Most of us already know that cholesterol and trans fat are not good for the diet and can lead to health problems, but now there is something else to be concerned about - your salt intake. According to a study conducted by the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Stanford University and Columbia University, even a modest reduction in daily salt consumption can result in tremendous health benefits.
The authors of this recent health study noted an annual drop of nearly 120,000 heart disease cases, 66,000 stroke cases and 99,000 heart attacks, all caused by high blood pressure. This drop was the result of reducing sodium by 3 grams per day.
Lead author, Dr. Kirsten, stated that, "everyone in the U.S. is consuming salt far in excess of what is good for them. What we are suggesting is that a population-wide effort to reduce salt intake even slightly will have health benefits."
The research team used computers to analyze the impact of reducing sodium by 3 grams per day had on instances of heart disease and death. They learned that by cutting back on sodium, the benefits were as good as reducing tobacco use by half, lowering one's body mass index by 5 percent or taking medication to lower cholesterol.
Researchers also looked into the cost savings from the amount of disease that would be prevented due to lower blood pressure. They found that by reducing salt intake, the United States could save anywhere from $10 billion to $24 billion every year in health care expenses.
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you may be entitled to disability insurance benefits. Contact a Miami disability attorney at the law firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo at 305-461-1095 or toll free at 866-71-CLAIM for more information.
- 1 - 10There is no question that chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) can significantly impact a patient's life. Hepatitis C is believed to be the most serious of all the hepatitis viruses. It attacks the liver and causes inflammation. The American Family Physician journal has referred to this virus as, the most common chronic blood-borne infection in the United States."
Researchers in Italy recently looked into a revised treatment option for HCV. Currently, chronic hepatitis C is treated with pegylated-interferon (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin, which has proved to be effective in about 50 to 60 percent of HCV cases. During the study, the Italian research team assessed the safety of including ketoprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, with the pegylated-interferon. Researchers observed the impact this revision had on patients.
According to the study's findings, which were published in the December 21, 2009 issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology, the addition of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug did produce good results. The authors of the study have suggested that a larger study be done to continue to review the effectiveness of this three-drug combination.
If you have been diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C virus, you may be entitled to disability insurance benefits. Contact a Miami disability attorney at the law firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo at 305-461-1095 or toll free at 866-71-CLAIM for more information.
- 2 - 10A study of 72 patients showed that migraines and carpal tunnel syndrome could be indicators of celiac disease, which is a medical condition defined by MayoClinic.com as, "a digestive condition triggered by consumption of the protein gluten."
Researchers screened a group of patients who had biopsy-proven celiac disease. The patients joined the study after hearing about it through advertisements. During the study, researchers used a standard questionnaire to interview the participants.
According to the research findings, close to one in three celiac patients had a history of migraine headaches and approximately 20 percent suffered from carpal tunnel syndrome. Researchers were surprised to find that epilepsy was not as common as they had expected, as only 4 individuals had a history of generalized or focal seizures.
During the study, researchers also learned that people with celiac disease were prone to depression, personality changes and psychosis. Thirty-five percent of the patients involved in the study reported a history of these mental conditions.
If you are suffering from a medical condition that is keeping you from working, you may be entitled to disability insurance benefits. For more information or assistance with filing your disability claim, contact a Miami disability lawyer at the law firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo at 305-461-1095 or toll free at 866-71-CLAIM for more information.
- 3 - 10As companies are cutting back, fewer employees are offered disability insurance as part of their "job perks," which is true for government and non-government jobs. It is now up to workers to purchase their own disability insurance coverage that will provide much-needed income benefits, if they find themselves with a medical condition that prevents them from working.
There is no question that purchasing disability insurance can be a confusing process and it is hard to understand what exactly is covered. The Wall Street Journal has reported that policies sometimes, "include conditions that make it tough for people filing claims to actually qualify for benefits." Some policies restrict the types of illnesses that are covered.
