Barefoot Running Magazine - Issue 10 (Autumn/Winter 2013)

Page 105

The silicone gel that was used in the implants that reached 65 different countries was sub-standard, resulting in many women suffering ruptures and potential health implications. Mas has been sentenced to four years in prison and given a 75,000 Euro (£63,000) fine. He admitted guilt but is appealing the decision. The women who have been affected do not think that four years and a fine are ample punishment. Although there have been no long term risks discovered due to the silicone leaking into the body from faulty implants, it is still very much a concern and Mas faces separate charges of manslaughter.

International news

enry Lowe, a Jamaican researcher who specializes in studying medicinal uses for plants, has created a new company to develop more medicinal products using the marijuana plant. He has named the company “Medicanja” and has the backing of several Jamaican politicians, including the Health Minister, Fenton Ferguson. The new company will not violate any national laws. Jamaican citizens have been using marijuana for medicinal and spiritual purposes for years and it already forms the basis for certain medicines, including “Canasol” which is used to help relieve pressure in the eyes of glaucoma sufferers. There are frequent calls for the drug to be decriminalized but whilst many politicians would back this action, other people in positions of prominence (such as some church leaders and lawmakers) believe that the negative effects of the plant outweigh any benefits.

Dementia is being described as “a global disaster waiting to happen” with an expected worldwide increase in sufferers from today’s million to135 million by 2050

Barefoot Running Magazine

The latest international news

ne of the biggest trials in French history took place recently. Under scrutiny was Frenchman Jean-Claude Mas, accused of fraud in relation to the substantial number of faulty breast implants that his company has distributed.

The oldest woman to run the New York City marathon this year, 86 year old Joy Johnson, passed away the following day but her family are pleased she left the world doing something she loved

Autumn/Winter 2013

Page 105


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