Monthly News Archives



		Could Anger Be a Hereditary Trait? A Duke University researcher believes some of us possess an "anger gene" that could lead to serious health problems. The Truth About Great Abs Experts say that without diet changes and cardiovascular exercise, you simply won't lose the fat that will show off your midriff. Many New Drugs Have Side Effects One in five new drugs has serious side effects that do not show up until well after the medicine has received government approval, according to a study that exposes what one researcher calls an alarming game of medical Russian roulette. Excess Pounds Linked to Birth Control Failure Risk Women who weigh more than most other women their same age may be more likely to accidentally become pregnant while they are taking oral contraceptive pills, according to a report released Tuesday. Estrogen May Protect Women From Hearing Loss Although the benefits of estrogen have become more controversial in the past few years, researchers now report that the hormone may protect women from age-related hearing loss. Jury Still Out on Soccer Head Injuries Soccer is not 100% safe, but it is too soon to recommend using helmets or other safety measures to protect children who play it, an Institute of Medicine panel reported on Tuesday. Biological Clock Starts Ticking in Late 20s A woman's biological clock starts ticking in her late 20s, not her mid-30s, and male fertility also begins to wane with age, doctors said Tuesday. Mercury Fillings May Be Affecting Dentists Dentists are more likely to suffer memory and kidney problems which could be due to long-term exposure to mercury in tooth fillings, doctors said on Tuesday. Sun Spots in the Shade It seems a leafy refuge under a tree may not offer you all that much protection against skin-cancer causing ultraviolet(UVB) radiation. It really depends on a number of factors. Testosterone Linked to Mental Ability in Older Men Older men with naturally higher levels of testosterone seem to perform better on tests of mental abilities than men with lower levels of the "male hormone," researchers have found. Ready-Made Specs Boom in Popularity in Germany The growing popularity of ready-to-wear eyeglasses is risking the health of those who buy them and reducing sales of prescription spectacles, German opticians say. Calcium Plus Protein Equals Strong Bones Getting enough calcium is essential for building and maintaining healthy bones, but new research suggests that protein may also play an important role in preventing bone loss. Chinese Medicine Market Seen at $23 Billion in '02 The global market for traditional Chinese medicines, which include such remedies as amber, peach pits and pine pollen, is seen growing to more than US$23 billion this year as their popularity amongst aging Western populations grows, Hong Kong's top trade body said on Monday. Curious, Active Tots Showing Signs of Bright Mind Your toddler's constant questions may at turns delight, annoy, stump or embarrass you, but according to a recent study, curiosity may be a sign of superior intelligence. Hong Kong, China's Guang- dong to Clean Up Bad Air Hong Kong and Guangdong, China's fastest growing province, unveiled aggressive targets on Monday to cut growing air pollution which is choking southern Chinese cities and spooking foreign investors. Trading Shots Over Vaccinations As 25 percent of parents worry that the vaccines often mandated for their children to prevent diseases like measles, mumps and polio may be to blame for other unintended diseases, according to the Institute of Medicine. Neck and Shoulder Pain Common in Computer Users Neck and shoulder pain and stiffness and medical disorders linked to these symptoms are more widespread among computer users than previous studies suggest, according to researchers. Firstborn Children at Higher Risk of Heart Disease Italian researchers report that firstborn children have a higher risk of heart disease and a higher risk of cardiovascular death than their siblings. Effectiveness of Sanitizing Hand Gels Questioned Hand gels that promise to fight germs when soap and water are scarce are less effective than other sanitizing measures in hospitals, according to Swiss and German researchers. 'Soul Mates' Do Exist, if Only in Our Minds Men and women can develop a sense that their partners are essentially mirror images of themselves, allowing them to perceive similarities that aren't there at all, according to the authors of the new study. Breath Test May Be Easy Way of Detecting Ulcers A simple breath test could replace a much more invasive procedure for detecting ulcers and a stomach bug that is linked to cancer, doctors said on Friday. Baby's Gender Linked to Birthplace Latitude People tend to give birth to higher numbers of boys in certain regions of the world, a curious trend that appears to be linked to latitude, new research reports. Immunity to Hepatitis C May Be Possible Some people who become infected with the hepatitis C virus but clear the infection may develop an immunity that protects them the next time they are exposed