THE STAR, 6 AUGUST 2019
YOUR HEALTH
Separating truths
from myths
ACCORDING to Dr Azlina Firzah
Abdul Aziz, consultant breast
surgeon at ParkCity Medical
Centre, the general awareness
about breast cancer, from the
importance of self-exams to
identifying symptoms, has
increased over the years.
“However, the fact remains there
are still numerous misconceptions
that stop women from seeking
treatment, even if they find
themselves having the symptoms,”
she opines.
One misconception is that
undergoing a biopsy would
accelerate the growth of the
tumours, but Dr Azlina explains,
“Biopsies are an important part
of breast cancer diagnosis, along
with mammograms and
ultrasonographies. While a
mammogram and ultrasonography
can identify the presence of
tumours, a biopsy helps detect if
the tumours are cancerous and
thus assist in identifying the type of
breast cancer.”
Recognising the type of breast
cancer in each patient is crucial to
the process of treatment since
some types of breast cancers are
more aggressive than others. In
this context, Dr Azlina mentions
another misconception that
women have, that the only
treatment for breast cancer is the
removal of the breast
(mastectomy).
She elaborates, “Healthcare
When common is not necessarily normal
AS our bodies age, we start
noticing changes in our body
functions that may not be life
threatening but could present
slight inconveniences in our lives.
Urinary incontinence in women is
one such condition and occurs in
approximately 30% of women aged
between 30 and 60 worldwide.
However, Dr Pauline Pue Leng
Boi, consultant obstetrician and
gynaecologist at Subang Jaya
Medical Centre, stresses that the
notion of urinary incontinence as a
normal part of ageing is untrue.
While you may notice your pre-
and post-menopausal peers
experiencing the same condition,
urinary incontinence should not be
ignored and is treatable with
simple procedures.
Getting to the root of the
condition
According to Dr Pue, there are
two common types of urinary
incontinence in women – stress
incontinence and urge
incontinence. While both types can
cause a woman’s bladder to leak
involuntarily, the first occurs when
she coughs or sneezes, while the
second inflicts an unavoidable,
constant need to visit the toilet.
Dr Azlina.
professionals decide on the course
of treatment based on the type of
breast cancer a patient has. For
instance, if there is just one large
cancerous tumour, chemotherapy
can be performed to reduce the
size of it so that the breast can be
saved by only removing the lump
(lumpectomy). On the other hand,
if there are numerous small
tumours located in different areas
of the breast, a mastectomy may be
done before or after chemotherapy.
“Breast saving surgeries are
performed wherever possible.
However, even if someone does
need to go through complete breast
removal, reconstruction surgery
can be done right away or later
on,” assures Dr Azlina.
The third misconception that
stops women from seeking proper
Dr Pue.
The causes of urinary
incontinence are multifactorial.
Some examples that cause the
weakness of the muscles that
support the urethra in stress
incontinence are:
l Trauma, usually from vaginal
birthing
l Low hormone levels,
especially in post-menopausal
women
l Familial collagen disorders,
which can be hereditary, despite
the woman having none of the
other risk factors
l Chronic increased pressure in
the abdomen, sometimes present
in obese women, chronic
treatment for breast cancer is
alternative treatment.
“People sometimes confuse
complementary medicine with
alternative medicine. While the
former is used along with ongoing
treatment to relieve symptoms, the
latter is usually done by completely
stopping medical treatment.
“For example, if someone
undergoes acupuncture to help
with knee pain while undergoing
treatment for osteoarthritis, it is
considered complementary
healing, but when that person stops
treatment and undergoes
acupuncture only, then it becomes
alternative treatment,” elucidates
Dr Azlina.
She stresses that taking
complementary medications such
as supplements is not advisable,
and neither is stopping mainstream
treatment for alternative treatment
as it can do more harm than good.
“Some alternative treatments can
actually accelerate the growth of
tumours and sometimes, even if
one chooses to switch to regular
treatment from alternative
treatment, they may have to
undergo a waiting period since
some herbs, such as ginseng, can
interfere with certain procedures,
including biopsies,” warns Dr
Azlina.
She also reveals that there are
patients who put faith in
alternative healing practitioners
because they are convinced these
constipation, manual labour and
those with chronic coughing, such
as smokers or people with poorly
controlled asthma.
