 30 and 55 and 1,129 men 30-65 were invited via email to participate in a 10-minute self-administered online survey. Women meeting any of the following criteria were eliminated from participating: had a full hysterectomy, currently take hormone replacement therapy, are post-menopausal and have already gone through menopause. The surveys were administered between February 8 and March 18, 2010. Data for these studies are tested for statistical difference at a confidence level of 95 percent. Data are weighted to reflect accurate representation of population.

About GfK Healthcare
GfK Healthcare (www.gfkhc.com) is the largest provider of fully integrated custom health care marketing research in the United States. With the broadest range of custom, syndicated and proprietary research offerings, paired with expertise in managed markets and sales force effectiveness, GfK Healthcare is equipped to meet a product’s needs across its life cycle, through flexible marketing research resources, responsive to clients’ evolving challenges. GfK Healthcare is part of the GfK Group.

5th Annual SWHR Medtronic Prize Winner Announced

2010-05-05T11:36:00.001-04:00

WASHINGTON, DC — During a celebratory night in Washington, the Society for Women’s Health Research Medtronic Prize for Scientific Contributions to Women’s Health was awarded to an outstanding scientist, Dr. Sabra Klein of Johns Hopkins University. She walked away with the $75,000 award recognizing her contributions to women’s health research at the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) 20th Anniversary Gala, May 3rd at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Washington, DC.

Klein has dedicated her career to advancing the study of sex-based biology with her special expertise in sex differences in susceptibility to infection. Klein received her BA in psychology from Randolph-Macon College, her MS from the University of Georgia in biological psychology, and her Ph.D. in behavioral neuroscience from Johns Hopkins University where she is now an Assistant Professor in the Bloomberg School of Public Health in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology.

Klein’s research examines the impact of hormones on immune responses to viruses. Specifically, she considers how immunological, hormonal, and genetic differences between males and females affects a person’s susceptibility to viruses, including influenza viruses, human papillomaviruses, and hantaviruses.

SWHR and Prize partner Medtronic reward women scientists in their early to mid career who have devoted a significant part of their work to sex differences research and have served as a role model and mentor for both colleagues and students. Klein has met these expectations on all counts and we congratulate her on this great achievement. She has written over 60 peer-reviewed articles for many prominent medical journals, co-authored an op-ed in the New York Times pertaining to sex differences in the dosing of the flu vaccine, and has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The Baltimore Sun, and Women’s Health Magazine.

Along with the SWHR Medtronic Prize, Klein’s research has been supported by grants from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the National Science Foundation, and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.

Out of the Shadows: Women and Lung Cancer

2010-04-27T12:09:00.001-04:00

Washington, DC -- “Out of the Shadows: Women and Lung Cancer,” (click here to read the full report) a groundbreaking report released today by the Mary Horrigan Connors Center for Women’s Health at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School, is a call to action on women’s largest cancer challenge: lung cancer.

As an organization devoted to women’s health advocacy, education and research, the Society for Women’s health Research (SWHR) commends the efforts of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Lung Cancer Alliance for providing the most current and comprehensive report to date on the impact of lung cancer on women.

Out of the Shadows summarizes current research, indicates gaps in knowledge and suggests priority areas for research funding. The consequence of the lack of adequate research and early detection is that although the 5-year survival rate for breast cancer now at 90.1%, cervical cancer at 71.8 % and ovarian cancer at 45.6 %, the 5-year survival for women with lung cancer is still only 18.8%.

SEX DOES MATTER

A growing body of research is showing differences in susceptibility, progression and responsiveness to treatment in lung cancer between women and men. Of the over 200,000 men and women diagnosed with lung cancer each year, nearly 98,000 are women, accounting for 26% of all cancer deaths among women. This number is more than breast, ovarian, and uterine cancer.

“SWHR has worked for many years through its scientific meetings, congressional educational briefings, support for legislation and public education campaigns to bring attention to sex differences in diseases including the impact of lung cancer on women and the unique ways the disease affects women,” said Carol Nadelson, MD. Harvard Medical School/Brigham & Women’s Hospital and member of SWHR’s Board of Directors.

Increasingly, more people who have never smoked are being diagnosed with lung cancer. Of these 25,000 individuals, more than 60% of them are women. Emerging evidence suggests that women may be more sensitive than men to the cancer causing effects of chemicals in cigarettes, are more susceptible to the carcinogens in second hand smoke, and that the female hormone estrogen may elevate a women’s risk for lung cancer (click here to see more statistics).

SWHR reaffirms its commitment to collaborating with the national community of health organizations to ensure that women living with or at risk for lung cancer receive the necessary information to understand all aspects of this disease and to continue to encourage funding for basic and clinical research on sex differences that can translate into preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic care to combat lung cancer.

Taxing Toxic Tanning: Health Care Reform Targets Tanning Salons

2010-04-19T12:44:00.000-04:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD
April 14, 2010

The tanning industry came into focus recently during the national debate on health care. One of the changes included in the new health care reform legislation is a tax on tanning salons. Under the new law, tanning salons will start charging a 10 percent tax on all indoor tanning services. The tax is expected to generate roughly $2.7 billion dollars over ten years.

Not surprisingly, there are people upset by the new measure. According to Joseph Levy, the vice president of the International Smart Tan Network, tanning salon owners and industry professionals are working to have the taxes removed. He reports that businesses and customers have sent over 200,000 letters to Congress asking for a reconsideration and removal of the tax, which will be effective July 1, 2010.

And then there are many people who feel the tax is justified. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) has long held the position that indoor tanning is dangerous and increases a person’s risk of skin cancer. Dr. William James, president of the Academy, believes that there should be a federal ban on the use and sale of tanning beds in this country. In written testimony to the government, James states that a proposed ban would be: “an important step toward reducing the incidence of skin cancer in the United States and building a greater public understanding of the dangers of UV exposure.”

Skin cancer cases are at an all-time high in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, more than one million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed this year. Melanoma, which is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, has also become the most common cancer among women aged 25-29, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Ga. Bad sunburns that include blistering increase melanoma risk. Long-term exposure to the sun increases risk for melanoma and the two other less serious types of skin cancer, basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. The use of tanning salons also has been linked to skin cancer.

According to Elizabeth C. Smith, MD, a dermatologist at Cohen Dermatology Associates in Fairfield, CT and member of the teaching faculty at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, “In addition to escalating the risk of potentially fatal melanoma, a person who tans is 2.5 times more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma and 1.5 times more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma than a person who does not. Multiple studies have shown the earlier a person begins to go to tanning salons, the greater the risk of skin cancer later in life.”

The dangers of indoor tanning have long been established, but health organizations have recently stepped up their warnings. “In 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified tanning beds as an exposure that is “carcinogenic to humans,” says Dr. Smith. “The IARC went further, grouping tanning beds with other Group I carcinogens such as asbestos, arsenic and cigarettes. Given the well-documented and widely accepted danger of tanning beds, the government has an obligation to regulate the industry and to inform the public of the hazards associated with tanning.”

Despite the myriad of public service announcements and warnings, young people still frequent tanning salons in large numbers, especially young women. According to Smith, “Young women often report wanting “color” before a vacation or event, and some confess to tanning for relaxation.” Many don’t seem to understand the risks involved: “most young people do not fully understand the risk of ultraviolet exposure, partly due to the tanning industry’s confusing campaign touting the merits of tanning to raise Vitamin D levels (important for bone health). In fact, most tanning beds emit primarily UVA light, which does not efficiently convert Vitamin D to its active form.”

Many health professionals feel that the new tax on tanning salons will send a clear message to the public that indoor tanning has real risks and potentially lower the number of young people using them on a regular basis.

Growing Older, Staying Stronger: How Age Influences Osteoporosis

2010-04-06T15:11:00.002-04:00

By: Jennifer Wider, MD
Society for Women's Health Research
March 18, 2010

Osteoporosis is a common disease that causes bones to become brittle and more likely to break. These fractures can occur anywhere in the body, but occur more often in the hip, spine and wrist. Osteoporosis is a wide-spread disease that affects women much more often than men. According to the National Institutes of Health, 8 million women and 2 million men suffer from osteoporosis.

For years, experts on bone diseases have pointed to a decrease in the hormone estrogen as the main cause of osteoporosis. Not anymore. A recent study in the journal Cell Metabolism reveals that aging may play a more prominent role than hormones in the development of osteoporosis.

“The primary mechanism (in osteoporosis) is aging and oxidative stress, and that is true for both sexes,” says Stavros Manolagas, M.D., Ph.D., director of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Center for Osteoporosis and Metabolic Bone Diseases. According to the study’s findings, as the body ages, it loses its ability to fend off molecules that damage the bone, a process known as oxidative stress. As a result, the body is rendered vulnerable to osteoporosis.

“Aging and oxidative stress cause a decline in bone strength that is far more important that the decline in bone mass for the development of fractures in our aging population,” says Manolagas. According to the study’s authors, the evidence causes a paradigm shift in the “estrogen-centric” model of osteoporosis to one in which age-related mechanisms play a much more important role in disease etiology. Further identification of sex differences in these age-related mechanisms will help determine why predominantly women suffer from osteoporosis.

Bone remodeling occurs throughout an adult's life, as specialized bone cells constantly renew the human skeleton while preserving its strength and density. Cells called osteoclasts resorb old bone, while specialized cells called, osteoblasts create new bone. As a person ages, this process gets interrupted. “Aging decreases the number of osteoblasts (the cells that form bone) as well as the number of osteocytes or osteoblast progenitor cells (the cells that monitor bone quality and initiate its repair),” explains Manolagas.

Aside from gender and age, there are several other factors that increase a person's risk of osteoporosis.

Family history: having a first-degree relative with osteoporosis or osteopenia, a condition where bone mineral density is lower than normal, increases the risk of osteoporosis.

Race: certain studies show that Caucasian people and people of Asian descent have a higher rate of osteoporosis.

Small body frame: women and men who have small body frames or who have a body mass index of 19 or less, have a higher risk of osteoporosis, possibly because they have less bone mass to begin with.

Thyroid disease: too much thyroid hormone, either from hyperthyroidism or supplements to treat hypothyroidism, can cause bone loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Medical conditions: certain medical conditions and diseases including: inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease and gastric band surgery, can interfere with the body's natural ability to absorb and properly utilize calcium.

The good news is that there are ways to lower the risk of osteoporosis. “Keep fit and exercise, eat healthy, give up smoking, make sure that you have an adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium, and educate yourself about osteoporosis and how to assess your risk with the help of doctors,” says Manolagas.

For more information visit: The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

SOURCES

Follin, S.L. and L.B. Hansen. Current approaches to the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2003. 60(9): p. 883-901; quiz 903-4.

Manolagas SC. From Estrogen-centric to Aging and Oxidative Stress: A Revised Perspective of the Pathogenesis of Osteoporosis. Endocrine Reviews, published online January 5, 2010: 10.1210/er.2009-0024.

Mayo Clinic, Osteoporosis, information sheets, 2009-10.

