Proton Pump Inhibitors – What Does the Research Say?

March 13th, 2020 | Posted by Fred Bloem, MD in Holistic Medicine - (0 Comments)

Here is a collection of information about proton pump inhibitors.

Widespread use of gastric acid inhibitors in infants: Are they needed? Are they safe?
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5095572/ (World Journal of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology and Therapeutics)
“Previously assumed safety of these medications is being challenged with evidence of potential side effects including GI and respiratory infections, bacterial overgrowth, adverse bone health, food allergy and drug interactions.”
“Infants are physiologically predisposed to GOR [gastro-oesophageal reflux] because of their shorter intra-abdominal oesophagus, frequent liquid feeds that distend the stomach, and supine position[2]. Infants with GOR have been found to have frequent transient lower oesophageal sphincter relaxations, which are thought to be the pathophysiological basis of the condition. Fifty-percent of infants reportedly experience daily regurgitation in the first 3 mo of life, which resolve by 12-14 mo in most healthy infants[3]. The pathogenic mechanism leading infant GOR to develop into GORD is unclear, although decreased neural protective reflexes and delayed gastric emptying are thought to play a role[1].”
“There is also mounting evidence that children are being exposed to unnecessarily high doses of PPI with doses of 1 mg/kg per day up to as high as 4 mg/kg per day used in clinical practice. Recent randomised trials have shown that although there is a dose-dependant reduction in acid production, for the treatment of erosive esophagitis there is no significant difference in healing between 5 mg/d and 10 mg/d for children < 20 kg[20,21].”
“However, PPIs have consistently failed to show efficacy in reducing infant GORD symptoms compared with placebo. Chen et al[23] reviewed four randomised control trials (RCTs) of PPIs in treating symptomatic GORD infants < 12 mo, conducted by pharmaceutical companies under formal requests by the Food and Drug Administration. The results of independent studies such as Moore et al[24] have corroborated with their results, which are summarised in Table ​Table11[23–28]. Notably, Moore et al[24] enrolled infants with endoscopically confirmed GORD and found omeprazole significantly reduced the reflux index (percentage of total duration pH < 4) in these infants compared with placebo, but irritability improved regardless of treatment. In the most recent randomised controlled trial of PPI (Esomeprazole) for the treatment of symptomatic GORD, without endoscopy, all children were initially treated with PPI and then randomised to continuation of PPI or placebo[25]. It found no statistically significant difference in apparent treatment failure between the PPI or placebo group.“
“Headache, diarrhoea, constipation and nausea are idiosyncratic effects of PPIs that occur in 14% of children[1]. Acute interstitial nephritis, a rare, idiosyncratic hypersensitivity reaction to medications including PPIs, has also been reported in observational adult studies[29]. Increased risk of infection, for example, Clostridium Difficile, is increasingly being recognised[30]. Side effects related to the direct inhibition of gastric acid and reflex hypergastrinaemia, immunosuppression and drug metabolism have also been suggested (Table ​(Table22).”
“The human stomach has a median pH of 1.4, and a pH < 4 has a powerful bactericidal effect on ingested acid-sensitive bacteria[18]. PPIs often cause a gastric environment with pH > 4, inducing a state of hypochlorhydria which allows the overgrowth of bacteria in the stomach[18].”
“These microbial changes are thought to be due to the lack of the gastric acid barrier allowing bacteria to enter the intestine and also the effect of impaired protein digestion providing nutrients to facilitate bacterial growth[31]. Links have previously been made between these and similar changes to intestinal microbiome and the pathogenesis of inflammatory and malignant conditions of the bowel[33].”
“The pathogenic mechanism that allows enteric bacteria to cause gastrointestinal infections is multi-factorial. Gastric acid inhibition reduces the gastric microbiocidal barrier, delays gastric emptying, reduces gastric mucus viscosity thereby increasing the risk of bacterial translocation in addition to increasing the risk of colonisation by bacterial agents. Gastric acid inhibition also has an adverse effect on leukocyte function by decreasing adhesion to endothelial cells, reducing chemotactic response to bacterial proteins and inhibiting neutrophil phagocytosis by phagosome acidification[16]. This is potentially important in neonates and infants, who have immature humoral immunity[16]. A study on the numbers and type of bacteria in nasogastric tubes of patients receiving GAI demonstrated increased numbers of bacteria including Streptococcus, a known cause of community acquired pneumonia[34]. It is possible that the risk of pneumonia is increased as result of reflux aspiration of gastrointestinal contents into the lungs. PPIs may also directly inhibit the H+-K+-ATPase present in the respiratory tract, altering the pH of its seromucinous secretions[35].”
“The few paediatric studies available have made similar conclusions. Notably, a prospective study of 93 paediatric patients (4-36 mo) with endoscopically diagnosed GORD, showed that children treated with either ranitidine or omeprazole for 8 wk were 3.58 and 6.39 times more likely to develop acute gastroenteritis and community-acquired pneumonia respectively, compared with healthy children during the 4 mo follow-up[17]. Comparing 4 mo before and after enrolment, a significant increase in the incidence of acute gastroenteritis and pneumonia was found only in the treatment group, demonstrating that infection susceptibility could continue even after therapy cessation[17].”
“The results of safety studies on the use of gastric acid inhibiting drugs in infants, particularly in intensive care, where hospital-acquired pathogens are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality are concerning[38].”
“Elevation of gastric pH also interferes with protein digestion, and it is hypothesised that normally digestible dietary peptides are preserved and recognised by the immune system as allergens[19].”
“Increasing gastric pH leads to hypergastrinemia, which has growth-promoting effects on several epithelial types[46]. Consequently, long-term PPI therapy is associated with parietal and enterochromaffin-like cell hyperplasia, as demonstrated by a RCT between esomeprazole treatment for 5 years compared with laparoscopic antireflux procedures for GORD[47].”
“By reducing gastric acidity, PPIs may interfere with the absorption of dietary protein-bound vitamin B12 and ionised calcium from dietary salts[22].”
“PPIs have also been associated with an increased risk of fracture, as impaired calcium absorption is thought to cause a compensatory state of hyperparathyroidism to stimulate osteoclasts and bone resorption[51]”
“During 2006-2012, there were 26 reported cases of hypomagnesaemia associated with PPIs in literature, with symptoms including electrocardiogram abnormalities and neuroexcitability, including tetanus and seizures, which resolved following withdrawal of PPI[52].”
“The safety of PPIs in infants also requires more prospective RCTs to remove the effect of confounders and bias. Irritable infants with uncomplicated GORD are hence recommended to continue lifestyle modifications, such as changing feeding techniques or formula composition, and avoid acid suppression. If PPIs are to be prescribed, only the minimal effective dose should be used, and should be weaned as soon as possible. There is no direct evidence to suggest increased safety of H2RA medication compared with PPI and in situations where acid suppression is indicated (e.g., esophagitis) they have decreased potency. Attention should be paid to the substantial epidemiological evidence of increased infection risk with PPIs, especially in the vulnerable population group of preterm infants.”

