Health News


Daily articles from HealthDay News: breaking news on health issues, drug approvals and recent discoveries.

Health News Headlines

Safety Should Be Priority for Those Involved in Kids' Sports
Teamwork between players, parents and coaches can help prevent injuries.

Sleep Loss, Marijuana Use Linked in Teen Social Networks
Kids at risk when poor health behaviors spread among friends, study finds.

With Rare Disorders, Misdiagnosis and Desperation Prevail
More than 6,000 'orphan diseases' affect 25 million in U.S.

High Fructose Corn Syrup Linked to Liver Scarring
Study ties the ubiquitous sweetener to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Hypoglycemia May Raise Risk of Death in ICU Patients
Continuous glucose monitoring of critically ill patients suggested.

Pregnancy Dampens Memory
Small study found expectant moms performed poorly on spatial recognition tests.

Common Pesticide Tied to Development Delays in Kids
Chlorpyrifos, used on fruits and vegetables, affects mental and motor skill development, researchers say.

With Infertility May Come Sexual Dysfunction
Stress could be a root cause, expert suggests.

For Elderly, Giving Up Driving Can Be Tough
It's a wrenching decision that doesn't necessarily depend on age, experts say.

High-Dose Zocor Boosts Muscle Injury Risk: FDA
People taking the cholesterol-lowering drug should consult their doctor if problems arise, the agency says.

More Patients Die in Crowded Hospitals
But occupancy levels change daily, so don't base choice solely on numbers, experts say.

Acne Drug May Help in the Fight Against AIDS
Antibiotic plus standard therapy appears to halt HIV progression in cells, study finds.

Rising Drug Prices Slam Some Medicare Recipients
Those with Plan D coverage gap may face high monthly expenses, study finds.

Showdown Over Health-Care Reform Bill Heats Up
$940 billion overhaul would give 31 million more Americans access to health insurance.

Clinical Trials Update: March 19, 2010

Avandia Researchers' Financial Ties Questioned
Review of studies on controversial diabetes drug points up conflicts of interest.

Music Soothes Anxiety as Well as Massage Does
Listening to relaxing tunes might be more cost-effective, researchers add.

With Faulty Food Labeling, Who's Minding the Store?
Recent charges of misleading ingredient, calorie count info have FDA scrambling to fix system.

Prevention of Acupuncture Infection Needs More Focus
Funding to promote safety guidelines urged by experts.

Swine Flu in Pregnancy Leads Some to ICU
Moms-to-be more likely to become critically ill than others, study finds.

'Comfort Dogs' Come to Emotional Rescue
Specially trained canines help those suffering aftermath of disaster, having daily struggles.

More Kids Now Extremely Obese
Report authors warn of shorter life spans, impending health problems for these children.

Review Faults Usefulness of Gene Expression Signatures
For lung cancer, studies to date have too many flaws, researchers say.

Carbaglu Approved for Rare Genetic Disorder
Causes elevated ammonia in blood

Cultural Outreach Boosts Cancer Care in Asian Americans
Simple measures could reduce high risks in certain populations, reports suggest.

FDA Toughens Rules on Tobacco Sales to Kids
Move includes near-elimination of cigarette vending machines, restrictions on advertising.

Learning May Be Tougher for the Teen Brain
When puberty hits, mastery of new skills declines, but research in mice might lead to a solution someday.

Omega-3 May Safely Treat Precancerous Bowel Polyps
The nutrient could help those at genetic risk for the growths, study finds.

Gene Sequences May Make You Unique
Focusing on genes alone will yield incomplete picture, scientists say.

Prenatal Stress May Boost Baby's Asthma Risk
Strategies may be needed to promote well-being in pregnancy, researcher says.

Selenium Could Shield Against Diabetes
High levels in men appear to be beneficial, study finds.

Clinical Trials Update: March 18, 2010

Blocking Protein May Stem COPD
Study in mice could lead to new treatments for smoking-related diseases.

Implant Shows Promise for Hard-to-Treat Epilepsy
Pacemaker-like device cut frequency of seizures in study participants.

Low-Fat Diet Does Little to Alter Cholesterol Levels
But researcher adds it's still a good choice for losing weight.

Gays, Lesbians Excluded From Some Medical Studies
Research into sexual health tends to omit them, report finds.