Women's Health Office Act Signed into Law

2010-04-01T09:48:00.001-04:00

President Barack Obama made history on Tuesday, March 23, by signing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590) into law. The legislation, which passed the House of Representatives on March 21st and the Senate last December, included SWHR's signature piece of legislation, the Women's Health Office Act (WHOA) as a provision, marking a tremendous moment for women's health and for women’s health research.

WHOA co-sponsors Senators Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) and Olympia Snowe (R-ME) fought to have WHOA maintained as a provision in the Senate health reform bill during its negotiation process. “We must make sure women have information they need, that doctors have the best tools and the best training, that all women have access to high quality health care, and that we remain steadfast on research,” said Senator Mikulski. “It is critical that we make sure women are not left behind when it comes to their health and wellness.”

In the House of Representatives, WHOA co-sponsors Representatives Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) introduced the measure as a stand-alone bill and voted for WHOA as a provision in the vote on H.R. 3590 on Sunday night.

“With President Obama’s signature on the health insurance reform bill, simply being a woman will no longer be considered a pre-existing condition, ending the health insurance industry practice of overcharging and choosing to deny women coverage at times for basic medical needs," said Representative Murphy. “And we will finally take the necessary steps to protect the volumes of research and information on women's health that we’ve gathered in recent years so that we can continue to make strides in improving health outcomes for women into the future.”

These measures implement the most broad sweeping health legislation in 40 years and a great advancement of SWHR’s advocacy agenda. Women's health offices within federal agencies (e.g., FDA, SAMSHA, NIH, CDC) exist to increase public education awareness campaigns, clinical studies, and research for and about women's health. Without the adequate funding and staffing levels provided by federal protection, these offices would have remained vulnerable to elimination due to insufficient funding and staffing resources.

Top 50 Women in Health Includes SWHR Leaders

2010-03-30T16:21:00.002-04:00

Leading women’s health magazine Woman’s Day named their top 50 “Women Who Are Changing the World” and included Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) President and CEO Phyllis Greenberger, and Immediate Past SWHR Board Chair, Dr. Nanette Wenger, among the honorees.

The magazine honored Greenberger for her tireless efforts advocating for the advancement of women’s health research and the study of biological sex differences. She is well-respected for her dedication to improving women’s health through advocacy, education and research, and has earned wide spread media coverage for her work. Besides her inclusion in Woman’s Day, The Medical Herald selected Greenberger as one of the 20 most influential women in medicine today and in 2006 she was named one of Washington’s 100 most powerful women by Washingtonian Magazine. Greenberger has presented to multiple international and national audiences as well as co-edited The Savvy Woman Patient: How and Why Sex Impacts Your Health. Her inclusion in Woman’s Day continues to signal the importance of researching sex differences and including women in clinical trials.

Working in medicine for more than 50 years, Wenger has made many contributions toward preventing heart disease in women and cardiac rehabilitation. Woman’s Day honored Wenger for “changing the world by promoting awareness of heart disease in women.” A past VP of the American Heart Association, she earned the Distinguished Achievement Award, the Women in Cardiology Mentoring Award and their highest honor, the Gold Heart Award. Wenger is Professor of Medicine in the Division of Cardiology at the Emory University School of Medicine and is Chief of Cardiology at Grady Memorial Hospital and a consultant to the Emory Heart and Vascular Center. She is listed in Best Doctors in America and has authored or coauthored over 1000 scientific and review articles and book chapters. Wenger’s medical expertise and devotion to heart health serves as another reminder why she is one of the top 50 “Women Who Are Changing the World.”

Both women have dedicated their lives to improving the health of women and are well-deserved recipients of the Woman’s Day Top 50 honor. SWHR is proud to support them.

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month

2009-11-04T11:32:00.000-05:00

Lung cancer is the largest cause of cancer deaths for both men and women in the United States. According to the National Lung Cancer Partnership, this disease will kill more people each year, than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined. There is no better time than November, Lung Cancer Awareness Month to become better informed about this disease.

Though many associate smoking as the only cause for lung cancer, there are many other factors that can play a role, such as exposure to second hand smoke, family history of lung cancer, asbestos and other substances that diminish air qualitiy. Approximately 10% to 15% of lung cancer patients have never smoked, which equates to 20,000 to 30,000 of the 160,000 new cases of lung cancer diagnosed in the United States each year, according to the National Lung Cancer Partnership. Research has shown that women will comprise a larger percentage of new lung cancer cases each year of individuals who have never smoked. According to The Savvy Woman Patient, about 25% of all cancer deaths in women can be attributed to lung cancer, with more women in the U.S. dying of lung cancer each year than in any other country of the world. The Savvy Woman Patient: How and Why Sex Differences Affect Your Health, is a book created by the Society for Women's Health Research that explains the wide scope of sex-based health differences between women and men.

Though these statistics can seem frightening, the earlier lung cancer is diagnosed the better chance there is of achieving a remission from the disease. Especially since women seem to develop lung cancer at a younger age than men, it is important to know the symptoms of lung cancer, in order to achieve an early and possibly life saving diagnosis. The Savvy Woman Patient, lists shortness of breath, fatigue, pain, weakness, hoarseness, headache and frequent, long-lasting colds, coughs or pneumonia as some of the most common symptoms. If any of these symptoms are felt for an extended period of time, if there is a history of smoking or if there is a family history of lung cancer it is always best to visit a health professional to get checked.

Methods used to check for lung cancer include, sprial CT scans, chest x-rays, and bronchoscopies, where a small microscope with a camera is inserted down the throat and into the lungs (The Savvy Woman Patient).

Perhaps even more important than learning how to diagnose lung cancer is taking steps to prevent lung cancer. The best way to guard against lung cancer is to never start smoking and to shield the lungs as much as possible from second hand smoke. Additionally, The Savvy Women Patient states that, eating a diet high in vegetables and fruit, at least seven servings of varied vegetables and fruits every day, is helpful in preventing lung cancer. Lastly, it is important to tell doctors of any risk of lung cancer that there may be, this way the doctor can perform screenings, which will increase the odds of early detection.

In order to support Lung Cancer Awareness Month, the best thing to do is raise awareness and increase funding for lung cancer research. It is especially important to fund programs that will look into sex differences in lung cancer to better understand how this disease affects men and women differently.

Society for Women's Health Research Accepting Nominations for Prize for Contributions to Women's Health

2009-10-22T12:21:00.000-04:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Nominations are now being accepted for the 2010 Society for Women's Health Research Medtronic Prize for Scientific Contributions to Women's Health. The annual $75,000 prize recognizes a women scientist or engineer for her contributions to women's health. It also encourages women scientists and engineers to work on issues uniquely related to women's health and rewards women who have devoted a significant part of their careers to this area.
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World Osteoporosis Day

2009-10-15T12:33:00.000-04:00

With October 20th being World Osteoporosis Day, the most important thing you can do for individuals who are impacted by this disease is to help spread knowledge and get Osteoporosis recognized by health and government officials. Getting these institutions to promote early detection programs and funding for therapy could make a great difference in the lives of those who have and will acquire Osteoporosis in their lifetime.

Osteoporosis literally means porous bones and is most often caused by low levels of calcium, phosphorus and other minerals in an individual's bones. After menopause women can face a sharp decrease in estrogen levels that in turn increases the number of cells that break down bone tissue, according to Know My Bones. The extent of bone loss can be seen in that, "women can lose as much as 20% of their bone mass in the first 5 to 7 years after menopause," according to Know My Bones.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis can include, back pain, loss of height over time and fracture of wrists, hips or other bones. "According to the 2004 Surgeon General's Report on Bone Health and Osteoporosis, about half of women age 50 and over will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime," Know My Bones states.

Getting a bone density test allows individuals to check for early signs of Osteoporosis. If caught early enough prescription medicines can be used to help slow down the rate of bone loss.

But even better than early detection of Osteoporosis, is prevention. Calcium and vitamin D are just two nutrients that if taken regularly can greatly reduce the risk of Osteoporosis. If you think you may be at risk for Osteoporosis meet with your doctor to see what measures can be taken to reduce your risk for obtaining the disease.

To learn more about Osteoporosis visit Know My Bones.

Becoming more aware: How domestic violence can change lives forever

2009-10-15T10:19:00.000-04:00

Did you know that October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month? During the month of October, one important goal is to end violence within our homes, communities, and our country.

When a woman is constantly getting abused, or a child witnesses abuse in the home, the home then becomes an unhealthy place to live. It's an unhealthy and scary situation. Domestic violence can be largely defined as a pattern of abusive behaviors by one or both partners within an intimate relationship such as friendships, dating, families and marriage.

According to the National Violence Against Women Survey, women are more prone to be vicitms of sexual violence than men. Of the victims of rape and sexual assault, 78% are women and 22% are men.

Domestic violence has many forms including physical aggression, which include hitting, biting, and throwing objects. It also includes threats of sexual and emotional abuse, controlling or domineering, intimidation, stalking and economic removal.

Domestic violence has many long-term physical, psychological and emotional effects. Once a person is abused, the pain and sorrow never go away [http://www.aardvarc.org]. Physical injuries include bruises, broken bones, head injuries, internal bleeding, vaginal and urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV, and pregnancy related problems. Females accounted for 39% of the hospital emergency department visits for violence-related injuries in 1994, 84% of the persons trested for injuries were inflicted by intimates. Psychological effects of domestic violence include depression, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which includes symptoms of flashbacks, intrusive imagery, nightmares, anxiety, emotional numbing, insomnia, etc. Economic effects include victims often losing thier job and having to move many times to avoid continued violence.

Each year approximately 3.3 million children are exposed to violence against their mothers or female caretakers by family members, as stated by the American Psychological Association [http:/www.acadv.org]. Studies have shown that children who are exposed to violence at home change their behavior and increase aggression [http://www.safeyouth.org]. They tend to have social and conflict resolution skills that are poorly developed and they may suffer developmentally. This leads youth to engage in future violence and to being abused themselves.

Researchers have found that people who assault their partners are more likely to mistreat/abuse their children as well. According to An Abuse, Rape and Domestic Violence Aid and Resource Collection, "One third of the children who witness the battering of their mother demonstrate siginificant behavioral and/or emtoional problems including psychosomatic disorders, stuttering, anxiety and fears, sleep disruption, excessive crying and school problems."

There are many organizations and foundations working to end domestic violence, especially during the month of October. Women Empowered Against Violence (WEAVE) joins hundreds of organizations throughout the United States to ask the community to fight for the millions of people who are affected by domestiv violence every year. Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time to show support for all the victims and to help WEAVE share information about available resources to end the cycle of violence. Concerts, rallies, and conferences--all are taking place during the month of October.

Many people have lost their lives to domestic violence. According to the Violence Policy Center, "In 2000, there were 1,805 females murdered by males in single victim/single offense incidents that were submitted to the FBI for its Supplementary Homicide Report."

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence initiated the Remember My Name Project which began in 1994. This project is a naitonal registry of names of people who lost their lives to domestic violence. They ask that for the month of October, people take a moment to remember those that we lost because of domestic violence.

The symbol of Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a purple ribbon. Show your suppot by wearing one every day in October!

It is Time to Help Make a Difference

2009-09-30T09:36:00.000-04:00

From September through mid-December the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) will be in full swing. The ultimate goal of the CFC campaign is to raise money for chairities and non-profits through donations.

