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Health NewsHealth News is a feature where we surf the net to find lifestyle articles. We provide a short description of the item and give you the link to locate the article. We assume no responsibility for the content, however we sincerely hope you find this a useful resource. We will be updating this page on a regular basis.2004-12-14Migraines 'double' risk of strokePeople who have migraines are twice as likely to have a stroke as others, researchers estimate. 2004-12-12Prozac is risky for children tooEuropean drug regulators are concerned that Prozac, like its sister antidepressants, is unsafe for children, contrary to UK advice. 2004-12-10New breast cancer drug shows promiseA newer drug clearly outperforms tamoxifen at preventing breast cancer from returning and should become the first-choice treatment for most women who have had the disease, doctors are reporting. 2004-12-08SARS vaccine 'passes first hurdle'Chinese researchers have developed a SARS vaccine that has passed the first stage of human trials, state media has reported, raising hopes for the prevention of a virus that killed some 800 people since it emerged in 2002. 2004-12-06Study links smog increase, urban deathsIncreases in air pollution caused by cars, power plants and industry can be directly linked to higher death rates in U.S. cities, a study said Tuesday. 2004-12-06Study: Leukemia pill has 86 percent remission rateA next-generation leukemia pill designed to help patients not cured by the successful drug Gleevec works even better than doctors had hoped, researchers said Sunday. 2004-12-04Meth addiction leads to sexual miseryAt a recent task force meeting on widespread methamphetamine use in Appalachia, Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen winced when a federal prosecutor described the illegal drug as an aphrodisiac. 2004-12-04Sex patch decision could slow researchIn a move that could chill excitement about experimental drugs to treat female sexual dysfunction, federal advisers refused to endorse a new testosterone patch for women. 2004-11-27Dentists raise concerns about teeth whitenersPeople who use teeth whitening products for too long could be damaging their teeth and gums, dentists say. Dozens of whitening products are appearing on drugstore shelves as advertisements reinforce the perception that a whiter smiles boosts your attractiveness. Dentists say when people follow the instructions, whitening products are generally safe. Too much, though, can cause irritation and damage. 2004-11-24Umbilical cord blood can help treat adults with leukemia: studiesBlood from umbilical cords of newborns can be used in place of bone marrow for some adults with leukemia, doctors say. 2004-11-24Faulty genes feed nicotine habitPeople who find it difficult to clear nicotine from their body may be more vulnerable to getting hooked on smoking, research suggests. 2004-11-24Smoking killing millions globallySmoking killed almost five million people around the world in 2000, researchers have calculated. 2004-11-24CDC: Flu season off to slow startThe flu season in the United States is off to a slow start, with only Delaware and New York reporting significant outbreaks -- a relief to government health authorities, given the U.S. vaccine shortage. 2004-11-22Poor diet linked to bad behaviourChildren who have a poor diet are more likely to become aggressive and anti-social, US researchers believe. The University of Southern California found a lack of zinc, iron, vitamin B and protein in the first three years caused bad behaviour later on. At eight years old, children fed poorly were more likely to be irritable and pick fights than those fed healthily. Aged 11, they swore, cheated and got into fights, and at 17, they stole, bullied others and took drugs. The researchers analysed the development of more than 1,000 children on Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Africa, over 14 years. They found the more malnurished the children were, the greater the anti-social behaviour later on. 2004-11-20Study: Fiber boosts effects of heart drugsPeople can add a fiber supplement to their diet and get the same effect as doubling the dose of powerful cholesterol-lowering drugs, researchers said Tuesday. 2004-11-18Study links smog increase, urban deathsIncreases in air pollution caused by cars, power plants and industry can be directly linked to higher death rates in U.S. cities, a study said Tuesday. 2004-11-17Breakthrough on psoriasis causeScientists say they have made a significant step forward in understanding the causes of the skin condition psoriasis. 2004-11-17Child antidepressant use 'rising'The UK has seen the fastest rise in the prescribing of antidepressants and other mind-altering drugs to children, a study of nine countries shows. 2004-11-16Computer use link to eye diseaseHeavy computer use could be linked to glaucoma, especially among those who are short-sighted, fear researchers. 2004-11-16Smoking ban proposed for EnglandSmoking could be banned in every cafe, restaurant and most pubs in England in four years under plans unveiled by the government on Tuesday. 2004-11-15Bhutan to stub out tobacco salesThe remote Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan has decided to ban all tobacco products from Wednesday, a government notification says. 2004-11-08Young at higher mouth cancer riskMouth cancer rates could soar because young people are smoking and drinking more, experts have warned. 2004-11-08Pollution link to heart diseaseAir pollution caused by traffic and factories may cause heart disease, a US study suggests. 2004-11-07Food formula 'increases lifespan'A formula added to food could have the potential to extend the lives of obese people by 20%, scientists believe. 2004-11-01Study: Vaccine protects against cervical cancerEfforts to develop the world's first vaccine to prevent cervical cancer took a key step forward Monday with test results suggesting that it can provide long-lasting protection. 2004-11-01Signs of asthma risk appear at birthBabies with high levels of allergy antibodies in their umbilical cord blood may be more prone to develop asthma, new research suggests. 2004-11-01Reducing size of painkiller packages works to cut suicide rate: studyThe rates of suicide from overdoses dropped by nearly 25 per cent after a new law in the United Kingdom reduced the size of packages of painkillers, researchers say. 2004-10-23Smokers' genetic arthritis riskPeople genetically prone to arthritis who also smoke are storing up trouble for the future, researchers warn. 2004-10-23Blood transfusion can transmit new primate virusCanadian health officials are examining whether extra measures are needed to protect the nation's blood supply from a primate virus. 2004-10-23Smoke inhalationMany news stories covering a fire often end with a line such as "12 people were treated for smoke inhalation." 2004-10-22Down's syndrome theory shatteredScientists believe they have disproved a 30-year-old notion of what causes Down's syndrome. 2004-10-19Apples may ward off colon cancerAn apple a day may help to keep bowel cancer at bay, say researchers. 2004-10-19Air fresheners harm mum and babyAir fresheners and aerosols can damage of the health of babies and their mothers, UK research suggests. 2004-10-18Internet-based health information may be hazardous: studyPeople with chronic diseases ought to pay more attention to what their doctor tells them rather than relying on advice from the internet, according to a new study. 2004-10-18Sisters study to explore role of genes in breast cancerScientists are asking sisters of women diagnosed with breast cancer to donate samples of blood, urine, toenails and household dust to investigate causes of the disease. 2004-10-16Antidepressants to get 'black box' warningAll antidepressants must carry a "black box" warning, the government's strongest safety alert, linking the drugs to increased suicidal thoughts and behavior among children and teens taking them, the Food and Drug Administration said Friday. 2004-10-15Gel could protect women from AIDSA leading medical journal says a chemical specially designed to thwart how the AIDS virus invades the body during sex offers scientists a new lead in the long quest for a vaginal gel that women could apply to protect themselves when men don't use a condom. 2004-10-12Study: Older runners improve fasterRunners over age 50 improve their performance more quickly than younger runners, a Yale study found, reinforcing past research on older athletes and the benefits they get from exercise. 