The Autoimmune Epidemic
Wed, June 04, 2008 7:18 AM
Hello, all ...
I just read the most fascinating book by Donna Jackson Nakazawa called The Autoimmune Epidemic, a work I highly recommend for anyone suffering from one or more such diseases. Besides being a sufferer as well, Donna has shined the big spotlight on the potential factors contributing to (or triggering) the huge increase in reported cases of AI diseases throughout the Western world.
For the record, I have UC and dermatomyositis (diagnosed at the same time, earlier this year) and I dont know Donna save for a email exchange after my wife told me about the book. Im not much for exaggerating, so believe me when I say that this book will change your life and the way you look at the world. The good news is she has a chapter on wellness / supplements, which may be helpful to those of us still exploring such solutions.
Best,
Tom
socalvillaguyJoined Mar 7, 2008
Mon, June 23, 2008 5:52 PM
Reply posted for Jenn D H.
I absolutely agree, Jen. BIG grains of salt, too. At the same time, while there may never be a single cause for AI diseases found, there is very strong evidence out there which suggests one or more of the triggers that Donna writes about is a strong contributor to the rise of such diseases throughout the world. It's not a difficult leap to look at carcinogens and surmise how related pollutants affect other systems in the body similarly; the same goes for stress, for that matter.
I hope the book will call attention to the wealth of anecdotal (as well as clinical) data in the public domain and raise awareness for the AI community at large. With any luck, immunologists and other researchers around the world -- and those who control their funds, too -- will believe there's enough of a reason to concentrate some limited resources on the researching these issues. Prevention is only part of the solution, of course . .. cures are (perhaps) a pipe dream, but research is the key to both.
socalvillaguyJoined Mar 7, 2008
Mon, June 23, 2008 4:57 PM
Reply posted for socalvillaguy.
It is interesting that some diseases seem to be more prevelent in the
Western World, but until there are conclusive studies done, we don't
know for sure what is in fact causing them.
For example, it could be due to the "better healthcare systems" in the Western World as compared especially to the non-developed nations.
Another thing is that in general, we in the developed countries, I prefer this over the Western World, are healthier, i.e. don't have parasites or childhood illness that are controlled here by vaccines, so maybe our systems have the chance to become hyperactive. In general, most severe AI diseases are treated by suppressing the immune system, and when you are sick, before your body starts winning the battle, you are actually immunosuppressed.
I am not saying that those environmental factors in the developed countries don't play a possible role, but until the exact cause of every AI disease is determined, everything should be taken with a grain of salt.
Joined Jun 16, 2008
Wed, June 04, 2008 7:22 AM
Reply posted for socalvillaguy.
By the way, Support, I inadvertantly clicked the "Report Abuse" button on myself. Too early in the morning for these old eyes.
Tom
socalvillaguyJoined Mar 7, 2008
Wed, June 04, 2008 7:21 AM
Reply posted for socalvillaguy.
Update ...
I posted this same message on The Myositis Association board and it
generated some interesting conversation. The author, Donna Jackson Nakazawa has been traveling (besides touring for the book), speaking at conferences and such related to autoimmune diseases. Her goal is to get national awareness about how we're being exposed to so many toxins (and putting them in our own bodies voluntarily).
Again, if you are interested in understanding how AI diseases are affecting all of us and how the threat is growing daily, I suggest you read (borrow, buy) The Autoimmune Epidemic.
Tom
socalvillaguyJoined Mar 7, 2008
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