Health Headlines - June 30

Sexual Violence Rate Among NYC Teens More Than National Average

As many as 10 percent of American teenagers experience sexual violence at some point, surveys show, but if that adolescent is from New York City, the percentage climbs to more than 16 percent.

This finding is one of many from a three year research project announced over the weekend from Columbia University researchers and a coalition called The New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault.

The entire study will be released in July, according to a news release from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, but the research highlights indicate New York City adolescents face even more exposure to violence related to sexual activity than teens across the country.

"These are alarming statistics any way you look at them," said Harriet Lessel, executive director of the New City Alliance Against Sexual Assault in a statement. "We are hopeful that these findings will highlight an issue that has been kept in the shadows for far too long, and encourage more young people to seek help when they are victimized."

Among other findings, based on survey of 1,300 New York city teenagers:

• Almost 90 percent of those who have experienced sexual violence knew their perpetratrator.
• Among those who experienced physical dating violence, 27.4 percent reported having been pushed or shoved by a dating partner, and 17 percent reported having been slapped or hit.
• Almost 10 percent of students who reported having a dating partner in the last year said that their partner touched them sexually when they didn't want to be touched, and 6.7 percent said they were forced to have sex against their will.

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Doctor Who Was Target in U.S. Anthrax Probe, Wins Multimillion Dollar Settlement

The physician and bio-researcher who the U.S. Justice department identified as a "person of interest" in the bizarre series of anthrax incidents that killed 5 people beginning in 2001 has settled his lawsuit against the government.

The New York Times reports that Dr. Steven Hatfill will receive almost $3 million in cash and an additional $150,000 annually for the next 20 years to settle a lawsuit he filed in 2003, charging the FBI and U.S. Justice Department with leaking information to the news media in order to link him to the mailing of letters that contained anthrax spores.

Hatfill has consistently denied having anything to do with the anthrax incidents, in which five people died after inhaling the spore particles and another 17 were hospitalized, in 2001 and 2002.

U.S. Justice Department officials have never explained why Hatfill was such a prominent figure in the investigation, and a government statement said only that the government admitted no liability but decided settlement was "in the best interest of the United States," the newspaper reported.

Mark Grannis one of Hatfill's attorneys, told the Times that the settlement "means that Steven Hatfill is finally an ex-person of interest."

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Working While Tired May Harm Heart

Doing mental or physical work while fatigued may lead to hypertension and heart disease, suggests a U.S. study.

It included 80 volunteers who were told they could win a prize by memorizing, in two minutes, a number of meaningless three-letter sequences. Their blood pressure and heart rate were monitored while they tried to memorize the information. Those with moderate fatigue showed stronger blood pressure increases than those with low fatigue, United Press International reported.

The study appears in the July issue of the International Journal of Psychophysiology.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers said their findings support a theory that a fatigued person's cardiovascular system has to work harder when trying to complete tasks, UPI reported.

"Individuals who experience chronically exaggerated cardiovascular responses are believed to be at greater health risk than individuals who do not. Thus, the implication is that chronic fatigue may pose a health risk under some performance conditions," said study leader Rex Wright.

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DNA Repair Capacity Affects Lung Cancer Risk in Non-smokers

A lack of DNA repair capacity may be a cause of lung cancers that occur in non-smokers, say researchers at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. About 15 percent of lung cancers occur in non-smokers.

The researchers found that non-smokers with less efficient DNA repair ability were almost twice as likely to develop lung cancer, compared to non-smokers with normal DNA repair capacity, United Press International reported.

Non-smokers with the lowest DNA repair capacity were more than three times more likely than average to develop lung cancer.

"Our findings demonstrate that suboptimal DNA repair capacity together with secondhand smoke exposure are strong lung cancer risk factors in lifetime never smokers," UPI quoted lead author Olga Gorlova as saying in a prepared statement.

The study appears in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention.

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Unsafe Water Causes Many Diseases, Deaths: WHO

More than 9 percent of diseases and 6 percent of deaths worldwide are caused by unsafe water, says a World Health Organization report released Thursday. Dengue fever and diarrhea are among the diseases that can be transmitted via water.

Developing countries are disproportionately affected by water-related health problems. For example, unsafe water causes less than 1 percent of deaths in developed countries, compared with an average of 8 percent in developing countries, Agence France Presse reported.

Death rates in certain poor countries can be much higher, such as 24 percent in Angola.

"In the 35 most affected countries, over 15 percent of diseases could easily be prevented by improved water, sanitation, and hygiene," said report author Annette-Pruss-Ustun, AFP reported.

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Low-Fat Milk May Benefit Kidney/Heart Health

Low-fat milk may offer protection against poor kidney function linked to heart disease, according to American and Norwegian researchers.

They measured the kidney function of more than 5,000 adults, ages 45 to 84, and found that those who consumed at least one serving of low-fat milk or milk products a day were 37 percent less likely than those who had little or no low-fat milk to have poor kidney function related to heart disease, United Press International reported.

The study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

The authors noted that previous research suggests that milk protein, vitamin D, and magnesium may contribute to milk's potential heart health benefits, UPI reported.

Health Tips for June 30

Health Tip: After a Car Accident

Traffic accidents often cause more than physical injuries -- they can also cause emotional and mental trauma.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to prepare your mind and body for a return to the road:

* Take care of your physical injuries -- see your doctor about any post-accident pain.
* As long as your injuries permit, try to get some exercise. Speak to your doctor about setting limits.
* Talk about the experience with your friends and family. This may help you better deal with post-accident anxiety.
* Resume your old routine and daily activities.
* Teach yourself to become a more defensive driver. Always wear a seat belt, and practice good driving habits.

Health Tip: Taking a Mental Status Test

Mental status tests are given to determine the state of a person's mental health. The test, for example, can help gauge the mental progression of a physical illness such as Alzheimer's disease.

Here's what may comprise a mental status test, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* An examination of physical appearance, including dress and grooming.
* Orientation and awareness -- knowing one's own name, address, and phone, as well as the current date and season.
* Length of attention span, and short-term and long-term memory.
* Tests to determine abilities including problem solving and judgment.
* Ability to identify objects and recall words.

Health Headlines - June 29

Doctor Who Was Target in U.S. Anthrax Probe, Wins Multimillion Dollar Settlement

The physician and bio-researcher who the U.S. Justice department identified as a "person of interest" in the bizarre series of anthrax incidents that killed 5 people beginning in 2001 has settled his lawsuit against the government.

The New York Times reports that Dr. Steven Hatfill will receive almost $3 million in cash and an additional $150,000 annually for the next 20 years to settle a lawsuit he filed in 2003, charging the FBI and U.S. Justice Department with leaking information to the news media in order to link him to the mailing of letters that contained anthrax spores.

Hatfill has consistently denied having anything to do with the anthrax incidents, in which five people died after inhaling the spore particles and another 17 were hospitalized, in 2001 and 2002.

U.S. Justice Department officials have never explained why Hatfill was such a prominent figure in the investigation, and a government statement said only that the government admitted no liability but decided settlement was "in the best interest of the United States," the newspaper reported.

Mark Grannis one of Hatfill's attorneys, told the Times that the settlement "means that Steven Hatfill is finally an ex-person of interest."

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Working While Tired May Harm Heart

Doing mental or physical work while fatigued may lead to hypertension and heart disease, suggests a U.S. study.

It included 80 volunteers who were told they could win a prize by memorizing, in two minutes, a number of meaningless three-letter sequences. Their blood pressure and heart rate were monitored while they tried to memorize the information. Those with moderate fatigue showed stronger blood pressure increases than those with low fatigue, United Press International reported.

The study appears in the July issue of the International Journal of Psychophysiology.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers said their findings support a theory that a fatigued person's cardiovascular system has to work harder when trying to complete tasks, UPI reported.

"Individuals who experience chronically exaggerated cardiovascular responses are believed to be at greater health risk than individuals who do not. Thus, the implication is that chronic fatigue may pose a health risk under some performance conditions," said study leader Rex Wright.

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DNA Repair Capacity Affects Lung Cancer Risk in Non-smokers

A lack of DNA repair capacity may be a cause of lung cancers that occur in non-smokers, say researchers at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. About 15 percent of lung cancers occur in non-smokers.

The researchers found that non-smokers with less efficient DNA repair ability were almost twice as likely to develop lung cancer, compared to non-smokers with normal DNA repair capacity, United Press International reported.

Non-smokers with the lowest DNA repair capacity were more than three times more likely than average to develop lung cancer.

"Our findings demonstrate that suboptimal DNA repair capacity together with secondhand smoke exposure are strong lung cancer risk factors in lifetime never smokers," UPI quoted lead author Olga Gorlova as saying in a prepared statement.

The study appears in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention.

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Unsafe Water Causes Many Diseases, Deaths: WHO

More than 9 percent of diseases and 6 percent of deaths worldwide are caused by unsafe water, says a World Health Organization report released Thursday. Dengue fever and diarrhea are among the diseases that can be transmitted via water.