If improving women's health through education, research and advocacy is importnat to you, than look no further than the Society for Women's Health Research when you are deciding who to make your CFC check out to!

This fall choose the Society for Women's Health Research with CFC #10484.

Do You Know Your Numbers?

2009-09-24T12:59:00.000-04:00

Over 60 million individuals in America are affected by high cholesterol. High cholesterol levels are more than just numbers, they can mean an increased risk for heart attack and heart disease. There is no better time than the month of September, National Cholesterol Education Month, to become informed and tested for this condition.

According to a survey conducted by the Society for Women's Health Research, more women know their weight in high school than know their cholesterol numbers.

A simple blood test is all that is needed to determine cholesterol levels. It is recommended that individuals fast for eight to twelve hours before the test is administered, as the recent ingestion of fatty foods can influence test results. The test will determine low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, known as "bad cholesterol," high density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, known as "good cholesterol," the total cholesterol levels and the amount of triglycerides present.

Knowledge is the most important part in fighting high cholesterol. Though a high number may seem scary, just a few lifestyle adjustments may be all that is needed to get cholesterol levels where they should be.

A person's diet, weight and physical activity level are three components that are directly linked to cholesterol levels. Food with high levels of saturated fats and cholesterol can greatly impact a person's cholesterol level. Being smart about what foods you eat and trying to minimize saturdated fat and cholesterol intake is just one simple step that can be taken to help reduce bad cholesterol levels.

Being overweight and not physically active can also result in high, bad cholesterol levels. Becoming physically active and exercising for a half an hour each day, will not only help you raise good cholesterol levels, but it will also help you to lose weight and lower bad cholesterol levels.

In addition to lifestyle changes, doctors may sometimes recommend prescription drug treatment in order to get cholesterol numbers at a healthy level.

To learn more about high cholester visit the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute

History of Mental Illness May Raise Risk of Suicide in New Moms

2009-09-23T13:47:00.000-04:00

The Society's medical writer, Jennifer Wider, M.D., has posted a new article: "History of Mental Illness May Raise Risk of Suicide in New Moms."

To read more, click here.

September is Leukemia & Lymphoma Awareness Month

2009-09-14T09:53:00.000-04:00

Every four minutes one person is diagnosed with a blood cancer, the Leukemua & Lymphoma Society's website states. There is no better time than September, Leukemia & Lymphoma Awareness Month, to better understand this disease.

Leukemia & Lymphoma are blood cancers that originate in the bone marrow or lymphatic tissues. This disease arises when a genetic injury of DNA to one cell occurs making it abnormal. These abnormal cells are then multiplied and inhibit the body's natural ability to make healthy blood cells.

Tiredness, low grade fevers and loss of weight are some symptoms a person with leukemia or lymphoma may experience. To determine a diagnosis, blood will be taken and any abnormal blood count levels will be evaluated.

In order to treat the different varieties of these diseases, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell or marrow transplantation, or immunotherapy may be used. Meeting with doctors and deciding on a path of treatment to follow is one of the most important steps. There are not only traditional treatments, but also alternative treatments that can be discussed with doctors.

In order to learn more information on this topic, please visit: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

2009-09-09T09:40:00.000-04:00

Septemeber is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and the time is now to start spreading knowledge about this disease.

Last year the American Cancer Society predicted that there would be over 20,000 new cases of ovarian cancer in 2008. This cancer poses a risk for every woman, but there are symptoms to look for that combined with an early diagnosis can help to beat this disease. Bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, trouble eating or feeling full quickly, feeling the need to urinate urgently or often, fatigue and back pain are a few of the symptoms of ovarian cancer.

Although there is no specific test to detect ovarian cancer, pelvic exams, transvaginal sonography, and the CA-125 test can be used to note any ovarian abnormalities. If a test comes back positive, a CT scan and x-rays may be used to further evaluate the results. If a tumor is discovered, taking a sample of it out though a biopsy is the most accurate way to determine if ovarian cancer is present.

One of the most important steps in the treatment of this disease, is finding a doctor that the patient trusts and feels comfortable working with. Throughout the treatment process a wide variety of doctors may be met with, including gynecologic oncologists, nutritionists, radiation oncologists, physical therapists and more. These specialists help perform the three most common methods of treatment--surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Help raise awareness for ovarian cancer this month by spreading knowledge and passing information on to your friends and family.

To find additional information on ovarian cancer, please visit: www.cancer.gov or www.thegcf.org

Honoring Senator Edward Kennedy

2009-08-28T15:55:00.000-04:00

A statement from Martha Nolan, J.D., vice president of public policy at the Society for Women's Health Research, honoring Senator Edward Kennedy:

America is losing a longstanding advocate on behalf of health care issues and in our case, women's health. His energy transcended so many issues. He understood what the Society was seeking to change regarding women's inclusion in clinical trials and supported our efforts for sex differences research. Further, he was also a strong supporter of his Senate colleagues who were advocating for changes in women's health. It is a tremendous loss that will be hard to replace.

New Look!

2009-08-26T15:19:00.000-04:00

The Society for Women's Health Research's bi-weekly e-newsletter will have an all new look this week!

If you don't already receive the Society's enews, click here to register!

Society invited to White House for Healthcare Reform Briefing

2009-08-14T14:23:00.000-04:00

Society staff, Martha Nolan, J.D., and Suzanne Stone, J.D., attended an invitation-only briefing by key White House and Administration Staff on the status of health care reform efforts by the administration. Valerie Jarrett, Senior Advisor and Assistant to the President for Intergovernmental Affairs and Public Liaison provided opening remarks. The major message was that health insurance reform can bring healthcare stability and security to all Americans.

Staff from the White House’s Office of Public Engagement (OPE) pointed out that women are the largest consumer of health care and thus stand to gain the most from reform. Dr. Kavita Patel from OPE, emphasized the important role of women and clearly stated that women’s care suffers from a lack of knowledge, because of inadequate research into women’s conditions and ways that women’s health differs from men’s. The administration is hosting a website, http://www.healthreform.org/, that provides weekly updates on reform activities, reports on the needs for health insurance reform, and invites Americans to participate in the discussion.

Thoughts?

2009-08-10T16:59:00.000-04:00

Viviana Simon, Ph.D., vice president of scientific programs at the Society for Women's Health Research found this New York Times article on heart health care costs interesting.

What do you think?

Here is the entire link in case the hyperlink doesn't work:
http://economix.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/07/26/the-good-and-bad-of-heart-care/?emc=eta1

Society President Speaks at Aspen Health Forum

2009-08-04T15:46:00.000-04:00

During July 23-27, 2009, the Second Annual Aspen Health Forum brought together more than 80 thought leaders to discuss today’s current health and medical issues. This group included Nobel laureates, health care industry leaders, pre-eminent medical scientists, policymakers, athletes, best-selling authors, journalists, public officials, and interested members of the public, some 500 people in all, according to the Aspen Institute.

Phyllis Greenberger, M.S.W., president and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research, led off “The Big Idea” plenary session along with Anthony Fauci, M.D., director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infections Diseases at the National Institutes of Health, as well as a vice president of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America. “The Big Idea” sessions combined short, powerful talks by the most engaging speakers in their respective fields describing their visions of the biggest challenges in our medical futures. “The Big Idea” topic was the Science of Sex. Greenberger also spoke on the panels discussing the Politics of Sex and Personalizing Each Patient: How Will the New Head-to-Head Comparisons Impact Patients?

The subjects covered in the 40 panel sessions covered every critical and contemporary health issue today. Panels covered topics such as: the frontiers of medical technology; the payoff of medical research and reform; healthcare information technology; and healthcare for the aging U.S. population.

For more information on the Aspen Health Forum click here.

You can help the Offices of Women's Health

2009-07-21T15:14:00.000-04:00

The Offices of Women’s Health in the federal government agencies are operating on shaky ground. At any moment, their funding could be cut or they could be forced to close their doors.

The Society for Women’s Health Research is working with Congress to see that this does not happen and women’s health remains a top priority. A bill called the Women’s Health Office Act (WHOA) was reintroduced in the House of Representatives on July 16, 2009. If made law, WHOA would protect the offices and provide them with statutory authorization – meaning there would be fixed, permanent funding for the Offices of Women’s Health.

Please help the Society to pass the WHOA bill. Click on the link below to send a letter of support to your Representative.

https://secure2.convio.net/swhr/site/Advocacy?pagename=homepage&id=145

(You may have to copy/paste the link into the address bar. Once you get to the page, click on: "Click here to read and send the letter.")

Thank you for your help. We encourage you to send this information along to other friends and family members who want care about women's health.

Hormone Replacement Therapy: What We Know and What We should Know

2009-06-03T09:40:00.000-04:00

Phyllis Greenberger to appear on thegrouproom.tv this Sunday, June 7th.

From 2002 to 2008, reports from the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) claimed that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) significantly increased the risks of breast cancer development, cardiac events, Alzheimer disease, and stroke. These claims alarmed the public and health professionals alike, However, the actual data in the published WHI articles reveal that the findings reported in press releases and interviews of the principal investigators were often distorted, oversimplified, or wrong. This Sunday, The Group Room will host an in depth discussion with one of the lead authors of a recently published article in The Cancer Journal, Hormone Replacement Therapy: Real Concerns and False Alarms. The program will get behind the controversy surrounding this subject with a noted medical oncologist, along with Phyllis Greenberger, President and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research. Whether you’re a woman who has had cancer or not, this program will have relevance for you. Click here to find where you can tune in this Sunday, June 7th.

Co-moderating this feature broadcast with host Selma R. Schimmel, CEO & Founder of Vital Options International, will be special guest Avrum Z. Bluming, M.D. Dr. Bluming is a Master of the American College of Physicians; Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Southern California; former senior investigator for the National Cancer Institute; an oncologist in private practice. Dr. Bluming is highly recognized for his research in the area of hormone replacement therapy, and in particular, as it relates to breast cancer. Along with Carol Tarvis, Ph.D., social psychologist and Fellow of the Association for Psychological Science, their recently published article highlights the history of research on HRT, including a timeline of studies that have or have not found a link between HRT and breast cancer; discusses how to distinguish important, robust findings from those that are trivial, and closely examines the WHI findings on HRT and breast cancer, as well as cardiovascular disease, cognitive functioning, and quality of life issues.

Society Launches the Know My Bones Public Education Campaign

2009-05-14T18:32:00.000-04:00

Osteoporosis, which is characterized by loss of bone mass leading to increased risk of fracture, affects 8 million women and two million men. By 2010, nine million women over age 50 are expected to have osteoporosis. Osteoporosis-related fractures are a main cause of disability and mortality in the United States. A woman's risk of hip fracture is equal to her combined risk of breast, uterine, and ovarian cancer.

Osteoporosis can significantly affect a woman's health and independence as she ages. To raise awareness about this serious condition, the Society for Women's Health Research has become a founding member of the Know My Bones Council. Below is the first of the Council's newsletters. It highlights the findings of a recent survey commissioned by the Council. Please read on to learn how osteoporosis is affecting real women's lives and what you can do to protect yourself and the women you love from the devastating effects of osteoporosis.