Meth Exposure May Be Worse for Fetus Than Alcohol
Drug abuse treatment essential for pregnant women, researchers say.

Newer Genetic Info Adds Little to Predicting Breast Cancer
Data on lesser known variants didn't improve powers of standard risk model

Ranking Doctors by Cost-Profile May Not Help Save Money
Study casts doubt on whether financial rating tools are reliable.

Widespread Public Defibrillators May Save Lives
As lifesaving devices increase, so do the number of heart attack survivors, Japanese study finds.

Implanted Hearing System Approved
To treat senorineural hearing loss

Abusive Men Often Rationalize Their Behavior
Many think domestic violence is much more common than it is, researchers say.

Online, Phone Tests Assess Diabetes Risk
Nearly 6 million Americans don't know they have type 2, experts say.

Colonoscopy Not Needed for Most With Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Typical symptoms not an indicator of more serious disease, study finds.

Sexual Desire, Satisfaction Don't Diminish During Pregnancy
Study found first, second trimesters don't mean lowered interest for most women.

6 Out of 10 American Adults Drink
Highly educated white men most likely to be tipplers, study finds.

'Gaming' Sends Boys' Test Scores Sliding
Study finds they spend less time on academics with video-game systems at home.

Risks of Kids' Surgeries May Not Stick With Parents
Despite giving 'informed consent,' many can't recall details, study finds.

Could Lowering Blood Pressure Help Stop Dementia?
Major U.S. trial will enroll thousands to examine links between hypertension, Alzheimer's.

Rehab Program Gets Back Pain Patients Back to Work Sooner
Disability cut short with integrated care, research shows.

Stitching Wounds May Be Safer Than Stapling
Infection rate is higher with metal staples, review finds.

FDA Approved Diabetes Drug Despite Hints at Cancer Risk
Rat studies suggest Victoza could spur rare thyroid tumor, but experts say effects in humans are unclear.

Blood Vessels Bounce Back Once Smokers Quit
Quickly leads to reduced risk of heart trouble, study finds.

Cancer Articles Tend to Focus on Positive Outcomes
Newspaper, magazine stories shy away from negative side effects, end-of-life care, review finds.

Newer Blood Thinner Beats Plavix for Bypass Patients
More people taking Plavix before surgery died soon after than those using Brilinta, study finds.

Stenting May Save Legs
Many with severe peripheral arterial disease can avoid amputation, researchers find.

Psychopaths' Brains May Focus Solely on Reward
Scanning study suggests fixation on achieving goals, regardless of consequences.

Radiation May Help Those With Inoperable Lung Tumors
3-year survival doubled after the treatment, study found.

Are New Chemo Treatments Cost-Effective?
Drug advances extend lives, but one study puts cost per life-year gained at about $66,200.

Chemical in Bananas Might Combat HIV Infection
Study found it was as potent as two current HIV drugs, could be added to vaginal microbicides.

Older Colon Cancer Patients Less Likely to Get Chemo
Study found one in two went without, while 87% of younger patients got it after surgery.

Pain Relief Often Delayed for Cancer Patients
Referrals to palliative care programs come too late, survey finds.

Prostate Cancer Radiation Side Effects May Subside With Time
Ten years later, many men weren't bothered by treatment's effects, study finds.

A New Way to Zap Away Uterine Fibroids
High-energy ultrasound waves avoid surgery by destroying the benign tumors.

DNA Test May Cut Hospitalizations Caused by Blood Thinner
Determining sensitivity can prevent bleeding, clotting problems, study shows.

Freezing Tumors Shows Promise Against Prostate, Breast Cancer
Cryotherapy prevented need for surgery in one group, and thwarted recurrence in the other.

Treat Women With Heart Attack Just Like Men: Study
That will increase their odds of survival, experts say.

Who's Been Using My Keyboard? Check the Germ Trail
Study shows new type of 'fingerprint' could become identification tool.

Arthritis Drug May Fight Diabetes, Too
Study finds that salsalate helps control blood sugar levels.

Risk of Death Persists After a Hip Fracture
Older people who suffer a break up to eight times more likely to die, study finds.

Boosting Vitamin D Can Do a Heart Good
In those with low levels to start, odds eased for diabetes, cardio woes, study found.

