Threat - 6
Resurgence of Diseases
And Health Issues
Industrialisation has spawned its own health problems. Modern stressors include noise, air, water pollution, poor nutrition, dangerous machinery, impersonal work, isolation, poverty, homelessness, and substance abuse. Health problems in industrial nations are as much caused by economic, social, political, and cultural factors as by pathogens. Industrialisation has become a major medical issue worldwide.
Formerly problems were shortages of castor oil for night lamps, horse crap in city streets, and farm produce that could not be transported to the nearest city. Television, genetics, satellites, tiny personal computers, Google, refrigerators, aluminum, organ transplants, the new physics of nanoparticles, and so on and on... these things were not imagined. Well, we have increased these ‘facilities’ but at the same time we have increased our problems.
Formerly problems were shortages of castor oil for night lamps, horse crap in city streets, and farm produce that could not be transported to the nearest city. Television, genetics, satellites, tiny personal computers, Google, refrigerators, aluminum, organ transplants, the new physics of nanoparticles, and so on and on... these things were not imagined. Well, we have increased these ‘facilities’ but at the same time we have increased our problems.
Lethal Viruses and Diseases of Industrial Era
In pre-industrial society there were diseases caused by viruses and bacteria. In modern society, in addition to viral and bacterial diseases, there are hundreds of lifestyle diseases - cancer, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, multiple organ failures etc. Science has miserably failed as far as containment of diseases is concerned. With the progress of modern science, the general health of masses has only degraded. Of late, several dangerous strains of viruses have surfaced and thanks to global interconnectivity, in matter of days millions can get infected if there is a global outbreak.
Let us take the case of Uganda. This country is gripped by terror over a new strain of one of the world’s most deadly diseases, Ebola haemorrhagic fever, which spreads by touch and kills between 50% and 90% of victims. Ugandan President has asked people to stop shaking hands, MPs have called for an end to public gatherings, market vendors wear gloves and Roman Catholic priests no longer give the communion wafers and wine by hand.
Let us take the case of Uganda. This country is gripped by terror over a new strain of one of the world’s most deadly diseases, Ebola haemorrhagic fever, which spreads by touch and kills between 50% and 90% of victims. Ugandan President has asked people to stop shaking hands, MPs have called for an end to public gatherings, market vendors wear gloves and Roman Catholic priests no longer give the communion wafers and wine by hand.
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The hospitals are increasing, beds are increasing, and the diseases are increasing. Then what can you do? |
After an incubation period of up to 21 days, Ebola patients develop terrible symptoms: high fever, headache and joint pains, then vomiting and diarrhoea, and in some cases bleeding from the mouth, nose, eyes and ears. In most cases, multiple organ failure, haemorrhaging or shock brings death. This new strain is feared to kill more slowly than previously, leaving more time for the disease to spread. There is no vaccine and no cure. The only hope is to contain the lethal virus, but Ebola moves fast and is hard to track. If just one infected person boards a plane, this could become a global outbreak.
“For the time being people should resort to jambo [waving]. If I don’t shake your hand, it doesn’t mean I don’t like you,” President Yoweri Museveni has told his people. America’s Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia has confirmed the fears with Ebola that it can move very quickly to different parts of the world.
Now we move back to day to day diseases like cancer. The claim that science can cure cancer is an irony because modern scientific living is the cause of cancer. Mostly Cancer is caused by toxic chemicals - carcinogens. Industrial Society has flooded the ecosystem and food chain with toxic chemicals. Most of the farm land has been poisoned with pesticides due to industrial agriculture. The Land, air, water, the entire food chain is contaminated with thousands of man-made toxic chemicals which did not exist before modernization. Out of millions of cases, a small percentage is treated successfully with surgery, radiation and chemotherapy etc. but the environmental toxicity, the cause of cancer, is ever present in life.
“For the time being people should resort to jambo [waving]. If I don’t shake your hand, it doesn’t mean I don’t like you,” President Yoweri Museveni has told his people. America’s Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia has confirmed the fears with Ebola that it can move very quickly to different parts of the world.
Now we move back to day to day diseases like cancer. The claim that science can cure cancer is an irony because modern scientific living is the cause of cancer. Mostly Cancer is caused by toxic chemicals - carcinogens. Industrial Society has flooded the ecosystem and food chain with toxic chemicals. Most of the farm land has been poisoned with pesticides due to industrial agriculture. The Land, air, water, the entire food chain is contaminated with thousands of man-made toxic chemicals which did not exist before modernization. Out of millions of cases, a small percentage is treated successfully with surgery, radiation and chemotherapy etc. but the environmental toxicity, the cause of cancer, is ever present in life.
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Most of the tools a doctor used 25 years ago fitted into a small black bag. Today the typical American physician owns or has access to $250,000 worth of diagnostic equipment. Whenever one tries to link the development of new technology with any improvement in healing, the empirical response is the same: there is none. |
Tuberculosis: Dangerous New Incurable Strains
Many people think of tuberculosis as being a disease from the past. The truth is far from it: Tuberculosis is mutating into dangerous new strains for which there is no known cure.
One of the most frightening strains is XDR-TB, which stands for extensively drug-resistant TB. Unlike less virulent strains, XDRTB does not respond to the antibiotics that are usually used to treat TB. The disease is virtually incurable and threatens to become a pandemic.
About 40,000 new cases of XDR-TB are emerging every year, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates. Award-winning photojournalist James Nachtwey, who has chronicled the death and devastation the disease is bringing to many countries around the world, describes XDR-TB as "a merciless, man-eating predator lurking in the shadows." He warns: "If it's not contained, the consequences could be dire."
Nachtwey, who has been covering humanitarian crises for more than 30 years, was awarded a TED prize in 2007 which gave him $100,000. His wish centered on spreading awareness of this deadly form of TB and the images are borne out of Nachtwey's frustrations with the underreporting of what is potentially a global health crisis.
His photos tell the grim stories of impending death. In one, a man's suffering is so palpable that it is almost impossible to tear your eyes away from him. Another image shows a woman in a Thai hospital staring vacantly, as if resigned to the fact that death is soon approaching.
Nachtwey traveled to seven different countries, including Cambodia, South Africa, Swaziland and Siberia, and used his photography to tell the story of a disease that primarily afflicts developing nations, but has been found elsewhere worldwide.
His work is documented at XDR-TB.org, a Web site solely dedicated to telling the story of the disease through his powerful images. Health experts say that the tragic thing about XDR-TB is that it should not exist.
