COPD-INTERNATIONAL NEWSLETTER
http://www.COPD-International.com

Dedicated to the philosophy
"You can learn to control this disease instead of letting it control you!"

Thursday, September 5, 2002 Volume #1 -- Issue #1
Susie Bowers, Editor -- Newsletter@COPD-International.com
Copyright © 2002-2004      COPD-International.com All rights reserved.

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        > > > > > > > > > > IN THIS ISSUE < < < < < < < < < <
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==> Welcome to Our First Issue
==> COPD News
==> Recalls/Warnings
==> Featured Articles - Allergy, Flu Season
==> Nutrition/Wellness
==> COPD Community Update
==> Just for Fun
==> Tangy Recipe
==> Closing Thought
==> Subscribe/Unsubscribe Information
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        > > > > > > > > > > WELCOME < < < < < < < < < <
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WELCOME to our first newsletter! We are a group of fellow COPD sufferers,
caregivers and others interested in this disease. Our online community is
devoted to helping one another to live the best life possible with this
debilitating illness through interactive support. We invite you to join us
and be an active member.

As many of us have found, COPD is a disease of many faces, contradictions
and components. Therefore, our diversified community is here to share its
combined wealth of knowledge and information, so we may all become
well-informed patients and take control of our disease rather than letting this
disease control us.

This issue features articles on getting ready for fall and the change in
weather. It's sneezin' season and the flu bug is hovering around the corner.

We welcome your input and participation in our newsletters and will review
for publication any pertinent information you wish to share with others on
COPD and related topics. If you wish to contribute to the newsletter,
please contact us at Newsletter@COPD-International.com .

With the exception of this first newsletter, all newsletters will be
published on Mondays. We look forward to hearing from you with
any suggestions, comments and questions.

Yours in health...

Susie
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        > > > > > > > > > > COPD NEWS < < < < < < < < < <
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-----UPDATE ON SPIRIVA - HOPE ON THE HORIZON
A U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel will meet
Friday, Sept. 6, in Washington to review Spiriva for U.S. approval.

New York-based Pfizer recently launched Spiriva in Europe with
Boehringer Ingelheim, a privately held German firm that developed
the drug. The companies last December asked the FDA to approve
Spiriva and are expected to launch it early next year in the
United States if it gets the green light.

Spiriva, a once-daily treatment, has proven more effective in clinical
trials than Boehringer's Atrovent, an inhaled drug given three times a
day that has been the standard of care for COPD for over a decade.
Both medicines help open the airways by blocking action of the
brain messenger chemical acetylcholine.

Thirty-one percent of patients taking Spiriva saw an improvement in their
shortness of breath, compared with 18 percent for Atrovent. The Spiriva
patients cited improved quality of life compared with the older Boehringer
drug. Patients taking Spiriva also had 44 percent fewer hospitalizations
than those who had been given a placebo.

Spiriva has also proved superior in trials to GlaxoSmithKline Plc's
Serevent, a long-acting "beta agonist" drug usually taken for asthma, but
used by many doctors to treat COPD. Beta agonists open the airways
by stimulating receptors to certain types of nerves in the lungs.

Other current COPD treatments include Novartis AG's Foradil, another
long-acting beta agonist, and albuterol, a short-acting beta agonist sold
by generic drugmakers.

The most common side effect of Spiriva was dry mouth, which was
seen in about 16 percent of patients taking it in clinical trials. (Compiled
from various press releases.)

-----MORE ON SPIRIVA - EXERCISE STUDY
Tiotropium has positive impact on exercise endurance in patients with COPD.
http://www.copd-international.com/Library/Spiriva-update.htm

-----PETS MAY DECREASE CHILDREN'S ALLERGY RISK
Editor's Note: Call me a cynic, but kids or no kids, I am not going to run
out an get two or more dogs or cats. These are initial findings and more
research is planned in hopes that scientists might be able to develop a new
allergy therapy based on further studies.

