Malay Mail Online: "The Health Ministry has confirmed that leptospirosis is not a public health problem.
'Leptospirosis is an isolated disease,' said the Ministry’s disease control head Dr Ramlee Rahmat, when contacted yesterday.
'The disease is not a public health issue and therefore there is nothing to worry about.'
He was commenting on a case where three people were said to have died from the disease after a fishing trip in Sungai Lembing, Pahang, late last year. The three died within two weeks after the trip.
'The incident at Sungai Lembing could happen anywhere,' said Dr Ramlee, noting that leptospirosis is not a notifiable disease under the Communicable Disease Act.
'So even if hospitals knew of such cases, it was not necessary that they notify the Ministry.'
Leptospirosis occurs when people come into contact with water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected rats or rodents.
'People can be infected if they have cuts or abrasions, allowing the contamination to infiltrate their system,' said Dr Ramlee. 'The Ministry is stepping up its surveillance to detect such diseases.'
Hospitals will be required to report to the Ministry their investigation and managing of cases with ‘specific syndrome’ (a combination of symptoms and signs) like respiratory syndrome, haemorrhagic syndrome and jaundice syndrome, and this will allow the Ministry to do follow-ups.
Also, laboratory surveillance is another way to detect a disease, as the findings of specimens will be reported to the Ministry."
Malaysian Medical News: keeping you up to date with news sourced from various online sites, put in one place for your convenience, with a searchable archive
Friday, August 19, 2005
Putrajaya Hospital refutes shortage of doctors allegation
Malay Mail Online: "The Putrajaya Hospital may be among the best in the country but it suffers from a shortage of doctors.
This claim comes from A. Manickam, the brother of a road accident victim, who said the doctor shortage had prompted him to take his brother, Dermalingam @ Tharmalingam, out of the hospital.
Dermalingam is now warded at Hospital Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (HUKM).
'They were slow in treating him. So I got him discharged and sent to the HUKM,' he said.
Manickam said the accident left his brother with broken legs and internal injuries.
'After three days, one of the doctors said there were not enough doctors at the hospital to treat my brother.
'He had to wait before he could undergo surgery for internal injuries. I moved him to HUKM as I feared for his life,' said Manickam.
However, Putrajaya Hospital deputy director Dr Eng Thiew Kim denied that the hospital did not have enough doctors or was indifferent to his brother’s condition.
'We have more than 100 doctors here,' said Eng.
She said Manickam’s brother was being treated and was not neglected.
'We are trying to give the best services to our patients. But we do give priority to serious cases,' said Eng."
This claim comes from A. Manickam, the brother of a road accident victim, who said the doctor shortage had prompted him to take his brother, Dermalingam @ Tharmalingam, out of the hospital.
Dermalingam is now warded at Hospital Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (HUKM).
'They were slow in treating him. So I got him discharged and sent to the HUKM,' he said.
Manickam said the accident left his brother with broken legs and internal injuries.
'After three days, one of the doctors said there were not enough doctors at the hospital to treat my brother.
'He had to wait before he could undergo surgery for internal injuries. I moved him to HUKM as I feared for his life,' said Manickam.
However, Putrajaya Hospital deputy director Dr Eng Thiew Kim denied that the hospital did not have enough doctors or was indifferent to his brother’s condition.
'We have more than 100 doctors here,' said Eng.
She said Manickam’s brother was being treated and was not neglected.
'We are trying to give the best services to our patients. But we do give priority to serious cases,' said Eng."
Herbal product sales in Malaysia to increase
sourceMALAYSIA’S herbal industry is expected to double by 2010 from its annual sales value in excess of RM4.5 billion currently, a recent study on the industry by the Malaysian Industry-Government Corp for High Technology (Might) showed.
Malaysian Herbal Corp (MHC) director Dr M. Rajen said by harnessing the herbs’ maximum potential via the proper facilities and infrastructure, the current figures of 15 to 20 per cent year-on-year growth of the herbal industry can be taken to new heights.
“After all, we have the world’s oldest rainforests, which possess an extremely rich bio-diversity that could have immense medicinal or herbal value potential.
“It is only natural that our country effectively taps this wealth of resources via effective bio-technology research and development,” he said in a statement released in Kuala Lumpur.
“We should aim to not only reduce our dependency on herbal and medicinal product imports but also create new products and markets to tap this lucrative industry nationally and internationally.
“To this end, we have invested in a multi-herb extraction plant, the first of its kind in Malaysia, situated in the nation’s premier bio-technology park, techpark@enstek.”
To raise awareness of the potential of Asian herbs and in line with the Government’s commitment to effectively tap the herbal bio-technology sector, the Journal of Tropical Medicinal Plants, together with MHC, will be organising the world’s first international conference on Women’s Health and Asian Traditional Medicine.
The conference will be held at the KLCC Convention Centre from August 23 to 25 2005.
It will focus on traditional Asian healthcare remedies and their complementary role in modern medicine.
Malaysian Herbal Corp (MHC) director Dr M. Rajen said by harnessing the herbs’ maximum potential via the proper facilities and infrastructure, the current figures of 15 to 20 per cent year-on-year growth of the herbal industry can be taken to new heights.
“After all, we have the world’s oldest rainforests, which possess an extremely rich bio-diversity that could have immense medicinal or herbal value potential.
“It is only natural that our country effectively taps this wealth of resources via effective bio-technology research and development,” he said in a statement released in Kuala Lumpur.
“We should aim to not only reduce our dependency on herbal and medicinal product imports but also create new products and markets to tap this lucrative industry nationally and internationally.
“To this end, we have invested in a multi-herb extraction plant, the first of its kind in Malaysia, situated in the nation’s premier bio-technology park, techpark@enstek.”
To raise awareness of the potential of Asian herbs and in line with the Government’s commitment to effectively tap the herbal bio-technology sector, the Journal of Tropical Medicinal Plants, together with MHC, will be organising the world’s first international conference on Women’s Health and Asian Traditional Medicine.
The conference will be held at the KLCC Convention Centre from August 23 to 25 2005.
It will focus on traditional Asian healthcare remedies and their complementary role in modern medicine.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
HUKM's Breakthrough In Snoring Treatment
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- Though there is no data on snoring, it can cause discomfort to one's sleeping partner and sometimes it can be more embarrassing if celebrities and VIPs snored in public.
However, the phenomenon common in all age groups, both male and female, can now be overcome by a new technique called "pillar procedure".
The technique has been introduced in Malaysia by a leading provider of medical devices to treat sleep disordered breathing, Restore Asia Pte Ltd, through its company in Singapore.
The Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Hospital (HUKM) in Cheras is the first to adopt the technique.
Disclosing the technique Thursday, HUKM's Head of Ear, Nose and Throat Department, Prof Dr Abdullah Sani Mohamed, said snoring was divided into habitual snoring (without sleep apnoea) and snoring with sleep apnoea.
He said snoring was a sign of obstruction of the upper airway during sleep and sleep apnoea occurred when the obstruction was completed.
Sleep apnoea might be graded as mild, moderate and severe, he said.
Dr Abdullah Sani said HUKM offered and had performed the full range of surgery from aggressive uvulo palato pharyngo plasty and laser uvuloplasty to the newer radio frequency ablation techniques.
He said the ideal cure for snoring caused by flopiness of the soft palate was to stiffen it without doing any cutting of the tissue.
These could be done with the pillar procedure, he said.
The procedure was designed to reduce airway obstruction where three inserts made from multiple polyster materials woven together about 18mm in length and 2mm in diameter, embedded in the soft palate using a specially designed preload delivery tool, he said, adding the palate was neither cut nor removed.
"It can be done in less than 15 minutes in the clinic with minimal pain. The patient can go home with normal diet and daily activities almost immediately," he said.
The pillar procedure, first introduced in the United States in April 2003, is now available in Australia, China, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, South Korea, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa and Turkey.
Malaysia is the second country in Southeast Asia to start this innovative treatment.
