Cocaine Abuse and Sleep Apnea in Severe Obesity.
Cocaine Abuse and Sleep Apnea in Severe Obesity.
J Addict Med. 2013 Mar 20;
Marzullo P, Menegatti M, Guzzaloni G, Fanari P, Uccelli E, Tagliaferri MA, Aimaretti G, Liuzzi A
Obesity is a cause of sleep breathing disorders that result in excessive daytime sleepiness. We describe the adaptive strategy used by an obese person who started to snort cocaine to remedy incoercible drowsiness affecting his working financial skills. Clinical workup documented severe sleep apnea, which was treated by noninvasive ventilation and resulted in withdrawing cocaine abuse. Undiagnosed sleep disorders may trigger surreptitious psychostimulant abuse in vulnerable individuals. HubMed – rehab
Cancer Rehabilitation: Outcome Evaluation of a Strengthening and Conditioning Program.
Cancer Nurs. 2013 Mar 20;
Swenson KK, Nissen MJ, Knippenberg K, Sistermans A, Spilde P, Bell EM, Nissen J, Chen C, Tsai ML
BACKGROUND:: Cancer treatments can lead to detriments in patients’ health and declines in quality of life (QOL). Cancer rehabilitation programs may improve functional status, symptom control, and QOL. OBJECTIVE:: The objective of this study was to determine if an outpatient, physical therapy-supervised Cancer Rehabilitation Strengthening and Conditioning (CRSC) program improved patients’ conditioning level, functional status, QOL, and symptoms. METHODS:: This was a prospective study of oncology patients participating in CRSC program. Measurements included conditioning level (6-minute walk test [SMWT], metabolic equivalent level, grip strength), functional status (Physical Component Summary of Short Form 36), QOL (Mental Component Summary of Short Form 36), and symptoms (M. D. Anderson Symptom Inventory). Paired t tests were conducted to determine significant changes between pre- and post-CRSC program measures, and regression methods identified predictors of change from baseline. RESULTS:: One hundred fifteen patients with cancer were enrolled in the study; 75 patients completed pre- and post-CRSC program measures. Significant improvements were noted in SMWT by 186.4 ft, SMWT speed by 0.35 mph, treadmill time (3.5 minutes longer), metabolic equivalent level (by 0.87 units), QOL, symptom severity, symptom interference with daily life, fatigue, shortness of breath, and sadness. CONCLUSIONS:: In a pretest-posttest design, significant improvements were noted in conditioning level, functional status, QOL, and symptoms. Greater improvements were noted in participants who were most deconditioned at baseline. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:: Further research should be conducted to provide additional support for CRSC programs. Cancer rehabilitation strengthening and condition programs may benefit patients across the continuum of care, including deconditioned patients. HubMed – rehab
The Effect of a Community-Based Exercise Intervention on Symptoms and Quality of Life.
Cancer Nurs. 2013 Mar 20;
Knobf MT, Thompson AS, Fennie K, Erdos D
BACKGROUND:: Moderate-intensity physical activity in women with breast cancer has been reported to improve physical and psychological outcomes. However, initiation and adherence to a routine physical activity program for cancer survivors after therapy may be challenging. OBJECTIVE:: The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility and effect of a community-based exercise intervention on physical and psychological symptoms and quality of life in breast cancer survivors. METHODS:: A 1-group pretest-posttest design was used to evaluate a thrice weekly, 4- to 6-month supervised exercise intervention on symptoms and quality of life. Data were collected at baseline and end of the intervention, using the Breast Cancer Prevention Trial Checklist, the Symptom Distress Scale, the Centers for Epidemiology Scale for Depression, and the Medical Outcomes Short Form. RESULTS:: There were 26 participants, with a mean (SD) age of 51.3 (6.2) years; most were married, well educated, and employed. The intervention was delivered at 3 community fitness centers, and adherence ranged from 75% to 98%. Vasomotor, musculoskeletal, and cognitive symptoms were common, but only muscle stiffness, fatigue, and depression significantly changed over time (P = .04, .05, and .01, respectively). Quality of life improved significantly in the areas of physical, emotional, and social function; pain; vitality; and mental health. CONCLUSIONS:: Providing an exercise intervention in the community where women live and work is feasible and improves physical, psychological, and functional well-being. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:: Exercise is a key component of cancer rehabilitation and needs to be integrated into our standard care. HubMed – rehab