According to the article, "Just in Case: The Skinny on Buying Disability Insurance," posted on WSJ.com, as a consumer, you need to understand what benefits you are currently able to access and think about purchasing additional coverage to fill in the gaps. For example, do some research so that you know what the government provides, then determine if your employer has anything to offer in terms of disability insurance.
If you make the decision to buy disability insurance coverage, you need to figure out your anticipated expenses, if you were to become disabled. Knowing the amount of coverage you need, will help you plan.
- 4 - 10According to an article posted on Wall Street Journal's website, a few months ago a group of scientists published a study that suggested that the XMRV virus could be associated with numerous chronic fatigue syndrome cases. These scientists drew a lot of attention for their research findings.
When the study was originally published, the reporters at The Wall Street Journal didn't feel that it clearly established a link between the virus and chronic fatigue syndrome. Recently, a different group of scientists, from the United Kingdom, published research findings from 186 patients suffering from this condition and did not find any signs of the XMRV virus.
The discrepancy between the two studies is a cause for concern, because there currently is no test that identifies chronic fatigue syndrome. This condition is diagnosed solely on symptoms. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one of the symptoms includes six months or longer of debilitating fatigue.
Chronic fatigue syndrome can be an incapacitating ailment. If you have been diagnosed with this condition and cannot work, you may be eligible for disability insurance benefits.
Attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo has built his entire career on protecting the rights of insurance policyholders, personal injury and wrongful death victims and fighting for the rights of Florida consumers and small businesses. The firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of denied or underpaid insurance claims, victims of catastrophic personal injuries and wrongful death and on behalf of those that have been taken advantage of by Big Business and Big Insurance. J.P. has been certified as a life member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. The Million Dollar Advocates Forum is recognized as one of the most prestigious groups of trial lawyers in the United States. Membership is limited to attorneys who have won million and multi-million dollar verdicts, awards, and settlements. Fewer than 1% of U.S. lawyers are members. In Miami-Dade County call us at 305-461-1095 or call us toll free at 1-866-71-CLAIM or fill out the short online contact form at YourInsuranceLawyer.com.
- 5 - 10According to The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., the winter season brings many disabling illnesses and accidents. In a recent press release, The Hartford states that "claims due to depression, respiratory illnesses and fractures jump in January, but not before a spike in good cheer and dip in claims around the holidays."
The Hartford conducted an analysis of over a million short-term disability claims during the past five years. The insurer discovered that disability claims appeared to be at the lowest levels during November and December. However, the New Year seemed to bring an onslaught of disability claims for depression.
Glenn Shapiro, vice president of claims for The Hartford's Group Benefits Division, said "we are warning workers about wintertime wellness risks and urging them to take steps now to protect their health and wealth." Shapiro went on to say, "in today's tough economy, a disability that lasts even a couple of weeks could be a financial hardship for many Americans."
The Hartford's press release gave some tips to employers to keep workers healthy and happy. These tips included not letting stress drain productivity, avoiding confusion about absences and providing workers with information about disability benefits.
If you are not able to work due to a disability, contact insurance claims attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo at (305) 461-1095 or toll free at (866)-71-CLAIM for legal advice.
The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. represents people who have had their valid long term disability benefits denied, delayed or terminated irrespective if the policy was purchased individually or issued through an employer group policy. We can also assist with the initial application process, during the administrative appeals process, termination, litigation in state or federal court, and negotiating a one-time lump sum settlement or buy-out.
- 6 - 10An interior designer who had claimed disability, recently pleaded guilty on two counts of fraud. He had received approximately $147,000 in disability payments, before an insurance company representative saw the man on television, working.
Fifty-six-year-old Ronald E. Hunt had claimed that he was not able to work as an interior designer and had been approved for disability benefits. However, an employee with the insurance company happened to see Hunt on an HGTV home improvement program. The employee, who was working for the insurer that was paying Hunt's disability claim, notified the state's department of insurance.
"An investigation confirmed Hunt intentionally and knowingly concealed his secondary employment from his disability insurance company by falsifying written statements and deceiving a company field representative," read the Franchise Tax Board statement.
