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2023 Advances in Breast Cancer Treatment: Breakthroughs from ASCO Clinical Trials

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  The 2023 American Society for Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual clinical meeting in cancer research showcased groundbreaking advances in Breast Cancer treatment. Among the plethora of clinical trial updates, two stand out as game-changers. Firstly, CDK4/6 inhibitors are taking a prominent position in Breast Cancer therapy.  Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4 and CDK6) are enzymes important in cell division.  CDK4/6 inhibitors are drugs designed to interrupt the growth of cancer cells.  CDK4/6 inhibitors are used in combination with hormone therapy to treat some Breast Cancers.  These inhibitors block cancer cells' growth cycle, preventing cancer progression, and were initially developed as a treatment option for endocrine therapy-resistant Breast Cancer.  Palbociclib (Ibrance®) received American FDA approval in 2015, followed by ribociclib (Kisqali®) and abemaciclib (Verzenio®) in 2017 and in the UK NICE approved it in 2018.  Researchers presented trials with these inhibitors

What is Good for the Heart is Good for the Brain: A Pilates Perspective

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  What is Good for the Heart is Good for the Brain: A Pilates Perspective With wellness and brain health gaining prominence, individuals are increasingly focused on optimising cognitive function and preventing neurological disorders. As the understanding of brain health evolves, it becomes clear that it is a critical aspect of overall well-being, intertwined with mental health and physical wellness. The brain is a complex organ that impacts every aspect of life, from mood and memory to more serious neurological conditions. However, the definition of brain health remains broad and lacks universal acceptance. While some may confuse brain health with mental health, they are distinct but related concepts, as recognised by the World Health Organisation. The growing interest in brain care is evident, with the global neuroscience market projected to exceed £ 565 billion by 2026. Brain health disorders account for a staggering £2.35 trillion of lost productivity annually. Research on bra

Pilates and Women's Pelvic Health Part 3: Prolapse, Bowel Problems, Pelvic Pain, Pelvic Surgery, Menopause

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  Pilates and Women's Pelvic Health Part 3 In part 1 of this blog series, we discovered that Pelvic Health problems exist in 25% of women, and can often significantly affect their quality of life.  We showed how Pilates Instructors can be of great benefit in coaching and supporting Women with Pelvic Health Dysfunctions.   A deeper knowledge of Pelvic Health when teaching Pilates classes encourages self-help, and preventative physical therapy in a relaxed environment with open, informed discussion on this often delicate topic.  Having briefly listed the various Pelvic dysfunctions, in part 2 we detailed two types of Urinary Incontinence as specific and common examples - demonstrating how Pilates is particularly effective as a targeted, physical therapy for the Pelvic Floor and Core. In this concluding part, we will explore, the other Pelvic dysfunctions you may hear about in more detail.  Pilates is equally appropriate as a targeted physical therapy to prevent, treat and rehabilitat

Pilates and Women's Pelvic Health Part 2: Urinary Incontinence - How Pilates can help?

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 In the previous first part of this series, we discussed how Pilates teachers can play a vital role in helping Women with their Pelvic health , providing expert exercise therapy and a comfortable environment to address the issue openly.   In this second and subsequent third parts, we will detail the individual dysfunctions and explore why Pilates is such an ideal form of exercise for the Pelvic Floor.  Starting with Stress Urinary Incontinence: What is STRESS URINARY INCONTINENCE (SUI) ?:   As a generalisation, Urinary incontinence is simply the involuntary leakage of urine. Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) occurs during everyday sudden physical exertion or movement such as laughing, coughing, sneezing, running, lifting, or having sex. These activities put pressure on your bladder, causing the accidental release of urine.  Stress incontinence is much more common in women than in men and this article specifically addresses women. If you suffer from stress incontinence, you may feel em