2004-10-12Risk of future heart attack higher in hefty kidsOverweight children are three to five times more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke before they reach 65 than slimmer youngsters, an international charity said on Monday. 2004-10-11Monitoring key for youth on antidepressantsShauna Murphy thinks it's a smart idea to put warning labels on antidepressants. She has good reason. Nine years ago, at age 10, she was put on a particular brand of the medication and, shortly after, tried to kill herself. 2004-10-01Antarctic ozone hole smaller in 2004, scientists sayWELLINGTON - The ozone hole over Antarctica appears to have shrunk about 20 per cent from last year's record size, scientists said Friday. 2004-10-01Vioxx case shows need for tougher drug testing: analystsTORONTO - Drug regulators should require prescription drugs to be tested more thoroughly, according to industry analysts. 2004-09-30Broad changes needed to reduce childhood obesity: U.S. panelWASHINGTON - American society needs "fundamental changes," including limiting the time kids spend in front of a TV or computer, to reverse the epidemic of childhood obesity, a panel of scientists recommended Thursday.Click here 2004-09-30Antioxidants no help for digestive cancers, may cause harm: studyAntioxidant supplements like beta-carotene don't help to prevent five gastrointestinal cancers, and may actually do harm, a new review suggests. 2004-09-30'Stockpile bird flu vaccine' callExperts are calling for urgent action to set up global vaccine factories to deal with a possible pandemic of bird flu. 2004-09-30'Tomato treatment' slows cancerAn artificial version of the pigment that gives tomatoes their colouring is being tested on prostate cancer patients after promising animal trials. 2004-09-28New Darfur atrocity revealedThe brutal conflict in Sudan's Darfur region between two rebel groups and pro-government Arab militias, called the Janjaweed, has seen many atrocities prompting more than a million people to flee their homes. 2004-09-25Malawi fears over tobacco treatyMalawi, one of the biggest producers of tobacco, is coming under pressure to sign a new treaty limiting its production. 2004-09-18The truth about vitaminsEvery day millions of people in Britain take vitamin supplements. 2004-09-17Diet gets healthier as people ageContrary to popular opinion, adults do eat more healthily than they did as children. 2004-09-17Discuss death with dying childrenParents regret not discussing death with their children who are terminally ill, a survey shows. 2004-09-16'Clear' bacteria link to Crohn'sThe clearest evidence yet that Crohn's disease is caused by a type of bacteria blamed for a similar animal disorder has been published by US researchers. 2004-09-16Cheek tissue to restore eyesightDoctors have used thin sheets of cheek tissue to restore vision in people with damaged corneas. 2004-09-15Older Dads - More Men Postponing Fatherhood Till 40s and 50sMidlife is typically a time when men are perfecting their golf game. But some are finding that patty-cake is more their speed. Fatherhood is on the minds of more men in their 40s and 50s these days, impacting the dating world and occupying those interested in men's issues. 2004-09-14Hibiscus 'may reduce cholesterol'An extract from the hibiscus flower could have the same heart health benefits as red wine and tea, researchers suggest. 2004-09-13Breath of Life - News about pollution and lung developmentThe air in some parts of Southern California is so dirty that it impedes the development of children's lungs. By the time they are 18, many children who grow up in polluted areas have lungs that are underdeveloped and will likely stay that way into adulthood, claims a study in the latest issue of the New England Journal of Medicine. 2004-09-10Proof love at first sight existsLove at first sight may not be just for old romantics, according to scientists. 2004-09-10Cannabis study encouraging for MSThe biggest UK study of cannabis-based drugs has shown evidence for a long-term benefit in easing the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). 2004-09-10Nightclub lasers 'may harm sight'Lasers used in nightclubs could damage dancers' sight, researchers have warned. 2004-09-09Clinical drug trials 'distorted'Greater openness is needed to stop clinical drug trials being distorted, leading medical journals have said. 2004-08-30Nurture trumps nature for heart attack prevention: global studyA major new study by a Canadian-led research team has found that almost all heart attacks that occur worldwide are due to preventable factors rather than genetics. 2004-08-30Cancer recovery rates improvingMore cancer patients in Scotland have improved prospects of surviving, according to NHS figures. 2004-08-30Prisoners' clue to hep C vaccineA group of prisoners who appear to be naturally immune to hepatitis C could lead to a vaccine, Australian researchers hope. 2004-08-30Cleft palate genetic clue foundExperts have identified a genetic trait which triples the risk of a baby having a cleft palate in families where a child is already affected. 2004-08-29Flu 'becoming resistant to drugs'The flu virus is becoming resistant to key drugs which are used to treat it, a study suggests. 2004-08-29Patients to be warned over vCJDPatients who received blood products from donors who subsequently died from vCJD are to be warned they could be carrying the brain wasting disease. 2004-08-27Scans show brain hard-wired for sweet revengePlanning revenge really does feel sweet, according to a new study of brain scans. 2004-08-23Hiking with dog gets both in shapePeople who love to hike find taking along a four-legged companion can have physical benefits for both ends of the leash. 2004-08-23Report: More have high blood pressureAs Americans get older and fatter, the number of adults with high blood pressure has climbed to almost one in three over the past decade, putting more people at risk of a stroke, heart attack or kidney failure, government researchers said Monday. 2004-08-21'Same-day' doctors catching onIf Steve Lunt, aka the "Handyman of Rochester," made his clients wait weeks for an appointment, he'd be out of business before long. 2004-08-18Internet pharmacies get go-aheadThe government has given the green-light to internet-only pharmacies in England. 2004-08-17Tiny corkscrew clears blood clotsThe first device to remove blood clots from the brains of people suffering strokes -- a new treatment option that could save lives and shave the $53 billion annual bill to treat strokes -- has been approved by the government. 2004-08-16School runs do not cause obesityDriving children to school does not turn them into couch potatoes, UK research suggests. 2004-08-16Study: Hormones help prostate cancer survivalMen with prostate cancer that doesn't appear to have spread have better survival chances when they get short-term hormone treatment along with standard radiation, rather than radiation alone, a small study found. 2004-08-12Researchers study Alzheimer's-race linkMinorities may be harder hit by Alzheimer's disease than whites and researchers said Wednesday they are trying to find out why. 2004-08-12Study: Culturally adapted HIV classes benefit teen girlsLearning about HIV in a positive environment with their peers could be life-saving for sexually active African-American teenage girls who are at a high risk for the virus that causes AIDS, according to a study published in the upcoming Journal of the American Medical Association. 2004-08-10Premature boys have smaller brainUS scientists believe they have discovered why boys born too early struggle more with schooling in later life than premature baby girls. 2004-08-10Young 'more susceptible to CJD'Scientists have found more evidence to suggest that young people may be more susceptible to vCJD. 2004-08-10Japanese women shun the pillFive years ago Japanese women's rights advocates won their battle to legalize the birth control pill. Now they are waging an even tougher fight -- getting women to use it. 2004-08-10Study: Vaccine stops most chickenpox casesA vaccine prevents most cases of the chickenpox, and even when the vaccine fails, children tend to have a less severe case of the malady and are less likely to be contagious, researchers said on Tuesday. 2004-08-08Despite awareness, osteoporosis undertreatedThe number of Americans diagnosed with osteoporosis surged sevenfold over the past decade, coinciding with the development and marketing of new drugs to treat the bone-thinning condition, a study found. 2004-08-07Report: Kids' health better, weight a problemThe family life, education and health of America's children are generally improving, though child poverty has risen for the first time in a decade, according to the government's broadest measure of children's well-being. 