Article Abstract:
The author contends that curiosity about the passage of time and the process of aging, has always been a human preoccupation, asking whether aging has a purpose, and what control might we be able to have over it. He holds that historical preoccupation up against new understanding in genetics, molecular biology, and other research which shows aging as a continuum of growth and development which can, to some extent, be managed and controlled. He contrasts that against medical care which wants only to minimize the amount of time spent with older patients, and feels that approach is doomed to failure.
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Article Abstract:
Recently published articles in medical journals indicate that elderly patients are receiving more attention from researchers than ever before. Some unnecessary prescription drugs may be safely stopped in elderly patients, reducing the risk of adverse drug interactions. Reducing systolic blood pressure substantially reduces the risk of stroke. Ginkgo biloba only slightly benefits patients with dementia. Vitamin E appears to improve immune function in older patients. Early antibiotic therapy improves the outcome of elderly patients with pneumonia.
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Article Abstract:
The passage of time is integral to both medical research and clinical practice. Both physicians and patients have strong concerns about time and how it applies to the particular individual case in question. Additionally, public health is and has been involved in questions of time. Longitudinal data gained from cohort studies are the product of following a group over time to determine how larger populations are affected by the particular focus of the study, be it drug testing or disease progression and mortality.
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