PPI Side Effects News, What PPI Companies Hide From Doctors
https://youtu.be/fjtB2YIR5AM
New studies show that intake of these drugs for prolonged period are linked to chronic kidney disease, myocardial infarction, bone loss, dementia, and many more complications.
“Researchers found that patients who took PPI’s had a 96% increase risk of developing kidney failure and a 28% increased risk of chronic kidney disease.“
“These acid reducing drugs may increase the risk for chronic kidney disease by 20 to 50%.”

Proton Pump Inhibitor Use and the Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26752337 (JAMA Intern Med)
” Twice-daily PPI dosing (adjusted HR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.28-1.67) was associated with a higher risk [of chronic kidney disease] than once-daily dosing (adjusted HR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.09-1.21).”
“Proton pump inhibitor use is associated with a higher risk of incident CKD. Future research should evaluate whether limiting PPI use reduces the incidence of CKD.”

Proton pump inhibitors are associated with increased risk of development of chronic kidney disease.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27487959 (BMC Nephrology)
“Use of proton pump inhibitors is associated with increased risk of development of CKD [chronic kidney disease] and death. With the large number of patients being treated with proton pump inhibitors, healthcare providers need to be better educated about the potential side effects of these medications.”

Proton Pump Inhibitors and Risk of Incident CKD and Progression to ESRD.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27080976 (J Am Soc Nephrol)
“Our results suggest that PPI exposure associates with increased risk of incident CKD [chronic kidney disease], CKD progression, and ESRD [end-stage renal disease).”

Association of Proton Pump Inhibitors With Risk of Dementia
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26882076 (JAMA Neurology)
“The avoidance of PPI medication may prevent the development of dementia.”

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) accelerate endothelial senescence (endothelial aging)
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4902745/
“Our data may provide a unifying mechanism for the association of PPI use with increased risk of cardiovascular, renal and neurological morbidity and mortality.”

Proton Pump Inhibitors Accelerate Endothelial Senescence (Circulation Research)
” To conclude, we found that chronic exposure of human ECs to the PPIs, esomeprazole or SCH-28080, accelerates endothelial aging. This adverse effect seems to be because of an inhibition of lysosomal acidification and subsequent impairment of proteostasis. The accumulation of protein aggregates is associated with an increase in oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and senescence. Vascular senescence would provide a mechanistic explanation11–13 for the accumulating evidence that PPIs increase the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, renal failure, and dementia.2–5 In the presence of consistent epidemiological evidence of harm and a unifying mechanism for the disparate disorders linked to PPI use and with the knowledge that PPIs are being used by millions of people for indications and durations that were never tested or approved, it is time for the pharmaceutical industry and regulatory agencies to revisit the specificity and the safety of these agents.”

HCG Diet

May 6th, 2016 | Posted by Fred Bloem, MD in Obesity - (0 Comments)

MY WEIGHT LOSS STORY

How the Dr. Simeons HCG Protocol has helped me and my patients lose large amounts of abnormal fat.

My quest to help my patients lose weight dates back to 2001. Although I knew that there was a clear association between obesity and the many chronic illnesses that family physicians see in their practices, I did not know how to address the underlying causes. I had come to recognize that eating less and exercising more was not the complete solution to the problem of obesity. Finding the answers was not easy. It has been a long road with many disappointments, but in 2007 I was fortunate to discover a time-tested, safe, and effective protocol which had been developed by Dr. A.T.W. Simeons, a British physician who practiced in Rome, Italy, from the 1950s through the early 1970s.

