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SUNNYVALE, Calif., June 18 /PRNewswire/ — Xoft, Inc., makers of the Axxent(R) Electronic Brachytherapy System, a proprietary technology platform designed to deliver localized, non-radioactive, isotope-free radiation Treatment in minimally-shielded clinical settings, announced today that Mark Carol, MD, has joined as Chief Medical Officer. Bringing more than 25 years of clinical practice and medical device industry experience to Xoft, Dr. Carol will focus on continued development of the current breast and endometrial cancer applications as well as explore future indications and markets based on the ability to deliver KV energy anywhere in the body.
“I have spent most of my career working to develop and deliver novel therapies to patients that have clear-cut clinical value, but do not cost them or the healthcare system an arm and a leg,” said Dr. Carol. “I am excited to join Xoft and be part of a talented team dedicated bringing a dramatic new approach to the delivery of radiation Treatment that I believe can lead to fundamental breakthroughs in cancer research and Treatment and, perhaps most importantly, patient care.
“While Electronic Brachytherapy has already demonstrated clear clinical value in the Treatment of breast and is now being applied to endometrial cancers, the energy range the technology operates in opens the doors to a myriad of new Treatment options and modalities. For example, intraoperative radiation therapy has had many champions over the years; however, without a truly portable system to deliver a safe and consistent dose, it has not been clinically or commercially practical. Binary therapy, known as photoactivation or Disease Activated Radiation Therapy, is another application well suited to this technology. If we can tag cancer cells with a material such as iodine that can be activated by KV energy, we have the potential to very effectively kill the cancer cells with little or no effect on the surrounding healthy cells,” added Dr. Carol.
Dr. Carol, who recently received the Ira Sohn Conference Foundation Prize in Pediatric Oncology for his research on the use of KV X-ray-based radiation therapy, previously served as a consulting medical director for Xoft. He received his M.D. with distinction from University of Rochester in 1978, and went on to complete a residency in neurosurgery at the University of Maryland. After spending four years in clinical practice, Dr. Carol went on to found several medical device companies, including NOMOS, where he pioneered the development of technology related to stereotactic and holographic-guided surgery, and conceptualized and implemented clinically the first commercial inverse Treatment planning, intensity modulation radiation therapy and image guided radiation therapy systems. Most recently, he was the founder and CTO of the DxTx Corporation, a company that developed novel approaches to the diagnosis and Treatment of early stage lung cancer, and Enki, Inc., an early stage startup company focused on novel approaches to the delivery of radiation therapy for benign and malignant disease. Dr. Carol has published extensively in the fields of radiation therapy and neurosurgery and holds more than a dozen patents in radiation therapy, neurosurgery, and cardiology.
“Mark Carol is a highly distinguished physician and innovative veteran of the medical technology industry and we are very pleased that he has selected Xoft as the next place to apply his immense creative energy,” said Michael Klein, president and CEO of Xoft. “Mark has a tremendous vision for the application of medical technology; however, it is always guided by a patient centric approach. This combination mirrors Xoft’s founding principles and is critical to our ability to deliver therapies that are clinically relevant and improve patient care and access.”
About Electronic Brachytherapy
Cleared for accelerated Treatment of early stage breast cancer and endometrial and rectal indications, the Axxent(R) Electronic Brachytherapy System is now cleared for use in the Treatment of other cancers or conditions where radiation therapy is indicated. As a platform technology, the Electronic Brachytherapy System is designed to address a variety of oncological and non-oncological indications. Designed to deliver electronic, X-ray-based radiation treatment, the proprietary Axxent Treatment platform can be used in virtually any clinical setting under the supervision of a radiation oncologist. The Axxent System is designed to deliver non-radioactive therapy directly to cancer sites with minimal radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Eliminating the need for heavily shielded environments, it gives radiation oncologists the flexibility to deliver therapy in a broader range of clinical settings. As a result, tens of thousands of patients will have greater access to therapy that is delivered more easily and conveniently.
About Xoft, Inc.