One of the most frightening strains is XDR-TB, which stands for extensively drug-resistant TB. Unlike less virulent strains, XDRTB does not respond to the antibiotics that are usually used to treat TB. The disease is virtually incurable and threatens to become a pandemic.
About 40,000 new cases of XDR-TB are emerging every year, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates. Award-winning photojournalist James Nachtwey, who has chronicled the death and devastation the disease is bringing to many countries around the world, describes XDR-TB as "a merciless, man-eating predator lurking in the shadows." He warns: "If it's not contained, the consequences could be dire."
Nachtwey, who has been covering humanitarian crises for more than 30 years, was awarded a TED prize in 2007 which gave him $100,000. His wish centered on spreading awareness of this deadly form of TB and the images are borne out of Nachtwey's frustrations with the underreporting of what is potentially a global health crisis.
His photos tell the grim stories of impending death. In one, a man's suffering is so palpable that it is almost impossible to tear your eyes away from him. Another image shows a woman in a Thai hospital staring vacantly, as if resigned to the fact that death is soon approaching.
Nachtwey traveled to seven different countries, including Cambodia, South Africa, Swaziland and Siberia, and used his photography to tell the story of a disease that primarily afflicts developing nations, but has been found elsewhere worldwide.
His work is documented at XDR-TB.org, a Web site solely dedicated to telling the story of the disease through his powerful images. Health experts say that the tragic thing about XDR-TB is that it should not exist.
Because of all these self-destructive practices and the powerful influence of time, the average life span (ayur) is decreasing. Modern scientists, seeking to gain credibility among the mass of people, often publish statistics supposedly showing that science has increased the average duration of life. But these statistics do not take into account the number of people killed through the cruel practice of abortion. When we figure aborted children into the life expectancy of the total population, we find that the average duration of life has not at all increased in the age of Kali but is rather decreasing drastically.
-Srila Prabhupada (Srimad Bhagavatam 12.2.1)
Growing Cholera Epidemic - Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe's government has recently pleaded for international help after declaring a cholera epidemic that has killed thousands of people a national emergency and admitting that hospitals are no longer working.
The government and doctors say that hospitals need medicines and equipment and even money to pay salaries and water treatment chemicals as the country's economic crisis bites ever harder. According to the government and World Health Organisation, thousands have died in the cholera epidemic and many more cases recorded.
Health Minister says, "The emergency appeal will help us reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with the current socioeconomic environment."
The government and doctors say that hospitals need medicines and equipment and even money to pay salaries and water treatment chemicals as the country's economic crisis bites ever harder. According to the government and World Health Organisation, thousands have died in the cholera epidemic and many more cases recorded.
Health Minister says, "The emergency appeal will help us reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with the current socioeconomic environment."
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Sweeping The World
The term Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), formerly known as venereal diseases, covers more than 25 infections passed from one person to another primarily during sexual contact. In 1996, WHO estimated that more than 1 million people were being infected daily with STIs. About 60% of these infections occur in young people less than 25 years of age. An estimated 340 million new cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis occurred throughout the world in 1999.
In 1996, WHO estimated that more than 1 million people were being infected daily with Sexually Transmitted Infections. An estimated 340 million new cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis occurred throughout the world in 1999. (WHO)
More than 15 million people in the United States become infected with one or more STIs every year. The United States has the highest STI rate in the industrialized world—roughly half of all Americans (50% population) become infected with an STI before the age of 35.
Every year in the UK alone, over 700,000 new STI cases are diagnosed and children as young as eleven are contracting gonorrhoea, genital warts and other STIs in increasing numbers.
In the 1970s, only two STIs were common, and both were curable. Now as many as 25 STIs have been identified, and several are incurable. In the 1980s, first genital herpes and then AIDS emerged into the public consciousness as sexually transmitted diseases that could not be cured by modern medicine.
The latest figures from the National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research on sexually transmitted infections in Australia show a major increase in the rates of syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia and that syphilis bug has changed its infectiousness.
Despite the prevalence of STIs, studies show that many people are unaware of their risks for contracting an STI or the serious, and sometimes deadly, health consequences that may result from an untreated infection. Some STIs, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, may cause no symptoms. People who do not know they are infected risk infecting their sexual partners and, in some cases, their unborn children. If left untreated, these diseases may cause debilitating pain or may destroy a woman’s ability to conceive.
Two thirds of people with STIs are under 25 years old. STIs are transmitted by infectious agents—microscopic bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi, and single-celled organisms called protozoa—that thrive in warm, moist environments in the body, such as the genital area, mouth, and throat.
Every year in the UK alone, over 700,000 new STI cases are diagnosed and children as young as eleven are contracting gonorrhoea, genital warts and other STIs in increasing numbers.
In the 1970s, only two STIs were common, and both were curable. Now as many as 25 STIs have been identified, and several are incurable. In the 1980s, first genital herpes and then AIDS emerged into the public consciousness as sexually transmitted diseases that could not be cured by modern medicine.
The latest figures from the National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research on sexually transmitted infections in Australia show a major increase in the rates of syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia and that syphilis bug has changed its infectiousness.
Despite the prevalence of STIs, studies show that many people are unaware of their risks for contracting an STI or the serious, and sometimes deadly, health consequences that may result from an untreated infection. Some STIs, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, may cause no symptoms. People who do not know they are infected risk infecting their sexual partners and, in some cases, their unborn children. If left untreated, these diseases may cause debilitating pain or may destroy a woman’s ability to conceive.
Two thirds of people with STIs are under 25 years old. STIs are transmitted by infectious agents—microscopic bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi, and single-celled organisms called protozoa—that thrive in warm, moist environments in the body, such as the genital area, mouth, and throat.
Roughly half of all Americans (50% of the population) become infected with an STI before the age of 35.
~MSN Encarta
Reason For STI Endemic
- Sexual morals are changing. The society no longer values self-restraint and character.
- Easy and widespread availability of contraceptives, both oral and otherwise, have eliminated traditional sexual restraints.
-Both patients and physicians and have difficulty dealing openly and candidly with sexual issues. Many patients are unaware that they have a sexually transmitted infection and they keep spreading it to their partners. Many of the new STIs show symptom only in later stages but meanwhile the infection spreads to the partners.
-Additionally, development and spread of drug-resistant bacteria (e.g., penicillin-resistant gonococci) is making some STIs harder to cure.
-Globalization and the effect of travel is most dramatically illustrated by the rapid spread of the AIDS virus (HIV) from Africa to Europe and the Americas in the late 1970s.