To learn more information about the Know My Bones campaign, please visit the Society's Website.

Economic Downturn Is Driving Many Osteoporotic Women to Retire Later - But Their Ability to Work May Be Undermined by Sub-Optimal Management of Their Disease
Results from a new Harris Poll commissioned by the Society and the Know My Bones Council found that one-out-of-five women with postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) are retiring later than anticipated and nearly half (48 percent) blame the current economy. Despite the need to work longer, half of the women with PMO are fearful that the disease will limit their ability to work. Read more...

SWHR Recognizes Past and Current Board Members’ Contributions to Women’s Health

2009-05-12T15:48:00.000-04:00

Press Release
For Immediate Release
May 12, 2009

Contact: Karen Young
Email: karen@womenshealthresearch.org
Phone: 202.496.5001

SWHR Recognizes Past and Current Board Members’ Contributions to Women’s Health During National Women's Health Week

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Society for Women’s Health Research, a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy organization, has had dozens of forward-thinking, accomplished women and men on its board of directors since it was founded in 1990. These individuals are invited to the board because of their interest in advancing women’s health research, education, and advocacy. In honor of National Women’s Health Week, the Society recognizes former and current board members and their contributions to women’s health.

Freda Lewis-Hall, M.D., was a member of the Society’s board of directors from 1994-2000. She has recently been appointed to the position of Chief Medical Officer and Senior Vice President, Pfizer Inc. Lewis-Hall will be the senior physician in the company, responsible for enterprise-wide medical, patient safety, regulatory affairs and quality assurance as well as outreach to doctors and other medical professionals.

“Dr. Lewis-Hall brings a unique perspective to Pfizer, having worked in large and small biopharmaceutical companies, in government, in academia, and in direct patient care and patient advocacy,” said Phyllis Greenberger, M.S.W., president/CEO of the Society. “She has special sensitivities, having a doctor’s compassion, a leader’s vision and a researcher’s love of science and medicine.”

Nanette K. Wenger, M.D., professor of medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, served on the Society’s board of directors for nine years (2000-2009), most recently as chair. Wenger recently received the distinguished Master award by the American College of Cardiology. This is the organization’s highest honor.

Established in 1998, only four Master designations from peer nominations are awarded each year. Wenger, a professor of medicine in the School of Medicine’s Division of Cardiology and chief of cardiology at Grady Memorial Hospital, was recognized for her pioneering clinical and research efforts in revealing cardiovascular disease as the number one killer of women in the United States.

Carol Nadelson, M.D., professor of psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, is currently serving as the secretary for the Society’s board; her term is through 2010.

Nadelson has been chosen as the recipient of the Alma Dea Morani, M.D. Renaissance Woman Award for 2009. This Award honors an outstanding woman physician or scientist in North America who has furthered the practice and understanding of medicine in our lifetime and made significant contributions outside of medicine, for example, in the humanities, arts or social sciences; whose determination and spirit have carried her beyond traditional pathways in medicine and science; and who challenges the status quo with a passion for learning.

Laurie Zoloth, Ph.D., professor of medical humanities and bioethics of religion, Northwestern University, has been awarded the Deering McCormick Professorship. This is Northwestern’s highest recognition for distinguished teaching. Zoloth’s term on the Society’s board started in 2004. She is slated to serve until 2010.

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For more information on the Society for Women’s Health Research contact Karen Young, communication and events manager, at 202-496-5001 or karen@womenshealthresearch.org.

The Society for Women’s Health Research is a national non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. Founded in 1990, the Society brought to national attention the need for the appropriate inclusion of women in major medical research studies and the need for more information about conditions affecting women disproportionately, predominately, or differently than men. The Society advocates increased funding for research on women’s health; encourages the study of sex differences that may affect the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease; promotes the inclusion of women in medical research studies; and informs women, providers, policy makers and media about contemporary women’s health issues. Visit the Society’s Web site at www.womenshealthresearch.org for more information.

2009-04-20T12:13:00.000-04:00

Society News

The OSSD issues call for proposals
The OSSD Programs Committee is issuing a call for proposals for symposia at the Fourth Annual Meeting to be held on June 3-5, 2010 in Ann Arbor, MI. The deadline for submitting symposium proposals is May 22, 2009. Please visit the Symposium Proposal Guidelines page to view the specific requirements and submit a proposal.

The OSSD is also accepting late-breaking poster abstracts for the 2009 Annual Meeting. Theses late-breaking abstracts will not be published in the program book but will be distributed at the event. The deadline for submission is April 30, 2009. Please click here to submit an abstract online.

Society Calendar
OSSD Third Annual Meeting
June 4-6, 2009
Toronto, ON
OSSD's Third Annual Meeting will take place on June 4–6, 2009 in Toronto, ON Canada at the Marriott Toronto Downtown Eaton Centre Hotel. This exciting 3-day meeting will offer scientists from across all biomedical fields the opportunity to present, network, and discuss sex differences research. To view the official agenda, register, book a hotel room, or learn more about the meeting, visit the OSSD website at www.ossdweb.org and click on the 2009 Annual Meeting page.

News Bites

Diuretic may put women at risk
Results from a study focusing on whether loop diuretics increased a woman's risk of falls, broken bones and bone density problems found that women who took these medications for three or more years were at a 16 percent increased risk of suffering a broken bone, when compared with similar women who had not taken the drug. Loop diuretics are commonly used to control blood pressure. Read more...

Electrical Implant Might Help With Bladder Control
For certain women with bladder control issues, an electrical device implanted near the tailbone may provide some relief. A review of trials of the device found that it was effective primarily for patients with symptoms of overactive bladder and with no known obstruction who had failed other methods of treatment. Read more...

Scientists discover way to jumpstart bone's healing process
Orthopaedists may soon have a new tool at their disposable to deal with many common, painful bone ailments including the tens of thousands of painful fractures for which there is no treatment. Results from a new study shown that a drug which was approved by the FDA in 2002 for the treatment of osteoporosis can also boost our bodies' bone stem cell production to the point that adults' bones appear to have the ability to heal at a rate typically seen when they were young kids. Read more...

Emerging advances in the diagnosis and treatment of stroke
Stroke is the third leading cause of death for women in the United States. According to the American Heart Association, each year, approximately 55,000 more women than men will have a stroke. Strokes kill more than twice as many women than breast cancer each year and are the leading cause of disability in women. Rarely fatal, often disabling, strokes have a long-term impact on women's productivity, ability to care for families, and independence. Researchers are exploring new methods to treat acute stroke and developing innovative therapies to minimize disability in stroke survivors. Read more...

Rising to the challenge: NIH will use $60 million in recovery act funds
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) will commit roughly $60 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to support autism research and meet objectives set forth earlier this year by a federal advisory committee. The Request for Applications is the largest funding opportunity for research on autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to date and, combined with other ARRA initiatives, represents a surge in NIH's commitment to finding the causes and treatments for autism. For a full listing of possible study topics, see the grant announcement listing in the NIH Guide.

Bill would expand health care for female veterans
The Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009 was introduced by Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., and would require counseling, improve women's health care programs and provide a pilot program for child care services. According to Sen. Murray, there are approximately 1.8 million female veterans who, according to VA data, are receiving "lower quality care" than men receive. For more information about the bill, click here.

Conflicts of interest in clinical research
Finder's fees, where research sponsors pay members of the research team or clinicians to identify potential participants or for meeting predetermined enrollment targets, are a potential source of conflict of interest in the research process. In a study of IRB policies at 117 medical schools that received NIH funding, Leslie Wolf, an associate professor of law at Georgia State University, found that less than half of the IRB policies discuss finder's fees or bonus payments as conflicts of interest. The study also revealed that that only 26 of the IRBs in the study mentioned potential conflicts when physicians recruit their own patients and that only four percent ask doctors to tell their patients that they are not obligated to participate. Read more...

Amniotic fluid may provide new source of stem cells for future therapies

In a new study to be published in Blood, the journal of the American Society of Hematology, researchers have discovered that amniotic fluid may be a source of embryonic stem cells. Stem cells harvested from amniotic fluid were able to generate blood cells that may be used in future therapies. Read more...

New Study Suggests Rx Estrogen Delivery Through the Skin May Show Safety Benefits as Opposed to Oral Delivery

A study from researchers at NYU Longone Medical Center found that transdermal delivery of estrogen therapy might be safer than estrogen taken orally for women with clotting disorders. These findings are significant for women who wish to take hormone replacement therapy for the symptoms of menopause but who may be at risk for a stroke. Read more...

March 19, 2009

2009-03-18T21:40:00.000-04:00

Society News

Society Presents Results of RAISE project at 34th Annual Association for Women in Psychology conference
Targeting inequities in award distribution is one way to sustain women in male-dominated fields (e.g., STEMM) because awards are markers of recognition and may be an impetus for women on an uncertain career path. Yet, data from the RAISE project award database identified a clear gender disparity between award laureates. RAISE project coordinator and Society staff member Venessa Schick investigated the inclusion of gendered heuristics in the award description and title. Contrary to predictions, gendered terminology did not predict an increase in the percentage of female award recipients. However, women were twice as likely to win an award if the award title was gender neutral (20%) and 2.5 times more likely to win an award named after a female (23%) than if the award title included the full name of a male (9%). By implication, consideration should be taken when deciding on current or future award titles. For more information on the RAISE project, please click here.

Sponsorship opportunities available! 
OSSD is seeking sponsors for the annual meeting. To learn about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Scott Ossler, Development Consultant at 301-279-0468 or click here for additional information.

Society Calendar

Society for Women's Health Research 16th Annual Gala Dinner
Monday, April 20, 2009
Mandarin Oriental Hotel
Washington, DC
Thank you for supporting our dinner celebrating advances in women's health research. If you would like to reserve your table or tickets now, please contact Jo Parrish at jo@womenshealthresearch.org or 202-496-5008.

OSSD Third Annual Meeting
June 4-6, 2009
Toronto, ON
OSSD's Third Annual Meeting will take place on June 4–6, 2009 in Toronto, ON Canada at the Marriott Toronto Downtown Eaton Centre Hotel. This exciting 3-day meeting will offer scientists from across all biomedical fields the opportunity to present, network, and discuss sex differences research. To view the official agenda, register, book a hotel room, or learn more about the meeting, visit the OSSD website at www.ossdweb.org and click on the 2009 Annual Meeting page.

Don’t forget to register early! The Early Bird Discount will extend until April 1, 2009 and can save OSSD members up to $150.

Non-Society News and Events

2009 AcademyHealth Gender and Health Interest Group Meeting and Annual Research Meeting
June 27-30, 2009
Chicago, IL
The Gender and Health Interest Group of AcademyHealth is soliciting abstracts describing cutting edge research on Gender and Health for presentation at its 2009 Annual Research Meeting and the Gender and Health Interest Group Meeting. Academy Health is seeking abstracts from researchers who are conducting health services or health policy research on women’s health or gender-based issues.

For more information about AcademyHealth please click here.

News Bites

Gene therapy might help treat obesity
Scientists have discovered when injected into the brain of mice, the gene BDNF can regulate insulin sensitivity, reduce fat mass and result in weight loss. The study was conducted at the Ohio State University Medical Center. Read more...

