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April 2012

Monday April 30, 2012

• NIH encourages Americans to make healthy vision last a lifetime
• NIH statement on World Asthma Day 2012 - May 1, 2012
• Anxiety, Depression Often Go Hand-in-Hand With Arthritis – Mental health screening, treatment could improve quality of life for these patients, report suggests.
• Being Bullied Tied to Anxiety, Depression in Special-Needs Kids – More than chronic conditions themselves, maltreatment by peers added to mental distress in small study.
• Black Kids Less Apt to Get Meds for Stomach Pain in ER: Study – However, no differences seen in tests ordered or hospitalization rates.
• Cellphones, Texting Put Teen Drivers in Danger, Studies Show – One study -- using car simulators -- indicates phone use hazardous no matter where it's held.
• Children Usually Excluded From Clinical Drug Trials: Study – Kids with chronic illnesses might react differently to new medicines than adults, researchers say.
• Having Kids Doesn't Inspire Adults to Eat Healthier: Study – But at least new parents' diets didn't get worse, researchers say.
• Health Highlights: April 30, 2012
• Health Tip: Caring for a Blister – If possible, just leave it alone.
• Health Tip: Installing a Playground at Home – Make sure the ground below is well-cushioned.
• Hot Weather's Return Brings Ozone Warnings – Kids, seniors most vulnerable to ozone exposure, experts say.
• Low-Income Mothers May Overfeed Their Infants – Depression, being single also linked to tendency to add cereal to baby bottle, which promotes obesity.
• Mothers' Stress Could Cause Iron Deficiency in Newborns – Study found lower iron in babies when women were exposed to violence early in pregnancy.
• Pacifiers Don't Discourage Breast-Feeding, Study Says – Formula feedings actually rose after 'binkies' were banned on a hospital maternity units.
• Parents' Poor Math Skills May = Medication Errors – 27 percent of study participants had math skills at the third-grade level or below.
• Routine Kidney Disease Screening Not Worthwhile, Experts Say – But checking those with diabetes, high blood pressure makes sense, doctors agree.
• Secondhand Smoke Permeates Many Apartment Buildings: Study – Advocate wants smoking bans in housing complexes to safeguard kids from incursion.
• Teen Impulsiveness Has Different Sources in ADHD, Substance Use – Imaging study finds brain networks causing behavior aren't the same.
• TV Ads May Play Role in Underage Drinking, Obesity – The greater the familiarity with the ads, the greater these risks, researchers say.
• Two-Drug Therapy Helped Kids With Type 2 Diabetes – But best combination of meds for young patients still isn't known, experts say.

Friday April 27, 2012

• HHS announces new Affordable Care Act options for community-based care
• Adjusting Your Attitude About Chronic Pain May Help You Sleep – Small study found ruminating on face and jaw pain made it worse.
• Afinitor Approval Expanded to Include Benign Kidney Tumors
• Animals More Interesting to Kids Than Toys, Study Shows – Children even prefer spiders and snakes over inanimate objects, researchers say.
• Blood Clot Risk for Outpatients Needs More Attention: Study – Researchers created tool to measure patient risk following surgery.
• Bullied Children at Greater Risk for Self-Harm, Study Finds – Family history or maltreatment further increase likelihood of injuring oneself.
• Health Highlights: April 27, 2012
• Health Tip: Caring for a Sunburn – Get out of the sun as soon as possible.
• Health Tip: What Constitutes 'Healthy Eating?' – Avoid too much of the same food.
• Heart Test Spots Sudden Death Risk in Young Athletes – Study found EKGs were highly accurate in identifying those with hidden cardiac disorders.
• Leisurely Strolls More Popular, Yet Walk Times Shorter: CDC – But walkers more likely to meet other health goals set by U.S. government.
• More Babies Today Have Irregular Head Shape: Expert – In many cases, simple repositioning techniques can treat the problem.
• Rate of Statin-Linked Muscle Woes Unclear, Study Suggests – Coding used by health professionals to report problems may not show true picture.
• Research Gets Closer to Genetic Roots of Glaucoma – Two gene variants may interact with a molecule regulating cell growth, study suggests.
• Some Schools Don't Let Kids Carry Asthma Inhalers – Policies run counter to law, place children at risk, experts say.
• Votrient Approved to Treat Cancer That Begins in Soft Tissue

