ABSTRACT
Many problems of health promotion or prevention call for an understanding of relations among variables embedded in complex causal webs that may include psychosocial, cultural, or environmental factors as well as biological dysfunction. Experimental investigation of these kinds of research problems is frequently impossible or not feasible. Causal modeling, particularly latent variable structural modeling, can provide a useful alternative to manipulative experimentation when one is trying to build and test explanatory models in a rigorous and systematic fashion. A hypothetical model of fibromyalgia is presented to illustrate how latent variable models can prove useful when the malady under investigation is of relatively complex multifactorial origin. Topics discussed include the fundamental notion underlying causal models, how such models solve problems due to measurement error, and why both cross-sectional and longitudinal models deserve consideration. A number of applications in medical research are described.
Subject(s)
Complementary Therapies , Female , Fibromyalgia , Health Promotion , Humans , Life Change Events , MaleABSTRACT
Ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) chelation therapy has been used for decades for the treatment of vascular disease, alone or in combination with other treatments. This article includes a historic review of the research literature, current evidence of effectiveness, potential mechanisms of action of EDTA, and some brief case reports. The authors conclude that EDTA chelation therapy is a valuable therapeutic option for vascular disease, either alone or in conjunction with standard treatment protocols.
Subject(s)
Chelating Agents/therapeutic use , Chelation Therapy , Edetic Acid/therapeutic use , Vascular Diseases/drug therapy , Complementary Therapies , HumansABSTRACT
EDTA chelation therapy is safe, effective, and more economical than commonly used surgical treatments for vascular disease. This article includes evidence of effectiveness, mechanisms of action of EDTA, a discussion of studies that have been done regarding the therapy, and some brief case reports. The conclusion is that EDTA chelation therapy should be a therapeutic option for vascular disease, either by itself or in conjunction with standard protocols.