Taking quality of life into
your own hands
Dr Pue says the causes for urge
incontinence are largely unknown
and are thus unavoidable.
However, urge incontinence can
still be treated, with a fairly high
success rate of between 60% and
70%. For stress incontinence, there
are various forms of prevention
and treatment methods.
To reduce the risk of stress
incontinence, women can opt for
an elective caesarean delivery to
protect their pelvic floor muscles.
Another way is to make sure they
are not overweight or obese.
For women already experiencing
urinary incontinence, Dr Pue says
they can choose between lifestyle
changes or surgery depending on
the severity of the condition.
Examples of lifestyle changes are:
l Monitoring fluid intake –
There is the possibility that urinary
incontinence is caused by excess
fluid intake in comparison with
body size.
l Maintain a healthy weight –
methods can heal them while also in Malaysia, and several states
eliminating the need for invasive don’t have breast surgeons.
procedures such as biopsies and Patients may end up visiting
surgery. doctors too late because of the
drawn-out referral process in
Life is precious public hospitals or a misdiagnosis,”
she says.
According to Dr Azlina, the Although there are many
survival rate of breast cancer is awareness campaigns and
high if it is detected at an early increased consciousness, women
stage and treated properly. need to also understand the
Unfortunately, when most patients repercussions of not getting treated
decide on consulting a healthcare early and differentiate between
professional, it can already be too myths and truths.
late. To find out more, look up the
“This fear is a big barrier that National Specialist Register at
women need to overcome. It does www.nsr.org.my.
not help that there are currently
less than 55 breast surgeons (in n For more information, call
both public and private hospitals) 03-5639 1212.
Obesity increases the pressure on Nevertheless, she encourages
the abdomen. treatment as it can increase your
l Reduce caffeine intake – quality of life.
Caffeine causes an overactive Her advice to Malaysian women
bladder. is: “Women should not suffer in
l Practise pelvic floor muscle
exercises (Kegel exercises) –
silence from urinary incontinence
because this condition is very
Muscle strength is determined by much treatable. As for women who
how much you use the muscle do not have this condition, start
Kegel exercises before menopause
Dr Pue assures patients that they to prevent this condition.”
should not fear the surgical
procedure for urinary incontinence n For more information, call
and explains, “It is a minimally 03-5639 1212.
invasive surgery where we insert a
sling below the urethra. This sling
will support the pelvic muscles
every time the patient coughs, thus
preventing leakage.”
She adds that the success rate for
this surgery is very high at 80% to
90% and has a relatively easy
recovery. Dr Pue adds that it is a
permanent procedure, and over
time, the sling will blend with your
muscle tissue.
Break the silence
There is nothing to fear when
getting your urinary incontinence
treated. Dr Pue says some patients
may fear surgery because they are
unaware that it is minimally
invasive. Some defer treatment
because it is not life-threatening.
2 Your Health THE STAR, TUESDAY 6 AUGUST 2019

Help you build strong

ASIDE from water, protein is the second
most abundant organic molecule in the
body. An average human body is made up
of 15% to 18% protein. Protein is found

muscles and bones

throughout the body – in muscles, skin,
hair, antibodies, hormones, enzymes and
every other kind of body tissue. Protein is
indeed important and is involved in most
biological processes within the body.
However, inadequate protein intake
may lead to several health complications
such as:
l Muscle wasting (muscle atrophy) –
Protein is essential for muscle growth,
strength and repair. Insufficient protein
intake can reduce lean body mass and
muscle strength and functions.
Meanwhile, the body will “withdraw”
protein from muscle tissues and use it as
energy to support other vital body
functions when protein levels are low.
Eventually, it causes muscle wasting.
l Impaired wound healing – Good
nutrition, including sufficient protein
intake, is essential for optimal wound
healing. Protein deficiency has been
shown to lower the rate of wound healing.
l Premature ageing – Low protein
intake can cause adverse physical changes
in the body, such as wrinkled and flaky
skin, hair loss and brittle nails.
For optimal muscle growth, body
strength and physical wellness, it is crucial
to ensure there is sufficient protein intake
from your diet.