Dr Abdullah Sani, who performed the technique on five patients this year, said the complication risk was very low.
He said the therapy costs between RM3,000 and RM4,000 at HUKM.
He performed the technique on his fifth patient today, Syaiful Izam Jabar, 26, a secondary school teacher in Melaka.
After the implant procedure, Syaiful Izam, who has been snoring since Standard Four, said he did not feel any pain and was glad for the RM2,200 treatment he underwent.
However, the phenomenon common in all age groups, both male and female, can now be overcome by a new technique called "pillar procedure".
The technique has been introduced in Malaysia by a leading provider of medical devices to treat sleep disordered breathing, Restore Asia Pte Ltd, through its company in Singapore.
The Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Hospital (HUKM) in Cheras is the first to adopt the technique.
Disclosing the technique Thursday, HUKM's Head of Ear, Nose and Throat Department, Prof Dr Abdullah Sani Mohamed, said snoring was divided into habitual snoring (without sleep apnoea) and snoring with sleep apnoea.
He said snoring was a sign of obstruction of the upper airway during sleep and sleep apnoea occurred when the obstruction was completed.
Sleep apnoea might be graded as mild, moderate and severe, he said.
Dr Abdullah Sani said HUKM offered and had performed the full range of surgery from aggressive uvulo palato pharyngo plasty and laser uvuloplasty to the newer radio frequency ablation techniques.
He said the ideal cure for snoring caused by flopiness of the soft palate was to stiffen it without doing any cutting of the tissue.
These could be done with the pillar procedure, he said.
The procedure was designed to reduce airway obstruction where three inserts made from multiple polyster materials woven together about 18mm in length and 2mm in diameter, embedded in the soft palate using a specially designed preload delivery tool, he said, adding the palate was neither cut nor removed.
"It can be done in less than 15 minutes in the clinic with minimal pain. The patient can go home with normal diet and daily activities almost immediately," he said.
The pillar procedure, first introduced in the United States in April 2003, is now available in Australia, China, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, South Korea, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa and Turkey.
Malaysia is the second country in Southeast Asia to start this innovative treatment.
Dr Abdullah Sani, who performed the technique on five patients this year, said the complication risk was very low.
He said the therapy costs between RM3,000 and RM4,000 at HUKM.
He performed the technique on his fifth patient today, Syaiful Izam Jabar, 26, a secondary school teacher in Melaka.
After the implant procedure, Syaiful Izam, who has been snoring since Standard Four, said he did not feel any pain and was glad for the RM2,200 treatment he underwent.
Teens Say Nak : One in four aged 13-17 puffing away
Lung- cancer victims are getting younger.
With more smoking at a younger age, even 18-year-olds are seeking treatment.
More sobering statistics:
• Nearly 25 per cent of Malaysian youth smoke, most of them between 13 and 17.
• A third of all smokers nationwide are young women.
• In rural areas, children as young as six smoke.
A recent study of 200 cancer patients revealed that about two- thirds started smoking early in life.
Public Health Specialist Association president Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar said smoking from a young age greatly increased the risk of cancer.
"For many years, we have only been seeing older people, aged 50 and above, suffering lung cancer," he said. "Now we see patients as young as 18."
Smokers are vulnerable to cancers of the larynx, oesophagus, stomach, bladder, pancreas, cervix, colon and rectum.
Smoking also causes heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and hypertension.
Long-term smoking can reduce fertility in women and cause sudden infant death syndrome.
Among women, Dr Zainal noted, smoking also contributed to breast and cervical cancers.
Dr Zainal, who is also deputy director of the Health Ministry’s communicable diseases control division, said the ministry had been promoting a healthy lifestyle among youth, urging them, in particular, not to smoke.
Malaysian Council for Tobacco Control president Professor Dr Syed Mohamed Aljunid said children were picking up the habit because of adults’ influence — including parents, teachers and school counsellors.
"Advertisements, nicotine addiction and peer pressure also contribute to the problem."
Dr Syed Mohamed is worried about the financial cost of treatment, with the prospect of rising numbers of youthful patients.
He said the Government did not have a specific health policy for those between 12 and 18, unlike one for children up to five years of age and senior citizens.
"Many smokers are of schoolgoing age. The nation does not have a proper counselling package for this group."
He said the council hoped to get a comprehensive counselling package ready by the end of next year.
"Currently, youth have to depend on their families, teachers and well-wishers for help to kick the habit.
"This is not working as well as we would like it to.
"The problem is parents, teachers and community leaders who smoke are setting a bad example.
"The avenues are just not there to encourage the young to quit smoking," he told the NST.
He said 85 per cent of youngsters were influenced to smoke by friends or relatives.
Universiti Putra Malaysia Assoc Prof Dr Lekhraj Rampal said a recent study of 4,705 people, 2,080 males and 2,625 females aged 25 years and below, revealed that 46.2 per cent of the males and 3.3 per cent of the females smoked.
Of them, 25.4 per cent were Malays, 13.6 per cent Chinese, 10.9 per cent Indians and 50.1 per cent others.
Dr Rampal said 26.6 per cent of the smokers were Sarawak Bumiputeras and 27.3 per cent Sabah Bumiputeras.
A UPM study of 18,000 people last year revealed that 87.1 per cent smoked.
What was truly startling was the revelation of the age of smokers.
Among 15-year-olds, 21 per cent smoked; 16 (32.2 per cent); 17 (35.6 per cent); 18 (45.5 per cent); 19 (51.4 per cent); and 20 (49.2 per cent).
Source
With more smoking at a younger age, even 18-year-olds are seeking treatment.
More sobering statistics:
• Nearly 25 per cent of Malaysian youth smoke, most of them between 13 and 17.
• A third of all smokers nationwide are young women.
• In rural areas, children as young as six smoke.
A recent study of 200 cancer patients revealed that about two- thirds started smoking early in life.
Public Health Specialist Association president Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar said smoking from a young age greatly increased the risk of cancer.
"For many years, we have only been seeing older people, aged 50 and above, suffering lung cancer," he said. "Now we see patients as young as 18."
Smokers are vulnerable to cancers of the larynx, oesophagus, stomach, bladder, pancreas, cervix, colon and rectum.
Smoking also causes heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and hypertension.
Long-term smoking can reduce fertility in women and cause sudden infant death syndrome.
Among women, Dr Zainal noted, smoking also contributed to breast and cervical cancers.
Dr Zainal, who is also deputy director of the Health Ministry’s communicable diseases control division, said the ministry had been promoting a healthy lifestyle among youth, urging them, in particular, not to smoke.
Malaysian Council for Tobacco Control president Professor Dr Syed Mohamed Aljunid said children were picking up the habit because of adults’ influence — including parents, teachers and school counsellors.
"Advertisements, nicotine addiction and peer pressure also contribute to the problem."
Dr Syed Mohamed is worried about the financial cost of treatment, with the prospect of rising numbers of youthful patients.
He said the Government did not have a specific health policy for those between 12 and 18, unlike one for children up to five years of age and senior citizens.
"Many smokers are of schoolgoing age. The nation does not have a proper counselling package for this group."
He said the council hoped to get a comprehensive counselling package ready by the end of next year.
"Currently, youth have to depend on their families, teachers and well-wishers for help to kick the habit.
"This is not working as well as we would like it to.
"The problem is parents, teachers and community leaders who smoke are setting a bad example.
"The avenues are just not there to encourage the young to quit smoking," he told the NST.
He said 85 per cent of youngsters were influenced to smoke by friends or relatives.
Universiti Putra Malaysia Assoc Prof Dr Lekhraj Rampal said a recent study of 4,705 people, 2,080 males and 2,625 females aged 25 years and below, revealed that 46.2 per cent of the males and 3.3 per cent of the females smoked.
Of them, 25.4 per cent were Malays, 13.6 per cent Chinese, 10.9 per cent Indians and 50.1 per cent others.
Dr Rampal said 26.6 per cent of the smokers were Sarawak Bumiputeras and 27.3 per cent Sabah Bumiputeras.