Aspirin improves survival in women with stable heart disease
New results from the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) indicate that aspirin can improve survival for women with a history of heart disease. The study found that women who had previously had a heart attack, stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA, or mini-stroke), angina, or angioplasty or coronary bypass surgery and who were regular aspirin users had a 25 percent lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease and a 14 percent lower risk of death from any cause than those women who did not take aspirin. Read more...

Scientists ID Biomarkers for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Researchers from the Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School have discovered that levels of two cytokines (proteins released by the immune system) called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are elevated before a woman develops RA symptoms. Markers for TNF and IL-6 were elevated up to 12 and 6 years, respectively, before RA symptoms appeared. Read more...

Genetic differences help protect against cervical cancer
Virtually all cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infections from several of the human papillomaviruses (HPV), yet only a small subset of women infected with HPV develop cervical cancer. In a new study, researchers have found key differences at two locations in the TAP genes, which is known to be crucial to the immune system’s ability to recognize viruses and eliminate them from the body. Study participants who possessed one or the other of these two gene variants were less than half as likely as other women to have developed high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), a premalignant condition caused by HPV that can lead to cervical cancer. Read more...

Moderate alcohol consumption related to stronger bones
While excessive alcohol is detrimental to one’s health, a new study published in the April 2009 edition of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports that moderate alcohol can strengthen bones. Men saw a positive effect on bone strength (measured as hip and spine bone mineral density) at 1-3 glasses of beer and more than 2 glasses of wine or liquor (but not beer) for women. Read more...

A bill to care for carers
Understanding that many scientists, especially women, are faced making a choice between their careers and caring for ailing family members, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (Dem, TX) has introduced a bill seeking grant extensions for federally funded scientists who take time off to care for family members and funding to hire temporary workers. Read more...

March 11, 2009

2009-03-11T14:45:00.000-04:00

Society News and Events

Deadline for abstract submissions for OSSD Annual Meeting
The deadline for submitting abstracts for the 2nd Annual Meeting of the Organization for the Study of Sex Differences is fast approaching! All abstracts must be received by Monday, March 16th, 2009 for consideration. Please click here to submit an abstract.

News Bites

Depression is linked to women's heart health
Researchers have found that women who are depressed are twice as likely to die from sudden cardiac arrest, and 37 percent more likely to die from heart disease than women who are not depressed. The study also found a correlation between antidepressant use and increased heart risk. These results are preliminary however, and experts warn that women should nt stop taking antidepressant medications out of fear of an increased heart risk. Read more...

Chemoradiotherapy for hodgkin lymphoma raises mesothelioma risk in women
A study of more than 2,500 patients treated for hodgkin lymphoma (HL) found that women who were treated with both chemotherapy and radiation had 85 time the risk of developing mesothelioma than women in the general population. The risk of developing mesothelioma in men treated for HL was 18 times that of men in the general population. Read more...

New research reveals how cranberry products prevent urinary tract infections
Drinking cranberry juice has long been promoted as a way to prevent and treat urinary tract infections. A new study finds that is the chemicals found in cranberry products called proanthocyanidins (PACs), not the acidity of cranberries, which prevents E. coli. E. coli is responsible for about 85% of UTIs and 90% of cases of acute pyelonephritis. Read more...

March 4, 2009

2009-03-04T14:21:00.000-05:00

Society News

Society President publishes Op/Ed in Boston Globe
Phyllis Greenberger, Society President and CEO, called on the new administration to consider sex differences as it implements its plan for a Federal Coordinating Council for Comparative Effectiveness Research. According to Ms. Greenberger, the Council, by harnessing the extraordinary resources of the federal government could improve the delivery of care for both women and men. To read the entire Op/Ed, please click here.

More than 100 people attend Society event on Capitol Hill
On February 25th, more than 125 men and women attended the congressional briefing “Stroke and Women: The X Factor.” Leading researchers presented attendees with the latest research findings on women and stroke. The Society co-hosted the event with The Hazel K. Goddess Fund for Stroke Research in Women.

Society President addresses the Capital Speaker’s Club
On February 18th, Society President and CEO Phyllis Greenberger was the luncheon speaker for the Capital Speaker’s Club at the Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, MD. Ms. Greenberger educated the more 100 women in attendance about the importance of sex differences.

Society President speaks at American University Washington College of Law
Society President and CEO Phyllis Greenberger gave the welcome remarks at the American University Washington College of Law’s 2009 Spring Health Law Symposium: Does Sex Really Matter? What a Difference an “X” Makes! in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, March 3, 2009. Ms. Greenberger spoke about the role of the Society in bringing sex differences to the forefront of medical research.

Sponsorship opportunities available! 
OSSD is seeking sponsors for the annual meeting. To learn about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Scott Ossler, Development Consultant at sccottoser@ossdweb.org or 301-279-0468. You may also click here for additional information. 

News Bites

Calcium linked to lower risk of digestive cancers
In a study of nearly half a million men and women ages 50 to 71, calcium intake was associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer and other cancers of the digestive system. The study by Park et al found that the positive relationship between calcium and lower cancer risk was especially strong for women. Read more...

Study sheds new light on link between obesity and infertility
Obese women trying to get pregnant often experience longer times to become pregnant, even if they have regular menstrual cycles. A new study accepted for publication in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (JCEM) found that obese women have an altered ovarian follicular environment that may be related to poorer reproductive outcomes. Read more...

Genetic evidence points to potential therapeutic bypass for autoimmune process
A study conducted at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, California has discovered genetic evidence that two distinct molecular pathways control the formation of regulatory T cells (Treg). Treg cells are vital to limiting autoimmune attacks. These findings could result in novel therapies for treating a variety of autoimmune disorders. Read more...

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may be associated with progression of MS
A study of 135 patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at the Multiple Sclerosis Center of the University of Trieste, Italy showed that higher levels of anti-EBV antibodies at the beginning of the study were associated with increased loss of gray matter in the brain as well as total brain volume over the course of the study. Read more...

Research uncovers promising target to treat chronic abdominal pain
Scientists at Ohio State University found that nearly twice the normal amount of a protein called EAAT2, or excitatory amino acid transporter 2, decreased what is called visceral pain, or pain from internal organs, in mice. The protein has the potential to treat the pain caused by a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome, which affects approximately 20 percent of the U.S. population. More than 70% of those affected by IBS are women. Read more...

January 13, 2009

2009-02-13T11:15:00.000-05:00

SOCIETY NEWS

Society endorses the HEART for Women Act
In a struggling economy that could force some women to make tough choices on healthcare, Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Congresswomen Lois Capps (D-CA) and Mary Bono Mack (R-CA) yesterday reintroduced theHeart disease Education, Research and Analysis, and Treatment (HEART) for Women Act. This legislation would expand access to screening and lifestyle counseling for low-income and uninsured women, including those who may have recently lost their jobs and health benefits. The Society for Women's Health Research was among the leading health and women’s organizations endorsing the legislation. For more information, please contact Karen Young at karen@womenshealthresearch.org.

Sponsorship opportunities available!
OSSD is seeking sponsors for the annual meeting. To learn about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Scott Oser, Development Consultant at 301-279-0468 (sccottoser@ossdweb.org) or click here.

NEWS BITES

Pregnancy has no impact on breast cancer, but can delay diagnosis and treatment
Approximately 10% of breast cancer patients under the age of 40 develop their cancers during pregnancy. A new study finds that these women do not experience any differences in disease severity or likelihood of survival compared to other women with breast cancer. Read more...

Study examines effects of exercise on quality of life in postmenopausal women
A new study finds that exercise can also improve quality of life in postmenopausal women, even without any resulting weight loss. The results found that exercise in these women improved general health perception, vitality and mental health, and significantly improved social functioning. Read more...

First-time mothers at a greater risk of psychosis in the month following childbirth
Approximately 1 in 1,000 women will develop post-partum psychosis. While relatively rare, the condition is potentially dangerous for both mother and child. A new study from Sweden has found that first-time mothers are at higher risk for developing the condition in the first few weeks after giving birth. Read more...

A possible treatment for Rett syndrome
Rhett syndrome is the most common form of autism in girls. In 85 percent of girls with Rett syndrome, the culprit is a faulty gene coding for methyl CpG-binding protein 2, (MeCP2) which is essential for cell maturation. Researchers found that injecting a derivative of growth factor-1 (IGF-1) into mice that have an equivalent of Rett syndrome helped the animals' faulty brain cells develop normally and reversed some of the disorder's symptoms. Read more...

Volunteer work in grade schools produces persistent health benefit for older black women
Maintaining social connections by volunteering has long been touted as a means to prevent social isolation and depression in the elderly. But a new study from Johns Hopkins University shows that volunteerism may also be a way for seniors to become and stay physically active. Read more...

New test for breast cancer will help guide treatment choices
A new test that will become available this summer promises to more accurately diagnose and subtype breast cancers. Subtyping breast cancers can allow doctors to tailor chemotherapies to more effectively treat the cancers. Read more...

Women who drink lots of soda at higher risk for early kidney disease
Women, but not men, who drink more than two cans of soda are almost twice as likely to develop kidney disease as those who do not drink soda. Researchers say that more studies are needed to determine if the elevated risk is due to high fructose corn syrup, overall sugar consumption, lifestyle factors, or other unknown risk factors. Read more...

Novel HIV-Fighting Method Finally Gels
HIV researchers have been striving to develop a safe and effective microbicide gel to protect women from the HIV virus. Until now, they have been unsuccessful. However, a new gel called PRO 2000 reduced the risk of HIV infection by 30%. While the finding did not quite reach statistical significance, it does provide hope in the field of microbicide research. Read more...

NON-SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS

2009 AcademyHealth Gender and Health Interest Group Meeting and Annual Research Meeting
June 27-30, 2009
Chicago, IL
The Gender and Health Interest Group of AcademyHealth is soliciting abstracts describing cutting edge research on Gender and Health for presentation at its 2009 Annual Research Meeting and the Gender and Health Interest Group Meeting. For more information about AcademyHealth, please click here.

E-News 2-12-09

2009-02-10T11:18:00.000-05:00

Society News

News Bites

Pregnancy has no impact on breast cancer, but can delay diagnosis and treatment
Approximately 10% of breast cancer patients under the age of 40 develop their cancers during pregnancy. A new study finds that these women do not experience any differences in disease severity or likelihood of survival compared to other women with breast cancer. Read more...

Study examines effects of exercise on quality of life in postmenopausal women
A new study finds that exercise can also improve quality of life in postmenopausal women, even without any resulting weight loss. The results found that exercise in these women improved general health perception, vitality and mental health, and significantly improved social functioning. Read more...

First-time mothers at a greater risk of psychosis in the month following childbirth
Approximately 1 in 1,000 women will develop post-partum psychosis. While relatively rare, the condition is potentially dangerous for both mother and child. A new study from Sweden has found that first-time mothers are at higher risk for developing the condition in the first few weeks after giving birth. Read more...

