Monthly News Archives



		Saturated Fat Diet Piles on Pounds Around Organs People who eat a diet high in saturated fat, which is found in meat and butter, accumulate more fat around the internal organs in the abdomen than those who consume healthier polyunsaturated fats, according to new research. Folic Acid, Vitamin B6 May Protect Against Breast Cancer Researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health have found that a diet high in folic acid and vitamin B6 can lower a woman's risk of breast cancer. Simple Test Rates Accuracy Of Cancer-Related Web Sites Cancer patients who are looking for herbs, vitamins, or other unconventional therapies on the Internet have a new tool to help them avoid quack cures and bad medical information. Playgrounds Not Always Safe It's that time of year when children start to flock to neighborhood and schoolyard playgrounds. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) reminds parents and community officials that they need to inspect those areas to ensure they're safe. Scared of New Virus? Wash Your Hands, Experts Say Worried about catching the stubborn and frightening virus suspected of killing more than 50 people and infecting hundreds worldwide? Wash your hands, health officials advise. Obesity Increases Damaging 'Free Radical' Particles People who are obese seem to have higher-than-normal levels of oxidative stress, an accumulation of the cell-damaging substances called "free radicals," according to a new study. Eat Well When You're on the Run Eating on the run is a fact of life for many people. That can make it a challenge to eat healthy foods. March is National Nutrition Month, and the American Dietetic Association offers some tips on how you can make wise food choices even when you're eating fast food, take-out or restaurant fare. When You Don't Sleep, You Lose Getting along on six hours of sleep a night may not be something to brag about. Researchers have found that people who sleep for six hours or less a night respond as poorly on cognitive tests as do people who don't sleep at all for three days. But they think they're doing fine, which is the problem. Tips for Budding Vegetarians If you're considering rooting yourself in a vegetarian diet, here's some useful information from the March issue of the Mayo Clinic Health Letter. Silent Strokes Boost Alzheimer's Risk Here's another good reason for healthy living: Symptomless, unnoticed strokes more than double the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, according to a large Dutch study. Disease Heightens Worries Over Air Travel Worries intensified that a deadly flu-like illness hitting Asia was spreading via air travel after world health officials said people exposed to the disease should be barred from planes. Nicotine May Speed Lung Cancer Growth Nicotine in cigarettes not only causes cancer, it may also speed up the growth of existing tumors. Acupuncture May Have Place in Breast Cancer Treatment The effectiveness of acupuncture in reducing the severity of menopausal symptoms in women who have breast cancer is the focus of a new University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing study. Testing the Mettle of St. John's Wort A four-year study to examine the safety and effectiveness of the herbal supplement St. John's wort and the antidepressant citalopram in treating minor depression has been launched by the U.S. National Institutes of Health. Canadian Province Sees More Cases of Deadly Virus Health officials in Ontario, Canada's most populous province, identified on Tuesday another eight probable cases of the deadly and mysterious SARS pneumonia virus that has killed at least 23 people worldwide. 'Butting Out' Brings Quick Benefits If you're even thinking about quitting smoking, you've taken a step in the right direction. To help you along, the University of Toledo Health Services describes how kicking the habit will benefit your health. Vitamins May Slow Down Alzheimer's High doses of vitamins may help slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Cranberry Juice Can Effectively Reduce Heart Disease Three glasses of cranberry juice just might keep the cardiologist at bay. That's the suggestion of a small new study presented March 24 at the annual meeting of the American Chemical Society in New Orleans. Birth Size May Affect School Exam Results in Teens How much babies weigh at birth is an important factor in their physical and mental development and even influences how well they do in school exams later in life, British researchers said on Monday. When You Hurt, My Brain Says I Hurt, Too: Study New research suggests that people don't just feel bad for you when you stub your toe--their brains actually react a bit as if they were hurt themselves. Study Looks at How HIV May Spread Through Oral Sex Laboratory studies of mouth tissue suggest that unprotected oral sex does have the potential to transmit HIV, but an expert said it is still less risky than other routes of transmission. High Blood Pressure Can Go to Your Head A Scottish study adds one more reason to prevent high blood pressure: It can damage your brain as well as your arteries. Should Pregnant Women Eat Soy? A new study raises questions about whether eating soy during pregnancy could cause abnormal reproductive organs and sexual dysfunction among male babies. Long-Term Steroids Increase Heart Risk People on long-term treatment with high doses of anti-inflammatory steroids are up to three times as likely to develop heart disease than those who never take the drugs, Scottish researchers reported on Monday. Prostate Now the Leading Cause of UK Male Cancer Prostate cancer is now the leading cause of cancer in men in Britain, ahead of lung cancer for the first time, according to new figures released on Monday. For Some, Anabolic Steroids May Lead to Hard Drugs Men being treated for addiction to heroin or similar drugs are more likely to have been anabolic steroid abusers than alcoholics or cocaine addicts, the results of a small study suggest. Standing Up Too Fast Can Be Dizzying Experience Have you ever stood up too quickly only to feel dizzy and lightheaded? Or maybe you've even fainted on occasion? What you were experiencing, in doctor speak, is orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure. Back Pain Linked to Brain Shrinkage People with chronic back pain may experience shrinkage in the 'thinking' part of the brain, according to preliminary results of a small study presented this week at a meeting of the American Pain Society in Chicago. Old Ankle Sprains Can Haunt You If you've suffered an ankle sprain in the past, you could be at increased risk for more serious foot or ankle damage. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome SARS) May Have Originated in Hong Kong Health investigators probing the spread of the mysterious global respiratory illness called SARS appear to now know the exact spot that brought at least seven people to a deadly confluence in a Hong Kong hotel on Feb. 21. Baboons Give Clues to Obesity, Diabetes in Humans Research with wild baboons indicates that lack of exercise, not poor diet, causes obesity and diabetes in people who are predisposed to the conditions. Belt Sizes Booming in UK Kids--Particularly Girls Waistlines of British children, particularly girls, are rapidly expanding, and researchers said on Thursday it is cause for concern. Breast Cancer Patients Not Heeding Exercise Advice Breast cancer patients are not sticking to prescribed diet and exercise routines, even though working out and controlling weight gain might help them avoid future bouts with the disease. Blacks Get Short End of Pain Treatment Stick Racial disparities mean that many black Americans may be missing out on effective treatment for chronic pain, ranging from arthritis to backache. Exercise Alone May Thwart Pre-Diabetic Syndrome A small study suggests that sedentary adults who get a few hours of exercise each week and don't lose weight may still cut their risk of developing a pre-diabetic condition called insulin resistance syndrome. Whole-Grain Breakfast May Cut Men's Mortality Risk Men who regularly choose whole-grain breakfast cereals, like oatmeal, over refined-grain breakfast cereals may live longer and reduce their risk of heart attack or stroke, new study findings suggest. Teen-Run Web Site Offers Info Parents, Schools Often Avoid Remember when you had "the talk" with your parents? You asked them lots of explicit questions and got thorough, honest explanations about a wide range of sexual practices. � Probably not, right? The issue of sex is still outside most parents' comfort zones, and kids, most likely, are not as savvy as we think when it comes to sexual health. Top EU Court Lets Denmark Decide Food Cancer Risk The European Union's highest court ruled on Thursday that Denmark may set stricter limits on cancer-causing substances in food than the European Commission allows. Americans Urged to Walk Away from Obesity A program that calls on Americans to take just a few steps toward weight loss is to be launched nationwide in May after signing up more than 100,000 citizens in Colorado. Husbands, Wives Will Often Share Diabetes, Too People married to a person with type 2 diabetes are more than twice as likely to develop the condition themselves, compared to spouses of non-diabetics, according to a British study, which provides evidence that lifestyle has a "major influence" on diabetes risk. Too Many Parents Leave Children Alone in Bathtub Nearly one in three young children are left alone in the bathtub by their parents for some amount of time, putting them at risk for drowning, according to a report released Monday. Lung Cancer Risk Varies Dramatically Among Smokers If you're a smoker -- or an ex-smoker -- the fear of lung cancer probably lurks somewhere in the back of your mind. But have you ever wondered how likely you are to actually develop the deadly disease? 'Wash Your Hands' Signs Only Work for Women: Study Signs that remind people to wash their hands after using public bathrooms tend to inspire women to boost their hygiene, but fail to do so in men, new research suggests. Workplace Weight-Loss Program Helps Diet Novices Weight-loss programs that operate from workplaces can be a particularly good way to help people who might otherwise not seek advice on shedding excess pounds, Scottish researchers said on Tuesday. Deadly Pneumonia Extends Global A deadly strain of pneumonia is moving quickly around the globe as infected travelers from parts of Asia spread the disease, creating suspected cases in Britain, Germany, Australia and the United States. Popular Weight Loss Supplement May Damage DNA Chromium picolinate, a popular supplement marketed as building muscle and promoting weight loss, may damage DNA, a new study shows. Not Enough Adult Care Centers to Go Around The first national head count of the number of adult care centers in the United States has found that more than half the counties don't have enough centers to serve a growing aging population. WHO Releases Independent Expert Report on Diet and Chronic Disease An independent study, examining the interrelationship between diet, nutrition, physical activity and chronic disease was released by WHO and the Food and Agriculture Organization. The expert report will form a scientific basis for the development of a Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health to be adopted by the World Health Assembly in May 2004. Video Games May Have a Healing Side Video games are constantly being zapped with criticism for their violent content or for distracting children from getting enough exercise. But a new study from Wheeling Jesuit University in West Virginia says video games may offer potential benefits as