Health trends

Nephrology conference in Montego Bay

The Caribbean Institute of Nephrology mounts its Fourth Annual Conference on Nephrology and Hypertension at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, Rose Hall, on January 26-29. This, in an effort to address the problem of the increasing number of Jamaicans suffering from kidney disease and the difficulties with treatment in a majority of cases.

This year, the institute is honoured to welcome one of the leading authorities on kidney disease in the United States of America, Dr Larry Agodoa, as keynote speaker for the opening ceremony. Dr Agodoa's presentation will address the 'Political Strategies to Deal with the Growing Epidemic of Chronic Kidney Disease'. A highly respected physician, Dr Agodoa has served his profession with distinction and is employed to the federal government of the United States.

Hair regrowth products recalled

Men's Minoxidil 15 per cent, Azelaic, five per cent Hair regrowth topical, 60mL

Men's Minoxidil 10 per cent Azelaic five per cent Hair regrowth topical, 60mL

Men's Minoxidil five per cent Azelaic five per cent Hair regrowth topical, 60mL

Women's Minoxidil three per cent Azelaic five per cent Hair regrowth topical, 60mL

Hair regrowth shampoo enhanced with Ketoconazole and salicylic acid, 180mL

Perfect Image Solutions recalled all lots of these topical hair regrowth products because they are deemed "unapproved new drugs" under FDA regulations, and may present potential health hazards.

Use of these topical products containing 15 per cent and 10 per cent Minoxidil have not been shown to be safe, and could pose a risk to the general public due to the possibility of systemic absorption. Skin abrasions or irritations, such as psoriasis or sunburn, could increase the systemic absorption of topically administered Minoxidil.

Minoxidil 15 per cent and 10 per cent could cause low blood pressure, heart palpitations and associated cardiac symptoms. Azelaic acid contained in the topical products could make the skin where it is applied more sensitive to sunburn. Ketoconazole contained in the shampoo product could cause hair discoloration and abnormal hair texture, removal of the curl from permanently waved hair, itching, rash, skin irritation and dry skin. Salicylic acid contained in the shampoo could cause mild, temporary burning, itching, irritation, or stinging.

- Source: US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)