Xoft is developing leading-edge new technologies for the practice of radiation oncology through Electronic Brachytherapy, which utilizes proprietary miniaturized X-ray tube technology. The Axxent(R) Electronic Brachytherapy System, Xoft’s first Treatment system, is currently being used in Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation (APBI) for the Treatment of early-stage breast cancer. This solution provides a therapeutic dose of intracavitary radiation directly to the region at risk without the complex handling and resource logistics necessary when performing brachytherapy using radioactive isotopes.
Xoft, Inc.

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THOUSAND OAKS, Calif., May 20 /PRNewswire/ — Depression is a serious but treatable health condition that affects more than six million American men. This condition will be the focus of a national campaign during Mental health Awareness Month in May, called Men Get Depression, which is supported by the Anthem Blue Cross Foundation, the charitable giving arm of Anthem Blue Cross.
The Men Get Depression National Awareness Campaign is an effort to increase knowledge, reduce stigma, and promote screening and treatment for male depression. State of the Art, an Academy Award(R)-winning communications company began developing the project more than six years ago. Funding for the research, development and evaluation of the outreach materials was provided by a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health. In addition to Anthem Blue Cross Foundation, support for the outreach, and broadcast dissemination was provided by Charles E. Kubly Foundation, Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation, Community Voices: Healthcare for the Underserved at Morehouse School of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and Carson J. Spencer Foundation.
“Men and women of all ages, economic status, racial and ethnic backgrounds can be affected by symptoms of depression,” said Leslie A. Margolin, president of Anthem Blue Cross. “Given the continued prevalence of depression and its associated costs to individuals and society, we are pleased to support, through our charitable foundation, this effort to create awareness around the symptoms and treatments for this condition.”
Included in this campaign is a one-hour documentary, which began airing on public television stations in California in early May 2008, that explores the corrosive effect of depression on the self, relationships and careers through the intimate profiles of real men, including a former NFL Quarterback, a Fortune 500 CEO, an Iraq War veteran, a university professor, a pastor and others.
To broaden the reach of the campaign, outreach partnerships have already been established with a number of leading national and community-based mental health organizations. On May 22nd, Mental health America of San Diego County will be featuring Men Get Depression at their annual Healthy Minds Luncheon in the Presidential Ballroom of the US Grant Hotel. Eric Hipple, former NFL quarterback for the Detroit Lions and campaign spokesperson, will speak at the event.
A Web site was also developed to serve as a resource center and guide for community organizations, employers, churches and individuals, who can download free resources, a community toolkit and film clips at . Additionally, due to the barriers to both awareness and treatment of mental illness and mental health care within the Latino and African American communities, outreach activities will include a specific focus on reaching men and their families within these communities. To increase access and usability, all materials have been developed in English and Spanish, reviewed for low literacy and closed captioned.
About the Anthem Blue Cross Foundation
Through charitable grant making, the Anthem Blue Cross Foundation promotes Anthem Blue Cross’ inherent commitment to enhance the health and well-being of individuals and families in communities that the company serves. The Foundation focuses its funding on strategic initiatives that address and provide innovative solutions to reduce the number of uninsured as well as organizations and nonprofit charities that promote the Healthy Generations Program, a multi-generational initiative that targets specific disease states and medical conditions. These include: prenatal care in the first trimester, low birth weight babies, cardiac morbidity rates, long term activities that decrease obesity and increase physical activity, diabetes prevalence in adult populations, adult pneumococcal and influenza vaccinations and smoking cessation. The Foundation also coordinates the company’s annual associate giving campaign and provides a 50 percent match of associates’ campaign pledges.
The Anthem Blue Cross Foundation is an affiliate of the WellPoint Foundation. To learn more about the WellPoint Foundation please visit .
About Anthem Blue Cross:
Anthem Blue Cross is the trade name of Blue Cross of California. Anthem Blue Cross and Anthem Blue Cross Life and health Insurance Company are independent licensees of the Blue Cross Association. (R) ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross Association.