- Easy and widespread availability of contraceptives, both oral and otherwise, have eliminated traditional sexual restraints.
-Both patients and physicians and have difficulty dealing openly and candidly with sexual issues. Many patients are unaware that they have a sexually transmitted infection and they keep spreading it to their partners. Many of the new STIs show symptom only in later stages but meanwhile the infection spreads to the partners.
-Additionally, development and spread of drug-resistant bacteria (e.g., penicillin-resistant gonococci) is making some STIs harder to cure.
-Globalization and the effect of travel is most dramatically illustrated by the rapid spread of the AIDS virus (HIV) from Africa to Europe and the Americas in the late 1970s.
Scary Trends In STIs
At any time in history, the prevalence and significance of different STIs mirror changes in science and society. For example, in many countries of the world, the incidence of STIs increased during and immediately after World War II (1939-1945), when soldiers spending extended periods of time away from home engaged in unprotected physical relations with different partners, many of whom carried STIs. When the antibiotic penicillin became widely available in the following years, the same countries experienced dramatic reductions in STI incidence. Beginning in the 1950s, however, the STIs began to rise as American sexual culture changed. Strains of the disease developed resistance to penicillin, and by the 1970s and 1980s the disease reached epidemic proportions in young adult populations. Introduction of HIV into the human population led to an international AIDS crisis that began in the 1980s.
Results from a study reported in 2008 showed that one in four young women in the United States between the ages of 14 and 19 were infected with at least one of four diseases monitored: HPV, chlamydia, genital herpes, and trichomoniasis.
~ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Detroit
Cases of STIs are increasing despite higher rates of condom use since the onset of the AIDS epidemic. Results from a study reported in 2008 showed that one in four young women in the United States between the ages of 14 and 19 were infected with at least one of four diseases monitored: HPV, chlamydia, genital herpes, and trichomoniasis. Public health officials believe that many factors are probably responsible for the increase in STIs, among them trends in sexual behavior. In the last several decades, the age at which people have sex for the first time has shifted downward, while the average number of partners a person has sex with during his or her lifetime has increased. Together, these trends increase the risk of exposure to an STI.
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) causes 90% of all cervical cancer cases. It is the most common viral disease and can cause genital warts, which are often very difficult to treat. Warts are spread through skin-to-skin contact. The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) estimates that there are 5.5 million new cases of genital warts in the United States each year. HPV is incurable and condoms are of only limited use. Not everyone who comes into contact with the virus will develop symptoms, which include itchiness, white small lumps or larger cauliflower shaped lumps on the genital area. Warts develop in the mouth also. It usually takes between 1-3 months from infection for the warts to appear, but it can take much longer.
Treatment can be uncomfortable and take a long time, and most people will have a recurrence of warts that will need further treatment. It is the second most common form of cancer in women under 35 years of age.
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) causes 90% of all cervical cancer cases. It is the most common viral disease and can cause genital warts, which are often very difficult to treat. Warts are spread through skin-to-skin contact. The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) estimates that there are 5.5 million new cases of genital warts in the United States each year. HPV is incurable and condoms are of only limited use. Not everyone who comes into contact with the virus will develop symptoms, which include itchiness, white small lumps or larger cauliflower shaped lumps on the genital area. Warts develop in the mouth also. It usually takes between 1-3 months from infection for the warts to appear, but it can take much longer.
Treatment can be uncomfortable and take a long time, and most people will have a recurrence of warts that will need further treatment. It is the second most common form of cancer in women under 35 years of age.
“In the last several decades, the age at which people have sex for the first time has shifted downward, while the average number of partners a person has sex with during his or her lifetime has increased. Together, these trends increase the risk of exposure to an STI.”
“In the UK, one out of every two sexually active people have HPV.”
Chlamydia
It is estimated that in developed countries, 1 in 6 teenage girls and one in five teen boys has chlamydia. Three million people become infected with chlamydia each year in US alone. It is a very common infection and also one of the most serious. There are very often no symptoms, and an infected person might never know until serious complications develop. In those women who have symptoms, they might notice increased discharge, frequent or painful urination and/or irregular periods. Men, who are more likely to notice symptoms, might see discharge and pain/burning on urination. It is one of the causes of pelvic pain and inflammation and also a major cause of infertility in women. Even the eyes can become infected in which case both men and women may experience painful swelling and irritation. Recent evidence indicates that it might also play a role in the development of cervical cancer.
Syphilis
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are an estimated 86,000 new cases of syphilis in the United States each year. From 1990s many urban communities in developed countries are experiencing a resurgence in syphilis cases. In the UK, Syphilis is the most rapidly spreading STI. If left undetected, it can result in brain damage, heart disease and/or death. It can be spread by skin-to-skin contact alone. The first signs are painless sores, which are followed by flu-like symptoms. In pregnancy, syphilis can cause miscarriage or stillbirth and it can be passed from mother to unborn child in the womb
It is estimated that in developed countries, 1 in 6 teenage girls and one in five teen boys has chlamydia. Three million people become infected with chlamydia each year in US alone. It is a very common infection and also one of the most serious. There are very often no symptoms, and an infected person might never know until serious complications develop. In those women who have symptoms, they might notice increased discharge, frequent or painful urination and/or irregular periods. Men, who are more likely to notice symptoms, might see discharge and pain/burning on urination. It is one of the causes of pelvic pain and inflammation and also a major cause of infertility in women. Even the eyes can become infected in which case both men and women may experience painful swelling and irritation. Recent evidence indicates that it might also play a role in the development of cervical cancer.
Syphilis
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are an estimated 86,000 new cases of syphilis in the United States each year. From 1990s many urban communities in developed countries are experiencing a resurgence in syphilis cases. In the UK, Syphilis is the most rapidly spreading STI. If left undetected, it can result in brain damage, heart disease and/or death. It can be spread by skin-to-skin contact alone. The first signs are painless sores, which are followed by flu-like symptoms. In pregnancy, syphilis can cause miscarriage or stillbirth and it can be passed from mother to unborn child in the womb
In the United States, one in five individuals over the age of 12 is infected with HSV (herpes simplex virus) type 2, and the vast majority of those infected—about 90 percent—do not know they have the disease.