Children raised in a house with two or more dogs or cats during the first
year of life may be less likely to develop allergic diseases as compared
with children raised without pets, according to a study in a recent issue
of the Journal of the American Medical Association. The study was
supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
(NIAID) and the National Institute of Environmental Health
Sciences (NIEHS). See report:
http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/aug2002/niaid-27.htm

-----METERED-DOSE INHALERS CHANGING - NOT TO WORRY
Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) are devices that people with asthma and COPD
use to deliver medicine to their lungs. See details:
http://www.copd-international.com/Library/metered-dose-inhalers.htm

-----BAD NEWS - SMOKING UP AMONG AMERICAN WOMEN
Hard-fought gains in reducing the number of American women who smoke
were nearly wiped out in the 1990s, as more and more teen girls picked up
the habit, according to a new U.S. Surgeon General report.
http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/sgr/sgr_forwomen/ataglance.htm

-----GOOD NEWS - NEED HELP QUITTING?
Join our smoking cessation program at
http://www.copd-international.com/quit_smoking/

-----ARTIFICIAL LUNG SHOWS PROMISE
Device could someday help thousands awaiting transplant.
http://www.msnbc.com/news/767837.asp?0si=-

-----USE IT OR LOSE IT - STRENGTH TRAINING
Doctors at the Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Sevilla, Spain,
conducted a study to determined the effect of different exercise training
modalities in patients with COPD, including strength training, endurance
training and combined strength and endurance.

Data were compared at baseline, the end of the 12-week exercise-training
program, and 12 weeks later. Improvement in the walking distance was
only significant in the strength group. Increases in submaximal exercise
capacity for the endurance group were significantly higher than those
observed in the strength group, but were of similar magnitude than those
in the combined training modality, which in turn were significantly higher
than for the strength group.

Increases in the strength of the muscle groups measured in five weight
lifting exercises were significantly higher in the strength group than in
the endurance group, but were of similar magnitude than in the combined
training group, which again showed significantly higher increases than
subjects in the endurance group. Any training modality showed significant
improvements of the breathlessness score and dyspnea.

The conclusion is that the combination of strength and endurance
training seems an adequate training strategy for COPD patients.

Editor's Note: Simply put -- the good news is exercise is good for
COPDers; the bad news is more is better.

If you need help in starting an exercise program or sticking to a
regular routine, join our interactive exercise program, where
community members support one another in attaining individual levels
of personal fitness.  Go to http://www.copd-international.com/exercise/
to hookup with some exercise buddies.

-----SITE HAS PULSE ON OXIMETRY
This is a new site and has some fantastic information on the working
principles of pulse oximeters. Although the site is under construction,
at the bottom of the main page is a simple graphic on exactly how a
pulse oximeter works. http://www.oximeter.org/pulseox/principles.htm
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        > > > > > > > > > > RECALLS/WARNINGS < < < < < < < < < <
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-----SAFETY ALERTS
Over the last few weeks, there has been several recalls of medications
specifically prescribed for COPD patients. Below are the most recent.
To view other recent recalls, you can go to our Library sections at
http://www.copdinternational.com/library/contents.htm

Most Recent
AmeriSource Has Recalled Proventil, Theo-Dur - See Details:
http://www.copd-international.com/Library/Proventil-Theo-Dur_recall.htm

Schering Recalls Four Medications - See Details:
http://www.copd-international.com/Library/Schering_four_recalls.htm
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        > > > > > > > > > > FEATURED ARTICLES < < < < < < < < < <
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-----NOTHING TO SNEEZE ABOUT - FALL ALLERGY GUIDE
http://www.msnbc.com/news/796317.asp

-----SYMPTOMS OF ALLERGIES
The signs and symptoms of allergies to airborne substances
are familiar to many:

-Sneezing often accompanied by a runny or clogged nose
-Coughing and postnasal drip
-Itching eyes, nose and throat
-Allergic shiners (dark circles under the eyes caused by increased
blood flow near the sinuses)
-The "allergic salute" (in a child, persistent upward rubbing of the nose
that causes a crease mark on the nose)
-Watering eyes
-Conjunctivitis (an inflammation of the membrane that lines the eyelids,
causing red-rimmed, swollen eyes, and crusting of the eyelids).