Developing countries are disproportionately affected by water-related health problems. For example, unsafe water causes less than 1 percent of deaths in developed countries, compared with an average of 8 percent in developing countries, Agence France Presse reported.

Death rates in certain poor countries can be much higher, such as 24 percent in Angola.

"In the 35 most affected countries, over 15 percent of diseases could easily be prevented by improved water, sanitation, and hygiene," said report author Annette-Pruss-Ustun, AFP reported.

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Low-Fat Milk May Benefit Kidney/Heart Health

Low-fat milk may offer protection against poor kidney function linked to heart disease, according to American and Norwegian researchers.

They measured the kidney function of more than 5,000 adults, ages 45 to 84, and found that those who consumed at least one serving of low-fat milk or milk products a day were 37 percent less likely than those who had little or no low-fat milk to have poor kidney function related to heart disease, United Press International reported.

The study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

The authors noted that previous research suggests that milk protein, vitamin D, and magnesium may contribute to milk's potential heart health benefits, UPI reported.

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Maker of Anti-Flu Drug Seeks Corporate Stockpiling

The maker of the anti-flu drug Tamiflu has begun a program to encourage company stockpiling of the drug -- for an annual fee.

The plan announced Thursday by Roche Holding AG coincided with an effort by the U.S. government to begin encouraging corporate stockpiling of anti-flu drugs, since government reserves wouldn't include enough medication to treat every person in the United States in the event of a widespread flu outbreak, the Associated Press reported.

Experts have long warned that the virulent strain of bird flu that has been largely confined to Asian fowl over the past several years could mutate into a form that's more easily passed from animal-to-person and person-to-person, sparking a human flu pandemic.

Roche's plan includes provisions to substitute new supplies when older doses of Tamiflu expire, the wire service said.

Health Tips for June 29

Health Tip: Depression Among Teens

With all of the physical, emotional and hormonal changes in their lives, some teens are especially prone to depression.

Here are factors that could trigger depression in teens, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* Undergoing a particularly stressful event, such as the death of a family member or parental divorce.
* Being physically or sexually abused as a child.
* Having a lack of social skills.
* Having a chronic illness.
* Living with another family member who suffers from depression.

Health Tip: Prevent Falls From Windows

Every year, thousands of children are killed or hurt by falling from windows.

Here are guidelines from the U.S. National Safety Council to keep your children safe:

* If you want to open a window for fresh air, only open those that are high enough that children cannot reach them. Keep others closed and locked.
* Move any furniture or other items away from windows, so that children can't climb on these objects to reach windows.
* Don't count on screens to protect your child. They are not strong enough to prevent children from falling through them.
* Teach your child not to play near windows or glass doors. Set rules about staying away from them.
* A window needs to be opened only 5 inches for a child under age 10 to fall through. In many locations, landlords are legally bound to install window guards in apartments with children.

Health Headlines - June 28

Working While Tired May Harm Heart

Doing mental or physical work while fatigued may lead to hypertension and heart disease, suggests a U.S. study.

It included 80 volunteers who were told they could win a prize by memorizing, in two minutes, a number of meaningless three-letter sequences. Their blood pressure and heart rate were monitored while they tried to memorize the information. Those with moderate fatigue showed stronger blood pressure increases than those with low fatigue, United Press International reported.

The study appears in the July issue of the International Journal of Psychophysiology.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers said their findings support a theory that a fatigued person's cardiovascular system has to work harder when trying to complete tasks, UPI reported.

"Individuals who experience chronically exaggerated cardiovascular responses are believed to be at greater health risk than individuals who do not. Thus, the implication is that chronic fatigue may pose a health risk under some performance conditions," said study leader Rex Wright.

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DNA Repair Capacity Affects Lung Cancer Risk in Non-smokers

A lack of DNA repair capacity may be a cause of lung cancers that occur in non-smokers, say researchers at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. About 15 percent of lung cancers occur in non-smokers.

The researchers found that non-smokers with less efficient DNA repair ability were almost twice as likely to develop lung cancer, compared to non-smokers with normal DNA repair capacity, United Press International reported.

Non-smokers with the lowest DNA repair capacity were more than three times more likely than average to develop lung cancer.

"Our findings demonstrate that suboptimal DNA repair capacity together with secondhand smoke exposure are strong lung cancer risk factors in lifetime never smokers," UPI quoted lead author Olga Gorlova as saying in a prepared statement.

The study appears in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention.

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Unsafe Water Causes Many Diseases, Deaths: WHO

More than 9 percent of diseases and 6 percent of deaths worldwide are caused by unsafe water, says a World Health Organization report released Thursday. Dengue fever and diarrhea are among the diseases that can be transmitted via water.

Developing countries are disproportionately affected by water-related health problems. For example, unsafe water causes less than 1 percent of deaths in developed countries, compared with an average of 8 percent in developing countries, Agence France Presse reported.

Death rates in certain poor countries can be much higher, such as 24 percent in Angola.

"In the 35 most affected countries, over 15 percent of diseases could easily be prevented by improved water, sanitation, and hygiene," said report author Annette-Pruss-Ustun, AFP reported.

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Low-Fat Milk May Benefit Kidney/Heart Health

Low-fat milk may offer protection against poor kidney function linked to heart disease, according to American and Norwegian researchers.

They measured the kidney function of more than 5,000 adults, ages 45 to 84, and found that those who consumed at least one serving of low-fat milk or milk products a day were 37 percent less likely than those who had little or no low-fat milk to have poor kidney function related to heart disease, United Press International reported.

The study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

The authors noted that previous research suggests that milk protein, vitamin D, and magnesium may contribute to milk's potential heart health benefits, UPI reported.

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Maker of Anti-Flu Drug Seeks Corporate Stockpiling

The maker of the anti-flu drug Tamiflu has begun a program to encourage company stockpiling of the drug -- for an annual fee.

The plan announced Thursday by Roche Holding AG coincided with an effort by the U.S. government to begin encouraging corporate stockpiling of anti-flu drugs, since government reserves wouldn't include enough medication to treat every person in the United States in the event of a widespread flu outbreak, the Associated Press reported.

Experts have long warned that the virulent strain of bird flu that has been largely confined to Asian fowl over the past several years could mutate into a form that's more easily passed from animal-to-person and person-to-person, sparking a human flu pandemic.

Roche's plan includes provisions to substitute new supplies when older doses of Tamiflu expire, the wire service said.

Health Tips for June 28

Health Tip: Depression Among Teens

With all of the physical, emotional and hormonal changes in their lives, some teens are especially prone to depression.

Here are factors that could trigger depression in teens, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* Undergoing a particularly stressful event, such as the death of a family member or parental divorce.
* Being physically or sexually abused as a child.
* Having a lack of social skills.
* Having a chronic illness.
* Living with another family member who suffers from depression.

Health Tip: Reduce Your Risk of a Crash

Knowing the rules of the road -- and being aware of what's going on around you -- can go a long way in preventing car accidents.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions:

* Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
* Don't look directly into the illuminated headlights of another car. Keep an eye on the yellow line in the road instead, until the car has passed.
* Be constantly aware of potential hazards, including potholes, construction equipment, or stopped cars.
* Pay careful attention to your car and those around you, especially while driving in bad weather.
* Be careful driving on the highway, and look out for other drivers that quickly change lanes to exit the road.
* Don't get emotional about other people's driving habits.
* Never drive while tired.

Health Headlines - June 27

Maker of Anti-Flu Drug Seeks Corporate Stockpiling

The maker of the anti-flu drug Tamiflu has begun a program to encourage company stockpiling of the drug -- for an annual fee.

The plan announced Thursday by Roche Holding AG coincided with an effort by the U.S. government to begin encouraging corporate stockpiling of anti-flu drugs, since government reserves wouldn't include enough medication to treat every person in the United States in the event of a widespread flu outbreak, the Associated Press reported.

Experts have long warned that the virulent strain of bird flu that has been largely confined to Asian fowl over the past several years could mutate into a form that's more easily passed from animal-to-person and person-to-person, sparking a human flu pandemic.

Roche's plan includes provisions to substitute new supplies when older doses of Tamiflu expire, the wire service said.

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Anheuser-Busch to End Production of Alcohol Energy Drinks

Anheuser-Busch, the largest brewer in the United States, will no longer produce caffeinated alcoholic beverages nationwide in order to settle an investigation involving 11 state attorneys general, the Bloomberg news service reported Thursday.

The so-called "energy drinks," including "Tilt" and "Bud Extra," had been illegally marketed to people under age 21, New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo declared in a statement announcing the agreement.

The attorneys general had said they were concerned about the mistaken belief that caffeine in the drinks would counter the intoxicating effects of alcohol.

The brewer issued a statement saying it would reformulate the recipes for the drinks, dropping caffeine as an ingredient. The company also has agreed to pay $200,000 to cover the investigations in the 11 states, which besides New York included: Arizona, California, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, New Mexico, and Ohio, Bloomberg said.

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High School Cigarette Use Levels Off

Cigarette use among high school students was virtually unchanged from 2003 to 2007, hovering at about 20 percent, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Thursday. The rate had declined from 36.4 percent in 1997 to 21.9 percent in 2003.

