In the Spring 2016 IC Optimist:
(1) Editorial: Does “Big Pharma” control the IC movement?
Jill Osborne tackles the misperception that big pharma controls the IC movement. In fact, they walked away from IC more than a decade ago. Learn about the history and two promising new companies that may be investing in the future of IC outreach and care. Simply put, we can’t do it alone. We need their help.
(2) Pelvic Floor Therapy – Does it work?
Author Stacey Shannon asks an important question “Why are some urologists not acknowledging the role of pelvic floor dysfunction?” Despite ample evidence that PFD is present in most IC patients and that pelvic floor physical therapy is the single most effective treatment studied to date, patients are often left high and dry by some urologists who refuse to test the pelvic floor muscles and/or provide a referral for treatment. She shares several patient stories and insight from physical therapists.
(3) Insights from the MAPP Research Network
If you’ve wondered what the state of IC research is today look no further than the MAPP Research Network. Funded by the US National Institutes of Health in 2008, this research effort includes scientists around the country (and world) in a quest to solve the mysteries of IC and chronic prostatitis. We include a very thorough update of their research findings to date.
(4) Could IC Flares Be Caused by Candida
One fascinating MAPP study released this year was the discovery of fungi/candida in the urine of patients struggling with IC flares. Could this be the missing link for many patients who simply can’t figure out why certain flares occur? We think so.
(5) Remarkable Patients With IC
We launch a new series for the IC community, profiles of patients who have done remarkable things despite having pelvic pain. In our inaugural feature, we introduce you to Janice Schmidt, an award winning winemaker who has struggled with IC for years. In fact, it runs in her family.
(6) Is Vaping Safe For Interstitial Cystitis
We know that tobacco smoke is a well known trigger for IC flares as well as bladder cancer. Is vaping any safer? We discuss the pros and cons in this new self-help tip.
(7) Five Ways To Not Fall Victim to Chronic Pelvic Pain
Activist and writer Tali Keteri shares five tips to help you lift your spirit and regain some of those activities that you miss because of IC. She knows what she’s talking about. She’s a master at living life to the fullest!
(8) Clinical Trial Announcements
The LiNKA studies for Hunner’s lesions and bladder pain have added several new research centers across the country!
(9) Fresh Tastes by Bev
Bev Laumann shares two fabulous recipes inspired by the clean, crisp foods of England – Baked Salmon & Pear Scones
(10) Beware the Non-Organic Strawberry
The Environmental Working Group released the 2016 list of the Dirty Dozen fruits and veggies. Topping the list for pesticide contamination was strawberries! We share the shocking research here. Who knew that the strawberry industry was using so many potentially carcinogenic chemicals on their crops.
Pages: 32
Publisher: Interstitial Cystitis Network
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About The IC Optimist
The IC Optimist is the quarterly patient and provider magazine for members of the Interstitial Cystitis Network. Each quarterly issue contains practical, helpful and informative articles written by IC experts that will give you hope. From the latest research to interviews with the best clinicians in the world, we believe that you’ll find practical tips in every article that will help you better understand and/or manage your interstitial cystitis. Each issue also include s superb feature stories, self-help strategies, consumer awareness notices, IC diet articles and, whenever possible, patient stories. Best of all, your purchase of an ICN Subscription or individual issue (e-book or print) helps to make possible our free IC support services.
