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People with learning disabilities, particularly Down's syndrome, are at increased risk of dementia. At present, services and care tailored to people with both dementia and a learning disability are unsatisfactory. This article reviews the literature specific to dementia in people with learning disabilities, including: comprehensive screening, diagnosis, management, environmental considerations, end of life care and training issues for nursing staff. Recommendations for best practice and service improvement are made to improve the quality of life for individuals with dementia and learning disabilities, pre and post-diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, the fifth in a series on dementia, discusses the principles of management and treatment of people with dementia. It describes how to proceed after a diagnosis of dementia has been made in the early stages of the condition, and general measures to maintain physical and mental health. Drug therapy for cognitive dysfunction is explained in the context of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance, and strategies for managing depression and psychotic symptoms are outlined. Non-pharmacological approaches are often effective. For behavioural problems such as agitation and aggression, it is important to try to understand any underlying factors. In general, the most important strategy is to avoid excessive prescribing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Draft guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), currently out for consultation, have suggested that drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease should not be prescribed on the NHS, If this becomes policy, much of the proactive work in dementia care could be lost [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports the assessment of Environmental Protection Agency on the risks of organophosphate pesticides on human health in New Mexico. Mechanism of toxicity of organophosphate residues; Ways of using pesticides; ability of organophosphates to inhibit cholinesterase.

The article presents the case of a 65-year-old female who was presented at a hospital due to bradycardia, which is a condition characterized by low heart rates. The patient is taking the cholinesterase inhibitor drug, rivastigmine, and atenolol. Following discontinuation of rivastigmine medication, the patient's bradycardia has stopped.

Reports on the confirmation from a study that the waste by-product formed from the neutralization of VX nerve agent at the U.S. Army's chemical weapons storage site in Newport, Indiana can be safely transported and treated at the treatment facility of DuPont Chambers Works in New Jersey. Purpose of biologically treating the by-product or hydrolysate; Failed plans of the U.S. Army in treating the nerve agent and the neutralized by-product.

Reports the number of registered cholinesterase-inhibiting organophosphate pesticides during the cumulative assessment of Environmental Protection Agency. Substitution of methyl bromide on organophosphate; List of other pesticides evaluated on risk assessment.