While high school cigarette use remained steady between 2003 and 2007, smoking did decline among black and female students, the agency said in a prepared statement.

Getting more teens to quit will require "full implementation of comprehensive tobacco control efforts that make smoking socially unacceptable," the statement said.

It suggested community- and school-based efforts to reduce tobacco advertising and promotion, limit commercial availability of tobacco products, and spark higher cigarette prices through general price increases and excise tax hikes.

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Senators Strike Deal on World AIDS Bill

U.S. Senate negotiators have struck a tentative compromise on a $50 billion bill to fight AIDS and other diseases that have ravaged nations including Africa, the Associated Press reports.

The five-year bill would more than triple funding over the $15 billion global AIDS bill passed by Congress in 2003. That act expires at the end of September.

Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nevada) said he expected the Senate would vote on the "agreement in principle" before President George W. Bush departed next week for a summit of G-8 nations in Japan.

"That would send an important message to the world that our country's commitment to fight HIV/AIDS has not wavered," Reid said.

The compromise, which stresses AIDS treatment programs, also targets malaria and tuberculosis, the wire service said.

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New York City Doubts Claims of Some 9/11 Plaintiffs

Of the 10,800 people who have sued New York City over purported health effects stemming from the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, many aren't really sick, city lawyers claim in new court filings.

About half of the total claims filed represent city employees, including police and firefighters, the Associated Press reported.

In a letter to U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein, the city's law firm, Patton Boggs LLP, said nearly one-third of those who want compensation allege "only nominal injuries." The letter contends that these cases mostly include ailments that haven't been diagnosed, representing symptoms such as insomnia or a runny nose, the AP reported.

In fact, more than 300 of the lawsuits "do not claim any past or current physical injury," the lawyers alleged.

Attorney Marc Bern, representing workers who are suing the city, disputes the letter's contention that 30 percent of the plaintiffs don't have serious health problems. He said their cases would be helped when additional medical records are obtained.

"We're continuing to get more records every day, virtually by the minute," he said.

The U.S. government has established a $1 billion insurance fund to cover 9/11 claims. It's overseen by the city, the AP said.

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Kroger Recalls Ground Beef Possibly Linked to E. Coli Cases

The Kroger supermarket chain is recalling an unspecified amount of its ground beef products that may be tied to an outbreak of E. coli illnesses in Ohio and Michigan, the Columbus Dispatch of Ohio reported.

The chain is recalling all varieties of ground beef sold between May 21 and June 8 at its locations in both states for possible contamination with E coli O157:H7.

The recall doesn't end an investigation into which of several Kroger suppliers may be responsible for the outbreak, "nor does it rule out the possibility that meat purchased elsewhere is contaminated," the newspaper said Thursday. The Kroger suppliers also distribute meat to other retailers.

Ohio health officials said they identified a genetic match between 17 illnesses in Ohio and 16 in Michigan to ground beef sold at a Kroger store in Gahanna, Ohio, the newspaper said.

E. coli O157:H7 infection can cause bloody diarrhea and dehydration, and in severe cases, kidney failure. Children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible.

Health Tips for June 27

Health Tip: Prevent Falls From Windows

Every year, thousands of children are killed or hurt by falling from windows.

Here are guidelines from the U.S. National Safety Council to keep your children safe:

* If you want to open a window for fresh air, only open those that are high enough that children cannot reach them. Keep others closed and locked.
* Move any furniture or other items away from windows, so that children can't climb on these objects to reach windows.
* Don't count on screens to protect your child. They are not strong enough to prevent children from falling through them.
* Teach your child not to play near windows or glass doors. Set rules about staying away from them.
* A window needs to be opened only 5 inches for a child under age 10 to fall through. In many locations, landlords are legally bound to install window guards in apartments with children.

Health Tip: Protect Your Child From Backpack Injuries

Loaded backpacks can strain young backs and shoulders, causing pain and injury.

Prevent backpack injuries by lightening the load. Check your child's backpack each day, and remove any items that aren't needed. Also, make sure the child uses both straps, to distribute the load evenly.

Here are warning signs that your child's backpack may be too heavy, courtesy of the U.S. National Safety Council:

* A difference in posture when wearing the backpack.
* Significant difficulty in putting the backpack on or taking it off.
* Complaints of pain or discomfort when the backpack is on.
* Red marks on the skin from the backpack straps.
* Feelings of numbness or a tingling sensation, especially in the back or shoulders.

Health Headlines - June 26

New England Has Highest Rate of Health Insurance Coverage

New England has the highest rate of health insurance coverage in the United States, while the Southwest has the lowest coverage, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study.

Only 11 percent of non-elderly adults and 4 percent of children in New England are uninsured, compared with 30 percent of adults and 18 percent of children in the Southwest, the Associated Press reported.

Three regions -- the Great Plains, Great Lakes in the upper Midwest, and the Northeast -- had uninsured rates of 14 percent to 15 percent for adults and 6 percent to 7 percent for children. In the Southeast, almost 23 percent of adults were uninsured.

Overall, about 17 percent of people under age 65 were uninsured when the survey of 106,000 families was conducted from 2004 through 2006, the AP reported.

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FDA Has Questions About Gardasil Use in Older Women

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration wants more information before it considers approving the cervical cancer vaccine Gardasil for women ages 27 to 45, drug maker Merck & Co. said Wednesday. The company had expected FDA approval by next month.

Merck spokeswoman Kelley Dougherty wouldn't reveal the nature of the FDA's questions but said the company will respond to the agency next month, Bloomberg news reported.

Gardasil protects against human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause cervical cancer later in life. According to a Merck-sponsored study, Gardasil prevented 91 percent of precancers and external genital lesions in women ages 24 to 45.

The FDA's concerns about the use of the vaccine in older women don't affect Gardasil's approved use for girls and women ages 9 to 26, Bloomberg reported.

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$30 Billion a Year Needed to Fight Hunger: U.N. Official

About $30 billion will be needed each year until 2050 to stave off world hunger, the director general of the U.N.'s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said Wednesday at an agricultural conference in Innsbruck, Austria.

The bulk of the money is needed to increase worldwide agricultural production, Jacques Diouf told reporters before the conference, Agence France Presse reported.

He also said strong demand, low food reserves and harvesting problems caused by climate change mean the global price of food commodities will remain high.

Ways in which the FAO can help countries worst hit by the current food crisis will be among the topics discussed at the conference, AFP reported.

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Cuban Scientists Develop Lung Cancer Vaccine

A vaccine to fight lung cancer was unveiled Tuesday by Cuban scientists, who said the vaccine extends the lives of patients by up to five months, improves their breathing and decreases their pain.

The vaccine, the first of its kind in the world, is based on two proteins and triggers an immune response against lung cancer, Agence France Presse reported.

Advanced tests of the vaccine are currently under way at 18 Cuban hospitals and other tests were conducted in Canada and Great Britain. Further tests are scheduled or under way in a number of countries, including China, India, Malaysia, Peru and Singapore.

The vaccine is available in Cuba and will be commercialized in Latin America, AFP reported.

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Breast Cancer Gene Linked to Deadly Prostate Cancer

A gene that greatly increases a woman's risk of breast cancer also causes a particularly deadly form of prostate cancer, say Canadian researchers who studied 301 prostate cancer patients. On average, those with the defective BRCA2 gene lived an average of four years after diagnosis. The average survival time for prostate cancer patients is 12 years.

The University of Toronto study, published in the British Journal of Cancer, appears to confirm previous findings that BRCA2 is associated with highly dangerous prostate cancer, BBC News reported. An Icelandic study found that prostate cancer patients with the gene lived an average of 2.1 years.

The defective BRCA2 gene is found in about one in 500 men, and men with the gene can be five times more likely to develop prostate cancer than men in the general population.

"Although only a very small percentage of men with prostate cancer will carry a faulty BRCA2 gene, they're much more likely to die from the disease," Dr. Lesley Walker, of the charity Cancer Research UK, told BBC News. "It is important that more research is done in this area to ensure that this group is targeted effectively so cancer is picked up at an early stage and, more importantly, that they are given the most appropriate treatment."

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Unsafe Sexual Behavior a Problem in NYC

Unsafe sexual behavior continues to be a problem in New York City, says a health department report that found 11 percent of residents (about 610,000 adults) reported having more than one sex partner in the past year.

Men were much more likely than women to report multiple partners (17 percent vs. 6 percent), and young adults were four times more likely than older adults to report multiple partners, United Press International reported.

People with same-sex partners were three times more likely than those with opposite-sex partners to report more than one partner in the past year. Overall, 60 percent of those with multiple partners said they used a condom the last time they had sex. But that figure was only 43 percent among those in committed relationships who had sex with other partners in the past year.

In 2006, more than half of all pregnancies in New York City were unplanned and more than 60,000 new sexually transmitted infections were reported, including 3,745 people newly-diagnosed with HIV, UPI reported.

Health Tips for June 26

Health Tip: Swing Set Safety

Children's swing sets must be properly selected and assembled to prevent serious injury.