A possible treatment for Rett syndrome
Rhett syndrome is the most common form of autism in girls. In 85 percent of girls with Rett syndrome, the culprit is a faulty gene coding for methyl CpG-binding protein 2, (MeCP2) which is essential for cell maturation. Researchers found that injecting a derivative of growth factor-1 (IGF-1) into mice that have an equivalent of Rett syndrome helped the animals' faulty brain cells develop normally and reversed some of the disorder's symptoms. Read more...

Volunteer work in grade schools produces persistent health benefit for older black women
Maintaining social connections by volunteering has long been touted as a means to prevent social isolation and depression in the elderly. But a new study from Johns Hopkins University shows that volunteerism may also be a way for seniors to become and stay physically active. Read more...

New test for breast cancer will help guide treatment choices
A new test that will become available this summer promises to more accurately diagnose and subtype breast cancers. Subtyping breast cancers can allow doctors to tailor chemotherapies to more effectively treat the cancers. Read more...

Women who drink lots of soda at higher risk for early kidney disease
Women, but not men, who drink more than two cans of soda are almost twice as likely to develop kidney disease as those who do not drink soda. Researchers say that more studies are needed to determine if the elevated risk is due to high fructose corn syrup, overall sugar consumption, lifestyle factors, or other unknown risk factors. Read more...

Novel HIV-Fighting Method Finally Gels
HIV researchers have been striving to develop a safe and effective microbicide gel to protect women from the HIV virus. Until now, they have been unsuccessful. However, a new gel called PRO 2000 reduced the risk of HIV infection by 30%. While the finding did not quite reach statistical significance, it does provide hope in the field of microbicide research. Read more...

Sponsorship Opportunities Available!

2009-02-06T09:30:00.000-05:00

OSSD's Third Annual Meeting will take place on June 4-6, 2009 in Toronto, ON Canada at the Marriott Toronto Downtown Eaton Centre Hotel. This exciting 3-day meeting will offer scientists from across all biomedical fields the opportunity to present, network, and discuss sex differences research. To view the official agenda, register, book a hotel room, or learn more about the meeting, visit the OSSD website.

OSSD is seeking sponsors for the annual meeting. To learn about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Scott Oser, Development Consultant at 301-279-0468 (sccottoser@ossdweb.org) or click here.

February 4, 2009

2009-02-04T11:12:00.000-05:00

Society News

Society Chair to be named Master of the American College of Cardiology
Congratulations to Nanette K. Wenger, M.D., Chair of the Society’s Board of Directors, who willed be named as a Master of the American Academy of Cardiology (ACC) at the ACC’s annual meeting in March.

Society joins the Pearls of Wisdom Campaign to End Cervical Cancer
The Pearl of Wisdom Campaign to Prevent Cervical Cancer is a united, global effort to raise awareness of the opportunities now available to prevent cervical cancer. The Campaign works to inform women how to prevent cervical cancer and to educate healthcare professionals about the latest research on and methods of cervical cancer prevention. The Campaign will also work governments to emphasize the importance of making cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination programs a policy priority. Read more…

News Bites

FDA warns consumers about “bio-identical” hormone therapy
Bio-Identical hormone products have been touted as “natural” and safe alternative to hormone replacement therapy. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that manufacturers’ claims about these products are unproven and that the products are potentially dangerous. Read more…

Weight loss reduced incontinence in 0verweight and obese women
Obesity is a know risk factor for urinary insentience in women. A new study out of UCSF found that weight loss can improve symptoms of incontinence in obese women. Women participating in a 6-month weight loss program reported fewer episodes of urinary-incontinence episodes than did those in the control group." Read more…

Sex differences may affect verbal fluency
Researchers from the University of Montpelier in France used functional MRI scans to study language performance in men and women. The study found differences among male and female groups on activation strength linked to verbal fluency, i.e. word generation. Read more…

Stem cell transplant reverses early stage multiple sclerosis
Using a procedure called autologous non-myeloablative haematopoietic stem-cell transplantion, researchers from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine appear to have reversed the effects of early-stage multiple sclerosis. In this small, phase I/II study patients’ own stem cells were harvested then re-injected after patients underwent chemotherapy. Patients experienced improvements in areas in which they had been affected by multiple sclerosis including walking, ataxia, limb strength, vision and incontinence. Read more…

Chondroitin slows progression and relieves symptoms of knee osteoarthritis
A new study examined from the University of Paris Descartes found that long-term use of chondroitins may prevent joint damage in patients with osteoarthritis (OA). Patients in the study also reported improvement in OA-related pain. Read more…

Women with high blood pressure during pregnancy face future of complications
A study by Jacob Lykke and colleagues found that otherwise healthy women who experienced hypertension during their first pregnancies are at risk for developing chronic hypertension, diabetes and blood clots later in life. The study supports previous findings that hypertensive pregnancy disorders are linked to subsequent death and ischemic heart disease. Read more…

Quick menopause transition ups heart risk
OSSD Council Council member Dr. C. Noel Bairey Merz is the principal investigator on a study that found that women who transitioned from being pre-menopausal to being fully post-menopausal within three years are at greater risk for developing heart disease. Researchers found that these women had more buildup of fatty plaque in their carotid arteries than those women not experiencing quick menopausal transitions. Read more…

2009-01-14T15:35:00.000-05:00

Society News

Society’s President and CEO meets with Obama’s transition team
Phyllis Greenberger, President and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research met with President-Elect Obama’s transition team on December 18 to discuss what steps the Administration can take to address women’s health issues. Specifically, Ms. Greenberger addressed the lack of research funding for NIH and the fact that the United States is losing its scientific and technological edge as young researchers, particularly women, are leaving the field. She also highlighted the fact that sex differences research is not advancing at the pace it should. She informed the transition team that while clinical trials are now including women and minorities, they are failing to analyze data by sex. Specifically, Ms. Greenberger recommended that the Administration lift the ban on stem cell research and reintroduce a focus on scientific integrity.

Isis Fund Network members to give an instructional lecture at AAOS Annual Meeting
Members of the Society’s Isis Fund Network on Sex Differences in Musculoskeletal Health will be presenting an Instructional Course Lecture at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada in February. The Lecture will focus on sex differences in knee osteoarthritis. The Network members who will be speaking are: Barbara Boyan, PhD, Wendy Kohrt, PhD, Daniel Nicolella, PhD, and Mary O’Connor, MD.

Society for Women’s Health Research Accepting Nominations for Prize for Contributions to Women’s Health
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2009 Society for Women’s Health Research Medtronic Prize for Scientific Contributions to Women’s Health. The annual $75,000 prize recognizes a woman scientist or engineer for her contributions to women’s health. It also encourages women scientists and engineers to work on issues uniquely related to women’s health and rewards women who have devoted a significant part of their careers to this area. Read more…

OSSD Council member named Woman Cardiologist of the Year
Congratulations to C. Noel Bairey Merz, M.D., an OSSD council member, for receiving the 2008 Dr. Carolyn McCue Award for Woman Cardiologist of the Year presented by the Virginia Commonwealth University Pauley Heart Center. Read more…

OSSD announces 2009 officers and councilors
The OSSD is pleased to announce the new 2009 OSSD officers and councilors. Virginia M. Miller, Ph.D., M.B.A. takes office immediately as president-elect. Kevin D. Beck, Ph.D. will begin his role as treasurer in June of 2009. New council members Sabra L. Klein, Ph.D.; Tracy L. Bale, Ph.D.; Robert L. Meisel, Ph.D.; and Margaret M. McCarthy, Ph.D. will also begin their terms in June.

News Bites

Men with stressful jobs double the chance of having a stroke
A recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that having a stressful job can double a man’s risk of having a stroke. Women in stressful jobs however, do not seem to have an increased risk of stroke. Read more…

Sex differences in respiratory symptoms and lung function in the workplace
Respiratory problems in workers exposed to dusty workplaces have lung been documented. A new study found that there are significant sex differences in these problems. In industries processing organic compounds women reported significantly less chronic cough, chronic phlegm as well as chronic bronchitis. Upper respiratory tract symptoms by contrast were more frequent in women than in men in these groups. Read more…

Possible neurobiological relationship in brain size between gay men and straight women
Researchers from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm have found that the brains of straight men and of gay women share certain common features. Both are slightly asymmetric, with the right hemisphere larger than the left. On the other hand, the brains of gay men and straight women are both symmetrical. Scientists found similar results when looking at connectivity in the amygdala, the region of the brain involved in emotional learning and in activating the fight-or-flight response. Read more…

Donated Kidneys Go to More Older Men than Women
According to Johns Hopkins researchers, older men are significantly more likely to receive a donated kidney than older women. Younger women, however, are just as likely as younger men to receive a kidney. This disparity seems to be related to women’s limited referral to transplant waiting lists. Read more…

Protein That Regulates Hormones Critical to Women’s Health Found in Pituitary
University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers have found abundant amounts of Syt IV, a maverick member of the synaptotagmin family of 17 protein in a specific area of the pituitary gland. Until now, the main location and function of Syt IV were unknown. The protein may adjust the release of the two hormones that come almost exclusively from the posterior pituitary: oxytocin, which controls many reproductive functions, and vasopressin, which controls fluid balance. Read more…

December 31, 2008

2008-12-31T10:15:00.000-05:00

Due to the holidays, the Society will not be publishing it's semi-monthly e-newsletter. The e-newsletter will be back in 2009! Until then, please enjoy the latest news in women's health and sex differences research.

High Insulin May Boost Odds of Breast Cancer
Researchers from the Albert Einstein School of Medicine has found a link between high levels of insulin and breast cancer. Women with the highest fasting levels of insulin had 1.5 times the risk of breast cancer than the women with the lowest levels. Read more…

Vitamins C and E and beta carotene again fail to reduce cancer risk
A new study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found no statistical benefit in preventing cancer from taking antioxidant supplements. The study of 7,627 women who were at high risk of cardiovascular disease randomly assigned to participants to take vitamin C, vitamin E, or beta-carotene. Neither duration of treatment nor combination of the three antioxidant supplements had effects on overall fatal or nonfatal cancer events. Read more…

December 30, 2008

2008-12-30T11:00:00.000-05:00

Dear Readers,

In lieu of the e-newsletter this week, the Society for Women’s Health Research encourages all of our members to subscribe to our blog. We are now updating the blog twice a week!

Happy Holidays!
The Society

News of Note:

Tough-guy attitude leads to gender health disparities
A recent survey by the Massachusetts Department of health found that in women consistently take better care of themselves than do men. Men generally did not practice preventive health and only sought medical attention when a problem became severe. Read more…

Teens' abstinence pledges found not to work
Teenagers who take a “virginity pledge” to remain abstinent until marriage are just as likely to have premarital sex as their peers who do not take the pledge. They are also less likely to use condoms and other forms of birth control when they do have sex. Read more…

Black women in the U.S. are shorter on average than a generation ago, federal study says
Beginning with women born in the late 1960s, the average height of black women in the U.S. has decreased. According to the latest results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), the height difference between white and black women has stretched to three-quarters of an inch. The main culprit to the discrepancy is diet. Read more…

Caffeine perks up men faster, say researchers
A recent study published in Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry found that caffeine perked up men faster than women. The findings could allow scientists to formulate dietary recommendations based on individuals’ genetic make up, age, and/or body size. Read more…

Cancer medicine advances on many fronts
A new report from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) details 12 "major" advances and 19 "notable advances" across the gamut of cancer prevention, screening, treatment and survival in the past year. Included in these advances are new drugs for hard-to-treat cancers, drugs for reducing cancer recurrence, genetic testing for personalized medicine, and new research into risk factors and health care services. Read more…

Video games are more stimulating to certain parts of the male brain
A recent study shows that playing video games activates parts of the male brain that make us feel rewarded. MRI data, found that while both male and female participants showed activation in the brain's mesocorticolimbic center, the region typically associated with reward and addiction, male brains showed much greater activation than female brains. Read more...