to the virus, the results of a new study suggest. Eating Disorders Linked with Risky Behavior Most of us have attempted to diet at one time or another. But how do you know when you have crossed the line and put yourself at risk of an eating disorder? Today, eating disorders are the leading cause of death among mental illnesses, and people who suffer from them are at great psychological and physical risk. Eat Right to Stay Fit More than two-thirds of us have yet to get the message that balanced meals and proper nutrition are the keys to good health, the American Dietetic Association (ADA) says. Docs Don't Find STD Counseling Effective Many primary care physicians in the US believe that counseling patients about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) does little good, new survey findings suggest. Researchers Find Gene Linked to MS, Arthritis A study in identical twins has uncovered a previously unknown gene with strong associations to both multiple sclerosis (MS) and rheumatoid arthritis, researchers report. Magic Brew for Your Heart Yet another study has found drinking tea is good for your heart, particularly in reducing death from heart attacks. 'Househusbands,' Female Execs at Higher Health Risk Men and women who defy traditional societal roles may suffer health consequences such as heart disease, researchers reported here Wednesday at the American Heart Association's Asia Pacific Scientific Forum in Honolulu, Hawaii. Retirement and Physical Activity Go Hand-In-Hand For millions of Americans, the "golden years" might also come to be known as the "active years," according to researchers who have found that while some retirees continue to warm the couch, many also begin to engage in more physically demanding activities. Fast Food Gaining on Cereal in TV Ads for Kids Television advertisements aimed at children have shifted in the past 25 years to promote larger portion sizes and more high-fat foods, researchers reported Wednesday at the American Heart Association's Asia Pacific Scientific Forum in Honolulu, Hawaii. Cancer Risk Found in French Fries, Bread Basic foods eaten by millions around the world such as bread, biscuits, potato chips and french fries contain alarmingly high quantities of acrylamide, a substance believed to cause cancer, Swedish scientists said on Wednesday. Low-Cal Diet Key to Keeping Muscle Tone as We Age Want to stay buff well past retirement age? Studies in some very old--but surprisingly toned--mice suggest the key to lifelong muscle health is to eat less, and better. Vitamin D May Cut Women's Heart Disease Death Risk Women who take vitamin D supplements lower their risk of death from heart disease by one-third, a team of researchers from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) told attendees of an American Heart Association meeting Tuesday. Curry Spice May Fight Multiple Sclerosis Preliminary studies in rats suggest that curcumin, a compound found in the curry spice turmeric, may block the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). True or Not, Flattery Works A number of theories have been offered up on why people typically like those who flatter them, instead of being suspicious of their motives. Some researchers owe it to vanity, while others say that to most people with a healthy self-image, a compliment may simply make sense. Vitamin E May Lessen Post Workout Muscle Soreness A dose of vitamin E may ease that stiff ache some of us feel after a bout of exercise, according to the results of a study in healthy men. The study's authors believe the vitamin acts as an antioxidant, mopping up the damaging byproducts of a strenuous workout. Cut Bowel Cancer Risk by Eating Less, Better Preliminary studies in mice suggest that smaller portions and healthier food choices may be key in keeping the gut and colon cancer-free. Dairy Foods May Cut Heart Disease, Diabetes Risk Overweight adults may be able to lower their risk of developing a range of symptoms that often precede heart disease and type 2 diabetes by consuming a dairy-rich diet, the results of a new study suggest. Countries Spend Too Little on Mental Health The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Tuesday held a mirror up to the way countries deal with mental illness, and found many sorely lacking in terms of spending and provision of quality care. US Craving for Hi-Cal, Low-Nutrient Foods Soaring Forsaking healthy, home-cooked meals, more Americans than ever are gorging on calorie-rich, nutrient-poor snacks, sodas and sweets when the dinner bell rings, according to three studies tracking changes in the US diet over the past 25 years. Kids Will Feed Themselves at Their Own Pace New parents who impose textbook timetables on their child's development may be disappointed when their child comes short of expectations. But the age at which infants will reach feeding milestones can vary by nearly 3 months, researchers say. Anti-Impotence Cream to Take on Viagra The world's first topical treatment for erectile dysfunction has been unveiled in Hong Kong, giving an intriguing new treatment