Here are recommendations on choosing and assembling a swing set, from the U.S. National Safety Council:

* Make sure the equipment is very sturdy, and look for sets that can be changed or upgraded to accommodate your child's growth.
* Secure the legs of the set in below-ground concrete. If you use anchors that come with the set, keep them below ground. Make sure all cables are taut. Cap any screws or bolts.
* Slides should not be too steep -- no more than a 30-degree slope. The slide must have tall sides to prevent falls, and an area at the bottom where children can regain balance and sit upright.
* Avoid sets with "S" hooks, or any parts that can pinch, cut or crush small fingers. Avoid any rings that are less than 5 inches or greater than 10 inches in diameter.
* In general, equipment should not be higher than 8t feet tall. And metal equipment, used in hot weather, can lead to burns.

Health Tip: Don't Overdo Fast Food

Fast food is a tempting option for hungry people on the run. But eating it too often or downing too much can wreak havoc on your health and waistline.

Keep these tips in mind when considering fast food, provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* Fast foods are often high in calories, fat, sugar and salt.
* Many fast foods are cooked with high-calorie fats and butters.
* Fast food choices tend to lack fresh fruits and vegetables.
* The large portion sizes offered can encourage overeating.
* Many fast food restaurants have begun publishing nutritional information about their foods. In other cases, it is available on request. This information can help you better plan what you order.

Health Headlines - June 25

U.S. House Votes to Stop Medicare Cut for Physicians

With less than a week to go before a 10.6 percent cut takes effect in the amount Medicare reimburses participating doctors, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill Tuesday to reverse the cut, the Associated Press reported.

Despite a threatened veto from President Bush, the bill passed 355-59. While the measure has the support of doctors, hospitals, and pharmacists, insurers oppose it. Under the legislation, the funding shortfall would be made up by cutting payments to private health insurers, the wire service said.

About 600,000 U.S. doctors care for Medicare participants. Payments had been set to drop by 10.6 percent on July 1, the result of a formula that triggers cuts after spending exceeds certain budgetary limits.

Under the bill passed Tuesday, payments to private insurers would be cut by almost $14 billion over five years.

Without its passage, many in Congress feared that medical care for seniors and the disabled on Medicare would be compromised as a growing number of doctors refused to see them, the AP reported.

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Some Premature Babies Don't Show Obvious Pain Response

Even if they do have pain while undergoing medical procedures, some premature babies may not show any obvious signs of discomfort, according to a study by researchers at University College London, U.K.

The scientists observed the brain activity of 12 babies while they had heel prick tests. Most of the babies displayed both brain and physical responses. However, some of the babies had a brain response to the pain but no obvious physical response, BBC News reported.

"Although the study is small, it does raise concerns about the tools normally used by doctors to establish whether a baby is feeling pain," lead researcher Dr. Rebeccah Slater said in a prepared statement. "Infants may appear to be pain free, but may, according to brain activity measurements, still be experiencing pain."

The study appears in the journal Public Library of Science.

There's debate about premature babies' ability to feel pain and how much painkiller is needed to make them comfortable, BBC News reported.

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Poor Children More Likely to Develop Diabetes as Adults

People who grow up in low-income households are more likely to develop diabetes than those who grow up in better-off homes, according to a study of adults, ages 17 to 94, in Alameda County, Calif. from 1965 through 1999.

Of the 5,913 participants, 307 developed type 2 diabetes. Of those who developed the disease, almost 65 percent lived in poor households during childhood, United Press International reported.

The findings appear in the American Journal of Public Health.

"Our study, among others, shows a strong, persistent effect of childhood socioeconomic position on the development of diabetes in adulthood, even after taking later-life socioeconomic position into account," lead author Siobhan Maty of the Portland State University School of Community Health in Oregon, said in a prepared statement, UPI reported.

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STDs Increase Risk of Serious Birth Defect

Women who have a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or urinary tract infection just before or during pregnancy are four times more likely than normal to have babies with a severe birth defect called gastroschisis, in which the intestines and other organs develop outside the abdomen.

The University of Utah study also found that age appears to be a major factor, United Press International reported. Women younger than age 20 are 11 times more likely than women over age 25 to have babies with gastroschisis.

The study appears in the British Medial Journal.

"If teens are having sex and getting pregnant, they're at risk of sexually transmitted diseases. They're not thinking about the consequences, so that's a huge problem with this age group," lead investigator Marcia Feldkamp said in a prepared statement, UPI reported.

She noted that women with an STD sometimes don't know they have it.

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FDA Approves 5-in-1 Children's Vaccine

The 5-in-1 pediatric combination vaccine Pentacel has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in infants and children ages 6 weeks through 4 years, maker Sanofi Pasteur announced.

Pentacel -- which includes immunization against influenza type B, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough (pertussis) and poliomyelitis -- was approved for administration as a four-dose series at 2, 4, 6 and 15 to 18 months of age, United Press International reported. The first dose can be given as early as 6 weeks of age.

Currently, children in the United States receive up to 23 injections by the time they're 18 months old, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The use of Pentacel could reduce that number of shots by as many as seven, said Wayne Pisano, president and chief executive officer of Sanofi Pasteur, UPI reported.

Health Tips for June 25

Health Tip: Check Blood Pressure at Home

Blood pressure can change frequently based on recent exercise, foods you've eaten, or changes in stress levels.

Here are suggestions for monitoring your blood pressure at home, courtesy of the American Heart Association:

* Take a measurement of your upper arm, and buy a blood pressure cuff that's the right size.
* At least 30 minutes before taking your blood pressure, avoid smoking, caffeine and exercise.
* Sit in the proper position, with your back straight and supported, and your feet flat on the floor. Place your lower arm on a flat surface with your upper arm at the level of your heart.
* Read the instructions on how to apply and use the cuff. Or ask your doctor to show you how.
* Take two to three readings at the same time each day, and wait at least one minute between readings. Always record all results.

Health Tip: Get Needed Vitamins and Minerals

A diet rich in vitamins and minerals is an important part of staying healthy and feeling well.

Here is a list of important vitamins and minerals to include in your diet, and how to get them, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:

* Calcium, which is found in yogurt, cheese, milk and other dairy products; sardines, salmon and perch; soybeans and white beans; spinach and oatmeal.
* Potassium, which is found in sweet potatoes, seafood, fruits including bananas, peaches and honeydew; beans and dairy products.
* Magnesium, which is found in vegetables, bran, beans, tofu, brown rice and nuts.
* Vitamin A, which is found in the meat organs such as liver and giblets; vegetables such as pumpkin, sweet potatoes and spinach; and cantaloupe.
* Vitamin C, which is found in oranges, grapefruit, kiwi, strawberries, cantaloupe, guava and papaya; and vegetables such as red and green peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, and sweet potatoes.
* Vitamin E, which is found in nuts and seeds, turnip greens, peanut butter and spinach.

Health Headlines - June 24

FDA Approves 5-in-1 Children's Vaccine

The 5-in-1 pediatric combination vaccine Pentacel has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in infants and children ages 6 weeks through 4 years, maker Sanofi Pasteur announced.

Pentacel -- which includes immunization against influenza type B, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough (pertussis) and poliomyelitis -- was approved for administration as a four-dose series at 2, 4, 6 and 15 to 18 months of age, United Press International reported. The first dose can be given as early as 6 weeks of age.

Currently, children in the United States receive up to 23 injections by the time they're 18 months old, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The use of Pentacel could reduce that number of shots by as many as seven, said Wayne Pisano, president and chief executive officer of Sanofi Pasteur, UPI reported.

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Expert Panel Presents New Definition of Premature Ejaculation

A new definition of premature ejaculation was presented at the American Urological Association's annual meeting by an International Society for Sexual Medicine panel of experts, United Press International reported.

The panel said premature ejaculation should be defined as "a male dysfunction characterized by ejaculation which always or nearly always occurs prior to or within about one minute of vaginal penetration; and, inability to delay ejaculation on all or nearly all vaginal penetrations; and, negative personal consequences, such as distress, bother, frustration and or the avoidance of sexual intimacy."

The panel had been asked to create a new definition of premature ejaculation, based on available clinical evidence.

It's believed about 20 percent to 30 percent of men are affected by premature ejaculation, UPI reported. While it's less commonly reported than erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation may coexist in one-third of men who complain of ED.

There are no FDA-approved drugs for premature ejaculation, the wire service said. Behavioral and sexual exercises are among commonly prescribed treatments.

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Chicken Molecule May Improve Understanding of Allergic Reactions in Humans

Chickens may help scientists better understand severe allergic reactions in people and develop new ways to prevent or treat these potentially deadly attacks.

Researchers at King's College London in the U.K. found that chickens have a "fossilized" version of the main molecule responsible for severe allergic reactions in people, BBC News reported.

The IgY molecule in chickens may be an ancient predecessor of a similar human molecule called IgE, which plays a major role in asthma attacks and anaphylactic shock.

By studying IgY, it's possible to track the evolution of allergic reactions back at least 160 million years, said researcher Dr. Alex Taylor, BBC News reported.

