Approximately 16.2 million adults around the world struggle with depression. That is a staggering 6.7% of the population! With so many affected, what’s even more surprising is that the stigma attached to depression is still a major problem.

Many people state that the reason they often don’t seek out the help they need, is for this very reason. Stigma.

9 out of 10 people also report that the stigma associated with having a condition like depression has had a negative impact on their lives. From work to relationships and everything in between, the affects can be felt in almost every way.

Stigma can also deter people from seeking treatment, which can worsen depression symptoms.  Imagine having a problem and not being able to talk to your friends or family or get the treatment and care you need. This is a serious concern for healthcare professionals and patients alike.

So for Mental Health Month, here are a few ways you can help stop the stigma.

Educate yourself. Take time to learn what you don’t understand. Read, or better yet, talk to someone about what it’s like to have depression. Education can help increase your understanding and break down negativity.

Be careful with your words. Using first person language and avoid defining people based on their mental health. It’s also important to avoid saying things like, “Be Positive” or “I know how you feel,” as these may be taken in a negative way. For a helpful guide on phrases we should stop using when it comes to depression and other mental illness, check out this article from the Huffington Post.

Support organizations that support depression awareness. Getting involved and supporting organizations like National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) or the American Psychiatric Association can help on a larger scale. Each year, NAMI sponsors local races and other events to raise money for programs that are helping to fight stigma and get people the treatment and care they need.

NAMI is also promoting the theme of “CureStigma” throughout all of their awareness events, including Mental Health Month.

This month and every month, join the fight to raise awareness and get rid of the stigma.  Together we can help to improve and save lives.

Currently, ActivMed is seeking patients to take part in clinical studies for depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). To find out how you can participate, visit activmedresearch.com. Help us make a difference today!

May 20^th is recognized as International Clinical Trials day, to commemorate the first controlled clinical trial, conducted by Dr. James Lind.

May 20, 1747, Dr. Lind was a British surgeon aboard the HMS Salisbury for the British Royal Navy who took the opportunity to test a better way to treat the common problem of scurvy that had befallen 12 shipmates. Lind divided the sailors into groups of two. “They all in general had putrid gums, the spots and lassitude, with weakness of knees,” he wrote in his 1753 paper A Treatise on the Scurvy. The sick men were isolated from the rest of the crew, and given the same rations. He gave different treatments to each of the pairs. The treatments were cider, a few drops of a weak acid, vinegar, sea-water, nutmeg and barley water, or oranges and lemons. After 6 days, the two men who ate the oranges and lemons were well and fit for duty. The other men were still “weak in the knees.”

In 2003, Royal College of Physicians established The James Lind Library to commemorate 250^th anniversary of publication of Dr. Lind’s pioneering contribution “Treatise on Scurvy”. The publicity and popularity of the James Lind Library has made 20 May to be designated International Clinical Trials Day, because James Lind’s celebrated controlled trial began on that day in 1747.^5”

Dementia is a term used to describe a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Many people have issues with memory, which doesn’t necessarily mean they have a form of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. There are many different causes of memory problems. If you or a loved one is experiencing memory loss symptoms, a memory screening is a great option. Learn more about signing up for a free memory screening at our office HERE.

People with dementia may have problems with short-term memory, like keeping track of their keys or wallet, leaving their neighborhood, paying their meals, and preparing food. Many dementias are considered to be progressive which means symptoms start out slowly and eventually get worse over time. Early diagnosis is key to making a plan for the best treatment with the available options and coping for what’s to come.

There are three main stages of dementia. The first stage, mild dementia, may result in sadness, anxiety, and loss of interest in activities the person diagnosed once loved. You may notice that they have difficulty with remember words or names and have a tough time with new information. As a family member or caregiver, you may be unsure of where to go or how to manage the diagnosis yourself. In the early stages, be prepared to make decisions together regarding the future and their care.

Moderate dementia is the second stage of dementia. Physical function and judgement are affected at this stage. This can be very physically and emotionally challenging for a caregiver. They may make accusations towards loved ones or get aggressive with behavior or speech.  It’s important to remember that they are not doing this on purpose. Trying to identify the root of the issue and what has triggered the behavior may help to prevent or change the outcome in the future.