Thursday April 26, 2012

• Americans Support Medicare Reform, But Not on Their Dime: Poll – Respondents to Harris Interactive/HealthDay survey want drug companies, higher-income beneficiaries to pay more.
• Another Drug 'Take-Back Day' Scheduled for Saturday – Public urged to safely dispose of unwanted prescription meds at collection sites April 28.
• Aromatherapy: More Than Just a Pleasant Scent? – Aromatherapy touted as helpful in relieving tension, anxiety and more, but it's not risk-free.
• Battling the Bullying of an Autistic Child – Parents feel their child's pain, frustration, and need to seek out help and support services.
• College Kids Often Use Cell Phones While Driving: Study – Students seem to have 'misplaced confidence' in their ability to multitask, researcher says.
• Eating Berries Might Help Preserve Your Memory – Blueberries, strawberries found to prevent mental decline in study of older women.
• Health Highlights: April 26, 2012
• Health Tip: Dealing With Stress – Don't avoid challenges.
• Health Tip: Why Is My Aging Skin So Dry? – You might not be drinking enough.
• Many U.S. Workers Sleep-Deprived: CDC – Transportation workers among those getting the least shuteye, researchers say.
• Toxic Gas in Dogs' Vomit a Threat to Vets: CDC – Pooches ingesting gopher/mole poison can emit noxious fumes, report says.
• Warnings on Cigarette Packs May Keep Ex-Smokers From Relapse – International study finds that deterrent images, messages help those who say they matter.

Wednesday April 25, 2012

• NIH statement on World Malaria Day ? April 25, 2012
• Air Quality Improving in Many U.S. Cities: Report – Even Los Angeles showed lowest smog levels in more than a decade, data found.
• Early Menopause Tied to Osteoporosis in 29-Year Study – Nearly doubled risk seen in women who went through 'change' before age 47.
• Experimental Drug Eases Autistic Behaviors in Mice – Whether it would work on humans is still unknown, researchers say.
• Has the 'G-Spot' Been Confirmed at Last? – Researcher reports locating elusive source of female pleasure, but others dispute claim.
• Health Highlights: April 25, 2012
• Health Tip: Stress Fracture of the Foot – Possible symptoms of this overuse injury.
• Health Tip: When Seniors Are Malnourished – Symptoms may include lack of energy.
• Life Transitions May Trigger Eating Disorders – People with anorexia, bulimia pinpoint break-ups, the death of loved ones as triggers
• Many Who First Misuse Prescription Pills Get Them From Friends, Family: Report – More than 70 percent start that way, government analysis finds.
• New Techniques May Improve Infant Heart Surgery – Two monitoring methods could warn doctors of brain damage, researchers say.
• Poor Sleep Heightens 'Ringing Ear' Disease Symptoms: Study – Patients with both tinnitus and insomnia have more emotional distress, researchers say.
• Stopping Blood Thinners Raises Stroke Risk for Patients With Irregular Heartbeat – Risk is increased whether patients are taking warfarin or a newer drug, rivaroxaban.

Tuesday April 24, 2012

• Botox Offers Little Relief for Migraine, Study Finds – Evidence review sees only modest benefit for chronic headaches.
• Bullying, Violence Linked to Faster Aging in Kids – Age-related DNA changes seen early in those exposed to abusive behavior, study finds.
• Cocaine Habit Might Speed Brain Aging – Scans comparing users with non-users showed premature loss of gray matter in drug abusers.
• Could the Childhood Obesity 'Epidemic' Be Ebbing? – Massachusetts study finds significant decline in rates for kids under 6.
• Health Highlights: April 24, 2012
• Health Tip: Eat Less – For starters, avoid large portions.
• Health Tip: Help Prevent a Pulled Muscle – Make sure you stretch before exercise.
• Hospital Charges Show Huge Variance in Study – For appendicitis, charges ranged from $1,500 to $180,000.
• Impulsive Tots at Risk for Gambling Problems Later: Study – Self-control in preschool years may improve life outcomes in adulthood.
• Many First-Graders Shun Overweight, Obese Kids – In survey, most preferred to play with slimmer classmates, study finds.
• Measles Deaths Falling Worldwide – But more than 100,000 still die each year, report says.
• New Clues to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – Brain scans show less activity in area related to reward response, researchers report.
• Pacemakers, Defibrillators Sources of Deadly Infections: Study – As implanted heart devices increase, so do serious complications, research says.
• Quality Nursing May Protect Very Low Birth Weight Babies – Improved results seen in hospitals nationally recognized for nursing excellence, study finds.
• Stress May Be Tougher on Women's Hearts Than Men's: Study – Preliminary research found blood flow doesn't rise in women, possibly raising their cardiac risk.
• Study Explores Fish Oil's Healthy Effect on Heart – Researchers rule out one possible explanation.
• Texting May Help More Kids Get Flu Shots – Novel way of sending reminders to families linked to more vaccinations: study.