~CDC, Detroit
Gonorrhoea
Closer to 650,000 people are infected annually with this disease in US. Gonorrhoea can cause widespread infection of the joints and skin. It is becoming increasingly resistant to treatment with antibiotics. Like chlamydia, it can cause infertility and serious health problems if left untreated. In women, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease which can in turn cause fever; pain and can lead to infertility. Man are much more likely to notice symptoms than women, but many who are infected have no symptoms at all. In women, symptoms include pain or burning sensation when passing urine, irritation and/or discharge from the anus, and/or increased discharge which could be of a yellow or greenish colour with increased odour. In men, symptoms may include a yellow or white discharge, irritation and/or discharge from the anus and/or inflammation of the prostate gland and testicles.
HIV and AIDS
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there are 60,000 new cases of HIV each year in the United States and that two million Americans overall have HIV infection. All over the world, more than 33 million people are infected with this disease. HIV leads to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which is fatal. AIDS attacks the body’s immune system, leaving victims unable to fight off even the mildest infections. There is no available vaccine against HIV, and many people with HIV look and feel healthy for a long time.
Closer to 650,000 people are infected annually with this disease in US. Gonorrhoea can cause widespread infection of the joints and skin. It is becoming increasingly resistant to treatment with antibiotics. Like chlamydia, it can cause infertility and serious health problems if left untreated. In women, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease which can in turn cause fever; pain and can lead to infertility. Man are much more likely to notice symptoms than women, but many who are infected have no symptoms at all. In women, symptoms include pain or burning sensation when passing urine, irritation and/or discharge from the anus, and/or increased discharge which could be of a yellow or greenish colour with increased odour. In men, symptoms may include a yellow or white discharge, irritation and/or discharge from the anus and/or inflammation of the prostate gland and testicles.
HIV and AIDS
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there are 60,000 new cases of HIV each year in the United States and that two million Americans overall have HIV infection. All over the world, more than 33 million people are infected with this disease. HIV leads to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which is fatal. AIDS attacks the body’s immune system, leaving victims unable to fight off even the mildest infections. There is no available vaccine against HIV, and many people with HIV look and feel healthy for a long time.
Visnujana: In this country they have the venereal disease. One out of ten men is suffering gonorrhea.
Prabhupada: Yes. Long ago one professor, medical professor, he said, he was Englishman -- that in our country, 75% students are suffering from venereal disease. Colonel Megor. Yes. Colonel Megor. There must be venereal disease because sex life is so cheap. There must be venereal disease. And venereal disease, once infected, it brings so many other diseases, one after another, one after another. The cancer is also due to that. Madness. Yes. And the Vedic civilization knew it. Therefore first restriction: sex. Brahmacari. First beginning, brahmacari. No sex life. You see? Just to save. This venereal disease is mentioned in the Ayur-veda. It is called phirangamaya. Phiranga means "white Europeans." It is diseased... And medical science also says that it was begun from dog. The girls, they have ....dog and there is the beginning of venereal disease.
-Srila Prabhupada (Morning Walk - December 31, 1973, Los Angeles)
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis causes burning, itching, and discomfort in the private parts. The CDC estimates that 5 million Americans become infected with trichomoniasis each year.
Trichomonas Vaginalis (or TV for short) often has no symptoms but can cause discharge and painful urination.
Pubic lice/crabs
There is no protection against crabs/pubic lice, which are tiny insects that live on the skin, often infecting the hairy areas of the body. Contracted through skin-to-skin contact, they cause persistent itching, and it may be possible to see droppings from the lice in underwear and eggs from the lice in pubic hair.
They are usually sexually transmitted but can occasionally be transmitted by close physical contact or by the sharing of sheets or towels with an infected person.
Scabies
Scabies also appears in the form of an itchy rash. Caused by a female mite laying her eggs beneath the surface of the skin, the main symptom of scabies is an itchy rash on hands, elbows, breasts, genitals, wrists and buttocks. Any close physical contact can spread the infection.
Non-specific Urethritis
Non-specific urethritis only infects men and symptoms may include inflammation of the urethra, causing a burning sensation or pain when passing urine, discharge and/or frequent urination. Several different types of infection can cause NSU, but often it is caused by chlamydia.
Trichomoniasis causes burning, itching, and discomfort in the private parts. The CDC estimates that 5 million Americans become infected with trichomoniasis each year.
Trichomonas Vaginalis (or TV for short) often has no symptoms but can cause discharge and painful urination.
Pubic lice/crabs
There is no protection against crabs/pubic lice, which are tiny insects that live on the skin, often infecting the hairy areas of the body. Contracted through skin-to-skin contact, they cause persistent itching, and it may be possible to see droppings from the lice in underwear and eggs from the lice in pubic hair.
They are usually sexually transmitted but can occasionally be transmitted by close physical contact or by the sharing of sheets or towels with an infected person.
Scabies
Scabies also appears in the form of an itchy rash. Caused by a female mite laying her eggs beneath the surface of the skin, the main symptom of scabies is an itchy rash on hands, elbows, breasts, genitals, wrists and buttocks. Any close physical contact can spread the infection.
Non-specific Urethritis
Non-specific urethritis only infects men and symptoms may include inflammation of the urethra, causing a burning sensation or pain when passing urine, discharge and/or frequent urination. Several different types of infection can cause NSU, but often it is caused by chlamydia.
“Every year in the UK alone, over 700,000 new STI cases are diagnosed and Children as young as eleven are contracting gonorrhoea, genital warts and other STIs in increasing numbers.”
Genital Herpes
In the United States, one in five individuals over the age of 12 is infected with HSV (herpes simplex virus) type 2, and the vast majority of those infected—about 90 percent—do not know they have the disease.
Genital herpes causes painful sores on and around the genitals. Symptoms include itching or tingling sensation in the genital or anal area, small fluid filled blisters which burst and leave painful sores, pain when urinating if the urine passes over the sores, and a flu-like illness, swollen glands, backache, headache or fever. One can catch herpes just from kissing an infected partner. HSV cannot be eradicated from the body, there is no known cure.
In the United States, one in five individuals over the age of 12 is infected with HSV (herpes simplex virus) type 2, and the vast majority of those infected—about 90 percent—do not know they have the disease.
Genital herpes causes painful sores on and around the genitals. Symptoms include itching or tingling sensation in the genital or anal area, small fluid filled blisters which burst and leave painful sores, pain when urinating if the urine passes over the sores, and a flu-like illness, swollen glands, backache, headache or fever. One can catch herpes just from kissing an infected partner. HSV cannot be eradicated from the body, there is no known cure.