The third stage is severe dementia which may require around-the-clock care. At this stage, those suffering from dementia may have trouble recognizing loved ones or caregivers. They may have limited mobility and may lack control and require assistance when it comes to restroom habits, eating, etc. This can be a very stressful time for both loved ones and caregivers.

While dealing with dementia can be difficult, research studies for potential new treatments may be an option. If someone you love is suffering from dementia, ActivMed currently has enrolling studies for those seeking new treatment options. Candidates who qualify and participate will receive study-related care at no cost and receive compensation for travel. To learn more and find out how you or someone you love can get involved, click HERE.

Corporate Livewire awarded ActivMed Practices and Research, Inc. with the Innovation & Excellence Award and shares this information through a press release:

“ActivMed Practices and Research, Inc. was launched with the purpose of offering individuals the same quality clinical medical trials that are offered in hospitals and universities. The difference was that ActivMed wanted to offer these trials from a conveniently situated local office. They observed that many people cannot or will not travel the distance from suburban areas to large cities to participate in clinical research trials. If the commute happened to be too long or too complicated for the volunteers, then the number of willing participants would surely decrease. Excellence in Clinical Research Services ActivMed Practices and Research, Inc.”

“The Corporate Livewire judges were particularly impressed by ActivMed’s dedication to patient care, patient recruitment and their high standard of protocol delivery. Having completed over 750 clinical trials, they have developed the staff, processes, recruitment practices and facilities to meet performance expectations for phase two, three and four clinical research trials. These clinical trials have, in turn, led to countless advances in the ways of prevention, diagnosis and treatment.”

To read the full press release, click here.

Terry Stubbs, ActivMed’s CEO & President, was interviewed by Norman Goldfarb, Editor of the Journal of Clinical Research Best Practices and Chairman of MAGI.

Norman took some time to understand Terry’s ideas for advancing clinical research.

The article starts off with Norman asking Terry what she thinks it’s time for the clinical research enterprise to start doing. She answers by saying, “more sites need to take advantage of industry standards. Sites of excellence understand that using internal and industry-standard procedures, training, forms, checklists, metrics, certifications, etc., not only save time, but also improve quality.”

Read More

To learn more about upcoming clinical trials, visit our Facebook page.

We are so proud to announce that we partnered with Catie’s Closet in August 2017 during their Fill The Bus Clothing and Toiletry Drive to collect clothing and toiletries for kids in need.

We also encourage everyone to follow Catie’s Closet to stay informed of their current needs.

Schools equipped with a Catie’s Closet give students living in poverty the ability to discreetly pick and choose the clothing and basic necessities they need, and are proud to wear. Lack of access to basic necessities is one of the top reasons for absenteeism.

By meeting students’ needs, Catie’s Closet boosts self esteem and motivates students to attend school and focus on their education.

Every little bit helps- make a donation now

Help Us FILL THE BUS for Students in Need!

ActivMed Research is teaming up with Catie’s Closet to provide basic necessities that students in need require for a successful start to school.

• Collect items from now through August 7th
• Tell your friends, family, and neighbors who Catie’s Closet serves and what items we need.
• Join us on the eBus! Another way to support Catie’s Closet is by making a monetary donation. Buy your seat at catiescloset.org/fill-the-bus

What is Catie’s Closet?
Catie’s Closet helps students in grades pre-k thru 12 who lack access to clothing and toiletries, by providing them with everything they need free of charge to confidently walk through their school doors every day.

Today, Catie’s Closets can be found in 37 schools in MA & NH.

You can donate new or gently used clothing, new undergarments or full size toiletries at our Methuen Office – 421 Merrimack Street, Suite 203 Methuen, MA 01844

Questions? Contact Christine McIntosh at cmcintosh@activmedresearch.com

It is through the generosity of volunteers like yourself that we are able to support the 26,000 students in our community and provide these students with the essentials that they need to start the 2017-2018 school year off right.