A UPM study of 18,000 people last year revealed that 87.1 per cent smoked.
What was truly startling was the revelation of the age of smokers.
Among 15-year-olds, 21 per cent smoked; 16 (32.2 per cent); 17 (35.6 per cent); 18 (45.5 per cent); 19 (51.4 per cent); and 20 (49.2 per cent).
Source
DOSH Sets Up Ops Room On Haze
BERNAMA: "PUTRAJAYA, Aug 17 (Bernama) -- The Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) has set up an operation room here to advise employers on measures to be taken to minimise the effects of haze on employees, especially those who have to work outdoors.
Human Resource Minister Datuk Dr Fong Chan Onn said this was in response to the many queries and misunderstanding with regard to what should be done to protect the health of workers in the event of haze.
'My advice to our employers is that be sensitive to the needs of employers, especially those who have medical conditions that can be aggravated by the haze,' he told reporters at his office, here Wednesday.
Dr Fong said information that could be gleaned from the operation room included the kind of protective gear needed based on the readings of the Air Pollution Index.
The operation room can be contacted at 03-88892344."
Human Resource Minister Datuk Dr Fong Chan Onn said this was in response to the many queries and misunderstanding with regard to what should be done to protect the health of workers in the event of haze.
'My advice to our employers is that be sensitive to the needs of employers, especially those who have medical conditions that can be aggravated by the haze,' he told reporters at his office, here Wednesday.
Dr Fong said information that could be gleaned from the operation room included the kind of protective gear needed based on the readings of the Air Pollution Index.
The operation room can be contacted at 03-88892344."
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Special training for doctors
It is back to school for doctors and nurses.
They will be given special training in handling patients with diabetes and hypertension. The training will include the latest techniques.
This is one of the measures being taken by the Government which is concerned over the alarming increase in the number of Malaysians suffering from these two conditions.
The Health Ministry is also setting up units in hospitals and clinics to treat those suffering from diabetes and hypertension.
Speaking at a Press conference after opening the International Conference on Health Communication (Healthcom 2005), Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said a committee had been established to examine the adequacy of patient care, ways to reduce risks faced by patients, and measures to improve the monitoring of both conditions.
He said the estimated 800,000 diabetics and three million hypertension sufferers made up almost 30 per cent of those seeking out-patient treatment.
The units would be modelled after maternity and paediatric clinics, which had cut the mortality rate of expectant mothers and children.
"This will mean patients seeking treatment will not need to crowd the OPD and they will not have to wait a long time to get treatment," he said.
A study of patients in Johor Baru, Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur and Penang hospitals found that government hospitals and clinics lacked the specialisation, facilities and documentation of private hospitals and clinics.
The studies also revealed that a number of patients did not come for follow-up treatment and often could not be contacted.
Healthcom 2005 is a two-day event at which 24 health and communication experts from several countries will discuss various issues, including consumer- driven healthcare services, sexuality education, HIV/ AIDS, telemedicine and doctor-patient relationships.
The special envoy to the United Nations secretary- general on HIV/AIDS, Dr Nafis Sadik, delivered the keynote address on achieving the UN’s Millennium Development Goals through communication.
Source
They will be given special training in handling patients with diabetes and hypertension. The training will include the latest techniques.
This is one of the measures being taken by the Government which is concerned over the alarming increase in the number of Malaysians suffering from these two conditions.
The Health Ministry is also setting up units in hospitals and clinics to treat those suffering from diabetes and hypertension.
Speaking at a Press conference after opening the International Conference on Health Communication (Healthcom 2005), Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said a committee had been established to examine the adequacy of patient care, ways to reduce risks faced by patients, and measures to improve the monitoring of both conditions.
He said the estimated 800,000 diabetics and three million hypertension sufferers made up almost 30 per cent of those seeking out-patient treatment.
The units would be modelled after maternity and paediatric clinics, which had cut the mortality rate of expectant mothers and children.
"This will mean patients seeking treatment will not need to crowd the OPD and they will not have to wait a long time to get treatment," he said.
A study of patients in Johor Baru, Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur and Penang hospitals found that government hospitals and clinics lacked the specialisation, facilities and documentation of private hospitals and clinics.
The studies also revealed that a number of patients did not come for follow-up treatment and often could not be contacted.
Healthcom 2005 is a two-day event at which 24 health and communication experts from several countries will discuss various issues, including consumer- driven healthcare services, sexuality education, HIV/ AIDS, telemedicine and doctor-patient relationships.
The special envoy to the United Nations secretary- general on HIV/AIDS, Dr Nafis Sadik, delivered the keynote address on achieving the UN’s Millennium Development Goals through communication.
Source
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Department Warns Against Using Traditional Drug Mixture
Malaysian National News Agency :: BERNAMA: "SIBU, Aug 16 (Bernama) -- People in Sarawak have been warned not to use a traditional medicine sold under the name Asam Urat Traditional Mixture.
A statement by the enforcement unit of the Pharmacy Department said the mixture contained a harmful non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug called Phenylbutazone.
It said users of the mixture were exposing themselves to harmful side effects like ulcer, stomach haemorrhage and damage to the liver, kidneys and other organs.
The mixture could also disturb the normal functions of the heart and breathing system.
Besides these, it could induce Steven Johnson's Syndrome with symptoms such as itchiness and peeling of skin, vomiting, diarrhoea, blood in urine, headache, blurred vision, among others.
The statement said the mixture, believed to originate from a neighbouring country, was commonly sold throughout the state and in particular in rural towns.
It is popularly used to treat joint and knee pains among the elderly.
The department said the mixture is an illegal product as it was not registered with it and neither had it approve its sale or usage.
It said several patients with Steven Johnson's Syndrome symptoms had been admitted to the Sarawak General Hospital in Kuching recently.
When questioned, they admitted to using the mixture, it said.
"
A statement by the enforcement unit of the Pharmacy Department said the mixture contained a harmful non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug called Phenylbutazone.
It said users of the mixture were exposing themselves to harmful side effects like ulcer, stomach haemorrhage and damage to the liver, kidneys and other organs.
The mixture could also disturb the normal functions of the heart and breathing system.
Besides these, it could induce Steven Johnson's Syndrome with symptoms such as itchiness and peeling of skin, vomiting, diarrhoea, blood in urine, headache, blurred vision, among others.
The statement said the mixture, believed to originate from a neighbouring country, was commonly sold throughout the state and in particular in rural towns.
It is popularly used to treat joint and knee pains among the elderly.
The department said the mixture is an illegal product as it was not registered with it and neither had it approve its sale or usage.
It said several patients with Steven Johnson's Syndrome symptoms had been admitted to the Sarawak General Hospital in Kuching recently.
When questioned, they admitted to using the mixture, it said.
"
Special Unit For Diabetes And Hypertension At All Govt Hospitals
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 16 (Bernama) -- An out-patient specialised unit for treating diabetes and hypertension will be set up at all government hospitals and clinics next year, Health Minister Datuk Chua Soi Lek said Tuesday.
He said the unit would be handled by doctors, nurses, as well as supporting staff who were specifically trained to handle patients of both diseases.
Currently, 30 percent of the total number of patients treated by government hospitals and clinics were diabetic and hypertension patients, he told reporters after officiating HealthCom 2005, an international conference on Health Communication, here today.
Chua said an early treatment for both diseases was important in reducing complications such as kidney failure and blindness.
Nationwide, there were about 800,000 diabetic patients, and more than three million having hypertension, with both diseases considered as prolonged diseases with no cure, he said.
Chua said: "The specialised unit will be modelled from the Maternal and Children Care Centre or the Maternity Wards, that had proven successful in lowering the number of fatality cases during delivery."
A study had been conducted at four major government hospitals in Johor Baharu, Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur and Pulau Pinang before the government decided to set up the out-patient specialised unit.
The study found that both diseases affected Malaysians above 18 years old with 90 percent having problems in controlling them, he said.
He said the study also showed that the Malays were the worst among other races in controlling and treating their diabetic and hypertension problems.