More than 15 million people in the United States become infected with one or more STIs every year. (CDC)
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is one hundred times more contagious than HIV. Hepatitis B (HBV) is very common throughout the world and it is passed on through sex, sharing of contaminated needles or piercing instruments, from an infected blood transfusion and/or from an infected mother to her baby. Some people have no symptoms. Symptoms, if manifest, can include nausea, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, weight loss, jaundice, itchiness, fatigue and a short flu-like illness. In most cases hepatitis B is incurable, but arduous chemotherapy can eliminate the virus in some patients.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be spread in the same way as Hepatitis B. Current evidence indicates that treatments clear only about 20% of those infected by HCV. The other 80% will remain infected and can pass it onto other people. After some years, they could develop liver cirrhosis, liver cancer or chronic hepatitis
Hepatitis B is one hundred times more contagious than HIV. Hepatitis B (HBV) is very common throughout the world and it is passed on through sex, sharing of contaminated needles or piercing instruments, from an infected blood transfusion and/or from an infected mother to her baby. Some people have no symptoms. Symptoms, if manifest, can include nausea, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, weight loss, jaundice, itchiness, fatigue and a short flu-like illness. In most cases hepatitis B is incurable, but arduous chemotherapy can eliminate the virus in some patients.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be spread in the same way as Hepatitis B. Current evidence indicates that treatments clear only about 20% of those infected by HCV. The other 80% will remain infected and can pass it onto other people. After some years, they could develop liver cirrhosis, liver cancer or chronic hepatitis
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"There has been a preoccupation with AIDS and more recently bird flu, but diabetes has been escalating. It's a timebomb. In Australia, 170 million dollars (US$123 million) has been committed to tackle a bird flu epidemic which may or may not happen, but we have a huge diabetes problem and there may be five million dollars spent annually. It's completely disproportionate." |
The Myth of Safe Sex
Abstinence – 100% Failsafe Contraception
Several organizations, such as the CDC and the World Health Organization, monitor and research the prevalence and transmission of STIs on an international level in an effort to prevent local outbreaks from reaching global, epidemic proportions.
Unlike many serious diseases, simple measures can prevent STIs. The most effective prevention method is abstinence—that is, refraining from sex completely. No sexual contact means no risk of developing an STI. Practicing monogamy, in which two partners do not have sexual relations with anyone but each other, also greatly reduces the risk of spreading and contracting STIs.
Many speak of ‘safe’ sex, as if there is such a thing. Yet the only safe sex is sex between two people who are uninfected. Still, the myth, perpetuated by the manufacturers and those in the industry, is that condoms result in safe sex, which in turn leads to a false sense of security. A false sense of security will in many cases lead to more acts of intercourse occurring.
It is becoming increasingly clear that condom promotion not only hasn’t worked (since STIs are continuing to rise at an alarming rate) but is also a questionable approach. In fact, condoms have little or no benefit in preventing many STIs like HPV. More people are dying from cervical cancer caused by HPV than from AIDS.
The World Health Organisation has stated that the best way to avoid catching an STI is to stay faithful to one person for life whom you know is uninfected. Actually, this is also not entirely true. Since we cannot always know for sure that someone is uninfected, the best way to avoid catching an STI is by practicing sexual abstinence – which is also the only 100% failsafe contraception around!
Unlike many serious diseases, simple measures can prevent STIs. The most effective prevention method is abstinence—that is, refraining from sex completely. No sexual contact means no risk of developing an STI. Practicing monogamy, in which two partners do not have sexual relations with anyone but each other, also greatly reduces the risk of spreading and contracting STIs.
Many speak of ‘safe’ sex, as if there is such a thing. Yet the only safe sex is sex between two people who are uninfected. Still, the myth, perpetuated by the manufacturers and those in the industry, is that condoms result in safe sex, which in turn leads to a false sense of security. A false sense of security will in many cases lead to more acts of intercourse occurring.
It is becoming increasingly clear that condom promotion not only hasn’t worked (since STIs are continuing to rise at an alarming rate) but is also a questionable approach. In fact, condoms have little or no benefit in preventing many STIs like HPV. More people are dying from cervical cancer caused by HPV than from AIDS.
The World Health Organisation has stated that the best way to avoid catching an STI is to stay faithful to one person for life whom you know is uninfected. Actually, this is also not entirely true. Since we cannot always know for sure that someone is uninfected, the best way to avoid catching an STI is by practicing sexual abstinence – which is also the only 100% failsafe contraception around!
This is the condition at the present moment. This is called Kali-yuga. The first symptom is: our span of life is very short, decreasing. With the advancement of Kali-yuga, our duration of life is decreasing. Everyone knows that. My father lived so many years, my grandfather lived so many years, but it is certain I am not going to live so many years. And then my son is not... Gradually, it is reduced. Reducing, reducing, reducing. By the end of Kali-yuga, the duration of life from twenty years to thirty years will be considered very, very old age, very, very old. If a man is living for twenty-five years, he will be considered a very grand old man. Yes. That is coming gradually.
-Srila Prabhupada (Sri Caitanya-caritamrta, Adi-lila 1.15 — Dallas, March 4, 1975)
Lifestyle Diseases of New Age
Lifestyle diseases (also called diseases of civilization) refer to ailments which have emerged from modern industrialized life style and diet in last few decades. These include Cancer, Hypertension, Obesity, Heart Disease, Diabetes, Alzheimers, Parkinsons, Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis, Cirrhosis, Nephritis, Stroke, Asthma, Depression etc.
The increase in the incidence of the above-mentioned diseases is associated with supposed improvements in people's lives. People's lives have got better yet they've become more susceptible to some of the most devastating diseases known to man.
Main culprit has been the deterioration in nutrition levels of food. More high fat and high sugar foods; food preservation techniques have all contributed in one way or another to the lack of proper levels of nutrition in food. Refined and processed foods to satisfy commercial needs rather than seasonal fresh foods are greatly responsible for this phenomenon.
The increase in the incidence of the above-mentioned diseases is associated with supposed improvements in people's lives. People's lives have got better yet they've become more susceptible to some of the most devastating diseases known to man.
Main culprit has been the deterioration in nutrition levels of food. More high fat and high sugar foods; food preservation techniques have all contributed in one way or another to the lack of proper levels of nutrition in food. Refined and processed foods to satisfy commercial needs rather than seasonal fresh foods are greatly responsible for this phenomenon.
In Kali-yuga, the duration of life is shortened not so much because of insufficient food but because of irregular habits. By keeping regular habits and eating simple food, any man can maintain his health. Overeating, over-sense gratification, overdependence on another's mercy, and artificial standards of living sap the very vitality of human energy. Therefore the duration of life is shortened.