Dr. Simeons detailed his protocol, which combines the use of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) and a specific low-calorie diet in his book entitled “Pounds and Inches”. Dr. Simeons found that HCG maximizes the functional capacity of all the centers in the hypothalamus, including what he termed the fat center, making it possible for fat to be released from abnormal fat deposits and to become available as a source of fuel to the body.

This is the first time in my career that I have seen large numbers of patients succeed in losing significant amounts of abnormal fat quickly without hunger and without adverse side effects.

I was so impressed and intrigued with my patients’ results and the safety of this protocol that I decided to start it too. Although I have never been grossly obese, I knew that I had excessive amounts of abnormal fat. In addition, I wanted to know for myself that this protocol was practical, safe, and effective. Finally, I recognized that the best way to learn and teach this protocol is for a physician to have a personal experience.

I started in April 2008 weighing 163 lbs and was impressed that I was able to drastically reduce my caloric intake without any hunger and without any side effects. I noticed that I quickly lost any desire and cravings for junk food such as potato chips. I experienced rapid weight loss manifesting as a significant reduction in the measurements of my waist and thighs. Within 2 months, by the end of May 2008, I had lost almost 20 lbs of abnormal fat. I was able to lose all this weight without engaging in any strenuous exercise activities.

As of the time of this writing, late July 2008, I am in the long-term maintenance phase of this protocol. I weigh 143 lbs and have been able to maintain my weight without any hardship and without restricting the amounts of food that I eat.

I invite you to learn more about the HCG Protocol by reading Pounds and Inches first. You can download it by clicking here. After reading this book you will be able to appreciate and understand the significance and importance of Dr. Simeons’s groundbreaking research that went into developing this highly effective protocol.

I offer to my patients both oral HCG and injectable HCG protocols as well as HCG Cream and Nasal HCG. Physicians around the world have successfully treated both men and women as young as 8 to 12 years of age.

Prolozone Therapy for Sciatica

June 19th, 2013 | Posted by Fred Bloem, MD in Fred Bloem MD | Musculoskeletal Health | Testimonials - (Comments Off on Prolozone Therapy for Sciatica)

I am a 68 year old man who is still very active, but have had increasing sciatic pain in my right hip when I sat for too long at a time, either driving or at my computer. I’ve also had pain in my left knee from a slow-healing injury. Over a month ago as I write this, Dr. Bloem gave me one Prolozone injection in each of those two sites. The pain in my knee was reduced significantly within a day and is now gone, and I could immediately sit for MUCH longer periods of time without my hip hurting at all–a great relief since I am about to leave on a three month driving trip. Prolozone has proven to be every bit as helpful to me as it has to so many others I had read about.

D.W.M.

Distilled Water Benefits

September 12th, 2012 | Posted by Fred Bloem, MD in Fred Bloem MD | Nutrition - (Comments Off on Distilled Water Benefits)

Over the years I purchased a lot of different water purification products. Most of them were water filters and one was a reverse osmosis product. None of these were perfect as some impurities and toxins just can’t be filtered out. Probably like most people I didn’t change the filters frequently enough because they were expensive or difficult to replace. After I purchased my ozone steam sauna which requires the use of distilled water I decided to purchase a water distiller. They are surprisingly affordable (under $200) for a unit that can distill up to a gallon at a time. The maintenance is pretty simple and inexpensive too.

I have been very happy with my distiller. It is quite amazing to see the brown/white residue that remains in the stainless steel water container after the distillation process is complete; especially when you consider that I distill water that has been prefiltered by my under the counter kitchen filter. Who knows what is in that residue? It could be anything, including waterborne contaminants such as viruses, bacteria, organic and inorganic chemicals, fluoride, fecal matter, pharmaceuticals, heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium, cysts, and other contaminants that are dumped in our water supply. Chlorine and other gases are expelled from the waste vent as the water is distilled.

Contrary to what some people say I don’t believe that drinking distilled water is harmful. It is the purest water that you can drink. It was interesting to read a customer review which stated that heart arrhythmias disappeared when the person started drinking distilled water. I have started recommending distilled water to my patients and it will be interesting to see what they will report as they avoid the contaminants in their drinking water.

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TA-65 – A Telomerase Activator

September 12th, 2012 | Posted by Fred Bloem, MD in Fred Bloem MD | Holistic Medicine - (Comments Off on TA-65 – A Telomerase Activator)

I was recently introduced to TA-65® which is a telomerase activator. It turns on the hTERT gene which activates the enzyme telomerase which can lengthen your telomeres. Telomeres are protective pieces of DNA material at the ends of each chromosome in every cell. The genetic material of chromosomes degrades if not properly protected by telomeres of a certain length. Telomerase activation in aged or chronically stressed normal cells has been shown to slow or reverse telomere shortening, increase replicative capacity, and restore or improve cellular function. In other words, the cells live longer and the patient benefits.

When telomerase is activated the shortest ones get “relongated” (made longer). Some illness associated with short telomere length are Werner’s Syndrome, congestive heart failure, ischemic cardiomyopathy, and Alzheimer’s disease.

