Hi Gang.
 
This sounds interesting.  Does anybody know if folks outside of the
seven cities will access to video?  (Maybe via support groups?)
 
Joanna
 
On Wed, 7 Jun 1995 [log in to unmask] wrote:
 
>  SURGICAL PROCEDURES, CURRENT TREATMENT FOCUS OF
>   "TAKING CONTROL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE" SYMPOSIUM
>
> June 14 Satellite Conference to Involve 6,000 Patients, Caregivers,
> Physicians --
>
> New York, NY, June 8 -- Recent reports of experimental and potentially fatal
> surgical procedures to eliminate Parkinson's disease symptoms have raised
> awareness about the disease, but may have set unrealistic expectations for
> millions affected by the condition.  To put surgical treatments for
> Parkinson's in perspective, and provide insights on current treatment and new
> research, the American Parkinson Disease Association will host "Taking
> Control of Parkinson's Disease," a three-hour symposium broadcast live to
> seven major US cities nationwide via satellite on Wednesday, June 14.
>
> The interactive event, held during Parkinson's Disease Awareness Week, will
> directly involve more than 4,000 patients, caregivers and physicians who
> attend official sites.  Interest in this program has been widespread.  In
> addition to the official sites, more than 2,000 individuals -- under the
> auspices of PD support groups, movement disorder centers and community
> hospitals -- plan to obtain the satellite feed.
>
> "The search for a magic bullet to treat Parkinson's disease has been ongoing
> for years and is increasing in intensity," said Ray L. Watts, MD, associate
> professor, Department of Neurology and director, Movement Disorders Program,
> Emory University School of Medicine.  "Until the scientific community learns
> more, medications and other treatments remain the best weapon against
> Parkinson's in most people, as they can minimize patients' symptoms and
> perhaps even slow the progression of the disease."
>
> Traditional medication therapy for Parkinson's disease has been Sinemetr
> (levodopa/carbidopa).  However, because prolonged use sometimes can result in
> negative side effects and a "wearing off" phenomenon, many physicians
> prescribe newer agents such as Eldeprylr (selegiline hydrochloride).
>  Eldepryl may help to control/delay the need for levodopa increases, minimize
> levodopa-related side effects and extend the length of time that the
> medication is effective.
>
> Other medications to treat PD symptoms include anticholinergics such as
> Symmetrelr (amantadine HCL) and dopamine agonists such as Parlodelr
> (bromocriptine mesylate).  Dopamine agonists are medications similar enough
> to dopamine to mimic its action and stimulate neurotransmission directly,
> sending messages to the body to move.
>
> Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder resulting
> from a destruction of cells in the part of the brain that produces dopamine.
>  Over time, the disease causes tremors, rigidity, and loss of motor
> functions, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to perform
> routine activities such as walking, eating and getting out of bed.  It is
> estimated that approximately one million Americans have the disease, and
> another 500,000 cases are either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
>
> "Taking Control of Parkinson's Disease" will be beamed live from New York
> City to regions with high incidence of PD:  Atlanta, Chicago, Cincinnati,
> Phoenix, San Diego and Tampa.  The discussion will be led by Warren Olanow,
> MD, chairman, Department of Neurology, Mt. Sinai Medical Center; Ray L.
> Watts, MD, associate professor of neurology and director of the Movement
> Disorders Program, Emory University School of Medicine; and William Koller,
> MD, chairman, Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center.
> These leading Parkinson's experts will also moderate a discussion during the
> program to allow participants at each site to ask questions.
>
> Symposium topics include:
>
> * Disease Management Today, a look at current treatment and lifestyle options
>
>
> * Treatment: A Look Towards Tomorrow, in which ongoing research such as
> pallidotomy and fetal tissue transplantation will be detailed
>
> * Lifestyle, Support Options, which will showcase valuable techniques, tips
> and support programs to help patients improve their quality of life
>
> According to a recent APDA patient/physician survey, PD patients are taking
> an active role in learning about and managing their condition.  The survey
> found that more than two-thirds (69%) have conducted personal research and
> nearly half (46%) contact PD associations for support.  It also uncovered
> that nearly half (45%) want more information on how to maintain an active
> lifestyle.
>
> "We are very pleased to be able to offer patients across the country an
> opportunity to form a unique bond with others who share similar experiences
> and challenges," said Sal Esposito, president, APDA.  "In addition to
> supporting research initiatives, our organization is committed to providing
> patients and caregivers the educational tools to live a better life."
>
> The American Parkinson's Disease Association is a national charitable
> organization dedicated to increasing PD patients' knowledge and understanding
> of their disease.  Further, the association aims at improving patients'
> quality of life through advances in research, diagnosis and treatment.
>
> The following locations are official symposium sites:
>
> * New York City:  Equitable Center, 787 Seventh Avenue @ 52nd Street
> * Atlanta:  Atlanta Market Center - Inforum, 250 Williams Street
> * Chicago:  Chicago Marriott Downtown, 540 North Michigan Avenue
> * Cincinnati:  Omni Netherland Plaza, 35 West 5th Street
> * Phoenix:  Camelback Inn,  5502 East Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale
> * San Diego:  Holiday Inn on the Bay, 1355 North Harbor Drive
> * Tampa:  Hyatt Regency - Tampa, 211 North Tampa Street
>
> The symposium is cosponsored by Sandoz Pharmaceuticals and Somerset
> Pharmaceuticals.  Over the years, these two companies have worked with APDA
> and other PD associations to provide patient education to help Parkinson's
> patients take control of their disease and lead productive, fulfilling lives.
>
> Patients, physicians and caregivers who want to participate in the symposium
> can call the APDA at 1-800-223-2732 for registration information.
>