According to officials, Hunt had made over $400,000 during the three-year time period he was claiming disability. Officials also stated that Hunt had not paid income tax during that time.
The court ordered that Hunt pay $180,000 in fines and restitution. He was also ordered to serve 60 months of probation and complete 200 hours of community service.
The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. represents people who have had their valid long term disability benefits denied, delayed or terminated irrespective if the policy was purchased individually or issued through an employer group policy. We can also assist with the initial application process, during the administrative appeals process, termination, litigation in state or federal court, and negotiating a one-time lump sum settlement or buy-out. For more information contact a Miami disability lawyer at the Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. at (305) 461-1095 or (866) 71-CLAIM.
- 7 - 10A new study found that a high amount of physical activity in midlife could increase the risk of internal knee damage, ultimately leading to osteoarthritis.
According to the study, middle age people who sustain injuries had a higher probability for developing osteoarthritis, despite the fact that they showed no symptoms and had healthy weights. These injures occurred more frequently among middle age individuals who performed high levels of exercise. However, researchers did note that lower-impact physical activities, such as swimming and cycling, could be beneficial.
Dr. Joseph Guettler, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist, was quoted in an article on U.S. News & World Report's website as saying that the findings, "speak to the importance of low-impact aerobic activity, especially in knees that are aging and may not be as resilient as they used to be."
The problem that was identified had to do with the bone and cartilage in the knee, which can crack and develop fissures that only get worse with time. Guettler said that when people start experiencing these problems, "we know that they're going to have an increased risk for arthritis later on in life."
Osteoarthritis can occur when the cartilage deteriorates in the joints and results in the bones rubbing together.
If you have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, you may be entitled to disability benefits.
The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. represents people who have had their valid long term disability benefits denied, delayed or terminated irrespective if the policy was purchased individually or issued through an employer group policy. We can also assist with the initial application process, during the administrative appeals process, termination, litigation in state or federal court, and negotiating a one-time lump sum settlement or buy-out. Contact insurance claims attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo at (305) 461-1095 or toll free at (866)-71-CLAIM for more information.
- 8 - 10Two recent studies have discovered that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is actually a chemical change in the brain brought on by trauma. The studies also found, in addition to the new evidence, that PTSD might be identified through brain scans or blood tests, aiding in the diagnosis, treatment and susceptibility.
Researchers have already been aware that people suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder show differences in their neurosteroids (brain chemicals that are a factor in how the body reacts to stress), but the new studies uncovered additional evidence.
One of the studies found that veterans suffering from PTSD and other conditions, such as depression, alcohol abuse, substance abuse or suicidal ideation, had different imaging results from CT scans than people who had only been diagnosed with PTSD. According to Alexander Neumeister of Yale University School of Medicine, the findings of this study are very important in the treatment of PTSD.
The differences researchers discovered "can have huge implications for treatment," said Neumeister. He also said, "once veterans see this is a neurobiological disorder in which their brain acts differently in terms of circuitry and chemical function, oftentimes it motivates them to seek treatment."
If you have been diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder, you may be eligible for disability benefits. Contact insurance claims attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo at (305) 461-1095 or toll free at (866)-71-CLAIM for more information.
The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. represents people who have had their valid long term disability benefits denied, delayed or terminated irrespective if the policy was purchased individually or issued through an employer group policy. We can also assist with the initial application process, during the administrative appeals process, termination, litigation in state or federal court, and negotiating a one-time lump sum settlement or buy-out.
- 9 - 10If you have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, then you need to be aware of a recent study. According to researchers, an internal body clock that isn't working properly could be an element in the development of bipolar disorder in children.
The study examined 152 children who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and 140 children who do not have the condition. Researchers focused on evaluating the children's genetic makeup. The findings linked variations in a gene termed, RORB, to the children with bipolar.
The study's co-author, Dr. Alexander Niculescu with the Indiana University School of Medicine, said in a news release that, "Our findings suggest that clock genes in general, and RORB in particular, may be important candidates for further investigation in the search for the molecular basis of bipolar disorder."