In people who have taken TA-65® for one year or more they have seen the following statistically significant benefits:

  • A decline in the number of senescent (aging) CD-8 lymphocytes
  • A reversal of the normally seen, age dependent increase in natural killer cells
  • Improvements in total and LDL cholesterol
  • Significant decreases in fasting glucose and fasting insulin levels
  • Functional improvements in cognitive behavior-verbal memory and shifting attention
  • Statistically significant improvements in bone mineral density in males and a trend towards the same in females

Some anecdotal benefits that people taking TA-65® have reported include:

  • Need for less sleep but without fatigue – getting more done in a day
  • Improved joint flexibility
  • Improved skin health and appearance
  • Improved visual acuity
  • Improved sex drive

Those who should take TA-65® include anyone who has had a telomere length test and has short telomeres, anyone who believes their immune system is compromised and can benefit from its restoration, and everyone who is concerned about aging healthy and living longer.

I have just become a licensed distributor of TA-65® and am able to offer it to my patients at a good price. Please contact my office for pricing and ordering.

Please click here to read responses to frequently asked questions about TA-65®: http://bit.ly/Np1FLw

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. TA-65® is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Prolozone Therapy for Chronic Knee Pain

September 12th, 2012 | Posted by Fred Bloem, MD in Fred Bloem MD | Musculoskeletal Health - (Comments Off on Prolozone Therapy for Chronic Knee Pain)

“I am a 64 year old man with a long history of arthritis in my knees.  It was very painful to walk and especially painful when I tried to get up out of a chair.  Dr. Bloem did one prolozone treatment to each knee and I have had complete relief of the pain.  I have now been pain free for over a week with no signs of the pain returning.  I can’t believe how easy it is to stand now.  Thank you Dr. Bloem!!”

This patient wrote this testimonial in July 2012, over two months ago as of the time of this writing, and he has remained pain free to this day. Prolozone therapy has been a very valuable addition to my practice. Since May 2012 I have successfully treated patients and have done Prolozone injections in knees, hips, shoulders, and in the neck. However, Prolozone can also be effective for back pain, sciatica, TMJ syndrome, rotator cuff injuries, elbow pain, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, neuromas, carpal tunnel syndrome, and many different sports injuries.

Prolozone treatments may result in cartilage regeneration which explains why it is usually remarkably effective when patients have osteoarthritis of the hip or knee. In many cases it is not just a treatment for pain, but it is actually results in long-term relief.

The word Prolozone was coined by Dr. Frank Shallenberger. The first part means to regenerate or rebuild (“proli”). Ozone is the most active form of oxygen which causes damaged tissues, joints, ligaments, and tendons to regenerate.

Oxygen, vitamins, and minerals are necessary to tissues to regenerate and heal. Pain is often caused by low levels of oxygen which cause an accumulation of lactic acid, which causes pain. Prolozone injections include homeopathic anti-inflammatory medications that reduce inflammation and swelling. Vitamins and minerals are injected because they are required for healing. Oxygen in the form of ozone is injected last. Only one injection is  given in each joint treated and all the medication, nutritionals, and ozone is delivered in two syringes through the same needle. The treatment response varies with some patients experiencing complete pain relief in one treatment, but most patients only need 3 to 5 treatments spaced two weeks apart.

Please click here to view a video of Dr. Frank Shallenberger explaining Prolozone: http://bit.ly/QMl4b6
Click here to find an ozone doctor near you: http://bit.ly/TLNpPg

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Ozone therapy, including major autohemotherapy, Prolozone, and ozone steam saunas are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Ozone Steam Sauna Benefits

September 12th, 2012 | Posted by Fred Bloem, MD in Fred Bloem MD - (Comments Off on Ozone Steam Sauna Benefits)

After having become certified in ozone therapy and Prolozone therapy in May 2012 and seeing the wonderful results of major autohemotherapy and Prolozone I decided to also offer ozone steam sauna therapy to my patients.

Ozone therapy is not new and over the years there have been amazing reports from both doctors and patients. For example, there have been patients who reported cures from Lyme disease after receiving major autohemotherapy. According to Dr. Frank Shallenberger, a world renowned authority in this field whose course I attended in May 2012, major autohemotherapy is a slam dunk for patients with Lyme disease. He has also had much success treating patients with other chronic infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. With regard to ozone steam sauna therapy there have been reports of people being cured of cancer using this method.

Ozone steam saunas have also been beneficial for patients with skin disorders such as shingles. One patient reported a dramatic improvement after just one session and complete resolution after several more sessions. Patients with eczema and psoriasis see rapid improvements too and symptoms are typically much improved within about three sessions.

Ozone steam saunas have also been effective for patients with a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome and myalgic encephalomyelitis. Many patients have reported an improvement in their energy and overal sense of well-being within 4 to 8 weeks of starting weekly treatment sessions. Some reported cures whereas others did experience significant improvement.