Monday April 23, 2012

• 'Ice Cream Headaches' Might Offer Clues to Migraines – Cold-induced 'brain freeze' seems linked to expansion of a key brain artery, small study finds.
• 'Publication Bias' Casts Doubt on Value of Antidepressants for Autism – Studies showing ineffectiveness less likely to get published, new study finds.
• Health Highlights: April 23, 2012
• Health Tip: Overcoming Obstacles to Exercise – Make sure your goals are realistic.
• Health Tip: Recognize Common Symptoms of Menopause – Including irregular periods.
• Hispanics Seem to Have Better Odds of Lung Cancer Survival – Lower smoking rates and genetic factors may explain the findings, researchers say.
• Shingles Vaccine Safe, Underutilized, Study Says – CDC recommends it for people 60 and older.
• Stricter Seat Belt Laws Get Teens to Buckle Up, Study Shows – In states where police can stop and ticket unbelted vehicle occupants, more high schoolers 'click it.'
• U.S. Gives Green Light to Publish Controversial Bird Flu Research – After expert panel review, officials say H5N1 findings are of benefit, with little risk to national security.

Friday April 20, 2012

• Bedbugs Can Infest Your Office, Too – In Tennessee, government workers noticed persistent bites.
• Childhood Obesity May Raise Odds of Adult Liver Cancer – Findings underscore importance of healthy weight in youth, researcher says.
• Depression Linked to Higher Odds for Poor Leg Circulation – In study, depressed patients were more apt to develop peripheral artery disease.
• For Some, Glaucoma Strikes at a Young Age – Massachusetts man has coped with chronic eye disease since early teens.
• Glaucoma Need Not Steal Sight, Experts Say – Once lost, vision can't be restored, making early detection and treatment critical.
• Health Highlights: April 20, 2012
• Health Tip: Consider Kickboxing – But take steps to protect your joints.
• Health Tip: When Your Child is Stressed – It may trigger physical symptoms.
• Talking to Yourself Could Have Mental Benefits – People who name objects as they look for them seem to find them faster, study suggests.
• U.S. Children Exposed to Hours of Background TV Daily – Parents urged to keep sets out of kids' bedrooms and to limit exposure.
• Value of Metformin, Insulin Combo for Type 2 Diabetes Questioned – Danish analysis suggests that long-term benefit for patients is unclear.

Thursday April 19, 2012

• 'No Regrets' Outlook May Make for Sunnier Old Age – Study suggests letting go of missed opportunities is linked to healthy mental aging.
• Diabetes Groups Issue New Guidelines on Blood Sugar – Type 2 illness can't be treated with one-size-fits-all approach, new recommendations advise.
• Early Use of MS Drug May Cut Likelihood of Progression – Study found fewer people given 'interferon beta-1a' early moved on to definitive diagnosis.
• Exercise May Help Patients With High Blood Pressure Live Longer – Large study from Taiwan found inactive people fared worse at all blood-pressure levels.
• Gene Behind Psoriasis Identified, Researchers Say – Findings may boost treatments for the chronic skin disease, study suggests.
• Genes Associated With Autism Also Related to Schizophrenia – Researchers also identified 22 new genes connected to autism.
• Half of Young Cigarette Smokers Also Smoke Pot: Survey – Anonymous online study may have allowed more to admit use than prior studies, experts say.
• Health Highlights: April 19, 2012
• Health Tip: Add Flavor, Without Salt, to Your Food – Here are low- and no-sodium seasoning options.
• Health Tip: Touch, Sing and Play With Baby – Suggestions to help parents and newborns bond.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices Could Cut Cancer Rates: Report – But researchers say lawmakers, private industry need to do more to encourage change.
• Low-Fat Dairy Linked to Lower Stroke Risk – Odds for an attack were slightly less than for those who ate higher-fat fare, study found.
• Measles Outbreaks in 2011 Were Worst in 15 Years: CDC – Most cases were tied to travel abroad, occurred in unvaccinated individuals.
• New Psoriasis Drugs Not Much Better Than Standard Therapy, Study Finds – Biologics costlier but don't clear much more surface area of skin than methotrexate.
• Online Dating Scams Can Take Emotional, Financial Toll – British researchers believe 'romantic' fraud often goes unreported.
• Scoliosis Treatment Might Reduce Need for Surgeries – In small study, children with the spinal condition avoided repeat procedures.
• Study Pinpoints New Abnormality in 'Athlete's Heart' – Characteristic is found most often in black male athletes.
• Use of Ecstasy, Speed by Teens Tied to Later Depression – However, study of Canadian high school students didn't show cause and effect.