"We also have a lot of patients who after being diagnosed with diabetic and hypertensions went missing, and were untraceable," said Dr Chua.
Chua said the study concluded that at present there were many cases of poor documentation and monitoring system.
"Some patients had not undergone a scheduled blood test, and sometimes a proper examination was not conducted by the doctors involved, for example the eye test whereby you need a dark room but in some cases the light was never switched off," he said.
The study also found that patients with diabetic and hypertension were often issued with only one type of drug and was taken in high quantity.
"A combination therapy with multiple types of drugs taken at a lower dosage is better than a single drug with a high dosage," he said.
Chua said that private clinics also practised the single drugs with high dosage combination procedure in order to reduce their patients' bill and to avoid higher costs.
He said the unit would be handled by doctors, nurses, as well as supporting staff who were specifically trained to handle patients of both diseases.
Currently, 30 percent of the total number of patients treated by government hospitals and clinics were diabetic and hypertension patients, he told reporters after officiating HealthCom 2005, an international conference on Health Communication, here today.
Chua said an early treatment for both diseases was important in reducing complications such as kidney failure and blindness.
Nationwide, there were about 800,000 diabetic patients, and more than three million having hypertension, with both diseases considered as prolonged diseases with no cure, he said.
Chua said: "The specialised unit will be modelled from the Maternal and Children Care Centre or the Maternity Wards, that had proven successful in lowering the number of fatality cases during delivery."
A study had been conducted at four major government hospitals in Johor Baharu, Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur and Pulau Pinang before the government decided to set up the out-patient specialised unit.
The study found that both diseases affected Malaysians above 18 years old with 90 percent having problems in controlling them, he said.
He said the study also showed that the Malays were the worst among other races in controlling and treating their diabetic and hypertension problems.
"We also have a lot of patients who after being diagnosed with diabetic and hypertensions went missing, and were untraceable," said Dr Chua.
Chua said the study concluded that at present there were many cases of poor documentation and monitoring system.
"Some patients had not undergone a scheduled blood test, and sometimes a proper examination was not conducted by the doctors involved, for example the eye test whereby you need a dark room but in some cases the light was never switched off," he said.
The study also found that patients with diabetic and hypertension were often issued with only one type of drug and was taken in high quantity.
"A combination therapy with multiple types of drugs taken at a lower dosage is better than a single drug with a high dosage," he said.
Chua said that private clinics also practised the single drugs with high dosage combination procedure in order to reduce their patients' bill and to avoid higher costs.
Monday, August 15, 2005
Steroid eye drops abuse, self-medication can lead to blindness, glaucoma
He was a 20-year-old university student looking at a bright future. Now, he is half-blind. Self-medication for conjunctivitis has robbed him of the sight in one eye.
He is not alone. At least five people have lost their vision after self-medication with steroid eye drops.
Four children are suffering from glaucoma, also the result of using steroid eye drops.
This eye-opening revelation comes from interviews with several ophthalmologists here. There are probably more cases in other parts of the country.
The specialists say the problem arises when people reach for eye drops to relieve itchiness or dry eyes without consulting doctors. Some continue earlier prescriptions by their doctors, without a second visit.
There are different types of eye drops. Some have no medication, some contain antihistamines, some have steroids and others don’t.
The indiscriminate and prolonged use of steroid eye drops can lead to glaucoma and blindness.
The consultant ophthalmologist at the Selayang Hospital, Dr Choong Yee Fong, confirmed that five of his patients had lost their vision as a result of prolonged use of steroid eye drops.
"Many more of my patients have raised eye pressure," he said. Raised pressure within the eye, or intraocular pressure (IOP), can damage the optic nerves.
Chairman of the Ophthalmological Society of the Malaysian Medical Association Prof Dr Muhaya Mohamad said four of her patients, aged 12 to 13, suffered glaucoma after using steroid eye drops.
She said: "Steroid eye drops cure itchiness and discomfort quickly and so they buy it again and again. They don’t know that the drops can damage the eyes."
The university student mentioned above is a patient of Dr Nooraini Nadior at the Damansara Specialist Hospital.
She said the student had initially seen an ophthalmologist who prescribed a certain steroid eye drops. However, without going for another check-up, the student bought the same brand and continued using it.
"When he came to my clinic, he already had end-stage glaucoma. It’s sad, he’s still young," she said.
Dr Choong said the prolonged use of steroid eye drops (between two weeks and three months) would increase pressure in the eyes.
"The pressure remains high, and if left untreated, will damage the optic nerves. Loss of vision can occur between six months and five years," he warned.
Asked how many such cases there were at Hospital Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Dr Muhaya, a senior consultant ophthalmologist at the hospital, said:
"It is not the number, it is the fact that it occurs, that is frightening."
She urged pharmacies not to sell these eye drops over the counter.
Dr Choong warned contact lens users not to buy steroid eye drops without a prescription.
"Many contact lens users buy these drops to cure redness, dry eyes and irritation. The drops work but it is the wrong medication. It should not be used that way."
Lubricants were safe to reduce discomfort and dry eyes resulting from wearing contact lenses.
Dr Nooraini said: "Consumers should be cautious when buying eye drops. Don’t buy eye drops without a prescription because they might contain steroids and you may end up with glaucoma or cataracts."
Buyers should look for ingredients such as dexamethasone, fluromethalone and betamethasone, which indicate steroids.
"If you don’t want to see a doctor, please look out for these ingredients and avoid them," she advised.
Doctors normally prescribe steroid eye drops after operations (such as for cataract) eye inflammation, severe viral conjunctivitis and allergic conjunctivitis.
But the ophthalmologists were quick to point out that those prescribed steroid eye drops should stop using them once healed.
"What is important is to make sure you are monitored by a doctor.
"Drugs with steroids should not be self-medicated," said Dr Choong.
Source
He is not alone. At least five people have lost their vision after self-medication with steroid eye drops.
Four children are suffering from glaucoma, also the result of using steroid eye drops.
This eye-opening revelation comes from interviews with several ophthalmologists here. There are probably more cases in other parts of the country.
The specialists say the problem arises when people reach for eye drops to relieve itchiness or dry eyes without consulting doctors. Some continue earlier prescriptions by their doctors, without a second visit.
There are different types of eye drops. Some have no medication, some contain antihistamines, some have steroids and others don’t.
The indiscriminate and prolonged use of steroid eye drops can lead to glaucoma and blindness.
The consultant ophthalmologist at the Selayang Hospital, Dr Choong Yee Fong, confirmed that five of his patients had lost their vision as a result of prolonged use of steroid eye drops.
"Many more of my patients have raised eye pressure," he said. Raised pressure within the eye, or intraocular pressure (IOP), can damage the optic nerves.
Chairman of the Ophthalmological Society of the Malaysian Medical Association Prof Dr Muhaya Mohamad said four of her patients, aged 12 to 13, suffered glaucoma after using steroid eye drops.
She said: "Steroid eye drops cure itchiness and discomfort quickly and so they buy it again and again. They don’t know that the drops can damage the eyes."
The university student mentioned above is a patient of Dr Nooraini Nadior at the Damansara Specialist Hospital.
She said the student had initially seen an ophthalmologist who prescribed a certain steroid eye drops. However, without going for another check-up, the student bought the same brand and continued using it.
"When he came to my clinic, he already had end-stage glaucoma. It’s sad, he’s still young," she said.
Dr Choong said the prolonged use of steroid eye drops (between two weeks and three months) would increase pressure in the eyes.
"The pressure remains high, and if left untreated, will damage the optic nerves. Loss of vision can occur between six months and five years," he warned.
Asked how many such cases there were at Hospital Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Dr Muhaya, a senior consultant ophthalmologist at the hospital, said:
"It is not the number, it is the fact that it occurs, that is frightening."
She urged pharmacies not to sell these eye drops over the counter.
Dr Choong warned contact lens users not to buy steroid eye drops without a prescription.