We are honored to be AWARDED: EXCELLENCE IN CLINICAL RESEARCH SERVICES 2018

During the awards process there were over 100,000 corporate professionals, the general public and their subscriber base to nominate associations, companies & individuals based on achievements and strengths. Additionally Corporate Livewire’s extensive research team has put forward a selection of individuals who have excelled within their sector.

Information was submitted on each nominee and an independent judging panel decided upon the most deserving teams, practices and individuals to walk away with one of these prestigious accolades. Award winners will gain a place in the soon-to-be published awards winners’ guide, which will be distributed to over 200,000 businesses and professionals, as well as being distributed in Aspire Airport Lounges around the world.

We would like to thank and congratulate all of our team members here at ActivMed, our volunteers, and others involved in helping achieve this award – it certainly is a “Group Award.”

We are excited to share that ActivMed has been placed on the shortlist for the Healthcare & Life Sciences Awards 2017. These Awards celebrate and recognize the most innovative and successful projects completed in the past year – all around the world.

We are honored to be considered for the International Award.

Clinical Research Coordinator Advanced Certificate

• Affordable tuition and strong support services
• The convenience of learning online
• A career with expanding job opportunities

A clinical research coordinator is at the forefront of investigating the development of new drugs, drug protocols, medical devices and diagnostic tools. As a clinical research coordinator you will assist with conducting clinical studies and trials. Your responsibilities may include patient recruitment, data management, monitoring patient and study compliance, and keeping accurate documentation.

NECC iHealth Programs allow you to complete your semester coursework at a time that works best with your schedule. There is, however, one practicum course that requires the completion of a minimum of 180 hours of face-to-face work at a practicum site location.

NECC’s Clinical Research Coordinator Certificate will prepare you to enter the clinical research workforce with the computer, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills needed to meet the needs of the region’s research facilities. Successful completion of the program will help prepare you for the applicable credentialing/ licensing exams available for CRCs. This program can be completed over three semesters (Fall, Spring, and Summer). Eight courses are required, including the onsite practicum of 180 hours.

Click here to learn more.

For more information visit www.necc.mass.edu/ihealth, or contact Linda Comeau at 978-738-7610 or lcomeau@necc.mass.edu or Cristina Nuncio at 978-738-7609 or cnuncio@necc.mass.edu.

The symptoms of depression are characterized by an overwhelming feeling of isolation, despair and a feeling of sadness that lasts for 2 weeks or longer. Acute depression, commonly know as Major Depression Disorder or MDD is a serious medical condition that should be addressed immediately, this disorder is more than a case of the blues. An episode is a period when for 2 weeks or more you experience a loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities, accompanied by other symptoms, which could include hopelessness, anxiety, guilt, worthlessness and or feelings of emptiness.

These things are called disorders, not diseases. They simply mean that something is out of the ordinary which depression disorders are. They are a cluster of symptoms that has shown to correlate with a specific emotional state.

Today it is widely recognized that there are many reasons to screen for cognitive impairment, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease beginning at age 65.

Considerations include:

1. Early dementia-especially Alzheimer’s disease is easily missed. Early dementia, including mild cognitive impairment is a subtle problem. Family members often avoid the problem and compensate the individual.
2. Physicians tend to miss the initial signs and symptoms, so about 90 % of Alzheimer’s cases are missed early , and many individuals who have Alzheimer’s are never recognized as having the disease.
3. Diagnoses are still missed at moderate and severe levels, and estimates are that 25 to 50 % of cases remain undiagnosed.
4. Screening may lead to better care.
5. Early detection can inform caregiver education and help caregivers better understand the symptoms and behaviors of individuals in their care.
6. Early preparation can can reduce family stress and misunderstanding, caregiver burden, blame and denial.
7. Early awareness of the problem of dementia may help those most involved to promote advocacy for research for a treatment and a cure.