Anthem Blue Cross

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DENVER, May 6 /PRNewswire/ — Racing driver and team owner Steve Marcus and his partners will donate their 2008 season race proceeds from their new BMW Z4 M Coupe to the Meisha’s Hope AIHA/IMHA Fund #338 at Morris Animal Foundation (MAF). All donations to Meisha’s Hope are used to fund research into the prevention and treatment of this often fatal blood disorder in dogs called immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), also known as autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). Marcus’s Siberian husky Tasha was diagnosed with the disease in mid-March.(Logo: )This autoimmune disease causes a dog’s body to destroy its own red blood cells. There is no cure and many dogs — more than 50 percent — die within weeks of diagnosis. After realizing how little research has been done into AIHA/IMHA, Marcus decided to raise money for the Meisha’s Hope AIHA/IMHA Fund #338. Marcus will debut his BMW Z4 M coupe, which will sport paw print decals and the Morris Animal Foundation colors and logo, on May 24 at Lime Rock Park Race Track in Connecticut.The Lime Rock event also will include informational brochures about AIHA/IMHA. Caps, T-shirts and stickers featuring the paw print and logos will be available and donations accepted, with proceeds going directly to the Meisha’s Hope AIHA/IMHA Fund #338 at Morris Animal Foundation. Additional proceeds from events at the KONI Challenge and BMWCCA will go into the fund as well. Through his “Race for Hope” fundraising efforts, Marcus hopes to raise more than $500,000 for AIHA/IMHA research.”This is how I can help my own dog and other dogs,” Marcus says. “We have tremendous ability to showcase Morris Animal Foundation and what they do and to direct funding for research to the Meisha’s Hope Fund. I’m going for it and I don’t like to be second place!”The Meisha’s Hope AIHA/IMHA Fund #338 was established at Morris Animal Foundation in 2002 by Joanne and David Dickson, whose dog Meisha was diagnosed with AIHA at age 3 and lived with the disease for nearly 10 years. The fund has raised more than $150,000 for research studies into AIHA/IMHA. These MAF-funded studies provided early insight into blood clotting complications, which often cause death in dogs with AIHA/ IMHA, as well as novel drug treatments.To support the Meisha’s Hope Fund, go to .About Morris Animal Foundation: Morris Animal Foundation, established in 1948, is dedicated to funding research that protects, treats and cures companion animals and wildlife. MAF has been at the forefront of funding breakthrough research studies benefiting animals in some 100 countries, spanning all seven continents on earth. MAF has its headquarters in Denver, Colorado. The Foundation has funded nearly 1,400 humane animal health studies with funds totaling more than $51 million. One hundred percent of annual donations go to fund health study programs. Charity Navigator ranks MAF as a four-star charity, the highest rating. For more information, call (800) 243-2345, or visit . Media Contact: Heidi Jeter 303-790-2345Morris Animal Foundation

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BOSTON, April 11 /PRNewswire/ — During Wednesday’s Satellite Symposium 3: The Challenges of Lung Transplantation in Cystic Fibrosis (CF) at the International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) Annual Meeting & Scientific Sessions, clinicians and researchers discussed some of the unique challenges in achieving excellent lung transplant outcomes in patients with CF.A highlight of the session was the concluding debate: Burkholderia Cenocepacia is an Absolute Contradiction to Transplantation between Duane Davis, MD, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC and Redha R. Souilemas, MD, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, Paris.Cystic Fibrosis, Burkholderia Cenocepacia and Lung TransplantationPatients with life threatening lung disease due to CF have a lot to gain by lung transplantation. Compared to other possible indications for transplant, patients with CF have, in general, the best outcomes, and a successful transplant can mean a significant increase in lifespan and a huge improvement in quality of life.A hallmark of advanced CF lung disease is repeated severe chest infections. In most cases these infections are responsive to treatment with powerful antibiotics and their presence does not influence the outcomes after transplant in CF patients.However in 5 percent of patients with CF, bacteria called Burkholderia cenocepacia infects the lungs before transplant. This infection is very resistant to antibiotics and if it returns after the transplant surgery it is extremely difficult to control and can be life threatening.It is estimated that less than only 30 percent of patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia who receive lung transplants survive beyond five years with many dying very early after transplant due to recurrence of the severe infection with this bacteria. In comparison, CF patients without this infection can expect 5-year post-transplant survival of up to 70 percent on average. The debate within the transplant community is whether or not to allocate donor lungs to patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia knowing that the success rate is much worse than in CF patients without this infection.According to Dr. Davis, lung transplants should not be performed on CF patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia until new research indicates a way to achieve better early results by better control of the infection. He went on to say new ways of treating patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia should be examined in clinical trials with a hypothesis, careful data collection and safety monitoring. Only after such research approaches have generated a clinical advance in treatment of this infection should lung transplants in CF patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia be performed in the same manner as those who do not have the disease.Representing the counter argument, Dr. Souilemas said he believes it is very difficult to choose between two patients who need the same procedure. “Medicine is science and art,” said Dr. Souilemas in the debate. During his argument, Dr. Souilemas also presented information on reversible factors other than the infection itself, which may contribute to the patients’ poor health before receiving a lung transplant, and thus contribute to poor outcomes. Dr. Souilemas finished his debate by proposing that each patient be viewed as a potential lung transplant candidate and encouraged clinicians to attempt to transplant each as successfully as possible.In the end, both physicians agreed that more careful research into transplants in CF patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia would improve success rates for these patients.About ISHLTThe International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of the science and treatment of end-stage heart and lung diseases. Created in 1981, the society now includes more than 3,000 members from more than 45 countries, representing a variety of disciplines involved in the management and treatment of end-stage heart and lung disease.ISHLT maintains two vital databases. The International Heart and Lung Transplant Registry is a one-of-a-kind registry that has been collecting data since 1983 from 223 hospitals from 18 countries. The ISHLT Mechanical Circulatory Device (MCSD) database has been collecting data since 2002 with the aim of identifying patient populations who may benefit from MCSD implantation; generating predictive models for outcomes; and assessing the mechanical and biological reliability of current and future devices. In fall 2006, ISHLT released the first international guidelines for heart failure patient management. For more information, visit . Contact: Lauren Mason (210) 857-2521International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation

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BOSTON, April 11 /PRNewswire/ — During Wednesday’s Satellite Symposium 3: The Challenges of Lung Transplantation in Cystic Fibrosis (CF) at the International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) Annual Meeting & Scientific Sessions, clinicians and researchers discussed some of the unique challenges in achieving excellent lung transplant outcomes in patients with CF.A highlight of the session was the concluding debate: Burkholderia Cenocepacia is an Absolute Contradiction to Transplantation between Duane Davis, MD, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC and Redha R. Souilemas, MD, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, Paris.Cystic Fibrosis, Burkholderia Cenocepacia and Lung TransplantationPatients with life threatening lung disease due to CF have a lot to gain by lung transplantation. Compared to other possible indications for transplant, patients with CF have, in general, the best outcomes, and a successful transplant can mean a significant increase in lifespan and a huge improvement in quality of life.A hallmark of advanced CF lung disease is repeated severe chest infections. In most cases these infections are responsive to treatment with powerful antibiotics and their presence does not influence the outcomes after transplant in CF patients.However in 5 percent of patients with CF, bacteria called Burkholderia cenocepacia infects the lungs before transplant. This infection is very resistant to antibiotics and if it returns after the transplant surgery it is extremely difficult to control and can be life threatening.It is estimated that less than only 30 percent of patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia who receive lung transplants survive beyond five years with many dying very early after transplant due to recurrence of the severe infection with this bacteria. In comparison, CF patients without this infection can expect 5-year post-transplant survival of up to 70 percent on average. The debate within the transplant community is whether or not to allocate donor lungs to patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia knowing that the success rate is much worse than in CF patients without this infection.According to Dr. Davis, lung transplants should not be performed on CF patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia until new research indicates a way to achieve better early results by better control of the infection. He went on to say new ways of treating patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia should be examined in clinical trials with a hypothesis, careful data collection and safety monitoring. Only after such research approaches have generated a clinical advance in treatment of this infection should lung transplants in CF patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia be performed in the same manner as those who do not have the disease.Representing the counter argument, Dr. Souilemas said he believes it is very difficult