In people who are not allergic, the mucus in the nasal passages simply moves
foreign particles to the throat, where they are swallowed or coughed out. But
something different happens to a person who is sensitive to airborne allergens.

As soon as the allergen lands on the mucous membranes lining the inside of
the nose, a chain reaction occurs that leads the mast cells in these tissues to
release histamine and other chemicals. These powerful chemicals contract
certain cells that line some small blood vessels in the nose. This allows fluids
to escape, which causes the nasal passages to swell, resulting in nasal congestion.

Histamine also can cause sneezing, itching, irritation, and excess mucus
production, which can result in allergic rhinitis (runny nose). Other chemicals made
and released by mast cells, including cytokines and leukotrienes, also contribute
to allergic symptoms.
(Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH).

-----AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION
Get ready, get set, the flu and cold season is around the corner.  Prevention is the
first line of protection. It is impossible to live in a completely germ-free environment.
The fact remains that people who have lung disease are more prone to develop
respiratory infections then our healthier counterparts. When we do get infections,
we also seem to get them worse; they last longer and are harder to recover from as well.

Infection Prevention and Guidelines
Because each infection can cause further lung damage, it is important to
take some practical precautions.

Most germs are spread by way of hand contact.

-Be sure to wash your hands often.
-Stay away from crowded places, especially during winter months
when more people have colds or flu.
-Avoid those people whom you know have a cold or flu.
Explaining your risk to relatives and friends will help them understand
and hopefully comply with your needs.
-It is suggested that for unexpected mishaps, you carry some
anti-bacterial hand wipes with you or a travel-size bottle of the newer
anti-bacterial hand washes. They all fit easily in purse or pocket or in
your vehicle's glove compartment.

Keep yourself healthy.

-Take your medications as prescribed.
-Get regular exercise.
-Stop smoking if you have not already.
-Eat nourishing meals.
-Get adequate rest.

Protect yourself.

-Get a flu shot annually. The influenza virus changes from year to year.
It is therefore necessary to be re-vaccinated each year. Check with your
doctor or public health agency for times and availability in your area.
-If you have not already had one, ask you doctor if you should receive the
pneumonia vaccine. Pneumonia can be caused by either viral or bacterial
causes. The pneumonia vaccine will only protect you against certain strains
of strep-pneumonia; however, it does offer some protection. Many doctors
recommend it. Check with your own personal physician for recommendation
as to when or if you should receive an additional shot.

Signs of infection.
Lung infections can come on quickly and cause serious problems for those of us
with COPD and other lung disorders. Our already compromised immune systems
have trouble fighting off infections and the damage the infections can cause to our
lungs is something we need to try to avoid as much as possible.

Contact your physician immediately if:

-You have a fever or uncontrollable chills.
-You are coughing much more than normal for you.
-You are very short of breath or your shortness of breath is worse than
what is normal for you.
-You are wheezing with an increased severity or more than what is
normal for you.
-You have more or thicker mucus than what is normal for you.
-You notice a change in the color of the mucus you are producing.
Green, yellow, gray or blood-tinged mucus can be a sign of infection.
-You have an increase in nasal discharge.
-You notice a change in color of that discharge. Green and yellow are
indicators of a sinus infection.