Protein is built from building blocks
called amino acids. Good-quality protein
contains all 20 amino acids, including the
nine essential amino acids, which must be
obtained from dietary sources.
Protein can be found in both animal
and plant sources. Several studies have
shown that high consumption of animal
proteins such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy
products and whey protein have
detrimental effects on uric acid
metabolism, bone and heart health.
According to a recent Singaporean
study, high consumption of animal protein
may lead to an increased risk of gout,
while plant protein can reduce the risk.
Additionally, animal protein contains a
higher amount of acid-based amino acids
that can cause greater
loss of calcium
through urine
and bone-
weakening effects.
To build and maintain healthy muscle
and bone mass, a combination of protein
with calcium and other nutrients, such as
magnesium, vitamin D3 and vitamin K2,
would produce higher integrity and density
in your muscles and skeleton, when
compared with taking protein or calcium
supplementation alone.
Magnesium, vitamin D3 and vitamin K2
can improve bone health as magnesium
and vitamin D3 enhance the absorption
and utilisation of calcium while vitamin
K2 aids in bone mineralisation by
effectively depositing calcium to bones
and teeth for proper storage and helps to
prevent calcium loss from the bones.
Biogrow HPF-5 PLUS is a new-and-
improved formula with a blend of plant
protein and digestive fibre and fortified
with calcium, magnesium, vitamin D3
and vitamin K2 for stronger muscles,
bones and body. It contains no added
sugar and is low-fat, cholesterol-free and
lactose-free.
Biogrow HPF-5 PLUS is suitable for all
ages and vegetarians. One scoop of
Biogrow HPF-5 PLUS (≈16g) daily can
provide:
l ≥ 61% of plant protein (non-GMO soy
and pea protein) complete with all nine
essential amino acids for protein
synthesis.
l Synergistic effect with magnesium,
vitamin D3 and vitamin K2 for better
absorption, retention, utilisation and
deposition of calcium.
l ≥ 18% of digestive fibre to regulate
bowel movement.
This article is brought to you by
Legosan (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.
n For more information, call 03-7956 2220
(Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or email
info@biogrow.com.my
THE STAR, TUESDAY 6 AUGUST 2019 3
4 Your Health THE STAR, TUESDAY 6 AUGUST 2019

Safe and
easy cleaning
PARENTS usually use a normal dishwashing Pureen Liquid Cleanser is a mild and
liquid to clean their baby’s accessories, gentle formulation that is ideal for cleaning
including drinking cups, feeding bowls, baby accessories, fruits and vegetables. The
spoons and toys. However, if these product comes in three variants – No
accessories are not thoroughly rinsed, the Flavour, Orange Flavour and Mint Flavour.
baby may end up ingesting the dishwashing It is also available in refill packs of 600ml.
liquid residue, which is harmful and can Look out for Pureen Liquid Cleanser in
affect his health. leading hypermarkets, supermarkets,
Pureen Liquid Cleanser is carefully departmental stores, medical halls and
formulated with plant-based surfactants that pharmacies.
are safe, mild and gentle. Parents can rest
assured that Pureen Liquid Cleanser n For more information, visit www.pureen.
effectively washes away milk fat and stains com.my
on baby accessories. It can be rinsed off
easily without leaving harmful residue on
baby accessories.
The formulation is so gentle that
parents’ hands will be protected
against dryness and chapping, which
may happen with the use of normal
dishwashing liquid. Just add half
a teaspoon of Pureen Liquid
Cleanser to one litre of water and
immerse the accessories in the
solution, then rinse thoroughly
with clean water.
Other than that, certain
pesticides found in fresh vegetables
and fruits can cause adverse health
effects in humans, especially
babies. Pureen Liquid Cleanser can
be used to remove the chemical
residue on fruits and vegetables.
Just mix a quarter of a teaspoon of
Pureen Liquid Cleanser to five litres
of water, immerse fruits and
vegetables for about five minutes,
then rinse with clean water.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 6 AUGUST 2019
WHETHER you are indoors or outdoors,
binge-watching a TV series, working on the
computer or sending text messages on a
smartphone, your eyes are continuously
exposed to hazardous blue light.