to choose between two patients who need the same procedure. “Medicine is science and art,” said Dr. Souilemas in the debate. During his argument, Dr. Souilemas also presented information on reversible factors other than the infection itself, which may contribute to the patients’ poor health before receiving a lung transplant, and thus contribute to poor outcomes. Dr. Souilemas finished his debate by proposing that each patient be viewed as a potential lung transplant candidate and encouraged clinicians to attempt to transplant each as successfully as possible.In the end, both physicians agreed that more careful research into transplants in CF patients with Burkholderia cenocepacia would improve success rates for these patients.About ISHLTThe International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of the science and treatment of end-stage heart and lung diseases. Created in 1981, the society now includes more than 3,000 members from more than 45 countries, representing a variety of disciplines involved in the management and treatment of end-stage heart and lung disease.ISHLT maintains two vital databases. The International Heart and Lung Transplant Registry is a one-of-a-kind registry that has been collecting data since 1983 from 223 hospitals from 18 countries. The ISHLT Mechanical Circulatory Device (MCSD) database has been collecting data since 2002 with the aim of identifying patient populations who may benefit from MCSD implantation; generating predictive models for outcomes; and assessing the mechanical and biological reliability of current and future devices. In fall 2006, ISHLT released the first international guidelines for heart failure patient management. For more information, visit . Contact: Lauren Mason (210) 857-2521International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation

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SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 7, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Rural/Metro Corporation announced today that is has been awarded a multi-year renewal contract to continue providing exclusive 911 ambulance services in Jefferson County, Georgia.The initial two-year renewal term begins May 1, 2008, followed by two one-year extension periods, for a total possible length of four years. The Company estimates the contract will generate approximately $1.2 million in net revenue annually, which includes a $0.4 million annual subsidy provided by the county to help offset costs related to uncompensated care.Jack Brucker, President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “We are proud to continue as the exclusive 911 ambulance service in Jefferson County and look forward to building on our reputation throughout the region as the quality provider of pre-hospital care.”Bryan Gibson, Group President, added, “Rural/Metro has a strong presence in central Georgia that is supported by an exceptional team of operational managers and EMS professionals. Our employees take a great deal of pride in serving their community, and we are pleased to be recognized by Jefferson County leaders as their trusted 911 ambulance service now and in the future.”Rural/Metro and its acquired predecessor company have provided exclusive 911 ambulance services in Jefferson County since 1990. The Company also provides non-emergency medical transportation services to local and regional hospitals and other healthcare facilities throughout the area.About Rural/MetroRural/Metro Corporation provides emergency and non-emergency ambulance services and private fire protection services in 23 states and approximately 400 communities throughout the United States. For more information, visit the company’s web site at .SAFE HARBOR PROVISIONS FOR FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTSThis press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, among others, the company’s ability to collect its accounts receivable, secure new contracts, retain existing contracts, and improve earnings and operating margins. Although Rural/Metro believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct.Reference is made to a more complete discussion of forward-looking statements and applicable risks that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements (”Cautionary Statements”) that include, among others, those identified under the captions “Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2007, which is available free of charge on the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) at or on the Company’s website at . All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements (or statements that may be attributed to the Company) are expressly qualified by the Cautionary Statements. The Company’s forward-looking statements are based on information available today, and it undertakes no obligation to update these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by the securities laws. (RURL/G) CONTACT: Liz Merritt, Rural/Metro Corporation (investors) (480) 606-3337 Jeff Stanlis, Hayden Communications (media) (602) 476-1821Rural/Metro Corporation