Erectile Dysfunction Plus Heart Disease Raises Death Risk
Study confirms that impotence is a risk factor for heart trouble.

Lip Implants Using Neck Tissue Have Lasting Effects
Study found the procedure improved appearance for two years.

Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers in the Millions and Rising
Numbers have grown steadily since the 1990s; baby boomer epidemic predicted.

Relief Sought for Secondary Parkinson's Symptoms
New guidelines target erectile dysfunction, constipation and more.

Stem Cells Might One Day Treat Severe Asthma
Mouse study suggests treatment aimed at immune system could work in humans.

Women's Chromosomes May Affect Blood Pressure
The effect might be strongest after menopause, mouse study suggests.

Freezing, Medicating Away a Dangerous Irregular Heart Rhythm
New studies suggest promising new ways to ease atrial fibrillation.

Siblings of Kids With Autism May Be Prone to Hyperactivity
But it shouldn't affect mental health overall, study finds.

Aspirin Alone Works Best to Prevent Clots a Year After Stenting
Adding Plavix didn't boost 1-year outcomes, new study finds.

Repeated Anesthesia May Hamper Children's Learning Ability
Swedish researchers say loss of stem cells in the hippocampus could be to blame.

Driving With Early Alzheimer's May Be Ill-Advised
Even a drive to the local store can end in getting lost, hurt, study finds.

Clinical Trials Update: March 15, 2010

Combination Treatment May Help Depressed Alcoholics
Taking antidepressant plus naltrexone improves odds of not drinking, researchers say.

Newer Genetic Test for Autism More Effective
Study finds chromosomal microarray analysis detects more abnormalities.

Teen Girls Say Pink Camel in Cigarette Ads Caught Their Eye
Study finds link between catchy ads and whether teens smoke.

2 Drugs Fail to Prevent Diabetes in the Overweight
Diovan, Starlix also had limited or no effect in shielding users from cardiovascular woes, study finds.

Are Stock Market Woes Bad for the Heart?
As economy wobbled, heart attacks seemed to rise, study suggests.

Intense Cholesterol, Blood Pressure Therapies Don't Help Type 2 Diabetics
Study findings underscore the importance of exercise and proper nutrition, expert says.

Many WTC Responders Show Signs of Heart Trouble
Another study suggests that stress weighs heavily on the hearts of police, firefighters.

Marathoners Face Greater Risk of Artery Problems
And this could lead to high blood pressure, heart attack, even death, study suggests

More Evidence That Swings in Blood Pressure Raise Stroke Risk
Findings could help spur change in how hypertension is treated, experts say.

Psoriasis Tied to Raised Heart Risk
Skin ailment boosts odds for heart attack, stroke, and inflammation may be key, researchers say

Hope for Inherited, Dangerously High Cholesterol
New drug reduces LDL in people with rare genetic condition, researchers say.

Scans May Be Misleading for Hockey Players
MRIs shouldn't take the place of a good clinical exam, study finds.

Strides Seen in Orthopedic Surgery for Kids
Repairing ACL, meniscus at same time is one advance, 'Tommy John' elbow reconstruction another.

Daylight Savings: Not a Bright Time for All
People with SAD may be more affected by the shift in daylight, experts say

Air Pollution Slows Women's Marathon Times
Men aren't significantly hindered, researchers say.

Eye Health and Safety Should Be Job One
Spotlight focuses on work-related risks during Save Your Vision month.

There's More to Mona Lisa Than Her Smile
Elusive expression is only part of her mysterious appeal, study suggests.

MRIs May Detect Hidden Tumors in Breast Cancer Patients
Older women with cancer in one breast should have the other breast scanned, researchers say.

Is Kindness Contagious?
Spirit of generosity multiplies and persists, researchers find.

Plavix Less Effective in Some Patients
FDA calls for 'black box' warning to alert those who don't metabolize drug well.

U.S. Minorities Especially Vulnerable to Kidney Failure
Study suggests that poverty and lack of insurance contribute to the problem.

Pelvic Artery Stent Approved
Props open vessel that supplies blood to the legs

Bad Behavior in Youth Linked to Chronic Pain Later in Life
Childhood response to stress could lead to lasting problems, researchers say.

Happy From Your Vacation? It Won't Last
Most travelers return to their normal state of mind soon after they get back, study finds.