a method of pain management. Businesses to Shift More Health Costs to Workers The vast majority of businesses in the U.S. expect to increase the amount that employees pay for health insurance premiums next year, according to survey results released Thursday as part of "Cover the Uninsured Week." Blood Test May Predict Colon Cancer Risk A simple blood test that looks for a certain genetic alteration may identify people at risk of colorectal cancer, preliminary research released Thursday suggests Study Gives More Proof of 'Thunderstorm Asthma' Asthmatics who believe that their symptoms get worse during thunderstorms may be right, according to the results of a six-year study. Toronto Hopes Bridge Barrier Will Curb Suicides On a wintry evening, the Prince Edward Viaduct can seem a desolate place despite six lanes of roaring road traffic and subways that rumble along the underside of the massive bridge on Toronto's East Side. Smoking May Dull Cough Reflex in Some Smoking may impair a person's cough reflex, potentially raising the risk of respiratory infections, suggests a study of young male smokers with no signs of lung disease. Help Your Children Avoid Weight Problems In the past 20 years, obesity among 6- to 11-year-old children has risen 54 percent, according to John Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. Fat kids often suffer socially and have a greater risk of developing conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Here's some tips for prevention. More Evidence Curry Ingredient May Fight Cancer An ingredient in the curry spice turmeric may help suppress and destroy a blood cancer, early lab research shows--suggesting yet another health benefit from this long-heralded substance. Tips for Bed Wetters If your child is a bed wetter and your doctor has ruled out any underlying medical condition, the problem may be that your four-year-old is slow to gain bladder control. FDA Toughens Stance on Canadian Drug Imports The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) appears to be stiffening enforcement of a federal policy banning imports of cheaper drugs from Canada. Seasonal Allergies Affect ADHD Symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may worsen with a seasonal allergy. Nutrient in Peanuts May Aid Tuberculosis Treatment The amino acid arginine, found abundantly in peanuts, might be useful for fighting tuberculosis (TB), according to Swedish researchers. Hip Replacement Deemed Safe, Effective in Very Old Age alone should not determine which patients get hip replacement, as even those in their 90s and beyond can benefit, new study results suggest. Set a Place for Your Teen at the Dinner Table Family meals are more than just a chance to catch up on the latest household events. They may also help adolescents develop healthy eating habits, says a University of Minnesota study in a recent issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. Secondhand Smoke Said to Up Kids' Cavity Risk Secondhand smoke is linked to a variety of health risks. On Tuesday, researchers added another one to the list: tooth decay. Colorectal Cancer: A Potential Killer That Can Be Beaten Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cancer killer in the United States, claiming more than 57,000 lives every year. Fish Oil May Ease Symptoms of Lupus: Study People with the immune disorder lupus might be able to reduce their symptoms with the fatty acids found in fish such as tuna and salmon, researchers in Northern Ireland said on Tuesday. More British Children Trying Cigarettes: Survey The number of British kids who have tried cigarettes has increased significantly since the late 1980s, a new survey shows, although rates seem to have steadied over the past few years. Mom's Depression Ups Child's Depression Risk: Study Having a mother who has experienced depression can double a child's chances of becoming depressed, a new study shows. Kids' Emotional Distress Fuels Self-Doubt Children who suffer depression and anxiety are likely to underestimate their abilities, says a new study. Tailor Things for the Elderly Individualized programs are the best way to make nursing home residents feel truly at home, says a geriatrics expert at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine. Moderate Coffee Drinking OK During Pregnancy: Study Another study has found that moderate caffeine consumption by pregnant women is not likely to harm the developing fetus. Better Habits Could Slash U.S. Cancer, Report Says If people would quit smoking, eat more healthily and exercise, cancer deaths could be cut by nearly a third, a report issued on Monday said. Boys and Girls Affected by TV Violence When it comes to the link between watching violent television in childhood and aggressive behavior in adulthood, girls, it seems, will be boys. Antibiotic Resistance on the Rise By July 2004, nearly two-thirds of the common strains of the bacteria that cause infections ranging from middle ear problems to meningitis may be resistant to both penicillin and erythromycin in some parts of the United States. McDonald's Courts Health Crowd with New Products McDonald's Corp. is trying to have it both ways. The fast food giant is launching new salads and experimenting with all-white meat Chicken McNuggets to meet the demand for healthier food, while trying desperately to prop up the market for its traditional fare of hamburgers and fries. Playing It Safe with Meds If you sometimes have questions about the safe use of prescription and over-the-counter medications, there's a new brochure to help you. Cyberspace Bullies Plague Kids Sly and manipulative, bullies who once plagued their victims in the school playground are now causing grief with abusive text messages and vitriolic Web sites. Speak Up! It May Help Fight Medical Errors As part of a nationwide campaign to curb medical errors, a leading healthcare safety group