YOND'S Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. The result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, autism and its associated behaviors have been estimated to occur in as many as 2 to 6 in 1,000 individuals (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2001). Autism is four times more prevalent in boys than girls and knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries. Family income, lifestyle, and educational levels do not affect the chance of autism's occurrence.
ALS Understanding ALS
ALS, a motor neuron disease, was first identified in 1869 by the noted French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot. Although the cause of ALS is not completely understood, the 1990's have brought a wealth of new scientific understanding about the physiology of this disease.
Lou Gehrig, with whom ALS is most commonly associated, first brought national and international attention to the disease back in 1939 when he abruptly retired from baseball after being diagnosed with ALS. To learn more about Lou Gehrig, visit www.lougehrig.com.
However, ALS is not just Lou Gehrig's disease and it knows no boundaries. The disease has cut short the lives of such notable and courageous individuals as Hall of Fame Pitcher, Jim "Catfish" Hunter, actor, Michael Zaslow, creator of Sesame Street, Jon Stone, actor, David Niven, boxing champion, Ezzard Charles, Pro Football Player, Glenn Montgomery and Senator, Jacob Javits.
ALZHEIMER'S Young-Onset Cases On the Rise, Experts Report
from Alzheimer's Association Newsletter, Winter 1993
According to doctors, the number of diagnosed cases of younger people with Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasing, striking people at the peak of their career and childrearing years.
"While most people are diagnosed in their 60s, 70s and 80s, an increasing number are being identified in their 40s and 50s," says Leonard Berg, M.D., chair of the Association's Medical & Scientific Advisory Board, who refers to younger cases as "young-onset" or "early-onset" AD. Various estimates place their proportion at anywhere from one to 10 percent of all people with AD -- or from 40,000 to 400,000 people in the U.S.
Young-onset AD is not a new phenomenon. It's been around long before Alois Alzheimer discovered the debilitating brain disease in 1906. But in recent years researchers have made dramatic progress in their understanding of the nature and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, contributing to the increase in diagnosed young-onset AD.
"We have a much better idea of the clinical picture of the disease compared to just 10 years ago," says Dr. Berg. "Because we're able to make a more accurate clinical diagnosis of AD, we now recognize it more readily in younger patients." A definitive diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can only be achieved through examining brain tissue during an autopsy. As diagnostic techniques have improved, more older people are being diagnosed, as well, says Berg.
Another reason for the rise in young-onset cases: increased public awareness of AD. "Alzheimer's disease was not exactly a hot topic 20 years ago," says Berg. "But today, AD ranks with cancer and heart disease in terms of awareness and concern for getting the illness." A recent survey conducted by The Gallup Organization for the Alzheimer's Association found that one in three people say they know someone with Alzheimer's disease, and many are concerned about getting it.
STANDARD YOND'S Symptoms of brain and spinal cord tumors generally develop slowly and worsen over time unless they are treated. The tumor may be classified as benign or malignant and given a numbered score that reflects how malignant it is. This score can help doctors determine how to treat the tumor and predict the likely outcome, or prognosis, for the patient.
THE OPPORTUNITY is here, What are your goals&dreams? Do you simply want to learn about your issues or learn about a friends need. Or are you looking for a steady friend who understands you and your situation. If you said yes to any one or all these,Please feel free to contact me!