(Compiled by COPD-International Community Members)
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-----"LIVING WITH COPD" is a series of articles on how to best live
and cope with this disease. This useful daily-living information can be
found in our Library at
http://www.copd-international.com/Library/contents.htm

Make browsing in our Library and catching up on general medical news in
our Reading Room part of your daily surfing routine.
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        > > > > > > > > > > NUTRITION/WELLNESS < < < < < < < < <
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EXERCISE: MORNINGS OR EVENINGS?
New research now says early morning exercise could increase susceptibility
to infection. Cortisol, a stress hormone that suppresses the immune system,
is found to be higher after morning exercise. Cortisol levels were
significantly lower after evening exercise.

The researchers say their findings suggest that a person's body clock has a
considerable impact on the immune system. It is suggested that it is best to
exercise in the evening when you have lover levels of cortisol and a higher rate
of saliva flow, which also helps protect against infections. The findings were
reported in a recent issue of the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

-----DIET AND COPD
A person with COPD has difficulty getting rid of C02 (carbon dioxide) in the lungs
during the breathing process. C02 is also increased by the nutrients we take in. The
greatest increase comes from eating carbohydrates in the form of simple sugars)
and complex (starches & dietary fibers). A lower amount of C02 comes from fats.

It is beneficial for a person with COPD to eat more fat and less carbohydrates. This
change will decrease C02 in the body and also increases calories for energy.

Ineffective breathing uses up more calories, so a person with COPD may need 2000
or more calories/day. At least 50% of these calories should be from fat.

Suggestions to follow:
Eat all "regular" products and specifically make choices with increased fat such as:

-candy (choose chocolate and nuts rather than hard candies)
-pop/soda (choose diet rather than regular because regular is full
of carbohydrates)
-food preparation (choose fried rather broiled or baked)

Whenever you eat a carbohydrate, put a fat on it such as:

-butter or sour cream on a potato
-salad dressing on vegetables
-peanut butter or cream cheese on bread/toast

If using a supplement, Ensure is not a good choice. Pulmocare is the best
choice or make Carnation instant breakfast with cream or ice cream.

Foods high in fat: salad oils, butter, margarine, mayonnaise, nuts, bologna,
avocados, bacon, peanut butter, cheddar cheese, red meat, chocolate,
ice cream and whole milk. (Source: This information reproduced with
permission of the PhoenixCare Program at Hospice of the Valley.)

-----TEN FOODS TO EAT EVERY WEEK
Editor's Note: Below is a simple guide to foods that promote a healthy lifestyle.
Since those of us with COPD all have different nutritional needs, always check
first with your doctor before making any major dietary changes.

Fish
Twice A Week
Omega-3 fatty acids found in high-fat fish may help maintain normal heart
function, prevent platelets from clotting, and promote healthy blood pressure.
Options: salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, swordfish

Beans
3-4 Times A Week
Provide lots of fiber, which reduces LDL ("bad" cholesterol); if beans are a
substitute for animal meat, they reduce saturated fat in your diet, which
also decreases LDL cholesterol and prevents hardening of arteries.
Options: soy products such as tofu or soyburgers

Cruciferous vegetables
Every Day
Provide generous amounts of fiber and micronutrients that decrease LDL
cholesterol and prevent hardening of arteries.
Options: broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage

Brightly colored vegetables
Every Day
Fiber and micronutrients decrease LDL cholesterol and prevent hardening of
arteries. These are also low in calories, which helps keep weight down --
which also reduces risk of heart disease.
Options: spinach, romaine lettuce, winter squash, carrots, bell peppers

Fruits
Every Day
Fiber and micronutrients decrease LDL cholesterol and prevent hardening
of arteries.
Options: any fresh fruit -- apples, peaches, plums, apricots, berries; dried
fruit; frozen fruit; even canned fruit (Not fruit juice because it doesn't have fiber)

Whole Grains
Every Day
Fiber and micronutrients decrease LDL cholesterol and decreasing risk of
heart disease
Options: Whole-wheat bread, brown rice, oatmeal, popcorn

Canola and soybean oil
Every Day
(Use when cooking to replace butter, margarine, or shortening.)  These oils
are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which may help maintain normal heart function,
prevent platelets from clotting, and promote healthy blood pressure. They
also are high in unsaturated fats, which lower LDL cholesterol.
Options: cholesterol-lowering tub spreads