option to impotence sufferers. First 20 Years in Life Key to Cancer Risk Lifestyle during the first 20 years of life is a more important factor than genetics when defining the risk of cancer, two Swedish studies on first- and second-generation immigrants show. Walking, Hormones Rejuvenate Older Women's Arteries There may not be a fountain of youth, but researchers say a daily walk plus hormone replacement therapy can restore older women's arteries to the same condition they were in when they were 20 years old. Winning Formulas for Healthier Babies Two fatty acids that are key to infants' visual development and are important in processing information are now available in this country in two commercial baby formulas. Angry Men at Risk for Early Heart Attack Hot-tempered men are more likely to develop premature heart disease and suffer an early heart attack compared with their more placid peers, study findings indicate. New Breast Cancer Gene Discovered An international team of researchers reported on Monday that they have discovered a new breast cancer gene that is believed to be associated with 1% of all female breast cancer cases and 9% of all male breast cancer cases. Exercise Said Best for Blood Pressure Fifty-four studies' combined data put the weight of evidence behind the benefit of aerobic exercise to control blood pressure. Are Fat Children Prone to Osteoporosis Later in Life? Are fat children condemned to an adulthood hobbled by osteoporosis? That's the unsettling conclusion of a study by a New York pediatric endocrinologist who found that childhood fat may compromise bone growth and could lead to a higher risk of osteoporosis in later years. Orthopedic Docs Boost Complementary Medicine Awareness With more people turning to alternative therapies to treat everything from aching joints to the common cold, doctors are finding they need to educate themselves on potential interactions with conventional drugs. Feeling Bad Isn't Necessarily Feeling Ill Having a small penis is not a disease. Neither is boredom, ugliness, baldness, road rage or big ears. That's the opinion of 570 respondents who voted on the top 20 non-diseases in a reader survey in the April 13 British Medical Journal, a special issue that examines the limits of medicine. Gestational Diabetes Tied to Chromosome Defects Some women who develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy may be more likely to have children with certain chromosomal abnormalities, new study findings suggest. Health of Heart Attack, Diabetes Patients Compared Although people with diabetes are known to be at higher risk for heart problems, new study findings suggest that diabetics in their 40s, 50s or 60s who are otherwise healthy fare better than people without diabetes who have had a heart attack in the past. Study Links Smoking to Baby's Sex Couples are more likely to have a girl than a boy if either of the partners smoked heavily while they were trying to conceive, new research suggests. Are Endoscopes Being Disinfected Properly? Undergoing an endoscopic procedure may actually put you at risk for infection, some experts say. Good News on Ginkgo The multitude of people who use ginkgo biloba to sharpen their memory may be onto something. Bug in CF Patients Shifts Defense to Avoid Drugs The bacteria that frequently infect the lungs of people with cystic fibrosis appear to sidestep antibiotics by temporarily switching to stronger, altered states. Middle of the Night Wakening Throws Off Body Clock Being woken up and exposed to bright light at night can throw off a person's biological clock for the next few days, a new study shows. What's more, the researchers found that being woken up at night at all--even in a dark room--also disrupts the body's timing, although to a lesser degree. Self-Management Plan Helps Chest Pain Patients A self-management plan being tested in the UK appears to help patients newly diagnosed with angina improve their physical and psychological health. Russia Begins Health Checks for All Children A gene involved in digesting red meat is also highly active in cells taken from prostate cancer tumors--a finding that could lead to new dietary and chemical treatments to prevent the disease, researchers said on Wednesday. Red Meat Gene Linked with Prostate Cancer in Study A gene involved in digesting red meat is also highly active in cells taken from prostate cancer tumors--a finding that could lead to new dietary and chemical treatments to prevent the disease. Sex Hormone Levels Linked to Breast Cancer Risk After menopause, a woman's natural levels of "sex hormones" such as estrogen and testosterone are "strongly associated" with her breast cancer risk, UK researchers report. Parent's Depression Ups Kid's Risk of Anxiety Having at least one parent with major depression increases a child's risk for depression as well as substance abuse and anxiety disorders in late adolescence and early adulthood, new study findings show. What's more, the child's depression is likely to be more severe than the parent's, a team of German researchers report. Light