Our eyes are not very good at filtering out
blue light. Virtually all visible blue light
passes through the cornea and lens and
reaches the retina. With its short and high-
energy wavelengths, it scatters more easily
and is not easily focused. This causes
reduced visual contrast, which can lead to
digital eye strain.
Symptoms of digital eye strain include dry
or irritated eyes, headaches and blurred
vision. Long-term exposure to blue light has
been linked to increased risk of developing
age-related macular degeneration (AMD),
which is the leading cause of vision loss.
Macular pigment and its
contribution to vision
The macula is the most sensitive part of
the retina, responsible for sharp, detailed
central vision and colour discrimination. It is
made up of three xanthophyll carotenoids,
lutein, zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin,
which are collectively known as macular
pigment. This yellow-coloured macular
pigment protects the delicate photoreceptor
cells in the retina.
Macular pigment plays a vital role in
raising the macular pigment optical density
for enhanced visual performance, including
visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, glare
sensitivity and photo-stress recovery, among
others. It also serves as a defence system for
the retina. It shields the eyes from photo-
oxidative damage by filtering out damaging
blue light and acting as antioxidants to
quench reactive oxygen species, which can
cause AMD.
What are the sources of lutein,
zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin?
Of the many types of carotenoids in your
Protect your eyes
Symptoms of digital eye
strain include dry or irritated
eyes, headaches and blurred
vision. Long-term exposure to
blue light has been linked to
increased risk of developing
age-related macular
degeneration (AMD), which
is the leading cause of vision
loss.
body, only lutein, zeaxanthin and meso-
zeaxanthin are deposited in the macula.
Lutein and zeaxanthin cannot be synthesised
by the body but can be obtained through
your diet. Foods rich in lutein and
zeaxanthin include kale, spinach, turnip
greens, green peas, broccoli, corn and eggs.
Unlike lutein and zeaxanthin, meso-
zeaxanthin is not present in a typical diet. It
is produced in the retina from lutein via
isomerisation. However, this process is
disrupted as one ages. It is therefore
essential to replenish these carotenoids,
particularly meso-zeaxanthin, through
supplementation.
Why do you need all the three
nutrients?
The different absorption spectra of lutein,
zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin result in a
collective optimal filtration of blue light at
Your Health 5
the macula, which would not be achieved which features double-strength (200mg)
by any of these carotenoids in isolation. marigold extract. It is standardised to
Studies have also shown that the deliver recommended amounts of lutein,
inclusion of meso-zeaxanthin resulted in a zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin.
greater increase in macular pigment optical
density in comparison to supplements This informational article is brought to
lacking this central carotenoid. you by VitaHealth.
Meso-zeaxanthin accounts for about one-
third of total macular pigment. It resides n For enquiries, call 1800 183 288.
directly over the centre of the macula,
where light is focused and where the
strongest need for blue light protection
exists. Moreover, of the three carotenoids,
meso-zeaxanthin has the greatest capability
of quenching oxygen radicals and the
capacity to filter the most energetic and
potentially damaging wavelengths of visible
light and neutralise free radicals produced
by oxidative stress.
Supplementing with lutein,
zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin
You are never too young to start a
proactive measure to protect your
vision. As most of us do not get enough
of these carotenoids from
our diets alone,
supplementation can be
another, more promising
way of raising your
macular pigment optical
density, particularly if you
spend long hours in front of a
computer, digital gadget or
television, play sports and spend
long hours in bright light focusing
on small objects, or are distracted by lights
during night-time driving.
Not all macular carotenoid supplements
are made the same. For optimal efficacy,
look for a supplement containing XanMax,
6 Your Health THE STAR, TUESDAY 6 AUGUST 2019

Getting a grip on pain

MANY women experience
painful sensation in the lower
abdomen during menstruation,
which is clinically known as
primary dysmenorrhea. Some
women opt for over-the-counter
(OTC) treatments such as topical
or oral painkillers (analgesics or
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs), while some prefer a more
natural approach to pain
management.