"Many contact lens users buy these drops to cure redness, dry eyes and irritation. The drops work but it is the wrong medication. It should not be used that way."
Lubricants were safe to reduce discomfort and dry eyes resulting from wearing contact lenses.
Dr Nooraini said: "Consumers should be cautious when buying eye drops. Don’t buy eye drops without a prescription because they might contain steroids and you may end up with glaucoma or cataracts."
Buyers should look for ingredients such as dexamethasone, fluromethalone and betamethasone, which indicate steroids.
"If you don’t want to see a doctor, please look out for these ingredients and avoid them," she advised.
Doctors normally prescribe steroid eye drops after operations (such as for cataract) eye inflammation, severe viral conjunctivitis and allergic conjunctivitis.
But the ophthalmologists were quick to point out that those prescribed steroid eye drops should stop using them once healed.
"What is important is to make sure you are monitored by a doctor.
"Drugs with steroids should not be self-medicated," said Dr Choong.
Source
Hospitals put on the alert
Hospitals put on the alert: "The outpatient and emergency units at the Penang Hospital and private hospitals here have been put on alert for a possible influx of patients seeking treatment for asthma and respiratory illnesses.
A Penang General Hospital spokesman said so far, no one had been admitted to the hospital due to breathing problems caused by the haze.
Private hospitals on the island had instructed their staff to be on the alert for any haze-related cases.
However, none of the hospitals have recorded any admission of patients suffering from illnesses due to the haze.
On Friday, 30 pupils from Sekolah Rendah Datuk Keramat in Jalan Perak here were given outpatient treatment at the Penang Hospital after complaining of breathing difficulties.
Hospital director Datuk Dr Zaininah Md Zain said the Year Two and Year Three pupils were brought to the hospital after the school's afternoon session ended. "
A Penang General Hospital spokesman said so far, no one had been admitted to the hospital due to breathing problems caused by the haze.
Private hospitals on the island had instructed their staff to be on the alert for any haze-related cases.
However, none of the hospitals have recorded any admission of patients suffering from illnesses due to the haze.
On Friday, 30 pupils from Sekolah Rendah Datuk Keramat in Jalan Perak here were given outpatient treatment at the Penang Hospital after complaining of breathing difficulties.
Hospital director Datuk Dr Zaininah Md Zain said the Year Two and Year Three pupils were brought to the hospital after the school's afternoon session ended. "
Buy call on KPJ
OSK said KPJ Healthcare Bhd, a medical and specialist healthcare service provider, was expected to record a group revenue growth of RM623.2mil this year, climbing 6.8% from RM583.4mil for financial year ended Dec 31, 2004. A net profit of RM33.8mil from RM31.8mil achieved previously.
KPJ plans to spend about RM70mil to expand and relocate Tawakal Hospital to a two-acre piece of land situated near the existing building.
The company also plans to invest RM26mil to establish a new building for the Ipoh Specialist Hospital.
“These projects are expected to be completed within the next two years,” said chief finance officer Alvin Lee Swee Hee.
KPJ has invested RM17mil for the Kuching Specialist Hospital and RM55mil for the Seremban Specialist Hospital which were launched in 2003 and 2004 respectively.
According to OSK, these hospitals are expected to break even in 2007, and it will further boost KPJ’s market position and capture a larger market share from the current 14%. “Additionally, we have also proposed to acquire our first foreign hospital, namely PT Khasanah Putera, in Jakarta, Indonesia.
“The hospital is targeted to start operations by year-end, and it is expected to break even in 2008,” said Lee.
Apart from hospital management in Indonesia, the company has also tied up with Continental Hosp Ltd to provide management services on a five-star hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. KPJ is also planning to expand its hospital management services in the Middle East, China and other Asean countries in the near term.
“OSK Research is maintaining a buy call on KPJ with a 12-month target price of RM1.79,” Lee said. KPJ’s share prices closed at RM1.53 on Friday.
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KPJ plans to spend about RM70mil to expand and relocate Tawakal Hospital to a two-acre piece of land situated near the existing building.
The company also plans to invest RM26mil to establish a new building for the Ipoh Specialist Hospital.
“These projects are expected to be completed within the next two years,” said chief finance officer Alvin Lee Swee Hee.
KPJ has invested RM17mil for the Kuching Specialist Hospital and RM55mil for the Seremban Specialist Hospital which were launched in 2003 and 2004 respectively.
According to OSK, these hospitals are expected to break even in 2007, and it will further boost KPJ’s market position and capture a larger market share from the current 14%. “Additionally, we have also proposed to acquire our first foreign hospital, namely PT Khasanah Putera, in Jakarta, Indonesia.
“The hospital is targeted to start operations by year-end, and it is expected to break even in 2008,” said Lee.
Apart from hospital management in Indonesia, the company has also tied up with Continental Hosp Ltd to provide management services on a five-star hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. KPJ is also planning to expand its hospital management services in the Middle East, China and other Asean countries in the near term.
“OSK Research is maintaining a buy call on KPJ with a 12-month target price of RM1.79,” Lee said. KPJ’s share prices closed at RM1.53 on Friday.
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KPJ Healthcare in the pink of health
KPJ Healthcare Bhd is expected to be the first homegrown private healthcare services provider to become a RM1 billion company.
Its current and non-current assets stood at RM853.8 million last year and its managing director Datin Paduka Siti Sa’diah Sheikh Bakir is confident that KPJ’s constant expansion and equipment upgrading will eventually push the value beyond the RM1 billion mark.
“By aspiring to be a RM1 billion company, we believe we will be able to strengthen our position as a leading and established a private healthcare services provider.
“It is a testament of our commitment to and drive for excellence,” she told Business Times recently.
KPJ’s main competitor in the domestic scene is Pantai Holdings Bhd, with assets worth RM898.85 million as of end June 2004.
Siti Sa’diah said the company aims to continuously strengthen its position as one of the leading healthcare providers in Malaysia and the region.
For starters, it is acquiring the latest medical equipment and upgrading its network system which will see the company spending a few million ringgit.
“Our immediate aim is to link all our 13 hospitals in Malaysia in the next two years. After that, we aim to link all our local hospitals and those overseas,” Siti Sa’diah told Business Times.
The 13 KPJ hospitals are in the Klang Valley, Sarawak, Pahang, Negri Sembilan, Perak and Kedah. Outside Malaysia, KPJ has stakes in two hospitals, one in Indonesia and the other in Bangladesh. It also manages two more hospitals in Indonesia.
The company is also working strategically to improve its services and operations for healthcare tourism, targeting a 60 per cent increase in revenue from the segment.
It enjoyed growth rates of 39 per cent in 2003 and 55 per cent in 2004.
In its fiscal 2004, the group’s net earnings increased 9.62 per cent to RM31.84 million from RM29.04 million in 2003.
Its revenue for 2004 increased 14.45 per cent to RM583.17 million from RM509.52 million during the previous year.
During the first quarter ended March 31 2005, KPJ registered RM149.66 million in turnover and RM8.72 million net profit.
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Its current and non-current assets stood at RM853.8 million last year and its managing director Datin Paduka Siti Sa’diah Sheikh Bakir is confident that KPJ’s constant expansion and equipment upgrading will eventually push the value beyond the RM1 billion mark.
“By aspiring to be a RM1 billion company, we believe we will be able to strengthen our position as a leading and established a private healthcare services provider.
“It is a testament of our commitment to and drive for excellence,” she told Business Times recently.
KPJ’s main competitor in the domestic scene is Pantai Holdings Bhd, with assets worth RM898.85 million as of end June 2004.
Siti Sa’diah said the company aims to continuously strengthen its position as one of the leading healthcare providers in Malaysia and the region.
For starters, it is acquiring the latest medical equipment and upgrading its network system which will see the company spending a few million ringgit.
“Our immediate aim is to link all our 13 hospitals in Malaysia in the next two years. After that, we aim to link all our local hospitals and those overseas,” Siti Sa’diah told Business Times.
