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Testing and treatment decisions (health)

It's probably not serious - will getting it checked ease your mind?
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Facing a difficult health choice? Decision aids can help
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Don't believe the hype: 6 tips to identify trustworthy health information
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  • Evidence Summary

    In adults with pre-hypertension to established hypertension, Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) may be the most effective non-drug strategy for reducing blood pressure

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    Journal of the American Heart Association (2020)
  • Evidence Summary

    Deprescribing can reduce the number of inappropriate medications taken by older patients, and may increase longevity

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Electronic cigarettes for smoking cessation

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Behavioural support and pharmacotherapy improve smoking quit rates in adults

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    Annals of Internal Medicine (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Self-monitoring of blood pressure (SMBP) leads to reduced blood pressure in patients with hypertension

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    American Journal of Hypertension (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Written cognitive behavioural self-help interventions are effective in treating mental health conditions

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    Clinical Psychology Review (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    Echinacea may help to slightly reduce the risk of getting an upper respiratory tract infection, but does not decrease length of illness

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Complementary Therapies in Medicine (2019)
  • Evidence Summary

    Vitamin D supplementation can improve blood sugar control among some people living with type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Metabolism: Clinical & Experimental (2017)
  • Evidence Summary

    Self-management programs are an effective means of improving the ability of older adults to carry out daily activities

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    International Journal of Nursing Studies (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Advance care planning among older patients may increase patient knowledge, reduce unnecessary hospitalization and reduce stress and anxiety for bereaved families

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Maturitas (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Screening for colorectal cancer decreases the risk of cancer spread and dying of colorectal cancer

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Clinical Colorectal Cancer (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Culturally customized cancer screening programs improve cancer screening rates

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Cancer Epidemiology (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Educational interventions for training in end-of-life communication may increase self-efficacy, knowledge and communication skills in healthcare professionals

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    BMC Medical Education (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Self-care programs for older adults living at home should consider their experiences, attitudes and the meanings they attribute to care

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    International Journal of Nursing Studies (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Technical difficulties and preferences for in-person care may reduce patients’ acceptance of telehealth

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Annals of Behavioral Medicine (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Patient/provider education, multidisciplinary teams and computer support lead to improvements in prescribing multiple medications

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    BMJ Open (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Multiple factors that can be acted on influence whether terminally ill patients’ preferences for location of death will be met

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    BMC Palliative Care (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Non-physician screening and self-screening can detect raised blood pressure

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    American Journal of Hypertension (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Psychosocial interventions for cannabis use disorder

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Patient-centred approaches may be beneficial in the provision of care for chronic heart failure patients

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Heart Failure Reviews (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Regular geriatric nurse home visits and physician education may increase dementia diagnoses

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Advance care planning and palliative care interventions lead to a reduction in intensive care unit (ICU) admissions and reduced ICU length of stay

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Crit Care Med (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Lower urinary tract symptoms do not help to detect bladder outlet obstruction in men

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    JAMA (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Older adults with dementia and their caregivers should be engaged in care decisions to improve the adoption of effective falls prevention strategies

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Gerontologist (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    Family members who make decisions on behalf of dementia patients need support to ensure decisions reflect the patient’s wishes, preferences and values

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    International Journal of Evidence-Based Healthcare (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Older adults can reduce their benzodiazepine use if they receive withdrawal support in combination with psychotherapy

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    The British Journal of Psychiatry (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Tests detect dementia in older people; cognitive stimulation or some drugs may slightly improve cognitive function

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Ann Intern Med (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    Consumer-directed care can empower older people and their caregivers by offering them greater flexibility and by increasing their involvement in care-related decisions.

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Health and Social Care in the Community (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    (a) In patients with atrial fibrillation, 2 tools are best for predicting risk for stroke; a third tool is best for predicting risk for bleeding

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    AHRQ Comparative Effectiveness Reviews (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    More recent evidence does not change recommendations for mammograms and other forms of patient care after primary treatment of breast cancer

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    J Clin Oncol (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    In people at low risk for serious illness, diagnostic testing does not reduce worry, anxiety, or presenting symptoms

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    JAMA Intern Med (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    Delayed antibiotics for respiratory infections.