As patients sit in the sauna they sweat profusely and are able to eliminate toxins. So any health concerns caused by toxicity is likely to respond. This includes silicon poisoning from breast implants and poisoning from other chemical exposures. The temperature of the sauna can be regulated precisely so it is comfortable for the patient. Usually we start with a temperature of 105 degrees Fahrenheit or less for a 15 minute session and then increase the temperature in subsequent sessions as tolerated and the duration up to 30 minutes.
Other health conditions that have improved in patients using ozone sauna also include arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and depression. With regard to depression it is believed that detoxification causes the brain to function better and that improved oxygenation causes the mood and overal mental functioning to improve.The advantage of the hyperthermia that is achieved by using an ozone sauna is that toxins are broken down and released, that the immune system works better, and that the growth of microorganisms is slowed down. In addition, the thermal effect causes blood vessels and capillaries within the deep layers of the tissues to dilate, which promotes better circulation.

 

Here is a link to the state of the art ozone steam sauna that I employ in my practice: http://bit.ly/PcGc6N
Click here to find an ozone doctor near you: http://bit.ly/TLNpPg

Please contact my office to schedule an ozone steam sauna therapy session. Sessions are $50 each.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Ozone therapy, including major autohemotherapy, Prolozone, and ozone steam saunas are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Cyanocobalamin vs. Methylcobalamin vs. Hydroxocobalamin

September 12th, 2012 | Posted by Fred Bloem, MD in Fred Bloem MD | Nutrition - (0 Comments)

In my practice I use different forms of Vitamin B12. In this article I explain some of the differences between cyanocobalamin, methylcobalamin, and hydroxocobalamin.

Cyanocobalamin can be given as an intramuscular injection. It should not be given intravenously. However, after injection it will need to convert to methylcobalamin, and then to hydroxocobalamin to be used by the body. Of all the forms of Vitamin B12 it is the least painful for the patient to inject. After introduction into the body it provides a small amount of cyanide. For individuals who are overall very healthy this is a good choice and this is also the least expensive form of injectable Vitamin B12. It is known that some people, such as smokers, are less able to transform cyanocobalamin into methylcobalamin due to toxins and heavy metals in the liver. These individuals need to use other forms of Vitamin B12.

Methylcobalamin is more bioactive and can be given intramuscularly, intravenously, and intraarticularly. It is slightly painful to inject into the muscle. In my practice I also use methylcobalamin when I do Prolozone injections into joints and into subcutaneously (under the skin). This is also a better choice for smokers who are unable to convert cyanocobalamin into methylcobalamin.

Hydroxocobalamin is the most bioactive form of Vitamin B12 and mostly given intravenously as intramuscular injections are very painful. If given intramuscularly it is mixed the local anesthetic procaine. Hydroxocobalamin is retained longer in the body and can be dosed less frequently. An additional application of hydroxocobalamin is that it can be used for patients with cyanide poisoning as it binds cyanide and allows for elimination through the kidneys.

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Interview with HCG Diet Patient

May 24th, 2012 | Posted by Fred Bloem, MD in Fred Bloem MD | Obesity - (Comments Off on Interview with HCG Diet Patient)

This interview of a patient who successfully completed the HCG Diet Protocol took place on April 26, 2012.

[flv width=”320″ height=”240″]http://www.drbloem.com/wp-content/uploads/videos/hcgdietinterview120426.flv[/flv]

Please clear your web browser’s cache if you have difficulty playing the interview.

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Smart Meters – Are They Safe?

May 17th, 2012 | Posted by Fred Bloem, MD in Environmental Medicine - (0 Comments)

Many people across the country are concerned about Smart Meters. The following is a compilation of information that one of my patients sent to me.

You may not be aware of devices, Smart Meters, which the utility companies are planning to/may have already put on your house.

Smart Meters are not innocent little boxes…but rather  high radiation producing devices which are now mandatorily being put on our houses.

Below is a link to an online, opt out, Change.org petition which you can easily sign in minutes. Time is of the essence; an opt out hearing for Maryland is set for May 22, 2012.  The letter which follows the petition is really clear about the issues.  If you do not live in Maryland, you may know someone who does you could send it on to…Wherever you live, these meters are coming to you…

From: info@marylandsmartmeterawareness.org [mailto:mdmeters@live.com]

Sent: Friday, May 11, 2012 4:56 PM

Smart meters are on their way to your neighborhood and home.  If you would like to protect yourself and your family from the possible adverse health effects of long term chronic exposure to RF radiation as well as retain your right to privacy in your home, please sign this petition, send it to others and try to come to the Maryland Public Service Commission Opt Out Hearing on May 22nd at 10:00 am.

http://www.change.org/petitions/we-say-no-to-wireless-smart-meters-in-the-state-of-maryland#

An excellent letter which summarizes the issues with clarity, precision and supporting documentation:

May 7, 2012

Mr. Douglas R.M. Nazarian
Public Service Commission Chairman
William Donald Schaefer Tower
6th St. Paul Street, 16th Floor
Baltimore, Maryland  21202-6808

Re: Personal Request by State Senator Edward R. Reilly to Explain My Concerns Regarding Smart Meter Health, Safety, Privacy, Cybersecurity Risks, Accuracy, Reliability, and Costs; Desire for Opt Out and Restoration of Analog Meter     

-OR-

“Why I want my Old Analog Electric Meter Back”

Dear Commission Chairman Douglas R.M.Nazarian,

State Senator Edward Reilly personally requested that I relay my concerns to each member of the Public Service Commission regarding Smart Meters and my desire for the public to have the option to “Opt Out”.  He said that the Commissioners were sincere people who would read and seriously consider my opposition to Smart Meters despite my letter arriving well past the deadline.  I hope this is true and that I have not offended the Commission.