ActivMed gives free memory screenings at two of our research sites, call for an appointment and more information.
Methuen, Ma. 978-655-7155, ask for Ashley or Deepa
Portsmouth, NH 603-319-8863, ask for Kendra or Abi

information provided by AFA Care Quarterly

Nutrition articles stress the importance of following a strict diet in order to control bouts of acne, but is this really true? Many resources attribute refined carbohydrates, dairy, and saturated fats to acne. The thought is that Americans have become accustomed to a diet lacking low glycemic index foods (ie. processed foods), which in turn spikes insulin levels and causes an increase in sebum production. This sebum production can then clog pores often on the face, chest, and back, resulting in acne.

In 2013, a research study published in the American Academy of Dermatology showed a strong correlation between acne and diet. The article highlighted research based studies that primarily focused on glycemic index and blood sugar. In particular, a study of Australian males who followed a strict low glycemic diet experienced significant improvement in the severity of their acne after following a diet of low glycemic index foods. The results were not surprising and seemed to follow established stereotypes. However, they also had significant weight loss during the study. Did the diet itself cause the improvement in acne, or was it the weight loss? Or was it something else altogether?

It is hard to pin point what is the actual cause of acne because is seems to be a culmination of factors including genetics, food production, and food choices. In addition, with this particular study, there could be other differences besides diet that could contribute to the differences in acne results. While it is true that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean meats is an effective way to maintain a healthy body, it may or may not be the case for acne.

So is acne really affected by diet? There are certainly many studies that show a link. However, more studies are needed to figure that out true cause and control for more environmental and genetic factors. In the meantime, it can’t hurt to get the other proven nutritional benefits from eating a healthy diet!

Click here for more information about our acne studies

ActivMed is determined to help find a helpful medication to treat different severities of acne. We are currently enrolling for several acne related studies. Please feel free to call for more information at any time! 603-319-8863

Source: American Academy of Dermatology

Authored by: Samantha Lemelin, RA

Medically reviewed by: Marc Shay, MD

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, Atopic Dermatitis is a common skin disease in children and adults. Atopic Dermatitis has been given a few names, some of which may sound more familiar. Other names for Atopic Dermatitis include:

• Eczema (the name most people use)
• Dermatitis
• Atopic eczema

This skin disease is often characterized by very dry and itchy skin. If these areas on the skin are scratched, they will appear red and irritated, and infection can likely occur. These symptoms may come and go or there may be a persistent rash that, over time, could lead to tough and thicker skin areas. The American Academy of Dermatology, also states that Atopic Dermatitis appears differently in infants, children, and adults.

Around the world, between 10% to 20% of children are affected by Atopic Dermatitis, and about 1% to 3% of adults have Atopic Dermatitis. Anybody can get this disease, regardless of their skin pigmentation. Most of the people with atopic dermatitis are diagnosed before they are 5 years old (roughly 90% of people), and it is rare for atopic dermatitis to be initially diagnosed as an adult.

Some of the common factors that seem to increase a person’s likelihood of getting Atopic Dermatitis include:

• Family members that have Atopic Dermatitis, asthma, or hay fever
• Where someone lives (developed countries and colder climates are more at risk)
• Females are slightly more likely to develop Atopic Dermatitis
• The mother’s age at their child’s birth (If the mother gives birth later in life, the child is more likely to develop Atopic Dermatitis)
• Social Class (Atopic Dermatitis is more common in higher social classes)

Researchers are still studying what causes Atopic Dermatitis, but it is important to know that it is not contagious, and the disease usually runs in families. Across the country, there are multiple studies being conducted to aid in the treatment of Atopic Dermatitis, as well as to find out more about the disease in general.

If you are interested in joining a clinical trial, please contact us today!

ActivMed Website:  https://activemedredev.wpengine.com/

ActivMed Phone: 603-319-8863

Authored by: Kendra Thibeault

Medically Reviewed by: Abel Jarell, MD

Sources:

American Academy of Dermatology

WebMD Atopic Dermatitis

Clinical trials are research studies that utilize human volunteers, as individuals or in groups, to help researchers evaluate health-related interventions to evaluate the effects on health-related outcomes. Subjects are chosen from diverse groups of people reflecting both genders at variety of ages and ethnicities unless the study pertains to one specific type or group. The studies are divided into Phases according to which stage of development the health-related interventions being tested are established.