2004-08-06How to update the Food PyramidWhat would make you a healthier eater? A cartoon image of a muscleman made out of breads, fruits and meats? A slogan such as "Eat reasonably or get fat?" 2004-08-06Elderly man dies from West Nile virusA 75-year-old man died from the mosquito-borne West Nile virus, becoming California's second fatality linked to the illness, officials said Sunday. 2004-08-05Antidepressants harm youth: reportA new U.S. Food and Drug Administration analysis of clinical trial data suggests a link between antidepressant drugs and suicidal tendencies among young people, a newspaper report said Thursday. 2004-08-05Study: Wide use of drug caused deathsNew research shows that soon after doctors started prescribing a drug for congestive heart failure more widely, the number of patients who died from a side effect increased. 2004-08-02Hospital issues trampoline warning after injuries riseWorried the number of trauma injuries will increase if kids try to copy trampoline stunts during this summer's Olympics, doctors are warning parents to think twice before buying the backyard equipment. 2004-07-29U.S. mad cow testing criticizedThe brown-and-white spotted calves appear happy and healthy as they amble through the tall grass of a northeastern Kansas field, never straying far from their mothers. 2004-07-28Fashion world 'promotes smoking'The fashion industry has been accused of "aiding and abetting" the promotion of smoking among the young by the government's health advisor. 2004-07-27Discovery could help prevent premature birthsScientists have taken a big step toward developing an earlier, safer and simple test that could help prevent perhaps 175,000 premature births in the United States each year. 2004-07-24Terminally ill denied last wishesMany terminally ill patients are being denied their wish to die at home, a report by MPs says. 2004-07-24California reports first West Nile deathA 57-year-old man died from the mosquito-borne West Nile virus, becoming California's first human fatality from the illness since it arrived in the state last year, officials said. 2004-07-23Test detects early ovarian cancerUS scientists have found a test that appears to be 100% effective at detecting early ovarian cancer. 2004-07-22Home milk delivery making a small, but growing comebackWhen he became a milkman in 2002, Ron Panneton knew the numbers weren't good. 2004-07-20Investigators: Hospital 'deficiencies' overlookedThe private organization that clears hospitals to receive Medicare payments missed most problems later identified by state inspectors, potentially compromising patient safety, congressional investigators said Tuesday. 2004-07-19Mothering may prevent aggressionGood parenting could prevent antisocial behaviour in people genetically prone to aggression, findings in animals suggest. 2004-07-19Researchers: Bacterial vaccine blocks some viral casesA vaccine designed to prevent bacterial pneumonia also reduced the number of virus-related cases of the disease, according to research that indicates the two types of infection may interact. 2004-07-19Study: Drug might delay Alzheimer'sPeople with a common memory disorder that often leads to Alzheimer's disease may be able to briefly delay that fate by taking a drug normally prescribed for Alzheimer's, a new study indicates. 2004-07-19Flicking -- not swatting -- mosquitoes might prevent infectionFlicking away pesky mosquitoes may be better than swatting the bloodsucking insects, which can risk infections if their body parts are smashed into human skin, researchers say. 2004-07-18Cholesterol limits lowered for heart patientsPeople who have recently had a heart attack should lower their "bad cholesterol" to rock-bottom levels, according to new guidelines issued Monday. 2004-07-18Discovery could ID diabetes-risk kidsScientists have discovered a gene mutation that contributes to juvenile diabetes, a discovery that could improve screening for the disease and help identify children at risk. 2004-07-15Infant blindness boosts music acumenInfants who go blind at a very young age develop musical abilities that are measurably better than those who lose their sight later in life or retain full vision, according to a new study. 2004-07-12Child's weight linked to parentsParents play a key role in determining whether or not their children become overweight, according to a study. 2004-07-08Study: Test predicts prostate cancer's aggressionProstate cancer is much more likely to kill if a man's PSA level rises rapidly before the cancer is even diagnosed, according to a study that suggests a new and far more meaningful way of looking at PSA test results. 2004-07-08Overtime hikes nursing errors, study showsNurses in U.S. hospitals about 40 percent of the time are working long shifts that raise the risk of medical mistakes such as giving the wrong medication or the wrong dose, a study released Wednesday said. 2004-07-08Mutant syphilis strain resists common cureA fast-spreading mutant strain of syphilis has proved resistant to the antibiotic pills that are offered to some patients as an alternative to painful penicillin shots. 2004-07-07Rats given artificial sweetener ate more caloriesRats fed artificial sweeteners ate three times the calories of rats given sugar, a finding the study's authors said suggests sugar-free foods may play a role in the nation's obesity epidemic. 2004-07-06U.N.: World failing in AIDS fightAlmost 5 million people became infected with HIV last year -- the largest number of new infections since the disease was discovered in 1981, the annual AIDS report from the United Nations said Tuesday. 2004-07-05Stress can be good for your bodyGetting stressed now and again may be good for your health, research suggests. 2004-07-03'Eat healthy' to keep you happyPeople need to eat more foods high in nutrients for their own mental wellbeing, say experts. 2004-07-02Western diet hikes stroke risk, study findsAdd stroke to the list of health problems caused by a Western diet rich in red meat, white flour and sugar, researchers have said. 2004-07-01Scientists answer 'When is best time to stretch?'Weekend warriors and noontime joggers can skip the stretches before warming up, according to the American College of Sports Medicine. 2004-07-01Combat stress: The war withinAlmost two out of every 10 U.S. troops who have faced combat in Iraq may return with serious symptoms of depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder, according to an unprecedented study. 2004-06-30CDC: Fewer high school students smokingSmoking rates among U.S. high school students sank to their lowest levels in at least 13 years, according to a study released Thursday, bolstering hopes the nation is recovering from an epidemic of teen cigarette use. 2004-06-29Genes affect chemo reaction, study showsGenetic differences among cancer patients may help explain why some become terribly sick during their treatment and others find chemotherapy a relative breeze. 2004-06-25Call to ban anti-cholesterol drugOne of the newest cholesterol-lowering drugs should be removed from the market because of safety concerns, an expert has said. 2004-06-25Potent mosquito virus skips U.S., for nowAs if West Nile virus wasn't bad enough, now U.S. health officials are on the lookout for another mosquito-borne disease, fearing it could become a permanent part of the American landscape if it entered the country. 2004-06-24Doubt cast over Alzheimer's drugsDrugs widely used to treat Alzheimer's disease have little actual benefit, controversial research suggests. 2004-06-24Breast milk compound shrinks wartsA compound in breast milk has been found to destroy many skin warts, raising hopes it might also prove effective against cervical cancer and other lethal diseases caused by the same virus. 2004-06-22Temperament, hypertension linked in studyYoung adults who keep a cool head under stress may be less likely to develop high blood pressure as they age, U.S. researchers have said. 2004-06-22Study: Erection trouble may mean heart troubleMen with diabetes who also have trouble getting an erection may have heart disease and not even realize it, Italian doctors have said. 2004-06-14Cocaine vaccine 'stops addiction'A vaccine which can help cocaine addicts break their addiction has been developed by a UK pharmaceutical company. 2004-06-14CDC: Suicide rate for children, teens dropsSuicide among American youngsters and teens fell about 25 percent in the last decade, reflecting a dramatic dropoff in gun suicides, the government said Thursday. 2004-06-11Report: Alcohol abuse up, but fewer alcoholicsMore Americans are abusing alcohol than in the 1990s, but fewer are technically alcoholics, U.S. government researchers. 