Knee Surgeon's Expectations May Differ From Yours
Before getting replacement joint, have a frank talk with your doctor, researchers say.

Start Metformin Early for Best Results
Study finds that diabetes drug works longer if started soon after diagnosis.

Adding Garlic Might Cut Cancer Risk
New test finds those who eat the most have lower levels of a disease-causing process.

Football Injuries More Likely on Certain Artificial Turf
More players had ligament damage, ankle sprains than on natural grass, study shows.

Clinical Trials Update: March 12, 2010

High-Impact Sports Might Not Harm Knee Replacements
More active patients had better joint function, study found.

Papaya Could Be a Cancer Fighter
Extract slows growth in lab cultures, researchers say.

'Pill' Won't Shorten Your Life: Study
And it may even be beneficial, researchers find.

Obesity, Drinking a Double Threat to the Liver
Combination increased chances of cirrhosis, studies found.

Variable Blood Pressure a New Stroke Risk Factor?
Big ups and downs in readings may call for specific treatments, experts say.

Heat Therapy Helps Treat U.S. Soldiers' Infections
Device works on skin lesions caused by parasite in Iraq, Afghanistan, study finds.

Medicine's Future Could Lie in Each Patient's Genome
In two studies, scientists quickly scanned individuals' DNA to get at causes of disease.

U.S. Chalks Up Victories in War on Cancer
Cancer Society study finds drop in death rates since 1970.

Body's Response to Foods' Smell, Taste Could Be Diabetes Risk Factor
A gene mutation could trigger key insulin reaction in some, researchers say.

Long-Term Use of Osteoporosis Drugs Linked to Fractures
Drug 'holiday' may be the answer, but more study needed, researchers say.

Scientists Find Stem Cells in Hair That Can Become Skin
Finding could lead to better wound care, baldness treatments, experts say.

Inhalant Abuse a Deadly Middle-School Concern
'Huffing' more common than smoking pot, snorting cocaine among 12-year-olds, study finds.

Mind Reading Moves Closer to Reality
Brain scans beat chance at identifying specific memories, scientists report.

Pre-Season Test Spots Baseball Pitchers at Risk of Injury
Weakness in rotator cuff a warning sign, but exercise regimens can help, experts say.

Young Kids to Benefit From Broader Pneumococcal Vaccine
CDC study found newest vaccine lowered chances of those under 5 getting the disease.

New Knee May Improve Balance
Replacement joint seems to help prevent falls among elderly, study finds.

Online Dating as Honest as Real Life
When fibs are told, men and women do so about equally, researchers say.

Seaweed May Help Treat Lymphoma
Lab study finds extract slows cancer growth without affecting healthy cells.

Alternative to Statins Shows Promise
Broader study needed to check for possible long-term effects, experts say.

Doctors Turning to Cardiac Catheterization Too Quickly
Study finds only a third of those who get invasive procedure have vessel blockage.

Entire Family Genome Sequenced for First Time
Children receive 30 mutations from each parent, researchers find.

For Tough Head Lice, Pill Tops Lotion
Ivermectin may offer alternative for hard-to-treat infestations, study shows.

Gene Mutations Identified for Charcot-Marie-Tooth Syndrome
Researcher's personal genome used to study neurological disorder.

Panel Finds Many Women Can Avoid Repeat C-Sections
Vaginal delivery after Cesarean often safe, but roadblocks remain, experts say.

Cell Transplant May Help Treat Vitiligo
Surgery improved appearance of white patches due to skin disease, doctors say.

Longtime Smokers May Find Protection From Parkinson's
Finding could help unravel mysteries of neurological and motor disease.

Scientists Find Key to Hormone-Resistant Prostate Tumors
Discovery in mouse study may someday extend men's lives.

Alcoholics' Relapses Better Understood
Brain mechanism could be key, and an existing drug might help, scientists say.

H1N1 Flu Spreads Slower Than Seasonal Flu: Study
Data from Texas households confirm that the virus tends to target children.

High Natural Estrogen Might Raise Women's Stroke Risk
The link seemed especially strong for overweight females, study found.

Severe Injuries From ATV Accidents on the Rise
Studies found more amputations, spinal injuries among kids who ride them.