Srila Prabhupada (Srimad Bhagavatam 1.1.10)
Sudden vs Slow Death
Earlier death was caused by sudden onset conditions. Sudden onset conditions are more easily handled by medicine. Lifestyle diseases are a result of an inappropriate relationship of people with their environment. The onset of these lifestyle diseases is insidious, they take years to develop, and once encountered do not lend themselves easily to cure.
In 1900, the top three causes of death were pneumonia / influenza, tuberculosis, and diarrhea/enteritis. Back then communicable diseases accounted for about 60 percent of all deaths. In 1900, lifestyle diseases like heart disease and cancer were ranked number 6 and 8 respectively. Since the 1940's, most deaths have resulted from heart disease, cancer, and other lifestyle diseases. And, by the late 1990's, lifestyle diseases accounted for more than 60 percent of all deaths.
In 1900, the top three causes of death were pneumonia / influenza, tuberculosis, and diarrhea/enteritis. Back then communicable diseases accounted for about 60 percent of all deaths. In 1900, lifestyle diseases like heart disease and cancer were ranked number 6 and 8 respectively. Since the 1940's, most deaths have resulted from heart disease, cancer, and other lifestyle diseases. And, by the late 1990's, lifestyle diseases accounted for more than 60 percent of all deaths.
Epidemiological Transition - From Infectious To Man Made Diseases
This is a largely unremarked change in the history of human health. The infectious diseases that have traditionally killed the people are starting to recede. Instead, people are beginning to die of the chronic and life style diseases. This change is known as the “epidemiological transition”.
The epidemiological transition was first described in 1971 by Abdel Omran, a professor at the University of North Carolina. Writing in a Quarterly, he drew a map of disease through human history in which he charted this gradual replacement of infectious with chronic, degenerative and man-made diseases.
The epidemiological transition from infectious to chronic diseases began in western countries in the early 1900s. Today people are dying more of the chronic “western” diseases than infectious ones.
In 2005, about 58 million people died of life-style diseases around the world. By 2020, it’s projected that lifestyle diseases will be responsible for seven out of every 10 deaths in the world. In Mexico, for example, three-quarters of all deaths are already in this category.
The epidemiological transition was first described in 1971 by Abdel Omran, a professor at the University of North Carolina. Writing in a Quarterly, he drew a map of disease through human history in which he charted this gradual replacement of infectious with chronic, degenerative and man-made diseases.
The epidemiological transition from infectious to chronic diseases began in western countries in the early 1900s. Today people are dying more of the chronic “western” diseases than infectious ones.
In 2005, about 58 million people died of life-style diseases around the world. By 2020, it’s projected that lifestyle diseases will be responsible for seven out of every 10 deaths in the world. In Mexico, for example, three-quarters of all deaths are already in this category.
“One quarter of what you eat keeps you alive and three quarter of what you eat keeps your doctor alive.”
Third World Catching Up With The Diseases Of The Rich
These diseases often hit people at the peak of their economic productivity. Developing countries are adopting the least healthy habits of the west. This is particularly true of urban and wealthier classes. In China, where business relationships are often cemented with gifts of packets of cigarettes, with each brand having its own connotation, the great scourge is tobacco. The same unhealthy behaviours cause diseases in the same way across the globe. Today, only half of new cancer cases occur in developing countries, but as their citizens start smoking more and westerners smoke less, the developing world’s share of new cancer victims will inevitably exceed those of the west.
Elsewhere the problem is often obesity. On a shopping street in Kampala or Johannesburg or Hyderabad today, you will find people as fat as those you’d see in a midwestern American mall. That wasn’t the case 10 years ago. But now, many formerly poor people can afford to gorge on calories, often in new fast-food restaurants. Many now drive instead of walk and spend hours watching television or sitting behind computer screens.
Elsewhere the problem is often obesity. On a shopping street in Kampala or Johannesburg or Hyderabad today, you will find people as fat as those you’d see in a midwestern American mall. That wasn’t the case 10 years ago. But now, many formerly poor people can afford to gorge on calories, often in new fast-food restaurants. Many now drive instead of walk and spend hours watching television or sitting behind computer screens.
Bacteria vs Social Network
The obesity epidemic blurs the distinction between infectious and chronic diseases: the way obesity spreads might actually mirror the transmission of infectious disease such as cholera. Whereas cholera is passed on through bacteria, obesity “travels” through social networks. A US study repeatedly weighed a network of 12,067 people over a period of 32 years. It concluded that a person’s chance of becoming obese rose as those close to him became obese.
Hidden Cost of Development
The obesity epidemic is now spreading rapidly in many poor countries. One consequence is the global increase in hypertension – high blood pressure – which can cause heart disease or strokes. In African and Asian cities, the prevalence of hypertension in adults now approaches the levels of high-income countries.
In India today, the big problem is diabetes. Not long ago, public health officials considered this a disease of relatively minor importance. That has changed, mainly as people have become fatter. A diabetes epidemic typically follows an obesity epidemic with a lag of about 10 years. Already in 2000, there were about 171 million diabetics on the planet, or four to five times as many as those living with HIV. India now has perhaps 32 million diabetics, many of whom do not know that they have the condition; China has 40 million. An extreme case is the Pacific island of Nauru, where half a century ago diabetes was almost unknown. Now 40 per cent of adults have it.
Diabetes is very much a disease of the cities. It is rife in India’s boomtown like Hyderabad. Make the slow, laborious drive out of the clogged-up city into the neighbouring villages, and the much thinner rural population is less likely to be diabetic. The problem is only partly the traditional Hyderabad biryani dish, made with meat, rice and lots of oil or ghee. Rich Indians now get a far larger proportion of their energy from fat than poor Indians do. A national survey found that by 2000, 12 per cent of urban Indians over the age of 20 already had diabetes.
It’s not just that people in poor countries are adopting unhealthy habits. Once ill, they are much less likely than those in rich countries to see a doctor and receive treatment. A survey in Egypt published in 2000, for instance, showed that one in three people with very severe hypertension didn’t even know they had the condition. Even if they knew, they struggled to find doctors. In Uganda, there is only one doctor of any kind for every 20,000 people, compared with one for 500 in the UK.
Modern diseases have a racial pattern. For instance, hypertension appears to affect Africans more severely than sufferers on other continents. South Asians seem to develop heart disease four to five years earlier than their white counterparts, and their diabetes seems to be more aggressive. The reasons for this are still unclear.
