March 31 2003 Highlights

March 31, 2003
This Biweekly Highlights provides announcements and links of special interest to nutrition and aging professionals.

Of Special Interest

AoA Press release (3/26/03). HHS Assistant Secretary for Aging Josefina G. Carbonell today announced practical nutrition recommendations to help promote health and prevent disease among older Americans in the United States at the Camp Springs Senior Center in Camp Springs, Maryland.
Federal Register (3/6/03, p.10725). HHS has established a Diabetes Detection Program and seeks public and private organizations, including state health departments and AAAs, to assist in implementing the project. Interested participants must notify HHS by April 21. Contact: Elizabeth Majestic (202) 401-6295. (Source: Older Americans Report 3/7/03)
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will hold public listening sessions in 6 cities: Tampa 4/3, San Antonio 4/8, Iowa City 4/15, Pittsburgh 4/23, Los Angeles 4/29, Baltimore 5/7. EPA's Aging Initiative has partnered with universities and AAAs to hold these important listening sessions. The meetings are open to the public and pre-registration is required due to the limited seating capacity at each location. You are encouraged to attend and listen or attend and present. Flyers available to download.

News

USDA Food and Nutrition Service (3/10/03). Report available lists all of the possible Food Stamp Program options offered to the states in the 2002 Farm Bill. There are twenty-nine options and waivers listed, including reporting requirements, vehicle policies, standard utility allowances, etc. The report goes through the states and lists which options and waivers each state has taken advantage of. (Source: Food Research Action Council 3/13/03)
Surgeon General's Workshop on Osteoporosis and Bone Health Report. Office of the Surgeon General. December 2002.
From the CDC Press Office (3/25/03). HHS Secretary Tommy G. Thompson today introduced a national plan to address the growing health epidemic of diabetes in women. Diabetes is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States and is a major contributor to heart disease, the number one killer of women. Publications and resources also available.
FDA Digest (3/24/03). FDA has issued four guidance documents designed to help manufacturers minimize the risk of tampering or other criminal or terrorist actions related to the nation's food supply. The agency also has announced increased surveillance of domestic and imported foods, as well as enhanced collaboration with other government agencies. The efforts are part of "Operation Liberty Shield," a national plan to increase protections for U.S. citizens and the country's infrastructure, while maintaining the free flow of goods and people across the nation's borders.
FDA Digest (3/24/03). Pergrina Cheese Corp, Brooklyn, New York is recalling 14-ounce plastic trays of "Peregrina Cheese Brand Queso Fresco Fresh Cheese" because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
Reuters Health (3/6/03). A study presented at the American Heart Association's 43rd Annual Conference on Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevention found that adults who eat breakfast on a regular basis are less likely to succumb to obesity and diabetes by helping to control appetite throughout the day. (Source: Food Research Action Council 3/13/03)
America's Second Harvest. Wednesday, June 5th is National Hunger Awareness Day 2003. The goal is to create an unstoppable movement that will end hunger in our country. A new website promotes the national and local activities surrounding National Hunger Awareness Day. (Source: Kim Prendergast, RD, Program Administrator for Community Kitchens, America's Second Harvest, 312-263-2303 ext 189).

Nutrition & Aging Bibliographies

Nutrition & Aging Resources

American Dietetic Association’s Guide to Better Digestion: Eat Right If You Have Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Heartburn, Lactose Intolerance, or Other Digestive Conditions (2003). For consumers, this guide teaches how to analyze one’s diet to identify the impact of certain food choices on a digestive condition; most common dietary mistakes made in managing gastrointestinal disorders; how to make the best, most comfortable food choices. Nutrition Counseling Education Services (NCES). (877) 623-7266.
Are You Ready? A Guide to Citizen Preparedness (2002). For consumers, this book provides facts on disaster survival techniques, disaster-specific information, and how to prepare for and respond to both natural and man-made disasters. FEMA, US Department of Homeland Security. (202) 566-1600.
Diabetesatwork.org. For professionals and consumers, this website helps companies assess their need for diabetes education and management at their work sites, provides guidance on choosing a diabetes friendly health plan. 30+ lesson plans and fact sheets.
Dietary Supplement Use in the Elderly Conference (1/2003). For professionals, this site include links to the Conference held on the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland, summary information, including presentations and abstracts. Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institute of Health. (301) 435-2920.
Elder Nutrition and Food Safety (ENAFS) Curriculum (2003). For professionals, this curriculum is designed to reduce nutritional and health risks through interactive educational experiences. Includes background information for educators, lesson outline, interactive discussion, hands-on activities, references, evaluation form, consumer handouts, and overhead masters. English and Spanish; some lessons include Haitian Creole or Vietnamese versions. University of Florida-IFAS Extension Bookstore. (800) 226-1764.
Geriatric Diet & Nutrition Patient Education Manual (annual updates). For professionals, this manual is a comprehensive patient education resource. Ready-to-use handouts in two reading levels in English and Spanish; easy-to-use diskette allows health care professionals to adapt handouts to fit particular practice situations. Nutrition Counseling Education Services (NCES). (877) 623-7266.
Handbook Of Obesity Treatment (2002). For professionals, this handbook guides the user through the entire process of planning and delivering clinical services. Special topics: improving self-esteem and body image, treatment of childhood obesity, service provision in the primary care setting, need for preventive interventions and policy initiatives. Nutrition Counseling Education Services (NCES). (877) 623-7266.
Ready.gov. For consumers, this website is designed to launch a process of learning about citizen preparedness. Information on how to develop a kit of emergency supplies and plan for what you will do in an emergency. US Department of Homeland Security. 800-237-3239.