Wednesday April 18, 2012

• Anxiety Linked to Smarts in Brain Study – Tendency to worry may have evolved along with intelligence in humans, researchers say.
• Experimental Gel May Help Those With Advanced Parkinson's – Infused treatment of standard drugs appeared better than pills for stabilizing 'off' time, researchers report.
• Health Highlights: April 18, 2012
• Health Tip: Help Prevent Foot and Ankle Injuries – Use the proper footwear.
• Health Tip: Seniors Need Their Nutrients – Including calcium and vitamin D.
• More Smog Might Mean More Hospitalizations – In New England, Medicare patients from more-polluted areas were more apt to need care.
• Optimism Might Cut Your Risk for Heart Attack – Large review also found positive people less likely to suffer stroke.

Tuesday April 17, 2012

• Avastin No Benefit to Older Lung Cancer Patients: Study – Adding drug to chemotherapy regimen does not prolong life for those with advanced disease, experts say.
• Brain Changes May Hamper Decision-Making in Old Age – But special training may slow the decline, researcher says.
• Brain Surgery Might Ease Tough-to-Treat OCD – Long-term study shows cingulotomy helped improve severe obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
• Brain Tumor Vaccine Shows Promise in Early Trial – Study found it added weeks of survival for patients with glioblastoma.
• Depressed Moms May Hinder Babies' Sleep – Sad, anxious mothers may seek comfort by picking up their child at night, study suggests.
• Health Highlights: April 17, 2012
• Health Tip: Avoid Asthma Triggers – Including things that make you sneeze.
• Health Tip: Is That Bump a Bunion? – Look for swelling at the base of the big toe.
• Kidney Cancer Patients Fare Better With Tumor Removal Only – Survival rates were higher than for those whose kidney was taken out, researchers say
• New Method to Reveal Alzheimer's Marker Shows Promise – Early study uses drug and imaging scans to pinpoint plaques associated with disease.
• Researchers Develop Blood Test for Depression – Group of biomarkers accurately identified teens with mood disorder in small study.
• Role of Screening, Monitoring in Early Kidney Disease Unclear – Certain blood pressure-lowering drugs most effective treatment, reports review.
• White House Drug Policy Shifts Strategy – New plan calls for treatment, not incarceration, for non-violent offenders.

Monday April 16, 2012

• Certain Genetic Regions May Be Tied to Osteoporosis – But it's too early to use data to predict who will or will not develop weaker bones.
• Chin Implant Surgeries On the Rise in U.S. – Some people may be motivated by unflattering views during video chats, surgeons' group says
• Death From Accidental Injuries Among Kids Drops 30%: CDC – Biggest decrease seen in car crashes; suffocations among infants, poisoning rates went up.
• Fast Food Is Saltier in U.S. Than Overseas – International chains sell same items abroad but with less sodium, study finds.
• Health Highlights: April 16, 2012
• Health Tip: Seniors, Boost Your Balance – Here are some exercises that can help.
• Researchers ID Genes That May Determine Mental Illness – Genetic links to brain size, intelligence also examined in study.
• Young Risk-Takers Drawn to Dangerous 'Choking Game' – Study finds 6% of Oregon eighth graders admitted trying it, two-thirds had played more than once.