The study appears in the Journal of Biological Chemistry.

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NSAID Creams May Top Pills For Knee Pain

Anti-inflammatory creams are better than pills for treating chronic knee pain, say British researchers.

The team at the Queen Mary University of London studied 585 people over age 50 and found the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) topical treatments worked as well as NSAID pills and caused fewer side effects such as indigestion, increasing blood pressure, or worsening asthma, BBC News reported.

The study appears on the U.K. National Institute for Health Research Web site.

In the past, doctors have likely under-prescribed topical creams because they didn't believe they were as effective as pills, an Arthritis Research Campaign spokeswoman told BBC News.

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Turmeric May Help Reduce Type 2 Diabetes Risk

The curry spice turmeric may help reverse obesity-related inflammation and reduce type 2 diabetes risk, according to Columbia University Medical Center researchers.

In obese mice, turmeric significantly reduced inflammation in fat tissue and the liver and reduced the rodents' susceptibility to type 2 diabetes. The researchers believe curcumin -- an ingredient in turmeric -- may be responsible, United Press International reported.

The study was presented at the annual meeting of the Endocrine Society and will be published in the journal Endocrinology.

"It's too early to tell whether increasing dietary curcumin -- via turmeric -- intake in obese people with diabetes will show a similar benefit," researcher Dr. Drew Tortoriello said in a prepared statement, UPI reported.

"Although the daily intake of curcumin one might have to consume as a primary diabetes treatment is likely impractical, it is entirely possible that lower dosages of curcumin could nicely complement our traditional therapies as a natural and safe treatment," Tortoriello said.

Health Tips for June 24

Health Tip: The Word on Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth that emerge, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They often crowd or damage other teeth, and must be removed.

Here's what to expect during and after surgery to remove wisdom teeth, courtesy of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons:

* Wisdom teeth are removed under general anesthesia, local anesthesia or intravenous sedation, and the procedure is usually done in the surgeon's office.
* The complexity of the surgery depends on the position of the wisdom teeth.
* Some swelling and discomfort are common after the surgery. Pain medications and cold compresses can help alleviate these symptoms.
* You may need to eat softer foods and make other diet changes until your mouth recovers from the surgery.

Health Tip: Before Getting Plastic Surgery

You should do your homework before you elect to have plastic surgery.

Here are suggestions on how to prepare for the procedure, courtesy of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons:

* Research the surgery until you fully understand its possible benefits and risks.
* Talk to your doctor about what to expect after the surgery, including likely results, how much time it may take you to recover, and what the recovery period will feel like.
* Talk to other people who have had the procedure to gain their insight.
* Don't be afraid to discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor. Be sure the physician knows your complete medical history.
* Make sure the surgeon you select is qualified, properly trained, and certified to perform the procedure.

Health Headlines - June 23

Sleep Problems in Elderly May Be Helped by Tai Chi Chih

For the more than half of all Americans over age 59 who complain about not being able to fall asleep easily, the answer may rest with a 2,000 year old Chinese series of movements.

Researchers from the University of California at Los Angeles found that the 19 moves and one pose found in tai chi chih -- the Western version of the ancient philosophy that combines movements and poses to relieve stress and find spiritual fulfillment -- actually allowed study subjects to improve their sleep patterns.

The 112 older adults in the study who ranged in age from 59 to 86 were divided into two groups, one taking tai chi chih instruction and the other group taking classes that included stress management, diet and advice on improving sleep patterns.

According to a UCLA news release, the tai chi chih group "showed improved sleep quality and a remission of clinical impairments, such as drowsiness during the day and inability to concentrate, compared with those receiving health education."

"It's [tai chi chih] a form of exercise virtually every elderly person can do, and this study provides more across-the-board evidence of its health benefits," said lead study author Dr. Michael Irwin, the Norman Cousins Professor of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and director of the UCLA Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, in the news release.

The study is available in the online edition of the journal Sleep.

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New Threat From Bird Flu: Food Shortages

A new warning has come about the deadly strain of avian flu that has caused the destruction of hundreds of millions of poultry around the world, especially in Asia.

But this time, the Associated Press reports, the threat is not so much whether the H5N1 strain will mutate into a virus that could infect millions of humans, but rather whether the destruction it has already caused will create a food shortage.

Communicable disease experts meeting at an infectious disease conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia acknowledged that H5N1 keeps erupting, even after local health officials believe they've brought an outbreak under control. "It's like a boiling pot, and we need to keep the lid on that before it gets worse," UN representative Juan Lubroth told the A.P.

Lubroth said that more than 240 million birds have been destroyed because of H5N1, and for poor people who raise their own food, the scarcity of poultry as a cheep protein source could cause hardship and hunger.

Insofar as the H5N1 strain mutating so that it can be spread from human to human, officials warned that possibility still remains, the wire service reported.

The disease is indeed deadly when humans become infected, the A.P. said, with 241 out of 385 who contracted it since 2003 dying. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director Dr. Julie Gerberding warned against complacency.

"People have very short attention spans, and when something is in the news for a while, it becomes old news and then it's no news," the A.P. quotes her as saying.

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VA Says It Will Improve Care For Female Veterans

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is working to eliminate disparities in care offered to female and male veterans, VA Secretary James Peake said Friday.

He was responding to last week's disclosure of a VA internal review, which found that about one-third of 139 VA facilities that offer outpatient care don't provide female veterans with the same quality of care as males.

"We are making a full-court press to ensure that women veterans receive the highest quality of care," Peake said at the National Summit on Women Veteran's Issues, the Associated Press reported.

In his speech, he said the VA recognizes that 86 percent of female veterans from recent conflicts are younger than age 40 and have health needs related to having children. The agency is spending about $32 million for equipment specific to women's health needs, Peake said.

He noted women make up about 14 percent of the U.S. Armed Forces, the AP reported.

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Blueberries May Lower Cholesterol

Blueberries may significantly lower cholesterol and protect the heart, according to Canadian researchers who conducted tests on pigs fed different kinds of blueberry-supplemented diets.

All of the diets reduced overall cholesterol levels, but some were more effective than others, United Press International reported.

"In feeding trials, we found that blueberry supplementation reduced plasma cholesterol levels more effectively when the animals received a mostly plant-based diet than when they received a less heart-healthy diet," lead scientist Wilhelmina Kalt said in a prepared statement. "The soy, oats and barley contained in these diets may have functioned synergistically with the blueberries to beneficially affect plasma lipids."

The greatest reduction in cholesterol levels was seen in pigs fed a two percent blueberry diet. In people, that would be equivalent to about two one-cup servings per day.

The study appears in the British Journal of Nutrition.

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U.S. Motorcycle Deaths More Than Doubled Since 1997

Between 1997 and 2006, motorcycle deaths in the United States increased from 2,110 to 4,810, a Governors Highway Safety Association study found.

From 2005 to 2006, motorcycle deaths increased in 27 states and Puerto Rico. The study also said that 15 states accounted for 67 percent of all U.S. motorcycle deaths in 2006 and that in 2004, 2005, and 2006, nearly one-third of all fatalities occurred in California, Texas and Florida, United Press International reported.

Despite clear evidence that proper helmet use saves lives, there is a patchwork of helmet laws in the country, poor enforcement, and a lack of helmet promotion, the study found. In states with partial or no helmet laws, most riders who died weren't wearing helmets.

In 2006, 25 percent of riders killed in motorcycle crashes didn't have a valid license, compared with 13 percent of drivers of passenger vehicles, UPI reported.

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Some Artificial Turf Fields Should Be Tested For Lead: CDC

Some artificial turf athletic fields should be tested for the lead, says a health advisory posted on the Web site of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The agency said any field containing worn or faded turf blades that are made of nylon or nylon-blend fibers should be tested, as well as nylon fields with visible dust, the Associated Press reported.

Testing doesn't need to be done on artificial fields made from polyethylene or nylon fields that aren't visibly worn, the CDC said.

The advisory was issued two months after health officials in New Jersey found high lead levels in artificial turf fibers from three athletic fields. They also determined that lead in the turf can be absorbed by people.

While the lead levels weren't high enough to cause poisoning in people who play on the fields, these levels could cause additional health damage to children already exposed to lead, said New Jersey epidemiologist Dr. Eddy Bresnitz, the AP reported.

Health Tips for June 23

Health Tip: Make Exercise a Daily Habit

Choosing the right exercise program is one of the first steps toward sticking with your exercise goals.

Try these suggestions to make exercise a tough habit to break, provided by the American Academy of Family Physicians:

* Plan to exercise at a certain time every day, so it becomes part of your schedule.
* Write up and sign a contract, where you agree to exercise.
* Mark your calendar with a daily appointment for exercise.
* Keep a diary of all of your exercises. Log everything you do, and your progress.
* Have your doctor write out an exercise prescription, including how much exercise you should do and how often.
* Try joining a health club or gym. Paying a membership fee may prompt you to get your money's worth and go more frequently.

Health Tip: Dealing With Exercise-Induced Asthma

Exercise-induced asthma may be characterized by difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, fatigue, wheezing and tightness in the chest after working out.