Minimizing Obesity’s Impact on Ovarian Cancer Survival
Previous research has shown that obese women have lower ovarian cancer survival rates than non-obese women. However, researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Comprehensive Cancer Center have found that ovarian cancer survival rates are the same for obese and non-obese women if their chemotherapy doses are closely matched to individual weight. Read more...

Happy Holidays from the Society for Women's Health Research!

2008-12-23T11:24:00.000-05:00

News of Note

Women exposed to second-hand smoke may experience fertility problems.

New research shows that women exposed to second-hand smoke during childhood and adulthood have a higher rate of pregnancy complications and have more trouble getting pregnant. Read more...

Why is heart disease more deadly in young women than men?

The National Institutes of Health recently launched the largest and most comprehensive study of young women with heart attacks. The VIRGO (Variation in Recover - Role of Gender on Outcomes in young acute myocardial infarction patients) will examine genetic, demographic, psychosocial, and behavioral factors that may contribute to heart disease in women. Read more...

Dieting may cut risk of gum disease, mostly in males

Chronic inflammation may be an important factor in aging and many age-related illnesses. A new study in rhesus monkeys revealed that male monkey fed a reduced calorie diet showed significantly greater periodontal breakdown than females. Read more...

Sex differences on spatial skill test linked to brain structure

University of Iowa researchers found that a thicker cortex in the parietal lobe in women is associated with poorer mental rotation ability. They also found that compared to women, the surface are of the parietal lobe is increased in men. This greater surface area is inked to better performance on mental rotation tasks. Read more...

Exercise protects black women from type 2 diabetes

Black women who walked briskly at least five hours per week have lower rates of type 2 diabetes. The findings from at study out of Boston University's Slone Epidemiology Center also showed a positive correlation between television viewing and diabetes in black women, regardless of activity level. Read more...

American College of Gastroenterology releases new recommendations for the treatment of IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is chronic condition characterized by cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation and/or diarrhea. It affects 10 to 15 of the U.S. population and is twice as common in women as in men. New guidelines from the ACG include recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Read more...

HPV vaccine used overseas is safe in boys

The human papillomavirus (HPV) which causes cervical cancer in females can also cause cancers, including throat, penile, and anal cancer, in males. While the HPV vaccine has been proven effective in preventing cervical cancer in females, an new study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health has found that the vaccine is safe and effective in boys. Read more...

EPA blasts FDA on recommendations on fish

The FDA recently recommendations encouraging women and children to eat more fish, despite growing concerns about mercury contamination. The EPA however stated that the FDA's report reaches conclusions that are not supported by research and at times either trivialized or overstates existing research. Read more...

Check Out the Talented Liza Lee!

2008-12-03T16:20:00.000-05:00

I want to tell all of you about a very talented recording artist working with the Society for Women's Health Research, Liza Lee.

Here is the beginning of Liza's story:"What makes a thirty-one year old singer and songwriter want to donate all of the proceeds from her new jazz project to the Society for Women’s Health Research?

First of all, I have an aunt who is battling ovarian cancer. That has been my most recent wake up call. But my personal journey to finding the Society for Women’s Health Research was unexpected and precarious.

This is a path that I would rather not have ambled down except that it has led me here to a great organization working to improve the health of all women through research. I am glad to help increase awareness about the dire need for funds to research how illness, disease and medications uniquely affect women’s bodies.

Let me tell you about my journey.My name is Liza Lee. I am a New York City-based performer. Four years ago, in 2004, I had just released my first jazz CD, “Scarlet Mark.” This was an amazing time period in my life. “Scarlet Mark” was receiving great reviews, radio play and allowing me to do something that I love—perform live and tour. I could not have been more excited.

My dream of a fulfilling singing career had become a reality. Around this time I had the opportunity to travel to and perform in the Dominican Republic. It was a great experience, but while there I contracted what turned out to be Dengue Fever, which is similar to malaria. It took me several weeks to even begin to recover. I use the word “begin,” because I never did seem to recover fully. ..."

Read the rest of Liza's story here: http://www.womenshealthresearch.org/site/PageServer?pagename=story_lizalee

Liza Lee will be releasing her newest CD, Anima, on December 15. Liza will be donating one hundred percent of the proceeds of Anima to the Society for Women's Health Research!

I hope you will take a few moments to visit Liza's site and support her mission and vision: www.lizaleemusic.com Liza is truly an inspiration to all of us at the Society.

Thank you, Liza!

Women's Health Needs Presidential Leadership

2008-09-26T16:48:00.000-04:00

Tonight in Oxford, Miss., we'll see the first of three scheduled presidential debates. The main topic for tonight's debate is foreign policy. As the campaign goes forward, we hope that you'll take women's health and other health care issues into consideration as you make your decisions about who to vote for in all of the races that will be contested on the first Tuesday of November.

Providing food for thought on this issue, below is a column from Society President Phyllis Greenberger, which was published by Lifetime in January. It outlines some of the major issues facing women's health research today.

Women's Health Needs Presidential Leadership
by Phyllis Greenberger, President and CEO
Society for Women's Health Research

For more than a decade, women's health advocates and a handful of dedicated leaders in Congress have been working to provide our nation's federal women's health offices with permanent statutory authorization.

These are important offices in key agencies like the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institutes of Health.

They support and promote research on health conditions that affect women exclusively, differently or disproportionately than men. Their work is vital because, until the last 20 years, women of childbearing age were barred from participating in most medical research studies. As a result, we had very little concrete information about women's health. Most of the treatments prescribed for women were based on studies of men.

The situation today is improved, but much work remains to be done. The women's health offices are at the center of that process, guiding research and providing information to women across the nation, allowing them to make better-informed health-care decisions.

The women's health office at the FDA, for example, has funded numerous studies to better understand heart disease, which affects women more frequently and differently than men. Their brochures on women's health are among the most requested publications from the federal government's information clearinghouse in Pueblo, Colorado.

The women's health offices need permanent protection because they only exist now at the discretion of their agency's top official. They can be eliminated at any time or have their funding slashed. That was a real fear for the FDA office this year, when in February, reports surfaced that it would lose more than one-quarter of its operating budget in the middle of the fiscal year. It would have effectively shut down its operations, but public outcry helped prevent any cuts.

Protecting these offices should be a no-brainer. They do a great job protecting and promoting women's health on tiny budgets.

Unfortunately, the legislation to give them the support they need hasn't gained traction. The call to "support the women's health offices" doesn't capture the hearts and minds of legislators and citizens the way "fight cancer" or "cure diabetes" does. But the work of the women's health offices is no less important. Research is the foundation of all future treatments, and no treatment is effective without informed and engaged patients.

What can the presidential candidates do to help?

Their public, committed support for permanent authorization of the women's health offices can be the spark this legislation needs to become law in 2008. And if that doesn't work, as president, their powerful leadership from the White House can help usher the bill to passage.

Supporting the women's health offices may seem like a small or symbolic gesture, but it represents a broader commitment to advancing women's health, ensuring that the right research is conducted and that patients, regardless of their gender, race or age, receive the information and health care they need.

You can learn more about the Women's Health Office Act by visiting the Society's website, where you can send an e-mail to your members of Congress and express your opinion on this issue.

Heart Health Legislation for Women Making Progress in Congress

2008-09-17T17:34:00.000-04:00

The House Energy and Commerce Committee in the U.S. Congress passed the HEART for Women Act by voice vote this afternoon. This is great progress for federal legislation that will help fight heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases in women, our number one killer.

During the hearing for this bill, Rep. Lois Capps (D-Calif.) singled out the Society for Women's Health Research for it support of this important legislation and for its work to help it move forward.

The Society has been working with the American Heart Association, the Association of Black Cardiologists, and WomenHeart on this bill.

You can read a joint press release from these organizations on our Web site. At the bottom of the press release, there is a link to a page where you can write your own members of Congress in support of this legislation, which will improve the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease in women.

Here is what Society President Phyllis Greenberger had to say in the release: "Finally, the day has come when women's heart health will receive the hearing it deserves before Congress. Research and effective treatment for women with heart disease continues to lag. Advancing this legislation is critical to ensuring that women and their doctors will some day have the right tools for prevention and treatment of this leading killer."

Psoriasis: More than Skin Deep

2008-09-02T12:52:00.000-04:00

By Jennifer Wider, M.D.
Society for Women’s Health Research

Psoriasis is a chronic disease of the immune system that affects the skin. As many as 7.5 million Americans suffer from psoriasis, according to the National Institutes of Health. Unlike other diseases of the immune system which affect women more often than men, psoriasis occurs about equally in men and women.

Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person. There are five known forms of the disease. “The most common form, plaque psoriasis, appears as raised, red patches or lesions covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells called scale,” explains Bruce F. Bebo, Jr., Ph.D., director of research and medical programs at the National Psoriasis Foundation in Portland, Ore.

For some people, psoriasis can be a nuisance, for others, it can be debilitating. The symptoms vary from person to person and can include:

Red, itchy patches of skin that are covered with silver-colored scales.
Dry, irritated or cracked skin that can bleed when scratched.
Disorders of the fingernails or toenails including thickened or ridged nails. The nails can become brittle and in some cases, detach from the nail beds.

Most cases of psoriasis wax and wane and include flare-ups which last for a few weeks to months. Some people will go into remission for months to years. But in most cases, the psoriasis will reappear. Psoriasis can also lead to psoriatic arthritis, which can cause pain and swelling in the joints. Roughly one-tenth to one-third of people with psoriasis will also have psoriatic arthritis, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. Psoriatic arthritis can lead to joint erosion and get in the way of daily functioning.

Although it affects both genders equally, recent studies show that there may be a racial or ethnic link. “It seems that psoriasis is most common in Caucasians and slightly less common in African Americans. Worldwide, psoriasis is most common in Scandinavia and other parts of northern Europe. It appears to be far less common among Asians and is rare in Native Americans,” Bebo points out.

Research has identified some differences between the sexes in psoriasis related to smoking and alcohol consumption.

Smoking increases the risk of developing psoriasis and can make the disease more severe, especially in women, but the risk goes down if you stop smoking. Alcohol appears to affect psoriasis in men more strongly than in women. Researchers don’t know why, but alcohol consumption appears to be a risk factor for psoriasis in men but not women and it may lower treatment response in men.