The RORB gene is generally expressed in the eye, pineal gland and brain. It is believed to be associated with the body's circadian rhythm, which is defined by Encyclopedia Britannica as, "the cyclical 24-hour period of human biological activity."
If you suffer from bipolar disorder, you may be eligible to receive disability benefits. You should speak with an experienced Miami disability insurance lawyer for advice on how to proceed with filing your disability claim. The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. represents individuals that have had their valid long term disability benefits denied, delayed or terminated irrespective of whether the policy was purchased individually or issued through an employer group policy. The firm is available to assist individuals with the initial application process, during the administrative appeals process, handling denials of claims or termination of benefits, litigation in state or federal court, and negotiating a one-time lump sum settlement or buy-out. Contact the Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. at (305) 461-1095 or toll free (866) 71-CLAIM for more information.
- 10 - 10The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. helps insurance policyholders recover what they are due on their insurance claims, zealously advocates on behalf of victims of catastrophic personal injuries or wrongful death and fights for the rights of consumers and small businesses in Miami and throughout Florida. If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
About The Firm
J.P. has been certified as a life member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. The Million Dollar Advocates Forum is recognized as one of the most prestigious groups of trial lawyers in the United States. Membership is limited to attorneys who have won million and multi-million dollar verdicts, awards, and settlements. Fewer than 1% of U.S. lawyers are members. J.P. has also been awarded the top rating of 10.0/10.0 or "Superb" by Avvo. Avvo's Rating system helps people navigate the complex and confusing legal industry, including choosing the right lawyer - an incredibly important decision. The Avvo Rating system takes into consideration a lawyer's background, including years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.
In addition, the firm maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The firm is highly respected by other lawyers and members of our community and maintains offices in the historic Douglas Entrance complex in Coral Gables, Florida. Please click here for further information regarding office location and directions.
Prior to attending law school, J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo worked as a claims adjuster for a busy independent adjusting firm in Miami where he handled hundreds of claims. Before founding the law offices of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A., Mr. Gonzalez-Sirgo worked for a prominent insurance defense firm in Miami. He now uses the insight that he gained working for the insurance industry for the benefit of his clients.
Attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo has built his entire career on protecting the rights of insurance policyholders, personal injury and wrongful death victims and fighting for the rights of Florida consumers and small businesses. The firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of denied or underpaid insurance claims, victims of catastrophic personal injuries and wrongful death and on behalf of those that have been taken advantage of by Big Business and Big Insurance.
Active Legal Memberships
The Florida Bar
American Association For Justice 
Florida Justice Association
Community & Charitable Involvement
The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A believes that representation of our clients does not stop in the courtroom. We believe in giving back to our community by participating in local charitable events. The firm participates or donates to various local charitable and research organizations. Of special importance to the firm are those organizations that support many of the illnesses, syndromes, diseases, disabilities and aliments that afflict so many of our past and current clients. In addition, J.P. is proud to be a volunteer for Lawyers for Children America (LFCA). As a pro-bono LFCA volunteer lawyer, an opportunity exists to protect the rights of children who are victims of abuse, abandonment and neglect by providing free legal representation and collaborating for systematic change to improve the lives of children.
Free Case Evaluation & Consultation
If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
There is never a charge to speak with an attorney at our firm. Unlike other law firms, we are available to come to you at your hospital bed side, home, office or other location throughout the entire State of Florida.
You Pay Zero Attorneys' Fees If No Recovery
We understand that many of our clients do not have the resources or means to pay lawyer fees out of pocket. This is why we offer a free consultation and case evaluation. In the great majority of cases, if we decide to go forward with your case, we will work on a contingency fee basis. This means that if there is no recovery on your claim, you do not pay fees for our services.
If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
Se Habla Espanol
For our Spanish speaking clients, please click here for Espanol.
A Message To Insurance Policyholders In Florida
There are numerous challenges facing policyholders attempting to have their life insurance and disability insurance claims timely honored by insurance companies: The delays in investigation of claims, the endless request for documents, requests for sworn statements or examinations under oath, requests for recorded statements, fraud accusations, application issues, material misrepresentation issues, requests for medical evaluations, bad faith insurance issues, and litigation.