Here are suggestions for people with exercise-induced asthma, courtesy of the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology:

* Try swimming, especially in a heated indoor pool. The warm, humid environment may help minimize symptoms for people with exercise-induced asthma.
* Try walking, biking or hiking at a leisurely pace.
* Try sports that offer frequent periods of rest, such as baseball, short -distance track, surfing, wrestling and football.
* Avoid cold-weather sports, or warm the air before you inhale it with a surgical mask or scarf over your mouth.
* Avoid sports that require long periods of strenuous exercise, such as soccer, basketball, field hockey and running.

Health Headlines - June 22

New Threat From Bird Flu: Food Shortages

A new warning has come about the deadly strain of avian flu that has caused the destruction of hundreds of millions of poultry around the world, especially in Asia.

But this time, the Associated Press reports, the threat is not so much whether the H5N1 strain will mutate into a virus that could infect millions of humans, but rather whether the destruction it has already caused will create a food shortage.

Communicable disease experts meeting at an infectious disease conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia acknowledged that H5N1 keeps erupting, even after local health officials believe they've brought an outbreak under control. "It's like a boiling pot, and we need to keep the lid on that before it gets worse," UN representative Juan Lubroth told the A.P.

Lubroth said that more than 240 million birds have been destroyed because of H5N1, and for poor people who raise their own food, the scarcity of poultry as a cheep protein source could cause hardship and hunger.

Insofar as the H5N1 strain mutating so that it can be spread from human to human, officials warned that possibility still remains, the wire service reported.

The disease is indeed deadly when humans become infected, the A.P. said, with 241 out of 385 who contracted it since 2003 dying. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director Dr. Julie Gerberding warned against complacency.

"People have very short attention spans, and when something is in the news for a while, it becomes old news and then it's no news," the A.P. quotes her as saying.

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VA Says It Will Improve Care For Female Veterans

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is working to eliminate disparities in care offered to female and male veterans, VA Secretary James Peake said Friday.

He was responding to last week's disclosure of a VA internal review, which found that about one-third of 139 VA facilities that offer outpatient care don't provide female veterans with the same quality of care as males.

"We are making a full-court press to ensure that women veterans receive the highest quality of care," Peake said at the National Summit on Women Veteran's Issues, the Associated Press reported.

In his speech, he said the VA recognizes that 86 percent of female veterans from recent conflicts are younger than age 40 and have health needs related to having children. The agency is spending about $32 million for equipment specific to women's health needs, Peake said.

He noted women make up about 14 percent of the U.S. Armed Forces, the AP reported.

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Blueberries May Lower Cholesterol

Blueberries may significantly lower cholesterol and protect the heart, according to Canadian researchers who conducted tests on pigs fed different kinds of blueberry-supplemented diets.

All of the diets reduced overall cholesterol levels, but some were more effective than others, United Press International reported.

"In feeding trials, we found that blueberry supplementation reduced plasma cholesterol levels more effectively when the animals received a mostly plant-based diet than when they received a less heart-healthy diet," lead scientist Wilhelmina Kalt said in a prepared statement. "The soy, oats and barley contained in these diets may have functioned synergistically with the blueberries to beneficially affect plasma lipids."

The greatest reduction in cholesterol levels was seen in pigs fed a two percent blueberry diet. In people, that would be equivalent to about two one-cup servings per day.

The study appears in the British Journal of Nutrition.

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U.S. Motorcycle Deaths More Than Doubled Since 1997

Between 1997 and 2006, motorcycle deaths in the United States increased from 2,110 to 4,810, a Governors Highway Safety Association study found.

From 2005 to 2006, motorcycle deaths increased in 27 states and Puerto Rico. The study also said that 15 states accounted for 67 percent of all U.S. motorcycle deaths in 2006 and that in 2004, 2005, and 2006, nearly one-third of all fatalities occurred in California, Texas and Florida, United Press International reported.

Despite clear evidence that proper helmet use saves lives, there is a patchwork of helmet laws in the country, poor enforcement, and a lack of helmet promotion, the study found. In states with partial or no helmet laws, most riders who died weren't wearing helmets.

In 2006, 25 percent of riders killed in motorcycle crashes didn't have a valid license, compared with 13 percent of drivers of passenger vehicles, UPI reported.

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Some Artificial Turf Fields Should Be Tested For Lead: CDC

Some artificial turf athletic fields should be tested for the lead, says a health advisory posted on the Web site of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The agency said any field containing worn or faded turf blades that are made of nylon or nylon-blend fibers should be tested, as well as nylon fields with visible dust, the Associated Press reported.

Testing doesn't need to be done on artificial fields made from polyethylene or nylon fields that aren't visibly worn, the CDC said.

The advisory was issued two months after health officials in New Jersey found high lead levels in artificial turf fibers from three athletic fields. They also determined that lead in the turf can be absorbed by people.

While the lead levels weren't high enough to cause poisoning in people who play on the fields, these levels could cause additional health damage to children already exposed to lead, said New Jersey epidemiologist Dr. Eddy Bresnitz, the AP reported.

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VA Denying Most Claims From Secret Tests

Only a small percentage of health claims filed by American veterans stemming from once-secret chemical and germ warfare tests conducted in the 1960s and 1970s have been approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Associated Press reported.

During the tests, conducted from 1962 to 1973, more than 6,000 of members of the military were exposed to real and simulated chemical and biological agents. In many cases, the tests were conducted without the participants' knowledge.

Of the 6,440 service members involved in the experiments, 4,438 have been notified of their participation, while the remainder couldn't be located or have died, the AP reported.

As of May 2008, 39 of the claims received by the VA were granted, 546 were denied, and 56 were pending. Many of the veterans have cancer, respiratory conditions or other health problems.

Health Tips for June 22

Health Tip: Grinding Your Teeth?

Frequent grinding of the teeth is a condition known as bruxism. Depending on severity, it could cause anything from pain and discomfort to fractures of the teeth.

Here's more information about bruxism, courtesy of the American Dental Association:

* Bruxism may involve clenching of the jaw as well as tooth grinding.
* Triggers may include stress, sleep problems, crooked or missing teeth, or anxiety.
* Symptoms can include headache, painful teeth and a sore jaw.
* Preventives may include a mouth guard to wear during sleep, muscle relaxants, and counseling to deal with stress.

Health Tip: Back Pain in Children

In a child, back pain is different from back pain in adults. Particularly in children under age 4, it indicates a serious underlying problem, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says.

You should see your doctor if your child has back pain, the academy says, especially if accompanied by any of these other symptoms:

* Fever.
* Weight loss.
* Feelings of weakness or numbness.
* Difficulty walking.
* Pain that extends through one or both legs, or if it prevents your child from sleeping.
* Issues with the bowels or bladder.

Health Headlines - June 21

VA Says It Will Improve Care For Female Veterans

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is working to eliminate disparities in care offered to female and male veterans, VA Secretary James Peake said Friday.

He was responding to last week's disclosure of a VA internal review, which found that about one-third of 139 VA facilities that offer outpatient care don't provide female veterans with the same quality of care as males.

"We are making a full-court press to ensure that women veterans receive the highest quality of care," Peake said at the National Summit on Women Veteran's Issues, the Associated Press reported.

In his speech, he said the VA recognizes that 86 percent of female veterans from recent conflicts are younger than age 40 and have health needs related to having children. The agency is spending about $32 million for equipment specific to women's health needs, Peake said.

He noted women make up about 14 percent of the U.S. Armed Forces, the AP reported.

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Blueberries May Lower Cholesterol

Blueberries may significantly lower cholesterol and protect the heart, according to Canadian researchers who conducted tests on pigs fed different kinds of blueberry-supplemented diets.

All of the diets reduced overall cholesterol levels, but some were more effective than others, United Press International reported.

"In feeding trials, we found that blueberry supplementation reduced plasma cholesterol levels more effectively when the animals received a mostly plant-based diet than when they received a less heart-healthy diet," lead scientist Wilhelmina Kalt said in a prepared statement. "The soy, oats and barley contained in these diets may have functioned synergistically with the blueberries to beneficially affect plasma lipids."

The greatest reduction in cholesterol levels was seen in pigs fed a two percent blueberry diet. In people, that would be equivalent to about two one-cup servings per day.

The study appears in the British Journal of Nutrition.

-----

U.S. Motorcycle Deaths More Than Doubled Since 1997

Between 1997 and 2006, motorcycle deaths in the United States increased from 2,110 to 4,810, a Governors Highway Safety Association study found.

From 2005 to 2006, motorcycle deaths increased in 27 states and Puerto Rico. The study also said that 15 states accounted for 67 percent of all U.S. motorcycle deaths in 2006 and that in 2004, 2005, and 2006, nearly one-third of all fatalities occurred in California, Texas and Florida, United Press International reported.

Despite clear evidence that proper helmet use saves lives, there is a patchwork of helmet laws in the country, poor enforcement, and a lack of helmet promotion, the study found. In states with partial or no helmet laws, most riders who died weren't wearing helmets.