The 13 KPJ hospitals are in the Klang Valley, Sarawak, Pahang, Negri Sembilan, Perak and Kedah. Outside Malaysia, KPJ has stakes in two hospitals, one in Indonesia and the other in Bangladesh. It also manages two more hospitals in Indonesia.
The company is also working strategically to improve its services and operations for healthcare tourism, targeting a 60 per cent increase in revenue from the segment.
It enjoyed growth rates of 39 per cent in 2003 and 55 per cent in 2004.
In its fiscal 2004, the group’s net earnings increased 9.62 per cent to RM31.84 million from RM29.04 million in 2003.
Its revenue for 2004 increased 14.45 per cent to RM583.17 million from RM509.52 million during the previous year.
During the first quarter ended March 31 2005, KPJ registered RM149.66 million in turnover and RM8.72 million net profit.
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Vit C at RM100 per jab
The intravenous Vitamin C fad began last year when beauty parlours started promoting it, saying it did wonders for the skin besides having anti-ageing properties.
Initially, beauticians sold the preparation to clients, who sought doctors for the injections.
But doctors who charged between RM20 and RM50 for an injection saw how lucrative the fad could be, and began obtaining stocks of the imported intravenous Vitamin C preparation.
Several medical practitioners when contacted said they were aware of the trend but declined to elaborate.
It is understood that clients include entertainers, senior executives, lawyers, teachers and company secretaries.
Malaysia Dermatology Association president Dr Gangaram Hemandas said claims attached to the Vitamin C injections were exaggerated.
"From a scientific point of view, there is no justification for its use as an intravenous infusion," he said, adding that the best way to deliver Vitamin C to the skin was applying it as a cream.
Dr Hemandas, the senior consultant and laser surgeon at Kuala Lumpur Hospital, said Vitamin C supplements were for people with low levels of the vitamin.
"As far as aesthetic purposes are concerned, Vitamin C does not reach the skin in significant amounts to be effective.
"I really don’t know who started the whole story with these baseless claims."
He said the association had written to the Health Ministry and the National Pharmaceutical Bureau on the issue.
"We are against this practice because the product is not registered, the intake has side-effects and consumers are being duped into believing claims which are baseless."
Malaysian Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery protem committee secretary Dr Ruban Satkuna Nathan said he had been asked for such injections by guest relation officers and entertainers.
"Many are willing to pay any amount."
He said the company holding the rights to the product in the region had not registered in Malaysia.
Health Ministry pharmaceutical services division deputy-director Dr Ahmad Mahmud said officers had stepped up investigations into the beauty parlour connection.
"We have conducted raids at some of their outlets as well as several clinics in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor.
"The suppliers are smart as they keep the stock elsewhere and only provide them upon demand."
Dr Ahmad said the Ministry could take errant doctors to court under the Sale of Drugs Act 1952, where offenders can be fined a maximum of RM25,000 and jailed for a maximum of four years.
Some taken in by wonder jab claims
Entertainer Michelle (not her real name) was introduced to intravenous Vitamin C by colleagues.
They showed her a packet, saying it was good for the skin, cured acne, lightened the complexion and ensured baby-soft skin.
"I was really excited as any woman would naturally be and decided to go for the product," she said.
Michelle, 25, went to a beauty parlour in the city recommended by friends and was told that a doctor visited the centre several times a week to administer the injection.
In a period of a year she opted for the RM700 intravenous Vitamin C pack, graduating to the RM1,500 Vitamin C and Collagen pack (seven jabs) and eventually the RM1,700 (seven jabs) Vitamin C and placenta combination.
"I think my skin has become lighter and my acne problem is better," said Michelle. "But I am not sure if it is due to the injections."
She has, however, decided to stop after being told that the claims attached to intravenous Vitamin C were baseless.
She is also angry that the doctor who administered the injections did not tell her about the side effects.
"I will ask my colleagues to stop taking it."
A 43-year-old company secretary, who wanted to be known only as Anita, was introduced to the drug by her beautician four months ago and has spent RM5,000 to date.
She is angry with herself for believing the claims attached to the drug.
Legal adviser Liza Ibrahim, 30, is happy that she did not fall for the scam although she admits to being interested when friends told her about the "wonder" injection.
"I was curious and went to several beauty parlours in the Klang Valley to make enquiries and found at least five selling the product.
"One beautician said she could inject the drug while others told me that I should visit several doctors who provided the service."
aource
Initially, beauticians sold the preparation to clients, who sought doctors for the injections.
But doctors who charged between RM20 and RM50 for an injection saw how lucrative the fad could be, and began obtaining stocks of the imported intravenous Vitamin C preparation.
Several medical practitioners when contacted said they were aware of the trend but declined to elaborate.
It is understood that clients include entertainers, senior executives, lawyers, teachers and company secretaries.
Malaysia Dermatology Association president Dr Gangaram Hemandas said claims attached to the Vitamin C injections were exaggerated.
"From a scientific point of view, there is no justification for its use as an intravenous infusion," he said, adding that the best way to deliver Vitamin C to the skin was applying it as a cream.
Dr Hemandas, the senior consultant and laser surgeon at Kuala Lumpur Hospital, said Vitamin C supplements were for people with low levels of the vitamin.
"As far as aesthetic purposes are concerned, Vitamin C does not reach the skin in significant amounts to be effective.
"I really don’t know who started the whole story with these baseless claims."
He said the association had written to the Health Ministry and the National Pharmaceutical Bureau on the issue.
"We are against this practice because the product is not registered, the intake has side-effects and consumers are being duped into believing claims which are baseless."
Malaysian Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery protem committee secretary Dr Ruban Satkuna Nathan said he had been asked for such injections by guest relation officers and entertainers.
"Many are willing to pay any amount."
He said the company holding the rights to the product in the region had not registered in Malaysia.
Health Ministry pharmaceutical services division deputy-director Dr Ahmad Mahmud said officers had stepped up investigations into the beauty parlour connection.
"We have conducted raids at some of their outlets as well as several clinics in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor.
"The suppliers are smart as they keep the stock elsewhere and only provide them upon demand."
Dr Ahmad said the Ministry could take errant doctors to court under the Sale of Drugs Act 1952, where offenders can be fined a maximum of RM25,000 and jailed for a maximum of four years.
Some taken in by wonder jab claims
Entertainer Michelle (not her real name) was introduced to intravenous Vitamin C by colleagues.
They showed her a packet, saying it was good for the skin, cured acne, lightened the complexion and ensured baby-soft skin.
"I was really excited as any woman would naturally be and decided to go for the product," she said.
Michelle, 25, went to a beauty parlour in the city recommended by friends and was told that a doctor visited the centre several times a week to administer the injection.
In a period of a year she opted for the RM700 intravenous Vitamin C pack, graduating to the RM1,500 Vitamin C and Collagen pack (seven jabs) and eventually the RM1,700 (seven jabs) Vitamin C and placenta combination.
"I think my skin has become lighter and my acne problem is better," said Michelle. "But I am not sure if it is due to the injections."
She has, however, decided to stop after being told that the claims attached to intravenous Vitamin C were baseless.
She is also angry that the doctor who administered the injections did not tell her about the side effects.
"I will ask my colleagues to stop taking it."
A 43-year-old company secretary, who wanted to be known only as Anita, was introduced to the drug by her beautician four months ago and has spent RM5,000 to date.
She is angry with herself for believing the claims attached to the drug.
Legal adviser Liza Ibrahim, 30, is happy that she did not fall for the scam although she admits to being interested when friends told her about the "wonder" injection.
"I was curious and went to several beauty parlours in the Klang Valley to make enquiries and found at least five selling the product.
"One beautician said she could inject the drug while others told me that I should visit several doctors who provided the service."
aource
Sunday, August 14, 2005
Minister: No deaths linked to the haze
There has been no death connected to the haze and the public should stop such talk, said Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek.
Commenting on a news report that as many as seven people might have died from haze-related illnesses this week, he said:
“Either during the haze or otherwise, deaths will occur. We cannot make the conclusion that the deaths in the hospitals were due to the haze.”