2004-06-10Study: Aspirin might cut risk of breast cancerAspirin, the wonder drug that can help prevent heart attacks and strokes, also appears to reduce women's chances of developing the most common type of breast cancer, a study found. 2004-06-09Cannabis drug cuts arthritis painA drug made from an extract of cannabis has helped to reduce the pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. 2004-06-09Breast cancer drug is lifesaverA breast cancer drug could save the lives of thousands of women living with the disease. 2004-06-08The end of the salad days?With almost a quarter of Britons who claim to be vegetarian admitting to regularly eating red meat, are entirely meat-free diets on the wane? 2004-06-08Prostate cancer gene identifiedScientists have identified a gene which could identify how aggressive a man's prostate cancer will be. 2004-06-07Brittle bone risk under-estimatedMany women fail to recognise they are at risk of developing the brittle bone disease osteoporosis, a survey finds. 2004-06-07The secrets of long life revealed?Why do some people live longer than others? 2004-06-01Study: Texas children among nation's heaviestTexas children are among the fattest in the nation, with black and Hispanic kids at the highest risk for being overweight, a study shows. 2004-06-01Study shows mental disorders prevalent in 14 countriesMental illnesses including anxiety disorders and depression are common and under-treated in many developed and developing countries, with the highest rate found in the United States, according to a study of 14 countries. 2004-05-28Year's first human West Nile cases reportedArizona and New Mexico have reported this year's first human cases of the mosquito-borne West Nile virus, health officials said. 2004-05-27Surgeon general expands list of diseases linked to smokingThe list of diseases linked to smoking just got longer. 2004-05-25WHO: Outbreak may be new Ebola strainScientists suspect that a new milder strain of the Ebola virus may have caused the latest outbreak of the deadly hemorrhagic fever in southern Sudan, the World Health Organization said Saturday. 2004-05-25Boy born from 21-year-old spermBritish woman gave birth to a baby boy using sperm from her husband that was frozen 21 years earlier, their doctor said Tuesday. 2004-05-25Breast cancer on rise in U.S. men, study findsMale breast cancer is on the rise in the United States -- bad news for men and their doctors, who do not even know to look for it, researchers reported Monday. 2004-05-25U.S. poised for epidemic West Nile yearAs summer approaches, experts say they are expecting a third straight epidemic year. Five years ago, scientists detected the first U.S. case of the West Nile virus -- originally identified in Uganda 62 years earlier -- in New York. The mosquito-borne virus has since spread quickly and efficiently, with human cases reported in most areas of the continental United States. 2004-05-24Pollution 'increases twin births'Women who live in areas with high levels of pollution are more likely to have twins, research suggests. 2004-05-17Dramatic Decline in Disability Continues for Older AmericansDisability among older Americans is declining dramatically and at an accelerating pace. According to new analyses from the National Long Term Care Survey (NLTCS), the percentage of people age 65 and older with disabilities fell 1.6 percent per year from 1989 through 1994 and 2.6 percent annually from 1994 though 1999. The improvements in recent years are also noteworthy for a newly observed decline in disability among black Americans as well as a decrease of at least 200,000 in the number of people estimated to live in nursing homes. 2004-05-17Smoking at work 'kills hundreds'Second-hand tobacco smoke at work kills hundreds of Britons each year - including almost one hospitality industry worker a week, a study says. 2004-05-17Gene 'doubles breast cancer risk'Scientists have identified a further gene which increases a woman's risk of developing breast cancer. 2004-05-14Study links sooty pollution, genetic mutationsSooty air pollution can cause genetic damage that can be passed along to offspring, Canadian researchers reported in a study on mice. 2004-05-14Survey: Arthritis grips 25 percent of AmericansApproximately one-quarter of American adults have been diagnosed with arthritis and another 17 percent may be suffering from the crippling disease, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. 2004-05-13Decline reported in AIDS-related skin cancerThe number of HIV patients with Kaposi sarcoma, a once-rare cancer that became a marker for AIDS in the early days of the epidemic, has declined sharply due to the use of antiretroviral drugs, according to a European study released Monday. 2004-05-12Frozen, Fresh Sperm Both Effective for In Vitro FertilizationA new Mayo Clinic study shows that couples using in vitro fertilization have the same likelihood of successful pregnancy whether the sperm used is frozen or fresh. Researchers presented the results today at the annual scientific meeting of the American Urological Association in San Francisco. 2004-05-10Move to clear up cancer confusionScientists around the world are to carry out a major study to examine the links between diet and cancer. 2004-05-10Study: Molecule 'vacuums' fat in miceA new approach being used to fight cancer may also help fight fat, U.S. researchers said Sunday. 2004-05-09Prostate cancer risk linked to testosterone levelMen over 50 who have higher levels of testosterone have a higher risk of prostate cancer, U.S. researchers reported Sunday. 2004-05-07Doctors 'cause radiation burns'Experts at the UN's nuclear agency have warned that patients worldwide are suffering from radiation burns because doctors have not been properly trained. 2004-05-06U.S. tracking down labs studying SARSConcerned about a SARS outbreak traced to labs in Asia studying the virus, U.S. health officials said they were checking across the country to see which facilities have samples of the virus. 2004-05-06Group gives states, fed poor marks for women's healthMore than one-quarter of American women have high blood pressure and nearly one-fifth lack health insurance, according to a study released Thursday that says federal and state governments fail to meet women's health needs. 2004-05-03Doctor promotes link between meat, Alzheimer'sA Toronto doctor and coroner is promoting the notion of a link between Alzheimer's disease and the types of meat we eat. 2004-05-03Obesity to pass smoking as top killer in U.S.Fears of Americans smoking themselves to death are being supplanted by fears of them gorging and couch-potato-ing themselves into an early grave. 2004-05-03Obese kids more likely to be bullied: studyChildhood obesity has long been known to set kids up for a lifetime of health problems, but according to a new study, it also sets them up in school as the target for bullying. 2004-05-03Breast milk helps reduce obesityBreast milk contains a protein that could reduce the risk of obesity, according to US research. 2004-05-03New breast cancer detection method promisingNew tests that measure water, oxygen and other breast tissue properties could be more effective than mammograms in diagnosing breast cancer, scientists said Monday. 2004-05-02India outlaws smoking in publicA law has come into force in India which bans smoking in public places. The legislation has been introduced under India's new Anti-Smoking Act, which was passed by the country's parliament last year. The law also forbids any direct or indirect advertising of tobacco products and the sale of cigarettes to children. Anyone caught breaking the law will be fined 200 rupees ($4.50), officials have said. 2004-04-30Study shows Lou Gehrig's disease more prevalent among vetsMen who served in the U.S. military during the last century appear to have an unusually high risk of dying from Lou Gehrig's disease, but experts are puzzled over why and are uncertain whether the apparent hazard is real. 2004-04-26Stem cells could repair heartsUS researchers have shown that stem cell therapy could help repair failing hearts. 2004-04-26Smoking explains racial cancer disparity, study findsIf black men stopped smoking, their cancer rates would drop by nearly two-thirds, a U.S. researcher said. 2004-04-26Report finds heart disease a global threatCheap food, cigarettes and city life are causing millions of early deaths in the developing world, according to a report to be released Monday. 2004-04-23Study: Corn syrup may have role in diabetes riseCorn syrup and other refined foods may be much to blame for the huge increase in type-2 diabetes in the United States over the past few decades, U.S. researchers said Thursday. 