Primary dysmenorrhea or
cramping is caused by
prostaglandins, a chemical which
induces a squeezing action in the
uterus to help it expel its lining
during menstruation. Sometimes,
cramping can be abnormally
painful as the uterus contracts
too vigorously and cuts off
circulation to blood vessels
around the uterus. According to
a study carried out at the
University of Modena, Italy in
2010, the following is a list of
several factors that make a
woman more likely to have
painful cramping.
l Age at which she starts
menstruating – Girls who have
their first menstruation earlier
than their peers (six to nine
years old) have a higher
probability of having painful
cramping during menstruation.
l Similar condition in
female relatives – If your
female relatives have painful
cramping when they are
menstruating, chances are you
may have painful cramps too.
l Flow and duration –
Women with heavier flow and
whose menstruation lasts longer A low-fat, high fibre diet might have a positive effect on women who experience intense pain during menstruation.
(seven to 10 days or more) report
more severe pain from cramping with your daily activities. up in a blanket or sweater. The heat throughout the month, not just high-fibre diet and the subsequent
than those with a lighter flow However, women who find that may help ease pressure on the during menstruation. Frequent effect of that diet on women who
and shorter menstruation OTC remedies do not work for uterus and relax contractions, physical activity can help originally experienced intense pain
period. them and women with severe improve blood flow to the uterus strengthen pelvic floor muscles and bloating during menstruation.
l Unhealthy lifestyle – dysmenorrhea should always and reduce cramping. Warmth is and result in smoother The study involved putting 33
Women who indulge in excessive seek medical advice and also something associated with contractions of the uterus during women on a low-fat vegetarian diet
smoking and alcohol tend to treatment. comfort, which could help a woman menstruation. Low-impact yoga for two menstrual cycles in phase
experience more painful cramps feel better when experiencing exercises can be done during one and on a placebo for an
than those who do not.
Keep warm cramps. menstruation if cramps are too
painful for other forms of exercise.
additional two cycles in phase two.
Results from the first phase were
With cramping, additional Hugging a hot water bottle to
Get physical significantly more encouraging
ailments that come with
menstruation can be backaches,
your lower abdomen or placing a
heating pad across your back can The last thing most women want
Improve your diet than results from phase two, with
most of the women reporting
headaches and nausea. The help with painful cramping. to do when their lower abdomen is Findings in a study by Dr Neal D. reduced pain intensity, lower water
discomfort can be managed and Some women prefer to take a in pain is to get up and exercise. Barnard which explored the retention and shorter overall
eased so it does not interfere warm bath and wrap themselves However, exercise is recommended relationship between a low-fat, duration of menstruation.

Nutrients for eye health

IN recent years, several clinical trials related diseases. was higher than light or non-
and epidemiological studies have These studies have generated smokers. The finding showed that
been conducted to evaluate the role interest in micronutrients with serum concentrations of lutein
of nutrients to improve or prevent antioxidant capabilities to prevent and zeaxanthin are essential for
visual loss in the elderly. Many of oxidative damage involved in the smokers because they have lower
these nutrients are strong development of degenerative eye macular pigment optical density
antioxidants. diseases. Thus, these than non-smokers. Dietary intakes
Among the causes of visual loss micronutrients, including of lutein and zeaxanthin also
worldwide is age-related macular antioxidants, vitamins and differ with age, sex and ethnicity.
degeneration (AMD). AMD is the minerals, are attractive as There is still no established
second most common cause of promising strategies for recommended daily intake for
blindness after cataracts in all preventative intervention. lutein and zeaxanthin, but there
regions. The rising prevalence of eye Human intervention studies have been health benefits
disease causes a major social and demonstrate that lutein and observed in studies with a daily
economic burden to countries’ zeaxanthin supplementations intake of 10mg lutein and 2mg
healthcare costs. improved visual performances, zeaxanthin, according to a 2014
AMD affects the macula, which is such as contrast sensitivity, glare study titled A double-blind,
responsible for high-acuity daylight tolerance and photostress recovery. placebo-controlled study on the
vision in the central area of the The results obtained from the Age- effects of lutein and zeaxanthin on
retina. The causes of AMD are Related Eye Disease Study 2 photostress recovery, glare
many, and may (AREDS 2) shows the beneficial disability, and chromatic contrast
include genetic effect of lutein and zeaxanthin published in Investigative
predisposition, supplementation related to AMD. Ophthalmology & Visual Science.