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SEATTLE, April 4, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Most people assume that cancer is genetic and cannot be avoided. However, according to the American Cancer Society, healthy behaviors could prevent approximately half of cancer deaths. Below is a list of 10 lifestyle changes, all based on the latest research, which people can make to improve their odds of preventing cancer or catching it at its earliest, most curable stages.– Don’t smoke or use any other tobacco products. Tobacco increases the risk for many cancers including those of the lung, bronchus, head and neck, colon, and bladder. If you smoke, stop. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you’ve tried to quit before, don’t give up — eventually something will work. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your physician, your family and friends, your employer, and even your insurance company. There are so many benefits to reducing smoking that many companies and insurance companies provide free help for quitting smoking.– Get screened for cancer regularly. Several tests can find cancer at a very early stage, sometimes even before a growth has turned cancerous. Finding cancer early can greatly increase your chance for a cure and reduce your risk of dying from the disease. Currently available cancer screening includes:* Colon: Starting at age 50, all people should have a colonoscopy (or even younger if at high risk). The frequency of colon screening depends on risk. A colonoscopy every 10 years is the norm for those with no personal or family history of colon cancer or high-risk polyps. Those at high risk may need more frequent testing. Acceptable alternatives for people who are not at high risk for colon cancer include flexible sigmoidoscopy, CT scanning and a test to check for hidden blood in the stool.* Breast: Starting at age 40, all women should get an annual mammogram (or even younger if at high risk) and a breast exam performed by a clinician. Some women may be eligible for a breast MRI and ultrasound as recommended by their physician.* Prostate: Starting at age 50 (or younger if at high risk), all men should have an annual physical exam (including a digital-rectal exam) and a blood test to check for blood levels of prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, which when elevated can be an indication of prostate cancer.* Cervix: Cervical-cancer screening (cervical sampling for Pap smear and human papillomavirus testing) should start as soon as a woman is sexually active and should continue throughout life with frequency depending on the woman’s risk and age.* Skin: All adults should have a yearly skin exam by their primary care doctor. Those at high risk should have annual skin-cancer screening performed by a dermatologist. Persons at high risk for melanoma or other skin cancer should examine their own skin monthly.– Keep your alcohol consumption low. This means no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. Alcohol use increases risk for several cancers including those of the breast, esophagus, colon, pancreas, and head and neck. Keeping your alcohol intake to the minimum daily level doesn’t mean that you can “save up” all your drinks for a week and binge on Friday night with your weekly “allotment.” This type of binge drinking is dangerous because it reduces your ability to make rational decisions, and it increases your risk of injury and of acute heart failure.– Protect your skin from the sun. Use sunscreen every time you go outdoors (preferably one with an SPF of 30 or higher that protects against both UVA and UVB rays). Keep covered with a broad hat and sunglasses, keep the amount of exposed skin to a minimum and limit time in the sun when it is the strongest (usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Remember that sun rays penetrate car and other windows, so you should use sunscreen any time you’ll be getting sun exposure through a window. Never use a tanning bed, as they are as dangerous as sun exposure. If you want a tan without going outdoors, use a self-tanner, as such products do not cause skin cancer or other skin damage.– Keep a physically active lifestyle. Research suggests that exercising three to four hours per week at moderate or vigorous levels reduces the risk of several cancers by 30 percent to 50 percent. Many studies have shown that regular exercise lowers risk for breast and colon cancers, and studies now suggest that risks for endometrial and lung cancer may also be lower in people who exercise regularly. You don’t need to be an athlete to get the benefit of exercise. Activities like brisk walking, biking, dancing, or any exercise that raises your heart rate and makes you sweat will be beneficial.– Keep your weight in the normal range for your height. That means keeping to a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or less. (You can calculate you BMI with online calculators). People who are overweight or obese have increased risk of developing several cancers including those of the colon, breast, pancreas, liver, kidney and endometrium, and perhaps leukemia and lymphoma. There is also evidence that men who are obese are more likely to develop a deadly form of prostate cancer if they develop the disease. Keep your weight steady; don’t gain pounds over time. Try to stay within 5 to 10 pounds of what you weighed at age 18. The best way to avoid weight gain and avoid overweight or obesity is to eat a diet high in vegetables and fresh fruit and low in high-calorie foods like sugared drinks, refined carbohydrates and fatty foods.– Avoid taking menopausal hormone therapy. Menopausal hormone-replacement therapy increases risk for breast, endometrial and, possibly, ovarian cancer. If you have menopausal symptoms, try to handle them without hormone therapy including estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone. If you need to take hormones, limit your use to less than five years.