Scientists have found a genetic risk factor for late onset Alzheimer’s disease which is carried only by women.
The discovery is the first evidence to suggest that genetics may partly explain why more women than men tend to develop the disease. The key variant was found in a gene on the X chromosome, of which females have two copies, but males only one.The study, by the US-based Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, features in the journal Nature Genetics.
Source: BBC Link to read more
January 2009
The BBC reports today on research that suggests that some forms of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can slightly shrink the brains of post-menopausal women. The US study led by researchers at Wake Forest University is published in Neurology
The findings may help explain previous work linking HRT to an increased risk of memory loss and dementia. Link to continue reading
Source: BBC, Wake Forest University
Image Credit: istockphoto.com
New research from Geisinger PTSD expert Dr. Joseph Boscarino sheds light on what factors may predispose someone to posttraumatic stress. In a recently published study, Dr. Boscarino concludes that low self esteem, negative life events and lack of a support network greatly increase the likelihood of PTSD [continue reading…]
A great piece in the New York Times today. As a parent to four boys I well remember the very first time I held my firstborn son  in my arms and realized the enormity of the task that lay ahead. Guiding that precious bundle towards independence. It scared me to death! I read every manual and parenting book… I was the “new age” parent. Meanwhile my parents, in turn, looked on… older and wiser. Overall I don’t think I have done too bad a job (and I love my boys to bits)… but on occasions, I do shake my head and realize that I too have encouraged, made excuses and ignored behaviours that are not particularly admirable!
Source: New York Times