The cause of psoriasis isn’t fully clear. The disease is related to a malfunction in the immune system, which results in T-cells attacking healthy skin cells. What triggers the T-cell malfunction isn’t known, but many researchers cite genetic and environmental factors as possibilities. The most noteworthy risk factor for psoriasis is family history. Roughly 30 percent of people with psoriasis have a close relative with the disease.

Diagnosing psoriasis is often done in a doctor’s office. “No special blood tests or diagnostic tools exist to diagnose psoriasis. The physician or other health care provider usually examines the affected skin and decides if it is from psoriasis. Less often, the physician examines a piece of skin (biopsy) under the microscope,” explains Bebo.

There are several therapies for psoriasis available to patients, which focus on reducing skin inflammation and plaque formation. Looking to the future, there are “a number of new treatments in the psoriasis pipeline,” Bebo said, which may help reduce the burden of this chronic and disabling disease. The types of treatments in development include biologics, monoclonal antibodies and immune system modulators.

Women with psoriasis who are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding should discuss carefully with their doctors their treatment options, as some treatments for psoriasis may cause birth defects. There is, however, some good news for pregnant women. Research has shown that hormonal changes during pregnancy may lead to improvements in psoriasis symptoms, providing temporary relief.

For more information, you can visit the National Psoriasis Foundation online at http://www.psoriasis.org/.

Group B Strep Infection: A Lurking Danger for Unborn Babies

2008-08-21T14:52:00.000-04:00

The below article is part of the Society for Women's Health Research's biweekly news service.

Jennifer Wider, M.D.
Society for Women’s Health Research

Most women will take the necessary precautions to protect the health of their newborn babies. They will consume prenatal vitamins, curtail certain behaviors like smoking and drinking and eat healthy foods. But other risks exist, and some women may not even be aware of them.

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the most common cause of life-threatening infections in newborn babies. Often referred to as Strep B or group B Strep, it is a bacterial infection which can easily pass from a mother to her baby during delivery. Unfortunately, most infected women don’t realize they carry the bacteria.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Ga., roughly 25 percent of pregnant women carry the bacteria that cause GBS, but may never know it because they often have no symptoms. The bacteria is one of the many common bacteria that live in our digestive tracts and in women it may also live in the genital tract, but it is not transmitted by sexual contact.

Despite the often silent nature of the bacteria in otherwise healthy adults, it can trigger a GBS infection, which can cause fevers, irritability, lethargy and failure to thrive in newborns when transmitted from a mother to child during birth. It can also progress rapidly into breathing problems, heart and blood pressure instability, blood infections, pneumonia, meningitis, and even death.

If a woman carries GBS in the gut or vagina, the likelihood a baby will become infected is about 50 percent without antibiotic being given by vein to the mother during labor until delivery, according to Carol J. Baker, M.D., Professor of Pediatrics, Molecular Virology & Microbiology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas.

It is important to remember that even if a mother tests positive for GBS, her newborn may not get the disease. Roughly one out of every 100-200 babies born to mothers with GBS will get sick. But because the effects are so devastating, it is important to take precautions.

The key to preventing transmission of GBS to newborns is screening because it is difficult to predict who will be affected, especially in normal pregnancies. “If the pregnancy is uncomplicated and the delivery is at 37 weeks or more, the only predictor of GBS disease in the baby is maternal colonization,” Baker said, referring to the build up of the bacteria in the women’s system.

According to Baker, “the risk increases if the mother had a urinary tract infection with GBS before delivery, the mother has ruptured membranes more than 18 hours before delivery [premature water break] or the mother’s womb is infected with GBS before delivery -- the signs are fever, tender abdomen, high white blood count in the blood.”

This is why the CDC recommends that a pregnant woman get tested for GBS when she is 35 to 37 weeks pregnant. The test is quick, painless, and involves a taking a sterile swab of the vaginal and rectal areas. If the test comes back positive, intravenous antibiotics are recommended.

“Women should receive penicillin or cefazolin for those allergic to penicillin by vein at least four hours before delivery,” Baker said. “If the baby is born before culture screening has been done, women should ask their doctor to perform cultures and treat if necessary” when labor begins before the 37th week.

It is important for women to talk to their doctors about their GBS status. The benefits of screening, detection and treatment are clear. Infants whose mothers are group B strep carriers and do not get antibiotics have over 20 times the risk of developing disease than those who do receive treatment.

You can learn more about this issue from Group B Strep International (GBSI), an organization that promotes international awareness and prevention of Group B Strep disease in babies before birth through early infancy. GBSI is on the Internet at www.groupbstrepinternational.org.

Health Care Reporting Comes Up Short

2008-08-18T17:37:00.000-04:00

The below column, authored by Richard Schmitz, the Society for Women's Health Research Communications Director, is a commentary on the depth and quality of health care reporting.

Health Care Reporting Comes Up Short

Could you be more specific? That's a question I find myself asking too often when I read news about health research study results. News reports rarely explain in adequate detail for whom the study applies.

Two recent examples demonstrate this chronic problem. On July 28, Reuters reported that preventable medical errors during or after surgery cause 10 percent of surgery-related deaths. The next day, the Associated Press reported that deaths from medication mistakes by patients at home rose dramatically over the last two decades.

In the first story, no information was given about which, if any, patients suffered more than others. In the second, the only demographic information provided mentioned that overdoses were highest among people in their 40s and 50s.

What about women? Were they affected differently than men? What about minorities, children or the elderly? Who knows?

Neither story provides enough information for you to make appropriate decisions about your own health care, which should be the chief aim of health news.

We know that biological health differences between women and men are substantial. They impact almost every major area of health. We also know that different racial groups have genetic traits that can make them more or less susceptible to certain problems.

We know age is a major factor in health. When it comes to disease symptoms, treatment success, or adverse medical events, what's true for a middle aged man doesn't always apply to an elderly woman or a little boy.

These are issues that should always be addressed, if only to state that no differences among subgroups were detected in the study.

The fault lies with both journalists and researchers.

Researchers frequently do not include a large enough group of diverse participants in their studies to answer questions about group differences. Other times, they fail to make subgroup analysis a part of their study design or don't report their findings.

Reporters are to blame for not asking better questions of researchers when gathering information for their stories. They should always report who was in the study and whether significant population differences were uncovered.

Given the diversity of America today – and it's only getting more diverse – you can't justify health research or reporting that doesn't address these issues. As patients and consumers of health care, we shouldn't have to guess whether the latest research news applies to us.

We need better reporting of research data from the scientists who conduct studies and the journalists who deliver information to the public.

It is a critical issue, when some patients throw out a medication based on a single news report, while some other patients fail to heed safety warnings because the news is too vague about who is at risk.

With fewer health reporters trying to cover more stories faster than ever, the situation may not get better anytime soon. So what's a person to do?

Look for studies that involve patients like you, patients who share the same sex, race, ethnicity, age or other characteristics. The more a study population looks like you, the more likely the results will be relevant.

If the study is about a condition you have or a medication you take and you can't figure out for whom it applies, talk to your doctor or other health care providers as soon as possible.
____________________________

References:

Fatal Medication Errors At Home Rise Sharply
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121729414945691927.html?mod=dist_smartbrief

U.S. surgical errors cost $1.5 billion a year: report
http://www.reutershealth.com/archive/2008/07/29/eline/links/20080729elin012.html

Health Care Must Focus on Sex and Gender Differences

2008-08-05T14:04:00.000-04:00

The below column, authored by Richard Schmitz, the Society for Women's Health Research Communications Director, is in response to a recent column in The Boston Globe on the value of personalized medicine by Dr. Victoria Rogers McEvoy, who is chief of pediatrics of the Massachusetts General West Medical Group and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School.

_____________________

Health Care Must Focus on Sex and Gender Differences

Dr. Victoria McEvoy is right on the money with her July 14 health column, "Identical care isn't best for all patients." One size does not fit all when it comes to medicine.

The differences among patients, however, go far beyond the cultural and social differences McEvoy provides as examples. There are tremendous biological differences, especially between women and men, that affect the prevalence of disease, the course it takes, and the effectiveness of treatments.

Consider these examples.

Heart attacks are generally more severe in women than in men and women are almost twice as likely to have a second heart attack within six years.

Women have a 74 percent greater chance of suffering a type of stroke related to a ruptured brain aneurysm, an event that kills one-third of its victims.

In musculoskeletal health, women start off with less knee cartilage than men, even when you control for body size. Your cartilage wears down over time through wear-and-tear. This is why women face more knee problems later in life.

Women who receive kidneys from male donors have a higher rate of organ rejection than any other donor-recipient combination.

That's just the tip of the iceberg. Unfortunately, biological sex differences in health are not well understood. There hasn't been enough research to explain them or develop many clinical applications to address them.

Why don't we know more?

It may come as a surprise, but women were excluded from most major medical studies until 15 years ago. Women were excluded largely for safety reasons related to child bearing, but scientists also thought women and men were basically the same aside from reproductive health. They assumed that research results from one set of patients would apply to all others. We now know that assumption was wrong, very wrong.

Thankfully, progress is being made and women are included in research studies more than ever. But in some areas, such as heart disease, women are still underrepresented, and some researchers fail to analyze study results for sex differences. There's still work to be done to improve research.

Even in areas where sex differences are well established, doctors are not well educated. A shocking 2005 survey by the American Heart Association revealed that less than one in five physicians recognized that more women die of heart disease than men each year.

This may explain why we see frequent reports about women receiving less aggressive care than men for a variety of heart ailments.

As a patient, hearing these facts can be paralyzing. What are you supposed to do when there's not enough research on patients like you or when doctors don't understand how you should be treated?

The first step is to be a well informed advocate for your own care. Find out all you can about your condition and how it may affect you uniquely as a woman, man, minority or older person. These and other factors can have far reaching effects on your health.

Once armed with the facts, engage your health care providers in a dialogue. When you challenge your doctors, nurses and pharmacists to think about you and your condition in a more comprehensive way, the care you receive will be better and more complete.

As for future care, you can play a role in developing the next generation of medicine that will bring the right tools for prevention, diagnosis and treatment that take into account sex, gender, age and ethnicity. You can volunteer to participate in a medical research study.

A lot of people are apprehensive about volunteering for research, but a Society for Women's Health Research survey shows that people who participate find it to be a positive experience. Most would participate again if asked.

There are even opportunities for healthy individuals to participate. Ask your doctor about opportunities in your area or visit ClinicalTrials.gov, a registry of federally and privately supported clinical trials. Information tailored for women about participating in research is available from the Society for Women's Health Research at: http://www.womancando.org/.

Richard Schmitz
Director of Communications
Society for Women's Health Research
Washington, D.C.
____________________

References:

Doctors Don't Talk to Their Patients about Participating in Research (May 13, 2008)
http://www.womenshealthresearch.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=7587

Gender Plays Role in Kidney Transplant Outcomes (July 4, 2008)
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/04/AR2008070401413.html

Women and Heart Disease (updated February 2008) http://www.texasheartinstitute.org/HIC/Topics/HSmart/women.cfm

Women's heart risk underestimated by doctors, resulting in less preventive care than in men (February 1, 2005)
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2005-02/aha-whr012605.php

Women, Mexican-Americans At Higher Risk Of Ruptured Brain Aneurysm (June 12, 2008)http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/06/080611161048.htm