Friday April 13, 2012

• Alternative Therapies Aren't Used as Substitutes for Asthma Meds: Study – Parents still give kids traditional treatments in addition to less orthodox ones.
• CT Scans Deliver More Radiation to Obese People: Study – However, risk of side effects might not rise, expert says.
• Drug Approved to Treat High Blood Pressure
• Even Preschoolers View the Overweight Negatively – Young children judged heavier kids more harshly than they did normal-weight kids, study shows.
• Even Young Teens Show Signs of Sun Damage – Researchers also found results of special photos lined up with other skin cancer risk factors.
• Gay Adults Rejected by Parents Have Worse Health, Study Finds – Massachusetts survey found most lesbians, gays, bisexuals received emotional support from parents.
• Health Highlights: April 13, 2012
• Health Tip: When It's Wise to Have Wisdom Teeth Removed – Visit your dentist if your teeth hurt.
• Health Tip: Have a Safe Picnic – Make sure grilled foods are cooked properly.
• Here Are Fruits, Veggies That Offer Best Bang for Your Buck – Strawberries, pineapple, spinach, broccoli and mustard greens are in season and good for you, experts say.
• Mental Illness Tied to Higher Rates of Physical Problems: Report – More chronic illness, ER visits and hospitalizations with conditions such as depression.
• Obese Workers' Health Care Costs Top Those of Smokers – Smokers cost employers an additional $1,275 a year, while obese workers cost $1,850 more, study says.
• Researchers Map Brain Regions Linked to Intelligence – Study of head injury patients helps identify regions involved in thinking abilities.
• Single 'Boomers' Struggling as They Age: Study – Never-married men, widows appear to be the least well-off.
• Substance Abusers, Even Recovering Ones, May Face Stigma – Scenarios of obese people, smokers drew less negative reaction in study.
• Women Less Apt Than Men to Get Recommended Daily Exercise – They averaged about 18 minutes a day, far short of the recommended 30 minutes, study finds.

Thursday April 12, 2012

• Common Plastics Chemical Might Boost Diabetes Risk – Phthalates, found soaps, lotions and food packaging, may disrupt insulin production, researchers say.
• DNA Testing Finds Allergens, Toxins in Traditional Chinese Medicines – U.S. experts say supplements made in America are different, but neither country tests for ingredients.
• Even Toddlers Succumb to Peer Pressure, Study Says – 2-year-olds -- like chimps -- follow the majority.
• Head, Body Lice Are Genetically Very Similar – Researchers say findings could shed light on how body parasites spread human disease.
• Health Highlights: April 12, 2012
• Health Tip: Consider These Diabetes 'Superfoods' – Offerings that should meld well with a diabetic's meal plan.
• Health Tip: Keep the Weight Off – Avoid sauces, gravies and fattening dressings.
• Herbal Remedy Ingredient Tied to Cancer, Kidney Failure – Study of Taiwanese patients found potential dangers in aristolochia.
• Huntington's Disease Linked to Reduced Cancer Risk in Study – Findings suggest shared genetic mechanism, researchers say.
• More Unmarried Couples Having Babies: CDC – Many older women also having more than one child, researchers find.
• Mouse Study Hints at New Path for Diabetes Treatment – Suppressing the hormone glucagon might lower blood sugar, insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes.
• Obesity's Health Costs Double Earlier Estimates – Total reaches nearly 21% of U.S. health care spending, study says.
• Over-the-Counter Bug Bite Remedies Don't Work: Report – Mild reactions might not call for tablets or creams.
• Parents of Kids With Cancer No More Likely to Break Up – Danish study found stress of coping with disease did not raise chances of separation.
• Passengers on 'Bat' Plane Cleared of Rabies Risk – But health, airline authorities should be prepared to deal with wild intruders, CDC says.
• Politics May Get in the Way of Empathy, Research Shows – Study participants were less likely to feel for people who held different beliefs.
• Vitamin D Doesn't Help Kids Do Better in School, Study Finds – U.K. researchers say vitamin's possible brain benefits might only hold for adults.
• What Causes Hot Flashes, Anyway? – New study looks at heart-rate control in women during or after menopause.

Wednesday April 11, 2012

• New health care law provisions cut red tape, save up to $4.6 billion
• Breast Cancer Treatment Side Effects May Last for Years – Study finds lingering pain, swelling, fatigue, mobility problems in many women.
• Codeine After Surgery Could Endanger Certain Kids: Study – In children with rare gene mutation, post-tonsillectomy death seemed to be due to reaction to pain medicine.
• Disrupted Sleep May Raise Risk for Obesity, Diabetes: Study – Researchers found altering amount, timing of rest raised blood sugar levels, slowed metabolism.
• FDA Seeks to Limit Antibiotics in Animal Feed – Practice blamed by some for increase in drug-resistant germs in people.
• Health Highlights: April 11, 2012
• Health Tip: Know Your Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis – The leading killer of men and women in the United States.
• Health Tip: Talk to Your Doctor Before You Are Pregnant – Including suggestions to improve your health.
• In Mice, Drug Reverses Symptoms of Condition Linked to Autism – It works by acting on a neurotransmitter tied to Fragile X syndrome, researchers report.
• Mobile Stroke Units Might Trim Time to Treatment – But, overall outcomes were similar to patients treated in the hospital, German study shows.
• Newer Antidepressants May Be Safe for Parkinson's Patients – Paxil, Effexor improved depression without worsening motor symptoms in small study.
• Nonsurgical Method to Measure Brain Pressure Shows Promise – If confirmed with further research, new technique could offer alternative to drilling into skull.
• Some Folks Just Can't Help Being Nice, Study Suggests – Kindness may be in your genetic makeup, researchers say.
• Spouses of Cancer Patients May Have Raised Risk of Heart Disease, Stroke – Stress could take a toll on caregiver's health, researchers say.
• White Women Make Up Bulk of Assisted-Living Residents – More than half of those in residential care facilities are 85 or older, analysis shows.