In 2006, 25 percent of riders killed in motorcycle crashes didn't have a valid license, compared with 13 percent of drivers of passenger vehicles, UPI reported.

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Some Artificial Turf Fields Should Be Tested For Lead: CDC

Some artificial turf athletic fields should be tested for the lead, says a health advisory posted on the Web site of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The agency said any field containing worn or faded turf blades that are made of nylon or nylon-blend fibers should be tested, as well as nylon fields with visible dust, the Associated Press reported.

Testing doesn't need to be done on artificial fields made from polyethylene or nylon fields that aren't visibly worn, the CDC said.

The advisory was issued two months after health officials in New Jersey found high lead levels in artificial turf fibers from three athletic fields. They also determined that lead in the turf can be absorbed by people.

While the lead levels weren't high enough to cause poisoning in people who play on the fields, these levels could cause additional health damage to children already exposed to lead, said New Jersey epidemiologist Dr. Eddy Bresnitz, the AP reported.

-----

VA Denying Most Claims From Secret Tests

Only a small percentage of health claims filed by American veterans stemming from once-secret chemical and germ warfare tests conducted in the 1960s and 1970s have been approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Associated Press reported.

During the tests, conducted from 1962 to 1973, more than 6,000 of members of the military were exposed to real and simulated chemical and biological agents. In many cases, the tests were conducted without the participants' knowledge.

Of the 6,440 service members involved in the experiments, 4,438 have been notified of their participation, while the remainder couldn't be located or have died, the AP reported.

As of May 2008, 39 of the claims received by the VA were granted, 546 were denied, and 56 were pending. Many of the veterans have cancer, respiratory conditions or other health problems.

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Earth's Population To Reach 7 Billion in 2012

Earth's population will reach seven billion in 2012, putting increased pressure on dwindling natural resources, according to projections released by the U.S. Census Bureau.

There is no agreement on how many people the planet can sustain, said William Frey, a demographer at the Washington, D.C.-based Brookings Institution. It depends on how will the world's resources are managed, he told the Associated Press.

Currently, there are 6.7 billion people in the world. China, India and the United States have the largest populations.

In 1999, there were six billion people on the planet, which means it should take about 13 years to add another billion. By comparison, the world's population reached one billion in 1800 and two billion 130 years later, Carl Haub, a demographer at the Population Reference Bureau, told the AP.

Health Tips for June 21

Health Tip: Calming Your Fear of the Dentist

Do you ever get nervous just thinking about going to the dentist? You might be worrying unnecessarily, says the American Dental Association.

With dentistry's many advances, diagnosis and treatment gets more sophisticated and comfortable all the time. Here are some tips:

* It's often best to share your anxiety. If you're tense or anxious, tell your dentist and the dental staff. Getting your concerns out in the open will let your dentist adapt the treatment to your needs.
* Try to choose a time for your dental visit when you're less likely to be rushed or under pressure. For some people, that means a Saturday or an early-morning appointment.
* If the sound of the drill bothers you, bring a portable audio player and headset so you can listen to your favorite music.
* During the dental visit, you might try visualizing yourself relaxing on a warm beach.

Health Tip: X-Rays at the Dentist

Healthy teeth require more than good dental hygiene and regular cleanings. Dental X-rays can show potential abnormalities that your dentist couldn't otherwise see, indicating how healthy your teeth really are.

Here's a list of what dental X-rays can be used to identify, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* The number, size and position of all teeth.
* Teeth that are impacted or those that haven't emerged.
* Cavities.
* Damage to the bones surrounding the teeth.
* Abscesses.
* Fractures in the jaw.
* Other abnormalities of the teeth or jaw.

Health Headlines - June 20

FDA Sued Over Alleged Painkiller Risks

The painkiller propoxyphene, sold under the brand names Darvoset and Darvon, has too many health risks to be left on the market, a consumer advocacy group alleges in its lawsuit filed Thursday against the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The drug, which also is sold generically, has been involved in the accidental deaths of more than 2,000 people who took it since 1981, Public Citizen said in its petition two years ago to ban the medication.

In its lawsuit, Public Citizen said the FDA broke the law when it failed to act on the petition within the required six months, the Associated Press reported.

The advocacy group has said that there are safer, more effective painkillers than propoxyphene, which the lawsuit says is addictive and can cause cardiac problems including a slowed heartbeat, the AP reported. It can also cause sedation and confusion among the elderly, according to Dr. Sydney Wolfe, Director of Public Citizen's Health Research Group.

None of the drug's manufacturer's immediately responded to the wire service's request for comment.

Some 22 million prescriptions for the drug are filled annually in the United States, the AP said.

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PETCO Warehouse Cited for Unsanitary Conditions

On the order of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, federal marshals on Thursday raided a PETCO warehouse in Joliet, Ill., that serves 16 states.

The agency cited unsanitary conditions at the facility, which provides pet food products and supplies to PETCO retail stores in Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.

The agency said it had no reports of pet illness or evidence that any of the products were unsafe. "However, the seized products were in permeable packages and held under conditions that could affect the food's integrity and quality," according to an FDA statement.

The agency said it inspected the facility twice in April and May, finding "widespread and active rodent and bird infestation."

It advised consumers who had any products from PETCO in affected states to thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap, and to thoroughly wash surfaces that may have come in contact with the packages.

If pets become sick after eating affected products, consumers should call their veterinarian and report such instances to the agency's state consumer complaint coordinator. A list of phone numbers is available at http://www.fda.gov/opacom/backgrounders/complain.html.

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Drug Linked to Suicide Being Tested on Veterans With PTSD

Veterans groups and some members of Congress say they're outraged over revelations that Iraq and Afghanistan veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are being recruited by the U.S. government for tests involving the anti-smoking drug Chantix, which has been linked to increased risk of suicide.

They're calling for an immediate halt to the tests and an investigation, ABC News reported.

"Nearly 40 suicides and more than 400 incidents of suicidal behavior have been linked to Chantix, yet the [Veteran's Administration] has chosen to continue the study and administer Chantix to veterans with PTSD," said Congressman Bob Filner (D-CA). "The VA must immediately suspend this study until a comprehensive review of the safety of the protocol is conducted."

"Our nation's veterans are not guinea pigs," said Paul Rieckhoff, executive director of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. "It is unacceptable for even one veteran to have been misled about the possible side effects of Chantix."

The VA says the ABC News/Washington Post report about the study is "inaccurate and misleading."

"In our PTSD and smoking cessation study, our research is to learn if it is easier to stop smoking when smoking cessation treatment is combined with PTSD therapy, or whether the two therapies are more effective if they are provided separately," said a statement posted on the VA Web site, ABC News reported.

"In either case, patients are receiving treatment recommended by their own doctors using counselling with or without FDA approved medication that includes Varenicline (Chantix). Participation in this program is voluntary, and all participants are closely monitored clinically by mental health professionals who provide smoking cessation methods patients agree to use," the statement said.

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Scientists Renew Old Muscles

U.S. scientists say they've found a way to renew old and tired muscles, and their research could lead to new treatments for age-related degenerative diseases, BBC News reported.

The University of California, Berkeley team was able to adjust biochemical signals in old mice to increase the ability of the rodents' stem cells to repair damaged muscle tissue almost as well as it occurs in young mice.

The findings appear in the journal Nature.

"We are one step closer to having a point of intervention where we can rejuvenate the body's own stem cells so we don't have to suffer from some of the debilitating diseases associated with aging," said researcher Dr. Morgan Carlson, BBC News reported.

The key is to find the right balance between the biochemical pathway that promotes healing and that which promotes aging, said lead researcher Dr. Irina Conboy.

"We need to find out what the levels of these chemicals are in the young so we can calibrate the system when we're older. If we can do that, we could rejuvenate tissue repair for a very long time," Conboy said.

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Baby Bottle Makers Sued Over Bisphenol A Use

Five baby bottle makers are facing a lawsuit over their use of the chemical bisphenol A, the Associated Press reported.

In the suit filed last week in U.S. District Court, four Ohio parents allege the companies knew that bisphenol A was associated with health problems. The lawsuit cites scientific studies that concluded the chemical seeped from plastic bottles and sippy-cups into liquid.

The plaintiffs are seeking unspecified damages.

The five companies named in the lawsuit are: Ohio-based Evenflo; Illinois-based Avent America Inc.; Missouri-based Handicraft Co.; Connecticut-based Playtex Products Inc; and the Swiss company Gerber Novartis, the AP reported.

Company spokespeople either refused comment or weren't immediately available to return calls from the AP.

Tests on rats suggest that bisphenol A may be associated with brain and behavior changes, early puberty and possible precancerous changes in the prostate and breast, the wire service said.

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Large Increase in Suicides By Elderly Japanese

The number of Japanese over age 60 who committed suicide increased by almost 9 percent in 2007. The 12,107 suicides among people 60 and older accounted for nearly 40 percent of all cases in the country, according to the National Police Agency.

Elderly people in Japan are increasingly plagued with worries about money and rising health care costs. Changes in the traditional family structure mean that many older adults are worried that no family members will be able to care for them. There's also concern among the elderly that the state will not be able to support them, BBC News reported.