In the interest of brevity, I will state each concern followed by a synopsis and footnote which provides the source(s) that the information was drawn from. The source documents are not enclosed but can be found on-line or reproduced on request.

1.  At a distance of three feet, a Smart Meter can emit a cumulative whole body exposure that is 40 times that of a cell phone.  At one foot, a Smart Meter cumulative whole body exposure is 360 times that of a cell phone. Dr. Daniel Hirsch, Radiation Scientist, Nuclear Policy expert at the University of California, Santa Cruz (USC), CA.  Glen Chase, Professor of Systems Management specializing in Environmental Economics and Statistics, Faculty Alumni USC, Cal State Monterey Institute of Int’l Studies, Naval Post-Graduate School, in his Audio lecture April 26, 2012 which I participated in.

2.  Smart Meters transmit almost continuously, day and night, twenty four hours a day, not just every 4 hours as the public utilities claim.   Poki Stewart Namkung M.D., M.P.H Health Officer Public Health Division County of Santa Cruz, California; page 41 in his report dated Jan 24, 2012 to Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors.  He was asked to analyze the potential health risks of Smart Meters.

3a. Smart Meters induce formation of electromagnetic fields which can have both thermal and  non-thermal effects.  These can result in DNA damage, disruptions and alterations of the body’s cells, blood brain barrier leakage, disruption of immune function (autoimmune disease), and infertility. Olle Johansson, Associate Professor, Dept of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden, in his report page 1, dated Jan 17, 2011, responding to the superficial study titled “Health Impacts of Radio Frequency from Smart Meters”, released by the California Council on Science and Technology (CCST).  This CCST report ignited a world wide firestorm of rebuttal from experts in this arena.

3b. There have been no independent authoritative studies on the health effects of Smart Meters.  For this reason, the utilities may correctly state there is “no proof of adverse health effects”.  But this does not constitute proof that they are safe.  The experts advocating Smart Meters choose to ignore the numerous independent studies showing the EMR (electromagnetic radiation) emitted by devices similar to Smart Meters, such as cell phones and Wi Fi devices, do have profound effects on biological systems.  Until Smart Meters are proven to be safe they should not be mandated for use.  Olle Johansson, Associate Professor, Dept of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden, in his report page 3, dated Jan 17, 2011, responding to the superficial study titled “Health Impacts of Radio Frequency from Smart Meters”, released by the California Council on Science and Technology (CCST).

3c. Smart Meters are already making people sick.  Sleep disturbances, cardiac arrhythmias, vertigo, headaches, nausea, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), have all been reported following the installation of Smart Meters.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91rqhpcQKNg&feature=related

4. Smart Meters may meet FCC standards but this does not mean these standards ensure public health and safety.  “Today’s recommended values for wireless systems, the SAR- value, are just recommendations.  They are not safety levels.  Since scientists observe biological effects at levels as low as 20 microWatts/kg, is it then really safe to irradiate humans with 2 Watt/kg (i.e. 100,000 times stronger radiation!) which is the recommended safe level for us?”  Olle Johansson, Associate Professor, Dept of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden, in his report pages 3-4, dated Jan 17, 2011, responding to the superficial study titled “Health Impacts of Radio Frequency from Smart Meters”, released by the California Council on Science and Technology (CCST).

5.  Opt Out customers would receive BG&E’s current standard meter which is a digital meter.  This meter differs from a Smart Meter in that it lacks the two way communications feature of the Smart Meter.  However these radiate RF (radio frequency) just the same. The Analog meter is the only one which does not emit RF and that is what “Opt Outers” would prefer. BG&E Website comments page 11, dated April 6, 2012.

6a.  Smart Meters radiate RF signals from which the power company decodes the customer’s specific energy use profile.  These profiles can be so detailed that they constitute real time surveillance. The power company should only be entitled to know WHEN the customer uses the energy, (peak, off peak, and intermediate times) and not HOW.  In the case of California, the detailed information collected by the power company wasn’t even available to the customer.  The customer could only access his total energy use that was 18 to 48 hours old.  They would not be informed of the details on how their energy was being used and by which device, but the power company had the information.  Glen Chase, Professor of Systems Management specializing in Environmental Economics and Statistics. Faculty Alumni USC, Cal State Monterey Institute of Int’l Studies, Naval Post-Graduate School, in his Audio lecture April 26, 2012 which I participated in.

6b. Smart Meters can capture usage information on more than just major appliances.  They can collect usage (or non usage) data from medical devices using a smart chip (RFID Chip) and thereby send that information for recording by the utility.  Surprisingly, HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) does not forbid this activity.  HIPPA requires only that the health care provider and the insurance companies protect patient data from disclosure to third parties.  BG&E and other utilities could legally disclose this information to health insurance companies or other organizations.