Tuesday April 10, 2012

• National Health Promotion Summit
• What the Health Law Means for the Latino Community
• Dental X-Rays May Be Linked to Benign Brain Tumors – Study found increased risk, but connection was not conclusive.
• Dieters Share Success Strategies – Eating less fat, exercising more, using prescription meds help most, survey finds.
• Health Highlights: April 10, 2012
• Health Tip: Buy Lean Meat – Here's what to look for on the label.
• Health Tip: Prevent Periodontal Disease – Good dental hygiene can help protect your gums.
• Many Patients Skip Recommended Colonoscopy: Study – Follow-through is more likely with other screening tests for colon cancer.
• Sexual Abuse May Put Boys at Risk for Unsafe Sex – Multiple partners, teen pregnancies more likely among those who were victimized, surveys show.
• U.S. Panel Rejects Ovarian Cancer Screening – Renewing prior recommendations, experts say current tests may do more harm than good.
• U.S. Teen Births Hit Record Low – CDC researchers cite messages about sexual practices and use of contraceptives.
• Young Americans Need to Cut Calorie Intake: Study – Without reducing consumption, more than one in five children will be obese by 2020.

Monday April 9, 2012

• Children Born to Obese Moms May Face Higher Autism Risk: Study – Maternal obesity, overweight also linked to other developmental delays.
• Feeling 'Trapped,' Obligated Raises Odds of Job Burnout: Study – Lack of options at work can be emotionally draining, researchers say.
• Gene Discovery May Move Personalized Stomach Cancer Treatment Forward – Large analysis identified 600 gene mutations in cancerous cells.
• Health Highlights: April 9, 2012
• Health Tip: New Moms Need Care, Too – For starters, try to limit the number of visitors.
• Health Tip: The Causes of Corns – Poorly fitting shoes are often to blame.
• Minorities, Medicare Recipients Less Likely to Get Antidepressants – When these patients did get them, physicians were more likely to prescribe older medications.
• Scientists Pinpoint Childhood Obesity Genes – In a first, they find two mutations that may predispose kids to common obesity.
• Teen Drinking May Boost Odds of Precancerous Breast Changes – The more alcohol consumed, the higher the likelihood, researchers say.

Saturday April 7, 2012

• Statement from HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on World Health Day, April 7, 2012

Friday April 6, 2012

• Women, Work and Our Economy
• Bilingual Kids Are Better Multi-Taskers, Study Says – Researchers cite the ability to toggle back and forth between two languages.
• Health Tip: Control Portion Sizes at Home – Here's how to avoid overloading your plate.
• Health Tip: What Triggers Ingrown Toenails? – Here are some common risk factors.
• Overuse Injuries Common Among Female College Athletes – Field hockey, soccer, softball and volleyball accounted for the most strains, inflammation.
• Resolutions Revisited – Experts offer advice on what to do if you're backsliding on those New Year's vows.
• Study Finds Antibiotics Best for Appendicitis – Drugs avoid risks of surgery, but 20 percent of those who use them still need appendix removed.
• Taking Multivitamins Won't Prevent Canker Sores, Study Says – People on daily vitamins had as many episodes of the oral lesions as those who took placebos.

