Oxidative stress markers in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Recent study data support the role of oxidative stress in diverse psychiatric disorders. Oxidative stress results from an oxidant/antioxidant imbalance, an excess of oxidants and/or a depletion of antioxidants. There are numerous studies that indicate that free radicals (FRs) damage neurons, and then play an important role in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and depression.

[Alternative hormone therapy in postmenopause].

Despite the fact that hormonal combination used in huge Wpmen's Health Initiative (WHI) is not common all over the world, and treated population is, because of age, in risk per se, study results have consternated not only lay users, but prescribers too. Namely, increased cancer, stroke and coronary heart disease risk associated with long term use of postmenopausal hormone therapy (HT) have rapidly declined the number of women treated with HT (either estrogen alone or estrogen plus progestogen). Considering recent position statements from leading organizations dealing with menopause, individualization of therapy and lower dosage HT becomes the state of the art.

Menopause in Croatia. Socio-demographic characteristics, women's attitudes and source of information, compliance with HRT.

Objectives: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in Croatian postmenopausal women, attitudes towards it and factors influencing this decision.

Methods: A total of 1100 women were interviewed in Ob/Gyn offices using self-response questionnaire of 56 items, dealing with demographic data, personal and family medical history, surgeries, menstrual and menopausal status, body mass index (BMI), sexuality, knowledge and attitudes towards the menopause and HRT.

Results: The adherence to HRT in Croatia was found to be very short, averaging only 3 months.