7.  Smart Meter customer energy profiles become the property of the power company and they can be sold to interested third parties without the customer’s consent.  This actually happened April 26, 2012 when the CPUC (California Public Utilities Commission) not only gave PG&E (Pacific Gas & Electric) permission to sell customers’ energy profiles to interested third parties, they ENCOURAGED it.  The customers had no say in the selling of their energy profiles. Glen Chase, Professor of Systems Management specializing in Environmental Economics and Statistics.  Faculty Alumni USC, Cal State Monterey Institute of Int’l Studies, Naval Post-Graduate School, in his Audio lecture April 26, 2012 which I participated in.

8.  Smart Meters are manufactured all over the world by several different companies and are of differing quality, safety and reliability.  A quick internet search of Smart Meter manufacturing sites revealed Reynosa, Mexico,  Andhra Pradesh, India, Inconee, South Carolina,  just to name a few. China was a favorite manufacturing site because they could produce Smart Meters for between $160 to $300, far lower than most of their competitors.  www.GreenTeleComlive.com

9.  Smart Meters are NOT certified by UL (Underwriters Laboratory).  Underwriters Laboratory confirmed in the case of California that Smart Meters were not safety tested.  The Capitola City Council discovered that Smart Meters installed by PG&E (Pacific Gas & Electric) lacked the UL symbol on the meter. This means the meter was never certified as safe by UL.  The Capitola City Council confirmed the lack of certification by contacting Karl Moeller, senior engineer with UL who could not find the Smart Meters on-line certification on the www.UL.com “Online certification directory” site.  Mr. Moeller stated “In summary, I am unable to confirm these devices (Smart Meters) as being UL certified”.  Karl E. Moeller, Senior Customer Service Engineer II, HVAC, Appliances, and Lighting, Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., 1285 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, New York 11747

10. Smart Meters can spontaneously burst into flames setting fire to buildings.  Ninety (90) Smart Meters have already self immolated due to electrical shorts. Unknown, questionable manufacturing processes and poorly trained / poorly paid laborers have led to dangerous Smart Meter failures.  See link below to see video of Smart Meter fire.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ah3nNo89-NU&feature=related

11. Smart Meters are vulnerable to hacking.  Many meters and components are made outside the US.  Foreign or domestic “bad actors” will have access to Smart Meter components and will learn ways to exploit their weaknesses, just like any other electronic communications medium.  They could tap into the devices, install remotely activated malware, tamper with collected data, etc. “This could result in bringing down the Power Grid via the Smart Meters themselves.”  Ex-CIA Director and Navy Admiral James Woolsey criticized the Power Grid (aka Smart Grid) and highlighted its vulnerability to hacking, calling it “A stupid, stupid Grid”   http://www.energynow.com/video/2011/08/10/preview-mix-james-woolsey

12. Smart Meters will cost the consumer much more money than they will save in reduced energy expenditures.  When electric bills, taxes, and direct purchases are totaled, each household would pay $2,300 per Smart Meter. Consumer cost issues should be settled before any more Smart Meters are rolled out.  Currently these costs are being offloaded on to the ratepayer by the utility without the ratepayer’s consent.  Nationwide that will amount to $255 billion in additional costs. We will all be spending a lot of money to save a little electricity.  “Why Smart Meters May Be A Dumb Idea” an Investigative report by William J. Kelly Consumers Digest, Jan 2011 pages 2-3.

13. Smart Meters will eliminate employment of meter readers.  This was one job that the utilities could not off shore.  While it is true that the Smart Meter industry will generate jobs, most of these will be in foreign countries.  I would gladly pay extra for a meter reader as I do currently than to pay $2,300 for a Smart Meter and thereby subsidize a manufacturer in a foreign country.  See statement #8.

14. Many states have already allowed Opt Outs, and some have actually required Smart Meter removal. Opt Outs were approved in California 4/19/12 so Californians have the right to have Smart Meters removed.  In Michigan, Bill HB5411 requires utilities to allow customers to reject a Smart Meter and to remove a previously installed Smart Meter on request.  In Maine the Public Utilities Commission REQUIRED an Opt Out Program 5/2011.  Nevada PUC approved an Opt Out program 2/2012.  A Hawaii opt out program was granted 3/2012.  Vermont Opt Out was granted just 4 days ago on May 3, 2012.  And what did Maryland do?  Bill HB 878 to allow Opt Out was KILLED!

In my opinion, Smart Meters do not offer a single benefit to the utility customer and they portend multiple adverse effects. I believe Smart Meter programs are a poorly veiled scheme designed to: (1) capture customers private information via illegal electronic surveillance and then build revenue by selling the information to third parties, (2) enable utilities to offload all costs associated with Smart Meters implementation to the consumer, (3) enable utilities to charge exorbitant energy fees based on new Smart Meter energy use rules, (4) jettison the meter readers from their payrolls, and (5) carry out these things while exposing people in their homes to constant RF emissions in unprecedented amounts with potentially detrimental health effects.  And we are to have no choice??

Thank you for your time and attention to my Smart Meter concerns.

Sincerely,

A wireless smart grid may actually create the need for more power plants.