2004-04-22Blood test 'may predict cancer'A simple blood test could one day be used to identify people at risk of developing cancer. 2004-04-22AIDS did not jump to humans through vaccine, scientists findA Canadian-led team has disproved a popular and dangerously misguided theory of how HIV-AIDS jumped from animals to humans. 2004-04-22Spice 'may fight cystic fibrosis'A spice used in curry and mustard may benefit people with cystic fibrosis, a study suggests. 2004-04-22Researchers: Worry affects female fertility"Don't worry, be happy" may sound like patronizing advice to a woman seeking help in having a baby but it may be just what the doctor ordered, according to research. 2004-04-22Diet, exercise can help ward off arthritisAs baby boomers get older and fatter, they're also more likely to come down with one of the consequences of age and weight -- arthritis. 2004-04-21C-section births at an all-time high: CIHICanada's caesarean birthrate has hit an all-time high, with the surgery being used to bring almost one in four infants into the world, a report by the Canadian Institute for Health Information shows. 2004-04-21Mice created without fathersScientists have created two female mice without fertilising the eggs they grew from, the journal Nature says. 2004-04-20CDC: Fewer doctors urge weight lossMany doctors are not advising their obese patients to lose weight despite a national obesity epidemic, the government said. 2004-04-19Experts stress post-exercise eatingCarbohydrates may be considered evil in this age of the low-carb diet revolution, but the nutrient plays an important role in helping athletes recover from strenuous exercise. 2004-04-13CDC plans flu vaccine stockpile for kidsFor the first time, the government will stockpile flu shots for children to avoid the vaccine shortages that caught health officials off-guard this past winter. 2004-04-12Doctors try chemo drug to treat MSDoctors report promising results using huge doses of a potent chemotherapy drug to treat autoimmune diseases including multiple sclerosis, though only a handful of patients have been treated so far and one MS researcher said far more study is needed before any victory is declared. 2004-04-12Study: More frequent breast exams neededWomen who carry a genetic mutation linked to a higher risk of breast cancer often are at advanced stages of the disease months before they go to the doctor for an annual screening, according to a new U.S. study. 2004-04-12Judge won't block ephedra banA federal judge allowed a nationwide ban on dietary supplements containing ephedra to take effect Monday, turning aside a request by two supplement makers. 2004-04-10Secrets of how cells die revealedScientists have taken an important step towards understanding the biological processes involved when cells die. 2004-04-10Stem cells 'fail in cancer care'Stem cell transplants do not benefit patients with breast cancer, research has shown. 2004-04-08Study: Low 'health literacy' widespreadNearly half of American adults face higher risks of health problems because of trouble understanding medical terms and directions, experts said Thursday in a report that calls for a national effort to improve health literacy. 2004-04-07Study finds frequent sex may cut cancer riskContrary to some research, frequent sexual activity does not increase the risk of developing prostate cancer and might even reduce the danger, a study of nearly 30,000 men found. 2004-04-07Avian fluIn January 2004, the World Health Organization warned that avian influenza, also called the bird flu, has the potential for being a more serious problem than SARS. 2004-04-07Should children's TV viewing be limited?Children under two should not be allowed to watch any television and older children should watch no more than two hours a day, according to researchers at the Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Centre in Seattle. 2004-04-05Study: TV may cause attention deficitResearchers have found that every hour preschoolers watch television each day boosts their chances -- by about 10 percent -- of developing attention deficit problems later in life. 2004-04-05Obesity 'damages child arteries'The arteries of overweight children can be in as poor condition as those of middle-aged smokers, finds research. 2004-04-02Injury risk for DIY enthusiastsPeople planning home improvements over the Easter holidays are being warned of the dangers of DIY. 2004-04-02Brain surgery may cure Tourette'sDoctors in the US have carried out brain surgery on a 31-year-old man in a bid to cure him of Tourette syndrome. 2004-04-02Survey: Kids, parents missing sleepChildren are sleeping less than experts recommend and many parents are not happy about it, according to a survey of American households by the National Sleep Foundation. 2004-04-01Inactivity rules among UK adultsMost people in the UK think it is healthier to relax than take exercise, a study shows. 2004-04-01Thalidomide'They just didn't know what it would do' 2004-03-29Smokers struck by dripping fat adAn anti-smoking advert showing fat dripping from the end of a cigarette hit home with smokers. 2004-03-29Ulcer drug may boost brainpowerA drug once used to treat stomach ulcers may help to boost brainpower in old age, a study suggests. 2004-03-29Housework 'reduces cancer risk'Any physical activity is beneficial 2004-03-29Smoking barred from Irish pubsThe Republic of Ireland has become the first country in the world to outlaw cigarettes in all its restaurants and pubs, to the delight of non-smokers but the dismay of some publicans who say they will have to police the ban. 2004-03-26High schools struggling with rising steroid useKevin Will is a high school quarterback, a strapping 16-year-old who has been told he has college potential -- but needs to get bigger. 2004-03-24Doctors try chemo drug to treat MSDoctors report promising results using huge doses of a potent chemotherapy drug to treat autoimmune diseases including multiple sclerosis, though only a handful of patients have been treated so far and one MS researcher said far more study is needed before any victory is declared. 2004-03-24Low nutrients lead to low IQs in developing nationsThe brainpower of entire nations has diminished because of a shortage of the right vitamins, and slipping nutrients into people's food seems to be the only solution, a new U.N. survey says. 2004-03-23Doctor on the frontlineAs figures reveal more than 5,000 attacks on health and social service workers in Northern Ireland last year, BBC News Online speaks to one doctor on the receiving end of violent patients. 2004-03-23Gels 'could protect against HIV'Millions of people around the world could soon protect themselves against HIV using a simple gel or cream. 2004-03-23Survey: Fewer teens using drugsThe number of teenagers abusing drugs has fallen by 10 percent over the five-year period from 1998 to 2003, according to a new report released Wednesday from The Partnership for a Drug-Free America. 2004-03-23British researchers see rise of 'superbugs' in kidsInfections caused by a drug-resistant "superbug" have risen steadily over the past decade in British children and steps must be taken to curtail it, researchers said on Monday. 2004-03-20Study: Teen abstinence no help to later STD ratesTeens who pledge to remain virgins until marriage have the same rates of sexually transmitted diseases as those who don't pledge abstinence, according to a study that examined the sex lives of 12,000 adolescents. 2004-03-19UN: Polio cases spreadingNew cases of polio have been discovered in regions of Nigeria where the crippling disease had been eradicated in the past, U.N. health officials said Friday. 2004-03-18Drug could avoid breast removalA hormone-blocking drug could save many breast cancer patients from undergoing a mastectomy, a study has shown. 2004-03-18Blood test 'can diagnose strokes'A simple blood test could soon help doctors to identify patients who are having a stroke much more quickly. 2004-03-17Patch could ease patients' painA simple patch could soon be used to relieve the pain of patients who have undergone major surgery. 2004-03-17Scientists: Brain enzyme regulates appetite, weightScientists say an enzyme in the brain that monitors energy in cells also appears to regulate appetite and weight, a discovery that could lead to new treatments for obesity. 2004-03-14Obesity: Who is to blame?Around 300m people around the world are obese and that figure is predicted to rise sharply in the years ahead. Who, if anyone, is to blame? 