There has been no post mortem results that stated the cause of these deaths was due to the haze, he told reporters after visiting the Tangkak Hospital here yesterday.
Source
Commenting on a news report that as many as seven people might have died from haze-related illnesses this week, he said:
“Either during the haze or otherwise, deaths will occur. We cannot make the conclusion that the deaths in the hospitals were due to the haze.”
There has been no post mortem results that stated the cause of these deaths was due to the haze, he told reporters after visiting the Tangkak Hospital here yesterday.
Source
Saturday, August 13, 2005
No real benefit from Vitamin C Injections
While many Malaysians pop a Vitamin C tablet every morning for a host of reasons, others are opting for a syringeful of the diet supplement.
Prices range from RM100 for a jab or RM2,700 for a series of 'special' seven injections that come with the promise of a lighter complexion, anti-ageing benefits and general good health.
Some also pay a premium for a cocktail of ingredients that include Vitamin C and other elements, including collagen and placenta.
While most of the suppliers are private medical practitioners, there are also beauticians cashing in.
Even some government doctors have got into the act and are peddling the liquid diet supplement to nurses.
Some 'patients' go for daily jabs, others every two days, once a week or once a fortnight.
But it’s not all glowing face and rosy cheeks; there are some very real side effects.
They include localised inflammation of the vein, thinning of bones, kidney problems and allergic reactions.
While some of the side effects may be temporary and not really serious, there are others which may lead to death.
Health director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Merican believes that Vitamin C administered intravenously is of no real benefit to anyone.
“I strongly believe that women are being duped into parting with their money by some using baseless claims,” he said.
He said the perception that Vitamin C helped overall wellness needed to be proved by facts.
“Action will be taken against errant doctors if complaints are filed against them.”
It is learnt that the intravenous Vitamin C preparation is imported. The intravenous Vitamin C fad began last year when beauty parlours started promoting it on the basis that it did wonders to the skin besides having anti-ageing properties.
Initially, beauticians sold the preparation to clients, who sought doctors for the injections.
But doctors who charged between RM20 and RM50 for an injection saw how lucrative the fad could be, and began obtaining stocks of the imported intravenous Vitamin C preparation.
Several medical practitioners when contacted said they were aware of the trend but declined to elaborate.
It is understood that clients include entertainers, senior executives, lawyers, teachers and company secretaries.
Malaysia Dermatology Association president Dr Gangaram Hemandas said claims attached to the Vitamin C injections were exaggerated.
"From a scientific point of view, there is no justification for its use as an intravenous infusion," he said, adding that the best way to deliver Vitamin C to the skin was applying it as a cream.
Dr Hemandas, the senior consultant and laser surgeon at Kuala Lumpur Hospital, said Vitamin C supplements were for people with low levels of the vitamin.
"As far as aesthetic purposes are concerned, Vitamin C does not reach the skin in significant amounts to be effective.
"I really don’t know who started the whole story with these baseless claims."
He said the association had written to the Health Ministry and the National Pharmaceutical Bureau on the issue.
"We are against this practice because the product is not registered, the intake has side-effects and consumers are being duped into believing claims which are baseless."
Malaysian Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery protem committee secretary Dr Ruban Satkuna Nathan said he had been asked for such injections by guest relation officers and entertainers.
"Many are willing to pay any amount."
He said the company holding the rights to the product in the region had not registered in Malaysia.
Health Ministry pharmaceutical services division deputy-director Dr Ahmad Mahmud said officers had stepped up investigations into the beauty parlour connection.
"We have conducted raids at some of their outlets as well as several clinics in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor.
"The suppliers are smart as they keep the stock elsewhere and only provide them upon demand."
Dr Ahmad said the Ministry could take errant doctors to court under the Sale of Drugs Act 1952, where offenders can be fined a maximum of RM25,000 and jailed for a maximum of four years.
Source
Prices range from RM100 for a jab or RM2,700 for a series of 'special' seven injections that come with the promise of a lighter complexion, anti-ageing benefits and general good health.
Some also pay a premium for a cocktail of ingredients that include Vitamin C and other elements, including collagen and placenta.
While most of the suppliers are private medical practitioners, there are also beauticians cashing in.
Even some government doctors have got into the act and are peddling the liquid diet supplement to nurses.
Some 'patients' go for daily jabs, others every two days, once a week or once a fortnight.
But it’s not all glowing face and rosy cheeks; there are some very real side effects.
They include localised inflammation of the vein, thinning of bones, kidney problems and allergic reactions.
While some of the side effects may be temporary and not really serious, there are others which may lead to death.
Health director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Merican believes that Vitamin C administered intravenously is of no real benefit to anyone.
“I strongly believe that women are being duped into parting with their money by some using baseless claims,” he said.
He said the perception that Vitamin C helped overall wellness needed to be proved by facts.
“Action will be taken against errant doctors if complaints are filed against them.”
It is learnt that the intravenous Vitamin C preparation is imported. The intravenous Vitamin C fad began last year when beauty parlours started promoting it on the basis that it did wonders to the skin besides having anti-ageing properties.
Initially, beauticians sold the preparation to clients, who sought doctors for the injections.
But doctors who charged between RM20 and RM50 for an injection saw how lucrative the fad could be, and began obtaining stocks of the imported intravenous Vitamin C preparation.
Several medical practitioners when contacted said they were aware of the trend but declined to elaborate.
It is understood that clients include entertainers, senior executives, lawyers, teachers and company secretaries.
Malaysia Dermatology Association president Dr Gangaram Hemandas said claims attached to the Vitamin C injections were exaggerated.
"From a scientific point of view, there is no justification for its use as an intravenous infusion," he said, adding that the best way to deliver Vitamin C to the skin was applying it as a cream.
Dr Hemandas, the senior consultant and laser surgeon at Kuala Lumpur Hospital, said Vitamin C supplements were for people with low levels of the vitamin.
"As far as aesthetic purposes are concerned, Vitamin C does not reach the skin in significant amounts to be effective.
"I really don’t know who started the whole story with these baseless claims."
He said the association had written to the Health Ministry and the National Pharmaceutical Bureau on the issue.
"We are against this practice because the product is not registered, the intake has side-effects and consumers are being duped into believing claims which are baseless."
Malaysian Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery protem committee secretary Dr Ruban Satkuna Nathan said he had been asked for such injections by guest relation officers and entertainers.
"Many are willing to pay any amount."
He said the company holding the rights to the product in the region had not registered in Malaysia.
Health Ministry pharmaceutical services division deputy-director Dr Ahmad Mahmud said officers had stepped up investigations into the beauty parlour connection.
"We have conducted raids at some of their outlets as well as several clinics in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor.
"The suppliers are smart as they keep the stock elsewhere and only provide them upon demand."
Dr Ahmad said the Ministry could take errant doctors to court under the Sale of Drugs Act 1952, where offenders can be fined a maximum of RM25,000 and jailed for a maximum of four years.
Source
Haze Emergency On Kuala Selangor, Port Klang Lifted
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13 (Bernama) -- The haze emergency imposed on Kuala Selangor and Port Klang two days ago, has been lifted Saturday after the Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in both areas dropped below 500, the National Security Council (NSC) said.
NSC secretary Datuk Ab Hamid Othman said the withdrawal of the emergency status, was on the directive of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who is also National Operations Director.
"However, government agencies, the private sector and members of the public involved in dealing with the haze problem, should continue to intensify efforts to ensure the air quality continues to be at a satisfactory level," he said in a statement here.
The statement however did not did provide the current API readings in both areas.
As at 5pm Friday, the API level in Kuala Selangor fell to 228 from 527 while Port Klang dropped to 182 from 486 a day before.
The haze emergency was declared in both areas last Wednesday by the premier when the API readings surged above 500, a level that is classified as "hazardous" to health.
The API readings are categorised thus: 0-50 classified as good; 51-100 moderate; 101-200 unhealthy; 201-300 very unhealthy; and above this level is classified as hazardous.