ageing and There are many factors affecting Supplementation of these
high oxidative the degeneration of the macular nutrients should be in moderate
stress. To date, pigment. Lifestyle and dietary doses following evidence-based
numerous factors are important and should recommended dosages and
studies suggest be taken into consideration for reference intakes and are
a positive prevention or slowing the advisable to be taken as dietary
association progression of early AMD. Poor supplements.
between dietary lifestyle choices, such as physical
micronutrients inactivity, poor diet and smoking This article is brought to you by
and decreases can increase the risk of AMD. Asia Healthcare Sdn Bhd.
of progression A previous study showed that
in AMD and the inflammation of macular n For more information, call
other eye- pigment among heavy smokers 03-6156 2836 or 03-6156 2936.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 6 AUGUST 2019
Collagen benefits
ARE you drinking collagen for its benefits
to the skin and complexion? Here are some
commonly asked questions regarding
supplementation with collagen.
Question 1
Is hydrolysed marine collagen
better absorbed by the body than bovine
collagen?
Yes, because hydrolysed marine collagen
has smaller peptides than bovine collagen.
However, after hydrolysation, the peptides
can be of a higher or lower molecular
weight (also known as collagen tripeptide).
For good results, choose a collagen
supplement with lower molecular weight.
Question 2
Is a higher amount of collagen
always better?
No. Your body gets rid of the excess
protein it cannot absorb, so more isn’t
always better. A higher absorption rate is
what you should look out for.
Question 3
Is consuming collagen alone
sufficient?
No. Your skin needs additional support
before collagen synthesis can happen.
CTP = COLLAGEN
TRIPEPTIDE
Aside from vitamin C, you need many
other components to further boost
collagen production. OM-X+Collagen is
made in Japan by using collagen
extracted from red snapper fish.
With the addition of OM-X+Collagen
Tripeptide technology, which results in
peptides of lower molecular weight, it
facilitates better collagen absorption by
the body. Additionally, it contains five key
components, which are:
l Elastin – Its molecules coil
themselves around collagen to support
the effect of collagen
l Ceramide – Prevents moisture loss
and forms a protective barrier on the
skin
l COQ10 – An antioxidant that
promotes metabolism
l Vitamin C – An essential nutrient in
collagen synthesis
l Royal jelly
This article is brought to you by Pro
Health Medics.
n For details, call 03-8023 3770.
NORMAL/HIGH
MOLECULAR WEIGHT
COLLAGEN
High-strength, clinically
proven probiotics supplement
THE human gut consists of a complex
community of microorganisms known as the
gut microbiota. A child’s gut is more
susceptible to infections compared with an
adult’s as children are born with sterile
intestinal tracts. Their gut microbiota will
only start to develop after birth through
interactions with the environment.
This early establishment of gut microbiota
may be easily disrupted by factors such as
caesarean delivery, formula feeding and use
of antibiotics. A disrupted gut microbiota
balance in children may result in weakened
immunity, diarrhoea, constipation or upset
stomach.
Probiotics, as defined by the World
Health Organization (WHO), are live
microorganisms that, when administered in
adequate amounts, confer health benefits on
the host. Clinical studies have shown that
introducing probiotics to growing children
can help improve their intestinal function
and restore the balance of gut microbiota.
However, WHO confirms that the health
benefits from probiotics are strain-specific.
In other words, the probiotics used in a
supplement must be clinically proven and
well-studied to ensure the safety and efficacy
of the product.
Biogrow Probiotics KIDS Powder is
especially formulated for children with poor
gut health, digestion and appetite as well as
those who fall sick easily. It is made in
Denmark and contains six billion colony-
forming units (CFUs) per 1g sachet.
Each sachet contains three clinically
proven probiotic strains with extensive
strain-specific clinical trials in young
children. The three probiotic strains have
been clinically proven to promote the
growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improve
bowel function and support child growth
and development.
Your Health 7
Biogrow Probiotics KIDS Powder is
suitable for all children above one year old,
including vegetarians. Simply give your child
one sachet orally or mix the powder with a
small amount of room-temperature water or
milk for your children to gain clinically
proven gut health benefits.