2004-03-14Gene fault linked to many cancersScientists have identified a gene fault linked to the development of a range of cancers. 2004-03-12Bad teeth blamed on fizzy drinksA study in the British Dental Journal found a strong link between fizzy drink consumption and tooth erosion. 2004-03-11Grans 'live longer to be carers'Grannies exist because of a clever evolutionary plan to provide carers to look after children while younger women have more, say experts. 2004-03-11Alternative vaccine for smallpoxA new smallpox vaccine has produced encouraging results in tests on monkeys and mice. 2004-03-10Study backs coffee as diabetes protectionA study done in Finland, the heaviest coffee-drinking country, provides more evidence that the world's most widely consumed beverage may ward off adult onset diabetes, researchers said on Tuesday. 2004-03-08Cholesterol: How low should you go?Lowering heart attack victims' cholesterol to levels dramatically below current standards appears to be an important strategy for saving lives and preventing new heart problems, a major new study shows. 2004-03-05Heart drugs reduce stroke riskA drug which cuts the risk of heart attacks can also reduce a person's chance of having a stroke, scientists have found. 2004-03-05IVF 'is too stressful for many'Psychological and relationship problems cause many couples to stop having fertility treatment, a study suggests. 2004-03-05Study: Smoking raises risk of blindnessSmokers are up to four times more likely than non-smokers to develop a disease that is the leading cause of adult blindness, public health experts said in the British Medical Journal on Friday. 2004-03-05Got milk? Overweight kids may need itDairy foods appear to cut risk of childhood obesity, study shows 2004-03-04Infection may help HIV patientsBeing infected with a strain of hepatitis may help people with HIV to live longer, a study suggests. 2004-03-04Concerns over thyroid treatmentPatients with Graves disease may be receiving unnecessarily high doses of radiation therapy, scientists warn. 2004-03-04Study: Benign virus may delay AIDS progressionA harmless virus common in the general population delays the development of AIDS, according to a study released on Wednesday that could help researchers find new treatments for the epidemic. 2004-03-02Study finds estrogen alone is risky, tooFeds halt trial, citing no heart disease benefit 2004-02-25Survey: Fewer teens using drugsThe number of teenagers abusing drugs has fallen by 10 percent over the five-year period from 1998 to 2003, according to a new report released Wednesday from The Partnership for a Drug-Free America. 2004-02-24Report: Young Americans facing STD crisisTeenagers and young adults account for nearly half the cases of sexually transmitted diseases in the United States though they make up just a quarter of the sexually active population, according to the first extensive national estimate of STDs among young Americans. 2004-02-24Coffee 'boosts male fertility'Drinking coffee makes sperm swim faster and could improve male fertility. 2004-02-24Soya 'link' to male infertilityThe humble soya bean may play a role in the problem of male infertility, a team of researchers in Belfast has found. 2004-02-24Researchers link ads to childhood obesityThousands of advertisements for candy and sugary foods help fuel the epidemic of childhood obesity in America, a pair of new studies asserts. 2004-02-24Report finds kids' menus heavy on fatWhat's on the menu for kids at chain restaurants? Fat, grease and hidden calories, according to one nutrition advocacy group. 2004-02-24Report: Half of STDs found in teens, young adultsTeenagers and young adults account for nearly half the cases of sexually transmitted diseases in the United States though they make up just a quarter of the sexually active population, according to the first extensive national estimate of STDs among young Americans. 2004-02-23MMR study called 'poor science'LONDON, England (Reuters) -- England's chief medical officer has attacked a doctor for a study on the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, saying it was "poor science" and caused a "completely false loss of confidence" by linking it to autism. 2004-02-20Aspirin warning to asthmaticsMore asthma patients are at risk of having an attack after taking aspirin than previously thought, doctors warn. 2004-02-20Vaccine 'could block lung cancer'Experts have developed a vaccine which could be used to block the progress of lung cancer. 2004-02-20New drug 'prevents bird flu'An Australian-designed drug could prove to be an effective human treatment for the deadly bird flu strain that has been causing havoc across Asia. 2004-02-19Researcher isolated after possible Ebola exposureA civilian Army researcher at Fort Detrick, Maryland, is in isolation after possibly being exposed to the Ebola virus, Army officials said Thursday. 2004-02-19Power of the placeboSimply expecting relief from pain can help, study shows 2004-02-18Study suggests novel treatment for heart failureStatins may help even patients with low cholesterol 2004-02-17Even upscale eateries bowing to low-carb dietsAs Burger King promotes bunless burgers and Subway hawks low-carb sandwich wraps, some upscale restaurants are pouring on the cream and perfecting flourless batter in their own appeal to those on Atkins-style diets. 2004-02-14When coping means cuttingSam Hunt, from Birmingham, is 17. When she was severely bullied at school, she regularly cut herself with a knife - and took repeated overdoses. 2004-02-14Schizophrenia link to lead petrolUS scientists say they have found a link between exposure to lead in the womb and schizophrenia in adulthood. 2004-02-14Common blood infection kills millionsAn international group of doctors is pushing for aggressive treatment to prevent half a million deaths worldwide from a common bloodstream infection. 2004-02-13Study: Hostile people may be 'born to smoke'People with hostile or aggressive personality traits may have genetic tendencies that make them "born to smoke," a small study suggests. 2004-02-13Breast-fed baby exposed to smallpox vaccine virusA U.S. soldier's wife who was accidentally exposed to the live virus in the smallpox vaccine likely passed it on to her baby through breast-feeding, according to military authorities. 2004-02-13Breast-fed baby exposed to smallpox vaccine virus A U.S. soldier's wife who was accidentally exposed to the live virus in the smallpox vaccine likely passed it on to her baby through breast-feeding, according to military authorities. 2004-02-13Clone report sparks fresh debateThe announcement by South Korean scientists that they had created human embryos by cloning and extracted embryonic stem cells has raised concerns around the world. 2004-02-07'Corkscrew' repairs stroke damageScientists have developed a 'corkscrew' which can capture and remove blood clots in the brains of stroke patients. 2004-02-07Bird flu discovered in Delaware chickensPennsylvania (Reuters) -- A flock of 12,000 chickens in Delaware was destroyed Saturday in a bid to prevent the spread of avian flu, and state agriculture officials hastened to say the virus differs from the one that has killed people in Asia. 2004-02-06Bat spit drug aids stroke victimsA drug manufactured from the saliva of vampire bats could make it easier to protect the brain from stroke damage. 2004-02-051918 killer flu secrets revealedScientists have worked out how the virus which caused the world's worst flu epidemic infected man. 2004-02-05Pain from a woman will hurt lessPain hurts less when it is inflicted by a woman, researchers have found. Students were asked to put their fingers in a clamp which was tightened until the pain was unbearable. 2004-02-04New heart-health guidelines issued for womenHeart disease is the leading killer of both genders in the United States, but until now, women had to rely on prevention and treatment guidelines based on research on men. 2004-02-03Mapping the bird flu outbreakAmid fears that an outbreak of avian flu which has killed millions of birds in South East Asia could mutate and spread among humans, BBC News Online looks at the situation in the countries affected so far. So far, only the H5N1 strain of bird flu has been deadly to humans. 2004-02-03Stomach cancer deaths plummetThe number of people dying from stomach cancer dropped sharply across Europe between 1980 and 1999, figures show. 2004-02-03Rich 'failing' on birth controlThe developed countries are failing to live up to their promises to help to slow the growth in human numbers, the UN Population Fund, UNFPA, says. 2004-02-03Experts in bird flu crisis talksFood and health experts are meeting to try to identify ways to counter the deadly bird flu outbreak in Asia. 2004-02-03Drug could block Sars infectionA body chemical that could wipe out the virus that causes Sars may have been found by researchers. 