Therapy May Lift Depression During Pregnancy Bright-light therapy may be an effective treatment for depression in pregnant women, Yale researchers report. Brain Cells Killed During Binge Drinking Episodes A few days of binge drinking can lead to the almost immediate death of brain cells, new research conducted in laboratory animals confirms. UK to Boost Health Spending by 43% Over Five Years Chancellor Gordon Brown announced on Wednesday that the National Health Service budget will rise by 43% over the next five years as Britain tries to catch up with health spending in the rest of Europe. Green Light for Green Tea The new finding, reported today at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology in Denver, explains how ingredients plentiful in green tea can help the flow of a brain chemical that's at the heart of this devastating disease. New Research Could Change Diabetes Care Two new studies could change how diabetes is diagnosed and treated. Testosterone May Protect Against Stroke New research being presented today at the American Academy of Neurology's annual meeting in Denver claims that the higher a nonsmoking man's testosterone levels soar, the less likely he is to have a stroke. Exercise Can Lower Risk of Death From Stroke Men who are physically fit and maintain a regular aerobic exercise program are less likely to suffer a stroke than their sedentary peers, study findings indicate. Eating Can Boost Mood Feeling tired and stressed out? A new study provides evidence that a bowl of ice cream or mashed potatoes can lift your spirits. Acupuncture May Up Chance of Test-Tube Pregnancy Women who undergo in-vitro fertilization (IVF) may be more likely to become pregnant if they incorporate acupuncture into their treatment, preliminary study findings suggest. Animal Research Essential, UK Government Says Animal testing is essential for discovering and testing human medicines, the British government said on Tuesday, sparking anger and disappointment from animal rights groups. Battling Cancer With Veggies A new study reports that a diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans, coupled with exercise and meditation, can help slow, stop, or even reverse prostate cancer for men in the early stages of the disease. Wait-And-See Approach Raises Breast-Cancer Risks Some breast-cancer screening guidelines suggest that women who get certain abnormal results return early for their next screening, rather than immediately undergo additional testing. That practice, according a study by a Canadian research team, can lead to dangerous delays in diagnosing cancer. Pre-Heart Attack Symptoms Differ in Black Women African-American women tend to have more intense and more frequent symptoms like discomfort and headache in the months or years leading up to a heart attack, a researcher reported here Saturday. Study Doubts Laser Surgery for Sleep Apnea Laser surgery to control sleep apnea--which occurs when a person stops breathing and awakes several times during the night--appears to work in the short term but causes even worse snoring and apnea later on, according to a report published on Sunday. Exercise Does Not Protect Smokers From Cancer Male smokers who think walking, swimming or other physical activity will lower their risk of lung cancer are wrong, researchers say. UK Health System Can't Be Cured by Money Alone British Conservative Party leader Iain Duncan Smith said on Monday that the National Health Service system was failing and would not be cured by money alone. Wandering Due to Illness Almost 60 percent of the more than 4 million Americans with Alzheimer's and related diseases wander away from home at least once during the course of their illness. Kidney Disease Sneaks Up on Victims Doctors warn that up to 13 million more are at risk for developing the deadly illness and they don't even know it. Virgin Olive Oil May Reduce Cholesterol Damage Just a spoonful of extra virgin olive oil helps the cholesterol go down, results of a small study indicate. Are Everyday Problems Being Dubbed 'Disease'? Recent medical advances and the accompanying flood of new drugs for a range of ills threaten to "medicalize" every human condition and behavior, according to some experts. Screening Can Cut Bowel Cancer by 40 Percent Screening and on-the-spot treatment for early signs of disease could cut the number of bowel cancer cases and deaths by as much as 40% in older people. Study Supports Idea That DNA Damage Causes Aging Providing clues on why we all must eventually gray and wrinkle, new research in mice supports the theory that damage to the body's DNA is responsible for aging. Troubled Home Life Makes Children Sick Researchers at the University of California at Los Angeles have found that children raised in "risky" families -- high on anger and low on love -- were more prone to develop mental and physical illnesses later in life. CDC Estimates Cost of Smoking Each pack of cigarettes sold in the United States costs the nation $7 in medical care and lost productivity, the government. Several Drugs Likely to Leave