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    Low-dose computed tomography for lung cancer screening reduces lung cancer deaths and total deaths in current and former smokers with no symptoms

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Ann Intern Med (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    The positive painful arc and positive external rotation resistance test results are the most accurate for diagnosing rotator cuff disease

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    JAMA (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    Approaches with more than one target group may be most effective in removing barriers to end-of-life communication

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    Patient Education and Counseling (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Decision aids improve knowledge in people making decisions about cancer screening or early cancer treatment

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    AHRQ Comparative Effectiveness Reviews (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Dedicated osteoporosis health professionals can effectively screen and treat outpatients with acute low trauma fractures

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    Archives of Osteoporosis (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Interventions that target patients, healthcare providers, or both may increase shared decision-making, but patients do not consistently report benefits

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Family members who make decisions on behalf of relatives with dementia need regular opportunities to engage with healthcare staff

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    International Journal of Evidence-Based Healthcare (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Unplanned hospital admissions among older adults with heart failure may be reduced by pharmacist-led education and follow-up interventions

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    Age and Ageing (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Decision aids improve knowledge and involvement in people making treatment or screening decisions

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Medication reviews do not reduce mortality and hospitalization among nursing home residents

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    More supports are needed for frail and older adults, their families and health professionals to enable appropriate end-of-life care planning discussions.

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    British Journal of General Practice (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    Unnecessary medication use in frail older adults can be reduced through team-based care, providing education to providers and reviewing prescribing practices

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    Drugs and Aging (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    Some health information technologies improve clinical outcomes that are important to patients

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    Evid Rep Technol Assess (Full Rep) (2012)
  • Evidence Summary

    Family caregivers can share their experiences and unique knowledge of relatives’ lives to improve care for people with dementia transitioning to a nursing home

    Rating 2 out of 5 stars
    Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences (2013)
  • Blog Post

    Regaining movement and independence following a stroke: Is physical rehabilitation effective?

    Research shows that physical rehabilitation may hold benefits for stroke survivors.
  • Blog Post

    Battling bunions! What’s the word on surgery?

    Bunions bring the health of our feet down. Surgery is one option for tackling them.
  • Blog Post

    Smoking while living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease? Learn about strategies to help you quit!

    Quitting smoking is one beneficial step that people living with COPD can take. Learn what strategies may help you quit.
  • Blog Post

    Cataracts: Which surgery is best?

    Deciding on which type of cataract surgery to get? Take a look at what the evidence shows to help you make an informed decision.
  • Blog Post

    5 health conditions that can benefit from exercise

    Research highlights the positive effects of exercise for people living with different health conditions.
  • Blog Post

    E-cigarettes for smoking cessation: What do we know?

    Is it all smoke and mirrors, or are e-cigarettes safe and effective tools for smoking cessation? Research weighs in.
  • Blog Post

    Heart to heart: Caring for your coronary heart disease with exercise

    Living with coronary heart disease? Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation can offer benefits.
  • Blog Post

    6 evidence-based strategies for reducing blood pressure

    Looking for strategies to help you reduce your blood pressure or keep it in check? From lowering your salt intake to supplements, multiple strategies are available to increase your chance of success.
  • Blog Post

    Testosterone treatment in men: What you need to know

    Research highlights the potential benefits and harms of testosterone treatment in men who have low testosterone levels without a related medical condition.
  • Blog Post

    4 evidence-based strategies to help you on your journey towards stroke recovery

    From regaining arm function to communication skills, post-stroke recovery is no easy feat. However, research highlights a variety of strategies that stroke survivors can lean on.
  • Blog Post

    Life post-stroke: Using virtual reality to achieve real world improvements

    Get gaming! Virtual reality therapy may help stroke survivors regain arm function and ease back into their daily activities.
  • Blog Post

    Getting “alternative” with nerve pain: Could herbal treatments be a source of relief?

    Considering complementary and alternative options for nerve pain? You should know that the current evidence base on the potential benefits and harms of herbal treatments—specifically, nutmeg and St John's wort—is uncertain.
  • Blog Post

    Getting to know what you don’t know about exercise and rheumatoid arthritis

    Calling patients with rheumatoid arthritis and their caregivers! Do you know where the evidence stands on exercise as a treatment option? Peak inside for a breakdown of different exercise choices and what they may offer.
  • Blog Post

    Treating symptoms of depression in people with dementia: Are non-drug strategies a promising option?