In India today, the big problem is diabetes. Not long ago, public health officials considered this a disease of relatively minor importance. That has changed, mainly as people have become fatter. A diabetes epidemic typically follows an obesity epidemic with a lag of about 10 years. Already in 2000, there were about 171 million diabetics on the planet, or four to five times as many as those living with HIV. India now has perhaps 32 million diabetics, many of whom do not know that they have the condition; China has 40 million. An extreme case is the Pacific island of Nauru, where half a century ago diabetes was almost unknown. Now 40 per cent of adults have it.
Diabetes is very much a disease of the cities. It is rife in India’s boomtown like Hyderabad. Make the slow, laborious drive out of the clogged-up city into the neighbouring villages, and the much thinner rural population is less likely to be diabetic. The problem is only partly the traditional Hyderabad biryani dish, made with meat, rice and lots of oil or ghee. Rich Indians now get a far larger proportion of their energy from fat than poor Indians do. A national survey found that by 2000, 12 per cent of urban Indians over the age of 20 already had diabetes.
It’s not just that people in poor countries are adopting unhealthy habits. Once ill, they are much less likely than those in rich countries to see a doctor and receive treatment. A survey in Egypt published in 2000, for instance, showed that one in three people with very severe hypertension didn’t even know they had the condition. Even if they knew, they struggled to find doctors. In Uganda, there is only one doctor of any kind for every 20,000 people, compared with one for 500 in the UK.
Modern diseases have a racial pattern. For instance, hypertension appears to affect Africans more severely than sufferers on other continents. South Asians seem to develop heart disease four to five years earlier than their white counterparts, and their diabetes seems to be more aggressive. The reasons for this are still unclear.
One third of your populations will die by pestilence and famine, one third by the sword and one third scattered to the wind. (Ezekiel 5:12;
Decreasing Life Expectancy
After much hype of increase in life expectancy, we now have several documented episodes of declines in life expectancy. And some of them may be a terrifying warning for the developing world.
- The first decline occurred in Africa after Aids. By 2002, 22 million people had died of the disease. Life expectancy in southern Africa fell by as much as 10 years: in Botswana it dropped from 59 in 1995 to 49 in 2005.
- The second decline in life expectancy is alarming for today’s Chinese, Indians and urban Africans. Chronic diseases are afflicting these populations. Life expectancy in these regions is likely to fall as the poor in these countries start to smoke, overeat and stop physical work and at the same time not having access to doctors.
- This was the decline that hit eastern Europe after the Soviet Union’s collapse. Health services and established social structures fell apart, and stress and depression increased. One result was that alcoholism soared. By 1992, some of the new kiosks along Moscow’s boulevards sold a liquid advertised as “100 per cent alcohol”. The average Russian man’s life expectancy had been 64 years. By 2005, it was just 59.
- The first decline occurred in Africa after Aids. By 2002, 22 million people had died of the disease. Life expectancy in southern Africa fell by as much as 10 years: in Botswana it dropped from 59 in 1995 to 49 in 2005.
- The second decline in life expectancy is alarming for today’s Chinese, Indians and urban Africans. Chronic diseases are afflicting these populations. Life expectancy in these regions is likely to fall as the poor in these countries start to smoke, overeat and stop physical work and at the same time not having access to doctors.
- This was the decline that hit eastern Europe after the Soviet Union’s collapse. Health services and established social structures fell apart, and stress and depression increased. One result was that alcoholism soared. By 1992, some of the new kiosks along Moscow’s boulevards sold a liquid advertised as “100 per cent alcohol”. The average Russian man’s life expectancy had been 64 years. By 2005, it was just 59.
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We have discussed in the previous verse that we are decreasing the span of life. The scientists will say, “No, we are making arrangement so that by science we shall make man immortal.” When a man becomes mad, he speaks so many nonsense. Like a child. A child also speaks so many nonsense things, and the parents enjoy it. Similarly, the so-called scientist, when he says that “By scientific method, we shall stop death,” so there is no evidence in the history of the human society that a man has not died. That cannot be. Hiranyakasipu, he was also atheist and materialistic. He also tried to become immortal. |
Dual Burden
For the first time in history, poor countries are now facing a dual burden of infectious and chronic diseases. While third world governments are funding cash and devising plans to prevent a possible flu pandemic, little is being done to tackle these big killers such as cancer, diabetes and respiratory and heart disease.
India has planned to import equipments worth $215 Billion to diagnose and treat lifestyle diseases in next 5 years. Renowned cardiologist Dr. R.R. Kasliwal has said that lifestyle diseases pose a greater threat to ordinary Indians than HIV/AIDS.
India has planned to import equipments worth $215 Billion to diagnose and treat lifestyle diseases in next 5 years. Renowned cardiologist Dr. R.R. Kasliwal has said that lifestyle diseases pose a greater threat to ordinary Indians than HIV/AIDS.
Digital Age Diseases
Sitting in front of a computer screen and typing on a keyboard whole day has given rise to serious ailments like Repetitive Stress Injury and Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. The fingers are not created to move so many times as they do on a keyboard. This damages their muscles and nerves. Other than physiotherapy, there is no known cure for these ailments.
Modern Economics : Earn Money And Lose Health, Then Lose Money To Gain Health
A study by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations says that although India's IT boom has brought spiralling corporate profits and higher incomes for employees, it has also led to a surge in workplace stress and lifestyle diseases. The health minister, Anbumani Ramadoss, says, "IT is the fastest-growing industry in our country, but it is most vulnerable to lifestyle diseases. Its future growth could be stunted if we don't address the problem now."
India's rapid economic growth could be slowed by a sharp rise in the prevalence of heart disease, stroke and diabetes, and the successful information technology industry is likely to be the hardest hit. So-called lifestyle diseases are estimated to have wiped $9bn off the country's national income in 2005, but the cost could reach more than $100bn over the next 10 years if corrective action is not taken soon.
Long working hours, night shifts and a sedentary lifestyle make people employed at such companies prone to heart disease and diabetes. There have also been growing reports of depression and family breakdown in the industry.
Infosys Technologies, India's second-largest software exporter, has a 24-hour hotline for employees suffering from depression to contact psychiatrists. A company director says "We must have prevented at least 30 deaths from suicide because of this hotline.” In Bangalore the psychiatrists say their Saturdays are reserved for marriage counselling for the IT sector.
India's rapid economic growth could be slowed by a sharp rise in the prevalence of heart disease, stroke and diabetes, and the successful information technology industry is likely to be the hardest hit. So-called lifestyle diseases are estimated to have wiped $9bn off the country's national income in 2005, but the cost could reach more than $100bn over the next 10 years if corrective action is not taken soon.