Thursday April 5, 2012

• Possible Clues Found to Why HIV Vaccine Showed Modest Protection
• Depression, Anxiety Tied to Physical Disabilities in Seniors – But exercise may help shield against physical decline, study adds.
• From a Failed Vaccine, New Insights Into Fighting HIV – Scientists are sifting the data to see what elements of RV144 inoculation worked.
• Health Highlights: April 5, 2012
• Health Tip: How to Avoid Secondhand Smoke – Suggestions include asking people not to light up in your home.
• Health Tip: Traveling By Plane During Pregnancy? – For starters, book an aisle seat.
• Improved Stem Cell Line May Avoid Cancer Risk: Study – New line of stem cells may have application for disease-modeling, researchers say.
• Pesticides May Be Linked to Slightly Smaller Babies, Shorter Pregnancies – Babies were, on average, 1/3 pound lighter, and pregnancies were about three to four days shorter, study finds.
• Study Suggests Treating Dyslexia Before Kids Learn to Read – The learning disability is linked to problems with visual attention, researchers contend.
• Texting in College Classrooms Common, Distracting – Study found average student texted or read five texts during class.
• Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis Early and Aggressively: Guidelines – Intensive treatment from outset can help preserve quality of life, rheumatologists' group says.

Wednesday April 4, 2012

• Better Safeguards Needed for Imported Food, Drugs: Report – U.S. needs to bolster safety systems in developing countries, prevent fraud, Institute of Medicine says.
• Brain Falters Near End of Life, but Games, Puzzles Might Slow Decline – Researchers suspect several factors may be linked to deterioration, not just Alzheimer's.
• Depo-Provera Birth Control Might Raise Breast Cancer Risk – Study finds doubled risk with recent use of the injectable contraceptive for a year.
• Early Study Finds Some Promise for Lung Cancer Vaccine – Although not a cure, it appeared to prolong life in some cases of non-small cell disease.
• Health Highlights: April 4, 2012
• Health Tip: Stop Toddler Tantrums Before They Start – Suggestions to avoid a maddening meltdown.
• Health Tip: Ways to Keep Your Memory Sharp – Tips include eating foods rich in antioxidants and olive oil.
• HPV-Related Head, Neck Cancers on the Rise – However, incidence decreased for younger blacks, analysis finds.
• More Fake Avastin Found in U.S., FDA Says – Medical practices told to stop using the counterfeit cancer drug distributed under the name Altuzan.
• Narcissists Often Ace Job Interviews, Study Finds – That's because they can comfortably sell themselves to convince the interviewers, researchers report.
• New Lupus Genes Identified – Still unknown is how the genes contribute to the autoimmune disease.
• No Added Cancer Risk From Hip Replacement Materials: Study – But British researchers said longer term studies are needed.
• Obese White Women Shying Away From Colon Cancer Screening – Embarrassment may prompt some women to avoid the recommended tests, researchers say.
• Physician Groups Call for Fewer Medical Tests – Many patients could safely avoid X-rays, MRIs, heart stress tests and other common procedures, docs say.
• Researchers Find Gene Mutations That May Be a Key to Autism – 'Spontaneous' mutations, not generational ones, could play role in up to 20 percent of cases, study says.
• Witnessing, Experiencing Traumatic Events May Worsen Heart Disease – The more trauma heart patients were exposed to, the higher their levels of inflammation, study found.

Tuesday April 3, 2012

• Calls to quitline hit record high after CDC national tobacco ad campaign launch
• Health care law expands support for children and families
• NIH's PEERx for teens to be showcased at Rx Drug Abuse Summit
• Secretarial Statement on National Minority Health Month 2012
• Antibiotics Linked to Retinal Detachment Risk – The risk is very small and the reasons aren't known, researchers say.
• BBQ Danger: Wires From Grill Cleaners Swallowed in Food – Patients suffer from throat, stomach injuries.
• Coffee Drinking in Pregnancy Won't Lead to Sleepless Baby: Study – It also found no increase in wakefulness among breast-fed babies whose mothers consumed caffeine.
• Drug Patch Approved for Advanced Parkinson's and Restless Leg Syndrome
• Epilepsy Leads to More Brain Abnormalities Over Time – Scans show increasing anatomical changes in the brains of people with epilepsy as they age.
• Experimental Chemo Combo for Colon Cancer Disappoints – Adding the drug Erbitux to standard treatment delivered no extra benefit, study says.
• For Many Girls, Slimming Down Doesn't Help Self-Esteem – Teens who were formerly obese often still view themselves as fat, study finds.
• Health Highlights: April 3, 2012
• Health Tip: Healthy Eating While Vacationing – Cut down on rich, high-calorie dishes, for starters.
• Health Tip: More Reasons to Quit Smoking – Health risks start to diminish almost immediately.
• New Stool Test Might Aid in Early Detection of Colon Cancer – Unlike other such screens, researchers say the test isn't affected by certain lifestyle factors.
• Prenatal Antipsychotic Drugs Linked to Motor Delays: Study – Movement, posture, reflexes below normal for many exposed infants.
• Preteens More Likely to Report HPV Vaccine Side Effects – But symptoms were not serious, survey found.
• Reported Decline in U.S. Pneumonia Deaths May Be False: Study – Dips in hospitalizations, deaths may reflect diagnosis coding changes.
• Study Suggests Vaccine May Help Kids With Brain Cancer – Researchers report immune system boost and eventual tumor shrinkage in small group of patients.
• Taller, Heavier Women May Face Higher Ovarian Cancer Risk – Every 2-inch increase in height was associated with raised odds, research suggests.
• Ultrasound, MRI Might Spot Cancer in Dense Breast Tissue – Study suggests screening methods beyond mammograms may be useful in high-risk patients.
• Veggies Like Broccoli, Cabbage May Help Fight Breast Cancer: Study – High intake of cruciferous vegetables associated with lower death rate, researchers say.
• You Survived Cancer: Now Pay Attention to Your Overall Health – Half of cancer survivors die of other conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.
• Young Women Who Drink and Drive at Higher Risk of Fatal Accident – Risk now matches that for young male drivers who drink, researchers say.