is urging patients to speak up about their medical questions. Kids' Care Better if Doctor Uses Computer in Visit Children may get better care if their doctors use a computer to record medical information during a visit rather than taking notes the traditional way, new study findings suggest. Unfit Teens Headed Toward Diabetes Trouble If your child is unfit and overweight, she may be in danger of developing insulin resistance, an early sign of diabetes. Breast Implants Linked to Higher Suicide Risk Women who opt for breast implants to enhance their natural assets are more likely to commit suicide, Dutch and Swedish scientists said on Thursday. Eating Breakfast May Stave Off Obesity, Diabetes The next time you're starting the day on an empty stomach, consider this: a new study suggests that people who eat breakfast daily may be less likely to succumb to obesity and diabetes. Tighter Tummies Are you slender and exercise regularly, yet you still have a bulging stomach? According to the Mayo Clinic, you may have a genetic tendency to accumulate fat in that area, or you may have grown flabbier as you've grown older. Study Spells Trouble for Grouchy Young Men Men, more than women, may need to learn to relax if they want to avoid heart disease. Guidelines: Exercise Helps Heart Failure Patients For many people with heart failure, gone are the days when doctors advised them to rest and avoid physical activity. In guidelines announced this week, the American Heart Association recommends exercise for people with heart failure, even those who are waiting for a heart transplant. LASIK Eye Treatment Every time you turn on the radio, it seems you're bound to hear a commercial for LASIK eye treatment. The laser procedure alters the shape of the cornea to mimic the shape of the lens used in a pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses. While LASIK boasts a great success rate, not everyone's a candidate. Rest for the Weary If you have suffered sleepless nights then you're familiar with a particular kind of torture. Minutes become hours, hours become eons, and problems you manage with ease during the day become nightmarish, circular conundrums when considered at 3 am. It's called insomnia. Early to Bed Makes for a Sharper Kid When your kids beg to stay on the computer for just one more hour before bedtime, you can now say forget it. And researchers will back you up. Wives of Sick Spouses Run Heart Risk Women who devote nine or more hours a week looking after an ill or disabled spouse have an increased risk of coronary heart disease, says a Harvard School of Public Health study. For a Body Fat Tip Off, Look to Your BMI Over half the American population is overweight, nearly one quarter of Americans are obese, and it is increasingly evident that this growing girth is taking its toll on the health of the population. A measure called body mass index may be a better gauge of health than absolute body weight if you fall within the right segment of the population. Beating Odds of Heart Disease, Stroke in Diabetics A major new study in the United States and Canada will test the best ways to lower the risk of stroke and heart disease in adults with Type 2 diabetes. Losing Weight-Or Even Just Trying-Boosts Survival Overweight and obese people who try to lose weight may live longer than people who do not try to shed excess pounds, according to a new study, which also found that people who tried but failed to trim down were less likely to die than those who made no attempt. Nobel Laureate Warns of Genetic Discrimination One of Britain's leading scientists spoke on Tuesday of his fears of genetic discrimination if people are not prepared for the medical advances expected in the next two decades. Vitamins May Help Prevent Infections in Diabetics People with diabetes may be able to ward off colds and other minor infections by taking a daily multivitamin, according to a study released Monday. Analysis Shows More Study Needed for Homeopathy A review of the scientific literature reveals that the jury is still out regarding the benefits of the alternative medicine homeopathy, researchers said Monday. Avoiding Amputations in Diabetics Aggressive screening for evidence of nerve damage and sensory loss helps doctors identify people with diabetes who are at greatest risk for severe foot problems such as skin ulcers and a deformity called Charcot foot. UN Urges Sugar Limit for Healthier Living People should get no more than 10 percent of their calories from sugar, eat more fruit and vegetables and exercise moderately to cut risks of chronic disease, two UN agencies said on Monday. Mild Hyperactivity May Stem from Sleep Problems In some children, hyperactivity that seems like a mild form of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may actually be caused by snoring and other sleeping problems, researchers report. Weight-Loss Wisdom If you'd like to lose weight, it's a good idea to first draw up a "how-to" weight-loss plan, rather than impulsively jumping into a new diet. This way, if the pounds don't drop, you're more likely to understand the reasons, according to Harvard Medical School. Lower Back Pain a Familiar Ache The next time you walk into a room rubbing your sore lower back, take a look at the people around you: More than a third of them are probably suffering the same fate. Babies at High Risk Least Likely to Sleep on Back The tiniest babies who are most at risk for sudden infant death syndrome may also be those most likely to be put to sleep on their bellies, substantially raising the threat of SIDS, according to a new report. Avoid Pacifiers During First Weeks of Life Infants who suck on pacifiers during the first weeks of life are less likely to breastfeed exclusively at four weeks of age and tend to stop breastfeeding sooner than babies who don't receive pacifiers until later on, researchers reported Monday.