Environmental Traces Antidepressants, anticonvulsants, anticancer agents and antimicrobials are the classes of drugs most likely to be found at "toxicologically significant" levels in the environment, according to researchers from Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Padma Venkatraman presented her team's work Wednesday evening at the 223rd national meeting of the American Chemical Society in Orlando, Florida. Premature Ejaculation a Concern for 1 in 4 Men Roughly one in four men identify themselves as having a problem with premature ejaculation, according to the results of a Canadian survey. The good news is that premature ejaculation does not appear to have a major impact on a man's functioning, the investigators pointed out. Future Could Hold Drug That Mimics Exercise It sounds like just a couch potato's dream, but new research may have brought exercise-in-a-pill a step closer to reality. Colon Cancer Tied to Later Risk of Other Cancers People diagnosed with colon cancer, especially at a younger age, may face a higher risk of developing certain other cancers, results of a UK study suggest. Weight in Pregnancy, Cancer Linked Putting on excessive weight during pregnancy appears to increase women's chances of having breast cancer after they go through menopause, according to a new study. Man's Circumcision May Cut Partner's Cancer Risk A man who is circumcised appears to have less risk for contracting penile human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, which may lead to a reduced risk of cervical cancer for his female partner. Gay Men at Increased Risk for Eating Disorders Gay men appear to be at greater risk of developing eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia, than heterosexual men, according to researchers. Some Women May Be at Greater Risk From Hair Dye Some research has suggested that women who regularly use permanent hair dye might be at greater risk for bladder cancer. Now new study findings indicate that the risk may be more pronounced among women with a specific genetic variation, according to a California researcher who presented the results at the American Association of Cancer Research meeting in San Francisco, California. Unrealistic Goal for Shape Change May Foil Dieters Although people can lose weight from dieting, only rarely will they change the shape of their bodies, an equally important aspect of body image. E-Mail Discussion Group Helps Back Pain Patients People suffering from back pain may get relief by participating in an e-mail discussion group that is moderated by healthcare professionals, study findings suggest. Australia Tests Stem Cells to Beat Heart Damage Australian surgeons have carried out a trial using adult stem cells to repair heart damage in a 74-year-old man, researchers said on Wednesday. Curry Spice May Help Tackle Cancer The substance that gives the spice turmeric its yellow color may help fight cancer, preliminary evidence suggests. Herb Found Ineffective for Moderate Depression Although promoted as an alternative therapy for depression, the herbal supplement St. John's wort appears ineffective for people with moderate clinical depression, findings from a US study suggest. Fish Cuts Risk of Heart Attack and Sudden Death People who eat several servings of fish each week may lower their risk of heart disease and death, two national studies report. Studies Show Promise in Detecting Certain Cancers Three new studies have shown promise in helping scientists use biological and genetic markers as early warning signs to help detect and treat certain cancers, researchers said Monday. Caution Urged on Soy Menopause Remedies A researcher said on Tuesday that so little is known about how plant oestrogens act on the human body that sales of soy supplements as a natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) must be questioned. Transplant of Own Cells Helps Parkinson's Patient A recent case report suggests that Parkinson's disease could be treated by harvesting immature cells from a patient's own brain, inducing these cells to mature into neurons in the lab, and reimplanting them, leading to a dramatic improvement in symptoms. Transplant of Own Cells Helps Parkinson's Patient A recent case report suggests that Parkinson's disease could be treated by harvesting immature cells from a patient's own brain, inducing these cells to mature into neurons in the lab, and reimplanting them, leading to a dramatic improvement in symptoms. Fish Oil May Reduce Risk of Irregular Heartbeat Previous studies have suggested that fish oil supplements may reduce the risk of an additional heart attack or stroke in patients who have recently experienced a heart attack. Now new study findings reveal that the supplement may also reduce the risk of sudden death. Test May Help Predict Chemotherapy Response An experimental test may help doctors quickly determine whether a particular regimen of chemotherapy is working, saving crucial time if another treatment approach is warranted, preliminary research suggests. Aspirin May Help Prevent Colon Cancer Taking a