NSC secretary Datuk Ab Hamid Othman said the withdrawal of the emergency status, was on the directive of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who is also National Operations Director.
"However, government agencies, the private sector and members of the public involved in dealing with the haze problem, should continue to intensify efforts to ensure the air quality continues to be at a satisfactory level," he said in a statement here.
The statement however did not did provide the current API readings in both areas.
As at 5pm Friday, the API level in Kuala Selangor fell to 228 from 527 while Port Klang dropped to 182 from 486 a day before.
The haze emergency was declared in both areas last Wednesday by the premier when the API readings surged above 500, a level that is classified as "hazardous" to health.
The API readings are categorised thus: 0-50 classified as good; 51-100 moderate; 101-200 unhealthy; 201-300 very unhealthy; and above this level is classified as hazardous.
MMC to review all medical institutions
More than 300 foreign medical institutions, which are recognised by the Malaysian Government, will be reviewed in a “clean up” exercise.
Malaysian Medical Council president Datuk Dr Ismail Merican said this was necessary as none of the institutions had been reviewed since the inception of the 1971 Medical Act.
He said some of these institutions had over the years changed their names, destroyed in war or upgraded themselves from colleges to universities.
He said such changes were not made known to the council. The statement did not give the timeframe for the review.
“The Council was only aware of such changes upon the application for registration by its graduates.
“The affected graduates have to wait for the Second Schedule (of the Act) to be amended before they are eligible for registration,” he said.
At present 343 medical institutions from 30 countries (including Malaysia) are recognised by the council.
Dr Ismail said the council will be meeting foreign ambassadors and high commissioners to Malaysia on Tuesday to discuss several issues.
“The discussion will include the state of existence of the institutions, changes in the names of institutions and their reasons, their track record, the medium used in teaching and the number of Malaysian students there,” he added.
Dr Ismail said the council was authorised to withdraw recognition of any institution that did not conform to the council’s requirements.
He said the reviewed institutions would be gazetted in the Second Schedule of the Act.
He added that the review would not affect undergraduates and graduates of any of these institutions.
“There have been colleges that were found not suitable for recognition by the MMC for various reasons, including unsuitable curriculum, lack of facilities for teaching and training and inadequate staffing,” he said.
Source
Malaysian Medical Council president Datuk Dr Ismail Merican said this was necessary as none of the institutions had been reviewed since the inception of the 1971 Medical Act.
He said some of these institutions had over the years changed their names, destroyed in war or upgraded themselves from colleges to universities.
He said such changes were not made known to the council. The statement did not give the timeframe for the review.
“The Council was only aware of such changes upon the application for registration by its graduates.
“The affected graduates have to wait for the Second Schedule (of the Act) to be amended before they are eligible for registration,” he said.
At present 343 medical institutions from 30 countries (including Malaysia) are recognised by the council.
Dr Ismail said the council will be meeting foreign ambassadors and high commissioners to Malaysia on Tuesday to discuss several issues.
“The discussion will include the state of existence of the institutions, changes in the names of institutions and their reasons, their track record, the medium used in teaching and the number of Malaysian students there,” he added.
Dr Ismail said the council was authorised to withdraw recognition of any institution that did not conform to the council’s requirements.
He said the reviewed institutions would be gazetted in the Second Schedule of the Act.
He added that the review would not affect undergraduates and graduates of any of these institutions.
“There have been colleges that were found not suitable for recognition by the MMC for various reasons, including unsuitable curriculum, lack of facilities for teaching and training and inadequate staffing,” he said.
Source
Nearly all pharmacies have run out of masks
The sale of masks has been so brisk here that nearly all pharmacies have run out of the item as people rushed to buy them to protect themselves from the worsening haze situation.
Some pharmacies also noted an increase in the sale of vitamins and inhalers for asthma patients.
Most pharmacies reported that surgical and dust masks were being sold for between RM1 and RM5.
An employee with the Vitacare Pharmacy in Kuala Lumpur said the sale of masks was so hot that their five boxes of 50 masks each, which were brought in at 2.30pm on Thursday, got snapped up within the hour.
“We are now out of cheaper ones such as surgical and dust masks and even the supplier has run out of them.
“The only ones that the supplier can give us right now are N95 masks. These masks are of better quality but more expensive as they are sold for RM7 each,” she said.
A staff member at the Guardian Pharmacy branch in Putrajaya said they ran out of their stock three days ago and were waiting for new supplies.
“We’ve sold about 1,000 masks so far as Putrajaya is badly affected by the haze and people are coming in droves to buy masks and asthma inhalers,” she said.
Meanwhile, Health Ministry director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Merican said they did not receive any reports of patients who were critically ill or had died from haze-related illnesses but noted there was an increase in the number of patients seeking treatment because of the haze.
Source
Some pharmacies also noted an increase in the sale of vitamins and inhalers for asthma patients.
Most pharmacies reported that surgical and dust masks were being sold for between RM1 and RM5.
An employee with the Vitacare Pharmacy in Kuala Lumpur said the sale of masks was so hot that their five boxes of 50 masks each, which were brought in at 2.30pm on Thursday, got snapped up within the hour.
“We are now out of cheaper ones such as surgical and dust masks and even the supplier has run out of them.
“The only ones that the supplier can give us right now are N95 masks. These masks are of better quality but more expensive as they are sold for RM7 each,” she said.
A staff member at the Guardian Pharmacy branch in Putrajaya said they ran out of their stock three days ago and were waiting for new supplies.
“We’ve sold about 1,000 masks so far as Putrajaya is badly affected by the haze and people are coming in droves to buy masks and asthma inhalers,” she said.
Meanwhile, Health Ministry director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Merican said they did not receive any reports of patients who were critically ill or had died from haze-related illnesses but noted there was an increase in the number of patients seeking treatment because of the haze.
Source
Haze situation in Klang Valley improves
The haze has started to move north as the situation improved tremendously in Port Klang and Kuala Selangor – the two areas that have been placed under Haze Emergency.
Hundreds, if not thousands, of Klang Valley residents who had fled to places like Penang for a break are beginning to regret their journey as they could see the smog blanketing various part of the island's landmarks.
However, the Air Pollutant Index (API) for Penang remained between good and moderate, although the figures are slightly higher than previously.
In the Klang Valley, all areas recorded tremendous improvement, with none in the hazardous level.
There are no more areas with levels above 400. Port Klang's API was182 and Kuala Selangor 293. The two areas were above the 500 level 48 hours ago.
However, the two areas remained under the Haze Emergency status and are expected to stay so until Sunday, when a review is expected.
Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Datuk Peter Chin is demanding to know from his Indonesian counterpart the Malaysian companies responsible for opening burning in Sumatra.
Chin said the names of the companies by the Indonesians were “not at all familiar” and he had asked Indonesia to furnish him with names of the managers and directors of these two companies but they still had not.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi feels “wretched” that Malaysian companies are reportedly involved in such activities.
“By now they should realise that what they do can affect their own country,” he said.
Source
Hundreds, if not thousands, of Klang Valley residents who had fled to places like Penang for a break are beginning to regret their journey as they could see the smog blanketing various part of the island's landmarks.
However, the Air Pollutant Index (API) for Penang remained between good and moderate, although the figures are slightly higher than previously.
In the Klang Valley, all areas recorded tremendous improvement, with none in the hazardous level.
There are no more areas with levels above 400. Port Klang's API was182 and Kuala Selangor 293. The two areas were above the 500 level 48 hours ago.
However, the two areas remained under the Haze Emergency status and are expected to stay so until Sunday, when a review is expected.
Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Datuk Peter Chin is demanding to know from his Indonesian counterpart the Malaysian companies responsible for opening burning in Sumatra.
Chin said the names of the companies by the Indonesians were “not at all familiar” and he had asked Indonesia to furnish him with names of the managers and directors of these two companies but they still had not.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi feels “wretched” that Malaysian companies are reportedly involved in such activities.
“By now they should realise that what they do can affect their own country,” he said.
Source
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