Monday April 2, 2012

• HHS and Education launch new Stop Bullying website
• NIH study finds women spend longer in labor now than 50 years ago
• Presidential Memorandum -- Establishing a Working Group on the Intersection of HIV/AIDS, Violence Against Women and Girls, and Gender-related Health Disparities
• CDC: Americans' Levels of Vitamins, Nutrients Basically OK – Intake of vitamins A, D and folate satisfactory for most, but some need more vitamin D and iron.
• Certain Children With Autism Show More Improvement Than Others – In study, 'bloomers' reached higher levels of functioning and had parents with more access to resources.
• Diabetes Drug Metformin Might Also Help Fight Cancer – People taking it seemed to fare better when faced with prostate, pancreatic tumors, studies found.
• Drug, Alcohol Abuse Common Among U.S. Teens, Study Finds – 15 percent qualified as substance abusers, and initiation may be start of lifelong troubles.
• Early Study Hints That Breast Cancer Vaccine Might Work – Treatment aimed at stopping recurrence does trigger immune response, but true significance unknown.
• Health Highlights: April 2, 2012
• Health Tip: Caring for Stitches – Suggestions to help the wound heal.
• Health Tip: Selecting a Childcare Provider – Factors to consider include staff-to-child ratio.
• HPV Infection Lasts Longer in Young Black Women: Study – This persistence could explain higher rates of cervical cancer, researchers say.
• Immune-Based Drug Combo Might Extend Cancer Survival – Preliminary study found that IL-2 plus retinoic acid helped patients with advanced disease.
• Long-Term Estrogen Therapy Does Up Breast Cancer Risk: Study – Data from government-funded study contradicts earlier findings on menopause treatment.
• Many Preschoolers Not Getting Enough Outdoor Play – Look at outdoor activity as a daily necessity, not a weekend luxury, study says.
• Measles Vaccines Won't Raise Seizure Risk in Young Kids: Study – Kaiser Permanente researchers find youngsters aged 4 to 6 not at higher risk after shots.
• Melanoma Rates On the Rise Among Young Adults: Study – Young women hit the hardest, tanning beds may explain trend, researchers say.
• New Drug Might Reduce an Alzheimer's Marker: Study – But, research is preliminary and it's unclear if the compound would improve the brain disease.
• New Scanning Technology Might Help Guide Prostate Cancer Care – In mouse study, PSA 'tracer' showed where cancer might spread, but research in humans needed.
• Osteoporosis Drugs May Lead to Eye Trouble: Study – Researchers say they found risk for anterior uveitis and scleritis, diseases that can cause impairment.
• Personal Gene Mapping Has Limits, Study Says – Commercial genome scans no substitute for healthy lifestyle, medical check-ups.
• Pets at Work Keep Workers Happy – Research shows employees more productive, less stressed if their dogs accompany them to the job.
• Smelly Urine a Red Flag for Kids' UTI – Symptom should prompt doctors to test for urinary infection, study shows.
• Study Supports CPR Chest Compressions for Cardiac Arrest – When defibrillation won't work, frequent compressions can help save lives, researchers say.
• U.S. Advisers Say It's Now Safe to Publish Bird Flu Studies – Revisions to the research erase worry that bioterrorists might learn how to unleash a pandemic.
• Why Stress Might Make You Sick – New research suggests long-term anxiety is linked to inflammation.

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Content last updated April 30, 2012.

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