Phase 0 studies usually only involve a small number of people and they only have a small dose of a drug. Researchers are trying to find out if the drug reaches the root cause of the condition and how the drug interacts with the body.

Phase I studies are generally small, with just a few patients. Once testing indicates a n
ew treatment might help treat its target condition, phase 1 trials are done to determine what dosage of the drug is safe to use, what, if any side effects are generated, how the body copes with the drug and If the treatment is effective in treating the condition.

Phase II trials are designed to determine if the new treatment works well enough to test in a larger phase III trial, whether or not there are inherent side effects and a method to deal with them and to ascertain the most suitable dose to use for the best, safest results.

Phase III trials may compare new treatments with the currently recommended treatment to see how a completely new treatment compares with the standard treatment, to determine different doses or ways of giving current treatments. These trials will generally involve a larger number of subjects than phase I or II as differences in success rates may be small and more patients are required to show the difference.

Phase IV trials are done after a drug proven effective and is granted approval. Phase IV trials are conducted to learn more about any side effects and safety of the drug for general use.  This phase is also used to determine how well the drug works in larger populations and to explore the drugs longer term risks and benefits.

WHY DO SUBJECTS GET INVOLVED IN CLINICAL STUDIES?

People volunteer to participate as subjects in clinical studies for myriad reasons. Some subjects that suffer the conditions for which a new treatment is being studied become involved to have access to the latest treatments available and, hopefully; to help hasten the development of a new treatment that will benefit them. Others want to play a more active role in their own healthcare and to understand their ailment and methods of treatment more completely.

Most study subjects, especially healthy participants volunteer for more altruistic reasons such as helping to advance medical science to the benefit of everyone, to ease suffering and to offer hope to those suffering chronic conditions.  Some subjects state that they want to “pay forward” the benefits they have experienced due to the efforts of past volunteers who have helped in the development of medications and treatments that have had a positive influence on their lives.
Whatever the reason; volunteering as a clinical study subject can have a long lasting impact on the advancement of medicine and the well-being of future generations. The next time you take a medication to ease, treat or even heal an ailment…remember… the relief you experience is partially due to the efforts and generosity of clinical study volunteers.

Authored by: Jack Beaton, RA, CMA

Medically Reviewed by: Marc Shay, MD

The weather is getting warmer and everyone wants to get outside after the long, cold New England winter. We want to play with our kids, hike with our dogs, and start getting a head start on all of our yard work. Unfortunately, we all keep hearing more and more about the prevalence of lyme disease, especially in the Northeast, and the fear of going outside and enjoying yourself gets worse and worse with every story. It doesn’t help that the disease is very difficult to diagnose, especially in its early stages when it is more easily treated.

Lyme disease is an illness that is transmitted from a tick bite when it transfers the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. If it is diagnosed early, it can be cured pretty quickly with a round of antibiotics. However, without early treatment, it can turn into a very serious illness involving the joints, heart, and nervous system. It can still be treated at this point, but may need larger doses or intravenous antibiotics. In addition, some people continue to have persistent fatigue and achiness after they have finished their treatment, which can take months to go away.

So what can you do if you are going to have a long day outside to make sure you have a better chance preventing a tick bite?

Wear more clothes!

Wearing long sleeves and tightly woven clothing can greatly help in preventing a tick from getting to the food source: your skin. In addition, you can wear long pants and tuck them into your socks for added protection. Light colors can also be helpful in being able to see the ticks on your clothing.

Use a repellant.

Repellants with DEET are known to be effective in repelling ticks. However, use in moderation and with caution as they are also shown to have some side effects.

Always do a “tick check” after a day outside, especially in wooded or grassland areas.

Have you heard the country song, “I want to check you for ticks?”

Toss your clothes in the dryer.

If you immediately remove your clothing after coming indoors and put them in the dryer, the heat will kill the ticks. That way they aren’t wandering around the house looking for their next meal!

Take a shower.

This can help wash those pesky buggers away before they can chomp down.

If you find a tick, remove immediately.