2004-01-29High Estrogen Levels Stress You OutHigh levels of estrogen seem to make the brain more vulnerable to stress, says new research from Yale University. 2004-01-29WHO fears bird flu began in AprilThe World Health Organization (WHO) has said the current outbreak of bird flu may have first surfaced last April, much earlier than previously thought. 2004-01-29Study examines cancer risk from hair dyeWomen who have been coloring their hair for 24 years or more have a higher risk of developing a cancer called non-Hodgkin lymphoma, researchers reported. 2004-01-29Report: Teen depression may shrink part of brainTeenagers with depression may have abnormal brain structure, Canadian researchers say in a new report. 2004-01-28Implants hinder breast scansBreast implants may make it harder for doctors to interpret mammograms, research finds. 2004-01-28Study links mom's diet, your life spanExperiments with mice suggest that life span may be related to what your mother ate during pregnancy. 2004-01-24Q&A: Avian fluThailand is the latest Asian country to confirm cases of avian flu in humans. BBC News Online looks at the disease and what the possible risks to humans are. 2004-01-23Worst of the flu over?An especially virulent strain of the flu virus is sickening people across the United States with several states reporting widespread outbreaks. But federal health officials recently said this year's influenza activity appears to be on the downturn. "We are cautiously optimistic that at least in some parts of the country, influenza may have peaked," said Dr. Julie Gerberding, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "But there's still plenty of flu out there." As many as 36,000 people in the United States die each year of what's commonly known as the flu, according to the CDC. 2004-01-23Warnings, bans as bird flu spreadsBANGKOK, Thailand -- At least two Thai children have been infected with bird flu, and world health officials warn the deadly virus could spark an epidemic worse than SARS. 2004-01-23FDA: Tylenol, painkiller misuse can be deadlyOver-the-counter painkillers work well for most people, but ignoring the directions and misusing them can result in severe, even lethal, side effects, says a new government campaign aimed at educating patients. 2004-01-20China OKs Human Trials of SARS VaccineChina has approved human trials of an experimental SARS vaccine, and 30 people have volunteered, state media reported Monday. 2004-01-20Vitamins 'cut Alzheimer's effect'It may be possible to reduce the effects of Alzheimer's disease by taking the right combination of vitamins, US research suggests. 2004-01-20US wants changes to obesity planUS officials have demanded the World Health Organization reconsider plans to tackle global obesity rates. 2004-01-15A glass of red wine in a pillScientists in Italy are developing a pill that will have all of the health benefits of a glass of red wine. 2004-01-15Fast food burgers roll with low-carb crazeMore customers asking to 'Hold the bun' 2004-01-15Study links ecstasy, long-term memory lossPeople who take the drug ecstasy are more likely to suffer from long-term memory loss, according to a British study published Thursday. 2004-01-15Bird flu sparks Asian health scareHONG KONG, China (CNN) -- World Health Organization officials have warned an outbreak of bird flu that has been racing across chicken farms in Asia could become a bigger problem than SARS. 2004-01-15Genetics may make people prone to SARSPeople with a certain genetic pattern appear to be more susceptible to SARS, scientists said Thursday. 2004-01-12Study: Even a little exercise fends off weight gainResearchers find 30 minutes' daily walking key to maintenance 2004-01-09Study: Farmed salmon more contaminated than wildFarm-raised salmon contain significantly more dioxins and other potentially cancer-causing pollutants than do salmon caught in the wild, says a major study that tested contaminants in fish bought around the world. 2004-01-09Study: Light cigarettes fail to cut lung cancer riskLow-tar cigarettes do not carry a lower risk of lung cancer, according to the first study comparing lung cancer deaths among smokers of ultra-light, mild and medium filtered cigarettes. 2004-01-08CDC: Flu outbreak on declineInfluenza activity appears to be on the downturn in the United States, even as federal officials report more than 90 children have died of the flu this season. 2004-01-08Marketing drives up costs of heart drugs: Canadian studyTORONTO - The costs of drugs for heart disease in Canada are spiralling, and much of the demand is being driven by marketing, a cardiologist says. 2004-01-08Developing nations face rising diabetes casesUnhealthy diets and lack of exercise mean developing countries face an explosion in diabetes cases over the next 30 years, the World Health Organization warned Friday. 2004-01-07Study examines smokers' breast cancer linkWomen who smoke may have a far higher risk of breast cancer than those who do not, or those who once smoked but quit, researchers reported. 2004-01-06International survey: Fattest teens in U.S.Teenagers in the United States have higher rates of obesity than those in 14 other industrialized countries, including France and Germany, a study of nearly 30,000 youngsters ages 13 and 15 found. 2003-12-19Drug Use by U.S. Teens DecliningWASHINGTON American teenagers are cutting back on their use of illicit drugs and cigarettes, but alcohol consumption is holding steady, the government says. 2003-12-19A Shot of Hope - A vaccine for cancerA vaccine for cancer seems almost too good to be true. But recent developments in scientists' understanding of both genetics and the immune system are making cancer vaccines a reality. 2003-12-19Under the Skin - PsoriasisIt turns out that psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that causes itchy, scaly red patches, is more than skin deep. Over the last decade, researchers discovered that psoriasis is due to a problem not with the skin but with the immune system and a recent study has linked the condition to lymphoma, which is a cancer of the immune system. 2003-12-19Heart Patients Gain by Quitting SmokingYou have heart disease and chest pain -- a heart attack waiting to happen. Quitting smoking is the least of your worries, right? 2003-12-17Center Aims to Demystify VaccinesThose little vials containing vaccines can frighten parents enough, in some cases, that they don't get their children immunized. 2003-12-15Health Canada to review use of psychiatric drugs on kidsHealth Canada is reviewing whether a class of drugs - known as SSRIs - is safe for the treatment of depression in children and adolescents. The review is looking at data on many of the top-selling psychiatric drugs, including Paxil, Prozac and Celexa. None of the drugs is licensed for use in children, but doctors often do still prescribe them. 2003-12-15Are you allergic to Christmas?The festive season affects people in different ways. If, for example, the words 'Christmas shopping' bring you out in a cold sweat, or the sight of decorated tree before 21 December makes your brow furrow, you probably have a condition called 'being male'. 2003-12-11Knee op 'will cut hospital stays'A new knee surgery method could cut hospital stays by three quarters to two days, its makers claim. 2003-12-11Flu now widespread in 24 statesThe number of states severely hit by the flu more than doubled since last week and the illness is hitting the Western part of the nation particularly hard, federal health officials reported Thursday. 2003-11-28Thousands sickened in early, severe flu seasonEspecially virulent strain of virus is cropping up 2003-11-28Health officials prepare for flu pandemicAcross Canada, officials have been trying to prepare for the next influenza pandemic that could affect millions worldwide. 2003-11-28Herbal distributor won't comply with Health Canada recallThe distributor of an unregulated food supplement is challenging a Health Canada request to remove the product from the market. The pill, marketed under the name Bell Magicc Bullet, contains the unauthorized chemical ingredient sildenafil. That's the active ingredient in Viagra. 2003-11-28We're healthier, but more depressedVICTORIA - The province's chief medical officer says the general health of British Columbians has been improving, but there's some big health problems to tackle. 2003-11-23Back pain: Uncommon causes