baby aspirin every day may help ward off colon cancer by preventing the development of polyps that can become malignant, new study findings suggest. UN Tells World's Couch Potatoes to Shake a Leg UN World Health Organization (WHO) Director General Gro Harlem Brundtland delivered an order to couch potatoes across the globe Friday--get off the sofa and exercise. Elderly Are Abused, Ignored, Denied Rights Elderly people around the globe are abused, ignored and deprived of their basic human rights, and many live in abject poverty without a regular income or pension, according to a report released Monday. Gene Found for Rare Obesity Disorder Researchers in the US and Britain have pinpointed a gene they say causes Alstrom syndrome, a rare, inherited disorder that causes obesity, hearing and vision disorders in infants and eventually, premature death. Lessons of Space Travel Could Help Disabled Bones, especially those in the lower spinal cord and legs, weaken without the force of gravity on the skeletal system. In space travelers and those with spinal cord injuries alike, the loss in bone can lead to fractures, says Dr. Jay Shapiro, bone loss team leader for the National Space Biomedical Research Institute. The Dangers of Deep Vein Thrombosis It's a silent menace that kills hundreds of thousands each year -- more than AIDS, breast cancer and highway accidents combined. Yet few know about the life-threatening nature of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the large veins in the arms, legs or pelvis. Yoga's Effects Developed 5,000 years ago, yoga has finally reached the Western World and is taking it by storm. Most yoga practices focus on physical positions called "asanas", breathing exercises called "pranayama", and on meditation. Many have found that yoga not only improves their physical health, but also offers mental clarity, stress control, and promotes an overall feeling of well-being. Breast-Feeding May Counter HIV Prevention Efforts While medication can help prevent the spread of HIV from infected mothers to their babies, breast-feeding--a common and often necessary practice in developing nations--may reverse those gains, according to the results of a study of African women and their children. Blood Test Might Spot Pregnancy Complication Women who develop preeclampsia, a dangerous spike in blood pressure that can occur later in pregnancy, appear to have low blood levels of a specific protein before symptoms begin, researchers have found. Scientists Call for Global Action on Fake Drugs Scientists called on Friday for international action to combat the growing global trade in fake drugs, particularly in poor nations. Birth Weight Helps Determine Body Composition Evidence is mounting that birth weight plays a role in adult health. For example, studies suggest high birth weight increases the risk of obesity in adulthood, while lighter babies may have more fat around their abdomens as adults, placing them at risk for a number of health problems. Italy Mind Master May Hold Key to Memory Gene An Italian scientist said on Thursday that he believes a 24-year-old's amazing memory may one day reveal the secrets of recall and help to find the memory gene. Preventing Preeclampsia A simple blood test may soon predict which pregnant women will develop a life-threatening form of high blood pressure known as preeclampsia -- and it could be done early enough to give potentially life-saving care. Green Tea Slows Mouse Muscular-Dystrophy Condition Research in mice suggests that green tea might help slow some muscle degeneration seen in muscular dystrophy, possibly through the antioxidant powers of the beverage. Breast Scans Show Hormone Therapy May Help Heart Evidence of artery hardening that can be seen on mammograms supports the idea that taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) protects women from heart disease, British researchers said on Thursday. UK Team Finds Chloroform in Indoor Swimming Pools British researchers have found very high levels of the carcinogen chloroform and other potentially hazardous chemicals in the water of indoor swimming pools in London, according to a new report. College Freshmen Weight Gain Is a Myth Future college students rejoice! Study findings suggest that college freshmen are not destined to pack on an extra 15 pounds their first year at school. Muscle, Bone Mass Linked in Rheumatoid Arthritis Women with rheumatoid arthritis are at high risk of developing the bone-thinning disease osteoporosis, but exercise could help strengthen the bones of these patients, Danish researchers report. Study Looks at Calorie Burn in White, Black Women A new study in young women shows that black women burn off slightly fewer calories on a daily basis than their white peers, and a variation in a certain gene may be the reason why. However, more study is needed to confirm the findings. Help Is at Hand if Illness Strikes Mid-Flight As more people travel and as the population ages, the number of people who experience some type of medical emergency aboard an airplane is likely to increase, according