    Are you or someone you know dealing with dementia and symptoms of depression? Get to know some of the available non-drug treatment options.
  • Blog Post

    Managing blood pressure with non-medication-based strategies

    Can non-medication-based strategies help reduce blood pressure? The research suggests yes.
  • Blog Post

    4 Evidence-based benefits of seeking peer support

    Can turning to our peers hold benefits for our health? You’ll be happy to know that research lends support to the use of this strategy.
  • Blog Post

    Can pelvic floor muscle training be a solution for leaky bladder woes in women?

    Don’t let the battle with your bladder take hold of your life and your ability to live it to the fullest. Research provides promise through the support of pelvic floor muscle training.
  • Blog Post

    Peripheral artery disease: Walking the walk with structured home exercise

    Have peripheral artery disease in the legs? At home exercise programs can help improve aspects of your walking performance and activity levels.
  • Blog Post

    12 steps towards recovery: Can engaging in support programs help with alcohol use disorder?

    Are you or someone you care for looking for a program to support recovery from alcohol misuse and dependence? See what the research says about widely used recovery support services.
  • Blog Post

    Keeping calm with non-drug options for people with dementia

    Are you looking for non-drug alternatives for the management of agitation in dementia? The evidence shows there are several potentially effective options.
  • Blog Post

    To screen or not to screen? What role do web-based decision aids play in decision making around prostate cancer screening?

    Are you in the process of making a decision about prostate cancer screening, or at the very least starting to think about it? See what the research has to say about the use of web-based decision aids during this time.
  • Blog Post

    3 evidence-based tips for living with heart failure

    Are you looking for strategies to help you manage a heart failure diagnosis? Check out what the research has to say on exercise, self-care, and transitional care.
  • Blog Post

    Knowing your numbers to help keep your blood pressure in check

    When it comes to high blood pressure, “knowing your numbers” is key. A couple of promising blood pressure screening and monitoring options may help you stay on top of your numbers and help you and your health care provider create the best possible treatment plan.
  • Blog Post

    5 research-based ways to support those living with type 2 diabetes

    Are you looking for strategies to add to your diabetes management plan? Consider these 5 research-based techniques.
  • Blog Post

    Do not take a back seat: Be engaged in decisions that affect your health and wellbeing

    We often take for granted that we will have a say in decisions affecting us. However, a large proportion of older adults and caregivers are not formally engaged in discussions about their own health and well-being. Decision aids and decision coaches are among some of the tools and support that can help you.
  • Blog Post

    Is echinacea good for upper respiratory tract infections?

    The use of echinacea to prevent and treat upper respiratory tract infections continues to be a matter of hot debate. New research weighs in on the conversation.
  • Blog Post

    Kicking smoking to the curb: 3 evidence-based ways to aid you on your journey to becoming smoke-free

    From cancer to heart disease, the hazards of smoking have long-been documented. Emerging evidence appears to suggest that there could also be a dangerous association between smoking and COVID-19. Consider becoming smoke-free for your overall health and well-being. These evidence-based strategies could help increase your chances of success!
  • Blog Post

    Acetaminophen (Tylenol): An “easy” fix for knee and hip osteoarthritis?

    For years, Tylenol has been a go to treatment option for both patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis and their health care providers. But new research calls into question how effective this treatment option is.
  • Blog Post

    Nip smoking in the ‘butt’! Find out which types of nicotine replacement therapy work best

    Ready to quit smoking? Find out which forms of nicotine replacement therapy give you the best shot at 'butting' out for good.
  • Blog Post

    Aging and HIV: Meeting the unique care needs of older adults and fighting discrimination

    A greater number of older adults are now living with HIV. Yet, knowledge of HIV and uptake of testing among Canadians over 50 is is still low.
  • Blog Post

    Screening for ovarian cancer: What you should know

    Ovarian cancer screening continues to not be recommended for women with no symptoms and at average risk of the disease.
  • Blog Post

    Abnormal heart rhythms: How do different medications stack up?

