Dementia on the rise

The number of people with dementia is set to double every 20 years, according to a study. Currently, 24 million people have dementia and this is set to rise to 42 million by 2020, and 81 million by 2040. The Lancet

No rush to the gym

Dr Simon Atkins warns that people can hurt themselves by rushing into gyms to get rid of the effects of seasonal indulgence. He usually has many patients who do themselves a mischief by attempting too much too soon in an effort to burn off their festive calories.

Apart from cardiovascular problems, the adverse effects to watch for include Achilles tendonitis, shoulder impingement syndrome and patellogemoral dysfunction (knee problems).

The Guardian

Gingivitis increasing

A second national dental survey shows that children of 5 years old can contract gingivitis. More than 90 per cent of children under the age of 15 get gingivitis in Beijing. The most important prevention measure is to brush teeth correctly and floss. Beijing Evening News

(China Daily 12/30/2005 page8)