Each sachet:
l Taken daily can restore a child’s gut
microbiota balance
l Contains six billion CFUs
l Contains three clinically proven
probiotic strains
– Bifidobacterium lactis, BB-12
– Streptococcus thermophilus, TH-4
– Lactobacillus paracasei, L.casei 431
l Has 500mg of inulin (prebiotic) to
support the growth of probiotics in the gut
l Is orange-flavoured
l Is sugar-free
l Requires no refrigeration
n For more information, call 03-7956 2220
(Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) email info@
biogrow.com.my, or like the Facebook page
at www.facebook.com/BiogrowKIDS
This is a supplement product advertisement.
KKLIU No.2920/2018
8 Your Health
Ways to prevent osteoarthritis
OSTEOARTHRITIS is the most common form
of all arthritis, affecting 20% of people
above the age of 50 globally.
In Malaysia, research has uncovered key
insights into the disease, as revealed by Prof
Tan Maw Pin, a professor in geriatric
medicine from University of Malaya, who
also serves as adjunct professor at Sunway
University.
While research shows various factors
leading to disability from osteoarthritis,
including being overweight or obese and
joint cartilage degeneration or wear and
tear, Prof Tan says there is evidence to
show correlation between osteoarthritis
and lifestyle choices.
“Our main struggle is getting patients to
understand that arthritis is not part of old
age. Treatment needs to be sought out early
because a lot of our patients are presenting
at the end stage,” she says, adding that
much can be done for the “prevention of
deterioration and (we can) prevent the
need for surgical intervention,” when more
robust research becomes available.
Joint replacement surgery is expensive
and not everyone can afford it. Even if
patients can afford the surgery, they often
decline, says Prof Tan, because of the fear of
surgery at an advanced age.
According to a UM study, about 20% of
those aged 18 and above suffer from knee
pain, says Prof Tan. Malaysians need to
think about prevention before they reach
their 50s.
“By 2035, 15% of the Malaysian
population will be over 65. Osteoarthritis is
not a harmless disease and as a nation, we
can’t afford to have people leaving the
workforce to care for senior sufferers.”
Studies have shown that one in three
Malaysians above the age of 55 suffer
osteoarthritic pain.
“Patients need to understand that they
Prof Tan.
can treat their condition in combination –
invest in medically certified treatment early,
such as taking supplements backed by
clinically proven studies or obtain
supportive help from sources such as
stabilised crystalline glucosamine sulfate,
and undertake a weight loss regime as
obesity is a major risk factor for
inflammation in the body and
osteoarthritis.”
Osteoarthritis is recognised as the 11th
highest contributor of global disability when
we talk about the lower limbs, says Prof
Jean-Yves Reginster, a fellow researcher who
has extensively researched stabilised
crystalline glucosamine sulfate in relation to
improvements in knee osteoarthritis.
As president of the European Society for
Clinical and Economic Aspects of
Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis (ESCEO),
Prof Reginster provides the current global
picture of several aspects of the disease.
“It is a highly debilitating disease and
more than 250 million people globally suffer
THE STAR, TUESDAY 6 AUGUST 2019
for osteoarthritis, and in 2014 revealed an
algorithm built by ESCEO.
With more evidence and patient
information available, the latest algorithm
is said to help harmonise guidelines and
prioritise safety and efficacy. It is a crucial
step in addressing the discrepancies
and differences in guidelines and
recommendations by physicians in the
treatment of osteoarthritis worldwide by
providing a more natural approach to the
disease.
“We are not treating the average patient,”
he says. While physicians may prescribe a
particular drug for the treatment of
osteoarthritis, for instance, “the patient
might be diabetic, or hypertensive, and so
physicians may need to adapt,” he adds.
Prof Reginster.
n Look out for the advertisement in this
from arthritis.” StarSpecial.
Prof Tan and Prof Reginster stress several
points about osteoarthritis that may be
misunderstood by the public, such as the
misconception that osteoarthritis is a
condition that occurs only with old age, or
that it is not preventable and surgical
intervention is the only solution.
When the progression of osteoarthritis
is not properly treated, Prof Reginster
cautions, it can lead to surgery and joint
replacement. However, surgical
intervention, as Prof Tan elaborates,
is something that can be
prevented.
Prof Reginster
undertook a
critical analysis of
existing research
literature from
the past 15 years
on guidelines for
the treatment
and prescription