2003-11-23Exercise eases symptoms of anxiety and depressionIf you have depression or anxiety, you might find your doctor prescribing a regular dose of exercise in addition to medication or talk therapy. 2003-11-19Heading Off HeartburnMillions of Americans suffer from heartburn, although most could easily control it through diet or medication. An expert discusses different methods of heartburn treatments, and the benefits and limitations of each. 2003-11-19Ontario to raise tobacco taxes, curb smokingOntario Premier Dalton McGuinty wants to raise tobacco taxes in his province and he wants Quebec to follow suit to prevent smuggling across the provincial border. McGuinty said there are 12,000 deaths a year in Canada from smoking, costing the economy more than $4 billion annually. 2003-11-15Developing nations face rising diabetes casesUnhealthy diets and lack of exercise mean developing countries face an explosion in diabetes cases over the next 30 years, the World Health Organization warned. 2003-11-11Study: Vitamins combat age-related blindnessHundreds of thousands of people could benefit from vitamin supplements shown to help prevent macular degeneration, a condition that is the leading cause of blindness from age 65, a study reported. In 2001, researchers announced they had found a reduced risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration and vision loss for test subjects who had been given high-dose antioxidant supplements -- vitamins C, E and beta carotene -- as well as zinc or zinc oxide. 2003-11-11Depression treatment may ease arthritisTreating elderly patients for depression can help ease arthritis pain, an unexpected and hopeful finding for sufferers of the degenerative joint disease, the author of a study released on Tuesday said. Older people treated for depression with medication and therapy not only showed fewer symptoms of that depression after a year, but their arthritis symptoms eased as well, the study showed. They had less pain and less interference with daily activities due to arthritis. 2003-11-11Study finds pain at work costs billionsHeadaches, back pain, arthritis and other muscle and joint pain cost the nation's employers more than $60 billion a year in lost productivity, a study has found. Most of those costs are from sub-par job performance as a result of the pain rather than absenteeism, according to the study, based on a telephone survey of 28,902 workers in a wide variety of blue-collar and white-collar professions. The study focuses on some of the most common pain conditions that affect both men and women. It doesn't include some common conditions such as dental pain and menstrual pain. 2003-11-05Study links obesity levels in parents and childrenIt is said that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Neither, apparently, does the adiposity. New Statistics Canada data reveal that a girl with an obese parent is six times more likely to be obese than a peer with parents of normal weight. Boys are three times more likely to be grossly overweight if one of their parents is obese. The results represent the first time that the association between youth and parental obesity has been measured on such a broad scale. 2003-11-05Heart attack warning signs different for womenWomen have different warning signs for a heart attack than men, with unusual fatigue and sleeplessness topping the list of symptoms. 2003-11-05Cholesterol treatment works like Drano for arteriesU.S. researchers have discovered a method of clearing clogged arteries that could revolutionize treatment of the dangerous condition. They have used a synthetic version of an altered form of HDL cholesterol to clear blockages in artery stems. 2003-11-05New stricter cholesterol, blood pressure guidelines unveiledCanadians who get a medical exam may be in for an unpleasant surprise after new guidelines for cardiovascular health came out this week. The "normal" levels for blood pressure, cholesterol and other health indicators have all been lowered 2003-11-01The next 10 years in women's healthHeart disease, dementia, depression, cancer. Today few women make it through their lifetimes without suffering from at least one of these diseases. But medical experts agree that the next 10 years will bring greater understanding of these disorders and improve the options for treatment. 2003-11-01Senior wins drug battleFor years Bill Harding fought for the rights of Canadian workers as chief bargainer for the Oshawa local of the United Auto Workers. Today, with his daughters by his side, he is fighting to change the way nursing homes use behaviour-altering drugs to keep elderly residents subdued. 2003-11-01How to just say no to drugsWhat should you do if you suspect a loved one is being given behaviour-controlling drugs unnecessarily and without informed consent? Over the long-term, many seniors' advocates argue government should step in. 2003-10-31Mandatory driving suspensions for cardiac patients don't make roads saferRegulations forcing the suspension of a heart patient's driving privileges may be too restrictive, a panel of cardiac experts reported Tuesday at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress. Medical illnesses cause fewer than one per cent of motor vehicle accidents and 90 per cent of that small fraction couldn't have been predicted by studying the health records of the drivers involved, said a report presented at the conference. 2003-10-28Elderly get more out of flu shot: studyFlu shots deliver a double protection for the elderly, according to a new study. Researchers at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center discovered the vaccine could protect seniors against heart disease and stroke. 2003-06-12Aerobics for Your BrainWhen you participate in aerobic activities - those that get your blood pumping and your body sweating - you know you're doing your heart good. But did you know you may also be benefiting your brain? 2003-06-10Male Menopause Pill 'May Be Harmful'A supplement marketed at middle-aged men as a way to boost testosterone levels may not work - and could even cause harm. 2003-06-09Never Too Old to Learn New TricksThe growing trend toward learning in retirement isn't surprising, observers say, because people reaching that stage now are increasingly educated. Their numbers will go up as the baby boom generation reaches retirement in the next 10 years. 2003-06-06Organizations Launch Anti-ageism CampaignWhat do CARP and the Ontario Human Rights Commission have in common? Both are seriously concerned with the prevalence of ageism and its effects on older adults. 2003-06-05Not So FastMany fast-food chains are offering salads as a healthy option, but you might be better off choosing a burger. 2003-06-04Trans Fat Harder on Arteries than Saturated FatFrench fries might be healthier if cooked in saturated fat instead of the hydrogenated vegetable oils that are typically used... 2003-06-03Spirituality Protects Against End-of-life DespairHaving a sense of spiritual well-being -- or an understanding of the meaning and purpose of life, regardless of religion -- appears to help terminally ill people avoid spending their last months of life in despair. 2003-06-03Stress Leaves Blood Vessels Tightly WoundMental stress causes the inner layer of the blood vessels to constrict, which may increase the risk of sudden cardiac death. 2003-06-02A Time to GrievePeople experiencing grief often feel like they're not recovering quickly enough, and friends of the bereaved are often uncomfortable and unsure of how to best help the bereaved person. 2003-06-02Excitement over Cancer DrugAn experimental drug has produced remarkable results when tested on a wide range of cancers. 2003-05-30Look on the Bright Side and Survive LongerBrief autobiographies written more than 60 years ago by a group of then young Catholic nuns have now become a matter of life or death. Those nuns who chronicled positive emotions in their twenties have lived markedly longer than those who recounted emotionally neutral personal histories, a new study finds. 2003-05-30Family History Raises Odds of Stroke at Young AgeFamily history was found to be a significant risk factor for two common types of stroke, British researchers report. 2003-05-28Being Active-Getting StartedIf you have not been physically active for some time, aim to make gentle, steady progress. A good way to start is to carry on with your everyday routine, but do things in a way that requires a bit more energy. Walking is often the best way to begin. 2003-05-23Real Freedom: RV RetirementRetiring in an RV means you can pull up stakes whenever youre ready and head to wherever you want. But can people really live that way? You bet! Two couples explain how.
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