Vaccination, Prevention Is Beating Back Hepatitis
Programs seem to be making progress against these viruses, research suggests.

Clinical Trials Update: March 10, 2010

Jump in Kids' Sports Injuries Due to Overuse
Awareness can slow this 'silent epidemic,' prevent long-term problems, expert says.

Youth Baseball Injuries Becoming More Common
Stretching, rest can ease elbow, shoulder pain that plagues many young players, studies show.

As You Age, Better Health Means Better Sex
Association held true for people well into their 80s, study found.

Do Liberals, Atheists Have Higher IQs?
Study links intelligence test scores with key beliefs and male monogamy.

Psychotherapy Can Help People With Lupus Cope
After 10 sessions, anxiety, depression and stress lessened, researchers say.

Botox Approved for Spasticity in Stroke Victims
A common aftereffect of stroke

Herpes Infects One in Six in U.S.
Most don't know they have the disease, CDC says, upping risks for transmitting it to others.

Kidney Donors Go On to Lead Long, Healthy Lives
Study of more than 80,000 who gave one up shows procedure carries few risks.

Kids Who Get Flu Shots Protect the Unvaccinated
Inoculating children can prevent influenza from spreading, experts say.

Most Drug Studies Don't Help Docs Pick Best Treatment
The problem? Available meds are ignored in favor of drugs still in the pipeline, review finds.

Recession May Mean Fewer Nips & Tucks
Breast augmentation, Botox still popular, but plastics surgeons' group cites 2% decline.

Doctor's Specialty Often Steers Prostate Cancer Care
Therapy choice is influenced by physicians' preferences, research suggest.

Genetic Variant Raises Lung Cancer Risk
It doesn't matter whether you smoke a little or a lot, study finds.

Obese Colon Cancer Survivors Face Poorer Prognosis
Study found chances of recurrence, death higher than among normal-weight patients.

Shift Work Can Put a Crimp on Sleep
If changing jobs isn't an option, modifying behavior may help, expert says.

Survey May Help Docs Diagnose Mood Disorders
It identified anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder in most cases, study finds.

Clinical Trials Update: March 9, 2010

Alzheimer's 'Epidemic' Hitting Minorities Hardest
Blacks, Hispanics at much higher risk for the illness, which carries huge price tag, report finds.

Cost of Junk Food May Influence Consumption
People were less likely to buy pizza, soda when the price went up, study found.

Blacks, Hispanics With Heart Failure Less Likely to Use Hospice
Despite increase in services, racial disparities persist, study finds.

Bleeding Alert Sounded for Stroke Drugs
Medication combination raises risk 10-fold, small study finds.

Diet, Exercise Can Improve Thinking
Study finds benefits for the mind, not just the body.

Stroke Risk Runs in the Family
Study found if parent had brain attack by 65, chances of same quadrupled for their children.

Study Looks At Cost-Effectiveness of ECG in Hyperactive Kids
Analysis compared three strategies for preventing sudden cardiac death from stimulant medication.

Sudden Protein Intake Harmful for Some Hospitalized Patients
Syndrome affects those given dietary supplements after not eating for a while, study finds.

Waiting Safe for Some at Risk of Glaucoma
Doctors can postpone treatment in low-risk patients, study finds.

Supermarket Display May Make Spinach Even Healthier
Clear container, fluorescent lights boost vitamin levels, researchers find.

Light Drinking Might Help Keep Women Slim
Those who abstain tend to gain the most, study finds, though reasons are unclear.

Proteins May Predict Spread of Colon Cancer
Discovery could lead to blood test that would aid prevention efforts, scientist says.

Teamwork Unlikely to Improve Cholesterol Levels
Doctor/pharmacist collaboration made little difference in patient health, study found.

1 in 5 At-Risk U.S. Babies Doesn't Get Hepatitis B Vaccine
Researchers urge hospitals to vaccinate all children.

Breast Cancer Patients Often Confused by Genomic Testing
Doctors should do more to explain test results, researchers find.

Sleepless Nights Plague America
People of all races say lack of shuteye affects their work, even sex lives.

Sunlight May Help Protect Men From Kidney Cancer
But no such link was seen for women, researchers say.

Breast-Feeding Helps Mom Stay Slimmer Later in Life
Whether benefit actually stems from overall healthier lifestyle remains unclear.