Since it takes a bit for the bacterium to be transmitted in the blood, you may avoid infection if you remove an infected tick early enough. Stay tuned for another blog post coming up regarding tips for tick removal.

You did all you could, but you still suspect you may have been infected, what are the early signs?

The bull’s eye rash

Erythema migrans, or more commonly known as the “bull’s eye rash,” occurs in 70%-80% of cases. It usually starts as a small red spot at the site of the tick bite and expands over a period of days or weeks. It can sometimes end up resembling a bull’s eye with a clear center and a red circle around it, hence the name. The rash can vary greatly in both its size and the length of time a person has it. It can be as small as a dime and as large as an entire person’s back. It can range from a few days to a few weeks.

 Other early symptoms:

• Fever
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Body aches
•  Fatigue

If you suspect that you may have a tick bite rash, call your doctor immediately for treatment.

Have a bull’s eye rash? To learn more about clinical research exploring early detection of Lyme disease after a tick bite and other topics, click here or call us directly at 603-319-8863.

For a list of our other Enrolling Studies click here.

Credits: SF Globe, WebMD, CDC

Authored by: Ashley Skukalek, CCRC

Medically Reviewed by Marc Shay, MD

Psoriasis is a common skin disease, which causes cells to rapidly build up on the skins surface. While Psoriasis symptoms can get better, there is no cure and usually symptoms will come back at some point or another.

In ancient times, urine was used to treat psoriasis. Thankfully nowadays there new treatments like topical creams, light therapy (also called phototherapy), and oral and injectable medications.

Recently damaged skin, such as areas that have recently been bitten by an animal, recently been tattooed, or been exposed to any other damaging act, are more likely to develop psoriasis.

One of the most common misconceptions about the disease is that it is contagious. This misbelief can cause people with psoriasis to feel uncomfortable in their own skin (literally). They may even be ashamed to show their skin while they have a flare up.

Psoriasis can develop anywhere on the body, but the most common places for it to show are elbows, scalp, and knees. These patches can be very uncomfortable, itchy and dry.

The best thing for people with Psoriasis to do is to seek treatment when they have flare ups and follow their treatment plans.

You can find out more about the psoriasis research studies now enrolling at ActivMed’s Newington NH and Beverly MA sites here!

Written by Tori Stubbs

COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a disease of the lungs that makes it hard to breathe, which gets worse over time. The most common cause of COPD is smoking. COPD is currently the third leading cause of death in the US.

Smoking cigarettes is the most common way for people to develop COPD, although only about 25% of chronic smokers develop it in their lifetime. Other forms of irritants can cause COPD as well, including smoking cigars and pipes, second hand smoke, pollution, exposure to dust, smoke or fumes, and smoking e-cigarettes (also called vaping).

The most important step in treating COPD is getting rid of whatever caused it in the first place, usually to quit smoking.

While there is currently no cure for COPD, there are many medications used to help patients with COPD, both inhaled and oral.

People with COPD can take a number of steps to help them feel better. These include; controlling their breathing, clearing their airways, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoke and other pollutants, and visiting their doctor regularly.

If you would like to find out more about the COPD research trials currently being conducted at ActivMed’s Methuen MA and Newington NH offices, please click here.

Written by Tori Stubbs

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that destroys a person’s memory, as well as other important mental functions.

In the US alone more than 5 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease. That’s one in every nine people over the age of 65. Currently there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, only medications that may help control the symptoms.

After 65, the risk of Alzheimer’s doubles every 5 years, however it’s possible to develop it earlier than 65. Some people who carry one or more of several rare genes, can develop symptoms anywhere between their 30‘s and their 50‘s.

The most common symptom of Alzheimer’s is difficulty remembering newly learned information. This is because it often begins affecting the part of the brain that is in charge of learning. As it advances, Alzheimer’s can cause more severe symptoms such as disorientation, mood and behavioral changes, confusion about time, events, and places, and newfound or intense suspicions about family, friends, and care givers.

Often people who have Alzheimer’s won’t be able to recognize that they possess the symptoms. It’s often easier for family and friends to identify the symptoms and then help accordingly.

Written By Tori Stubbs