to two US researchers. Sleep Disorders Can Involve Abnormal Sexual Acts Unusual behavior during sleep, such as walking, eating and even violence, is well-recognized. But a series of case reports shows that sleep disorders can also involve unconscious, sometimes aggressive, sexual behavior. Protein Predicts Heart Disease in Women Elevated blood levels of a substance called C-reactive protein (CRP) may be an independent predictor of heart disease in women, new research shows. Allergens Plus Viral Infection Exacerbate Asthma Viruses and allergens may work together to trigger asthma attacks severe enough to send patients to the hospital, a UK study suggests. New Study to Probe 'Economy Class Syndrome' British scientists appealed on Wednesday for 1,000 passengers to take part in a major new study into the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) when flying long distances. Arsenic, King of Poisons, Gets an Image Makeover Arsenic, the classic poison slipped into the food and drink of emperors, politicians, popes and unsuspecting heiresses throughout the ages, is shaking off its disreputable history. Hormone Therapy Linked to Risk of Ovarian Cancer Certain types of hormone replacement therapy may increase the risk of ovarian cancer in women who take the drugs after menopause, according to a study released on Tuesday. Those taking the drugs for more than 10 years seem to be at the greatest risk for ovarian cancer. Class Affects U.S. Breast Cancer Care More Than Race African-American women with breast cancer are more likely to be diagnosed with the disease at a later stage than their white counterparts, and consequently fare worse. A new study suggests that socioeconomic status, not race, is to blame. Marijuana Chemical Eases Tourette's Symptoms Chemicals found in cannabis can significantly reduce the symptoms of Tourette's syndrome, study findings suggest. Mom's Antibodies May Help Trigger Type 1 Diabetes The seeds of type 1 diabetes could in some cases rest in antibodies passed from mother to infant, new research in mice suggests. Study Questions Many Gene-Disease Links In recent years, a growing number of studies have reported possible links between genes and diseases, raising hopes of finding a cure for everything from Alzheimer's disease to cancer. African-American Women Show Highest Pap Test Rate African-American women are more likely than any other racial group to get screened for cervical cancer with a Pap test, results of a US survey suggest. Generalist Docs Admit to Ignorance of Genetics Don't feel bad if reading a news story about the most recent genetic breakthrough makes your head spin. A new study from Australia suggests that many doctors feel equally overwhelmed by the latest genetic information. Report Urges Exercise to Lower Blood Pressure Researchers who reviewed more than 50 studies on the effects of exercise on blood pressure have a message for all couch-potatoes out there: Get moving. Major Lifestyle Changes Needed to Prevent Diabetes Intensive lifestyle changes can help people at risk of developing diabetes to ward off the disease, according to a report. But more modest efforts to boost exercise and improve diet may not be successful. Depressed Teens More Likely to Light Up Teens who are depressed and receptive to the smoke-and-mirrors of tobacco advertising are more likely to try cigarettes. Breast-Feeding Eases Pain of Infant Blood Sampling Babies who have blood samples taken via a "heel stick" while breast-feeding experience less pain than babies undergoing the same procedure who are not breast-feeding, according to a new report. Certain PCBs May Increase Breast Cancer Risk Although most studies have failed to detect a link between overall exposure to pollutants called PCBs and an increased risk of breast cancer, the results of a new study suggest that high levels of specific PCBs may be linked to the disease. Belittling, Shaming Child Causes Lasting Damage Parents need to shower their children with kudos and kisses rather than harsh criticism, according to newly released guidelines from pediatricians on psychological abuse. Moderate Egg Consumption Can Be Good for Health Whether brightly colored and delivered by bunnies for Easter or served as part of a Passover Seder, eggs are spring holiday fixtures. But how do they fit into a healthy diet? Advice on the subject is often confusing. After developing a bad reputation among some health advocates, the egg was given a bit of a reprieve in 2000 when new American Heart Association dietary guidelines upped the limit from three or four a week to one a day. Study Examines Kids' Snoring Snoring in children may be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, a common but under-diagnosed condition that has been linked to learning problems, slow growth and even bed-wetting and high blood pressure, new pediatricians' guidelines say. Low Iron in Pregnancy May Affect Baby's Skills Children deprived of iron in the womb may lag behind their peers in terms of language and motor skills by the time they enter school, researchers report.