Now read a passage about asthma relievers (препараты для облегчения симптомов). What is the difference between preventers and relievers?

Relievers are drugs that relax and open up the airways making it easier to breathe. These are prescribed for the relief of asthma symptoms during an actual asthma attack, and before exercise or activity to reduce the risk of an attack. Because these drugs do not reduce swelling and inflammation of airways, you may also need to take a preventer. Some relievers remove symptoms almost instantly (rescue relievers). Others have a longer lasting action (long-lasting relievers).

Side effects are usually mild and pass away quickly. The main ones are a slightly increased heartbeat, and muscle trembling, especially in the hands. Some oral relievers may cause dry mouth, blurred vision, difficulties passing urine, or constipation.

UNIT 4. HYPERTENSION.

Read the article and do the tasks below.

While reading, find the words and expressions that mean the following:

1)повышенное артериальное давление; 2) по сравнению с; 3) инсульт; 4) почечная недостаточность; 4) многочисленные факторы; 5) быть склонным к; 6) определить; 7) вероятно; 8) недостаток физической нагрузки; 9) передавать (о генах, наследственности); 10) свидетельства, данные (полученные в результате исследования).

'Blood pressure gene' affects 20%.

The STK39 gene variant was found after scanning the genetic code of 350 people in the US and Europe. People with the variant had raised blood pressure (BP) compared with those carrying other versions.

High BP, also called hypertension, is important because, over time, it can increase the chances of heart problems, strokes and kidney failure. According to statistics, one in four people living in western countries has high BP, often undiagnosed.

When scientists linked variants of the STK39 gene to high BP, they realized that the gene produced a protein which controlled how the kidneys processed salt - a key factor in changing BP.

Dr Chang, one of the researchers, said: "This discovery will help us to individualize treatments - what we call personalized medicine." However, he added: "Hypertension is a very complex condition, with numerous genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors involved. The STK39 gene is only one important piece of the puzzle."

Mike Rich from the BP Association said: "The study may help us identify those individuals who may be more prone to hypertension. However, there are already indicators which can help us determine who is more likely to develop the condition, such as a family history of hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and poor diet and lack of exercise. The things you learn from your parents in terms of lifestyle and habits will probably have as much effect on your chances of developing hypertension as the genes they pass down to you."

Professor Mark Caulfield said the evidence pointed towards many different genes each having a small effect on BP.

1. Does the article say that…

1) high BP increases the risk of developing other diseases?

2) the STK39 gene variant is the only factor responsible for hypertension?

3) there are a lot of people who do not even suspect (подозревают) they have hypertension?

4) the function of the kidneys can affect BP?

5) BP does not depend on your diet?

6) the genes your parents pass down to you can influence your BP?

7) high BP can only cause cardio-vascular diseases?

Ask your questions.

1) ________________________________? – 350 people were examined.

2) ________________________________? – It is also called hypertension.

3) ________________________________? – It is important because it can increase the chances of heart problems…

4) ________________________________? – The gene produces a protein that controls the function of the kidneys.

5) ________________________________? – It will help us personalize the treatment.

6) ________________________________? – Yes, everybody may be prone to hypertension.

7) ________________________________? – Yes, your family history of high BP can increase your risk of having it.

3. Use the article to write about the BP gene research. Write about:

1) the background of the study,

2) the aim of the study,

3) the material and methods,

4) the results,

5) the conclusions.

Read the passage and answer the questions: How is hypertension formally diagnosed in the UK? Why is “ambulatory” BP monitoring advised?

High BP affects about a quarter of all adults in the UK. It is a leading risk factor for heart disease or stroke and costs the NHS about £1bn a year in drugs alone. These days, most patients are given a formal diagnosis of hypertension if their BP is raised at two subsequent (последовательный) visits to the doctor. They may then be prescribed medication to lower it. Research suggests, however, that about a quarter of patients actually have "white coat" hypertension that leads to misdiagnosis and administering drugs the patients don’t need. So doctors in the UK are advised to move towards "ambulatory" monitoring of patients at home, using a mobile device that automatically takes BP readings every 30 minutes day and night.

Explain to your patient the necessity of knowing their blood pressure. Tell them how high blood pressure can cause developing other diseases. Try to avoid a lot of specific medical terms.

UNIT 5. CORONARY HEART DISEASE.