– Consider taking medications for reducing cancer risk. There are several medications that have been tested and found effective for reducing risk for cancer. Anyone considering using such medications should talk with their doctor about the pros and cons of these medications given their risk for the disease. These include:* Breast: Tamoxifen and raloxifene both reduce the chance of developing breast cancer by half in women at increased risk for the disease. Women at increased risk include those over age 60, and women who have certain family histories of breast cancer or who have had certain types of benign breast disease.* Prostate: Finasteride has been shown to reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer by 25 percent. However, it increases risk for some types of advanced prostate cancer.– Avoid exposures to cancer-causing substances. Radiation exposures and some chemicals are known to cause cancer. Make sure that any physician who orders an X-ray for you, especially high-dose ones like CT scans, knows how many previous X-rays you have had. If it is not an emergency medical situation, ask whether there is an alternative examination that would work for you, such as ultrasound or MRI, which do not have radiation. Limiting X-ray exposure is especially important for children and teens. If you work in an industry or occupation where you are exposed to radiation or chemicals, be very careful to follow the regulations of your company and the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration.– Eat a cancer-risk-reducing diet. The role of diet in cancer is far from established, but research suggests that a plant-based diet is associated with reduced risks for several cancers, especially for colon cancer. Some general dietary guidelines for reducing cancer risk are:* Keep your intake of red meat to a minimum. This means no more than 4 ounces of red meat per day on average. Four ounces of red meat is about as big as a deck of cards.* Avoid processed meats such as sausages and bologna. The chemicals used to process such meats have been found to cause several kinds of cancer.* Eat a variety of non-starchy vegetables and fruits every day. The National Cancer Institute recommends eating at least five servings of vegetables and fruit per day, but most experts on cancer and diet recommend at least double that amount. Experts further recommend that you eat a variety of brightly colored vegetables and fruits, as these contain the highest concentrations of vitamins. You can increase your intake of vegetables by putting them into your breakfast omelet, by snacking on carrots, and by mixing them into casseroles for dinner.* Minimize your intake of high-calorie foods such as sugared drinks, juices, desserts and candies, refined breads and bagels, and chips. By lowering intake of these high-calorie foods and increasing your intake of non-starchy vegetables, you will be better able to keep your weight to a normal level and avoid gaining weight.* Eat foods with high calcium and vitamin D levels such as fortified low- or nonfat milk and yogurt. If you don’t get enough through your diet, you may want to take calcium and vitamin D supplements. Check with your doctor, who may want to check your blood level of vitamin D, because many Americans have been found to have a deficiency in this vitamin.This news release was issued on behalf of Newswise(TM). For more information, visit . Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center

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ROSEMONT, Ill., April 3, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Facial trauma is a too frequent occurrence in sports activities from cycling to volleyball, and Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy (D-N.Y.) hopes to raise awareness of this issue by introducing on March 31, a congressional resolution (H. Res. 1062) to designate April 2008 as National Facial Protection Month.(Logo: )An estimated 5 million teeth are knocked out each year during sports activities and athletes participating in contact sports have a 10ACIORFIPROCENTE chance of sustaining a significant oral-facial injury each session and are 60 times more likely to sustain damage to the teeth when not wearing a protective mouth guard. Approximately, one-third of all dental injuries and approximately 19ACIORFIPROCENTE of all head and face injuries are sports-related.H. Res. 1062 asks the House to declare it critical to raise public awareness about the importance of using proper dental and facial protection during sporting activities and the need to conduct additional research to study the effectiveness of intervention programs that encourage use of helmets, facemasks, and mouth guards. The resolution also calls on sports healthcare professionals, parents and coaches to educate athletes about the importance of protective equipment and to encourage the use of all protective devices to ensure the athlete’s safety. It further recommends using protective equipment that meets the standards of the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) and is clearly identified as being in compliance.AAOMS members worked with Congresswoman McCarthy on the introduction of this important resolution and will seek support for it during their April 16th Day on the Hill in Washington, DC.Saving Faces, Changing Lives — The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), the professional organization representing more than 8,500 oral and maxillofacial surgeons in the United States, supports its fellows’ and members’ ability to practice their specialty through education, research and advocacy. AAOMS fellows and members comply with rigorous continuing education requirements and submit to periodic office examinations, ensuring the public that all office procedures and personnel meet stringent national standards. American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