    For people with atrial fibrillation, newer blood thinners may be safer and more effective than older, more commonly prescribed medications.
  • Blog Post

    The up-and-up on treating premature ejaculation

    Premature ejaculation is a frustrating experience that can bring any man down. On the up-side, there are many treatments that can help.
  • Blog Post

    Foot health: A ground-up approach to preventing falls

    A ground-up approach—starting with the health of your feet—might be just what you need to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground.
  • Blog Post

    Is it just me, or is it hot in here? Take the heat out of menopause with these treatments

    Many women experience hot flashes and night sweats during menopause. If you are suffering from your own personal heat wave, find comfort in the fact that there are options available to help cool you down.
  • Blog Post

    Painful knees? What about acupuncture?

    For people with knee osteoarthritis, living pain-free may seem a distant dream. The ancient practice of acupuncture may offer a way for people to reduce their pain and get back to their daily routine.
  • Blog Post

    Having ‘the talk’: The benefits of making your wishes known about end-of-life care

    Advance care planning and having discussions about end-of-life care with family members and healthcare providers can have positive impacts for everyone involved.
  • Blog Post

    Painful knees? What about acupuncture?

    For people with knee osteoarthritis, living pain-free may seem a distant dream. The ancient practice of acupuncture may offer a way for people to reduce their pain and get back to their daily routine.
  • Blog Post

    Personalized care planning: Take charge of your chronic illness before it takes charge of you

    Dealing with chronic disease isn’t easy. Personalized care planning is a proactive approach to managing chronic illness that empowers patients to participate in their own care, helping to enhance their health.
  • Blog Post

    Quitting Time: Does nicotine replacement therapy work?

    Looking to quit smoking and stay smoke-free? Nicotine replacement therapy may be the answer.
  • Blog Post

    Mirror therapy for stroke rehabilitation: Tricking the brain into believing what it sees

    Mirror therapy shows promise in helping stroke survivors recover limb movement and resume activities of daily living.
  • Blog Post

    Cataract surgery: Seeing the world through a different lens

    If you are facing cataract surgery, your thoughts about which artificial lens to choose might be as cloudy as the lens in your eye. Multifocal and monofocal lenses are both good options, but each comes with pros and cons. Find out which lens choice is best for you.
  • Blog Post

    Living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease? A new class of medications might help you breathe a little easier

    Is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) taking your breath away? Research suggests that people with COPD may benefit from a new class of medications.
  • Blog Post

    Ready to quit smoking? Group therapy boosts your chances of success

    Ready to quit smoking? Looking for help and support? Research supports the benefits of group therapy to kick the habit for good!
  • Blog Post

    Still here! Don’t let a dementia diagnosis keep you out of the conversation

    Everyone – including those with dementia – has the right to make decisions that affect their own health. Staying involved and engaged for as long as possible is key to a better quality of life.
  • Blog Post

    Worried about breaking a bone? 5 tips you should know before it happens

    Breaking up may be hard to do, but breaking a bone is easy – especially as we age. Get tips on how to protect yourself.
  • Blog Post

    What works best for relieving back pain?

    Low back pain can be debilitating but it can be managed with non-drug therapies and medications if needed. What works best? Find out recommendations from recent research evidence.
  • Blog Post

    Recovering from a brain injury? Video games can help!

    They say time flies when you’re having fun. So the key to encouraging people to do their rehabilitation exercises is to make sure they’re enjoyable. Are technology-based games the solution?
  • Blog Post

    Regaining language skills after a stroke: Will speech therapy help?

    Recovering from a stroke often includes recovering language and communications skills. Speech language therapy can help.
  • Blog Post

    3 alternative options for pain relief

    Alternative options for managing pain can bring relief without the risks associated with prescription drugs.
  • Blog Post

    Got heartburn? Avoid these common acid-blocking drugs

    Proton pump inhibitors – a common type of stomach acid medication – are overprescribed and many people can safely reduce or stop this medication.
  • Blog Post

    Don't believe the hype: 6 tips to identify trustworthy health information

    Ask yourself these six questions to critique the latest “miraculous” health claim you read about in the headlines.
  • Blog Post

    Is it time for a medication review? Many people take unnecessary meds

    As we grow older, our collection of prescription pills tends to grow larger! A medication review can help you cut down on inappropriate or unnecessary medications.
  • Blog Post

    Stop the spinning: Exercises and manoeuvers that help with vertigo

    Whether or not you’re a fan of amusement parks, no one likes to feel like they’re on a never-ending Tilt-a-Whirl ride! Can exercises and manoeuvers help relieve symptoms of vertigo?
  • Blog Post

    When "good nights" are rare: Do sleeping pills help people with dementia?

