Mineral status and superoxide dismutase enzyme activity in Alzheimer's disease.

The study evaluated the dietary intake of zinc and copper, as measured by plasma and erythrocyte concentrations, the Cu/Zn ratio and measure the erythrocyte superoxide dismutase enzyme (eSOD) activity and the relationship between these markers and the degree of dementia in elderly individuals with and without Alzheimer's Disease (AD). A total of 93 elderly people aged 60-94 years were divided into two groups: with AD (n=44) and without AD (n=49). The NINCDS-ADRDA criteria were used for diagnosing AD, and dementia staging was determined using the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scale. The dietary intake of Zn and Cu was obtained from a standard 3-day food record. Plasma and erythrocyte concentrations of the minerals were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry and by measuring eSOD activity in an automatic biochemical analyzer. The results showed dietary intake of Zn and Cu above the reference values with no differences observed between the two groups (p>0.05). Plasma and erythrocyte normocupremia as well as alteration in the Zn pool, with its reduced plasma concentrations and high in the erythrocytes, were observed in both groups (p>0.05). The plasma Cu/Zn ratio were not significantly different in patients with and without AD (p>0.05). The eSOD activity was high in both patient groups (p>0.05). However, among elderly patients with AD there was a positive correlation between this marker and dementia severity. According to our study results, we conclude that plasma and erythrocyte concentrations of Cu and Zn, as well as Cu/Zn ratio among elderly individuals is not related to Alzheimer's Disease. However, antioxidant activity of eSOD is associated with dementia severity.

[Prevention of breast cancer in elderly women: a review]. / Prevenção de câncer de mama em mulheres idosas: uma revisão.

This is a national literature review that aimed to reflect on the prevention of breast cancer in the elderly woman. This curiosity arose from the observation of demographic transition and of course Brazilian feminisation of old age, which imposes specific demands assists and integrals for this population segment. It is emphasized the need to extend the knowledge about the problem, as well as overcoming the negligence in the prevention of this disease, especially in old age. Focused are two topics reflective: Aging Women, Health and Gender Gap and the completeness of assistance to the elderly woman: awareness to release. It is expected with this reflection subsidize quality improvement of the assistance, promote the inclusion of this issue in education and stimulate new research.

[Heath education on osteoporosis for elderly university students]. / Educação para a saúde em osteoporose com idosos de um programa universitário: repercussões.

The purpose of this study was to analyze knowledge and concepts in relation to osteoporosis and changes in eating habits among elderly university students before and after an educational intervention. An action-based research strategy applied questionnaires to 95 individuals ranging in age from 60 to 86 years, with or without osteoporosis. The work showed an obvious lack of knowledge concerning important information about the disease and measures needed to better control progressive loss of bone mass. After four months of educational activities, more than half of the group had reported dietary changes. We emphasize the need to adopt educational strategies not only to inform on ideal preventive practices for osteoporosis but also to build a new mindset and behavior, which are important to control this condition.