Japan has one of the highest suicide rates in the world. Nationwide in 2007, the overall suicide rate rose 2.9 percent to 33,093. The main reasons for suicide were depression, illness and debt, according to the National Police Agency.

Japanese officials have introduced a number of measures to try to reduce the suicide rate, including workplace counseling and blocking Web sites that offer suicide tips, BBC News reported.

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Rating System Being Introduced for U.S. Nursing Homes

A five-star rating system for U.S. nursing homes will be in place by the end of the year, the federal government announced Wednesday. The ratings, to be posted on the Internet, will provide consumers with an additional resource when selecting a nursing home.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services plans to seek input from consumers and the nursing home industry to determine the criteria for the rating system, the Associated Press reported.

"The fact a home has a lower rating will likely put them on the path to improvement," said Kerry Weems, the agency's acting administrator. "I don't think we're going to see many people who are very anxious to put a loved one in a one-star home."

Also on Wednesday, federal officials said new regulations will require all nursing homes to have sprinkler systems by 2013, the AP reported. After that time, homes without sprinkler systems will not be allowed to care for Medicare clients.

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Endangered Dogs Cloned By Disgraced Stem Cell Scientist

Seventeen clones of an endangered dog breed have been created by a South Korean team led by disgraced stem cell scientist Hwang Woo-suk. The Tibetan mastiff dogs were born in April, according to the Sooam Biotech Research Foundation, which refused to reveal the cloning success rate of the project, the Associated Press reported.

The cloning was done at the request of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Tibetan mastiff dogs are popular in China.

According to the Sooam Biotech Research Foundation, all 17 dogs were cloned from two Tibetan mastiffs -- a female and a male - through six surrogate dogs. However, an official with another institute that did blind DNA tests for the foundation said the samples it tested were provided by Hwang's team, meaning it was unclear if the samples came from the original dogs, the cloned dogs, or a combination of both, the AP reported.

In 2005, Hwang and colleagues created the first known dog clone. But Hwang's reputation was later tarnished when it was revealed that he faked what had been hailed as breakthrough research involving embryonic stem cells.

Health Tips for June 20

Health Tip: Reduce Your Risk of Anemia

Anemia occurs when there aren't enough red blood cells in your blood, or they are deficient in a protein called hemoglobin. This means your red blood cells don't carry enough oxygen to the rest of the body.

Women and people with chronic disease are at greater risk of becoming anemic.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers these suggestions to help prevent anemia:

* Get plenty of iron in your diet by eating such foods as leafy green vegetables, lean red meats, iron-fortified breads and cereals, fish and dried fruits.
* Consume foods with plenty of vitamin C, folic acid, and vitamin B12 to help your body absorb more iron.
* Avoid restrictive or fad diets that prevent a healthy balance of vitamins and minerals.
* Don't drink coffee or tea with meals. They make it more difficult for your body to absorb iron.
* Get tested for anemia every five to 10 years while in your childbearing years. If your doctor tells you that you're at greater risk of anemia, the physician may recommend annual testing.

Health Tip: If You Have to Take Iron Supplements

If you are anemic or need iron supplements for another reason, taking the pills can be difficult.

The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests how to make taking iron supplements a little easier:

* Take the pills with food.
* Gradually work your way up to the number of pills your doctor prescribed each day. Start out with one a day, then after three to five days, begin increasing the amount until you've reached the daily dose recommended by your doctor.
* If iron pills make you constipated, add fiber to your daily diet.
* If the pills make your stomach upset, don't take them before you go to sleep.
* If a particular brand causes problems, ask your doctor about different brands or formulas.

Health Headlines - June 19

FDA Approves Breathing Aid Used By Christopher Reeve

A device that helps people with spinal cord injuries breathe without a ventilator for at least four hours at a time has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the agency said Wednesday.

Actor Christopher Reeve, who died in 2004, first used the then-experimental device a number of years ago, the Associated Press reported. He had been paralyzed below the neck after a horseback riding accident in 1995.

The NeuRX DPS RA/4 Respiratory Stimulation System uses four electrodes to stimulate the diaphragm, a lower abdominal muscle that's essential for breathing. People who are paralyzed due to spinal cord injury often lose control of the muscle, which contracts when a person inhales and relaxes when a person exhales.

"While the NeuRx RA/4 does not cure paralysis of the diaphragm, allowing patients to be free from a mechanical ventilator for at least four hours a day may enhance their quality of life," Dr. Daniel Schultz, director of the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health, said in a statement.

The device is manufactured by Synapse Biomedical Inc., in Oberlin, Ohio.

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Tiger Woods Facing Knee Surgery, Out for Season

Golf legend Tiger Woods will miss the remainder of the 2008 season to have reconstructive surgery on a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee.

Woods tore the ligament last summer while running near his Orlando, Fla. home, he said on his Web site. In April, he had arthroscopic surgery on the area, and while recovering, sustained a double stress fracture of the left tibia, The New York Times reported Wednesday.

The announcement came two days after Woods' dramatic victory at the U.S. Open in San Diego after a 19-hole sudden death playoff. Despite the win, he had a noticeable limp and often winced after making shots.

Woods said he had hoped to avoid reconstructive surgery until after the season ended. There had been no prior mention of an ACL injury, the newspaper said.

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Americans Have to Wait Until 2011 for Generic Lipitor

Generic versions of the cholesterol drug Lipitor won't be available in the United States until Nov. 30, 2011, under the terms of a patent dispute agreement reached between Pfizer Inc. and Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd. of India.

"The agreement provides patients with access to a generic product much earlier than if Ranbaxy were unsuccessful in obtaining approval for its product and overcoming the relevant patents," Ian Read, president of worldwide pharmaceutical operations for Pfizer, said in a prepared statement, the Associated Press reported.

Along with giving more certainty to the timing of generic versions of Lipitor, the agreement gives Pfizer more time to develop replacements for Lipitor before generic versions of the drug go on the market.

The deal also permits Ranbaxy to sell generic versions of Lipitor in Australia, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Sweden, the AP reported. Pfizer and Ranbaxy also resolved conflicts over Lipitor in Brunei, Malaysia, Peru and Vietnam.

The two companies are still involved in patent infringement litigation over Lipitor in Denmark, Finland, Portugal, Romania, and Spain.

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Certain Gene Variants Boost Levels of Good Cholesterol

One third of people have genes that increase levels of "good" HDL cholesterol and may help fight heart disease, says a study by U.K. and Dutch researchers.

They analyzed the findings of almost 100 studies that included about 147,000 patients and found that people with certain types of the CETP gene have about a 5 percent reduced risk of heart attack, BBC News reported.

The findings lend support to the idea that raising HDL cholesterol levels by influencing CETP activity could help prevent heart disease, said study leader Professor John Danesh.

The study, funded by the British Heart Foundation, was published in the journal Circulation.

"Researchers are questioning whether approaches that raise HDL cholesterol could further prevent heart disease. This suggests that it might have benefits, but that more studies are needed to determine how much (benefit) might be derived," Professor Peter Weissberg, of the British Heart Foundation, told BBC News.

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Obese Women Less Likely to Have Cervical Cancer Screening

Compared to women with average body weight, obese women are less likely to be screened for cervical cancer, say Canadian researchers who analyzed the responses of 38,000 women, ages 20 to 69, who took part in a national survey in 2007.

The more obese a woman was, the less likely she was to have Pap smear testing, CBC News reported.

"Obese women are 30 to 40 percent less likely -- depending on the degree of obesity -- to have recommended cervical cancer screening performed," Raj Padwal, a researcher at the University of Alberta's Faculty of Medicine, said in a prepared statement.

A number of factors may be to blame. For example, Padwal and colleagues found that severely obese women were nearly twice as likely as average-weight women to express fear about cervical cancer screening due to pain, embarrassment or anxiety about the findings, CBC News reported.

A woman's weight didn't have any effect on breast and colon cancer screening.

The study was expected to be published in the August issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

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AMA Mum on Menthol Cigarette Exemption

The American Medical Associated voted Tuesday to defer comment on a proviso in federal tobacco legislation that would grant an exemption to menthol while banning other cigarette flavor additives such as mint, clove, and vanilla.

The AMA voted "to refer the decision on menthol to its board, effectively silencing the doctors who wanted the organization to speak out against the exemption," the Associated Press reported. The exemption is key to a compromise that would give regulatory control of cigarettes to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

While the other additives tend to be favored by younger people, menthol is preferred by more than 75 percent of blacks who smoke. That compares to fewer than 25 percent of whites who smoke, the AP said, citing government estimates.

Former Secretary of Health and Human Services Louis Sullivan, who held the post from 1989 to 1993, is among seven former health secretaries who have written to Congress opposing the menthol exemption.

"If we're banning things such as clove and peppermint, then we should ban menthol," he said. "This bill [if it includes the exemption] will be discriminatory against African-Americans."

But AMA President Dr. Ron Davis is among those who favors keeping the exemption, having said that removing it could threaten passage of the entire bill, the AP reported. "It would change the entire political dynamic," he said.