In the great majority of cases we will be able to help you with these challenges. Attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo helps disability and life insurance policyholders recover what they are due on their insurance claims. If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
A Message To The Victims of Catastrophic Personal Injuries or Wrongful Death
There are numerous challenges facing victims of catastrophic injuries and wrongful death in their pursuit to obtain a full measure of justice from those doing wrong.
The good news is that in the great majority of cases we will be able to help you with these challenges. Attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo zealously advocates on behalf of victims of catastrophic personal injuries or wrongful death. If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
A Message To Our Referring Public Adjusters
We understand and appreciate the value a Pubic Adjuster brings to a property insurance claim. For years, we have worked side-by-side with Public Insurance Adjusters and their respective clients in helping to resolve any claim issues through our legal representation.
Public Adjusters recognize that sometimes a client's difficult insurance claim requires the need for aggressive legal representation. Experienced public adjusters recognize all of the obstacles presented by an insurer during a challenging claim. The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. routinely works with clients that have retained the services of a Public Adjuster. We prefer to work together as a team consistent with the best interests of the client's claim. During the claim's process, we seek to keep all members of the team in the loop and engage your advice and services whenever necessary. All efforts put forth by our law firm and your adjusting firm will always be in the best interest of our mutual client.
We also work with corporate counsel and corporate risk managers to resolve any insurance claim disputes.
If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
A Message To Our Referral Attorneys
For years, the Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. has been welcoming attorney referrals from our colleagues. Many of our clients come to us as a result of referrals from other attorneys, including from out of state lawyers and lawyers from other countries, who know of our success in handling insurance claims litigation. We encourage and welcome these co-counsel opportunities and routinely pay referral fees in accordance with the rules regulating the Florida Bar and Florida law. Over the years, we have paid hundreds of thousands of dollars in referral fees to our referring attorneys. We recognize the trust placed in us by our referring attorneys and so we make sure that our referring attorneys are kept in the loop throughout our representation, from the initial intake through the conclusion of the case.
To discuss a case with us, please call (305)-461-1095 or Toll Free 1-(866)-71-CLAIM. Alternatively, you may click here and fill out our "Contact Us" form and an attorney at the firm will contact you promptly.
Serving Florida & Our Local Communities
J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. provides experienced legal representation for individuals and businesses throughout Florida and Miami Dade County, including Aventura, Bal Harbour, Carol City, Coral Gables, Doral, Florida City, Golden Beach, Hialeah, Hialeah Gardens, Homestead, Kendall, Key Biscayne, Medley, Miami, Miami Beach, Miami Lakes, Miami Gardens, Miami Shores, Miami Springs, North Bay, North Miami, Opa Locka, Pinecrest, South Miami, Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside, Sweetwater, Virginia Gardens, West Miami, Westchester, all of the Florida Keys communities, and Broward and Palm Beach Counties. Covering all of South Florida. Attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo is admitted to practice in all of the Federal and State courts in Florida, from the Florida Keys to Florida's Panhandle.
Disclaimer
The use of this Website or use of our "Contact Us" form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship and does not constitute legal advice. Time-sensitive or personal confidential information should not be sent through the "Contact Us" form. You are not forming an official attorney-client relationship with the Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. or its attorneys unless and until you have signed a written retainer agreement with this law firm. Submission of the "Contact Us" form does not create a written retainer agreement. If you would like to enter into a written retainer agreement with the Law Firm J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A., please call (305)-461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
The accounts of recent trials, verdicts, and settlements contained in this website are intended to illustrate the results of my work ethic and experience. Of course, each case is unique and the results in one case do not necessarily indicate the quality or value of any other case.
J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A.
Douglas Entrance
804 Douglas Road
Suite 373
Coral Gables, FL 33134
Phone: (305) 461-1095
Fax: (305) 461-1096
Toll Free: (866) 71-CLAIM
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