HIV Hides Out in Bone Marrow Cells
Another secret stash of the virus makes it that much harder to eliminate, scientists say.

Increasing Soda Consumption Fuels Rise in Diabetes, Heart Disease
Finding suggests new health policies could make a dent in the problem, researcher says.

Processed Meat May Harm the Heart
Salt and preservatives may be the culprits, researchers suggest.

Gene Variant May Help Some Overcome Adversity
It appears to disconnect the link between stress and death risk, researchers say.

Electromagnetic Pulses May Stem Arthritic Knee Pain
New device could improve life quality without side effects, expert says.

Protect Your Baby's Smile
Follow these tips to prevent early tooth decay, damage.

Blacks Less Likely to Abuse Alcohol
But they're more likely to binge drink during pregnancy, researchers find.

Grinding Teeth at Night May Be a Sign of Daytime Stress
Those who do it appear to have difficulty coping in a positive way, researchers say.

More Info Needed on Problems With Insulin Pumps
Not clear if troubles stem from the diabetes-control devices or patient error, FDA panel says.

Alcohol Influences How Memorable Trauma Might Be
Flashbacks less likely among those who drink the most, study finds.

Can You Talk Your Way to Happy?
Meaningful conversations more fulfilling than small talk, researchers find.

Freezing Technique May Stop Breast Cancer
Rapid cryoablation kept cancer from spreading in mice, researchers say.

Identifying Older Drivers at Risk of Crashes
Occupational therapists may be of help, researchers say.

Prion Disease in Mice May Help Advance Alzheimer's Research
Study uncovers new form of infectious brain illness.

Treating Gum Disease May Thwart Preterm Births
Fewer women who had successful periodontal treatment gave birth early, study finds.

Anti-Drinking Ads That Engender Guilt May Not Work
Unintended effect can lead to more, not less, use, study finds.

Bans on Same-Sex Marriage May Affect Mental Health
Where voters prohibited gays from marrying, psychiatric disorders escalated, researchers find.

Clinical Trials Update: March 5, 2010

Certain Bone Drugs May Lower Breast Cancer Risk
Benefit from Fosamax, Boniva, Zometa does not apply to obese women, however.

New Prostate Cancer Guidelines Aim to Empower the Patient
Diagnostic test not infallible, can lead to unneeded treatments with unwanted side effects.

Air Travel Could Raise Risk for Heartbeat Irregularities
Older people with heart disease most susceptible to potential problems, small study suggests.

Salmonella Scare Prompts Wide Product Recall
FDA spots bacteria in common food additive; no illnesses yet reported.

Years of Exposure to Traffic Pollution Raises Blood Pressure
Findings may explain link between breathing in dirty air and heart problems.

As Temperatures Rise, So Do Cocaine Deaths
N.Y. study finds that weather warmer than 75 degrees poses added risks.

Hearts of Hospice Patients Being Needlessly Shocked
Researchers say defibrillators can be turned off on admission.

Pre-Diagnosis Diet Linked to Ovarian Cancer Survival
Food choices in years prior to illness may extend or shorten life, study finds.

Gene Sequencing Yields Picture of Human Gut
Researchers identify 160 different species of bacteria.

Gut Bacteria May Spur Obesity, Research Suggests
Scientists transferred germs that increased appetite from one mouse to another.

Heartburn Drug Kapidex Renamed to Dexilant
FDA approves name change to avoid confusion with other drugs

People With Asthma More Likely to Be Depressed
Study finds rates of psychological distress twice as high in those with airway disease.

Shoulder Dislocations a Sports Hazard
Young men most at risk, but elderly women are too, study finds.

Vaccine for Asbestos-Related Cancer Looks Safe
In tests, novel immunotherapy appears to combat mesothelioma tumors.

Clinical Trials Update: March 4, 2010

Airway Injury Plaguing 9/11 First Responders
NYC firefighters more likely to suffer from asthma, study finds.

As Pro Baseball Players Get Bigger, So Do Their Health Risks: Study
But N.Y. Mets team doctor disputes finding, saying better training, diet fueling the increase.

New Hope for Migraine Patients
Hand-held device for home use may benefit those with aura, researchers say.