Long working hours, night shifts and a sedentary lifestyle make people employed at such companies prone to heart disease and diabetes. There have also been growing reports of depression and family breakdown in the industry.
Infosys Technologies, India's second-largest software exporter, has a 24-hour hotline for employees suffering from depression to contact psychiatrists. A company director says "We must have prevented at least 30 deaths from suicide because of this hotline.” In Bangalore the psychiatrists say their Saturdays are reserved for marriage counselling for the IT sector.
Highest Outbreak of New Diseases In 1980s
Researchers from the Zoological Society of London, the Wildlife Trust and Columbia University have analysed databases of outbreaks and found 335 cases of emerging diseases between 1940 and 2004. Of these, 60.3% were infections which also affected animals, and 71.8% were known to have triggered disease in humans after spreading from wildlife.
Major outbreaks of disease have become more common around the globe in the past 40 years, according to the largest ever investigation into emerging infections. Diseases such as Ebola and Sars, which originally spread from animals, are an increasing threat to human health, and many infections have now become resistant to antibiotics.
The international team of scientists have warned that tropical regions are likely to become a future hotspot for new diseases, and called for early warning systems to be set up in countries to spot outbreaks before they become unmanageable.
Europe and North America have experienced high numbers of outbreaks, but much of that is because those regions have invested heavily in detecting early signs of disease. Other countries, scientists fear, are less able to spot new diseases as they arise.
More diseases emerged in the 1980s than any other decade, according to the study. The great majority of outbreaks were triggered by bacteria and viruses, with 20% caused by antibiotic-resistant microbes while several others transmigrating from animals and birds. Preserving wildlife-rich areas could help to protect people from new diseases.
Major outbreaks of disease have become more common around the globe in the past 40 years, according to the largest ever investigation into emerging infections. Diseases such as Ebola and Sars, which originally spread from animals, are an increasing threat to human health, and many infections have now become resistant to antibiotics.
The international team of scientists have warned that tropical regions are likely to become a future hotspot for new diseases, and called for early warning systems to be set up in countries to spot outbreaks before they become unmanageable.
Europe and North America have experienced high numbers of outbreaks, but much of that is because those regions have invested heavily in detecting early signs of disease. Other countries, scientists fear, are less able to spot new diseases as they arise.
More diseases emerged in the 1980s than any other decade, according to the study. The great majority of outbreaks were triggered by bacteria and viruses, with 20% caused by antibiotic-resistant microbes while several others transmigrating from animals and birds. Preserving wildlife-rich areas could help to protect people from new diseases.
Cruelty Diet Leading To Unprecedented Health Hazards
Plant foods improve human health, while animal 'foods' degrade it. The most comprehensive study to date regarding the relationship between diet and human health found that the consumption of animal-derived ‘food’ products was linked with "diseases of affluence" such as heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and cancer. T. Colin Campbell's landmark research in The China Project found a pure vegetarian (i.e. vegan) diet to be healthiest. Dr. Campbell estimates that "80 to 90% of all cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and other degenerative illness can be prevented, at least until very old age - simply by adopting a plant-based diet.
Deaths from foodborne illnesses have quadrupled in the last 15 years in the US. The Centre for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that there are 76 million food-related illnesses (1 out of 3 Americans), 325000 hospitalizations, and 10000 deaths from food poisoning every year.
The meat, poultry, dairy and egg industries employ technological short cuts— as drugs, hormones, and other chemicals — to maximize production. Under these conditions, virulent pathogens that are resistant to antibiotics are emerging. These new ‘supergerms,’ whose evolution is traceable directly to the overuse of antibiotics in factory farming, have the potential to cause yet unknown human suffering and deaths.
Peculiar new diseases have been amplified by aberrant agribusiness practices. For example, "Mad Cow Disease" (bovine spongiform encephalopathy or BSE), a fatal dementia affecting cattle, spread throughout Britain when dead cows were fed to living cows. When people ate cows with "Mad Cow Disease," they got Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), a fatal dementia that afflicts humans.
Another farm animal disease beginning to jeopardize human health is avian influenza. In Hong Kong, where scores of people have died from the so-called "bird- flu," over one million chickens have been destroyed in the panic to stop the spread of the disease. In India, so far, more than 45 million birds have been killed due to bird-flu scare.
Millions of Americans are infected, and thousands die every year from contaminated animal ‘food’ products. Despite repeated warnings from consumer advocates, the USDA's meat inspection system remains grossly inadequate, and consumers are now being told to "expect" animal products to be tainted.
Meanwhile, the agribusiness industry, rather than advising consumers to curtail their intake of animal products, has devised extreme measures (overcooking, antibiotics, etc.) to help consumers circumvent the hazards of animal products and maintain their gross over-consumption of meat and dairy.
Deaths from foodborne illnesses have quadrupled in the last 15 years in the US. The Centre for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that there are 76 million food-related illnesses (1 out of 3 Americans), 325000 hospitalizations, and 10000 deaths from food poisoning every year.
The meat, poultry, dairy and egg industries employ technological short cuts— as drugs, hormones, and other chemicals — to maximize production. Under these conditions, virulent pathogens that are resistant to antibiotics are emerging. These new ‘supergerms,’ whose evolution is traceable directly to the overuse of antibiotics in factory farming, have the potential to cause yet unknown human suffering and deaths.
Peculiar new diseases have been amplified by aberrant agribusiness practices. For example, "Mad Cow Disease" (bovine spongiform encephalopathy or BSE), a fatal dementia affecting cattle, spread throughout Britain when dead cows were fed to living cows. When people ate cows with "Mad Cow Disease," they got Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), a fatal dementia that afflicts humans.
Another farm animal disease beginning to jeopardize human health is avian influenza. In Hong Kong, where scores of people have died from the so-called "bird- flu," over one million chickens have been destroyed in the panic to stop the spread of the disease. In India, so far, more than 45 million birds have been killed due to bird-flu scare.
Millions of Americans are infected, and thousands die every year from contaminated animal ‘food’ products. Despite repeated warnings from consumer advocates, the USDA's meat inspection system remains grossly inadequate, and consumers are now being told to "expect" animal products to be tainted.
Meanwhile, the agribusiness industry, rather than advising consumers to curtail their intake of animal products, has devised extreme measures (overcooking, antibiotics, etc.) to help consumers circumvent the hazards of animal products and maintain their gross over-consumption of meat and dairy.
