Clinical research in São Paulo seeks to map the effects of intoxication from adulterated drinks on the optic nerve and opens specialized screening for patients suspected of toxic optic neuropathy
The ingestion of drinks adulterated with methanol can never be forgotten, as we have recorded deaths and serious cases of poisoning in different regions of the country. The substance, used clandestinely to make the production of alcoholic beverages cheaper, can cause multiple organ failure and irreversible neurological damage — including toxic optic neuropathy, which compromises the optic nerve and can lead to permanent loss of vision.
Given this scenario, the Total Care Network, in collaboration with the Brazilian Association of Neuro-Ophthalmology and the Edson Bueno Center — an area dedicated to teaching, research and innovation of the Amil Group — began unprecedented clinical research in Brazil to investigate the effects of methanol on the optic nerve. The initiative combines social responsibility and scientific production: in addition to studying the extent and mechanisms of eye injuries, the project offers free ophthalmological evaluation to people suspected of having the disease who meet the established clinical criteria.
The study aims to analyze the possible damage resulting from exposure to methanol, which can cause blurred vision, spots in the visual field, changes in color perception and, in the most severe cases, blindness. The service is open to the public upon presentation of a medical report proving contamination by the substance.
“This cooperation brings together technical knowledge, structure and support to assist those affected by this situation, which is serious. Our role is to ensure that victims have access to specialized evaluation and care, essential to avoid consequences, with the support of the best professionals and equipment available”, says Anderson Nascimento, CEO of Rede Total Care.
According to Naiana Cunha, director of Clinical Governance and Ophthalmology at the Total Care Network, patient identification follows strict criteria to avoid bias in the research. “For the study to run smoothly and to avoid bias with other pathologies in the initial phase, the expectation is that patients will be referred by other doctors with suspected or confirmed poisoning, as ophthalmological findings can be broad, from small changes to blindness.” She explains that the inclusion criteria, approved by the ethics committee, have already been shared with the institution’s clinical staff and its medical relationship network.
The expert highlights that the main goal is to measure the impact of the substance on vision. “The expectation is to understand the degree of involvement, injury and sequelae that accidental ingestion can cause. Based on this understanding, it will be possible to define the next management steps and possible research”, he states.
The free service flow was structured to ensure agility and depth in clinical investigation. “We have a dedicated agenda in one of our units and, based on suspicion and referral by a medical professional, the patient is analyzed by our main researcher and subjected to a series of sequential stratification exams for a broad analysis of the ophthalmological condition”, details Naiana.
The action includes a battery of ophthalmological and neurological exams, such as visual field, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and electrophysiological tests, capable of evaluating everything from the functioning of the retina to the transmission of visual stimuli to the brain. The expectation is that the results will contribute to expanding knowledge about toxic optic neuropathy associated with methanol and support more effective diagnostic and monitoring protocols, at a time when episodes of beverage adulteration reinforce the urgency of coordinated responses between assistance, research and health surveillance.
To participate in the research, you must be 18 years of age or older and have a history of exposure to methanol or alcohol, in addition to having a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of toxic optic neuropathy. The condition is characterized by gradual and painless visual loss, difficulty perceiving colors and the presence of dark spots in the field of vision — without pupillary changes.
Another smart ring on the market
Lity, a manufacturer of electronics and accessories compatible with high-end devices, announces its entry into the well-being market with the Connect Ring, a smart ring aimed at monitoring sleep and health indicators, such as heart rate and SpO₂. Developed in stainless steel, water-resistant and hypoallergenic, the accessory features high-precision sensors and integration with the Lity Connect Ring app, compatible with iOS and Android, and is available in six sizes and three colors (golden rose, black and silver). “The app, together with the ring, allows you to monitor your heart rate at intervals of 5 to 60 minutes, while detection of SpO₂ and heart rate variation can occur every 1 hour. It is also possible to identify sleep phases and cycles to assess the quality of your night’s rest”, says Richard Kenj, commercial director.
The strength of Polylaminin
The Cristália Laboratory will begin Phase 1 clinical trials of Polylaminin, a molecule developed in partnership with the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) with the potential to regenerate spinal cord injuries and prevent cases of paraplegia or quadriplegia. The stage, recently authorized by Anvisa, aims to evaluate the safety of the treatment and will involve five patients, between 18 and 72 years old, with complete spinal cord injury that occurred up to 48 hours ago. After applying the medicine, participants will be monitored by an independent committee of medicine safety experts appointed by Anvisa. Congratulations to scientist Tatiana Sampaio, professor of Biology at UFRJ, who has dedicated herself to studying the molecule for 30 years, and to DR. Ogari de Castro Pacheco, founder of Cristália, who embraced this cause.
Herbalife launches protein gelato
Herbalife has just expanded its portfolio with the launch of Protein Ice Cream, a powder for preparing protein gelato aimed at those looking for a refreshing dessert combined with well-being. Vegetarian and made with whey protein, the product offers 11 grams of protein per 100 g serving — around 160% more than the market average — in addition to having 25% fewer calories, 90% less added sugars and 42% less saturated fat compared to conventional gelatos. Rich in fiber and gluten-free, the product comes in vanilla and chocolate flavors and can be easily prepared in a blender with ice water.
Blue March
In Blue March, colorectal cancer awareness month, experts reinforce the importance of healthy habits to reduce the risk of the disease. According to coloproctologist Dr. Paula A. Conceição, factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and obesity are directly associated with the increased incidence of bowel cancer, as they negatively impact intestinal health over time. “Reducing alcohol consumption, giving up smoking and maintaining a healthy weight are fundamental attitudes towards preventing colorectal cancer”, he advises. The doctor also warns that persistent symptoms, such as changes in bowel habits, presence of blood in the stool, anemia, frequent abdominal pain or weight loss without an apparent cause, should be investigated, and not ignored.
*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Jovem Pan.