    Do sleep aid medications help to improve sleep for people with dementia?
  • Blog Post

    Need help managing medications? Try text message reminders

    Text messaging can have health benefits, including helping people better manage their medications.
  • Blog Post

    A closer look at opioids for chronic pain

    Do the benefits of opioids outweigh the risks? Or, is it time to re-examine their role in relieving pain?
  • Blog Post

    Living with heart failure: How to avoid hospital re-admission

    Many people end up back in the hospital after heart failure. “Transitional care” can help ease the move from hospital to home and avoid repeat visits to the ER.
  • Blog Post

    Erectile dysfunction treatment options

    Erectile dysfunction may be an awkward topic of discussion for some, but it’s a very common condition that affects up to half of all men over the age of 40. Find out what the research says about erectile dysfunction treatment options.
  • Blog Post

    3 simple ways to manage challenging behaviours associated with dementia

    What can caregivers do to help manage common behavior challenges among people with dementia? Three tips supported by research evidence.
  • Blog Post

    Acupuncture: An effective treatment for chronic headaches

    Research shows that acupuncture is worth a try for people who suffer from chronic headaches or migraines.
  • Blog Post

    Mini-incision hip replacement surgery: Is it right for you?

    If you or someone you know requires a hip replacement, find out the latest research comparing the benefits of mini-incision to standard surgery.
  • Blog Post

    Weeding out the truth: Cannabis-based medications for cancer patients

    Cannabinoids are active chemicals found in cannabis (marijuana) that are approved for medical use. Research shows they may be a promising way to ease nausea and vomiting from cancer treatment.
  • Blog Post

    Living with heart failure: Effective self-care is key to coping well

    Heart failure is serious but people can live with the condition successfully. Giving people information about how to care for themselves is important, but additional support is necessary to promote effective self-care.
  • Blog Post

    Do self-management programs for diabetes really work?

    Managing diabetes can be challenging for anyone, but for older adults with multiple health and age-related conditions, it can be especially difficult. Dr. Diana Sherifali weighs in on how self-management programs can be adapted to best support older adults with diabetes.
  • Blog Post

    Telemedicine for foot care: Using technology to get back on your feet

    One study suggests that patients receiving follow-up care for diabetic foot or leg ulcers via telemedicine (online or by phone) may spend less time travelling without any negative effect on their health and lower costs to the healthcare system. Dr. Perry Mayer – an expert in diabetic foot care – offers his perspective on the issue.
  • Blog Post

    Facing a difficult health choice? Decision aids can help

    You’ve been given a diagnosis and told of a few treatment options. Now you have a tough choice to make and there’s too much at stake for “eenie, meanie, miny mo.” Patient decision aids are free, easy-to-use tools that can guide you through the process of making important decisions.
  • Blog Post

    News 'flash' for women: the latest findings on hormone therapy for menopause & heart disease

    For years hormone therapy was the “go to” for relieving symptoms of menopause; it was also believed to protect against age-related diseases. Recent evidence sheds a clearer light on how hormone therapy impacts heart health.
  • Blog Post

    Stroke centre or local hospital? In an emergency just call 911!

    Specialized, designated stroke centres help reduce death and disability due to stroke. However, in an emergency, is it worth bypassing closer local hospitals to take stroke victims to a designated centre?
  • Blog Post

    Biologic drugs for rheumatoid arthritis: the rewards may come with risks

    A new type of drug may significantly improve rheumatoid arthritis progression and symptoms, but is associated with potentially serious side effects.
  • Blog Post

    Just a "senior's moment"? What are the best ways to diagnose dementia?

    Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, finding out the best ways to diagnose the condition early may help people to access the best available treatments and support and maintain control and independence for as long as possible.
  • Blog Post

    'Plumbing' problems? Ultrasound an easier way to detect bladder obstructions

    Lower urinary tract symptoms (problems urinating) could be caused by an obstruction. The usual procedure for detecting an obstruction is invasive and uncomfortable. Evidence shows a simpler method is just as accurate.
  • Blog Post

    Medication, psychological therapy… What does the latest research tell us about treatments for depression?

