Health Zone: Medical notes.

A RECENT survey revealed that one in four people brush their teeth only once a day and fewer than one in 10 use floss.

To encourage better oral hygiene Dentyl pH, makers of toothpaste and mouth rinse, are giving away 50 Get Fresh kits of mouth rinse, toothpaste, toothbrush, tongue cleaner, refresh instant revival eye drops, Lynx razor and shaving oil for men.

Send your name and address to Dentyl pH Get Fresh, 42-44 Dolben Street, London SE1 0UQ.

EATING green, leafy vegetables containing the antioxidant lutein could help reduce the risk of age-related macula degeneration, a devastating eye condition.

AMD results in loss of central vision, and is the leading cause of blindness among over-50s in the western world.

Doctors advise a diet rich in fruit and leafy, green vegetables, particularly spinach, and limited saturated fats. High blood pressure and heart disease also increase the risk of developing AMD.

A Guide to Age-Related Macular Degeneration is a leaflet explaining the risk factors, preventative measures and where to find support. For a free copy send your name and address to The Lutein Information Bureau, Mill House, Mill Street, London SE1 2BA.

Macular Disease Society helpline 0800 328 2849.

Another leading cause of blindness is diabetic retinopathy, which affects more than a million diabetics in the UK.

It is a degenerative disease which affects the tiny fragile capillaries nourishing the retina. Sufferers are often unaware of the condition until it is relatively advanced and they start to lose their sight.

A recent study in Italy showed that Pycnogenol, a pine bark supplement, could slow or even halt the progression of retinopathy.

Scientists gave 30 sufferers a daily 150mg supplement and examined their retinas after two months.

Pycnogenol is available from pharmacies and health food stores nationwide.

A NEW type of hormone replacement therapy for menopausal women has just been launched.

Aerodiol is a nasal spray solution which allows rapid absorption of the hormone oestrogen into the blood stream.

It is particularly suitable for women who have undergone a hysterectomy so do not need progestogen.

Women with an intact womb need to take a daily progestogen tablet in conjunction with the spray.

Aerodiol, which should be used morning and evening, is available on prescription only.