SmartMeters use energy to transmit

Smart meters cannot save any energy, store any energy, make any appliance more efficient or save the customers any money at all.
The power output of 10 million meters each putting out 1/4 watt of RF would be 2.50 million watts. A standard broadcast commercial radio station puts out 50,000 watts of power, and requires 75,000 watts of electrical power to achieve this.
Using that formula, it would require 3.75 million watts of electrical power to power the 10 million smart meters in PG&E territory alone, and all of that power is paid for by the customers who have the new meters in place. The new meters might be fairly accurate, but they do use energy and the customers have to pay for that energy. That is the reason for higher monthly bills.
And that is just to power the meters which are part of a mesh network repeating the data through other meters until the transfer the data at a hub end repeater and transmit all that data on higher powered carriers to the central computers. All of that infrastructure has been paid for the ratepayers and federal stimulus tax dollars, the corporation or their shareholders do not pay for any part of the new systems installed.
In a document written by PG&E that was posted on the CPUC website as a reason for the rate increases, PG&E claimed that the new radio meters could save energy. How so ?
I think that PG&E thinks that they have the citizens and the government “stupified”.
A standard power plant puts out 1 million watts, so with the addition of 10 million new meters and related infrastructure, we will probably need to build at least 2 if not more power plants just to power the meter project, and how about those electric cars?
That is another story, but we can be sure that if PG&E does get away with this meter scam, they will ask us to pay for more power plants (probably nuclear), or face rolling blackouts. And we know that PG&E knows that the meters need lots of energy, but they will never admit it.
http://emfsafetynetwork.org/?p=7730

Vermont Legislature Adopts Free Smart Meter Opt-Out!!

Last week the State Legislators of Vermont voted to allow utility customers a no fee Smart Meter opt-out!

http://www.leg.state.vt.us/database/status/summary.cfm?Bill=S.0214&Session=2012

Specifically, the bill says that customers must be allowed “to choose not to have a wireless smart meter installed, at no additional monthly or other charge”.

*From the proposed House of Representatives bill: Sec. 15. 30 V.S.A. § 2811 SMART METERS; CUSTOMER RIGHTS; REPORTS (b) Customer rights. Notwithstanding any law, order, or agreement to the contrary, an electric company may install a wireless smart meter on a customer’s premises, provided the company:  (1) provides prior written notice to the customer indicating that the meter will use radio or other wireless means for two-way communication between the meter and the company and informing the customer of his or her rights under subdivisions (2) and (3) of this subsection;

(2) allows a customer to choose not to have a wireless smart meter installed, at no additional monthly or other charge; and (3) allows a customer to require removal of a previously installed wireless smart meter for any reason and at an agreed-upon time, without incurring any charge for such removal.

Meanwhile, the Vermont Public Service Board who regulate the Vermont utilities had already approved delaying opt-out charges until April 2013.  The purpose of suspending the fees were to evaluate the real costs, instead of arbitrary numbers.

In California, the Public Utilities Commission approved arbitrary and punitive opt-out fees, and is forcing customers who do not want Smart Meters to agree to the charges- even though they’ve never evaluated the charges!  Seems like Vermont has a few smarter people in charge.

Matt Levin, Outreach and Development Director for Vermonters for a Clean Environment stated they were “pleased the Legislature made such a strong statement on this issue”, however he also expressed caution as the Public Service Board and utilities will continue to evaluate the costs associated with opting out in upcoming proceedings and he said, “our enthusiasm is tempered by the realities and struggles of past experiences”.

However, there will be NO fees charged for at least one year and the legislature has banned the fees altogether. For now, Vermonters have been provided with relief and a victory!   CONGRATULATIONS!

* will post FINAL text once it’s posted online.

From one of the Hawaii activists.

Who is Responsible?

I have had that question asked many times, “Who is responsible for this?” and exactly what is it you are against. When looking for answers, one must first look at the foundation of the question itself.

In the first question, in the spirit of Ho’oponopono, in it’s deepest revelations of responsibility, it is shown that ultimately you’re the responsible entity. Either through your actions or inactions, Ho’oponopono shines the pure light of unbiased and non-judgmental illumination on what is truly happening. You cannot be taken out of the picture, but the same goes for everyone else that is in this drama. It is by acknowledging your part, can you step forward to make change. And each ripple of change you make, affects others in ways that are incomprehensible in their reach. To place blame on others or circumstance is the choice of stagnation, to accept what is, and move forward is your key to all that you can be. It is from that vantage point of non-judgment that allows you to move in any direction, and allows others to change without ego’s involvement.

As to what I am against, that’s easy – smart meters and all that they represent. Not just the health issues, but all of its meanings down to the foundations of their very existence. Smart meters represent the hubris of the elite, the mindless grasp for more profits, the soulless sacrifice of not only the public’s health and well-being, but ultimately all future generations’ survival. It is the epitome of greed and might makes right, without thought to consequences. It is a supreme manifestation of this age of consumerism, as now the corporate mindset begins its feeding frenzy and devours itself by feeding off of its own supports. And yes, we the consumers are now to be placed upon the menu.

I am against smart meters and all that they represent. I will use all of the gifts that God has graced me with to stand up, in any way that I am called to. Without rancor or ill will toward anyone, with humility and the spiritual energy of service to all, I have already prevailed.

Welcome aboard, and fasten your seat belts, we’ve got quite a ride ahead.

Mark Naea, Kapaa, Kauai

 

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