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CHICAGO, April 4, 2008 /PRNewswire/ — Friendly Ice Cream Corporation today announced results of its 27th annual ‘Cones for Kids’ Valentine’s Day fundraiser to benefit Easter Seals. Since the conclusion of last year’s campaign, Friendly’s Restaurants have raised just over $616,000 to help children and adults with disabilities in 16 states. Most of those dollars were raised during the chain-wide ‘Cones for Kids’ program, while a few communities held additional fundraisers to top off the amount. This year’s success brings Friendly’s overall total raised for Easter Seals to more than $25.2 million since 1981.”‘Cones for Kids’ is a 27-year tradition that makes a real-life difference,” said George Condos, chief executive officer and president of Friendly Ice Cream Corporation. “We are proud of our corporate responsibility to give back to the communities we serve. Our partnership with Easter Seals allows us to do just that, through the funding of localized disability services for people of all ages.”Each year, the money raised through ‘Cones for Kids’ helps Easter Seals provide such comprehensive programs and services as medical rehabilitation, assistive technology, inclusive child care, adult day centers, and even camping and recreation for children and adults living with autism and other disabilities.”After all these years, I continue to be amazed by Friendly’s commitment to Easter Seals and enthusiasm for children and adults with disabilities,” said James E. Williams, Jr., president and chief executive officer, Easter Seals. “One in five people throughout the country have some type of disability. Friendly’s ‘Cones for Kids’ campaign gives a gift of independence to many of the real children and adults that make up that statistic.”Friendly Ice Cream Corporation is a vertically integrated restaurant company serving signature sandwiches, entrees and ice cream desserts in a friendly, family environment in more than 505 company and franchised restaurants throughout the Northeast. The company also manufactures ice cream, which is distributed through more than 4,000 supermarkets and other retail locations. With a 72-year operating history, Friendly’s enjoys strong brand recognition and is currently revitalizing its restaurants and introducing new products to grow its customer base. Additional information on Friendly Ice Cream Corporation can be found at .Easter Seals is the leading non-profit provider of services for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, physical and mental disabilities, and other special needs. For more than 85 years, we have been offering help and hope to children and adults living with disabilities, and to the families who love them. Through therapy, training, education and support services, Easter Seals creates life-changing solutions so that people with disabilities can live, learn, work and play in their communities. Support children and adults with disabilities at . Easter Seals

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PHILADELPHIA, March 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Smart Genetics has announced that PARADE magazine is featuring Alzheimer’s Mirror as part of a nationwide poll asking readers if they want to learn their risk level for developing Alzheimer’s disease. To vote, visit: eport#health.PARADE, the nation’s most widely read magazine with a circulation of more than 32 million households, is conducting the survey just two weeks after Smart Genetics launched Alzheimer’s Mirror. “I expect the PARADE poll will confirm what we have learned since we launched our new service — a growing number of Americans are eager to take the genetic test and want to understand their risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease,” said Julian Awad, CEO and co-founder, Smart Genetics. Smart Genetics has the exclusive rights to test for the APOE gene, the only clinically accepted genetic risk factor for late onset Alzheimer’s.About Alzheimer’s MirrorAlzheimer’s Mirror(TM) is a comprehensive service providing risk assessment, education and personalized tools to help individuals plan for the possibility of developing Alzheimer’s disease.Alzheimer’s Mirror(TM) is the only Alzheimer’s risk assessment service to examine all three parts of the APOE gene, each of which is critical to assessing an individual’s overall risk. It is also the only service of its kind that takes into consideration non-genetic risk factors, such as family history, age and gender so that individuals have a more complete understanding of their risk profile.Alzheimer’s Mirror is based on the National Institutes of Health’s landmark REVEAL study, which found that with proper education and screening, APOE disclosure is safe and beneficial.About Smart GeneticsSmart Genetics is a Philadelphia-based, direct-to-consumer genetic testing firm dedicated to providing consumers with meaningful and relevant health-risk assessments. For more information about Alzheimer’s Mirror, visit or call 1-866-893-1747. Smart Genetics

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