This Issue's Feature Articles:
- Active Seniors Lower Back Pain Occurrence
- Study Funding Can Affect Study Outcomes
- Soap And Water For Clean Hands
- Low-Protein Diet Reduces Cancer Risk

Active Seniors Lower Back Pain Occurrence
In a recent study of 1,387 seniors aged 70 to 100 years, seniors who exercised more frequently and more strenuously had a lower incidence of lower back pain (LBP). Participation in strenuous physical activity was not only associated with a lower incident of LBP, but also associated with a lower risk of having previously suffered from LBP lasting for more than 30-days. Researchers concluded, "Strenuous physical activity at least once a week is protective for incident LBP in seniors." All individuals, especially seniors, should visit their primary health care provider prior to initiating any exercise regimen or elevated physical activity.

Author: ChiroPlanet.com
Source: Spine. 32(1):76-81
Copyright Holder: ProfessionalPlanets.com LLC 2007

Study Funding Can Affect Study Outcomes
Certain researchers are cautioning consumers to be aware that results from certain studies may be biased or even altered when funded by industries. Researchers add that studies that are funded by governments and independent groups tend to be more reliable and less likely to be biased. The reason? Simply, studies that do not reap favorable results can be easily swept under the carpet by industries who funded them. Additionally, many researchers rely on industries to provide research monies in order to conduct and further studies. Unfavorable results can potentially mean less money to fund existing and future studies. According to the researchers, situations like this tend to be more common in the food industry as the government does not spend all that much money studying nutrition.

Author: ChiroPlanet.com
Source: Reuters; January 2007.
Copyright Holder: ProfessionalPlanets.com LLC 2007

Soap And Water For Clean Hands
According to researchers, washing hands with regular soap and water is just as effective as using anti-bacterial soaps and sanitizers, if hand washing is performed correctly. Studies show that washing hands thoroughly for 15 seconds removes 90 percent of bacteria. However, most people do not wash their hands often enough, thorough enough or dry their hands thoroughly. Gel sanitizers are good in that a few squirts can thoroughly cover the entire hands and it does not require water. Thus, while all the new fancy products to keep our hands clean have their benefits, when used properly, good old soap and water does the trick very nicely.

Author: ChiroPlanet.com
Source: Reuters; January 2007.
Copyright Holder: ProfessionalPlanets.com LLC 2007

Low-Protein Diet Reduces Cancer Risk
Early findings suggest diets low in protein could reduce ones overall cancer risk. Researchers have found vegetarians maintaining a diet low in protein and calories had lower blood levels of cancer causing substances and hormones. While researchers are not yet sure whether reduced dietary protein will directly reduce cancer risk, they do feel it may be very important in regulating cancer risk. According to the researchers, people are consuming too many animal products as well as too many processed foods and sugars. They recommend people eat more fruits and vegetables, fiber-rich whole grains, beans, fish and less red meat.

Author: ChiroPlanet.com
Source: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, December 2006.
Copyright Holder: ProfessionalPlanets.com LLC 2007