    Depression is a common – but potentially serious – mood disorder that affects how you feel, think and behave. There are choices for treatment, including antidepressants and psychological therapy. Read the latest research about these options.
  • Blog Post

    Improved treatments provide relief for men with lower urinary tract symptoms

    It isn’t something we tend to talk about, or even think about, until there’s a problem. Lower urinary tract symptoms are annoying at best and debilitating at worst. New research shows that combination drug treatment can offer improved long-term symptom relief for this common condition.
  • Blog Post

    Irregular heartbeat a possible side effect of osteoporosis medication

    Bisphosphonates are drugs that help increase bone strength in people with osteoporosis. They are effective, but may also contribute to irregular heartbeats (atrial fibrillation).
  • Blog Post

    New drug may be 'next big thing' in type 2 diabetes management

    A new drug may improve blood sugar control for people with Type 2 diabetes, while helping them avoid weight gain.
  • Blog Post

    Screening for prostate cancer: What you should know about the PSA test

    The PSA test is an option for men thinking about being screened for prostate cancer but the harms may outweigh the benefits.
  • Blog Post

    New blood thinners prove to be safe and effective option for most

    New types of blood thinners are effective at preventing blood clots and are safe for most older adults.
  • Blog Post

    Studies support "risk-based" approach to treating people with high blood pressure

    Drugs that lower blood pressure help prevent heart attack and strokes for those with high blood pressure, and offer the greatest benefit to those at higher risk.
  • Blog Post

    Getting a good night's sleep: Options for people with obstructive sleep apnea

    Obstructive sleep apnea is a common condition that affects breathing during sleep. Treatments such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and dental devices can help.
  • Blog Post

    It's probably not serious - will getting it checked ease your mind?

    Diagnostic tests do not improve symptoms or relieve anxiety for patients who do not have a serious illness.
  • Blog Post

    Tips for a more rewarding visit with your family physician

    Patients visiting their doctors often complain that they must restrict what they discuss with them to only one health problem at each visit, which isn’t helpful. There are different approaches.
  • Blog Post

    Hearing loss, part 3: Why does everyone mumble? What’s that again? What does an audiogram tell you about your hearing and what doesn’t it tell you?

    The results of a basic hearing test, an audiogram, might help to better understand your hearing difficulties; but not all age-related hearing loss can be detected by an audiogram.
  • Blog Post

    Balancing guidelines and drugs in those with multiple health conditions

    Many suffer from multiple chronic conditions and clinical practice guidelines may not consider the unique needs of older adults. An individualized approach that incorporates values and goals may be the best plan.
  • Blog Post

    Drugs for people with Alzheimer’s disease: What they do, who pays for them, and why governments don’t pay more

    Existing drugs for Alzheimer’s disease treat symptoms, but are not a cure. Health care funders restrict drug plan coverage because of their limited effects.
  • Blog Post

    Treating behavioural problems of dementia: When confusion leads to controversy

    The majority of people with Alzheimer’s will develop behaviour problems over time and this causes much suffering and stress for patients and caregivers. There are solutions to manage this.
  • Blog Post

    Polypharmacy, part 4. Medication review encourages best use and reduces adverse effects.

    Periodically ask a healthcare provider to check your medications. This can ensure the least harm and most benefit overall, and reduce drugs taken and interactions in polypharmacy.
  • Blog Post

    Polypharmacy, part 3. Online drug interaction checkers to assess side effects.

    Online drug interaction checkers are useful, but have some problems with identifying adverse effects. Always talk to a healthcare provider to confirm your risk for side effects.
  • Blog Post

    Polypharmacy, part 2. Risk of drug effects with multiple medications in the elderly: aging changes.

    Aging may change the effects and risk profile of different drugs. Polypharmacy may increase, decrease, or cancel effects of different drugs, foods, and supplements.
  • Blog Post

    Polypharmacy, part 1. Pitfalls of multiple medications: taking multiple drugs and risk of interactions.

    Many older Canadians are taking multiple medications (polypharmacy) to manage their health conditions. Taking 5 or more medications can increase your risk of drug interactions.
  • Blog Post

    Multimorbidity: how to improve quality of life when managing several chronic health conditions

    If you have 3 or more health conditions, ask your family doctor about better ways to coordinate your care with other health professionals, and how you might decrease important health risks or improve key functional activities.
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