PSV-B-29 Late-Breaking: Comparisons of Practices of Raw Diet Versus Kibble Diet Dog Owners

An increasing number of pet owners feed raw meat-based diets (RD) to their dogs. Reasons include food safety concerns and the belief that feeding RD improves the overall health of dogs. However, it is unknown if owners that chose to feed RD also elect alternative healthcare and management strategies compared to owners that feed commercial kibble (CK). A survey was created to investigate differences in strategies between owners that feed RD versus CK. The survey was distributed via Qualtrics through social media, veterinary clinics, and food cooperatives. Participants were asked questions to determine demographics, feeding practices, and management decisions. Data were separated into the two populations, reported by frequency, and compared using Fisher’s exact test with P < .05 considered significant. A total of 1,249 participants completed the survey. Owners of RD dogs more commonly had intact dogs (RD 42.7% vs KB = 28.7%, P < 0.0001) or chose to spay/neuter after 1 year of age (RD = 55%, KB = 47.8%, P = 0.02). CK and RD owners differed in preventative medicine strategies. RD owners were more likely to not vaccinate for DHPP (n = 296; 52%) compared to only 16.7% (n = 111, P < 0.0001) of CK owners. However, RD owners used antibody titer tests to monitor immunity (n = 234, 46.8%) much more frequently compared to CK owners (n = 86;13.4%, P < 0.0001). RD owners were less likely (P < 0.0001) to vaccinate for Bordetella, (a non-core vaccine; n = 356; 62%) compared to CK (n = 218; 32.9%). More CK owners had their dog(s) on heartworm prevention, compared to RF (CK= 79%; RF = 62% P < 0.0001) and provided chemical or prescription flea/tick medication for their dog(s) (RD = 57% vs CK = 83%; P < 0.0001). The results of this survey support differences in management between owners that feed RD compared to CK.

Unani perspective on COVID-19 and the possible role of Tiryaq Wabai in its management: A Review

Science has uncovered much about SARS-CoV-2 and made extraordinary and unprecedented progress on the development of COVID-19 vaccines, but there is still great uncertainty as the pandemic continues to evolve. We are simply moving to a new phase of the pandemic. Tiryaq Wabai, is on the polyherbal medicine used for centuries by Unani doctors as preventative medicine in epidemics. It consists of three ingredients: Sibr (Aloe barbadensis), Zafran (Crocus sativus), and Mur-Makki (Commiphora myrrh). All the three ingredients of Tiryaq Wabai have various pharmacological activities like immunomodulatory, antitussive, expectorant, and antiviral activity which provide a strong basis for its prophylactic use for covid-19 infection. Further, research on this important prophylactic Unani formulation Tiryaq Wabai in Covid-19 is the need of the hour. Keywords: Tiryaq; Epidemic; Covid-19; Unani medicine

The Multifaceted Roles of Diet, Microbes, and Metabolites in Cancer

Many studies performed to date have implicated select microbes and dietary factors in a variety of cancers, yet the complexity of both these diseases and the relationship between these factors has limited the ability to translate findings into therapies and preventative guidelines. Here we begin by discussing recently published studies relating to dietary factors, such as vitamins and chemical compounds used as ingredients, and their contribution to cancer development. We further review recent studies, which display evidence of the microbial-diet interaction in the context of cancer. The field continues to advance our understanding of the development of select cancers and how dietary factors are related to the development, prevention, and treatment of these cancers. Finally, we highlight the science available in the discussion of common misconceptions with regards to cancer and diet. We conclude this review with thoughts on where we believe future research should focus in order to provide the greatest impact towards human health and preventative medicine.

Flexible finance: the key to sustainably acquiring new diagnostic technology for preventative medicine

Preventative medicine could be pivotal in reducing the human and financial burden of disease, but the fast-evolving technology requires investment. Penny Pinnock explains how flexible finance could make these developments more accessible to NHS trusts.