Radiation Most Effective Soon After Breast Cancer Surgery
Analysis finds greater risk of recurrence in those who delay radiotherapy.

Chocolate May Make Some Strokes Less Likely
Lack of benefit for heart disease, most common stroke is puzzling, expert says.

New Drugs, Approaches Offer Hope Against Prostate Cancer
Experimental medicine shows promise, new test might cut unnecessary biopsies, researchers say.

Potassium-Rich Foods Do a Heart Good
And another study confirms power of raw fruits, vegetables to protect against stroke.

Whole Grains Take a Bite Out of Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Simply selecting brown rice over white also makes a difference, researchers say.

Newer Blood Test Predicts Diabetes, Heart Disease
A1C outperforms fasting glucose in predicting heart disease and stroke risk, study finds.

Oldest Epilepsy Drug Best for Children
In landmark trial, it beat two newer meds for treating seizures, with fewer side effects.

People Still Trust Their Doctors Rather Than the Internet
They'll go online first, but turn to physicians for final decisions, survey shows.

A Cheek Swab to Choose Your Diet Plan?
DNA test may be able to tell which diet would work best for you, study suggests.

Glaucoma Begins in Mid-Brain, Not in Eye, Research Shows
Animal study shows degeneration occurring in reverse order than commonly believed.

You Can't Exercise Away TV's Toll on the Heart
Heavy screen time in youth means trouble by mid-40s, despite activity levels, study finds.

Dental Problems Could Point to Meth Use
The more severe the addiction, the greater the decay, study finds.

New Prostate Cancer Screening Guidelines Unveiled
American Cancer Society now suggests those with PSA of less than 2.5 be tested every two years.

Clinical Trials Update: March 3, 2010

Food-borne Illnesses in U.S. Cost $152B Annually
Report urges Congress to pass vigorous food-safety legislation.

High Hormone Level Linked to Cancer Death in Older Men
More study needed to see if IGF-1 readings can predict risk.

Coffee Is Generally Heart-Friendly
But it may be linked to a slight rise in high blood pressure, researchers say.

Fitness May Boost Kids' Grades
Study finds link between physical health and academic test scores.

Workplace Wellness Programs Work
Employees who used them lost weight, lowered heart disease risk, study finds.

Cluster of Genes Tied to Alcoholism
Finding part of ongoing research to determine how they affect risk in people.

Death After Discharge Rates Higher in Elderly ICU Patients
Risk highest among those who had mechanical ventilation, study finds.

For Some on Dialysis, Anemia Drugs Pose Risks
But experts say not using them would lower people's quality of life.

Secondhand Smoke Starts Damaging Arteries in Childhood
Passive exposure tied to blood vessel damage in 13-year-olds, research shows.

Study Questions Value of Test for Peripheral Artery Disease
Ankle-brachial index, and resulting aspirin therapy, may not be needed for healthier patients.

Generic Flomax Approved for Enlarged Prostate
A common condition in older men

Clinical Trials Update: March 2, 2010

Screen Time May Take a Toll on Kids' Relationships
More hours spent in front of TV, computer linked to less bonding with peers, parents, researchers say.

Sea Squirt Helps Researchers Test New Alzheimer's Drug
Using tadpoles may speed up process for experimental studies.

U.S. Pays a Price for Dirty Air
Excessive levels of pollution affect health care costs, report finds.

A Purposeful Life May Stave Off Alzheimer's
Feeling good about yourself can lower your risk more than twofold, study suggests.

Asthma Rates Rising Across the U.S.
Prevalence varies significantly between states, CDC report shows.

Child Obesity Rates Going Up
Junk food intake is up, and many kids have few places to burn calories, studies find.

Having Prediabetes May Not Kick-Start Prevention Efforts
Most people still didn't lose weight or exercise, study finds.

Cutting Salt Could Prevent Almost 500,000 Heart Attacks
Government-industry collaboration would work better than a "salt tax," study finds.

Low-Fat Diets Beat Low-Carb Regimen Long Term
But obese on either plan averaged no more than 10 pounds weight loss over 3 years, study found.

Routine Heart Tests for Athletes Would Save Lives
The ECGs are also cost-effective, new study shows .

Clot Buster More Critical for Female Stroke Victims
Study found they fared worse than men if not given tPA within three hours of attack.