Low-fat, Non-fat Dairy Products
Every Day
These products reduce risk of heart disease, if they replace whole-fat
dairy products.
Options: Buttermilk and low-fat/non-fat milk, cottage cheese, yogurt

Alcohol
Every Day
(Just 1 drink for females, 2 drinks for males, only if you already drink.)
Alcohol has been shown to increase HDL ("good") cholesterol, lowering
the risk of heart disease.
Options: A 12-ounce beer, 5 ounces of wine, 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor.

The Occasional Treat
Once In Awhile
Eat something you love -- but in moderation.
Options: Slice of birthday cake, chocolate on Valentine's Day

Plus! A Generous Helping of Exercise Every Day
Make sure you accumulate 30 minutes of exercise each day. It helps keep your
DL and HDL cholesterol levels in good shape.
Options: Walking, taking the stairs, running, bicycling -- whatever you enjoy.
(Source: Alice H. Lichtenstein, DSc, professor of nutrition at Tufts
University and vice-chair of nutrition for the American Heart Association.)
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        > > > > > > > > > > COPD COMMUNITY UPDATE < < < < < < < < <
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HATS OFF!
Since going online a few months ago, we can boast that our International
COPD Support Community is growing by leaps and bounds. We welcome
all our new members and look forward to getting to know you better.

We invite you to join our e-mail lists and check out our chat rooms, where you can
talk freely about COPD in an atmosphere of fellowship. The link to the chat schedules
can be found on our Home Page or just drop in anytime you have a need to talk.

Volunteers are always needed to maintain the various interactive support
programs. So, if you wish to volunteer, please contact us at
http://www.copd-international.com/volunteer.htm

Don't forget to checkout all our support programs listed on our Home Page at
www.COPD-International.com
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        > > > > > > > > > > JUST FOR FUN < < < < < < < < < <
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A short history of medicine:

I have an earache.

2000 B.C. - Here, eat this root.
1000 A.D. - That root is heathen, say this prayer.
1850 A.D. - That prayer is superstition, drink this potion.
1940 A.D. - That potion is snake oil, swallow this pill.
1985 A.D. - That pill is ineffective, take this antibiotic.
2000 A.D. - That antibiotic is artificial. Here, eat this root.
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        > > > > > > > > > > TANGY RECIPE < < < < < < < < <
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-----Tangy Grilled Beef
Prep/Cook Time 20 min.

1 can (10 3/4 oz.) Campbell's tomato soup
2 tbsp. packed brown sugar
2 tbsp. lemon juice
2 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. dried thyme leaves, crushed
1 1/2 lb. boneless beef sirloin steak, 3/4" thick

Directions:
-Mix soup, sugar, lemon juice, oil, Worcestershire, garlic and thyme.
-Grill steak to desired doneness (15 min. for medium), turning once and
brushing often with soup mixture.
-Heat remaining soup mixture to a boil and serve with steak. Serves 6.

Cooking Tip:
Knowing when steak is cooked to your desired doneness may be just a
guessing game unless you use a meat thermometer. It's also a helpful
alternative to cutting into the steak and losing juices. Use the following
temperatures as a guideline:
-140 degrees F. for rare
-150 degrees F. for medium rare
-160 degrees F. for medium
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        > > > > > > > > > > CLOSING THOUGHT < < < < < < < < < <
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Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take,
but by the moments that take our breath away.
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    > > > > > > > > > > SUBSCRIBE/UNSUBSCRIBE < < < < < < < < < <
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Thank You For Your Readership

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reserved worldwide. Reprint only with permission from copyright holder(s).
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provided "as is" without warranty of any kind.

All Disclaimers Apply: The information and guidance provided in this newsletter
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All information provided should be judged as individual "opinions" and discussed with
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