Hormone Outperforms Insulin in Diabetic Mice
Someday, leptin could free people with type 1 disease from daily injections, expert predicts.

It's Not Always Women and Children First
Comparison of Titanic and Lusitania found passengers' behavior was dictated by amount of time to cope.

Obesity and Depression: A Vicious Circle?
Study finds that one encourages the other, but early intervention can help.

Popular Diet Plans Can Unclog Arteries
Low-fat, low-carb, Mediterranean regimens all help the heart, study finds.

Primary Care Doctors Ordering Unnecessary Scans
Study suggests 1 in 4 such MRIs, CTs aren't appropriate.

Some Parents Consider Hastening a Sick Child's Death
Desire to save kids terminally ill with cancer from further pain prompts feelings, survey finds.

Watching Special Videos May Not Make Kids Brainier
Real-life interaction is more apt to enhance verbal skills, experts say.

Future Heart Disease May Be in Store for Obese Kids
Warning signs start to show up as early as age 3, researchers say.

Scans Might Monitor Success of Alzheimer's Drugs
Imaging technology offers new hope for treating neurodegenerative disease, expert says.

Clinical Trials Update: Mar. 1, 2010

Global Warming Kicks Up Allergy Storm
Longer pollen seasons and more allergy sufferers are the result, study finds.

New MRI May Lead to Better Brain Pictures
MIT researchers say technology will yield more on circuitry and activity.

Parents Still Worried About Vaccine Safety
Although most get their children inoculated, concerns persist, study found.

Risk of Childhood Obesity Higher Among Minorities
Study found risk factors start before birth, stretch into preschool years.

BPA May Raise Risk of Asthma in Kids
Mouse study shows exposure during pregnancy might increase chances of condition.

Kids' Peanut Allergies Might Be Tamed: Study
Gradual exposure desensitized some kids, but experts advise against trying on your own.

Health Highlights

Did You Know?

Health Tip: Doing Baby's Laundry
Prevent skin irritation

Health Tip: Symptoms of IBS
Common warning signs of irritable bowel

Health Tip: Check Your Skin for Signs of Cancer
Suggestions for performing a self-exam

Health Tip: Medications and Breast Feeding
What's safe to take?

Health Tip: Caring For Your Cast
Help promote healing

Health Tip: Recovering From LASIK
What to expect after the eye surgery

Health Tip: Prevent a Fungal Nail Infection
Keep fingers and toes fungi-free

Health Tip: Start Your Day With a Good Breakfast
Suggestions to make sure it's healthy

Health Tip: Buying Baby's Car Seat
How to choose a safe one

Health Tip: Recognizing Signs of Glaucoma
Here are common symptoms

Health Tip: Having an Epidural
For some women, there are risks

Health Tip: Symptoms of Ketoacidosis
What diabetics should look for

Health Tip: IBD May Contribute to Other Health Problems
Inflammatory bowel disease isn't confined to the intestines

Health Tip: Risk Factors for Melanoma
Who is more likely to get this deadly cancer?

Health Tip: Help Prevent Athlete's Foot
Steps you can take

Health Tip: What's Behind Childhood Obesity
Factors that increase a youngster's risk

Health Tip: Are You at Greater Risk of Pneumonia?
Things that can make you more susceptible

Health Tip: Don't Drive Distracted
Pay attention behind the wheel

Health Tip: Dress Your Salad for Success
Suggestions for healthier fare

Health Tip: Shovel Snow Safely
Physician group suggests how

Health Tip: Symptoms That May Indicate a Urinary Tract Infection
When to head to the doctor

Health Tip: What's Lactose Intolerance?
And who's at greater risk

Health Tip: Help Prevent Indigestion
Suggestions to ward off a sour stomach

Health Tip: Storing Breast Milk
How to do it safely

Health Tip: If You Have Nasal Congestion
Here are suggestions for easing the stuffiness

Health Tip: Why You May Need an MRI
And what it can detect

Health Tip: Treating a Sinus Headache
Suggestions that may help ease the pain

Health Tip: What's Plantar Fasciitis?
And who's at greater risk

Health Tip: Introduce Your Child to Music
Here's how your youngster could benefit

Health Tip: Who's a Good Candidate for LASIK?
People who are likely to benefit from the eye surgery